Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Stealing Time ❯ Prognosis Negative ( Chapter 18 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Linkin Fantasy 
A day in the hospital is a nightmare for everyone.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Hentai / Drama | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 02.27.2010 | Pages: 5 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 644 | Status: Work In Progress
A day in the hospital is a nightmare for everyone.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Hentai / Drama | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 02.27.2010 | Pages: 5 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 644 | Status: Work In Progress
Warnings: Mild language only and for this chapter.
Summary: Vegeta's losing his mind or gaining more of it? While his family and friends try to figure it out, Trunks to gain his father's love and Goku to gain Vegeta's love. (I know thats so lame but its what you get)
The Alters: Envy/self loathing Playful/crazy Anger Sad/confused Loving/fatherly lust/need
STEALING TIME
CHPT 18- Prognosis Negative
Now they're on to us, I hope you're happy
This could be a good thing, more freedom without having to hide behind that pathetic Vegeta
The man of the hour was slowly rising from his place on the floor in that dark area of his mind. He could see the alters having a conversation again. Only this time there was no arguing going on.
"What the hell is happening to me? Why am I still here?"
The other Vegeta's turned their heads in the direction of the speaker.
Look who has finally come to
This must be terrifying for him
"Why am I here again?" He spoke trying to hide his momentary nervousness and be cool as a Saiyan prince should. "What the hell is going on!?"
No need to be rude Vegeta
And how many times do we have to explain this to you
The lost prince stood from the floor but made no moves towards his living nightmares.
We're here- well, you're here so we can take over
That's not true, we're here to help remember
"Help what? This doesn't make any sense.... wait why am I even talking to myself, its all a bad dream a damn nightmare. Probably from, from something I ate or the television." The alters watched some amused others showing pity for their host. "I just have to wake myself up somehow."
Hahahahaha
Looking at his mental intruders once again Vegeta demanded. "You whatever you ares. Tell me how to get out of here, now!"
We should let him go and get this over with
Of course now that you've screwed it up for us, why not bail
The two most outspoken alters, one who apparently liked Vegeta and the other who seemed to loath him, shared a glare with one another.
Fine but we will be back, I will get out next time
Your family is worried about you Vegeta, go back to them now
Vegeta watched as the replicas of himself slowly faded into the darkness leaving him alone in the blackness. His shoulders slumped in relief but he still didn't know how to wake himself from this nightmare. "Damn this!"
"...Dad.... dad?" His son's voice was echoing from somewhere in the empty space.
"Trunks?" He glanced around unable to see anything in front of his own face.
"Dad come on wake up, please... dad!"
On the outside Trunks was hovering over his fathers hospital bed gently shaking the man. He had just been returned to his room after an x-ray when the boy noticed movement behind his fathers eyes. Which is why he was trying to coax the man awake now.
"Dad are you awake now? Can you hear me?"
Vegeta's eyes fluttered a moment before fully opening. His eyes adjusted to the sight of his son staring down at him relief etched across his features. Looking away Vegeta surveyed his surroundings, from the white walls, to the machines in various places, and the blinding lights above and linoleum polished floor. He sighed of relief inwardly at the change in scenery, for once happy to see the light. He cleared his throat before speaking Trunks interrupted.
"Oh wait,.... here." Trunks handed him a glass of water that had been sitting beside the bed. Taking the drink Vegeta grunted what Trunks could only assume was his gratitude.
"What's going on?"
"...We're in the hospital... This morning you said it was alright if we brought you here." The teen spoke slowly to his father watching carefully for any signs of misbehavior or something to let him know that this was really Vegeta. When his dad made no signs of commenting Trunks went on. "Because last night you weren't... feeling well so-"
"Yes I know." His fathers harsh voice cut him off. It was obvious that the prince didn't know what had happened in the span of time he'd been, for lack of a better explanation, asleep. He was also well aware that these incidents have been happening frequently leaving him completely unaware of what he'd done or where he'd been. In Vegeta's mind just because its unexplainable doesn't mean its real.
'If these blackouts have been happening today it explains why they brought me to this place. I can't give in to this. I'll figure out how to deal with the problem on my own and end it. I won't have people thinking I'm crazy and I'm sure as hell not going to stay cooped up in this moth ball smelling germ cage.'
"You know?" Trunks asked in disbelief.
Knowing that lying was the only way he could get out of this, Vegeta put on his stern face that read nothing but determination hoping his son would take it as a sign of his being honest. "Of course I do. I haven't been myself lately for obvious reasons and you're concerned. That's why we're in the hospital right?" He attempted a reassuring look for his son.
Trunks wasn't a stupid kid anymore and didn't believe everything his proud Saiyan father told him, despite how well the man did appear to be right now. "Yeah obvious reasons," The teen mumbled. "but how do you feel now?"
"Fine, all I needed was a good rest. Now I'm ready to go home so fetch whomever's in charge here an-"
"I'm sorry sir but you can't go anywhere until I ask you a few questions." Doctor Kondo appeared in the room, Gohan by his side. Vegeta narrowed his eyes at the man as he approached the bed. "Glad you're finally awake," The doctor said getting close to the patient with his tiny flashlight to check Vegeta's glaring eyes. "I was getting a little worried."
"Yes I'm awake and perfectly alright. Now let me go home." Vegeta spat whacking the tiny light away from his face earning a frown from the doctor who looked a few years older than Vegeta himself.
Tucking the light back into his coat pocket Dr. Kondo responded. "According to your family you're not all right. So if its ok with you I'd like to ask a few questions to determine your condition myself."
"Please cooperate Vegeta," Gohan spoke up. "It'll make things easier on all of us. We have to make certain nothing is seriously wrong with you first and then you can go home."
"Seriously wrong." The prince repeated under his breath. Vegeta could feel his nerves tightening inside of him. The last thing he wanted to do was answer any crack pot doctors questions. Especially with his and Kakarot's son in the room. He knew if he didn't cooperate he might be stuck there for Kami knew how long. 'I'll just have to be crafty and lie my way through this mess.'
"Fine talk and make it quick. This place is... making me sick." He joked in a serious tone.
"Funny," The young doctor half smiled and Vegeta smirked in satisfaction to himself. "Well then, have you been having a lot of headaches recently?"
"I suppose I have." The prince answered still holding onto his haughty appearance. He crossed his arms and stared hard at the doctor, who was apparently writing his answers down.
