Hello people, I hope that my story doesn't bores you. I know that I'm not the perfect writer but I will try my best. Sadly, Suika will not part take in some arcs but don't worry this will follow the whole Dragon ball series, Dragon ball Z kai and Super.
If I have any errors please don't hesitate to leave a comment, I can take any types of criticisms. Don't be shy!
I hope you guys enjoy this chapter!
No amount of gold could ever compare to the gift of love that my son shares.
I've been blind and I couldn't see that all the love I've wanted is right here in front of me.
He gives me reason to get through another day.
Maybe it's how he loves me in his special little way.
He makes this hell on earth seem more like a peaceful bliss.
Sabrina A. Hernandez
Chapter 3: Home is where the heart is
Let's face it, I'm not the perfect Mother in the world, my eyes strung with tears after hurting Goku big time. He almost looked up the moon three days ago,my fears took a hold of me first rather than my maternal instincts.
I accidently yanked Goku's Tail so hard that I almost tore it off his body, this caused him to limp for three days. But that's not the best part, my anger rushed through my mind and my body moved on it's own when he bit my arm pretty hard. I don't know my own strength and so backhanded my little boy...
I back-handed my precious little boy with my full power!
He was thrown against a number of trees, Father of course took care of him and I shut myself out since I have hurt him...Very much...
Congratulations Suika! You've been awarded the worst Mother of the year!
I wiped all of my tears away when I heard someone knock on the door, I dusted off my apron and slowly slid it open. It revealed five familiar clothes men, their eyes were wide with surprise as if they have seen a ghost-no, a demon.
" Yes? Is there anything you want?" I asked them without any life on my voice, they just stared at me for a long time until one of the ladies spoke in a shaky voice.
" I-I'm sorry to intrude but...We're looking for Suika...Suika, the daughter of Momoko? I presume that it's you with your red eyes." I wanted to clap my hands to give her an award for the common sense-Wait?! Did she just mention my mother's name?!
" Y-yes...Wait a minute...You're from Furutsusarada aren't you?!" I don't know what to feel exactly, anger, happiness or anxiety.
They held such nervous faces as if I'm going to pounce at them like a lion, they're actually afraid of what I can do to them.
Damn...I've waited sixteen years, sixteen fucking years. Of all times, they had to barge in like this, I have every right to kick their asses to the ground. Though I felt surprised they actually care about me, for once I'd thought they feel relieved that the Red-eyed demon is out of the sacred village.
" Lady Suika-" Since when did they start calling me ' Lady'?! Don't tell me they're going to make fun of my status right now. I'm still damn angry for waiting for so long.
" What's with the ' Lady'?! Drop it, it's just Suika and Suika it shall always be. Besides which, I've never been a lady myself." I wrapped my arms around my chest with so much sarcasm, they looked at each other unsure what to do.
" Well...You're actually Furutsusarada's best healer-in-training. We're supposed to give you our upmost respect, you're also the descendant of Satsuma. It's fitting that we should call you Lady Suika." It's either they're faking every word, I was about to bawl in irritation but I let my anger cool down and step away to invite them inside the house.
They bowed in gratitude, I placed all of their traveling shoes inside a cabinet and led them inside the house. I kept my guard up to make sure they aren't a threat; their Ki levels were not that strong which made me smirk.
' My, what a clean place you have here Lady Suika." A tick mark appeared on my left temple when one of them called me ' Lady' again, my lips twitched a smile and giggled to show my appreciation.
" Why thank you, I work too hard to make sure that this place is spotlessly clean! The cleaning god always shine upon me. As always, he favors me very much." All of them just stared at me like I'm some kind of weirdo.
" T-That's very impressive Lady Suika..." I hid my face with a smirk, my eyes squinted in annoyance then laughed it off. They all sweat drop at once when my voice echoed in the hallway. I led them inside the dining area, they all settle their comfortably.
Gohan and Goku joined us in the dining area, but my son didn't quite look at me in the eye. This quenched my heart as a Mother, I feel terrible all of the sudden until they told the story about their travels. I prepared some tea and biscuits to ease their hunger and continued on.
The story was a bit terrible, after losing me and my mother, the village started to be in peril for losing their best healers. People and children were getting sick by a terrible disease.
" We couldn't do anything...Not even the council or The Village Elder can fix it...The disease is spreading and there's nothing we can do about it." My eyes were wide with so much pity, I may have hated the people for being a monster in their eyes but somehow, I still care for them.
They are my family after all...
" So... You came all this way to use her abilities then?" Father asked in a serious tone as if he's not in favor of it.
" No... Not actually...The Village elder also wants her to return home...It's been too long, he wants her back." She said with her head down, what are they playing at? It's like they're trying to make a story. I know that this sounds good but why are they not bashing and calling me a demon?
I mean, no one respected me even if I was a healer. They thought I cursed the village when I was born and eyed me like I'm a monster. An outsider
Of all times...They've come here to bring me back home with a bunch of diseased people, a diseased that cannot be healed by traditional healing? They should have called professional hospital doctors unless-
Holy shit...
What a bunch of sissies they are, the village elder might have told them about the peach that I ate from Satsuma's tree. They actually think that story's true?!
