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 homophobe then don't read. No-one is making you. Rated R
Royal Delivery
Chapter 38
They all headed off. Unfortunately for the boys Videl was following them, keen to be part of the group. In their wandering and over time they found themselves down one of the main streets. It was market day and everyone was out. Though the real reason behind Videl's closeness to the group was she was feeling a little intimidated being surrounded by the larger, more powerful population of Saiyans. Olios was busy blushing as his new partner teased him about how cute his butt would look in some of the newer, more slick garments. The two princes were getting stares with their official royal clothes on making them feel uncomfortable when all they wanted was to blend in.
"I know. I'll buy us some clothes and we can ditch these." Mirai stated. Gohan was enthusiastic about the plan. They both bought some plain casual pants and loose tops that were expected for their age group. They came out of the shop all dressed in the new attire, leaving the royal uniforms back at the shop. A smile slipped on both their faces. In these threads they could get away without anyone taken a keen interest in them. They all took a short cut around the markets and it's over size crowd along a dirt path that led through into the small woodland.
Mirai stopped, turned and looked down at his brother. "Hold on, you're too neat." He reached down and grabbed handful of dirt and rubbed it on Gohan's cheeks and finished it off with putting a tiny smudge on his nose before ruffling his hair. "Now that's better." He laughed
Gohan smirked and wasted no time in grabbing his own handful of dirt but playfully smudged it all over Mirai's face before he bolted down the path, Mirai was swearing revenge. The rest of the teens chased after the two down the steep hill, laughing at them slipping and sliding down the loose gravel. Gohan's cheeks were glowing with excitement as he raced down the path, ducking and weaving around low bushes, hearing Mirai behind him.
"YOU WAIT!" Mirai laughed, catching up to his brother with Ursus and Olios running full speed behind them, each cheering Gohan on to hurry. Videl wasn't far behind being part of the fun, yelling out her own cheers. All five teens raced until they came out of the woods into the park at the bottom of the hill.
Only to coming to sudden stop as Mirai dived and wrestled his brother to the ground with the others coming to the rescue of the youngest prince. Ursus came to skidding stop, colliding with his long term friend and rolling him off Gohan. "Gottacha"
"You reckon" Mirai laughed.
"Yeah we do." Olios and Videl laughed as they threw themselves on top of Mirai's legs, giggling.
"Hey, not fair!" Gohan growled as he pounced on top of the pyramid of bodies. "Victory!" He proclaimed until they all were rolled off as Mirai powered up just enough to break free.
"Not bloodily likely!" He laughed watching his friends all sprawled on the ground in front of him looking up at him, stunned. He laughed harder with their complaining of him cheating. "Just admit you lost to the champ!"
All cheeks glowed, as broad smiles curled over their faces while they dusted themselves off listening to Ursus comment. "Don't be too cocky boss. You don't know when we might strike next." He chuckled.
"O-Oh now I'm scared." Mirai pretended to be worried with the underline of a smirk about to break free, trying to hold back his laughter. It wasn't long before he got punched in the arm by his friends. "Okay!… That's enough… enough already….SORRY!" They all laughed and started walking out into the clearing just outside one of the larger public arenas.
They all agreed that it would be awesome to see some local action. Videl told them a bit about her homeland and their competitions. It was a subject they were all interested in. The boys listened to her talk about something that was never far away from any Saiyan-jin's heart - the battle. Videl's home world was much the same as the Saiyans, only on a much smaller scale, of course, when it came to competition.
They had become accustomed to the dark hair girl and her direct mannerism by the time they headed inside the walls of the arena. She could easily have passed herself of as a Saiyanjin's female if it wasn't for the missing tail. Videl was wearing her family gi in blue. As a warrior's daughter she showed no sign of femininity in her personalty. Her hair was in a thick braid stopping at the shoulders. Her large blue eyes were growing wider as they walked through the entrance and into the crowded stadium. Most were sitting up high in the stands, circling around the large sandy oval ring.
The boys climbed up the steep stairs looking for a place they could get a better look at what was happening down below. Dressed now as if they were just the run of the mill teens from a middle class Saiyanjin family, no-one took a second look at them as they all sat down on the long metal bench watching the participants fight it out. The large crowed of Saiyans sprung to their feet waving fists in the air as they yelled out and screamed their cheers and abuse toward the opponent that had found himself flat on his back.
Gohan, who sat between Mirai and Videl, watched with interest as over time one of the participants was knocked out with the hero being cheered or booed off the arena. The next challenger walked on. To their surprised and delight it was Nappa who stood in the middle with his arms up in the air enjoying the cheers. The favourite of the crowd, the large man, went into his fighting stance and the crowd went silent.
"Look, it's Nappa. I hope he wins." Gohan said out loud to Mirai who was siting next to him, excited to see his old bodyguard about to fight. An adult Saiyan next to Mirai laughed out loud and slapped his thigh as he leaned forward over to Mirai and Gohan.
"Where have you been cub, under your mum's apron? There is no better fighter in this arena." Gohan raised a brow. "Really." He whispered as he looked down at Nappa just as the bear of man brought down his competitor.
"WOW!!" The man laughed at the kid's expression. Gohan whole face lit up, he smiled back at the Sayain who nodded.
"What'd I say!" The guy chuckled.
