Authors note: I hope you wont hate me for this chapter, but this is just how the story has got to go, hope its not to predictable..
Goku and Krillin slowly made their way through the building they knew Marron was being held hostage in. They soon found themselves at a staircase that led them to a large, oak, richly decorated door. Breathing deeply, Krillin placed his hand on the door handle and slowly opened the door, Goku next to him, in offensive stance, ready for any attacks. The room was in complete darkness, but the men could make out the form of someone sprawled on the floor. Krillin placed his hand on the wall, next to the doorframe, scrambling for a light switch. Finding it, he slowly flipped on the switch, causing the room to light up. As Goku and Krillins eyes adjusted to the light, they immediately recognised Marron as the figure lying on the floor. Without hesitation, Krillin ran forward and crouched at his girlfriend's side, cradling her limp body in his arms. "Marron," he whispered to her, pushing her green-blue strands of hair from her bruised face. Marrons arms were bloodied from where she had obviously been held, and she seemed to be unconscious, but Krillin knew she would be all right, and he stood, relieved, with her body cradled in his arms. Goku, meanwhile, was slowly walking through the room, scanning everything inside of it. It was an enormous room, which looked as though it once held business conferences, with a long table in the middle, and several high-backed chairs surrounding it. The head chair was facing backwards to them, and Goku immediately knew why. Someone was sitting in it; and it wasn't just anybody. "Krillin, get Marron out of here," Goku whispered to his new friend. Krillin nodded, and ran outside of the room, leaving Goku alone in the room, with whoever was occupying the chair.
"Looks like it's just you and me.... Dodoria," Gokus voice was serious for a change, and it echoed through the conference room eerily. His comment was met with a deep chuckle, obviously Dodorias, from the other end of the room. Dodoria rose from the chair and he walked around, till he was standing right in front of Goku. Goku fell into battle position, but Dodoria merely continued to chuckle, and shook his head at the Saiyan.
"Your name... Is Kakarrott... Isn't it," Dodoria questioned, a malicious look on his enormous, toad like face. Goku nodded slowly, wondering what Dodoria was getting at.
"You want to know how I know you by this name, Saiyan," Dodoria asked casually. Goku swallowed hard, as he stared at the overweight warrior, a host of questions flooding into his mind. He's only trying to get me off guard, Goku told himself, scowling, and clenching his fists.
"Just shut your ugly pink face, and lets settle this," Goku snapped angrily, closing in on Dodoria. Dodoria just laughed again, and shook his head.
"You know, I'm going to stop talking when I feel quite ready. Saiyan, you were raised by your Grandpa after your parents were killed by Freiza, weren't you. Can you remember what happened to your parents? Do you know how they died," Dodorias smug voice obviously struck a chord, and Goku immediately tensed up, as he stared at the Kold. He knew how his parents died; they died in a car accident, when he was a baby. Just thinking about his parents made Goku depressed; though he didn't remember them, he felt as though they were always there, with him, guiding him and watching him. As Goku stood in thought, Dodoria continued, his loud voice cutting the silence like a dagger. "Saiyan, I knew your parents... Bardock, and his pretty little wench, always so sickeningly affectionate together. Your parents were warriors you know, always entering tournaments, winning the prize money, defeating anyone who challenged them. It was bad for the Kold gang, when your parents came onto the scene. Winning all our prize money, beating all of our warriors. We couldn't let that happen for much longer.." Dodoria started to chuckle, and was soon laughing insanely, unable to continue his story. Goku stared in disbelief at the fat warrior, his chest tight with anger.
"What are you trying to get at," Goku said, in a low, threatening voice. Dodoria sniggered at the angered Saiyan and decided to continue his torment.
"Well, someone had to get rid of them. They were becoming too much of a nuisance for the Kold Lizards. So Freiza decided it would be good too have them killed.... And what better person too kill them," Dodoria paused on the word 'them', staring at Gokus stern expression, that looked as though it could crack at any minute, before finishing with, "then me! Yes, that's right scum! Right before I blew your mothers head off, she cried to me 'don't hurt Kakarrott... Looks like I'll have to go against her little wish". Goku felt his chest tighten excruciatingly, he felt his eyes burning, and his fists clenched so tightly, that his knuckles turned white. Dodoria just laughed, staring at Gokus pained expression. The laughter echoed through the room, and it pierced Gokus ears, making his eardrums throb. "My...... Parents....... You killed....... My PARENTS," Gokus voice started quietly, but was soon raised, in an angered tone. Dodorias laughed grew even louder, as he watched the Saiyan cringe in grief. How can he laugh? He's just trying to break me... Goku thought, anger retching through his body. "Well.... I won't let that happen! Its time my parents names were honoured. Lets go," Goku said in a strong voice, falling into offensive stance, and beginning to charge up. Dodorias laughed faltered, as he stared at the angry Saiyan. He could feel Gokus power rising; he could feel him getting stronger with every second; and soon, Dodoria seemed as though he didn't want to laugh at all. It was no longer funny for Dodoria, for he knew that Goku was now at the same level as he himself. Springing forward, before Goku could finish charging up, Dodoria aimed a punch for Gokus chest, but Goku evaded the onslaught, flying on top of the table behind Dodoria. Dodoria scowled angrily, and this time, threw an enormous energy blast in Gokus direction. But it missed, Dodorias fear and anger blinding his attacks. Dodorias plan to put Goku in a state of disarray had backfired, and Dodoria himself, was now the one in a state of confused anger. Maybe I shouldn't have told him about his worthless parents, Dodoria thought regretfully, as he only just dodged a punch from Goku. Goku, missing Dodoria, smirked, as he watched the Fat Kold warrior stumble around, trying to steady himself and get ready for his next attack. But Goku wouldn't allow Dodoria the opportunity to attack, and he elbowed him hard, in the back, pushing Dodoria flying down the tabletop. Before Dodoria came into contact with the wall, Goku phased out in front of him and kicked him upwards, sending him flying, out the top of the building and into the open. Dodoria, roaring with anger, floated several feet into the dark night sky, before coming into contact with Gokus fists, which sent him falling downwards, past the building, and onto the hard road, forming an enormous crater on contact. Coughing up blood, Dodoria pulled himself up from the ground and found himself face to face with a tall, smug Saiyan. Before Dodoria could react, Goku kneed him in the gut, sending him into the wall, and causing him to retch up blood. "FILTHY SAIYAN SCUM," Dodoria screeched, outraged, charging at the Saiyan he had once been able to easily defeat. Goku easily evaded the attack; Dodorias rage was his weakness, unlike Gokus, which had helped him to get stronger; and so Dodoria was no match for Goku. After dodging Dodorias ill aimed attack, Goku turned and kicked Dodoria in the back, sending his body flying across the floor and to a stop, with a bone crunching thud, when it hit a brick wall. Dodoria choked up some blood and staggered forward, ready to attack, but it was to late. Goku was all ready charging up his final blow, the kamehameha blast. "KAA.... ME..... HAA.... MEE... HAAAAAAA," Goku roared, as he fired the blast at Dodoria. The weakened Dodoria could no longer move to evade anymore attacks, too weak from his battle with Goku, and the blast hit him head on, killing him instantly. Goku, exhausted from the huge attack, fell to his knees and passed out, falling asleep on the sharp rubble. He finally knew the truth of his parents deaths, had honoured his parents names, and could rest easily.
