----------------
Indigo Spice
----------------
By: Hatti Lee*
Also known as:
Saiyajin Peach 18,
Amalthea*, and
BelovedAnimosity
Contact: Beloved_Animosity@sbcglobal.net
Started: 5.9.2
Finished: 9.12.3
Author's Notes: Applause to Cold Paw! ^_^ (You know who you are.) ^_^ For you, I bleed myself dry is in fact song lyrics... But, uh... Heh heh... I had NO CLUE from what song I had heard them. I'd just written them down cause they were so cool, forgot about them, found them, and then threw them in this fic. So, according to Cold Paw, they're from the song Yellow by Coldplay... If you'd like to check it out. I know I will be. ^_^
Warnings: This fic is yaoi, which means it contains male/male intimacy. If you're uncomfortable with that or if you're just plain narrow-minded, I suggest you go elsewhere. Also, this fic is rated R for slight violence, language, and much sexual content. If you're under age or uncomfortable with that, please go no further.
Disclaimer: I don't own Dragon Ball Z or it's characters, and I'm not making any money off of this. So, please don't sue me!!! It's not like you'd get much anyways.
XXIII
How are things coming? the president asked as his assistant stepped into the room. Things were a lot quieter than they had been in a while. It was rather relaxing.
It's going to take a bit longer than a week. The storage room next to the dungeon has been transformed. No windows, one door. They're still working on the locking mechanisms. Guard volunteers have been assembled, but it seems the doctors have less courage. It's proving to be a challenge to get any. Even the chief scientist is already complaining that she won't be able to do it. As for the restraints, they have some ideas, but that's it. They're guessing Saturday.
The president nodded,
----------------
Vejita's hands were more than swollen, his weight cutting off blood circulation. He was still capable of a few bursts of endurance and he would push himself to his feet. It only lasted for a few minutes, but it was enough to keep his much needed hands from completely dying off.
His shoulder was a dull, constant ache, the bullet seemed to be lodged in his joint, for when he managed to move at all, a searing pain shot through his bones like acid.
His thigh was a slight ache, not at all painful, but still doing damage to his strength. The bullet had passed right through the meat, and while the blood had slowed, it still managed to seep from the wound as if a vein had been severed. He seemed to be soaked in the sticky substance, the dark red stain covering much of the floor below and around him.
His chest was still the worst. His right lung wasn't working at all, it must have collapsed or something. The blood wasn't nearly as bad, the wound having formed a sticky clot, stopping the exterior blood flow. However, inside his body, Vejita could feel the warm liquid ever so slowly filling him. It wasn't painful, and hardly discomforting, but he knew it to be deadly.
His dangling thumb seemed a blessing considering all his other injuries. Still, his pain wasn't all that bad. He'd endured worse things. The large band about his neck was aggravatingly annoying, slowing his healing to a near stop. But that wasn't so bad either. No, his pain was a loneliness that burned forth from his core. His son was lost, there was nothing he could do. The separation from his mate... That's what hurt the most. The boy had thawed his heart, taught him things he didn't even know existed.
He had an idea as the what was to happen to him. He'd been in charge of punishment before, back on Planet Vejita. He knew well enough that food wasn't wasted on prisoners awaiting the death sentence, and he couldn't even remember the last time he'd eaten.
More frightening though, was that he didn't know what was happening to his mate. In the back of his mind he could still feel the link, the connection, but he couldn't feel the boy's emotions. Was he okay? Kami, he had absolutely no clue and his mind was growing more and more ragged with so much worry.
----------------
Bulma and the others hadn't been to school in a couple days, but no one was blaming them for it. They'd spent most of the day driving around South City, searching for their friend.
They'd spent the night Bulma's house, sleeping late after a night of planning. So, they weren't looking too spiffy, jeans, sweaters, and jackets making up the majority of their outfits.
Upon arriving at the shiny, new-looking building, the girls started combing their hair with their fingers. The front desk was all done up in wood and fake flowers, an attempt at decorative calming. It didn't help.
Bulma smiled weakly at the thin, older woman behind the desk, Is there a Son Goku here?