Gohan grinned and nodded before turning back to the fight, with Nappa having the upper hand sending the younger man down flat on his back once again before scrambling back onto his feet to get away from Nappa's next attack. The younger man was immediately stopped with the older warrior grabbed him by the arm spinning him around disorientating him before sending face down into the sand. "That's got to hurt!" Ursus groaned with face scrunched up hearing a snap and seeing an arm go limp at the young man's side. "Shit yeah."
"Did you see that? He should have rolled when he could have…" Gohan went to say as he turned to Mirai and the Saiyan sitting next to him. "What?" Mirai raised a brow at his brother while the adult next to him just chuckled.
"Good to see you appreciate a good fight." He laughed.
Gohan smiled. As they turned back Nappa made another move on his opponent. The Sayain in the row in front of Gohan jumped up and cheered, blocking the young prince's view. He frowned and looked up at Mirai who was caught up in the moment jumping up on to his own feet in his own excitement as did Ursus. Now with everyone standing in front of them, Gohan turned to Videl and Olios who were about his size. "Can you see?"
"No" both Olios and Videl yelled. Gohan shifted trying to get a better view of the fight. The Saiyan next to Mirai stood and reached over picking him up. He placed Gohan next to him so he could see. Mirai was looking on concerned wondering what the guy was doing.
Gohan was in shock but then the man yelled for the Saiyans in front of them to sit which they did. "Gee great. Thanks heaps!" Gohan chirped as he could see Nappa once again. They weren't interrupted for the rest of the fight and when Nappa was applauded off Gohan sprung to his feet. "That was great, Nappa WON!"
They all clapped and cheered and as they sit back in their sits the commentator walked out. "Right, now for the Jr's. Any takers to fight?"
"How about it kid? You want to do this?" Gohan's eyes lit up and looked back down at the ring. Mirai went to protest when his brother interrupted.
"Wow, can I?" The man laughed.
"Of course little guy." The man stood up lifting Gohan up and yelled that they had taker. Everyone cheered.
Gohan was beaming. He was itching to see if he had learnt anything and if his strength was any match for the arena. Mirai watched stunned as Gohan was passed in wave of hands down until he was lowed down over the arena wall.
"Shit Gohan!" Mirai snapped as he turned and locked eyes with Ursus who was having the same worries.
"We should get down there and stop it, don't you think boss?" He asked, ready to get to his feet.
Mirai went to get up when the man next to him pulled him up.
"Hey, let the little guy have a go. He will be with a kid his own age!" The guy said
Mirai frowned and turned back to the arena. "That's what I'm worried about!"
~~~
After settling in he was asked for his name and age Gohan had no problem giving his name without his title. His name had become popular for a boy's name after his papa became the king's mate. Every Saiyanjin parent wanted to name their cubs after the two princes. He was feeling a little anxious and apprehensive watching a boy, about the same age and build as him, step into the ring. With cocky expression he smirked back at the prince. Gohan could tell it wasn't this boy's first time in the ring.
He looked up into the crowd for his brother and friends but their faces where lost in the sea of Saiyans all yelling and calling for them to start. The commentators called for them to be ready then he called 'game open'. The yelling amplified as both boys crouched, eyeing the other waiting ready. Gohan, as normal, waited for the other to make the first move.
He didn't have to wait long. The boy lunched himself at Gohan. His arm looked set ready to swing a powerful punch for the prince's jaw. Though instead the boy dropped and took Gohan's leg out from under him tripping him up. The prince spun and did a commando roll in a split second; just missing what would have been another fast attack. The crowd roared with the speed Gohan was outsmarting his opponent.
Mirai's stress level was climbing as he clenched his fist and his voice went hoarse shouting. Ursus and the others were doing no better. Each move Gohan jumped back on his feet with the same speed. The prince was able to pick on the boys moves before he struck. The crowd was going wild especially when Gohan got the kid down, tripping him with his own move. The prince bounced around feeling fairly pleased with himself. Gohan crouched ready for the next move.
The other boy was getting more and more aggressive, frustrated at not being able to land a punch. "You think you're pretty cleaver!" The boy growled
Gohan smirked. "Yep!"
From the sidelines a certain warrior, by the name of Nappa, was having heart failure seeing his prince out on the arena. "Bloody hell!" He paced along the wall rubbing the top of his bald head. "Shit!" He turned around to hear his friends arrive as they said they would.
"Umm guys."
"Hey what's up? Did you lose?" Turles laughed slapping Raditz' shoulder and grinning at their friend.
Raditz crossed his arms in front of him. "So how many did you slaughter?" He laughed knowing how his friend loved a good fight. They would always end up back at the arena for a few hours when they could. They like the rawness of the public house and they didn't mind playing a little dirty. It kept them alert.
"Hey guys… ummm …I don't know if you going to like this… but ummm you better take look." Nappa moved from in front of them giving them a clear view of the arena. Both warriors stood up to full hight just as they heard an almighty roar from the crowd, booing as the boy grabbed Gohan's tail paralysing him instantly. The prince yelped before he dropped to his knees in pain. In one quick move the boy knocked Gohan down on the sandy ground and pinned him down. He straddled the prince stopping him from getting up and preventing him from moving at all. The kid didn't waste time. While Gohan was still in shock he laid into the prince with punch after another powerful punch.
"FUCK!" Turles's smile slipped off his face and his eyes widened in disbelief.
Raditz arms unfolded and fell limp at his side. "SHIT!"
"GOHAN!" They both barked in unison.
Up in the stands Mirai, with his friends behind him, raced and pushed their way down in a rush to get to the wall of the ring. "The fucking KID, I'm gonna kill HIM!" Mirai hissed as he pushed through with blazing eyes. "CHIBI!"
