House of Vegeta 2: Chronicles

by FireCracker7

The saiyan saga continues! Stories of the present and past. Kakarot, Vegeta, Bardock, the Ou, Raditz, Celipe. And chibis! Mpreg.

1. Chronicles 1 thru 8

author: FireCracker (Italic copy bordered byunderscore)
Archive? You'd better.

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 1

He howled and yowled.

The reigning ruler of Vegetaseii perched atop a high tower wall in the west gardens, his powerful form chiseled like sculpted bronze.
Barely twenty six, he nonetheless was in early bloom of male majority. Barely clothed in dark training shorts, he crouched sensuously on the stone ledge. A thick stroke of red black fur waved sinuously behind him.

In delight, Vegetann clacked sharp teeth together. Rulership was a wearisome burden, thrust upon him by line and blood. Circumstance gave him the crown at the tender age of fourteen. But he bore it well, for he was strong beyond any.

His only cub was hidden, secure in his other life. His mate held the chibi safely in secrecy. Well formed and powerful, the small one might one day rule.

But visions and inner sense told Vegetann of more...a destiny of might and power unseen by any of royal line. The might of super saiyan.

It was already true. But there would be more. His blood was pure, his loins potent. The shagga (shamans) foretold so before his birth. No ordinary house would he sire. No ordinary mate would he have. Their offspring would be unlike any other...

Silent feet bounded behind him. A long cloak floated in moist breezes kissed by sweet summer blooms. The wild eyed king ignored them, lost in his own thoughts as thick clouds rolled across a full moon.

Vegetann shook his dark mane, growling a primitive singsong. Sharp nails dug into ancient brick. Muscled thighs rippled as he tensed to spring into the jungle below...

Powerful hands grabbed him by the tail, yanking him back from the ledge. Shrieking like an unholy banshee, Vegetann spun, swiping sharp nails at his attacker. The lithe form slipped from a potentially fatal blow.

"BEDDATKA!! Cresan'e de nuttei hr'eyonka!!"

"GRARRGHHH!!"

"Fool! You dare disgrace your parents with this display?!"

The king glowered with flaming eyes. Ublakka stared back defiantly.
She was one of the elder court, and not in the least intimidated by the burly saiyan.

A snarl. "Stand back, woman. You dare speak to me that way?!"

Her tall form advanced, less fluid with age. Tiny lines etched facial features. "Aye, wretch...for I know every secret of the house, as well you know."

"If you're referring to my father..."

A smirk. "Ai, and more. For I was confidant to the queen herself. She felt his hidden son, one spoke of in hushed whispers-"

"Silence!!" Vegetann roared, fangs slicing the night. "I've no patience for conversation this night, woman. I would run!!"

"Shikshei! Already your foolishness and hot blood have caused calamity. You stand the battlements and howl like a slargg in heat!!"

A reddish black tail swished. "The moon comes...I'll not debate with a dried up crone too old to burn!"

Dark eyes flashed in turn. "The moon is the moon, idieze (idiot.
Long have I known it's pleasures, so don't lecture me!"

The king turned once more with a lethal grin. "Perhaps I'll favor you out of pity."

"Before you were born did your father favor me!"

Vegetann moved at her. "I know the tales, Ublakka. Keep them or I'll burn you down where you stand."

"Would that I had the power to reward your insolence. Ha! But for a turn here or there, I might be your queen mother."

Snarl. "On a cold day in hell. Stand aside, I go!"

Ublakka grabbed him once more. "Consider, mad one. This impulsiveness has gotten you one chibi-"

"Silence!!"

The aged saiyan spat. "The inner council and royal court have done what they can to conceal your indescretions. Don't be a fool! Would you cast away your throne and heritage for the sake of jungle run?!"

Soft growl. "I cast nothing away...I weary of being king all the time, Ublakka."

The tall woman sniffed in disdain. "Ai, too much like your sire. And your dam was prone to worms."

"I don't have worms! My blood burns like any...I am still saiyan!"

"But king first."

Dark eyes sparked with fire. "You appear somewhat unstable,
Ublakka...do old crones run hot under moon?!"

The elite purred thickly. "Perhaps, but I have sense enough to get inside. Istanie! The guards even watch your display."

"And yours. I've often wondered at a silver streaked oozaru. Most attractive, eh?"

She punched the broad chest squarely, catching the King by surprise.
With a grunt and thump he fell on the stone landing.

"You dare?"

Ublakka balled her fists, glaring. "I dare anything, even the wrath of a loon."

He roared at her, tail bristling. "I am Ou Vegetaan, royal heir and descendant of the Vegeenaz, prime. You will not address me in such a manner!" he stood abruptly.

Ublakka stood back from his crackling form. "It is enough, then...I do but attempt to save you from yourself!"

"Am I a cub? I've had season since sixteen!"

"And merely an older cub now. But hold, the skies!!" she looked up,
hair spiking suddenly.

In raw delight, Vegeta Ou glanced skyward. Thinning clouds rapidly dissipated, exposing the full moon.

/Moon.../

Ublakka shrieked, bounding down the stone stairways in frenzy. Vegeta laughed, a wild thing now.

"Run, crone, run!! Long have I waited to see an elder freak."

Cackling madly he watched her disappear several hundred feet below into deep jungle. The moon rose higher, beckoning. Guards disappeared from the battlements, also melting into forest. Roars were heard in the distance. It was beginning.

There were alotted times for oozaru, since no saiyan could avoid that state for any length of time. The elite were especially secretive about their jungle run, since public image was everything. Better to be shrouded in mystery and keep the lower classes in awe. Planetary funds were constantly replenished to accomodate jungle run and the usual devastation caused. Isolated cases of transforming were forbidden, however, and subject to heavy fines or imprisonment.

This was no such time. Few had ever seen their Ou in oozaru form, and those that had were sworn to secrecy. Being ruler imposed additional restrictions, often driving Vegeta to near madness from suppressing his instincts.

Not tonight. Without conscious thought he chirped, purring a primal singsong known to saiyans since the beginning. Arching his powerful body high above a stone arch, he scented the wind and waited.

An eerie, rattling growl soon sounded from thick jungle. Sniffing,
Vegetaan tilted his head higher. He bellowed a choppy snarl, tail puffing.

Potent spice and musk wafted through murky night air. Crooning purrs nearby exploded into full throated roars. The call was answered.

Vegeta bounded from the arch, his huge flame of hair spiking and growing. Coal red eyes waited, not too far away. Gracefully he glided down into green landscape, the canopy enveloping him in dark shroud.
The moon was high now.

Bronzed arms like cable grabbed him as he landed near a stream.
Vegeta turned into the embrace. His lover was likewise of potent build, glistening in nudity. Hard lengths pressed together as tongues touched. Tails coiling tightly, the pair nuzzled, crinkling their noses in delight. Scents and sounds in the jungle drove them wild. It would be soon now.

"Hruargh...I waited..."

"Snnrl...yessss..."

"Come!!" the saiyan known as Bardock bounded away, tail lashing.
Vegeta followed him on a tether. Muscled forms took to the trees,
swinging with frenzy and power. Manes shagged wildly around glowing red eyes.

"Growrrr...the cub??"

"He grows, and is strong."

"There is another..."

"RUARRGH!!"

Clawed feet and hands scaled the treetops. "It is but recent-"

"You didn't tell me!!"

"SNNNRRLL...later..."

"I won't leave this time!"

The saiyans embraced again, grunts and growls replacing speech. They tumbled, landing in a canopy of bushes.

"ROARUURGGAARRR!!"

Little else was said as two oozaru stormed the night. Monstrous hairy fists raised in defiance against the golden outline of the moon.
Shrieking, they trampled everything in their path.

/The night is ours./

And beastly pleasure awaited.

THE END

Archive? You'd better.

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 2

Dawn skies muted soft shades of reds, purples, and oranges. Wisps of green and blue added to the tapestry of color. The air was thick and humid, fragrant with jungle foilage and soil. It was a typical morning on Vegetaseii.

Various jungle denizens peeped, whistled and roared in the treetops.
The dominant specie had now retreated, their nocturnal forays done.

Two members of said dominant specie lay entwined near a shaded waterfall, their bronzed bodies gleaming under doppled sunlight. A wild nest of vines and leaves made a bed of primitive, sensual comfort.

Vegeta opened his eyes slowly. He immediately breathed in deep, musky scent. Tilting his head slighty, he inhaled the fragrant mop of hair that covered his face.

"Hn..."

A lazy yawn. Bardock blinked to awareness as well, purring softly. A blue black tail playfully stroked thick thighs.

The Ou grunted. "Bardock, I know you're awake."

The handsome warrior opened an eye. "Maybe. You stink, koi..." he rubbed against his mate, grinning stupidly.

Vegeta growled softly. "Rrrrr...I would taste you later. But we need to talk!"

Bardock kissed his hand. "Why? The jungle is sweet this morning-"

"Ai, it is, but there's something important to discuss..."

"Like what, Vegeta? Stop babbling about discussions. We can talk later!"

"Hentai!"

"Heh, I'll bang that fat butt again...I think I did last night!"

Sharp fangs clacked. "Not as hard as I banged yours. Now be quiet and listen!"

Bardock yawned again, lazily flopping over his mate. Their tails coiled.

"Let's get this over with...it's warm, and I feel really gooood..."

Vegeta sidled alongside, turning to face him fully. "Do you remember what I said last night?"

Another silly grin. "Hell no...are you sure we talked at all?"

Vegeta cuffed his head, annoyed. "Asshole. Do you remember??"

Bardock sniffed, eyes sharpening finally. "Not really...you asked me about Raditz, I believe."

Dark eyes smouldered with feeling. "I've kept track of him...seen the holographs you've shown me..."

Bardock stared. "Are you alright? This is-"

"He's beautiful, well formed. I can't even hold him!!"

Strong hands gripped his mate. "Vegeta, we've been over this. The situation-"

"I know the fucking situation!"

Snarl. "Your own damned fault...what the hell did you expect? You can't even claim the cub as your heir...and our people will require one soon enough!"