----------------
It was Tuesday and Samantha was passing the central desk, having just come from a late lunch, when a nurse called out to her, Dr. Rei! It seems there's a situation at the front desk!
She didn't wait for the woman to explain as she hurried down the corridors she knew by heart. She was a bit surprised to see four teenagers, one of them arguing heatedly with the receptionist.
Excuse me, would everyone please calm down and explain what's going on? she asked smoothly, a smile on her lips.
Bulma sighed, tears in her eyes at the sheer frustration of it all, We're here to see Son Goku. Please, let us see him.
Are you kids from East City? The petition? Samantha asked, remembering having seen their faces on TV before.
Bulma's eyes brightened, Yes, that's us.
Samantha beamed, If you would come with me. she said, simply starting down another corridor and stopping quickly at one of their consultation offices.
This room was decorated similar to the front desk, a large wooden table and chairs, and a center piece of plastic roses. Krillin didn't find it very tasteful, but shrugged it off. They all filed into the room, taking their seats as well as the doctor.
So, you're the friends he's spoken of? she said, still smiling as she glanced at each of them.
They all sat forward, How is he? Chi-Chi asked, honestly concerned for her friend.
Much better. When he arrived, he wasn't speaking and was in a severe state of depression. I'd say we've pulled him out of that though. In just five days he seems to be a completely different person. Dr. Rei explained honestly.
You're the one who's treating him? You're a psychologist? Bulma questioned. All of their hearts felt a little lighter at the good news.
The red-headed woman nodded, Yes, my name's Dr. Samantha Rei, you may call me Sam.
A few moments passed and Yamcha finally spoke up, So, can we see him?
It shouldn't be a problem. My entire evening was scheduled for him anyway.
Bulma nodded. She understood. The doctor had to be with them the entire time. It didn't matter though, as long as they could see their friend. They missed him so.
In a few minutes they all had stickers on their shirts that read: VISITOR, and they were on their way down many halls. It seemed they were heading towards the back of the building. Before they questioned it, however, the good doctor explained that all permanent patients were given rooms in the back of the complex.
Finally, they reached a door that looked no different from all the other doors they passed except for the two guards on either side of it, guns in their hands. Upon entering, they were a bit surprised to see Goku sitting calmly while a male nurse gave him an injection.
Goku looked at all his friends and a smile touched his lips, Hey guys!
They all stepped into the white room, closing the door behind them as the nurse left, Son-kun, are you alright?
Goku looked at all his friends as he pulled his shirt back on, buttoning it up. They looked tired, worry in their eyes.
Hai, I'm okay. he said calmly. It was true, he was feeling better. He didn't cry over Sone anymore, but that didn't mean his nights were free of tears. He still missed his son, but Kami how he missed his mate.
Dr. Rei took a seat on the bed near her patient, leaving the four chairs in the room for the kids, Is this okay, Goku?
Goku smiled, nodding.
What did that guy just give him? Krillin asked, referring to the shot.
Yes, Goku, no more pain killers after your noon shot, you know that. Samantha said, she'd been trying to slowly get the boy off of them.
Pain killers? Why do you need pain killers? Are you hurt? Bulma asked, worried.
Sorry, Sam, but Edna said it'd be okay. Goku explained.
Samantha shook her head, she'd have to get onto Edna again. She then turned her attention to the blue-haired girl, No, he's not injured, but it seems he suffers some kind of mental pain that affects him physically. The pain killers help, but now that he's getting better, I'm trying to work him off of them.
What do you mean mental pain?' Chi-Chi asked, glancing at Goku, noticing that he looked paler than normal.
The loss of his son. Samantha said softly, noticing that the boy didn't flinch at all. He really was doing better. If she could just get him off the drugs, she wanted to talk about the prince's scheduled execution.
Bulma ignored the (in her opinion) for too pretty doctor, speaking directly to her long time friend, Have you heard? About Vejita?
Dr. Rei stood fast, I'm afraid that isn't a good topic. Perhaps-
What? What about Jita? Goku interrupted, his eyes lighting up as the mention of his prince's name.
Goku, please... You're not ready for this. Samantha said, turning to look at the boy.
Goku's eyes watered, Kami, please tell me.
