Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ The Odd Couple ❯ Rift ( Chapter 16 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: dharmaserenity 
As Goku and Vegeta mend the damage done to relations with the Saiyans, will they also mend the rift between each other?
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Adventure | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 05.17.2005 | Updated On: 05.18.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 6.0K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Completed
As Goku and Vegeta mend the damage done to relations with the Saiyans, will they also mend the rift between each other?
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Adventure | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 05.17.2005 | Updated On: 05.18.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 6.0K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Completed
The Odd Couple, Chapter 16 by DharmaSerenity
Email: lilith8@adelphia.net
NC17 rating. - be warned – extremely graphic content. Warning: this is a YAOI FIC (male x male), my first Gk x V fic!.
Spoilers: everything up to the last episode of DBZ. This takes place before, and thus, negates DBGT.
I don't own DBZ or make any money from this story.
The story over all contains sexual situations between men, violence, and psychological melodrama
Here are the first 15 chapters:
http://saiyanhideaway.us/Fics/Dharma/F_OddCouple.html
Hope you like it, and please, let me know what you think! Thanks for all the nice reviews, guys!!
Chapter 16 - Rift
Goku and Vegeta sat, staring at the river, sunlight finally breaking over the horizon before them. Goku looked over at Vegeta again to see that Vegeta’s wounds were mostly healed from the senzu bean Goku made him take. Goku turned away to stare at the sun’s disc rising over the horizon, still unsure of what to say to Vegeta.
“Please leave me.”
Goku turned and looked at Vegeta, a sad look forming on Goku’s handsome face.
“Please Vegeta, don’t... don’t do anything stupid.”
“I thought I just did.”
Goku blinked, surprised that Vegeta would admit his earlier actions were perhaps not fully thought through.
Vegeta continued, “Just leave me, Kakarot. I want to be alone. Having you sit there is getting on my nerves.”
Goku felt helpless, afraid to leave him for what he could still do, but knew it would be unfair to stay. It was obvious Vegeta needed to be alone with his thoughts.
“OK. But I’m going to tell them everything Vegeta. They have a right to know. Please don’t stay away too long. Ok?”
Vegeta didn’t say anything, but after a few moments his head nodded, indicating that he would follow when he was ready.
Goku left him there on the bank of the river, feeling that the gap between them was still just as wide as when they had fought during the night.
* * *
Vegit and Nardon stared at Goku in stunned silence.
“I know it is all very hard to believe, but...” Goku threw his hands up in the air, frustrated with his own explanation, realizing how weird and unbelievable it all sounded. “It is all true.”
Vegit nodded, his thick brow wrinkled. “You don’t have to worry, Kakarot. I believe you. After last night, how could I not? It is just a bit much to take in right now, though.”
Nardon only stared at Goku in shock, his eyes large in his handsome face.
“Well, I was going to take you to the ship, if you wanted to look at it. It is up to you.”
Nardon jumped up immediately. “I want to see it!”
Goku laughed at the younger man’s enthusiasm. Vegit looked like he would similarly be taken over with mirth, but then something over Goku’s shoulder made both Vegit and Nardon blanch.
Goku turned around to see Vegeta standing in the tent flap. His clothing was still tattered, much like Goku’s from their earlier fight, but he had cleaned his face and arms, no longer looking crazed from the black soot and blood. Vegeta stood quietly, looking down at the floor as if he were afraid to raise his eyes and thus face Vegit and Nardon.
Vegit tentatively said, “Hello Vegeta.”
Nardon merely looked at the ground.
Vegeta grunted, then said, “I need a shower, and I can get one at the ship. Let’s not just stand here.”
They all realized that Vegeta, in his own way, was making peace and the tension in the tent began to dissipate. They all followed him outside and flew behind as he led the way towards the space pod.
* * *
Nardon stared at the view screen, his mouth hanging open in disbelief. He whipped his head around to ask another question.
“So that is our planet? From thousands of miles away?”
Goku was showing Vegit and Nardon the logged images of the planet from when Vegeta and Goku had made their approach just a few days prior. Goku grinned, “It sure is.”
Nardon turned his stunned face back to the view screen, blinking. “It is just... amazing!”
Vegeta continued to hang back, letting Goku do most of the talking.
Vegit stood over his brother’s shoulder, looking grim. The whole thing made him a little nervous. In a slightly shaking voice with a hint of humor Vegit said, “I don’t think I would like this space travel much.”
“Aww, it’s not so bad.” Goku grinned at Vegit. “You get used to it.”
Nardon looked down and in a forlorn voice said, “I feel like I haven’t even lived in comparison to you and Vegeta.”
Vegit put his hand on his younger brother’s shoulder. “Now, there, Nardon. You are still very young. And, well, I don’t think Kakarot and Vegeta are going anywhere any time soon, so there may be a little spin through the atmosphere for you some day.”
Nardon looked up, the possibility filling his face with awe.
“I’m right in that you are not going anywhere any time soon, right Kakarot?” Vegit asked Goku, looking hopeful. Before Goku could answer, Vegit turned to Vegeta.
“Vegeta, from what Kakarot says, I understand that we have much to do. But, I’ll be honest in that I don’t even know where to begin. I will need your help. Like you, I would not want our people to suffer the same fate as your Saiyans did. I will do all that I can to prevent it from happening here.”
A small smile settled on Vegeta’s handsome face. Goku felt something in him twinge at the sight of it - he missed that smile. It had just been a day, but already Goku felt the loss keenly. It did not escape Goku’s notice that Vegeta was keeping his distance.
After a moment, Vegeta made everyone in the control room nervous as an angry look flitted across his features. He turned towards Vegit, who just managed not to flinch.
“Well, there are some things that we can do right away. For instance, you have whole cities of technology at your disposal. I’ve seen the aftermath of the war, and there is plenty left that is salvageable. Instead of making a home in dirt and dust, we should clean these cities and take them for our own. That way, our people can harness the technology left behind by the Tuffles.”
Goku grimaced, thinking the idea of taking the technology from the dead Tuffles was a little bit morbid. But then he had to admit, it was probably the most positive thing the Saiyan race could do, instead of just letting all that hard work go to waste. Seeing Vegit and Nardon begin to react to the suggestion with interest, Goku realized it actually was a good idea.
Goku smiled, and nodded. “Yes! From what Vegeta has said over the years, the Saiyan Race got most of its advanced technology from Frieza and other outside influences. But if we raise our level of technological knowledge ourselves, then we don’t need to rely on outsiders in the future. And we can prepare ourselves to meet any technology that threatens us!” Goku’s features lit up in excitement, a hint of his fighting spirit evident in the sparkle in his eyes. The others smiled in response, liking the idea more and more. Vegeta seeing the response to his idea began to look equally excited.