"Okay, on a scale of mild irritation to severe, how bad would you say the headaches were?"
Vegeta thought a moment before replying. "I can't say they change."
Trunks watched and listened with full concentration. He could tell his dad was putting up a mighty front for them and he wanted nothing more than to tell him to knock it off and be honest. To take the matter seriously but that would only upset his father or make him refuse to speak at all. So Trunks stayed quiet and waited. He'd have to try confronting his father later when they were alone.
"Have you taken any medication for the headaches?" Doctor Kondo continued.
"I've taken... medication for sleeping but not a headache."
"So you're having trouble sleeping?"
"Obviously." Vegeta spoke in irritation.
"And what, may I ask is keeping you awake?" The doctor poised his pen to the clipboard and watched Vegeta waiting for his answer.
"How should I know." Was the best answer the man could give. The others in the room clearly weren't satisfied and remained silent until he gave a real response. "Just restlessness I guess. I've got a lot on my mind."
The sincerity in his dad's voice and what he'd said had Trunks straightening in his seat beside the bed. 'Alot on his mind, or something wrong with it.' The teen thought, wondering if the doctor caught that as well and if it might be an indication that Vegeta does have multiple personalities.
"Anything specific?"
"Hmm," Vegeta made a sound of agitation, he felt cornered. 'I can't tell them what's keeping me awake. That's what they want. That's what they'll use against me, call me insane, a nutcase. Well doctor I can hear my voice in my head and not the typical one of personal thought. I'm talking to myself and seeing images of me talking back. Then they'll pretend its ok and say its some medical thing that can be cured. Or not, what if it can't be cured! What if I'm stuck having these nightmares, living these bad dreams forever? No I can't.'
"Vegeta?" Gohan spoke softly breaking the mans train of thought.
"Just things, poor eating, agitation maybe boredom."
"Boredom?" The doctor repeated.
"Its possible. Maybe I'm twitchy from lack of sexual intercourse! Whatever, you decide. I can't sleep and that's all there is to it."
"All right, all right no need to get upset. Well since you've directed me to a new question I'll just be blunt about it. Lack of sex you say, is that why you sexually assaulted your own son?"
"What!?" Shocked and disgusted Vegeta stared wide eyed at the man who'd spoken such nonsense. Then he looked at Trunks who seemed to shrink away from them all, avoiding his gaze and the others.
"Like I said, do you deny the action, because your son told me himself." Dr. Kondo went on.
"Deny- Of course I deny it he's my son why would I do something so.."
"Something so out of the ordinary, so uncharacteristic of you?" The doctor provided Vegeta's words for him. Trunks remained silent. "Maybe you did and you just don't remember doing it because it wasn't you performing the action."
Lowering his voice becoming angry Vegeta nearly growled, "What are you getting at, doctor?"
"You're here for a reason Vegeta, don't you want to know why?" The other man gave no response. "You might have a mental disorder that's causing you to act differently, to lose sleep."
"Really, and what might that be?"
"Its a very common disease called Dissosiative Identity Disorder or as most people know it multiple personalities." Vegeta scoffed on the outside but something flashed in his mind that made those words seem familiar. He quickly recalled a book he'd been reading weeks ago when this all began and could recall those very words.
'No it's not possible, it couldn't be.'
"So I need to ask you these questions and take pictures of your brain to monitor its behavior to know for sure."
"This is ridiculous." Vegeta murmured.
"Is it? Your family doesn't seem to think so."
"I'm sorry dad but the doctor is right, you have to get a real check up, please." Trunks was near to begging. Vegeta shot him an angry look. One that clearly read blame, and Vegeta thought this was all his fault.
After a moment of silence the reluctant prince finally replied. "Fine, take your damn test you won't find anything."
Trunks sighed in relief and the doctor nodded to Gohan to make the preparations for him. "Are we finished with your disturbing game of truth or dare now doctor?" Vegeta spat out.
"For now I guess. In the meantime we'll be taking you for an x-ray and doing some lab work." Vegeta grumbled something inaudible as the doctor left the room. Leaving the two man family alone and awkardly so. Trunks was working himself up to say something, anything to try and explain all of this to his father but Vegeta stole his moment and spoke first.
"So boy, is there anything you want to talk about? Or accuse me of doing wrong perhaps?"
"Dad its not like that. I don't know one of these nights I came home late and..." The teen hesitated clearly uncomfortable with the subject, no matter how many times he has to speak of it.
"And what, I raped you?"
"No, I mean, well.... sort of." Vegeta scoffed. "Its true dad! But its not your fault you weren't yourself, you didn't know what you were doing."
"Really and you think its because I have this diss- multiple... whatever it is."
"Yes dad I do, and so does Goku for that matter."
"Oh of course and if the great Kakarot believes something then so shall it be."
Trunks sat heavily back in his chair with exasperation. Luckily the doctor and a few nurses returned to take Vegeta for his exam. "Sorry son but you'll have to sit this one out." A nurse said as they helped take Vegeta away.
"Alright. I'm gonna find Goku and tell him you're awake." Vegeta said nothing in return and didn't even spare his son a glance. Too many things were on the Saiyan's mind all of his wheels turning in one direction of panic and nervousness. Nothing seemed to be going right for him lately and no matter how many times someone tried to explain the reason why to him, he refused to believe it.
..........................
Trunks came into the cafeteria looking exasperated, he glanced around to find Goten and Goku seated at a table with a small amount of emptied countainers between them.
"Hey Trunks." Goku greeted standing when the boy approached. "So how is he?"
"Who knows, fine I guess until the scans or whatever tell the doctors if he really has... MPD."
"What about you?" Goten asked offering his boyfriend a plastic cup of orange juice once the lavender haired boy sat down. "You look miserable."
"Thanks," He replied referring to the drink by taking a sip. "I think he's mad at me."
"Vegeta, what for?" Goten raised a brow.
Trunks moved awkwardly in his seat not sure if he wanted to repeat the conversation between him and his dad again. So he chose to give the overall reason rather than small details. "I guess he thinks this is all my fault somehow. The reason he's here I mean."
"Oh. Well when he is he not blaming someone else for something. Atleast he's back to normal for now." Goten tried to compensate for the situation.
"But for how long." Trunks leaned back in his seat crossing his arms. "I can't believe this is happening."