~~~~~
Krillin ran from the building as fast as his short legs could carry him, back to where Chi Chi and Bulma should be sitting. He then placed Marrons limp form down in an alleyway, hidden between large pieces of fallen wall and debris. "I'll be back, don't worry," Krillin whispered, before running back out into the open.
"Bulma, Chi Chi," he called into the darkness, wondering where they could be. No one answered his call, so he immediately assumed the worst. "Man, the Kolds must have them! Why I oughta'..." Krillins mad rambling was cut off, when he felt a group of strong energy signals resonating in the distance.
"That's where they must be! I bet the Kolds have them, and Vegeta or Radditz or someone is out there, fighting them! I better go help them," Krillin said to himself, before flying off in the direction of all the fighting. When Krillin finally arrived at the spot of fighting, he gasped to see a half battered Radditz fighting a Kold warrior, and a bald Saiyan, who he had not yet met, fighting another Kold warrior, and not faring much better. Charging up a large blast, Krillin fired it at the Kold pummelling Radditz, loosening the stronghold they had on the longhaired Saiyan. Radditz immediately took the opportunity to fire an enormous blast at the warrior, Burta, whom was sent flying into a crumpled pile on the floor. Krillin flew down to Radditz's side, and the pair nodded at each other, then, in unison, they both charged up enormous energy waves and fired them at Burta. Jeice was to late to come to the rescue, and once the dust had cleared, there was nothing left of the once ruthless Kold warrior, Burta. Jeice roared in anger, outraged that his fellow warrior and partner had been obliterated. "You'll pay, worthless Saiyans," Jeice yelled in rage, staring at the spot his comrade had once stood in. Nappa took this opportunity to catch Jeice off guard, a punch connecting with Jeice's jaw, and sending him flying into a nearby building, crashing with a bone crunching thud. Jeice pulled himself out of the indentation he had made in the wall, and wiped the blood from a large gash in his side; unlike Burta, he was a lot stronger. Jeice looked outraged… And it was quite unnerving, even for Nappa and Radditz, who had been in many battles in their lifetimes. Once consumed with grief or anger, the opponent could become quite unstoppable. And, without any warnings, Jeice immediately charged up an enormous blast and aimed it at Nappa. Within a split second, the blast had connected with human flesh, yet it wasn't Nappas. Radditz had phased in front of Nappa and taken the blast, and was now lying in a puddle of his own blood, half of his body blown away. Nappa immediately fell to his knees, crouching by his Saiyan rivals side. "Radditz.... You sacrificed yourself.. For me.. After everything.. I've said," Nappas voice was shaking with disbelief, and even a touch of... grief.
"We've always.... be..en... rivals... But.. we've... always.. been... Sa..Saiyans.. And Saiyans.. We stick.. together," Radditz could barely utter these words to his fellow Saiyan comrade, before his eyes flickered shut and he died, a proud warriors death in battle. Nappa rose from his fellow warriors side, and stared angrily at Jeice, a glint of determination flickering in his eyes. Krillin flew to Nappas side, but Nappa shook his head at the smaller man.
"This is my fight, my honour. Stay out of it baldy," Nappa scowled, pushing Krillin back.
Krillin nodded, standing down, and saying to Nappa, "You be careful." Nappa frowned at Krillin, giving him the thumbs up, before charging up with new found power from his rage, whilst Jeice charged forward through the air, ready to attack. Nappa barely made it out of the way, a lot faster from his new powers, and he charged at Jeice, who only just blocked the attack, overwhelmed by Nappas new power. Both men were at their strongest, angered at the losses of their fellow gang members, and at this point, it was anyone's match. Krillin could barely keep up with the fighting warriors, as a flurry of attacks were given and received by both warriors. Jeice dodged a blow aimed to his head, while Nappa dodged a kick aimed at his shins, and the cycle of blocked and missed attacks continued. This isn't going anywhere, thought Nappa angrily, aiming a blow to Jeice's chest, which was blocked. A smile soon spread across Nappas face, as a plan popped into his large, bald head. Without warning, Nappa started plummeting to the ground, feet first, landing steadily on 2 feet. I'll only get one shot at this, thought Nappa, starting to charge up a blast, with a head start on Jeice. Jeice, taken aback from Nappas move, quickly started to charge up his own defending blast, and soon, the 2 warriors fired at one another, the 2 blasts colliding, at a heart stopping speed. Krillin gasped in awe, as he watched the 2 warriors will their blasts to get stronger, amazed by the ferocity of their attacks, and the depth of their concentration. It seemed as though Nappa had the upper hand, but it was hard to tell because of the blinding lights being emitted from their blasts. Krillin gasped, as Jeice suddenly gained the upper hand, and he had to shut his eyes and duck for cover, as one of the blasts hit its mark. Shit Nappa, Krillin groaned, fearful for the burly Saiyans life. When the dust finally began to settle, Krillin gasped, as he watched a tall figure walking towards him. Krillin couldn't help but smile widely, as he realised it was Nappa, limping slowly through the dust, with a victorious smile upon his face. "How did you do it? Jeice had the upper hand," Krillin asked the large Saiyan, still gob smacked about what had just happened. Nappa smirked defiantly, replying, "that was only a momentary lapse. Saiyans are the strongest fighters by far, and as I fired that blast, I had the help from every Saiyan that lost their life in the name of Freizas army. They were watching me, and I knew, that I had the power to honour their names. Jeice is dead, and now, Radditz, you can kick his ass again, in the afterlife, for me." After his speech, Nappa walked next to Radditz's lifeless body, and began to dig a hole with his bare hands.
"He deserves a true warriors end. I'll bury him here," Nappa said bluntly, as Krillin watched him.
"I don't know how to tell Eighteen... Where is she anyway? He was looking for her, so she must have been with him when you guys met up," Krillin asked quickly, remembering about Eighteen.