Vegeta continued, “As their leader, you can arrange for teams of Saiyans to go in and clean up the cities. As it is, the smell of decay is already wafting here. We can clean it all up with ki blasts and then take what is still usable. It may take awhile, but it will give everyone something to do.”
Vegeta gave Vegit a pointed look, “And having something to do would do most of them a bit of good, I should think.”
Vegit smirked, then said, “I suppose you are right Cousin. Tell me, Vegeta, you are unhappy with the way our people behave. How would you go about changing it? I confess I never saw much wrong with the way our people act, but now I see, hearing what has happened in your time, that it leaves us vulnerable. What ideas do you have to change things?”
Vegeta surprised Goku by looking dumbfounded for a moment. In his earlier plan of dominance, Vegeta just assumed that the Saiyans would follow his lead once he took the throne but he now realized that his plans were never fully thought through to completion. It wasn’t as if he could suddenly build GR rooms and have them all train in 100x the force of gravity - much less have them like it.
And then, it was as if something clicked between Vegeta and Goku as their eyes met. Despite the tension between the two of them, they both managed to smile.
Goku said, “Well, it had bothered me too, to be honest. And I didn’t see how we were going to get all the Saiyans to unite under any one person after going to the Radditsen camp. The Saiyan urge to fight means that there would continue to be fighting and violence amongst our people, which again, makes us vulnerable to an outside force offering us the chance to use that spirit against unknown races instead of each other. It’s true the Saiyans here don’t seem to have the same drive or ambition that both Vegeta and I both naturally possess. Maybe that came with time, perhaps when we worked under Frieza -- I’m guessing as a way to gain his good favor. But here, you have the problem of our people always wanting to fight each other. Well, how about a competition?”
Vegit and Nardon looked at Goku perplexed.
Goku continued, “There is this martial arts competition back on earth called the Tenkaichi Budokai. It is held about every three years or so. We can change it to a yearly competition here just to build the excitement for the event. Anyway, the goal is to be honored with the title of greatest warrior or “champion.” I think that Saiyans naturally have a desire to compete and the need to be better and stronger than their opponents. What if, well, I had a school and took on students to train them for the competition.”
Vegeta interjected, “And I can also run my own school, and my students can compete against Kakarot’s students.”
Vegit and Nardon started to smile, liking the idea.
Goku in his enthusiasm continued, “Yeah, we could gather students from all over the planet, and other Saiyans, the better warriors, can run their own schools. Then, each region could have its own version of the competition, and the best warriors in those competitions will then compete in one final competition. It would be awesome!”
Goku looked like he was ready to jump up and down in his excitement at the prospect. The other Saiyans in the room just looked immensely pleased.
“And I can just see all the Saiyans that cannot compete or that are eliminated in earlier rounds wanting to go to the finals as spectators -- it would be a very popular event, almost like a celebration or holiday. It could create a stream of revenue that could be used to help build each region’s cities again. It could just... well, it would sure cure the urge to beat the stuffing out of each other and it could help make all Saiyans into warriors similar to Vegeta and myself.”
Nardon’s mouth fell open. “Really? Do you think that’s possible?”
“Sure! I don’t see why not.” Goku continued, oblivious to Vegeta’s obvious annoyance at the suggestion. “I think every Saiyan has the potential to achieve the levels that Vegeta and I have reached.” Vegeta scoffed and Vegit stifled a grin.
“Well!” Vegit boomed, hoping to interrupt Goku before his words further annoyed Vegeta. “I think these are wonderful ideas, and I would like to count on the both of you to start on them. Vegeta, I would like you to organize the cleanup and rebuild of the cities. And Kakarot, I would like you to start on the schools, and work on organizing the competitions themselves. In the meantime, Nardon and I will gather the Saiyans that will prove most valuable to the both of you in these endeavors.”
Goku glanced Vegeta’s way to gauge his reaction to Vegit’s delegation of duties, afraid Vegeta would be put out by the suggestion, but found the Saiyan Prince looking off into space, a small smile on his face. Goku sighed inwardly, relieved to realize that Vegeta was just happy to move forward after all that had happened.
Vegeta glanced up and caught Goku looking at him. Goku smiled at him gently, but Vegeta whipped his head away, a tight look pressed to his lips.
Goku couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret at the rebuff.
* * *
As Goku made to leave the capsule with both Nardon and Vegit, he was dismayed to see that Vegeta had decided to stay at the ship, with the intention of putting distance between them. As Goku headed back to camp, his positive thoughts of the days to come were constantly interrupted by the nagging ache induced by the memory of Vegeta’s coldness towards him.
Both Vegit and Nardon, upon arriving back at the camp, headed straight to Vegit’s tent. They would start the process of gathering some of their most trusted warriors for a meeting in Vegit’s tent to take place later that afternoon. The meeting would cover both ideas and then the Saiyans could begin the preliminary steps.
Upon entering his tent, Goku was beyond pleased to see that a pot of water had been prepared for him above his pit fire. A large tub had also been placed in the tent, halfway filled with room-temperature water. Goku, using a thick drying cloth, picked up the pot and dumped it into the tub. He undressed and got in the tub, sighing in satisfaction as the hot water settled over his sore and tired muscles. Goku really could have used a second senzu bean, but hadn’t wanted to waste them.
The tent flap parted after a few minutes, and Goku was surprised to see Vegeta enter the tent. Goku’s heart hammered in his chest in response to the sight of the tight look on Vegeta’s face.
“I’m just here to get my things. I’m going to stay at the ship for awhile.”
Goku pleaded, wanting to put a stop to this distance, “Vegeta, you don’t have to go. Please!”
Vegeta had turned from Goku, crouched on the ground to gather the several sets of leather vests and braes that had been left for him. Without turning to face Goku, Vegeta said, “I want to.”
The words, said in so hollow a manner, were painful to Goku. He didn’t say anything further to the Saiyan Prince, but merely watched as Vegeta vacated the tent, his back to Goku the entire time, Vegeta never once looking back at the larger Saiyan.
Goku’s shoulders slumped in defeat.
* * *
Although Goku was hungry, he was exhausted so decided to sleep for a bit once he finished his bath. He could get food later.
But Goku’s attempt at sleep was fitful, as every time he rolled over in his sleep he would wake when he realized that he was trying to reach out and hold Vegeta’s warm body, only to find that Vegeta wasn’t there next to him. Goku felt the hollow pain of loss each time he would wake to find himself alone.
Despite having come to some kind of peace, Vegeta just didn’t want to have anything to do with Goku right now. Goku was going to have to wrap his head around that fact.