"Don't tell me how to be king. The public will get what they want...one way or another! My soul burns, Bardock. I'm torn in two."

Dark eyes reviewed him. "Are you insane? My life's been disrupted,
too. Celipe's finally accepted the boy, but-"

"I don't care about that ragtail, Bardock! Our son is blooded, and meant for rule."

The fine warrior sat up abruptly, turning his back. A thick coil lashed in anger. "She's still my wife, regardless of what you think.
And you forget, legally I'm third class as well!!"

Vegeta roared. "Shikshei! My ass...we both know what you are!!"

The dark head turned. "Do you have a point?"

Vegeta was very still. "There is another cub."

Bardock blinked. "Say what?"

"That's what I tried to tell you last night...I'm carrying another chibi."

The dark warrior stuttered in stupification. "You...you lie!!"

The Ou stretched on his back languidly, deliberately exposing his belly. His mate stared in confusion.

"What the hell game is this, Vegeta?"

Vegeta took his hand and placed it on himself. "No game,
Bardock...concentrate and feel the truth."

In total disbelief, Bardock traced his hand over the chiseled torso.
Sensitive fingers dipped into clefted muscle and planed hardness.
Ever so gently he probed the small belly slit below the navel.
Startled, he noticed for the first time how it opened and protruded slightly at his touch.

"This...can't be..."

Velvet eyes partially closed as Vegeta watched him. "No, it's true.
Can you feel it?"

Bardock felt his instincts take over. A haze, the nimbus of ki that was Vegeta flowed out in waves of power.

And there was something else. He frowned, closing his eyes. A spark.

"I..."

He sensed another ki, impossibly small. It was bound to Vegeta's. And his.

Bardock opened his eyes slowly, strange emotions searing his soul.
Rage, happiness, fear. His hair stood on end, flashing. The air crackled with power.

Vegeta watched in silence as his mate burst into golden aura. An angry super saiyan glared down at his king. Teal eyes demanded an explanation.

"You lied to me!!"

The Ou was serene. "No. The child is but two weeks along. You were away, and-"

"I was on a purge!!"

Low growl. "Ai, and well done on Bardwett. I wasn't certain until a week ago."

Hands wrapped the royal neck. "I should break your skull for music.
Scum! You did this after I reconciled with Celipe!!"

The Ou raged now, crackling. His hair likewise stood on end, flashing into white flame. He grabbed Bardock in turn.

"Ha! You marry a ragtail and love a king? Fool...I always get what I want!"

"You tricked me before. Not this time!"

"Have you no other word, Bardock? I feel your heat even now...this cub has a special power!"

"Raditz is strong! Already he rates in the top twelve percent...I've had to pay to get his ki documents altered to avoid suspicion!"

Vegeta purred, despite their threatening deadlock. "Blood always tells in the end. And this chibi...may have even more!"

"Impossible!" Bardock still held his chokehold.

Vegeta Ou roared, flashing sharp fangs. "Feel the ki, how it moves...the dawn of a new era, Bardock. The era of super saiyan!!"

In stunned shock, Bardock released his hold, staring. It was true.
The ki, though tiny had a potent sting unlike anything he'd ever felt.

Teal eyes blinked, awed. "This baby..."

Vegetaan laughed madly now, dark eyes wild under flaming hair. "A house like none other in the history of our people. You and I,
Bardock...our offspring! Fury and power, the likes of which our ancestors only dreamed."

"But I can't be revealed, Vegeta-"

"A temporary setback. In time, love, our world will know and fear us."

Conflicting emotion took its toll, as golden spikes flickered and went dark. Bardock could only massage the tight torso.

"You aren't even showing."

The Ou likewise powered down, pulling his mate closer. "Mocco (moron). It's too soon for that! I'm only two weeks along."

The dark warrior managed a smile. "What are you going to do?""

A sigh. "I don't know. The situation at the palace is pivotal now, as well you know. Inshei has her cronies-"

Dark eyes narrowed. "Be careful, Vegeta. She plots against you."

The king curled in their wild nest of vines. "I know. Still, I have more resources. And her figurehead status hasn't changed in elite circles."

"It burns her. She's hated my guts since Raditz was born."

"Ai, and this cub might be the best solution to neutralizing her plans."

Bardock growled. "Explain."

"If this chibi is presented as royal heir, it nullifies her plot to expose our...past."

"You won't use our cub as a bargaining tool, Vegeta!!" another roar.

The Ou clamped a hand on his mouth. "Fool!! The guards are back about in the jungle. Mind your words!"

Bardock pulled the hand away. "I meant what I said" he hissed. "And what's the plan once you begin showing?"

"I always have a plan in place. Didn't I have one for Raditz?"

Bardock snorted. "And the Queen? She isn't going to just disappear."

Vegeta smiled wickedly. "No? I'll find a way to insure her...cooperation."

Evil grin. "Or else?"

"Did I say that? But enough of this. Come here!" the Ou snatched his mate down.

Bardock felt warm, his pulse buzzing. He was lightheaded. "Vegeta...kami take it, you're beautiful." he snuffed along the bronzed neck.

Vegeta purred in bliss. "We'll always find a way."

Bardock lay across his mate, staring at the golden belly again. He rubbed it.

"Hn, to think...our little one is somewhere...in there..."

The Ou flushed. "Stop rubbing me! I'm not a good luck charm."

The dark warrior smiled lazily, tail sweeping across his king. "Do you need anything?"

Deep eyes smouldered. "Only you, Bardock. Everyone else can go to hell."

xxxx

They made love saiyan style several more times. Two glistening figures dangled in a dark canopy of trees by their tails. Pattering waterfall sounded nearby, giving fresh scent to the humid air.

Bardcock held his mate tightly, kissing long lashes.

"You're so beautiful-"

Vegeta growled softly in content. "You said that already...nearly a hundred times!"

"I'll sing!"

The Ou silenced him with a sticky kiss. /No singing. The guards will hear!/

/Then I'll bite you./

"Bardock!" Vegeta hissed as fangs pierced his neck. He mewed madly as hot lips sucked him, leaving him lightheaded and dizzy.

The dark saiyan feasted on red richness, his love roaring wide open through their bond. Overwhelmed, Vegeta lost his balance. The pair abruptly toppled fifty feet into a grove of bushes.

They bounced to the forest floor, surrounded by high blooming flowers. Not that Bardock cared. Still clinging to his love, he softly lapped the neck wound he made. Vegeta shivered in pleasure.

"A...are you trying to kill me?"

Crooning purrs. "The cub...who will it look like?"

"How should I know?"

They were silent awhile, enjoying mutual heat and warmth. Soft breezes carried blooms everywhere. Flower petals stuck to thick hair and sticky skin.

Vegeta Ou stretched against his significant other, in a state of absolute bliss. Dark eyes slitted as he eyed his mate in appreciation. Bardock was a beauty by any saiyan standard, rich features offset by sculpted muscle and glossy pelt.

"You're staring."

"Hai...I was thinking of the babies."

"Hn?"

"Someday Raditz must know his heritage, Bardock. And his sibling."

A sigh. "I know. But circumstances make it impossible now."

"It will happen. I resent having my cub raised as ragtail. It galls me!"

"You gave him to me, Vegeta! Be grateful Celipe cooperated."

Vegeta grunted, his tail lashing in agitation. "He's in the top twelve percent ki you say?"

Bardock smiled with pride. "Ai, the brat fights all the time...I had to drag him from leyschool by the scruff of his neck. Not easy with all that hair!"

"Amazing for a cub so young."

Bardock purred. "I told you. He's already projected for super elite,
which is why I've had to take so many precautions."

Vegeta stared hard. "Are the raters to be trusted?"

Sharp smile. "With their lives."

Savage grin. "Well said."

Bardock rolled on his back, staring skyward at shaded trees. "I worry about the boy sometimes."

Dark eyes were keen on him. "Why, Bardock? He's potent and well formed...the pride of his heritage."

"OUR heritage, Vegetaan. You know where I'm going with this."

"Again with that?! I tell you, there's no possibility of-"

"Can we be certain? And what about this chibi you carry?"

A smug purr. "Super saiyan. Ai, I feel it in my bones."

Bardock thought a minute. "The possibilities...fate amazes me,
Vegeta. The Cooler empire is on the rise in this galactic sector...do you follow me here?"

The Ou nodded, grim. "Ai, a convergence of power. It's projected that in another three decades their sphere of influence will reach our solar system directly."

"Our people have served Frieza's family for years, but conflict is inevitable."

Vegeta closed his eyes briefly. "Saiyans aren't servants, and he never could control our people. We're the primary threat to his rule,
Bardock. Three decades..."

The dark one glowered. "Three decades." he patted his mate's belly. "Time enough!"

The saiyans embraced in their love nest, snarling in affirmation and promise.

THE END

author: FireCracker (Italic copy bordered byunderscore)
Archive? You'd better.

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 3

Nappa waited patiently outside the Ou's upper chambers along with Tozzak, Goboll, and Barjus. The grizzled commanders were among Vegeta's most trusted. They sat at a polished table in the private conference area.

Tozzak spoke first. "You know what this means."

Nappa nodded. "Ai, we are among the few that know...Vegeta grows increasingly reckless."

Barjus nodded, pulling his bearded jaw. "Inshei moves against him now in earnest...her rage knows no bounds. But we have interests as well."

Goboll snarled. "Junior officers and courtisans sniff her tail everywhere, seeking favor. I hear rumors from the parliament she intends to replace long standing members with her own clan."

Nappa grunted, pouring them all a drink. "Shikshei trash...her raggedy group always did aspire beyond their means. Vegetaan never had a choice, thanks to old queen Ruda."

Tozzak gulped his drink. "Ancient, scheming wikka (witch)! Still,
Vegeta makes it worse with hot blood...the fool!!"

Barjus looked about. "Curious. Bardock isn't here..."

Tozzak smirked. "Why that, eh? Whenever the king is in...a certain state, he's nowhere to be seen!"

"Are you implying what I think?!" Goboll grinned smugly.

