As Vegeta continued his march, Gohan felt a calm rise in his heart like he hadn't felt since before all this began. "I get it now," he said to his father, "All this was just to give Vegeta a chance to do the right thing."

Goku nodded. "More than anything, Vegeta needed a chance to prove himself to the universe. He wasn't going to get a better one than this. I'm really proud of him."

"Me too," Gohan agreed, "Though I still wish he hadn't gone so overboard. But still." He looked at Goku earnestly. "I'm sorry I doubted you, Dad. I should have known you wouldn't have stood by without a good reason."

"Don't worry about it," Goku assured, "Your heart was in the right place. I just couldn't risk Vegeta overhearing. Knowing how proud he can be, if he had known I was counting on him sparing her, he might have killed her just out of spite."

Vegeta's steps were slow and steadfast. He was in no hurry. It was a walk he had earned and he wanted to take some time to live in that moment. He could feel Nevrrest's glassy eyes watching his back with a broken and confused gaze. It was a good feeling.

Laswe's squishy skin prickled as he watched the other prince and he tapped his fusion band. "Computer…cut the broadcast." A gasping cry erupted from the crowd and Vegeta came to a halt as Laswe appeared next to Nevrrest and landed his fist right between her eyes. Her head hit the ground like a stone. "Akch!" Laswe snarled at her and then turned on Vegeta, "You!" He buzzed toward him. "Just what the hell was that?"

"What are you babbling about?" Vegeta grunted, not turning to look at him.

"Don't you even try to be smart with me," Laswe snapped. He jabbed a finger back at Nevrrest. "Why the hell is she still alive?!"

"I think I made my reasons pretty clear."

"All I heard was some nonsense about Goku. We had a deal, Vegeta!"

"Yes." He turned his head just enough to give him an icy glare. "We did. And it still stands."

"How so?"

"You gave her life to me as a way to settle our dispute. And I have chosen to spare it. You will honor that."

"Oh so now I'm supposed to do your dirty work for you?" Laswe snapped.

"Not at all," Vegeta replied, "In fact, I forbid it." He turned to face him, Laswe staring with a look of abhorrence. "I expect her fate to be exactly as I decreed. And if you disregard that, you will have lost my respect."

"You've got some nerve," Laswe growled, pushing into his personal space, "You must think I'm some kind of idiot of you really expect me to hand her over to—"

"GOOOOKKUUUUU…!" sailed the cry.

"Huh?" Goku jerked, turning from his son to see a small, dark figure running past the nose of the Hammer toward him. "Sepis?" His cheeks lit with glee. "Sepis!"

"Goku!" Sepis squealed, leaping into his arms.

Goku laughed, holding him much like he would his small son. "Sepis, I can't believe it, you're actually alive!"

The familiar chuckle of his best friend sounded as Krillin landed nearby. "Guy can run pretty fast when he wants to."

"Krillin!" Goku beamed, "Did you do this?"

"Well I had a little help," Krillin folded his arms and smirked as Horkion joined them.

"Way to go, you two!" Goku praised, "You're the best."

"Hehe," Krillin grinned.

Horkion smiled politely, his tiny stone eyes filled with relief.

Laswe switched from glaring at Vegeta to glaring at Horkion. "Well you went and did it. Now what? You think you did him any favors? He'd be better off dead."

Sepis squeaked and clung to Goku.

"Come on, Laswe, don't be like that," Goku coaxed, still holding Sepis as the arlian curled into a little ball, "Hasn't he been through enough already?"

"Oh he's been through a lot?" Laswe challenged, buzzing his wings angrily, "I think the few million people he sucked the life out of would beg to disagree!"

"He's right," Sepis whimpered, "I don't deserve to be alive right now. If I had just reached out to Nevrrest sooner, none of this would have ever happened. I know I have no right to ask, but friend Goku…can you ever forgive me?"

Goku sat Sepis down and rested his hand between his antennae. "Of course I can," he encouraged, "Besides, you did the right thing in the end. That's what really counts."

"Oh what are you," Laswe snarled, "A kindergarten teacher?" He reached out a hand to seize Sepis just as the insectoid spotted Nevrrest's broken form.

"Nevrrest!" he screamed, befuddling the ponachi as he somehow just blew right past him. Sepis stopped for nothing until he saw Vegeta several paces ahead. He shuddered to a halt and stood before the saiyan prince with his digits interlocked, staring at him pleadingly. Vegeta regarded him for a moment and turned, giving a little nod. Sepis gasped and sprinted again, landing on his knees at Nevrrest's side and taking her head into his lap. "Oh Nevrrest," he wept, tears running down his plated cheeks, "My poor, beautiful Nevrrest. I should have stopped all this before it began. But don't worry now…I'm here. I won't fail you again."

"Eeeehuuuggh…" Laswe groaned, rolling his eyes.

"You seem troubled, Laswe," said a deep, melodious voice.

"You're damn right I'm—" He froze, sensing that presence he had missed so much. All the anger and bitterness melted from him and he spun with a gasp of pure joy. "Oom'Bagu! You're awake!"

The bandaged Gregorik was accompanied by the orange skinned, skinny headed Dr. Leaton, holding one of his arms attentively as they walked from the wreck of the Hammer. "He's made an incredible recovery," Dr. Leaton informed them, "The shaking outside stopped and he just woke up. Incredible."

"If I'm allowed some dismodesty," Oom'Bagu cracked a smile, "No wound has ever been as mighty as my resolve."

"It's good to have you back!" Horkion cheered, "You've been sorely missed."

