A/N: I don't own DBZ and I don't pretend to. This story is AU so that gives me free range and characters are OOC (out of character). Be warned spelling and grammar mistakes will be found. ALWAYS! Warning, Yaoi, male/male coupling. If you are homophobic then don't read. No-one is making you. Rated R
Royal Delivery
Chapter 37
The next morning both boys came out of their rooms dressed in their official outfits, since the palace was littered with important beings. Gohan smiled when he saw his brother. "Hi"
"Hi, back sexy." Mirai whispered with a winked, Gohan blush. He was wearing Mirai's bandana around his neck.
They came into the dining room as normal to see everything set for breakfast. Both settled in their usual spots ignoring their parents' stern expressions; both still not willing to forgive their sons for their little parade of drunkenness the day before. The two boys lowered their sights to their food feeling their parent's disproving stares upon them making them eat faster. The room was quiet and awkward making both the princes keen to escape outside far from their parents.
Mirai curled his tail around Gohan's. Even though it's been three days without the collar, Gohan was still having trouble coordinating and was off balance. He was embarrassed feeling a little clumsily as he got used to his ki and his strength which was steadily growing. He was slowly feeling stronger but he still had problems blocking his bond when something troubled him. Because of this both boys knew it was risky being in the presence of their parents with their secret. Gohan was doing all he could to keep calm under his parents commanding gaze trying to block his thoughts from them. The room was painfully quiet and nerve racking.
Vegeta fixed his sights on his youngest and his eyes narrowed. He watched his boy carefully bringing the glass to his mouth. Gohan was trying not to break another glass, something he did constantly since his collar was removed. The silent was broken with the sound of their father's stern voice. "I know about last night!"
"FUC…" Gohan choked with mouth full of juice being sprayed across the table.
"S-sor …sorry w-what was that?" Mirai voice was just a whisper, eyes wide as plates his mind froze with fear. It was only when Gohan was still having trouble breathing that he snapped out of his fears. He stood up and patted his brother's back with Goku and Vegeta frowning curiously at the two.
Able to breathe again Gohan wiped his mouth, chin and shirt with his napkin. Mirai slowly sat back down under his father stare. Vegeta frowned sensing something going on between them. Gohan got his voice back. "Umm…. …da-daddy …wh-what…" Gohan nervously bit his lip. Kami he knows! He knows… I'm so dead! Gohan thought.
I'm going to my grave… Mirai thought as his palms begging to sweat.
What has them both feeling so guilty about? Their hiding something from me I can tell! What is it? Vegeta thought. The King raised his hand and pointed at both his boys, both had sudden urge to duck out of the way. "I'm not surprised the guards didn't hear you with amount of noise you were creating!"
Gohan gulped he was feeling faint he started to sway both boys were petrified. Mirai could literary feel the colour drain from his face as their father continued. "Your papa has been talking to your grandpapa about it all morning!" Fearfully both Gohan and Mirai dragged their eyes over to meet their papa, Goku who was looking at them both with a masked expression; unnerving them even more
"So I have decided to take the matter into my own hands… " Suddenly there was a loud humming sound as Gohan's vision faded and his eyes rolled back just as his head hit the table, knocking him out cold. It was too much for him.
"What the!" Vegeta jumped up as did Goku. Mirai anxiously looked at his brother with his cheek pressed hard against the table.
"Chibi?"
Vegeta lifted his boys chin up so he could see his face. "Boy, wake up!" It was said with some alarm. Vegeta looked over at Goku who had come around worried the boy was having another seizure. It was a reaction he gets from having the ki on for to long. Goku's father Bardock said it would take time for the boy to recover from something like this. Bardock warned both of them that until he's back to full strength he could black out when he stressed. Goku guessed this was one of those times...but why?
"Huh …wha…" Gohan stirred
"You blacked out, there boy." Vegeta said with concern. His eyes fixed on his boy's slowly focusing orbs; checking to see if all was alright.
Goku stood next to Gohan with a hand on his shoulder. "Son, are you alright?"
Gohan looked up at his father warily. "Umm …yeah… …fine."
Vegeta reluctantly moved away. "Good… I think?" Gohan's eyes locked with his brother, fearfully. Mirai shook his head no. He knew what Gohan was asking.
Vegeta towered over his sons still sitting at the table. He looked over at Goku. "Do you think it's wise that I take the kid?"
Mirai eyes sprung to his papa, worriedly. "What?"
Goku just nodded his head as his sights went back to his youngest. "Dad and I talked about it. We think it's best."
Vegeta looked at both his boys looking up at him confused. "Boy, you are going to meet me after lunch down in the arena!"
"Me!" Gohan swallowed nearly choking. Mirai's eyes lit up thinking the worst.
"But dad he didn't do anyth…"
"Not another word from you! I want the boy down straight after lunch. You are strong enough to start the base training today!" Vegeta growled. He had a lot on his plate with one day left before the grand day, the celebrations of their family reunion.
