All right, all right...I'm sorry! I feel bad, but my lack of updates was unavoidable! I spent all of my energy just trying to pass my classes last quarter, so writing had to go on the back burner. And, then, after the quarter was over, I spent a lot of time working on another project that I had started 3 years ago and had put aside in favor of working on "Dragonball Z" stuff. But, I've lightened my load for this quarter, so I should be able to work more on this. I might disappear because this story, though fun, isn't my top priority in my life; getting through my electrical engineering program is my top priority. So, I don't like dropping this story for a while, but it sometimes becomes a necessity.
WARNING: I know that I put this part of my story in the 18th century England era, but I've changed it a bit. It's not exactly like it would be in England, but that's the luxury of being a fanfiction author. Also, be warned of Videl's way of life. It's not permanent and it was kind of a necessary evil.
Disclaimer: Do not own Dragonball Z. Story written for amusement. Key word: fanfiction, emphasis on fan.
------------Judgment of the Heavens------------
She allowed her mind to wander, thinking about the times when things were happier, when she wasn't ashamed and miserable every day of the life she led. She probably shouldn't have allowed her mind to wander, but her task was easier when she wasn't thinking about it. She was unaware of the world around her for she had drawn herself into her mind once more, not thinking about her surroundings.
She gasped as her head knocked up against the brick wall, bringing her back to awareness. Her companion took this as a sign of acceptance and began to move faster, thrusting himself into her at a quicker pace. She could feel his heavy breath coming in pants against her throat and she forced herself to let him keep going, despite her disgust.
Damn you, father, she whispered in her mind, feeling herself bumping against the alley wall with each thrust he took, her legs wrapped reluctantly around his waist. She moaned in disgust as his body began convulsing and he groaned, his seed filling her. Spent, he pulled out of her and put his now flaccid organ back into his pants. As she settled her skirts back down how they were supposed to fall, he pulled out a small pouch attached to his belt, opening it up and pulling out several coins.
"Here's your money," he said, his voice cultured and sophisticated despite the common clothing he wore. She gave him a faint smile.
"Thank you," she said, placing the money into her own money purse, hidden among the folds of her skirts.
"I will see you next week at our usual meeting spot," he said, waiting for her to nod before walking off.
"Well, then, good day, Videl," he said, walking off. Videl sighed as her customer walked off, disappearing from sight. Making minor adjustments to her outfit, trying to make it a little more presentable, Videl walked out of the semi-darkened alley to join the small crowd of people walking down the streets of the slums of London, trying not to think about her job. Thinking about it only made it more difficult for her. If she didn't think about it, it wouldn't hurt so much. If she didn't need the money and if she had somewhere else to go besides her father's house, Videl would run away and leave the world of prostitution behind at the drop of a hat.
Videl ignored the shivers of disgust that crawled over her skin as she proceeded into a small square. It didn't take her long to spot her next customer and, swallowing her dignity, Videl walked over to meet one of her regulars. Videl wasn't your run-of-the-mill prostitutes who stood on street corners, asking random men as they passed if they needed a little something to make their day more enjoyable. Videl, with her beauty and lady-like manners, had gathered a respectable group of regular customers, all of them upper-class merchants and most of them her father's old friends.
The fact that she performed unspeakable acts to and in front of men she used to consider uncles struck a chord of disgust in her that she just couldn't make disappear no matter how hard she tried. She continued to walk, stopping only a few feet in front of her next customer. He spotted her, a leering smile creeping its way onto his face.
"Hello, my dear," he crooned, "I'm so happy you could make it to our regular rendezvous." Videl plastered a fake smile onto her face.
"You flatter me, my Lord," she said. It was their usual game, her treating him like a Lord, him ordering her around. He smiled at her words.
"Come with me," he ordered, walking off, expecting her to follow along behind him. She did so grudgingly, knowing he was leading her to an unknown inn in the area, one that they wouldn't have visited before or perhaps not for some time. As she predicted, he led her to an inn she hadn't been to before, one of the cheap taverns of downtown London where they could go about their business without being interrupted or questioned. Once inside, her companion requested of the innkeeper a room for a couple of hours. The innkeeper's eyes roved over Videl's figure, taking in the low-cut dress she wore, and immediately knew her for what she was.
"Certainly," the innkeeper said, directing them to their room. The innkeeper then left them alone, her companion, Geoffrey, closing the door at the innkeeper's departure. Geoffrey then turned back to Videl and smiled lovingly at her.
"Now, my dear Videl, take off your clothes," he commanded. Trembling inside, Videl did as she was commanded and prepared herself for another disgusting couple of hours.
***
Once she had finished with Geoffrey and the two had departed, leaving Videl with a handsome sum of money, Videl decided that since she had no more appointments for the rest of the day that it was time to head home and face her drunken father. She shivered at the prospect, praying that he would just leave her alone and wouldn't take all of the money she earned and spend it on drink.
I just have to hide it from him some how, Videl thought as she ambled her way home. By the time she arrived at the small, three room shack she shared with her father, the sun had set and the watch was combing the city, trying to keep peace. None of them noticed Videl, though, keeping their eyes out for people who would do wrong instead of a prostitute like her. Videl didn't mind, though; the fewer people that looked at her, the better. If she could become invisible, she could probably live with the shame at what she had become.
Videl slowed to a stop in front of the door leading into her small home and took a deep breath before pushing the door open and entering the squalid abode. She spotted her father, sitting at on a wooden chair in front of the stove, a bottle in his hand. Videl sighed; he had been drinking as usual. Mr. Satan turned at the sound of the door opening and looked at his daughter with an angry look. Rising to his feet, wavering slightly, he scowled at Videl.