"When I met up with him, he still hadn't found her. Go find her, short stuff, let him rest assured that his girl isn't lost somewhere," Nappa replied, as he dug the grave further. Krillin sucked in a deep breath, suddenly very fearful for Eighteen. He watched Nappa silently, as he placed Radditz's body in the grave, and started to bury the fallen Saiyan. After Radditz was buried, Nappa sat down by his grave in silence, staring up into the sky. Krillin could tell he was deep in thought and decided now would be the time to leave. Staring at Radditz's grave, Krillin saluted, and said quietly, "Don't worry big guy, I'll find her." With one final glance at the grave and at the contemplative Nappa, Krillin flew off, back in the direction of the building Eighteen had entered. Finally reaching the buildings, Krillin landed and entered the building Eighteen was inside. No longer caring if anyone heard him, Krillin called out Eighteens name in the darkness, as he wandered deeper into the building. Krillin sighed, his chest tightening, as fear for the woman he had fallen for and her precious life flooded over him. He walked along, calling her name, until he stopped, finally receiving a reply. It was only brief, and it was barely audible, but he heard someone call out 'chrome dome'. Walking in the direction of the voice, he was soon shocked at what he saw. Eighteens battered body lay crushed in a heap on the floor, bleeding heavily. As fast as he possibly could, Krillin carefully lifted up the injured Eighteen and carried her hurriedly from the building, and out into better light. Kneeling down, and laying her body in his lap, Krillin frantically whispered Eighteens name, finally re-awakening her. "Its.... too late.... Krillin," she managed to say, as she feebly raised her hand to his cheek, a glistening tear sliding down her bloodied cheek. Krillin felt his own eyes filled with tears, as he watched her fade away. "You'll... be okay, Eighteen.. Don't say things like that, your worrying me," Krillin said softly, stroking Eighteens cheek caringly. Eighteen managed a small smile, and forced herself to shake her head, in a 'no I won't' way. "But I... I love you too much, this can't happen," Krillin confessed to the dying beauty, tears now flowing freely from his eyes. Eighteens eyes seemed to gleam momentarily, with happiness, when she heard these words. Now too weakened to speak, Eighteen forced her face upwards and she kissed Krillin. Krillin returned the soft kiss, his own and Eighteens tears intermingling, before lying her now lifeless head on his chest. Although she hadn't said so, Krillin knew she had cared about him. Her kiss had spoken more then words ever could have. Krillin, heartbroken, lifted Eighteens lifeless body and he flew back in the direction of Radditz's grave. Krillin was a very emotional person and fell in love very easily, but he knew that Eighteen would have been the one. He knew that he would have asked her to marry him, and he knew he would never look at another woman the same way he looked at her. He landed next to Nappa, who looked up, solemnly noting Eighteens dead body, and without being asked, he began to dig another grave, right next to Radditz's. Once the digging was complete, Krillin gazed at his true love one last time, kissing her pale forehead, before gently laying her body in her grave. The 2 men silently buried her, and once they finished, sat quietly on the ground, near the graves, deep in their own thoughts. They had both lost someone they cared about; though Nappa would never admit out loud that he admired Radditz and considered him a worthy rival and friend; and as the darkness faded and the sun rose, they sat in silence, both silently saying their own goodbyes.
~~~~~
Vegetas journey into the darkness led him towards a light that was up ahead. Once reaching the light, Vegeta found himself in a room, with a dead body in a chair, and a pool of blood on the floor. Cursing, angered at what a waste of time it had been, Vegeta left the room and journeyed further into the darkness. Where are you Dodoria, he wondered angrily. As he travelled through the dark building, searching for Dodoria, he could feel strong energy readings all around him. He also felt a lot of these signals dying out, as some had obviously won their battles, and others had been... Less fortunate. The war really has begun, he thought, a grim expression crossing over his usually stoic expression. Or maybe... It's ending, he wondered, as he journeyed on. Vegetas journey though, was brought to a sudden halt, though, when he heard a scream! The distinct sound of yelling and screaming could be heard from up ahead. Without another thought on it, Vegeta raced forward, till he reached the source of the disturbance. And Vegeta wasn't pleased at all with what he saw. There, walking ahead of him was Freiza, holding Bulma! And on the floor next to his feet, Vegeta suddenly noticed the body of Yamcha.
"FREIZA," Vegeta yelled to the lizard, as he slinked forward into the dark. He watched as Freiza stopped in his tracks, laughing, and as Bulma struggled to free herself, now filled with new hope to get to Vegeta. After his laughing had ceased, Freiza turned to face Vegeta, an evil smirk marking his twisted and evil face.
"Looking for someone," he asked Vegeta sarcastically, pulling Bulma up to his face and stroking her cheek with his serpentine tale. Vegeta, sickened by Freizas actions, charged forward to attack Freiza. Freiza merely sidestepped the attack effortlessly, avoiding Vegetas attack with casual ease. Bulma was now crying, as Freiza squeezed his claws into her injured arm. Vegeta could tell that Freiza had been harming Bulma severely, and for some reason, it angered Vegeta to no end.
"Put the woman down, this has nothing to do with her. This is between us, Freiza," Vegeta yelled angrily, cringing as he uttered Freizas name. Freiza licked his lips at Vegeta, and replied, "As tempting as that sounds, dear Prince, this young lady has something I need to know about." Vegetas eyes widened, as he remembered that she still had the dragonball.
"Well, we can fight for the dragonball. Leave her out of it, she's not a concern. Whoever wins can take the dragonball from her," Vegeta negotiated, with his arms crossed defiantly across his chest. Freizas eyes suddenly gleamed devilishly, and he pulled Bulma back, so as they were face to face.
"You naughty little lady. You had the dragonball all this time, and here I was, going on a wild goose chase. Bad, bad, choice. Once I take that dragonball, you'll have to die," Freiza said cruelly, pressing down harder on Bulmas neck. Bulma, who was on the verge of passing out, only had one choice left to make. Forcing her hand into her pocket, she pulled out the capsule she was holding earlier, pressed the top and threw it, causing a large 'bang' and the room to fill with smoke. Freiza, highly surprised by Bulmas antics, threw her roughly into the wall and kicked her in the stomach. He laughed insanely, as he watched Bulma tense up in pain, then laughed even louder, as he watched her body go limp.
"She had that coming. She was annoying me so much, I just had to shut her up... permanently," Freiza said in a careless, completely casual voice, as he stared at her still body. Vegeta was also staring at her body, but he was not at all casual about the situation. He was so outraged, he felt as though he was going to explode. Freiza had always been stronger then Vegeta, and Freizas father had always been stronger then his own father. Vegeta had always been helpless when Freiza was involved, and he had once again, failed at stopping Freiza. And now, the woman... Bulma, she was dead. Dead, because he was to damn weak to do anything about it. Dead, because he was a weak person…..
"That's going to CHANGE," Vegeta yelled, his voice filling the empty building. Freiza looked up, shocked by Vegetas outburst, and smirked at what he witnessed. Vegetas desire to kill Freiza and his wish to become stronger, an too surpass his current strength, had taken over his entire being. Vegetas energy skyrocketed, as he reached new levels that had never been reached before. The ground was shaking, the walls were caving in all around, but Vegeta didn't care. All he wanted to do right now was get stronger, so he could beat that bastard of a lizard. Bulmas body somehow remained untouched by debris, as Vegeta charged his energy higher. Freizas smirk changed to a look of interest, as he watched Vegetas transformation. Vegetas hair was flashing, gold to black, gold to black, and his eyes were unfocused, then pupil less, now green. A golden aura was now resonating around Vegetas body, and his hair was somehow staying gold. Vegeta opened his eyes to reveal pupil less, emerald eyes. Vegeta was now a hell of a lot stronger; this was very obvious to Freiza. Not strong enough to beat me, Freiza thought evilly, now laughing a loud, mocking laugh.
"Be quiet, fool. I wouldn't be feeling to cocky if I was you right now. I have reached the pinnacle of my strength.. You are the first in thousands of years to witness a Super Saiyan. Like you, my descendents are not of this planet; we are of the planet Vegeta. We were a race of warriors, and our population has now dwindled in numbers. But Kakarrott, myself, Nappa and Radditz, just to name some, remain, here to carry on the Saiyan name. And now, I have reached legendary proportions in my power. Be afraid Freiza.... I need a punching bag," Vegeta said proudly, falling into offensive stance. Freiza seemed quite surprised, and even fearful of this, but it didn't stop him from laughing. Laughing, loudly, piercingly, tauntingly... A stab to Vegetas pride. Even as a Super Saiyan, he did not receive the respect he deserved.
