Chapter 22: A strategy and another goodbye. (Stick through this long chapter and you'll get something nice towards the end)
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Trunks… Bulma… Toma… I do this for you… And yes, even for you, Kakarot…
...
A low whistle… or a low blowing…
…Wind…
That was the first thing that Goku's mind registered as he came to; unhindered desert wind, blowing loudly over him. The next thing was the acute, painful tension that spread through his entire body from the slightest flex of his arm.
'Man…' He grimaced, beginning to push himself up when something slid off of his shoulder.
Goku froze at the subtle thumping of a body next to him. He then blinked, getting onto his knees as he took in the familiar features. Realization showed in the bulging of his eyes. "Dori..?" He whispered in disbelief. Gaping for a moment, he finally shot forward to roll her over, stomach tying up in knots at her physical condition.
Left cheek seemingly skinned and blood covering most of her, frayed clothes included.
…And no energy to be sensed.
"Oh no…" Ignoring the blood covering her face, he pressed two fingers beneath her jawline and stilled himself, almost holding his breath. 'Come on…' His eyes narrowed in concentration, then closed as a relieved sigh left him.
He'd felt a pulse; not too strong, but still there.
Goku immediately smacked a hand over his belt, patting several times before he whipped his head to the left. "Uh—?" He blinked at the empty sack on the ground before sweeping it up. "Now I remember… Vegeta, figures… First the guy knocks me out cold, and then he has to take the last senzu bean for himself…"
And they needed that bean very much so at that moment…
He turned back to Midori with worried eyes. 'This must've been Majin Buu's work… but then…' His jaw clenched. 'What about the others?'
Goku's strained gaze rose to the sky as he felt outward, and Majin Buu was the first (and most potent) energy to be sensed. 'But I can't sense Vegeta, or Gohan either!' Hand unconsciously gripping his knee, he then lowered his growingly perturbed gaze back to Midori. "This isn't good… Man, how long was I out for?"
Too long, Goku decided, while slipping his hands underneath her shoulders and easing her into an upright position. "C'mere…" he murmured gently, hoping he wasn't making any internal injury worse. Being limp as she was, there were no protests when he leaned in low, maneuvering her arms over his right shoulder and encircling his arms around her back and waist. Slowly, he brought her upper body over his shoulder until she was draped securely over him.
'We need to find you some help…' He thought while rising to his feet, one arm hooked around the back of her thighs, his other palm flat over her back. Two familiar energy signals then perked his senses. He blinked, looking towards the horizon. "Oh, it feels like Krillin and Piccolo are back in action! They probably know what's going on."
With one last sweeping look of his surroundings, Goku brought his left hand to his forehead. The arid atmosphere of craters, jagged rocks, and howling wind were a blaring reminder of the terrible events that had happened while he was unconscious.
'Gohan… I'm sorry I wasn't there for you…' One pained squint of his eyes later they had switched locations.
The lookout…
Goku released a small sigh at the familiar setting, feeling less tense.
And not a second later the very people he'd been looking for (plus the lookout's residents) skidded around the corner of the sanctuary, each staring at the deceased saiyan with their own shocked expressions.
He couldn't help but smile at them, especially when Krillin asked "Goku, is that really you?!"
Goku's eyebrows lowered somewhat as he smirked faintly, knowing just how shocked they must've been. "Hi!" He replied simply.
"HE'S REAL!" Krillin exclaimed joyfully. "HE TALKS AND EVERYTHING!" The short male began laughing, and even from a way's back Goku could see the happy tears forming.
The saiyan's tiny smile turned into a full grin as he watched his best friend race towards him while shouting "YOU'RE ALIVE! YOU'RE ALIVE!"
This pulled a laugh from Goku. "Well about as alive as a dead guy can be!"
When Krillin stopped in front of him, his eyes widened as he noticed Goku's carry-on for the first time. "Whoa! You found Midori! We were wondering where she went!"
"Well," Goku started, reaching up to support her back as he lowered himself and her at the same time. "I think she actually found me. She's not doing well, though…"
"Man, look at you two… you guys look like you've been through a meat grinder!" Krillin gaped while studying their female friend. He then offered "How bout we get you guys' injuries taken care off?"
With Midori laid carefully on her back, Goku looked up from his knelt position and smiled appreciatively. "Yeah, her first. She's in pretty bad shape." He glanced down at her; the delicate frown on parched lips, the Capsule Corporation logo marred by drying blood, and the almost too subtle movements of a chest that indicated declining oxygen intake. "Senzu beans, right?" He was about to ask for assistance. He didn't know if she'd be able to eat one…
"No, we're out! But we can do better than that!" Krillin answered as Piccolo and Dende approached from behind. "That is, if Dende's willing to do some healing! Whadd'ya say, guardian of the Earth?"
Dende (who'd grown since their last encounter) approached, complying easily with a modesty and kind air fit for a guardian. "Well of course, certainly."
"Wow, thank you!" Goku grinned briefly, not believing his luck. "I really appreciate it," he added, following Dende's lead by sitting cross-legged on the tile.
The guardian from Namek then held his hands out over Midori's abdomen. "Don't mention it," he replied softly as a warm energy enveloped his hands. "I'm honored to be able to help." Said energy spread to the unconscious saiyan a moment later.
Goku watched on somberly as each scrape, cut, and gash on the woman's body closed up, as if they'd never existed. 'Gohan… and even Vegeta…' he pondered, eyes unconsciously moving to her suddenly twitching fingers. 'I'm glad at least you made it, Dori…'
That's when he noticed her sleepy gaze on him, accompanied by a weak smile.
Goku's lips curled in subtle amusement as a tiny chuckle escaped him. "Welcome back."
Midori propped herself up onto her left elbow to face Goku, the blood that had been crusted on both her skin and clothing fading away as well. Aside from her tattered attire she seemed good as new.
She then did a double-take, realizing that the others were behind her. "You guys…" She blinked at their welcoming faces, but soon her eyebrows lowered. "Ugh…" Her other hand went to her forehead.
Goku frowned at her sudden discomfort, while Krillin asked "Do you need more healing?"
"No… Gohan…" She turned her pained expression to Goku, mouth open as if she couldn't find the right words to say.
"I know…" Goku replied quietly, nodding. "And… Vegeta, too…"
Her eyes widened immensely at his words, lips straightening and chest noticeably rising higher. "WHAT?" But her imploring stare could only prompt a quiet apology from the halo-bearing saiyan; one that caused her to tear up before looking away. "Damn-it…"
As Dende made his way quietly around to Goku, she continued with a groan "I could've prevented this…" Midori was leaned forward, elbows on her knees and face against her balled fists.
"No," Piccolo spoke up evenly. "I'm afraid not. Majin Buu was able to withstand Vegeta unleashing every bit of energy he had in him— so much energy that Vegeta's body was destroyed in the attack."
Goku watched silently; watched as Midori's eyebrows disappeared underneath her knuckles and her back expanded with a deep breath. He could easily feel the anguish coming from her when he concentrated on her energy.
"Are you trying to tell me—" She removed her muffling hands, turning her misty-eyed, serious gaze to their green comrade. "—that if I had fought smarter… not panicked… and held that monster off for a few more minutes until Vegeta's arrival… that Gohan, Vegeta and I still wouldn't have been a match?"
"I'm not sure…" Piccolo held her slightly reddened gaze with his own grim one. "But I do know this is unlike anything we've ever faced, and that Goku alone won't stand a chance…"
At that Goku inhaled deeply, blinking his enlarged eyes.
