A/N: Well, what can I say, I really enjoy writing this story, and it just keeps getting longer and longer. In response to the question if Videl and Gohan had sex, I'm not going to answer that. I leave it up to each individual reader to determine that for themselves. Ya'll have been extremely kind with the reviews so far. Please keep them coming!
*********
When Videl finally awoke from her deep slumber the next morning, she instantly noticed that Gohan was no longer lying in the bed next to her. She quickly glanced at the clock and discovered that it was only 8:30. Gohan must have gotten a very early start. When she rolled over to where he was sleeping, she discovered that he had left a note lying on his pillow.
Dear Videl,
I'm out running a few errands. I thought about waking you up but you looked so peaceful while you were sleeping that I couldn't bring myself to do it. I'll be back after lunch and we can head over to Capsule Corp. to look at houses.
Love always,
Gohan
Videl smiled as she read the note. It was so like Gohan to leave a note on a pillow to explain where he was. Even though they had only known each other for a few months, Videl felt as if she had known Gohan her whole life. Every time she thought of him, butterflies began to fly around in her stomach. She giggled at the thought that he made her act like a young girl in love. The feeling was amazing.
She briefly closed her eyes and attempted to sense where he was. She could tell that he was high above the earth, near Kami's Lookout. Deciding that it would be better to leave him alone for the time being, she rolled out of bed and headed into the bathroom to take a relaxing shower.
**********
Gohan, meanwhile, was high above the earth but he was not yet up to Kami's Lookout. Instead, he had stopped at Korrin's Place. When he landed, he was immediately greeted by the white talking cat.
"Hi Gohan. It's been a long time since we've seen you up here."
Gohan sheepishly rubbed the back of his head and rolled his eyes at the same time.
"Yeah, I'm sorry. My mom's been going crazy about my studies so I haven't had much time to keep up with anyone."
As Korrin glanced over the teenager in front of him, the change that Gohan had undertaken 72 hours. To Korrin, it seemed as if the look in Gohan's eyes had changed from looking like the young boy who fought Cell so long ago to looking like a man who'd seen too much but was determined to keep fighting.
A brief smile crossed Korrin's face. "However, unless I miss my guess, studying has become a part of your distant past."
Gohan's appearance suddenly became serious as he straightened up and his hand fell back down to his side. His head was nodding as he spoke.
"I finally decided it was time to stop neglecting my responsibilities."
"Well, in a way I'm sorry to hear that. You never really seemed to want that life very much. But I do have to say that I'm glad that the Earth now has another of the elite warriors in the galaxy protecting it."
Gohan gave a slight nod and bow in appreciation.
"Thanks, that means a lot."
Just then, Yajirobe decided to poke his head out from below and shout,
"Hey! Can you two keep it down up there?! I'm trying to get my beauty sleep!"
Then just as quickly, he disappeared again into the bowels of the small tower. Both Korrin and Gohan looked at each other and started laughing. The idea of Yajirobe needing beauty sleep was too much.
"So anyways Gohan, what was the real reason you came up here?"
"Well, I actually have a question for you first. Do senzu beans lose their powers over time?"
Korrin looked thoughtful for a moment and then answered.
"No, they don't. However, I'm told they taste worse as they age. They're not exactly a fine wine."
Gohan's eyes sparkled with laughter as he began to speak.
"Have you actually tried those things Korrin? They taste so awful when they're fresh that no one will notice the difference when their old. I figure we can just stockpile them until they're needed."
Korrin joined Gohan in his laughter. He had actually tried a senzu bean once just to taste them and was shocked at how bitter and hard they had been. Gohan did have a good point.
"Okay, okay. Yajirobe and I will get started right away."
"Thanks Korrin, I really appreciate it."
"Sure. Are you headed up to talk with Dende and Piccolo?" Korrin asked as he gestured upwards toward the Lookout with his large wooden cane.
"Yeah, that's the next stop on my list."
"Alright, well don't be a stranger Gohan. And one of these days I'd sure like to actually meet Videl instead of just seeing her."
Gohan had a big grin on his face as he flew from the tower.
"We'll have to see what we can do. See ya later!"
With that, Gohan sped higher into the sky, heading towards Kami's Lookout.
*********
When Gohan rose over the edge of the Lookout, he quickly took in his surroundings and noticed that Piccolo was in his typical meditative state, slowly hovering over the tile flooring, Mr. Popo was tending to his gardens and Dende was no where to be found.
Mr. Popo noticed him first as he landed and looked like he was about to speak, but Gohan silenced him with a finger over his lips. He wanted to try and sneak up on Piccolo. Never once had he actually succeeded, but he always found enjoyment out of trying. Mr. Popo nodded his head in silent understanding. He'd seen this game played out dozens of time, but was silently amazed at how Piccolo never failed to notice Gohan before the boy could surprise him.
Gohan crept silently towards Piccolo on foot, since he didn't want to use his ki on the possibility that his ki signature would give him away. As he got closer to Piccolo, Gohan was encouraged that Piccolo had yet to emerge from his meditative state. Usually, Piccolo opened one eye and glared at Gohan in amusement before Gohan got within 30 feet.
Finally, after what seemed like hours, Gohan had finally made his way around Piccolo so that he was directly behind him. A huge grin spread over Gohan's face as he began to move his hand forward in an effort to shake Piccolo from his meditation.
