Vulnerable
A/N: Hello! New chapter.
Thank you for everyone who is reading my story. I hope you will enjoy this chapter.
Disclaimer: I do not own DBZ! However, I do own any new OC in this story.
Chapter 7: Collapse
The morning came very fast. The girls woke up and saw everyone already sitting at the table, waiting for them to eat. They passed the day together, discovering a little more about the mountain life. They helped Gohan plant vegetables, learning several gardening techniques and tricks. He then taught them how to go fishing, and how to hunt easy preys, despite not catching them to avoid having Erasa throw a fit at them.
He then took them to visit his great-grandfather's old house, showing them the traditional design of old house with a triangular dome. They then went to pick up fruits from trees, as Gohan started to teach them how to perfectly choose the fruits and on which ones to wait more. He showed them how to do a flute from the bamboo's rod as they laughed trying to come up with different sounds.
He even taught them a secret trick he learned while Piccolo left him alone in the wilderness, as he showed them how to prepare pads from leaves. He told them it could come in handy, they never knew, as both girls were amazed at how things he knew about. They felt he was smart, but the tricks he knew were just amazing.
Then, Gohan's grandpa came back at lunch, bringing small gifts for the guests. He told them it would be a small souvenir of their kingdom.
He gave Hoshiko a chest pin with the kingdom's crest on it and she gaped "I can't accept this. I'm not part of the family."
Chi-Chi and Gyumao smiled as Chi-Chi pinned it on her blouse "Non-sense. You're practically family. Anytime you need something from us and we happen to be there, you can show it to anyone and they'll direct you to us immediately."
Hoshiko smiled at them, admiring the beautiful garment. It was golden with a fine red outline and a tree in the middle. And under the tree, there was what appeared to be a small fire.
Gyumao then smiled at the girls and gave them each one small box. Erasa's had a bracelet with the crest; while Videl's was a necklace. He told the girls they were like family now, and if they needed anything, the whole kingdom would be at their service. They both happily accepted the gift and put them on. They asked Gohan if he had a similar one and he showed them the pin. It was slightly different, seeing he was the grandson and future heir of the kingdom, but the crest was almost the same, aside from a sword in the middle.
They asked about the signification of the tree and Gyumao explained "The fire is our kingdom's symbol because we live in Mount Frypan and I am the Fire King. But, we have a tree in the middle, still alive, which shows life. We added it after our kingdom was rebuilt and we rejuvenated. Chi-Chi's crest has a key on it, because she is the princess. Goku had one also with a lock, to complete hers. Gohan's has a sword because he is the heir of the throne after Chi-Chi decided she didn't want to rule. Goten also has one prepared, which is the joy symbol."
The girls smiled at the symbolisms and looked at theirs. It had the Japanese letter for family and it warmed their hearts. Hoshiko thanked them for the amazing gifts, telling them they will always cherish them and the Ox-King smiled at them, happy to see the smile on their faces.
Eventually, the afternoon came and the Satan family, along with Erasa, packed their belongings, thanking the Son for their warm welcome, promising to visit them soon. Gohan blushed when the girls hugged him goodbye, making the mothers laugh at him. You think that passing a weekend with them would help him be less shy.
The girls slept all the way over, this weekend taking a lot from their energy. They woke up just before they reached the city and Hoshiko looked at them from the mirror "Erasa, your parents called. I told them we still need around fifteen minutes. I also told them you are punished, in case you forgot." Both girls gulped as the mother continued "I didn't tell them why, I don't want them to worry. I just told them you were a little bit reckless, but that was understandable since you were excited. Both you cannot go out for two weeks. That means you finish school, and you go straight to your houses. Videl, if I'm at the restaurant, you come if you don't want to stay alone. Understood?" Both girls nodded sadly. They had forgotten about this little detail. But it could've been worse than that.
After dropping off Erasa at her house, the Satan girls arrived at their house. They retrieved their bags from the trunk and went inside. Once Hoshiko put her keys in the lock, she saw it was unlocked and she protectively stepped in front of Videl, taking a glimpse inside. She then saw the TV turned on, and quickly recognized the distinctive afro hair of her husband.
She entered and removed her boots as she called him "Mark? What are you doing here?"
Videl saw her father get up from the sofa and she looked at him neutrally, still mad at what happened before. He smiled lightly at them "I told you yesterday I would be back today. Did you forget?"