"Even I have missed myself," Oom'Bagu chuckled. He looked at Vegeta. "Though, I am honored I was allowed to play a small part in this."

"I wouldn't call what you did small, Oom'Bagu," Goku disagreed, "If it hadn't been for you, we wouldn't have been able to create Veku. And without him, I don't know if we could have destroyed the fusion band in time to save all these people."

"And I'll admit," Vegeta added with a glance, "I…enjoyed having your power at my command."

"I'll take that as a compliment, Prince Vegeta. Though…you'll forgive me if I refuse to ever perform that particular technique with you again." Oom'Bagu's attention turned as he saw Nevrrest and Sepis. His expression saddened. "You needn't be harsh, Laswe. He won't resist our judgment. And Nevrrest no longer has the ability to."

"Do what you like with the bug," Vegeta grunted, "But Nevrrest's fate has been decided."

Oom'Bagu eyed him and cocked a brow. "Has it now?"

"Damn it," growled Laswe, his embittered expression returning, "You just don't get it, do you? When you asked for her life, I knew what we had to do. A sudden, violent death would allow us to cut away her image from the Justice. But capture alive? It's…it's just the beginning of a slow death for all our hopes."

"I see despair still poisons you, Laswe," Oom'Bagu observed.

Horkion sighed and grasped Laswe's shoulder. "Laswe…I know it feels good to kill the bad guy. The moment they end, you know for certain that nothing else bad can come of them." He looked at Vegeta. "But it's easy to forget that also means no good can come of them either."

Laswe's expression softened, but soon hardened again. "Nevrrest had her chance to be good. But what's done is done." He straightened the broach on his cape and drew a breath. "Well…time to be a leader." He flew toward the massive crowd of Justice members who waited with earnest expressions. He drew another breath. "I'd like to make a speech to you all right now. To commemorate your bravery, service, and dedication as we have all worked together to survive this crisis. But, we unfortunately don't have time for that. The Hammer has sustained incredible damage and will not be seeing the stars again for a time. You all have trained for this. Break into teams and set up a defensive perimeter. I expect to have the Core secured within ten minutes and to see a camp set up in twenty. Salvage any supplies you can. Set up field hospitals and seek trade from the locals for anything else we might need. And most importantly, look out for each other. Together, we will stand."

Laswe turned as the crowd dispersed, some heading for the wreckage and others out across the wasteland. The prince sighed and turned back to his friends. "Do you think they bought it? Cause I don't think they're dumb. They know there's little chance the Justice will survive."

Neither Oom'Bagu nor Horkion could answer, only watch solemnly as their faithful men and women departed. Though they didn't share Laswe's animosity toward Nevrrest, they didn't disagree that the Justice was in dire straits. With Misado reduced to a silent sprout and Nevrrest and Nettelish forever lost, only three Justiciars remained. They were like a heart with only half its parts.

Oom'Bagu eyed Vegeta for a moment, who stood off from the rest of them. "Well…as long as we are still the leaders of the Justice, we should continue as such. And there's many matters that need to be resolved."

"Agreed," sighed Laswe.

They all looked between the pouch holding Misado on Laswe's belt to Nevrrest lying in Sepis's arms. Horkion blinked sadly. "…It doesn't feel right anymore. Trying to go on without them."

"Yeah. It doesn't." Laswe looked across the distance and saw the Ghost Lamp resting on a rock under its galaxy of stars. "So. Do you have the ghost vote?"

"Uh-huh," Horkion nodded, managing to smile a little.

Laswe sighed. "No offense. But I wish it was Nettelish telling me that right now. Heck…I'd almost take the other one just to hear her voice."

"There's no point in dwelling on what we've lost," Oom'Bagu advised.

"Nope…no point." The three of them faced Vegeta. "Well, let's get to it. Prisoner 0001, step forward."

"Excuse me?" Vegeta cocked a brow at Laswe.

"You heard me. Unless those numbers disappeared while I wasn't looking." Vegeta growled and joined them. "Thank you," Laswe inclined, "I declare this hearing officially convened. Who will speak on this prisoner's behalf?" The saiyan in the tattered green opened his mouth. "Not you, Goku," Laswe snapped.

"Oh," Goku stuttered. He rubbed at his head shyly. "Sorry."

"I will," rumbled Oom'Bagu. He folded his arms behind him and stepped forward, turning to face his other two justiciars. "I submit this prisoner has demonstrated acts of extraordinary character. He has not once, but twice under my watch saved the lives of millions at great peril to himself. Not only has he performed this service to society, but I have judged him in my time as his warden to be honest, disciplined, and – in his own way – virtuous. Yet, despite all this, justice was not dealt to this man. It is my humble opinion that this man be placed on immediate parole pending a review at a later date."

"Thank you, Justiciar Oom'Bagu." Laswe turned as Oom'Bagu rejoined them. "Justiciar Horkion. What does the ghost vote have to say?"

Horkion looked at Vegeta. "The Ghost has decided that Prince Vegeta is a man worthy of the mercy of this court. They also ask that his tormentor be tried for her crimes and punished as she deserves."

"Thank you, Justiciar Horkion." Laswe looked at the saiyan prince. "Vegeta. Do you have anything you'd like to add?" Vegeta just gave him an impatient look. "I didn't think so. Very well then. Those in favor of Justiciar Oom'Bagu's petition?"

"Aye," they nodded together.

"Good." Laswe gave Vegeta a humored look. "You will report to an assigned doctor to have your prisoner ID chip deactivated. Congratulations, Prince Vegeta. As of this moment, your rights as a free man have been returned."