Samantha said sternly, Not until you try to do without the pain killers.
Goku nearly sobbed, I can't, it still hurts. Please, just let me see Jita. I need to see him.
Dr. Rei sighed, slumping back down onto the bed. Back to square one.
Bulma shook her head. Goku had to know. That's why they'd tried so hard to get in. They all remembered something being said about Saiyajin dying without their
He had to know, They plan to execute him. Bulma stated frankly. Honestly, she didn't mind losing the rude prince, but Goku was so important to all of them.
They all watched as what little color was left in the Earth Saiyajin's visage, drained away, Why didn't you tell me sooner? Goku questioned, rising to his feet, his question directed to the doctor.
I didn't think you were ready.
Goku paced the cold, white, tiled floor, his bare feet silent against its surface,
This weekend. Bulma said simply, all of them watching for a reaction.
This can't happen. I have ta stop it. Goku said outloud. For you, I bleed myself dry. The words had been reeling through his mind over and over again ever since he'd woke up. He had a slight memory of being carried away and in the back of his mind he could still hear Vejita shouting those words. Now he understood. His prince had known it would come to this. It was the fiery Saiyajin's way of letting his mate know that he died for him.
Tears sprung to Goku's eyes, he started, turning to his long-time friend, You've gotta help me!
What are you talking about? You can't stop it! You'll be killed! Krillin exclaimed, rising to his feet.
I'll at least die tryin'. If I don't do anything and Jita dies, I'll die anyway. Goku whispered, looking to each of them, pleading with his eyes.
What do you mean? Samantha asked, feeling as if there was something she didn't know.
Bulma sighed, Goku and Vejita are a couple, believe it or not. They have this bond between them, they can sense each other, read one another's minds, and even speak telepathically. If one dies, the other dies.
Samantha's eyes went wide, His is that possible? she asked, doubt in her voice.
Goku smiled at the warm memory, his hand going to the ragged scar on his neck, Blood, we shared each other's blood.
Samantha shook her head. It couldn't be. All this time she'd wondered at the strange pain the boy continued to feel, was this the cause of it? No, if it was true, everything they were capable of, why didn't he know already?
Goku could read the disbelief on her expression and knew what she was thinking, They have one of those bands on him. He doesn't have any energy and can't heal, and cause of it, we can't feel each other.
The sorrow in his words spoke the truth and Samantha nodded, But... I mean... I know it was wrong what they did to your son and you, but the prince killed so many. There's no way you can stop it, and even if you did, they won't let you be.
Goku nodded solemnly, I know, he said, again turning to Bulma, That's why I need your help. If I can get Jita outta there, we'll have ta leave the planet.
All of them were surprised. Goku had lived out his entire life on Earth, and for the sake of the prince, he was willing to leave it behind. More surprising was his willingness to leave them.
Are... Are you sure? Yamcha asked.
Goku plopped back down on the bed, his gaze downward, I tried so hard ta stay. I really did, but it won't work. I... I'm sorry guys, but it's the only way for me and Jita ta be together.
You really love him, don't you? Chi-Chi asked, smiling sweetly.
Goku's expression remained solemn as he nodded, looking up, I really need y'all's help though.
They all remained silent for a few moments, gathering their thoughts. Finally, Bulma broke that silence, Right. So, you're going to need a ship, supplies, and a destination. The first two should be easy, but... I'll have to do some research to find a place you'll be able to live your lives out.
Are... Are you sure that's what you want to do? Krillin asked, his eyes sad.
Goku nodded, sighing, I'll miss you guys, but... Jita's the most important thing right now.
Yamcha was at his feet, anger on his face, And we're not?! Goku, we've been friends since forever! How can you pick him over us?
Goku shook his head, You don't get it. he mumbled, deciding it was time they knew what it was like. The drug he allowed to cloud his mind was weak and he easily pushed it aside. It hit him at once and threatened to take over. He had to fight off the tears as he brought it to the forefront of his mind. Of course, the link was there, but it wasn't complete, and it left a ragged hole. The pain of separation was immense, and he knew deep down that only a few more months of it, drugs or no drugs, would result in he and Vejita's death.