Videl saw the interaction, now understanding it was her father who called yesterday morning, albeit she didn't understand why he called this early on. Hoshiko looked at him and sighed "I know, but I told you, you didn't have to. We are exhausted and need some rest, we can't stay up with you. You should've waited for tomorrow like I told you."
Hercule started shaking his head, noticing the neutral looks his daughter gave him "I know, but I missed you both, I didn't want to lose time. Sweet pea, how was the beach?"
Videl didn't answer, not understanding her father's question.
Why didn't her mother tell him they were in the mountains? But knowing her father, he most likely would've forgotten and thought they went to their cabin, just like every year. She then looked at him sadly, as her anger emotions resurfaced. She then shook her head and rushed inside, climbing the stairs two by two. Her parents then heard her close the door of her room.
Hercule sighed when he saw his daughter run and he looked sadly at his wife "She's still mad at me?"
Hoshiko shook her head in frustration, while she went to the living room "I specifically told you not to come. Didn't you understand why? What do you think?" He tried to defend himself only to have his wife cut him "No, no excuses. You had no right. She asked only for this day. Every kid had both parents, except her. Is your work more important than her? She's an only child for Kami's sake, it's not like we have a handful of kids. Do you know what she told me? She told me 'daddy doesn't love me. He loves his job more than me.' What was I supposed to tell her? Are you aware that your kid is miserable?"
Hercule sighed heavily as he walked back and forth in the living room "I couldn't come. I had an interview I couldn't postpone. I can't just let the people down, it's my job."
She quickly glared at him, her eyes shooting daggers "NO! First of all, you have two jobs. It looks like you forgot you're a father. It's more important that these interviews. Second of all, all of this could've been averted if you decided to tell the truth. Don't give me the 'it's my job' speech. She has every right to be angry at you. Do you really want me to believe you didn't have the time to come, not once, during the past month? You didn't call on the same day, didn't apologize to her, and didn't come to see her to make up for it. I'm done making excuses for you. You didn't even care where we went on vacations. You called at Kami knows what time, saying 'I wanted to check up before my photoshoot session', and when I told you we went on a getaway, you didn't even ask where. You assumed it was at the beach. How little do you care?"
Hercule started rubbing his temples, trying to find a way to calm his bursting wife. She then sighed and looked at him "It's best you don't sleep here for a while. At least until she's forgiven you. Call her to ask about her day, make small talks, and when she'll want you to come for dinner, come. If she doesn't let you, don't. I know my daughter very well, she's more stubborn than you think. And she has every right to be."
Hercule almost fumed at his wife's words and he glared at her "I'm trying to best I can to provide for this family. How can she be angry at me for putting food on her table, every night."
Hoshiko quickly rose her eyebrows at him, fumes coming out of her ears "Are you this full of yourself? She knows the truth. She knows it's a lie. She saw the fight. Do you really think we take money from you, knowing where it came? Think Mark, for once, think. Where is the guy I married? Please, go. Go think, clear your head. When you'll start thinking straight again, let me know." She then waited for him to leave. Once he reached the door, she looked at him "By the way, she's friend with the actual savior of the world. And I can't believe you would actually take this boy's credit. If only you knew the way he lived, you couldn't sleep at night anymore. I know I can't."
Hercule's face went blank at his wife's words as he left the house. He sighed heavily and went for a walk, hoping to clear his mind. This time, he really messed up.
Hoshiko sat on the couch, trying to gather her thoughts. She hoped Videl didn't hear the fight and she went upstairs to check on her. She saw the door of her room closed and she opened it slowly, noticing her daughter on her bed, hugging her pillow.
She entered the room, calling her "Monkey? Are you okay?" She saw Videl move on the bed, notifying her mother she was awake. Hoshiko then climbed on the bed next to her, hugging her gently "Daddy's gone for the night. He said he's very sorry, and wants to make up for it. I told him you'll let him know when you've forgiven him." Videl nodded at her mother who tried to smile "Want me to sleep next to you tonight?" Videl nodded again.
Hoshiko turned her around, wiping her tears. She kissed her forehead as she hugged her against her heart, singing softly to help her sleep. Eventually, seeing as Videl was very tired, she drifted off. The mother than covered her and she went to the kitchen to make a cup of tea, hoping to calm her nerves. After an hour of reflection, she decided to order the room a little, washed their dirty clothes, and came back to Videl's room to sleep next to her, as she promised.