"Alright!" Goku cheered, pumping his fists, "Way to go, Vegeta!"

"Oh be quiet, Kakarot," Vegeta grumbled, marching away from the justiciars, "I've heard more of your voice these last two months than I want to hear for the next few years."

"Oh come on, Vegeta, you can be just a little happy about it…"

"Shut—!"

"Aren't we friends now?"

"—the hell up!"

"Gosh," Krillin remarked to Gohan with a chuckle, "What even happened while those two were gone?"

"I don't know," Gohan chuckled back, "But something tells me we're going to be hearing about it for a long time."

As Vegeta continued to bicker at Goku, the justiciars looked to their wrecked home and their fallen leader and slowly began to migrate away. Both Goku and Vegeta stopped their conversation and watched them depart with the sudden sense that this was all well and truly over.

Goku's expression flattened. "But it doesn't have to be."

"What now?" Vegeta grumbled.

"Hold on, Vegeta." Goku jogged toward the justiciars. "Hey! Wait a minute!"

They all turned. Oom'Bagu gave him a kind but weary look. "Goku. I know this is an exciting victory for you. But…the battle isn't over for the Justice yet."

"I know," Goku answered, "But I think we can help." Vegeta crooked his expression as Goku turned. "Vegeta, can I talk to you for a moment?"

Vegeta growled and sighed. "Very well."

"Don't go anywhere," Goku told the justiciars and led Vegeta off under the shadow of the Hammer.

Krillin watched the two saiyans as they spoke in confidence, Goku gesturing often and Vegeta mostly listening with his arms folded, giving an occasional word or nod. "What do you think they're talking about?"

"I'm not sure," Gohan admitted, "If only we knew more about what happened while they were gone, we'd have a better idea."

"Well I'm just glad it's over," Krillin decided.

"And is it just me…" observed Gohan, "Or are they standing a little closer together than they normally do?"

Vegeta gave a final nod and the two saiyans headed back toward the justiciars. "We've come to an agreement," the prince announced.

"Vegeta will see that doctor real soon," Goku added, "We just need to take care of this first."

"Um," Laswe blinked, "Sure."

"Great," Goku smiled. He turned. "You ready, Vegeta?"

"Of course I am," Vegeta grunted.

"Meet you back here then." Goku pressed two fingers to his forehead and disappeared.

As Vegeta flew off as well, Horkion leaned over to the other two. "Um…how are we going to break it to Goku that he needs to see a doctor about his prisoner chip too?"

"Very…very delicately," Oom'Bagu replied.

(**Scene Break**)

Bulma nearly leapt off the Lookout with excitement as they all spotted Vegeta flying toward them. When he landed she threw her arms around his neck without giving him a chance to protest. "Woo-hoo! I'm so proud of you, Vegeta! You really gave that stupid bird what-for!"

"Hmph," Vegeta lifted the corner of his mouth.

"I must admit, I'm impressed," Piccolo added, standing by Trunks as the boy glowed for his dad, "Showing mercy like that. I honestly didn't think you had it in you."

"Don't go reading too much into it, Namekian," Vegeta retorted, lightly escaping Bulma's arms, "My decision wasn't an act of kindness."

"Well I'm just glad you finally made it home," Bulma remarked, putting a hand on her hip, "All that worrying did not help my figure."

Vegeta growled. "Yes, I'm sure."

"Hey," Bulma poked him in the chest, "You're just lucky you made it back before this baby came. Prison or not, I'm still holding you to your promise."

Vegeta bumped her hand away. "Actually, you needn't worry about that. I've been released."

"Really?" Trunks gasped, "You mean those stupid aliens aren't going to try to take you away again?"

"They'd better not!" Bulma snapped, sticking out her belly, "After all we've been through, they owe us a serious apology!"

"Yes, but I'm not here to talk about that," Vegeta grunted, "I actually only wanted to make sure you're still keeping the dragon ball radar in the top draw of your desk in the science lab."

"Dragon ball radar?" Bulma blinked, "Yeah, it's still there. Why? What do you need it for?"

Vegeta turned. "Let's just say I don't want those Justice fools thinking I owe them anything."

(**Scene Break**)

Goku was both happy and a little overwhelmed as the settlers of New Namek completely surrounded him, talking over each other with remarks of how much it was an honor and a joy to see him. It didn't take long for Grand Elder Moori to make his way through the crowd.

"Goku," he smiled, leaning graciously on his staff, "It has been too long, my friend."

"Hey, good to see you too," Goku replied, "Sorry I haven't come to visit more."

"There's no need for explanation or apologies, my friend. You know you are always welcome here. Tell me, to what pleasure do we owe this visit?"

"I've actually come here to ask a favor." He pinched his fingers before his eye. "Do you think I could borrow just a tiny wish from your dragon balls?"

Moori looked a little startled. "Why, yes, of course. But why? Has something become of the Earth dragon balls?"

"No, no, nothing like that," Goku assured with a wave of his hands, "It's just we don't think this particular wish is one that Shenron can handle. So if you could ask Porunga for me, I'd be really grateful."

All the Namekians looked relieved. "I'm glad to hear the Earth is well," smiled the elder namekian, "And of course, we'd be happy to help. There is little we could refuse you, Goku."

As the villagers worked together to gather the seven, large dragon balls, Goku explained his intended wish to Grand Elder Moori. Again, the old namekian looked surprised. "I see. I understand now why you sought the aid of our dragon balls."