"Where have you been, you little slut? I've been waiting for hours for you to come home. Where's my money?" Mr. Satan demanded. Videl glared at her father.
"Your money? Your money? Do you go out onto the streets and earn the money yourself? Remember who feeds us around here!" Videl snapped. Mr. Satan looked down at Videl with fury in his eyes.
"I am your father and you will do as I tell you. Now give me my money!" Videl's fiery spirit chose that moment to kick in.
"Go to Hell," she spat. Mr. Satan roared with anger at Videl's words and, before Videl knew what was happening, Mr. Satan had advanced on Videl and backhanded her with his giant fist, sending Videl to the floor.
"Bitch," he murmured before stumbling towards the front door, leaving their home, shutting the door with a slam. Videl inhaled and exhaled through gritted teeth, her anger towards her father at its pinnacle.
"Bastard," she spat out before pushing herself off the floor. Walking into her room, she picked up a small, dirty mirror and inspected the part of her face that her father had hit.
"That's going to leave a mark," she mumbled, "Hopefully it won't be too bad." Seeing how there was nothing she could do about it, Videl shrugged and put the mirror down. Moving over to her bed, she lifted her straw mattress and retrieved a large leather bag that was almost full. Taking the small bag that was tied to her dress and opening it, she poured out her day's earnings onto her palms and transferred it to the large bag.
"Father's lucky that I save this money. Otherwise, we'd starve because he'd spend it all on alcohol," Videl said, "Hmm, I think I have enough extra in here to by myself a new dress." Videl smiled at the thought. A dress that she could wear in public when she went to the market and not get stared at; a decent dress that a decent woman would be proud of.
"Yes, I think I will do that tomorrow," Videl said, placing the bag back to its original position and covering it with her mattress, "A wonderful plan for tomorrow."
***
-A few days later-
"It makes me so unhappy, Bulma," Chi-Chi sighed. Bulma put a comforting hand on her cousin's shoulder, taking a quick glance around to make sure that no one recognized with her. Hopefully, with her disguise, no one would recognize Bulma as the wife of Prince Vegeta, the crowned prince of England.
"I know, it makes me unhappy too, Chi-Chi. I mean, Gohan is practically like my son as well."
"I just wish there was something I could do to make him happy again," Chi-Chi said, "He used to be so happy when Isabel was alive. But, after she died, that light in his eyes went out. He hasn't been the same since she died. I just want my little boy back, Bulma." Bulma looked at her cousin with sympathy as a few tears escaped from Chi-Chi's large brown eyes. The two of them strolled through the market place of London, arm in arm, taking a break from their rich lifestyles. Bulma lifted her eyes from Chi-Chi and looked around the marketplace, surveying everything. That's when she spotted her.
There, standing in front of a bakery, inspecting the bread that was displayed in the window, was a young woman of about Gohan's age. She wore a very simple, yet flattering, brown wool dress, the dress a decent sort of woman would wear. But Bulma could tell that this young woman had no money. Bulma sympathized, coming from a poor family herself. Chi-Chi and herself had both managed to break out of the system, catching the attention of two of the most powerful men in the British Empire.
Bulma continued to study the young woman, taking in her aesthetic beauty. Her long black hair was pulled into a low ponytail and Bulma caught a glimpse of a pair of the most startling blue eyes she had ever seen. Bulma gasped as she got a better view of the girl's face as the young woman turned slightly. She had delicate features, her nose small and her lips full and lush. She held herself with such a sense of grace that it almost looked like she had been born into better circumstances. Her figure was one that men would obviously desire, that figure that would warm the hearts of any man. And her eyes held an intelligence that would keep a man interested for some time. That's when the idea hit Bulma, an idea inspired by the girl in front of her.
"Chi-Chi, we should find Gohan a mistress," Bulma said. Chi-Chi gaped at Bulma, making sure that nobody had heard Bulma's comment.
"Bulma," Chi-Chi whispered, "Are you sure that's a good idea? I mean, Gohan told me not to meddle in his life anymore. I don't want to make him any madder at me than he already is!" Bulma sighed.
"Chi-Chi, I think that a mistress is just what Gohan needs. What he needs is something to get him interested in the world again and I think that a mistress can do just that," Bulma said in the same hushed tone that Chi-Chi had taken. Chi-Chi processed the thought for a few seconds before nodding.
"Maybe you're right. But where did that idea come from? And who are we going to find who would be willing to be Gohan's mistress?" Bulma smiled and pointed.
"That girl right there," Bulma stated. Chi-Chi followed the direction that Bulma's finger was pointed in and nodded in approval as she saw the girl who was standing there.
"I like her already and I don't even know her," Chi-Chi said, "But how do we go about asking her? I mean, we don't even know who she is!" Bulma smiled.
"We'll just go talk to her. Don't worry, let me do the talking," Bulma said. Chi-Chi nodded in relief. Bulma had a much easier time with words that Chi-Chi had ever had. She was glad to relinquish control of the talking to Bulma. The two older women approached the young woman. Out of the corner of Videl's eye, she saw two women walking towards her, obviously intent on making contact with her. The woman with the blue hair took a couple of steps in front of the other woman and smiled at Videl.
"My dear, might I say that the dress you're wearing is lovely," the blue-haired woman compliment. Videl blushed lightly, taking in the fine silk that made up both women's dresses.
"Thank you, but it's not quite as lovely and elegant either of your two dresses," Videl said, with a small nod of her head. Bulma and Chi-Chi smiled; not only was this young woman polite, but the tone of her voice sounded like she was educated.
Good. I don't think Gohan could deal with an idiot, Bulma thought.
"May I ask your name, dear?" Bulma asked.
"My name is Videl Satan, miss," Videl said with a small curtsey, using the manners that she had learned all those years ago, but hadn't had the opportunity to use them lately. Bulma giggled a little.