Gohan was still dumfounded, as was Mirai. For a while they thought he had found out about them. He didn't think his fathers were talking about something else. "Umm…dad what did you hear?"
Vegeta raised a brow. "That blasted tantrum; of yours wanting to runaway of course! What did you think I meant?"
"Errr …nothing!" Both boys said unison. Gohan's brows rose. It clicked. His temper flared last night after his father had another talk to him when he asked if he could see Mirai and he wouldn't let him. Now both understood what this was about. They knew when their father took time away from his business affairs it wasn't to be argued with, especially if he was trying to find time for his sons.
"Yes dad." Gohan was in two minds about it. He wanted to train. He liked spending time with his father but he had the extra worry of his mark to hide. Gohan glanced over at Mirai whose eyes were wide with fear of them being caught.
They both were allowed to leave after getting a thirty minute lecture on what they could and couldn't do and where they could go. There were a lot of officials and royal families flooding the palace for the party.
With Gohan still not very strong for long walks they took it slow. Gohan had tried to wrap his tail around his waist but it would just slip back out lay limp behind him. It was little embarrassing knowing only young cubs walked that way. As they travelled the semi crowed hallways their parents upstairs were in deep discussion.
"Have you noticed something strange about Gohan's ki?" Vegeta asked.
"Like what? It's been a long time since I've felt it." Goku said as he got ready, putting on his official uniform to meet with other important families with his partner.
"It just seems different. I can't put my finger on it." The King explained as he held the door open for Goku.
"It's probably nothing to worry about. Maybe it's just adjusting and settling from being blocked for so long." Goku said as they headed out of the room and down the hall.
"I don't know. I feel like there's something else. And his scent has changed, faintly."
Goku stopped in the middle of the hall and looked at him. "Yes, I have noticed that too. Do you think he's coming into heat?"
"I think he might be but we'd better not tell him. He's got a lot on his mind with this training. I don't want him losing focus."
"He takes after me. I went into heat early." Goku said with a big smile as he leaned over and wrapped his arms over his partner's shoulders before giving him a kiss. Vegeta smirked at the open affection.
"I'd say the ki collar was holding him back." Vegeta said bringing him into a hug.
"He's coming of age. Mirai will be happy." Goku purred with his tail uncurling and rubbing over Vegeta's thigh.
"Most probably, but if he touches him before then I'll really kick his ass… And what's that blasted bandana around his neck for?" Vegeta grumbled with the thought.
"He could be just feeling weird with nothing there any more."
"Well he'd better not be wearing it at the cerebration tomorrow night." Vegeta smirked before leaning in for a kiss.
~~~
The two princes finally got out of the palace after bumping into a few officials, which were all very keen to introduce themselves to Mirai. When they finally found their escape they laughed at the pompousness of it all; the fake smiles, the licking of boots to get on the King's son's good side.
They both smiled when they saw a friendly face followed by another. "Hey Ursus how are you?"
"Great… just great." He said with a friendly wave as he approached. Mirai raised a questionable brow. Having known his friend for so long he knew something was up. Gohan smiled seeing Olios in tow blushing madly.
"Olios you're blushing." Gohan said looking at his old friend.
"So?" Olios looked up at Ursus only to glow and shyly look away.
Gohan grabbed his friend by the arms. "So what's happened? What have you two being up to?"
This made both Ursus and Olios blush madly. Gohan and Mirai both looked at each other and their faces broke out in a knowing smile. Mirai turned to his friend with his smile growing he grabbed Ursus.
"You- you didn't… did you?… YOU DID!" Mirai beamed as Ursus lowered his eyes, embarrassed.
"They did, they DID!" Gohan yelled as he hugged Olios as tight as he could and was quick to find the mark. He pulled Olios shirt collar away from his neck and there were two bite marks. Mirai never lost his enthusiasm and pulled at Ursus collar. There was a small mark.
"Congratulations… but when?" Mirai asked pulling his long time friend into an all mighty hug.
"Last night. Olios found me and snuck into my room."
"You didn't."
"Yes, I asked master what had happened to him. He told me where they had taken Ursus. Since master and I are staying here since Gohan had his collar off I snuck over to your uncle's place and climbed in through the window and surprised him."
"I say! That's great Congratulations again." Mirai chirped.
"That's great Olios I'm so happy for you. Does anyone know?" Gohan hugged his friend again.
"No one, not yet. I don't know how the old man would take it." Ursus said holding Olios' hand in his own.
"This is great." Mirai turned to his bond brother and winked with a huge smile.
"Hey Gohan, why are you wearing that? It looks odd take it off." Ursus pointed to the bandana tired around his neck.
Gohan's hands covered it protectively. "NO!" Both said in unison.
"Why not? It looks silly." Olios confused looking up to his mate.
"I can't Olios." Gohan lowered his voice and whispered just in case someone heard him.
"Why not?" Ursus raised a brow. He could see something was up with the weird expressions he was receiving. Mirai who was trying to tell him to quit asking as he glanced over his shoulders, petrified his fathers would get wind of this. Guilt ate away at his conscience.