"I..." Gohan began to shout. However, suddenly his wrist was captured by a green hand.
"Got you." Piccolo finished. Slowly, he turned around to face his former pupil with a smirk on his face.
"Ahh, Piccolo, I thought I finally had you." Gohan whined with a pout on his face. "How did you know I was here?"
"Kid, I practically raised you. I know you almost as well as your own parents."
Gohan shrugged his shoulders in reply. In many ways, Piccolo had always been a second father to Gohan. Their relationship had really begun after Radditz came to Earth, when Piccolo had trained him. However, the relationship had truly blossomed after Goku died fighting Cell, when Gohan really looked to Piccolo for support. At that time in his life, Piccolo was the only one who would listen to Gohan's fears and help him through that difficult period. Piccolo, not Goku was the one Gohan went to as he grew and matured into a teenager. In many ways, Piccolo was more of a father to Gohan than Goku had been. Yet, that didn't matter to Gohan, he loved them both.
"One of these days Piccolo, I'm actually going to sneak up on you without you knowing." Gohan said with fresh determination in his eyes. Every time Piccolo managed to catch him, Gohan's resolve would always increase another notch.
Piccolo didn't say anything, instead he merely looked back at Gohan in amusement. They'd been playing this game almost for as long as they'd known each other.
Just then, Piccolo noticed the scar on Gohan's neck. The knowledge he'd obtained when he'd joined with Kami immediately allowed him to understand what had happened. Not to mention that a petrified Gohan had described the process in vivid detail to him after Gohan had been given 'the talk' by Vegeta. The poor boy had only been about 12 years old then, Piccolo remembered and had just witnessed his mother giving birth to Goten. After hearing her screams during labor, mating was the last thing on Gohan's mind at the time.
"So I see that you and Videl have finally become mates."
Gohan nodded silently. He was getting used to the routine. And besides, some things are better to be said silently.
"She's a good choice for you. I think a very strong willed woman is just what you need."
Gohan beamed at the praise from his former master.
"Thanks Piccolo! We're both extremely happy."
The smirk had long since returned to Piccolo's face. "I thought as much. I can practically sense the happiness radiating off you in waves."
"I'm that obvious huh?" Gohan asked with a shrug. He was so in love with Videl that he didn't bother to hide it.
Piccolo rolled his eyes and nodded his head in agreement. "Knowing your mother, I would assume that she started shrieking about grandchildren the instant she found out, but I'm curious to know how her father took it."
Gohan laughed as he listened to Piccolo talk about his mother. The two had never exactly gotten along, but they had always made an attempt to tolerate each other for Gohan's sake.
"Well, you're partially right about my mother. She was already starting to plan our wedding for us and was shocked when I said we would plan it for ourselves. But I was pleasantly surprised about Hercule's reaction. He seemed genuinely happy for us, and actually seemed scared when he realized that I was the little boy who defeated Cell."
"The look on his face must have been priceless."
"Lets just say I wish I'd had a camera." When their laugher died down, Piccolo could tell that Gohan had another question for him, yet seemed rather hesitant to ask it.
"Come on Gohan, spit it out. What do you want?"
A smile appeared on Gohan's face yet again. "You know me way too well Piccolo. I was actually wondering if you would be willing to be my best man when it comes time for the wedding?"
A growl emanated from deep within Piccolo's throat as his expression suddenly got very serious. "I'll think about it."
However, Gohan had been around Piccolo enough to detect the slight shift of his eyes, the quick change in his appearance that revealed just how proud Piccolo was to be asked.
"Thanks Piccolo. I knew I could count on you."
A loud 'humph' was the only answer Gohan received.
"By the way Piccolo," Gohan started, switching subjects as his appearance immediately grew more serious, "I thought you should know that I've finally decided to give up studying and start training permanently."
Piccolo's expression quickly changed from that of mock annoyance to one of genuine concern. He of all people knew that Gohan didn't desire to be a fighter like the rest of them and was rather shocked at this announcement. Piccolo had spent most of Gohan's life trying to keep the kid safe from danger and now Gohan was willingly subjecting himself to a life of great peril.
"Why?" was Piccolo's simple response.
However, instead of a simple response in return, he got a complicated answer.
"I let everyone down again Piccolo. It was a huge mistake to quit training after
Cell, one that I can't afford to make again. Besides," Gohan stared off into space at
something that only he could see with a dream-like expression in his eyes. "I finally have someone worth fighting for."
As Gohan was talking, Piccolo could see just how much Gohan had matured in front of his eyes. Like all parents, Piccolo still had powerful memories of Gohan as just a little boy and in many respects, when Piccolo had looked at Gohan in the past, that's what he'd seen. Just that frightened little boy in the woods, struggling to stay alive. But Piccolo was no fool. He could easily see that that little boy was long gone. Gohan had grown up, seemingly overnight.
"Alright kid, if there is anything I can do to help you out, let me know."
"I'll do that. I still have a long way to go until I get back to a respectable level. Hey, do you know where Dende is? I need to talk over some things with him."
Piccolo nodded his head towards the entrance to the bowels of the lookout. "He's in there, taking care of some official guardian business. I'm sure he's already sensed your presence and will be out in a minute."
As if on cue, Dende came rushing out from the shadows to where Gohan and Piccolo were sitting.