Turles dragged his sights away from his youngest nephew being pounded and fixed on a part of the arena closest to them. There was Mirai coming to a speeding stop against the wall with his friends. "Great! …Just FUCKING GREAT!"
Raditz turned to see what his young brother was complaining about. What could be worse; worse; than having Vegeta and Kakarrot's youngest cub getting the shit beaten out of HIM. "BLOODY HELL! Both of them!"
"What are we going to do guys?" Nappa turned from seen Mirai struggling with one of the many security guards who kept everyone off the arena.
"You get him," Raditz pointed for Nappa to go over to Mirai "before he knocks someone out." He turned to look over at Gohan. "I'll try and stop this before it gets ugly."
"What do mean? It's already gotten UGLY!" Turles growled
"If this kid doesn't stop hitting chibi like this he is going to he have to deal with ME!" Raditz and Turles went over to the commentator to call it off. The crowd cheered as Gohan managed to push the boy off. Angry at being taken down by this kid grabbing his tail, he grabbed the boy's arms and flipped them both over. Stunning the boy given Gohan the advantage of time he sent a powerful blow of his own into the boys jaw.
Within seconds the boy shook the punch off and flew start up. Gohan's eyes widened as he rolled out of the way of stream of a dozen blue ribbons headed his way. He ended up having to block what he could, getting angry at the other boys advance. The prince looked up to see him shift above him and before Gohan knew it the boy had sent another powerfully ki ribbon, hit the young prince in the shoulder sending him flying back into the sand.
Gohan growled, eyes narrowed and fixed. He struggled back up to his feet and started to power up. The crowd roared with excitement as the prince took to the air just in time to dodge another ki ball. The crowd was going wild as the fight took to the sky in front of them.
Mirai stopped struggling, his breath caught in his throat. The others watched on in amazement as Gohan sent his own powerful ki attacks back. A steady ray of powerfully ki threads flooded the sky. Nappa, Raditz and Turles all stopped dead watching with all the same astonishment and pride on their faces as the fight continued. It was of a battle of speed and wits.
Gohan was building up a thin layer of sweat using this level of power. He felt like he was tapping into something he never knew existed. The other boy looked on with astonishment. He could feel the tremendous power growing and emanating from the other kid.
Then in no time Gohan fired a decent size ki ball. The other boy looked on in a state of shock. The power coming his way was incredible. The kid shook his head. His wits returned in time to dive out of the way; just in time. He dropped and did a commando roll in the sand. He looked up. The kid was amused as he sped back. He had fought others kids this size but this kid had something else. No time to waste, Gohan was on the attack.
The prince didn't waste time. He sent another attack forcing the kid to stumble back further. The boy dived out of the way and rolled just in time from one of Gohan attacks but they were coming faster with each mounting second. Sweat was now pouring off the kid in thick layers and his mind was at panic level. He lost footing and tripped in his haste. He threw up his arms and tried block the ki coming his way but the power was so intense, like nothing he had felt. Within seconds he was knocked back and with the force behind the attack he was pounded into the wall, defeated. The crowd roared and cheered; a deafening noise of pure excitement.
Gohan dropped to his knees panting hard. The sound around him was lost to him as he tried to gain his sense of what had just happened. He had never done anything like it before. He felt like he had moved to the next level of fighting. It was a whole new world and his body was shaking, trembling from the raw power that was generated. His breathing was quick and sweat poured off him. He wiped his eyes with his arm just as he felt two strong hands pick him up and toss him up onto broad shoulders. The crowd roared. Gohan looked on confused, surprised that everyone would be cheering him.
"That's our boy!" Raditz yelled with pride as he paraded the boy in the middled of the area with the biggest grin. All the others rushed onto the sandy ground of the area. Mirai and all his friends raced over to him as was Nappa and Turles all with the same genuine pride and amazement.
"What did I do?" Gohan asked his uncle over the cheers. He was completely lost.
"They are cheering you! That kid was the best there was here and you have taken him down in less time he has taken others down! They know talent when they see it boy!"
"Yeah? I did, didn't I? WOW!" Gohan looked back at the crowd and smiled with astonishment. Just then he was joined by the rest of his family and friends congratulated him.
"Chibi, that was UNBELIEVABLE! I can't believe you did all that just a few days after your collar was taken off! It took me over a week." Gohan beamed down at his future mate.
"You saw me?"
"Kami YES! Come HERE… Uncle put him DOWN!" Mirai called wanting his chibi in his arms.
"I think its best we get out of here! All we need is for you're fathers to find…" As Raditz went to say this the crowd went deadly quiet and very still. It was then they heard a familiar voice that sent a chill up everyone spin. They all turned to see both the princes' fathers standing side by side with arms folded a cross powerfully chest. Vegeta and Goku narrowed their sights, locking their eyes on their intended victims with deadly expression set.
Most of the young ones gulped and took a step back hiding behind the adults, sent into silence with the two powerful Saiyan-jins standing there, looking not at all amused as they looked at their sons.
"Before what? Before their fathers find… out?" Vegeta hissed. Both of them had picked up on their youngest cub's sudden rise in ki. They had raced over from official business thinking the worst. Now with their parents standing there both boys knew they were in for it.
The crowd watched in silence, confused until whispers swept the arena. "They are the royal cubs. That was the youngest prince that fought." Once, the crowd got over the shock of seeing their saviour standing there in front of them there was a deafening noise as everyone in the arena stood and saluted their respect.