Slowly he stood, letting the feeling engulf him as he pushed it even further, letting it seep out his pores and fill the room. It took a little work, but it seemed their minds were all open as if they were truly trying to understand.
It hit them all at once and he pulled back on it instantly, knowing full well that their minds were weaker than his. As soon as he had it under control he was sitting again. Warm tears free flowing in the room, everyone's cheeks wet.
Holy shit, Yamcha gasped, What the hell was that?
Goku could see the same question in all their eyes, That's what it feels like without him.
Eyes were wide, You feel that, all the time? Chi-Chi asked, amazed.
When we're separated like this, when he's wearin' those bands. I can't even imagine what it'd be like if he died.
The others nodded in agreement, they understood. No matter how much they didn't like it, their friend was going to have to leave. It truly was the only way. They were really going to miss him though.
You're not going to hurt anyone, are you? Samantha asked, looking unbelievingly at the boy. All this time she'd though she'd been helping him, but it was a lie. All her efforts seemed pointless, but there was still a way to help. She could still make a difference, right the wrongs caused by her kind.
Goku looked to the red-headed woman, I promise to try my bet not too. If it comes down to it though, I'd kill to get him outta there.
Dr. Rei nodded, I'll help too then.
The Earth Saiyajin's lips twitched before rising in a small smile. Things were finally looking up.
----------------
It was Friday morning and Bulma had yet to go to sleep. Her eyes stung with dryness each and every time she blinked. It could hardly be called morning at three AM, the sky still blanketed in black velvet. Still, the blue-haired beauty continued, punching in the final data reports to her personal computer.
How's it look? her father asked, placing a heavy hand on her shoulder.
Bulma smiled weakly, pressing one last button before slumping back in her hard-backed chair,
Her father's eyes were wide as he leaned over, peering at the blue screen, Still need to run more tests.
Of course, but otherwise complete. Her smile widened. She had been working three long, hard days at building the ultimate Capsule Corporation ship, and it was finally done. It was a massive sphere of science, engineering, and sweat, her sweat. She'd done the majority of the work herself. Sure, her father had helped, but only with small details. Now all it needed was to be tested, a few quick adjustments, and it was ready to go.
Rising from her seat, she leaned into her father as they headed out of the laboratory, Have all the supplies come in? she asked sleepily. She'd rush-delivered tons and tons of food that evening coming home from their visit with Goku in that hospital.
Yup, the last of it arrived yesterday. Is all of it going to fit in the ship? her father asked, thinking over the enormous pile of boxes upon boxes, filled with numerous canned products as well as many other nonperishable items.
Bulma chuckled as she switched off the light in the living room, turning toward the stairs and her bedroom, Why do you think the ship's so big?
Bulma's father chuckled as well, remembering well the enormous appetite of his daughter's friend,
----------------
Bulma? Bulma, honey, you have guests! Honey?!
The young girl sat up in her bed, shouting, I'll be right down, mother!! She glanced at her alarm clock and then screamed. She'd only had seven hours of sleep, when she needed a hundred.
Thirty minutes later she was trudging down the stairs in a tight little T-shirt and a pair of gray sweatpants, Hey guys... What the hell are you doing here so damn early?
Somebody woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Yamcha teased, hugging his girlfriend, giving her a quick peck on the cheek.
Bulma laughed it off, Yeah, sorry guys, but I haven't been getting much sleep, but... The ship is finished! she explained, ending in excitement.
All of their mouths dropped open, It's finished? Chi-Chi asked, astonished.
Bulma gave an enthusiastic before hurrying off towards the lab. It took them several minutes to finally reach the massive room, and they all stood in awe at the base of Capsule Crop. 00.
Why is it so BIG? Yamcha asked, eyes wide.
Well, I thought that they'd need the space. My father and I have been researching and haven't found a planet yet... So, they're probably going to be in this thing for a year or more.
A year. Krillin repeated, a little more than shocked.
After admiring the sleek white exterior, the huge sphere balanced on three extended legs that pulled up into the ship just after take-off, the four of hem approached the entrance.
Yamcha muttered, amazed. They entered into a huge, empty room. The walls were white, the floor tiled in brownish orange.