"Oh, my. You flatter me. I'm not quite that young anymore," Bulma said with a smile
"Pardon my forwardness, but are you married, miss?" Chi-Chi asked, speaking for the first time. Videl looked taken aback at Chi-Chi's words before shaking her head slightly.
"No, madam, I am not." Chi-Chi and Bulma exchanged similar looks of relief. Bulma leaned forward and placed a hand on Videl's arm.
"Now, Videl, this may seem a little forward, but my friend and I have something we want to ask you," Bulma said. Videl looked curious and encouraged Bulma to go on by a small nod of her head.
"You see," Bulma said in lowered tones, "I am Princess Bulma, wife to the crowned prince, and this is Lady Chi-Chi. Her son, the Duke of Chatham, is in need of a mistress and we thought that you might be interested in assuming the position." Videl didn't think she could possibly be more shocked if someone had told her she had just inherited the throne.
"That's a bit presumptuous of you, isn't it?" Videl asked, breathless from shock. Bulma and Chi-Chi exchanged looks.
"Yes, we know," Chi-Chi said, "But we wouldn't ask unless it was necessary. My son needs someone in his life and we couldn't help but notice you from afar." Videl turned her attention to Chi-Chi.
"But you have no idea who I am," Videl countered, "I could be of common blood. I know that's not appropriate for a mistress." It was Bulma's turn to speak.
"We know you aren't of common blood," Bulma explained, "From your speech, tone of voice, and overall countenance, I can tell you are educated. An education means money, which equals class." Videl's eyes widened at Bulma's deduction, remembering what she had heard about the crowned Princess' intelligence.
"You really are the crowned princess, aren't you?" Videl asked, not waiting for Bulma's response, "Yes, you are. You fit the description perfectly and you're just as intelligent as everyone says the princess is." Bulma beamed with pride.
"I'm so happy you've realized that I was telling the truth. I was afraid that you would think I was a liar for telling you I was the crowned princess." Chi-Chi decided that it was time to get the conversation back onto its original track.
"This is all well and good," Chi-Chi said, "But will you agree to being my son's mistress? I know that people do not normally go finding mistresses for their sons since it is not a respectable position, but believe me when I say that Bulma and I will not respect you less for agreeing since I'm hoping, maybe a bit falsely, that my son will take enough of a liking to you to make you his wife." Videl looked back and forth between the two older women, trying to decide whether or not they were serious.
Well, I have heard more forward words before, just not out of the mouths of women of class, Videl thought. After a few moments of contemplation, Videl decided to agree. Anything was better than the life she was currently living; her father be dammed. Videl allowed a small smile to creep its way onto her face.
"Yes, I will agree to being your son's mistress," Videl said, "When do I start?"
"Right now," Chi-Chi said, "The first thing we need to do is get you a new wardrobe, one fitting of an upper class woman." Chi-Chi immediately reddened in shame.
"Oh, I am so sorry. I did not mean to insult you," Chi-Chi said. Videl just smiled the offense away.
"Don't worry about it. I am used to wearing much better, myself. Times have been hard for my family and myself as of late," Videl said, her face falling at the recent abuse she had to endure from her father. Chi-Chi laid a sympathetic hand on Videl's shoulder as she led the younger woman down the street.
"I understand," Chi-Chi said as the three of them walked down the street in the direction of the seamstress that was responsible for the making of both Chi-Chi and Bulma's wardrobes, "Before I married my husband, my family was in dire straits, too." Videl looked wide-eyed at Chi-Chi.
"Really?" she asked incredulously. Bulma chose that moment to speak up.
"We both were," Bulma said, "Chi-Chi and I are actually cousins. Before Chi-Chi married her husband, the two of us had nothing to our name. Living out in the country, we barely had anything to survive on." Chi-Chi nodded.
"That's right. Then, one day, my husband was traveling through the country and came across the little village where our family lived. Due to some interesting circumstances, we met and fell in love. He broke almost every rule by marrying me. From that moment on, I was officially the wife of the Duke of Chatham. Bulma began staying with us and, when she met the prince, the two of them fell in love. The prince followed my husband's example and married Bulma. There was much outrage when news of the prince marrying a commoner spread, but people eventually accepted it." Videl felt her heart lightened by the story, thinking that maybe there could be happiness for her down the road.
"At least you had a family," Videl said, "My mother passed away not too long ago. My father, who used to be a famous merchant, has wasted all of our money on drink. We have nothing left. My father, frustrated by our position in society, takes his anger out on me, physically and verbally." Beside her, she heard twin gasps.
"Oh my, Videl, I am so sorry," Bulma said. Videl smiled a sad smile.
"It's all right. You have given me my chance for escape from this horrible life," Videl said gratefully. The three women decided to change the subject to something lighter and chatted the rest of the way to the seamstress' shop. Videl eventually noticed that she was being led to a richer part of town.
"Where, may I ask, are we going?" Videl said.
"Now, that is an easy question to answer," Chi-Chi said, "I am taking you to my seamstress to get fitted for an entirely new wardrobe." Videl gasped at that.
"But, Lady Chi-Chi, that is a ridiculous amount of money! I'd never be able to repay you for it!" Chi-Chi smiled at Videl.
"Do not worry about it," Chi-Chi said, "If you make my son happy, that will be payment enough for me, I can assure you." They eventually reached the seamstress' shop and, when they entered, Chi-Chi was delighted to find out that the seamstress had no more appointments for the rest of the day.
After arranging for a carriage to take them home in a few hours, Chi-Chi set the seamstress to the task of measuring Videl while she and Bulma picked out fabrics and designs, limiting themselves to the best quality and latest fashions. To Videl, having her measurements taken harkened her back to her younger days when her mother used to arrange for her to have new gowns made. A sad expression settled on Videl's face.