Raditz lowered Gohan to the ground and placed the boy next to him. Feeling his father's burning eyes on him. Gohan kept his eyes lowered. Mirai took a brave step forward. "Dad, please? It was just as much my fault as…"
"SILENCE!" Both boys jumped as did the others. "Both of you get back to the palace. I'll speak to you there!" Vegeta ordered not losing any of his fire. He was expecting the worst. He had found his sons in a public arena without permission or bodyguards. Of all the days when they had officials swarming the countryside and here were the two princes fighting like commoners. Normally he would just wipe this off as them being cursed, but this was the wrong day for them to start this. There was a word that trouble was headed their way and an uprise. He had just finished telling Goku when they felt their youngest boy's ki sky rocketed, panicking both parents.
The King had received word that someone was out to take over the throne, and it was from someone inside the court. He had spent all morning trying to find out more and sniff out the organiser, fearing for his family. And here were both his boys!
"Yes father." Mirai growled angry that his father wouldn't listen.
"Sorry." Gohan's voice was barely above a whisper. He was blaming himself and upset that he had got everyone into trouble. With all power he had used his eyes started to become heavy and he was feeling tired, weak on his legs. He stumbled back a little when he went to take step towards his dad.
"Chibi!" Mirai caught him before their parents could.
"Give the brat here!" Vegeta demanded seeing his youngest cub without the strength to walk. Under all his emotion the king was quite proud. He wished he could have seen what had happened. Vegeta knew he would drain Raditz for all the information later, when he wasn't so worried about his family out in public. The king picked up his son as he nearly fell second time. "HOME!" The king demanded.
The trip home was done in silence and with speed. Gohan was placed on the couch with Mirai sitting next to him. They listened to both their parents, yet again, lecture them. However they were kept in the dark about what was happening with the threatening uprise. Vegeta was hoping he could stamp it out before anything happened. Vegeta left and Goku elected to stay back with their kids, not wanting anymore trouble as they only had a few hours before they had to leave for the celebrations.
Once their father had left the room Gohan curled up on the couch. Mirai curled up next to him. A tender kiss was shared between the two after they were left in the room alone; arms, legs and tails embraced. Gohan fell asleep in his future mate's arms feeling safe.
Mirai was going over the last few days in his head. His sapphire eyes lingered on the beauty in his arms; the angelic sleeping face of his lover. He could hear his papa talking with their grandpapa Bardock who came over after hearing about everything. They were in the dining room eating and talking, his father Vegeta had left a few minutes ago to finish of his duties. It left father and son free to talk about what had happened and the conversation came up once again about the claim Mirai held over Gohan.
A chill washed over Mirai and his hold on his lover tightened. He didn't know what was going to happen when his father found out about the claim mark. He was still worried that they would try to separate them. He knew what he did was wrong but he didn't regret.
~~~
"Kami, I hate wearing this stuff." Mirai complained pulling on his stiff collar. He felt like he was being choked.
"Yes you do. Now quit your complaining!" Vegeta snapped as he pulled at his collar too, wishing he too could take it off.
The king stood in his royal uniform in the living room with his long red cloak, fastened to his broad shoulders, trailing behind him. He wore a chain with his royal emblem around his neck. He looked powerful and everything that a Saiyanjin's warrior elite should look. Mirai took the part of Saiyan prince to new heights with his lavender hair tied behind him.
Both were in the living room waiting for Gohan and Goku to come out of the bedroom. The youngest of the family was growing uneasy about the whole thing. He wasn't used to large crowds and it was made worse knowing they would be keen to meet him. His papa was in there helping him dress and trying to ease some of his worries. Goku was also making sure that his son's claim mark couldn't be seen by the boy's father.
"There, that should do it."
"Papa can't I just stay here? I promise I'll be good. I'll do as you say!" Gohan pleaded again hopeful that his papa would say yes. He preferred to be on his own in the safety of his room.
"No we've gone over this. We all have to stay together tonight." Goku looked back at his son and gave a gentle smile. His son had grown up to be a fine boy, handsome at that.
His uniform was the twin of his brother's; a blue slimming jacket down to the boys thighs with a red ribbon around his collar. Blue pants with the same red matching thread going down the side of them. Gohan's black mane still wasn't long enough to tie back but it had improved. It reached down passed the nape of his neck now.
"You look very smart."
Gohan didn't think so. He was used to wearing very little, part of the service of the old days with his masters. He looked up as the door opened there stood his father, the king. A wave of pride washed over Vegeta as he looked at his son dressed in his official uniform.
"Are we ready?" Vegeta asked turning his attention to Goku, who was dressed in a similar garment to his.
"Yes all ready."
"Good lets go. And boy, you stay close to us or Mirai. I don't want any of you wandering off tonight."
Gohan frowned meeting his papa eyes before his sights stopped at his father's commanding form. Both his parents had the same worried expression.
"Is there something wrong about tonight?" He asked
"No nothing. Just stay close. There are a lot of strangers around." Vegeta explained not wanting to let on about the dangers involved. He didn't want the boys to not enjoy themselves. It was their celebration after all. Vegeta wasn't going to bow down to anyone. He had already increased the security around the palace and was fairly confident. "Right let's go."
Goku led Gohan out into the hall with Vegeta following behind. When they reached the living room and Mirai turned and looked up. A broad smile spread over his face as he saw his brother.
