Ok guys here's chapter four! I'm sorry this took so long! I've been really
busy. Hopefully this is long enough to make up for it! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I don't own DBZ blah blah blah.
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Stepping into the compound, ChiChi and Bulma simultaneously gasped in shock. Nezumi chuckled. "Looks a bit different since when you were last here, doesn't it?" All the two women could do was nod.
"When we left, there were just a few huts, no more than what was needed, but now. look how much it's grown!" Bulma exclaimed. The two women gawked at the changed place. The inside of the huge wall contained a vast amount of space. Nezumi gave them a quick review as the walked through the village. ". And over here we have the living quarters of everyone," she said motioning to a cluster of huts. "We usually put three or four in a hut, naturally mothers and daughters always go together, and the younger women are roommates with each other- -"
"Damn Nezumi!" Bulma cut in. "We know the living arrangements! We're not tourists y'know, we have lived here before. Don't tell me you forgot we were roommates!" she said laughing. Nezumi glared at her. "I was just saying!" she huffed.
"Hey girls, calm down!" ChiChi stepped in. Bulma burst out laughing. ChiChi and Nezumi fixed her with quizzical looks. "What's so funny?" they both asked. Bulma paused to catch her breath.
"Well back in the other world, ChiChi usually instigates the arguments! It's been years since she's acted the peacemaker and I almost forgot that when it comes to you and me, she is!" Nezumi joined in the laughter and soon ChiChi's glare melted into a smile and she joined them as well.
"It's good to be back," she said. She clasped her hands together. "Let's go say hi to Abira at the forge!" She glanced warily at Nezumi. "The forge is still in the same place it was when we left, isn't it?" Nezumi winked at them. "You betcha! That hasn't changed. Abira would kill if anyone tried to move her forge!" The women all laughed and headed toward the back of the compound. They came upon a small stone building with a thatched roof. Pieces of the roof were missing and had charred smudges around the edges of the gaping holes. A woman was outside working over on a sword. She had bronze skin contrasting to her straight blonde hair. She wasn't wearing much, just a scrap of dark gray fixed into a crude halter-top with a matching piece, which was supposed to resemble a skirt. Sweat dripped from every pour and over her rippling muscles as she fashioned a large blade, the sound of clashing metal ringing out into the air. As the women got closer, they felt the heat being emitted from the forge and began to sweat as well. ChiChi sat down and took her boots off, followed by her pants. She then reached down and ripped the slits on each side of her Chinese dress clear up to the top of her thigh. She ripped her sleeves off as well, revealing firm muscular arms accented by her ivory skin. She winked at Nezumi and Bulma and then put her hands to her collar and ripped it open.
"Much better," she stated. "I was getting so hot in that damn thing." Bulma grinned and said, "I was wondering when you were going to do that." Bulma, who was wearing a red tank top and jean shorts, didn't have ChiChi's problem. Nezumi added, "Now that's the ChiChi I remember." ChiChi just grinned in reply, and then called out, "Hey Abira! Are you going to bang that thing all day or are you going to come and welcome us back?"
The blonde blacksmith looked up, startled, then her face lit up and she gave the sword a few more good hits before disposing of it in a bucket of water. She wiped her brow with her muscular arm and then ran over to Bulma and ChiChi, gathering them both into a giant bear hug. They returned it just as enthusiastically. When she put them down, she said, "So that's what all the racket everyone was making was about! It's so great to see you! Welcome back! It's been so long since - -"; her voice was cut off by the sound of a bell in the distance. Bulma sighed. "I hate to leave you so soon, Abbie, but we're being summoned." Abira smiled in understanding.
"It's ok," she said. "Gods, it's been so long since I've heard that particular summons, since it is your signal." She hugged them once more. "It's so good to have you back," she whispered fiercely. "Same," said Bulma and ChiChi back simultaneously. The bell rang out once again.
"You'd better run," Nezumi said, a worried look on her face. "You don't wanna keep her waiting." Bulma and ChiChi nodded and took off, waving at the two women behind them.
They ran until they ended up in front of a hut slightly larger than the others, and with more décor. Tall mud brown reeds made up the walls, and the roof was thatched. A large pole was on each side of the entranceway, each holding up a cloth with an identical symbol on it. ChiChi and Bulma knew this was the queen's hut. The reason there was no grand display outside the hut was so it would make it harder for any enemies to distinguish this hut from the others, as the symbols on the poles would be taken down in the event of an attack. Also, if for some reason the queen was inside during an attack and trapped, there was a tunnel underneath the hut that led. Bulma frowned. Well it used to lead to their (ChiChi, Bulma, and Nezumi's) hut, but she wasn't sure where it ended now. Few knew about the tunnel, and even fewer knew where it ended, ensuring the queen's safety. Bulma made a mental note to ask the queen where it ended; she and ChiChi were enlightened of this information because of their. positions. Bulma looked at ChiChi and grinned.
"Better not keep her waiting," she whispered, not realizing she was whispering. The queen had always managed to instill a sense of respectful awe in them. ChiChi nodded and they stepped inside.