Goku gave up on sleep and wandered outside his tent. It was already noon. Goku could smell food cooking but was still not in the mood to eat despite feeling physical hunger. Goku didn’t have a particular destination, but he wanted to just breathe some fresh air and think. On some level, he saw the looks that were given him, many of the Saiyans in the camp still shaken up from the previous night’s activities. But on another level, Goku just didn’t care. He wandered around the camp aimlessly, until he heard someone call out his name.
Goku turned around to see a Radditsen warrior looking at him as if he knew Goku. It took Goku a moment, with everything else that was on his mind, to recognize Tomaron from the Radditsen camp.
“Tomaron! It’s you! You’re here.”
Tomaron grinned. “Yes, I made the trip this morning. I was actually a little surprised at the warm greeting I got. I think I owe that all to you.”
Goku blushed, looking down. “I’m surprised too. I’m not too sure how everyone feels about me right now.”
Tomaron’s smile faded a little, “You mean the fight you had with that small warrior that was with you? Veg...Vegeta?”
Goku felt his stomach clench at the sound of Vegeta’s name. “Yes.”
Tomaron nodded, “Yes, well, the talk is that the two of you are working with Vegit again. Although there is speculation about the both of you, for the most part, from what I gather, most of the talk regarding yourself is positive.”
Goku smiled. Again, he felt himself warm to the Saiyan warrior, who was trying to reassure Goku out of kindness. There was something about Tomaron that Goku had liked immediately upon meeting him and again he was reminded of the feeling.
“So you made the trip on your own, then?”
“No, a whole group of us made the trip. Actually, a lot of women came along this time as well. Kakarot,” Tomaron stepped close to Goku, “There’s something going on. I don’t know what, but all I know is that Raddoon has not left Kakarotto’s tent since yesterday. I would watch my back if I were you. Some that have attended to Kakarotto’s wounds said that he vowed he was going to make you pay for them.”
Goku shrugged, little worried after having actually fought against Kakarotto. “I’m not too worried...”
“Kakarot, there is no mistake that from what you did back at Raddoon’s camp and here that you are far beyond anyone when it comes to fighting, so I don’t think I have to tell you that you shouldn’t underestimate your opponent.” Goku’s eyes hardened at the realization that that was exactly what he was doing where Kakarotto was concerned.
“He’s not just a formidable warrior by most warrior standards, but he’s quick and deadly, and quite adept at getting into an enemy camp and killing key warriors before anyone has had a chance to even realize what he has done. Raddoon mainly uses him as an assassin. Keep that in mind.”
Goku put a hand on Tomaron’s shoulder and nodded. “I will Tomaron. Thank you.”
The two warriors were interrupted by Nardon who came over smiling. Nardon nodded his welcome to Tomaron as if it were the most natural thing for a Vegitsen to do to a Radditsen. Goku grinned as Nardon turned to speak to him.
“Goku, my Brother wants you in his tent for lunch.” Nardon nodded at Tomaron. “You may come along too. I think it would be good for us to have some Radditsen there. We are going to begin discussing strategies. And Vegeta is already there.”
Goku felt another pang at the mention of Vegeta’s name. “Ok, I’ll go over right now. Tomaron?”
Tomaron grinned and nodded, as all three warriors made their way to Vegit’s tent.
* * *
The Vegitsen camp was a flurry of activity for a full week. Already Vegeta had made several trips with Nardon to other Vegitsen camps to begin getting groups together to start work on the cities. Vegeta would be meeting with some Radditsen camp leaders the following week, two other newly arrived Radditsen promising to lend him a hand in the discussions.
Raddoon had been sent an invitation to take part in the talks, but had sent back his invitation with his refusal. It seemed that any cooperation he had promised just the other week had dissipated to nothing in his lover’s arms.
Goku, with Tomaron’s help, was already starting to sign up students for his school. A large field had been cleared outside the camp for the purpose of training. Goku would start lessons the next day, with ten students already signed up and eager to learn from him. Tomaron’ was proving to be invaluable to Goku as he took down the names of the ever increasing list of students.
As Goku walked through the camp on the way to another meeting with Vegit, he thought of the growing list of students that had also been signing up with Vegeta for training. Nardon was mainly handling that for the Saiyan Prince, who seemed to be still a little uneasy in the camp after his failed grasp at power. Although many of the Saiyans still displayed open discomfort in Vegeta’s presence, there were several Saiyans that were quite impressed with his fighting.
Although Goku was tired from all the activity, he was happy to have the distraction. It took his mind off the absence of Vegeta from his life. He had hardly seen Vegeta all week, Vegeta avoiding Goku like the plague. The only time they ever bumped into each other was at Vegit’s meetings, and then it was always awkward, Vegeta giving Goku a cold greetings, his eyes hardly settling on the larger warrior.
Goku realized the keen feeling of loss was something he was unused to. He had spent many times away from his own wife, and never before did he feel empty inside as he did now. It was almost a shock to Goku when he realized the significance of the contrast.
Goku, on his way to a meeting over dinner, walked into Vegit’s tent and was embarrassed to bump right into Vegeta, who looked similarly ruffled, Vegeta’s face turning a bright shade of red.
Goku, uncomfortable, muttered, “I’m sorry.”
Vegeta just grunted.
Vegeta made to leave the tent and Goku called after him, “Aren’t you staying for the meeting?”
Without turning, Vegeta said, “I’ll be back.” His tone was cold and conveyed his desire for Goku to leave him alone. Goku’s shoulders slumped in disappointment over the encounter.
Tomaron who saw the entire incident came over to try and brighten Goku’s spirits. “Hey, some more Radditsen arrived today and are sitting in on the meeting. Come and meet them. I think you’ve got another student among them.”
Goku did brighten a little at that, but it was obvious to Tomaron that Goku was still upset by the crinkle that settled between his thick brows.
* * *
Raddoon woke to Kakarotto smiling down at him.
“What is it?” Raddoon asked him, sleep making his voice thick.
“I feel much better today. Care to take a trip in a little while?” Kakarotto smirked, looking impish.
Raddoon arched an eyebrow at him. “You’re serious?”
In answer Kakarotto leaned down and kissed his lover with deep passion, pressing his hungry body against Raddoon’s smooth skin. When Kakarotto broke the kiss, Raddoon smiled over Kakarotto’s shoulder as Kakarotto began to make love to him.
* * *
The last of the cooking fires were being doused as the busy Vegitsen camp settled to prepare for a restful night. The raucous late nights of wine and ale were dwindling, as many of the camp dwellers now had duties that had to be carried out in the early morning hours. Late nights of imbibing were quite impractical.
Goku had wondered if there would be some resentment among the Saiyans for all the hard work that needed to be done; that their “fun” was somehow over. But if anything, the Saiyans seemed rather pleased to be doing something productive with a goal in mind. Many of them were making daily cleaning expeditions to the cities and the city to the south was nearly ready for habitation again. Teams were busy sorting through the rubble that was left after the Tuffle bodies were removed so that they could salvage what was still usable. A few of the brighter Saiyans were busy pouring over the electric grids, trying to get them back up to power. Communication was kept open between camps, with runners going to and from each camp with information on any breakthroughs that were being made using Tuffle technology.