"I know it's a bit of a strange request, but if you can do it would really help the Justice out. I don't want to see them lose everything they worked so hard for just because of Nevrrest."

"Goku! Grand Elder!" called one of the Namekians, "The dragon balls are gathered for you!"

"Very well," Moori nodded, "Let us perform the summoning right away."

(**Scene Break**)

The house-sized snake recoiled with terror as Vegeta invaded its nest, stepping over the eggs and retrieving the three-star dragon ball from the bramble. The saiyan gave the snake a look and it writhed with fright and retreated into its burrow. Vegeta grunted and flew away, returning to the hilltop where he had gathered the other six balls. The mystic orbs clacked together as he dropped the ball with the rest, the perfect spheres shimmering in the sunlight. Vegeta eyed the balls for a moment and then spread his arms.

"Eternal Dragon!" he commanded, "By your name, Shenron, I summon you!"

The sky blackened and lightning flashed, a display that even after all these years never ceased to amaze. The giant python poked its head out of its hole with a gulp. The dragon balls flashed and sang, a spiral of light ripping forth and forming an enormous, green dragon – its long body wrapping over the landscape. The dragon's whiskers whipped as its bent its great head and flashed its powerful red eyes the prince's way.

"I am the Eternal Dragon," boomed the spirit, "You who have disturbed my slumber, speak your first wish."

"Listen well, Shenron!" Vegeta called back, raising a fist and lowering his brow, "This is a very specific wish, so don't screw this up!"

"Rrrrrmmm…" Shenron growled at the insult, "Your wish shall be just as you ask. Speak now!"

(**Scene Break**)

"Whenever you're ready, Goku," Moori prompted, turning to give the saiyan audience.

Goku stepped forward, the tattered rags of his green prison uniform flapping in the gust of Porunga's power, the imposing, broad shouldered dragon looking down on them all. "Okay," said Goku, "Here's my wish."

Goku spoke the words and Moori translated, Porunga listening with a rumble. "I cannot grant this wish," spoke the dragon, lighting them all with disappointment.

"Huh?" asked Goku, "Why not?"

"The person of which you speak's body still remains adrift in space even to this day. Even if I were to restore life to them, they would soon again perish."

"Oh," Goku brightened, "Okay, I get it. Then my first wish is to bring her body here." He looked at Moori. "Sorry. I know I said I only needed one wish, but it looks like it's going to take two."

"Mm," Moori nodded and translated the wish to Porunga.

"Very well," Porunga growled as his eyes brightly glowed, "Your wish is granted."

The namekians rustled with excitement and interest as a light glowed on the ground before Goku, dissipating into the pale, naked body of a woman. Goku's heart pounded with excitement. "Okay, Moori! Make the second wish!"

Moori spoke the words, strong and clearly in his native tongue. Again, Porunga boomed and his eyes glowed. They all watched with wonder as the pale skin of the woman gradually turned a lush, healthy pink and her chest began to rise and fall. Goku smiled and he knelt down by her. The woman's muscular limbs moved and she gasped, slowly opening her glowing, violet eyes.

"Hi!" chirped Goku, holding up a hand. He slipped his other hand under her naked back, her thick, black mane unspooling from the ground as he sat her up. "My name's Goku. It's good to finally meet you, Nettelish."

(**Scene Break**)

Suddenly, it was dark and very cold. For a moment, he had the terrible thought that he had been sent to Hell. Was that possible? Sure he had taken lives in his time, but never without good reason. Could that still be judged against him? Or was that phase he'd had in his youth really been that rotten? But then it occurred to him that he was more than just aware of these things. He could feel them. Almost out of instinct, he kicked and clawed until the lid popped open and the drawer jutted out.

It happened so suddenly that Hameus fell off the shelf and landed on top of someone else – a whole pile in fact of writhing bodies in black uniforms. It didn't take long for someone to find the door and they all poured out, gasping and growling as they got their personal space back. The Master Guardian bristled his mustache and patted his chest, looking with wide eyes at all the other Justice members staring back with the same expression on their faces.

"Were we dead?" said someone.

Hameus pulled the mortician's tag from his blue ear and flipped it over in his hands. "…Yes! And we're alive!"

Bellows of joy filled the air.

(**Scene Break**)

"We'll have to keep them both sedated until they can be taken back to the fleet for processing," Laswe stated as the justiciars stood around Sepis and Nevrrest, "We can't risk trying to hold them here."

"Is that really necessary?" asked Horkion, "For Sepis, I mean. I understand Nevrrest is dangerous, but Sepis—"

"Is potentially worse," Laswe interrupted, "We can inhibit Nevrrest's abilities. But what are we supposed to do about Sepis? Feed him stupid pills?"

"It's okay, Horkion," Sepis assured, still hold Nevrrest's head in his lap, "He's right. And if that's what it takes for everyone to feel safe…then I don't mind."

"Go ahead and act so nice and agreeable now," Laswe snapped, jabbing a finger at him, "But you won't be once you know what's going to happen to you."

"Laswe, don't antagonize him, please," Oom'Bagu patiently advised, "You know Sepis always acts with his heart. Both before and now."

"I don't care if he acts with the songs of angels. I won't be satisfied until these two—"

He was interrupted as Sepis started to point and squeal at the Hammer, his antennae shooting straight up.

"Now that's more like it!" Laswe laughed, "Yeah, you should be scared, you stupid little—"

"Grand Guardian!"