Ultimately, the two weeks of Videl and Erasa's punishment ended. Videl restarted talking lightly with her father, eventually forgiving him. He was her father after all. Hercule tried to make up for it, as he passed more time with his daughter and wife.
They kept on seeing Gohan, every time he came to the city. They invited him once at Hoshiko's restaurant, and the girls decided to let him discover the city life, taking him to the mall or the amusement park. The young hybrid enjoyed their company, discovering a little bit more about their lifestyle. He sometimes met some of their friends, and he tried to talk to them, albeit still being as shy as before. But it was already an improvement from before, seeing that he actually engaged in conversations with strangers.
Erasa decided to help Gohan feel more at ease with his clothes, telling him a little bit about new styles. They showed him thrift shops and outlets, so he won't have to pay a lot of money. Videl and him always exchanged books, as it was a shared passion between the both of them. They always discussed which were their favorites quotes and scenes, and they enjoyed their bonding time.
One day, after seeing Gohan in the city, Erasa quickly invited him with her to Videl's house. They knocked on the door and Hoshiko opened it, greeting both teens, happy to see the young boy.
Gohan was surprised at their house, seeing it was bigger than what he had expected. It was a one story with a small garden in the back and a roof. It had a small corridor with a single stair before getting access to the corridor and he saw Erasa remove her boots before she entered and she opened a small dressing full of slippers. There was doorless living room and an adjacent dining room on the left, and the kitchen on the right. The bathroom was at the end of the hall next to stairs to the first floor, in which he assumed were their rooms. The house was full of decorations and art pieces and paintings, as well as several family pictures in different frames. He concluded that they had a little bit more money than what he initially expected, and was surprised they befriended him this easily; especially since they were from different social statuses. It warmed his heart to see they were very down to earth people, who weren't treating him any differently and he was happy to have them as friends. In the end, money wasn't everything, and they didn't make him feel different. He didn't know how much a little money was an understatement.
Hoshiko called Videl who found it very amusing to slide on the ramp to the ground floor, earning an exasperated sigh from her mother. She joyfully greeted Gohan, very happy at his surprise visit, as the three kids made their way to the living room. They initiated him to their gaming console as the three played several games, all to which Gohan exceled, thanks to his reflexes. Hoshiko smiled when she saw them this happy.
She felt that Gohan was more at ease with her daughter and her, and she felt him being better, as his eyes didn't reflect sadness as much as before. He needed time to get over his grief, it was normal; but at least, he was progressing. Each group discovered another world thanks to the others, and they enjoyed the simplicity their lives had to offer.
Two years had now passed since Gohan met Videl and Erasa. They grew really found of each other, as each person became an important part in the others' lives.
Gohan had another growth spurt and since his body was actually fifteen, despite his younger age, he began to show more Saiyan attributes, especially in his defined muscles and physique. He had a very straight back and well developed muscles, even though his mother didn't really like it, saying he looked like a delinquent. His hair was still as disorganized as before, albeit standing a little bit more. He asked Vegeta about it, but the Saiyan Prince had no idea how the hybrids worked, since Saiyans usually keep the same hairstyle all their lives.
Erasa began to show very feminine features, more than her friends. She decided to cut her hair short, claiming it was more suited to her face. Her chest started to become more dominant and she had a growth spurt, making her almost as tall as Videl's dad. Her curves started to show, as she appeared from an early age to have a very defined woman's physique. She was still very energetic, albeit becoming more calm and feminine.
Videl also had a growth spurt, albeit not very flagrant, as she inherited her short height from both her parents. Her physique wasn't as defined as Erasa, as her curve and chest wasn't as poignant as the blonde girl. But since she was a little bit more athletic, her tone was more defined than her friend. She decided to keep her hair long, as she switch styles, mainly between a single braid, a high ponytail, and her personal favorite, two pigtails. She wasn't as feminine as Erasa, her curiosity and free-spirit being very dominant features of her character, but she didn't mind. She never liked following a stereotype anyways. And she knew how to be feminine, when needed.
Gohan quickly noticed the changes in his friends, as his Saiyan genes decided it was a good way to tease him. He felt himself looking at them from a different perspective, noticing more their physiques and curves. And to top it all, his genes decided to play him a little, dividing his curiosity between Erasa's physique, and Videl's character. But every time, he would discard any idea that governed his mind, seeing that they were both his friends, and they all saw each other's as siblings.