All of those dresses had to be sold or gotten rid of when we needed the money for food. Everything I had to help preserve my mother's memory is gone, Videl thought as she allowed herself to be manipulated by the women seamstress so she could take her measurements. After Chi-Chi and Bulma had finished with the fabrics and designs, they moved on to arranging accessories to go with the new wardrobe. The two older women, needless to say, were having a field day with all the arrangements. A few hours later, after everything had been settled away, the driver Chi-Chi had arranged picked up the young women.
"Where are we going?" Videl asked. Chi-Chi looked over at Videl.
"We are going to my humble home. You will be staying with my family while your dresses are being made. Once your wardrobe is finished, you will be moving over to live with Gohan," Chi-Chi explained.
"Gohan?" Videl questioned.
"Oh, that's right!" Chi-Chi exclaimed, "I never told you my eldest son's name. Gohan is his name."
"That's an unusual name," Videl commented, a smile on her face. Chi-Chi smiled back.
"So is Videl," Chi-Chi commented back. Videl shrugged.
"Well, what can I say? My mother was an unusual character," Videl said, a melancholy smile on her face. After a long, yet talkative journey, the small party arrived at Chi-Chi's manor, where Bulma had arranged for herself to stay a few days to visit her cousin. Bulma inwardly smiled at the timing of her visit.
It allows me to get to know this marvelous young woman sitting across from me, Bulma thought happily. Videl's eyes widened at the size of the manor.
"It's beautiful!" Videl said, "Is your son's manor much like yours?" Over the past few hours, Videl had learned a few things about Gohan, such as he had his own manor separate from his parents.
"Yes, except bigger. He is the official Duke of Chatham after my husband passed the title down to him 5 years ago," Chi-Chi explained. Videl nodded numbly in awe as the carriage drove past the gates and up to the front of the manor.
"Now," Chi-Chi explained as the three women exited the carriage, "In the meantime, while your wardrobe is being constructed, you will be wearing my clothes. From the information I received about your measurements, we are about the same size so we do not have to worry about you wearing the same thing every day until your clothes arrive." Videl smiled.
"Thank you very much, Lady Chi-Chi," Videl said as the doorman opened the large front door, allowing them to enter the manor.
"Come along, Videl," Chi-Chi said as they entered the manor, "I want to introduce you to my husband and my youngest son."
"That would be nice," Videl said. Bulma smiled.
"I think I am going to retire to my room until dinner is served," Bulma said before exiting gracefully, leaving herself up to the room that she always used when she visited. Once Bulma departed, Chi-Chi excitedly led Videl to where she suspected her husband and son to be: the study.
Right as always, Chi-Chi found her family in the study. Goten was working on his own studies while Goku read a book, a rare pastime for him to engage in. Chi-Chi motioned for Videl to stay in the hall while Chi-Chi introduced her. Chi-Chi entered the study, gaining the attention of Goku and Goten. Goku's face lit up into a bright smile at the sight of his wife. Rising to his feet, Goku walked over to Chi-Chi and kissed her solidly on the lips.
"I'm so happy to see you," Goku said, "I've missed you all day. Did you have fun with Bulma?" Chi-Chi giggled and smiled.
"Yes, I did. In fact, I had a very interesting day. Goku, Goten, there's someone I'd like you to meet," Chi-Chi said. Goten perked up at the news.
"Who is it, mother?" he asked. Chi-Chi turned and called out to the hallway.
"Videl, darling, you can come in now," Chi-Chi said. Slowly and timidly, Videl entered the study and stood in front of Goku and Goten.
"Hello, I'm pleased to meet you," Videl said with a polite curtsy. Both Goku and Goten bowed in response to Videl's curtsy.
"Goku, darling, this young woman's name is Videl. She is going to be Gohan's mistress," Chi-Chi said. Goku's eyes widened at the news.
"What?" he exclaimed. Goten, meanwhile, had gone over to Videl and was currently getting to know Videl while Chi-Chi explained herself to her husband.
"This will be good for Gohan," Chi-Chi said.
"But, won't Gohan be mad at you for meddling in his life again?" Goku pointed out. Chi-Chi sighed.
"He needs this, Goku. Gohan has gotten increasingly uninterested in life and Bulma and I think that another woman in his life is exactly what he needs. Nobody outside family need know about it, so as not to disgrace the family name," Chi-Chi said, a devilish smile creeping onto her face, "Who knows, maybe Videl will end up being so fancied by Gohan that he'll take her as his wife." Goku looked at Chi-Chi speculatively.
"Isn't that jumping to conclusions a little?" Goku asked, concerned over his son's possible reaction and his wife's presumptions. Chi-Chi's smile faltered and she sighed.
"I hope not," Chi-Chi said as she glanced over to see Goten excitedly asking Videl questions.
"Are you a princess?" Goten asked, way too innocently for his 14 years. Videl smiled gently and shook her head.
"No, I'm not. Sorry," Videl answered. Chi-Chi looked back at her husband.
"I just want Gohan to be happy again," Chi-Chi said, "He's been so distant lately. Bulma and I think Gohan needs to be involved with another woman, that it would be good for him. When we met Videl, we knew she was perfect for him. If you just get to know her, you'll find that she's Gohan's match." Goku looked over at Videl and sighed. Maybe she would be able to help Gohan regain some happiness.
"Chi-Chi," he said softly, "I hope you're right."