Nappa shook his head in thought. "Krukka, his sire Gedok was bad enough, back in the day when I came up through ranks. You know the rumors!"

Barjus sniffed. "Hn, about Gedok's mirde (child of destiny)?"

Goboll sighed. "The son he never claimed, supposedly. Bah! Dry talk from brainless social climbers."

"Not so brainless." Nappa murmured, as if to himself. "I was among the coterie that witnessed the birth of Vegeta's hidden cub."

Barjus stared. "Ai, we all know of the secret. But what's that to do with Gedok?"

The bald general lowered his voice, mindful of his words. "Nothing directly, but hear me out...who among us is a walking contradiction in status and power?"

The commanders stared at each other. Tozzak braved the first comment.

"Bardock is...we all know it. No third class known has ever rated his power."

Nappa looked about quickly. "I'll only say this once. Have any of you ever noticed his ki spike?"

They all nodded shortly. Nappa continued.

"And few elites as well...which leads me to conclusions. Do you follow this?"

Shocked silence.

Barjus blubbered. "Are you mad? Do you know what you imply?!"

"I won't be hung for treason, Barjus...but we've all wondered at his 'fast track' to the top of our ranks."

Tozzak thought a moment. "He is young to command so many armies..."

"Rumors have ever persisted about his blood in elite circles."

"And why did Vegeta give him the cub to hide?"

Nappa lifted an eyebrow. "Why indeed? Think!"

The commanders gasped. Barjus waved them all to silence. "Bedattka.
Enough, or we'll all be hung!"

Nappa sipped his drink again. "These thoughts have plagued me for years. Now Vegeta is with child again. Krukka! This insanity has no end."

Tozzak sighed. "Bardock hiding the cub proves nothing, Nappa."

"No? Are you dense?"

"He had least seniority at the time and would raise the least suspicion." Goboll added. "We would be too high profile for such-"

"Asshole!!" Nappa thundered. Our Ou GAVE the baby to Bardock."

Heavy silence was his only reply.

The bald general snuffed, annoyed. "And now we wait for audience with Vegeta, who bellows like a madman from his bed."

xxxx

Vegetaan roiled in the royal chambers, heaving with pain and fever.
Glerunn was at his side, with sterile cloths and draughts. Other servants were preparing medications.

"Be still!"

Vegeta roared, arching from sweat soaked sheets. Darkly handsome features were contorted in savage fury. Servants barely held him still as he thrashed in agony.

"DO SOMETHING, YOU STUPID SLARRGS...THIS CUB DRIVES ME MAD!!"

"Silence, Vegeta!! Or I'll put you to sleep!" Glerunn shouted,
slamming broad shoulders down.

The Ou sweated, holding his thickening belly. He had been in bed for over a week with pain, weakness and fever.

"Glerunn...do something about this chibi, I say. It won't keep still!!"

The grizzled physician prepared syringes. "Vegeta, you have worms.
I'm going to give you medicine for that, and a relaxant."

The king clenched his teeth. "Sss...will the cub be harmed?"

"No, although it's strange for a chibi to move this early."

"Tell it to this baby! I can't sleep, I can barely eat..."

"You're only two months along-"

"So what!!" Vegeta roared again. "The little fiend is ripping me apart!!"

xxxx

The commanders postponed their meeting, as recommended by Glerunn.
With grim faces they milled about the castle grounds, mulling options for maintaining the regime.

Vegeta was finally resting comfortably. Muzzy from sedation and medication, he lay in plush comfort. Small footsteps entered his private chamber.

"Father?"

The Ou tilted his head, smiling weakly. A very young Vegeta no Ouji stood in the doorway, under heavy velvet curtain. Wide dark eyes were clouded with worry.

The king motioned to him. "Come, child. Sit beside me here."

The princeling nearly bounded across the room, his lithe form gracefully covering the small distance. The boy clambered up and snuggled, his fat tail coiling the king's arm.

Vegeta sighed, breathing spicy scent from the tender skin. He nuzzled a thick flame of hair.

"Why have you been crying, Vegeta?"

The boy sniffed, his heart shaped face flushed. "I...I wasn't crying,
father. I heard you and got scared."

Cable like arms wrapped around. "Don't be afraid. Haven't I always told you a prince is strong, even when scared?"

Another sniff. "Yes, father."

"Good. Now why were you scared?"

"Because I heard you yelling."

"I'm fine. See?"

The princeling looked him over oddly. "You smell funny."

A sigh. "I've been sick, child."

The bright face tilted down, staring. "Paba, you're kinda fat. Did you eat something big?"

Vegeta nearly choked down a laugh. "Indeed. I bit off more than I could chew."

The princeling snickered. "I can feel something! Is there somebody else in the room?"

The Ou went pale. "No child, just us two."

The boy tilted his head, frowning. "Uh uh." Keen eyes looked about in confusion. A small nose sniffed again. "Somebody real little." a reddish black tail swished wildly. Finally the dark gaze fell on the Ou's swollen middle.

"Right there!" the little ouijan pointed.

Vegeta flushed. "That's enough!"

"But-"

"Go play now."

"You okay, father? I can make a medicine."

The king made a face. "I don't think so. Go on, now" he kissed the thick mop of hair.

The ouijan bounded down from the bed. "All right. I'll tell the servants to bring you food later."

Vegeta smiled, propping himself up in bed. "You do that. Away, sesei (darling)!"

Squealing, the young saiyan raced out, nearly tripping over his tail.
The Ou sidled down in bed again, relaxing against satin pillows.

The chamber was quiet momentarily. Until...

"I hear you, woman. There's little point in hiding."

Queen Inshei strode out in regal annoyance. Her tone was smug. "A queen doesn't hide. I merely waited for this opportunity."

"Typically your style. What do you want?"

Angular features tightened under bejewelled braids. "Not much at this time. I merely find this situation amusing."

"What's so damn amusing?!"

A sly laugh. "You, Vegetaan. The look on your face moments ago was priceless. The boy's instincts lead him true, as they would any saiyan."

"He's too young to know."

"No he isn't. Fool! The inner court and select members of the parliament know the truth, as well as several of your generals-"

The Ou nearly climbed from bed. "Beware, Inshei..."

She waved him off, laughing. "Spare me your empty threats. I enjoy seeing that cub turn your insides out! You deserve it."

"You dare speak to your king that way?!"

"Why not? You care nothing for me as queen! I'll have my due, Vegeta."

"Wikka (witch). I know you manuever within the parliament, woman.
Your ragged clan will never achieve dominance!"

"We'll see...several of my dear relatives wait patiently. It would seem many elder members have secrets they don't want revealed-"

"Mocco!! (Moron!!)" the outburst cost Vegeta as he clutched his belly once more.

Inshei laughed madly. "Drop one, drop another! Tell me, do promises in sweat under moon feel good now?"

A ki ball formed in Vegeta's hand. "So help me, woman...I'll kill you now and worry about consequences later!"

She made an affected smile. "Kill Vegeta's mother? Oh, I think not...your rule would come to a swift end."

"You overestimate yourself."

"Horny bastard...you can't get Bardock out of your system!!"

"I'll hear no more, woman. Begone!"

"Gladly." she stormed out, silken robes trailing.

xxxx

Vegeta fell back into bed, his ki ball dissipating. He wanted to sleep...

/Vegeta./

Dark eyes snapped open. /Bardock? Where are you?/

/Where the hell do you think? On this half assed mission to backwater Osakki Five./

/It's too hot for you here, now./

/So I gathered. The bitch giving you problems, eh?/

/What else is new. I should have killed her just now./

/Good. Then I can kill you!!/

/?!/

/Shikshei royal skank...how many are you going to have?!/

/Bardock, I swear this was unexpected. I thought my bearing cycle was over!/

/Bullshit!! Haven't you screwed with me enough?? Who raises this new baby?!/

A sigh. /This chibi is a problem.../

/What? Has my worst fear finally happened?!/

/Not that!/

A pause. /What, then? When I last saw you, there was no cub!/

The Ou smiled to himself in the link. /Bardock...the Ardwett jungle.../

/!!/

/Under moon...three nights.../

/Shit!!/

/Hn, your own fault. You followed!/

/Dammit, Vegeta. We have a MOON cub?/

A grimace. /Based on the way its ripping my insides...yes!!/

/You deserve it!/

/Asshole! This is your child also. You will raise it!/

/Like hell...let Vegeta grow with his sibling!/

/We'll discuss this later, Bardock./

/No we won't! Celipe would put a knife to my neck./

/So why stay with her? There's no point, now!/

/Several reasons I won't go into./

"RUARRGHH!!"

/Vegeta! What the hell??/

The Ou heaved again. /This daza (demon) tears me in two!!/

/That's insane...you aren't that far along!/

A snarl. /If I could blow this evil cub out now I would!!/

Bardock laughed from his ship. /Goodnite, sweet king...cradle the mostri (monster) well until I return!/

The saiyan commander walked down dark corridors, infinitely amused.

THE END

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 4

The princeling no Ouji skipped through the corridors of the castle,
his long tail swinging wildly. Various courtiers and military officers about the great halls smiled in greeting as the small prince bounded through.

Despite his tender age, Vegeta had a sense of pride and place. He abruptly stopped, tilting his chin high.

"What are you laughing at? Do you make fun of your prince?!"

The adults coughed, forcing themselves to serious expressions. One officer spoke first, a captain of the third court.

"Ahem. We meant no offense, great one. But why such excitement going through the castle, eh?"

The heart shaped face took on a haughty air. "Well, there's a strange cub in the upper chambers. I wanna see it."

The others stared in open curiosity, murmuring amongst themselves.

Another saiyan stood forward, a thickset female in dented battle armor. "Hn, perhaps it's merely a child of an elite guest,
princeling."

The young Ouji shrugged. "Maybe. I'll ask paba. Now goodbye!"

And with that the royal prince Vegeta no Ouji stalked away, taking his leave. The adults smiled as he retreated.

xxxx

Vegeta Ou was about the castle as well, preparing speeches for several conferences. One of the servants, Dashke, raced to her king and kneeled.

