AN: Hey everyone! Sanshilove here hoping that all your summers are going well. For CML and I, every chapter has a deeper meaning as we bring in our own life experiences and thoughts together for you. Me and her have been friends for so long you might as well call us family and I often do. Anyway enough of my rambling. I hope you all enjoy this chapter, as always comment, subscribe and review if you like we really appreciate every single one. On with the chapter!

Song; Honest-The Chainsmokers

Chapter 14 Taking Fresh Steps

The scientist watched as the couple had taken off as her mind was reeling from the conversation. She couldn't help but feel her fingers itch to touch or work on something. It may not have been that long since she had come to this place, but to be in a lab once more would mean some normalcy back in her ever changing life. There was something about working with various metals, wiping sweat and oil from her brow, and taking in the first taste of real coffee in the morning. To be working under lights and familiar smell in the silent chamber, she could think of nothing more than be right there. Of course, the knowledge that she would be under the eye of her best friend's father didn't seem to sit well, especially since he was more than likely located at the palace; which was something she wanted to avoid at all cost.

She rested the side of her head on the doorway as she felt the eyes of her friends on her. Why had she suddenly run out of the house and told him that she would do it? She didn't know the full details of what she just signed herself up to, or what type of stipulations there might be involved, but she supposed it was the prospect of having a lab once again that made her jump the gun so carelessly.

"Why do you look so glum, Bulma?"

"I don't know why I did that…why would I give in so quickly? I don't know anything about what your family is like…and I just went ahead and agreed."

"Bardock would do nothing indecent, if that is what you are worried about? He is a good man, and not much like the other Saiyans around here. His word is just as good, if not better, then the royal crown."

"Which gives me little faith to believe in." Bulma stared at the reassuring pair. Honestly, she was somewhat baffled that they could trust someone so easily. She had to bite back her own tongue to not scold them. Once upon a time wasn't she just like this-within reason of course.

"Bulma, how about we come finish breakfast? There are some curriculum items that I want to check with you about."

"Curriculum? Wait, you are going to teach my son?"

"Of course! I said I wouldn't turn him away. Come on, I need an idea of where is and get him to test where he will transfer into. But we can discuss this over breakfast." She smiled. Coming up beside their friend, she was able to lead the confused woman back towards the dining table. The scientist remained silent as she mulled over what all that was currently happening. Her son was going to get a proper education, she would be living and contributing to this planet, and she would be getting her own lab.

By the time the rest of the meal was finished, her mind had forgotten her anxiety as she focused over the reading material and testing sheets her child would be going over hopefully in the next hour.

"What are you thinking?" Chi-Chi spoke up.

"I think he will ace all of this with no problem. Third grade is the material that I have him currently on. He may need to get caught up on science and history, but his reading comprehension has always been high. His math skills is something close towards middle school or early high school."

"That far!"

"He is my son after all. Would you expect anything less?" She found herself half laughing. Her friend joined in as they shared the silly moment together. As they came down and looked at one another, they couldn't help but share the same identical smile.

"So Bulma, if you want, I can give him some Saiyan materials to go over such as their science, history, politics, and language if you think you both are up to it?"

"Saiyan education…do you think he'll be ready for something like that?"

"Up to you. My Gohan and Goten took it easily. They are really invested-more so than the Earth's education."

"As long as we avoid you-know-who, I don't see an issue."

"Promise. So, does this mean I have your permission?"

"Looks like I am giving it…" She spoke a little unsure. She never, in all her years of her life, ever think she would be in this sort of situation; but she supposed stranger things have happened.

"I guess I'll get them started today. Typically, I run my home school after breakfast until before I start dinner. If you want, you can help me in the math and science department?"

"You don't give breaks?"

"Oh, I do! We switch from lessons that are typically one hour and alternate between hour long breaks. It is a good balance between work and play that I have found."

"And they seem okay with it?"

"Gotta love those Saiyan genes that they have." Her companion flashed her a knowing smile.

"Well…alright then, count me in for science and math. Oh, and Saiyan language. I have taught Trunks quite a fair bit and continue my own education on it."

"Sure, I have a program that I have used to master it myself. I can lend it to you if you wish?"

"Anything to keep myself busy."

"You know, that it is alright to feel what you are feeling in the moment, Bulma? You don't have to hide your true feelings anymore. No one here is going to hurt or judge you."

"If I cry anymore, I am sure I'll drown in my own tears. I can't stand being alone in my own mind. I wish I could simply shut it off and let my hands just work out my life. Just staying still…it's making me go crazy is all…"

"You know this is all normal? Grief and PTSD can make one anxious, moody, sleepless, and a bunch of other things that make you question your own sanity. I know working on inventions and diving into work might seem like a great way to cope, and usually it is in moderation, but you need to seriously consider really taking care of yourself. I know you oversee a lot of things in your life, but now you have us to help share the load. You need to remember that."