On the girls' side, the changes in Gohan's physique didn't go unnoticed. Both of them quickly saw how manly he became, despite having the same innocent character he had when he was younger. Erasa continuously teased Videl about it, noticing that her friend started to look at the boy differently. In the end, his character matches hers, especially since both of them were more adventurous than Erasa who didn't like to get her hands dirty. But every time Erasa would tease her, Videl would quickly deny everything. Her mother also noticed the attraction between Videl and Gohan, noticing that both teens started to look at each other differently. It was normal, seeing that their hormones would start to show up, and she didn't mind.
During the past two years, she grew a liking to the young Son boy. She saw how responsible and polite he was, seeing he was also very smart and helpful. They decided to make their trip to the mountains annual, and she became close friends with Chi-Chi, as she was amazed by the determination the Son matron had. She didn't mind if Gohan and Videl grew closer, since the boy was everything a mother would want for her daughter. However, she never opened the subject with her daughter; instead, she wanted her to talk to her about this on her own. And knowing how close she and Videl were, she knew her daughter won't hide a thing from her.
Hercule didn't really approve on the subject, claiming that his daughter was too young to think about this stuff. He didn't want to say it, but he didn't find Gohan fit for her, seeing that their social status was very different. Even if the money was rightfully his, Gohan would still appear as a mountain boy in front of everyone, and that wouldn't suit Videl Satan. However, he never discussed this with his wife, knowing very well that they would fight about this, again and again, like they had for the past two years.
Crime started to resurface in Satan City, just like Hoshiko had predicted it. Crooks wanted to prove they were better than the world champion, and having three years of peace surely helped them gather courage. The city was still considered safe, since Satan donated a lot of money to help the police, but it still wasn't as safe as before. Kids and pre-teens couldn't roam the streets like they used to go to parks, as teenagers never really went out at night alone. Everyone had to adapt to the changes, but it was okay. They felt safe since Hercule was in the city, everyone still obsessed over the fact that he had beaten Cell. His popularity wasn't diminishing, on the contrary, it increased tenfold. It was harder for him to see his family, as the mother-daughter's duo had their privacy cut a bit, especially since Videl had grown up and was starting to look more and more like a woman.
One day, Videl and Erasa were sitting in their usual ice cream parlor, chitchatting about this and that, and Erasa, as usual, was taking over the conversation "Did you see what Mrs. Nagasheki did to her hair? Why? Who cuts their hair this short?"
Videl snorted loudly, waiting for her friend to realize on her own. Eventually, Erasa laughed, now understanding the looks her friend was giving her "You know what I mean. Short or long, everything suits me. But for someone her age, nuh-uh. Not very smart."
Videl rolled her eyes at her as she took a sip of her ice cream "What do you wanna do? Wanna go to my house or stroll a little?"
Erasa started thinking for a while, scrolling on her phone. She then squealed as she showed her friend the screen "Look, there's a bands battle in the park. What do you say? I bet they'll be super cute boys too. Do you think Dai will be there? Ouh, what if I text him?"
Videl chuckled lightly, never understanding her friend's issue with boys. It was like all she could talk about. Nevertheless, she nodded at her, as they quickly finished their ice cream and left towards the park. It could be fun, who knows.
On their way there, they noticed a very familiar spiky hair amongst the crowd, and Erasa quickly held Videl's hand and rushed towards the familiar figure. When they reached the crowd, they started to look around, only to see that Gohan wasn't there. Thinking that they were mistaken, they turned around to continue their way towards the park, only to come head on chest with the familiar traditional white shirt.
Gohan chuckled lightly when he saw his friends being this startled, as he passed his hand behind his neck. Erasa quickly rose her head to meet his, not very happy "I preferred you best when you were shy."
Gohan couldn't but laugh at her "You're the one who wanted me to be more playful. You'll have to make up your mind."
Both Gohan and Videl laughed once they saw the face of Erasa. She clearly didn't like when her words were used against her. She then forgot about what happened, as she quickly hugged her friend, greeting him. And even though she did that every time, Gohan would still get flustered.
He then hugged her back and looked at Videl, blushing lightly, not knowing whether or not he should greet her the same way. But since he didn't want her to be left out, he decided against his better judgement to hug her, making the raven girl blush.