-------------
Ok, I'm sorry Videl was a prostitute and now she's becoming a mistress. But, it won't be that bad. It's going to be kinda angsty because both Videl and Gohan have the experience of receiving the short straw and both are reluctant to open up to each other. I mean, if you were in either of their situations, wouldn't you be reluctant to open up your heart again? So, stay tuned for the next chapter. I'll get it up whenever I have time. I know this story is kinda confusing; I mean, how is this situation a test for Gohan, right? Well, it'll become clear as things progress. Until next time, ja, mata!
WARNING: I know that I put this part of my story in the 18th century England era, but I've changed it a bit. It's not exactly like it would be in England, but that's the luxury of being a fanfiction author. Also, be warned of Videl's way of life. It's not permanent and it was kind of a necessary evil.
Disclaimer: Do not own Dragonball Z. Story written for amusement. Key word: fanfiction, emphasis on fan.
------------Judgment of the Heavens------------
She allowed her mind to wander, thinking about the times when things were happier, when she wasn't ashamed and miserable every day of the life she led. She probably shouldn't have allowed her mind to wander, but her task was easier when she wasn't thinking about it. She was unaware of the world around her for she had drawn herself into her mind once more, not thinking about her surroundings.
She gasped as her head knocked up against the brick wall, bringing her back to awareness. Her companion took this as a sign of acceptance and began to move faster, thrusting himself into her at a quicker pace. She could feel his heavy breath coming in pants against her throat and she forced herself to let him keep going, despite her disgust.
Damn you, father, she whispered in her mind, feeling herself bumping against the alley wall with each thrust he took, her legs wrapped reluctantly around his waist. She moaned in disgust as his body began convulsing and he groaned, his seed filling her. Spent, he pulled out of her and put his now flaccid organ back into his pants. As she settled her skirts back down how they were supposed to fall, he pulled out a small pouch attached to his belt, opening it up and pulling out several coins.
"Here's your money," he said, his voice cultured and sophisticated despite the common clothing he wore. She gave him a faint smile.
"Thank you," she said, placing the money into her own money purse, hidden among the folds of her skirts.
"I will see you next week at our usual meeting spot," he said, waiting for her to nod before walking off.
"Well, then, good day, Videl," he said, walking off. Videl sighed as her customer walked off, disappearing from sight. Making minor adjustments to her outfit, trying to make it a little more presentable, Videl walked out of the semi-darkened alley to join the small crowd of people walking down the streets of the slums of London, trying not to think about her job. Thinking about it only made it more difficult for her. If she didn't think about it, it wouldn't hurt so much. If she didn't need the money and if she had somewhere else to go besides her father's house, Videl would run away and leave the world of prostitution behind at the drop of a hat.
Videl ignored the shivers of disgust that crawled over her skin as she proceeded into a small square. It didn't take her long to spot her next customer and, swallowing her dignity, Videl walked over to meet one of her regulars. Videl wasn't your run-of-the-mill prostitutes who stood on street corners, asking random men as they passed if they needed a little something to make their day more enjoyable. Videl, with her beauty and lady-like manners, had gathered a respectable group of regular customers, all of them upper-class merchants and most of them her father's old friends.
The fact that she performed unspeakable acts to and in front of men she used to consider uncles struck a chord of disgust in her that she just couldn't make disappear no matter how hard she tried. She continued to walk, stopping only a few feet in front of her next customer. He spotted her, a leering smile creeping its way onto his face.
"Hello, my dear," he crooned, "I'm so happy you could make it to our regular rendezvous." Videl plastered a fake smile onto her face.
"You flatter me, my Lord," she said. It was their usual game, her treating him like a Lord, him ordering her around. He smiled at her words.
"Come with me," he ordered, walking off, expecting her to follow along behind him. She did so grudgingly, knowing he was leading her to an unknown inn in the area, one that they wouldn't have visited before or perhaps not for some time. As she predicted, he led her to an inn she hadn't been to before, one of the cheap taverns of downtown London where they could go about their business without being interrupted or questioned. Once inside, her companion requested of the innkeeper a room for a couple of hours. The innkeeper's eyes roved over Videl's figure, taking in the low-cut dress she wore, and immediately knew her for what she was.
"Certainly," the innkeeper said, directing them to their room. The innkeeper then left them alone, her companion, Geoffrey, closing the door at the innkeeper's departure. Geoffrey then turned back to Videl and smiled lovingly at her.
"Now, my dear Videl, take off your clothes," he commanded. Trembling inside, Videl did as she was commanded and prepared herself for another disgusting couple of hours.
***
Once she had finished with Geoffrey and the two had departed, leaving Videl with a handsome sum of money, Videl decided that since she had no more appointments for the rest of the day that it was time to head home and face her drunken father. She shivered at the prospect, praying that he would just leave her alone and wouldn't take all of the money she earned and spend it on drink.
I just have to hide it from him some how, Videl thought as she ambled her way home. By the time she arrived at the small, three room shack she shared with her father, the sun had set and the watch was combing the city, trying to keep peace. None of them noticed Videl, though, keeping their eyes out for people who would do wrong instead of a prostitute like her. Videl didn't mind, though; the fewer people that looked at her, the better. If she could become invisible, she could probably live with the shame at what she had become.
Videl slowed to a stop in front of the door leading into her small home and took a deep breath before pushing the door open and entering the squalid abode. She spotted her father, sitting at on a wooden chair in front of the stove, a bottle in his hand. Videl sighed; he had been drinking as usual. Mr. Satan turned at the sound of the door opening and looked at his daughter with an angry look. Rising to his feet, wavering slightly, he scowled at Videl.
"Where have you been, you little slut? I've been waiting for hours for you to come home. Where's my money?" Mr. Satan demanded. Videl glared at her father.
"Your money? Your money? Do you go out onto the streets and earn the money yourself? Remember who feeds us around here!" Videl snapped. Mr. Satan looked down at Videl with fury in his eyes.