"Not now, Hameus!" Laswe snapped as the blue man ran ahead of the crowd, "Besides, aren't you supposed to be on Se…Seeevvvv…"

Oom'Bagu fell to his knees as more and more previous occupants of the Hammer's morgue poured out through the emergency exit hatch. Horkion was ecstatic, jogging in place as the crowd continued to grow. "Everyone! Colleagues! Friends! You're alive again! How is it possible?! You've come back to us!"

"Trust me, we're just as confused as you," Hameus assured, shaking his head with a laugh, "Not only that, but our uniforms are all restored. It's like nothing ever happened."

"It's quite simple, really," stated a grizzly voice. They all looked up as Vegeta descended into their midst.

Instantly, the guardians gasped and surrounded him in fighting positions. "Stand down," Laswe ordered, "This man is no longer a prisoner of the Justice and is of no threat to you." His men murmured their confusion, but obeyed.

"Obviously, you can never let word of this leave this planet," Vegeta continued, un-phased, "But I have used the same power that was used during Frieza's end to restore your people back to life."

Laswe's eyes widened further. "The—" He got in close and whispered. "The dragon balls?"

"Yes," Vegeta replied, "And you'll be happy to know it included your people alone. Specifically, all the good people who had died since Un's betrayal."

Oom'Bagu's eyes moistened as he looked out over them all. "Thank you, Prince Vegeta. This is…there are no words that can express our gratitude."

"All I expect," stated Vegeta, looking directly at Laswe, "Is that you not give up so easily. It would be a disgrace if the people who brought me low simply fell apart from something as pathetic as a loss of leadership. And as far as I'm concerned, they already have a capable replacement."

Everyone looked at Laswe. He looked around wildly. "What—me?"

"He's right," Horkion agreed, "We've known it since you came back to our side. You're the one to lead the Justice now."

"But…but I," Laswe protested, "I made so many mistakes! And…Oom'Bagu! You're far more qualified."

The Gregorik held up a palm and shook his head. "My role has always been that of mediator and advisor. I failed in that role for Nevrrest. But I assure you, I will not again."

"And don't look at me," chuckled Horkion, "I've always been more of a fighter…Prince Laswe."

"We still don't understand what's happened," Hameus stated carefully, looking between the crashed Hammer and the fallen Nevrrest, "But if some need has arisen for Nevrrest to be replaced, then I can speak for all of us and say we will follow you with the same dedication, Justiciar Laswe."

Laswe looked down and saw his reflection in the shimmering gold of his cape – battered, bruised, but still regal. His eyes narrowed and his wings buzzed, lifting him up. "Alright then! Then my first order to you as the new figurehead of the Justice is to join your comrades in setting up the camp and securing the Hammer. Chop-chop! We have a lot of work to do, ladies and gentlemen."

The newly revived personnel gave a cry of agreement and began to hurry at once to return to duty. As the gathering dispersed, Laswe stood near Vegeta, neither prince looking at the other. "You know, you can't fool me, Vegeta," he stated with a smirk, "You didn't do this just to make some kind of point. You did it simply because you felt it was the right thing to do." Vegeta glanced him in the corner of his eye. "I know your pride says being good is a weakness. So if you want to cover it up, that's fine. But I owe you a lot. And if you'd be willing to consider me and my fleet an ally in the future…I'd be honored."

Vegeta grunted and his stubby tail flicked. "Perhaps I'll think about it."

Even though he knew Kakarot would be returning with her, lightning still shot up Vegeta's spin as he felt those powerful, delicate fingers suddenly trace across his shoulders and neck. "Think about what?" whispered smooth, pink lips, that intoxicating smell hitting him right in the face and causing him to blush.

The woman dressed in namekian clothes and wearing a white hood hopped back as they all turned to face her. Goku waved. "Hey guys, I'm back!"

"We can see that," Laswe said with a curious look, "Who's your friend, Goku?"

"She hasn't told you yet?" Goku looked at the shrouded woman with surprise, "She said she was going ahead to greet you."

"Mmhmhm," she chuckled, pulling her hood further down, "I was. But I couldn't resist a personal peek at the surviving prince." Vegeta was speechless and his skin hot. She opened her mouth and let out a breath. "I'm sorry, this is all so sudden. I didn't think I would ever…see any of you again. But my handsome savior here tells me you all know the truth by now so…" She pulled back her hood, silky spikes springing up and encompassing her face. She blushed happily as they all stared at her. "Hello," she breathed.

Oom'Bagu's chest heaved and his arms reached out. "No, this isn't possible. Nettelish…is that really you?"

"I know, I can hardly believe it myself," she rapidly replied, eagerly allowing him to clasp her shoulders, "I don't even know how long it's been…so many battles I must have missed!"

Horkion had just found his voice when he heard a loud sniffle next to him. He jerked his head to the right. "Laswe…are you crying?"

"No!" Laswe snapped as his face ran like a waterfall, "No I am not crying!"

"Laswe!" Nettelish gasped with delight, "Look how much you've grown! And how strong you've become! I must spar with you all."

"Hey, count me in!" Goku laughed, raising a hand.

Nettelish's cheek flushed at him. "Oh you really are a saiyan, aren't you? And you, Vegeta…" She looked between the Hammer and Nevrrest. "Oh…oh I see. I think I understand now." She came close to the other saiyan, making him grunt uncomfortably as she leaned close and looked him right in the eyes. She lifted a corner of her mouth. "So it's true. You have found balance. Your father would be so disappointed." His attention focused and her smile grew. "Good for you, my prince."

"I just can't believe it's you!" Laswe sobbed, rubbing his arm against his eyes, "You're…you're actually real!"