"I…I do know all this, and believe me, I am entirely grateful, but you are right. I am in control; I like being in control. If I am not, then we both know the consequences."

"That is where you are wrong. We don't know what could happen. I know this is really hard to believe, but you do have a safety net already in-"

"Can I go back to my room now? I am really tired." Bulma suddenly cut off Chi-Chi. She did not miss the hurt that quickly transformed into understanding. A boundary that wasn't ready to be crossed had severed the flow of the conversation.

"Sure, I'll send Trunks up later to let you know when lunch is ready. Get some rest. I'll get him started today on his testing."

"Thanks Chi…"

"Anytime B…"

The rest of the day should have been uneventful with Trunks testing his new study skills and integrating into his next course with the Son brothers. Although he didn't pay much attention as his mind appeared elsewhere, he had still managed to surpass Gohan's studies amongst the surprised faces of his peers. He was granted more time to himself as he had taken it to sit outside his mother's door. It was more heartbreaking to see him curled up by the wall with a reluctant expression becoming more permanent on his features.

This did little to deter the youngest member of the Son family as he would finish his work and be stuck like glue to the boy closer to his age. He had appeared to be fascinated with another just like him with the odd coloring. And no matter where Trunks had gone, Goten wasn't too far behind. Chi-Chi had found them for the fifth time sitting outside of her friend's door with one with a forlorn gaze and the other looking rather bored while suckling on his thumb. She didn't seem to have the heart to scold either of them, but instead did something she ever hesitantly did-let the boys engage in their training with her husband.

It was comical to see her own little ones burst into gleeful energy while looking at the confused boy's expression that only seem to convey that they all have gone mad. She watched from the doorway with a soft smile as she saw her youngest attempt to help teach the lavender haired child how to properly stretch. It reminded her of the days of her own youth with Goku by her side. At the mere thought, she blushed wholeheartedly and heard the familiar chuckle of her mate in her mind as they made eye contact.

~ "Going to work on lunch. You watch after them?" ~

~ "You got it Chi!" ~

At this, she turned back towards inside and slowly returned to the kitchen as to prepare the next course of the meal.

Bulma had kept to herself, ate her meals in her room, and only discussed with Trunks rather than anyone else about her day, or anything trivial. She had informed him, much to his crestfallen expression he had sported afterwards, that she would be returning to work at her new job in the lab that evening. The boy practically burst into hot, fresh tears. He clung to her in those tears as he sobbed into her chest; practically begging her to reconsider.

"It's alright little one. Don't worry so much. I'll be home in the afternoon and see you off to homeschool before I leave in the morning. We will still have classes. It's not the end of the world."

"Yes, it is! You don't have to go away! You just chose to!" He sobbed against her.

"This isn't like the old place, hunny. No one is going to keep us separated, not one is going to hurt us, and no one is telling us that this permanent either."

"You say that now, but look at what happened last time!" He started to wail.

"Oh Trunks, hunny, I know baby, but this place is much different. You like being around Uncle Goku and his family, don't you?" She gently smiled while rubbing his back as he clung to her chest still in his inconsolable tears. She couldn't help but smile despite herself as she realized just how sweet his distraught concern was.

The young mother continued her comforting ministrations until she heard the warning gasping sound that made her heart drop and his body go limp. Panic set in as she made quick work to lay him suddenly flat on his back while rushing to gather her capsules. Immediately she wasted not one second getting the antidote together. Just as quickly as he brought on the signs of his body attacking itself; slowly began to re-stabilize after receiving the life-saving serum.

Hair frazzled and heart racing, the young mother looked on in relief at her son's breathing that returned to what it barely was before. Although she was satisfied to see her little man was going to be just fine; there was this looming shadow in the forefront of her mind that seemed to realize the symptoms came faster than they did in the past; which in term wracked through her son that much quicker and much more severe than it had before. Knowing this new information gave her a sense of being unnerved to no end. What made her stomach drop a second time was just how low of a dosage she had left in her reserves.

Weakly, her son peered up at her with his soft breathing and watery eyes. He managed to hold her hand loosely while limply wrapping his tail around her wrist, "D-don't…don't leave…leave me M-Momma…" He whimpered softly.

"I'll never leave you baby. There is no where else I will go without you. You are my home." Leaning down, she gently kissed his temple and brought the blanket more around him. Pulling back, she lightly brushed his bangs back as using her nimble fingers to thread through his boyish locks.