It was a grim situation, but…
"This way," Mr. Popo instructed lightly as we trekked through the upper levels of the sanctuary. They were offering me a clean set of clothes and a bed to rest in until the others could come up with a plan. This was because, despite Dende's healing, I couldn't shake a heavy fatigue that had taken my body; side-effects of my mind being riddled with regret, sadness, anger, and frustration.
'...Why did I let Vegeta face that thing alone? What convinced me that he was strong enough by himself..?' Sigh...
And although I had previously tried to return to West City (hoping that if Bulma were alive she would've contacted her parents or returned home), Goku insisted I stay put; that we needed all our chips in one barrel, more or less.
So a little rest... did sound good...
Admittedly, I wasn't too fond of the idea of going back down anywhere, anyway, fatigue aside. Not with Majin Buu (as swift and powerful as he was) roaming the Earth. And I couldn't, for the life of me, concentrate on searching for energy signals.
I blinked, eyebrows furrowing as I stopped, having just passed a doorway. Backtracking two steps I then leaned to the side to further inspect what I thought I'd seen.
My expression softened at the sight and I stood more properly.
Trunks and Goten... They were sleeping on a large, canopied bed.
"They were brought here unconscious, but they'll be alright." The black-skinned keeper had moved behind me soundlessly as he spoke up.
It was hard to force my voice higher than a course whisper. "Why... were they unconscious?"
"Vegeta knocked them out so they wouldn't further interfere in his fight with Majin Buu..."
Pensive gaze intensifying, I whipped around to Mr. Popo, finally finding my voice. "Further interfere?" I let out a deep, dubious exhale.
What the hell happened after I left?
I shook my head, eyes nearly glaring holes into their sleeping forms. The thought of our boys fighting what I had fought... made my stomach twist up in knots.
'But they're here, not down there...' I thought while we continued on, a hand resting gingerly over my stomach as I inhaled a calming breath.
It wasn't until we had entered a room further down the hallway did my narrowed eyes pop open in alarm and I whipped my hanging head up. "Where is my son?!" Slapping a hand over my forehead, I gripped the back of a wooden chair next to me. "Oh my god, Lattice..." Real worry came over me then.
I'd left him with Bulma... with Bulma... I needed to know if they were alright...
But he was already dead... did that make him... immortal..?
While giving vague affirmative or negative grunts to Mr. Popo's questions I stood with my eyes closed, attempting to feel for Lattice's energy. It... was more difficult than it should have been. Beyond the men on the lookout I was bombarded by a clouding, evil energy that belonged to Majin Buu. It was hard to navigate through...
I opened my eyes, discontented expression steadfast. Mr. Popo had since left me alone, an outfit similar to Dende's laid out on the modest bed beside me.
'I don't like this...' With sadness and worry beginning to wane, frustration began bubbling. 'I hate feeling like I can't control anything...'
Like my strength and ability weren't enough...
With a deep sigh I then proceeded to change into the white and red-colored clothing offered to me. They were probably Dende's, tailored with a bit of magic to fit me for the purpose of inevitable combat. White pants fit loosely with a sleeveless shirt tucked in, and a red vest held over them snugly by a purple belt. Brown shoes with a pointed toe finished it.
My dirty and ripped tournament clothes hung precariously from the corner of the bed as I plopped down with a tired groan. 'How much longer can we hang back while that thing is down there..?' I leaned onto my side, looking out of a window that the bed was up against. Down below Goku and the others were conversing in a very animated style. 'Something good, I hope...'
I even heard a few joyous exclamations from Krillin, but soon the mood among them seemed to sober up.
My gaze fell then, as an uncomfortable feeling settled over me. How long had it been exactly since I'd fought Majin Buu? Was it still the same day? Had it only been a couple hours or... was Goku's time almost up?
If Goku left before we could beat Babidi and his monster, then that would leave only me... We'd need a hell of a strategy, with both Gohan and Vegeta gone...
I grimaced at the remembrance, briefly closing my eyes as I moved to rub my forehead.
And then it became very dark.
'What in the world..?' I opened my eyes, immediately leaning out of the window, my incredulous expression directed above me. Did it really get that dark that quickly up here? Because of how high up we were?
Was it Majin Buu..?
I blinked in slow realization. 'Or maybe it's... the dragon!'
Deciding my rest was over, I swung my legs over the window sill and dropped down two stories with the slightest of grunts before jogging over to the others (Goku having disappeared). "Hey," I called, gaining three pairs of eyes. "What's going on?"
Krillin called back "It's Shenron!" as I drew closer. "Bulma must've gathered the dragon balls to revive all the people killed at the tournament. That has to be it!"
"Oh..." I then arched an eyebrow. "That makes sense, but... Majin Buu is still on Earth... a lot more people could die..." And Gohan and Vegeta weren't on the list of those who perished at the tournament...
"Yes," Dende nodded, his unease showing. "And if Bulma uses both wishes now then we'll have to wait another year before we can use the dragon balls again."
I glanced wearily off to the side before looking back at the guardian. "Well I hope that's where Goku went."
"It is," Piccolo answered gravely.
Good...
The sky cleared up a few seconds later, taking some of our tension with it. Dende announced then that Goku was able to prevent a second wish from being made, and that we could summon Shenron again in only four months.
And just after a few more moments we were surrounded by people; the others!
I gasped quietly, spotting Videl and Bulma first before moving quickly towards them. "Bulma!"
She turned at my voice, sapphire eyes growing large. "Midori! Hey! Where on Earth have you been?!" Her expectant look quickly turned into concern. "What's wrong?" My pained expression must've said it all.
"It's..." How and when was I supposed to tell her? The thought alone was painstaking... "Please, just tell me where my son is..." I mumbled, more addressing her red attire than her.
The Ox King called over the crowd "Oh, he's right here, Midori!" I looked over at the large man, who had my sleeping three year-old tucked easily into one gargantuan arm like a football. "The little guy's been knocked out for a while. Didn't even budge when we called the dragon!"
No wonder I was having trouble finding him before...
Stopping in front of Chi-Chi's father (her and Goku right beside him) a hesitant laugh escaped my lips. "I really hope you don't mean that literally..."
He laughed heartily in response. "Oh no! Just sleeping real heavy is all!"
I uttered a breathful thanks, letting him maneuver the rousing child into my arms. Lattice seemed awake enough to smile and mumble "Hi mommy" before he turned his face into my neck, all without opening his eyes. Just hearing his little voice near my ear again flooded me with warmth and gratitude.
Even if he was already dead...
And as I was about to speak Chi-Chi beat me to it, lighthearted and smiling. "He was so well-behaved, Midori! I've never seen a young boy so well-mannered!" She then giggled softly. "Except for our Gohan, of course. Right, Goku?"
Gohan.
I inhaled deeply, an eyebrow twitching as I forced a (pained) smile. Glancing quickly at Goku I saw his grave expression before moving back towards Bulma.
"Now where'd you say Goten and Gohan are?" She asked a moment later.
Chi-Chi's question prompted Bulma to inquire as well "And what about my Trunks? And Vegeta?"
Their only answer was a collective silence; Goku very serious, Piccolo openly remorseful, and Krillin extremely nervous, while I avoided Bulma's looks.
'We shouldn't have to be doing this...' I thought, my chest aching anew for my wayward brother, and one of my best friends.
"Goku, where are my sons?"
A few more seconds passed, apprehension increasing until Krillin quietly urged the deceased saiyan to speak up.
And despite Goku's rock-hard exterior, "What I have to tell you isn't easy for me to say right now... but..." I easily picked up the slight waver in his voice. "Goten and Trunks are going to be alright... But... Gohan... and Vegeta are dead."
There was a chorus of shocked gasps throughout the devastated faces around me, and I unconsciously hugged my son tighter.
"Majin Buu... destroyed them both..."