I couldn't even heal Goku when he hit his head! I couldn't even draw it out when I hurt Goku three days ago and I'm not even that pure hearted either! I loved to fight and make fun of people in my youth and it's the proof that I'm not a good little girl at all!
" Let me get this straight, you want me to go home...With a bunch of diseased people in Furutsusarada? Are you trying to say that you need me to help them...because I'm Satsuma's descendant-"
" No please! You've got it all wrong! We're not forcing you to help us Suika, we just want you to go home where you truly belong!" The man said with desperate wide eyes, I glanced to my family who were confused and surprised at the same time.
They're taking me home to where I belong? Now that's new.
" Please reconsider, you are part of Satsuma's village...A resident, it's time that you return to us. It took us five months to get we just can't leave you...You're our family, grandfather needs you too!" They said with pleading eyes, they look very determined to bring me back or rather drag me. My heart thump faster on my chest. I couldn't believe what I just heard.
For once they thought of me as a family, the very people who loathed me before, Treats me as if I'm their own?
They want to take me back, as a family.
My mind ran thoughts about the Village people, they're family. What they said are right, but...
I looked at Gohan and Goku with such sad eyes, they couldn't believe it.
They're my family too...Father and my baby Goku...
Oh Goku...
I want to stay but I also want to go home, over the past sixteen years I've changed entirely. I almost lost the hope of going home, I lessened my bad habits and slightly changed my attitude just for a little boy.
I grew into a Maternal woman for the past 11 years, I may not be the best single mom but I tried so hard to change for him.
I'm not the Suika I used to be, the cocky little girl has been transformed by both Gohan and Goku. There's still a spark that I'm a resident of Furutsusrada, the memories of my mother and grandfather are still fresh on my mind.
I don't even know who I am anymore...
As much as I want to go home...I want to be selfish and stay here...
But...My home...
" Mommy? Are you really going home?" Goku spoke up with such sadness in his voice, he knew what it means to return to my original home. Outsiders are not allowed to enter unless you're a resident, I've told him stories of my youth and he seems fascinated about it like it's a fairy tale.
" Mommy? Suika, don't tell me that-that you were able to produce a chi-child with an outsider. You know the rules! You should produce children who aren't residents of Furutsusarada!" I wanted to lie to them but damn! Gohan told them the truth and the story about my adopted son.
They all listened about the tales of my motherhood with Goku, all of them were a bit touched by my willingness to adopt my son. It was one hell of an adventure since he was not a kind baby at first. But the subject was changed quickly-
" Suika? You've been waiting for so long... Please come home with us. We need you." I don't know what to do anymore, I knew that this day would come but not in a situation like this. I'm very happy here! Holy Fucking hell! Gohan just had to spill the beans yet I don't blame his philosophy about being a truthful person.
What to do now?
" She could at least choose, don't force her to leave. For all I know Suika has been with me for almost two decades, she's part of this Family." Father said strictly, one of them were about to protest angrily but they held in down, not wanting to be a disrespectful guest.
" We know, we thank you for taking care of her. But she is a resident of Furutsusarada, it's time for her to return, people are waiting! Her family lies beyond the sacred mountain, please return to us." I glanced at Gohan and to the travelers, my heart beats rapidly. The blood from my cheeks are starting to drain, it's been a long time since I've started having hard decisions such as these.
Should I stay or should I go?
My consciences started arguing to what's right and what is wrong, Goku gently tugs on my hair with so much concern in his eyes. I wanted to bawl at them but it's not wise to start an argument.
The two groups started to argue, my head is screaming for some space. Everyone started to angrily protests at Gohan's decision for me.
" Suika is my Daughter, we might not have the same blood but she will always be a Son. She told me that you treated her like a disease, why should she leave with you? Or are you going to use her and throw her out like an outcast?" Father said calmly but I know that deep inside he's furious, Gohan is never the grumpy type of person. It's my first time to see him like this.
" Adopted daughter! she is the child of Momoko and now it's time for her to return!" My body shook in both anger and sadness. they had the nerve to say my mother's name again. For all I know they've tormented her too and called her wretch and Demon's mother.
DAMN IT!
I pushed Goku gently unto Father's arms and ran out of the house, I needed some time for myself. I ignored them calling out my name and kept running towards the sea of trees.
It has been two hours since I left the house, I couldn't make decisions for myself. I wanted to be selfish but my heart also wants to help those children too.
" Since when did I start becoming selfless?" I asked myself between laughs, I'm not actually happy but sarcastic. I want to stay here in Mt. Paozu and continue on raising Goku, my maternal instincts started to fade as I imagine the disease that had been spreading in Furutsusarada.
History is slowly repeating itself, it's been centuries since the village experienced a deadly disease such as this.
Satsuma was able to heal everyone by pleading to the godlike figure to help, the story could be false. I'm not a pure-hearted person! I'm not what the Village elder thinks, I may have eaten the ' sacred peach' but I know that it has no effect with me.
But...
I'm a healer, they need me to help them...
They need me
Need my abilities
My knowledge about healing
Maybe I really need to return to my homeland, but what about Gohan and Goku?
