Sorry for the long update--I say that every chapter--but yeah, remember that we authors are already sacrificing so much time to bring a good read to you all ^^ (not to mention--again--this turned out to be the longest chapter yet) In the news, yesterday (02/15/03, ah btw, Happy (late) Valentine's!) on a quest to search for more Gohan and Videl fics, I read a G/V fic. As in Goku/Videl. Wait, wait, don't go off running yet! I was thinking the exact same thing... Goku and Videl?? Man, how whacked is that?! That's so wrong on so many levels! I admit I was curious to see how whacked the story was.... and I never imagined myself getting hooked on it.

Really.

I'm one of those readers that put canon couples above else since, hey, I respect the wishes of the creators. But this story... the author is a damn genius. I put good writing even higher apparently. Really, the fanfic is written that good to make me think that if the plot really happened in the DBZ universe I actually won't mind. You really have to read for yourself and be the judge. http://untold-stories.lunaticsworld.com/fanfiction/pareathe/Granted.html (rated NC-17)

In other news..... got some advertising to do >:D
- We all know good 'ol ShaggyDiz (http://www.fanfiction.net/profile.php?userid=33586) the author of 'That Warm and Fuzzy Feeling from the Back of a SYN' and frequent reviewer/flamer (depends on the fic hehe), right? Well, he's got something good cooking up in his kitchen and frankly from whatever little pieces this fellow PINK shirt hater fed me I'm definitely craving for more (gee, that sure is one of my more unusual analogies ^^;;). Be sure to keep your eye out for it by the end of the month!!
- And my dear beta reader TheWraith (http://www.fanfiction.net/profile.php?userid=329430) has got his account up!! Hehehe, he's writing out a prequel of sorts to P&P entitled 'The Lies That We Know'. It'll be his first fanfic and it will have flaws but let's all help him through it when it's up ^^ Will be a mix of B/V, G/CC and K/18.
- The Heart of Souls (http://www.fanfiction.net/read.php?storyid=1180980) : I just can't believe it has gotten anymore reviews. I mean, come on, way crappier written fics get more reviews than this! I happen to find it very well written, thank you!

Disclaimer : Hmm let me think if I don't put something here for Ann I get sued by Her lawyers if I don't put something here PERIOD I get sued by the peeps who created DBZ ,decisions decisions I think I'll go with option C: This is a Fanfic written for the sole intent to tell a story using characters created by Akira Toriyama in a original plot and universe, if this isn't enough info then I'm sorry but you need help in having FUN, you do know what that is right??


Predator and Prey
Chapter 11 : Countdown day 2
Wedding Day! Part 2








Videl paced. Paused. Looked around. Paced some more.

"Boy..." Madame Yin drawled, "Stop that infuriating pacing, you're giving me a headache." Videl paused and looked at the woman.

"Sorry..." she mumbled before sitting down heavily on a chair in the corner. The quiet lasted about 2 minutes before Videl got up and paced again. The occupants of the room groaned. Madame Yin threw her hands up and stalked out.

"Videl!" Erasa whispered to her Maid of Honor. "What are you so nervous about? This is MY wedding and I'm not even as panicky as you!"

"Ah, just some things... you know I want everything perfect for you!"

"That's sweet, Videl... but it's okay, really! Don't be so nervous about it!! Everything is going as planned!" Erasa said cheerfully as she patted her best friend's back in assurance. "Well, except for the untimely disappearance of that horrid ex-best man of Sharpener's, I really didn't think he would leave that suddenly," the blond wondered out loud, missing Videl's guilty look.

The two young women were interrupted by Madame Yin poking her head back in the room and calling out. "Boy, the best man is here to see you."

Videl quickly exited--sure to give Madame Yin a lazy glare for still continuing on calling her 'boy'-- and found Gohan leaning on the wall across from the door. They both waited till Madame Yin stepped in before turning their attention to each other. If Videl wasn't so pre-occupied by the knowledge of hunters in the mansion she would be appreciating Gohan's tuxedo clad body more. Gohan though let his eyes sweep her from head to toe, admiring the view.

"What is it, Gohan?" Videl asked curtly, ignoring his blatant display of ogling her. What is it with him lately? He never ever was so forward in the last three years than when he was in the last two days. She didn't know how to feel about that. Was she satisfied that she had that effect on him? Or should she be disgusted that Gohan turned out to be just any other man? Did she not want him to be physically attracted to her? Did she not want him to be attracted at all?

"You should lower your ki."

"What? Are you insane? If I suppress it I'd be more vulnerable!"

"Your heightened ki is a sure sign of nervousness and to hunters that's a sign that you know they're here to get you. A prey that is aware is more dangerous and challenging, they would be impatient to get you before you run away or get them. And impatient hunters mean they'll be sloppy; they might miss and take out innocent victims..." he paused, looking her in the eye, "... and you know who is by your side most of the time."

Erasa.

Videl immediately lowered her ki and glanced back at the closed door. After a moment of silence she spoke out in a quiet yet determined voice, "If it's my life for hers then I'm willing to give..."

"What about your revenge?"

"My revenge and her life.... you should know more than anyone how precious a life is. I can't, won't, waste her life for revenge."

Gohan stepped up to her and looked down. Videl looked up, matching his gaze. He puzzled her, this one named Gohan. He just showed up in a blur of fists in her life with the intent on taking it. Yet, through the years she learned that there was much more to the black haired youth than what he claimed to be. What are you thinking, Gohan? Why are you such an enigma? Why does it sometimes feels like I know you all my life and yet other times it's like we just met? Who are you, Gohan?

Who are you?

"You know that I won't let you die," he said, matching the determined tone she used earlier.

"I know," she whispered, "I know you won't...."