They were greeted by darkness as their eyes adjusted to the dimmed light. When they could see, they made out a small table that had a map lying on top of it. Seated at the table in a tall chair was a woman. She stood up as the two walked in. She was tall, about 6 feet, and lean and muscular. She was wearing tall brown boots up to her knees. She had on a gray shift; a woven leather belt encircled her waist. Leather armlets encircled her muscular biceps. Around her neck hung a wooden pendant with a wolf symbol on it, the only indication of her royal status. She had sharp gray eyes and brown hair, with much gray mixed in. Her hair was pulled up into a tight bun. She looked to be in her mid fifties, according to Chikyuu standards, but her age only added to her royal bearing. Thus, Bulma and ChiChi immediately knelt down on one knee, their heads bowed in submission and respect. The queen, Ledell, nodded and said, "Arise."
They stood up and respectfully waited for her to begin. They didn't have to wait long as she walked over to them, giving each a brief hug. "My Daughters," she said, "it is good to have you back." [1] "It is good to be back, Our Mother" they replied in unison.
"Have a seat, for you know it is I who have summoned you, and you shall now know the reason. Or do you already know?" she asked as they did as they were bade and sat down around the small table, only waiting until Queen Ledell had sat first.
"We have a hunch, Great Mother," Bulma said. ChiChi nodded in agreement. "That's what I thought," the Queen said. "But nevertheless I shall tell you the entire story, so you know what you are up against." Bulma and ChiChi nodded and prepared themselves for her tale.
"After you were born, Bulma, and just before you were born, ChiChi, one of my Daughters became pregnant and gave birth, a not so extraordinary feat. Her child was a male, and as anyone in this village knows, we dispose of all male children." She paused. "However, this child was different. I sensed a great power within him, and I decided to not only let him live, but to keep him in the Amazon village and allow him to grow up. He was named Ziven, which as you know means "alive", as he was spared from death. He did grow up here, I know you know; you were playmates and friends from the start." She smiled as she remembered better times, and Bulma and ChiChi smiled too as they recalled all the memories they had made growing up. "Although his powers never active, they were always there, and they grew as he did. He was a sweet boy; he seemed to know just how special he was to us, not only because of his inner strength, but because we loved him." Her face darkened. "And then it happened. Shortly after you left." she looked Bulma and ChiChi each directly in the eye. "One of my Daughters was out in the fields. He came up behind her, trapped her, and took. took advantage of her." The Queen was no longer looking at Bulma or ChiChi; she was staring straight ahead, lost in her tale. ChiChi mouthed, "Nezumi" and Bulma nodded seriously then turned her attention back to the entranced monarch. "It was unforgivable what he did, and he should have died for it. But someone I could not bring myself to kill him, and I decided exile would have to suffice. I suppose that decision has come back to bite me, I'm afraid." She brought herself out of her trance and looked again at ChiChi and Bulma. She stood up from her chair and slowly began to pace, waving ChiChi and Bulma to stay seated as they quickly stood in wake of their Queen. "Zimri's powers have become active, and he is bent on destroying out nation. You were originally sent away to restore the Balance, but now I have summoned you to return and protect us. Do you accept?" ChiChi and Bulma saw desperation in the Queen's eyes, one her pride would not allow to show. A look of determination came across ChiChi's face.
"I accept." Bulma nodded. "I accept as well, my Queen." They stood up and walked to where the Queen was standing, and once again kneeled at her feet, heads bowed.
"We are yours to command," they said in unison. The Queen nodded. "Thank you," she said. "I am. honored. Please rise." They rose and Queen Ledell looked at them. "Are you as strong as you were when you left?"
ChiChi grinned. "Stronger, I think." Bulma grinned as well. The Queen nodded thoughtfully. "Go outside and train."
Bulma respectfully cut in. "With all due respect, could we please visit Grandmother Agatha first? We have not seen her in so long, and it would be a short visit. Then we would begin training immediately!" The older woman thought for a moment. "Alright, but don't take too long. You shall lodge in your old hut; no one is living in it." ChiChi nodded and bowed, then turned and left. Bulma remained for a moment. "Also Queen Mother, where does your tunnel end now, as our old hut was left deserted?" Queen Ledell smiled.
"Still need to be on top of things, Intelligent One?" she chuckled. "Well Bulma, now it ends in Abira's forge." Bulma nodded firmly. "A good safe place," she said aloud. She bowed and turned to leave. "Oh and Bulma." the Queen started. Bulma quickly turned around. "I know you're wondering why I didn't summon your mother as well. I did not because of the Balance, as you are very well aware. Bringing you and ChiChi here, I figured that the two of you would cancel out each other and leave the Balance as it is, and therefore I did not summon your mother. Do you understand, Daughter?" Bulma smiled. The Queen knew exactly what she had been thinking.
"Yes, thank you Mother." "You're welcome, my Daughter. Now go. Give Grandmother Agatha my regards." Bulma smiled and said, "Will do," then turned and left.
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Meanwhile, the Z Warriors were still wrestling their way through the vine- entangling woods.