"Whatever you may think Vegeta... You will always be a lowly pile of shit. A weak, maggot infested, putrid, completely worthless and WEAK, incredibly WEAK, pile of stinking shit," Freizas voice stung Vegeta like an arrow, as his words sunk in.
"You know what Freiza," Vegeta said, in a deathly quiet voice.
Freiza laughed at Vegeta, before replying with, "what, Vegeta?"
"YOUR FUCKING DEAD," Vegeta yelled, as he quickly charged up an enormous, big bang attack. Before Freiza could even comprehend it, Vegeta fire the blast and it engulfed Freiza, ripping his evil body to shreds. Bulma and Yamchas bodies were sucked in towards the blast, but Vegeta had time to grab Bulma and fly from the building. As Vegeta flew from the building, he spotted a flash of orange, which was being sucked into the blast. In the huge explosion, Freiza and the building were destroyed, leaving a deep crater in the earth. Nearby, Chi Chi was holding Marron and Gokus passed out bodies to her chest, shielding them from any debris from the explosion. Before they could see him, Vegeta rushed into a nearby building, still holding Bulmas body. Landing, the newly risen suns light danced lightly on Bulmas blood streaked face, and Vegeta found himself stroking her hair. "Bulma," he murmured, surprised that he even cared about her fate. Gasping, Vegetas eyes widened as he watched her eyes open, slowly revealing to Vegeta there beautiful, crystal blue surfaces.
"Vegeta... Did you get it...? After I.. threw the capsule to you.. Did you get.. The dragonball.." Bulma asked, through her laboured breaths. Vegetas eyes widened in realisation; she had hidden the dragonball in the capsule, and it was the orange blur he had seen... Being sucked into the explosion.
"Its..... Gone..... Destroyed in the blast," Vegeta said to himself, almost forgetting Bulma was there. Bulmas eyes widened, as it dawned on her.... That none of the people who were killed could ever be wished back.... Not with one of the dragonballs gone! Tears formed in her eyes, as she remembered Yamcha being murdered. Vegeta also had a look of disappointment about him.. Disappointed that the dragonballs would never return. As Bulmas eyes started to focus more, she realised the change in Vegetas appearance. Before she had time to ask him about it, he told her, "Make sure you get medical attention woman, it would be pointless to lose another life." Before Bulma could comprehend his words, he leant down and kissed her roughly, before flying off, into the distance. Forcing herself up, before collapsing into sleep, Bulma yelled out to Vegeta, "come back! I want you here, with..... Me..."
But Vegeta didn't take heed to her words.... And he continued flying, into the distance.
~~~~~
"Bulma..... Bulma.... Are you waking up? Please wake up," came a familiar voice into Bulmas ear. Bulmas eyes slowly flickered open, revealing to her the faces of her mother and father. Tears filled Bulmas eyes, as she stared at her parents, for the first time, in a very long time.
"You never came... For me... After all that time..." Bulma began, speaking between sobs, "But I'm not angry at you... Because I am too glad to see you and because I love you both.. So much." Bulmas mother, at this point, broke out into heavy sobs and wrapped up her daughter in a bear hug, whilst her father placed a kiss on her forehead.
"We'll explain it all later, dear. You had a close call, and you've been out for days. But there are some people here, that want to see you," her father told her, pulling her mother back and helping Bulma down into a wheelchair near the bed. Pushing her out of the room, Bulma realised she was home, and she couldn't help but smile, when she was greeted by her friends smiling faces. Marron rushed forward, her arm in a sling, and wrapped her arms around Bulmas neck, with Chi Chi not far behind. She also saw Krillin, who smiled and waved, standing next to Goku.
"What's Goku doing here," Bulma asked, confused at his presence, as she hugged her friends tightly.
"Well.... He wasn't bad, like we first thought. And now... We are an ITEM," Chi Chi blurted out happily, squeezing her friend tightly. Rather the question Chi Chi about it, Bulma smiled, and hugged her friend, telling her, "That's great Chi Chi."
It was a long week of grieving for Bulma. Although she had gained feelings for Vegeta, she missed Yamcha incredibly and was extremely depressed that she would never see him again. No more dragonballs… No more wishes. Bulma could also tell Krillin had been affected by the loss of Eighteen, though he tried to hide it, for Marrons sake. "At least he got to experience true love, even briefly," Bulma said to herself one afternoon, as she sat out on the balcony of Capsule Corporation. The news had been very eventful lately, with the rebuilding of towns and several large memorials. Aside from the sad news, there were celebrations worldwide, at the destruction of the worlds 2 most Notorious gangs... The Saiyan Viper gang and the Kold lizard gang. Sure, Goku, Nappa and Vegeta had all survived, but they had all gone their separate ways. Nappa was busy at work preparing to open a martial arts dojo, to honour the memory of the proud Saiyan race, and though it may be a long way off yet, his heart was in the right place. Goku had moved in with Chi Chi, and the pair was living together happily, in bliss at each other's company, though Chi Chi could get a bit overbearing and bossy at times. And Vegeta.... Bulma sighed, wondering about Vegetas fate. Would she ever see him again? Would she be able to tell him how she felt? He had saved her life so many times and despite all that had happened, Bulma couldn't help but have feelings with him. At the moment, she knew she couldn't move into a relationship straight away, and because of Yamchas death, she was incredibly depressed and couldn't think about such a thing. Non-the-less, Vegeta was still a large part of her life. In her spare time, she would wonder about him, and where he was, what he was doing. And then she remembered that he had left her... Without even a goodbye... "Make sure you get medical attention woman, it would be pointless to lose another life," he had said... And then... There was the kiss. Bulma placed a shaky finger to her lips, as she recalled the quick, salty kiss. As rough as it had been, Bulmas lips had tingled and she wanted it to have lingered. I wonder if he ever thinks about me? I wonder if he even cares? Bulma sat wearily in a seat on a balcony, that a happy group had sat on a long time earlier, eating lunch. The biggest problem then was Chi Chis being single. But now.... Yamcha... He was dead, as well as hundreds of other victims, of the war of the gangs. Things would never be the same for Bulma, she knew this. Ever since that day, when she was abducted by a smug Saiyan Viper in a dark alleyway...
Nothing had ever been the same.
~~~~~
Man this chapter took me forever! Ahh, its so long lol... And aren't I evil! What a sad ending :-(... Only its not the end yet ;o), I'm not THAT horrible! Long authors note in last chapter... which is the next chapter... Yikes!! I can't believe it! Well, this pretty much sums it all up, but I do want one more chapter, to sort some things out and let everyone finally see what they want to see ;-) hehe. Poor Eighteen and Radditz... That part was so hard for me to put, but its just how I envisioned the story. It was a hard and tragic war, and it had victims. As sad as it is, I really like this chapter.. Anyway, stay tuned, for the last chapter of 'The War of the gangs'! I really hope you all read it, and dont hate me for this chapter and stop. The next chapter will be a nice one, trust me! You won't want to miss it =D!!