"Gohan! What brings you all the way up here?!" Dende asked with a huge smile on his face.
"Well, first off, I assume that you already know about Videl and me." Gohan said it as a statement more than a question
Dende nodded sheepishly. "Yeah, I've been listening in for a while now."
"That's fine. I would have told you anyways." Dende looked relieved. An angry Gohan was something he didn't ever want to deal with. "The reason I'm up here is to talk to you about new Dragonballs and a new Hyperbolic Time Chamber. I figure that both the existing Dragonballs and Hyperbolic Time Chamber were destroyed when Buu blew up the earth. Am I correct?"
"Yes you are."
"Well then, it would be possible to create new dragonballs and a hyperbolic time chamber right?"
Dende's brow furled as he sat in contemplation. After a few moments he spoke.
"Yes it would. Since the model of the dragon was also destroyed, I'd have to start out with new dragonballs anyways. It'll take me about 100 days to make a new set."
"And what about a new hyperbolic time chamber? Can you do that as well?"
A sigh escaped Dende's lips as he spoke.
"That could be a bit more complicated. The original Hyperbolic Time Chamber was created millions of years ago. I'm not quite sure I'd know where to begin."
"Could you at least try Dende? The chamber was a really important asset to us in the past and I have a feeling that we'll need it again some day."
Dende smiled at his friend. They had been through so much together on Namek and most recently had gone through the whole Buu ordeal. Dende definitely agreed with Videl. Controversy does bring people closer together.
"Of course I'll try Gohan. You know I'd do anything in my power to help you guys out. Now, since we're starting out fresh with the Dragonballs and a new Time Chamber, what differences do you want from before?"
For a few moments, Gohan looked thoughtful. He'd thought about that exact question for several days, trying to come up with a new configuration that would prove advantageous for the Z Fighters in years to come. The reason he'd waited for so long after Buu had been defeated to come visit Dende was that he'd only finally made his decision last night after Videl had fallen asleep.
"It would be really nice if we could model the new dragonballs after the ones on Namek. You know, with three wishes and the ability to revive people as many times as the dragon sees fit?"
Dende nodded his head rapidly. "That should be easy enough. And how about the Time Chamber?"
"Well, if you could create it exactly like the old one but with three exceptions, that would be fantastic. First, get rid of the limit on the number of people that can be inside at one time. Second, eliminate the time restriction on the room and third, make it so that the people inside don't age while they are in the Time Chamber."
"Okay. That sounds reasonable enough. And you still want the same ratio of time from the inside to the outside?"
"Yeah." Gohan nodded his head in agreement.
"Alright. I'll see what I..." Dende was interrupted by the sound of Gohan's growling stomach. "can do. Good grief Gohan. Didn't you eat breakfast this morning?"
Now it was Gohan's turn to look sheepish. "Of course I did Dende. Its just, you know how Saiyans are."
A rare smirk formed on Dende's lips. "I know exactly how Saiyans are. And that's why I had Mr. Popo start cooking a huge feast when I sensed you heading up in this direction. Shall we?" Dende asked as he gestured towards the entrance into the Lookout.
Another rumble answered his question. "Yes please." Gohan answered to the sound of Dende and Piccolo's laughing.
*********
Gohan landed back on Videl's balcony with a great feeling of self accomplishment. He'd persuaded Korrin to begin growing a continuous supply of senzu beans, and Dende was going to create both new dragon balls and a hyperbolic time chamber. All in all, it was a fine days work, and it was barely early afternoon. After he'd landed, Gohan opened the dual French doors leading into Videl's room, only to find it empty. That in itself wasn't too surprising. He hardly expected Videl to wait in her room for him until he came back.
Quickly sensing her position, Gohan honed in on her ki and began to move through the maze of a house in an attempt to find her. After several dead ends and having to retrace his steps, Gohan had finally arrived at the indoor pool. Inside was one lone occupant, Videl.
Gohan stood mesmerized as he watched Videl swim laps in a very sexy two piece bikini. To men everywhere, a woman in a bikini easily qualified as the 8th wonder of the world. Watching Videl swim, there was no doubt in Gohan's mind that a woman's body truly was a work of art. Every curve, the faint tan of her skin, the shadows that fell across her face, all combined to create a true masterpiece. He couldn't help himself, he stared in awe.
Videl, meanwhile, was quite aware of the effect she was having on Gohan since she could feel his emotions and was reveling in the sensations it caused. She was flattered that Gohan found her so attractive and continued to allow herself to be viewed as 'eye candy' for a few more minutes until she finally swam to the edge of the pool and acknowledged Gohan's presence.
"Hey Gohan, whatcha looking at?" she asked in a seductive tone of voice.
She had to suppress a giggle as he fought to form a coherent sentence.
"I... Well... You... Ah..." Finally Gohan took a deep breath to regain his composure.
"Only the sexiest woman in the entire universe." He said in a deep husky voice as he began to walk towards the edge of the pool.
This time, Videl actually laughed, catching Gohan off-guard. That was hardly the reaction he'd expected.
"And how exactly do you know that Gohan?"
Gohan pointed towards the sky. "I've been out there. There is no one else that even compares."
"Oh right, you saw a bunch of asexual Nameks and some of Frieza's henchmen. I hardly think that qualifies as the whole universe." Videl teased.