"WOW…you look GREAT!" His blues lit up as they roamed over Gohan's impressive form.
Goku looked over at Vegeta, who raised a brow before his sights returned to his boys. "Time to go boys! Be on your best behaviour or you will have me to deal with!" He warned. Vegeta didn't realise the fear he just increased in both of them especially that he had yet to find about the claim mark that Mirai made.
Gohan, with his head now lowered, passed his brother as they headed for the door with both fathers behind them. Vegeta asked through his bond what was up with Gohan. Goku told him that he would tell him later and to just forget it for now. The king nodded and thought it best let go. He had other things on his mind that took precedent at the moment.
~~~
All four royals walked into the massive hall with centuries old timber floors. On one side had a dozen or so arched glass French doors, left open to catch the breeze, adding more space to the already crowded room. The view from the open archways revealed the majestic gardens and lush green lawns. The sunset was fading in the horizon; the glorious orange glow was steadily disappearing and a lavender/blue glow was taking its place, setting the atmosphere of romance and friendship.
All the cadets from the academy were there in their finest uniforms for this very special occasion. Officials and other royals, powerful families, all important to the, Saiyan-jin's empire were present. There were heaps of guards swamping the place with the King's finest warriors.
Nappa was assigned to keep an eye on the boys. Raditz and Turles were doing the same. Bardock, and his mate Yamacha, were keeping close to the boys; not that that they were asked. This was family, and it was personal. The only ones in the family that didn't know what trouble lurked in the shadows were the boys.
With all the Official greetings done, the Royals entered the room. Both boys were in front of their fathers as the whole room saluted and bowed showing their respect. Once the embarrassment bled from both princes' faces it was time to mingle; meet new people and find friends. The whole time they were being spied upon by their old body guard and nurse, Nappa.
"Chibi, do get the feeling that Nappa is following us?" Mirai asked pulling on his collar once again. He glanced over his shoulder and there was Nappa admiring a marble column and running his hand over like he was fascinated with by it.
Gohan leaned to the side and looked behind his brother. And sure enough there was their old body guard pretending to look away. "Yep, I'd say you're right Mirai. He used to do the same thing when we were younger."
"Dad must have put him up to this." Mirai though out loud. His mind clicked over mischievously thinking of a plan to get the old guard out of their hair. Gohan was busy filling his plate with all the food from the table in front of him.
"Wow, Mirai their some great food here. I'm staving!"
"You would be. You take after papa for sure! Hey we've got to work on a plan to lose Nappa. He's cramping my style." Mirai whined as he followed his brother down the table as he filled his plate.
"I think he's lonely. We could always get him hooked up with someone!" Gohan said.
Mirai's raised a brow as he looked at the back of his brother's neck like he was crazy.
"Yah right!" He said sarcastically
"No. Think about it. I have never seen him go out on date. He must be shy or something?"
"Something is the word here bro. So he needs someone…Mmm … not half bad Chibi! But who?" Mirai scanned the room for any takers. He cringed at some over sized alien that tried to get her self in an undersized gown. He was expecting the dress to exploded sending body parts all over the room at anytime. It wasn't a sight he wanted.
"What about her?" Gohan said pointing over to the French doors. Mirai followed his line of vision and his eyes lit.
"Perfect!" There was a Saiyan-jin female in her uniform on duty. She looked the type you would back away from, but there was friendless about her too. "She must still be on duty."
"I say so. She's the right hight for Nappa. I wonder why he has never seen her before?" Gohan asked biting down hard onto some near raw meat.
"Don't know. Shy I guess. Wait here and don't move. I have to get this rolling so we can have a bit of fun ourselves." Mirai winked causing Gohan to blush.
The eldest prince went to work. He walked up to the lady warrior. She bowed and looked on confused. Nappa slid around the column to get a better look at what Mirai was up to. He went beetroot red when he saw who he was talking too. His crush. He had been hiding from this girl since he first saw her. She was younger than he was but not by far.
He watched as the female warrior raised a brow to what the prince was telling her. She looked up in Nappa's general direction pulling the big guy up on the spot. He gulped. "She's looking over here." He stuttered. The next thing she was heading over to him Nappa wanted to bolt out of the room. He hid behind the large column with his back pressed against it. In no time he was confronted by the big lass, a large warrior's dream, in Nappa opinion.
Mirai came back over feeling pretty damn good and cocky as ever. "So you want to go for a walk, sunshine?" He beamed.
Gohan was dumbstruck with a full plate still in his hands.
"Whatcta you say to her?"
"I just told her what she wanted to hear. Plus, I don't think Nappa's complaining." Both looked back over to see Nappa with a goofy grin.
"I guess not."
"Well what you waiting for?"
"I'm still eating Mirai! I haven't had anything for lunch, you know that!" Gohan complained as bit down in his meat again.
"Come on. You can eat that outside." Mirai snatched Gohan's hand and dragged him towards the glass doors. The youngest was trying not to spill any of his meal. When they got outside they found the garden was crowded with its own night life. Lovers and a crowd of cadets had sought refuge away from their commanders out in the open.
Mirai took his bro over to one of the large trees. Gohan sat down with his food in his lap with the eldest looking down at him. "Gee Chibi you are the romantic type, aren't you?" He chuckled with the scowl he was now receiving from his brother.
"I'm hungry, that's all!" Gohan said with a mouth full of food. Mirai sighed and sat down next to him. He was hoping for a bit more action. Instead he went to pinch a piece of meat. "Arr…. get your own!" Gohan snapped.