Not another person spoke a word... not until Videl quietly and painfully uttered "But... Gohan he can't be... He just can't..!" and Chi-Chi fainted where she stood, her father crying out in alarm.
"Vegeta..."
I lifted my pained gaze to Bulma, seeing the succession of tears fall from her bright eyes. And when my brother's name left her lips again, it was at the top of her lungs, causing me to lightly cringe and Lattice to fully awaken.
Through her following forlorn cries my son straightened himself to look at everyone; one by one, Videl, Bulma, Yamcha, and the others, some in tears, all downtrodden.
He then turned to me, tiny hands on my shoulders as he asked quietly "Why is everyone sad, mommy?"
"Because," I mumbled back, eyes momentarily downcast. "We've lost two people that we love."
He pouted but said nothing more.
Yamcha was comforting Bulma as opposed to an unconscious Chi-Chi, who was being tended to by her father and husband...
I quickly looked away from the kneeling saiyan and sighed. 'It's not really fair to be wishing we could be holding each other through this, now is it?'
A light, hollow tapping caught my attention a moment later, and I glanced up just as the neighboring sky resident spoke. "Well, well..." Korin said, "You know, it's never easy dealing with the loss of loved ones." The white cat stood somberly next to Earth's guardian, cane leaned against his furry shoulder.
Goku offered a tired greeting.
"But I'm afraid there's no time for mourning, Goku. You have to take action. Even in this place, none of you are going to be safe for long!" A very serious truth. "From what I've seen, Majin Buu's power could soon gobble up this whole world..."
But then Piccolo spoke up. "Goku, what about the fusion?"
I stood a bit more erect at his words. 'Fusion?'
"Good thinking," Goku replied. "Mr. Popo, would you wake up Goten and Trunks?"
What did they have to do w—
"PEOPLE OF EARTH—"
All of us looked up in alarm.
"Can you hear me? Testing, one two."
Babidi... This couldn't be good...
Lattice craned his neck back. "That's not King Kai..."
I softly shushed my son as the wizard introduced himself to the entire world.
"—THE ALL-SEEING, ALL-KNOWING, ALL-POWERFUL WIZARD, BABIDI! Son of the all-seeing, all-knowing, all-powerful wizard Bibidi!"
One of my lower eyelids inched upward as he continued to toy with his listeners, ninety nine percent of whom probably couldn't comprehend what was happening.
"I'm so sorry to bother you like this, especially if you're having an otherwise pleasant day!"
Kais, stop the banter already...
"I too know what it's like to be PESTERED WHILE HAVING FUN! YOU SEE, EARLIER TODAY THREE NUISANCES DID JUST THAT! NOW I'M SIMPLY LOOKING TO RETURN THE FAVOR!"
'Shit...' I looked down at Bulma's sitting form. 'He's after me... and Gohan, and the Supreme Kai...' But, they'd already killed Gohan... and the Supreme Kai too..?
He then directed us to close our eyes for the "show", and as I did so images came to me; images that made me turn my head in disbelief.
"These are the three cretins that I'm looking for!"
Piccolo, Trunks, and Goten?
The boys had interfered... Then, maybe they thought I was dead too... and whatever happened after I left... that's why Babidi was after them...
"Get a good look at their ugly mugs, for they are the ones to blame for any and all destruction that may come your way!"
And without warning Babidi and Majin Buu could be seen overlooking a large city. The wizard announced that he was going to make an example out of it...
While Piccolo and Goku made frustrated exclamations, I breathed a deep, shuddering sigh. 'He's going to have Buu blow up the entire city...'
But what came next was completely different, and all the more disturbing. Bodies— thousands of them, began floating high above buildings. I could hear their terrified screams and see their distraught faces. And with a bright zap of pink light, an entire district of people had been—
My eyes popped open, twitching. 'CANDY?!'
They'd been turned into candy... and I didn't care to see what would happen afterwards.
"This is but a small taste of what will happen if you don't surrender!"
My teeth were clenched tightly, expression dark, as I shook my head. I only listened as they announced they were going to destroy the emptied city as well. And after all was said and done, Babidi stated that we had five days to show ourselves until the entire Earth was annihilated.
Soon after he cut the telepathic communication.
Piccolo suddenly exclaimed "DARN HIM!" while balling his fists. "Ugh, that demented wizard!"
Bulma moved to my side, teary eyes speaking murder as she latched a shaking hand onto my left forearm. "So—" Her voice wavered. "—those are the ones that took Gohan and Vegeta away from us?!" She then emitted her own frustrated cry.
Dende stepped forward. "And unless we do something quickly, for the next five days that list will keep on growing!"
Piccolo growled angrily at the shorter namekian's words. "There's no way I can allow that to happen! I'll show myself!"
Goku was quick to intervene. "No, that won't help anybody and you know it, Piccolo!" He then brought something up that I'd been distracted from before. "Stay... and help me teach Goten and Trunks the fusion technique..."
Goku implored Piccolo to not leave, and that this fusion technique was the only way to put an end to our nightmare... What exactly did he mean by that?
...
With my arms free of my son, I hurried around a corner of the upper floors of the lookout. "Wait, Goku!"
The man of interest stopped, turning halfway with raised eyebrows. "Hmm?"
It was just the two of us.
"Explain to me please," I started as I drew close enough to speak lower. "What exactly do you have planned for the boys?"
Because it was beginning to sound like he wanted children to fight our battle... again.
His brows lowered back into place. "I know you might not like this, but... Well, in short, Piccolo and I are going to be teaching Goten and Trunks how to fuse into a single being strong enough to beat Majin Buu..." He held a reasoning hand out to me. "With their combined powers I'm confident they have what it takes to get the job done." He then blinked as I began shaking my head.
"You know Gohan was three years older at the time, much more experienced and mature than these boys are, not to mention stronger, Goku." My eyebrows scrunched up in frustration at his unwavering stance. "I'm stronger than both of them combined! Why do you think—"
"Because they'll be fusing as super saiyans," he interrupted, leaving me with my mouth open and eyes narrowed. "As strong as they already are... like Gohan, we can't afford to doubt the young."
His expression was near blank... with an odd, slight tint of some knowing look in his eyes as he began turning away from me. "You of all people should know that, growing up how you did..."
With Broly and his unspeakable strength, from day one...
'Fused super saiyans... still...' I squeezed my eyes shut for a moment before leaping forward and grabbing his wrist. "Just—wait!"
But before I could speak again he was laughing gently, and placed even gentler hands on my shoulders. "Don't worry," he said softly. "I wouldn't steer you or anyone else I care about wrong. I promise."
Goku...
The uncalled for urge to run my hands up his chest was far too strong, and when his hands fell away from my shoulders, my chest felt oddly bloated. "That's... not..." My eyes slid shut as I shook my head once more, before looking at him. "I was going to say... what about us?"
His bottom lip poked out a bit as he blinked. "Whad'you mean..?"
Raising a hesitant hand to his chest I asked quietly, "What if we fused?" and when I touched a light index finger to Goku's blue undershirt, his trailing eyes widened. "Don't you think we'd be unstoppable..?"
He then rose his subtly shocked gaze to me and stared for a few moments before a sad smile took his lips. "We would be..." He replied in the same caring tone, covering my outstretched hand with his. "But our power levels have to be almost the same to perform the technique, and... sadly—" a short laugh escaped him. "We'd also have to be the same gender."
Goku held my hand up, and then clapped his other hand over it in a sort of begging gesture as he looked at me a bit sheepishly. "So pleeease believe me when I say that this is the best way?" He then let go.
"I..." As hard as it was to swallow... "I understand..."