When they let go, Videl looked at him, a question popping in her head "Say Gohan? How do you always know where to find us? Every time you come, you seem to find us easily." She then chuckled playfully "Do you have a radar or something?"
Gohan chuckled lightly. Technically he had one, since he perfectly memorized their Ki signatures. But he couldn't tell her that. Instead, he told them the excuse he spent two years perfecting, thanks to his mother "I actually know your habits. I know which months you like to stroll in the city, when and where you like to go out for ice cream, and where do you like to eat. All I have to do is hope that you're not strolling or trying a new place."
Erasa giggled, playfully stroking his cheek "Aren't you a little genius? Next time you come, we'll make sure to give you a hard time."
The three teens laughed happily, enjoying each other's company.
Then, Erasa's phone beeped, and she looked at the message and Videl "Hakura told me the bands are amazing. She's there with a few classmates. Can we go, please? I beg you."
Videl rolled her eyes, clearly not wanting to go "I'm not in the mood. Besides, Gohan's here. I'm sure he won't enjoy it. You can check it later online anyways. Let's do something else."
Erasa pouted at her friend, before she looked at her devilishly. Videl felt she was going to regret what her friend was gonna say, but she didn't know how much until Erasa opened her mouth and spoke "Well, I wanna go. So you stay with Gohan, do something you both like, like talking books or whatever. I'm going." She then kissed her friends goodbye and started to run "Talk to ya later, Vi." And with that, she disappeared into the crowd.
Gohan and Videl looked at each other, each one blushing more than the other. It's been a while since they stayed alone, and the weird attraction they both felt for the other wasn't helping them.
Gohan then took a big inspiration and looked at his friend, smiling lightly "I'll walk you to the park. If I knew you had plans, I wouldn't have come. I don't want to ruin your afternoon."
Videl started her hands in every direction "No, Kami, no. You saved me before it got ruined. I'm not in the mood for loud music, I have so many things on my mind." She started to rub her hands together before she smiled at the young boy "Since you're here. What do you wanna do? Is there something new you wanna try? I guess there are good movies at the theatre if you want."
Gohan started thinking for a while. Thankfully, Videl's phone rang and she excused herself for a minute, allowing the young boy to check his wallet. He quickly counted how much money he had and made a quick calculation. He didn't have enough to invite Videl to the movies with snacks, and he didn't want her to pay, he felt it wasn't polite. So movies were out of the question. Maybe if they went for dessert? But she just ate ice cream. Then, he got an idea and waited for the girl to finish her call.
She came to him, excusing herself "Sorry, my mom. She wants to see when I'll be back. So, did you decide?"
Gohan nodded lightly at her "The weather's nice, wanna see something cool?"
Videl's eyes sparkled with excitement, making Gohan chuckle. He knew she liked going on light adventures and he enjoyed taking her. He then looked around him and nodded "Okay. Come, with me."
They entered a small shop in which Gohan bought a flashlight. He then saw Videl looking at a bag of sweets and he decided to buy it for her. She told him he didn't have to, but he insisted, saying it was his treat. He then got two cartons of cold juice and a red marker. While he was paying, she shop owner laughed lightly "Taking your girlfriend on an adventure?" They both blushed lightly as the owner packed everything and Gohan paid for them, ignoring Videl's protests.
Once they got outside, he smiled at her "Getting better at telling the time based on the sun?"
Videl looked at him proudly as she checked the sun's position "Yup. We're in March, so it should be around four. Right?" She then looked at her watch, showing 3:52 pm, and jumped excitedly "Yey. I got it right."
Gohan laughed, happy to see her this enthusiast and he continued "There's a cavern not far from here. I saw it last week. Wanna go check it? It won't take long."
She nodded at him "Okay. Then, we can go to my mother's restaurant. What do you say?"
Gohan nodded back as they made their way towards the outskirts of the city.
They reached the cavern at around 4:08 pm, and Gohan took out the flashlight and the marker "I'll mark the walls with this. Who knows, I don't want to get lost. If it's a big cave, we'll come back another time to check it."
Videl nodded understandingly at him, and Gohan smiled. It was a good thing he asked Bulma what regular humans did on trips, seeing he usually relied on his Saiyan senses and Ki sensing abilities. They started to walk inside the cavern, marking every turn they did. They kept walking for a little while until Gohan heard a water sound coming from inside. They followed the direction of the sound, until they reached a water puddles inside, barely illuminated. They looked in awe at the sight, as Gohan noticed blue crystals on the walls. He directed the flashlight in their direction, and the whole cave illuminated in an instant thanks to light reflections.