"No yours will do nicely…thanks." He smirked. With his eyes locked on his annoyed brother he lent over in front of him and bit a chunk of meat out of the one Gohan was holding. Mirai chuckled at the deadly expression his brother was given him. "Hehehe… Chibi what's got into you? You're such a grouch!"
"I don't know!"
"Mmmm what's that scent?"
"I can't smell nothing!" Gohan snapped as he bit down hard on his meat. His canine teeth were hurting, like they were enlarging or something and he was feeling awfully uncomfortable in the uniform so restricted and hot! His tail was twitching from side to side on the cool grass with amount of aggravation he was feeling.
Mirai took another breath of the alluring sent. His mind was being washed over with it. He was finding himself getting quite aroused when he looked up to see Ursus and Olios waving at him as they approached from being indoors. "Hey boss, chibi how's it going?"
"If you keep calling me that I'll have to find you a nick name as well."
"Yeah, really? Well it would have to be something strong, down right fearsome. Put the fear in others … that type of thing …" Ursus beamed, looking down at his long time friend sitting on the ground next to Gohan. He watched Olios move over and sit down next to the youngest prince.
"How about something like stupid, or dickhead … moron. That is more you!"
"O-Oh that hurts. That's a stab to the heart, boss!" Ursus faked a wound to the chest stumbling back and getting a glare from Mirai.
"Moron!"
"It takes one to…." Mirai went to spiring to his feet when Ursus jumped back waving his arms. "HEY… I was only kidding! What's got up your shirt?"
"I don't know, but I'm not comfortable about chibi being out here."
"Why the hell not?"
"I'm probably being a baka but…"
"Probably …" Ursus said in a matter of fact tone. Mirai smirked as he watched Ursus bent down and to sit next to him, losing some of his seriousness. Ursus was in his best uniform like the other cadets. Olios was in his best clothes; a long top that went over his pants and hid the lack of tail. Artimus insisted he wore this outfit when he was out in public in case some one tried to pick a fight with him. Olios could get away with looking Saiyan if it wasn't for that. The small boy had to wait until Ursus was dismissed from his squad before he could be with him. Now, all four sat there under the tree, planning on a way out of the palace and making a break for it when Videl approached them.
"Hi guys." She called as she walked over in a long dress. Their jaws dropped. They had only known this girl for a short time but she just didn't seem to be type to wear a dress. She looked awkward as she walked toward them and didn't look too happy wearing it either.
"Blasted dress!" She scowled, yanking and pulling at the dress that her father had made her wear. He was hoping that she would be able to lure and catch one of the princes.
"Videl. What in Kami's name are you wearing?" Mirai asked as she plonked herself down in front of them. She gathered up metres upon metres of blue fabric as if it was a bag of groceries that had spilt.
"Don't say a word!" She snapped.
This got all four boys attention as they looked at the dress in distaste. All the boys had seen others wear such garments but it wasn't popular attire on Vegeta-sei.
"So what are we going to do?" She asked curiously, just as keen to get away as the next man or women as the case maybe.
"I thought you wanted me to dance with you." Gohan asked. Mirai looked over at him and the others raised a brow.
"Yeah well, after that then. We could have one quick dance. That would put a smile on my dad's face and then hit the track." She said with a satisfied smile at her own plan. She was frustrated having to wear this over pompous dress and her father's attitude was wearing her down.
"It had better be quick. I don't want to have to go in after you. Dad will catch me and force me to stand next to him to meet boring government officials." Mirai grumbled he was hiding low outside, just contented to be with his brother.
"All right then come on Gohan, lets get this show over with. As you can hear the music is playing." Videl said as she tried to find her feet under her ballooned dress.
The young prince looked up at her shocked. He wasn't expecting it to be straight away. He looked down at his plate of food.
"But …but…"
"Don't worry about that chibi, I'll eat it!" Ursus said as he took the plate from the boy's lap and started to dig in. Olios looked on shocked.
"Can I have some too?" The youngest boy asked. Mirai chuckled but stopped when Gohan stood up and dusted off his pants.
"Okay, let's make it quick!" The youngest prince said stepping over everyone's' feet and standing in front of Videl.
"Good, let's get this show on the road." She beamed with her arm over Gohan's as he led her back towards the French doors. Mirai was stunned that he went with her.
"What's up boss?" Ursus asked as he dug into the mound of food.
"Nothing…" He watched on, disappointed and lonely already without his partner to be as he watched his chibi disappear.
~~~
Inside Gohan lowered his sights as he walked onto the dance floor. He didn't want anymore attention than he already had.
Videl smiled sweetly confident, and with a little more pride as she looked at the girls looking on. They seemed disappointed that she got the first dance with the handsome prince.
"Cheer up Chibi, we do this and we're out of here. And we have kept my dad happy."
Gohan just nodded and brought her closer to his chest wrapping his arm around her. His tail hooked around her waist, more for safety. He didn't want them both to trip. He still found it difficult to keep it in place. Videl's dress bloomed out at the waist making it the ideal place to support his tail.
They danced like that for some time getting the added attention of many. It seems Gohan had many hidden talents and this was one of them. He glided and swirled with swiftness and grace on the dance floor. He was actually enjoying himself. He found others couldn't approach him while he was on the dance floor. They kept their distance as he danced with Videl, leaving them in a world of their own.
Videl was getting giddy. She had no idea he was this good of a dancer. "You know I could dance like this for hours." She whispered. Her blue eyes alight.