"Oooh…oooooh boss you didn't! Damn you DID!" A huge grin washed over Ursus and Olios and their eyes light up.
"Ursus keep it down! You know what will happen if anyone found out… especially with our fathers!" Mirai again looked over his shoulder.
Gohan stepped closer to him. He was blushing, feeling coy over the fuss.
"You sneaky BASTED! You were at it last night TOO!" Ursus cheered as he punched his best friend in the shoulder.
"Tell the whole world Ursus!" Mirai growled but he couldn't help but smile as looked at Gohan as he was getting his life squeezed from him with Ursus hugging him.
"Gohan, I'm so happy for you too but why aren't you happy?" Olios asked confused pulling away from his friend.
"Well it's a bit different for us Olios. I'm not allowed to take Mirai yet." Gohan tried to explain.
"Yes so we need you guys to not say anything!" Mirai pleaded making it clear of his concerns.
"Hey, I'm sorry boss. Don't worry. I won't say a word." Ursus pulled him into a quick hug with a smile. He was happy that they could trust each other with their secrets. All four guys were sharing their excitement over the others' secret when they heard a voice call from behind them capturing their attention.
"Hi. Prince Gohan is it? And you must be prince Mirai." They all turned to see a small girl with dark hair and a friendly smile. Mirai frowned as the girl walked straight to his brother. His curious eyes never left her.
"Hello… do I know you?" Gohan looked at the girl shyly as she approached them all.
"Huh no. My family is here for the celebrations. I'm Videl." She said looking at each of them curiously.
"Nice to meet you Videl." Gohan said removing his hand from his brother's hold.
"Hey, I was wondering if I could hang out with you." Gohan was taken aback. He never really had much to do with girls. He felt uneasy around her, not knowing what to say. He looked at the other guys. They all had their eyes on her, mixture of curiosity and annoyance except for Olios who also has had little to do with female as well.
"Sure I suppose, but we're not doing much. What things do you like doing?" Gohan asked.
"Easy, where I'm from we are heavily into training. It's my dad's goal to reach the highest of strengths like you Saiyans." She explained. She lived on a small planet boarding on the Saiyan-jin's boarder.
"Is that so?" Mirai chuckled getting a glare from the girl who took an instant dislike to him. She held her hand out for Gohan to take. Gohan was lost but he knew enough about etiquette to offer his arm for him to lead her down the path. He looked back over his shoulder to see Mirai's blue eyes narrowed he clenched his fist, he was not at all happy.
The three friends followed behind Gohan and Videl as the girl told her life story and her father's dreams. They walked for quite a while and Gohan was feeling tired and unsteady on his feet. Videl asked if he could come and visit her father, the King of a small colony that has just managed to seek the Sayainjin's protection against space pirates.
Gohan didn't really know how to say no to this girl but he really wanted to just rest. "Well if you want me to I suppose…"
"Good!" She held on to him tight with both hands entwined with his arm, ready to lead him away.
"Hang on a second missy! He's not going anywhere else he needs a rest!" Mirai snapped. He'd been ready to do this for a long time now; watching her cling onto his lover, flirt with him the whole time. Ursus was getting annoyed following this girl around when they had other things to do. Olios, was board and just followed his mate around wishing the same thing - to ditch the girl.
"Well he could always rest at my room!" Videl replied with a hint of spitefulness in her voice. She wanted to get the prince by himself and talk to him. She was sure she could get him to like her. Her father was hoping for the match. It would give him more power if they were wedded. The Sayain-jin's empire would be at his call. His daughter's fighting spirit, her warrior like nature would dominate the good-natured prince into submission.
Just then one of the prince's father's guards came up to them in the garden next to the small pond that was their favourite place to be. He bowled and saluted "Sire the King has asked for you at the arena. "
"Just great! You're too tired to train, chibi."
"Chibi, oh how cute can I watch you train chibi?" Videl smiled. Mirai's eyes narrowed and his posture was ready to strike. Ursus took a step forward and rested a hand on his shoulder.
"Boss." He whispered calmingly. Gohan turned feeling too tired to object.
"If you like, but we have to ask my father."
Mirai clenched his fist as he walked behind the girl staring daggers at her back. Ursus stood close with Olios in tow. When they came to the arena Gohan walked in to see his father already waiting.
Videl was excited to see the King of the most powerful empire around. She had heard so many stories about him and how powerful he was. With a single word he could vaporize a single planet. Someone with so much power excited her and here she was with his son at her side and they were friends. It could only get better she thought.
Vegeta glared at the crowd following Gohan. He glared at Ursus who was standing next to his friend. He made sure to put Olios behind him, protectively. "What's this?" The King demanded.
"Um sire I'm princess Videl. I asked if I could see the training and your son prince Gohan has said I could."
"He didn't. He said he would ask his dad first you b…" Ursus went to spat.