The house is eerily quiet when I entered, they might be in the guest room after I left. I found Father in the living room working on his letter once again, I gritted my teeth when I was about to talk to him.
The moment I sat on the opposite side of the table, father stops writing and gave me his gentle smile.
" So, you've finally decided to choose after all." I look away from him with such a sad smile, I clenched my jaw then sighed deeply.
" Yes-"
" I know...You want to go home this time." He said as I widened my eyes, his eyes were softer than usual and I felt a light tug on my stomach. My hand gripped on my apron and felt very warm inside.
" H-How did...How did you know?" I asked him rather softly, he sets down his calligraphy brush on the ink cap and slowly pushed the papers to side so he could lean over.
" It's not like I don't know my own Daughter, you want to be selfless again." I closed my eyes and shook my head slowly, I feel very ashamed of my decision.
I'm not the merit type of woman, Gohan knows what kind of attitude that I have. It's obvious that I'm also known as the Red-eyed Demon and whoever messes with me shall receive their ultimate demise.
Suika is the hard headed, strong willed, fiery and selfish person of Mt. Paozu. He knows it very well.
" Suika, you've been selfless ever since I've brought you here. You decided to help me with my chores and you willingly became a mother for Goku, you've changed so much for the past years. You're really a pure-hearted person Suika. No matter how foul-mouthed you are." His hand graze on my cheek, I suddenly admitted what he said was right.
" You don't have to worry about me or Goku, we'll be alright. I can't force you to stay but you need to go home and help them. I'm sorry if I have been selfish about letting you stay here earlier but I realized that helping them is the thing you can ever do." I leaned over to his touch, my red yes glowed with every word and my heart turned with determination.
This man is truly the father that I never had, I wanted to cry and thank Kami for his pure heart.
This time I'll start becoming selfless, my precious home needs me. My village needs me.
The night slowly arrived in the sky, all of us already ate dinner and It was quite entertaining to watch. The guest was highly amazed of Goku's never ending appetite and were slightly surprise to see him have a tail.
They whispered amongst themselves about our peculiarity in the Son family but decided not to be rude about it. Goku finished 25 bowls of stew and rice, I still can't get over when they fell on their faces when he asks for some dessert.
Gohan led them all to their guest rooms for some rest, they knew that I'd leave with them tomorrow.
I packed my things in a suit case Father gave me, every moment was like torture. It will take time for me to get back here again.
Leaving Goku here will be absolute hell, my own little boy won't be able to get used to my absence here. I still haven't told him yet until I saw the door slide open, He stares at with his cute black eyes, slowly he walks up to me and sat on my lap.
" Mommy? are you really going to leave?" He asked me while his tail curl on my arm, I bit my inner lip and rested my hand on top of his head.
" It won't be long Goku, I promise to come back here as soon as possible. Mommy's friends just need help." I ran my fingers through his scalp as he clung to my chest, a small smile appeared on my lips when his hand grips my hair like he used to.
He snuggled on my neck lovingly, I wrap my arms around his small body and hum a song I used to sing for him as a baby.
" Mommy...promise that you'll come back okay? You still have to teach me Lion's Strike and crescent strike.." He trailed off after, I knew that he's already asleep due to his heavy breathing. I place him on my futon then pats his chest to lull him to sleep.
I stopped when he detaches his tail from my wrist, tears ran down my face as I gaze in his innocent face. I covered my palm on my mouth to avoid myself from sobbing loudly.
I lied to him, it will take a long time for me to be back here again. I might take months or even a year in order to stop that stupid wretched disease. I wiped my tears away then stared at my son with a determined look.
" I will come back for you Goku...I will...Don't worry. "I whispered my promise in his ear but I doubt that he would even hear it.
I finished packing my things and lay beside Goku, I felt him snuggle on my neck again. I felt the warmth of his breath tickle my neck, the feeling of it makes me smile and I know what this means.
" You're my home Goku..." I close my eyes and let myself fall into a deep slumber.
~~~
All of us stood in the doorway, I spend a lot of time with Father this morning. I embraced him as tight as I can until I felt my son tug on my traveling kimono, I knelt on his level and embraced him.
" Come back home if you're done Mommy..." He said with a cheery voice, Goku is one innocent, happy and loving boy. He always stays positive no matter what the circumstances are, even if the situation is sad he kept on smiling.
I bore into his black colored eyes with a masked smile, I caress my hands on his cheek lovingly with tears brimming on my eyes. Goku's hands automatically clung to my hair as if it's going to be chopped off.
I plucked several strands of my hair then properly braid it, his eyes followed the movements of my fingers in awe and I placed it on his hands.
" Mommy? What's this?" He asked while swinging the braid side to side like a ragdoll, I laughed with so much amusement and pat his head.
" It's Mommy's good luck charm, always take it with you okay? It will protect you always." He smiles widely, he places the hair charm on his pocket and threw his arms around my neck again.
"Mommy will be back, Alright? You better take care of Grandpa Gohan okay? Make sure you train every day, don't slack off, eat a lot, sleep tons, and please don't forget your manners Goku." He nodded firmly like a soldier, my lips twitch painfully. It's like we're saying goodbye forever.