"I think I see a clearing up ahead!" Gohan shouted excitedly as he swatted at a branch. "Yeah, but aren't the girls' kis in that direction?" Yamcha asked as he pointed left of the light Gohan was looking at. Tien nodded. "Yeah. However, I don't know about you but I wanna get out of the crazy woods!" Chao-zu nodded vigorously in agreement. Goku scratched his head. "Alright. well I guess we can rest for a couple minutes. what do you think Vegeta?" The prince merely crossed his arms and hmphed. That seemed to be enough for Goku who said, "Alright guys make for the clearing!" Everyone ran for the clearing, except Vegeta, but even he moved a little faster. All were eager to get out of forest. Upon reaching the clearing, Gohan gave a loud whoop and ran into the lush green grass. He tripped and started tumbling about, but was laughing the whole time. Krillen and the others were also laughing with him; Goku smiled at his son's antics, while Vegeta merely rolled his eyes. Suddenly they all stopped when they heard a twig snap. An old woman emerged from the woods at the other side of the meadow. She was short, and she wore a gray dress. Her gray hair was up in a loose bun and in her hand she held a basket, filled with some herbs. She purposefully walked into the clearing, apparently not noticing the boys or just ignoring them, they couldn't tell. She was humming to herself, and from time to time she would stoop and gently extract a plant from the soil, before putting it in her basket. The Z Warriors silently watched her the whole time. Finally, she looked at her basket and gave a satisfied nod. She then turned to the guys and gave them a wide grin. "Well, are you going to stare at my beautiful body all day or are you boys going to introduce yourselves?"
All the men immediately face-faulted, except for Gohan who walked up and politely said, "My name is Gohan. What's yours?" She smiled at him. For someone who looked so old, she had all her teeth. "My name is Agatha, most call me Grandmother Agatha. But I can tell you're a special boy, and you may call me Aggie." Gohan smiled as if he had just been given the greatest honor in the world. "Wow! Thanks Aggie!" He gave her a hug, surprised at the strong embrace she returned. When he backed away, a thoughtful look crossed her face. She began to tap her chin. "Now Gohan. why does your name sound so familiar?" Her face lit up. "You wouldn't happen to be ChiChi's son, now would you?" A smile lit upon the little boy's face. "That's my mommy!" he cried. " You know her? Have you seen her? Do you know where she is? We're here looking for her because she went away and we didn't know where!" Agatha absorbed all this information and replied, "Yes, I know her. No, I haven't seen her. I have an idea where she is and I probably know why she's here." She frowned. "But how did you get here?" "The great Dragon brought us here. I don't know where here is exactly though," he replied, a puzzled look on his face. Agatha laughed at his confusion. "It's okay, Gohan. You'll find out in due time." She turned to the rest of the group, who had been listening to the ensuing conversation with increasing interest. "Now Gohan," she said, putting a hand on the young boy's shoulder, "Why don't you introduce me to all these fine pieces of man." Gohan didn't catch the meaning in the last part of her sentence and merely did as he was told. "Well there's my dad, Son Goku. He's the strongest fighter in the universe! And that's Vegeta, Prince of the Saiyins; he's almost as strong as my dad. The man with the scar on his face is Yamcha, the one with three eyes is Tien, and that's Chao-zu right next to him. Oh yeah and the old man standing over there is Master Roshi." Agatha nodded and gave each of them a good once-over, causing all of them to squirm uncomfortably, except Vegeta who looked highly offended.
"Hey guys!" called out Gohan. "This is Grandmother Agatha! She knows my mom!" "That's great brat," Vegeta snapped. "But what about my mate?" Agatha raised an eyebrow. "And that person would be.?" "Bulma!" he snapped impatiently. Yamcha leaned over and whispered to Tien and Chao-zu, "I think that's the first time I've ever heard him say her name!" They nodded in agreement. Vegeta glanced at him irritably. "I heard that, weakling!" He glared. Yamcha gulped and shut up. Vegeta tapped his foot on the ground impatiently. "Well, old woman, do you know her or not?" Agatha gave him a smug look. "First, my sexy little stud, my name is Agatha." She gave him an approving glance. "Although you can call me your little love-muffin. Secondly, of course I know Bulma. If ChiChi's here, Bulma has to be here. That would be the only way to retain the Balance." "What balance?" Krillen asked, but Agatha ignored him. "Come with me," she said to them. "But we'd really like to find our wives," Goku cut in. Agatha gave him a stern glance. "You'll find them in no time, if I know them correctly. The real issue here is that they don't find YOU. Now no more buts. Follow me." And with that she picked her basket and walked back into the woods. Everyone looked to Goku, who just shrugged and did as she bid.
Minutes later they came across a small hovel in the middle of the woods. It was dome-shaped and built out of sticks and mud. Just looking at it, one could tell how old it was. The years had taken their toll upon the tiny structure. But amazingly it still stood, and Agatha welcomed the men into her home.
Inside, they were surprised to find it more spacious than it looked from the outside. Even Goku didn't have to duck. Agatha smiled. "Looks can be deceiving," she said. Then added, "The floor was dug out." Understanding dawned in the men's eyes. "Now sit down. How would you all like something to eat?" Goku's eyes lit up at the invitation, while the others admitted that yes, they were hungry. "Great!" said Agatha. "I'll whip something up then. Maybe you can whip me later." At that comment everyone got really red in the face. Krillen asked, "Uh. Miss Agatha, are you sure you'll have enough to feed ALL of us? I mean, Goku's got a huge appetite, as do Gohan and Vegeta." Agatha winked at him. "I know," she said, then turned back to a gigantic iron kettle hanging in the hearth. There was a wooden spoon hanging up on one of the rafters. Agatha tried to reach for it, but failed. "Goku," she called sweetly. "Could you please get that spoon for me?" Goku stood up. "Sure!" he said. His tall height easily gave him access to the spoon. It also gave Agatha a grand view of his toned backside, which she reached out and pinched. "Ouch!" Goku yelped. "What happened?" "I have no idea," Agatha replied innocently. "Thanks for getting that spoon." As she said this, Krillen leaned over to Yamcha and muttered; "I wonder how she got that spoon up there in the first place." Yamcha shrugged and just said, "Poor Goku." Meanwhile, Master Roshi was sitting on a bench alongside the wall. 'That woman reminds me of someone, I wonder who?'
