Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ The Hybrid ❯ Surprises, Surprises ( Chapter 13 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Ravenreux 
The plot thickens and there's a big reunion at the end.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Hentai / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.12.2006 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 514 | Status: Completed
The plot thickens and there's a big reunion at the end.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Hentai / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 12.12.2006 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 514 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I do not own DBZ. I've vowed not to give in to my delusions.
Chapter 13
Chikyuu
A pair of icy blue eyes connected with a contrastingly dark set of eyes as the owners' passed one another in the crowded corridor. After holding the gaze for a moment, the two broke contact and continued as if they hadn't seen anyone at all. That minute connection was all that was needed to pass the message along. A transmission had been sent and their presence was required. A bag was exchanged almost unnoticed.
The dark eyes resided below equally dark brows that arched femininely to accent her already striking face. Her skin was alabaster white, coupled with the stark blacknes of her features, giving her the effect of a living china doll. She was petitely built with long limbs that complemented her slender figure underneath her military attire. A snug black tank molded her torso under a cropped red jacket, her midriff startlingly bare. Her lean legs were wrapped into tightly fitting black jeans, while a pair of large combat boots adored her small feet. Strapped to her thighs were a pair of semi-metallic firearms that extinguished all thoughts of demureness as she strode down the hall to the exit of the building. A small, khaki bag was slung over her shoulder- the contents more important than her own existence. Her elegant fingers wrapped around the tattered strap tightly as she slipped past the sentries posted outside the building.
A dry, dusty breeze pulled tendrils of hair the color of a raven's wing from the loose ponytail at the base of her skull. Allowing her adrenaline to fuel her movements, she let her feet take her out of sight and into the dusky streets of the city. Soon, the anticipation proved to be too much and her breathing quickened. She'd only jogged about three blocks before the sirens started to blare. Ducking into small space between the rundown buildings, she leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. You are the fastest, no one can catch you. You know you are faster because you've never been caught. These soldiers won't be able to see you as your speed gives them blurred vision. Her heartbeat quickened in her chest as she set her chin and flexed her fingers. No one can catch you, Chi. Taking a final breath, she bolted from the space and ran.
Elsewhere
He had to move and he had to move fast- time was running out if he wanted to escape with his life. The white-blue eyes scanned the area and processed the data before he could blink. It seemed that leaving quietly wasn't on the agenda, if the troop of soldiers charging towards him meant anything. His fine-tuned mind calculated his odds of success against such a force, and he smiled as he stood his ground. These fools are no match for me. His unmarred face remained expressionless as he raised his palms to face the coming onslaught. A twitch of a grin passed over his lips as his artificial ki was charged and released to incinerate the opposition. Dropping his arms to his sides, he surveyed the damage. Fools. That'll teach you to be someone else's lap dog. His hyper-attuned senses caught the sound of running footsteps coming from behind him. I won't be able to fight the entire squadron, my power cell is still too damaged. Gritting his teeth, he took off on foot in the opposite direction. I hate running! He followed a pre-mapped path from memory and emerged from the intelligence base at the same exit his female cohort had used. Hurried shouts echoed from behind him. Glancing back, he launched into the air. Time to take to the skies!
He tried not to think about his partner as he jettisoned toward headquarters alone. She's a veteran. She can take care of herself. Staying low to avoid detection, he followed the dips and rises of the terrain. His thoughts turned toward the information he'd just recieved over the communications link. I don't know how he'll take my cover being blown, but it's what the Doctor wanted. It had been the easiest job he'd even done, pretending to be a radioman. It was actually a major step-down from the kind of work he was used to, but he'd found it refreshing to undermine his so-called 'commanders' without them being any the wiser. He snorted as he rode the winds to save energy. Glancing down, he saw a lone trail of dust billowing up from the arid desert below him. She beat me out here this time, but next time I'll be the one to deliver the message. Increasing his speed, he dropped down to fly alongside her.
She caught him out of the corner of her eye as her hands tightened around the handles of her bike. Damn, the prick didn't get himself nabbed by the inept soldiers guarding the building. Who would of thought? She smiled wryly as she steered around some rock formations and hit the accelerator as headquarters came into view. From the untrained eye it looked like just another enormous mountain of rock, but after living there for nearly five years she could pick out the tiny inconsistancies that identified it as fake. Rolling down towards the plateau, she stood up on the bike and guided the wheels onto the narrow track that led into an equally narrow crevice. The craggy walls breezed by her as she slowly deccelerated the bike and stopped on a sand-covered, metallic platform. She kicked down the stand and got off just as her male counterpart landed beside her. She brushed the loose tendrils of hair off her face and raised a brow. "I thought for sure that you'd be spending the night in some kind of scrap heap."
His emotionless blue eyes narrowed and he dusted off the shoulders of his jacket. "You only wish." He slid back his left sleeve to reveal a gleaming watch wrapped around his wrist. He clicked the face open and tapped one of the various keys. "Maybe next time I won't distract them and then you'll be begging for me to save you."
Chichi put a hand on her cocked hip. "Yeah, now look who's dreaming." The platform beneath them started to drop slowly, creaking as it lowered them deep into the rock face.
Juunanagou just snorted and shut his watch. "As much as I'm enjoying this conversation, I think we have bigger things to worry about."
She slipped the khaki bag off her shoulder and just stared at the ragged sack. "It really is serious then." She glanced over at Juunana as he stood somberly. A shiver crawled up her spine as she saw the stern look on his perfect face. "You can't go back there, can you?"
The platform shuddered to a stop and a lone steel door beckoned to them. Juunana met Chichi's nervous eyes and stepped off. "It's time for us to begin." His voice was devoid of emotion as he broke eye contact and strode through the door.
Chichi swallowed the lump in her throat and stepped down as well. "It's finally happening."
