A/U -Sequel to GOLDEN DREAMS. Trunks made the first move. Now Vegeta makes his.
DARK NIGHTMARES 3
(Continued)
Trunks lay on his back mutely, staring at the starlit sky. Goku rested heavily over him like a blanket. The demi-saiyan felt an odd mixture of love, fear, and lust. And of those three emotions, fear was winning out. Their last round of lovemaking was nearly violent, and although the dark eyes were gentle, Trunks wasn't foolish enough to believe it wouldn't be worse soon.
He looked at the bruising on his body. I may be in over my head here. He'll be too much to
handle once he loses control. Shimatta, where the hell is father! What is he waiting for?!
Goku yawned in his sleep, exposing perfect canines. Trunks shook his head in silence.
Maybe I am a fool.
/We both are./
/??!!/
Trunks looked down to see sleepy black eyes shining on him.
"You wanted the link so badly. Why do you keep forgetting it?"
"Sorry. Still getting adjusted, I guess."
"And stop expecting Vegeta. When it's time we'll both know."
"I just thought that...you were about ready."
Goku laughed softly. "Sweet purple, we aren't even in the final phase yet."
Trunks paled. "What! You damn near killed me this time, Goku!"
A lick in his ear. "Surprised? The fever is rising in me, I can feel it. Still, the true rut hasn't started yet."
Trunks panted, sliding out from underneath. "Everything hurts...I've never been so sore in my life." he moaned, rolling on his side.
"Forgive me." Goku whispered, stroking his face and shoulders. Dark eyes sparked with concern.
"Hold still. I'll get you a sensu from my shirt pocket."
Trunks groaned again. "Wish you had...told me that before."
Goku smiled as he went to retrieve their clothing. Trunks strained to a sitting position, his head hung low. The dark saiyan returned almost instantly.
"Here, take this."
Trunk chewed, feeling the familiar rush of energy as bruises and soreness disappeared.
"Whew!" he stretched. "Miracle cure."
Goku pulled on his pants. "Unfortunately, it won't solve my problem."
Trunks looked up questioningly. "Are you going to make it home okay?"
The dark saiyan looked him over slowly. "Get dressed, Trunks. My control is erratic right now."
The demi-saiyan nodded, putting on his clothes. Trunks paused after he pulled on his shirt.
"I want you to know I understand, Goku. If you need me-"
The other saiyan shook his head definitively. "I couldn't come to you for that even if I wanted to."
Trunks stared, shocked. "You couldn't!"
Goku sighed. "No. Our souls aren't bound, and we aren't mates."
The demi-saiyan yanked on his jacket angrily. "Again with that!!"
"You jumped into this situation wide open and agreed to it!"
Trunks growled in frustration, balling his fists. "Well maybe I lied! Maybe...I really wanted more all along."
Goku shook him. "Crazy fool! You think I want to hurt you? I love you!!"
Both saiyans froze at the declaration. Trunks blinked in astonishment. "Wha...did you say?"
Goku was equally shocked. "I...said I...love you."
Trunks grabbed his arms. "How do you mean that? I have to know!"
The dark saiyan could only stare. I can't believe I said that!
/Then I'll get my own answers!/ Trunks touched his forehead. He probed, looking for the love professed.
I see it now...
Emotions. A quiet sea, calm and gentle. Soft tenderness and appreciation. Protectiveness and clarity.
Trunks looked deeper. More is here!
/I will allow this one time only./
Understood.
Emotions. Affection and comfort. Familiarity and regard.
Protectiveness again.
Chi Chi...
Trunks eased towards the depths of his probing. No...it's impossible...
Emotions. Raging love and turbulent lust, storm and completion. Possession and fury. A fortress of fire, untouchable and unyielding.
/You're getting nowhere with this./
To hell with him! It isn't fair...
Goku pulled the probing hand away. "Now you listen to me one final time! I never lied about any of this. You lied to yourself!"
Trunks gritted his teeth. "You're right...but nothing is absolute, Goku. You know that better than anyone."
Goku looked away briefly. "I didn't want our first real night to be like this, Trunks. Too much is going on in my mind right now."
A pause. "Did you just realize you love me?"
"I think I knew earlier."
"I could feel it!" Trunks challenged. "Despite your denial."
Goku released him, turned away. "I admit I was afraid to say so, because I didn't want you to misunderstand."
"What's to understand? Love is love!"
The dark head tilted. "Ah. Is that what you found out by probing my mind?"
Trunks folded his arms in frustration. "All right. Maybe I needed to see the images. Is that why you allowed it?"
Goku nodded. "My words didn't reach you."
"Lesson not appreciated."
The dark saiyan gave a half smile. "Don't feel bad, Trunks. I shocked myself blurting out the truth about my feelings."
Trunks smirked. "Nice to know I can muddy the waters. Who knows what the future might hold?"
Goku stared with concern, his eyes narrowing. "Believe what you want." he noticed the moon moving across the horizon. "I have to go now. You should get some sleep, too."
Trunks followed his eyes. "I will. And Goku?"
"What?"
"The saiyan in me won't let you go. Be aware of that."
Goku kissed him hard. "I know, and I understand."
"Ashiteru. I suppose I'll have to stay away now, ne?"
The black eyes blazed darkly. "You'd better. Vegeta and I aren't exaggerating the danger, Trunks. Test the theory and you will pay the price."
Trunks stared in open disbelief, blue eyes glazing over.
"It just seems hard to believe you could claim to love me one minute...and be capable of killing me the next."
Goku stroked his cheek. "Words can't convey what it does to your mind and body. It's as painful as it is pleasurable. And as I said...you become psychotic."
"Then I'll wait." Trunks gave him a quick hug. "I'm not in favor of dying for love."
Goku returned the hug. "A highly overrated notion." he replied somberly.
()
Chi Chi sat in the kitchen, pensive and moody. It didn't take a genius to see the signs. She looked at the clock. Twenty after three.