"I know it doesn't change what's happened," Goku explained, "But…Vegeta and I thought if we could at least give you back one of the friends you've lost, it would help you recover."

Nettelish looked around herself with wonder and concern, replacing her hood again and hiding her saiyan hair. "What…has happened while I was gone?"

"It's a very…very…very long story," explained Oom'Bagu.

"Well, why don't you tell us?" said a new voice. They all turned to see Dende leading their group of friends and loved ones, from Krillin to Gohan, from Bulma to Piccolo, and the two boys as well. Dende smiled. "It sounds like we've all missed out on a lot."

A loud clanging came from inside the Hammer and a broken piece of pipe rolled down the emergency escape ramp. At the top stood a very disheveled looking, but fully restored turtle-man in a lab coat. "You…" the old man whistled, "Have no gods damn idea."

"Dr. Tottle!" Goku cried.

"Doctor!" echoed Vegeta.

"What the frozen hells did you two saiyan brutes do to our ship?" Dr. Tottle snapped as he hobbled his way down the ramp, "First I had to go through the very strange experience of having my soul ripped back into my body. And now I return to life to find you two have wrecked everything as usual." He waggled a pointed finger. "I'm just glad to see Justiciar Nevrrest over there happened to be one of them." He stopped abruptly when he saw Nettelish wrapped up in her namekian garb. He squinted at her glowing violet eyes. "By the gods, is she back too? I damn well hope that's the real one."

Nettelish's face wrinkled and she looked at the other justiciars. "What is he talking about?"

"It's…sniff—it's like Oom'Bagu said," said Laswe, still trying to stop his tears, "It's a—sniff—very long story."

Dr. Tottle made it to the end of the ramp. "Well I think we can all find somewhere to talk about it. Would probably do our mental health some good. Though I'm certain there's plenty of work for…oh my." He spotted Bulma and walked straight past Vegeta for her. "Excuse me, madam, but may I assume you're this bratty prince's wife?"

"That's right," said Bulma, folding her arms, "Who wants to know?"

"Dr. Tottle, madam," he said with a smile, "Just a humble physician of the standard frame."

"Hmph," Vegeta snorted.

"In fact, may I?" he asked, gesturing to her swollen stomach. She gestured her admission and he bent forward, expertly feeling her womb. "Oh it's been some years since I did any maternity work, but I'd say this one is just about ready to come out. And might I add you've done an excellent job maintaining your health."

"Oh really?" Bulma started to beam, "Well I always say a pretty girl's gotta have a healthy body."

Dr. Tottle put on a charming grin. "I couldn't agree more."

"Doctor," Vegeta grumbled.

"Doctor?" Bulma questioned his tone, "Vegeta, do you know him? Don't tell me he's a friend of yours?"

Vegeta blushed and shifted his gaze away. "No he's…my doctor."

"Your doctor, huh?" Bulma teased, leaning forward, "Since when do you have a doctor?"

"Oh I like her," Dr. Tottle chuckled. He spotted Trunks hanging behind her. "Oh! My gods, is that really a half saiyan?" He bent down and inspected the boy. "Why he hardly even looks like it." He sniffed. "Or smells like it for that matter. Just a touch of saiyan stank, I'd say, but much more bearable."

Trunks tugged at Bulma's skirt. "Mom, can we all go now? This old geezer is creeping me out."

Dr. Tottle gave Vegeta a look. "Oh he is definitely your son." He turned and sniffed the air around Gohan and Goten. He instantly clapped his nose. "Ugh, and these are definitely yours, Kakarot. Much more saiyan. But…still not nearly as bad as yourself. Hm. I think I like these half breeds. A great improvement over you pure-breds."

Goten sniffed himself and leaned over to Trunks. "Do I really smell that bad?"

"I gotta be honest," remarked Laswe, finally drying his tears, "This is all so overwhelming. But…in a good way I think." He looked over the group. "Well, Princess Bulma, you and the rest of your companions are welcome to join us in camp. We'll be able to release Vegeta directly into your custody that way. And we'd be happy to fill you in on anything you'd like to know."

At the word 'princess', Bulma blossomed like a rose. "Well, well, aren't you polite? It'd be kinda hard to stay angry at someone with such good manners. So I'll let you off the hook this time."

"We're honored, Princess," Oom'Bagu gave a little bow.

"We'll join you at the camp shortly," Laswe assured. He narrowed his eyes at Sepis and the unconscious Nevrrest. "We still have another matter to attend to."

Goku was surprised to discover that by the time he and the rest of the group trekked over to the Justice camp, the crew of the Hammer looked already settled in. Tents with metal sheet walls had been erected. Dr. Tottle was especially pleased by the sight of the make-shift medical center. Goku, on the other hand, was less than pleased.

"No, please, I can just live with them!" Goku whined, squirming wildly as Dr. Tottle tried to force him down on the bench, "The numbers don't look that bad!"

"Kakarot, for the last time!" Dr. Tottle snapped, straining against him, "It's not even going to hurt!"

"That's what you said the last time!" Goku piped, "And then you started talking about Chi-Chi's breasts and got me with one of your awful doctor knives!"

"Her what?" Piccolo cried, his green cheeks turning red.

"Whatever the case, it was an emergency situation and I didn't have time to coddle you! I swear by the old gods, the only thing you'll feel is a little pinch!"

"Goku, you're keeping Vegeta waiting," Bulma scolded, "So you better settle down right now, or I'll tell Chi-Chi not to cook for you for a week!"

