A/N – once again, my apologies for a late update. You see, I've come upon a complication: I can't decide how to get from here to the end. Just a warning, unless a spark of genius zaps me one of these nights, it might be a while till the next update. But don't worry; I couldn't possibly lose it so close to the end of a story.

Changing Faces

Part 2 – Choices They Make

Chapter 30 – The Necklace Decree

The sun was burning overhead, and Gohan reached up and wiped the sweat from his brow. The trek to the courtroom was not a long distance, but for the Chikyuu-jin (sorry if it's spelled wrong, sounds better than Earthling), who was not accustomed to such heat, the trip was arduous. It was noon, and time for Gohan to meet with Queen Matiko.

Upon arrival, his first impression of the courtroom was one of awe. The hugeness of the cavern represented the queen's authority and vast power. Gohan momentarily pictured Videl seated on the generous throne chair, with a matching one beside it for him.

It was then that a particular thought occurred to him. The culture of the Pandovans would never allow a man to join their queen at the throne. The royal daughters never even knew their fathers.

How selfish of me, he thought, suddenly disgusted with himself, How could I have asked her to choose between her people and me?

A procession of noblewomen and the royal family began. They entered in order of their seats, with Matiko entering last. In her hands she held an orange bandana, similar to Videl's. Gohan carefully watched Videl. She glanced at him; the look was indecipherable to the half-Saiyan.

Gohan, she plaintively thought.

"Welcome to the Royal Courtroom of Pandova, Gohana. We have gathered to honor your bravery and courage," Matiko began, "And as Queen Mother of Pandova, I present this belt to you."

She approached Gohan and tied the bandana around his waist, completing a perfect knot in front. She stepped back and the room erupted in applause. The clapping echoed around the room and took some time to die down.

"You are now an honorary member of Pandova Fighting Elite, and we respect your courage to undertake this mission of utmost importance. I speak for the entire populous: Thank you, Gohana," Matiko finished.

Again, the clapping roared. Gohan smiled as he compared his belt to Videl's. They were exact. Videl silently mouthed to him to turn and face the courtroom. He did. It was then that he noticed a necklace similar to the one Videl had given him years earlier. He then became aware of many other women who wore the necklace.

Strange... Now that I think about it, Videl is about the only one here who isn't wearing that necklace. Oh I have so many questions! (A/N - poor Gohan! He can't get a break)

The day passed quickly for Gohan, and at dinner, he surprised the Pandovans by keeping up with their appetites. Little did they know that he also had a Saiyan stomach. While there, he managed to ask what the meaning of the necklace was without being rude.

Javera was obliged to reveal the mystery. She rested her knife on the table and gave Gohan her attention.

"That is an acceptable question, Gohana. The necklace itself has no real meaning; it is the gem that is special, called the Gem of Pandova. First, I must explain to you about bonding. It is an act that ties a woman and a man for eternity. It is also forbidden here on Pandova. When a person bonds, there is a change in their body chemistry. The gem releases chemicals through skin contact that breakdown the muscles and organs. The person slowly dies," she ended somberly.

"Are necklaces required," Gohan asked, concerned for Videl.

"No, but if you do not wear one for consecutive days or weeks, you are brought to trial and forced to wear it. The gem will glow as the chemicals react with your cells. It is a terrible way to die, indeed. But I guess some are willing to pay the price."

Now this is a precarious turn of events. If Videl's mark is revealed, she will be put to death, Gohan thought with a tremor of fear. He could remember feeling that hopeless before as he had watched his father, mentor, and friends die at the hands of evil. The same ache pounded in his heart, the butterflies tickled his belly, and a sick feeling crept up his throat.

"What have I done?" He pondered silently.

He remained for a short time, listening to Pandovan talk of government and politics, but excused himself as he had lost his appetite.