On the Shindaisha (translates to 'sleeper')
"Put down that pathetic little knife and fight me like a true Saiyan!" Celipa snarled and lashed out with her fist.
Bulma dropped and rolled to the side, her katana held easily in her left hand. I don't think she's ever heard the word finesse. Straightening up, she twirled the blade in her hand and jerked her arm. The sword whipped through the air and sank a foot into the steel wall, the hilt wagging from the impact. "Okay. If that's how you want to play." Her body blurred into nothingness.
Celipa's eyes darted around, but slammed shut when Bulma's fist impacted with her chin. She crashed backward to the floor, cringing. She sat up and wiped the small trickle of blood that ran from the corner of her mouth. "Bitch."
She smirked down at the female Saiyan with the short-cropped head of pitch black hair. "Real original." Bending her knees and spreading her stance, she extended her arms and beckoned with slender fingers. "Now, why don't you get up off your ass and fight."
Okay Little Miss High and Mighty, dodge this. Celipa sprang into the air and spun, while pulling her ki into her hands. "Here!" Jerking to a stop, she released the blasts. "Catch!"
Bulma's sweet smile died as she pulled her limbs close. Damn you! The blasts slammed into her flexed arms, slowly pushing her backward. I have to diffuse them or they'll tear a hole right through the hull! Sweat beaded on her brow as she buckled down and gritted her teeth. The energy's brightness faltered and with a final shove, combusted in the palms of her hands. Smoke filled the training room as Bulma stepped forward, soot on her face. "What the fuck was that?!"
Celipa rolled her eyes and dropped to the floor. Too bad. "You wanted a fight, so I gave you one." She shrugged.
If her jaw got any tighter, her teeth would shatter. "No ki blasts. The hull can't withstand the impact. You know that."
The darker female's long tail flicked back and forth behind her. "Well why don't you- with all your infinite wisdom- remedy that." She pointed accusingly. "Then it wouldn't be a problem."
She knew that she was being goaded into a fight, but she couldn't help herself. "Don't you think I've already tried that?!" She shouted and then rocked back on her heels while crossing her arms. "Oh, that's right-" Her eyes hardened. "You don't think." If there's anything Celipa hates, it's a dig at her brain. "Just like you didn't think about what you were doing to Kakarrot."
Celipa sucked in a breath at the sharpness of her whisper and the shame that reared it's head in response. "Fuck you."
"It's the truth." Bulma sneered down her nose at her.
Two can play this game. Celipa shook off her unease and locked herself into a frame that screamed attitude. "Well at least I don't pine over a traitor."
That sent Bulma's spine rigid and she whispered scathingly. "He's not a traitor."
Celipa hmphed. "You keep telling yourself that, girly. Don't let me stop your delusions."
"Go fuck yourself." Bulma strode over and got face to face. "You wouldn't know a traitor if one came up and bitch-slapped you."
"Is that a fact?" Celipa's blood started to heat, caught up in the anticipation of a fight.
Bulma grinned ferally. "Oh, it's a guarantee."
Both women stood hissing in each other's faces when Celipa's patience ran out. "I'm sick of this!" The two powerful females lunged at each other, both with the intent to do serious harm. Knees and elbows flew as they grappled on the floor.
It was how Turles and Toma found them.
In the Hall
Turles could feel their ki's raging, but thought nothing of it as he strode down the long hall to the training room. He turned toward his silent companion. "Is it just me, or are their ki's getting stronger?"
Toma cocked his head like a dog did to an unusual sound. "Yes, they are. But knowing those two they're just trying to kill each other."
Turles nodded. "Point taken." He stopped outside the door and pressed his palm into the keypad. When the door slid open, he had to stop his jaw from hitting the deck. "Bulma!" His shocked shout was lost on the dueling duo as they tore into each other. Bulma had Celipa pinned to the floor as she repeatedly punched the other in the face. He jumped into action and lunged for Bulma's raging body. Wrapping his arms around her in a bear hug, he lifted her clear off the floor as she bucked like mad.
"Let go! The bitch deserves it!" She thrashed around like a trapped predator, kicking her heels into his legs in an attempt to release herself.
Toma had intervened as well and was picking up his bloodied daughter from the cold floor. Celipa shrugged him off and stood shakily while staring down her Tousan. "I didn't need your help."
He just nodded. "Of course you didn't." He crossed his arms and shut his eyes. "You had everything under control."
She bristled but didn't answer. Instead, she swung around to glare at Turles. "Why don't you put a leash on your dog?!"
If she hadn't been fighting before, he didn't know what to call what she was doing now. Turles could feel his muscles burn as they continued to restrain his roommate. "Why are you letting her get to you?!"
His frustrated shout managed to seep itself into her glazed brain and she ceased struggling. As realization dawned on her, she couldn't stop the hysterical laughter that bubbled up out of her throat. Look at me. The normally cool and collected Bulma has been reduced to a tantruming toddler in a matter of seconds. If that's not funny, I don't know what is. As the others looked on bewildered, her chuckles receded and she tried to straighten what was left of her torn clothes. Clearing her throat, she turned to Turles. "What brings you down here?"
Her gall stunned him for a mere moment. "That's it. You're not going to try and defend yourself?"
She sighed wearily. "From what? I haven't done anything that I didn't voluntarily do."
"So you're finally admitting that you've lost your sanity?"
Toma cuffed the back of his daughter's head. "Quiet." She scowled at him but held her tongue. He didn't even glance over at her. "This, whatever it was, ends now. I want you both cleaned up, dressed, and on the bridge in an hour. No excuses." Giving them both a final, threatening glance, he left.
Bulma's brow furrowed. "What for?"
Turles grumbled. "We're docking into Station 12, that's why. Now come on." He grabbed her arm and started dragging her toward the door.
"Alright already, I get it." She jerked her arm loose and walked past him, her tail cricked with annoyance.
