Meri Kurisumasu

Chapter 4: Uub

Although Christmas is thought by many to be a holiday all know and embrace, that is far from the truth. Aside from those of other religions who celebrate Hanukah, Kwanzaa and the like, the are some to whom the word Christmas is completely foreign. They lead simpler lives, and are concerned more with putting food on the table, than gifts under a tree. In the hot sun, many worked hard, picking and planting crops, gathering water and caring for those too young to work.

Uub wiped his brow and sat on the ground while his younger brothers and sisters played in the hole he had created to liven up their day. Some of his siblings were working now and he thought he should be too, but his strength had proved to be too much in many cases. Although he had no problem breaking down compost or clearing fields, it took a more delicate hand to remove the vegetables from the ground. Rather than wasting time doing nothing, he relieved his mother of her babysitting duties so she could relax for a change. He now had a new appreciation for what she did each day.

After a while the kids were too hot to continue running about, so Uub jumped into the hole a shot into the side, creating a cave of shade. He knew his mother would go crazy if she saw them. Not only were the children filthy, but they were under a large amount of dirt that could possibly collapse right on top of tem, but Uub wasn't worried. Even if it did fall, he could get most out before it hit, and any left he could dig out in seconds. He was sure the rest in shade was worth the risk.

By nightfall, Uub's mother had returned, and noting his exhaustion, suggested he go visit his friends in the city. Uub accepted gratefully and flew off, after bidding goodbye to all his family.

Flying felt better than ever to him, as the rushing air cooled his body. Continuing on, he could feel the air getting cooler and slightly thinner. It felt good at first but eventually the cold began to grow unbearable. He picked up his speed to get to Gokou's home as soon as possible. As much as he wanted to break through the door to the heat inside, he couldn't. He'd been taught to be proper and mannerful when with others, no matter what, so he knocked on the door and shivered as he waited for the door to open. When it did, Chichi looked at him for a moment, then dragged him inside.

"What are you doing out in the cold in such clothes?" She asked, sitting him down.

"Well, where I live it's still very hot, and I didn't think to change."

"Yes, well we can't have you running around without a shirt on in dead winter. I'll tell you what. Take this jacket. It's Gohan's but he doesn't wear it anymore. You can go over to Bulma's and I'm sure she can give you some warmer clothes. Chances are she'll give you something that can keep you warm, even without the jacket."

"But I don't want to intrude on her."

"Nonsense, go on." Chichi said, ushering him to the door.

"But I-"

"I said go!!!!" Uub froze, and his former masters wife's face went from that of a sweet old lady to a maniac, then back again. Chichi smiled and gave Uub a light push out the door. "Have fun." She said as Uub flew towards the Western Capital.

Arriving at Capsule Corp. Uub walked in and looked about amazed at the main hall, now fully decorated. He headed towards Bulma's office, but met up with Bra along the way.

"Hey Uub!" She greeted, walking over. "How's it going?"

"Okay, I was just going to ask Bulma about some warmer clothes."

"Oh? Well she's kinda busy now so you'll have to wait. So, enjoying Christmas so far?"

"… Christmas?"

"Yeah. Tonight is Christmas Eve. Aren't you celebrating?"

Uub laughed and looked at her shyly. "Actually, I don't know what Christmas is."

Bra's eyes widened in shock and she nearly fell over. "You don't know what Christmas is? Wow. Geez. Well, how about this, we go get you some clothes, and then you can come to the company party. How's that?"

"Well… okay."