If anything, the whole camp, along with many other camps like it, seemed thrilled by all the possibilities.
Goku had to admit, after having conversations throughout the week, that many of the camp dwellers looked forward to a chance to live in the remaining buildings and houses after the Tuffle war. They seemed especially pleased by the prospects of indoor plumbing and electricity.
Goku had just finished up a meeting with Tomaron, to go over his lessons for the following day, and to review applications from Saiyans that wanted to take on additional work as instructors. Goku needed help to deal with the large influx of students acquired over the last few days.
Goku was so tired that both he and Tomaron decided that they would wait until the next morning to deal with the question of five additional students that didn’t seem to have coverage. They had given up long after sundown, following an 8-hour day of teaching by the both of them. Goku smiled to himself as he walked through the camp towards his tent – who would have ever thought that he could be anyone’s instructor?! He had just that one chance with Uub, but that never really got under way, so Goku was eager for the chance given him here.
Upon entering his tent, Goku just dropped on to his furs, and closed his eyes, sleep taking him immediately.
* * *
Vegeta stared up at the smoke hole in his tent as he lay on his furs, trying desperately to fall asleep and not think. He had taken up residence again within the camp, actually just only ten tents away from his old tent with Goku. Vegeta watched as the smoke from his pit fire curled out into the cool night air as his mind returned to Goku once more.
Vegeta remembered the way that Goku had smiled at him that night at the river, seeming ages ago, before they had their argument that began the rift between them. His heart tugged just thinking about the look of pure happiness on Goku’s handsome face.
Vegeta turned over, as if he could turn away from his own feelings. He shut his eyes, pressing them closed as if he could shut out the memories.
Part of him wanted to just go to Goku’s tent now and stop this useless struggle with himself. But part of him was afraid too. He knew that there was no other way for him to describe the intensity of his feeling for Goku than anything but lo…
Vegeta groaned, willing the thoughts from his mind. But Vegeta’s mind filled again with the thoughts that he had been fighting since all of this began – that nothing he had ever felt for Bulma, despite how much he truly did love the woman, could ever compare to the all-consuming feelings he had for Goku.
How could he have let his feelings get so out of hand? It was absurd. It made him feel vulnerable, naked… and yet, weren’t these feelings there all along, only now forcing Vegeta to confront them?
Vegeta grimaced, realizing that this would be yet another fitful night of sleep. And now that he was so busy, sleepless nights were beginning to take a toll on him. Vegeta shut his eyes, going into a meditation to rid his mind of the endless images of Goku that plagued him.
* * *
Kakarotto hovered high above Vegit’s camp, his ki expertly masked.
Kakarotto had left Raddoon by the river so that he would be out of the way. He was happy to have Raddoon nearby at so momentous an occasion, but Kakarotto didn’t want to risk endangering his lover along with himself.
Kakarotto grimaced when he could feel a tiny pulse in Raddoon’s ki, knowing immediately that it was just sheer nerves that made his lover’s ki spike.
“That idiot,” he said to the cool night air. “He’d better not mess this up.”
Kakarotto knew that there were many Saiyans that couldn’t sense ki. He worried about the few that could. Kakarotto himself could read ki as if it were writing in the air -- ki screamed out to him. And Kakarotto could mask his ki to the point that he could sneak up right behind the best of warriors and kill them before they could even sense his breath upon the back of their necks. It was this special talent that made him so formidable a foe and Raddoon’s chosen assassin.
Kakarotto put out his senses again. The feeling he had told him that the tent directly below him was the one that he wanted.
“So, there you are, Kakarot.”
Kakarotto placed his knife between his teeth, as he checked the area to make sure that he could get in and out with out being detected.
The camp was quiet. There wasn’t a sign of life around at all, at least, not anywhere near Goku’s tent.
Kakarotto grinned around the blade of his knife. If anyone were to see him now, there would be no mistaking his volatile mind and deadly intent.
Kakarotto made his descent to the ground, his movements not making a sound and hardly disturbing the air around him.
* * *
Tomaron was on his way to Goku’s tent to tell him about another two warriors that wanted to sign up for Goku’s training. The two Saiyans were so enthusiastic that they had traveled from two cities to the south just to learn from Goku. Tomaron knew that Goku had been very tired, but if there was any chance that Goku was still awake, he would definitely want to hear about this. Goku might make a special arrangement to train them personally just for the effort they made to get to the camp.
Tomaron had just rounded the corner of Goku’s tent when Kakarotto landed in front of him.
* * *
Raddoon paced at the river’s shoreline waiting for Kakarotto. He knew it would be awhile before Kakarotto would return, but Raddoon couldn’t help but worry. If Kakarotto made a mistake now, there was no doubt he would be killed.
Raddoon gritted his teeth and resumed his pacing.
* * *
Tomaron’s eyes widened in confusion, as he was startled from his thoughts by the Saiyan dropping to the earth in front of him. Tomaron didn’t even have the time to recognize Kakarotto or react before his throat was slit open in a lighting-quick movement of Kakarotto’s blade.
Tomaron clutched uselessly at his severed throat and collapsed at Kakarotto’s feet. Kakarotto didn’t waste any time as he lifted himself into the air and floated through the entrance of Goku’s tent.
* * *
Nardon was making his way back to his own tent from his brother’s tent, when, for some reason, he felt the need to stop and look down the lane that would lead to Goku’s tent.
Nardon didn’t understand why, but he felt uneasy.
* * *
Kakarotto floated above Goku’s sleeping form, studying his enemy’s peaceful face. Kakarotto felt hatred like he never had before for an enemy. Kakarotto grinned as he lowered himself to his victim.
* * *
“Kakarot!”
Vegeta bolted upright out of his firs, gasping, as fear-induced adrenaline coursed through him. Vegeta, heart hammering in his chest, panted, trying to catch his breath as he tried to shake the nightmare that had gripped him. But Vegeta soon sensed it was more than a nightmare -- the air tasted of fear and death.
Vegeta scrambled to his feet.
* * *
Nardon started to fly down the lane of tents, his heart beginning to hammer in fear.
* * *
Kakarotto lowered himself to just an inch above Goku’s form, then lowered the blade of his already bloody knife to Goku’s throat. Kakarotto released all of his contained ki, knowing his malice alone would begin to alert the sleeping form just below him. As Goku began to stir, a wrinkle disturbing his peaceful brow, Kakarot let his body weight fall full onto Goku.
Goku’s eyes flew open just as Kakarotto slashed the knife across Goku’s throat.
