Rewrite: A Half-breed's Life 1

by Xj9

New Version: At age four, Gohan is taken by Raditz and brought to a camp where Gohan is taught how to fight. Five years later, Vegeta, Raditz and Nappa are back to take Gohan away again, and they expect the half-saiyan to help them purge planets. Gohan resists from the beginning, but as time progresses he finds out that playing by his comrades' rules is the only way to survive.

11. Chapter 11: A Saiyan's Life

Hey guys!

Sorry I've been a bit MIA lately. It's been busy around here,,

Previously on A Half-breed's Life:

His father's screams rang through his head. Raditz's laugh as he tortured his father. Vegeta's last words before he left…

"If he can't survive, he's not worth our time."

Fine. They wanted him to toughen up? He would toughen up. Those specialists wanted him to work and train? Fine. He would do just that and he would become the strongest warrior in this camp and once those three saiyans returned…

Gohan narrowed his eyes at the wall in front of him as he leaned on the sink.

"I'm going to kill them."

*** DBZ *** DBZ ***
Gohan was thrown off his feet and he landed on the ground right in front of Frieza. Zarbon landed next to him, placing his foot on top of Gohan's head to keep him down.

"Ah, it's always good to see a saiyan in his rightful place." Frieza said coldly. The half-saiyan was still breathing hard as he lied on the ground. He was ready to get up but Zarbon was still pushing down on his head. "Very well. You can stay for now. Don't make me regret this decision, boy."

"Thank you, sir." Gohan managed to say. He did not know why he was thanking the man, but he figured this was what he was expected to do.

"Dear Zarbon. Isn't it about time you got off of him?" Frieza's gaze turned to the man. "Or are you already attached to the boy?"

Gohan groaned when Zarbon pressed down on his head. "Crushing a saiyan under my foot takes me back, lord Frieza. I have to admit that I had the pleasure of running into this one before. It's easy to see that he hasn't been tamed right yet."

"It's difficult for saiyans to behave like civilized warriors, you know that Zarbon." Frieza responded, smiling sweetly. "Don't be hard on the boy. He will learn his place in time."

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

"Do you really think you'll get away with attempting to kill me?" Vegeta asked. "Are you really that stupid?"

"I will succeed one day." Gohan said as he looked up.

"Hmmm." Vegeta pushed against Gohan's elbow again. "But for now you're still too weak to be capable of murder." The man smirked when Gohan let out another pained sound. "And you're too weak to overpower me." The man leaned in closer while he applied even more pressure on Gohan's arm. "If you try something like this again I will personally break both your legs and arms, got it?"

"Yes." Gohan groaned out. "I got it."

"Good." Vegeta released the boy and floated back to give Gohan more room to get up. "Go back to your cot." He ordered, watching as Gohan got up as well and got off the bed.

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****
The half-saiyan clenched his fists and powered up. Right now.

Four scouters beeped and Raditz, Vegeta and Nappa all looked at the half-saiyan, but it was too late. Gohan put his hands together and blasted the space pod, destroying the machine. The half-saiyan was surprised by the explosion but his eyes widened when he noticed the smoke that the explosion created. This was his chance. The boy whirled around and ran for the large entrance.

His scouter told him what his senses picked up nanoseconds earlier. Someone was standing in the entrance.

Vegeta hadn't thought at all and had gone straight for the entrance. Gohan stopped running. His entire body went cold when he saw the dark look on the man's face. Vegeta looked absolutely livid.

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****
"I just want to be free." Gohan whispered as he stared at the ground. Raditz opened the tank and turned around. He knelt down in front of Gohan.

"Freedom is overrated." Raditz said as he reached out and unclasped the shoulder bands of Gohan's armor. The half-saiyan let Raditz pull the armor off. He could hardly move his limbs. "Let me tell you this; not one person in this army is here because they want to be."

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Raditz made sure no bystanders would interfere while Vegeta's blast burned the man's flesh. "You can choose, half-breed. He will either die a quick death by your hands or he will die slowly." Vegeta loudly to overpower the man's screams.

Gohan shook his head as Nappa released one of Gohan's arms so the young warrior could kill the man. The teenager's eyes moved from Vegeta to the tortured man. The half-saiyan shook his head again as Vegeta's taunting eyes fell on him. Another scream was heard when Vegeta pushed the ki-orb closer to the man's arm. Gohan stretched out his arm and slowly started to collect ki. The young warrior closed his eyes. The man was dead within a second.

"Good job, kiddo! You're officially a murderer now! Welcome to the club!" Nappa said cheerfully as he smacked on Gohan's back. The half-saiyan was staring at the dead man. His hands were shaking as he lowered them.

Vegeta destroyed the remains of the alien before he sent Gohan an approving glance. "Well... Let's find your next victim."

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Vegeta appeared on the other side of the fire. "Remember, boy. Your planet is still intact, which indeed means that your mother is still alive." The man showed the picture to Gohan and his finger tapped on Chi-chi's head. "But, if you decide to run away from us, we might decide to bring your dear mother a visit."

"What?"