Krillen coughed nervously as Agatha stirred whatever was in the pot. It smelled like stew and its enticing aroma began to permeate the tense atmosphere in the small hut, causing everyone to unconsciously react. Agatha smiled to herself; her stew always had that effect on people.
"Well," Krillen began nervously, "you said earlier that it's important that Chichi and Bulma don't find us. Can you tell us why?" "Well, it's more the other women I'm worried about. I don't think ChiChi or Bulma would actually do it." "What other women?" Yamcha cut in. Master Roshi suddenly became very interested. "And do what?" "Why kill you of course," Agatha replied evenly. "Although you're all good- looking and strong enough that they might keep you for breeding purposes first." She winked at them. "I do like a good man myself." "Wait a minute!" Yamcha exclaimed. "Do you mean that ChiChi and Bulma actually know these women?" "Well of course, they're part of the tribe too ya know." All she received were puzzled looks. Agatha stopped stirring and sat down with a sigh. "They haven't told you anything, have they?" Everyone shook their heads no. "Alright listen up, because this is important. ChiChi and Bulma are part of a tribe of what people from your world might call "Amazons". They are a race of warrior women. I said they would kill you if you were found because that is what they do. They kill all males, usually upon site or after the males have been used to create offspring. Sometimes, if a male is pleasing enough, he is simply sent away. There have also been cases where a woman of the tribe is allowed to keep her male as a mate, although that is incredibly rare. Female offspring are trained in the arts of fighting and intelligence. They grow up and the cycle goes on." Krillen cut in. "What about male offspring?" he tentatively asked. Agatha sent him a glare that meant she didn't like being interrupted. "They are killed or sent to their fathers," she simply replied. Ignoring the gasps, shudders, and outraged looks of the surrounding group she continued. "This is how it has been since the beginning, and until recently. Then one day, some years ago, a male was born into the society. A great hidden power was sensed in this male and he was not only kept alive, but brought up by the tribe. He was named Ziven, which simply means "alive". His power never manifested itself, but it could always be sensed. He was a sweet boy, and he knew just how special and rare he was. And then one day, he did the unthinkable and was exiled from the tribe. His crime was punishable by death, but Queen Ledell took pity upon him and spared him, again." "Stupid weakling," Vegeta muttered under his breath. "Now, Ziven has returned. At least, we think it's him. For some time now I've sensed a great power, a power that radiates evil. And it has slowly been building up over the weeks." "That's great," Vegeta cut in. "But what do our mates have to do with it?" Agatha looked at him point blank. "Your mates have been called to stop him." Vegeta sputtered, "But how can that be? They're weaklings!" "Well. Bulma might be. But ChiChi's another story," Krillen said, knowing full well how intimidating his best friend's wife could be. "HOW DARE YOU CALL MY MATE WEAK!" Vegeta roared. "But didn't you just say." "SHUT UP!" "Ok." Agatha cleared her throat. "This is all very interesting, I'm sure. But the fact remains that it would not be to you or your mates' benefit if they knew you were here. Therefore in this stew I placed a special spell that will make you all invisible." Her serious face lit with a sinister smirk. "Of course, it being MY spell, it is made especially so no one except me can see you." All of the Z Warriors gulped. Somehow, that thought was not very comforting. "Oh, and I modified it so you can see each other. More generally speaking, males can see males. Only the females cannot see you." She handed out bowls to all of them. "I think it would be fruitless to say, don't abuse this power. Let me just warn you that if the tribe knew you've been watching them, they wouldn't hesitate to kill you." At Vegeta's smirk, she added, "And they CAN kill you. Remember sweethearts, this is not your world, nor your dimension." She ladled out the stew. Goku whimpered at his small portion. "Now eat up." They all ate the stew at once. "Wow," Yamcha observed. "For such a small portion, I feel full." Agatha smiled proudly. "That's only one of the special effects of my stew." "Well Aggie," Goku said excitedly, "are we invisible yet?" "I can't tell sweetie. Remember, I can still see you." At that moment ChiChi and Bulma burst into the room.
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HA! Evil cliffy, I know. I'm so bad.
Ok now for the one author's note: [1] - When Queen Ledell addresses ChiChi and Bulma as her "Daughters", it is just part of tribal formality. When they say "Our Mother", it is the equivalent of "Your Majesty". For future reference, the queen does in fact have a real daughter, named Deverell.
Ok so please read and review! I'd love to know what you think!
Ciao! ~ Spitfire Maguire
PS Again, another Hercules/Xena reference. Abira is very similar to Atalanta, because she was a kickass character. But please note I'm not plagiarizing and she is my own character!