Goku and Krillin slowly made their way through the building they knew Marron was being held hostage in. They soon found themselves at a staircase that led them to a large, oak, richly decorated door. Breathing deeply, Krillin placed his hand on the door handle and slowly opened the door, Goku next to him, in offensive stance, ready for any attacks. The room was in complete darkness, but the men could make out the form of someone sprawled on the floor. Krillin placed his hand on the wall, next to the doorframe, scrambling for a light switch. Finding it, he slowly flipped on the switch, causing the room to light up. As Goku and Krillins eyes adjusted to the light, they immediately recognised Marron as the figure lying on the floor. Without hesitation, Krillin ran forward and crouched at his girlfriend's side, cradling her limp body in his arms. "Marron," he whispered to her, pushing her green-blue strands of hair from her bruised face. Marrons arms were bloodied from where she had obviously been held, and she seemed to be unconscious, but Krillin knew she would be all right, and he stood, relieved, with her body cradled in his arms. Goku, meanwhile, was slowly walking through the room, scanning everything inside of it. It was an enormous room, which looked as though it once held business conferences, with a long table in the middle, and several high-backed chairs surrounding it. The head chair was facing backwards to them, and Goku immediately knew why. Someone was sitting in it; and it wasn't just anybody. "Krillin, get Marron out of here," Goku whispered to his new friend. Krillin nodded, and ran outside of the room, leaving Goku alone in the room, with whoever was occupying the chair.
"Looks like it's just you and me.... Dodoria," Gokus voice was serious for a change, and it echoed through the conference room eerily. His comment was met with a deep chuckle, obviously Dodorias, from the other end of the room. Dodoria rose from the chair and he walked around, till he was standing right in front of Goku. Goku fell into battle position, but Dodoria merely continued to chuckle, and shook his head at the Saiyan.
"Your name... Is Kakarrott... Isn't it," Dodoria questioned, a malicious look on his enormous, toad like face. Goku nodded slowly, wondering what Dodoria was getting at.
"You want to know how I know you by this name, Saiyan," Dodoria asked casually. Goku swallowed hard, as he stared at the overweight warrior, a host of questions flooding into his mind. He's only trying to get me off guard, Goku told himself, scowling, and clenching his fists.
"Just shut your ugly pink face, and lets settle this," Goku snapped angrily, closing in on Dodoria. Dodoria just laughed again, and shook his head.
"You know, I'm going to stop talking when I feel quite ready. Saiyan, you were raised by your Grandpa after your parents were killed by Freiza, weren't you. Can you remember what happened to your parents? Do you know how they died," Dodorias smug voice obviously struck a chord, and Goku immediately tensed up, as he stared at the Kold. He knew how his parents died; they died in a car accident, when he was a baby. Just thinking about his parents made Goku depressed; though he didn't remember them, he felt as though they were always there, with him, guiding him and watching him. As Goku stood in thought, Dodoria continued, his loud voice cutting the silence like a dagger. "Saiyan, I knew your parents... Bardock, and his pretty little wench, always so sickeningly affectionate together. Your parents were warriors you know, always entering tournaments, winning the prize money, defeating anyone who challenged them. It was bad for the Kold gang, when your parents came onto the scene. Winning all our prize money, beating all of our warriors. We couldn't let that happen for much longer.." Dodoria started to chuckle, and was soon laughing insanely, unable to continue his story. Goku stared in disbelief at the fat warrior, his chest tight with anger.
"What are you trying to get at," Goku said, in a low, threatening voice. Dodoria sniggered at the angered Saiyan and decided to continue his torment.
"Well, someone had to get rid of them. They were becoming too much of a nuisance for the Kold Lizards. So Freiza decided it would be good too have them killed.... And what better person too kill them," Dodoria paused on the word 'them', staring at Gokus stern expression, that looked as though it could crack at any minute, before finishing with, "then me! Yes, that's right scum! Right before I blew your mothers head off, she cried to me 'don't hurt Kakarrott... Looks like I'll have to go against her little wish". Goku felt his chest tighten excruciatingly, he felt his eyes burning, and his fists clenched so tightly, that his knuckles turned white. Dodoria just laughed, staring at Gokus pained expression. The laughter echoed through the room, and it pierced Gokus ears, making his eardrums throb. "My...... Parents....... You killed....... My PARENTS," Gokus voice started quietly, but was soon raised, in an angered tone. Dodorias laughed grew even louder, as he watched the Saiyan cringe in grief. How can he laugh? He's just trying to break me... Goku thought, anger retching through his body. "Well.... I won't let that happen! Its time my parents names were honoured. Lets go," Goku said in a strong voice, falling into offensive stance, and beginning to charge up. Dodorias laughed faltered, as he stared at the angry Saiyan. He could feel Gokus power rising; he could feel him getting stronger with every second; and soon, Dodoria seemed as though he didn't want to laugh at all. It was no longer funny for Dodoria, for he knew that Goku was now at the same level as he himself. Springing forward, before Goku could finish charging up, Dodoria aimed a punch for Gokus chest, but Goku evaded the onslaught, flying on top of the table behind Dodoria. Dodoria scowled angrily, and this time, threw an enormous energy blast in Gokus direction. But it missed, Dodorias fear and anger blinding his attacks. Dodorias plan to put Goku in a state of disarray had backfired, and Dodoria himself, was now the one in a state of confused anger. Maybe I shouldn't have told him about his worthless parents, Dodoria thought regretfully, as he only just dodged a punch from Goku. Goku, missing Dodoria, smirked, as he watched the Fat Kold warrior stumble around, trying to steady himself and get ready for his next attack. But Goku wouldn't allow Dodoria the opportunity to attack, and he elbowed him hard, in the back, pushing Dodoria flying down the tabletop. Before Dodoria came into contact with the wall, Goku phased out in front of him and kicked him upwards, sending him flying, out the top of the building and into the open. Dodoria, roaring with anger, floated several feet into the dark night sky, before coming into contact with Gokus fists, which sent him falling downwards, past the building, and onto the hard road, forming an enormous crater on contact. Coughing up blood, Dodoria pulled himself up from the ground and found himself face to face with a tall, smug Saiyan. Before Dodoria could react, Goku kneed him in the gut, sending him into the wall, and causing him to retch up blood. "FILTHY SAIYAN SCUM," Dodoria screeched, outraged, charging at the Saiyan he had once been able to easily defeat. Goku easily evaded the attack; Dodorias rage was his weakness, unlike Gokus, which had helped him to get stronger; and so Dodoria was no match for Goku. After dodging Dodorias ill aimed attack, Goku turned and kicked Dodoria in the back, sending his body flying across the floor and to a stop, with a bone crunching thud, when it hit a brick wall. Dodoria choked up some blood and staggered forward, ready to attack, but it was to late. Goku was all ready charging up his final blow, the kamehameha blast. "KAA.... ME..... HAA.... MEE... HAAAAAAA," Goku roared, as he fired the blast at Dodoria. The weakened Dodoria could no longer move to evade anymore attacks, too weak from his battle with Goku, and the blast hit him head on, killing him instantly. Goku, exhausted from the huge attack, fell to his knees and passed out, falling asleep on the sharp rubble. He finally knew the truth of his parents deaths, had honoured his parents names, and could rest easily.