"Imagine her screams as we tear her limb from limb." Vegeta hissed. Gohan got up and shook his head. "We know what she looks like. We'll find her and we'll make her life so miserable that she'll be begging us for death."

"No!"

"Oh, we won't." Vegeta said sweetly. The man folded the picture and put it back in his armor. "As long as her son behaves she can keep on living her life peacefully."

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Vegeta noticed the look of anticipation in Gohan's eyes. "Well then, half-breed. Let's see how you will do against an elite warrior."

Thanks for the reviews!

Moving on~

Chapter 11. A Saiyan's Life

"Why don't you two go ahead and start sparring." Vegeta said as he accepted two bottles of water from Raditz. "I'll play with the kid for a while."

The prince tossed the bottle to the young saiyan. Gohan opened the bottle and took a sip. He tried to ignore how Vegeta was studying him shamelessly. The young warrior lowered his bottle.

Vegeta placed the bottle on the ground and floated upwards. "Come on, boy." He urged when Gohan just looked up at him. Gohan placed the bottle on the ground too before he flew up.

"Show me your defensive stance." Vegeta ordered once Gohan was floating in front of him. The half-saiyan bent his knees and moved up his hands.

Vegeta tilted his head sideways and studied the half-saiyan. "Not bad. I already noticed that when we first fought." He stated before he sank down in his own stance. Gohan's eyes searched for a flaw but he couldn't find any. This was going to be difficult. "Come on. Attack me." Vegeta stated.

The half-saiyan powered up and raced forwards. He pulled back a fist to punch Vegeta but the man stepped aside, forcing Gohan to awkwardly fly passed him.

"Leaving so soon?" Vegeta taunted. Gohan turned back to the man and launched again. This time he tried to kick Vegeta but the Saiyan prince jumped up, placing a hand on Gohan's head to push off and jump over him.

Gohan clenched his fists as he turned back to Vegeta again. The man sent the half-saiyan a smirk. "Are you going to really try to hit me any time soon?" Vegeta asked.

The half-saiyan powered up and flew at the man again. He pulled back a fist and tried to punch Vegeta, but the saiyan prince turned sideways to avoid it. Using Gohan's momentum against the boy, Vegeta moved his knee up and buried it in Gohan's stomach. The half-saiyan let out a pained gasp as the air was forced out of his lungs, and he heaved over, giving Vegeta enough room to move his elbow up and hit the back of Gohan's neck.

Vegeta's knee was already gone when Gohan felt the force in his neck and he was launched down to the ground. Gohan landed on his hands and knees. He jumped up and looked up at Vegeta.

The man beckoned for Gohan to attack him again. The half-saiyan rubbed over his neck. He could still feel the power behind Vegeta's punch. Gohan glanced at the other two saiyans, who weren't sparring just yet. They were watching the fight between Gohan and Vegeta with interest.

Gohan looked back just in time to catch a punch with his cheek. The young warrior stumbled back, realizing that Vegeta followed him. "Lesson number one, kiddo. Always keep your eyes on the enemy!" The man moved up his leg to kick the half-saiyan but Gohan blocked this attack. The young warrior saw an opening and he made his move, kneeing Vegeta in the gut.

The saiyan prince faltered for a moment but he recovered quickly, placed a hand on Gohan's forehead and pushed the boy back. Vegeta's expression changed to an amused one. "Well well. You adjust quickly. Already figuring out my fighting style."

Gohan didn't respond. He just sank back into a fighting stance. The half-saiyan cocked an eyebrow and beckoned for Vegeta to attack him. The man barked out a laugh at Gohan's sassiness. After this he disappeared from Gohan's sight. The half-saiyan sensed around and realized Vegeta was standing next to him.

Gohan jumped away to avoid Vegeta's first punch. He moved back even more when Vegeta continued his assault. The half-saiyan dodged every punch coming in his direction. "Don't just dodge my punches!" Vegeta yelled at him. "I want to fight! Attack me!"

Gohan was too busy not getting hurt to actually search for a flaw in Vegeta's posture. The boy finally caught an opening and punched the man. Vegeta brushed this punch away by the placing his hand against Gohan's elbow. "Is that it? I thought you were stronger than that, brat." Vegeta snarled at him.

Gohan frowned and lashed out. Vegeta caught this punch too. The man grinned at him. "There is more power in this one. You're getting angry already, huh?" He taunted. Gohan jumped back and powered up. He launched at Vegeta once more, his fists itching to punch the man's smirk off his face. Vegeta moved his head sideways to avoid the punch. "Ah, you're a real saiyan alright. You get stronger as you fight." He teased.

Vegeta grabbed Gohan's fist and turned his back on the boy. He tightened his grip on Gohan's wrist and threw the boy over his shoulder. Gohan was slammed down on the ground. Vegeta yawned in an exaggerating manner. "But you're no match for me."

Gohan rolled over onto his stomach and pushed his body up. He powered up and attacked Vegeta head on.

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Gohan let out a sigh as he leaned his head back, enjoying how the cold water of the shower rained down on his face. They had their own bathroom in this apartment. It wasn't much. A glass shower booth, a toilet and a sink where they could wash their hands. A small mirror was hanging above the sink. Gohan found it very interesting when he saw three different colored toothbrushes and three razor blades.