Disclaimer: I don't own DBZ blah blah blah.
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Stepping into the compound, ChiChi and Bulma simultaneously gasped in shock. Nezumi chuckled. "Looks a bit different since when you were last here, doesn't it?" All the two women could do was nod.
"When we left, there were just a few huts, no more than what was needed, but now. look how much it's grown!" Bulma exclaimed. The two women gawked at the changed place. The inside of the huge wall contained a vast amount of space. Nezumi gave them a quick review as the walked through the village. ". And over here we have the living quarters of everyone," she said motioning to a cluster of huts. "We usually put three or four in a hut, naturally mothers and daughters always go together, and the younger women are roommates with each other- -"
"Damn Nezumi!" Bulma cut in. "We know the living arrangements! We're not tourists y'know, we have lived here before. Don't tell me you forgot we were roommates!" she said laughing. Nezumi glared at her. "I was just saying!" she huffed.
"Hey girls, calm down!" ChiChi stepped in. Bulma burst out laughing. ChiChi and Nezumi fixed her with quizzical looks. "What's so funny?" they both asked. Bulma paused to catch her breath.
"Well back in the other world, ChiChi usually instigates the arguments! It's been years since she's acted the peacemaker and I almost forgot that when it comes to you and me, she is!" Nezumi joined in the laughter and soon ChiChi's glare melted into a smile and she joined them as well.
"It's good to be back," she said. She clasped her hands together. "Let's go say hi to Abira at the forge!" She glanced warily at Nezumi. "The forge is still in the same place it was when we left, isn't it?" Nezumi winked at them. "You betcha! That hasn't changed. Abira would kill if anyone tried to move her forge!" The women all laughed and headed toward the back of the compound. They came upon a small stone building with a thatched roof. Pieces of the roof were missing and had charred smudges around the edges of the gaping holes. A woman was outside working over on a sword. She had bronze skin contrasting to her straight blonde hair. She wasn't wearing much, just a scrap of dark gray fixed into a crude halter-top with a matching piece, which was supposed to resemble a skirt. Sweat dripped from every pour and over her rippling muscles as she fashioned a large blade, the sound of clashing metal ringing out into the air. As the women got closer, they felt the heat being emitted from the forge and began to sweat as well. ChiChi sat down and took her boots off, followed by her pants. She then reached down and ripped the slits on each side of her Chinese dress clear up to the top of her thigh. She ripped her sleeves off as well, revealing firm muscular arms accented by her ivory skin. She winked at Nezumi and Bulma and then put her hands to her collar and ripped it open.
"Much better," she stated. "I was getting so hot in that damn thing." Bulma grinned and said, "I was wondering when you were going to do that." Bulma, who was wearing a red tank top and jean shorts, didn't have ChiChi's problem. Nezumi added, "Now that's the ChiChi I remember." ChiChi just grinned in reply, and then called out, "Hey Abira! Are you going to bang that thing all day or are you going to come and welcome us back?"
The blonde blacksmith looked up, startled, then her face lit up and she gave the sword a few more good hits before disposing of it in a bucket of water. She wiped her brow with her muscular arm and then ran over to Bulma and ChiChi, gathering them both into a giant bear hug. They returned it just as enthusiastically. When she put them down, she said, "So that's what all the racket everyone was making was about! It's so great to see you! Welcome back! It's been so long since - -"; her voice was cut off by the sound of a bell in the distance. Bulma sighed. "I hate to leave you so soon, Abbie, but we're being summoned." Abira smiled in understanding.
"It's ok," she said. "Gods, it's been so long since I've heard that particular summons, since it is your signal." She hugged them once more. "It's so good to have you back," she whispered fiercely. "Same," said Bulma and ChiChi back simultaneously. The bell rang out once again.
"You'd better run," Nezumi said, a worried look on her face. "You don't wanna keep her waiting." Bulma and ChiChi nodded and took off, waving at the two women behind them.
They ran until they ended up in front of a hut slightly larger than the others, and with more décor. Tall mud brown reeds made up the walls, and the roof was thatched. A large pole was on each side of the entranceway, each holding up a cloth with an identical symbol on it. ChiChi and Bulma knew this was the queen's hut. The reason there was no grand display outside the hut was so it would make it harder for any enemies to distinguish this hut from the others, as the symbols on the poles would be taken down in the event of an attack. Also, if for some reason the queen was inside during an attack and trapped, there was a tunnel underneath the hut that led. Bulma frowned. Well it used to lead to their (ChiChi, Bulma, and Nezumi's) hut, but she wasn't sure where it ended now. Few knew about the tunnel, and even fewer knew where it ended, ensuring the queen's safety. Bulma made a mental note to ask the queen where it ended; she and ChiChi were enlightened of this information because of their. positions. Bulma looked at ChiChi and grinned.
"Better not keep her waiting," she whispered, not realizing she was whispering. The queen had always managed to instill a sense of respectful awe in them. ChiChi nodded and they stepped inside.