"I'm sorry Trunks." Goku spoke up sounding just as forelorn as the teen. "If Vegeta should be mad at anyone its me. You should be as well. I should have just opened my mouth sooner and maybe."
"It doesn't do any good taking any blame for something medical so just forget it alright." Trunks spoke cut and dry.
"He's right." Goten added trying to remove some of the static in the air between his dad and best friend. "So now we just kinda wait some more huh?"
"Yeah but the doctor said it shouldn't take too long. If you guys wanna go then its o.k."
"We'd never do that to you, besides what do we have to do anyway?" Goten smiled at his boyfriend before taking another bite of his sandwich. Goku nodded in agreement to his sons statement.
"Thanks guys."
.............................
Vegeta lay in wait on the cold table, his eyes set on angry though his nerves were making his insides quiver. He felt nauseas and annoyed not knowing what time it was or where he was and how long he'd be there.
Doctors and nurses had been moving about him all day. Whispering to each other, passing around files and large binders. Staring at images of his insides. Taking him from one room to another. Hooking him up to various machines and performing various test on him, physical and mental. From drug test for allergies to pain response tests. They would ask him a bunch of questions that he couldn't answer and they gave him information that he couldn't understand. It all made the once proud Saiyan prince very uneasy. However this seemed to be the final stop on his personal invasion, because he'd been in this room longer than any of the others they dragged him to.
'No wonder Kakarot hates these places so much.' He thought. The room was white from ceiling to floor and he lay on his back atop a small bed that felt more like a hard table. A machine resembling a female hair dryer from a salon had just been removed from covering his head. While he was beneath it the doctor told him to keep still until a few zapping sounds were heard, which Vegeta was told later were pictures being taken of his brain. Above him now was a blinding bright light reminding him of the solar attack that Tien often used in battle. Which meant nothing once Kakarot stole the technique for his own. Making it far more superior coming from a Saiyan warrior.
'Tch, Kakarot-' Vegeta mentally scoffed. 'This is all his fault. I wouldn't be here right now if he, if he hadn't been so damned nosey!' The coldness in the room crept through his flimsy hospital gown causing the man to shiver slightly. 'He probably told Trunks Kami knows what! Making that boy worry over nothing. That damn boy, its his fault most of all and his false accusations. Or maybe they're both in on this together. Plotting against me- they wanted me here. They think I'm crazy or maybe they're just afraid of me and want to get rid of me before I come after them' His fist began clenching and unclenching at the thought of it all. 'I would have been fine if they'd all have just left me alone. I could have handled this myself. Then I wouldn't be stuck here in this cold hell being treated like some experiment.'
"Something wrong Vegeta you seem really wound up?" The doctor asked breaking Vegeta's train of finger pointing thoughts.
Vegeta scowled even harder. "Of course I'm wound up, look at me, look at where I am and what's been happening to me."
"You mean us running test on you ooor what's been happening inside of you?" Doctor Kondo tried sneaking information out of the man.
Glancing down his body, still lying on the x-ray bed Vegeta eyed the doctor bitterly before lowering his tone. "I could kill you you know."
Doctor Kondo frowned trying to hide his intimidation from the threat. Even a blind man would know Vegeta wasn't just unpleasant to be around but he was scary physically and verbally. He didn't know much about the situation or the man himself, outside of his vague medical records but he knew from what Gohan had told him earlier that his own father and Vegeta weren't like them. He knew the Saiyan race, whatever that really was, had been wiped out and one of them had continuously saved the planet and that they possesed incredible power. What made him most nervous was that this man with him now had once used his for evil. No matter how calm the patient was now and no matter how much reassurance Gohan gave, Doctor Kondo knew to be careful around him. Especially if he was diagnosed with DID. The alternate personalities could cause an already seemingly unstable man to do things much worse depending on the nature of the alter.
"Ehem," Clearing his throat he tried to regain his composure and remain calm. "Yes, well uhh.. the test is done so we'll escort you back to your room and alert your family."
"Ha!" Vegeta scoffed again, this time at the word family as he sat himself up. He watched the doctor pass a file to another doctor, he assumed because they wore the same outfits just in a lighter color. The other doctor seemed like a boy, near Gohan's age with dark semi curly hair. He scurried out of the room quickly apparently effected by Vegeta's threats even if they weren't spoken to him directly. This pleased the prince enough to place a smug smirk on his face.
"I have more good news for you." Vegeta redirected his attention to the doctor standing before him. "If these test results come up blank whether you actually have DID or not,"
"I don't." He spoke with conviction.
"Whether you have it or not," The doctor continued trying to remain unphased. "there's nothing we can do for you if there is no clear physical sign of any disorder from our machines and if you continue to refuse therapy treatment which might help us determine your condition and understand you better.... well then we'll let you leave."
"Perfect and how long will these results take?"
"Depends on when they're run through. A condition like yours is rare and also not life threatening so-"
"I suggest you make it life threatening, doctor, for yourself and tell them to rush. Because if I have to stay in this damn place any longer I really will go crazy and-"
"Vegeta!"
Both men turned to the door where Gohan stood, a frown marred his features. Doctor Kondo sighed with relief and Vegeta kept quiet crossing his arms.
"You can't go around threatening the doctors, we're here to help you."
"That's right," Dr. Kondo agreed. "Now that you're here Gohan you can take your friend back to his room, I'll let the others know he's done with testing for now join me when you can."
"Great. They should be down in the waiting room." Gohan came into the room and handed Vegeta the clothes he'd been wearing when he came into the hospital hours ago. Snatching them from the young man he yanked them on removing the cold and unflattering gown, grumbling something under his breath. Then followed Gohan out of the room.
"Its really late in the afternoon so I'll send up some lunch for you. Better get some strength back while you wait." Gohan made light conversation as they walked. "I know these procedures can take a lot out of a person, even a Saiyan warrior." He joked but Vegeta wasn't amused.
............................
Down in the waiting area sitting down, Goten watched as Goku and Trunks paced back and forth in opposite directions.
"What's taking them so long?" Goku barked out. His mood had gone from worried and nervous to plain annoyance. He seemed frustrated and Goten couldn't tell if it was directed at himself or Vegeta or maybe it was because of how Trunks was acting around him. Goten wasn't completely oblivious to the fact that Trunks had become... stiff around his dad. Speaking in clipped words and not making eye contact. Trunks was apparently blaming Goku the same way Vegeta was blaming Trunks. Before he could decide if he should bring up the matter or not the doctor arrived clearing his throat to get everyone's attention. Trunks and Goku stopped their tread simultaneously and gave the man their full attention.