"Not…what I-I mean…" He sniffled.

"I know, but you need better medicine and a cure. If I don't go and you have another attack, and there is no more medicine, I don't...I don't' want to think about what will happen…I know this isn't ideal, but Trunks, I will not lose you. You are all I have."

"What about Uncle Goku and Aunt Chi-Chi?"

"They are not my son. You are my entire dream, Trunks. You are my only child and I love you more than all the stars in the sky. You cannot disappear from this life. I will follow you if you do. Please, don't stop me from doing this. I will give everything, and my life, if that is what it takes to see you live on."

"I don't want you to die…"

"Nor do I want to see you die either, my little one. So, may I please do this job, so we can really start living our lives?"

"But Momma…"

"Please, for me? Can you trust I can take care of us and that I will always come back to you no matter what?"

Trunks watched her for a few moments as he not only eyed her but contemplated seriously what she was asking of him. His fears were very real, and his reasons were valid. She was his only world. His heart ached at even the thought of her leaving him behind whether temporary or permanent. He studied her worried expression and let out a soft sigh. He gave a small nod and watched her façade soften.

"Thank you, Trunks. I know you are still upset, but the fact you are allowing me means the world to me. I won't let you down. And we will move out on our own sooner than you think. Maybe, when you are feeling better, you can come with me to work?"

"Don't leave me alone too long, Momma…" He attempted to pout, but it came out as a pleading whimper.

"I'll be home every afternoon. You will always be in contact with me. You will never be without me, ever again, little one." She leaned down once more and gently kissed his cheek. She gazed on as he curled close to her.

"Tired?"

"Mhm…"

"Your symptoms must have taken a toll out on you. I think sleep might be best."

"Lullaby...,"

"Sure." Softly she sang to him as his eyes grew heavy and little yawns escaped from him until after the second song; where he was well on his way to dreamland. Removing herself as gently as she could, so as not to wake him, she shifted her weight and let him sleep soundlessly while she took the moment to put away the capsules and prepare herself for in the morning. She had no idea what to expect, but come what may, she needed to learn what she could before his health took another turn for the worse. As she gazed back at her own reflection she couldn't help but feel the build of determination swirling in her eyes. It was time to take that next step forward. With newfound strength that she had no idea that she possessed, the made her way back towards the bedroom where her sleeping child lied. She climbed into the sheets and pulled him close to her chest. Pushing the worries to the back of her mind as she allowed his gentle breathing lull to also into a dreamless slumber.

~Morning~

The azured haired scientist watched the mountain pass whirl past her line of view as Chi-Chi drove her in the earthling looking contraption that reminded her of the cars that were used for transportation on her old home-world; which all but seemed several lifetimes ago. She couldn't stop her mind from being caught up in the heartbreaking nostalgia as she sat up in the front seat. What was remarkable to her was just how similar the machine was to how the old models of her company ran as she couldn't help but admire at the durability and the speed of it. But that was the least shocking to her as it paled in comparison that it was her friend that was driving the thing. She never thought she would see the day that it would be Chi-Chi that was behind the wheel of the 'death boxes' she once fondly called it.

In the backseat slept two little boys. As they lightly napped the irony wasn't lost on the young mother how her own child protested and whined that he wouldn't sleep, nor let her go, if he didn't get to come with. A knowing smile spread across her lips as she caught him lightly snoring in the rearview mirror. And, of course, if her little one got to come, so did his little shadow. Sighing she turned her attention to her new, borrowed clothes and her newly laundered lab coat. Silently she thanked her friend for being a saint and, once again, helping them out of this pinch. It seemed that she was able to understand what issues she was going to have and always have ways to avoid issues. She really need to thank her properly when she got the chance to pay back that kindness.

She shifted her line of sight to her friend driving. Honestly, she felt her chest swell up with pride at how well adapted she had become given the circumstances. It was so vastly inspiring to see the once-strict mother of one and wife of the biggest, yet strongest, goofball in the universe finally break free from her duties and begun to love life instead of live it. Saiyan culture looked good on her.

The driver glanced over at her as she caught Bulma starring, "Something wrong?"

"Since when did you ever do any of this?"

"What do you mean? I've always had a fun side. It was Goku and responsibilities that took the front seat of my life." Her turned-adventurous companion gave a wink.

"I should have hung out with you more."

"Yeah, but you were living your life with Yamcha. How did that turn out by the way?"