" And! Don't go out during full moon alright?! We don't want that monster hurting you or your Grandpa, and make sure you listen to Grandpa Gohan." The people behind us were curious about my caution about the full moon, they decided to shrug it off and watch us with so much pity in their eyes.
" And! Make sure you be polite and courteous around other people especially girls like Mommy, Ok? I will be back. Don't need to worry, I promise I'll be back. It's just a short while. No need to be sad!" Goku wraps his arms around my neck, I wanted to cry in front of him but I shouldn't show any type of weakness. It might make him think that I won't return.
" Just do it quick mommy, so you can come back!" His tail sways side to side like a cat, I stood up slowly and walk out of the house without looking back.
Every step was like torture, I can feel the wind piercing my skin and smell the aroma of the forest in my nose. It feels like this mountain is saying goodbye, at last a tear escapes my eyes and drop into the grass below my feet.
Mount Paozu is my home and my sanctuary, memories of my arrival appeared on my head and I can't stop the vivid memoire.
We reached below the mountain, it has been 5 hours since our departure from home. I kept my face stern to show my tough attitude around my companions. The five of them were rather bashful around me and the silence is almost killing my ears until one of them plays the Koto during our short breaks.
The sound was soothing, we walked so many paths, cliffs and hills but the image of Gohan and Goku never left my head. Those two are so precious to me, the only ones who understands and accepts the color of my eyes.
" So how much further are we from Furutsusarada?" I asked to break the silence.
" 5 months to be exact." I frowned at the long distance between the sacred village, almost half a year and this might kill my sanity.
" Wow, that far? How come we don't use any transportation like cars or planes?" I asked them, all of the glanced at each other as if I'm a mad hatter. They whispered amongst themselves again then would give me the cold shoulder, one of them decided to answer me with a nervous smile.
" W-well, it's important if we keep our traditions Lady Suika, call us indigenous if you want but it's our way of honoring Satsuma. Legends say she travels only by feet in her youth, it's better this way. The technology in the city just ruins everything, even mother nature." I frowned at them, it's not wise to argue with them, they love our traditions very much.
No wonder why some people call us an occult or savages.I feel like I'm traveling with brainwashed people from a very evil religious cult.
" Sentimental people." I muttered under my breath, I highly doubt that they heard I said. We just continued on and kept our head high.
~ 5 Months Later~
At last we're getting closer to our destination, I chugged own on the water skin vigorously since we've been walking for hours without any water. The view of the village gave me a hint of nostalgia. I can feel tears swelling in my eyes since I've almost forgot what it looks like.
" Furutsusarada...At last...I've been waiting for sixteen years...I'm finally, here again..." I whispered lowly, the beauty of the village under the mountain made my spine cringe in delight. I followed behind my companions.
The huge Japanese gate welcomed me, I stopped walking when I saw the Village elder with a soft smile. My companions bowed respectfully while I just stared with so much happiness inside me, too much from my elation I threw my arms around his neck without any care.
I embraced him tightly in my arms, he did the same with me as well. We slowly partly and giggled with tears in our eyes.
" Welcome home." He wiped the tears with his thumbs, he ushered me to enter the village along with the others.
Once we entered, I felt a wave pf nostalgia hitting me once more. Nothing changed for the past sixteen years, there were people who greeted us. To my discomfort they gaze in my red eyes and whispered amongst themselves like I'm some kind of monster.
I ignored their rough gazes then continued on following behind my companions. The crowd followed behind us and I can feel their eyes looking at me, the feeling is getting me annoyed since they started making false identities and gossips.
"She has red eyes!"
" That's her?"
"Yes, she's the rumored red-eyed Demon from Mt. Paozu"
" What is she doing here anyways? Why didn't they chain her up while traveling all the way here? I don't see any collar on her...She might start a rampage!"
" Yes! They should put her in a collar, she might eat our children alive!"
" Shut it! I heard she's going to heal our children! be nice, girls!"
" I feel that she's going to help us using her demonic powers, ancient voodoo!"
(Author: Dance magic dance! Ahem! Sorry guys!)
" Really?! I thought she ate one of Satsuma's peaches!"
" That's what I heard, I bet she's using that power for evil! It's true, she's a demon! No wonder why they call her the Red-Eyed demon..."
" She can do whatever she wants, but I want her out of here-"
" Shhhh! Quiet! She'll hear us! Let's be grateful for once! What if she's the god-like figure in the legen-"
" No way! I bet she's a real demon, just look at her eyes!"
" Quiet!"
I rolled eyes my eyes in annoyance but that changed when we reached the manor, I almost forgot how huge it was in the past. It stands proud and tall, I remember all of the lessons the village elder used to teach me when I was a healer-in-training.
The manor guards welcomed us and were surprised with my presence, the eyes were wide with awe and fear. I squinted my eyes in disapproval and grunted in annoyance.
' They haven't changed in one bit...' I thought to myself as we were led in the living room. We drank some of the refreshments and I gobbled on the food. They watch in amazement and disgust as I ate on the onigiri without any manners, I nervously laughed at them and wiped my mouth using my kimono sleeve.
" Sorry, I can't control myself when I'm very hungry..." I said with my mouth full, the Village elder just laughed and poured my cup with some tea.