Kuso, I'm never any good in the middle of the night like this. But I need to talk to Goku. That fever...has nothing to do with a virus. It's that time of year again.
Her thoughts were cut short by a flash of light. Goku had arrived.
"Chi Chi!!" Black eyes were wide in astonishment. "Hon, why are you sitting here in the middle of the night?"
She looked up, searching his face. "I was worried about you."
He sat down next to her. "I'm fine, really."
She put a hand on his forehead. Dark eyes narrowed in suspicion. "The truth, Goku. It's the fever, isn't it?"
His smiling mask dropped. "I never could fool you."
"You forget, I know how to read a calendar. I've memorized the dates."
Goku glanced briefly at the wall. "Sorry I'm late. It was so hot, I just flew out-"
"Do you need me?" she interrupted, rubbing his arms.
He kissed her nose. "Maybe later. I'm in control right now."
She stared at his face again. "Go to bed. You look terrible."
He blinked. "I do? I can't feel anything-"
She grabbed his hands. "Look at yourself."
Goku stared down. His arms were soaking wet. So were his clothes, stuck to the skin.
"I...I can't feel it..." he stammered.
Chi Chi stood. "Put your arms around me."
"Don't be ridiculous! I could stand a minute ago. Why wouldn't I be able to walk now?"
"Then get up already." she challenged.
"I will!" Goku stood abruptly and nearly toppled over.
"Fool. Forget your saiyan pride and come upstairs!" she tugged his waist.
Maybe she's right. Weak all of a sudden...
"Okay" he heaved. "I won't argue with you this time."
"Good" she pulled him upstairs.
()
"You've got great hands, babe."
Chi Chi blotted another towel in a cold wash basin. "I knew there was a reason you married me" she teased.
"Yeah, well..." Goku sprawled on the bed under her ministrations of cold compresses. It felt wonderful, actually. Especially when she did his tail.
"Like that, do you?" she ran a cool towel down his furry appendage.
The dark saiyan arched and purred. "Keep that up and I'll grab you." lidded eyes were on her.
Soft laugh. "Sure, sure. You're almost asleep as it is."
"Am I?" he drifted off, succumbing to pleasant sensations.
()
The next two days passed with relative ease. Goku and Vegeta took great pains to avoid each other, keeping mind touches to a minimum.
Goku sat in the kitchen and pecked at his plate. Appetite shot to hell...
/Good morning, koi. The fever is sweet, eh?/
Goku smiled quietly at the familiar mind voice. /No. I feel like a ticking time bomb./
/Hai, that's for certain./
/What about you?/
/I want to kill everybody, that's all./
/Who's on your list?/
/The purple hair first, then Bulma. I may even kill my mate for fun./
/Forgive me. I lied to myself on this matter./
/Fool! I felt it, saw it. The wretch wiggled his way into your heart!/
/I didn't expect it.../
/I did. I saw how he could draw out your instincts, stroke your emotions./
/You know I'm not in love with him./
/Of course. He knows it too. That's why he's so frustrated./
/His ego says I'll be his someday./
/I'll crack his spine. That may solve the problem./
A wince. /Kind of vicious, don't you think?/
/Hn. Maybe it's the fever talking. The idea appeals to me too much./
/Hai, everything's turned inside out./
/Didn't you try to break his neck? All the same, koi./
/True./
/Try to eat something./
/Difficult at best. I can't keep anything down./
/Me either. I weary of waiting./
/I believe I'm accelerating./
A pause. /Kakarot...I need to ask you something./
/Hmm?/
/Do I...sing?/
/Sing? What are you talking about?/
/Bulma told me I was singing the other night./
/Say what?!/
/You know I had an attack./
/Of course. We both did./
/Then you know what Bulma said to me?/
/What? A moment./ Goku sifted through the memory.
/Ah.../
/Well?/
/Oh, that singing!/
/Kami! It's true, then.../
Goku was smug. /Ouji, don't you remember? By our third day in the pod you were singing!/
/Gods, I'm so embarrassed!/
/Well, we were drunk. You really have a nice voice, though./
/A plague on the rut! I damn near blurted everything to that witch!/
/Yeah, thank Kami for steel walls./
/And sturdy space pods.../
/And the vaccum of space.../
/Did I really sing that much?/
/Constantly. But I gave you reason, ne?/
/Hn. On the bulkhead.../
/In the closet.../
/Under the table.../
/In the hallway.../
/Against the escape hatch.../
/Yeah, we nearly ejected ourselves!/
/Was that before or after that tail trick of yours?/
/Hell if I remember. By that time I was singing too!/
/Hn, I know. You yowled in my ear for hours. But I had something to quiet you./
/Hentai. And who made the pod tip over?/
/I thought the gravity readings were strange.../
/Did we ever make it to bed?/
/Maybe. I know we were on something flat./
/Koishii, that was the counter top./
/But we fell through it./
/I still don't know how we ended up in the storage bin./
They both laughed silently, enjoying their game. It was another aspect of the rut involving mind stroking. It's purpose was to induce hormonal changes that would trigger the final stage.
//huhhh....good mind fuck.//
/Later, koi./
/Later. Until then./
()
Tien and Trunks were doing some levitation exercises at Master Roshi's.
"So tell me, Trunks. Has your...'situation' settled down any?"
Trunks did a backflip. "Sort of."
"Sort of?"
"Well, person A loves me, the one who's married and has a side."
Tien crossed his eyes. "Thanks for reminding me of all the players."
Trunks chuckled. "Yeah, I know it's a mess. Now the side is a problem, because person A won't give him up."
Tien stared. "What? So person A is in love with you and the side?"
Trunks stretched. "I hate to admit it, but no. Person A loves me, but not the same way..."
"Use those feet and walk, man!"
"I know. And I might have followed your advice, except..."
"Except what, you idiot!"
"That person A said they loved me."
"So what, Trunks? What are you hoping for?"
The demi-saiyan smirked. "He's weakening to me. When we were together the other night-"
"Oh, Kami" Tien rolled his eyes. He waved his arms in exasperation. "You are lost. Gone, out there, crazy. There's no hope, you fool!"