An awkward silence settled between them before Bulma found her voice once again. "The same way it always does…" Memories assaulted her mind with thoughts of her and her once lover that were together once upon a time. He was her childhood sweetheart, and although they did not work out in the end, there was still quite a bit of history between them. She couldn't help but recall their last break-up and how final it was. He was the one to finally made the call to move on. She should have felt upset, or at the very least betrayed; especially when he found one that made him happier than she ever could. But, no, she felt more relieved than anything. Maybe she finally felt like she had moved on as well. And it was just so as maybe that was when she allowed herself to begin to have feelings for her dark, grumpy roommate.

"I'm sorry if I was out of line…"

"Don't be. You were right, we both were living our lives."

"Still are last time I checked. But, I would be lying if I didn't admit that I am kinda glad you are finally back to us. We really did miss you and nothing felt the same since we all were separated. Ah, look! We are almost there!"

Bulma took note of the sudden abrupt change of topic, but she supposed it was for the better. With a sigh of relief that they no longer were talking about a sensitive subject of the past, she turned her focus on the horizon. She gripped the handle of her armrest slightly as old feelings were stirring; more predominate one to run at the sight of the Saiyan palace that she had just so recently escaped from. She never took her eyes of the building in the distance as she was analyzing it and concluded that there were many paths to the regal looking structure. The closer they had gotten, she took note of that their travel was heading towards the back of the compound. Her friend had to make several checkpoint stops along the way, and seemed they appeared more frequent the closer they made their way.

There were Saiyan guard and soldiers that acted as security detail and all stared so openly at them with disgust. Bulma couldn't help but wonder why they had gotten such a cold reception, not that she wasn't used to these types of stares, but not from the Saiyans. Then again, she only been around a certain small number to assume that they would be friendly. Apparently, she was mistaken. She decided to pay no mind to the starres, but rather her comrade whom was just full of surprises.

It wasn't the respect that the guards gave her that threw her off, but how she gracefully and eloquently Chi-Chi had become in her knowledge of the Saiyan dialect. She was amazed more so to how fluently she sounded-as if she was a native her whole life. By the time that they were granted clearance at their final check-point, the two little boys in the back were beginning to awaken. The young mother leaned around in her seat to see her sleepy boy blink himself awake.

"Momma, are we there yet?" He whined with a loud yawn.

"About to turn in actually. Trunks, could you make sure Goten is awake?"

"He is." Her son politely replied to the driver.

Bulma couldn't stop her smile despite herself, "So this is it, huh? That is the laboratory?" Her eyes took in the sight as she couldn't believe just how large of a facility it really was. It was a huge compound that consisted of various species, but mostly Saiyans, walking around as they headed towards their destinations. A beautiful garden with an interesting looking fountain was the center point of everything. It reminded her of the botanical gardens on Earth. The group had pulled up in a designated space and they had helped the children out of their seats.

"Do you know where this place is, Chi?"

"Yep! I got the directions last night. We'll be heading to the royal labs-that is Bardock's personal laboratory is. Alright you two, stay close to me and your Mom. And remember, be on your best behaviors."

"Yes, Aunt Chi-Chi!

"Ya Mommy!"

Both mothers exchanged amused smiles and they followed the woman in charge with the directions inside the main building. It was much larger on the inside than it had appeared looking in. There were so many genres of specific studies for every section. There were topics and subjects that even the great Bulma Briefs had no idea about or even thought of. After even more clearance checks and security measures, they had finally arrived at the royal laboratory. The mother scientist hesitated to step into such an awe-striking space. Hardly able to believe what her eyes were seeing; she could only compare it to every scientist's wet dream. Just the funding to get equipment that could do things that only she could imagine could only be an astronomical amount.

White, clean, and sophisticated were the only words that describe what was running through her mind. Every piece had a place and every place had had a proper piece in it. She felt the tug on her sleeve as she looked down to see her little boy with the same matching expression…her chest filled with pride the second time today. He really did take after her.

"Momma, can I look around?" His small voice practically begged for her approval. She gave his hand a small squeeze as her smile only widened.

"Let's explore together!" They both crossed the door hand in hand and gazed around in the sheer beauty that the place had to offer. The azure-haired mother spied her companion on eye level with her own son, discussing in hushed voices that he wasn't allowed to touch anything; and no, they were not going to go home right this minute.

Inwardly, she couldn't help but half-smile. Already she was thanking her lucky stars that her own child was already after her own heart. Turning her attention back to her son who was intently looking through a large telescope; her smile only waivered slightly as she reminisced back to a time when she was a bit shy of his age. As she watched him gaze at the stars in awe of their beauty, she swore she could see a vision playing out in her mind as it was her and her own father bonding over looking at her favorite constellation.

And just like that, in a blink of an eye, they were right back in the present. Her child was talking to her with a bright smile on his face.