"I am your father and you will do as I tell you. Now give me my money!" Videl's fiery spirit chose that moment to kick in.
"Go to Hell," she spat. Mr. Satan roared with anger at Videl's words and, before Videl knew what was happening, Mr. Satan had advanced on Videl and backhanded her with his giant fist, sending Videl to the floor.
"Bitch," he murmured before stumbling towards the front door, leaving their home, shutting the door with a slam. Videl inhaled and exhaled through gritted teeth, her anger towards her father at its pinnacle.
"Bastard," she spat out before pushing herself off the floor. Walking into her room, she picked up a small, dirty mirror and inspected the part of her face that her father had hit.
"That's going to leave a mark," she mumbled, "Hopefully it won't be too bad." Seeing how there was nothing she could do about it, Videl shrugged and put the mirror down. Moving over to her bed, she lifted her straw mattress and retrieved a large leather bag that was almost full. Taking the small bag that was tied to her dress and opening it, she poured out her day's earnings onto her palms and transferred it to the large bag.
"Father's lucky that I save this money. Otherwise, we'd starve because he'd spend it all on alcohol," Videl said, "Hmm, I think I have enough extra in here to by myself a new dress." Videl smiled at the thought. A dress that she could wear in public when she went to the market and not get stared at; a decent dress that a decent woman would be proud of.
"Yes, I think I will do that tomorrow," Videl said, placing the bag back to its original position and covering it with her mattress, "A wonderful plan for tomorrow."
***
-A few days later-
"It makes me so unhappy, Bulma," Chi-Chi sighed. Bulma put a comforting hand on her cousin's shoulder, taking a quick glance around to make sure that no one recognized with her. Hopefully, with her disguise, no one would recognize Bulma as the wife of Prince Vegeta, the crowned prince of England.
"I know, it makes me unhappy too, Chi-Chi. I mean, Gohan is practically like my son as well."
"I just wish there was something I could do to make him happy again," Chi-Chi said, "He used to be so happy when Isabel was alive. But, after she died, that light in his eyes went out. He hasn't been the same since she died. I just want my little boy back, Bulma." Bulma looked at her cousin with sympathy as a few tears escaped from Chi-Chi's large brown eyes. The two of them strolled through the market place of London, arm in arm, taking a break from their rich lifestyles. Bulma lifted her eyes from Chi-Chi and looked around the marketplace, surveying everything. That's when she spotted her.
There, standing in front of a bakery, inspecting the bread that was displayed in the window, was a young woman of about Gohan's age. She wore a very simple, yet flattering, brown wool dress, the dress a decent sort of woman would wear. But Bulma could tell that this young woman had no money. Bulma sympathized, coming from a poor family herself. Chi-Chi and herself had both managed to break out of the system, catching the attention of two of the most powerful men in the British Empire.
Bulma continued to study the young woman, taking in her aesthetic beauty. Her long black hair was pulled into a low ponytail and Bulma caught a glimpse of a pair of the most startling blue eyes she had ever seen. Bulma gasped as she got a better view of the girl's face as the young woman turned slightly. She had delicate features, her nose small and her lips full and lush. She held herself with such a sense of grace that it almost looked like she had been born into better circumstances. Her figure was one that men would obviously desire, that figure that would warm the hearts of any man. And her eyes held an intelligence that would keep a man interested for some time. That's when the idea hit Bulma, an idea inspired by the girl in front of her.
"Chi-Chi, we should find Gohan a mistress," Bulma said. Chi-Chi gaped at Bulma, making sure that nobody had heard Bulma's comment.
"Bulma," Chi-Chi whispered, "Are you sure that's a good idea? I mean, Gohan told me not to meddle in his life anymore. I don't want to make him any madder at me than he already is!" Bulma sighed.
"Chi-Chi, I think that a mistress is just what Gohan needs. What he needs is something to get him interested in the world again and I think that a mistress can do just that," Bulma said in the same hushed tone that Chi-Chi had taken. Chi-Chi processed the thought for a few seconds before nodding.
"Maybe you're right. But where did that idea come from? And who are we going to find who would be willing to be Gohan's mistress?" Bulma smiled and pointed.
"That girl right there," Bulma stated. Chi-Chi followed the direction that Bulma's finger was pointed in and nodded in approval as she saw the girl who was standing there.
"I like her already and I don't even know her," Chi-Chi said, "But how do we go about asking her? I mean, we don't even know who she is!" Bulma smiled.
"We'll just go talk to her. Don't worry, let me do the talking," Bulma said. Chi-Chi nodded in relief. Bulma had a much easier time with words that Chi-Chi had ever had. She was glad to relinquish control of the talking to Bulma. The two older women approached the young woman. Out of the corner of Videl's eye, she saw two women walking towards her, obviously intent on making contact with her. The woman with the blue hair took a couple of steps in front of the other woman and smiled at Videl.
"My dear, might I say that the dress you're wearing is lovely," the blue-haired woman compliment. Videl blushed lightly, taking in the fine silk that made up both women's dresses.
"Thank you, but it's not quite as lovely and elegant either of your two dresses," Videl said, with a small nod of her head. Bulma and Chi-Chi smiled; not only was this young woman polite, but the tone of her voice sounded like she was educated.
Good. I don't think Gohan could deal with an idiot, Bulma thought.
"May I ask your name, dear?" Bulma asked.
"My name is Videl Satan, miss," Videl said with a small curtsey, using the manners that she had learned all those years ago, but hadn't had the opportunity to use them lately. Bulma giggled a little.
"Oh, my. You flatter me. I'm not quite that young anymore," Bulma said with a smile
"Pardon my forwardness, but are you married, miss?" Chi-Chi asked, speaking for the first time. Videl looked taken aback at Chi-Chi's words before shaking her head slightly.