They were greeted by darkness as their eyes adjusted to the dimmed light. When they could see, they made out a small table that had a map lying on top of it. Seated at the table in a tall chair was a woman. She stood up as the two walked in. She was tall, about 6 feet, and lean and muscular. She was wearing tall brown boots up to her knees. She had on a gray shift; a woven leather belt encircled her waist. Leather armlets encircled her muscular biceps. Around her neck hung a wooden pendant with a wolf symbol on it, the only indication of her royal status. She had sharp gray eyes and brown hair, with much gray mixed in. Her hair was pulled up into a tight bun. She looked to be in her mid fifties, according to Chikyuu standards, but her age only added to her royal bearing. Thus, Bulma and ChiChi immediately knelt down on one knee, their heads bowed in submission and respect. The queen, Ledell, nodded and said, "Arise."
They stood up and respectfully waited for her to begin. They didn't have to wait long as she walked over to them, giving each a brief hug. "My Daughters," she said, "it is good to have you back." [1] "It is good to be back, Our Mother" they replied in unison.
"Have a seat, for you know it is I who have summoned you, and you shall now know the reason. Or do you already know?" she asked as they did as they were bade and sat down around the small table, only waiting until Queen Ledell had sat first.
"We have a hunch, Great Mother," Bulma said. ChiChi nodded in agreement. "That's what I thought," the Queen said. "But nevertheless I shall tell you the entire story, so you know what you are up against." Bulma and ChiChi nodded and prepared themselves for her tale.
"After you were born, Bulma, and just before you were born, ChiChi, one of my Daughters became pregnant and gave birth, a not so extraordinary feat. Her child was a male, and as anyone in this village knows, we dispose of all male children." She paused. "However, this child was different. I sensed a great power within him, and I decided to not only let him live, but to keep him in the Amazon village and allow him to grow up. He was named Ziven, which as you know means "alive", as he was spared from death. He did grow up here, I know you know; you were playmates and friends from the start." She smiled as she remembered better times, and Bulma and ChiChi smiled too as they recalled all the memories they had made growing up. "Although his powers never active, they were always there, and they grew as he did. He was a sweet boy; he seemed to know just how special he was to us, not only because of his inner strength, but because we loved him." Her face darkened. "And then it happened. Shortly after you left." she looked Bulma and ChiChi each directly in the eye. "One of my Daughters was out in the fields. He came up behind her, trapped her, and took. took advantage of her." The Queen was no longer looking at Bulma or ChiChi; she was staring straight ahead, lost in her tale. ChiChi mouthed, "Nezumi" and Bulma nodded seriously then turned her attention back to the entranced monarch. "It was unforgivable what he did, and he should have died for it. But someone I could not bring myself to kill him, and I decided exile would have to suffice. I suppose that decision has come back to bite me, I'm afraid." She brought herself out of her trance and looked again at ChiChi and Bulma. She stood up from her chair and slowly began to pace, waving ChiChi and Bulma to stay seated as they quickly stood in wake of their Queen. "Zimri's powers have become active, and he is bent on destroying out nation. You were originally sent away to restore the Balance, but now I have summoned you to return and protect us. Do you accept?" ChiChi and Bulma saw desperation in the Queen's eyes, one her pride would not allow to show. A look of determination came across ChiChi's face.
"I accept." Bulma nodded. "I accept as well, my Queen." They stood up and walked to where the Queen was standing, and once again kneeled at her feet, heads bowed.
"We are yours to command," they said in unison. The Queen nodded. "Thank you," she said. "I am. honored. Please rise." They rose and Queen Ledell looked at them. "Are you as strong as you were when you left?"
ChiChi grinned. "Stronger, I think." Bulma grinned as well. The Queen nodded thoughtfully. "Go outside and train."
Bulma respectfully cut in. "With all due respect, could we please visit Grandmother Agatha first? We have not seen her in so long, and it would be a short visit. Then we would begin training immediately!" The older woman thought for a moment. "Alright, but don't take too long. You shall lodge in your old hut; no one is living in it." ChiChi nodded and bowed, then turned and left. Bulma remained for a moment. "Also Queen Mother, where does your tunnel end now, as our old hut was left deserted?" Queen Ledell smiled.
"Still need to be on top of things, Intelligent One?" she chuckled. "Well Bulma, now it ends in Abira's forge." Bulma nodded firmly. "A good safe place," she said aloud. She bowed and turned to leave. "Oh and Bulma." the Queen started. Bulma quickly turned around. "I know you're wondering why I didn't summon your mother as well. I did not because of the Balance, as you are very well aware. Bringing you and ChiChi here, I figured that the two of you would cancel out each other and leave the Balance as it is, and therefore I did not summon your mother. Do you understand, Daughter?" Bulma smiled. The Queen knew exactly what she had been thinking.
"Yes, thank you Mother." "You're welcome, my Daughter. Now go. Give Grandmother Agatha my regards." Bulma smiled and said, "Will do," then turned and left.
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Meanwhile, the Z Warriors were still wrestling their way through the vine- entangling woods.