Trunks gave a slow smile. "Maybe. But he's falling for me, and that makes all the difference."
"Trunks, is there mental disorder in your family? No, don't answer that."
The demi-saiyan motioned him to quiet. "Stop yelling, okay?
"Okay! But frankly, this is so stupid...I can't be diplomatic about it. What is it about person A that turns everyone out?"
"He's awesome, Tien. Everyone looks up to him. Beautiful and strong, the most powerful-"
He caught himself, realizing he almost said too much. Tien stared at him in disbelief.
"Are you in love, or worshiping an idol?"
"A little of one, and a whole lot of the other. I'm no starry eyed kid, Tien. But shimatta, I want him for my own!"
"Wait a minute...what were you getting ready to say?"
"I don't know what you mean."
"Do I know this 'person A??'"
"Uh...no."
Tien kept staring. "It's just that it almost sounded like you were describing...Goku."
Trunks laughed nervously. "Aw, come on, Tien. Don't be crazy!"
The big warrior laughed also. "Yeah, that's goofy. It's just that by your description...I couldn't think of anyone else!"
"Yeah, I know" that was close.
Tien levitated. "Look, my friend. For your own sanity, let it go. Find someone else, or get away for awhile and cool off. You're too close to the situation and it's clouding your judgement."
Trunks made a series of motions with his body. "If person A didn't care, or love me at all, my decision would be easy. But it's love that makes it hard to walk away."
"It's love that's turning your brains to mush." Tien retorted. "Don't you have any pride? And what about the 'side?' What's their deal in all this?"
Trunks snorted. "That's the real competition, not the wife."
Tien grinned. "Good looking, huh?"
The demi-saiyan snorted.
Tien smiled knowingly. "Wooo eee. Why, Trunks. Are you freaky? Is a little three way deal in the works?"
Trunks flushed red. "N-no! Are you crazy?"
"Sure you're not trying to squeeze inbetween?"
Teeth gritted. "Even I'm not that far gone."
Tien was serious again. "Just testing. At least here's hope for you."
Trunks feigned a punch to his midsection. "Yeah, imagine that!"
()
Chi Chi was finding it more and more difficult to deal with Goku's ill temper and erratic moods as the days wore on. Each rut had a different tempo, making it impossible for her to prepare. Out of necessity both Goten and Gohan were told the truth at Goku's insistence long ago. Ignorance of their heritage was unacceptable. Not that their sons embraced the concept with any enthusiasm.
There's some advantages to my blood at least she thought silently as she approached her husband. At least neither of our sons turn into maniacs every year.
Goku spun as she approached. He looked like a wild man, the whites in his eyes prominent.
"What do you want, woman? Why can't you stop pestering me with your attentions?!"
"Goku, please sit at the table. I'm going to put these towels on you."
Snarling, the tall saiyan dropped into a chair. "Go to hell. Your pathetic attempts do nothing."
Chi Chi held her tongue. Normally she would have a retort ready, but it wasn't wise when he was in this state. Both Goten and Gohan were nearby in case of accidents.
She swabbed cold towels across his neck and shoulders in silence. He grunted.
"Why don't you make yourself useful. Go upstairs and get in bed." he turned to her with a lewd smirk.
"You know I'll help you, Goku-"
"The name is Kakarot. Do you have difficulty saying it?!" he demanded.
Chi Chi considered her reply. "No, Kakarot. Please relax" she swabbed his chest this time.
Goku closed his eyes momentarily. "Not bad." he growled. "You do as you're told."
The petite beauty grittted her teeth. I never get used to this.
Slender hands continued to apply cooling cloths. The dark saiyan eventually grew impatient with her attentions. His tail tip coiled her wrist possessively.
"Enough of this, woman. Come." he grabbed her into his lap. She panicked as sharp teeth tore away her tunic down to the shoulder. Underneath she felt a rock hard erection that bulged between her legs.
"Not here, please!!" she shouted. "What if someone comes in?!"
"Who?" Goku growled, nipping her throat. "Gohan and Goten are big boys now."
"That isn't the point!!" she squirmed, trying to free herself. It was a mistake. Her struggles fueled his excitement.
"Hai, fight me, witch. If you can!" holding her in a viselike grip, he dropped to the floor.
She struggled in earnest now. Kami take it, I won't do it on my kitchen floor!!
A hot tongue silenced her screams. The saiyan groaned in pleasure as she struck him with her fists. The struggle didn't go unnoticed. Gohan and Goten burst into the kitchen, knowing the situation.
With a mixture of fear, anger and revulsion they stared momentarily at the sordid scene. Gohan found his voice first.
"Get off of her. Now!!"
Goku stared up in rage, fangs bared. "Fuck off."
All hell broke loose. Goten pointed a well aimed kick to his father's jaw. Howling, the saiyan rolled off Chi Chi, releasing her. Gohan dragged her out of the kitchen.
"We're getting you away from here!"
"You know the situation, Gohan-"
A loud crash. "Goten!!" Chi Chi shouted.
"Stay here!!" Gohan powered up and raced into the kitchen.
()
He arrived just in time. Goku had Goten by the throat, rolling madness in his eyes.
"I'll kill you, you little prick. Get your own woman!!"
Goten attempted to form a ki blast. "I don't die...so easy, you crazy bastard!" he choked, nearly blacking out.
Goku slammed him against the wall, snarling. "How soft is your skull?!"
Gohan wasted no words. Making a silent prayer, he formed a hei-ken and struck his father hard. The tall saiyan froze in shock as the psychic sword passed through his body. He fell to the floor almost immediately, unconscious.
Goten gasped for air, holding his throat. "Good timing." he stared at the prone figure.
Gohan stared down as well. "You okay, Goten?"
"No. I still can't believe that's our father when he's...in heat."
Gohan kneeled next to Goku, looking him over. "It's part of what he is, Goten. He can't help being saiyan."
