Chapter 50

The intervening weeks had passed by somewhat peacefully. Zarbon pinched his fingers to the bridge of his nose and bowed his head a little, closing his eyes as he stood in front of the window. Arlia loomed in the distance, the tawny surface of the planet looking even more dry and cracked from space. He sighed and opened his eyes, focusing on his reflection in the glass, and quickly tucked stray hairs into place. Are you ready? a low voice asked from behind him, and his eyes snapped to the person reflected over his shoulder.

As ever, my lord, Zarbon said, and turned to look at the dark eyes coldly. Yes, the weeks had passed by as peacefully as could be expected. Vegeta was only extremely irritating when he knocked on the door of Zarbon's chambers in the middle of the night, wanting to train. The bed chamber and the training rooms were the only places that the prince seemed to want to inhabit, which had left Zarbon to do all the work of the Emperor. He sighed- he indulged Vegeta too much, just like he would have spoiled a little brother. Besides, Vegeta had been so deprived of real companionship his whole life, and it did him good to be with his new wife. Why, he could even remember what that felt like, even though it had been so long ago...he pushed the thought away and let the tiniest smile curl his lips. Are you ready, sire? he whispered.

Vegeta raised an eyebrow. Does it matter? he replied with uncharacteristic bitterness, the heat gone from his voice momentarily. I was ready the moment I knew the truth of the destruction of my homeworld.

Zarbon nodded and stared into Vegeta's face, the features etched with maturity. This Saiyan boy had become a man somewhere along the line. He knew he presumed much, but he reached out just the same and put his large hand on Vegeta's shoulder. I know. I believe in you and we will win this. I just want to make sure you remember that you're not alone. Bulma and I both care for you, and it has nothing to do with the fact that you're an emperor.

Vegeta merely stared back at him with expressionless black eyes, his body suddenly still beneath Zarbon's touch.

Zarbon smiled uneasily, unsure of what Vegeta's reaction meant. Good. Well, then, your majesty, shall we go to your chambers and outfit you for arrival?

A small smile of Vegeta's flickered briefly over his sharp features. If we must. I detest the ceremonial armor, he growled.

Zarbon exaggerated his sigh and rolled his eyes. Heh. As if that wife of yours ever lets you wear anything for more than a few moments, he said dryly.

Vegeta actually chuckled. That obvious, eh? he murmured.

Zarbon raised an eyebrow and took up his position behind Vegeta's shoulder. We'd better be moving along, sire, he prodded, following Vegeta as he sighed, shook his head, and moved off down the corridor towards his compartments.

Bulma positioned herself at Vegeta's side as everyone lined up for disembarking, the ship trembling slightly as hatches began to unseal. She glanced at her husband apprehensively, a little put off by his granite expression. It seemed to her as if he barely even blinked. If only she could feel so calm! She sighed and adjusted her gown, reaching up quickly to see if her earrings were in place.

Stop your fidgeting, woman, Vegeta hissed through clenched teeth.

She shot him an angry look, then softened as she took in the sight of him. He wore a black bodysuit and his armor was plated with gold over the stomach and epaulets, with the symbol of the House of Vejiitasei on his breast. The folds of his heavy cape fell nearly to the floor and she couldn't help notice how striking he looked. The uncertainty she felt over her own state of appearances suddenly bubbled to the surface and she scowled uneasily.

Don't be foolish, he growled at her, his endlessly black eyes sliding over briefly to meet hers.

I'm not, she protested, annoyed that he seemed to consistently pick the very thoughts right out of her head. Aren't you nervous in the least? And you already know that they'll listen to you! What if they don't like me? she whispered, leaning in towards him so no one would overhear.

No, only an idiot would be nervous, he said, his scowl deepening almost imperceptibly. Oh, well, then of course you would be nervous.

she gasped. How dare you!

he interrupted sharply. Are you still nervous?

No, I'm angry, she said, crossing her arms over her chest.

Then it worked, he whispered, and slid his tail around her waist. She blushed and let her hand gently graze the brown fur, glancing at him briefly to see his reaction. He trembled slightly and the corner of his mouth turned up, but he continued to stare straight ahead.

Get ready, Zarbon said from Vegeta's other shoulder. The hatch groaned as it opened itself, and suddenly daylight poured into the vessel. And go, Zarbon whispered, and Vegeta stepped out of his ship, his lady on his arm.