"Momma! Momma! Come see! There are so many stars like the book said!"

"I know baby." She approached his side. He returned to the glorious sight of the lens of the telescope as he began to look at the stars once more. It warmed her heart to know that he was happy again. She couldn't recall a single time in his short life that he smiled that way at anything. It was pure joy; a child's happiness. And knowing that he found his first, true love solidified something for her; he would be following in her footsteps. She let him have his fun as she heard him babble on excitedly about connecting the things he researched to the physical evidence in front of him. As she was about to switch places to see what caught his newest excitement, she stopped as she heard hearty laughter interrupt their moment that could only belong to the royal scientist approaching.

"Ah, ha! I see you found your way! I hope there was no trouble?"

"Not at all, Father. I hope you don't mind, but I brought the boys to see where she will be working." His daughter-in-law smiled warmly.

"How many times do I have to tell you to knock that 'Father-in-law' crap off, Chi? Bardock is fine. Anyway, never any trouble! You are more than welcome to bring the boys here anytime! Young minds are always welcomed here! Although, they may have more fun in the medical department with my mate than here."

"No sir! This place is amazing!" Her child spoke up. His mother could only be surprised at the unusual boldness of her shy boy. This, in turn, made the Son's father doppelganger almost double his laughter once more.

"I like your boy! A fine scientist he'll make!"

"Just wait until he's fully grown and trained! My money is on him becoming a powerful fighter!" The dark-haired mother boasted.

"I just want him healthy."

"Is he sick?"

"Yes, with some strange illness."

"Our kind has but only one; it is usually lethal in younger ones. Older can withstand it…I…I have never seen it this stable before though, if it is indeed the Saiyan virus." Both women looked at the royal scientist with confused expression. "The Saiyan virus? Neither of you have heard of this?" He let out a sigh as he saw their still confused shakes of their heads. "To put it simply, it is a virus that attacks the immune system. No one is really sure where it originated from, but there are theories that suggest it is a way to weed out the weak in our society…and for it to hit this early…"

"Don't you dare finish that sentence." Bulma found herself snarling as her arm held her son closer to her hip as he stared up from behind her leg. Her once pleasant demeanor was gone only to be replaced by her signature, fiery look. The scientist took a step back at the severity of her line of sight.

"I-I meant no insult Ms. Briefs. Just that…the theory suggests that if it has appeared this early for your son, it isn't a sign to kill him, but that to challenge. If-erm- when he survives this, it will only prove just how much power he is capable of…is all…" He had to carefully choose his words as he watched the woman began to stalk towards him.

"Good answer." Her voice low and full of promise. She jerks suddenly as she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. Her anger melted to give way to surprise as her friend shook her head.

"Bulma, you need to take a step back. The poor man is almost put in a corner." Blinking, Bulma took in the room and saw that Chi-Chi was indeed correct. A sniffle had her head snapping towards her son who looked just as worried.

"Momma…is…is he right?"

"No, baby, he is not. You are not that sick." She returned to his side and down to his level. She gently reached her hands out to cup his cheeks and smile softly. "You will not die. I swear on it. I am going to make you all better, remember?"

"If you don't mind me asking, what have you done to keep his symptoms at bay?" Bardock cleared his throat and straighten his coat as he approached the vision pair of mother and child.

"That isn't up for discussion." He watched the strange woman straighten herself and face him. "But, if you gain my trust and your intention for my family are pure, I just might let you get a peek at what I have been working on."

"Perhaps I hadn't done a decent job on trying to inform you of the virus-"

"You could try, but my son comes first and my ability to ensure his safety and well being before anyone else; including the people here."

She hadn't missed Bardock studying her little boy behind her leg once more. His eyes narrowed in thought as he attempted to analyze just who this child was and if, perhaps, his hunch was correct. He opened his mouth to ask, but loud blaring of the alarms abruptly stopped any thought of the process. Both children covered their ears as the adults looked wildly around for the source. With an electrical buzzing, all monitors in the building began to flicker as an image on the screen began to take shape. Already the figure was speaking, but as the heiress heard a voice she hadn't thought she would hear everagain in her lifetime.

"Hello Monkeys, you are certainly in for a real treat! My brother and I have something your precious King and his family refuse to acknowledge. This is what happens when you attempt to take a chunk out of me, and then go after my family!" The voice rasped cruelly on the screen. Wide, ocean eyes watched in pure terror at the monitors show the rebuilt form of what was once Frieza. It showed him and his brother standing over an operating table with the weak form of the girl they had kidnapped. Without hesitation, Bulma reached for her son and brought him to face her as she tried to shield the screams of the girl that came from the monitor.