"I know that, Gohan, but kuso! I still have a hard time accepting it."
"Acceptance is the most difficult part." Chi Chi stood in the entranceway. She was holding up her torn tunic.
Goten sighed. "I just wish sometimes...that he wasn't saiyan. Then none of us would suffer through this."
Chi Chi went to him. "I know. The change is so complete it's frightening. But he has no awareness of his actions in this state. Can you imagine how he feels about it?"
Goten was somber. "Will this happen to us?" he shuddered at the thought.
Gohan leaned Goku against the wall to a sitting position. "We take a lot of heat for not being full saiyan, Goten. But in all honesty I can say sometimes I'm glad we aren't. I've never rutted, and you never had any symptoms. Whenever I see dad go through this nightmare I thank Kami I'm not completely saiyan."
"I often think it's my greatest gift, sparing you two this." Chi Chi said quietly.
Gohan spoke in a cracked whisper. "I remember what happened the first time, mom."
She gasped. "I thought you were too young..."
Goten stared. "What do you two mean?!"
Gohan pinched his eyes shut. "Dad...nearly killed mom."
Goten's eyes went wide in disbelief. "Killed her?!"
"I told you not to speak of that, Gohan!" Chi Chi felt hysterical.
"It's no good, mom. Goten needs to know...the full extent of what dad's capable of when he's rutting."
"But...what happened?" Goten's mouth went dry.
Chi Chi looked over at her unconscious husband. "Your father had a...psychotic episode like this one. He attacked me. Gohan stumbled into the room and screamed. It distracted your father momentarily, and he turned to attack Gohan. Your brother's hidden power struck him with a fireball, knocking him out. Shortly after that the police arrived. When your father came to he got violent again. He attacked the officers until one of them surprised him with a stun prod."
"Who called the police?"
"The neighbors. They reported domestic violence. Energy damping bands were put on him and he was charged with spousal abuse."
Goten looked at his father again, disbelief plain on his features.
Gohan could read his train of thought. "I know what you're thinking, Goten. It's like someone else in our father's skin."
The demi-saiyan nodded numbly. "Did they lock him up?"
"Yes. It was a mess, and a media playground. Your father was well known in tournament circles, and news spread fast. He was banned from participating in some events. Sponsors dropped out, fearful of the controversy."
Gohan's eyes went wide, then. "I didn't even know about that part!"
Chi Chi nodded. "He was ordered to do community work and undergo counseling. The fine was heavy, but sentence was suspended while Goku complied with the law."
"Gods." Gohan covered his eyes.
Goten sighed. "When dad returned to normal...what happened?"
A pause. "He had no memory of the events at all. I had to...tell him."
"What happened then?" Goten was very still.
"He didn't say anything and went upstairs. I felt something was wrong, so I followed him upstairs. I stopped him just in time."
"From doing what!"
"Commiting suicide. He had gathered a small ki bomb in his hand. I told him I understood about the rut, and forgave him. But he still has nightmares about that first time."
Gohan wiped a tear from his eye. "I'm glad you were able to stop him, mom."
Goten kneeled next to his father. The handsome face was closed and peaceful, showing none of the insane fury held shortly before. He kissed a cheek.
"Gomen nasia. Rest, dad. Get better, we need you back."
()
A similarly violent scene played out at Capsule headquarters. Vegeta was on a rampage.
Bulma locked herself into an airtight chamber. Fists of fury pounded away at the metal shell protecting her, but it wouldn't last long.
In desperation she activated her portable intercomm. For Kami's sake dad, be there!! Trunks, where are you?!
The raging saiyan prince bellowed outside the chamber. "This pile of junk won't save you from me, woman. I always get what I want!!"
Bulma didn't reply, still frantically trying frequencies. Dammit! Someone answer, he's going to kill me!!
A buzz. Bulma!! What's going on down there!!
"Dad! For Kami's sake, get the injection! Vegeta's gone crazy, and-"
On my way!!
A fist smashed into the bulkhead wall, pushing heavy metal into the control panels. Bulma was terrified. There was nothing she could do or say to control her fate.
If only I had a freaking stun gun...
WHAMMM!!!
She covered her ears from the deafening impact. A muscled arm reached into the chamber for her.
"Come, woman! I won't beg this time. You'll give me what I want, or-"
"Dumb ass!!" she responded rashly. "Go yank yourself!!"
Bulma thought she had a brief respite. The arm disappeared momentarily. Did he leave?
Suddenly she heard the sound of metal tearing. Two hands were pulling open the torn bulkhead.
Bulma looked wildly about for something, anything to hold him off. She pressed against a far wall.
SKREEEEEEE...another panel sheared loose. Vegeta forced his way past jagged metal and leered at her. Her fear excited him further.
Bulma held her hands out. "Now Vegeta, listen to me..."
"I'm done listening, woman." black eyes burned with savage fury as he grabbed her.
Bulma screamed. "TRUNNNKSS!!!" she kicked and pushed.
Vegeta laughed, dragging her out into the hallway. "Hai, you'll scream when I'm done with you!!"
"Vegeta, please! Let me go!!"
"Not a chance" he snarled, kissing her hard.
Bulma felt breath leave her lungs as the world went dark. This is it, he's going to kill me...
To her amazement, he loosed his hold. She opened her eyes, gasping for air.
What? He let me go??
She stared into the dark features. Vegeta registered confusion for a moment, staring blankly at her.
"Treachery." he mumbled, before collapsing at her feet. Bulma stood stunned and grateful. Behind him her father stood with the dosage gun pointed.
"Thank Kami." she nearly collapsed in relief. "Dad, I thought I was done for."
Her father looked at Vegeta with disgust. "Leave this animal on the floor right where he is."
"Dad-"
"Enough, Bulma. I may have to witness your idiotic relationship with this saiyan, but I sure as hell won't stand by and let him kill you."
()
The storm was coming.
Goku lay in a near comatose state, almost serene in anticipation. His only awareness lay within his soul. The final stages had begun.