They smiled at the sight, as Gohan set the bag of snacks on the floor, and walked around the puddles, discovering the cave. He had no idea it would be like this. He saw Videl waiting for him, since she was wearing jeans and white sneakers, and he came back to her side.
They sat on a rock, as Gohan gave Videl a carton of juice and the bag of sweets she chose. She thanked him, blushing lightly, and they sat in a comfortable silence.
But Gohan could feel Videl's Ki, knowing she wasn't at ease, and fearing she didn't enjoy his company without Erasa, he couldn't but ask "Are you alright?"
She faced him, surprised at his question. Did it really show on her that something was bothering her? Or was Gohan this good at reading people? But either way, she didn't want him to feel like she was uncomfortable because of him and she shook her head "Yeah. Sorry. House problems."
He smiled lightly at her, adjusting his sitting position to face her "If you wanna talk about it, I'll always lend an ear."
She didn't know why, but Gohan's presence made her at ease. Erasa already knew about the problems in her house, but she didn't know why she wanted to open up to the young boy, despite not being able to tell the whole truth "I guess I never really told you who is my dad, even though I think you already know that." She saw him wait for her to continue, and she smiled at him "My dad is Hercule Satan, world martial arts champion and defeater of Cell." Gohan looked at her, very surprised. Of all people. He befriended the daughter of the guy who claimed his credits. Fate was really weird, he had to ask Dende about this. And he felt his mother won't be very happy about this. Then, it stroke him. Videl was actually very rich and famous. Why was she friends with someone like him?
She saw him look at her surprisingly and she chuckled "Guess you really live differently in the mountains huh? But yeah, weird right? My dad is super rich and famous, yet here I am enjoying a cave adventure with you." It was like she read his mind and she looked around her "I can't really tell you the specifics but, me and my mom aren't really happy with our current situation. We feel like dad is, umm, getting a little bit full of himself. Cell happened like four years ago, it's time to let it go." Gohan quickly understood that she knew the truth, but is it a good thing to tell her about the Games?
He decided against it once she continued "When my dad became famous, my mother and I decided we didn't want to live this life. So, we moved out of the mansion into the house we live in. My dad would come whenever he can and sleep there, or have dinner with us, while we had our privacy. But he isn't always there and it's really hard, you know? I know I can't compare but I guess you understand a little what it's like when a parent isn't there when you need him." Gohan nodded understandingly at her. Even though she couldn't compare both situation, as she said it, it was hard to have a missing parent. She then sighed lightly "At first it was small events, mostly school stuff. But now, he's hardly home. He's missing every occasion. Christmas, New Year, birthdays, every school events. It's like he doesn't care anymore, and he and my mom are fighting. A lot. Always. I can't stand it anymore."
Gohan waited for her, making sure she was finished talking, and he answered her monologue "I remember when my parents used to fight, when I was younger. I didn't understand what was happening, but I remember it was stressful. I understand what you're going through. But in the end, they can't fight forever, right? They'll have to stop eventually. You're gonna have to remind them to stop the fight earlier. Know what I mean?"
She nodded at him, smiling when she saw him smile heartfully at her. She knew Gohan was very gentle, but today, when she saw it in his eyes, she understood how kind hearted he actually was. And it really warmed her heart. His gaze was so pure.
She then heard her phone buzz, reading a text from her mother asking her where she was. She quickly responded on her way and they both packed their stuff to leave the cave. Gohan paid attention to check the marks he left, to avoid raising suspicions as they made their way outside, laughing happily. Neither told the other, but it was like a secret promise was made that this cave would always be there's to share.
After around twenty minutes, they reached the restaurant and saw Hoshiko waiting for them, food platters on the table. She smiled when she saw Gohan as the latter bowed at her "Mrs. Satan. I hope you're doing well."
She rolled her eyes at him, hugging the young boy "Stop calling me Mrs. Satan, please. I feel like I'm an old woman. Or worse, my mother-in-law." Both teens laughed at her as she sat "What do you want to eat? I wished Videl told me you were with her, but I can ask my assistant to prepare something for you real fast." She then smiled at him "I can prepare all your favorites."
Gohan shook his head, taking a glimpse at Videl's watch "Another time, I have to run."