" It's quite alright Suika, I know how much hungry you are. I still remember how you'd gobble up everything when you were 14 summers. The journey went along well, was it?" He asked with a smile, I nodded slightly and returned the smile.
" Ah! That's right um...Village Elder...There's something I want to ask from you..." I said while taking sips from the tea.
" Ask away my dear. Don't be shy now!" I set down the tea cup on the table, I gripped my Kimono skirt anxiously and sweat started to form in my forehead.
My companions eyed me with suspicion, they know was about to say and we've talked about this subjects' months ago during our way back here. They disagreed with my wish but I know that he'll understand the situation.
" It's just that, I want to finish the task right away. Could you please give me a head start tomorrow?"
" Well now, eager, are we? Why not rest for a week? You've been traveling for five months without any rest or proper food. Please take your time before you start Suika, it's not good to overdo it." The village said with so much warmth in his voice, I closed my eyes and ready to what I'm about to say.
" That's kind of you My Lord but I'm planning on leaving the village after I'm done."
He stopped sipping his tea with so much shock in his eyes, he glanced at my companions in question but they turned their eyes away from him; pretending that they don't know what I'm saying. ( Traitors)
I closed my eyes then pictured my beloved Family's faces. All I could think of now is Mt. Paozu, the lush grass, vicious monsters, the sea of trees, our house, my father and my very own son, Goku.
" What are you saying Suika? You're home! Why leave?" He asked with so much concern and a bit of remorse in his voice, I slowly open my eyes and gave him a soft smile.
" You see...15 years ago when I fell down the river, I was lost and I had nowhere else to go until a kind man named Gohan gave me shelter and fed me. The two of us grew acquainted with each other and decided to adopt me." My body became calm, my fingers untangle themselves from my kimono dress and pictured him perfectly.
He grew interested in the story, he sets down his cup and leaned closer eager to listen some more.
" He is a friend and a father to me, he trained me martial arts and took care of me like any father could do...He was the only person who didn't run away from my red eyes and he even told me that they were pretty too.
" He embraced my peculiarity and accepted me like a person, everything changed five years later. Kami from above gave me a son." I said proudly, causing the village elder gawked at me with so much surprise and stuttered.
" Y-You ha-Have a son? Wh-Who's the father?!"
" Don't worry, Father and I adopted him, he's such a sweet boy. His name is Goku, he changed me inside out. I wish you could meet him, the two of you might just get along!" I smiled with so much grace, I hadn't notice that I started crying again.
Being a mother really makes you emotional, leaving your children is pure torture and I can't imagine what it feels like to live without them. It had been five months, I can't stop crying. It makes me drained and weary at the same time.
( Author: Tribute to all the mothers around the world! Ahem! Sorry guys...)
The village elder suddenly smiles, he placed a hand on top of mine and chuckled.
" So, you have found your inner peace...After all of these years...You want to go home, am I right?" Everyone in the room gasped at what he said.
Is he...Serious? Yes! I want to go home!
" Y-Yes...Yes! Absolutely, yes!" I said with so much happiness. He chuckled at my elated expression, he closed his eyes and leaned back.
" Then it's settled then, after finishing this task you can return. But what matters now is the disease, we need your help Suika. The task must be performed by your hand." The Village said gravely, my eyes brimmed with so much strength and determination.
I need to finish this immediately in order to see their faces again, I wonder how long will this take? This is no joke at all...
What if I don't go home at ALL?! I don't have Satsuma's power! I'm nothing!
" Can you please tell me about this disease?" I asked him.
" I will but only if you rest first, I know how much you want to start but rest Suika. You're only human, your body needs all the rest you can get before you start." He pleaded, I've been traveling for too long. A little rest might not hurt.
" He actually thinks that she's human? She looks like a demon if you ask me!" I heard one of the handmaids' whisper behind us, I shot them a threatening look and smirked evilly. They stumbled back in fear then decided to leave us for the time being.
My opened my eyes when I remembered my grandfather.
" Oh-Oh! Village elder! There's something in my mind just now, can I please see my grandfather first?" I asked happily, he stopped smiling all of the sudden and turned his head towards my companions. I followed his gaze then saw how guilty their expressions are.
What? They're not telling me anything.
Something is not right...
" You didn't tell her?" They shook their heads and look away from me, I made a puzzled look as the Village elder faced me again with sad eyes. He sighed deeply and placed his hand on top of mine.
" Suika...I'm sorry...I truly am..." My eyes widened in realization, so he's already gone too? I slump my shoulders and remembered all of the memories I had with my grandfather. My eyes were staring at the blank space, my lips were quivering but there were no tears in my eyes.
" I see...Since wh-when?" I asked him without any remorse, I look away from him and lowered my head with so much sadness. It's obvious that he's dead, I've been gone for too long.
" Suika...We're very sorry... Your Grandfather took his own life when we brought back Momoko's body. he believed that you also died, two weeks later he hung himself in your mulberry tree." A droplet of tears fell from my chin and unto the table, I wiped them away and glared at my companions.
" Why didn't you tell me? You said he was waiting for me?Y-Youlied to me! I h-hoped to see him too!" I didn't show any anger but sadness, I didn't come here to argue or fight anyone.