"That's enough! Fine but go over there away from the arena. Mirai make sure your friends don't get in the way! " Vegeta said as he looked at his youngest cub. "You alright, son?"
"Yes just tired." Gohan said looking up at his dad.
"Fine we'll be going easy today anyway. I don't want you to be too weak for the celebration tomorrow night." He patted his son on the shoulder with a gentle smile.
Gohan smiled back and they moved to the center of the ring. The young prince looked over his shoulder to see Mirai standing tall next to Ursus with his arms folded in front of him. Olios was standing similar and frowning at Videl who was saying something he disagreed with. Gohan turned his attention back to his father who was already in his fighting stance. The young prince crouched into his own fighting stance, his eyes fixed and his tail whipped behind him weakly, but with enthusiasm.
Vegeta smirked. His son was keen to start and he quickly advanced and masked his mood. Gohan stepped out of his way just in time; side stepping and rolling from what would have been a punch to the jaw. Gohan's old rules of self defense came into play. Mirai beamed and Videl cheered only to get a glare from all the boys. She turned her nose and watched on.
"Lucky play boy." Vegeta said in a monotone voice but was secretly proud. Gohan wasn't listening he was too fixed on what the next step would be. His eyes were wide like a hawk, ready. Vegeta advanced planning to do the same move but swung to the side planning to catch Gohan out if he tried the same step again, but instead Gohan changed tactics.
This went on for some time. Not once was Vegeta able to trip the boy up. Gohan was adapting to each step with speed. He seemed to know when the next move was going to be put into play. Vegeta wasn't breaking a sweat but was getting tired and was surprised by the boy's quick learning skills. They continued with Vegeta trying to trip the boy up. It was getting late and Vegeta noticed his boy was fighting harder getting tired. He lifted his hand up. "That's enough you did well son! Soon when you have learned to use your ki we will teach you the art of flying and how to summon up your ki to use in battle."
Gohan fell to his knees panting hard with sweat pouring off him and nodded. He was too exhausted. "Tha…that would be… great dad." He fell back on his heels and wiped the sweat away from his face. Vegeta came over and helped him up. "Son it's time for tea. Come let's take you back. We can walk together." Gohan leaned into his father's shoulder. He felt his eyes closing but forced them to open his and tail was nearly dragging hanging low drained of all energy.
Videl had nearly fallen asleep with the long training and the silent treatment she was receiving from the boys. She came to life when she saw Vegeta approach with his son. "Chibi that was fantastic!" She praised. Vegeta frowned at the annoying girl who called his son by the family nickname. Mirai rolled his eyes and approached his dad. "Dad do you want me to take chibi back?" Mirai made a point to look at the girl as he said his brother's pet name.
"No it's late. Tea will be waiting. The rest of you go!" Vegeta dismissed them as he helped his son who was close to falling asleep while he walked. Mirai gave Videl look of annoyance as he walked off saying goodbye to his friends.
"I'll see you tomorrow. Come up to the apartment. Dad should have quietened down about everything by then." Mirai said to Ursus and Olios. They both nodded and headed in the opposite direction deep in conversation about everything. Videl frowned at being left alone. She huffed and went to find her father to tell him about the good news about being good friends with prince Gohan.
~~~
When they were in the privacy of the hall towards the apartment Vegeta lifted up his son and carried him. Gohan was no sooner asleep. Mirai raced ahead and held the door open for his father as they entered the apartment. Goku had being training with his father out in the wastelands. He also just got back after he had met with some diplomats. After spending over an hour with them, as well as having one chatting him up, he decide it was time to get home. He was busy laughing to himself about the incident of being chatted up when Vegeta walked in.
"What happened?" Goku asked
"Nothing he is just tired. He did well at the arena today." Vegeta boasted.
Goku smiled and watched Vegeta take their youngest into his room with Mirai following like normal. He turned and went back to what he was doing.
"Here let me." Mirai pulled back the covers for his father to place his brother down. They started to remove his boots when Vegeta went to untie the bandana. "NO… I mean I'll do it, its okay. You don't have to worry. Go and sit with papa. I'm sure you have heaps to tell him." Mirai's eyes were smiling but he was having a heart attack, waiting for his father to go.
"What's wrong with you boy?" Vegeta raised a brow.
"Oh nothing just thought I'd help and just hang around in case chibi wakes up." The word chibi got Vegeta's attention.
"That girl today… who was she?"
"Oh ..umm…her… Videl I think she said. Her father is some king from a small colony somewhere." Mirai explained in a matter of fact tone.
"Ah… yes the idiot's daughter poor kid." Vegeta nodded. He had already come across her father.
"Dad, how can you feel sorry for her?" Mirai asked frowning.
"I'd say you haven't met her father."
"No, and if he's anything like her I don't think I want too. She was all over chibi today; never left him alone. It was her fault he was tired before he got to training today. She kept him on his feet and drowning him with her life story. She's a real pain! I don't like her poor chibi couldn't say no to her." Mirai frowned just thinking about her.