Bulma's fingers tightened on Vegeta's gloved forearm, gritting her teeth as she plastered a grin on her face and blinked at the sudden light. All hail Emperor Vegeta! Zarbon bellowed, his clear voice carrying over the heads of the huge crowd assembled. All hail Emperor Vegeta and his new Empress!

Shocked exclamations rippled through the crowd and Bulma felt all eyes on her, Vegeta suddenly being the only thing that was holding her upright as they descended the ramp. He steered her towards a red carpet laid out on the ground and as soon as his white-booted foot touched the planet's surface a huge, joyful cry erupted from everyone gathered. Bulma's eyes widened and she looked at Vegeta, her face pale.

What? Still upset? she heard him say into her head.

If I think at you can you hear me? she whispered, her lips not moving.

Of course. Your tiny human mind has no telepathic defenses whatsoever.

Well, then, she thought back at him, hoping he truly could hear her. It's just that I really hate bugs. You didn't tell me that we were coming to a planet populated by giant bugs.

And if I had would you still have come with me? he asked her.

She turned and glanced at him, a genuine smile gracing her lips for a moment. Of course.

He looked over at her with a raised eyebrow and gazed at her for several moments before a tiny chuckle escaped him. He closed his eyes and shook his head briefly to himself, then gestured with his nose to direct her attention to the end of the carpet. At the end of the carpet stood one of the largest men she had ever seen in her entire life, his mouth turned downwards at the corners underneath a thin moustache. His hard, dark eyes stared at her menacingly, his gaze moving over her until stopping abruptly at where Vegeta's tail was draped about her waist. Shock moved openly over his face, his meaty jaw working but producing no words. She felt Vegeta's body tighten and he patted her hand once. Vegeta said, almost spitting the words as they stopped in front of the large man. It has been quite a while.

Yes, my lord, the large man replied with a deep bow. This is your Empress?

Vegeta shot Bulma a detached look. Yes, this is my wife, Bulma.

The bald man's forehead wrinkled as if in distress. W-wife? You married her?

Of course, Vegeta replied. It was the only course open to me.

Tell the whole universe, why don't you, Bulma growled, pinching Vegeta's arm as hard as she could.

Vegeta showed no sign of feeling pain at her attack. I expect to hear your full report later on this evening, he said to Nappa. He turned to the large, purplish bug standing next to Nappa. Atlia, how does this day find you?

The bug bowed, holding its sash in place with a segmented hand. It finds me well, sire. Empress, it is my profound pleasure to make your acquaintance. We knew when you would arrive, but we did not know you would be of such astounding beauty, the Arlian rasped.

Bulma blushed. Perhaps the bugs wouldn't be so bad, after all. Why, thank you, Atlia, she murmured, mentally sticking her tongue out at Vegeta. I am pleased to meet you as well.

And she is gracious of spirit in addition, the Arlian said with a nod of his head. She will make a fine empress.

That is my desire, Vegeta said dryly, glancing at Bulma with an unreadable expression. I trust that you shall school her personally in the running of the Empire?

Atlia's pupiless eyes stayed on Vegeta for long moments. Of course, sire, it would be my pleasure, he replied.

Bulma's cheeks colored again. I think that you didn't an excellent job in your choice of top administrator, Vegeta, she said, nodding at Atlia.

A small smile crept across Vegeta's face. In that, too, I had no other course available, he said coldly.

Sire? Is there anything else? Zarbon interrupted, turning to glance at Radditz and Nappa, who were regarding one another, tails bristling.

Vegeta followed Zarbon's gaze. I suppose not. We shall get right down to business. Atlia, have your lifemate show the Empress around the city. Since this will continue to be our primary base of operation she may as well be familiar with it, he ordered.

Bulma's fingers clutched more vehemently at his gloved forearm. she hissed softly. You're leaving me already?

Vegeta scowled at her, twisting his arm abruptly out of her grasp. I have better things to do than babysit you, woman, he snarled quietly back. Atlia, take her.

Yes, sire, the Arlian said with a bow, gently taking Bulma by the arm and escorting her away. She turned her head for a moment, blue eyes brimming with tears for a second before her look changed from heartbroken to homicidal.

You're in trouble later, Zarbon commented dryly to Vegeta.

What could she possibly to do me? he said with a snort.