"Milord. The princeling is in the upper chambers, on the north side!"

Vegeta paused, looking up from his private desk. "He's where?!"

The young saiyan pointed past the doorways to cavernous halls. "Ai,
about an hour ago...he made mention of a chibi he wanted to-"

The Ou was already past her in a blur.

xxxx

Vegeta nearly strangled several servants on the way up. He found the royal physician Glerunn in a short alcove near the top levels. The grizzled saiyan was arguing with several naa'te (nursekeepers).

The imposing king stormed them all. "What is this nonsense?!" he thundered. In horror they collapsed to their knees. Even Glerunn stood off a bit.

"Where is Vegeta?!"

A quivering naa'te indicated a room nearby. "In there, o King. The cub got past us before we could stop him!"

Vegeta rounded on Glerunn. "Well? These are under your watch!!"

The elder saiyan stammered. "I...it is an error, Vegeta. I had no idea the ouji even knew of the chibi, much less where to find him."

"Bah" the Ou pushed past them all. "Get out of my face, all of you!!"

The saiyans scattered like seeds.

xxxx

The Ou nearly fainted once inside. On a large bed covered in velvet lay the tender prince, asleep beside a snoring chibi. A reddish black tail coiled protectively around the infant.

Vegeta put a hand to his head. Kami, what to do here?

Bright round eyes opened blearily as the princeling blinked,
sniffing. "Father?"

The King approached the bed slowly. "Ai, boy. What do you here?!"

The small prince nosed the baby, running his face along soft skin. "I wanted to see...I thought there was a chibi here."

"What do you mean, you 'thought?'"

A long tail thumped as the young prince pressed against the cub,
burying his face against the thick little mop. The chibi sucked its tongue in sleep.

"Stop smelling him and answer me, child!"

The wild flame of hair was disheveled from sleep. "Well, I kept feeling a baby around here somewhere. And I could smell him, so-"

"So you went looking."

Vegeta no ouji sat up on the bed, his blue unisuit a sharp contrast to red velvet bedsheets.

"Ai. I saw the servants cover him up sometimes and go in dark places."

The Ou was stunned, sitting next to the boy. "How...how long have you known about this?"

The young prince shrugged. "A week or two."

Their conversation was interrupted as the chibi opened enormous black eyes. The tousled little head wobbled as the baby looked about.

The king watched his princeling son. Vegeta purred, his voice high.
The soft young face stared at the chibi tenderly.

"Paba, he's pretty. Can I keep him? He smells good!"

As if in response a small bluish black tail coiled a reddish black one.

The Ou stammered, at a loss for words. Utter madness, even now he knows...

"No, Vegeta. The cub's parents will be here later to pick him up."

The small prince was crestfallen. "Oh."

The king gathered him in and kissed. "Go now...your oozaru training will start in an hour. Vehane awaits you."

Vegeta slipped from the bed. "All right." he glanced once more at the chibi before leaving.

"I still wish I could keep him."

"That's enough, Vegeta. Begone!"

With a snarl the prince spun and bolted. His sire sighed as small footsteps faded.

What am I going to do?

xxxx

Vegeta cradled the baby, barely awake. The chibi growled thinly, tail puffing.

Handsome features smiled. "Silly daza (demon). Your father comes for you, Kakarot."

"True enough."

Startled, the Ou glared at a dark corner of the room. Bardock slipped between partitions, his deep eyes intense.

"Are you mad!"

"I used the secret corridor, Vegeta. No one saw me."

"Hn! You're getting too good at sneaking up...I didn't sense you!"

Bardock smiled, approaching the bed. "He's beautiful." fingers ran through thick strands of blue black hair. The chibi purred.

"Hai" the king managed, feeling warm. Kakarot squashed in tight.

"He looks so small in your arms like that, Vegeta."

Vegeta chuckled. "Mine alone, it seems...the hell ball bit five servants today!"

The commander laughed. "You're kidding." he poked a finger at the baby. Kakarot nibbled the tip.

"You aren't feeding him enough."

"Bah...the loon's already had three bottles of liver meal. I spend half the time cleaning his poop."

Bardock laughed again. "In one end, out the other. It's all good,
Vegeta!"

The king made a face. "I'll take your word for it. Have arrangements been made with Celipe?"

A shadow crossed the handsome saiyan's face. "Not exactly...I haven't had time to tell her."

"Bardock!!"

Kakarot started chirping, his tail coiling like a spring. The Ou pulled it straight.

"Fool...you can't just walk in with a baby!"

A pause. "I'll come up with something. Now give him to me!" Bardock lifted the baby from Vegeta's arms. Kakarot cuddled, wrapping his tail around a thick forearm.

"Ase'da ne pauy, Kakarot."

The chibi shrieked in response. Bardock nuzzled the sweet skin,
inhaling. "He bites a lot, eh?"

The Ou folded his arms, grinning. "Ai, he's sunk teeth in everyone...Glerunn couldn't give him his worm shots without wearing armor!"

Bardock bounced his mini-self. "Mostri! (Monster!) You need a muzzle."

"grawwrrrarww" needle teeth shone. Stubby legs kicked madly.

The Ou pointed at a bag on the table. "Those provisions should get you started, until you can buy more."

Bardock stood with the cub. "Well enough."

"Time is of the essence, Bardock. Vegeta knows!"

Dark eyes went wide with shock. "He WHAT??"

"Ai, he senses their connection. I found them curled together earlier today, asleep."

Bardock thought that over. "If I had known, I would've come earlier."

"No, it's just as well...the castle is busy today" he stood also.

"Come here."

"Hn?" Bardock turned. The Ou grabbed him in a tight embrace. Kakarot was pressed between them.

Sticky kiss. /Care for him well./

Soft purr. /I will./

Vegeta kissed the chibi next. "Menarni (be strong) my little one,
since I will be watching. And know you are loved."

Kakarot purred. The Ou turned his back abruptly.

"Take him and go."

Nodding silently, Bardock glided out. Vegeta shut his eyes in pain,
fighting tears.

"Firestorm." he whispered to himself.

THE END

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 5

Prince Vegeta was but hours returned from a purge on a small backwater world called Gennui 8. The razing was uneventful and predictable. Vegeta did quick, clean work.

After submitting his report to Frieza, he spent the required evening aboard the alien's ship in 'celebration'. Vegeta hated having to go through the routine, but he was obligated to his people...

It was always the same. Frieza tied him down, stroked him.

"You're so lovely, Prince. We're so good together...and your father is most cooperative. I couldn't ask for a better...pet!

He snarled in defiance. The touches revolted, disgusted him. A saiyan of his power shouldn't have to submit, and yet...

In his personal chambers he heaved in humiliation and personal anguish. Tears ran unbidden down proud features. Barely twenty,
Vegeta felt the weight of obligation wearing him down, crushing his resolve. Despite outward appearances, he had his breaking point.

But he was held in a familiar embrace, one most welcome and comforting. A burly saiyan of some refinement spoke encouragement in his ear.

"Vegeta, listen to me."

The huge flame of hair was still tucked against a broad shoulder as they sat closely.

"Ai, Radtiz...it seems I can always talk with you."

The maned saiyan smiled. "Things are difficult on this turn, ne?"

White gloves wiped tears away as Vegeta straightened. "Sometimes I can't deal with it all, Raditzsu. I feel like I'm blowing apart-" he heaved again.

Raditz crushed him close. "You've endured much for the sake of our people, Vegeta. A lesser saiyan would have broken long ago."

"Sometimes father is harsh."

"By necessity, but you can deal with it. I've seen your versatility in handling situations."

"Not so good with Frieza, I'm afraid."

The older saiyan touched the proud forehead. "Vegeta, you have super saiyan potential. On the day you achieve your destiny I have no doubt Frieza will pay."

Dark eyes were hopeful. "Do you think so? I want to fight him, and yet I'm not strong enough. Not yet."

"You will be. And for what it's worth, I would be at your side when the worm dies."

A slow grin. "I see...to pick up the pieces left by your prince?"

"Ha! Maybe I'll join in the fun."

A shiver. "I want his head on a stick for what he's done-"

Raditz grabbed him tight. "I know he's touched you! I'll string his guts in the castle halls for that, Vegeta."

Vegeta felt warm, eyeing his companion with an odd mixture of awe and respect. Raditz and he always shared a peculiar bond that defied the classifications of their society. And the large saiyan's appearance was anything but ordinary. How was he third class?

Equally dark features stared back, impressively handsome. "What? Am I growing horns or something?"

Vegeta nearly frowned, thinking. "Strange...I constantly marvel at how well we get along. It's as if I can 'read' you sometimes."

Raditz looked away briefly. "Prince, a saiyan's instincts are ever true. There may be more between us than we know."

The ouji blinked in shock. "What say you?!"

"Do I seem strange? A contradiction?"

Vegeta stared hard, thinking. "There is...a seeming to you, Raditz.
You remind me of someone else, but I can't put a finger on it."

Raditz returned the intense gaze. "Anyone you know?"

"The way you carry yourself, your demeanor..." Vegeta shook his head quickly. "Never mind...it makes no sense in any case."

"No, it doesn't-"

"You don't look third class either, which is also peculiar. And then there is a resemblance." gloved fingers traced the distinctive hairline.

Raditz chose his words carefully. "If I confessed my instincts to you, would you have me beheaded?"

The ouji removed his hand, smirking. "Only if you're disrespectful or outrageous."

A deep breath. "My words will seem insane, but hear me out."

Vegeta was very still now. "Go on."

"Over the years both Kakarot and myself have been in and out of the palace. I've often wondered why."

The ouji shrugged. "It's fairly common for special guests to stay here...the place is certainly big enough."

"Ai, but why were we here for long stays?"

Vegeta stared again. "Didn't your father explain why?"

"Not to my satisfaction. Other cubs stayed in the palace, true, but they were elite by classification...and none stayed up to a year like we did!"

The Ouji looked off into space, collecting mental images across the years. Two 'third class' cubs in the palace...rumors and innuendo in elite circles about their preferred status...his father's vague explanations...