Why are you always confusing me?

"Then why are you still so unsure?"

"What do you think?"

Why do you make me feel this way?

"Am I supposed to know?

"I... I don't know either..."

Why do you do the things you do and say the things you say?

"Videl..."

"Yes?"

Why do you lie?

"Don't worry."

Who are you?

Videl broke their gaze and numbly leaned forward to rest her temple lightly against Gohan's chest. Gohan looked down on the top of her head, slightly surprised.

"Who are you, Gohan? I don't know you anymore..." she whispered, keeping her head down.

"Who do you want me to be?" He asked back softly, looking off into the deserted hallway. If she asks.... would he tell? Would he tell her everything?

"My life was so uncertain... I didn't even know if I'd live through the day.... but you were always there. Always. You never changed... something stable I could hold on to... you.... you were..." she looked up slowly and he could see the unleashed tears in her eyes. "You weren't really who you are, were you?"

Would he tell her.... everything?

Gohan raised a calloused hand to gently cupped her face as he smiled sadly down at her. It was then Videl saw clearly a Gohan she only caught glimpses of. Gentle yet wise eyes; the eyes of a young man who held a kind heart and a peaceful nature, eyes of a young man who lived.

She asked again, her voice barely above a whisper, "You aren't who you really are, are you... Gohan?"

Mingling of breaths, the softest brush of lips. She didn't even register what happened before he pulled away slightly only to embrace her in a desperate hug.

"No..." he whispered against her hair at the nape of her neck. His voice was so lost and alone... so.... heavy... burdened. "No, I'm not...."

Without thinking she embraced him back, running a soothing hand through his soft black hair. "Then... who are you?" she asked quietly.

"I will tell you in time..." came his slightly muffled answer before he pulled back. Hunter Gohan was back again, his eyes cold and unreadable. Videl frown slightly up at him but somehow she understood why he hid from her again. It was the moment of vulnerability that made them open up. That made them say and do things they normally wouldn't do. They weren't ready for change... no, not yet.

Do they want to change?

"What's happening to us, Gohan?" she stepped back, unconsciously missing his warmth.

He answered her in a far-away voice; like he was struggling to comprehend his words himself. "You broke the balance when you left, Videl... you broke it." He then turned and vanished around the corner.

She stood there, wanting to call him back for reasons unknown. But didn't, keeping her mouth shut, knowing nothing would come out even if she opened them.

Yes, balance. She broke their balance.

The fragile balance between hunter and prey.

Between love and hate.


The guest were all seated; ushers, groomsmen, and bridesmaids all in their positions. Videl stood a bit behind Erasa, nervousness racking her bones. Gohan was already in the room, whispering hushed encouragement to a sweating Sharpener in front of the altar. They haven't spoken again since the incident in the hall, too busy making last minute checks to do so. Then, the music started. Taking a deep breath, Videl calmed her nerves and held her head high.

Sharpener took a sharp intake of breath as his wife to-be entered after the flower-girl. Erasa was easily the most beautiful creature he ever seen. Gohan himself kept his gaze on Videl, who entered behind the small boy that carried the fake rings. Behind her the bridesmaids followed, flanked by the groomsmen. Positioning themselves at the altar, the ceremony began.

Videl kept her eyes forward; though her rigid stance throughout the opening invocation betrayed her seemingly calm demeanor. Gohan himself was on high alert, careful to monitor the surrounding ki. It was highly unlikely that the hunters could manage their way in there but there's always the possibility that the ushers missed a person or two. Both of their attention was brought back to the ceremony at hand when the priest announced the exchange of vows.

Sharpener turned to Erasa, any trace of nervousness on his face gone to be replaced by undying love.

"I, Sharpener Pensille, take you, Erasa Rubbra, to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love.
I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever.
I will trust you and honor you
I will laugh with you and cry with you.
I will love you faithfully
Through the best and the worst,
Through the difficult and the easy.
What may come I will always be there.
As I have given you my hand to hold
So I give you my life to keep
So help me God."

Gohan's eyes met Videl and held them in his gaze. He could see the fear and nervousness in them.... and the hope she had for him. He could see the confusion of her battered emotions. The uncertainty in her soul. Even the underlying hate she had build up for years against him. However, it was fading to be overlapped by another emotion all together. He didn't dare try to decipher what emotion it was. He was frightened enough by his own as it is.

"I, Erasa Rubbra, take you, Sharpener Pensille, to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love.
I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever
I will trust you and honor you
I will laugh with you and cry with you.
I will love you faithfully
Through the best and the worst,
Through the difficult and the easy.
What may come I will always be there.
As I have given you my hand to hold
So I give you my life to keep
So help me God."

Videl's unblinking blues watched the hidden emotions behind Gohan's as they both listened to the vows. His eyes told her that he knew how she felt; that he knew--understood her fear. Told her he would be there, no matter the reason why. His eyes also held the general uncertainty she felt, the question on where this would lead them. Everything was out of balance; the main road they were on branching off into uncountable paths. Where would they go? Would they go together?

Sharpener and Erasa's voice came together in unison, heavy with the love they held.

"Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you,
For where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay
Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.
And where you die, I will die and there I will be buried.
May the Lord do with me and more if anything but death parts you from me."

Till death do us part? Gohan's eyes questioned.

Till death do us part Videl's answered.

The priest blessed the couple before motioning for the rings. Videl stepped forward to hand Erasa the golden band while taking away the bouquet, Gohan did the same for Sharpener, minus taking away anything. Sharpener and Erasa slipped the rings on each other and Videl's chest tightened as Erasa's tears spilled from the overflowing happiness. Gohan and Videl stepped back to lock gazes once more.