Vegeta chuckled. "You sound like you're jealous."
"I'm not!" Mirai spat knowing he was lying.
"Well, if he is going to be your future mate we will have to teach chibi how to say no and other things then won't we." Vegeta said with a knowing thought about Gohan going into heat soon. On the other hand Mirai was feeling a tinge of fear and looked down at the bandana.
"Yeah I suppose." With that said Vegeta smirked and went to find his mate. Mirai sat down on the bed brushed away the stubborn lock. "Future mate." A smile spread over his face with a little secret.
~~~
When Gohan woke up the next morning he was disappointed that he had slept right through and never got to cuddle up with Mirai. He dragged himself out still half asleep; his eyes half closed he walked straight past his uncles and his grandpapa not even noticing them. Rubbing his eyes he headed for his chair for breakfast, plonking his heavy self down. Folding his arms in front of him on the table he let his head collapse ready to go sleep again.
Raditz and Turles looked at each other with a smirk. Bardock looked over his shoulder. He could just see Gohan from where he was sitting in the living room. The whole family had congregated at the apartment for the party tonight. Both Vegeta and Goku had to go out briefly taking Mirai for a late fitting for his royal garment leaving Gohan with them. Bardock pushed off his chair and went over to see his youngest grandson. "Chibi"
"Mmm" Gohan didn't bother looking up. He was enjoying his little snooze at the table. Bardock chuckled. The party boy was all puffed out and the night's grand events hadn't even started. There were to be fireworks and everything too cerebrate the royal family's reunion.
"It's your big day today chibi."
"I guess." Gohan muffled half asleep as he shifted and faced away trying to go back to sleep. Bardock laughed with his eyes turned to his grandson, proud of the boy he loved since his birth. It was then something caught his eye when the boy moved.
"What happened to your neck?" Gohan eyes snapped open and his hand slapped at his naked neck as he jumped out of the chair letting it fall back with a thud.
Bardock frowned as both his sons walked in looking confused. Gohan was looking at them terrified. He backed away with his hand pressed against his neck fully awake now. "Nothing"
"Gohan don't lie. Let me see." Bardock said taking a step only to have the boy fly around to the other side of the massive table, keeping his distance. "Gohan!"
"Nothing is wrong. Go away!" Gohan growled never letting go of his neck. His uncles frowned and approached him from opposite ends of the table panicking Gohan even more. Bardock looked on concerned as his sons ganged up on the boy. "GO AWAY!" the boy yelled
"Gohan come on. What is it? Have you been marked?" Both Raditz and Turles turned to their dad in shock giving Gohan the chance he was after. He sprung up over the chair onto the table and jumping down on the floor and raced into the living room. Quickly he turned up the hall with the adults on his heels. He raced into his parents' room and slammed the door and locking it quickly. He leaned hard against it panting hard. The pounding on the door echoed in the apartment. "GOHAN OPEN THE DOOR!"
"NO!" Gohan looked around. He knew it would only be seconds before they reverted to knocking down the door. He looked at the window he raced over to it and out onto the balcony. He looked around for a way down. He wished he could fly. His heart leaped as he spun around towards the bedroom door in time to see his it being knocked down. "Shit!" Turning back he looked for a way out.
"GOHAN!"
He quickly went and put one leg over the railing and hopped over the edge when the door was smashed open. In strode three mighty Saiyan-jins, all heading toward to the balcony. Their hearts jumped a beat. "Gohan don't be silly we're not going to hurt you."
Bardock and his sons moved slowly, in case they had to speed out to snatch the youngest of their family who was, by now, looking desperate.
"NO, I won't TELL because you will get mad at US!" Gohan yelled as he looked down the tower to the ground over hundred meters down.
"Us… Who us… Mirai? Was it Mirai, chibi? Did Mirai mark you?" Bardock asked getting Gohan to look up again. His face said everything. "It was him wasn't it chibi?"
"I won't tell you, can't TELL!" Gohan screamed climbing over the railing with his bare feet shuffling for grip. He could only hope he could fly if he needed to. He had heard this was how his grandfather had taught his father to fly; by dropping him. It didn't work while he had his collar on but maybe now it will; or hopefully he won't have to.
Bardock was extremely nervous, like both his sons, with Gohan out there on the ledge like that. Normally they wouldn't be so concerned but they knew Gohan hadn't yet learned to fly. "Gohan just climb back over here and we can talk. Nothing bad will happen. We just want to talk, nothing more."
"No you're lying. You're going to get Mirai into trouble."
Bardock pressed his lips thinking the kid had already got himself into trouble for marking Gohan. "No- no-one wants to get anyone into trouble. Now climb back over or do you want to upset your fathers even more by you doing this?" He tried to use the boys commonsense.
"You're going to tell on US!" Gohan growled nearly losing his grip as his body shook from his flared temper causing all the adult warriors to take a step forward. Gohan's hands tightened around the marble railings that curtained around the balcony. "I don't want MIRAI to get into TROUBLE!" He spat.