Videl tilted her head at him "You sure you don't wanna eat? You didn't eat anything, I'm sure you're hungry. It's almost dinner time."
Gohan chuckled lightly as he shook his head, excusing himself. He waved them both goodbye and left the restaurant.
Hoshiko waited for him to leave before she looked at her daughter "So, where were you?"
Videl swallowed the bite of her chicken as she told her mother everything about their cave adventure. Hoshiko smiled as her daughter was counting the tale, as she saw her eyes sparkle with excitement, something she had missed for the past few days, ever since she and Hercule started fighting more and more.
When Videl finished, Hoshiko noticed something in her story, and couldn't but ask about it "Wait. You told him about our problems? I thought you weren't this comfortable sharing this with anyone besides Erasa. What happened?"
She then noticed Videl blushed lightly, and the mother quickly understood what her eyes were saying, as the young girl answered "I guess I'm comfortable around him."
Hoshiko smiled lightly as she held her daughter's hand "Monkey." The young girl looked at her mother in the eyes "I guess you're starting to like Gohan. Like, like him." Videl blushed lightly but, nonetheless, she nodded at her mother. She was right, everyone was right, she was developing feelings for the young boy.
Gohan sighed as he held the bag of dirty clothes on his back and flew outside Capsules Corp. They had decided to pass the afternoon with the Briefs, letting Goten play with young Trunks. Everything was fine until the demonic duo decided it would be funny to pull the table cloth, spilling everyone's drink on their clothes. And of course, he happened to be drinking juice which was very sticky.
He tried to ignore the deadly looks Vegeta gave him while he was trying clothes from his closet. And he was sure that the death glares the Saiyan Prince was sending him was due to the fact that he didn't really enjoy that a fourteen years old was about the same height as him. Bulma then asked him to get the dirty clothes to the dry cleaner, but of course he would be in Satan City, since Vegeta had scared off all the ones in West City. His luck couldn't be worse.
And the worst part was how uncomfortable he was in Vegeta's clothes. It's like the Prince liked all his clothes tight, to show his intimidating muscles. That or Bulma really enjoyed watching said muscles under his clothes, even though he couldn't understand why. He was wearing very tight dark pants and a pink button-up shirt. Clothes he never thought would wear. And his luck couldn't have been worse, he was actually asking Bulma for advice on what to give Videl for her upcoming birthday, and he didn't get any answer. Could this day go any worse?
He reached the city, only to find it very empty for this time of day. He found the dry cleaner and entered, noticing the staff plastered around the television. He quickly asked what was happening, as the shop owner responded, never taking his eyes off the television "Kidnappers took Mr. Satan's daughter hostage. They claim that the champ isn't strong enough to beat them up and they want five million zenis to let her go. They said if anyone tried something funny, they would break the girl and kill her. The police doesn't know that to do and the champ isn't in the city."
Gohan stood still. Of course Hercule isn't in the city, he never was anyway. He had to do something. He quickly gave the bag to the owner "Under CC's name. Call them when they're done." And he left in a rush.
He had to do something. Dende knows what they could do to her. Videl was strong, but she wasn't a fighter like her dad, so she won't be able to defend herself properly. The basic self-defense moves she knew weren't enough. He quickly scanned the city, noticing a large number of Kis gathered in one area, and he transformed into a Super Saiyan before he rushed to the place. It didn't take him long since no one payed attention to a golden blur passing, everyone focused on TV in several shops.
He then flew to the top of a building and analyzed the situation. He saw the police cars around the house, where he assumed Videl was held hostage. He saw her mother standing upfront, tears on her cheeks, and Erasa was next to her, trying to calm her down. He analyzed the house rapidly, as he flew noiselessly, and saw a window in the back. He then ducked behind a bush and saw Videl tied to a chair, tears falling. They were two men with her, one he assumed was the boss, and a third guy at the entrance, keeping a close eye on the police.
He started to think about a plan, until he heard the man outside speak "If the champ ain't coming with the money, he won't see his daughter. So hurry up, stop wastin' our time." Then, to prove his statement, they opened to door of the room where Videl was. The door was facing the front door, and Videl appeared in plain sight to her mother and the police. Gohan could see Hoshiko trying to hold up her tears when she saw her daughter tied up to the chair, but then the boss smirked at the mother before he turned his attention to Videl, and Gohan could see evil emanating from his eyes.