He later found out that they only brushed their teeth when they were staying in the apartment, since that was pretty much the only moment where they had a rhythm. Raditz presented Gohan with a yellow toothbrush and a cup to put it in. These were now standing on the shelf together with the others. Gohan didn't need a razor just yet. Gohan glanced at his yellow toothbrush, which only was a yellow blob right now because of the frosted glass of the shower cabin.

Gohan was the last to take a shower. Vegeta was the first one, and Nappa took a shower after the prince. Raditz went for the bathroom after that. Finally, Vegeta told Gohan that he could take a shower but the boy wasn't allowed to lock the door. Gohan asked him why not and Vegeta only pointed to the small window in the corner. It wasn't like anyone could fit through that. It was only there to let in some fresh air.

"If I hear even one sound that I don't like I am coming in here." Vegeta snarled at the time. "And I don't want to have to destroy the door. It's worth more than you."

Gohan frowned as he thought about this. He didn't want Vegeta to barge in here while he was taking a shower so he was as silent as he could possibly be.

Once he was dried off and clothed, Gohan glanced at his reflection. A large cut was present on his cheek. Vegeta was responsible for that one. The man sent a blast in his direction and Gohan could only tilt his head to avoid it. The half-saiyan ran a finger over the wound. He hoped it would heal and disappear without leaving a scar.

The young saiyan placed his hand on the doorknob and took a deep breath. Time to face the music. He opened the door.

Vegeta was sitting on the couch, his eyes studied a document. "Get us something to drink, boy." He ordered.

Gohan blinked. "What?"

Vegeta didn't look up at him but only reached out to point to the kitchen. "Glasses are in the upper cabinet. Drinks are in the refrigerator. The ones with the blue label and white letters on them." The man lowered his arm. "They're energy drinks for after exercising. Make one for yourself as well." The man's eyes now moved up and studied Gohan's rather beaten up appearance. "You need it."

The half-saiyan bit back a retort and he turned to the kitchen. He couldn't reach the upper cabinet so he floated up and opened it. After getting the glasses and the tall bottle with the blue liquid and blue label, Gohan filled the first glass. He looked up when his uncle approached him.

"Give the first glass to Vegeta." Raditz whispered as he pushed one glass aside. "The second to Nappa." He added.

"Why?" Gohan whispered back.

"Hierarchical order." Raditz replied. "They're the elite. We are third class warriors. Trust me. I think Vegeta was planning on punishing you for making the mistake of handing the first glass to the wrong person."

Gohan looked over at the prince, but Vegeta was still focused on the documents. Nappa was taking a nap on the chair. Raditz tousled Gohan's hair before moving back to the couch.

The half-saiyan figured he might as well follow Raditz's advice. Gohan grabbed the first two glasses and placed the first one in front of Vegeta. He handed the second one to Nappa, who was already holding out his hand. Apparently he was not taking a nap.

Finding no resistance, Gohan returned to the kitchen and grabbed the last two glasses. He handed the first one to Raditz and whispered a brief "Thank you" before sitting down on the remaining chair.

"Very good but who wouldn't be with a little birdie who can whisper the correct actions in your ear." Vegeta stated as he glanced over at Raditz.

The uncle bowed his head. "This wouldn't have been an act of rebellion. He simply didn't know." He responded.

"Remember this, boy. Next time you do it wrong I will punish you for it." Vegeta said as he glanced over at Gohan.

The half-saiyan nodded in response. "Yes sir." Gohan sipped from his drink and noticed it didn't taste all that bad. It was actually rather good.

The next couple of hours were spent in silence. Vegeta was still reading the documents and he eventually passed them on to Nappa. After reading the entire thing, Nappa passed it on to Raditz. Gohan gave the documents a curious glance but he figured asking them what it was wouldn't help.

The half-saiyan was dozing off to a slumber, curled up in the chair, leaning against the back leaning with his side, when Vegeta got up. The man walked over to the kitchen and reached in one of the cabinets. "Half-breed."

Gohan shifted on the chair and murmured something in response. Raditz's tail reached over and curled around Gohan's ankle, hoisting the half-saiyan upwards. Gohan opened his eyes and sent the man a questioning glance. "What are you doing?"

"Vegeta is calling for you."

The man dropped Gohan's foot and the half-saiyan got up. He walked closer to the saiyan prince, who was frowning back at him. "Took you long enough."

Gohan shrugged. "I'm sorry." He muttered before stifling a yawn.

"Pay attention." Vegeta said as he grabbed a small package. The man placed the package on a plate and put the plate inside a small machine that was standing on the counter. The half-saiyan watched as Vegeta closed the door of the machine. Vegeta pressed the purple button next to the small door, and Gohan watched with fascination through the small window. A flash of light was seen and Gohan gasped when he saw that the plate was filled with food.

"That's amazing." Gohan said as he tried to find the package Vegeta put in there but it was gone.

Vegeta opened the door and beckoned for Gohan to do what he wanted. The half-saiyan reached out and went to grab the plate but the moment he touched the plate his fingers sent a horrible signal to his brain and he pulled his hands back. The half-saiyan put his throbbing finger in his mouth to lessen the pain.