Goku grabbed his neck, and just as the blood from his severed throat bubbled up through his fingers, Kakarotto moved his face slightly to the side to let the dim light of Goku’s pit fire illuminate it. He wanted to be sure that Goku recognized him before he died.
Kakarotto laughed at Goku’s as recognition lighted on Goku’s shocked face.
Email: lilith8@adelphia.net
NC17 rating. - be warned – extremely graphic content. Warning: this is a YAOI FIC (male x male), my first Gk x V fic!.
Spoilers: everything up to the last episode of DBZ. This takes place before, and thus, negates DBGT.
I don't own DBZ or make any money from this story.
The story over all contains sexual situations between men, violence, and psychological melodrama
Here are the first 15 chapters:
http://saiyanhideaway.us/Fics/Dharma/F_OddCouple.html
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Chapter 16 - Rift
Goku and Vegeta sat, staring at the river, sunlight finally breaking over the horizon before them. Goku looked over at Vegeta again to see that Vegeta’s wounds were mostly healed from the senzu bean Goku made him take. Goku turned away to stare at the sun’s disc rising over the horizon, still unsure of what to say to Vegeta.
“Please leave me.”
Goku turned and looked at Vegeta, a sad look forming on Goku’s handsome face.
“Please Vegeta, don’t... don’t do anything stupid.”
“I thought I just did.”
Goku blinked, surprised that Vegeta would admit his earlier actions were perhaps not fully thought through.
Vegeta continued, “Just leave me, Kakarot. I want to be alone. Having you sit there is getting on my nerves.”
Goku felt helpless, afraid to leave him for what he could still do, but knew it would be unfair to stay. It was obvious Vegeta needed to be alone with his thoughts.
“OK. But I’m going to tell them everything Vegeta. They have a right to know. Please don’t stay away too long. Ok?”
Vegeta didn’t say anything, but after a few moments his head nodded, indicating that he would follow when he was ready.
Goku left him there on the bank of the river, feeling that the gap between them was still just as wide as when they had fought during the night.
* * *
Vegit and Nardon stared at Goku in stunned silence.
“I know it is all very hard to believe, but...” Goku threw his hands up in the air, frustrated with his own explanation, realizing how weird and unbelievable it all sounded. “It is all true.”
Vegit nodded, his thick brow wrinkled. “You don’t have to worry, Kakarot. I believe you. After last night, how could I not? It is just a bit much to take in right now, though.”
Nardon only stared at Goku in shock, his eyes large in his handsome face.
“Well, I was going to take you to the ship, if you wanted to look at it. It is up to you.”
Nardon jumped up immediately. “I want to see it!”
Goku laughed at the younger man’s enthusiasm. Vegit looked like he would similarly be taken over with mirth, but then something over Goku’s shoulder made both Vegit and Nardon blanch.
Goku turned around to see Vegeta standing in the tent flap. His clothing was still tattered, much like Goku’s from their earlier fight, but he had cleaned his face and arms, no longer looking crazed from the black soot and blood. Vegeta stood quietly, looking down at the floor as if he were afraid to raise his eyes and thus face Vegit and Nardon.
Vegit tentatively said, “Hello Vegeta.”
Nardon merely looked at the ground.
Vegeta grunted, then said, “I need a shower, and I can get one at the ship. Let’s not just stand here.”
They all realized that Vegeta, in his own way, was making peace and the tension in the tent began to dissipate. They all followed him outside and flew behind as he led the way towards the space pod.
* * *
Nardon stared at the view screen, his mouth hanging open in disbelief. He whipped his head around to ask another question.
“So that is our planet? From thousands of miles away?”
Goku was showing Vegit and Nardon the logged images of the planet from when Vegeta and Goku had made their approach just a few days prior. Goku grinned, “It sure is.”
Nardon turned his stunned face back to the view screen, blinking. “It is just... amazing!”
Vegeta continued to hang back, letting Goku do most of the talking.
Vegit stood over his brother’s shoulder, looking grim. The whole thing made him a little nervous. In a slightly shaking voice with a hint of humor Vegit said, “I don’t think I would like this space travel much.”
“Aww, it’s not so bad.” Goku grinned at Vegit. “You get used to it.”
Nardon looked down and in a forlorn voice said, “I feel like I haven’t even lived in comparison to you and Vegeta.”
Vegit put his hand on his younger brother’s shoulder. “Now, there, Nardon. You are still very young. And, well, I don’t think Kakarot and Vegeta are going anywhere any time soon, so there may be a little spin through the atmosphere for you some day.”
Nardon looked up, the possibility filling his face with awe.
“I’m right in that you are not going anywhere any time soon, right Kakarot?” Vegit asked Goku, looking hopeful. Before Goku could answer, Vegit turned to Vegeta.
“Vegeta, from what Kakarot says, I understand that we have much to do. But, I’ll be honest in that I don’t even know where to begin. I will need your help. Like you, I would not want our people to suffer the same fate as your Saiyans did. I will do all that I can to prevent it from happening here.”
A small smile settled on Vegeta’s handsome face. Goku felt something in him twinge at the sight of it - he missed that smile. It had just been a day, but already Goku felt the loss keenly. It did not escape Goku’s notice that Vegeta was keeping his distance.
After a moment, Vegeta made everyone in the control room nervous as an angry look flitted across his features. He turned towards Vegit, who just managed not to flinch.
“Well, there are some things that we can do right away. For instance, you have whole cities of technology at your disposal. I’ve seen the aftermath of the war, and there is plenty left that is salvageable. Instead of making a home in dirt and dust, we should clean these cities and take them for our own. That way, our people can harness the technology left behind by the Tuffles.”
Goku grimaced, thinking the idea of taking the technology from the dead Tuffles was a little bit morbid. But then he had to admit, it was probably the most positive thing the Saiyan race could do, instead of just letting all that hard work go to waste. Seeing Vegit and Nardon begin to react to the suggestion with interest, Goku realized it actually was a good idea.
Goku smiled, and nodded. “Yes! From what Vegeta has said over the years, the Saiyan Race got most of its advanced technology from Frieza and other outside influences. But if we raise our level of technological knowledge ourselves, then we don’t need to rely on outsiders in the future. And we can prepare ourselves to meet any technology that threatens us!” Goku’s features lit up in excitement, a hint of his fighting spirit evident in the sparkle in his eyes. The others smiled in response, liking the idea more and more. Vegeta seeing the response to his idea began to look equally excited.
Vegeta continued, “As their leader, you can arrange for teams of Saiyans to go in and clean up the cities. As it is, the smell of decay is already wafting here. We can clean it all up with ki blasts and then take what is still usable. It may take awhile, but it will give everyone something to do.”
Vegeta gave Vegit a pointed look, “And having something to do would do most of them a bit of good, I should think.”