"Do you, Sharpener Pensille, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to cherish and hold, for as long as you both shall live?"

Do you believe you can protect me? Videl whispered so low that no one could hear, but Gohan read her lips perfectly.

"I do," Sharpener whispered, his own eyes glistening with unleashed tears of joy.

I do. He answered.

"Do you, Erasa Rubbra, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love and keep, for as long as you both shall live?"

Do you trust me? Gohan silently asked back.

"I do, oh yes, I do," Erasa cried, choking back a sob.

I do. She answered.

"I now pronounce you man and wife, you may kiss the bride."

Sharpener raised Erasa's veil and took her lips to his. The room erupted into cheers as Videl's tears finally spilled, overwhelmed by her best friend's happiness and the sudden rush of emotions from her silent exchange with Gohan. The wedding was over, Sharpener and Erasa were happily married.


After mingling with the guests, everyone proceeded to the reception hall where supper/dinner would be held. Gohan did his duties as best man and made a short introduction of the happily married couple before wishing them all to have a good feast. The all sat down at the long table at the head of the reception hall, ensuring easy passageway for guests to come up and greet the married couple. Gohan and Videl found it very unsettling though to be out in the open and being in clear view of the dark second floor railing. Gohan would frequently sweep his eyes and ki up there every second or so to be safe.

The food then came, dish after dish of delicious delicacies that watered everyone's mouths. The only demi-Saiyan there was drooling the hardest, though he mused that his mother's cooking would still always be the most mouth-watering. He ate in his usual manner, earning a warning glare from Videl three chairs down. They were seated as tradition goes, alternating between the genders. Gohan sat to Erasa's right, Videl to Sharpener's left, and the rest of the honored guests following in the pattern.

Videl eyed the bits and pieces of Gohan's food fly onto Erasa'a pure white gown angrily; it made her even more annoyed that she would be the one picking them out later. Damn her duties as Maid of Honor. Erasa herself didn't mind, giggling a few times at Gohan's table manners. Sharpener didn't mind much either; heck, he might not even mind if Gohan dumped the whole punch bowl on Erasa. Nothing would change, Erasa would still be his wife. The thought made Sharpener giddy; his wife!

Soon the food were almost gone and Gohan took this as his cue. Standing up he cleared his throat before picking up his wine glass and a spoon then tapped the spoon lightly against the glass rim. The chime of the glass broke through the room's chatter and one by one the discussions were put to a halt as all eyes pivoted to the attractive Best Man at the main table. Gohan fidgeted a bit under the scrutiny; similar to Videl, he didn't like large crowds since he became a bounty hunter. Before that though....

"Thank you for your attention," Gohan started, his voice clear and firm. Videl noticed some of the young ladies giggling and swooning at the sound of his voice. Pitiful creatures. My, my, is that jealously I hear? Shut up. "As you all know, we are gathered here for the-oh wait, the priest already took that line, didn't he?" His audience chuckled earnestly at his humor. Videl found it lame and just gave a out a dry laugh. How could he manage to sound so much like a dork?

"Anyway, I've known Sharpener for years now, since we were what? Twelve? Thirteen? And let me say he couldn't have chosen a better bride. You see, he used to date girls like-"

A flash of black metal. A slight disturbance of ki.

On the balcony. One.

"-THAT!!!" Gohan loudly pointed to his right, not looking where his finger was aimed at. The audience all snapped their heads to follow the direction of his right hand as Gohan took the split second opening to grab his fork with his left and fling it forcefully at the hunter. It embedded smoothly, almost fully buried, in the hunter's forehead. He went down with a silent thump while Gohan quickly scanned the room again for more hunters. Nope, just this one.

"Um.... Gohan?"

Gohan suddenly remembered where he was and turned to the young woman sitting beside him with wide eyes. Wide eyes? "Yes, Erasa?"

"Are you telling me.... that my husband use to date...?" Erasa trailed off, not knowing how to finish her sentence.

Gohan stared at her dumfounded before realizing his hand was still raised. Following the path of his finger, he found himself almost reeling back from disgust. He had been pointing at the ugliest, scrawniest, most wrinkled man he ever seen. Even Muten Roshi could be considered GQ material compared to the... wrinkled... organism he was pointing at. Gohan mentally shuddered, he would have died happily not ever noticing the extremely aged carbon based life form. A quick glance to his left confirmed that Sharpener was on the verge of either blowing up at him or blowing up on himself--in chunks.

"I'm kidding!!" Gohan loudly exclaimed, smiling broadly if not a bit sheepishly. The room answered in nervous laughter. "In all, I'm happy for you Sharpie, you gotten yourself the best woman you could ever spend the rest of your life with," Gohan raised his wine glass then turned to Erasa, "But you Erasa, you can do much better than blondie here," he cracked a lop-sided grin as everyone laughed. "Here's to you both; your happiness, your love, your faithfulness, and hopefully soon, your children. Cheers, Mr. and Mrs. Pensille!" The room lifted their glass to congratulate the couple and sipped the wine. After the applause, Gohan sat down, eager to get the night done with so he could get rid of the body.

A slight ki jump to his right. Gohan leaned back to meet with Videl's eyes. She nodded towards the balcony, questioning him silently. Gohan nodded in response and held up a finger. She bit her lip slightly before nodding once more. They both turned back to the party as Sharpener stood up and made a short speech. Erasa didn't follow up as with Videl since they didn't really have much to say. Well, in Videl's case she didn't want to be more in the open then she already was.