Goku gasped at her with horror. "Bulma! You wouldn't!"

"I would!"

"But—!"

"Sit down! Now!"

Goku whimpered, shutting his eyes tightly as he fell back like a log on the bench. Dr. Tottle grumbled, placing the device in his hand against Goku's shoulder. There was a beep and the numbers vanished. "See?" Dr. Tottle remarked, "I bet you didn't even feel that."

"I felt it a little bit…" Goku complained.

"The Heavens cry for you, Kakarot," Dr. Tottle dryly remarked, "Now shoo! Shoo!" Vegeta sat down immediately after Goku stood, his arms folded. "Hm. Vegeta, I have a question for you."

"What, Doctor?" Vegeta grunted.

He eyed Bulma and leaned in close. "Do you think her breasts will stay that big after the pregnancy?"

Vegeta's cheeks flushed red and his jaw dropped. "What?!" Dr. Tottle seized his jaw and there was a loud crackle-pop! "Ah! Dammit!"

"Were you seriously just ignoring that? You really are a masochist." Vegeta growled, massaging his jaw while Dr. Tottle pressed some buttons on the device and hovered it over Vegeta's arm. They all watched as the numbers 0001 faded from his skin.

Vegeta looked at the doctor. "You're not removing it?" he questioned.

Dr. Tottle sat the device down. "No," he stated, "Unlike Kakarot, you weren't arrested under a false charge. You, my princeling, were arrested, tried, and convicted of your crimes – even if your sentencing hearing was a sham. So, as long as you're on probation, that chip will remain implanted in your arm and will reactivate once a year so we can collect data on your activities."

"So you're going to be spying on me," Vegeta accused.

"In a word? Yes," Dr. Tottle bluntly replied, "To make sure you never return to your former life of crime."

"For how long?" Vegeta demanded.

"I honestly can't say," Dr. Tottle mildly smiled, "There's no precedent. The Justice simply hasn't been around long enough. But, one can assume that there's always the possibility that – someday – the universe will decide to trust you again. But trust is a thing hard to earn, my primate friend."

"Wow," Bulma remarked, putting her hand on her hip, "He's got you all figured out, doesn't he?"

"Quiet, woman," Vegeta growled.

"As for your clothes," Dr. Tottle continued, "Normally, we'd either return your original clothing to you or provide you with new ones. Obviously, that isn't possible right now. So you'll just have to deal with being half-naked for the time being."

"I wouldn't worry about it," Bulma assured, "I've been meaning to take Vegeta clothing shopping anyways." She glanced at Goku, who was still sulking from being doctored. "And Goku's never really cared what he wears – if anything at all."

"Ah. Well, very good," Dr. Tottle deftly nodded, gathering some medical supplies, "Oh and one more thing, Vegeta. I'll need you to come by later so I can break your leg."

"What?!" Vegeta and Bulma both cried at the same time.

Dr. Tottle gave the prince an obstinate look. "Well I did say that sealant I put in your bone during the attack was only an emergency fix. It's impossible for your bone to heal as long as it's there. So I'll have to break it again."

"Oh terrific," Vegeta snarled, "Is there anything else you neglected to tell me?"

"No, that was all," he assured, "Now that that's done, I suggest you all bugger off for the time being. I have important business attending to the injured and—"

A scream sounded across the medical tent, an entire shelf and row of beds knocked over as a heavily bandaged man with golden horn-like hair spun through the mess of doctors and patients. His movements wild like a rabid dog and eyes wide and reflective like mirrors, he brandished a scalpel in his bandaged fingers, blood leaking through the gauze in his stomach. People fled back from him but did not fully retreat, the violent man followed by a wide circle of bodies and voices.

"Him again?" grunted Vegeta, "I thought the fool would have died of his wounds by now. But it seems the Cypher ability to survive is just as virile as they say."

"Oh man," Krillin complained, crooking up his brows, "That guy is nothing but trouble."

One of the patients – a wounded guardian – got off his bed and faced Nada. The man found himself staring into his own reflection in the cypher's eyes. Nada flipped the knife in his hand and roared. A gust of air cut through the tent. Nada stopped dead, staring at the fist that hung just a centimeter from his forehead, Goku glaring at him harshly from the other end.

"You're one of the people who was fighting for Nevrrest, aren't you?" Goku firmly asked. Nada continued to stare at him with wide eyes, Goku's reflection in his golden gaze powerful and imposing. Goku looked down to the blood soaked bandages on Nada's stomach. "You did everything she asked of you, and she tried to kill you anyways. Sounds like someone else I know. But Nevrrest's been defeated now, so you need to stop." Nada's teeth clenched. "I don't know what your problem is and I'm not going to pretend I do. But you've lost and you need to accept that. Cause if you try to hurt anyone else…" He lowered his arm and his brow fell. "I'll stop you."

Nada lost his breath as a feeling impacted him – a sudden, irrefutable realization that this man could kill him without a single thought. Without any effort, he could put an end to anything that Nada could ever devise. Nada had stood before such a being in times past and knew in such a presence, one could only break. Nada's large, powerful hand lost all its strength and the scalpel slipped from his fingers, bouncing across the dirt. The reflective intensity of his eyes dissipated and faded into an empty gaze.

He looked at Goku again with that dead, submissive gaze. "Yes," he answered, "…My god."

Goku's expression changed. "God…?" he asked, confused.