He grinned at me, his big teeth showing. "Great! I was hoping you'd be able to help the boys, too!"
Of course...
...
Breaking the news to the boys went as I'd expected, with crying and wails, and brief denial, then anger. They'd questioned Goku, and me. Why had I left? Why wasn't Goku there? Why weren't either of us able to save Gohan and Vegeta?
Eventually we were able to move past the rawness; with some sharp words from Goku, Trunks and Goten understood the gravity of the situation and were ready to learn and fight... But, as each of us became more steeled for the lesson to come, it seemed we wouldn't be able to get any actual work done, because...
"Your attention please, Earthlings! It's me again, the great wizard, Babidi!"
I nearly rolled my eyes.
Apparently Babidi and Majin Buu had been "sight seeing"... And wherever they were had no good fortune coming its way, because Babidi was making allusions to his pet monster eating those inhabitants as well... despite their real appetite for the boys and Piccolo...
Trunks was looking around in bewilderment. "Why is that wizard guy talking about us?"
"Idunno!" Goten answered, "But if you close your eyes you can see him, too!"
Piccolo roughly demanded "Don't do it! Don't close your eyes!" but it was too late... the boys were witnessing what I'd only opted to listen to again.
Maybe it was for the best... Even though they were children, they had to see for real—what they were really dealing with. I'm sure Goku felt the same as he kept quiet, making no effort to stop them.
Even as Babidi let us know that the townspeople had been turned into chocolate—and the boys cried out at what was no doubt a gruesome sight—Goku still kept quiet.
Even when they blew up the city and announced they were off to destroy the next—
"BABIDI!" Trunks called out of nowhere, causing me to turn sharply. "MAJIN BUU! CAN YOU HEAR ME?! THIS IS TRUNKS!"
"AND I'M GOTEN!"
What in the—
I dashed over to my nephew, faster than a mother catching a falling baby's neck, both hands going for his mouth. He swiftly ducked between my legs, but in a split second I was able to catch him around the face with my tail. "Don't say another word!" I hissed angrily as he attempted to yank the furry gag from his mouth.
"So, the two of you have decided to find some courage!"
"Don't even think about it..." I growled through gritted teeth, sharp eyes boring down into Trunks, and then Goten. And as Babidi could be heard hello-ing loudly, I yanked Trunks around to my front side, glaring. "Ignore Babidi for now! Save your words for the fight, both of you. Got it?" I allowed my tail to slink away from my nephew's face as he glared at the ground, gaze murderous and fists clenched at his sides.
But as I turned to face Goten again, Trunks suddenly yelled "WE'VE DECIDED TO FIND YOU!"
That damn—
"AND YOU DON'T WANNA KNOW WHAT WE HAVE IN STORE FOR THAT DAY!"
Goten added "IT WON'T BE PRETTY!"
Piccolo stepped forward then. "YOU TWO—STOP TALKING TO HIM OR HE'LL FIND US!"
Neither Goten nor Trunks uttered another word, but seemed on edge as if they would, gazes lifted as Babidi called out for them.
I looked over in exasperation at Goku (Babidi cackling away in the background), but he seemed very calm... with an easy smirk. One eyebrow lowering, I urged "Talk to these boys, Goku."
The deceased saiyan leaned his head to the side in a casual manner, eyes briefly sliding my way before he straightened himself, hands moving to his hips. "I think it's time we got started," he said, smiling. "Whad'you say?"
The boys nodded in steely resolution.
I let out a deep sigh, my previously sprinting heartbeat lowering to a slow jog. 'Good...' It was about time.
Within the next few minutes Goku began describing the technique. But, as I stood to his left, my browline gradually rose with each new detail. And so there I was, staring at the floor incredulously, arms folded and an eyebrow arched in an exaggerated manner.
"The fusion technique is kind of like a dance. You have to perform a specific series of movements, and your timing has to be right on."
We were going to be dancing. Dancing. Who had time to dance? Would Majin Buu let us dance? Probably not!
Or maybe that silly, pink thing would find it so odd that he lets us get away with it.
"It's not that difficult to learn, but, it does take a lot of practice. So, if you're ready, we'll begin."
The boys responded to the invitation with their own incredulous looks.
Goku's eyes widened a bit. "Come on, guys, what's wrong?"
Trunks blinked. "You know... I don't think this fusion stuff's as great as you say."
Neither did I, but it was all we had...
To his bluntness, Goku merely smiled. "Why don't you just give it a shot?"
"Okay, but it sounds kinda stupid if you ask me." The lavender-haired child looked to his feet, mumbling "I mean it's not like we're gonna beat Majin Buu by dancing on him..."
Even so, they prepared (as per Goku's request) by powering up to their maximum as super saiyans. The mood was a bit more light-hearted than before, Trunks snickering a bit when he realized Goten couldn't raise his energy high enough for them to be matched.
I found myself faintly smirking at the children. 'It is impressive, though. They're stronger than I thought they would be.' But, the sense of pride I was feeling... it was bittersweet.
"Attention Earthings, attention!"
I growled openly in annoyance then, sick of all his interruptions.
The kids (having powered down) glared up as well.
"So sorry to bother you once again, but I've recently acquired some information I couldn't wait to pass along." The wizard sounded distinctly pleased...
This time I closed my eyes along with the others. And there they were, master and monster (dancing in the background).
"You know Trunks, I am very eager to meet you. And if I can't get you to come to me, then I'll just have to come to where you live..." The threatening tone Babidi took was accompanied by an outstretched hand.
I swallowed with growing anger at what he was saying.
"It's a place called Capsule Corporation, and it's located in West City. I hope that you're there to see me when I arrive, because if you're not, then your friends and your family will have to pay the price."
Oh hell no...
I opened my eyes, teeth clenched tightly. 'The Briefs are still there...' I could always use my instant transmission...
Bulma rushed into the room then. "I just heard everything!" She exclaimed, moving closer to Goku. "My mother and father are going to be killed!"
Goku seemed completely at ease once again. "Don't worry about it, we can just bring them back with the dragon balls!"
I zoned out a bit, thinking of Bulma's parents and how much I owed them. 'But they decided to stay there even when Goku went to bring everybody here...' Maybe, with the threat more real, they would come back with me.
I happened to look over, hard expression turning confused when I noticed Goku down on his knees, smiling, with his arms raised up.
"-ask really nice, Shenron will let us wish for two new wishes!"
I squinted my left eye 'What..?' turning slowly to look at Bulma, who rolled her eyes when our gazes met.
Piccolo questioned "Would that work?"
"Sure, why not?"
"Well," Piccolo replied, a hand going to his chin in thoughtfulness. "I suppose it wouldn't hurt anything to ask him."
Desperate times, they say...
"Listen!" Bulma interrupted. "If we let Majin Buu get to the west city and destroy it, then he'll destroy the dragon radar, Goku!"
Those words wiped the smile from Goku's face. "Ohhh... Yeah, that does pose a problem..." He folded his arms, seemingly deep in thought.
I glanced from him to Bulma, and then back. "I'm going," I said in a finalizing manner, fists clenched as I moved towards the door that lead outside. "I'll bring back the radar and hopefully your parents, too."
I heard a small clapping sound as Bulma cried "Thank you!"
"Hey, Dori!"
I paused, looking over my shoulder at Goku.
"While you do that, I'll get in front of Babidi, and Majin Buu, and try to slow them down." He was smirking again.
One corner of my lips curled upward at his words and I nodded gratefully. But as I looked ahead again, my mouth turned a bit crooked as one of my eyebrows twitched. 'Ugh, don't look at me like that...'
Not when I wanted to put my lips right over that smirk... I just hoped he'd be alright...
"I'm going too!" It was Trunks that time, running after me.