"What happened?"
"Is my dad o.k?"
"In a manner of speaking he is. The results came out negative but-"
"What! what do you mean they're negative?" Trunks blurted out not caring anymore that his anger was showing.
"These things are common in DID cases I'm afraid. MRI's and physical exams don't always pick up on the disease. We gave him drug test to make sure he wasn't using anything that could cause his changes in behavior, the headaches or sleep deprivaiton. He came out clean." They all listened intently as the doctor read over his papers. "The x-rays showed some erratic brain patterns but nothing that could prove a disorder."
"So what are you saying?" Trunks asked his voice still full of frustration, rivalling Goku's from a moment ago.
Doctor Kondo sighed shifting the large gray chart in his arm. "What Vegeta really needs is the therapy treatment. Psychiatric exams to properly diagnos a personality disorder."
"Then why didn't you do those?"
"Well son your father is kind of..."
"Scary? Mean?" Goten suggested.
"Stand-offish?" Goku and Trunks added.
"Actually I was going to say uncooperative, which is why we did as many of the physical exams as possible today, but those descriptions are also true." He added in good humor. "Either way without his permission and cooperation we couldn't bring in the hospital therapist. He refused and he answered most of the other questions fairly the same with I don't know or he had a believable excuse."
"Figures." Trunks mumbled. "So now what do we do?"
"I suggest you watch him carefully. Monitor his behavior daily if anything seems too far out of the norm' then you can assume its the disorder. How you handle that might be the hard part. Stay calm with him be patient and try to go along with whatever he's saying or doing within reason of course. Alternate personalities can be dangerous for the host and anyone else involved. However, they can also be pleasant so it depends. Just stay alert. I have some things for you I asked Gohan to bring for me."
"Got it right here sir." Everyone turned towards the young intern jogging down the hall towards them. He handed Trunks a few thin paperback books.
"Those should help you better understand what to expect if your dad actually has Dissosiative Identity Disorder." Trunks took the books looking the covers over briefly. "Try asking him a few of the questions from the books, be casual about it. He might open up more in a more comfortable environment around family and friends. And these," The doctor fished around in his pockets and pulled out a few different brown plastic bottles full of pills and handed them to Trunks, who'd passed the books to Goten for holding on to.
"I wrote out a prescription for Vegeta's headaches and something to help him sleep. The last one is, with fewer pills inside, is to calm his nerves and help with any anxioty or stress that might be causing any problems." A beep sounded and the doctor checked his pager. "I have to go, be careful with the anxioty meds make sure he takes them properly. And if anything happens you can always bring him back here." Putting a sympathetic hand on Trunks shoulder the doctor left the group standing bewildered and more confused.
After a moment of silence Goke spoke up. "I'm gonna go get Vegeta. He's probably losing it right now-" He froze having just heard what he'd said. "I didn't mean that."
"Its alright." Trunks spoke quietly. Goten and Goku exchanged looks.
"He's in his room dad, you remember where it is?"
"Yeah, I'll just go then." Instead of taking the long way Goku used his instant transmission not wanting to be around the still air and discomfort anymore.
"You guys can take my car back if you need to." Gohan offered.
"Thanks Gohan but it might be safer if we just use Goku's method and get home as soon as possible." Trunks said without looking up from the items in his hands.
"Alright, well I have to get back to work; you guys gonna be alright? Goku should be back soon so don't go too far."
"Sure thing Bro' I'll take over now." Goten tried to keep his voice light for his boyfriend earning a smile and nod from his older brother before he went his way.
Once the two were alone Trunks took a seat gripping the medicine tightly enough to pop the caps if they hadn't been securely in place. Growling in frustration he dropped his head. "I can't believe they didn't find anything! What the hell was all this for?"
"There were circumstances Trunks and like the doc said if Vegeta wasn't willing there's nothing they could do."
"I know."
"And hey maybe this is a good thing, maybe they couldn't find anything wrong, psyche test or not, because there isn't anything wrong." The hopeful Goten only made Trunks frown more. "Its a nice thought to hold on to." The spiky haired boy offered up sitting next to his forelorn boyfriend.
........................
Vegeta was in his room sitting in the bed arms crossed wearing the same bitter expression he'd had on all day. The nurse had left a food tray for him minutes ago that was never touched. Glaring at it now Vegeta picked the tray up off of its little stand and tossed the thing like a frizbee at the door, that suddenly opened.
"Hey," Goku stepped over the food that almost made contact with his legs. "You shouldn't waste food Vegeta, even if its from a hospital." He joked but his former rival only grunted in response. It was obvious that Vegeta, like Trunks, wasn't too happy with him and that sunk Goku's heart more than anything.
"Listen Vegeta I-.... I'm sorry." Goku said sounding a bit nervous and having the heavy sense of dejavu.
This got the other mans attention and he looked Goku straight in the eyes. "You're sorry, for what?" He spoke on the verge of yelling but managed to keep himself under control. "Putting me here forcing me to suffer in this place for nothing?"
"Yeah, I guess but not just that everything. If I'd have only noticed or acknowledged sooner that something was going on with you instead of turning a blind eye-"
"You'd what Kakarot? Make it all better like you usually do." Goku studdered for words but nothing came out. "News flash hero. I've got a clean bill of health." Vegeta spoke smugly. "So I don't need your apologies or saving." He swung his legs over the side of the bed and got off to stretch.
"But there's still the possibility that something is wrong and they just didn't catch it today The doctor said you need the full-"
"The doctor is a fucking quack! Just like the rest of you for believing in this nonsense. I know my body, my mind better than anyone Kakarot. So when I say there's nothing wrong with me you should believe it."
Goku sighed inwardly he knew there was no convincing Vegeta otherwise, especially not now. "I guess so, I mean you're right."
"Good boy, now get me the hell out of here. I know you can't stand being in this place anymore than I do." Vegeta pushed past the taller man kicking the tray and its spilled contents farther out the door, as he headed out the stuffy confining room. Already trying everything in his power to believe his own words.