"No, madam, I am not." Chi-Chi and Bulma exchanged similar looks of relief. Bulma leaned forward and placed a hand on Videl's arm.
"Now, Videl, this may seem a little forward, but my friend and I have something we want to ask you," Bulma said. Videl looked curious and encouraged Bulma to go on by a small nod of her head.
"You see," Bulma said in lowered tones, "I am Princess Bulma, wife to the crowned prince, and this is Lady Chi-Chi. Her son, the Duke of Chatham, is in need of a mistress and we thought that you might be interested in assuming the position." Videl didn't think she could possibly be more shocked if someone had told her she had just inherited the throne.
"That's a bit presumptuous of you, isn't it?" Videl asked, breathless from shock. Bulma and Chi-Chi exchanged looks.
"Yes, we know," Chi-Chi said, "But we wouldn't ask unless it was necessary. My son needs someone in his life and we couldn't help but notice you from afar." Videl turned her attention to Chi-Chi.
"But you have no idea who I am," Videl countered, "I could be of common blood. I know that's not appropriate for a mistress." It was Bulma's turn to speak.
"We know you aren't of common blood," Bulma explained, "From your speech, tone of voice, and overall countenance, I can tell you are educated. An education means money, which equals class." Videl's eyes widened at Bulma's deduction, remembering what she had heard about the crowned Princess' intelligence.
"You really are the crowned princess, aren't you?" Videl asked, not waiting for Bulma's response, "Yes, you are. You fit the description perfectly and you're just as intelligent as everyone says the princess is." Bulma beamed with pride.
"I'm so happy you've realized that I was telling the truth. I was afraid that you would think I was a liar for telling you I was the crowned princess." Chi-Chi decided that it was time to get the conversation back onto its original track.
"This is all well and good," Chi-Chi said, "But will you agree to being my son's mistress? I know that people do not normally go finding mistresses for their sons since it is not a respectable position, but believe me when I say that Bulma and I will not respect you less for agreeing since I'm hoping, maybe a bit falsely, that my son will take enough of a liking to you to make you his wife." Videl looked back and forth between the two older women, trying to decide whether or not they were serious.
Well, I have heard more forward words before, just not out of the mouths of women of class, Videl thought. After a few moments of contemplation, Videl decided to agree. Anything was better than the life she was currently living; her father be dammed. Videl allowed a small smile to creep its way onto her face.
"Yes, I will agree to being your son's mistress," Videl said, "When do I start?"
"Right now," Chi-Chi said, "The first thing we need to do is get you a new wardrobe, one fitting of an upper class woman." Chi-Chi immediately reddened in shame.
"Oh, I am so sorry. I did not mean to insult you," Chi-Chi said. Videl just smiled the offense away.
"Don't worry about it. I am used to wearing much better, myself. Times have been hard for my family and myself as of late," Videl said, her face falling at the recent abuse she had to endure from her father. Chi-Chi laid a sympathetic hand on Videl's shoulder as she led the younger woman down the street.
"I understand," Chi-Chi said as the three of them walked down the street in the direction of the seamstress that was responsible for the making of both Chi-Chi and Bulma's wardrobes, "Before I married my husband, my family was in dire straits, too." Videl looked wide-eyed at Chi-Chi.
"Really?" she asked incredulously. Bulma chose that moment to speak up.
"We both were," Bulma said, "Chi-Chi and I are actually cousins. Before Chi-Chi married her husband, the two of us had nothing to our name. Living out in the country, we barely had anything to survive on." Chi-Chi nodded.
"That's right. Then, one day, my husband was traveling through the country and came across the little village where our family lived. Due to some interesting circumstances, we met and fell in love. He broke almost every rule by marrying me. From that moment on, I was officially the wife of the Duke of Chatham. Bulma began staying with us and, when she met the prince, the two of them fell in love. The prince followed my husband's example and married Bulma. There was much outrage when news of the prince marrying a commoner spread, but people eventually accepted it." Videl felt her heart lightened by the story, thinking that maybe there could be happiness for her down the road.
"At least you had a family," Videl said, "My mother passed away not too long ago. My father, who used to be a famous merchant, has wasted all of our money on drink. We have nothing left. My father, frustrated by our position in society, takes his anger out on me, physically and verbally." Beside her, she heard twin gasps.
"Oh my, Videl, I am so sorry," Bulma said. Videl smiled a sad smile.
"It's all right. You have given me my chance for escape from this horrible life," Videl said gratefully. The three women decided to change the subject to something lighter and chatted the rest of the way to the seamstress' shop. Videl eventually noticed that she was being led to a richer part of town.
"Where, may I ask, are we going?" Videl said.
"Now, that is an easy question to answer," Chi-Chi said, "I am taking you to my seamstress to get fitted for an entirely new wardrobe." Videl gasped at that.
"But, Lady Chi-Chi, that is a ridiculous amount of money! I'd never be able to repay you for it!" Chi-Chi smiled at Videl.
"Do not worry about it," Chi-Chi said, "If you make my son happy, that will be payment enough for me, I can assure you." They eventually reached the seamstress' shop and, when they entered, Chi-Chi was delighted to find out that the seamstress had no more appointments for the rest of the day.
After arranging for a carriage to take them home in a few hours, Chi-Chi set the seamstress to the task of measuring Videl while she and Bulma picked out fabrics and designs, limiting themselves to the best quality and latest fashions. To Videl, having her measurements taken harkened her back to her younger days when her mother used to arrange for her to have new gowns made. A sad expression settled on Videl's face.