As Gohan crossed his arms over his chest, his face took on the look of a hurt five year old. Yet Videl could tell that his eyes were laughing. He was enjoying this exchange just as much as she was.
"I don't even know why I bother. Maybe I'd have better luck if I tried with one of those asexual Nameks. I swear..." But he didn't get the chance to finish his sentence. Videl had already grabbed him by the shirt and had pulled him into the pool.
"Hey, now I'm all..." Gohan started to complain again as he surfaced but was quickly silenced by Videl's lips upon his own. All of Gohan's complaints swiftly left his mind as he enjoyed the sensation of Videl's touch. However, all too soon in his opinion, Videl had left his embrace and rapidly climbed out of the pool. She smiled back down at him as she spoke.
"That was just a preview for later." Videl began to walk away, once again exaggerating the sway of her hips, knowing exactly the effect it had on Gohan, when she heard him say,
"Now there's a movie I can't wait to see."
Videl turned around and laughed. "Come on Gohan, get out of the pool. We're going to go over to Capsule Corp. and take a look at houses. I've already called Bulma and she's expecting us." Videl could see the pout return to Gohan's face. Yet she could still see the laughter in his eyes.
"Oh fine. If you say so." He said as he began to pull himself out of the pool. When he stood up, he slowly raised his ki in an effort to dry himself off. He'd found that technique particularly useful after all the occasions Goten and Trunks had decided that it would be fun to throw him into whatever lake they were exploring at the time. Meanwhile, Videl had toweled off and was starting to change into some regular clothes.
"You know Gohan, when your mother, Bulma and I were in the Otherworld, we had nice long talks about how to keep you Saiyans in line."
The expression on Gohan's face quickly changed to mock mortification. "You've got to be kidding me."
Videl's face remained etched in a smile as she continued the verbal joust with Gohan.
"Oh no, I'm dead serious. Your mother even promised me my own frying pan." Now Gohan's face dropped his mocking look. He was actually terrified.
"You wouldn't..."
Videl continued as if she hadn't heard Gohan speak. "And Bulma gave me lots of advice about what to do if you got on my nerves. You'd better make sure we have a comfortable couch." Gohan finally got a good look in Videl's eyes and immediately relaxed. He could tell she was just kidding.
'Though that's not a bad idea about getting a comfortable couch.' He mused.
"You know, I think I should be worried. Three of the most important women in my life, already conspiring against me."
"Oh yes. Be afraid, be very afraid." Videl's voice rang with laugher as she spoke and Gohan quickly joined her. He wrapped her up in a tight embrace, suddenly becoming serious.
"I love you Videl."
"I love you too Gohan. Now come on. Bulma's waiting for us."
Hand in hand, they walked out of the mansion and took off into the air, headed towards Capsule Corp.
**********
A short while later, Gohan and Videl were standing at the private entrance for family and friends to Capsule Corp. Every member of the Z Fighters had their own private pass code to enter the building, thus being able to gain access at anytime of their choosing. Gohan had found it extremely convenient when he brought Goten over to play with Trunks and wanted to avoid Vegeta. Today, however, he wasn't so lucky. Vegeta had sensed his coming and was waiting for him and Videl when they came through the door.
"What are you doing here Gohan?" Vegeta asked in his usual gruff voice as he leaned up against the wall with his arms crossed over his chest.
Videl, who was still not completely used to Vegeta's behavior, was a little taken aback with how Vegeta addressed them. Gohan, on the otherhand, knew that this was just typical Vegeta, although he did notice that Vegeta's voice lacked its usual edge.
"We're here to see Bulma, didn't she tell you?"
Vegeta rolled his eyes at the pair. "Bulma hardly ever tells me what she's doing. She's more concerned that I don't go around blowing up Capsule Corp. employees. I swear, that only happened once, I don't know what she's so worried about."
Videl was now thoroughly shocked. "Uh, that's nice to know."
"Humph. She spent the next week yelling about how this wasn't my home planet and I couldn't go around blowing up things whenever I wanted. She spoils all my fun."
Gohan cleared his throat loudly, trying to change the subject. "Anyways Vegeta, do you happen to know where Bulma is?"
Vegeta's usual smirk returned to his face. "Yes I would. Why do you want to see her?"
This time it was Videl who spoke up. She'd quickly gotten over her surprise at Vegeta's story and had regained her wits. "We're here to look at houses. I've talked with Bulma already so she's expecting us."
"And why would the two of you need a hou..." Vegeta didn't finish his question as he saw Gohan tilt his head to the side, revealing the scar where Videl had bitten him to complete their bond. "Well, I didn't think you'd have it in you Gohan." Vegeta's gaze shifted from Gohan to looking over Videl, appraising her.
"Not bad, she would have made a decent Saiyan."
Videl felt slightly upset at that comment. She didn't exactly enjoy being referred to as 'not bad.' However, her mood quickly changed when Gohan spoke up through their bond.
::Wow Videl, coming from Vegeta, that's the ultimate compliment. All he's ever told me is that I was a poor excuse for a Saiyan.::
Now it was Videl's turn to smile. One of her major worries was being accepted by all of Gohan's friends. From Gohan's memories and the stories she'd heard about Vegeta, she felt sure that he was going to disapprove of her. Hearing the compliment he paid her, she now realized otherwise.
"Thank you Vegeta."
The only response she received was another 'humph.'
"Bulma is down in her private lab. Now get out of my sight."