"Gohan, do you think Mirai is going to be happy if you slip and fall?" Bardock said as he took another step closer. Gohan frowned he knew him to be right but he didn't want them to know and he knew they would tell.
"What's going on in here!" came a concern voice. Both Raditz and Turles moved for Goku. He looked at the heavy door off its hinges. The room was filled with his family members. As he walked inside the room his sights fell on his youngest out on the ledge. "GOHAN!"
Gohan's eyes went wide as he started to trembled. With both hands on the railing his neck was exposed with his low cut shirt. He watched as his papa advanced forward. Gohan went to step back over only to slip and grabbed at the railing trying to pull himself up. Goku froze as did everyone else. Just then Mirai walked in to see what the fuss was about when he saw Gohan.
In seconds the youngest royal looked up at all his whole family as his footing slipped and he fell.
Everyone raced to the rail and stopped dead when they saw Gohan. His eyes were wide as he hovered there in mid air without anyone's help, nervous of the new sensations. He looked up fearfully at his papa who was now hovering next to him. "Papa?"
"Son SON!" Goku went to reach him when Gohan plummeted to the ground. The boys eyes squeezed shut ready to meet his death for the millionth time. Mirai dived off the balcony but it was Goku who caught him first. Everyone breathed again Mirai hovered waiting for his papa and Gohan to come back up.
~~~
They landed back on the balcony and Gohan was embraced by his papa. "Now what the HELL is this about?" Goku asked after the scar.
Gohan buried himself in his papa's arms. Mirai's eyes shot wide he knew exactly what it was about. They had been caught out. He looked over wide eyed at his grandpapa who raised a brow at him expecting him to say something.
Goku frowned at his son behave. "Gohan what's going on?"
"Nothing."
"Son I think we should take this into the living room where we can talk." Bardock said getting Goku to look up curiously. He nodded and let his youngest son move forward. Mirai rushed up and wrapped his arms over his brother shoulders.
"Gohan are you alright?" He whispered.
"They know Mirai grandpapa knows." He whispered back as they were led into the living room. Both boys were expecting the worst.
They all sat in silence for a few minutes. Gohan was nearly in Mirai's lap not wanting to look at anyone. Mirai had his arm around the youngest's shoulder bringing him closer still doing his best to protect him. Protect him from the onslaught of questions and yelling that was to soon come their way. His mind was going over everything he was wondering when he should start to pack his and Gohan's bags. He was seriously thinking of leaving with him not wanting to be parted from him again. It would kill them both.
"Well what's this all about?" Goku looked over at his father then back to his sons.
"I think the kids have something they need to say." Bardock said looking over at his grandchildren.
The two princes looked at each other Gohan buried his head into the nape of Mirai's neck. "Well I'm waiting. What's this all about?"
Mirai took a deep breath. "Okay…I'll tell you but …but papa, don't go all ballistic on us." Bardock raised a brow and looked back at his other son. Raditz and Turles had the same look. The kid's asking a lot.
"Fine, I can handle what you have to say. Tell me." Mirai could feel Gohan nestle tighter trying to hide himself. He was shaking. His hand and tail brought him on his lap Goku frowned watching them.
"Well it's like this papa…I have ….I have …ummm well I have liked claimed Chibi!' As soon as he said Mirai could feel the tension in the room. Gohan was crying into his shoulder and he could feel his own tears ready to seep too.
Goku looked at them trying grasp what had just been said. He was looking for the words. A flood of anger and disappointed took over his senses. He knew that something like this would have been on the cards with these two. As young cubs, he thought that it was going to be hell when they grew up. He just didn't expect this much trouble and with Vegeta feelings being known made this very difficult to sort out. On top of this they still had party to go to.
"Okay I suppose the question is when did this happen?" Goku looked at both them trying to stay calm.
Mirai, being the eldest and trying to be the brave one in the relationship spoke up. "Night before last."
"WHAT! …The night you both got drunk?" Goku bit back his temper before it flared and his partner came running. That was all they needed just now, Vegeta knowing about this.
"Yes…" before Mirai could finish he was interrupted.
"I snuck into his room so it's not his fault!" Gohan snapped. He turned around and looked at his papa with a determined frown.
Goku sighed. He looked over at his father and brothers who were all watching to see what he was going to say next. They were feeling bad but they knew how serous this could be. One sided bonds never turned out a happy-ever-after. The only thing is they knew was that Gohan was in the beginnings of going into heat but will it just fade.
Goku had a few false alarms before he went into a full blowing rut and with Gohan being his son they were expecting the same thing. "Well you know what we all think about this I don't have to tell you both …"
"Papa we know! We are very aware of it… but it's happened! We can't go back. I love Gohan and I'm not leaving him. I don't care what dad says. He is my mate…."
Bardock shook his head at this whole mess. "Not quite Mirai. It's only a half bond…"
"Grandpapa I love him and I'm not going to leave him! Not when I have just got him back!" Mirai growled tightening his hold on his love and with his tail in case someone tried to pry them apart.