"Exactly." Vegeta stated. "It's hot."

"You could have warned me." Gohan muttered, pouting a little.

"Now you've learned not to touch it." Vegeta responded, shrugging. The man took off his gloves and handed them to Gohan. "It will cool off quickly, but avoid touching it for a bit after you prepare it."

Gohan pulled on the gloves and grabbed the plate. He could still feel some warmth but it was manageable now. He placed the plate on the metal table.

Vegeta was reaching in the cabinet again. "There are several different flavors. You can take a look at them yourself. Here is where they are. The flavor is on the label. You know how to prepare it now. Nappa," The man looked over at the other two. "Raditz, what do you want?"

"I'd like some beef." Nappa responded.

"Me too." Raditz added.

Vegeta grabbed two packages with a purple label. "Go ahead." He said to Gohan. The half-saiyan grabbed the first package and placed it in the machine. He closed the door and pressed on the purple button. The half-saiyan glanced down to avoid looking at the blinding flash. Opening it, he waited for a few seconds before reaching in and pulling out the plate.

"Perfect." Vegeta walked to the metal table and sat down. "I knew you would come in handy someday."

Gohan pursed his lips. "I hope you're not expecting me to always do this for you guys." He responded as he placed the plate on the table.

Vegeta leaned on the table with his elbows. "It's intriguing how you still try to resist my orders."

Gohan continued to prepare the food for Raditz and placed it on the table. After this he climbed up on the counter and looked in the cabinet. He looked at the different labels and was once more thankful that he could read the universal language. Then again, he didn't know what the different flavors were. Kinga… Doro… Gohan made a face and grabbed a purple one. Beef. Good. Let's stick with that.

The half-saiyan crawled off the counter and prepared the food. Sitting down at the table, Gohan started to eat. The food wasn't all that bad, but the amazing supper he had back on the planet they purged was better. After having to get up to make several new plates for the others and himself, Gohan was feeling rather filled up and he was tired. Man, he was tired. He wondered if he could go to bed now, but Vegeta had other plans.

The man told the half-saiyan to collect all the plates. Gohan did as he was told and placed the plates in the sink. He was already running the water when Vegeta approached him.

"Ah," Vegeta stated, "you beat me to ordering you."

"I can put two and two together." Gohan responded, shaking his head. "I am not going to do this every day." He continued.

"We'll see." Vegeta knelt down and opened one of the lower cabinets. "For now, I have some soap for you here." The man poured it in the water and Gohan closed the tab. "Good luck." The man placed the soap on the counter and he turned away from the half-saiyan.

Gohan sent the man a confused glance. Good luck? It wasn't like it was the first time he did the dishes. Raditz glanced at the soap bottle and he widened his eyes. The man opened his mouth but Vegeta gave the man a warning glance, so Raditz closed his mouth again.

Gohan noticed that they were all watching him with interest, but he decided to ignore them. The boy grabbed a cloth and pushed his hands in the water to grab a plate. The moment his skin touched the chemicals in the water he jumped and stepped back. His tail lashed out in fright as Gohan's hands tingled painfully. The boy looked at his already red hands.

"What's wrong?" Vegeta's voice interrupted his wildly racing thoughts. Vegeta raised an eyebrow at him as Gohan's wide eyes moved to him. "Is it too hard for you?" He asked innocently. Gohan stared at him and couldn't hide the confusion on his face at this cruel ordeal. Slowly, realization dawned in Gohan's mind as he stared at Vegeta's icy orbs. The man knew exactly what was going on. Gohan pressed his lips against each other and looked back at the water. His tail was curling between his legs as he pushed his hands back in the water to grab a plate. He refused to show the others how much pain this inflicted on him as he continued to wash every plate and glass in the pile.

"Is this really necessary?" Raditz whispered.

"I didn't know you were so concerned about your little nephew." Vegeta responded.

"The brat tamed his uncle already! He will have you buying cuddly puppets within a week." Nappa teased.

Raditz rolled his eyes as he leaned back in his chair. "He was volunteering to do the dishes. We don't have a reason to punish him. Besides, that soap is horrible for his hands."

"It will hurt. I've felt it." Vegeta answered with a shrug. "It hurts." They continued their conversation and ignored the teenager. Gohan was doing exactly the same to them as he continued to do the dishes. A while later Gohan let the cold water run down his hands. He sighed and tried to ignore the throbbing in his hands. Jerks. All of them.

"Go to bed, half-breed."

"That's not my name."

"I don't care."

*** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Raditz entered the bedroom. The half-saiyan was sitting on his bed. He didn't feel like sleeping just yet and he'd just been staring at nothing.

"You're still awake?" Raditz observed.

"I don't feel like sleeping." Gohan muttered. He noticed his uncle was wearing some sort of pajamas as well. They were sober pajamas. A dark brown shirt and beige baggy pants. It was very similar to what they presented Gohan with. A white shirt and gray baggy pants. They were way too big for him but Vegeta reasoned he would grow into them. They weren't planning on facilitating him with new clothing every time his body decided to grow a few inches. Gohan figured the saiyan prince was right.

