Chapter 2



The announcer came on the speaker in the waiting room, announcing that fighters 11 and 12 were up. Some fighters started snickering, but became quiet when Vegeta passed them. They started whispering amongst themselves, and Marie's cheeks became red. Vegeta just stared straight ahead. They made their way up the arena steps as they were announced to the crowd. The drum roll and then the bong announced the beginning of the fight. Vegeta stayed in his usual stance, arms folded and legs shoulder width apart. Marie got into horse stance, arms at her sides, fists facing up, legs slightly bent. They both watched each other as the crowd chanted. Then Vegeta smirk and unfolded his arms. Marie watched him, eyes narrowed. Then he flew towards her, lifting of the ground with a boost of energy. She watched Vegeta, anticipating his next move. He was still smiling as she blocked his punch, and gave one of her own. He flew back a little, then waited for her to attack him. She didn't disappoint him. They both clashed, Vegeta still wearing his little smirk. Fists and legs went flying. Then they locked hands, using their power and energy to best the other. The arena floor started coming apart, piece by piece, as they continued to increase their power. Vegeta narrowed his eyes.

"I'm not letting go." Vegeta said, letting out another blast of energy.

Marie smiled. "Neither am I." She said, doing the same.

Both of their pride at stake, neither gave in or relented, oblivious that they were tearing the battle ring up. Then they both blasted at each other, finally separating. Vegeta held out a hand, dissolving her blast. She moved slightly, easily avoiding his. They stood there, staring at one another. Goku watched, his arms folded, his eyebrows narrowed, deep in thought. Marie sighed.

"This battle will never be finished, unless one of us gives up. And I know you Vegeta, you will not do that." Marie smirked. "But neither will I."

Vegeta nodded.

"Then what do you propose?" he asked, folding his arms.

Marie thought for a moment, then snapped her fingers.

"Why don't we declare a draw, then go train!?"

Vegeta's eyebrows shot up. "A draw? Train?"

"Yes, we will never finish this fight, so neither of us is going to win. And since that's the case, why don't we use this time to train?"

Vegeta grinned at her. "Fine."

He lowered himself to the ground, and made his way towards the judges. They raised their eyebrows, clearly shocked. He turned and flew back over to Marie, ignoring the judges questions.

"Ready?" Marie nodded.

They flew off, listening as the shocked announcer called their draw, and departure. Goku watched them leave, grinning from ear to ear.



Dende, now the watcher and protector of earth, looked up and smiled as Vegeta and Marie landed. He stood and made his way over to the fighters.

"Hello, nice to see you two."

Vegeta gave a nod, and Marie waved.

"We're going to use the time chamber to train Dende." Vegeta said, crossing his arms. Marie rolled her eyes.

"MAY we use the time chamber to train, Dende?"

Vegeta gave Marie a look. She sent one right back to him.

"Well, you need to learn to be nice once in awhile, Vegeta. Not everything is handed to you." Vegeta frowned, then looked back at Dende, grinding his teeth.

Dende looked from one to the other, trying not to laugh. He could clearly tell that Vegeta liked Marie. But did Marie like Vegeta? He pondered this question as he nodded, giving them permission to use the time chamber. He also reminded them of the one-year limit. Vegeta grunted. Marie shot him another look, then nodded at Dende.

"We remember Dende, thanks."

Vegeta and Marie made their way into the chamber, closing the door behind them. Dende stared at the door, then looked towards Goku, who had just landed.

"Their already in there Dende?" Goku asked.

Dende nodded. Goku smiled and slapped him on the back.

"It's going to be very interesting to see what comes out of this. Isn't it Goku." Goku smiled in answer.

They made their way towards Dende's home. Goku paused and looked towards the time chamber. Then he smiled. This is really going to be interesting to see what develops, he thought, turning and walking in the house.