~~~~~
Krillin ran from the building as fast as his short legs could carry him, back to where Chi Chi and Bulma should be sitting. He then placed Marrons limp form down in an alleyway, hidden between large pieces of fallen wall and debris. "I'll be back, don't worry," Krillin whispered, before running back out into the open.
"Bulma, Chi Chi," he called into the darkness, wondering where they could be. No one answered his call, so he immediately assumed the worst. "Man, the Kolds must have them! Why I oughta'..." Krillins mad rambling was cut off, when he felt a group of strong energy signals resonating in the distance.
"That's where they must be! I bet the Kolds have them, and Vegeta or Radditz or someone is out there, fighting them! I better go help them," Krillin said to himself, before flying off in the direction of all the fighting. When Krillin finally arrived at the spot of fighting, he gasped to see a half battered Radditz fighting a Kold warrior, and a bald Saiyan, who he had not yet met, fighting another Kold warrior, and not faring much better. Charging up a large blast, Krillin fired it at the Kold pummelling Radditz, loosening the stronghold they had on the longhaired Saiyan. Radditz immediately took the opportunity to fire an enormous blast at the warrior, Burta, whom was sent flying into a crumpled pile on the floor. Krillin flew down to Radditz's side, and the pair nodded at each other, then, in unison, they both charged up enormous energy waves and fired them at Burta. Jeice was to late to come to the rescue, and once the dust had cleared, there was nothing left of the once ruthless Kold warrior, Burta. Jeice roared in anger, outraged that his fellow warrior and partner had been obliterated. "You'll pay, worthless Saiyans," Jeice yelled in rage, staring at the spot his comrade had once stood in. Nappa took this opportunity to catch Jeice off guard, a punch connecting with Jeice's jaw, and sending him flying into a nearby building, crashing with a bone crunching thud. Jeice pulled himself out of the indentation he had made in the wall, and wiped the blood from a large gash in his side; unlike Burta, he was a lot stronger. Jeice looked outraged… And it was quite unnerving, even for Nappa and Radditz, who had been in many battles in their lifetimes. Once consumed with grief or anger, the opponent could become quite unstoppable. And, without any warnings, Jeice immediately charged up an enormous blast and aimed it at Nappa. Within a split second, the blast had connected with human flesh, yet it wasn't Nappas. Radditz had phased in front of Nappa and taken the blast, and was now lying in a puddle of his own blood, half of his body blown away. Nappa immediately fell to his knees, crouching by his Saiyan rivals side. "Radditz.... You sacrificed yourself.. For me.. After everything.. I've said," Nappas voice was shaking with disbelief, and even a touch of... grief.
"We've always.... be..en... rivals... But.. we've... always.. been... Sa..Saiyans.. And Saiyans.. We stick.. together," Radditz could barely utter these words to his fellow Saiyan comrade, before his eyes flickered shut and he died, a proud warriors death in battle. Nappa rose from his fellow warriors side, and stared angrily at Jeice, a glint of determination flickering in his eyes. Krillin flew to Nappas side, but Nappa shook his head at the smaller man.
"This is my fight, my honour. Stay out of it baldy," Nappa scowled, pushing Krillin back.
Krillin nodded, standing down, and saying to Nappa, "You be careful." Nappa frowned at Krillin, giving him the thumbs up, before charging up with new found power from his rage, whilst Jeice charged forward through the air, ready to attack. Nappa barely made it out of the way, a lot faster from his new powers, and he charged at Jeice, who only just blocked the attack, overwhelmed by Nappas new power. Both men were at their strongest, angered at the losses of their fellow gang members, and at this point, it was anyone's match. Krillin could barely keep up with the fighting warriors, as a flurry of attacks were given and received by both warriors. Jeice dodged a blow aimed to his head, while Nappa dodged a kick aimed at his shins, and the cycle of blocked and missed attacks continued. This isn't going anywhere, thought Nappa angrily, aiming a blow to Jeice's chest, which was blocked. A smile soon spread across Nappas face, as a plan popped into his large, bald head. Without warning, Nappa started plummeting to the ground, feet first, landing steadily on 2 feet. I'll only get one shot at this, thought Nappa, starting to charge up a blast, with a head start on Jeice. Jeice, taken aback from Nappas move, quickly started to charge up his own defending blast, and soon, the 2 warriors fired at one another, the 2 blasts colliding, at a heart stopping speed. Krillin gasped in awe, as he watched the 2 warriors will their blasts to get stronger, amazed by the ferocity of their attacks, and the depth of their concentration. It seemed as though Nappa had the upper hand, but it was hard to tell because of the blinding lights being emitted from their blasts. Krillin gasped, as Jeice suddenly gained the upper hand, and he had to shut his eyes and duck for cover, as one of the blasts hit its mark. Shit Nappa, Krillin groaned, fearful for the burly Saiyans life. When the dust finally began to settle, Krillin gasped, as he watched a tall figure walking towards him. Krillin couldn't help but smile widely, as he realised it was Nappa, limping slowly through the dust, with a victorious smile upon his face. "How did you do it? Jeice had the upper hand," Krillin asked the large Saiyan, still gob smacked about what had just happened. Nappa smirked defiantly, replying, "that was only a momentary lapse. Saiyans are the strongest fighters by far, and as I fired that blast, I had the help from every Saiyan that lost their life in the name of Freizas army. They were watching me, and I knew, that I had the power to honour their names. Jeice is dead, and now, Radditz, you can kick his ass again, in the afterlife, for me." After his speech, Nappa walked next to Radditz's lifeless body, and began to dig a hole with his bare hands.
"He deserves a true warriors end. I'll bury him here," Nappa said bluntly, as Krillin watched him.
"I don't know how to tell Eighteen... Where is she anyway? He was looking for her, so she must have been with him when you guys met up," Krillin asked quickly, remembering about Eighteen.