Zarbon smiled in spite of himself. It's not what she will do, it's what she won't do. Never underestimate the power of a woman, he said with a chuckle.

Vegeta snarled and stalked away towards the palace.

Nappa watched Zarbon and Vegeta pull ahead before turning to Radditz with accusing eyes. What happened during the past year? What is this insanity with the Earth female?

Vegeta married her, Nappa. There's nothing more to know than that, Radditz replied, pinching his fingers to the bridge of his nose in an unconscious imitation of ChiChi.

Is it true? Nappa demanded, grabbing Radditz by the edge of the armor.

You have no right to demand that, Radditz growled.

As your commander I have every right, Nappa snapped.

Radditz brushed away the larger man's hand. In case you haven't noticed, things have changed. You know that we found Kakarott. He's only slightly less strong than the Prince himself. I'm his brother and we spent the majority of the past half year training. You may still be my commander, Nappa, but I am stronger than you are now and have nothing to fear.

You should be afraid even if you are stronger, which I doubt. I'm an elite, Radditz. Even if we were on a level I still have decades of experience more than you. I'd watch your mouth- you know that we get stronger after serious injury, and there's no wound as serious as death. I'd say that I'm probably a lot stronger than you remember, soldier, Nappa hissed.

Radditz shrugged. Well, neither of us are as strong as the Prince, and yet it is our duty to protect and serve him. You see to your job and I'll see to mine.

Nappa narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms over his chest. he grumbled. Now report to the throne chamber for your duty assignment.

Radditz nodded once and began to move away when he stopped suddenly, his head slowly turning from side to side. Uh, Commander, he said, voice trailing off into the dusty wind.

Nappa scowled and marched forward. He had forgotten that Radditz had never seen the capital before, let alone navigated it. Follow me, he ordered, and the two of them took flight.


She stood on the balcony, her hands resting lightly on the stone rail as she looked out over the city. The remaining sunlight filtered through the thick clouds of the dusty atmosphere and stained everything red, making the pale stone of the surrounding buildings seem as if they were bleeding. The flesh underneath her eyes tightened and she realized she was pressing her lips together, knowing well the expression of dissatisfaction that must be on her face. She heard a door open and shut heavily in the chamber behind her, but she only glanced over her shoulder to see if she could actually peer into the darkened room behind the thick curtains. Nothing was visible and she turned her gaze back to the city, mentally replacing the arid, drab landscape with the water and vegetation of Earth. Why had he brought her to such a desolate place?

Did Atlia give a good tour? a deep voice said behind her.

Yes. He's very kind, she murmured tonelessly, not taking her eyes away from the city.

A grunt was released and she felt rather than saw him stand beside her. He stood there, quietly breathing, for long moments before he finally turned to her, resting his backside against the railing. You know we shall have to be married again, he said quietly, fixing her with eyes as black and inescapable as tar. The whole Empire expects it.

It was hard enough to marry you once, she said glumly, tearing her gaze from his. Don't you ever want to live anywhere that has different colors? she asked testily, gesturing out at the monochromatic city with a pale, slender hand.

Vegeta shrugged. That is the only color I need, he said, his eyes focusing on the buildings, now stained an even deeper red by the light of the hidden sun.

I don't like it here, she said softly, her chin falling to her chest.

I didn't ask you to, he replied sharply, his scowl deepening. She shut her eyes tightly and he sighed. You've only been here a day, he said more patiently.

I don't care. I want to go home. I want to be with people who care about me.

Nonsense. You'll grow to like space once you stop acting like a spoiled child.

Did I ask you to leave everything you knew and loved? she snapped, her eyes flashing as her head popped upright. He narrowed his eyes and opened his mouth to reply but she cut him short. Oh, wait, you don't love anything or anyone and you think you already know everything!

What's your problem, woman? he growled, staring at her.

We just got here, Vegeta. We've been married only a few weeks, and yet the second we make planetfall you abandon me! I'm in a place I've never been with a species I don't know and you never stopped for a second to think about how I might need you or want you at a time like this!

Now listen here, he began, rolling his hands into fists.

Shut up! she shouted, bringing her hand down on the stone. There was an audible crack and she cried out, suddenly cradling her hand. Tears began to roll down her cheeks. I came here for you, Vegeta, she croaked, her chest starting to heave. I wanted to be with you, but how do I know that you feel the same? How do I know that you're worth everything I've given up to be with you?