Both Gohan and Videl smiled. "Bye Vegeta." They said in unison as they walked past him. However, Vegeta's hand was quickly on Gohan's chest, holding him back. He then turned to Videl.
"You keep going. Gohan will catch up in a minute."
Videl's brow furled in worry. She wasn't quite sure of Vegeta's intentions.
::It's alright Videl. Go on ahead.::
In response, Videl shrugged her shoulders, turned around and kept walking.
When she was out of earshot, Gohan spoke again. "What do you want Vegeta?"
Vegeta's face turned serious as he addressed the young demi-saiyan in front of him.
"Bulma tells me that you're finally going to start training full time to become a warrior. Is this true?"
Gohan nodded his head silently. He'd been able to more or less predict what everyone's reaction to the news would be except Vegeta's and was curious as to what he might say.
"Good." Vegeta nodded approvingly. "You're going to make a fine warrior. Come and spar often, I could use an opponent with actual brainpower unlike your baka of a father."
Gohan stood shocked. Throughout his entire life, he could never once remember a time when Vegeta actually paid him a compliment. This could easily be the first. He returned to reality when Vegeta spoke again.
"I'm holding a Saiyans only meeting tonight at midnight at the place where Frieza came to earth. Be sure to bring Kakarot, your brother and my son. I believe they are all at your house. Don't be late."
With that, Vegeta walked away, presumably towards his Gravity Room to continue training. However, Gohan was now completely confused. Vegeta had never wanted to meet with all the Saiyans at one time before. He had no idea as to what the meeting would be about. Unfortunately, Gohan realized that he couldn't spend much more time pondering his encounter with Vegeta when he sensed that Videl was almost to Bulma's private lab. Using his Saiyan speed, Gohan quickly arrived at Videl's side.
::What did Vegeta want Gohan?::
::He actually commended me on my decision to become a warrior.::
::Vegeta did that?!:: Videl's shocked voice mirrored Gohan's confusion.
::Yeah, I was pretty shocked. Two compliments in one day. He also wanted me to bring my father, Goten and Trunks to a Saiyans only meeting tonight. He's never done that before. This whole ordeal with Buu must have really gotten to him.::
A faint 'come in' was heard as Videl knocked on the door to Bulma's lab.
::Yeah, I'll say.::
"Hey you guys!" came Bulma's voice from behind a massive mess of wires and machines. Gohan and Videl had to search a bit in order to find the blue haired scientist.
"Hi Bulma." Videl said as she gave a little wave.
Bulma swiftly ran her hand through her hair, brushing it out of her eyes so she could get a good look at the couple in front of her. They were holding hands and standing very close. Good signs of young love.
'ChiChi must have been right,' she thought, 'the two of them have definitely bonded.'
It was only natural that ChiChi had called Bulma almost immediately after she'd found out that Gohan and Videl were mates. Over the years, the two women had grown extremely close. A bond formed between them quite rapidly as they dealt with similar circumstances. They were both wives of the last two Saiyans alive and they each had a young boy about the same age. Because of this, the two had spent vasts amount of time with each other over the years.
"So," Bulma began slyly. She wanted to try and embarrass Gohan. After all it was only a few weeks ago that he had come to her for dating advice and what to do about Videl. "Is there something I should know about? It's not everyday that my friends ask me for help buying a house together."
However, the reaction that Bulma got was completely opposite from the one that she'd been expecting. Gohan and Videl gazed at each other and smiled, not out of embarrassment, but out of pride. This wasn't the Gohan she'd known. That Gohan would have turned so red that a tomato would have been jealous. When they finally spoke, it was Gohan's voice that she recognized.
"Actually Bulma, Videl and I have officially become mates. That's why we're shopping for a house. We're going to move in together."
It took a few second for Bulma to find her voice again. She was still recovering from the shock that Gohan hadn't started stuttering and falling all over himself.
"Ohh. That makes sense." She said unconvincingly.
"And, I'm sure my mother has already told you so there is no need to act like this is some big surprise."
Bulma rolled her eyes and laughed. "You know me way too well kid. What do you say we get started looking at some floor plans?"
"Sounds good." With that, the three left Bulma's lab in search of accommodations that would be more comfortable during their search. They finally settled on the living room where they could all sit down and use Bulma's computer to look at floor plans. She had an elaborate setup so that the floor plan on the laptop's screen was displayed on a large screen that hung down from the ceiling and a 3D holographic display projected a rotating model of the house in front of the trio. It was the sort of advanced technology that Gohan had grown used to from all his time spent at Capsule Corp. Videl, however, was in awe of the display in front of her. She'd always thought that her father had some of the most technologically advanced electronics money could buy, but what he owned was nothing compared to what Bulma was using.
"Alright," Bulma's voice broke the silence "what are you guys looking for in your house?"
Gohan and Videl had discussed that exact question for a very extensive period of time in anticipation of this meeting. Gohan gestured towards Videl, indicating that she should be the one to tell Bulma what they'd decided.
"Well, we've decided that we don't want anything too fancy. We'd like the master bedroom and a guest bedroom to be downstairs and two bedrooms to be upstairs. Preferably, we'd like for each to have their own full bathrooms in addition to an extra bathroom upstairs. I'd assume you know we'll need a rather large kitchen considering Gohan's part saiyan. We'd also like to have a dedicated office so that we can hook up to the internet, separate media and game rooms, and the basic family, dining and living rooms and eating areas. And as much as I love ChiChi, I have no desire to do laundry by hand so a laundry room is a must."