"No one is saying you don't love him and we're not talking about separating you both…"
"Dad will! He threatened to send me on a MISSION if something like this ever happened!... WELL I WON'T GO!" Mirai snapped.
"Gohan, do you understand what happened?" Goku asked with frown.
"Yes and I'm not leaving him I told him I'll claim him when I come of age!" Gohan said getting everyone shaking their heads wishing it was just that simple.
"It not that simple Gohan. I know you mean well but what if you go on heat and something happens and Mirai's not here…"
"I won't leave him I'm not going on any MISSION! I'll stay HERE…" Mirai spat.
"Stay here for how long Mirai? How long are you going to be his shadow? He might not go into heat for years! And the longer you're with out his mark you're going to feel insecure and be threatened whenever someone get close enough to him. I thought you would have learned from your last mistake a week back!"
"I didn't mean for it to HAPPEN… it sort just did! I don't care what you or dad says. I won't LEAVE HIM!"
"We will runaway!" Gohan warned, he was shaking, scared he would have to leave his family so he could be with Mirai. He was confused. His relationship with Mirai had become something much more but he couldn't quite understand. If running away was what they had to do to stay together then he would.
Goku felt frustrated and feared what Vegeta would do when he got wind of this. But nothing would be fixed with him getting angry. "Look, no one is going ANYWHERE…not just yet. We have a party that we need to attend. I want you both there on your best behavior and tomorrow we will talk all about this. And, we need to tell your father but now is not the best time! Now both of you… go! Gohan get dressed and do what ever but you had better be back to get ready for the party or your father will be getting the guards to hunt you down. GOT IT!"
"YES!" Gohan growled, angry without really knowing why. His temper was flaring. He hated everyone talking about their future as if they weren't part of it. He snatched Mirai's hand and hurried them back to his room where he slammed the door to get changed.
Goku sighed and shock his head with blank expression. "What are we going to do with those two? And how in HELL am I going to tell Vegeta?" He looked over at his father who had the same concerns.
~~~
Gohan, with his bandanna back on again, was with Mirai down next to the pond deep in conversation about everything. Talking about what they would do if they tried to separate them again. "We'll run away!" Gohan snapped sitting crossed legged on the ground pulling out the grass in front of him.
"Yeah, but where to chibi?"
"I don't care anywhere but HERE!"
"Chibi, we have to have a plan. We can't just sneak down to the docking bay and steal a fast craft with nowhere to go."
"Well I know a few places my master would take us when someone was after him."
"Do you think you can remember how to get there? We will have to grab a map." Mirai thought out loud.
"The place I was thinking of isn't on any of our maps." Gohan explained.
"Yeah where did you go?" Mirai looked over his shoulder, interested.
Gohan smiled for the first time in long time. "It was beautiful planet, far away we stayed there for nearly a year. The creatures that lived there called it Earth."
"It sounds just right." Mirai smiled before turning back around. "We agree then if they decide to separate us we go to this Earth and hope the entire Saiyan-jin army doesn't catch us."
"They won't if we get a fast ship." Gohan said with the same smile.
"Hehehe… Not one of uncle Turles' then."
"Hehehe No… definitely not! It would break down before we could take off …hehehe."
"Hi …chibi." Both turn to see Videl.
"What do you want?" Mirai snapped picking up another small stone and throwing into the water with a little bit more force behind it.
"I thought I would spend some time with you guys. We have the party tonight, excited?"
"Riveted!" Mirai glared at her.
Videl glared back. "Good!"
She then turned to Gohan and her face softened. "Chibi I hope you'll dance with me."
Gohan raised his brow a little worried. He had never danced before. "Ummm I suppose if you want me to?"
"Arrrgh." Mirai picked up another stone and with full force. It skipped on the surface of the water and hit a tree opposite them lodging it self into the bark.
Videl raised a brow but shrugged her shoulders and sat next Gohan who looked at her. He had never had much contact with girls and was feeling extremely nervous around her. "You know I think you're really cute." As this was said another stone found it's self in bedded into the same tree.
Gohan was leaning away from Videl as she lean closer. "Umm that's nice." He didn't know but he thought she was after him to kiss her. Meanwhile Mirai was going ten to the dozen impaling stones into the bark forgetting all about the water.
"Yeah you're real cute." She purred.
That did it. Mirai spun around and snatched Gohan up onto his feet startling them both.
"It's time to go Chibi."
"We're we going?" Gohan asked confused.
"Yeah, where are we going?" She asked jumping to her feet
"You're not invited!" Mirai snapped with his lover in tow and Videl picking up pace behind. Videl still on their heels as Mirai hastily rushed along when they saw Olios and Ursus coming towards them. Ursus eyes widened when caught sight of Videl he wasted no time in quickly pushed Olios behind a shrub. All you could hear was a muffled cry of pain but no-one was in sight. "Chicken" Mirai growled under his breath.