"When I met up with him, he still hadn't found her. Go find her, short stuff, let him rest assured that his girl isn't lost somewhere," Nappa replied, as he dug the grave further. Krillin sucked in a deep breath, suddenly very fearful for Eighteen. He watched Nappa silently, as he placed Radditz's body in the grave, and started to bury the fallen Saiyan. After Radditz was buried, Nappa sat down by his grave in silence, staring up into the sky. Krillin could tell he was deep in thought and decided now would be the time to leave. Staring at Radditz's grave, Krillin saluted, and said quietly, "Don't worry big guy, I'll find her." With one final glance at the grave and at the contemplative Nappa, Krillin flew off, back in the direction of the building Eighteen had entered. Finally reaching the buildings, Krillin landed and entered the building Eighteen was inside. No longer caring if anyone heard him, Krillin called out Eighteens name in the darkness, as he wandered deeper into the building. Krillin sighed, his chest tightening, as fear for the woman he had fallen for and her precious life flooded over him. He walked along, calling her name, until he stopped, finally receiving a reply. It was only brief, and it was barely audible, but he heard someone call out 'chrome dome'. Walking in the direction of the voice, he was soon shocked at what he saw. Eighteens battered body lay crushed in a heap on the floor, bleeding heavily. As fast as he possibly could, Krillin carefully lifted up the injured Eighteen and carried her hurriedly from the building, and out into better light. Kneeling down, and laying her body in his lap, Krillin frantically whispered Eighteens name, finally re-awakening her. "Its.... too late.... Krillin," she managed to say, as she feebly raised her hand to his cheek, a glistening tear sliding down her bloodied cheek. Krillin felt his own eyes filled with tears, as he watched her fade away. "You'll... be okay, Eighteen.. Don't say things like that, your worrying me," Krillin said softly, stroking Eighteens cheek caringly. Eighteen managed a small smile, and forced herself to shake her head, in a 'no I won't' way. "But I... I love you too much, this can't happen," Krillin confessed to the dying beauty, tears now flowing freely from his eyes. Eighteens eyes seemed to gleam momentarily, with happiness, when she heard these words. Now too weakened to speak, Eighteen forced her face upwards and she kissed Krillin. Krillin returned the soft kiss, his own and Eighteens tears intermingling, before lying her now lifeless head on his chest. Although she hadn't said so, Krillin knew she had cared about him. Her kiss had spoken more then words ever could have. Krillin, heartbroken, lifted Eighteens lifeless body and he flew back in the direction of Radditz's grave. Krillin was a very emotional person and fell in love very easily, but he knew that Eighteen would have been the one. He knew that he would have asked her to marry him, and he knew he would never look at another woman the same way he looked at her. He landed next to Nappa, who looked up, solemnly noting Eighteens dead body, and without being asked, he began to dig another grave, right next to Radditz's. Once the digging was complete, Krillin gazed at his true love one last time, kissing her pale forehead, before gently laying her body in her grave. The 2 men silently buried her, and once they finished, sat quietly on the ground, near the graves, deep in their own thoughts. They had both lost someone they cared about; though Nappa would never admit out loud that he admired Radditz and considered him a worthy rival and friend; and as the darkness faded and the sun rose, they sat in silence, both silently saying their own goodbyes.
~~~~~
Vegetas journey into the darkness led him towards a light that was up ahead. Once reaching the light, Vegeta found himself in a room, with a dead body in a chair, and a pool of blood on the floor. Cursing, angered at what a waste of time it had been, Vegeta left the room and journeyed further into the darkness. Where are you Dodoria, he wondered angrily. As he travelled through the dark building, searching for Dodoria, he could feel strong energy readings all around him. He also felt a lot of these signals dying out, as some had obviously won their battles, and others had been... Less fortunate. The war really has begun, he thought, a grim expression crossing over his usually stoic expression. Or maybe... It's ending, he wondered, as he journeyed on. Vegetas journey though, was brought to a sudden halt, though, when he heard a scream! The distinct sound of yelling and screaming could be heard from up ahead. Without another thought on it, Vegeta raced forward, till he reached the source of the disturbance. And Vegeta wasn't pleased at all with what he saw. There, walking ahead of him was Freiza, holding Bulma! And on the floor next to his feet, Vegeta suddenly noticed the body of Yamcha.
"FREIZA," Vegeta yelled to the lizard, as he slinked forward into the dark. He watched as Freiza stopped in his tracks, laughing, and as Bulma struggled to free herself, now filled with new hope to get to Vegeta. After his laughing had ceased, Freiza turned to face Vegeta, an evil smirk marking his twisted and evil face.
"Looking for someone," he asked Vegeta sarcastically, pulling Bulma up to his face and stroking her cheek with his serpentine tale. Vegeta, sickened by Freizas actions, charged forward to attack Freiza. Freiza merely sidestepped the attack effortlessly, avoiding Vegetas attack with casual ease. Bulma was now crying, as Freiza squeezed his claws into her injured arm. Vegeta could tell that Freiza had been harming Bulma severely, and for some reason, it angered Vegeta to no end.
"Put the woman down, this has nothing to do with her. This is between us, Freiza," Vegeta yelled angrily, cringing as he uttered Freizas name. Freiza licked his lips at Vegeta, and replied, "As tempting as that sounds, dear Prince, this young lady has something I need to know about." Vegetas eyes widened, as he remembered that she still had the dragonball.
"Well, we can fight for the dragonball. Leave her out of it, she's not a concern. Whoever wins can take the dragonball from her," Vegeta negotiated, with his arms crossed defiantly across his chest. Freizas eyes suddenly gleamed devilishly, and he pulled Bulma back, so as they were face to face.
"You naughty little lady. You had the dragonball all this time, and here I was, going on a wild goose chase. Bad, bad, choice. Once I take that dragonball, you'll have to die," Freiza said cruelly, pressing down harder on Bulmas neck. Bulma, who was on the verge of passing out, only had one choice left to make. Forcing her hand into her pocket, she pulled out the capsule she was holding earlier, pressed the top and threw it, causing a large 'bang' and the room to fill with smoke. Freiza, highly surprised by Bulmas antics, threw her roughly into the wall and kicked her in the stomach. He laughed insanely, as he watched Bulma tense up in pain, then laughed even louder, as he watched her body go limp.
"She had that coming. She was annoying me so much, I just had to shut her up... permanently," Freiza said in a careless, completely casual voice, as he stared at her still body. Vegeta was also staring at her body, but he was not at all casual about the situation. He was so outraged, he felt as though he was going to explode. Freiza had always been stronger then Vegeta, and Freizas father had always been stronger then his own father. Vegeta had always been helpless when Freiza was involved, and he had once again, failed at stopping Freiza. And now, the woman... Bulma, she was dead. Dead, because he was to damn weak to do anything about it. Dead, because he was a weak person…..
"That's going to CHANGE," Vegeta yelled, his voice filling the empty building. Freiza looked up, shocked by Vegetas outburst, and smirked at what he witnessed. Vegetas desire to kill Freiza and his wish to become stronger, an too surpass his current strength, had taken over his entire being. Vegetas energy skyrocketed, as he reached new levels that had never been reached before. The ground was shaking, the walls were caving in all around, but Vegeta didn't care. All he wanted to do right now was get stronger, so he could beat that bastard of a lizard. Bulmas body somehow remained untouched by debris, as Vegeta charged his energy higher. Freizas smirk changed to a look of interest, as he watched Vegetas transformation. Vegetas hair was flashing, gold to black, gold to black, and his eyes were unfocused, then pupil less, now green. A golden aura was now resonating around Vegetas body, and his hair was somehow staying gold. Vegeta opened his eyes to reveal pupil less, emerald eyes. Vegeta was now a hell of a lot stronger; this was very obvious to Freiza. Not strong enough to beat me, Freiza thought evilly, now laughing a loud, mocking laugh.
"Be quiet, fool. I wouldn't be feeling to cocky if I was you right now. I have reached the pinnacle of my strength.. You are the first in thousands of years to witness a Super Saiyan. Like you, my descendents are not of this planet; we are of the planet Vegeta. We were a race of warriors, and our population has now dwindled in numbers. But Kakarrott, myself, Nappa and Radditz, just to name some, remain, here to carry on the Saiyan name. And now, I have reached legendary proportions in my power. Be afraid Freiza.... I need a punching bag," Vegeta said proudly, falling into offensive stance. Freiza seemed quite surprised, and even fearful of this, but it didn't stop him from laughing. Laughing, loudly, piercingly, tauntingly... A stab to Vegetas pride. Even as a Super Saiyan, he did not receive the respect he deserved.