_______________________________________
A/N: Happy New Year!! and sorry for the wait and for my lack of knowledge in the disorder and hospital procedures for diagnosing. This was the hardest part to write I did some research but trying to make it sound real and fit all the medical stuff into the story wasn't easy but hoorah! now that that's over I can focus on the important part, character developement and relationships. Its only getting better from here I promise. I love oyu for reading and hanging there with me. -Linkin
Summary: Vegeta's losing his mind or gaining more of it? While his family and friends try to figure it out, Trunks to gain his father's love and Goku to gain Vegeta's love. (I know thats so lame but its what you get)
The Alters: Envy/self loathing Playful/crazy Anger Sad/confused Loving/fatherly lust/need
STEALING TIME
CHPT 18- Prognosis Negative
Now they're on to us, I hope you're happy
This could be a good thing, more freedom without having to hide behind that pathetic Vegeta
The man of the hour was slowly rising from his place on the floor in that dark area of his mind. He could see the alters having a conversation again. Only this time there was no arguing going on.
"What the hell is happening to me? Why am I still here?"
The other Vegeta's turned their heads in the direction of the speaker.
Look who has finally come to
This must be terrifying for him
"Why am I here again?" He spoke trying to hide his momentary nervousness and be cool as a Saiyan prince should. "What the hell is going on!?"
No need to be rude Vegeta
And how many times do we have to explain this to you
The lost prince stood from the floor but made no moves towards his living nightmares.
We're here- well, you're here so we can take over
That's not true, we're here to help remember
"Help what? This doesn't make any sense.... wait why am I even talking to myself, its all a bad dream a damn nightmare. Probably from, from something I ate or the television." The alters watched some amused others showing pity for their host. "I just have to wake myself up somehow."
Hahahahaha
Looking at his mental intruders once again Vegeta demanded. "You whatever you ares. Tell me how to get out of here, now!"
We should let him go and get this over with
Of course now that you've screwed it up for us, why not bail
The two most outspoken alters, one who apparently liked Vegeta and the other who seemed to loath him, shared a glare with one another.
Fine but we will be back, I will get out next time
Your family is worried about you Vegeta, go back to them now
Vegeta watched as the replicas of himself slowly faded into the darkness leaving him alone in the blackness. His shoulders slumped in relief but he still didn't know how to wake himself from this nightmare. "Damn this!"
"...Dad.... dad?" His son's voice was echoing from somewhere in the empty space.
"Trunks?" He glanced around unable to see anything in front of his own face.
"Dad come on wake up, please... dad!"
On the outside Trunks was hovering over his fathers hospital bed gently shaking the man. He had just been returned to his room after an x-ray when the boy noticed movement behind his fathers eyes. Which is why he was trying to coax the man awake now.
"Dad are you awake now? Can you hear me?"
Vegeta's eyes fluttered a moment before fully opening. His eyes adjusted to the sight of his son staring down at him relief etched across his features. Looking away Vegeta surveyed his surroundings, from the white walls, to the machines in various places, and the blinding lights above and linoleum polished floor. He sighed of relief inwardly at the change in scenery, for once happy to see the light. He cleared his throat before speaking Trunks interrupted.
"Oh wait,.... here." Trunks handed him a glass of water that had been sitting beside the bed. Taking the drink Vegeta grunted what Trunks could only assume was his gratitude.
"What's going on?"
"...We're in the hospital... This morning you said it was alright if we brought you here." The teen spoke slowly to his father watching carefully for any signs of misbehavior or something to let him know that this was really Vegeta. When his dad made no signs of commenting Trunks went on. "Because last night you weren't... feeling well so-"
"Yes I know." His fathers harsh voice cut him off. It was obvious that the prince didn't know what had happened in the span of time he'd been, for lack of a better explanation, asleep. He was also well aware that these incidents have been happening frequently leaving him completely unaware of what he'd done or where he'd been. In Vegeta's mind just because its unexplainable doesn't mean its real.
'If these blackouts have been happening today it explains why they brought me to this place. I can't give in to this. I'll figure out how to deal with the problem on my own and end it. I won't have people thinking I'm crazy and I'm sure as hell not going to stay cooped up in this moth ball smelling germ cage.'
"You know?" Trunks asked in disbelief.
Knowing that lying was the only way he could get out of this, Vegeta put on his stern face that read nothing but determination hoping his son would take it as a sign of his being honest. "Of course I do. I haven't been myself lately for obvious reasons and you're concerned. That's why we're in the hospital right?" He attempted a reassuring look for his son.
Trunks wasn't a stupid kid anymore and didn't believe everything his proud Saiyan father told him, despite how well the man did appear to be right now. "Yeah obvious reasons," The teen mumbled. "but how do you feel now?"
"Fine, all I needed was a good rest. Now I'm ready to go home so fetch whomever's in charge here an-"
"I'm sorry sir but you can't go anywhere until I ask you a few questions." Doctor Kondo appeared in the room, Gohan by his side. Vegeta narrowed his eyes at the man as he approached the bed. "Glad you're finally awake," The doctor said getting close to the patient with his tiny flashlight to check Vegeta's glaring eyes. "I was getting a little worried."
"Yes I'm awake and perfectly alright. Now let me go home." Vegeta spat whacking the tiny light away from his face earning a frown from the doctor who looked a few years older than Vegeta himself.
Tucking the light back into his coat pocket Dr. Kondo responded. "According to your family you're not all right. So if its ok with you I'd like to ask a few questions to determine your condition myself."
"Please cooperate Vegeta," Gohan spoke up. "It'll make things easier on all of us. We have to make certain nothing is seriously wrong with you first and then you can go home."
"Seriously wrong." The prince repeated under his breath. Vegeta could feel his nerves tightening inside of him. The last thing he wanted to do was answer any crack pot doctors questions. Especially with his and Kakarot's son in the room. He knew if he didn't cooperate he might be stuck there for Kami knew how long. 'I'll just have to be crafty and lie my way through this mess.'
"Fine talk and make it quick. This place is... making me sick." He joked in a serious tone.
"Funny," The young doctor half smiled and Vegeta smirked in satisfaction to himself. "Well then, have you been having a lot of headaches recently?"
"I suppose I have." The prince answered still holding onto his haughty appearance. He crossed his arms and stared hard at the doctor, who was apparently writing his answers down.
"Okay, on a scale of mild irritation to severe, how bad would you say the headaches were?"
Vegeta thought a moment before replying. "I can't say they change."