Vegeta remained motionless in an isolated corridor. Insensate awareness waited within his soul as well. The final stages had begun.
()
"Has he moved yet, Goten?"
"No, Gohan. His ki...it has that same strange feel about it again."
"I know. Like he's suspended between life and death."
Goten pushed against the unmoving form. "See? He isn't reacting to anything."
Gohan stared. "Goten, you know the routine at this point."
Goten rubbed his eyes in exhaustion. "Yeah. It could get embarrassing, though."
"Only if we're needed. But I'll take that over someone dying any day."
Goten winced. "True. By the way, I noticed your new attack. Where'd that come from?"
"Necessity. I've tried to develop ways for dealing with dad that are efficient and quick, especially during the rut."
"I think that's smart."
"Even I'm not crazy enough to get in a protracted fight with dad. Vegeta does it all the time, and it gets him nowhere."
()
Trunks sensed his father's ki deep within the complex.
Mom told me what happened. I'd better move him while he's zoned out.
The demi-saiyan alighted down the dimly lit corridors in the lower level. He saw the damage done by Vegeta.
Small smile. Father's definitely this way.
Around the annex turn he flew past chunks of metal and debris. Vegeta lay among the wreckage.
Figures.
Kneeling next to Vegeta, Trunks turned him over, blue eyes staring in shock.
What's wrong with his ki?! It's like he's almost dead, it barely registers.
He cradled the dark head in his hands.
"Father! Can you hear me?"
Vegeta groaned, frowning. He turned over.
"Wake up! You've been lying here for hours!"
The saiyan prince sniffed. "Hn, my son." dark eyes opened slowly.
Trunks looked at him worriedly. "Your time is close. I can feel it!"
Vegeta looked around in confusion. "Kuso! Now what happened?!"
"You attacked mother. Grandfather knocked you out with a drug."
"Treacherous dog. I'll-"
"You'll do nothing, father. You would have killed her."
"Why would I kill her when I needed her sex?!"
"You can't be trusted now!"
Vegeta pushed up out of the embrace. "Hn. Very true." he turned to look at his son oddly.
Trunks stood up behind him. "What is it?"
A soft purr. Vegeta reached out and traced his lips with a finger.
Trunks felt a sense of dega vu all over again. The kitchen!
"S-stop it, father!"
Vegeta smiled softly, staring at his mouth. "Gorgeous." he murmured, edging closer.
Trunks panicked. Through the runtek link he could feel waves of lust followed by...love?
The realization surprised him. Not this, not now! It's insane!
Vegeta purred even louder. Trunks couldn't focus. Musk overwhelmed his senses, hammering them into submission. Vegeta's raw hormones were at critical mass, and the younger saiyan couldn't handle the overload. Magnetic dark eyes captured his attention.
Got to snap out of it... he couldn't move at first. Vegeta stroked his face slowly.
Trunks grabbed the hand on his cheek. "I...think you'd better come with me." he managed.
Black eyes lit with fire. "Yes, I know." muscled arms encircled his waist. The sable tail twitched anxiously.
Trunks turned beet red. "N-No, that isn't what I meant!"
"Kiss me." the deep voice commanded.
Without conscious thought Trunks leaned into the hot mouth. The sensations running through the touch were indescribable. Tongues lapped wetly, probing for more heat.
Trunks was terrified and aroused at the same time. His movements were no longer his own. He returned Vegeta's embrace fully, enjoying his scent and taste. But as they kissed with more fervor, he could also taste and smell...Goku!
Say what?? the discovery cut through his haze of lust, giving him the strength to pull away.
"What's going on here, father? I don't understand!!"
Vegeta only snarled. A dark mask of fury immediately replaced lust. Fangs bared sharply. "You have ten seconds to leave before I kill you."
"What?!!"
The horror of the rut finally hit home for Trunks. There was no compassion or mercy in those eyes. Vegeta meant what he said.
"All right, father. I'll go."
Vegeta crouched into a fighting stance, his tail waving dangerously. "Seven seconds."
Shocked, the demi-saiyan took off like a shot. Vegeta resumed a normal stance once Trunks had sufficient distance from Capsule Corporation.
His tail was busy, reflecting his agitated mood. I spared you this time, my son. Stay away now.
The saiyan prince sat on the steel tiled floor, taking up a pose of meditation. His tail wound tightly about himself.
Hn, bakamono! Were you truly saiyan you wouldn't have brought my mate's taste and scent on your body. Arrula!! That nonsense would have gotten you killed on Vegetaseii during rut season.
Calming himself once more, he closed his eyes and smiled. He was ready.
Koibito. I'm a dog on a leash, set me free...
()
Trunks sat on a quiet hilltop, trying to make sense out of what was going on. He was rattled to the core.
Stupid! They told me, warned me, said I couldn't comprehend what the rut does. Now I do.
A disturbing thought plagued him. Why did I respond to father like that? Kuso, that's sick!! And how is it that...kissing him was like kissing Goku at the same time? I've got to know why!
He looked at his watch. "Maybe he's home so I can ask him. This damn link is useless, I haven't seen him in over a day."
Trunks flew for the Son house.
()
He wasn't exactly welcome. Goten answered the door and motioned him inside.
"Hey, man. How are you doing?"
Goten glanced upstairs. "Well, I'm okay-"
They both looked up. Gohan came downstairs.
Trunks lifted an eyebrow. "So you're here too, huh?"
"Of course. What brings you around, Trunks?"
The purple haired saiyan watched his friends closely. Something was off.
"What's going on, you two? Really?"
"I asked you first, Trunks." Gohan replied. "What do you want?"
Everyone's defensive here. "I need to talk to Goku."
"Why?"
Trunks blinked. "What do you mean, 'why?' It's personal."
"It'll have to wait, Trunks. Sorry" Goten stated.
Trunks paused a minute. "Look. If I told you I knew about Goku's problem, would you let me talk to him?"
"You what??" the brothers nearly chorused.
"Who told you about this?" Gohan demanded.