I opened my mouth to protest, but then thought it wouldn't be such a bad idea to let the boy see his grandparents one more time... "Alright... grab on then."
Trunks hooked his hand around my belt tightly when Bulma approached us.
"Trunks, you gotta promise!" She said, leaning down with a motherly smile. "Please come back here if things get too dangerous for you guys!"
"I promise—" he started, holding a sporting fist up. "Nothing's gonna happen to aunt Midori while I'm around!"
With my fingers on my forehead I chuckled, Bulma also emitting a soft giggle. "Okay, off we go."
A moment later we were standing on the front lawn of Capsule Corporation. The air was lighter and temperature warmer, but Majin Buu's energy was much heavier than before.
They were close.
I Whipped my head around to search the skies behind us but wasn't able to see any sign of them. "Okay, come on." We jogged into the building, through the reception area and towards the living quarters.
"Grandpaaa!" Trunks ran ahead of me then.
"DOC!" I called out loudly, my long stride keeping me close to my nephew. "PANCHY!" I turned my head quickly with each room I passed by.
"I'd like all of you people of the world to watch this! A perfect example of what will happen to anyone who tries to stand in our way!"
I stopped abruptly, a touch of anxiety reaching my heart. 'Goku...' Closing my eyes without thinking, images of the evil duo staring down Goku came to me. They were just on the outskirts of the city, high above the ocean.
The deceased saiyan immediately powered up, blond hair standing on end, small streaks of electricity shooting around him. I could feel it easily—his level two.
A tiny "whoa" came from the far end of the hall and I briefly cracked an eye open to catch Trunks staring up incredulously. "Unreal... Goten's dad... He must be as strong as... as my dad..."
I proceeded forward slowly with my eyes shut, fingertips gliding across the wall to my left. "He is, Trunks... I know for a fact that he's stronger than me and has been as long as I've known him."
"But—but you and dad are like the same right? Is he stronger than dad?!"
Before today... the answer would have been a definite yes. But, I couldn't get into the events that took place outside of the tournament with Trunks... Not when Vegeta wasn't present to explain for himself. It would only cause unnecessary anger and confusion for my nephew and we were on a mission.
"I don't know..." I answered quietly. Goku's confident smirk seemed so real in my head, like I was actually there, beside him. "I just know he's stronger than me..."
Babidi had been taunting Goku's transformation, prompting Earth's hero to respond with "I'm guessing an ascended super saiyan isn't much of a challenge for you!" But the look on his face—the bold grin in the face of danger—said otherwise, like he had plenty of fight for the pink monster. "So how 'bout I take it up to the next level?!"
I opened both eyes then, my neck pulling my head back as I gave the wall a dubious look. 'Did I hear that right?'
Wait...
Realizing I was alone, I blinked in surprise, then made a mad dash down the hall, around a corner, then another. 'Goku's not supposed to be fighting, just stalling!' I thought while making my way towards the bio chamber. 'We have to hurry and find the radar...'
The door was straight ahead and Trunks was already talking to his grandparents when I ran in, coming to somewhat of a bouncy stop.
"You're not listening to me! Grandpa, where do we keep the dragon radar?"
I moved next to Mrs. Brief. "Please let us know quickly."
Mr. Brief moved his surprised eyes from Trunks to me. "Dragon Radar?"
I nodded in affirmative.
The doctor looked up, Scratch (the cat) continuing to watch me with her large feline eyes. "Uhhhh, welll... the last time I saw it... it was... ummm..."
While my jaw dropped in disbelief Trunks suddenly blurted out "Hurry up!"
"Alright, all-right!" Mr. Brief held his hands up as if surrendering, slowly rising from his seat. "Let's take a look in one of the storage rooms, shall we?"
As I followed Bulma's father and son, their voices seemed to fade away, along with my concentration. Whatever they might've said went over my head, because with my eyes closed again all I could hear and see was Goku; Goku beginning to channel energy, leaning forward with an intense expression as he spoke words that slowed my steps—words that made my breath catch—words ground out forcefully—
"AND THIS... IS—TO GO—EVEN FURTHER BEYOND!"
—as his power level soared through the roof.
No, the atmosphere was more like it!
POP—CRASH
The sound of Goku's screams, and the image of him engulfed in a ball of super saiyan energy, were ripped away from me as I opened my eyes in alarm. Broken picture frames littered the hallway, along with expensive plates, all in pieces. The hall lights were buzzing and flickering, and as I passed under one it popped loudly, causing me to flinch.
"Shit!" I was left in darkness. Both ahead and behind me I could hear the shocked and confused exclamations of the Briefs.
The entire foundation of Capsule Corporation was trembling; Goku's energy was... beyond intense! Even without the reverberations on the Earth, there was no ignoring it, no getting around it. Like not being able to swat the bee near your ear, or step back from the heat of a fire; like something right in your face...
And as I found myself traversing the winding halls, the level of energy continued to increase, momentarily overwhelming me. 'How is he doing that?' I took a deep breath through parted lips, hand unconsciously rubbing my chest. 'It really is unreal...'
In that moment my mind did something it always did when in a similar situation... Flashes of Broly...
'But...'
I found myself out on the balcony, having forsaken my search. The clouds in the sky were moving unnaturally fast... I could hear the distant screeches of West City's terrified populace... It was like something out of a doomsday movie. But those people could never have any way of knowing what was coming... their lucky break... and a true phenomena of saiyan strength.
'I wonder... if he's surpassed the legend...'
I walked past the rattling lawn furniture and to the edge of the balcony as if under a trance. While my hands slowly grasped the railing I stared up, brow furrowed and jaw slackened . "...Amazing..." I breathed out.
He'd been powering up for so long... when would it end?
But...I could see him again... exploding with bright light... throat-bleeding screams of the likes I'd never heard... and when the light died down...
Wow...
I almost... didn't recognize the man whose face haunted my mind every day and every night... With a suddenly bulging and lowered brow he seemed caveman-like... not to mention the lack of eyebrows... But his hair... it would've fallen past his butt if it weren't floating behind him. And of course, his physique had reached a new pinnacle...
Was this the new super saiyan?
"I'm sorry that took so much longer than the others," Goku said through a calm smirk and a noticeably deepened pitch. He then let out a small, breathful laugh. "But I haven't had much occasion to practice this one. This is what I call a super saiyan three."
...Three?
'Okay...' I nodded slowly, trying to come to terms with what I'd just witnessed. 'He's surpassed me and Vegeta... and left us both in the dust...'
There was... this sense of intimidation in me... despite my brain telling me there was something good happening. Yes... good; especially good when Goku grabbed Majin Buu by his tentacle and spent a full minute pounding his head in before sending him crashing into the city. The explosion could be felt from my location.
Watching Goku was unlike anything I'd ever watched; maybe like Gohan, when he fought Cell... The smoothness, and speed, and strength. He was taking blows that would've landed me six feet under, and shrugging them off. It was nerve-wracking...
"Buu have fun playing with you, you strong!"
I shook my head.
"Thanks." The saiyan replied smoothly. "So are you."
And despite what was taking place... there was a part of me that acknowledged the newfound melting power of Goku's voice. All he had to do was murmur something—anything—in my ear and I'd probably just—
"Hey Dori... you guys really need to get a move-on..."
My eyes popped open and hands flew off of the rail as if it were burning hot. "R-right!" I took off quickly back into the house, but then skidded to a halt, shaking one fist as my enlarged eyes stared at the floor. 'Why didn't I ask before?!'
Concentrating as hard as could, I reached out with my mind.
'Piccolo.'
'Piccolo!'
"...Piccolo?!"
A gruff "What?" entered my mind.