All of those dresses had to be sold or gotten rid of when we needed the money for food. Everything I had to help preserve my mother's memory is gone, Videl thought as she allowed herself to be manipulated by the women seamstress so she could take her measurements. After Chi-Chi and Bulma had finished with the fabrics and designs, they moved on to arranging accessories to go with the new wardrobe. The two older women, needless to say, were having a field day with all the arrangements. A few hours later, after everything had been settled away, the driver Chi-Chi had arranged picked up the young women.
"Where are we going?" Videl asked. Chi-Chi looked over at Videl.
"We are going to my humble home. You will be staying with my family while your dresses are being made. Once your wardrobe is finished, you will be moving over to live with Gohan," Chi-Chi explained.
"Gohan?" Videl questioned.
"Oh, that's right!" Chi-Chi exclaimed, "I never told you my eldest son's name. Gohan is his name."
"That's an unusual name," Videl commented, a smile on her face. Chi-Chi smiled back.
"So is Videl," Chi-Chi commented back. Videl shrugged.
"Well, what can I say? My mother was an unusual character," Videl said, a melancholy smile on her face. After a long, yet talkative journey, the small party arrived at Chi-Chi's manor, where Bulma had arranged for herself to stay a few days to visit her cousin. Bulma inwardly smiled at the timing of her visit.
It allows me to get to know this marvelous young woman sitting across from me, Bulma thought happily. Videl's eyes widened at the size of the manor.
"It's beautiful!" Videl said, "Is your son's manor much like yours?" Over the past few hours, Videl had learned a few things about Gohan, such as he had his own manor separate from his parents.
"Yes, except bigger. He is the official Duke of Chatham after my husband passed the title down to him 5 years ago," Chi-Chi explained. Videl nodded numbly in awe as the carriage drove past the gates and up to the front of the manor.
"Now," Chi-Chi explained as the three women exited the carriage, "In the meantime, while your wardrobe is being constructed, you will be wearing my clothes. From the information I received about your measurements, we are about the same size so we do not have to worry about you wearing the same thing every day until your clothes arrive." Videl smiled.
"Thank you very much, Lady Chi-Chi," Videl said as the doorman opened the large front door, allowing them to enter the manor.
"Come along, Videl," Chi-Chi said as they entered the manor, "I want to introduce you to my husband and my youngest son."
"That would be nice," Videl said. Bulma smiled.
"I think I am going to retire to my room until dinner is served," Bulma said before exiting gracefully, leaving herself up to the room that she always used when she visited. Once Bulma departed, Chi-Chi excitedly led Videl to where she suspected her husband and son to be: the study.
Right as always, Chi-Chi found her family in the study. Goten was working on his own studies while Goku read a book, a rare pastime for him to engage in. Chi-Chi motioned for Videl to stay in the hall while Chi-Chi introduced her. Chi-Chi entered the study, gaining the attention of Goku and Goten. Goku's face lit up into a bright smile at the sight of his wife. Rising to his feet, Goku walked over to Chi-Chi and kissed her solidly on the lips.
"I'm so happy to see you," Goku said, "I've missed you all day. Did you have fun with Bulma?" Chi-Chi giggled and smiled.
"Yes, I did. In fact, I had a very interesting day. Goku, Goten, there's someone I'd like you to meet," Chi-Chi said. Goten perked up at the news.
"Who is it, mother?" he asked. Chi-Chi turned and called out to the hallway.
"Videl, darling, you can come in now," Chi-Chi said. Slowly and timidly, Videl entered the study and stood in front of Goku and Goten.
"Hello, I'm pleased to meet you," Videl said with a polite curtsy. Both Goku and Goten bowed in response to Videl's curtsy.
"Goku, darling, this young woman's name is Videl. She is going to be Gohan's mistress," Chi-Chi said. Goku's eyes widened at the news.
"What?" he exclaimed. Goten, meanwhile, had gone over to Videl and was currently getting to know Videl while Chi-Chi explained herself to her husband.
"This will be good for Gohan," Chi-Chi said.
"But, won't Gohan be mad at you for meddling in his life again?" Goku pointed out. Chi-Chi sighed.
"He needs this, Goku. Gohan has gotten increasingly uninterested in life and Bulma and I think that another woman in his life is exactly what he needs. Nobody outside family need know about it, so as not to disgrace the family name," Chi-Chi said, a devilish smile creeping onto her face, "Who knows, maybe Videl will end up being so fancied by Gohan that he'll take her as his wife." Goku looked at Chi-Chi speculatively.
"Isn't that jumping to conclusions a little?" Goku asked, concerned over his son's possible reaction and his wife's presumptions. Chi-Chi's smile faltered and she sighed.
"I hope not," Chi-Chi said as she glanced over to see Goten excitedly asking Videl questions.
"Are you a princess?" Goten asked, way too innocently for his 14 years. Videl smiled gently and shook her head.
"No, I'm not. Sorry," Videl answered. Chi-Chi looked back at her husband.
"I just want Gohan to be happy again," Chi-Chi said, "He's been so distant lately. Bulma and I think Gohan needs to be involved with another woman, that it would be good for him. When we met Videl, we knew she was perfect for him. If you just get to know her, you'll find that she's Gohan's match." Goku looked over at Videl and sighed. Maybe she would be able to help Gohan regain some happiness.
"Chi-Chi," he said softly, "I hope you're right."
-------------
Ok, I'm sorry Videl was a prostitute and now she's becoming a mistress. But, it won't be that bad. It's going to be kinda angsty because both Videl and Gohan have the experience of receiving the short straw and both are reluctant to open up to each other. I mean, if you were in either of their situations, wouldn't you be reluctant to open up your heart again? So, stay tuned for the next chapter. I'll get it up whenever I have time. I know this story is kinda confusing; I mean, how is this situation a test for Gohan, right? Well, it'll become clear as things progress. Until next time, ja, mata!