After the speeches was the opening dance by Sharpener and Erasa. They dance beautifully of course, like how newlyweds always do. Shortly after, Erasa danced with Sharpener's father as Sharpener danced with his mother, knowing that Erasa had no close relatives left. The were joined in after with Gohan, Videl, the bridesmaids and the groomsmen. Gohan and Videl stood out most after the newlyweds with their more elaborate clothes and graceful moves. Or maybe it was simply because they made a damn fine couple. One can actually see the tension between them, the vibrations.

However, the tension wasn't caused by any emotion that resembled attraction. Videl was finding herself flustered in his arms and nervous at the same time, keeping her eyes darting around the room as they spun. Gohan was tense, also keeping an eye on their surroundings. He, of course, couldn't deny he was enjoying the feel of her in his arms. They were later joined in after by the other guests.

Next was the cake cutting. Erasa even managed to smear the small piece of cake all over Sharpener's face when he got in to eat it off her hand. The multiple flashes ensured the moment to be cherished by all. Sharpener returned the gesture naturally, earning a pout from Erasa and a groan from Videl. Anything to do with keeping the bride looking top notch was her job. She would be cleaning up the mess again.

There was a bit more dancing before the final events were to take place. Yes, it was time for the dreaded bouquet toss. All the single woman were ushered into the middle of the room while Videl stood idly by, not really interested in joining.

"Videl," Erasa whispered, "I knew it! You're with Gohan aren't you??"

Videl blanched, "No, I'm not! Really Erasa, I'll explain everything later but you must believe me when I say me and Gohan were never 'together'."

"B-but this mor-"

"I'm explain everything later, Erasa! I'm still single!"

".... Then get out there!" Erasa deftly pushed Videl onto the open floor. After standing there embarrassed at being singled out, Videl stalked over to the back of the eager women. She would let those other women scramble for the bouquet themselves; getting the bouquet meant nothing to someone who most likely would not have a happy future. Erasa frowned at her best friend, she had every intention to make it so that Videl got the bouquet, but now her raven haired friend was making it difficult. Oh well. Strategy B.

"Ready....." Erasa started, pulling her hand back with the bouquet firmly in her grasp. She prayed this would work or she might end up with a lawsuit. The woman squealed and pushed at each other, already jumping in anticipation. Videl crossed her arms and turned her back on them, huffing softly. "LOOK OUT!!" Erasa screamed at the top of her lungs as she flung the bouquet with all her strength in a straight line for Videl. The sudden scream and the surprising speed in which the bouquet traveled shocked the single women into reflexively diving out of the way.

"Hm?" Videl heard Erasa's scream and immediately became alert, her ki rising to heighten her sensitivity to her surroundings. Something large was coming her way. Her hand shot out even before she completed her turn, stopping whatever the object was from hitting her behind the head. Blinking in confusion, she found her hands full with lace and flowers. A bouquet. It took a moment for her to get that processed.

"Congrats, Del!!" Erasa called out, "You caught the bouquet!!!"

"I-what???" Videl stuttered as the crowd clapped. The other single women mumbled unhappily and returned to disperse in the crowd. The crowd was still applauding when Videl numbly made her way back to Erasa's side, her hands firmly clamped around the bouquet.

"You know I won't get married...." Videl quietly mumbled to the small group. "You should have gave those other women a chance..."

"Don't get your hopes up," Sharpener winked as Erasa nodded enthusiastically. "We all know who's gonna get the garter."

Videl shot her head up as Sharpener called out for the single men. Sure enough, Gohan strolled down to the group of men, clearly not enjoying the silly tradition but complying none the less. He stood a bit in the middle with his arm crossed, looking quite bored yet alert at the same time. Gohan did not like being too far away from Videl at the moment since she was currently standing still and in clear view of everyone. He trailed his eyes up to meet her curious gaze before alternating his eyes between the bouquet in her hands and her face. She raised an eyebrow and he answered with a smirk. Oh, she knew that smirk anywhere.

Videl would have slapped her forehead if it wasn't for the fact she would look ridiculous in front of the guests.

Sharpener and Erasa made a show of taking off the garter, eliciting whistles and wolf howls as he slid the blue garter slowly from Erasa's thigh. Soon, he held the blue garment in his hands as he readied the throw. Making eye contact with Gohan, Sharpener grinned deviously.

"Go get it!!" He yelled as he tossed the garter high up in the air. Really high. Before it could fall into reach of any normal human, Gohan effortlessly jumped up and caught it in his fist--10 feet in the air. The crowd gaped openly at the feat before exploding into applause and cheers. Gohan smugly returned to the front, never breaking eye contact with Videl till he was standing beside her. She rolled her eyes at him, conscious that she'd been doing that quite frequently lately, before giving him a small smile he barely caught before she turned her head to face Erasa.

"Now, let's have the lucky couple pose together!" Sharpener guided Gohan and Videl to a chair in the middle. Gohan sat down with Videl sitting in his lap, half leaning on him.

"I never imagined this would happen to us... " She confessed quietly as the photographers got ready. Gohan smiled slightly at her and moved around a bit according to the photographer's orders.

"There's a first time for everything...." he whispered back as he straightened up his tuxedo. Videl straightened out her hair and dress before absently smoothing down Gohan's spiky locks. At least she tried. She scowled at his head and he chuckled, guiding her to face the camera.

"There's also a last...." was her reply before they both smiled up at the cameras fighting the urge to squint through the flashes.

Maybe it was the sound of lead slicing through air. Or maybe it was the slight smell of gunpowder. Whatever it was, Gohan knew it was headed for Videl. Sliding his hand from around her shoulders to the small of her back, her dipped her low, twisting himself slightly to cover her fully. It was enough, he knew, as his right shoulder gave out a sharp stab of pain where her head was. She was safe, for the time being. Shielding her was enough. No one would notice it, they would just think he was playing around. He was so close though, too close to her. Even the pain didn't phase him enough to block the thought out. Then his mind came up with the brilliant excuse that he was just making it look good to the onlookers. So close, she was so close. He covered the last few centimeters.