Vegit smirked, then said, “I suppose you are right Cousin. Tell me, Vegeta, you are unhappy with the way our people behave. How would you go about changing it? I confess I never saw much wrong with the way our people act, but now I see, hearing what has happened in your time, that it leaves us vulnerable. What ideas do you have to change things?”
Vegeta surprised Goku by looking dumbfounded for a moment. In his earlier plan of dominance, Vegeta just assumed that the Saiyans would follow his lead once he took the throne but he now realized that his plans were never fully thought through to completion. It wasn’t as if he could suddenly build GR rooms and have them all train in 100x the force of gravity - much less have them like it.
And then, it was as if something clicked between Vegeta and Goku as their eyes met. Despite the tension between the two of them, they both managed to smile.
Goku said, “Well, it had bothered me too, to be honest. And I didn’t see how we were going to get all the Saiyans to unite under any one person after going to the Radditsen camp. The Saiyan urge to fight means that there would continue to be fighting and violence amongst our people, which again, makes us vulnerable to an outside force offering us the chance to use that spirit against unknown races instead of each other. It’s true the Saiyans here don’t seem to have the same drive or ambition that both Vegeta and I both naturally possess. Maybe that came with time, perhaps when we worked under Frieza -- I’m guessing as a way to gain his good favor. But here, you have the problem of our people always wanting to fight each other. Well, how about a competition?”
Vegit and Nardon looked at Goku perplexed.
Goku continued, “There is this martial arts competition back on earth called the Tenkaichi Budokai. It is held about every three years or so. We can change it to a yearly competition here just to build the excitement for the event. Anyway, the goal is to be honored with the title of greatest warrior or “champion.” I think that Saiyans naturally have a desire to compete and the need to be better and stronger than their opponents. What if, well, I had a school and took on students to train them for the competition.”
Vegeta interjected, “And I can also run my own school, and my students can compete against Kakarot’s students.”
Vegit and Nardon started to smile, liking the idea.
Goku in his enthusiasm continued, “Yeah, we could gather students from all over the planet, and other Saiyans, the better warriors, can run their own schools. Then, each region could have its own version of the competition, and the best warriors in those competitions will then compete in one final competition. It would be awesome!”
Goku looked like he was ready to jump up and down in his excitement at the prospect. The other Saiyans in the room just looked immensely pleased.
“And I can just see all the Saiyans that cannot compete or that are eliminated in earlier rounds wanting to go to the finals as spectators -- it would be a very popular event, almost like a celebration or holiday. It could create a stream of revenue that could be used to help build each region’s cities again. It could just... well, it would sure cure the urge to beat the stuffing out of each other and it could help make all Saiyans into warriors similar to Vegeta and myself.”
Nardon’s mouth fell open. “Really? Do you think that’s possible?”
“Sure! I don’t see why not.” Goku continued, oblivious to Vegeta’s obvious annoyance at the suggestion. “I think every Saiyan has the potential to achieve the levels that Vegeta and I have reached.” Vegeta scoffed and Vegit stifled a grin.
“Well!” Vegit boomed, hoping to interrupt Goku before his words further annoyed Vegeta. “I think these are wonderful ideas, and I would like to count on the both of you to start on them. Vegeta, I would like you to organize the cleanup and rebuild of the cities. And Kakarot, I would like you to start on the schools, and work on organizing the competitions themselves. In the meantime, Nardon and I will gather the Saiyans that will prove most valuable to the both of you in these endeavors.”
Goku glanced Vegeta’s way to gauge his reaction to Vegit’s delegation of duties, afraid Vegeta would be put out by the suggestion, but found the Saiyan Prince looking off into space, a small smile on his face. Goku sighed inwardly, relieved to realize that Vegeta was just happy to move forward after all that had happened.
Vegeta glanced up and caught Goku looking at him. Goku smiled at him gently, but Vegeta whipped his head away, a tight look pressed to his lips.
Goku couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret at the rebuff.
* * *
As Goku made to leave the capsule with both Nardon and Vegit, he was dismayed to see that Vegeta had decided to stay at the ship, with the intention of putting distance between them. As Goku headed back to camp, his positive thoughts of the days to come were constantly interrupted by the nagging ache induced by the memory of Vegeta’s coldness towards him.
Both Vegit and Nardon, upon arriving back at the camp, headed straight to Vegit’s tent. They would start the process of gathering some of their most trusted warriors for a meeting in Vegit’s tent to take place later that afternoon. The meeting would cover both ideas and then the Saiyans could begin the preliminary steps.
Upon entering his tent, Goku was beyond pleased to see that a pot of water had been prepared for him above his pit fire. A large tub had also been placed in the tent, halfway filled with room-temperature water. Goku, using a thick drying cloth, picked up the pot and dumped it into the tub. He undressed and got in the tub, sighing in satisfaction as the hot water settled over his sore and tired muscles. Goku really could have used a second senzu bean, but hadn’t wanted to waste them.
The tent flap parted after a few minutes, and Goku was surprised to see Vegeta enter the tent. Goku’s heart hammered in his chest in response to the sight of the tight look on Vegeta’s face.
“I’m just here to get my things. I’m going to stay at the ship for awhile.”
Goku pleaded, wanting to put a stop to this distance, “Vegeta, you don’t have to go. Please!”
Vegeta had turned from Goku, crouched on the ground to gather the several sets of leather vests and braes that had been left for him. Without turning to face Goku, Vegeta said, “I want to.”
The words, said in so hollow a manner, were painful to Goku. He didn’t say anything further to the Saiyan Prince, but merely watched as Vegeta vacated the tent, his back to Goku the entire time, Vegeta never once looking back at the larger Saiyan.
Goku’s shoulders slumped in defeat.
* * *
Although Goku was hungry, he was exhausted so decided to sleep for a bit once he finished his bath. He could get food later.
But Goku’s attempt at sleep was fitful, as every time he rolled over in his sleep he would wake when he realized that he was trying to reach out and hold Vegeta’s warm body, only to find that Vegeta wasn’t there next to him. Goku felt the hollow pain of loss each time he would wake to find himself alone.
Despite having come to some kind of peace, Vegeta just didn’t want to have anything to do with Goku right now. Goku was going to have to wrap his head around that fact.
Goku gave up on sleep and wandered outside his tent. It was already noon. Goku could smell food cooking but was still not in the mood to eat despite feeling physical hunger. Goku didn’t have a particular destination, but he wanted to just breathe some fresh air and think. On some level, he saw the looks that were given him, many of the Saiyans in the camp still shaken up from the previous night’s activities. But on another level, Goku just didn’t care. He wandered around the camp aimlessly, until he heard someone call out his name.