Red anger flared. "What do you imply, Raditz?!"

The maned saiyan turned on the bed, folding his arms. The chiseled jaw jutted.

"Hn! If Kakarot and I had favored status, it was never explained.
There are few possibilities."

Dark eyes narrowed on him. "Your father has favor with mine-"

A smirk. "Ha! Just how much, my prince?"

"You dare?!"

"I'm no shikshei trash, despite classification. Do I seem that way?"

Vegeta could only gawk. "You've lost your mind."

Raditz pointed to himself. "Do I look third class? Does Kakarot?!"

Dark eyes were enormous now. "Kakarot-"

"Ai, you've always asked me about him, sensed his mood..."

"Coincidence! He was in the palace a great deal."

"Have the servants said nothing in secret? Do you know all the rumors?!"

The Ouji jutted his jaw as well, now. "Hai. Should anyone of intelligence believe every wagging tongue?"

"I also know that our appearance at the castle always coincided with the breakup of our parents. Whenever things got rocky, we were sent here."

The prince gasped at the implication. "Raditzu, I don't want you repeating this to anyone else!"

"Does this mean I won't be beheaded?"

The royal heir folded his arms in consternation. "No. I need to think." he paused.

"How is Kakarot, by the way? I sense things aren't well with him."

Raditz stared at him before answering. "Not well at all. He's having a terrible time with his first rut."

"Kami knows I remember that!"

"Ai, he rubs against everybody. Mother had him hospitalized when he became mentally unstable." the deep voice fell.

Vegeta shook him. "What?"

A nod. "He was treated at a main facility in the downtown districts.
For his own safety Kakarot was restrained and medicated."

The ouji felt an odd, protective anger. "How dare they-"

A large hand clapped his shoulder. "It was necessary, Vegeta...it had gotten so bad my little brother couldn't function. His brain chemistry was unbalanced, making him psychotic."

"That's terrible."

"His behavior has complications. Kakarot's a moon cub."

Stone cold shock. "Is Bardock mad?! He could be broken if that gets out."

Raditz appeared weary. "I trust you with this information, Vegeta.
Much of Kakarot's erratic behavior can be contributed to-"

"I know the implications of being conceived under moon!"

Dark eyes were on the prince hard. "Do you realize what you said earlier?"

"About what?!" the ouji was impatient.

"You said you sensed Kakarot's situation-"

"It was a figure of speech!"

Raditz stood. "Vegeta, I'll take my leave now, with your permission."

The shorter saiyan also stood, folding his arms. "Yes, you may go. I need time alone now, to think."

"Just consider the possibilities, my prince. If my words don't seem too outrageous, I think we need to talk more."

Dark eyes were oddly warm as Vegeta glanced up. "I appreciate your time, Raditz. Go now."

With a haughty air the burly saiyan walked out, head high. His stride was anything but typical.

Vegeta stared after him, trying to make sense of the conversation.
Dark eyes narrowed in thought.

The way he walks, his profile...and the attitude...

Realization hit him like a meteor.

FATHER?!

"No...it can't be!!" he hissed to himself.

Turning on his heel Prince Vegeta no Ouji headed for the royal archives, determined to find the truth.

THE END

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 6

Vegeta sat in his office, tapping a stylus absently. The conversation he'd had with Raditz had him totally distracted.

What madness were we talking about? We've always gotten along...but that doesn't mean anything special. Does it?

His thoughts roiled wildly. Furious, the ouji hurled the stylus across the room.

"Bah! I'm all but useless like this...I need answers!"

xxxx

Raditz received a summons to the castle later that afternoon. His best friend, Humoz, entered the gym area where warriors trained.
Their barracks nestled in the mountains, hundreds of miles away from the castle proper.

The bearded saiyan mopped his brow, grinning wickedly. "Word is you're wanted at the big house again!"

Raditz sneered, catching the inference to past visits. "Shut up.
Prince Vegeta demands audience, and I can't disappoint him."

"At least you won't have to pack a bag!" Humoz teased again.

Raditz didn't find it funny. "You want a broken nose?"

Humoz sat next to his friend on a stool while they watched other soldiers work out. "Any idea what it's about?"

The great mane shook. "None. Odd, I was just there the other day."

"You didn't piss our prince off, did you?"

"Hardly. He'd just returned from a purge on some backwater."

Humoz pulled his beard in thought. "Yeah, I heard about that. Our ouji is extremely efficient."

Raditz looked at his chronometer. "Ai, I'd better get going."

xxxx

Raditzsu decided to change into flashier armor than his standard issue. Something in him rebelled at being seen as ragtail, though physically he bore no resemblance to any third class. Open stares followed the so called third class who stalked regally through castle halls.

Raditz smirked in satisfaction. Aye, let them stare...they're so used to seeing lower class squirm and dress like pond scum. Not me!

A thickly built saiyan of considerable renown watched him also,
surrounded by cronies. Nappa.

"Hn, what's this? Another return visit, Raditzsu?"

The maned saiyan whipped around, glaring. "What buisness is it of yours, Nappa?"

The hard mouth laughed. "Oh, I make everything in the castle my buisness, boy."

One of the other commanders stepped forward, Hurrun. He tapped shiny armor.

"Fancy pants, eh? This armor must have set you back a piece, boy."

Raditz pushed the hand away. "Again, none of your buisness. Get out of my way!"

The others encircled him in the great hallway. "Insolent trash"
Hurrun snarled, shaking his square head. "You think being pretty gains you access to the elite? Bah...back to your own kind!"

Red haze fogged the young warrior's vision. "My own kind!!"

Still another general spoke, Wurrd. Her shaggy spikes were pleated around bone clamps. Dark armor covered her thick body.

"Don't start something you can't finish, boy. If our ouji didn't desire your appearance, we'd surely have tossed you out by now."

Raditz glared angrily. "We'll see."

Nappa moved aside. "Go on, while you still can."

The young warrior stalked between them all, his large frame gleaming in polished silver. The generals stared intently as he disappeared down busy corridors.

Wurrd spoke first. "Nappa, I tell you...that boy is..."

"Ai. I'd come to the same conclusion years ago, but there's no hard evidence..."

The female commander lowered her voice. "You witnessed, among others.
And rumors have ever persisted."

The thick general waved for her to stop. "Are you mad, Wurrd. Not here!"

Hurrun nodded secretively. "Hai, evidence enough. There are those that know, Nappa. Why deny it?"

The bald general glowered in the direction Raditz went. "Because I want my head squarely where it is. Still, these visits grow brazen."

"Is your memory so poor? You were there!"

"True, but that isn't proof about Raditz-"

"Faugh!" Wurrd snapped impatiently. "If that's the way you want to play it...but it's known he gave the child to Bardock!"

"And Bardock is his father, ne?" Hurrun grinned slyly. "Coincidence,
or more?"

Nappa looked away briefly. "Supposedly his mother is a ragtail by name of Celipe."

"Do you buy that? Really?"

A snort. "I don't know what to believe. Those entrusted to the secret swore not to speak of it..."

Wurrd folded her arms, nodding. "True, but even secrets slip through cracks."

Nappa thought a minute. "The one thing that perplexes me is his power level...there's nothing extraordinary about it."

The other two stared in surprise.

"You mean, he actually rates as ragtail??" Wurd stammered. "But..."

"Ai, I've gone round and round in my own mind on this. It makes no sense."

"Maybe the changeling is another...still, this brazen wurla (low class) struts the castle as if he owns it!" Hurrun huffed.

Nappa shook his head again. "Something about this has rankled me for years. Who does he remind you of?"

With a hushed whisper the generals spoke in unison. "Vegeta Ou."

xxxx

The prince waited impatiently, tapping his foot.

"Where is that shiksha-"

Raditz stepped into the imperial chambers and kneeled. "My Ouji desires audience?"

Vegeta looked him over in surprise. How is he dressed? Kami, he looks like an elite soldier...or royal...

Raditz glanced up at the long pause. "My prince?"

"Why...are you dressed so formally?"

The warrior glanced down at himself. "I thought to please my prince.
Is it sufficient?"

Vegeta looked him over again. "Very. Now get up, for I have little patience today!"

Raditz stood, perplexed. "We but spoke yesterday-"

"Silence, I didn't give you permission to talk. Our previous conversation rankled me, Raditz. I've decided to take matters into my own hands."

Dark eyes blinked in confusion. "I...don't understand?"

A sigh. "The conversation regarding our...curious past."

The larger saiyan remembered to breathe. "Then, you think there's merit to what I said?"

"To what you implied. Yes. That's why I summoned you here...the two of us are going to review the hidden archives."

"Ba...but I can't! I'm only third class-"

"You have the protection of your prince, dolt! Now follow me, we go."

Numbly, Raditz could only comply as they headed out.

xxxx

He couldn't believe it. They walked through the castle, side by side.
Confused and amazed stares followed them. Courtiers, servants, elites all were dumbfounded at the sight of their ouji strutting through with a flashy third class at his side. Tongues wagged, heads turned aside in whispers.

Icy glares from Vegeta no Ouji dampened their curiosity. Eyes averted nervously.

"What's their problem?" Raditz finally asked, annoyed as they proceeded on.

"Never mind them, you're with me. Be silent!"

As many times as he'd visited the castle, even lived there, Raditz never ceased to be amazed at it's sheer size.

As if picking up on his thoughts, Vegeta nodded. "You've never seen all of it, and there's more...the planetary archives are below ground."

"What?!"

"Ai, what I share with you now precious few have knowledge of.
Consider it a royal boon."

"But won't the Ou be pissed?"

A smirk. "Let me deal with that. Now observe as we go, Raditz."

In awed silence the burly saiyan looked about. They descended down a huge walkway made of polished marble. Massive columns exsquisitely carved adorned the graceful hallway.

/This seems endless./

Further down they wound, approaching a gigantic stone wall. It appeared to be carved from a mountain face.

"We're below level now" Vegeta explained. "That wall is carved from subgrade stone. The archives reside here."

"Incredible...the castle actually rests on the central library?"