He stared at her for long moments, his eyes occasionally flickering to where she clutched her wounded hand. Suddenly he stepped nearer and took her hand with surprising gentleness, probing it lightly with his thumbs and fingers. Nothing's broken, he said, voice soft but still gruff. You're lucky.

she said with a sniffle, starting to shake her head and pull away.

He tightened his grip, his other hand rising to her cheek and holding her head in position so that she was forced to look at him. You listen to me, Bulma, he said. How do you know that I haven't thought the same thing? How do I know you are worth what I have given up?

She was crying in earnest. What have you given up, Vegeta? she sobbed. What could that cold heart of yours possibly want?

I gave up Saiyan dignity for you, woman, he said brusquely. I gave up the unconditional loyalty of one of the only soldiers left of my race. I gave up a long and productive reign. I gave up much.

Her mouth opened in protest but brushed against fabric instead of air. She realized with surprise that he had pulled her to him and now held her, a hand moving up and down her back. It was almost reassuring. So much has happened, she said with a little hiccup.

She felt his chest vibrate as his laugh rumbled deep inside of him. Yes, much has happened, he agreed, and held her away from him. He closed his eyes and leaned in towards her, taking her mouth in a kiss. I know how to stop that hand from hurting, he whispered into her ear, his tongue following his words in lapping at her earlobe.

She nodded and sighed, closing her eyes and leaning into him.


A cry escaped her throat and her body shook with a great spasm before she collapsed forward onto his bare chest, her eyes closed as she struggled for air against his sweaty neck. She could feel the hammering of his heart beneath her palms, his breath ragged in his throat as his thick arms curled around her and pressed her body closer to his. She lay there for a while on his chest until her panting subsided, her muscles feeling loose and comfortable as weak sunlight began to filter through the heavy gauze curtains of the spacious room. With a sigh pushed herself upright, still straddling him, and looked down at his body, perfect and sculpted beneath her. He let his hands fall to the mattress at his sides and his black eyes slowly opened to look at her. A smile broke across her face like the sunrise. Good morning, my beautiful prince, she said gaily, running her fingertips across his taut pectorals.

he replied, closing his eyes again and arching his spine in response to her touch. Her smile took on a wicked cast and she let her hands explore his chest, toying with his skin. He reached up and grabbed her wrist, pulling it behind her back and pinning it there. She giggled and pretended to struggle while he caught her other arm and placed it with the other one. Without opening his eyes he sat up and buried his head in her chest and she gasped as he began to move beneath her once more. She closed her eyes again and reveled in the warm feeling of his mouth across her skin, her desire beginning to build up again as he picked up his pace, when suddenly a knock sounded at the door. She yanked her hands out of his loose grip and stared in horror as the door began to swing inward. Vegeta merely laughed and planted his hands on her hips, holding her to him as he continued his movements.

she hissed angrily, trying to pull herself off of him and watch the door at the same time.

He met her anger with a sneer. What? Do you have something to hide? he snickered.

A flush stained her cheeks and neck, spreading all the way down her chest. It's inappropriate! she protested.

A cruel smile wound across his face. I am the Emperor. I deem what is or isn't appropriate, he said calmly, picking up his pace.

She gasped in spite of herself, curling her body towards him and setting her forehead on his shoulder. Please, be reasonable, she pleaded weakly, finding it more and more difficult to keep her concentration.

Is this a bad time? she heard Zarbon's voice say from the doorway. She glanced over and saw that although he had unlatched the door he hadn't opened it all the way, still granting them visual, if not audio, privacy.

Vegeta leaned back a little, the smile still on his lips as he glanced at the door. Only if you don't want to watch, he called back. Bulma scowled angrily and ground her hips against his, a triumphant little grin spreading across her face as he took in a sharp breath and closed his eyes momentarily.

I'll wait here, then. Take your time, Zarbon replied from the other side of the heavy door. I just wanted to remind you that you don't have time to lay abed for so long.

Vegeta gasped again as Bulma twisted on top of him. A few more minutes, he told Zarbon, voice hoarse. He shuddered beneath her and flopped back on the cushions, her eyes fixed on him in fascination as his muscles contracted and relaxed with his spasms.

Aw, you beat me, she pouted, putting her hands on his rippling stomach. Suddenly his eyes flew open and he twisted, suddenly pressing her back into the mattress and redoubling his efforts.