"Bulma just used the dragon radar to summon Shenron, didn't she? Ask her where she put it!"
A few moments later "Midori, it's in the airplane!"
"Okay!" I took one step forward and—
BOOM!
A violent jolt sent me stumbling sideways and into the couch, where I plopped down without meaning to. Following that were wind gusts that blew so hard into the room that a few pillows tumbled away from me and onto the partially flapping rug.
"Kais!" I gaped at the balcony for a few seconds as it was bathed in white light, waiting for the nearby fireworks die down.
...
Back on the front lawn I let out a tired sigh as Trunks bounced impatiently on his feet next to me and Mr. Brief produced a capsule case.
When he threw the capsule out, it opened with a loud poom, smoke shrouding the yellow aircraft. When it was visible, the door slid open and I hopped in to look for the device.
I grinned at the beautiful sight in the front row that was the round, dragon ball-locating machine and snatched it up. "Got it!"
Hopping back out I immediately held a hand to Trunks, "Let's hurry back now." then looked up to the Briefs, who seemed like their normal selves. "You two please come with me. I don't want you to get hurt, or worse."
Panchy held an hand up, waving my words off with a sweet smile. "Oh honey, it's like I told Bulma—if something happens to us, you all can use the dragon balls to wish us back!"
Her husband nodded in agreement.
I sighed, smiling back sadly. "I understand... Goodbye for now then." And with Trunks already grasping my wrist, we left the Briefs, and Capsule Corporation.
"HEY!" Krillin exclaimed as soon as I looked up. "HEADS UP, GUYS! THEY'RE BACK!"
We were greeted by a barrage of relieved welcome-backs, Bulma instantly by our side, Goten and Lattice close behind.
My son raised his arms high as he came to a stop in front of me. "Yay! Mommy's back!"
After surrendering the radar to Bulma I got down on one knee . "That's right," I said with a smirk, "Now c'mere, little boy." With Lattice snug against my left side, I sighed contently, arm draped around him loosely as I ran my fingers through his black locks.
Goten was suddenly to my right, restless fists raised. "Dori, did you see my dad?! Huh?!"
With my mind briefly going back to what I'd seen, a tired laugh escaped me. "I sure did..." Looking at the little round-faced version of Goku made me smile. "Your father's an amazing man, don't ever forget that."
And just as Goten's grin increased two-fold, a much larger version of himself appeared just behind him.
My eyes widened as I looked up. "There you are."
Goku had returned to his normal state, though the fighting had taken a clear toll; he was sweating profusely, and when he laughed it was somewhat breathless.
With my son having wriggled his way out of my arms to greet Goku, I stood and watched the taller saiyan silently. While Bulma, Krillin, and the kids surrounded him, I kept back (as did Piccolo) to observe.
'It makes sense that a new transformation like that would be hard to handle,' I thought, eyebrows knitting up a bit. 'But he was moving so flawlessly before... I've never seen him this tired after powering down... considering he hardly took any damage...'
But what did I know? I'd only seen him fight a handful of times.
That's when Goku's friendly smile dropped, and he looked away from us and towards the edge of the lookout. When Piccolo inquired as to what it was, Goku replied "It's... Majin Buu."
I moved to his side. "He's destroyed something else, hasn't he?" I asked lowly.
"Well... he's... he's—"
"He's what?" Piccolo cut in.
"He's killed Babidi," Goku finally responded.
I stood straighter, shocked at the news.
And it probably wasn't good news... To answer my pondering, lights from down below brightened one half of the lookout, drawing our startled bodies closer to overlook.
I could hear a distant rumble... but even so, Majin Buu was too close for my liking.
After Goku had demonstrated the intricate fusion technique to the boys he stepped to the side, breathing deeply as he instructed them to try it once.
Piccolo was eyeing the deceased saiyan as he spoke, taking mental notes of his old rival's persisting fatigue. The namekian then commented "Hey, you don't look so good, Goku. Even for you."
Goku sent a quick smirk over his shoulder. "Thanks, but I'll be alright. Just a little tired..." But his words were laced with more air than someone who was just a little tired. "Yeah, it's nothing, really."
And just to prove him wrong, a simple shifting of weight from one foot to the other felt as if he were shifting around cinder clocks, and a small bout of fuzziness hit his head. He couldn't hold back an uncomfortable noise.
"Well," he started back up, "You kids go ahead and try it and I'll be right back." He turned to leave the room where everyone had gathered.
Bulma watched her friend walking out with a hesitantly raised hand. "Goku, where are you going? You only have less than an hour left, right?"
An inconvenient product of his unplanned transformation.
"Yeah!" He responded with a slight laugh once in the doorway. "I'm just grabbing some water, that's all!" He happened to catch Piccolo's unwavering stare one more time before exiting the room and making his way down the hall.
Just three doors down he entered a room with a rectangular dinner table and made a grab for the water pitcher and glass. He then blinked. "Uh—oh?"
Over to his left sat Midori on the far end, one leg crossed over the other with her hands folded casually in her lap. Her stare was dull, until she looked down and away, seemingly upset.
He offered a small smile. "What are you doing here all by yourself?" He poured himself some water, but then tilted his head a bit in confusion. "I thought you were watching with everyone else? I was hoping you could learn the fusion to help the boys."
"I saw it..." She replied meekly. "I just needed some air..."
It didn't sit well with him, her timid tone, so he turned to fully face her with a concerned expression. "What's wrong?"
Before speaking, her eyebrows rose and she shook her head while still looking down. "You're leaving again, right when we need you the most..." She then looked up at him, expression pained. "And now our little children have to fight for us."
Goku sighed, turning to face the wall to his front side as he took a large drink of water.
Midori was sensitive and sentimental, unlike Vegeta; something Goku appreciated yet had forgotten more than once. But he wouldn't try to convince her of the quality of his plan anymore; they'd already had that conversation. However, he did need to make sure she was still on board.
Glancing at the female saiyan from the corner of his eye, Goku then said "I'm sorry things have turned out the way they have. I know how close you and Vegeta had become, and how much you love my sons. But..."
"And my son..." Midori mumbled. "He's leaving early with you, isn't he?"
Goku, who was going to go on about how much the boys would need her after he left, blinked in surprise. "Oh... that's right..." Goku briefly looked up, scratching his head guiltily. "I uh—"
"It's fine... I don't want him here now, anyway. Not with what's going on..."
Goku nodded while replying with a tiny "Mm", watching as she rose from her seat and stepped slowly towards him. But when those footsteps brought her closer than normal personal space allowed, he found himself stiffening under her glossy stare, his own eyes widening. The "Dori..?" that left his mouth was quiet, with a touch of confusion.
Despite his physical unresponsiveness, Midori slid her arms under his. Such an act of unforeseen affection caused Goku's breathing to became shallow as her chest eased into his, and her chin locked perfectly into place over his shoulder. With warm hands gently rubbing his back and a contented sigh tickling his ear, Earth's hero was a stunned, rapidly blinking statue, arms raised cautiously.
The laugh that proceeded to bubble up from Goku's throat was short and awkward as he stared down at her slowly swaying tail. "Uhhh, heeey, I promise everything's gonna be okay..." He then reached up to grab a gentle hold of her shoulders. Goku opened his mouth then, about to ask her to return to the others with him, and at that exact moment she lifted her head up to gaze directly into his eyes, immediately stopping him. A mere inch separated them... but only their faces, abdomens essentially still glued together.
Silence... accompanied by a funny feeling in Goku's chest and Midori's smoldering gaze. 'That look in her eyes again...' The taller saiyan gulped nervously. 'I~ should back up now...' He thought while letting his fingers slip down and away from her forearms.