"You need your sleep, kiddo." Raditz removed his shirt before crawling in his bed. Gohan's gaze studied the scars on Raditz's torso. Gohan wasn't the only saiyan who'd been through a hard time.

The half-saiyan was silent while Raditz settled in his bed. "Sir?" Gohan started once Raditz placed his arms under his head to use them as a pillow.

"You can call me Raditz." The man responded, glancing over at him. "Hell, I guess you could even call me uncle if you'd like or you could use both pronouns to address me. I don't really mind." The man shrugged.

"Uncle Raditz." Gohan tried, tasting the words. The half-saiyan made a face at the strangeness of the phrase. Raditz caught his expression and he snickered.

"It sounds strange, doesn't it?" The uncle asked.

Gohan smiled. "A little. I'll just stick to Raditz for now." He decided, nodding. Maybe one day, if he got accustomed to the three warriors he could start calling his uncle "uncle", but for now he didn't really want to anyway. The half-saiyan wrapped his arms around his knees. "So… This was a day in your life, huh?"

"That it was." Raditz looked over at him. "Pay attention to those hierarchal rules." He advised. "They can get pretty worked up about it."

"Why? We're with such a small group. It doesn't make any sense."

The man shrugged and looked up at the ceiling. "It's all we've got left from our planet." He said in a softer voice. "The social rules are the only saiyan thing we have so we try to live by them." The man took a deep breath, his chest rising and falling slowly. "We broke one of the saiyan laws when we took you in. Well, I did." Raditz continued. "Hybrids are supposed to be killed on sight."

Gohan lowered his gaze for a moment. Crimon told him about the saiyan laws on hybrids. They considered their own race a superior race. When someone made a baby with someone who was not a saiyan, this was considered treason and a direct insult to the entire race and their ancestors. Hybrids that returned to planet Vegeta could not expect a warm welcome. Not at all.

The half-saiyan looked up. "But my father didn't know."

"We did know though." Raditz yawned and placed a hand in front of his mouth to hide it. "Vegeta tried to lessen the treason on our part by saying that we practically enslaved you but we all know better. Once you start to behave you'll be our equal."

"Once I start to behave." Gohan muttered softly.

Raditz overheard the mutter and he turned on his side, staring at the half-saiyan. "Give up, boy." He stated. Gohan met his eyes. "You can't escape from us. Besides, you're already in this world. Frieza knows about you. If you run back to earth you'll lead him straight to it. He will go after you."

"Maybe…" Gohan said hesitantly. He realized that Headmaster said the exact same thing. Were they all right?

"No. Not maybe. Definitely. You saw how he treated you. That asshole enjoys making other people suffer and he seems to find some sadistic pleasure in making us suffer. He won't just let you take off into the sunset. If you run, you and your planet are dead."

The half-saiyan didn't reply. He just stared at the ground, unable to meet Raditz's gaze. The boy knew Raditz was right. He realized that when he first met Frieza. The man's cold gaze was something he'd never seen before and the immense amusement these people got when they were hurting other people. It made Gohan feel rather sick.

Raditz tried to catch Gohan's eyes but the boy didn't look at him. The man rolled onto his back again. "Get some sleep, kid." He stated. "We only have five hours."

"Yeah…" Gohan nodded slowly before he crawled over to his pillow. He moved his body under the sheets, turned away from his uncle and closed his eyes.

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

The ten-year-old half-saiyan was sitting on the couch, staring at a piece of paper in his hands. Hand signals is what Vegeta called them. When on a mission, the three saiyans could easily communicate through their scouters, but they didn't want to be handicapped when one of the scouters was destroyed, so they used certain hand signals to communicate with each other.

Before the three adults left a couple of hours ago, Vegeta told Gohan to learn the signals by heart. He needed to know them by heart before they went on the next mission. At first Gohan was surprised that the three adults easily left without him, leaving him alone in the apartment. Then again, there were bars in front of the windows.

On the second day after their arrival, Gohan had to put the bars on the outside area of the windows. The windows had to be opened and closed manually. Under Vegeta's close supervision, Gohan had to seal the bars on the outer edges of the windowsills. It was a very strong metal especially made for the prisons in Frieza's ship. When Gohan first felt the material he realized that he could break it, but he would have to power up for it. Vegeta's scouter would immediately detect his higher power level and come racing back.

Aside from that, Gohan had to wear his scouter at all times when the others were gone. Vegeta would check on him by randomly asking Gohan if he was still there. If Gohan didn't answer, he would be sorry. At least, that's what Vegeta promised him.

Gohan had been staying with the other saiyans for two weeks now. It was strange how normal the three adults were. When Gohan was still at camp he imagined them sitting in a dark room, killing small animals and ripping the meat off of them with their teeth. He didn't expect them to have a set rhythm.

They got up in the morning and ate their breakfast. After that they would go to the training room and spend the next seven to ten hours training, sparring, and exercising. After that they had supper and that was pretty much one day.