Turles watched her go and turned to the other scuffled Saiyan. "What? Do I have to drag you too?" Celipa just snorted and followed her adversary out of the training room, leaving Turles very confused. Women.
Chikyuu
Chichi watched his face expectantly, waiting for some kind of acknowledgement to what he'd just read. But nothing came, only the calm blinking of his dark eyes. "Well?"
"The Doctor says it's time to act." His voice was an equal match to his serene facade.
Juunana tapped his booted foot to an impatient rhythm no one else could hear. "By doing what, O' Humble Leader?"
His calm dark eyes darted to the pale ones and he turned toward the computer console behind him. "Patience is a virtue, Juunana. You will know in due time."
"Maybe you should listen to him for a change Nichan." A tall blonde with similarly pale blue eyes walked into the room and stood beside Krillin's chair. "It might do you some good."
The black-haired android crossed his arms and leveled a stare at his sister. "I follow his orders everday, Juuhachi. How is that not listening to him?"
Chichi listened to mild bickering. "Not Krillin's orders. The Doctor's orders."
Juuhachigou ran a hand through her platinum locks and laughed. "She's got you there."
Before he could respond, Krillin spoke up. "This might satisfy you, Juunana."
All of them turned to read the transmission that Juunana had successfully recovered from the Communications Room of Frieza's Chikyuu base. There was a heartfelt paragraph thanking them for loyal, diligent service and a request for one final mission before they could openly announce their revolt. The parameters of that mission were pictured below. Chichi winced at the photo of a scarred man with a red sash tied around his head. "Ow. What happened to him?"
"Apparently, something bad." Juunana said amusedly.
Chichi slugged him in the arm. "Shut up."
"Enough." Krillin barked. "We have to find these two in order to continue with our cause." He pointed to the man. "This is Bardock, and this-" He gestured toward the other picture. "is Bulma."
Chichi's eyes moved to the other photo and she blinked. "Wow. She's beautiful. I've never seen blue hair before."
Juunana wasn't impressed. "Who are they?"
Juuhachi observed the photographs. "They are Saiyans."
"What?!" Chichi gasped. "He wants us to find a pair of Saiyans?!"
The blonde glared. "Did I stutter?"
Krillin disregarded the arguement. "Bardock was a fellow scientist and friend of the Doctor and his knowledge is needed to aid our order." His eyes took in everything about the girl. "The girl is his daughter."
"Huh? Who'd a thought?" Juunana voiced what everyone else was thinking.
Krillin turned back to face him. "None of that matters right now. We have a ship waiting to take you two to Space Station 12 as we speak."
Chichi's mouth couldn't find any words. "You want..me..to go.....with him?" She hooked a thumb toward Juunana.
Juuhachi went up next to her sibling. "Juunana will behave himself." She smiled sweetly at him. "Run along."
His eyes narrowed. "I hate you."
She patted his shoulder. "I know."
Station 12
I hate stations. Vegeta once again surveyed the crowd from the cockpit of his ship. Mindless weaklings, milling around like headless chickens. Peasants from various species mingled along the thoroughfare, some carrying packs or weapons. He ignored most of the vagrants as they loitered outside the numerous ships and vessels, his heavy dark gaze searching for a particular face. Raditz had better hope his 'hunch' pays off, or he'll regret it. The older Saiyan had returned, an unconscious Nappa in tow, with a photo of the only Ship Captain he'd recognized. Albeit, the face was battle-scared and aged, but the long-haired Major had identified him as the only Tousan he had. Vegeta crossed his arms and glanced over at the Saiyan in question. "I not going to waste time on a gut feeling of yours."
Raditz's eyes didn't stray from the persons below. "I know Bardock better than anyone, even after twelve years. He won't miss the oppurtunity to restock." He took a deep breath. "He's a creature of habit."
You better hope. Vegeta turned away from the window and picked up the black cloak he'd laid over the back of his chair earlier. "Our time will be better spent out there." He slung the heavy cloth around his shoulders and flipped the hood up over his very identifiable hair. "Is Nappa still where you left him?"
Raditz dressed similarly and nodded. "Yes, he's still tied up in the back." He rolled his shoulders and headed for the door. "Thank Kami."
Vegeta shook his head and followed his soldier out the hatch and immersed themselves into the crowds. The years of camoflauging himself into the lowest classes of society took hold of his body and he knowingly heighted his sense of awareness. Never thought I'd use it for anything but purging planets. They cut through the bodies, the people moving out of their way by some unseen force. It gave their position away, but it didn't deter him. It's not like there's a being on this trash heap that can even challenge Nappa- when he's drugged. He allowed Raditz to lead him toward the incoming ships and they seated themselves like a pair of weary travellers on a bench near the entrance. The large hoods hid their faces from view, leaving them to look like disciples of the Grim Reaper as they perused the crewman entering the floating acropolis. About a dozen ships came and went and still they waited. Vegeta's instincts started to kick in, the act of sitting in one place for so long taking it's toll. "The fool that sired you better show his face here, or when I do find him, he'll wish I hadn't."
Raditz didn't react to his commander's threat. They come and go like breath from his mouth. Instead he continued to wait, his patience quota much larger than that of his volatile companion. Not that I can blame him for feeling restless. We've been chasing them for almost two weeks. It wasn't natural for a predatory species like Saiyans to loiter about. Wasting time wasn't something Saiyans did.
Vegeta's murmured speech impeded his thoughts. "There's the yaro now. About time."
Raditz's head whipped up so fast, it almost knocked his hood back off his head. His eyes focused on the tall Saiyan as he strode purposefully past the wandering pedlers as they begged for change. Tousan. The Squad Commander had changed little in size or strength, but his face bore the marks of hardship. A lone eyepatch covered his right eye and the garish scar that accompanied it pained him. What happened to you? He was dressed darkly, a long black trenchcoat swirling around his brown-panted legs and black-tanked torso. The only thing that identified him was the red sash tied about his forehead, something he'd done after his Kaasan's death. Well, other than the hair. "That's him."