"I know what you mean. It's not half bad." Gohan whispered back as he took the lead. Off to the side his fathers looked on with pride at the smooth actions in their son's movements. Vegeta looked around for Nappa but couldn't find him. He frowned when he couldn't see Mirai either.
"Where do you suppose they have got to?" He asked Goku.
"They could be outside. It's nice weather for it." He suggested. Neither them knew that the boys had got Nappa out on a date in the darkest of corners chatting up a girl.
Someone else had the prince in their sights. Collis, his brother Amos, and their father the Commander Ramose were talking with old friends, important friends that were true to the cause of a new Kingdom where Ramose saw himself as ruler and with them at his side he believed he could succeed.
Collis watched and waited for the right moment to catch the prince. His father signalled for him to approach now that the music had ended and Videl and Gohan were coming off the dance floor. Both were keen for refreshments. Videl's dad waved her over to get the gossip on the young prince. She sighed. "Excuse me, chibi duty calls."
With that she left and walked up to her father, still with his broad smile and his hand stretched out to wrap around her shoulders. His free hand held a glass still half full. Gohan turned back to the table to get a drink for himself when he saw Collis approach him with refreshments. He froze before shaking off the bad feeling he had. "My prince… you did well out there." Collis smiled.
"Thanks, I guess I surprised myself too." He said in low voice, nervous.
Collis handed him a glass. "I thought you looked a bit thirsty."
"Thanks. Yeah I am." He drank it down, quenching his thirst and nerves. "Gee, that tasted nice." He said with a smile, feeling a little light headed all of a sudden.
"Here I'll get you some more." Collis grabbed Gohan's hand and led him through the crowd, pushing people out of their way.
Vegeta looked up and frowned when he saw his son disappear into the crowd with Commander Ramose youngest son. "Where's Nappa?" He asked concerned.
"I'm not sure, is there something wrong?" Goku asked following his partner's line of vision but saw nothing.
"I don't know." He watched as the crowd thinned out some and saw Gohan in a friendly conversation with Commander Ramose' youngest son. He watched as his son leaned back against the wall tugging at his collar. But his Saiyan vision picked up on one other vital thing that got his heart pumping to compete with his rising curiosity. "What's that on his neck?"
Goku eyes shot wide as turned to see Gohan unconsciously revealing Mirai's mark to his father. "Ummm …I…I don…"
"It looks like a…" Vegeta was in a trance. He took a step forward; eyes fixed at his son's neck. Goku turned to his father Bardock and Turles who weren't far away. Both warriors had been standing in front of an open door watching Mirai sitting with friends; talking with a few other cadets from their academy.
Goku frantically tried to think of a way to stop his partner from finding out; not here and not yet. All hell will break loose. He turned back to his mate. The king was about to stalk towards his youngest son when Commander Ramose approached him. The Commander reached him just as Gohan disappeared behind the crowd but not before Vegeta saw Collis leading him away.
"Your Majesty. I would like to introduce you to some friends of mine." Ramose said. Three large looking aliens were standing at his side. Vegeta had never met these ones before. He frowned and turned to Goku who raised a brow. He was curious and wary as well. Both were put on alert.
Mirai and his friends came in. They looked around the crowded room for Gohan when Amos and two of his friends approached them. The heir to Vegeta-sie looked up a bit confused. Amos, with sinister smile, bowed and introduced himself.
As soon as he did Mirai's back straightened. He had met this guy before, years back. No love lost between them. "Excuse me but I need to find my brother." He didn't want to cause trouble with this guy in such a public place. He knew exactly who he was. Collis brother!
As he and Ursus went to take a step, Amos and his friend step in front blocking their path.
"I said excuse me!" Mirai said with a little more authority.
"What's the rush?" Amos half growled getting Ursus and Mirai both to back a step.
"Not wise …" Ursus said with his fist clenched.
"How so?" Amos and his friends smirked at the teen.
Mirai's eyes were fixed on the taller guy in front of him, Collis brother.
Mirai eyes flared and his fist were clenched at his side ready for battle. That's when they heard the scream and all eyes turned to the hall. A frown washed over Mirai face confused. There was Zarbon, Frieza's right hand man storming towards the king and his mate.
"WHAT!" Vegeta was taken by surprise, stunned anger swelled. Zarbon and his guards stormed in clearing path as well holding back the kings guards. All the Saiyan warriors turned to the king. Some went to prevent the alien from reaching their king. They went to attack only to have Vegeta call them off.
"Well well if it isn't the king and his handsome mate." Zarbon snarled.
"How in hell did you get HERE!" Vegeta demanded only to get fist across his face.
"FATHER!" Mirai yelled.
Goku's sights turned to their eldest who was being prevented entry. Goku eyes grew wide when he saw the boy. He was now being held down on his knees with his arms pinned back behind him and a ki collar on.
"MIRAI!"
Vegeta, who was still standing wiping away a hint of blood from his lip, shifted his sights from the filth in front of him toward his son. His eyes shot wide. "I DEMAND…"
Another blow to his face. Goku went to step in when Vegeta held out his hand; stopping him.
"You demand NOTHING if you want both your sons to live." Zarbon hissed the last bit.
"Where's Gohan?!" Goku growled. Eyes locked.
"I wouldn't worry about the little prince. He's quite alright." Zarbon growled as he snapped his fingers and a solider from the back of the row took a step forward through the escort of guards with the boy in his arms, unconscious.