Come back in fifteen minutes, Vegeta commanded Zarbon roughly, and Bulma was only dimly aware of Zarbon's annoyed muttering as the door slid shut.


You don't have time for that sort of thing, Zarbon said with a scowl after Bulma ducked into the bathchamber.

Vegeta finished tugging on his pants and turned to fix a dark glare on his aide. That's none of your business, he said sternly.

Zarbon sighed and shook his head. For the millionth time it is, Vegeta. You need to be reestablishing ties with your own empire now, not playing around. Did you not hire me to help you run this operation smoothly?

I hired you to take you away from Freeza, Vegeta spat, reaching down and picking his shirt up off of the floor. I want everything that is important to Freeza.

I'm afraid you overestimated my worth, Zarbon said. I think we both have.

Vegeta's scowl deepened as he turned his shirt right side out. It doesn't matter, he said with a grunt.

Zarbon rubbed his temples. Listen, Vegeta. You want me to train you and I'm doing the best I can. You've been making great leaps and bounds in your fighting, but you still need practice if you're going to fight on my level. You won't be able to overpower Freeza with sheer brute force. Well, fighting his empire with yours is pretty much the same situation. I can train you to run your empire, but you have to accept my teachings in that arena as well. Now do you understand why you can't just sit around and play with your wife?

Vegeta turned on Zarbon in fury, his black eyes narrowed dangerously. It is not mere he hissed.

Zarbon raised an eyebrow, his golden gaze glittering. No? Well, someday you're actually going to have to talk to her. A marriage isn't only about copulation, you know.

Vegeta curled his lip. Oh? And what makes you such an expert?

Zarbon's face went completely cold, all emotion leaving his flesh. You don't know very much about my past, Vegeta. I've been around a lot longer than you have. You have the right to ask that question when you give me the answer to what those hairline scars are from, he said, pointing a finger at the tiny lines above Vegeta's collarbones.

Vegeta's eyes widened and his jaw went slack. he whispered. How did you know about those?

It was Zarbon's turn to narrow his eyes. I noticed them. Bulma's bound to notice them too, soon if she hasn't already. They're all over you; on your wrists, in the curve of your elbows, above your navel, down your spine, even on the backs of your hands. Is that why you always wear gloves?
I wear gloves to protect my royal flesh from contact with offal like you, Vegeta growled.

Zarbon tilted his head, brushing some stray strands of hair out of his eyes. I suppose that could be true. You wore them even as a little boy. But I know for a fact you didn't have all those tiny scars when you joined Freeza. Am I wrong, Vegeta? Am I mistaken?

Silence filled the room, Vegeta's coal black eyes meeting Zarbon's golden gaze. They stood for a long time like that, the sparks passing between them almost visible, before Vegeta finally glanced away. Zarbon nodded once. Bulma, could you come out here please? he asked gently.

There was a rustling sound and Bulma appeared, wrapped in an oversized, gauzy Arlian robe. Her blue eyes darted between the two men apprehensively.

Say good bye to your husband for the day. I fear I must steal him from you, Zarbon said, genuinely apologetic.

She sighed, her cheeks stained red and obviously still embarrassed about earlier. No, I understand, Zarbon. Make sure he does what he needs to do.

Zarbon looked at her for some time, noticing the fine lines that were beginning to appear on her face as a result of life with Vegeta. It wouldn't surprise him if she started getting gray hairs soon. For a split second he longed to reach out to her and give her a reassuring pat, to tell her that he understood what she was going through, to tell her that she wasn't alone, but instead he just looked impatiently at Vegeta.

Vegeta shot her one cold look before turning his back on her, sliding his shirt on and picking up his armor. Let us do what is necessary, Zarbon, he said curtly and left the room.

Zarbon watched as Bulma's eyes became moist and then hardened. Poor thing- Vegeta was hard enough to like. He couldn't imagine what it must be like to be in love with the Saiyan. Perhaps there was something he could do to make her feel less lonely. Perhaps someday, but not at the moment. There were pressing matters that needed to be dealt with. Good day, Empress, Zarbon said with a little bow and what he hoped was a kind smile. I shall have your husband returned to you as soon as I can.

To his surprise she actually smiled at him, running a finger along the lower lid of her eye. Thanks, Zarbon, she replied, and solemnly turned to go back into the bathchamber.