Gohan was surprised to find out that every single one of the saiyans could actually cook a decent meal. Vegeta was the most experienced. Though they usually ate the instant meals. Sometimes one of the three felt like making dinner and they would usually offer it. Otherwise, Vegeta would tell Gohan to start making the instant meals for them.

Why did Gohan have to prepare the instant meals every time? Because Gohan apparently had to do everything the others didn't want to do. Gohan often found himself wondering who did all these chores before he arrived but he didn't dare to ask yet. If Gohan was afraid he would get bored during the couple of hours rest between sparring and bedtime, he shouldn't have been. The young warrior found himself being told to do the dishes, clean the floors and windows, clean the entire bathroom and wipe the tables and counter. If he refused, he got hurt.

The half-saiyan looked up when the door opened and a group of warriors walked in. He recognized three of them as his comrades but there was an unknown warrior with them. Gohan's eyes travelled over the man's strange appearance. He had a white skin but his eyes were pitch black with only two white pupils. The man's hair was black as well, and Gohan even noticed black nails on the man's fingers, or rather claws. The man's claws were long and bent in such a way that it always seemed like he was preparing to attack someone.

Vegeta was the first one to reach the couch and he waved Gohan away. The half-saiyan grabbed his stuff and got up. He placed everything on the table and watched as the others sat down, taking all the space on the couch.

"What's that?" The unknown soldier asked as he pointed at Gohan. "Did you finally take a prize from one of your many conquests to keep as a slave?"

Vegeta shook his head. "Not exactly." He settled on the couch. "He's a saiyan. His father survived the explosion and when we visited him a couple of years ago he refused to join us so we killed him and took his half-breed son instead."

"So he's a soldier?" The unknown man asked.

"Nope. He's a downright pain in the ass." Vegeta responded as he met Gohan's gaze. The half-saiyan sent the man a defiant gaze back. "Half-breed. Get us something to drink. What do you want Marmin?"

"Beer." Marmin stated, nodding. "A nice cold beer is something I could use."

"You heard it. Wine for me." Vegeta said as he glanced at the half-saiyan. Raditz and Nappa wanted a beer as well so Gohan walked to the refrigerator and grabbed four beer cans and filled one glass with wine. He returned with the glass of wine first and placed that in front of Vegeta. After this he turned around to grab the cans, placing one in front of Nappa before he placed the other two in front of Raditz and the guest. He had to keep to this strict order because of their status. Vegeta was to get the first drink and Nappa the second. It didn't really matter after that.

"Oh, this is great. You should have gotten a servant a lot sooner, Vegeta. It makes life so much easier." Marmin said cheerfully as he reached over and grabbed the can.

"I agree." Vegeta responded before he sipped from his wine. "I enjoy the comfort that comes with it."

Gohan looked at the beer can he kept for himself and he was about to open it when Raditz stopped him. "Hey, put that back. No beer for you, boy." He ordered.

"Aww, but I want to know what you like about it. All you adults drink it. I want to find out why it's so good." Gohan complained as he turned to Raditz.

"Aww let him drink it. Might be fun to see the effect on him." Marmin added, grinning.

"No." Vegeta shook his head. "Grab yourself a soda."

"But…"

"Or you can spend the rest of the day locked in the bedroom without drinking anything." Vegeta raised his voice to overpower the half-saiyan. "Your choice."

Gohan frowned at the man. "Fine." He turned back to the kitchen and put the beer back in the refrigerator. He ignored Marmin's statement that Vegeta would make a great father while he grabbed a soda and sat down at the table.

The young warrior turned his back on the others so he could focus on his task. He usually ignored them and they ignored him and he considered that a great arrangement. The less he had to interact with them the better.

Gohan raised the soda can to his lips and realized how much strain there was on his arm. His comrades decided that he had to buff up. Especially his arms they considered not strong enough.

A couple days ago they all sat down to create an exercising routine for Gohan. The half-saiyan was there as well but he often wondered why he was even there. He wasn't allowed to say anything and every time he tried to interfere one of the others would bark at him to be quiet. He could only watch miserably as the others piled up exercise after exercise until they created an agonizing routine that would leave Gohan exhausted and with pain in all the muscles in his body. Again, the others took turns supervising the half-saiyan during his training to make sure he did the exercises without cheating. This usually meant that one of the adults would be doing his own exercises right next to him.

Gohan placed the can on the table again. The routine might be tough but he could feel how good it was for his muscles. The exercises hurt but he felt stronger afterwards. It wasn't the first time he realized that his comrades knew exactly what to do and that all their efforts and training advice, however ruthless, were in his best interest. They helped him make progress.

A smirk appeared on Gohan's face as he looked at the paper on the table. They helped him get stronger and stronger and one day he would use every bit of their advice to tear them limb from limb. He couldn't wait.

"Half-breed." Vegeta called over. Gohan took a deep breath before turning and looking at the man. "I want you to go to the store for some vegetables. I feel like cooking tonight."

Gohan got up. "Me?" Vegeta wanted him to go outside? To leave this damned hole? He'd been inside this place for two weeks now, only walking from the apartment to the training room and back.