But she was still holding onto him, and a bit snugly, Goku noted. And as he reached back to grasp her wrists, Midori's toes made their small height difference disappear, and her nose was suddenly touching his, breasts firmly pressed into his pecks. With just a split second for his eyes to flicker forward, but not enough for his emotions to catch up, she'd then tilted her head to press her lips fully (yet tenderly) against his.
He couldn't think for a moment. Couldn't register anything other than the fingers curling into his gi and her mouth capturing his.
'Wha—huh?' Goku inhaled a deep breath at the intimate gesture, eyes gradually widening, and when Midori pulled away the subtle sound that their lips made was deafeningly loud to him.
Two steps back placed Midori at a safer distance from Goku. Her expression was less dismal than before, proved by the slightest quirk of a smile as she tucked a tendril of hair behind her right ear. "We should get back to the others now," she stated calmly, then looked down.
Meanwhile Goku, who was swallowing down some sort of choked, anxious sound, stared at Midori through owlish eyes.
With her fingers still resting on her cheek she glanced up at him, continuing to say "I won't mention this... if you don't..." The female saiyan then sent him one last serious, low-lidded glimpse before leaving the room, her curving tail the last thing out.
A second later Goku leaned forward with slightly bent knees and hands raised incredulously, one of his furrowed eyebrows twitching. His mouth formed a small 'o' shape, a loud WHAT ready to slip from his tongue. "Man..." He whispered instead, voice as high as its capacity allowed; almost squeaky. "Where did that come from?!"
That specific look she'd given him beforehand... He'd gotten it enough times to know something was going on in her head, but he'd never once imagined it would be—a kiss!
With sweat trickling down the side of his face, all Goku could imagine next was getting maimed by Vegeta on his return to Otherworld, but not before Chi-Chi awoke from her unconscious state to deliver her own beat-down...
...
"Start over again from the top, guys. And remember this time to stay in time with the rhythm," Goku instructed, proceeding to clap his hands to aid the boys in their synchronizing efforts. "One-two, one-two, one-two..."
I sat back against the wall behind him, left leg straight out, right knee up. Lattice sat in my lap. Everyone else that wasn't going to be involved in the kids' training had gone back outside.
And so I watched with a heavy sigh as the boys attempted their technique again, with a bit more finesse than than the last try, but not quite right.
"Mommy, they look funny..." Lattice mumbled, leaning back into my chest and looking up at me with blinking eyes.
A quick smirk changed my expressionless face as I glanced down. "Yeah they do," I murmured back. But when I looked up at the two boys and men again, my main focus was Goku.
He had walked in before with an odd expression on his face, managing to avoid looking in my direction, but soon seemed more at ease after delving back into his work.
My eyelids lowered slowly as I studied the wrinkles in the back of his shirt, an uncomfortable feeling sprouting inside me.
Sadness.
'What a mess of a day this has been...' Knowing what was to come, and at any minute, I grabbed my son under his arms, lifting him up to turn him my way.
He blinked in surprise, little feet tripping over my thigh, hands grabbing my forearms as I brought him to a stand. "I wanna seeeee..." He whined, pouting a bit.
"You will in a minute, but I have to tell you a secret..."
This perked Lattice's attention, his head tilting to the side cutely.
I leaned my forehead into his, making sure to keep eye contact as I uttered a soft "I love you... very much."
Lattice blinked, pulling back before he broke into a grin. "That's not a secret!"
I chuckled at his response, straightening up. "Well, I'm glad..." I responded gently. "Now can you keep a secret? A different one?"
My son's eyes widened as one of his hands shot up, and he exclaimed in a whisper "Yes!"
I nodded once, a weak smile finding my lips as I said quietly "I want you to wait until you get back to the other world with Goku... and tell him that I love him, too... very much." I could see the way Lattice's mind was working through his slowly widening eyes, but he probably didn't understand the weight of my words. "Just promise me you'll keep it a secret until after you leave... Don't say anything... until you and Goku are in Otherworld..." With those last few words I could feel my chest becoming heavy.
Lattice then nodded his head a few vigorous times, grinning at me while I tried my best to smile back.
Sigh...
'Hmm?' I noticed that the boys had stopped practicing and were beaming at Goku over something I hadn't caught.
Trunks asked excitedly "Instead of wasting our time with this boring old fusion thing, wouldn't me and Goten be a lot better off if we became super saiyan three?!"
"Yeah!" Goten added. "I'm sure we can beat Majin Buu then!"
As the boys laughed over the idea, I arched an eyebrow at their antics, lips curled a bit in distaste and head shaking. 'These two are still so young and have so much to learn...'
A firm "You can't" from Goku caused their laughter to cease and my eyes to dart over to him. "The only way you two boys can beat Majin Buu is by fusing together! Just trust me on this one!"
Trunks and Goten complied with Goku's command, but appeared sulky. This caused the older saiyan to tilt his head. "Hmm... they look so sad..." Goku said. "Fine, I'll show you the super saiyan three just one time!" He decided in a more jovial tone, instantly uplifting the kids' spirits.
But if transforming like that before drained virtually all of his time... wouldn't this be it?
The end of his time here...
I glanced down, unconsciously wrapping my arms tighter around Lattice.
"Be smart, Goku!" Piccolo exclaimed from beside him. "You'll lose what little time you have left on Earth!"
"I'm already out of time, Piccolo," Goku responded calmly. He then called for Trunks and Goten to watch closely.
I sat up a bit straighter, Piccolo smartly backing up in my direction. 'Should we even be in the same room with him when he does this..?' Being emotionally drained as I was, I couldn't bring myself to make any comment, and instead watched on in slight unease as Goku powered up to a base super saiyan.
"First, turn super saiyan!"
The boys nodded.
Goku powered up again, causing ki currents to move my hair and Piccolo's cape.
"Then you go one step beyond that to a super saiyan two! An ascended saiyan!"
Goten and Trunks nodded once more, their wondrous eyes large, hair also blown back.
"Then—"
The deceased saiyan paused, energy suddenly flaring—nearly knocking Piccolo off of his sturdy feet—causing me to curl into my knees from momentary blindness.
"THIS NEXT ENERGY—HAS TO COME FROM DEEP INSIDE! PUSH HARD TO FIND IT!"
And indeed he did, his guttural screams increasing as he drowned us in intense super saiyan energy.
It felt as if I were being forcibly pressed against the stone wall behind me by a group of people also holding high-powered blow driers to my face, and just when it was becoming too much Goku stopped.
"Ugh..." I blinked my squinted eyes as Lattice made me sit up, having stood from my protective hold.
He clapped his little hands, smiling brightly, meanwhile Goten and Trunks could be seen climbing back into the room from the ledge they'd nearly been blown off of.
Goku was the first to speak, pitch lower and tone even. "Tap into that and you become a super saiyan three." But, only a few seconds after those words left his mouth...
—!
Not thinking, I shot to my feet as Goku fell to one knee. 'It was too much...' I noted somberly. 'After everything he went through before...' Advancing a few steps (Lattice on my heel) I frowned at the sound of Goku's haggard breathing.
"Don't worry about me, I'm alright," Goku called weakly, halting Piccolo's and my approach. He then stood, continuing to tell the awe-struck boys "Let's get back to work."
But my nephew and Goku's son had barely enough time to nod when the familiar, droning voice of Baba interrupted with "Goku..."
Damn-it...
The time I'd been dreading since Goku informed us of his shortened stay had come, and I felt numb as I held my son's hand all the way from the second-story room to where the others were, outside.
Master Roshi let out a hard sigh. "Things aren't the same around here without you, Goku." A sentiment I could agree with. "These guys won't let me have any fun."