Bulma sat through Videl's description quietly, taking mental notes and typing on the computer. When Videl had finished, Bulma remained silent for a few more moments as she finished inputting the details. After she was done, she spoke, reading off the screen in front of her.
"As you can see," she said gesturing to the screen on the wall, "there are about a dozen plans that match your specifications. I'll pull each one up individually and you can look at the actual floor plan on the screen on the wall and the projector will show a 3D model. Let me know if you like what you see, and we'll add it to a favorites list. Then you can pick which one you like best from that final list. Sound good?"
Both Gohan and Videl nodded their heads in agreement and the process began. After about an hour and a half, they had narrowed the choices down to three plans. Another half hour and they had made a decision.
The plan they decided on was as close to their dream as they could get. They had chosen a plan that had as many windows and bedroom's facing the back of the house as they could. That way, they could set the house up so that they could see the river from as many rooms as possible. Like Videl had requested, there were two bedrooms upstairs and they had a bathroom linking the two rooms. Also upstairs was a game room and a media room in addition to a bathroom that guests would be able to use. Downstairs was a giant master bedroom and huge master bath, complete with a Jacuzzi and large walk-in closet, the kitchen, extra guest bedroom and bathroom, eating area, laundry room, family room, dining room, living room and all the other amenities they could wish for.
"I really like the one you guy's have chosen. Can I make two suggestions though?" Bulma asked.
"Yes of course," Videl answered, eager to have the older woman's input.
"Since Gohan is going to be training a lot, I figure a large Gravity Room would be a welcome addition. Vegeta hardly ever leaves his."
Gohan readily agreed. He hadn't really thought about having a GR in the house. He'd just assumed that he would be doing his training in the area surrounding the house. But having a GR room would be a great idea.
"And second, a pool is a necessity for a young couple." Bulma said with a glint in her eye. She could easily tell just how attracted the two were to each other and a pool would provide them lots of fun. Bulma thought for sure that even though Gohan and Videl hadn't been embarrassed earlier, they would at least blush at her suggestive tone of voice. All she could do was shake her head as both Gohan and Videl turned to each other and smirked. They knew what she was alluding to.
Videl finally turned back to Bulma and spoke. "Those are great suggestions Bulma. Do you think you'll be able to add them to the plan?"
"Oh of course." Bulma said with a nonchalant wave of her hand. "That will be child's play for a scientist like me."
"A little full of yourself aren't you Bulma?" Gohan asked in a teasing tone of voice.
Bulma gave a very good impression of Vegeta's 'humph' and glared at the two teenagers. However, both Gohan and Videl could tell she was just kidding.
"But seriously," Gohan continued, "we really thank you for all your help Bulma."
The expression on Bulma's face immediately softened. "Anytime you guys. And there is no way I'm going to let you pay for this."
Gohan and Videl both began to furiously protest against Bulma's announcement. However, Bulma wouldn't listen to a word they said.
"There will be no discussion. Gohan, you should know that once I've made up my mind, there is no changing it."
Gohan slumped over defeated. Bulma was right. She and Vegeta were two of the most stubborn people he knew. Videl, however, didn't know Bulma as well as Gohan did and continued to argue to no avail. Finally, Gohan put a hand on her leg to silence her.
::It's no use Videl. Once Bulma's made up her mind, she's not going to change it. Lets just accept the nice gesture.::
Videl gave a 'humph' of her own as she finally accepted defeat. "Thank you Bulma. That's very generous of you."
"You're welcome. I've already devoted an army of robots to start building your house. Since today is Tuesday it will be done late Thursday and you guys can move in on Friday. And then if it's alright, I'm going to try and hold a party on Saturday to celebrate the defeat of Buu and Goku's return. Think you guys can make it?"
Gohan and Videl didn't even need to look at each other in order to answer. They had both immediately started shaking their heads in agreement. Anytime the Z Fighters got together was sure to be a time to remember.
"Well, I guess that does it guys. You'll have to come back tomorrow evening to pick out decorations and furniture and everything, but other than that, it should be finished." Bulma said as she rose to escort the two to the door.
Both Gohan and Videl began to follow her out of the building. "Thank you so much Bulma. You have no idea how much we appreciate this." Videl said, her gratitude rather obvious.
The small group paused in the hall for a moment as Bulma turned around and smiled. "Believe me, it's the least I can do. Gohan's already done so much for me in the past that this qualifies only as a small repayment."
After that, the trio walked in silence towards the door until Gohan decided to ask Bulma one last question.
"Hey Bulma, I had a meeting with Vegeta in the hall before I came to see you and he told me that he was hosting a Saiyans only gathering tonight. Do you have any idea what its about?"
Bulma's face quickly turned into a smirk that would have rivaled Vegeta's. Gohan was momentarily stunned at the exact resemblance.
'Those two have been spending way too much time together.' He thought.
"Yes, I know what it's about." Bulma answered, yet her smirk remained. "And I've been sworn to secrecy with the threat of being, and I quote, 'blasted into the Otherworld, revived and then blasted again.'"