Goku turned around to see a Radditsen warrior looking at him as if he knew Goku. It took Goku a moment, with everything else that was on his mind, to recognize Tomaron from the Radditsen camp.
“Tomaron! It’s you! You’re here.”
Tomaron grinned. “Yes, I made the trip this morning. I was actually a little surprised at the warm greeting I got. I think I owe that all to you.”
Goku blushed, looking down. “I’m surprised too. I’m not too sure how everyone feels about me right now.”
Tomaron’s smile faded a little, “You mean the fight you had with that small warrior that was with you? Veg...Vegeta?”
Goku felt his stomach clench at the sound of Vegeta’s name. “Yes.”
Tomaron nodded, “Yes, well, the talk is that the two of you are working with Vegit again. Although there is speculation about the both of you, for the most part, from what I gather, most of the talk regarding yourself is positive.”
Goku smiled. Again, he felt himself warm to the Saiyan warrior, who was trying to reassure Goku out of kindness. There was something about Tomaron that Goku had liked immediately upon meeting him and again he was reminded of the feeling.
“So you made the trip on your own, then?”
“No, a whole group of us made the trip. Actually, a lot of women came along this time as well. Kakarot,” Tomaron stepped close to Goku, “There’s something going on. I don’t know what, but all I know is that Raddoon has not left Kakarotto’s tent since yesterday. I would watch my back if I were you. Some that have attended to Kakarotto’s wounds said that he vowed he was going to make you pay for them.”
Goku shrugged, little worried after having actually fought against Kakarotto. “I’m not too worried...”
“Kakarot, there is no mistake that from what you did back at Raddoon’s camp and here that you are far beyond anyone when it comes to fighting, so I don’t think I have to tell you that you shouldn’t underestimate your opponent.” Goku’s eyes hardened at the realization that that was exactly what he was doing where Kakarotto was concerned.
“He’s not just a formidable warrior by most warrior standards, but he’s quick and deadly, and quite adept at getting into an enemy camp and killing key warriors before anyone has had a chance to even realize what he has done. Raddoon mainly uses him as an assassin. Keep that in mind.”
Goku put a hand on Tomaron’s shoulder and nodded. “I will Tomaron. Thank you.”
The two warriors were interrupted by Nardon who came over smiling. Nardon nodded his welcome to Tomaron as if it were the most natural thing for a Vegitsen to do to a Radditsen. Goku grinned as Nardon turned to speak to him.
“Goku, my Brother wants you in his tent for lunch.” Nardon nodded at Tomaron. “You may come along too. I think it would be good for us to have some Radditsen there. We are going to begin discussing strategies. And Vegeta is already there.”
Goku felt another pang at the mention of Vegeta’s name. “Ok, I’ll go over right now. Tomaron?”
Tomaron grinned and nodded, as all three warriors made their way to Vegit’s tent.
* * *
The Vegitsen camp was a flurry of activity for a full week. Already Vegeta had made several trips with Nardon to other Vegitsen camps to begin getting groups together to start work on the cities. Vegeta would be meeting with some Radditsen camp leaders the following week, two other newly arrived Radditsen promising to lend him a hand in the discussions.
Raddoon had been sent an invitation to take part in the talks, but had sent back his invitation with his refusal. It seemed that any cooperation he had promised just the other week had dissipated to nothing in his lover’s arms.
Goku, with Tomaron’s help, was already starting to sign up students for his school. A large field had been cleared outside the camp for the purpose of training. Goku would start lessons the next day, with ten students already signed up and eager to learn from him. Tomaron’ was proving to be invaluable to Goku as he took down the names of the ever increasing list of students.
As Goku walked through the camp on the way to another meeting with Vegit, he thought of the growing list of students that had also been signing up with Vegeta for training. Nardon was mainly handling that for the Saiyan Prince, who seemed to be still a little uneasy in the camp after his failed grasp at power. Although many of the Saiyans still displayed open discomfort in Vegeta’s presence, there were several Saiyans that were quite impressed with his fighting.
Although Goku was tired from all the activity, he was happy to have the distraction. It took his mind off the absence of Vegeta from his life. He had hardly seen Vegeta all week, Vegeta avoiding Goku like the plague. The only time they ever bumped into each other was at Vegit’s meetings, and then it was always awkward, Vegeta giving Goku a cold greetings, his eyes hardly settling on the larger warrior.
Goku realized the keen feeling of loss was something he was unused to. He had spent many times away from his own wife, and never before did he feel empty inside as he did now. It was almost a shock to Goku when he realized the significance of the contrast.
Goku, on his way to a meeting over dinner, walked into Vegit’s tent and was embarrassed to bump right into Vegeta, who looked similarly ruffled, Vegeta’s face turning a bright shade of red.
Goku, uncomfortable, muttered, “I’m sorry.”
Vegeta just grunted.
Vegeta made to leave the tent and Goku called after him, “Aren’t you staying for the meeting?”
Without turning, Vegeta said, “I’ll be back.” His tone was cold and conveyed his desire for Goku to leave him alone. Goku’s shoulders slumped in disappointment over the encounter.
Tomaron who saw the entire incident came over to try and brighten Goku’s spirits. “Hey, some more Radditsen arrived today and are sitting in on the meeting. Come and meet them. I think you’ve got another student among them.”
Goku did brighten a little at that, but it was obvious to Tomaron that Goku was still upset by the crinkle that settled between his thick brows.
* * *
Raddoon woke to Kakarotto smiling down at him.
“What is it?” Raddoon asked him, sleep making his voice thick.
“I feel much better today. Care to take a trip in a little while?” Kakarotto smirked, looking impish.
Raddoon arched an eyebrow at him. “You’re serious?”
In answer Kakarotto leaned down and kissed his lover with deep passion, pressing his hungry body against Raddoon’s smooth skin. When Kakarotto broke the kiss, Raddoon smiled over Kakarotto’s shoulder as Kakarotto began to make love to him.
* * *
The last of the cooking fires were being doused as the busy Vegitsen camp settled to prepare for a restful night. The raucous late nights of wine and ale were dwindling, as many of the camp dwellers now had duties that had to be carried out in the early morning hours. Late nights of imbibing were quite impractical.
Goku had wondered if there would be some resentment among the Saiyans for all the hard work that needed to be done; that their “fun” was somehow over. But if anything, the Saiyans seemed rather pleased to be doing something productive with a goal in mind. Many of them were making daily cleaning expeditions to the cities and the city to the south was nearly ready for habitation again. Teams were busy sorting through the rubble that was left after the Tuffle bodies were removed so that they could salvage what was still usable. A few of the brighter Saiyans were busy pouring over the electric grids, trying to get them back up to power. Communication was kept open between camps, with runners going to and from each camp with information on any breakthroughs that were being made using Tuffle technology.
If anything, the whole camp, along with many other camps like it, seemed thrilled by all the possibilities.