She was smiling up at the cameras one second and the next she was being swept back, almost tipping over Gohan's leg. She felt the urgency in his movements and was even able to see the silent bullet coming for her. She was only able to catch a glimpse before Gohan's large frame blocked her view. Videl felt the bullet give out a slight vibration as it buried itself in his shoulder (what kind of bullet is that to be able to pierce his skin?) and was about to reach out and ask him if he was okay before she felt him slightly tip up her chin with his face and lock his lips onto hers.

"Aaaawww," the crowd collectively sighed before whistling loudly as the camera flashed even more intensely. Erasa and Sharpener bore amused looks, just waiting till they could finally demand to know if the two were together or not. How can they both still be denying it?! Frankly, it was getting old and repetitive.

The moment their lips touched, Gohan felt nothing else but the sensation of her. Her lips were soft, inviting, her smell familiar to him. He knew he was getting himself into trouble with his stunt; she was like a drug, addiction started at the first taste. Videl was obviously not expecting the kiss as her jaw dropped, enabling him to eagerly deepen the kiss. Oh, Dende, she tasted so sweet.

Videl's mind was sent careening off course before slamming back into place. She never, ever, felt anything like kissing Gohan. It was simply--incredible. His cologne and masculine scent filled her lungs, making her head spin. The heat from his body sent sparks to the end of her nerves, making her body temperature increase with every little friction. His lips-Dende, his lips-she couldn't even think beyond the sensation. Apparently in her shock, her teeth parted, giving Gohan access. His tongue pushed in, hungrily deepening the kiss, forcing her to give in to his demand. Videl had no idea when she started kissing back, locking her arms behind his neck to push her body closer to his, bringing his head down more to her advantage as she returned his kiss with equal ferocity.

"Ahem."

The two broke apart in the blink of an eye, panting heavily with similar embarrassed looks on their faces. "I see, you enjoyed yourselves a bit too much, eh? Are you sure you both aren't together?" Sharpener teased, Erasa at his side giggling loudly. The crowd laughed good-naturedly as Gohan and Videl quickly got up and denied the accusation--again. The two married blondes rolled their eyes in unison, tired of hearing the same excuse. The crowd then dispersed, the last half hour remaining was to be spent however they wanted, either dancing, eating or just chatting with one another. Gohan and Videl found the opportunity to slip out, planning how to get rid of the body and to inspect Gohan's wound.

In the solitude of the halls, Videl fingered the small hole above Gohan's right shoulder blade. The bleeding was minimal and she could actually see the bullet lodged about a centimeter in his shoulder. His black tuxedo covered it up well, one could hardly notice the slight rip in the dark material. But then, Videl wasn't one to leave it just like that; the bullet was meant for her and it was discomforting to know Gohan carried it around in his flesh rather than hers.

"Come on, let's get that cleaned up. We can deal with the hunter back in the room later," she then pulled him to the changing rooms where the spare tuxedos were. Checking to see the if the room was empty, they entered and locked the door behind them. Videl went over to the closet and pulled down the first aid kit from the top shelf as Gohan took off his coat, vest, tie and shirt. Videl motioned him to sit in front of the dresser as she took out a roll of bandages a some disinfectant.

"How is it?" Gohan asked, watching her clean off a pair of tweezers with alcohol.

"Not bad considering it's buried in about centimeter. Knowing you, it'll heal in no time." Satisfied that she disinfected the tweezers, Videl went in and picked the bronze colored bullet out. It was unusually small and pointed for the average bullet and she guessed it was custom made by the minuscule markings on its side. Examining it for a few more seconds she promptly dropped the semi-flattened bullet into Gohan's palm. "Recognize it?"

Gohan eyed the markings carefully. He didn't recognize it at all but was curious that such a small bullet could hold such power to be able to pierce his skin. "Nope, custom made but I never seen it before. The markings are generic symbols that bounty hunters have used for centuries, a good luck charm of sorts-ow!" He glanced up to slightly glare at Videl from the mirror.

"Sorry," she mumbled before pouring the disinfectant directly into the wound once again like she did previously, ignoring his protests. It was more of a distraction for herself than getting back at him. Her heart was still racing from the kiss and now with him topless it was definitely not helping her condition. She glued her eye to the bloody hole, concentrating on the mess aside from his tanned, smooth, slightly sweaty skin that covered the rock hard muscles that she could see and feel under her fing--she stiffly poured excess amount of the disinfectant into the small hole, washing it out while ignoring Gohan's sudden yelp.

"What are you doing, Videl?! That stings! Stop pouring it all in!!" Gohan demanded, flinching every second or so. He rather get blasted then facing the sting of a disinfectant.

"Stop complaining, I'm almost done," answered Videl as she wiped off the blood and disinfect then dabbing the small wound with an antibiotic solution before putting a gauze over it. Unrolling the cream colored elastic bandage she steeled her mind to the task at hand, vowing not to get side-tracked at what she was about to do. "Raise your arms a bit," Videl commanded as she held one end of the bandage above his wound and began to wrap the bandage around it, going under his arms to crossover his shoulder and chest. His very sculpted chest. Videl splashed herself with cold water mentally before concentrating once again.

Videl stood behind him, keeping her eyes on her work not noticing Gohan's heated gaze from the mirror. His frame was much larger than hers so she had to get in close and spread her arms to get the bandage across his chest, nearly pressing up against his back. She didn't know the slight brush of her fingers along his chest and shoulders was enough send shivers into his very core, immediately causing his body to react. Her hot breath at the back of his neck made his hair stand on end; if he still had his tail he was certain the fur would rise up as well. Then her body heat, so close yet not touching, just out of reach, practically teasing him, taunting him to twist around and claim it. Gohan fisted his hands in his black slacks, commanding his body to calm down.