This is a training room. Bulma said, a smile on her face. After a few moments she headed towards a downward staircase, The second level is a bit more crowded, but it's the best I could do.
The stairs started to spiral downward, but didn't get the chance to complete a circle, the second level coming too soon. This room (the walls white, the floor a light blue tile) was just as large as the first, but much more filled. The kitchen wasn't much, a table, a stove and oven, and two huge floor-to-ceiling refrigerators, and three just as huge freezers, all filled to the brim with food. A somewhat small bathroom was walled off to one side, with a shower and tub as well as other things. Last but not least was the bedroom, enough space for a king-size futon mattress.
They all looked it over, No closet? Chi-Chi asked, taking note of every detail.
Bulma sighed, The place is round. I had enough trouble getting the bathroom walled off.
Don't worry about it. Goku had a closet for years and never used it. Krillin said, chuckling, remembering good times.
After a few moments of silence, Bulma spoke up, So, what do you guys think?
They all looked to her, It's perfect. They'll really love it, Bul. Chi-Chi said, a smile on her lips.
----------------
Sir, Dr. Rei is here as you requested.
The president looked up to his assistant before nodding, Show her in.
Moments later Samantha was being ushered into the large office followed by a wormy little man that was the president's assistant, she said taking a seat, You wanted to see me? She was more than a little nervous. The president hadn't ordered any kind of weekly reports or anything of the sort, and she was worried he'd somehow figured out their plan. It was her job, however, to keep the officials back while the kids managed.
Yes, I was wondering how things were going with Son Goku.
Samantha took a deep breath, steadying herself, Quite well, we've finally got him talking, but he's on extreme medication that keeps him bed ridden.
I see... What sort of medication?
Pain killers actually. We haven't quite figured it out yet, but he seems to be in severe physical pain due to some kind of mental stress or trauma.
Right. Well, the thing is, the prince's execution has been delayed to Sunday, and we don't want any problems like last time. So, we'd appreciate it if he were placed in restraints of heavily sedated. the president's tone wasn't suggesting, it was an order, and she quickly nodded, faking a bit of fear.
Yes, Sir, of course. Not a problem. She answered quickly. With that the large man grinned and soon after she was dismissed. Once out of the building she sighed, relaxing. That had gone rather well.
----------------
Goku felt hope in him again. It really hadn't been that long since he'd last experienced hope, but it felt like it'd been forever. Still, the hope he felt now was thin and small, barely weaving into his mind and he was worried. It was Friday, and tomorrow was the day his mate, his lover, his only was to be executed, like some kind of nothing. It made the burning in his mind ache deep into his core, and the shots he was now getting every eight hours again didn't seem to be working anymore. It was as if he were becoming immune, that or the pain was simply increasing. Or, they could be making him sick. Lately, he'd been feeling a bit nauseous, more than usual. It was strange. He also felt that his appetite was returning, though he didn't feel the joy in eating as he once did. Also, he'd been permitted to leave his room during specific hours, but he didn't dare, and he honestly didn't know why. It was so strange. He knew deep down that there wasn't anything to be afraid of, and he really didn't scare easily at all, but still, for some odd reason, he was frightened to leave. Even more strange, he was bit scared in his room.
----------------
The group was still at Bulma's place when the sun began to sink. They'd long ago finished their exploration of the awesome spaceship, and sat around several hours, watching as it was tested repeatedly. It seemed safe and ready for space. All computer technicalities were set and running smoothly. Also, a manual had been written by Bulma herself. It was thicker than any city phonebook and easy to read and understand. Very easy, made especially for dummies like Goku. The weapons, the few that there were, were running flawlessly. Everything was going well and as they were relaxing in the living room, enjoying Mrs. Briefs' refreshments, they suddenly realized it was time to head towards South City.
----------------
Samantha sighed as she tromped through the facility, heading for Son Goku's room. Her staff gave her odd looks and she'd had to explain herself to several of them. She'd rehearsed it that morning. She wasn't feeling well and she was dealing with some stress... Somehow she'd forgotten to let someone know, and then the meeting with the president. Still, they all knew it was totally unlike her to simply not show up, leaving her patients alone and unsure.