Goku had to admit, after having conversations throughout the week, that many of the camp dwellers looked forward to a chance to live in the remaining buildings and houses after the Tuffle war. They seemed especially pleased by the prospects of indoor plumbing and electricity.
Goku had just finished up a meeting with Tomaron, to go over his lessons for the following day, and to review applications from Saiyans that wanted to take on additional work as instructors. Goku needed help to deal with the large influx of students acquired over the last few days.
Goku was so tired that both he and Tomaron decided that they would wait until the next morning to deal with the question of five additional students that didn’t seem to have coverage. They had given up long after sundown, following an 8-hour day of teaching by the both of them. Goku smiled to himself as he walked through the camp towards his tent – who would have ever thought that he could be anyone’s instructor?! He had just that one chance with Uub, but that never really got under way, so Goku was eager for the chance given him here.
Upon entering his tent, Goku just dropped on to his furs, and closed his eyes, sleep taking him immediately.
* * *
Vegeta stared up at the smoke hole in his tent as he lay on his furs, trying desperately to fall asleep and not think. He had taken up residence again within the camp, actually just only ten tents away from his old tent with Goku. Vegeta watched as the smoke from his pit fire curled out into the cool night air as his mind returned to Goku once more.
Vegeta remembered the way that Goku had smiled at him that night at the river, seeming ages ago, before they had their argument that began the rift between them. His heart tugged just thinking about the look of pure happiness on Goku’s handsome face.
Vegeta turned over, as if he could turn away from his own feelings. He shut his eyes, pressing them closed as if he could shut out the memories.
Part of him wanted to just go to Goku’s tent now and stop this useless struggle with himself. But part of him was afraid too. He knew that there was no other way for him to describe the intensity of his feeling for Goku than anything but lo…
Vegeta groaned, willing the thoughts from his mind. But Vegeta’s mind filled again with the thoughts that he had been fighting since all of this began – that nothing he had ever felt for Bulma, despite how much he truly did love the woman, could ever compare to the all-consuming feelings he had for Goku.
How could he have let his feelings get so out of hand? It was absurd. It made him feel vulnerable, naked… and yet, weren’t these feelings there all along, only now forcing Vegeta to confront them?
Vegeta grimaced, realizing that this would be yet another fitful night of sleep. And now that he was so busy, sleepless nights were beginning to take a toll on him. Vegeta shut his eyes, going into a meditation to rid his mind of the endless images of Goku that plagued him.
* * *
Kakarotto hovered high above Vegit’s camp, his ki expertly masked.
Kakarotto had left Raddoon by the river so that he would be out of the way. He was happy to have Raddoon nearby at so momentous an occasion, but Kakarotto didn’t want to risk endangering his lover along with himself.
Kakarotto grimaced when he could feel a tiny pulse in Raddoon’s ki, knowing immediately that it was just sheer nerves that made his lover’s ki spike.
“That idiot,” he said to the cool night air. “He’d better not mess this up.”
Kakarotto knew that there were many Saiyans that couldn’t sense ki. He worried about the few that could. Kakarotto himself could read ki as if it were writing in the air -- ki screamed out to him. And Kakarotto could mask his ki to the point that he could sneak up right behind the best of warriors and kill them before they could even sense his breath upon the back of their necks. It was this special talent that made him so formidable a foe and Raddoon’s chosen assassin.
Kakarotto put out his senses again. The feeling he had told him that the tent directly below him was the one that he wanted.
“So, there you are, Kakarot.”
Kakarotto placed his knife between his teeth, as he checked the area to make sure that he could get in and out with out being detected.
The camp was quiet. There wasn’t a sign of life around at all, at least, not anywhere near Goku’s tent.
Kakarotto grinned around the blade of his knife. If anyone were to see him now, there would be no mistaking his volatile mind and deadly intent.
Kakarotto made his descent to the ground, his movements not making a sound and hardly disturbing the air around him.
* * *
Tomaron was on his way to Goku’s tent to tell him about another two warriors that wanted to sign up for Goku’s training. The two Saiyans were so enthusiastic that they had traveled from two cities to the south just to learn from Goku. Tomaron knew that Goku had been very tired, but if there was any chance that Goku was still awake, he would definitely want to hear about this. Goku might make a special arrangement to train them personally just for the effort they made to get to the camp.
Tomaron had just rounded the corner of Goku’s tent when Kakarotto landed in front of him.
* * *
Raddoon paced at the river’s shoreline waiting for Kakarotto. He knew it would be awhile before Kakarotto would return, but Raddoon couldn’t help but worry. If Kakarotto made a mistake now, there was no doubt he would be killed.
Raddoon gritted his teeth and resumed his pacing.
* * *
Tomaron’s eyes widened in confusion, as he was startled from his thoughts by the Saiyan dropping to the earth in front of him. Tomaron didn’t even have the time to recognize Kakarotto or react before his throat was slit open in a lighting-quick movement of Kakarotto’s blade.
Tomaron clutched uselessly at his severed throat and collapsed at Kakarotto’s feet. Kakarotto didn’t waste any time as he lifted himself into the air and floated through the entrance of Goku’s tent.
* * *
Nardon was making his way back to his own tent from his brother’s tent, when, for some reason, he felt the need to stop and look down the lane that would lead to Goku’s tent.
Nardon didn’t understand why, but he felt uneasy.
* * *
Kakarotto floated above Goku’s sleeping form, studying his enemy’s peaceful face. Kakarotto felt hatred like he never had before for an enemy. Kakarotto grinned as he lowered himself to his victim.
* * *
“Kakarot!”
Vegeta bolted upright out of his firs, gasping, as fear-induced adrenaline coursed through him. Vegeta, heart hammering in his chest, panted, trying to catch his breath as he tried to shake the nightmare that had gripped him. But Vegeta soon sensed it was more than a nightmare -- the air tasted of fear and death.
Vegeta scrambled to his feet.
* * *
Nardon started to fly down the lane of tents, his heart beginning to hammer in fear.
* * *
Kakarotto lowered himself to just an inch above Goku’s form, then lowered the blade of his already bloody knife to Goku’s throat. Kakarotto released all of his contained ki, knowing his malice alone would begin to alert the sleeping form just below him. As Goku began to stir, a wrinkle disturbing his peaceful brow, Kakarot let his body weight fall full onto Goku.
Goku’s eyes flew open just as Kakarotto slashed the knife across Goku’s throat.
Goku grabbed his neck, and just as the blood from his severed throat bubbled up through his fingers, Kakarotto moved his face slightly to the side to let the dim light of Goku’s pit fire illuminate it. He wanted to be sure that Goku recognized him before he died.
Kakarotto laughed at Goku’s as recognition lighted on Goku’s shocked face.