Trunks watched and listened with full concentration. He could tell his dad was putting up a mighty front for them and he wanted nothing more than to tell him to knock it off and be honest. To take the matter seriously but that would only upset his father or make him refuse to speak at all. So Trunks stayed quiet and waited. He'd have to try confronting his father later when they were alone.
"Have you taken any medication for the headaches?" Doctor Kondo continued.
"I've taken... medication for sleeping but not a headache."
"So you're having trouble sleeping?"
"Obviously." Vegeta spoke in irritation.
"And what, may I ask is keeping you awake?" The doctor poised his pen to the clipboard and watched Vegeta waiting for his answer.
"How should I know." Was the best answer the man could give. The others in the room clearly weren't satisfied and remained silent until he gave a real response. "Just restlessness I guess. I've got a lot on my mind."
The sincerity in his dad's voice and what he'd said had Trunks straightening in his seat beside the bed. 'Alot on his mind, or something wrong with it.' The teen thought, wondering if the doctor caught that as well and if it might be an indication that Vegeta does have multiple personalities.
"Anything specific?"
"Hmm," Vegeta made a sound of agitation, he felt cornered. 'I can't tell them what's keeping me awake. That's what they want. That's what they'll use against me, call me insane, a nutcase. Well doctor I can hear my voice in my head and not the typical one of personal thought. I'm talking to myself and seeing images of me talking back. Then they'll pretend its ok and say its some medical thing that can be cured. Or not, what if it can't be cured! What if I'm stuck having these nightmares, living these bad dreams forever? No I can't.'
"Vegeta?" Gohan spoke softly breaking the mans train of thought.
"Just things, poor eating, agitation maybe boredom."
"Boredom?" The doctor repeated.
"Its possible. Maybe I'm twitchy from lack of sexual intercourse! Whatever, you decide. I can't sleep and that's all there is to it."
"All right, all right no need to get upset. Well since you've directed me to a new question I'll just be blunt about it. Lack of sex you say, is that why you sexually assaulted your own son?"
"What!?" Shocked and disgusted Vegeta stared wide eyed at the man who'd spoken such nonsense. Then he looked at Trunks who seemed to shrink away from them all, avoiding his gaze and the others.
"Like I said, do you deny the action, because your son told me himself." Dr. Kondo went on.
"Deny- Of course I deny it he's my son why would I do something so.."
"Something so out of the ordinary, so uncharacteristic of you?" The doctor provided Vegeta's words for him. Trunks remained silent. "Maybe you did and you just don't remember doing it because it wasn't you performing the action."
Lowering his voice becoming angry Vegeta nearly growled, "What are you getting at, doctor?"
"You're here for a reason Vegeta, don't you want to know why?" The other man gave no response. "You might have a mental disorder that's causing you to act differently, to lose sleep."
"Really, and what might that be?"
"Its a very common disease called Dissosiative Identity Disorder or as most people know it multiple personalities." Vegeta scoffed on the outside but something flashed in his mind that made those words seem familiar. He quickly recalled a book he'd been reading weeks ago when this all began and could recall those very words.
'No it's not possible, it couldn't be.'
"So I need to ask you these questions and take pictures of your brain to monitor its behavior to know for sure."
"This is ridiculous." Vegeta murmured.
"Is it? Your family doesn't seem to think so."
"I'm sorry dad but the doctor is right, you have to get a real check up, please." Trunks was near to begging. Vegeta shot him an angry look. One that clearly read blame, and Vegeta thought this was all his fault.
After a moment of silence the reluctant prince finally replied. "Fine, take your damn test you won't find anything."
Trunks sighed in relief and the doctor nodded to Gohan to make the preparations for him. "Are we finished with your disturbing game of truth or dare now doctor?" Vegeta spat out.
"For now I guess. In the meantime we'll be taking you for an x-ray and doing some lab work." Vegeta grumbled something inaudible as the doctor left the room. Leaving the two man family alone and awkardly so. Trunks was working himself up to say something, anything to try and explain all of this to his father but Vegeta stole his moment and spoke first.
"So boy, is there anything you want to talk about? Or accuse me of doing wrong perhaps?"
"Dad its not like that. I don't know one of these nights I came home late and..." The teen hesitated clearly uncomfortable with the subject, no matter how many times he has to speak of it.
"And what, I raped you?"
"No, I mean, well.... sort of." Vegeta scoffed. "Its true dad! But its not your fault you weren't yourself, you didn't know what you were doing."
"Really and you think its because I have this diss- multiple... whatever it is."
"Yes dad I do, and so does Goku for that matter."
"Oh of course and if the great Kakarot believes something then so shall it be."
Trunks sat heavily back in his chair with exasperation. Luckily the doctor and a few nurses returned to take Vegeta for his exam. "Sorry son but you'll have to sit this one out." A nurse said as they helped take Vegeta away.
"Alright. I'm gonna find Goku and tell him you're awake." Vegeta said nothing in return and didn't even spare his son a glance. Too many things were on the Saiyan's mind all of his wheels turning in one direction of panic and nervousness. Nothing seemed to be going right for him lately and no matter how many times someone tried to explain the reason why to him, he refused to believe it.
..........................
Trunks came into the cafeteria looking exasperated, he glanced around to find Goten and Goku seated at a table with a small amount of emptied countainers between them.
"Hey Trunks." Goku greeted standing when the boy approached. "So how is he?"
"Who knows, fine I guess until the scans or whatever tell the doctors if he really has... MPD."
"What about you?" Goten asked offering his boyfriend a plastic cup of orange juice once the lavender haired boy sat down. "You look miserable."
"Thanks," He replied referring to the drink by taking a sip. "I think he's mad at me."
"Vegeta, what for?" Goten raised a brow.
Trunks moved awkwardly in his seat not sure if he wanted to repeat the conversation between him and his dad again. So he chose to give the overall reason rather than small details. "I guess he thinks this is all my fault somehow. The reason he's here I mean."
"Oh. Well when he is he not blaming someone else for something. Atleast he's back to normal for now." Goten tried to compensate for the situation.
"But for how long." Trunks leaned back in his seat crossing his arms. "I can't believe this is happening."
"I'm sorry Trunks." Goku spoke up sounding just as forelorn as the teen. "If Vegeta should be mad at anyone its me. You should be as well. I should have just opened my mouth sooner and maybe."
"It doesn't do any good taking any blame for something medical so just forget it alright." Trunks spoke cut and dry.