" W-We're sorry...W-We just thought t-that y-you'd stay...We wanted to force you back...We're truly sorry Lady Suika. We truly am!" I shook my head then stared at the Village elder, today has been eventful, a lot of things happened and a rush of sadness washed over me.
" You need rest Suika, at least rest for a week. Please..." I nodded at him, he calls one of his guards to lead me to my chambers. They gave me nervous glances every time we went further into the hallway. Uneasy gazes made my stomach flutter in disappointment and sadness.
Do they really think I'm such a monster? I may have gotten used being called the red-eyed demon but all this time they've been so unappreciative of my presence.
Unfair...
The room is big enough for me, the space made me feel lonely. I took off my kimono jacket then hung into a sofa, I lay down on the large futon and felt all of the grieve coming out of me.
My Grandfather is gone... My Mother is gone...I'm far away from home from my Father and my baby...
I feel so lonely, everyone thinks I'm a demon and I feel like an outcast once more. I sobbed on the covers, letting all of the sadness out.
If Gohan was here he would scold me for being over-emotional and Goku would become worried of me. I wiped my tears away and gripped my hand under the sheets.
I felt fire burn my heart and a sense of my determination fill my head.
" I will do this...I can do it...Just wait for me a little longer..." I let the exhaustion consume my body and brace itself for its darkness.
~Goku's P.O.V.~
It has been 9 months since Mother left the house, Granpa kept on telling me that she'd return anytime soon and I felt excitement rush through me. I used my power pole that grandpa gave.
My eyes were wide with awe as I saw the birds fly just above me, I'm almost near the clouds and the air makes me feel cold and fuzzy inside. The land before me was like a plain, this power pole is just so high and amazing and I can't wait to show this to Mommy!
" I wonder if she'll be home soon...I bet she'll cook the best meal ever!" I whispered in thought, I kept my eyes at the mountain to see if she's there.
I sighed in disappointed when I didn't see her, I held out my wrist and saw the braided hair that my Mommy gave me. Grandpa manage to turn it into a bracelet so she can always be with me. That way I won't lose it.
Hours passed and there's still no sign of her, it's already getting dark and I should really get home. Grandpa told me that there's going to be a full moon tonight, that monster might come out and eat me.
The power pole shrunk and I drop on the ground without effort, my body fell down the river and happily caught a giant fish for dinner.
" Alright! I bet Grandpa is going to make a stew out of this! Dinner here I come!" I ran back into the house with my giant fish in hand. Granpa turned his head to me then gave me a warm smile.
" There you are Goku! I see you caught fish today, why don't you prepare the table while I cook this up?" He said taking the fish from me. I did what I was told rather quickly, I accidentally placed Mommy's plate beside me.
Sadness washed over my heart, I'm starting to miss her so much. It's not the same without her, I held back the tears since she never wanted to see me cry. It makes her cry whenever I'm crying too.
Granpa served the food, in an instant the huge bowl of stew was gone. I rubbed my belly in a circular motion then burped loudly.
" My, my, Goku. You sure are the hungry one!" Granpa laughed in amusement after I gave another loud burp.
" You know that I'm always hungry grandpa!" I stood up from the chair and ran over to the sink with a large smile.
" Mommy! Here are-" I realized that she's not there, my tail stop swaying side to side and drops down the ground. My mouth twitch in sadness again yet I kept it hidden from grandpa.
" Goku..." He placed his hand on top of my head, he ruffled my hair lovingly with a sad smile in his face. He ran his fingers through my spiky hair, he took the dishes from my hands and place it ontop of the counter.
" When will she come home Granpa? I miss Mommy...I want my Mommy..."
" She will be home...Anytime soon, just wait a little longer Goku...She promised, didn't she?" He promised me again like always, I nodded slowly and immediately went to Mother's room. I lay down on my stomach and smell her lingering scent on her blanket, it never left.
My eyes saw the picture frame on top of her desk, I remember the day when Mr. Roster Barn took our family picture together.
~ Flashback brought to you by the almighty Shenron~
I scratched my using my tail, the orange kimono that my Mommy gave me itches a lot. I pouted sadly when she tried pushing my hair back, no matter how hard she tried it just spikes up again in its original form. She groans loudly in frustration and slump her shoulders.
" Mommy...My Kimono is itchy; can I please take it off?" I asked her politely, she shook her head with a dead look on her face.
" I'm sorry Goku...I can't, we need to take our family picture, remember? You have to look good today." She combs my hair gently, the tangles of my hair made me cringe slightly. My tail sways side to sides as she kept on combing, she happily sighs when my hair is finally fix.
She wails in frustration as it spikes back again, she shook her head and giggled.
" Never mind, if your hair doesn't want to get fix then I won't force it." She sat down on the floor and combed her hair instead. I watch with twinkling eyes as she hums one of the nursery rhymes that I favor the most. She wore a fancy red Kimono and a black kimono jacket.
Mommy really is beautiful, what I love the most is the color of her eyes and her long silky hair. She stops combing her hair then puts it up like a geisha, Grandpa Gohan went inside the room with a smile.