"CHIBI!" Mirai screamed only to get punched for his trouble. Ursus and Olios were in no position to help. They were both knocked out by Amos' two other friends that had snuck up behind them. It seemed they were surrounded and preventing anyone from leaving the room.
Vegeta eyes narrowed and his temper was flaring as was his partner. // What do we do? // Goku asked through their bond.
// Nothing just yet! While he has the boys we can't do anything. // Vegeta said disheartened and mad that it got this far; after everything they had done to prevent this from happening. More of Zarbon's guards entered the room blocking guests and guards from the royals who were now being led forcibly away into the depths of the palace.
They came to Vegeta's office, Commander Ramose leading the way. "I hope our agreement is still in order." He said to Zarbon as they entered with the four royals, Ramose's family and a hand full of guards followed. The rest waited outside. "Of course, as long as you rule under Frieza's command and I got what I came for, the two boys."
"HEY…it wasn't part of the deal, I get to keep him!" Collis bellowed at his father, pointing at Gohan still knocked out in one of the guard's arms. Commander Ramose glared at his son for his outburst, quietening him.
Zarbon smirked and turned to the King and his partner, both now wearing their own collars and being held back by guards. Vegeta and Goku were not accustomed to the collars. It didn't drain most of their ki. It didn't allow for more than walking and stopped them from contacting their inner power, blocking it off completely.
Mirai was given a ki collar too. This collar up to full strength, which was knocking out any attempts to power up. He was as weak as a Saiyanjin cub once again.
"This is how it will be!" Zarbon went on to explain as he came around Vegeta's desk with Commander Ramose to one side. The three royals stood, bound, in front of them. The guard carrying Gohan stood beside his commander, Zarbon who petted the boy like a new found pet.
"Things will work out just fine, if you do as you're told…" As Zarbon talked both fathers were glancing at their youngest son out of their reach. Mirai, who was being held up by Amos next to them, was fighting back the urge to punch the guy… somehow. Amos kept pulling on his arm. Mirai's eyes were on Frieza's right-hand-man too.
"You will both be sent to Frieza's camp where he will see you in due time. I have yet to surprise him with this little treat." Zarbon said talking about the young boy at his side. Vegeta was furious as was Goku watching the monster stroke Gohan's cheek. "He has waited for his return and the heir for a long long time now." Zarbon smiled at his own genius of befriending a greedy man like Commander Ramose who so easily smuggled him and his guards in one of his family ships.
Collis was looking on; worried about the boy he had grown to love be touched by this monster his father calls his ally with disgust. He was trying to work a way to get the boy away from here. He looked over at his brother Amos who was getting silent kicks out of tormenting Mirai with his rough handling of the heir.
He listened to his father and Zarbon arguing with the king and his mate.
"You'll never be able to keep the Saiyan-jin under your power! They will rebel and fight!" Vegeta growled feeling so helpless. He now knew how it felt for his own child.
Collis turned to see the green monster stand up with his arms held out to take Gohan. He signalled the two other guards to hold both fathers still. Collis took a step forward.
"What are you doing?" Both fathers, Vegeta and Goku, were keen to know that as well. Mirai looked on anxious.
"Don't concern yourself I just want to be alone with the little one. I'll bring him back when I'm done with him."
Both fathers' eyes narrowed their temper flared, fists clenched and jaws locked. They wanted to fight.
"What do you mean?" Mirai asked frightened and mad that he couldn't do anything to prevent this from happening.
"I have a few calls to make. I want him to be seen by his fan, my boss lord Frieza." With that Zarbon held the youngest royal and walked out with his family tugging to be freed, to fight. Mirai was yelling in the background until he got a powerful punch in the back sending him to his knees.
Both Vegeta and Goku were livid. They would have turned gold by now if it wasn't for the collars. They cursed at the green commander as he left with their son. Commander Ramose and his eldest son were enjoying the show. With a smug smile they both relish at the distress this had over the royal family.
Ramose called for both his sons to follow. They had much to do. The palace was closed off to the rest of the world. No-one outside the palace knew of what was happening indoors. The hall was closed off with Ursus and Olios stuck with everyone else that was in there including Bardock, his two sons, and his mate Yamacha.
No-one knew where the royals had being taken. They all feared the worst even though they were told to not do anything stupid or the royals would die.
Collis was debating whether to leave or not, but he did, leaving Mirai and his fathers locked in the room with guards at both the doors.
"Son, are you alright?" Goku asked from where they were seated. Each was made to sit on the floor away from each other, each with their own guard watching their every move. Vegeta looked on concerned at his eldest trying to get his breath back from the last assault.
"Yeah…fine." Mirai grunted. He didn't think he would ever be in one of these again. "Bloody collar!" He growled.
"I don't know how you boys coped with these things on!" Goku snarled twisting and stretching his neck. He knew enough not to touch one.
Vegeta said nothing his mind was racing, working on a way to get out of there and stop Zarbon and the others from taking over. His mind didn't know if he could let his youngest son slip past his fingers again. He didn't want to lose him, not again, but the state of the empire was also relying on him. He decided to wait and hope that the moment arose when Gohan was back in their sights. Then he will pray for some kind of miracle.
TBC…
A/N: Thanks Vegeta –Sire for proof reading this for me. I hope you enjoyed reading this chapter. We have two more chapters to go. My free time is a bit pushed at the movement but I'm hoping to get them edited and posted real soon.
Thanks guys for your patience, I mean it.
^^