Vegeta reached over to a cup. They stored pens in there in case they needed to write a note. The man grabbed a pen. "Luckily, we only have to put up with one filthy hybrid, so yes, you." The man was writing something down as he said this and only looked up at the last part of his sentence.

Gohan scoffed. Honestly, the three adults said nasty things about the fact that Gohan was a half-saiyan all the time. He was getting kind of used to it now. As far as someone could get used to something like that. Besides, what could he say in response? Anything is better than being a filthy pureblood? No. That wasn't going to work at all. That would only make Gohan sound jealous, and he definitely wasn't jealous of their saiyan blood. He wished he didn't have any of it in the first place.

"You haven't allowed me to go out at all. You can't blame me for being surprised." Gohan responded. The half-saiyan moved closer when Vegeta held out the piece of paper.

"I will keep a close eye on you during your trip. I just don't feel like going down there myself." Vegeta said as he handed Gohan the paper. The half-saiyan looked at it. "I wrote down what I want you to buy with the appropriate amount next to it." Gohan nodded to show that he understood it.

Gohan looked up. "Do I need money?" He asked.

Vegeta shook his head. "We don't use money in this company. As long as you work you have the right to food, equipment and living facilities. We pay with our number."

"Do I have a number?" Gohan asked curiously.

"Yes, you do. You started working when you left for your first mission."

Gohan stared at him but Vegeta only sent the young warrior a solemn stare back so Gohan decided to continue: "Can I have my number?"

"There are a lot of things you can do with your number." Vegeta responded as he leaned back on the couch. "I don't feel like granting you that amount of freedom just yet."

"But it's my number." Gohan frowned at Vegeta. This didn't sound fair.

"And I am in charge of you." Vegeta was still calm but Gohan could already see the glint in the man's eyes. He realized that Vegeta could explode any moment. "So everything you own belongs to me, got it?"

Gohan crossed his arms over each other. "That's not fair."

Before he knew it, Vegeta's tail curled around the half-saiyan's wrist and pulled him closer. The man grabbed hold of the collar of Gohan's black uniform and made the distance between them even smaller. "One more word out of your filthy mouth and I will show you your number by giving you the exact amount in punches and it's a six digit number. I wouldn't recommend it." Vegeta's tail released the half-saiyan but his hand tightened its grip on Gohan's uniform. "Now, if you don't do the task I just gave you properly I will beat you so hard you won't be able to sit properly for months." He threatened. "Do you understand me?"

Gohan narrowed his eyes. "Yes sir." He replied.

"Perfect." Vegeta pushed Gohan backwards, forcing the half-saiyan to stumble back. "Now get out of my sight."

"Good job, Vegeta!" Marmin cheered while Gohan turned away from them and walked to the doorway. "You know how to treat a brat like that. Honestly, parents these days are such weaklings. Don't want to hit their children. Ugh! A beating is the best thing that can happen to those runts. It will…"

Gohan slammed the door behind him. He didn't care what the others would think about it. For now, he was rid of them.

The half-saiyan left the elevator and looked at the paper as he walked in the lobby. He'd forgotten how many people were here during the day. He hadn't been in the lobby since he arrived several weeks ago. The young warrior had to avoid bumping into people, which was difficult since there were aliens everywhere.

Once he was outside, he looked around again. Vegeta wrote down the directions. Straight ahead. First right. First left. Gohan entered a building and studied everything with curiosity.

"Half-breed. Are you there yet?"

Gohan flinched when Vegeta's voice sounded through the scouter. "Yes. I am."

"I know. I saw you enter the store. Now hurry up. It's the first aisle on the right. Everything's there. I want you out of there within ten minutes. When you reach the register you can tell the man at the cash register that Vegeta sent you. He will know what to do."

Gohan looked at the entryway. So Vegeta was watching him. Figures. "Okay." He responded before he started walking again. Later, Gohan would learn that Vegeta made a deal with pretty much every shopkeeper on the planet. They would let Vegeta know whenever they saw a young boy with a furry brown tail in the shop and they would let Gohan pay with only the mention of Vegeta's name. It would be put on Vegeta's tab and the saiyan prince would pay for it later. Gohan often wondered how Vegeta made such loyal friends, but he should have known that loyalty was not what drove those shopkeepers to obeying Vegeta's orders. It was fear.

The half-saiyan turned to the first aisle on the right and read the word vegetables. Tssk. As if Gohan couldn't have found that on his own. Honestly... The young warrior started to gather the vegetables Vegeta wanted him to get. He put them all in a white basket he picked up when he entered the store. The ten-year-old reached over and grabbed a couple of the strange long purple vegetables that Vegeta wanted. He looked up when two aliens approached. They seemed to be two female aliens since their voices were rather high but they were from the same race. They had a silver-ish complexion and bright silver eyes. Their hair was a few shades darker brown than Gohan's hair. They were accompanied by two younger looking aliens and from how they behaved Gohan assumed they were young boys, around Gohan's age.

"Do you need some help?" One of the women asked when Gohan reached up for some small green vegetables.

Gohan glanced sideways and lowered his arm. "No. Thank you. I can manage." He responded before he flew up and reached for the vegetables.

"Oh, look at that. You can already fly." The same woman said as she studied the half-saiyan. "Very good. Are you buying groceries for your parents?"