Vegeta snorted as he stood up. "I didn't need you to tell me that." His eyes followed his old tutor and jumped to the figure stalking beside. What the...? "Is this some sort of look-a-like contest?" He turned to Raditz. "Who the hell is that?!"
"My uncle, Turles." Raditz couldn't stop the smile. I never thought I'd see him again.
"There's more of you bakas?" Vegeta didn't wait for a reply and started to shadow the two as they cut through the throngs of people.
Raditz waited a beat for it to sink in before moving as well. "Turles was unexpected. My Ojisan didn't know about him, he died before Turles was born." He dodged a wailing child and it's mother and resumed his trek. "He showed up on my Tousan's doorstep when I was just two, he was seven. It was definitely a surprise."
Vegeta's eyes narrowed as the duo stopped at a food merchant. "I'm sure it was touching." Even with his superior Saiyan hearing, he couldn't make out what Bardock was saying. The crowds were making to much noise. This is why I hate stations. The stop was brief and the nearly identical siblings continued. Vegeta couldn't help but notice that they didn't seem on edge. Saiyans are suspicious by nature and I would have already confronted my new shadow. He locked onto them as they came up to a mechanic's tent, a smug smirk on his lips. Or maybe I'm just that good. He checked around for Raditz's ki and found off to his right. "Circle around to watch them from the other direction. They don't seem to on guard."
Raditz methodically made his way around to the opposite end of the cramped street and settled himself against one of the larger buildings. "I find that strange. Bardock was never one you could sneak up on, believe me I've tried" His eyes narrowed on his youthful uncle. Somethings not right, they're too at ease.
The Prince manuevered into a small alley way closer to the merchant's tent. The two Saiyans were deep in conversation. Probably debating some kind of scientist bull-kuso. Still hooded, he crept closer. A tingle shot up his spine and he froze. Seems I'm not alone. He closed his eyes to focus, but that was when his company decided to act. Faster than he expected, a thin sharp blade was pressed to his throat from behind. His blood started to boil. How the hell did they catch me off guard His attacker answered as if he'd spoken aloud. "You're not that good a spook my friend." The blade pressed harder beneath his Adam's apple. They didn't waste any time getting to the point. "Why are you tailing them?"
Raditz's voice echoed in his brain. "Vegeta?"
"Stay where you are and do what you're doing. I can handle this." He sighed and noted everything he could. The angle of the blade suggests someone of shorter height, and the delicacy of the wrist holding it means it's either a child or a woman. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. The scent was flowery, which kind he couldn't pinpoint, with a slightly earthy spice to it. So I'm being accosted by a female. Interesting.
"I asked you a question bakayaro!" Her voice was distorted as she hissed through her teeth.
"I should ask you the same one." He seemed utterly relaxed while his life was in jeopardy.
Bulma gritted her teeth to control herself. "I could cut your throat right now."
He shrugged dismissively. "Then why don't you? What's stopping you from slashing my throat right now?"
She faltered at something in his voice. It sounds familiar, but where? "Who are you?"
"You tell me." He could hear her uncertainty. Just a little bit longer and you're mine!
"Enough of the back talk! I-" Her quarry latched onto her wrist and twisted, eliciting a cry of pain from her mouth.
Vegeta moved swiftly, twisting her arm and spinning so that she was now in front. Charging his ki into his open palm, he threw her back into the wall and pressed the blast to her chest. "You were saying?"
Bulma coughed as the wind whoosed out of her chest and she shook her head. "Stop...you don't.."
"I don't know what?!" He ducked close to her body, his nose inches from hers.
She regained her breath and shuddered at the nearness of his body, the solid mass of it. Great job Bulma, you picked the one guy who'll kick your ass! His warm breath fluttered over her mouth and she forced herself not to shiver in fear of his ferocity. "I guess it's a little late to apologize." All she could see of his face was shadows.
Vegeta smirked at her attempt at humor. "Don't worry, it'll be over soon." He could feel her nervousness, even if he couldn't see her face under her hood.
Bulma felt the blast intensify and made one last desperate attempt. Contracting her abdominals, she lifted her hips and slammed both of her knees into his midsection. The blast diffused as he jumped backward snarling. She straightened up from the ground and slid a hand beneath her black cloak. "I don't die that easily." She grabbed the hilt of her katana and lunged.
Vegeta saw the subtle move beneath the heavy cloth and lunged forward to meet her. She raised the blade and swung downward. He hit the brakes and caught the blade in his palm, ignoring the sting of pain at it sliced his skin. The frantic attack had caused her hood to fall back and he smirked at her look of utter shock. "Did you really think I'd run, Bulma?"
She swallowed as his free hand reached out and grabbed the front of her cloak. Oh Kami, it him! It's Vegeta!
A/N: Ooo...I love cliffhangers, don't you?! Hehe..you all prolly hate me right now. I told you there was going to be a lot of action -_^! What do you think is going to result from this heated reunion? Give me your best guesses. So sorry about takin' forever, I'm a procrastinator. I made this chappie extra long just to bribe you guys into not hating me. NEwho, thanx to all my reviewers:
future author: I'm glad I started Part Two too! I'm an angst freak, so expect more!
kim_carpe_diem_nter: I'm glad you decided to read my fic anyway. I promise faster reviews in the future!
artchic: Your so very welcome! I'm really trying to keep this fic original and by making subtle character shifts, I think it's working. I also think that others, not just the main two, should be mulit-faceted. They wouldn't seem as real to me. I look forward to seeing what you have to b/c you give me the most feedback- I have this up on two sites. You're also the only one that critiques my writing skill, which is nice. I promise more is to come!