Finally, she reached the boy's room and was surprised to see the four teenagers there, just about to step into the room, How did you get in? she asked, knowing full well that under normal circumstances, no patient was allowed visitors without two week notice and clearance.
Uh, Ms. Edna let us in. Krillin said, smiling sheepishly. They too had made friends with the pudgy nurse and found that she was quite trusting.
Samantha silently berated herself. Of course! She was going to have to have another talk with Edna. Together now, they all stepped into the room.
Goku sat up in his bed, snapping out of his seemingly vegetative state, It was getting late. I thought maybe y'all forgot ta come. he whispered.
Everyone was silent for a few moments, all of them feeling a bit guilty; however, Bulma finally stepped forward, a wide smile spreading from ear to ear, You won't believe it, Son! The ship... The spaceship... I finished it! It's all ready and filled with everything you'll ever need.
Goku soon found himself smiling as well, And where are we goin'?
Bulma's smile transformed into a perplexed expression, as if she were looking inward at her thoughts, Still not sure. My father's been helping me... We haven't come across a single planet yet where Saiyajin would be welcome, but we're not through yet. It just look like wherever you're going, it's going to be a really, really long way away.
Goku nodded, his smile faded, But, Bul... Tomorrow... Tomorrow's tha day. Tears were stinging his eyes and he fought the rage that seemed to pull at his heart. He was at his last resort, his last chance, and his emotions were playing a game inside.
Have you figured out how I'm supposed ta get him outta there?
Krillin stepped closer, the sadness in his best buddy's tone enough to tear at his optimism, Just try not to worry, it'll work itself out.
Goku's eyes shot up, Try not ta worry? Kami, I have no idea how I'm gonna get in and outta there... Let alone find him, whether he's alive or dead. There's not enough time.
The tears were threatening to spill over when Dr. Rei spoke up, No, I went by the president's office today... It's going to happen Sunday. There were delays and he wanted to make sure I had you sedated the day of the exe... she said, letting the word fall off due to her sudden realization of its harshness.
Goku's smile returned, Right. So, Bulma... You got one day to find a place. Okay?
The blue-haired beauty smiled weakly, No problem. She knew she could do it, but it was so hard. She really didn't want to see her friend go, but it seemed there was no other choice.
Now I gotta figure out how ta get in and outta there. Goku said, speaking more to himself, hoping the others could help him think of something, They can't sense me. If I can get out of here unnoticed-
Which I can help with. Samantha interrupted, smiling.
Goku beamed at the woman, there was true goodness in her, Right, I can sneak up on them then. I just stay away from those bands, grab Jita, and get outta there, but... that weapon they have. The one that makes my skin burn and my blood boil... His words finished in a trembling whisper, the pain so close in his memory.
Chi-Chi's eyes watered, remembering how Goku had urgently placed little Sone in her arms that day they all had been taken, that day the strange weapon had first been used, Bul... Can't you think of something? she nearly pleaded.
Bulma sighed, There's hardly any time.
Yamcha placed a hand on his girlfriend's shoulder, She can't do everything. he said, directing his frustration at Chi-Chi.
Please, Bulma... I love all you guys, but you're the only one who can help me with this. Just push a little harder. Please? I promise not ta bother ya ever again. Goku whispered is plea, moving closer to the girl. He could feel her hesitancy, but he just needed her a bit more.
Bulma sighed yet again, the tears now tempting her tired eyes, Don't worry, Son-kun. I'll help all I can, I owe you that much.
Their hearts were all a little lighter as they left. Samantha heading home, feeling that they were truly doing something noble.
Yamcha was more than a little irritated with it all. He was really going to miss Goku, but his life long friend wasn't the same person anymore, and he could see the reasoning for his departure. It would be nice for things to finally return to normal.
Chi-Chi was saddened of course, but she felt pure happiness for the Saiyajin couple. They were going to escape. They were going to make it. She felt they deserved it, especially after everything that had been done to them, what she'd done.
Bulma was more than exhausted, but headed home to begin more and more research. She'd meant what she said. She really did owe Goku, and deep down she was really happy to do it, to help.