Videl noticed the muscles tense up beneath her and turned a questioning gaze to his reflection, "Gohan are you alright? It's not too tight is it?"

"I certainly hope not," he grunted under his breath, his eyes had clamped shut when she pressed in closer to ask him. "I would like to fit you just fine...."

"What was that?" She asked again, leaning in closer to catch what he said, unwittingly pressing her chest against his bare back. Her thin Maid of Honor dress did not hide her curves nor insulated her warmth and Gohan could clearly feel it all through his now highly sensitive skin. He bit down on his lip till the coppery taste of blood calmed him somewhat.

"Yes, it's a little bit tight," he managed to say. She thankfully did not catch the half octave drop in his voice.

"Oh, I see," she backed away to loosen the bandages as he took a deep shuddering breath. "There, you should get the bandages changed tomorrow morning if you haven't healed yet." Videl taped the end of the bandage securely before going back to the walk-in closet to pick out Gohan's (namely Clip's) spared tuxedo. Gohan stood and tested his shoulder; Videl was obviously experienced in wrapping up wounds as he found the bandage secure yet not restricting his movements at all. He walked over to the closet to find her rummaging through the various black tuxedos. Finally she pulled out a set identical to the one he was wearing earlier.

"Here," she simply said as she handed him the shirt, coat, tie and vest. He took them from her as she turned her back on him to give him privacy.

"Do I make you uncomfortable, Videl?" Gohan himself was startled to hear the question tumble out from his mouth and echo in the silent room. Videl was caught off guard, her mind trying to form an answer but failing. She could have said, 'No, why should I?' or 'Yes, since you've been trying to kill be for so long and now you're coming on to me like no tomorrow' but no, her mouth just had to open and act independently aside from her brain.

"Elaborate."

Gohan stuffed the end of his shirt into his pants and reached for the white vest, "Do I..." he buttoned up the vest and started on the white bow tie, "... make you physically stimulated?" Leave it to Gohan to make it sound as technical as possible.

"Are you expecting an honest answer?" Videl really tried to close her mouth but just couldn't seem to manage it. Dammit, Gohan, stop talking about such delicate matters! And in such a low, husky voice....

"I think you know that I know when you're being honest," Gohan smugly replied, shrugging on the black tuxedo jacket. He turned around and waited patiently for her to do so. She did a moment after, consciously avoiding eye contact as she inspected his suit.

"Your tie is crooked," she informed. Gohan reached up and tried to straighten it out but fumbled. Videl sighed and stepped up to him, reaching out to straighten the tie for him, still pointedly avoiding eye contact. Gohan smirked.

"You haven't answered my question," he whispered, watching her from up close as she attempted to correct the crooked tie but kept on having the silk material slip from her fingers. She seemed to ignore him for a moment before answering in a calm voice.

"Yes. Why wouldn't I? You're an attractive man, even I'll admit that." Did she actually say that out loud? Her hands slipped once again.

Gohan remained silent a moment before simply stating the obvious, "The tie is still crooked."

Videl's hands dropped back to her sides before she took a deep breath and tried it again. This time she managed to get a good grip and tug it into place. "There, it's straight now." She should have stepped back but for a reason she remained rooted in place. What was she waiting for? Gathering her courage, she looked up to find Gohan watching her with his eyes darker than she ever seen. "You said I broke the balance..." she whispered, the words seemingly coming from nowhere, "Is that good.... or bad?"

"Depends on how you see it," he answered her.

"How do you see it, Gohan?"

"I can't see anything. I can't see anything at all."

"Stop talking in riddles, you're always talking in riddles."

"It's because you can't handle the direct truth yet."

Videl finally stepped back and snarled, a part of her glad to be in familiar territory. This was how it should be, how it used to be; her snarling at him. "How the hell do you know that if you never tell me?! What are you hiding from me, Gohan? I can't help but feel there's something huge you're not telling me, something that would explain everything! Is there some conspiracy going on? Am I a pawn in some game I'm not aware of?" Videl ranted, her voice growing louder with every question.

Gohan stood there, his expression never changing. He seemed aloof but his eyes showed that he was listening; yet he made no sign of answering. Videl glared at him before in a spontaneous rush of rage she pulled back her palm and swung forward, "Answer me!!"

The sharp smack of skin against skin startled Videl out from her fury. She hadn't expected him to receive her slap fully, tilting his head along with her hit to keep her from hurting herself. She kept her hand in its position, her blue eyes wide as she watched him slowly open his to meet her gaze. There. There he was again. The other Gohan, the good one.

Then in a blink he was gone.

"Satisfied?" Predator Gohan asked in a monotone voice. "Have you vented it all out yet?"

Videl's lips trembled as she lowered her hand. It was a battle she would never win unless Gohan chose to relent. But dammit, she deserves to know! What is he hiding? Not to mention she was getting frustrated by his rather schizophrenic behavior..... damn. Damn it all.

"We're expected back," was all the blue eyed young woman said before turning sharply and exiting the room.


They made a short detour to silently pull the body from the dark balcony and clean up the blood. Gohan and Videl deposited the body outside in the deserted garden and then blasted every trace left. It was nothing short of a miracle that Videl's pure white gown remained unblemished by either blood or dirt. Returning to the reception room, they were once again bombarded by a frenzy of questions from their two married friends.

"Aha! I knew it! You two snuck out for some 'quiet time', eh?"

"Viiiiii-del! Don't you dare deny it this time! Are you two lovers or not??"