Before anymore could be said, Dr. Tottle rushed Nada from behind and stuck a needle in his neck. "Go to sleep, Nada," Dr. Tottle bid as the cypher grew limp, "And this time? Stay asleep for a long, long while." He finished the injection and lifted the unconscious man with ease. "Don't you worry, Kakarot, we'll take good care of Mr. Dead Man Walking. But he's only a piece of the problem. There are still followers of Nevrrest that will need to be dealt with."

A figure glided into the tent. "And a great victory to be celebrated," announced Nettelish. All at once, everyone in the medical tent froze. Nettelish lowered her brow and frowned at their expressions. "What's happened?" she turned around and asked her other justiciars, "Why are they looking at me like that? I'm not the only person that's come back."

The other three justiciars looked at each other with sour expressions. Oom'Bagu rested a hand on her shoulder and looked at the earthlings. "Would you join us in our shelter, please? There is much for us all to discuss."

Everyone was more than eager to hear the details of what had occurred over the last two months. But it was not an easy tale to tell. There were several times where Bulma ended up sitting closer to Vegeta than he cared for her to in public and even dared to rest her hand over his. Nettelish was very quiet for the whole thing, not making a move or a sound. When the group finished conveying all the events to their listeners, Nettelish finally stood up and moved to the back of the tent. She stood there for a long moment and then screamed a saiyan roar, slamming her foot down. The shockwave shook the entire camp, but passed after a moment.

"Hey!" some unknown voice shouted across the camp, "Power down, whoever that was! We're not on the ship anymore, dammit!"

Nettelish panted several times and drew a long breath. She then released a beautiful, powerful laugh that sent a chill down Vegeta's spine – because it sounded just like the ones Un Nettelish once made. She looked at the other justiciars and smiled. "You poor fools. You should have known better."

"In our defense," answered Laswe, "It was a very impressive copy. Identical to you in every way." He paused. "Though…I guess we should have known you would have never been so cruel as the other one behaved."

"Oh no," she narrowed her glowing eyes and pressed her lips together, "I can be incredibly cruel. Shamefully so, I'm afraid. Though I do try to suppress it. No. What you should have known is that the original systems we put in place for the Justice were never meant to last beyond the first year."

The justiciar stirred. "What?" said Horkion.

"What do you mean?" asked Oom'Bagu.

Nettelish looked at them with charming disbelief. "The tribunals composed of only the six of us, the limited command structure, the overly simplistic judicial process…when I proposed those systems, they were only meant to be in place until we could be officially established. Don't you see? The Justice was supposed to grow. To evolve. To become stronger."

"But…" said Laswe, "Is there any hope for that now? We've been this way since the beginning…even with you back, I don't see how the Justice can survive."

She smiled and shook her head. "Oh Laswe. That very idea is the true damage my imposter did. Making the five of you believe that we were some perfect pillars that all this…" She held out her arm and turned, gauging the camp beyond them. "That this depended on. But what I didn't have a chance to explain was that what we were helping grow wasn't a fleet. It wasn't a band of people or an organization. All we have done is nurture hope. And hope isn't a thing. It's an idea." Her lips spread once more and her glowing eyes shimmered. "And ideas, unlike warriors, scientists, or kings, aren't so easily destroyed."

Bulma got to her feet and rested her hands on her belly. "Well, I'm still not happy about you just snatching my husband from me the way you did." Horkion, Oom'Bagu, and Laswe all grunted and murmured uncomfortably. Bulma smiled. "But considering what you all went through to bring him back, I think I can forgive you. In fact, since you're going to be here on Earth for a while, why don't you come by some time?"

"Pardon?" Laswe blinked.

"Well Goku sure seems to like you!" Bulma chirped, "So that makes you alright in my book. And things have been way too gloomy around here lately. So I'm asking if you'd like to have a get-together. I promise you'd all have a really good time." She winked and chuckled.

"A celebration?" Nettelish asked, "I think that's a wonderful idea."

The other three justiciars looked at each other. "I see no reason to refuse," Oom'Bagu advised.

"Very well, Princess Bulma," Laswe cordially replied, "We accept."

Bulma giggled. "Keep being so polite and I might have to make you stay even longer."

After a few more exchanges, it was clear it was time for them all to part ways for the day. The Justiciars had a lot of work to do and the warriors of Earth had their homes to return to. Happy to see his sons again, Goku placed Goten on his shoulders and walked next to Gohan, making sure they knew how proud he was of them. As they departed from the camp, he spotted Vegeta alone in the distance, gazing up into the sky. Goku paused and sat Goten down next to Gohan.

"Wait right here, boys," he told them, "I'll be back in a sec."

With one leg tucked up and the other dangling over the precipice, Vegeta remained silent and motionless even as he heard Kakarot approach. The other saiyan sat down next to him and folded his legs under him, leaning back on his palms as he also gazed into the sky.

Several moments passed and Vegeta finally spoke. "Whatever it is you're hoping to tell me…don't bother. I already know."

Goku smiled as a breeze rustled their stiff, black hair. "I had a feeling you would. But there is one thing I wanted to say anyways." He looked at him. "I'm glad I got to fight next to you again, Vegeta."

"You are annoying beyond reason, Kakarot," Vegeta stated, "But to that much…I will agree." He looked at him and held up the back of his hand in a fist. "Till the next battle."

Goku's smile grew and he tapped the back of his fist against his. "Till the next one."

AUTHOR NOTE

And so...there's only one or two more chapters left! Once again, I encourage you all to click that Follow: Author buttons so that you can continue the story with me in Dragon Ball Z: Light and Shadows! Also, if you wish to follow me on social media you need only google SwanofWar :D