"I think I see a clearing up ahead!" Gohan shouted excitedly as he swatted at a branch. "Yeah, but aren't the girls' kis in that direction?" Yamcha asked as he pointed left of the light Gohan was looking at. Tien nodded. "Yeah. However, I don't know about you but I wanna get out of the crazy woods!" Chao-zu nodded vigorously in agreement. Goku scratched his head. "Alright. well I guess we can rest for a couple minutes. what do you think Vegeta?" The prince merely crossed his arms and hmphed. That seemed to be enough for Goku who said, "Alright guys make for the clearing!" Everyone ran for the clearing, except Vegeta, but even he moved a little faster. All were eager to get out of forest. Upon reaching the clearing, Gohan gave a loud whoop and ran into the lush green grass. He tripped and started tumbling about, but was laughing the whole time. Krillen and the others were also laughing with him; Goku smiled at his son's antics, while Vegeta merely rolled his eyes. Suddenly they all stopped when they heard a twig snap. An old woman emerged from the woods at the other side of the meadow. She was short, and she wore a gray dress. Her gray hair was up in a loose bun and in her hand she held a basket, filled with some herbs. She purposefully walked into the clearing, apparently not noticing the boys or just ignoring them, they couldn't tell. She was humming to herself, and from time to time she would stoop and gently extract a plant from the soil, before putting it in her basket. The Z Warriors silently watched her the whole time. Finally, she looked at her basket and gave a satisfied nod. She then turned to the guys and gave them a wide grin. "Well, are you going to stare at my beautiful body all day or are you boys going to introduce yourselves?"
All the men immediately face-faulted, except for Gohan who walked up and politely said, "My name is Gohan. What's yours?" She smiled at him. For someone who looked so old, she had all her teeth. "My name is Agatha, most call me Grandmother Agatha. But I can tell you're a special boy, and you may call me Aggie." Gohan smiled as if he had just been given the greatest honor in the world. "Wow! Thanks Aggie!" He gave her a hug, surprised at the strong embrace she returned. When he backed away, a thoughtful look crossed her face. She began to tap her chin. "Now Gohan. why does your name sound so familiar?" Her face lit up. "You wouldn't happen to be ChiChi's son, now would you?" A smile lit upon the little boy's face. "That's my mommy!" he cried. " You know her? Have you seen her? Do you know where she is? We're here looking for her because she went away and we didn't know where!" Agatha absorbed all this information and replied, "Yes, I know her. No, I haven't seen her. I have an idea where she is and I probably know why she's here." She frowned. "But how did you get here?" "The great Dragon brought us here. I don't know where here is exactly though," he replied, a puzzled look on his face. Agatha laughed at his confusion. "It's okay, Gohan. You'll find out in due time." She turned to the rest of the group, who had been listening to the ensuing conversation with increasing interest. "Now Gohan," she said, putting a hand on the young boy's shoulder, "Why don't you introduce me to all these fine pieces of man." Gohan didn't catch the meaning in the last part of her sentence and merely did as he was told. "Well there's my dad, Son Goku. He's the strongest fighter in the universe! And that's Vegeta, Prince of the Saiyins; he's almost as strong as my dad. The man with the scar on his face is Yamcha, the one with three eyes is Tien, and that's Chao-zu right next to him. Oh yeah and the old man standing over there is Master Roshi." Agatha nodded and gave each of them a good once-over, causing all of them to squirm uncomfortably, except Vegeta who looked highly offended.
"Hey guys!" called out Gohan. "This is Grandmother Agatha! She knows my mom!" "That's great brat," Vegeta snapped. "But what about my mate?" Agatha raised an eyebrow. "And that person would be.?" "Bulma!" he snapped impatiently. Yamcha leaned over and whispered to Tien and Chao-zu, "I think that's the first time I've ever heard him say her name!" They nodded in agreement. Vegeta glanced at him irritably. "I heard that, weakling!" He glared. Yamcha gulped and shut up. Vegeta tapped his foot on the ground impatiently. "Well, old woman, do you know her or not?" Agatha gave him a smug look. "First, my sexy little stud, my name is Agatha." She gave him an approving glance. "Although you can call me your little love-muffin. Secondly, of course I know Bulma. If ChiChi's here, Bulma has to be here. That would be the only way to retain the Balance." "What balance?" Krillen asked, but Agatha ignored him. "Come with me," she said to them. "But we'd really like to find our wives," Goku cut in. Agatha gave him a stern glance. "You'll find them in no time, if I know them correctly. The real issue here is that they don't find YOU. Now no more buts. Follow me." And with that she picked her basket and walked back into the woods. Everyone looked to Goku, who just shrugged and did as she bid.
Minutes later they came across a small hovel in the middle of the woods. It was dome-shaped and built out of sticks and mud. Just looking at it, one could tell how old it was. The years had taken their toll upon the tiny structure. But amazingly it still stood, and Agatha welcomed the men into her home.
Inside, they were surprised to find it more spacious than it looked from the outside. Even Goku didn't have to duck. Agatha smiled. "Looks can be deceiving," she said. Then added, "The floor was dug out." Understanding dawned in the men's eyes. "Now sit down. How would you all like something to eat?" Goku's eyes lit up at the invitation, while the others admitted that yes, they were hungry. "Great!" said Agatha. "I'll whip something up then. Maybe you can whip me later." At that comment everyone got really red in the face. Krillen asked, "Uh. Miss Agatha, are you sure you'll have enough to feed ALL of us? I mean, Goku's got a huge appetite, as do Gohan and Vegeta." Agatha winked at him. "I know," she said, then turned back to a gigantic iron kettle hanging in the hearth. There was a wooden spoon hanging up on one of the rafters. Agatha tried to reach for it, but failed. "Goku," she called sweetly. "Could you please get that spoon for me?" Goku stood up. "Sure!" he said. His tall height easily gave him access to the spoon. It also gave Agatha a grand view of his toned backside, which she reached out and pinched. "Ouch!" Goku yelped. "What happened?" "I have no idea," Agatha replied innocently. "Thanks for getting that spoon." As she said this, Krillen leaned over to Yamcha and muttered; "I wonder how she got that spoon up there in the first place." Yamcha shrugged and just said, "Poor Goku." Meanwhile, Master Roshi was sitting on a bench alongside the wall. 'That woman reminds me of someone, I wonder who?'