Krillin was feeling a bit left out. There wasn't much he could to help and he hadn't really had the chance to talk with his best friend, to say his goodbyes. He just hoped he had the chance before it was too late.
Goku remained at Kotondo, Mental Health. He sat in his bed and thought and planned. He knew he was pushing everyone, but he had no other choice. He knew when it came down to it, he would kill many to get Vejita out of there. He'd rehearsed every possibility in his mind. He wasn't nearly as strong as he had been some time ago, but he was still much stronger than any Human. There didn't seem to be a single worry, except for that weaponry. Hopefully Bulma would come up with something.
Scooting down, preparing for some much needed sleep, he wondered at the strange feeling he had. It seemed familiar, yet it was beyond him. The queasiness, the fearfulness, his renewed hunger and seemingly never full state... It presented a complex in his mind that stretched beyond him. Perhaps it had something to do with Vejita.
Oh how he missed his regal prince. His warmth, his temper, his body... The thread of a link in his mind ached and throbbed in his brain. Soon... Soon.
----------------
Vejita wasn't really gasping for breath, rather he couldn't control it, and it seemed that his body was sucking it in with everything it had. His chest ached so very, very much, and his heart was simply exhausted. It was to the point where he wished they'd hurry up with it already.
He wondered what his mate was doing. Was he being held in a nice room? Was he talking? Was he eating? Kami, he missed the boy. His hands were completely numb, but he knew the nub of a candle was in his glove. He knew how it's worn waxy surface felt by heart. Still, he wished he could handle it and inhale it's comforting scent.
----------------
Krillin had stopped by earlier, asking if she were alright and to see how things were going. Yamcha was there now, off somewhere. Probably in the kitchen helping her mother with supper.
Bulma coughed lightly, the itching in her throat rather unbearable. She hadn't gotten any sleep whatsoever last night. Her father had barely slept either. It took some convincing as well as some shouting to get him to take this seriously.
She was working on a location. She'd searched galaxy after galaxy and was now searching the 9,000 XY section. The area seemed calm and somewhat uninhabited, and from records, it seemed the Saiyajin had never come this far.
Three separate computers sat before her, one three times as large as the other two. She continued researching each set of coordinates, whether there were planets there, whether the living conditions were acceptable, and finally, whether or not it was populated with a people unknowing of the Saiyajin. It was quite the task and proved to be harder and harder by the second.
Her father was working on that strange weapon that had so easily defeated both Goku and Vejita. She'd done the majority of the work, but had come to a stopping point. Her father knew many of the leading scientists at the presidential complex, and she hoped that he could figure something out, but it seemed there just wasn't enough known about it. Still, he continued working on it.
----------------
The president watched as the new leading scientist approached. They'd been changing so often these days that he didn't even know the woman's name. He shrugged it off though and watched as she flipped through her notes.
Sir, everything seems to be in order. All volunteers are accounted for, the restraints were completed yesterday, and the engineers are completing the final touches on the multiple locking door.
So, everything's set for tomorrow then? He asked, just double checking. He hated that everything had been delayed, but soon enough it'd be done with.
The woman nodded, Yes, Sir. And with that she was dismissed. She wasn't going to get any sleep tonight. She had to deliver the lethal injection to the Saiyajin, and she was more than just nervous.
----------------
Goku hadn't seen anyone all day. He was dying to know what the hell was going on, but he didn't dare leave his room. He knew it was rash, but no matter what he learned, he was going tomorrow in an attempt to save his prince's life. It was going to be difficult, his concentration was a bit off, but he had to try.
Just as he was turning over to try and get some rest, Bulma burst through the door breathing heavily, Bulma? Kami, what happened?! he asked desperately.
The blue-haired beauty adjusted her sweatpants and pulled at her jacket, Goku, I found a place! she said happily, noticing, but not really caring, that her friend was in nothing more than a pair of white boxers.
Goku grinned, sitting up further, That's great! Thanks so much, Bul! Have ya figured anything out on that weapon?
About that... Bulma said as she stepped further into the room. She'd barely managed to get passed the receptionist, but since it was so late, the halls were virtually empty.