A laugh. "Ai, not the public records but true ones. You'll see."

The burly saiyan nodded in silence. Out of nowhere, guards appeared with stun poles and ki suppressors.

"HOLD."

The Ouji grinned coldly. "Stand aside, I desire access."

Stun poles pointed at the pair. "There's been no notification."

Dark eyes burned with fire. "Don't be foolish. I'll only say it once."

Raditz spoke in his ear. "Maybe we should come back-"

"Ne" Vegeta snarled, pointing a glowing hand. "Stand aside!!"

A captain stepped forward then. "Ouji, what do you here? Rarely do any access these records!"

"I'll not explain to you, captain Orokk. While I respect your duty,
you'll stand aside for your prince. Could you risk a battle that would damage these chambers?"

She thought that over momentarily. "Probably not. Yemada! All of you...allow the prince and his guest access!!"

The heavily armored guards moved aside, melting into the corridors.
Their prince nodded in satisfaction.

"Power will out."

xxxx

The sheer enormity of the catacombs was breathtaking. The lower levels resembled an endless library full of ancient books, scribes and data files.

Vegeta explained as they walked the giant hallways. "Many of the oldest records have been updated on data chips for permanent storage.
However, the original documents are preserved whenever possible."

Raditz nodded, glancing about at busy caretakers. "Makes sense...there's always more than one copy of any documentation."

Gloved hands pointed at various storage levels. "The oldest documents date back nearly five thousand years, when our people first developed written language. Every birth, death, social event and city structure is recorded."

The maned saiyan stared up. "It must be an endless task, keeping track of everything."

"True enough, and new chambers are ajoined to this one every few decades."

"Who are all these people?"

"Historians and recorders. Their job is continuous."

The pair continued in silence for some time, as curious eyes stared.
A tall saiyan approached them, wearing glistening robes the color of dewdrops. A long beard grew from his narrow jaw, shaped and cut severely at the bottom.

"Greetings, Ouijan. What brings you here?"

Vegeta glanced around. "Urtok, I need access to royal records, fairly recent. No more than two or three decades."

A thick eyebrow lifted in curiosity. "Of which variety?"

"Blood records."

A gasp. "Ah, those are of highest classification-"

"I want to see them!!"

"But why, Vegeta? I don't understand-" he glanced at Raditz.

"Don't concern yourself with that. My visit will be fairly brief."

"I...don't know..."

"Enough!! Just point us in the right direction."

Dark eyes looked over the younger saiyans. "Very well, ouji...but this is highly irregular."

"So is our circumstance."

xxxx

Contrary to Vegeta's belief, their visit was anything but brief.
Hours later the two saiyans were pouring over old documents, records,
and data files. Food had been sent in.

Raditz clutched his wild mane . "I'm going blind from this, Vegeta.
What the hell are we looking for, specifically!"

The Ouji held a data chip. "Anything regarding the recent bloodlines of Vegeta...all births."

Raditz blinked in shock. "That would include your father!"

"Ai...and here reside all true records, not those altered for public databases."

"Are you certain you want to do this?"

Dark eyes sparkled. "We need to have facts, not suspicions. And I love a good mystery."

"Wait, here's something on my computer screen...about the Ou!"

"Hn!" the Ouji sidled next to the larger saiyan. "Ah...father's own records."

The bright screen flashed small text. Information poured out in a scroll...

DATA FILE RECORD #4992010399911-aaa-9911138488. Birth Vegetaan (M)
0013.06.88. Sire/ Gedok 0013.04.59/ Dam/ Aperdis 0013.11.64 /
Classification 0-1/Super Elite. Blood YT negative/Color RDB.

Raditz glanced at his Ouji. "I hope you don't mind if I say 'so what?'"

A smirk. "Let's scan down further...we need to see more!"

"Hn, there's an awful lot here..."

"Wait! There, Raditz!!"

Eerie bright light washed over them from the screen. The burly saiyan pointed.

"This is your record, Vegeta!"

"Ai. I've never looked at it before, there was no need."

"Fascinating."

DATA FILE RECORD #4122013029911-aca-9914448488. Birth Vegeta (M)
0014.07.16. Sire/ Unknown 0013.12.95/ Sabat/ Vegetaan 0013.06.88/
Classification 0/Super Saiyan. Blood ST negative/Color RDB.

The ouji tapped his chin in thought. "Now for your record."

Raditz swallowed. "I'm nervous for some reason, Vegeta. I don't see Queen Inshei's name on your true record."

"No, she didn't birth me. Of course I knew that even as a child, for senses ever lead true."

"She didn't smell like your mother either."

"No. Now keep scrolling down!"

"Shit..."

DATA FILE RECORD #8332011376711-azz-9914418025. Birth Raditzsu (M)
0014.01.11. Sire/ Bardock 0013.12.95/ Sabat/ Unknown 0013.06.88/
Classification 1/Super Elite. Blood ST negative/Color BLB.

Raditz looked away. "Oh Kami..." he shuddered.

The Ouji spoke in a whisper, his mouth dry. "There's only Bardock...and Kakarot to check..."

Still more information flashed after a query:

DATA FILE RECORD #9766011790312-atv-1478918033. Birth Bardock (M)
0013.12.95. Sire/ Unknown 0013.04.59/ Dam/ Ubera 0013.10.55/
Classification ?? Unknown. Blood YS negative/Color BLB.

"What the f-??" both saiyans said in unison.

DATA FILE RECORD #6642011669011-oof-9225617775. Birth Kakarotto (M)
0014.03.21. Sire/ Bardock 0013.12.95/ Sabat/ Unknown 0013.06.88/
Classification 0/Super Saiyan. Blood ST negative/Color BLB.

The pair sat with their mouths open. Raditz found his voice first.

"What does this mean, Vegeta? Even these records don't reveal everything about father!"

"There has to be a cross index somewhere with that information!"

"Transpose the dates on these records...see what I mean?!"

In consternation, the prince tapped his fingers. "It...indicates what we both suspect, but-"

Raditz shook his head. "It's too incredible...there's a definite connection, Vegeta!"

The ouji looked him over. "Same blood type...the transposition of dates for parentage, substituting 'unknown'-"

The large saiyan was very quiet now. "Am I royal, Vegeta? Is Kakarot?"

A burning odor interrupted their talk. Seconds later the computer blew, smoking sparks from a dark monitor.

Vegeta banged it with his fist. "Stupid machine!!"

xxxx

They decided to look the old fashioned way, through dusty books.

"Vegeta, something else is bothering me about father's records..."

"Agreed. There's too much mystery."

"Who was his sire?"

The prince rubbed his head wearily. "How should I know? Who's your saban (birthing parent)? Who sired me? And why was Bardock's power level hidden? This is madness!"

Raditz fell at another desk. "I'm getting a migrane. Shit!"

Vegeta poured over a pile of books. "There's got to be something..."

"What's this? Some kind of journal?"

"What?! Let me see!" the ouji plopped at his side. "It is...father's private writings!"

Raditz grinned wickedly. "Do you think we should? I mean, it's liable to be very personal..."

"It may be key to the answers we seek."

Settling in, they started to read. Raditz thumbed through several pages of nondescript thoughts by the king. A passage caught his eye suddenly.

"Vegeta!"

"I see it. This paragraph says something about children!"

I suppose I should be grateful. The public has an heir, and my first cub is well cared for. The crown would have been his as first born.
My soul burns, knowing he is near and yet so far away. I can't even hold him, smell his skin. Someday I'll stand before all of Vegetaseii and call his name. I swear it, by blood and throne. Though I long to claim you, events and circumstance will not allow it. I hope someday you'll understand when the truth comes out. I am helpless to do anything but watch from a distance. Arruta! you have my profile,
youngling. I regret the ragtails giving you such a hard time in school.

"Raditz, why are you crying?"

"I'm not!"

My beautiful heir Vegeta, so refined. Almost delicate in his youth.
I marvel at his intelligence and grace, even for one so young. He will make a fine king one day.

Vegeta closed his eyes briefly.

"Are you alright?"

"Hai. Aren't you?"

"I don't know."

And then there is power...power such as our world has never seen.
For I carry the live genetic coding given to me by blood and ancestry. In time my get will be legendary, as legendary as my mate,
our line. None will defy us!

Vegeta and Raditz looked at each other.

But meanwhile, they must be nurtured. The future king will be super saiyan. Why not? Blood always tells in the end. My mate understands this, though he resisted for some time.

"What does he mean by that?"

"I have no idea. Let's read on, Vegeta."

When we first met, it was love...there was no other for me. Old Queen Ruda forced my marriage to Inshei, but blood burns through all pretense. We couldn't be denied, regardless of outside pressures. And the evidence of our love warms me everyday when I hold this chibi.

"Who the hell is he talking about now?!" Vegeta's voice was strained.

Raditz made a strangled sound. "I think we're about to find out..."

This wild little daza (demon). Such a beauty! He bites the naa'ti (nursekeepers) as soon as they enter the room. An excellent appetite,
too. His eyes sparkle whenever he eats. Kami take it, I wish you could have been here...I know you still resent not seeing Vegeta until he was nearly a month old, but it couldn't be helped. Now I can make up for that mistake. This cub will keep like the other.

The ouji went pale.

"Vegeta, I-"

"Raditz...keep reading."

Despite your anger at me, I knew you would accept this chibi. He is perfect in every way. I swear again I didn't know this would happen.

Vegeta banged the desk. "Who? What chibi?!"

Raditz growled. "F-..."

The look on your face was priceless when you held him. Not angry now, eh? You melted faster than hot slavva. As I promised, pefection again. And his tail is so fat!

"AARUGHH!!" Vegeta pulled his hair.

"Ai, get to the damn point!" Raditz growled.

We only make the best, koi. Maybe now you'll trust my word. My thanks for the holograms you send me of Raditz. The boy grows like a weed. Ai, with meat on his bones he'll be impressive. He was a thick chibi, after all.

The prince snickered. Raditz glowered at him.

The cub has a wonderful pelt. Methinks someday he'll be considering many offers.