The crook then stood still and slapped the young girl with all his might, making her and the chair fall to the ground. When he saw this, and upon hearing Hoshiko's screams, Gohan snapped as he dashed through the window, landing a kick right in the crook's stomach, sending dashing towards the wall. The other twos quickly attacked him but Gohan ducked, making them smash with each other. He then backflipped, kicking the first one unconscious. When the second tried to attack him, he ducked again and uppercut him in his jaw, making him see stars.
Then, he quickly untied Videl, noticing several bruises on her body, and his eyes turned a shade darker. He then heard a click and turned around, seeing the boss smirking at him while carrying a gun. Gohan smirked back, his transformed state making him more cocky than usual, and waited for the crook to fire. Then, he got the bullet before anyone could say a word, and flicked it back, barely avoiding the kidnapper, making him shiver. He approached him calmly before he punched him in the stomach, knocking him out.
He approached Videl as he tried to held her to carry her outside, but the latter quickly backed up at the unfamiliar figure. Even though he just saved her, it was understandable she would still be afraid of him after what happened. He nodded compassionately and stepped up when the police and Hoshiko entered. He smiled when the mother hugged her daughter and Hoshiko quickly faced him "Thank you. A thousand times thank you. But how? And how can I ever repay you?" She and Videl then froze in place when they saw him.
It took a little time, but Videl would recognize the boy anywhere. The Delivery Boy, the real world savior. And he saved her, of all people, despite her father's lies. She couldn't believe it. Hoshiko on the other hand, recognized the eyes. Even though they were different, and the hair color wasn't black, she'd recognize these eyes anywhere. A pure gaze. She was sure of it, it was Gohan. Then, she remembered the picture in his house, with the two blonde people in it. There are no doubts, it must have been Gohan and his father. But how?
The figure didn't say a word as he waved them goodbye, and flew off the window. Everyone looked in choc; they boy had just flew. Just like that. Hoshiko regained her senses, trying to understand everything, before she saw the bruises on her daughter's hands and she quickly had her check up by the paramedics. Once she was sure that everything was okay, they left the scene towards their house. The last thing Videl needed right now, was to be around many people. It was a miracle she accepted to enter in the car.
Hoshiko kept walking back and forth in the living room, trying to understand everything that happened. First of all, her daughter was kidnapped, and her idiotic husband didn't show up. Then, Gohan, blonde nonetheless, came out of nowhere, and saved her. How was he blonde? How did he found them and sneaked without anyone noticing them? How did he beat the crooks up? How did he catch the bullet? How did he fly? She could actually hear the gears in her head working. Then, she saw Videl coming out of her room, as the latter couldn't sleep. And at the moment, the most important question passed through the mother's mind; would Videl be able to get pass this?
They then heard the lock click as Videl quickly screamed and hid behind the TV. Hoshiko's heart sank when she saw her daughter's state and she stood firmly, ready to give her husband the scolding of his life.
Hercule quickly entered the room, only to be greeted by his very angry wife who didn't let him speak "WHAT THE HECK! Where were you? I-I can't even look at you. Do you know what state we were in? Look at your daughter, hiding behind the TV."
Hercule say the frightened look on his daughter's face and he sighed "I came as soon as I could. The authorities didn't want me to come. They claimed they had everything under control. What happened?"
He regretted his words as he could see the fumes coming out of his wife's ears "Excuse me? So your life is more important than your daughter's?" She then chose her words very carefully around her daughter "IF the Delivery Boy didn't come, Kami knows what could've happened with this incompetent police. Do you wanna know what happened? You daughter was happily spending the afternoon with Erasa at the park, only for a car to come and pick her up. And while she's terrified and in danger, you were actually safe because it's too dangerous for the world champion to come and save his daughter? That's it, that's the last straw."
Hercule noticed a determined look on his wife's face as she looked at Videl "We're leaving this city. I told you two years ago this could happen, and you didn't listen. I'm not putting her life in danger anymore. Tomorrow, I'll make personal calls and we're leaving. We won' tell anyone where, so we can finally live at peace. Have fun with your life, but my daughter is worth much more to me than anything in the world."
Hoshiko then crouched to Videl's level, helping her get up and she directed her to her room. She promised her she would be back in an instant, as she went down and fought with her husband some more. Videl could hear their screams, albeit not really understanding what they were saying, but she knew, in this moment, that something had broken.