I'm sorry, Son-kun, but I tried my best and my father tried... There's just nothing we can do. We sort of know what kind of weapon it is, since I saw it work, but we don't know exactly how it was built. We both did tons of research on all the scientists there, but couldn't find anything more out.
Goku's smile never faltered, he was impressed with her hard work, It's okay, I'll think of somethin'.
Well, I was thinking... It has to be charged to have that strong of an effect on you, and it might not be charged now... Plus, with something like that, it would take more than just the president's okay' to use it... So, I think if you enter through the south wing, search every room... she explained, pulling a slightly crumpled piece of paper from her jacket pocket.
Goku looked at the print out of a strange looking machine as she continued, This thing is pretty big, taller than you... When you find it, blow it to smithereens. Then get Vejita.
Goku nodded. It sounded like a plan. The sudden good mood surged his insides and made him antsy, How about tha place? Where's it at?
Bulma chuckled, Really far. It'll take more than a year, maybe two, to get there. I put the coordinates into the ship already, 9045XY. It's called Namek.
Goku repeated, rolling the word around on his tongue.
Bulma couldn't help but smile, seeing the old Goku emerge due to the good news, Yes, it's very green, more so than Earth. There aren't a lot of people there though, only about two or three hundred I'd say, but... I think it'll do.
Goku simply grinned, It sounds great. Thanks SO much, Bulma.
A silence overtook them for a few moments, but the blue-haired beauty finally broke it, You look heavier... Have you started eating better?
Goku didn't know why, but he blushed,
Bulma took in the sight of the extra meat on her friend's bones and noticed that it was fairly centered. Smiling and shaking her head, she stood.
You'll come say bye before you leave, won't you? she asked, her hand on the doorknob.
Goku nodded, Hair, at the turtle guy's.
Right, I'll have the ship there and ready, and I'll let everyone know. Good luck, Son-kun. And with that she was gone.
Goku couldn't get the grin off his face as he fell back into bed, laughing to himself. He was so excited. it was going to work, he just knew it!
----------------
Dr. Rei was at work very early that Sunday morning, but her staff just figured she was making up for last time. She didn't greet everyone like she normally did, more pressing matters weighing on her mind. In a few moments she was entering the boy's room.
He was standing in the center of the room, wearing the gi he'd come in. She'd convinced him to let her wash it, but it was still a bit tattered. He was looking upward, not at the ceiling, but seemingly passed it. It was like he was concentrating, he hadn't even noticed her entrance.
she asked hesitantly, watching as he slowly turned his gaze to her. His expression was solemn and his eyes sparkled with rage, hope, and a bit of excitement.
Are you ready?
Goku heard what she said, but words seemed inappropriate. Instead, he nodded. He'd prepared himself all night. His mind was working against him somewhat, as if it were urging him to stay away from danger. It had been more than difficult to push those thoughts into a small corner, but he'd done so. If he spoke now, if he got too emotional, all that hard work would go to waste.
Samantha smiled, Right. Well, it's early... So, there aren't many people here yet. If you simply go out the back, you won't be noticed. I... I know I haven't done much, but I hope you can see that not all Humans are bad. I'm really glad I could help, even if it was just a little.
Goku pushed the mushiness away from his thoughts, though he really truly appreciated everything she'd done. In his state, however, all he could offer was a slight smile and a nod. He hoped it was enough.
With that he was walking out the door he'd felt so fearful of walking through before, leaving the red-headed woman alone.
She'd been right. On his way out, he hadn't seen a single person. He pushed a heavy door open and was finally outside. The air was so cook and refreshing. Kami, how he'd missed it! He took in a deep breath and let his ki spread throughout his body, reminding his muscles what he was capable of.
Seconds later he was high in the sky, a small dot to anyone on the ground. The sun was barely over the edge of the horizon, the day that new. Bulma had said something about getting over there early. She'd said that all executions took place at noon.
Without another thought, he was speeding north, toward Capital City.
----------------
To be continued...
Hope all of you enjoyed! Be sure to review and let me know! ^_^
I must say, all of your reviews so far have been wonderful, and I can't thank you enough! Your kind words are nothing but inspiration and encouragement! Thank you, thank you, thank you! ^_^