"He's right." Goten added trying to remove some of the static in the air between his dad and best friend. "So now we just kinda wait some more huh?"
"Yeah but the doctor said it shouldn't take too long. If you guys wanna go then its o.k."
"We'd never do that to you, besides what do we have to do anyway?" Goten smiled at his boyfriend before taking another bite of his sandwich. Goku nodded in agreement to his sons statement.
"Thanks guys."
.............................
Vegeta lay in wait on the cold table, his eyes set on angry though his nerves were making his insides quiver. He felt nauseas and annoyed not knowing what time it was or where he was and how long he'd be there.
Doctors and nurses had been moving about him all day. Whispering to each other, passing around files and large binders. Staring at images of his insides. Taking him from one room to another. Hooking him up to various machines and performing various test on him, physical and mental. From drug test for allergies to pain response tests. They would ask him a bunch of questions that he couldn't answer and they gave him information that he couldn't understand. It all made the once proud Saiyan prince very uneasy. However this seemed to be the final stop on his personal invasion, because he'd been in this room longer than any of the others they dragged him to.
'No wonder Kakarot hates these places so much.' He thought. The room was white from ceiling to floor and he lay on his back atop a small bed that felt more like a hard table. A machine resembling a female hair dryer from a salon had just been removed from covering his head. While he was beneath it the doctor told him to keep still until a few zapping sounds were heard, which Vegeta was told later were pictures being taken of his brain. Above him now was a blinding bright light reminding him of the solar attack that Tien often used in battle. Which meant nothing once Kakarot stole the technique for his own. Making it far more superior coming from a Saiyan warrior.
'Tch, Kakarot-' Vegeta mentally scoffed. 'This is all his fault. I wouldn't be here right now if he, if he hadn't been so damned nosey!' The coldness in the room crept through his flimsy hospital gown causing the man to shiver slightly. 'He probably told Trunks Kami knows what! Making that boy worry over nothing. That damn boy, its his fault most of all and his false accusations. Or maybe they're both in on this together. Plotting against me- they wanted me here. They think I'm crazy or maybe they're just afraid of me and want to get rid of me before I come after them' His fist began clenching and unclenching at the thought of it all. 'I would have been fine if they'd all have just left me alone. I could have handled this myself. Then I wouldn't be stuck here in this cold hell being treated like some experiment.'
"Something wrong Vegeta you seem really wound up?" The doctor asked breaking Vegeta's train of finger pointing thoughts.
Vegeta scowled even harder. "Of course I'm wound up, look at me, look at where I am and what's been happening to me."
"You mean us running test on you ooor what's been happening inside of you?" Doctor Kondo tried sneaking information out of the man.
Glancing down his body, still lying on the x-ray bed Vegeta eyed the doctor bitterly before lowering his tone. "I could kill you you know."
Doctor Kondo frowned trying to hide his intimidation from the threat. Even a blind man would know Vegeta wasn't just unpleasant to be around but he was scary physically and verbally. He didn't know much about the situation or the man himself, outside of his vague medical records but he knew from what Gohan had told him earlier that his own father and Vegeta weren't like them. He knew the Saiyan race, whatever that really was, had been wiped out and one of them had continuously saved the planet and that they possesed incredible power. What made him most nervous was that this man with him now had once used his for evil. No matter how calm the patient was now and no matter how much reassurance Gohan gave, Doctor Kondo knew to be careful around him. Especially if he was diagnosed with DID. The alternate personalities could cause an already seemingly unstable man to do things much worse depending on the nature of the alter.
"Ehem," Clearing his throat he tried to regain his composure and remain calm. "Yes, well uhh.. the test is done so we'll escort you back to your room and alert your family."
"Ha!" Vegeta scoffed again, this time at the word family as he sat himself up. He watched the doctor pass a file to another doctor, he assumed because they wore the same outfits just in a lighter color. The other doctor seemed like a boy, near Gohan's age with dark semi curly hair. He scurried out of the room quickly apparently effected by Vegeta's threats even if they weren't spoken to him directly. This pleased the prince enough to place a smug smirk on his face.
"I have more good news for you." Vegeta redirected his attention to the doctor standing before him. "If these test results come up blank whether you actually have DID or not,"
"I don't." He spoke with conviction.
"Whether you have it or not," The doctor continued trying to remain unphased. "there's nothing we can do for you if there is no clear physical sign of any disorder from our machines and if you continue to refuse therapy treatment which might help us determine your condition and understand you better.... well then we'll let you leave."
"Perfect and how long will these results take?"
"Depends on when they're run through. A condition like yours is rare and also not life threatening so-"
"I suggest you make it life threatening, doctor, for yourself and tell them to rush. Because if I have to stay in this damn place any longer I really will go crazy and-"
"Vegeta!"
Both men turned to the door where Gohan stood, a frown marred his features. Doctor Kondo sighed with relief and Vegeta kept quiet crossing his arms.
"You can't go around threatening the doctors, we're here to help you."
"That's right," Dr. Kondo agreed. "Now that you're here Gohan you can take your friend back to his room, I'll let the others know he's done with testing for now join me when you can."
"Great. They should be down in the waiting room." Gohan came into the room and handed Vegeta the clothes he'd been wearing when he came into the hospital hours ago. Snatching them from the young man he yanked them on removing the cold and unflattering gown, grumbling something under his breath. Then followed Gohan out of the room.
"Its really late in the afternoon so I'll send up some lunch for you. Better get some strength back while you wait." Gohan made light conversation as they walked. "I know these procedures can take a lot out of a person, even a Saiyan warrior." He joked but Vegeta wasn't amused.
............................
Down in the waiting area sitting down, Goten watched as Goku and Trunks paced back and forth in opposite directions.
"What's taking them so long?" Goku barked out. His mood had gone from worried and nervous to plain annoyance. He seemed frustrated and Goten couldn't tell if it was directed at himself or Vegeta or maybe it was because of how Trunks was acting around him. Goten wasn't completely oblivious to the fact that Trunks had become... stiff around his dad. Speaking in clipped words and not making eye contact. Trunks was apparently blaming Goku the same way Vegeta was blaming Trunks. Before he could decide if he should bring up the matter or not the doctor arrived clearing his throat to get everyone's attention. Trunks and Goku stopped their tread simultaneously and gave the man their full attention.
"What happened?"