" Is everybody ready? Mr. Roster said he's already set. He wore a nice Orange kimono white a white kimono jacket, he still has his hat though. Mommy and I nodded, all of us scurried out of the house.
Mr. Roster Barn instructed us to be in the courtyard, he made my Mommy sit on a chair with grandpa standing behind her. He placed me between the two of them and order us not to move a single inch.
" Alright! Just stay right there, ..Three!" A flash emitted from the camera. My eyes were wide like saucers and I kept shaking my head to remove the white box image from my eyes. After a series of shots Mother stretched her back and patted my head with amusement in her eyes.
" Is it done then Mr. Roster?"
" Yes! Once the picture is developed I'll send it to you as a mail with a picture frame." Mr. Roster said with a smile. The remainder of the day was a bit boring, we focused our time with during chores. At the afternoon Mommy teaches me how to read and write.
A week later we were sent a mail, it's two copies of our best photos. Mommy was laughing very hard at the picture and this made me wonder why. I gawk in surprise when I saw myself, my eyes were wide like saucers and my lips were parted like an ' o'.
Grandpa joined Suika and later on he started barking in laughter, I had to admit I look kind of funny. Slowly my lips curled into a small smile, the three of us laugh in unison. Mother hug me from behind and kissed my chubby cheek, she placed her copy in her room and admired the picture all day long.
" Someday we'll have another family picture again Goku, make sure you smile by that time okay?" She asked with a smile, I nodded at her request and crawl onto her lap. I lean over her chest and felt her warm embrace wrap me, I feel so safe with her.
I don't know what would happen if Mommy leaves me...
~ Flash back end~
I smiled at the little memory and I grasp my Mother's braided bracelet tighter.
This feeling makes me think that she's here with me, I felt uncomfortable all of the sudden. The window was close, usually mommy kept it open to bring the cool breeze inside. I slowly stood up from the bed then slid it open.
I sighed deeply as the fresh win hits my face, as I open my eyes I see the beautiful twinkling stars and wondered what the monster looks like.
" Mommy told me the monster comes out at night...I think it looks big and scary...I don't wanna go outside..." I said to myself, I plop down on my mommy's bed and grasped the sheets tightly as if it's her hair, a tear escape my eyes and stained her pillow.
Her scent is still all over the bed and I savor it then pretend that she's hugging me from behind. How long will she be gone? My mommy is taking too long!
~ Two hours later~
I woke up at the middle of the night, it's greeting chilly than ever. I slowly stood up to close the windows, I suddenly jump in fear when I saw something moving in the bushes. I immediately took Grandpa's power pole and jump from the window.
I slowly walked towards the bushes, to my relief it was only a small cute bunny. I laughed out loudly.
" Silly me! Sorry Mr. Bunny, I thought you were a monster that mommy and grandpa was talking about!" The bunny ran away from me in the opposite direction, I was about to chase it but the big full moon caught my attention.
" So big...I wonder if Mommy is seeing this right now..." I muttered happily, I stopped smiling when I felt something tingle inside of me. My eyes were still glued in the moon, my body hurts a bit and my vision is slowly failing me.
Everything went black but never left my gaze from the big pale moon, the last thing i could think of is my Mommy singing my favorite lullabies.
( Author: Hell is slowly going to break loose 🙁 Poor Gohan! )
~ Suika's P.O.V.~
" FATHER!GOKU!" I shot from my sleep, my body is covered with sweat and my tears were running down my cheeks. I wipe them away then stood over by the window to see the beautiful night sky. The cool breeze greeted my face calmy, I clutched my kimono jacket even tighter as my body started to create goosebumps.
The big pale moon was there with her children, I leaned on my hand with so much wonder and a churn of uneasiness in my stomach. I hope nothing's wrong, Goku's an obedient child anyways, he wouldn't dare to stare at the moon.
" I hope Goku's not looking at the moon...After all I told him not to..." The beautiful sky is rather bright, the light of the moon makes me feel at ease for a while. I close the window behind me and proceed to the research I've doing.
The disease has no name yet but people presumed that this happened before in Satsuma's time period, the history of the disease is slowly connecting the dots too, history is slowly repeating itself.
" There's no cure for it yet..." I've been receiving training with the village elder regarding with the power of healing. It's no good at all, there's nothing coming out of my hands as usual.
If only a god-like figure comes down here to help us, things would get a lot easier than usual. I've been working on this 24/7 from four months, there are guarantees that my stay would extend a bit longer.
There's no cure...
Why don't I just give up and run away?
After all, They're not worth your time...
Why did you leave anyways? Is the village more important than your son, Suika?
Negative thoughts echoed ion my ears day by day, I did everything I could in this village. During my research I worked as a Midwife or gather medical herbs in the far side of the forest to pass some time.
" I'm no doctor or scientist, Kami from above please give me a sign..." I moaned loudly, I'm rather weary in these hard times and getting more home sick than ever. Everyone in the village would call avoid my gaze in fear and confusion.
All of them are ungrateful bastards, I do everything for them but I don't get some single thanks at all. I'm here because of them...They needed me, what else do I expect in return? A thank you parade or something?
Babies and kids are afraid of me too...