"Whatever you may think Vegeta... You will always be a lowly pile of shit. A weak, maggot infested, putrid, completely worthless and WEAK, incredibly WEAK, pile of stinking shit," Freizas voice stung Vegeta like an arrow, as his words sunk in.
"You know what Freiza," Vegeta said, in a deathly quiet voice.
Freiza laughed at Vegeta, before replying with, "what, Vegeta?"
"YOUR FUCKING DEAD," Vegeta yelled, as he quickly charged up an enormous, big bang attack. Before Freiza could even comprehend it, Vegeta fire the blast and it engulfed Freiza, ripping his evil body to shreds. Bulma and Yamchas bodies were sucked in towards the blast, but Vegeta had time to grab Bulma and fly from the building. As Vegeta flew from the building, he spotted a flash of orange, which was being sucked into the blast. In the huge explosion, Freiza and the building were destroyed, leaving a deep crater in the earth. Nearby, Chi Chi was holding Marron and Gokus passed out bodies to her chest, shielding them from any debris from the explosion. Before they could see him, Vegeta rushed into a nearby building, still holding Bulmas body. Landing, the newly risen suns light danced lightly on Bulmas blood streaked face, and Vegeta found himself stroking her hair. "Bulma," he murmured, surprised that he even cared about her fate. Gasping, Vegetas eyes widened as he watched her eyes open, slowly revealing to Vegeta there beautiful, crystal blue surfaces.
"Vegeta... Did you get it...? After I.. threw the capsule to you.. Did you get.. The dragonball.." Bulma asked, through her laboured breaths. Vegetas eyes widened in realisation; she had hidden the dragonball in the capsule, and it was the orange blur he had seen... Being sucked into the explosion.
"Its..... Gone..... Destroyed in the blast," Vegeta said to himself, almost forgetting Bulma was there. Bulmas eyes widened, as it dawned on her.... That none of the people who were killed could ever be wished back.... Not with one of the dragonballs gone! Tears formed in her eyes, as she remembered Yamcha being murdered. Vegeta also had a look of disappointment about him.. Disappointed that the dragonballs would never return. As Bulmas eyes started to focus more, she realised the change in Vegetas appearance. Before she had time to ask him about it, he told her, "Make sure you get medical attention woman, it would be pointless to lose another life." Before Bulma could comprehend his words, he leant down and kissed her roughly, before flying off, into the distance. Forcing herself up, before collapsing into sleep, Bulma yelled out to Vegeta, "come back! I want you here, with..... Me..."
But Vegeta didn't take heed to her words.... And he continued flying, into the distance.
~~~~~
"Bulma..... Bulma.... Are you waking up? Please wake up," came a familiar voice into Bulmas ear. Bulmas eyes slowly flickered open, revealing to her the faces of her mother and father. Tears filled Bulmas eyes, as she stared at her parents, for the first time, in a very long time.
"You never came... For me... After all that time..." Bulma began, speaking between sobs, "But I'm not angry at you... Because I am too glad to see you and because I love you both.. So much." Bulmas mother, at this point, broke out into heavy sobs and wrapped up her daughter in a bear hug, whilst her father placed a kiss on her forehead.
"We'll explain it all later, dear. You had a close call, and you've been out for days. But there are some people here, that want to see you," her father told her, pulling her mother back and helping Bulma down into a wheelchair near the bed. Pushing her out of the room, Bulma realised she was home, and she couldn't help but smile, when she was greeted by her friends smiling faces. Marron rushed forward, her arm in a sling, and wrapped her arms around Bulmas neck, with Chi Chi not far behind. She also saw Krillin, who smiled and waved, standing next to Goku.
"What's Goku doing here," Bulma asked, confused at his presence, as she hugged her friends tightly.
"Well.... He wasn't bad, like we first thought. And now... We are an ITEM," Chi Chi blurted out happily, squeezing her friend tightly. Rather the question Chi Chi about it, Bulma smiled, and hugged her friend, telling her, "That's great Chi Chi."
It was a long week of grieving for Bulma. Although she had gained feelings for Vegeta, she missed Yamcha incredibly and was extremely depressed that she would never see him again. No more dragonballs… No more wishes. Bulma could also tell Krillin had been affected by the loss of Eighteen, though he tried to hide it, for Marrons sake. "At least he got to experience true love, even briefly," Bulma said to herself one afternoon, as she sat out on the balcony of Capsule Corporation. The news had been very eventful lately, with the rebuilding of towns and several large memorials. Aside from the sad news, there were celebrations worldwide, at the destruction of the worlds 2 most Notorious gangs... The Saiyan Viper gang and the Kold lizard gang. Sure, Goku, Nappa and Vegeta had all survived, but they had all gone their separate ways. Nappa was busy at work preparing to open a martial arts dojo, to honour the memory of the proud Saiyan race, and though it may be a long way off yet, his heart was in the right place. Goku had moved in with Chi Chi, and the pair was living together happily, in bliss at each other's company, though Chi Chi could get a bit overbearing and bossy at times. And Vegeta.... Bulma sighed, wondering about Vegetas fate. Would she ever see him again? Would she be able to tell him how she felt? He had saved her life so many times and despite all that had happened, Bulma couldn't help but have feelings with him. At the moment, she knew she couldn't move into a relationship straight away, and because of Yamchas death, she was incredibly depressed and couldn't think about such a thing. Non-the-less, Vegeta was still a large part of her life. In her spare time, she would wonder about him, and where he was, what he was doing. And then she remembered that he had left her... Without even a goodbye... "Make sure you get medical attention woman, it would be pointless to lose another life," he had said... And then... There was the kiss. Bulma placed a shaky finger to her lips, as she recalled the quick, salty kiss. As rough as it had been, Bulmas lips had tingled and she wanted it to have lingered. I wonder if he ever thinks about me? I wonder if he even cares? Bulma sat wearily in a seat on a balcony, that a happy group had sat on a long time earlier, eating lunch. The biggest problem then was Chi Chis being single. But now.... Yamcha... He was dead, as well as hundreds of other victims, of the war of the gangs. Things would never be the same for Bulma, she knew this. Ever since that day, when she was abducted by a smug Saiyan Viper in a dark alleyway...
Nothing had ever been the same.
~~~~~
Man this chapter took me forever! Ahh, its so long lol... And aren't I evil! What a sad ending :-(... Only its not the end yet ;o), I'm not THAT horrible! Long authors note in last chapter... which is the next chapter... Yikes!! I can't believe it! Well, this pretty much sums it all up, but I do want one more chapter, to sort some things out and let everyone finally see what they want to see ;-) hehe. Poor Eighteen and Radditz... That part was so hard for me to put, but its just how I envisioned the story. It was a hard and tragic war, and it had victims. As sad as it is, I really like this chapter.. Anyway, stay tuned, for the last chapter of 'The War of the gangs'! I really hope you all read it, and dont hate me for this chapter and stop. The next chapter will be a nice one, trust me! You won't want to miss it =D!!