Trunks swallowed, using the truth carefully. "He told me himself. We were talking about...saiyan customs."
Goten and Gohan looked at each other.
"I would think Vegeta would be more help in that area" Goten frowned.
"Father doesn't like to discuss certain topics much. Look, if it's
too much trouble-"
"It isn't." another voice raised. They all looked to the top of the stairs. Goku stood with his arms folded, wearing a dark blue satin robe. The shiny material flowed over sculpted curves.
Why does he always look so hot? Trunks wondered idly.
Gohan coughed. "Uh, dad, are you-"
Goku waved him off. His expression was neutral. "What can I do for you, Trunks?"
Trunks moved to the base of the stairs. "I won't take much of your time. I just need to talk to you briefly."
"No." Goten shook his head.
Goku growled a little. "It's alright, Goten." the dark eyes surveyed Trunks quickly. "Come on up, Trunks. Don't take too long."
The demi-saiyan nodded, following him up. Goten went over to his brother.
"Gohan." he whispered in disbelief. "Why does Trunks smell like his father?"
Gohan stared upstairs as well. "Beats the hell out of me."
()
Goku motioned him into the guest room. Once inside, he shut the door.
Trunks walked over to him, but Goku moved away.
"Hey, what's the deal, Goku?"
"You said you'd be brief."
Trunks observed him quietly. He's barely controlled. That must be why he's keeping a distance.
Goku sniffed. "I thought so." dark brows pinched together.
Trunks blushed. "Something happened earlier today with father."
The dark saiyan smiled coldly. "I can tell he touched you. Why were you with him?"
"It was bizarre. I went to find him after he attacked mother-"
"I know about all that. Where do you come in?"
His temper is short Trunks noted silently. He continued. "I found him in the lower levels in a strange state. At first I thought he was in a coma-"
"A natural progression to the final stage. The body shuts down to prepare." Goku told him coolly.
Trunks swallowed. "I see. I was able to waken him. He was disoriented at first, but then...he started coming on to me again."
Goku lifted an eyebrow. "How did he smell?"
The demi-saiyan glazed at the memory. "Overwhelming, like some sort of perfume. It overloaded my senses and I couldn't think. The next thing I knew, we were kissing. I was kissing my father, for Kami's sake!!"
Goku growled, teeth sharpening. "Fool!!"
Trunks blinked, startled. "Eh?!"
"Bakana, I swear. It's a miracle you made it out alive!"
"But there's more, and this is the confusing part. When I tasted him I could taste you as well. That's what I don't get!"
Goku paced. "Moron."
"Goku!! You don't have to be-"
"Maybe if your head rolls on the floor you'll get it."
"Explain! Why did that happen?"
"I'll tell you. Because you don't go to a saiyan in heat wearing the scent of his mate. Are you suicidal?"
"Damn saiyan hyperactive senses! Am I supposed to spend half the day in the shower?!"
"Better than dead."
"But why did he smell and taste like you?"
"That was your doing, not his. Are you listening at all?!"
"Is that why he reacted??"
Goku nodded grimly. "He was responding to my scent and taste. Did you really think Vegeta would make a move on his own son?!"
Trunks sighed, calming a little. "No, of course not. But I do have one more question."
"On the same topic?"
"Somewhat. In the realm of dreams, father taunted me after he knocked you out."
Goku seemed interested. "Oh? Tell me, perhaps if it will fill in a few gaps of my own."
"He suddenly appeared and struck you from behind. We argued, and then he climbed all over you-" Trunks blushed.
Goku had to smile. Trunks was the oddest mixture of sleaze and prudishness.
"What did he do?"
"A lap dance on your stomach. You reached up and kissed him, but your eyes weren't even open. Father said he wanted to show me that."
'Hmm. So that's what he did..."
"But I was wondering-"
"Why I responded? Because mates respond to each other on all levels. I didn't need to be awake to know it was him. We share a complete intimacy of body and mind."
"Oh." Trunks blanched.
"Now is there anything else?"
The demi-saiyan moved towards the taller figure again. "I just needed to know. Besides, I wanted to see you." he touched a warm hand briefly.
Goku yanked it away. "Don't do that! Especially now, Trunks!"
"I didn't think it was that big a deal-"
Goku's composure faltered as his voice grew harsh. "Now you get out of here, and I mean now."
Trunks felt a stab of anger. "I'm through being yelled at for one day. You want me to go? Fine! I'll leave."
As he made it to the door, a regretful voice stopped him. "Forgive me, Trunks. You know I'm not myself."
Small smile. "I know. This is tough on everyone."
()
"You two make pretty good watchdogs." Trunks joked with Goten and Gohan.
The brothers laughed. "Well, I guess we seemed kind of uptight earlier." Goten agreed. "But if you know the situation already..."
"Don't forget, my father is a saiyan too."
Gohan rolled his eyes. "Oh yeah. That must be a lot of fun."
Trunks grinned. "I'll see you guys later."
"Okay, cool." Goten said. "Come back in a couple, okay? Maybe things will settle down by then."
Trunks gave them the thumbs up. "Hey, I've learned my lesson."
()
He flew at lightning speed, trying to keep his mind as blank as possible.
If I don't think about anybody I won't slip up.
Trunks sat quietly atop a large hill in the suburbs. "Maybe I should've hooked up with Yamcha and Tien tonight."
He stretched out in the grass, admiring the sky peppered with stars.
Such a quiet night. It certainly is beautiful.
Eventually Trunks drifted off. For once he didn't dream.
It was the quiet before the storm.
()
Insidious thoughts, leaking through desire and ego...
Vegeta sitting starkly in a darkened building, sweating profusely and losing his last battle...
Goku desperately seeking release with Chi Chi and finding no respite...
Broken images, forcing their way into his mind...
Vegeta smashing anything available, roaring his frustration...
Goku attacking Chi Chi like a wild man, stopped by Gohan and Goten...
Kami, let the insanity end!!
Trunks abruptly woke up in a cold sweat.