Required Name: I'm really glad you like how I write. Sometimes I think I can get carried away, but then I get reviews like yours. Yes, Bulma's not perfect, but-big but- she's never been romantically involved w/Turles. Close, but no cigar is what I always say. I'm happy to hear you love reading this so much.
Chp. 14 soon!
Chapter 13
Chikyuu
A pair of icy blue eyes connected with a contrastingly dark set of eyes as the owners' passed one another in the crowded corridor. After holding the gaze for a moment, the two broke contact and continued as if they hadn't seen anyone at all. That minute connection was all that was needed to pass the message along. A transmission had been sent and their presence was required. A bag was exchanged almost unnoticed.
The dark eyes resided below equally dark brows that arched femininely to accent her already striking face. Her skin was alabaster white, coupled with the stark blacknes of her features, giving her the effect of a living china doll. She was petitely built with long limbs that complemented her slender figure underneath her military attire. A snug black tank molded her torso under a cropped red jacket, her midriff startlingly bare. Her lean legs were wrapped into tightly fitting black jeans, while a pair of large combat boots adored her small feet. Strapped to her thighs were a pair of semi-metallic firearms that extinguished all thoughts of demureness as she strode down the hall to the exit of the building. A small, khaki bag was slung over her shoulder- the contents more important than her own existence. Her elegant fingers wrapped around the tattered strap tightly as she slipped past the sentries posted outside the building.
A dry, dusty breeze pulled tendrils of hair the color of a raven's wing from the loose ponytail at the base of her skull. Allowing her adrenaline to fuel her movements, she let her feet take her out of sight and into the dusky streets of the city. Soon, the anticipation proved to be too much and her breathing quickened. She'd only jogged about three blocks before the sirens started to blare. Ducking into small space between the rundown buildings, she leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. You are the fastest, no one can catch you. You know you are faster because you've never been caught. These soldiers won't be able to see you as your speed gives them blurred vision. Her heartbeat quickened in her chest as she set her chin and flexed her fingers. No one can catch you, Chi. Taking a final breath, she bolted from the space and ran.
Elsewhere
He had to move and he had to move fast- time was running out if he wanted to escape with his life. The white-blue eyes scanned the area and processed the data before he could blink. It seemed that leaving quietly wasn't on the agenda, if the troop of soldiers charging towards him meant anything. His fine-tuned mind calculated his odds of success against such a force, and he smiled as he stood his ground. These fools are no match for me. His unmarred face remained expressionless as he raised his palms to face the coming onslaught. A twitch of a grin passed over his lips as his artificial ki was charged and released to incinerate the opposition. Dropping his arms to his sides, he surveyed the damage. Fools. That'll teach you to be someone else's lap dog. His hyper-attuned senses caught the sound of running footsteps coming from behind him. I won't be able to fight the entire squadron, my power cell is still too damaged. Gritting his teeth, he took off on foot in the opposite direction. I hate running! He followed a pre-mapped path from memory and emerged from the intelligence base at the same exit his female cohort had used. Hurried shouts echoed from behind him. Glancing back, he launched into the air. Time to take to the skies!
He tried not to think about his partner as he jettisoned toward headquarters alone. She's a veteran. She can take care of herself. Staying low to avoid detection, he followed the dips and rises of the terrain. His thoughts turned toward the information he'd just recieved over the communications link. I don't know how he'll take my cover being blown, but it's what the Doctor wanted. It had been the easiest job he'd even done, pretending to be a radioman. It was actually a major step-down from the kind of work he was used to, but he'd found it refreshing to undermine his so-called 'commanders' without them being any the wiser. He snorted as he rode the winds to save energy. Glancing down, he saw a lone trail of dust billowing up from the arid desert below him. She beat me out here this time, but next time I'll be the one to deliver the message. Increasing his speed, he dropped down to fly alongside her.
She caught him out of the corner of her eye as her hands tightened around the handles of her bike. Damn, the prick didn't get himself nabbed by the inept soldiers guarding the building. Who would of thought? She smiled wryly as she steered around some rock formations and hit the accelerator as headquarters came into view. From the untrained eye it looked like just another enormous mountain of rock, but after living there for nearly five years she could pick out the tiny inconsistancies that identified it as fake. Rolling down towards the plateau, she stood up on the bike and guided the wheels onto the narrow track that led into an equally narrow crevice. The craggy walls breezed by her as she slowly deccelerated the bike and stopped on a sand-covered, metallic platform. She kicked down the stand and got off just as her male counterpart landed beside her. She brushed the loose tendrils of hair off her face and raised a brow. "I thought for sure that you'd be spending the night in some kind of scrap heap."
His emotionless blue eyes narrowed and he dusted off the shoulders of his jacket. "You only wish." He slid back his left sleeve to reveal a gleaming watch wrapped around his wrist. He clicked the face open and tapped one of the various keys. "Maybe next time I won't distract them and then you'll be begging for me to save you."
Chichi put a hand on her cocked hip. "Yeah, now look who's dreaming." The platform beneath them started to drop slowly, creaking as it lowered them deep into the rock face.
Juunanagou just snorted and shut his watch. "As much as I'm enjoying this conversation, I think we have bigger things to worry about."
She slipped the khaki bag off her shoulder and just stared at the ragged sack. "It really is serious then." She glanced over at Juunana as he stood somberly. A shiver crawled up her spine as she saw the stern look on his perfect face. "You can't go back there, can you?"
The platform shuddered to a stop and a lone steel door beckoned to them. Juunana met Chichi's nervous eyes and stepped off. "It's time for us to begin." His voice was devoid of emotion as he broke eye contact and strode through the door.
Chichi swallowed the lump in her throat and stepped down as well. "It's finally happening."
On the Shindaisha (translates to 'sleeper')
"Put down that pathetic little knife and fight me like a true Saiyan!" Celipa snarled and lashed out with her fist.