Krillen coughed nervously as Agatha stirred whatever was in the pot. It smelled like stew and its enticing aroma began to permeate the tense atmosphere in the small hut, causing everyone to unconsciously react. Agatha smiled to herself; her stew always had that effect on people.
"Well," Krillen began nervously, "you said earlier that it's important that Chichi and Bulma don't find us. Can you tell us why?" "Well, it's more the other women I'm worried about. I don't think ChiChi or Bulma would actually do it." "What other women?" Yamcha cut in. Master Roshi suddenly became very interested. "And do what?" "Why kill you of course," Agatha replied evenly. "Although you're all good- looking and strong enough that they might keep you for breeding purposes first." She winked at them. "I do like a good man myself." "Wait a minute!" Yamcha exclaimed. "Do you mean that ChiChi and Bulma actually know these women?" "Well of course, they're part of the tribe too ya know." All she received were puzzled looks. Agatha stopped stirring and sat down with a sigh. "They haven't told you anything, have they?" Everyone shook their heads no. "Alright listen up, because this is important. ChiChi and Bulma are part of a tribe of what people from your world might call "Amazons". They are a race of warrior women. I said they would kill you if you were found because that is what they do. They kill all males, usually upon site or after the males have been used to create offspring. Sometimes, if a male is pleasing enough, he is simply sent away. There have also been cases where a woman of the tribe is allowed to keep her male as a mate, although that is incredibly rare. Female offspring are trained in the arts of fighting and intelligence. They grow up and the cycle goes on." Krillen cut in. "What about male offspring?" he tentatively asked. Agatha sent him a glare that meant she didn't like being interrupted. "They are killed or sent to their fathers," she simply replied. Ignoring the gasps, shudders, and outraged looks of the surrounding group she continued. "This is how it has been since the beginning, and until recently. Then one day, some years ago, a male was born into the society. A great hidden power was sensed in this male and he was not only kept alive, but brought up by the tribe. He was named Ziven, which simply means "alive". His power never manifested itself, but it could always be sensed. He was a sweet boy, and he knew just how special and rare he was. And then one day, he did the unthinkable and was exiled from the tribe. His crime was punishable by death, but Queen Ledell took pity upon him and spared him, again." "Stupid weakling," Vegeta muttered under his breath. "Now, Ziven has returned. At least, we think it's him. For some time now I've sensed a great power, a power that radiates evil. And it has slowly been building up over the weeks." "That's great," Vegeta cut in. "But what do our mates have to do with it?" Agatha looked at him point blank. "Your mates have been called to stop him." Vegeta sputtered, "But how can that be? They're weaklings!" "Well. Bulma might be. But ChiChi's another story," Krillen said, knowing full well how intimidating his best friend's wife could be. "HOW DARE YOU CALL MY MATE WEAK!" Vegeta roared. "But didn't you just say." "SHUT UP!" "Ok." Agatha cleared her throat. "This is all very interesting, I'm sure. But the fact remains that it would not be to you or your mates' benefit if they knew you were here. Therefore in this stew I placed a special spell that will make you all invisible." Her serious face lit with a sinister smirk. "Of course, it being MY spell, it is made especially so no one except me can see you." All of the Z Warriors gulped. Somehow, that thought was not very comforting. "Oh, and I modified it so you can see each other. More generally speaking, males can see males. Only the females cannot see you." She handed out bowls to all of them. "I think it would be fruitless to say, don't abuse this power. Let me just warn you that if the tribe knew you've been watching them, they wouldn't hesitate to kill you." At Vegeta's smirk, she added, "And they CAN kill you. Remember sweethearts, this is not your world, nor your dimension." She ladled out the stew. Goku whimpered at his small portion. "Now eat up." They all ate the stew at once. "Wow," Yamcha observed. "For such a small portion, I feel full." Agatha smiled proudly. "That's only one of the special effects of my stew." "Well Aggie," Goku said excitedly, "are we invisible yet?" "I can't tell sweetie. Remember, I can still see you." At that moment ChiChi and Bulma burst into the room.
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HA! Evil cliffy, I know. I'm so bad.
Ok now for the one author's note: [1] - When Queen Ledell addresses ChiChi and Bulma as her "Daughters", it is just part of tribal formality. When they say "Our Mother", it is the equivalent of "Your Majesty". For future reference, the queen does in fact have a real daughter, named Deverell.
Ok so please read and review! I'd love to know what you think!
Ciao! ~ Spitfire Maguire
PS Again, another Hercules/Xena reference. Abira is very similar to Atalanta, because she was a kickass character. But please note I'm not plagiarizing and she is my own character!