What the hell should I do? So much for being self-less and caring Suika, way to go...I slumped my forehead on the coffee table in hopelessness. At this rate I'll never go home!
" I wish someone can help me here...Kami...Please stop hating me and give me this power that Satsuma had...If it really exist then grant me that power! I-I really need it..." My voice was muffled through the books and papers scattered on the table. I turn my head to see the clock, it's still 3:30 am.
The Witching hour keeps me awake from time to time, I stood up from the floor and exit my chambers to get some fresh air in the garden. There stood the large peach tree, I went closer to it and stare at the plump peaches.
The sight of it makes my mouth water, I glance side to side and pluck the fruit from the tree. The sight of it makes me hungrier than ever, I haven't eaten properly lately, this might be a good time to have a cheat day.
" Suika eat me...Oh Yes I will!" I said mischievously and bit on the fruit, the juices stained my mouth bite after bite. I took another fruit and ate from it again, I still remember how delicious it was.
I burped loudly and felt satisfied, after a round of 5 peaches I feel refreshed than ever. I put the seeds into my kimono jacket and felt extreme happiness.
" Well peach tree, you will have my thanks for you have filled my stomach with delicious fruits..." I said happily, I marched back to the manor. The wind became stronger and I felt something tug my hair in a gentle manner.
" Your welcome Suika..." I turned to the tree with my eyes wide with fear, I swore I heard someone talk to me just now. There's no one around, I step back in horror and the breeze became colder than ever.
I ran back into my room then lock the door behind me.
" I must be out of my mind...heh...Maybe the lack of sleep is getting to me...Oh well...Goodnight Goku and Father..." I said to myself and slept through the lazy cold night, my dreams were rather pleasant and it kept me comfortable than ever.
The best sleep I had in months...
~ Goku's P.O.V.~
I slowly woke up feeling the sun hit my face, I stretched my muscles and realized my red Gi's torn in pieces which makes me naked. I wrap my arms around my body feeling the cool breeze give me goosebumps.
The first thing I noticed that I wasn't in my mommy's room, I'm at the forest, naked. Wait a minute! Maybe the monster did that! I ran as fast as I can. My eyes were wide with shock when I saw the house destroyed, I look around if Grandpa's anywhere to be seen but with no avail I bolted at what remains of the house.
" Grandpa?! Where are you?! Grandpa?! Grandpa?!" I stop calling his name when I heard someone groaning i pain, I saw him on a pile of rubble with the ball in his hands.
" Grandpa!" I ran towards him, he smiled when he saw me. He had bruises all over his face and his lips were turning paler than his usual tan.
" G-Goku...A-Are you hurt?" He asked me, he coughed violently. I shook him with so much worry in my eyes, I feel tears running down my cheeks and started to sob loudly.
" Grandpa?! Are you okay?"
" I-I'm fine...It's g-going to be alright Goku...E-Everything is going to be-be o-oaky..." He caresses my face lovingly, my lips were quivering violently as the tears were flowing like a water fall. I don't know what to do with grandpa, he grips the ball tightly in his hands and kept on smiling.
" I l-love you Goku...R-remember what I-I thought you...A-And don't worry...Suika will be-be here...Ju-just wait for h-her..." He struggles verbally, his face was getting paler and I starting crying violently.
" Granpa! What's happening? You're getting whiter?" I asked with so much worry, he smiled one last time and gasped out his last words.
" Take care of yourself...Goku...I love you..." Grandpa muttered to my ear, he groans quietly and finally sleeps.
He finally closes his eyes, his hands lost the grip on the ball and it fell on the ground with a loud clank. I wipe my tears away when he fell asleep, the color of his face is different and he's already limp like the doll.
I slowly shake his shoulder to see if he would wake up, I pushed all of the wooden planks and rubbles away from his body. He has no heartbeat anymore, this made me scared than ever.
He won't wake up
" Grandpa?! Why are you sleeping? Grandpa! Grandpa!" I tried to wake him, nothing happened and he's gone very cold. I cried loudly, he's not waking up anymore.
Grandpa's ball ( Not that ball!) was on the ground, it made an unusual glow and this made my eyes widen in wonder. I took it into my hands then watched at the light faded, my lips twitch up into a smile and realized something.
" Grandpa is that you? Do it again Grandpa! Grandpa! Make it light up again!" I said but nothing happened, maybe Grandpa is inside this ball now.
I went inside of what remains of this house and placed on top of the table, I never left my gaze and thought about how long will Mommy be gone. I embraced the ball with all of my might with tears slipping out of my eyes.
" Grandpa won't talk to me and Mommy's not home..." I whispered lowly, I walk towards the cabinets. I took out a blue Gi and pants that my Mommy sew for me recently, she used to make my clothes or training Gi's. The only thing that's left is Mommy's room, everything else is destroyed by the monster.
I wore them without any care, I gasped out loudly when I remembered the Grandpa's power pole. I remember dropping it when I fell asleep while looking at the full moon. I ran out of the small house and retrieved it at the ruined garden.
Grandpa's sleeping form was still there by the rubble, what should I do? I remember my Mommy and Grandpa burying some sleeping bird years ago, maybe I should do the same with him.
~End~