Bulma dropped and rolled to the side, her katana held easily in her left hand. I don't think she's ever heard the word finesse. Straightening up, she twirled the blade in her hand and jerked her arm. The sword whipped through the air and sank a foot into the steel wall, the hilt wagging from the impact. "Okay. If that's how you want to play." Her body blurred into nothingness.
Celipa's eyes darted around, but slammed shut when Bulma's fist impacted with her chin. She crashed backward to the floor, cringing. She sat up and wiped the small trickle of blood that ran from the corner of her mouth. "Bitch."
She smirked down at the female Saiyan with the short-cropped head of pitch black hair. "Real original." Bending her knees and spreading her stance, she extended her arms and beckoned with slender fingers. "Now, why don't you get up off your ass and fight."
Okay Little Miss High and Mighty, dodge this. Celipa sprang into the air and spun, while pulling her ki into her hands. "Here!" Jerking to a stop, she released the blasts. "Catch!"
Bulma's sweet smile died as she pulled her limbs close. Damn you! The blasts slammed into her flexed arms, slowly pushing her backward. I have to diffuse them or they'll tear a hole right through the hull! Sweat beaded on her brow as she buckled down and gritted her teeth. The energy's brightness faltered and with a final shove, combusted in the palms of her hands. Smoke filled the training room as Bulma stepped forward, soot on her face. "What the fuck was that?!"
Celipa rolled her eyes and dropped to the floor. Too bad. "You wanted a fight, so I gave you one." She shrugged.
If her jaw got any tighter, her teeth would shatter. "No ki blasts. The hull can't withstand the impact. You know that."
The darker female's long tail flicked back and forth behind her. "Well why don't you- with all your infinite wisdom- remedy that." She pointed accusingly. "Then it wouldn't be a problem."
She knew that she was being goaded into a fight, but she couldn't help herself. "Don't you think I've already tried that?!" She shouted and then rocked back on her heels while crossing her arms. "Oh, that's right-" Her eyes hardened. "You don't think." If there's anything Celipa hates, it's a dig at her brain. "Just like you didn't think about what you were doing to Kakarrot."
Celipa sucked in a breath at the sharpness of her whisper and the shame that reared it's head in response. "Fuck you."
"It's the truth." Bulma sneered down her nose at her.
Two can play this game. Celipa shook off her unease and locked herself into a frame that screamed attitude. "Well at least I don't pine over a traitor."
That sent Bulma's spine rigid and she whispered scathingly. "He's not a traitor."
Celipa hmphed. "You keep telling yourself that, girly. Don't let me stop your delusions."
"Go fuck yourself." Bulma strode over and got face to face. "You wouldn't know a traitor if one came up and bitch-slapped you."
"Is that a fact?" Celipa's blood started to heat, caught up in the anticipation of a fight.
Bulma grinned ferally. "Oh, it's a guarantee."
Both women stood hissing in each other's faces when Celipa's patience ran out. "I'm sick of this!" The two powerful females lunged at each other, both with the intent to do serious harm. Knees and elbows flew as they grappled on the floor.
It was how Turles and Toma found them.
In the Hall
Turles could feel their ki's raging, but thought nothing of it as he strode down the long hall to the training room. He turned toward his silent companion. "Is it just me, or are their ki's getting stronger?"
Toma cocked his head like a dog did to an unusual sound. "Yes, they are. But knowing those two they're just trying to kill each other."
Turles nodded. "Point taken." He stopped outside the door and pressed his palm into the keypad. When the door slid open, he had to stop his jaw from hitting the deck. "Bulma!" His shocked shout was lost on the dueling duo as they tore into each other. Bulma had Celipa pinned to the floor as she repeatedly punched the other in the face. He jumped into action and lunged for Bulma's raging body. Wrapping his arms around her in a bear hug, he lifted her clear off the floor as she bucked like mad.
"Let go! The bitch deserves it!" She thrashed around like a trapped predator, kicking her heels into his legs in an attempt to release herself.
Toma had intervened as well and was picking up his bloodied daughter from the cold floor. Celipa shrugged him off and stood shakily while staring down her Tousan. "I didn't need your help."
He just nodded. "Of course you didn't." He crossed his arms and shut his eyes. "You had everything under control."
She bristled but didn't answer. Instead, she swung around to glare at Turles. "Why don't you put a leash on your dog?!"
If she hadn't been fighting before, he didn't know what to call what she was doing now. Turles could feel his muscles burn as they continued to restrain his roommate. "Why are you letting her get to you?!"
His frustrated shout managed to seep itself into her glazed brain and she ceased struggling. As realization dawned on her, she couldn't stop the hysterical laughter that bubbled up out of her throat. Look at me. The normally cool and collected Bulma has been reduced to a tantruming toddler in a matter of seconds. If that's not funny, I don't know what is. As the others looked on bewildered, her chuckles receded and she tried to straighten what was left of her torn clothes. Clearing her throat, she turned to Turles. "What brings you down here?"
Her gall stunned him for a mere moment. "That's it. You're not going to try and defend yourself?"
She sighed wearily. "From what? I haven't done anything that I didn't voluntarily do."
"So you're finally admitting that you've lost your sanity?"
Toma cuffed the back of his daughter's head. "Quiet." She scowled at him but held her tongue. He didn't even glance over at her. "This, whatever it was, ends now. I want you both cleaned up, dressed, and on the bridge in an hour. No excuses." Giving them both a final, threatening glance, he left.
Bulma's brow furrowed. "What for?"
Turles grumbled. "We're docking into Station 12, that's why. Now come on." He grabbed her arm and started dragging her toward the door.
"Alright already, I get it." She jerked her arm loose and walked past him, her tail cricked with annoyance.
Turles watched her go and turned to the other scuffled Saiyan. "What? Do I have to drag you too?" Celipa just snorted and followed her adversary out of the training room, leaving Turles very confused. Women.