"Where did ya go? A room? The hallway? The garden?"

"Why don't you two just be honest?"

"Should I be expecting to witness another wedding soon?"

"Shut up." Both Gohan and Videl hissed vehemently, effectively shutting their friends up.

"There is nothing between me and this bastard," Videl growled before stomping off into the crowd. Gohan growled a bit himself (at Videl's retreating back) before stalking off after her. Erasa and Sharpener blinked.

"Videl!" Gohan whispered harshly as he roughly grabbed hold of her upper arm before she could run off. "What the hell do you think you're doing? There are still hunters around. Do you want to get killed?"

Videl tried to discreetly wrench her arm free without causing a scene but couldn't budge his vise-like grip, "If death is what it takes to get away from you then by all means, SHOOT ME!" She shouted the last part out, earning questioning gazes from the other guests. Gohan released her once the attention fell on them, giving Videl the opportunity to stomp off again. He nodded apologetically at the guests before hurrying after her.

Apparently she made a quick U-turn and hurried to the sanctuary at Erasa's side. Videl didn't even look at him when he came up a few steps after her.

"What's going on between you two?" Sharpener asked, raising a blond eyebrow.

Gohan glared at Videl, "Maybe you could ask her once she stops acting like a spoiled princess."

Videl whirled around, her eyes narrowed into slits, "What did you just say?" He said a spoiled princess, not the spoiled princess. He couldn't possibly... you're overreacting, Videl.

"Oh now you want to know," Gohan sneered.

"What's going on?" chimed in Erasa, her pretty features twisted into a frown.

"Nothing," Videl answered the blonde, still keeping her eyes narrowed at Gohan, "Nothing at all." Gohan bared his teeth at her slightly and she snarled back before turning to the married couple. "I think it's time for the party to end."

Not before long, Sharpener and Erasa were sent off showered with rose petals as they made their way into the reserved north wing of the mansion where they will be 'resting' undisturbed till their honeymoon the next day. Most of the guests returned to their homes immediately, leaving in groups; others stayed for the night to leave in the morning the next day. Gohan and Videl reluctantly stayed behind to make sure everything would be cleaned up by tomorrow. Not once in those 3 hours did they utter a word to one another.

When ten o' clock came around, Gohan had enough of her cold shoulder and cornered her before she could retreat to her room.

"Videl, we need to talk."


The Nembak-777 was his masterpiece. His baby. But most of the time--his weapon. It wasn't easy inventing such a powerful firearm yet have it seem so... harmless. By all means, it didn't look much like anything but a group of small pipes welded together. It wasn't even as large as the most smallest of guns, needing only to be strapped to one's wrist. But inside the seemingly crude exterior lies the complex mechanism and chemical equations that gives it its deadly potential. The bullets were solely designed for this one weapon; small, sleek bullets that can tear through dinosaur hide like tissue.

Ah, bounty hunter Derringer was a happy man when the Nembak-777 does its job. But he was not happy at the moment. He had been in clear shot of the prey, General Videl. She was looking mighty beautiful he would say, after all, he was a man that appreciated the beauty of dangerous things. All he had to do was fire that one shot into her and wait till they transport her dead body out. He would be waiting then to collect the proof of her death (cutting off her head? Such a pretty thing she was, it would be a shame. No, cutting out her heart would be wiser) and then ultimately collecting the 4 million zenie reward.

However, it didn't happen that way. The best man, the black haired man, shielded her from the bullet. Derringer had been taken aback when the man took in the bullet without so much of a flinch and continued acting as if it never happened. Curious indeed, he was no ordinary man. The fact that the bronze bullet didn't continue to tear through his shoulder and then continue through the general was proof enough he was also a dangerous man.

A hired body guard? Most likely. Hired by whom? The groom or the general? It didn't matter, the dangerous one was not his target. No. Derringer was after the beautiful one. Sleek, graceful, small, yet held so much potential for destruction. Like his Nembak-777. He would enjoy stroking her dead body like he would do his precious firearm. He had shuddered at the thought of touching her smooth and cold skin.

Now here he was behind a large tree in the deserted garden, waiting till the beautiful one goes back to her room. It wasn't a minute later that luck seemed to shine upon him as the glass doors from the ballroom were thrown open and his target herself stomped out in a blur of white. Derringer immediately readied his weapon, absently stroking it.

She seemed angry; her features contorted into a look of distaste. Had she been in an argument? Possibly. She continued her rough stride to the middle of the garden, in clear view of Derringer from his spot. In a single leap, he perched himself on top of a sturdy branch, the rustling of his movements covered by the strong night winds. He now has a even better view of her, watching as she sat down heavily on the rim of the Victorian fountain.

Beautiful. She was simply beautiful. The moonlight and light reflected from the waters cast a ethereal glow on her. She was just sitting there, staring off into space.

It was the perfect shot if Derringer ever believed such a thing.

He raised his right hand, flicking out the mini scope as he zoomed in on her beautiful head. No, not head. It would mar her beauty, he reminded himself; he was even a bit relieved now that his head shot earlier was canceled by that body guard. Heart, he would go after her heart.

In the cross-hairs he could see her graceful features as she stared at the fountain, moving it down he rested the target above her heart. He licked his lips as his excitement grew. He would always get aroused whenever he got himself such a clean shot with such a beautiful one. It was erotic how intimate he was with the prey. Her life was in his hands, yet she did not know. Power, the rush of power. Intoxicating.

His finger tightened on the small trigger, ready to squeeze. A little voice still reminded him, even through the years of experience, to squeeze not pull. Taking a deep breath and holding it, Derringer squeezed the trigger.