I blinked slowly at the tile, a faint smirk finding my lips.
"We'll miss you," Bulma added sincerely.
"Goku..." Krillin started with a sad smile. "You still think about us when you're in Otherworld, uh, don'tchu, buddy?"
"Yeah!" Goku answered easily, smiling in reassurance.
Taking in a breath to clear the fuzziness from my head, I then cleared my throat. "Speaking of Otherworld..." I said, bringing my lowered gaze up to meet Goku's slightly widened eyes.
Reaching back, I then pulled Lattice from behind my thigh so he was in front of me. The boy had a thumb in his mouth, moody expression telling his dislike for leaving.
I sighed softly, facing the taller saiyan again. "Goku... I want you to take care..." Forcing myself to hold his gaze was interrupting the steadiness of my heartrate. His expression was unreadable. "And... like always, I'd appreciate it if you keep looking after my son, too..."
There was a subtle raising of his eyebrows, then a soft smile as he also sighed, nodding. "Of course."
But what was really going through his mind..?
I quickly nodded back, my smile instead directed back at the floor. "Okay, baby..." I then murmured softly. "It's that time again."
Lattice gave a small whine of protest, so I got down on one knee to speak gently to his face. "This is not goodbye," I said while pulling him in with one arm. "Because I will see you again in the future..."
As I watched his sad puppy eyes up close I couldn't help but think over what I'd just said; that the future... could be much sooner than expected...
I could feel my throat thickening up and made the conscious decision to wrap things up quickly. "Alright..." I mumbled shakily, trailing my other hand from the top of his head over to his left cheek. "Be good, my love..." Rising slightly so that my knees were still bent, I then pushed him in Goku's direction.
He stumbled forward a bit, having resisted my push, and stopped as soon as I'd removed my hands. I couldn't see Lattice's face, but his head was hanging low when he eventually stepped slowly over to Goku's side.
Earth's hero received him with a pat on the head and a gentle "It's okay, buddy. We're goin' home now."
Bulma moved silently to my side then, running a comforting hand up and down my left arm. I glanced over, offering a quick appreciative look.
"GOKU!"
All eyes were suddenly on Chi-Chi as she dashed out of the building.
"NOOO!" She ran directly into his arms, already sobbing as soon as her face came in contact with his chest.
And like a husband should, Goku held his wife with loving arms.
I averted my eyes as the two stood in their spousal embrace, Goku murmuring convincing words to his wife that Goten would be alright, and that she wouldn't be alone with their youngest child still around.
"I'll tell Gohan how much you really miss him when I see him there," he eventually said.
My burning discomfort was then interrupted as Videl quickly stated "You won't" from behind Goku.
'And why's that, Videl..?' I wondered, sliding my sights over to the determined girl.
"I know—Gohan is still alive. I'm sure of it!" When verbally questioned by the deceased saiyan she replied "I don't know, I just feel him beating in my heart..."
Such an answer did something to me—to my heart—causing me to inhale a sharp breath and turn away from everyone, Bulma giving me a questioning look as I pulled against her grip.
'Shit... don't cry..!' I commanded stiffly inside my head.
It wasn't even about Gohan, despite missing him greatly.
Those words... beating in my heart... They'd associated themselves with Goku in my brain subconsciously; without my permission... Slamming me hard with the notion that while Goku would also be gone from us, he'd still be beating in my heart.
I wanted to slap myself... shake myself by the shoulders, demanding to know why I'd chosen to torture myself in such a way for so long... letting it get so bad.
When I finally looked up, lips slightly parted and eyes teary, Goku was holding his sniffling son in a tight hug. When he put the boy down, it was with a soft utterance of pride for Goten, and as soon as Goten's small feet touched the tile again, Goku's lifted from it.
My heart felt sick, watching as my son also hovered beside Goku, and both of them began lifting away with Baba like they'd done before.
"SO LONG, EVERYBODY!" Goku called down with one last grin as they were pulled away from us.
I waved a tired hand while watching my son, who was still watching me with a pout, the others farewell-ing loudly around me.
And just before the three faded from view, Goku got in a "GOOD LUCK FIGHTING MAJIN BUU! I'LL SEE YOU ALL SOONER OR LATER!"
And they were gone... back to the land of the dead...
'Sooner or later...' I thought as my hand lowered to my side. 'I guess that's up to us, now isn't it?'
Some ten minutes later found Goku and Lattice at the Otherworld check-in station, and having found out that Gohan had not checked in...
"WOO-HOO! HAHA-HAHA!" Goku soared across the thick, yellow clouds that Snake Way wove through, doing back flips and gliding down the more slanted areas of the trail. "ALL-RIGHT! YEAH!"
As Goku continued to laugh joyfully, he was soon joined by his small sidekick giggling over his shoulder.
Lattice was hanging onto the older saiyan's shoulders through the whole ride, his mentor's unabashed happiness having worked him out of his bad mood.
"Can you believe it?!" Goku exclaimed, letting his arms run through the surrounding walls of clouds he jetted through. "Gohan is still alive! This is great!"
Lattice then asked "Where did he gooo?" while wrapping his arms around Goku's neck.
The older saiyan came to an upside-down stop, clouds still somewhat swirling around him. "That's a good question... Why haven't I been able to sense his energy anywhere?" He brought a thoughtful hand to his mouth before he glanced over at his pupil's face (and long hair) hanging beside his. "Well, let's see..." Goku said whilst righting his position.
It didn't take very long for Goku to find his oldest son's life force, strong as it suddenly was, causing the father to gasp.
"But it feels like he's up here somewhere... not on Earth..." He hummed thoughtfully, watching the winding body of Snake Way stretch into the distance. "Supreme Kai must be behind this!" He realized out loud.
"The really big Kai?"
As if realizing he wasn't alone for the first time, Goku's shoulders jumped a bit and he blinked in surprise. "Oh, yeah!" He then smiled, pulling Lattice off of him and letting the boy float. "Speaking of big Kais—do you remember how to get back to the Grand Kai planet?"
Lattice nodded, expression growing curious.
"Okay!" Goku clapped his hands together, then held one out with only the pinky outstretched. "Promise me you're gonna go straight there, okay?"
Lattice floated closer, finally linking his smaller pinky around Goku's with a big smile.
Goku grinned back, "Good boy." then straightened up. "I'm gonna go find Gohan now, and see what he's up to! You go ahead and get back to King Kai, alright?"
Lattice was already flying back towards King Yemma's check-in station, but turned to wave one last time as Goku vanished.
The deceased child then blinked, retracting his hand, smile faltering and eyes growing large. "I fergot mommy's secret..."
Oops...
/
A/N:
Reviews: Thank you all for the reviews~ User "gokuluvr" specifically, thank you for the compliment! And although I don't have time to write a whole 'nother story (the poor prequel only has one and a half chapters lmao), I do have plans for a "princess Vegita". Depending on how Dragon Ball Super goes I'll have some nice plot points for that timeline... like my own take on how Bra/Bulla is introduced (since they have yet to introduce her) annnd some gender-switched counterparts for Champa's universe/big fight-tournament.
Also Tumblr: I have made a blog for this story, but it's empty atm. Ask about the story and about the OC and anything else related. Who's interested? Also my own reference pics *thumbs up* And also a good idea for the people/person who keeps reviewing with "where's ch xx". Please calm down with that. I could be dead for all you know since I can't reply to guest reviews.
AND ALSO: I am sorry for the delay, I spent a lot of time entertaining guests every weekend/over break, and also I'm addicted to that shitty Dokkan Battle game (My username is Dori and my leader is halo/angel Goku if anyone plays lol). Hopefully next chapter will be four weeks instead of like... twelve.