Chikyuu
Chichi watched his face expectantly, waiting for some kind of acknowledgement to what he'd just read. But nothing came, only the calm blinking of his dark eyes. "Well?"
"The Doctor says it's time to act." His voice was an equal match to his serene facade.
Juunana tapped his booted foot to an impatient rhythm no one else could hear. "By doing what, O' Humble Leader?"
His calm dark eyes darted to the pale ones and he turned toward the computer console behind him. "Patience is a virtue, Juunana. You will know in due time."
"Maybe you should listen to him for a change Nichan." A tall blonde with similarly pale blue eyes walked into the room and stood beside Krillin's chair. "It might do you some good."
The black-haired android crossed his arms and leveled a stare at his sister. "I follow his orders everday, Juuhachi. How is that not listening to him?"
Chichi listened to mild bickering. "Not Krillin's orders. The Doctor's orders."
Juuhachigou ran a hand through her platinum locks and laughed. "She's got you there."
Before he could respond, Krillin spoke up. "This might satisfy you, Juunana."
All of them turned to read the transmission that Juunana had successfully recovered from the Communications Room of Frieza's Chikyuu base. There was a heartfelt paragraph thanking them for loyal, diligent service and a request for one final mission before they could openly announce their revolt. The parameters of that mission were pictured below. Chichi winced at the photo of a scarred man with a red sash tied around his head. "Ow. What happened to him?"
"Apparently, something bad." Juunana said amusedly.
Chichi slugged him in the arm. "Shut up."
"Enough." Krillin barked. "We have to find these two in order to continue with our cause." He pointed to the man. "This is Bardock, and this-" He gestured toward the other picture. "is Bulma."
Chichi's eyes moved to the other photo and she blinked. "Wow. She's beautiful. I've never seen blue hair before."
Juunana wasn't impressed. "Who are they?"
Juuhachi observed the photographs. "They are Saiyans."
"What?!" Chichi gasped. "He wants us to find a pair of Saiyans?!"
The blonde glared. "Did I stutter?"
Krillin disregarded the arguement. "Bardock was a fellow scientist and friend of the Doctor and his knowledge is needed to aid our order." His eyes took in everything about the girl. "The girl is his daughter."
"Huh? Who'd a thought?" Juunana voiced what everyone else was thinking.
Krillin turned back to face him. "None of that matters right now. We have a ship waiting to take you two to Space Station 12 as we speak."
Chichi's mouth couldn't find any words. "You want..me..to go.....with him?" She hooked a thumb toward Juunana.
Juuhachi went up next to her sibling. "Juunana will behave himself." She smiled sweetly at him. "Run along."
His eyes narrowed. "I hate you."
She patted his shoulder. "I know."
Station 12
I hate stations. Vegeta once again surveyed the crowd from the cockpit of his ship. Mindless weaklings, milling around like headless chickens. Peasants from various species mingled along the thoroughfare, some carrying packs or weapons. He ignored most of the vagrants as they loitered outside the numerous ships and vessels, his heavy dark gaze searching for a particular face. Raditz had better hope his 'hunch' pays off, or he'll regret it. The older Saiyan had returned, an unconscious Nappa in tow, with a photo of the only Ship Captain he'd recognized. Albeit, the face was battle-scared and aged, but the long-haired Major had identified him as the only Tousan he had. Vegeta crossed his arms and glanced over at the Saiyan in question. "I not going to waste time on a gut feeling of yours."
Raditz's eyes didn't stray from the persons below. "I know Bardock better than anyone, even after twelve years. He won't miss the oppurtunity to restock." He took a deep breath. "He's a creature of habit."
You better hope. Vegeta turned away from the window and picked up the black cloak he'd laid over the back of his chair earlier. "Our time will be better spent out there." He slung the heavy cloth around his shoulders and flipped the hood up over his very identifiable hair. "Is Nappa still where you left him?"
Raditz dressed similarly and nodded. "Yes, he's still tied up in the back." He rolled his shoulders and headed for the door. "Thank Kami."
Vegeta shook his head and followed his soldier out the hatch and immersed themselves into the crowds. The years of camoflauging himself into the lowest classes of society took hold of his body and he knowingly heighted his sense of awareness. Never thought I'd use it for anything but purging planets. They cut through the bodies, the people moving out of their way by some unseen force. It gave their position away, but it didn't deter him. It's not like there's a being on this trash heap that can even challenge Nappa- when he's drugged. He allowed Raditz to lead him toward the incoming ships and they seated themselves like a pair of weary travellers on a bench near the entrance. The large hoods hid their faces from view, leaving them to look like disciples of the Grim Reaper as they perused the crewman entering the floating acropolis. About a dozen ships came and went and still they waited. Vegeta's instincts started to kick in, the act of sitting in one place for so long taking it's toll. "The fool that sired you better show his face here, or when I do find him, he'll wish I hadn't."
Raditz didn't react to his commander's threat. They come and go like breath from his mouth. Instead he continued to wait, his patience quota much larger than that of his volatile companion. Not that I can blame him for feeling restless. We've been chasing them for almost two weeks. It wasn't natural for a predatory species like Saiyans to loiter about. Wasting time wasn't something Saiyans did.
Vegeta's murmured speech impeded his thoughts. "There's the yaro now. About time."
Raditz's head whipped up so fast, it almost knocked his hood back off his head. His eyes focused on the tall Saiyan as he strode purposefully past the wandering pedlers as they begged for change. Tousan. The Squad Commander had changed little in size or strength, but his face bore the marks of hardship. A lone eyepatch covered his right eye and the garish scar that accompanied it pained him. What happened to you? He was dressed darkly, a long black trenchcoat swirling around his brown-panted legs and black-tanked torso. The only thing that identified him was the red sash tied about his forehead, something he'd done after his Kaasan's death. Well, other than the hair. "That's him."