"Something like that." Gohan responded, smiling in return. He didn't feel like explaining the entire story to two perfect strangers. "It's the first time I'm in this amazing place. This store is rather large."

The other woman nodded once. "I know right. When I first arrived I was afraid I would spend hours and hours searching for my groceries. It often even takes me ages just to find help in here. It's not that bad though." She smiled as Gohan landed on the ground again. "Take it from me. You'll be able to find your way around here in no time."

Gohan's smile faltered when he heard Vegeta groan in his ear. "He's making small talk with women." Vegeta complained to the others. Gohan could hear some laughs and he decided to stop this conversation. He excused himself and turned to the register.

"He excused himself!" Vegeta continued to complain, earning more amused sounds from the others. "Who taught him proper manners and how do I get rid of them?"

The half-saiyan rolled his eyes but he didn't say anything. He walked to the register and said that Vegeta sent him. The tall man behind the counter nodded in response. At least… Gohan assumed the man nodded. The alien was covered in a brown fur that was so thick that Gohan could hardly see where there man's shoulders stopped and his neck or head started. Gohan could only see two black eyes because that was the only place where the fur was not present.

The man told Gohan he could take the basket as well and several minutes later Gohan was knocking on the door of the apartment. So much for his freedom. Raditz opened the door and let the half-saiyan in.

Gohan handed the basket to Vegeta, who turned to the kitchen and told Gohan to sit down at the table. The half-saiyan did as he was told. Vegeta ordered Gohan to start cutting up the vegetables. Gohan was doing just that when Marmin announced his departure.

"I'll see you all later. Raditz, Vegeta, Nappa." He said cheerfully. The man's eyes landed on Gohan. "And you, kiddo. A nice breeze of fresh air might be what this squad of geezers needs. It will be interesting to follow your progress in this team."

"Too bad I won't be here long enough for you to find that out." Gohan responded in a rather cold manner. He hadn't forgotten Marmin's cheers about the abuse the others put Gohan through.

Marmin grinned after Gohan's response. "Yes. It will be so much fun to watch indeed. The three adult saiyans versus the young saiyan. Who will be the winner?" He announced. "I'm betting my money on the adults, kiddo." Gohan scoffed and turned his back on the man. He was done with this conversation.

The others greeted Marmin when he left. After that the three warriors stayed silent. Nappa and Raditz were lounging on the couch and chair while Gohan helped Vegeta prepare supper. After supper Vegeta reviewed the signals with Gohan. The man would make a hand signal and Gohan had to say what the signal meant. Gohan silently wondered why Vegeta was taking care of the testing while Raditz usually took care of everything that concerned the half-saiyan.

Gohan wondered if it was because they thought Gohan would do better under Vegeta's supervision because the man was a strict teacher. Then again, Vegeta would be the one making the signals so Gohan might as well learn Vegeta's version of them. Either way, Gohan passed the test and Vegeta told the half-saiyan to prepare for bed.

That night Gohan stared up at the ceiling. He thought about Marmin's words. Marmin was not the first 'friend' the others brought into the apartment, and every single one of those goons seemed to consider Gohan a permanent addition to the saiyan team. The young warrior moved his arms under his head to use them as a pillow. He knew he had to be patient, but that could be very difficult. On moments like this he just wanted to jump out the window and fly away.

Gohan looked up at the barred window. The front door was locked. The young warrior let out a sigh. Vegeta would be in this room the moment Gohan powered up. It wasn't worth it. He had to wait.

Raditz yawned as he walked to his bed. The man pulled off his armor and dropped it to the ground. Sitting down on his bed, he caught Gohan's eyes. "Hey, shouldn't you be asleep?"

The half-saiyan shrugged. "I can't sleep." He muttered.

"You should get some rest." Raditz responded, studying the half-saiyan. "We're having a long sparring session tomorrow. You'll need it."

"Tssk." Gohan uttered. "I'm young. I'm not a geezer like you. I can easily handle a long day of work with little sleep." He said before he closed his eyes.

A tail curled around Gohan's ankle and lifted him in the air. Gohan gasped when his body was removed from the bed entirely, his traitorous sheets casually slipping off of him to let him fight the battle on his own.

Upside down with his arms hanging awkwardly next to his head, Gohan sent his uncle a confused glance. Raditz was smirking back at him. "Did I just hear my baby nephew mock me?" He asked. "Now that just won't do. I can let that slide without retaliating!"

Before Gohan knew what was happening Raditz reached out and started tickling the half-saiyan. Gohan laughed out loud while he tried to push Raditz's hands away. His own tail freed itself and joined the fight.

"Raditz! Stop! No!" Gohan wiggled but the tail around his ankle was strong.

The room that was usually so quiet was now filled with laughter. The two warriors who were usually so serious and hostile were now both grinning widely as they pushed each other around in a painless fight.

For just a moment. They treated each other like equals, friends even. Maybe… Just a tiny part of them briefly considered the other family. But just a tiny part.

**** DBZ **** DBZ ****

Not my best work but it will do.

I hope you liked it. Please review and let me know what you think!