What the hell is this, why is the link invading my sleep?
Still more images. Vegeta comatose once again, motionless. Goku isolated downstairs, wearing red spandex shorts and pacing. Goten and Gohan standing guard at their mother's bedroom door.
Trunks couldn't even make a sequence out of the jumble. There was no connecting all the separate events. But one thing was clear, the turmoil boiling within his father and lover was coming to a head. A twisted part of him wanted to see it, taste the eroticism.
No! I'd better not, it could be deadly his better half warned.
They're so hot together. Just take a quick look his worse half whispered.
Trunks nearly laughed out loud. "Look at what? They aren't even together yet!"
The young man wrapped his arms around his knees. Now I'm arguing
with my own conscience. But maybe I can send Goku some strength to
hang on with.
He closed his eyes and concentrated. /Hear me, my beloved. Hold on! Soon you will be taken care of, I swear it!/
Trunks opened his eyes. I hope that helped.
Smiling, he looked up at the stars once more. He'd just made the worst mistake of his life.
()
The Z warriors were playing cards at Master Roshi's. The game was pretty hot when some surprise guests came to the door.
Yamcha laughed. "Hey, everybody! It's Goten and Gohan. You guys gonna join the game?"
The two demi-saiyans were frantic. "No, we've got an emergency." Gohan nearly shouted. Everyone looked up from the table.
"Calm down, Gohan." Roshi insisted. "We can't help if you're too upset. Now what's happening?"
"Our father is on the loose, that's what's wrong." Goten was nearly out of breath.
Krillen looked up from his cards. "What's all that mean, guys? Is there a threat to earth we weren't told about?"
"I don't know about earth, but we've got to bring him home in one piece." Gohan replied.
Piccolo finally responded. "Gohan, stop speaking in riddles. What's the danger? We haven't sensed anything unusual."
Gohan debated how much to tell. "Dad's sick, okay? He's going through a...medical problem right now, and he's not in his right mind. In fact." he glanced at Goten, "you could say he's deranged."
"What??" the fighters all said simultaneously.
"Deranged? What happened to him?!" Roshi demanded.
"He's got a...physical disorder that's affecting his mind." Goten continued. "We were taking care of him, but he abruptly left before we realized what was going on."
Yamcha stared in disbelief. "It all just seems so incredible...is he really in that bad a state?"
"We can't emphasize it enough. He's capable of murdering anyone on sight."
There was a hushed silence as everyone absorbed the information.
Krillen blinked. "Our Goku... a wild eyed murderer?" he shook nervously.
Tien shook his head. "Guys...what's missing here? I mean... why has Goku gone crazy?"
Goten was pleading. "We can't say, it's a private matter. But he's suffering, and he isn't the Goku you all know. When we find him you'll see."
Roshi pulled his chin. "If that's true, it's going to take all of us to subdue him."
Piccolo was thoughtful. "We can't do anything until he powers up his ki."
Tien nodded. "We'll wait. The minute his ki jumps...we're outta here!"
()
A blue streak blazed across the sky, abruptly bursting into brilliant gold. It headed in a very specific direction.
Trunks serenely looked at the stars. Particularly a falling one...
Something went off in his head. That ki! It's Goku?!
The demi-saiyan abruptly bounded to his feet as he stared upward. "Something's wrong. He's...super saiyan and dropping towards me!!"
Some instinct made him change mode as well. That same instinct saved his life momentarily. He barely dodged as a golden comet plummeted past him. A fist smashed a huge crater into the earth where he stood seconds before.
"Goku! Are you insane?!" Trunks went airborne to get clearance. A deranged laugh was his only response. Goku flew after him, mad hatred glazing his features. Trunks was terrified. There was no reasoning with the saiyan anymore. Survival of the fittest.
In desperation he hurled a volley of fire disks to slow down the attack...
()
The Z warriors all jumped.
"That's IT!!" Goten yelled, leaping up. "It's dad!"
"The power is off the charts!" Piccolo agreed. "And Goku's not alone!"
"No" Yamcha nodded fearfully. "He's with..."
"Trunks?!!" they all shouted.
"Let's go!!" Gohan led the pack out.
()
Trunks knew his best chance was to get angry and let rage control his power. Brutally he punched and kicked defensively, driving Goku back time and time again. But it wasn't enough. If anything, his fighting made the mad saiyan more determined than ever. Every move he made was countered, every blow blocked or ignored.
Trunks continued to hammer away. I can hurt him, injure him. It doesn't phase him! He's crazed, doesn't even feel my blows...
With an animalistic roar, Goku knocked him into the side of a mountain. Trunks exploded the peak, freeing himself. Again he launched an attack, hoping to buy some time. He kicked the square jaw with everything he had. Goku fell back, careening into a nearby lake. Nearing exhaustion, Trunks dropped to his knee by the shoreline, gasping in disbelief and horror.
Insane...I'll do what I must to survive...but...
The lake suddenly bubbled and boiled. Startled, Trunks started to move. Before he could a hand reached up and grabbed his ankle with painful pressure, nearly breaking it.
"NO!!!" Trunks attempted to fly. Too late. A golden flame of hair burst above the surface, blue eyes crazed and unseeing. The lunatic smirk remained as Trunks was yanked under by his foot. He gagged as they disappeared underneath dark waters.
He was being choked, a bitter reminder of an earlier episode. It was for keeps this time...
I won't die like this. If I have to use the saiyan in me I will...
He felt hands giving way as he kneed a swollen groin. White hot pain screamed through the link they shared.
/Dog!!/
Trunks used the moment to spring from the water. He flew clear, pausing to gather his wits and figure out a strategy.
Bet that hurt. Nothing like getting a knee in a hard on...
It was true. Goku crawled from the water, stooped over in pain. Trunks watched silently, praying for a miracle. They were both bloody and bruised.
The super saiyan fell to his knees and slowly looked up, staring in astonishment. For a moment, sanity flickered in the deep blue eyes.
"Trunks...what...am...I...doing...here??"