Vegeta snorted as he stood up. "I didn't need you to tell me that." His eyes followed his old tutor and jumped to the figure stalking beside. What the...? "Is this some sort of look-a-like contest?" He turned to Raditz. "Who the hell is that?!"
"My uncle, Turles." Raditz couldn't stop the smile. I never thought I'd see him again.
"There's more of you bakas?" Vegeta didn't wait for a reply and started to shadow the two as they cut through the throngs of people.
Raditz waited a beat for it to sink in before moving as well. "Turles was unexpected. My Ojisan didn't know about him, he died before Turles was born." He dodged a wailing child and it's mother and resumed his trek. "He showed up on my Tousan's doorstep when I was just two, he was seven. It was definitely a surprise."
Vegeta's eyes narrowed as the duo stopped at a food merchant. "I'm sure it was touching." Even with his superior Saiyan hearing, he couldn't make out what Bardock was saying. The crowds were making to much noise. This is why I hate stations. The stop was brief and the nearly identical siblings continued. Vegeta couldn't help but notice that they didn't seem on edge. Saiyans are suspicious by nature and I would have already confronted my new shadow. He locked onto them as they came up to a mechanic's tent, a smug smirk on his lips. Or maybe I'm just that good. He checked around for Raditz's ki and found off to his right. "Circle around to watch them from the other direction. They don't seem to on guard."
Raditz methodically made his way around to the opposite end of the cramped street and settled himself against one of the larger buildings. "I find that strange. Bardock was never one you could sneak up on, believe me I've tried" His eyes narrowed on his youthful uncle. Somethings not right, they're too at ease.
The Prince manuevered into a small alley way closer to the merchant's tent. The two Saiyans were deep in conversation. Probably debating some kind of scientist bull-kuso. Still hooded, he crept closer. A tingle shot up his spine and he froze. Seems I'm not alone. He closed his eyes to focus, but that was when his company decided to act. Faster than he expected, a thin sharp blade was pressed to his throat from behind. His blood started to boil. How the hell did they catch me off guard His attacker answered as if he'd spoken aloud. "You're not that good a spook my friend." The blade pressed harder beneath his Adam's apple. They didn't waste any time getting to the point. "Why are you tailing them?"
Raditz's voice echoed in his brain. "Vegeta?"
"Stay where you are and do what you're doing. I can handle this." He sighed and noted everything he could. The angle of the blade suggests someone of shorter height, and the delicacy of the wrist holding it means it's either a child or a woman. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. The scent was flowery, which kind he couldn't pinpoint, with a slightly earthy spice to it. So I'm being accosted by a female. Interesting.
"I asked you a question bakayaro!" Her voice was distorted as she hissed through her teeth.
"I should ask you the same one." He seemed utterly relaxed while his life was in jeopardy.
Bulma gritted her teeth to control herself. "I could cut your throat right now."
He shrugged dismissively. "Then why don't you? What's stopping you from slashing my throat right now?"
She faltered at something in his voice. It sounds familiar, but where? "Who are you?"
"You tell me." He could hear her uncertainty. Just a little bit longer and you're mine!
"Enough of the back talk! I-" Her quarry latched onto her wrist and twisted, eliciting a cry of pain from her mouth.
Vegeta moved swiftly, twisting her arm and spinning so that she was now in front. Charging his ki into his open palm, he threw her back into the wall and pressed the blast to her chest. "You were saying?"
Bulma coughed as the wind whoosed out of her chest and she shook her head. "Stop...you don't.."
"I don't know what?!" He ducked close to her body, his nose inches from hers.
She regained her breath and shuddered at the nearness of his body, the solid mass of it. Great job Bulma, you picked the one guy who'll kick your ass! His warm breath fluttered over her mouth and she forced herself not to shiver in fear of his ferocity. "I guess it's a little late to apologize." All she could see of his face was shadows.
Vegeta smirked at her attempt at humor. "Don't worry, it'll be over soon." He could feel her nervousness, even if he couldn't see her face under her hood.
Bulma felt the blast intensify and made one last desperate attempt. Contracting her abdominals, she lifted her hips and slammed both of her knees into his midsection. The blast diffused as he jumped backward snarling. She straightened up from the ground and slid a hand beneath her black cloak. "I don't die that easily." She grabbed the hilt of her katana and lunged.
Vegeta saw the subtle move beneath the heavy cloth and lunged forward to meet her. She raised the blade and swung downward. He hit the brakes and caught the blade in his palm, ignoring the sting of pain at it sliced his skin. The frantic attack had caused her hood to fall back and he smirked at her look of utter shock. "Did you really think I'd run, Bulma?"
She swallowed as his free hand reached out and grabbed the front of her cloak. Oh Kami, it him! It's Vegeta!
A/N: Ooo...I love cliffhangers, don't you?! Hehe..you all prolly hate me right now. I told you there was going to be a lot of action -_^! What do you think is going to result from this heated reunion? Give me your best guesses. So sorry about takin' forever, I'm a procrastinator. I made this chappie extra long just to bribe you guys into not hating me. NEwho, thanx to all my reviewers:
future author: I'm glad I started Part Two too! I'm an angst freak, so expect more!
kim_carpe_diem_nter: I'm glad you decided to read my fic anyway. I promise faster reviews in the future!
artchic: Your so very welcome! I'm really trying to keep this fic original and by making subtle character shifts, I think it's working. I also think that others, not just the main two, should be mulit-faceted. They wouldn't seem as real to me. I look forward to seeing what you have to b/c you give me the most feedback- I have this up on two sites. You're also the only one that critiques my writing skill, which is nice. I promise more is to come!
Required Name: I'm really glad you like how I write. Sometimes I think I can get carried away, but then I get reviews like yours. Yes, Bulma's not perfect, but-big but- she's never been romantically involved w/Turles. Close, but no cigar is what I always say. I'm happy to hear you love reading this so much.
Chp. 14 soon!