Listening to Bulma speak, Gohan started laughing. There was no doubt in his mind who had threatened her, and there was also no doubt in Gohan's mind that there was no way Vegeta would ever go through with it. Even if he would never admit it, Gohan knew Vegeta loved Bulma with all his being.
"I happen to value my life thank you very much, so I'm going to remain silent. You'll just have to find out tonight Gohan. I will say though, that I think you'll be surprised." Now, Bulma's eyes were laughing, as if she had knowledge of some great joke that Gohan had yet to learn. However, the only thing that Bulma had found funny about what Vegeta was going to do, was when she imagined what Gohan's, Goku's, Goten's and Trunks' faces were going to look like after they had heard what Vegeta was going to say.
Suspicious looks crossed both Gohan and Videl's faces. It was rather obvious that Bulma was hiding something, but they both knew that it was going to be impossible to press her for more information. Resigned that they would just have to wait until the evening to find out, they took their leave of Bulma, waving goodbyes and headed off towards a small house in the 439 Mountain Area.
*********
When Gohan and Videl landed at his home, they were immediately assaulted by two blurs. As they tumbled to the ground, all they were aware of was the fact that a second ago they had been standing, and the next they were doing backwards summersaults with something attached to their chests. When they finally sat up and their heads stopped spinning, they could recognize the two missiles. Goten was sitting on Videl's stomach and Trunks was sitting on Gohan's.
::Sorry about that.:: came Gohan's voice into Videl's head. ::They get a little carried away sometimes.::
Videl smiled as she watched Goten talking about some new lizard that he and Trunks had discovered. ::It's okay. I think its kinda cute.::
::What's this?? Satan Videl said the word 'cute'??? Hold the presses!:: Gohan's tone had turned mocking and Videl could hear his laughter through their bond and she joined him. She herself was rather shocked at the transformation that she'd gone through in the few months that she'd known Gohan. It was as if he'd reawakened a feminine side she thought had long disappeared. However, she still had a fierce independent streak and it was currently yelling at her not to let Gohan get away with saying something like that.
::Shut up Gohan.:: That was the worst she could come up with. She really had gone soft. And when Gohan's laughter continued, instead of chastising him again, she instead began to laugh with him. Whoever said laugher was infectious was right.
"Alright Goten, time to get up. You too Trunks." Gohan said as he slowly lifted Trunks from where he sat so that he could stand. "Do you guys know where my dad is? I need to talk to all of you at once."
"Yeah I know!" Goten spoke up, still excited from their earlier attack on his big brother and his mate. "He's currently running away from mommy's frying pan cause he tried to steal some food before it was ready."
Gohan's laughter began anew, along with Videl's. After several moments, Gohan finally managed to regain control. "That sounds like dad. What do you say we go rescue him you guys?"
Goten and Trunks nodded their heads rapidly in agreement and took off at blinding speed with Gohan and Videl following more slowly. True to what Goten had said, Goku was currently begging for his life as he dashed from one side of the small house to the other in a vain attempt to avoid ChiChi's infamous frying pan. Even with his Saiyan speed, it seemed like ChiChi was always able to keep up.
Videl watched the scene with an evil glint in her eye. She hadn't been kidding when she'd said that ChiChi had offered to buy her a frying pan of her own. This was the first time that she'd actually ever seen the frying pan in action and she was pleasantly surprised to see how effective the weapon was.
Gohan looked over at his mate with worry written all over his face. He could tell what she was thinking and he was terrified. Videl with a frying pan was a horrific thought.
Finally, ChiChi stopped long enough to notice the four people standing in the door way who were staring in amusement at the scene in front of them. Their amusement quickly turned to shock as ChiChi's personality pulled a complete 180.
"Hello everyone. You're just in time, dinner is ready." It was as if she had completely forgotten that she had been trying to murder her husband only 5 seconds ago. Now her voice was congenial and ringing with happiness. Goku had never figured out what caused these intense mood swings, but he sure was glad that ChiChi had seemingly forgot about him. Now he could eat the food with out getting in trouble. In an instant, there were three saiyans seated at the table waiting for food. Only Gohan managed to resist listening to his stomach long enough to escort Videl to the table.
In a ritual backed by threats from the frying pan, the four saiyans sat around the table patiently, waiting for ChiChi's permission to begin tearing into the massive amounts of food that had been placed in front of them. Finally, ChiChi gave the go ahead, only after she and Videl had helped themselves to a first serving. In an instant, the pile of food began to rapidly diminish as the Saiyans ate to their hearts content. Whenever Videl had finished what she was eating, she was pleasantly surprised to discover that she immediately had a fresh serving waiting on her plate. Gohan would always grab something for her, not wanting her to put herself in jeopardy by trying to get some more food on her own. Videl noticed with delight that Goku was constantly doing the same for ChiChi. Perhaps he did have more common sense that she'd given him credit for.
Once they were all finished eating, only because all the food had disappeared, Gohan decided to bring up the topic of what Vegeta had told him at Capsule Corp. It seemed like the perfect opportunity before Goten and Trunks took off to create new plans of mischief.
"Hey, while everyone is here, I think I should tell you about what Vegeta told me while we were at Capsule Corps."
Immediately, Gohan had everyone's attention. It wasn't often that Vegeta took a break from his training regiment in an attempt to have a conversation with someone.