Pale eyes watered. "I'm sorry, Goku. I can't trust you now." he slowly drew his sword.
And then it was gone, lost to roiling madness once more. Goku snarled, canines sharp.
"Little prick, you called to me! I warned you." a thick golden tail whipped in agitation.
Trunks backed higher in the sky, eyes widening. His sword was held at the ready. Did I??
Goku gave a sick laugh. "A pity. Perhaps you're anxious to die. Far be it from me to deny you your wish." he launched himself like a comet.
Trunks closed his eyes and slashed. A howl of pain told him he scored a direct hit. Goku roared a scream of curses and fell back. Blood welled across a deep gash in his chest.
The demi-saiyan stared at the unholy terror bent on destroying him. Goku suddenly paused, staring at his wound strangely.
"Hmm." he tasted his own blood. "Your toy can't kill me." he looked up dangerously. "Care to try again, dear purple?"
Trunks gasped. "Whatever it takes. I don't want to hurt you!"
Goku smirked coldly. "You won't." he abruptly disappeared.
"Shimatta!!" Trunks swore, spinning around.
Nothing but silence. The demi-saiyan sweated, senses in overload.
He's here somewhere. Got to fly in a random pattern...
Before he could move arms like iron encircled him from behind.
"NO!!"
A sinister smile teased his ear. "Hello again, sweet purple."
Trunks couldn't hold his sword. It dropped from his hand into the lake below.
"Hmm. Your toy fell. Not that you'll be needing it." Goku squeezed.
"GAHHH!" No...can't breathe...
Trunks felt a pop. Searing pain shot through his side.
"Something wrong?" another twisted giggle. "I think I heard something..."
Trunks choked, feeling blood form in his mouth. "Bastard..."
Another pop. Trunks shrieked in agony as another rib broke.
Goku licked his ear. "I'll be gentle. The next will kill you."
"No..ghkk. Goku... I still love... you." Trunks gurgled, nearly blacking out. He could vaguely sense other ki approaching...
A pause. Trunks felt his would be murderer loosen his grip.
"It appears we have company, little flower."
()
The Z warriors arrived in the proverbial nick of time. In terrified awe they witnessed the most incredible scene of their lives.
"It's true!" Yamcha couldn't believe as they arrived frantically on the scene. "Look at him!!"
"He's killing Trunks!!" Piccolo bellowed.
"No, he won't!!" Goten moved to fly at him. Gohan stopped him.
"Wait. If we rush like that he might harm Trunks more. Let's see if we can get him to talk."
Tien gawked. "Kami, look at his eyes! Goten and Gohan were right, he's insane!"
Krillen gulped. "Maybe...maybe I can reach him. Guys...let me try first, okay? He won't see me as a threat."
"Alright." Piccolo nodded grimly. "Everyone, listen. Form a circle. We don't want him bolting with Trunks."
In grim agreement they formed a wide formation around the two. Goku stared in curious amusement. Trunks slumped in his arms, unconscious.
"So." he looked them over. "The troops have arrived."
"Father, put him down." Gohan pleaded. "You're killing him!"
"I'm just having a little fun. Now leave!"
"We can't do that." Piccolo interjected. "You aren't yourself, and we're worried..."
Goku flashed his canines. "Worry about yourselves. My buisness here doesn't concern you. I'm just playing!"
"Playing?!" Yamcha blew up. "Goku, this isn't you! Look at Trunks. He's dying in your arms!"
Goku looked at his victim casually. "There's something romantic about that, don't you think?" he laughed insanely.
Krillen floated towards them. He tried to project calm. "Goku, listen..."
Snarl. "The name is Kakarot."
Krillen laughed nervously, holding his hands up. "Sure, Kakarot's a good name..."
Blue eyes narrowed. "You think to humor me?"
"Uh, no. But we're all friends here, right? There's no reason not to let Trunks go. Whatever he's done, it can be worked out."
Goku just glared. He looked at the circle of warriors slowly.
"I have no idea what you fools hope to accomplish, but not one of you has the power to stop me."
"Power alone won't defeat us, Kakarot." Piccolo said carefully. "And we have more than enough here."
"Shimatta, come to your senses!" Tien implored. "We don't even want to fight. We're here as your friends!"
Goku frowned again. "Hmm." he looked at his sons slowly.
Gohan edged forward. "I have power enough father, and you know it. Harm Trunks, and-"
Goku smirked coldly. "You'd give me the most trouble. Beware, Gohan. Even you wouldn't last long against my third level. I have no desire to kill my son." he gave a sick grin. "At least not yet."
"Then you'll have to kill both." Goten promised. "Let Trunks go. He's no harm to you now!"
Blue eyes flickered in indecision. "Impressive. Incredibly stupid, but impressive."
Goten matched the weird grin. "Hey, we get it from you."
"Funny boy. Now go away before I break your skull."
"C'mon, Goku" Krillen tried again, reaching for Trunks.
Goku slapped him like a flea. Krillen went sailing into Piccolo, who caught him in mid tumble.
"Ugh. Thanks for the save."
"Anytime." the Namek eyed Goku critically. He noticed for the first time the saiyan's near state of undress. Goku was bare save for red spandex shorts. Spandex shorts that showed a great deal...
Curious...
"The name is Kakarot, dolt. I won't say it again."
Yamcha edged over to Tien. "We've got to do something. Trunk's ki is beginning to drop..."
Tien whispered back. "You wanna try for it?"
"I hear you over there." Goku snapped. "Don't be foolish. I'd hate to have to kill you as an example."
"Give us Trunks at least!" Tien shouted. "Then we can help you!"
"Help me?" Goku paused momentarily. He felt strange all of a sudden. Blinding heat and warmth spread through his bones, distorting his vision. Red pinpricks dotted his vision as blood boiled beneath the skin. Breathing became hard and rapid as he sweated heavily. Conscious thought faded away...
The rut had started.
Instinct guided him, sending out the siren call. Vegeta, my love...come!
()