Videl was asking where they where heading and Gohan was confused. At that point Mirai decided that he had had enough and was going to take to the air taking Gohan with him. But Gohan stopped in his tracks pulling them all up as they passed where Ursus and Olios were hiding to see another figure approaching them. "Collis"
Mirai spun around to where Gohan was looking. A feral growl left Mirai's lips and his tail tightened around his waist. Videl looked up confusion seeing a tall handsome boy heading their way. Gohan froze and didn't know what to say. He quickly came out of his thoughts as Mirai's grasp tightened around him. As soon as Collis was in front of them he picked up the scent of the youngest prince and smiled.
His eyes momentarily shifted to the girl smiling broadly back at him. He frowned not recognizing her; wondering if she was a threat. It was then Ursus came out of the bushes. Videl turned. She never saw him. She moved as Ursus fixed a stare on the other boy. She frowned. She didn't know what was going on but she sensed a battle the way the boys were standing tall.
Ursus had taken Videl's place and was standing guard next to the young prince. Both kept Gohan between them. "Where's your girlfriend?" Collis smirked at Ursus just then Olios, who was told by his partner to stay put, came out and stood next to him.
"What do you want Collis? You have done enough already, don't you think." Mirai managed to growl out. His eyes were fixed and narrowed. Collis locked eyes with both in a quiet battle of dominance. He then turned, his face softening at the younger prince.
"I came to see how our prince is doing." He all most purred.
"Fine… I'm fine thanks Collis." Gohan said. He hadn't seen him since the day they went hunting. He had heard the family was embarrassed by the whole affair and Collis was punished by his father for his careless actions just as Ramose his father had being caught up in the King's wrath over the whole incident.
"Guys are you going to induce me to this boy?" Videl asked getting the three to look at her, the word boy to Sayainjin's cadet was an insult and degrading. "Did I say something wrong?"
Mirai closed his eyes in annoyance "This is princess Videl." The word princess caught Collis' ear and he became friendlier towards the stranger.
"Collis Ramose, an honour." He held out his hand and Videl did the same. Collis kissed it. She blushed and the others rolled their eyes except for Gohan who was keen to leave. His tail was starting to wave nervously behind him. The three older Sayainjin's caught the appealing scent it didn't affect Ursus as he had a partner. Collis was becoming aroused. Mirai was also becoming turned on by the scent as well as feeling protective with his claim being under the threat of being challenged.
Collis' eyes were starting to cloud over with lust. His attention immediately turned back to Gohan. "I was wondering if I could speak with you …alone."
Mirai stepped forwarded. "I don't think so!" He snapped
"Umm… look maybe I should Mirai." Gohan said moving closer to Mirai who looked down at him as if he was crazy. "It will be fine."
Collis smirked and held out his hand for Gohan who took it. Mirai was ready to protest when Ursus just stood in front of his line of vision. "Boss don't!"
Videl looked at Olios confused. "Is the prince and that guy an item?" Mirai and Ursus both turned around and glared at her.
"What did I say?"
~~~
Collis turned his eyes filled with regret. "Prince Gohan I'd like to say sorry. I haven't had a chance to see you before and I doubt your family would permit it."
Gohan lowered his eyes before turning to see Mirai's sights fixed on him and Collis. He looked back at the taller teen. "I know. I don't blame you. It was just an accident. I'm sure my family will understand that in time."
Collis smiled. He really did like the prince's kind nature. It was so different to what he had known. Then he remembered what his father sent him to do. "I was hoping that we could spend some time at the party maybe dance. I would be honoured."
Gohan bit his bottom lip and looked back at Mirai nervously with his tail snaking around the front of him apprehensively. The chocolate brown tail accidentally brushed against Collis's leg. Collis eyes closed he was being aroused that scent again and the feel of that tail. He swallowed and composed himself. Collis knew if he did anything he would have Mirai at his throat and Ursus would be at his side. He looked back at the prince, waiting for his answer so he could leave before he did something that would upset his father's plans for tonight.
"I suppose it would be alright to have just a short dace. But you have got to understand I don't know how to dance." Gohan explained embarrassed.
"Hah… sire, I would be honoured if you just stood with me if it makes you more comfortable. Maybe a walk in the garden?"
"Maybe." Gohan watched and Collis bowed not confident to do anymore than that and left. The young prince watched him go. When he turned he saw Mirai fast pace towards him with everyone following him.
"What did he want?"
"Nothing. He just apologized for the other day… umm nothing else." Gohan pulled up before he got Mirai angrier than he already looked.
Mirai reached into his bond with Gohan's trying to find the missing words but he was learning fast how to close his thoughts. His Saiyan-jin nature was falling into place pretty fast. "Fine well just keep away from him, Chibi."
"Yes Mirai." They all continued to walk on with Gohan biting his lip trying to work out how he was going to pull this one off.
TBC…
A/N: Thanks heaps, Starwind for editing this for me. ^^ I hoped you guys liked it. The other three chapters are not that far away. : )
Thanks heaps guys
^^