The burly saiyan puffed with pride. "Hai, well enough."

"Shut up and read."

I'll always find a way to help provide, you know that. I claim our children in my heart if not publicly...and this new chibi will only add to our legend.

"Does he ever get to the point here?"

"That's why it's called a journal, Raditz. You can ramble and be unfocused."

Everything happened so suddenly, but that's the way it always is between us. I'll miss this little hell ball...he nibbles my finger as I write here. He's you all over again, Bardock. I look at him and see your eyes.

Both saiyans gawked in shock. "Kakarot!!"

Hopefully that ragtail of yours will accept him also...I can do nothing else. We always joked about which cub inherited what. It was your right to name this one, since you had no choice with the others.

Vegeta blinked. "Incredible...so Bardock only named Kakarot."

Raditz nodded numbly. "It would seem so."

They all have your cheekbones, Bardock. But this wild thing I hold now presents a challenge to us both.

"True confessions." Raditz said shortly. "There's more?"

Kami, those three nights in Ardwett! Rarely do we get three successive moon nights, but the time was well used, eh?

Vegeta was redfaced. "Is this going where I think it is?"

Raditz was smug. "What do you think? Wanna continue?"

The ouji leered also. "Why the hell not? I'm as big a pervert as anyone."

xxxx

They read on.

I called, you came. And the moon...was so delicious. Not that you could have refused me anyway. After all, I have my...ways.

"Hot shit here!!" Radtiz purred.

The ouji elbowed him. "Quiet, dolt! We don't need anyone bursting in while we read the good stuff."

You chased my trail like a maniac. We seem to do that to each other.
I tried to stay inside the caravan...but king or no, my bones ached too bad. The elders have often told me my blood will be my downfall.
It's the same for you, Bardock. When we scent heat, it's impossible to turn aside. And the moon...glorious in the jungle, so red. The third night it rained on us, but I didn't notice. It cooled nothing.

"Had enough, Vegeta?" big grin.

"Hn! There's a result to this, but what?"

Howling, rolling and loving. What could be better for a saiyan under moon? Our hunt was invigorating. Soaking and sleep gave us small respite, I think. Getting back without suspicion was some piece of work, I must admit. Oh there were the usual questions but I turned them aside. You slipped inside the soldier's tent, none the worse for wear. Well, not exactly. I wore your ass out, my golden lirda (god).

Raditz turned red. "Krukka!"

"Huuh...too much!" Vegeta agreed, flushing also.

Who could have known, Bardock? With every sweet scream we were closer to making another chibi. You never believed me then, and I'm not sure you do now. I wouldn't try to claim you with another cub.
Besides, you were already mine. Raditzsu took care of that!

Raditz stared at his prince. The ouji sniffed. "Skank."

"The wretch. A perfect snare!"

"A moot point, Raditz. They kept right on going, anyway."

"Tell me about it!"

The remaining passage was pure raunch about their romp under moon.
Both saiyans sweated and heaved, their tails puffing.

"Raditz, I think we need to stop now."

"Hahh...why?" the burly saiyan licked his lips.

"If I keep reading this I swear I'll go into rut. Enough!"

Strong hands closed the book, putting it away. Raditz rested his head on the table. Vegeta leaned against him quietly.

"What are you feeling?"

"Many things, Vegeta" the deep voice was muffled. "Confusion,
betrayal. Joy. Excitement and relief."

One dark head lay against another on the table. "Hai...it's a strange turn of events to be sure."

Raditz turned his head a little. "Our instincts didn't lie...brother."

The ouji cracked a whisper. "No. And at last, I'm not alone."

They embraced as though dying, shuddering through tears of discovery.

xxxx

An hour later the saiyans finished putting all records in their proper place.

Vegeta dusted himself off. "We can't tell Kakarot yet, Raditz."

"Agreed. He's too young to understand fully, especially now."

"Is he still in rut?"

A sigh. "He's a danger right now, Vegeta. They won't release him until he can function."

Pain flashed across handsome features. "I wish there was something I could do for him."

"There is, but it wouldn't be wise."

"That's not funny."

"It wasn't meant to be. How are we going to approach our parents with this?"

"It's best to say nothing for now. Confrontation would be pointless."

"The truth has to come out eventually, Vegeta!"

The prince looked about at dusty records. "Nothing stays hidden forever, brother. My sense tells me we wait for now. There's more to this than we know, despite what we've read here."

Raditz folded his arms in thought. "Like father's mysterious records."

"We can't give anyone political ammunition against the Ou."

"True. It would be disastrous for the throne, and our line."

Vegeta clasped the hands of his brother, eyes sparkling. "You speak like a prince."

A warm smile spread over the tall saiyan's features. "It's official."

THE END

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 7

The funeral lasted several hours. A processional of endless elites came to view the body. Vegeta sat on his high throne, giving every appearance of being distressed. The Ou was surrounded by several Counsellors and high ranking commanders. The heir ascendant, Prince Vegeta no Ouji sat directly to his right.

"Father, how do you fare?"

A pause. "I weary of this, Vegeta. I would just as soon retire to my chambers."

A gloved hand touched his shoulder. "Not much longer. They merely pay their respects to the Queen."

"Aye, the boy speaks true" Ormon grunted, his grizzled features pinched. "Friends and foes alike line up."

Nappa steepled his hands together. "Look there, along the battlements. Her ragged clan sits, wearing finery as if that makes them super elite."

"It hardly matters, Nappa. Inshei is gone now." Vegeta stated, his voice having an odd tone.

The prince fell silent. His own feelings about Inshei were confusing,
at best. While she had shown moments of kindness to him over the years, they were never close. He felt a twinge of regret, nothing more. And then there was the ongoing animosity between her and his father...

"Vegeta, what are you thinking?"

"Hn? Only how foolish it was of mother to attempt a purge without sufficient training and surveillance. The raid on Henyei...was doomed to failure."

Gomor grunted, glancing at his fellow generals. "Is that Queen Ruda there? Kami, the woman's older than dirt!!"

Vegeta Ou growled softly. "Ai, the ancient crone."

"She knew your granddam, did she not?"

"Hai, and not young even then! Still she rules her clan with an iron hand, seeking access to riches undeserved."

"I see her sons there" the Ouji sniffed. "Poorly made, to be certain."

Nappa shook his head in disgust. "You're being kind, prince. That's the homliest bunch of would be elites I've ever seen!"

Viyad laughed with the others. "Kami, what a wretched crew! Fancy clothing is no substitute for weak blood!"

"True" the Ou was subdued. "See their tails? Inshei's clan is a mishmash of elite and ragged blood."

"No longer a concern, milord." the female commander stated. "She had her good points, true...but we of the coterie know there was no harmony."

"To say the least." Teybokk piped up, his thin face stern. Good riddance to bad rubbish. She plotted for the throne!"

The prince was annoyed. "I would remind you to show proper decorum.
This is still a funeral!"

"Adieru." the group said quietly.

xxxx

The Ou finished his speech before the assembly, and the closing of the casket. Inshei's clan watched with barely hidden hatred.

Nappa pointed. "Vegeta, the harridan seeks audience before the assembly!"

"What? She dares?!"

It was true. Aged and angry, the withered saiyan stormed the central dias, past her deceased vii (niece).

The ouji folded his arms. "This should prove amusing."

xxxx

There was a collective gasp from multitudes of saiyans as Ruda confronted Vegeta from his high throne. Blood red and orange robes were a perfect complement to her mood. Dark spikes were pleated down her back in elaborate braids decorated with shells and stones.

"So, Vegetaan! Everything comes full circle, eh?!"

The Ou growled. "Begone, wekka (witch). I'll not deal with you now!"

She shrieked in mad laughter. "You dance on my vii's grave this day...are you satisfied?!"

Shocked murmurs throughout the great hall.

"Return to your sub class elites, Ruda." Vegeta no Ouji sniffed. "You make a fool of yourself here, and disrespect the memory of our Queen!"

His statement had the desired effect of shaming her. "Brat! Before your sire was born did I extract a promise, binding him to my clan!"

"No longer bound." Vegeta Ou snarled. "This is a time of grieving and regret, crone. Leave, before I lose my temper!!"

Burly guards approached. The old saiyan spat, motioning for her sons.
The homely but well dressed saiyans stood at her side, prepared to fight.

"BWAHHAHHAAAHHH!!" Nappa bellowed with laughter. "Krukka, what dolts!"

Teybokk snickered. "You've had a long life, Ruda. Perhaps it might come to an end soon, eh?"

Viyad snuffed from her pipe. "Ai, and join Inshei in sleep. Leave,
wretch! The day's been long, and our Ou suffers enough."

Shouts everywhere, too numerous to count.

"Out with her!"

"It's done with...show respect, woman!"

"I'll have due, in the name of Inshei!!" Ruda thundered, shaking her fist.

"Father, perhaps it's time to clean out the trash." the ouji snorted.

xxxx

Vegeta Ou growled softly. "Enough of this. Ruda, get out of my palace while you still can. You've neither the power nor resources to challenge me. Move!!"

Her sons snarled. Ruda pointed to her family, seated nearby.

"Ai, we'll go...for now. Another time, Vegetaan! This isn't over, I swear it!"

The Ou snapped his fingers. Imperial guards surrounded her clan, to the sound of whoops everywhere. Thousands of saiyans applauded when Ruda and her clan were booted out. The old saiyan shouted above the din as she was pushed along.

"I'll see you in the streets, hodanna! (sleazeball!) You and that ovee you roll with! I'll-"

Her voice was drowned out in fury as the guards poked her group with stun poles. Ruda was not well liked, nor were her people ever truly accepted among the elites. Cheers rained everywhere as they were kicked and punched.

Vegeta edged close to his father. "Do but say the word."

The Ou glared at the spectacle below. "Ne, not at this time."

Gomor shook his square head. "Aye, bad politics on the day of a funeral. We'll make a plan, eh?"

The king nodded. "At the proper time."

xxxx

Hours later Vegeta Ou found the privacy he craved. He wandered aimlessly about the upper chambers, barely speaking to servants or guests.