"Is my dad o.k?"
"In a manner of speaking he is. The results came out negative but-"
"What! what do you mean they're negative?" Trunks blurted out not caring anymore that his anger was showing.
"These things are common in DID cases I'm afraid. MRI's and physical exams don't always pick up on the disease. We gave him drug test to make sure he wasn't using anything that could cause his changes in behavior, the headaches or sleep deprivaiton. He came out clean." They all listened intently as the doctor read over his papers. "The x-rays showed some erratic brain patterns but nothing that could prove a disorder."
"So what are you saying?" Trunks asked his voice still full of frustration, rivalling Goku's from a moment ago.
Doctor Kondo sighed shifting the large gray chart in his arm. "What Vegeta really needs is the therapy treatment. Psychiatric exams to properly diagnos a personality disorder."
"Then why didn't you do those?"
"Well son your father is kind of..."
"Scary? Mean?" Goten suggested.
"Stand-offish?" Goku and Trunks added.
"Actually I was going to say uncooperative, which is why we did as many of the physical exams as possible today, but those descriptions are also true." He added in good humor. "Either way without his permission and cooperation we couldn't bring in the hospital therapist. He refused and he answered most of the other questions fairly the same with I don't know or he had a believable excuse."
"Figures." Trunks mumbled. "So now what do we do?"
"I suggest you watch him carefully. Monitor his behavior daily if anything seems too far out of the norm' then you can assume its the disorder. How you handle that might be the hard part. Stay calm with him be patient and try to go along with whatever he's saying or doing within reason of course. Alternate personalities can be dangerous for the host and anyone else involved. However, they can also be pleasant so it depends. Just stay alert. I have some things for you I asked Gohan to bring for me."
"Got it right here sir." Everyone turned towards the young intern jogging down the hall towards them. He handed Trunks a few thin paperback books.
"Those should help you better understand what to expect if your dad actually has Dissosiative Identity Disorder." Trunks took the books looking the covers over briefly. "Try asking him a few of the questions from the books, be casual about it. He might open up more in a more comfortable environment around family and friends. And these," The doctor fished around in his pockets and pulled out a few different brown plastic bottles full of pills and handed them to Trunks, who'd passed the books to Goten for holding on to.
"I wrote out a prescription for Vegeta's headaches and something to help him sleep. The last one is, with fewer pills inside, is to calm his nerves and help with any anxioty or stress that might be causing any problems." A beep sounded and the doctor checked his pager. "I have to go, be careful with the anxioty meds make sure he takes them properly. And if anything happens you can always bring him back here." Putting a sympathetic hand on Trunks shoulder the doctor left the group standing bewildered and more confused.
After a moment of silence Goke spoke up. "I'm gonna go get Vegeta. He's probably losing it right now-" He froze having just heard what he'd said. "I didn't mean that."
"Its alright." Trunks spoke quietly. Goten and Goku exchanged looks.
"He's in his room dad, you remember where it is?"
"Yeah, I'll just go then." Instead of taking the long way Goku used his instant transmission not wanting to be around the still air and discomfort anymore.
"You guys can take my car back if you need to." Gohan offered.
"Thanks Gohan but it might be safer if we just use Goku's method and get home as soon as possible." Trunks said without looking up from the items in his hands.
"Alright, well I have to get back to work; you guys gonna be alright? Goku should be back soon so don't go too far."
"Sure thing Bro' I'll take over now." Goten tried to keep his voice light for his boyfriend earning a smile and nod from his older brother before he went his way.
Once the two were alone Trunks took a seat gripping the medicine tightly enough to pop the caps if they hadn't been securely in place. Growling in frustration he dropped his head. "I can't believe they didn't find anything! What the hell was all this for?"
"There were circumstances Trunks and like the doc said if Vegeta wasn't willing there's nothing they could do."
"I know."
"And hey maybe this is a good thing, maybe they couldn't find anything wrong, psyche test or not, because there isn't anything wrong." The hopeful Goten only made Trunks frown more. "Its a nice thought to hold on to." The spiky haired boy offered up sitting next to his forelorn boyfriend.
........................
Vegeta was in his room sitting in the bed arms crossed wearing the same bitter expression he'd had on all day. The nurse had left a food tray for him minutes ago that was never touched. Glaring at it now Vegeta picked the tray up off of its little stand and tossed the thing like a frizbee at the door, that suddenly opened.
"Hey," Goku stepped over the food that almost made contact with his legs. "You shouldn't waste food Vegeta, even if its from a hospital." He joked but his former rival only grunted in response. It was obvious that Vegeta, like Trunks, wasn't too happy with him and that sunk Goku's heart more than anything.
"Listen Vegeta I-.... I'm sorry." Goku said sounding a bit nervous and having the heavy sense of dejavu.
This got the other mans attention and he looked Goku straight in the eyes. "You're sorry, for what?" He spoke on the verge of yelling but managed to keep himself under control. "Putting me here forcing me to suffer in this place for nothing?"
"Yeah, I guess but not just that everything. If I'd have only noticed or acknowledged sooner that something was going on with you instead of turning a blind eye-"
"You'd what Kakarot? Make it all better like you usually do." Goku studdered for words but nothing came out. "News flash hero. I've got a clean bill of health." Vegeta spoke smugly. "So I don't need your apologies or saving." He swung his legs over the side of the bed and got off to stretch.
"But there's still the possibility that something is wrong and they just didn't catch it today The doctor said you need the full-"
"The doctor is a fucking quack! Just like the rest of you for believing in this nonsense. I know my body, my mind better than anyone Kakarot. So when I say there's nothing wrong with me you should believe it."
Goku sighed inwardly he knew there was no convincing Vegeta otherwise, especially not now. "I guess so, I mean you're right."
"Good boy, now get me the hell out of here. I know you can't stand being in this place anymore than I do." Vegeta pushed past the taller man kicking the tray and its spilled contents farther out the door, as he headed out the stuffy confining room. Already trying everything in his power to believe his own words.
_______________________________________
A/N: Happy New Year!! and sorry for the wait and for my lack of knowledge in the disorder and hospital procedures for diagnosing. This was the hardest part to write I did some research but trying to make it sound real and fit all the medical stuff into the story wasn't easy but hoorah! now that that's over I can focus on the important part, character developement and relationships. Its only getting better from here I promise. I love oyu for reading and hanging there with me. -Linkin