"This is relevant to all the Saiyans at the table. He told me that he was going to hold a Saiyans only meeting tonight at midnight where Frieza attempted to come to Earth,"
"Any idea what its about Gohan?" his mother asked. Even though she wasn't a Saiyan, she felt it was her duty to look after her sons and husband. Her only answer was a shrug.
"He refused to tell me. I asked Bulma as well but Vegeta had already sworn her to secrecy."
Goku looked excited. The thought of him and Vegeta in an open space always ended in a delightful spar. Never mind the fact that the two had tried to kill the other only days earlier. Things were now back to how they should be. Goku and Vegeta always acted like brothers, Vegeta being the older and Goku being the younger. Sometimes they managed to get along, but others they didn't. And the times they didn't get along could be quite explosive.
"I'm game." Was all he needed to say to indicate his approval.
"Yeah! Us too!!" came two voices in unison, sounding scarily like Gotenks.
However, ChiChi was on the warpath again. Midnight was way too late for the little ones to be out in her opinion. "That's a nice idea, but you can forget about it!" her voice seemingly managed to raise a couple octaves in the middle of her sentence. "Midnight is way too late for you two."
Surprisingly, it was Gohan who spoke up in their defense. "Mom, Vegeta made it sound really important that all the Saiyans be there. I don't think you have anything to worry about. After all, it is only one late night."
Listening to her son's argument, ChiChi felt her heart melt. She'd always had a soft spot for her boys. When it came down to it, she knew she'd never be able to deny them what they wanted. She just hoped that they didn't know that.
"Ohh fine." She said trying to sound exasperated but in reality she had already caved to his wishes.
A loud "Thanks mom!" and "Thanks Aunt ChiChi!" could be heard as the two young boys ran from the table. However, they were quickly yanked back inside by Gohan.
"Aww, Gohan! What'd ya do that for?" Goten wined, disappointed about being held back from going off to cause disaster and destruction with Trunks.
"Well, I thought perhaps we'd play a little game."
"Who's we?" Trunks asked, suspicious of Gohan's intentions.
"You two, Videl and me." When Videl heard her name included she raised an eyebrow at Gohan in a silent question. He hadn't mentioned anything to her about playing a game, especially not with the mini terrors. Gohan smiled and winked in response.
"What game?" Goten asked as he voice revealed his excitement. Gohan usually didn't want to play when it was both him and Trunks, but now Videl wanted to play as well? That was just too good an opportunity to pass up.
"Since Videl can't sense ki yet, we're going to play hide and seek. You two are going to hide without suppressing your ki and I'm going to teach Videl to find you. Sound good?"
Goten rapidly agreed. He considered Videl to be like a sister and he would do anything he could to help with her training. Having seen Goten agree so quickly, Trunks nodded his agreement as well. If Goten was going to play then so was he. He didn't like being left out either.
Videl finally understood what Gohan was trying to do. She had been dropping subtle hints that she would have liked to continue her ki training after the whole deal with Buu had been resolved but Gohan had never seemed to really acknowledge what she was saying. Now she was happy to see that he had indeed been paying attention and planning this out for a while. She heard Gohan saying something about giving the boys a two minute headstart and they dashed off into the woods for places unknown. When they were gone, she walked over to Gohan and gave him a kiss.
"Thank you Gohan." Her arms circled around his waist and drew him closer to her body. It was always nice to have close physical contact.
"You're welcome. I bet you thought I wasn't paying attention didn't you?" Gohan said in a teasing manner.
Videl was suddenly glad that her face was pressed up against his chest so he couldn't see the slight blush that tinted her cheeks pink.
"I had faith." She said as she leaned up and gave him another kiss. Then she grabbed him by the hand and led him outside. "Come on!" her voice bubbled with excitement. "Lets get started!"
**********
A few hours later Videl and Gohan arrived back at the Son's house with Videl in Gohan's arms.
::My God. I don't think I've ever been so tired in my entire life. I don't even have the energy to move my lips.::
::That's too bad. I guess I'll have to wait to see that movie huh?:: Gohan smiled and Videl immediately knew what he was referring to.
::Sorry about that. I'll make it up to you I promise.::
::Okay, I'll hold you to that.:: He said, his voice smiling. ::I gotta say though, I'm really impressed with the progress you made tonight.::
::Thanks, learning how to sense someone's ki was easy enough, but trying to catch Goten and Trunks was impossible. I know they're Saiyans, but wow can they move fast.::
::You'll be above that level in no time, trust me.:: Gohan gave a little squeeze of his arms, letting Videl know that she had his complete confidence.
::Thanks Gohan. However, right now I just wanna sleep for a month.::
::Well unfortunately, school is only cancelled until the end of the week in response to the whole Buu ordeal so I would have to wake you up out of your hibernation a little early. And I hope you don't mind, but if we're going to sleep in the same bed tonight, we both definitely need showers.::
A devious glint appeared in Videl's eyes as she looked up at Gohan. ::Well then, I guess you'll just have to give me a shower.::
Gohan smirked back down at her. ::Looks like I might get my movie after all.:: he said as he opened the door into the bathroom.
*********
After Gohan had finished showering both Videl and himself, he quickly put her to bed and joined his father, Goten and Trunks downstairs. It was time to go meet with Vegeta. As they all headed outside and took off into the air, Gohan couldn't help but wonder once again what this meeting was going to be about.
*Please be kind and review! Thanks!!!*