Enough...I need solitude.

His mind was awhirl with immediate plans.

xxxx

The Ouji had spent the remainder of the evening thanking various guests for their attendance. Eventually he sought quiet as well.

This day has been long...I'm exhausted. At least the servants will clean up.

A potent, spicy scent tickled his nose. It was familiar and warm to him, as familiar as the ki he sensed. With a knowing smile the prince glided down a short access corridor, rarely used.

He stepped into a plush chamber, heavily decorated with brocaded velvet and animal furs. The sight that greeted him was no surprise.

Bardock lay gloriously nude, wrapped in velvet like some pagan god.
The dark warrior held a glass of wine from a nearby decanter. Bronzed flesh made a sharp contrast against red fabric. A thick tail waved carelessy.

The prince stepped up, glancing over at the small viewscreen. "I see you've been following the ceremony."

The handsome saiyan smirked, sipping his drink. "True...it became quite entertaining."

Vegeta sat at the edge of the bed. "Ruda and her clan will be a problem now."

Bardock glanced at the screen again. "All problems have solutions,
prince."

"Your area of expertise, I know."

Another sly smile. "Particularly for those I care about. How are you feeling?"

The prince shrugged. "Edgy...exhausted. Sad, in a strange way."

A thick coil brushed his arm. "She was your mother, desde (chibi.
Regardless of the situation, that much was true."

"I never knew if she really loved me."

Dark eyes burned into him. "As much as she was capable, I suppose.
She wanted a natural cub with your father."

The prince returned the intense gaze with meaning. "Impossible for me...my blood beats elsewhere."

Bardock looked away uncomfortably. "It was quite a processional." he changed the subject.

Vegeta continued to stare. "Yes...it was..."

There was an awkward silence. Finally, Bardock put down his glass and embraced the royal prince. Vegeta didn't pull away, small tremors rippling his body.

"Easy, prince."

"I..." the dark head nuzzled the older saiyan, breathing his scent.
Strong hands soothed his back.

"What's wrong with me?" the voice was muffled.

"Nothing. Passion is a strange thing, Vegeta...it tends to disrupt the best laid plans."

"But I wasn't close to her..."

"You were still around Inshei a long time, and by throne she was your mother. Her hatred of your father poisoned her after a time."

Vegeta pulled away slowly. "Thank you." his eyes were bright.

Bardock stroked the thick flame of hair affectionately. "Any time. I admit fault in all of this, Vegeta. And your father's no angel. Maybe the two of us drove her to madness."

"She always felt inadequate, I know."

"A saiyan can't mate without love." Bardock responded carelessly.
Vegeta stared again.

"And you?"

"Me?"

"You married that ragtail, Celipe..."

"I loved her, once."

A sharp look. "But it wasn't the same."

"Vegeta-"

A gloved finger traced the corded throat, lightly touching a faint scar near the collarbone.

"I know, Bardock. All of it."

Slow smile. "You're most perceptive, prince."

"I need to talk to you...at some other time. When I'm not so confused."

"You disapprove?"

A pause. "It's not for me to say who father chooses as his mate."

"That isn't an answer."

The ouji rubbed muscled arms. "No, I have no objections. It seems right somehow, like you fit."

Bardock stroked his hair again. "Adieru, royal prince."

Deep eyes sparked with an odd fire now. "I'll take my leave now. It's been an exhausting evening."

"Rest well, prince."

A nod. Vegeta glided across the room, pausing as he turned one last time.

"Congratulations...father."

Bardock could only stutter in shock as the smiling prince slipped out.

xxxx

The king stepped through the other side, between velvet curtain. He stared at the spot where his son exited.

"Vegeta!" Bardock hissed.

The Ou looked at him. "Hai, koi...you waited?"

"Of course. Did you hear?!"

The king plopped next to his mate. "Ai, I suppressed my ki. He was giving approval, Bardock-"

"No, it wasn't courtesy! He senses it, I could feel it in his mind!"

Vegeta Ou licked his lips. "You look delicious."

"Hentai. This is serious, I tell you-"

Lips were silenced in a sticky kiss. /I know, but not now. I need you./

Bardock closed his eyes in bliss. /Hn, all to myself now.../

The lovers pulled out of their liplock and embraced. Bardock quickly stripped his king bare, rolling him into bed. Two statues of bronzed perfection stretched against each other, coiling tails.

"At last, Bardock...this chapter is closed." the Ou purred in bliss.

The dark mop nuzzled. "True. There remains but one small detail."

"I want them to disappear."

Bardock rolled on top of his mate. "Done."

author: FireCracker (Italic copy bordered byunderscore)
Archive? You'd better.

A/U

HOUSE OF VEGETA CHRONICLES 8

Prince Vegeta no Ouji was a precocious 6 year old. Despite his father's warning, he needed to see the hidden chibi once more.
Skipping through the castle corridors, he gave every appearance of merely wandering about. Servants and guests greeted him as he went by.

Two parliament members smiled at the princeling as he bolted down another hallway.

"Ha, so full of energy...Inshei must have her hands full!"

The other saiyan chuckled. "I hear the Ou himself can barely keep up.
The little one races in every direction!"

xxxx

Vegeta peeped down the secret access corridors. He loved spying on the servants and startling them. His purpose was different this time,
though.

/Did they move him? No wait, Hevva speaks!/

Nearby, naa'ti (nursemaids) were talking in low voices.

"Where is the cub?"

"In the fourth cove room. He needed to be changed."

"Hn, I've got fresh linen."

"Take it in, then...before he's asleep."

The small prince grinned. /I know a quicker way./

Darting down another turn, he blended into shadows.

xxxx

The princeling was not only nervy, he was also a little crazy. With a shriek he raced past the naa'ti, bowling them aside like tenpins.

"Wha-??"

"Silly cub!! Come back here..."

The adults gave chase, in vain. The young saiyan moved like quicksilver, bounding into the fourth cove room. He halted, seeing the chibi asleep face down on a plush bed. The naa'ti raced in behind him.

"Prince Vegeta! You know better!!"

The ouji climbed the bed. "Grarrrg...go away!"

"Hevva, get him-"

"No one grabs me, I'm the prince!" the young saiyan spat. He edged closer to the chibi.

The adults moved at him. "Crazy little fool." Hevva snorted, her bejewelled wrists clanking. Vegeta wrapped his tail around the baby.
The chibi opened bright eyes suddenly, winding his tail around Vegeta's in a tangle. Annoyed, the woman tried to pry them free.

"Jeisse, help me here. Stu'dye!!" (Idiot!!)

The young ouji rolled in a ball around the baby. The adults huffed and cursed, trying in vain to pull them apart. Hevva grabbed at Vegeta once too often, tugging at his shirt collar. The snarling chibi promptly turned and bit her.

"SKEEEAAHH!! MOSTRI!! (MONSTER)" she jumped back, gripping her bleeding wrist.

"Let's get the Ou" Jeisse snarled. "He'll put an end to this nonsense!"

"Escaba de chibi!" (my cub!) Vegeta shrieked. The baby licked its lips.

"Have it your way, brat." Hevva stood back, puffing. "Come on,
Jeisse!"

"But the Ou's not in the castle!"

Hevva grabbed her companion, pulling him along. "Then we'll get someone else!"

xxxx

The princeling smiled after they left. "See baby, that was easy!"

The chibi chirped. Vegeta uncoiled their tails before kicking off his boots. He wiggled his toes.

"That feels good. Now we can play, until your parents come."

The drooling cub grinned an answer, stubby tail waving.

xxxx

They had fun. The prince made a pup tent from a table covered with blankets. He and the chibi crawled inside, playing 'house'.

"Now we need something to eat, baby. Would you like that?"

The chibi purred, squashing against him. Vegeta kissed the spiky little mop.

"You smell great. I remember your name, too! It's Kakarot!"

The cub screeched, climbing into his lap. Vegeta fluffed pillows tossed about on the floor, making their 'bed'. He picked at several food bowls.

"Now I've got some good stuff here. Vooda beetles, and candy pig noses."

Kakarot poked his face into the bowls. Bright eyes blinked at the prince.

"Okay...and I even got some lizard butter for you. Like that, booky?"

More happy shrieks. The princeling fed the chibi chunks of pasty food. Greedy little lips sucked it down. Needle teeth crunched on a large Vooda beetle next.

Small hands picked up another one as the prince ate. "It's kinda funny, it seems like you're supposed to be mine. Don't know why."

The sleepy chibi yawned, full of food. He nestled against Vegeta.

The ouji purred, stuffing his face. "I got blankets, so we can sleep.
Maybe I can still keep you?"

A bright round face stared at him once again. The young prince laughed.

"If you could talk I would know what you think, but..." Vegeta frowned. "I still feel you, though."

xxxx

"He did WHAT??"

"You heard us, commander...we know the Ou isn't in the castle, but-"

"No, it's well you informed me. However, I would appreciate it if you kept silent on this matter."

"But the Ou needs to know-"

"No he doesn't. Why upset him over this trifle?"

"Well..."

"Begone, naa'ti. I'll deal with this myself."

xxxx

The young ouji cradled his chibi, singing and purring softly. Kakarot blinked sleepily, curled in tight. They were wrapped in a cocoon of blankets.

Vegeta yawned, sharp teeth sparkling. "I think you should stay here with me."

"rurr"

"Uh huh. Or maybe your parents will let you visit?"

"garrw"

"Okay" nestling against the soft face, Vegeta fell asleep.

xxxx

Silent feet entered the room a short time later. A looming figure stood next to the pup tent, gently lifting the cover away. In a pile of covers lay the missing princeling and his chibi, gently resting.

Bardock watched them softly, feeling warm. Dark eyes sparkled with tenderness. Kami, they look so adorable. I swear someday things will be different!

A thick tail waved slowly as he stooped to pick them up. The young saiyans didn't stir, still swaddled in blankets.

Another smile. Vegeta's gonna kill me for this, but so what?

He kissed the tousled heads, bundling them together. Without a sound the dark saiyan carried his brood to a softer resting place.

THE END