At least he meant to. Before he could pull it back more than half way, the general had looked up directly into the scope--at him. Her features were calm, a bit triumphant even, the slightest hint of a smirk gracing her full lips. Derringer would have quickly pulled the trigger then but found it impossible since his hand wasn't present to execute the act. He couldn't even muster the strength to scream as he stared at the bloody stump.

"So this is the gun that could make me bleed."

The hunter looked up to see the best man--the dangerous one--leaning casually on the tree trunk. In his hand was Derringer's Nembak-777, along with the rest of his hand and wrist. Both of the objects were soon gone after in a burst of flames when the black haired man simply closed his fist tightly. Derringer could only register the destruction of his precious gun before he himself followed it out of existence.


"How many more are there?" Videl asked as soon as Gohan landed beside the fountain. It was his idea to lure the hunter out with her as the bait. She hadn't expected the results this quickly.

"Who knows? It doesn't matter, you'll be leaving tomorrow," he answered her, taking a seat on the rim next to her. She glared at him, still not over with their argument earlier. Wordlessly, she stood up and headed back to her room, obvious to him trailing behind her.

"Videl."

She ignored him, steadfastly strutting forward to turn into the west wing where her room was.

"Videl."

Why can't he take a hint? She was ignoring him. It would ruin the point if she answered.

"Videl, stop it."

Almost there, she could see her door and that small golden handle. All she had to do now was reach out and-

"DAMMIT, VIDEL!!"

-get slammed against the wall.

He was holding her by the throat; not suffocating her but merely holding her in place as he glowered at her. He was angry, evident with the way his brows dipped down and how his lips curved into a hard frown. The fury in his dark orbs stood out like a warning sign and she knew then just how much she had pushed her luck. She had forgotten how easy it was for him to hurt her. How easy it was for him to snap her neck.

"Why are you acting like this?" Gohan asked in a low voice that promised pain if not answered. Give the young woman credit though as she was still able to hold her head high and return the furious gaze.

"You're not telling me anything..." she spat out, "Why should I tell you anything?"

His grip shifted to fist the hair at the nape of her neck. Roughly pulling her up right into his face he growled at her, "You will answer me, Videl."

She flinched as he tightened his grip before raising her voice at him, "Why should I answer to you? You do not own me. I do not belong to you. I'm not some possession of yours, Gohan!!"

He gave out a deep, cold laugh before a feral grin made its way to his face, "Oh, you know nothing. Nothing at all.... little princess."

Her eyes widened in shock before his lips came crashing down upon hers. His hand kept her head in place as his kissed her in such a intense manner that she could hardly gather the intention to struggle. A deep rumbling in his chest vibrated through her as he forced his way in, nearly choking her as he tasted her deeply. It was so deep, so bruising that she was sure he was practically branding her soul. Yes, he was branding her wasn't he? It was clear no other man would ever kiss her in such a primal manner that it bordered on becoming violent.

Her back was pressed up against the wall and she dimly realized her feet were off the ground as he pushed up against her. She didn't kiss back, couldn't even if she wanted to. He left no room for her as he dominated completely, forcing her to only whimper and moan, even if she didn't want to. She fought, she really did try, but it was all going too fast, too overwhelming, too---he released her.

She slumped ungracefully to the floor; her lips swollen and cheeks aflame, panting heavily. Her blue eyes had darkened into an almost violet color as her pupils dilated from the rush of heat. Gohan himself was panting heavily, fighting against the very intense urge to take her right there in more ways than one. Calming himself down, he watched with a satisfied male grin as Videl sat there dazed from the kiss. Speaking of the kiss, what in Dende's name possessed him to do that?

Damn it. He was right, she was like a drug.

"I don't know how many times I've repeated this... yet you still deny it..." he whispered down at her, his voice heavy with lust. "You are mine. Everything, your life, your body. It all belongs to me." He crouched down to look her in the eye, "Your heart also belongs me. Don't think I don't know it."

And tomorrow, her soul would belong to him as well.

She couldn't really say or do anything as he kissed her once again. The kiss was more of closing statement; to punctuate his words. She sat through it all till he disappeared back into his room and remained in her position till much later. Through it all, through all that he said and done, only one thought stood out the most.

Gohan knew she was the princess.


Ann's notes : Hah! Dang it, I'm hopeless at romance scenes. It was practically agonizing for me to write out the 'love' scenes and stuff -__-;; Well, still I hope it's not too shabby or lame or unbearable.... Anyway, the plot thickens! Thanks a million to my faithful reviewer/readers, you know who you are ^^ Btw, 'nembak' is the Indonesian word for 'shoot'. Ugh.... I can't wait to get this 'Wedding' saga over... one... more... chapter......

Tim's notes : Romance isn't your worst ability but definitely not your best, I like how Gohan has a "slight" personality disorder make's it more plausible for him to be nice and kind underneath it all, and what is it with Gohan being a good kisser??? In almost every story with any depth that has romance about these two (Gh/V) he's a good kisser, is this some kind of conspiracy???? (if it is I want in :0) And I worry if Chi-Chi or Bulma should ever get a "nembak" 888 (which logically would pierce Saiyan skin) what would happen to the "resident" prince of "all" Saiyans and his Captain of *scuffleing noises heard in background* hehe almost gave up the cat :D You'll see what I mean soon enough that said I intend to make Vegeta into a rather kind guy in TLWK (Dodges various produce and fruit items thrown at him) so far as his family is concerned but in "normal" company he's the same old lovable royal pain in the butt we all know (and some love) and one more chapter of the wedding??? Sheesh stop drawing it out PLEASE I'd like to get on with our plot such as it is (I'm being sarcastic about our plot but really one more chapter of the wedding?? what's next the honeymoon?)