Chapter Twelve: Celebration and Separation
When Kaylynn awoke after the dreaded night she couldn't remember anything that had happened. She remembered leaving the school and the fight with their classmates, even arriving at Tien's house out in the middle of nowhere but that was all. What was worse was after she was healed Naomi told her that basically she had made a complete ass out of herself in front of Vegeta. Great. Now she defiantly wanted to disappear. Stupid moon. Stupid saiyan genetics making her act crazy. She enjoyed her training sessions with Goku after that but dreaded the switch where she would have to learn under Vegeta. How could she show her face to him after that? To her surprise when the two weeks ended and she was back in Capsule Corp Vegeta had no harsh words to say to her nor was he overly aggressive in their training. As if nothing had happened. Though he did seem to go out of his way to make sure they didn't have a moment alone so she couldn't apologize. Not that she wanted to. She was to embarrassed to even apologize. So she took his lead and just acted like everything was the same. She did wish he'd look at her longer then two seconds however. He really must be upset with her. She ignored it and did her best in training. Deciding to be obedient and go above and beyond was the only way she could make it up to him.
Time seemed to fly by after that. Seemed like the teens would blink and they would be moving back to the opposite master's house. Detention was much more tolerable this time since they weren't raging on basically saiyan steroids. Not only that but before they knew it, the school year was over. They had survived. Now, from what Trunks and Goten were saying they had three whole months without school, without studying, without writing, just training and spending time together. Sounded like perfection. One the last day of school things were wonderful. They weren't really learning anything more just going from class to class sitting and talking. Naomi was sure Hideo would miss school just because he wouldn't be surrounded by pretty girls anymore. It was just as well. School was a nice distraction every once and awhile but the saiyan teens never forgot the true reason they were here. If they were going to make earth their new home they had to become strong enough to defend it and join their masters before them and reach super saiyan. A girl from Naomi's reading class ran up to her with a book and asked her to sign her name on it for her. She had mastered writing her name so she was happy to do it though she wasn't sure the reason for it. Then she was startled when she saw a tiny image of her on one of the pages along with pictures of her siblings and other classmates. It was strange. That must have been what that flashing box was for since she remembered sitting on a chair in front of the same blue background. She signed her name and about that time the bell rang signaling school was done for the year. It was like a stampede of happy students triumphantly running out of the school as if they had just been released from prison after fifty years. Hoots and hollars were heard even as they walked away from the school and on the path leading to Capsule Corp. It was a relief that they didn't have to look at another book for a little while. To Hideo's surprise Naomi was following them longer then normal. The parings had changed after awhile again and they were back to Hideo and Kaylynn training under Vegeta and Naomi with Goku.
"Nay, shouldn't you be going back to Goku's house? He might think we ran off again if your late." Hideo asked and Naomi shrugged. Hideo had taken to calling his sister's "Nay" and "Kay" probably out of laziness but sometimes she forgot it was she he was talking to.
"I dunno. Goku told me to go with you guys to Capsule Corp." She answered. Kaylynn also found this out of place.
"That's weird. Goten and Trunks also left school a little early. Said they had something to get ready for." Kaylynn added seeing as her last class she had both the boys in. It was strange but nothing to really be concerned about. They came to the conclusion that they were probably going to be switched out early. Maybe it was a part of their training. That was about the only time all three of them were together in front of both their masters.
Naomi really started to get nervous when they arrived at Capsule Corp and they couldn't find a soul. No one was in the kitchen, Vegeta (big shock) wasn't in the gravity room, Trunks wasn't in his room and it appeared as though the place was deserted. They all called out various family members names but no one responded. The only room they hadn't really checked was the huge room that led to the outside. Even there the room as pitch black so it had to be empty. None the less Hideo flicked the light switch on then a combined group of voices shouted
"SURPRISE!"
The saiyan teens automatically took a defensive stance in the shock. They relaxed when they saw all the people they had been introduced to standing in front of them. Including a few faces they didn't recognize. Looking around they saw the tables were covered with all kinds of delicious food. Hideo's mouth watered when he noticed the six tired cake with rich white frosting and random chocolate covered fruit on top of it. He squinted his eyes to read what the writing on it said. If he wasn't mistaken it said "Happy Birthday" on one tier and then the following three said their names. Happy birthday? What the hell did that mean? When he looked back at the crowd they were chuckling at their astounded faces. Bulma and Chi Chi were the first to approach them with smiling faces.
"Happy Birthday you three." Bulma said confirming what Hideo had read was correct. Kaylynn raised her eyebrow and looked at her in confusion. Bulma frowned.
"What? Do you mean you guys have never had a birthday party before?"
"No. What is it's meaning?" Kaylynn asked. Chi Chi gripped her shoulder.
"Poor things. A birthday party is a celebration of the day you were born. It also counts how many years you have been alive. Thanks to the math whiz over here we were able to make a rough guess on what day you guys were born. Pretty good reason to celebrate if you ask me. Plus school got out today so, you deserve to have some fun." Chi Chi explained. She had warmed up to the three after a few months and quickly found herself being a mother hen to them just as she did her own children. Bulma chuckled.
"It wasn't that hard. Just had to calculate the day of Planet Vegeta's destruction minus about four years then change it to earth years is all." Bulma said as if it was as easy as reading a recipe from a book. Chi Chi laughed.
"Yeah, that makes you guys eighteen now. Can you believe it?" Chi Chi said trying to shake some kind of excitement in them though they still looked bewildered.
"Eighteen. Wow does that make me feel old." Bulma said lightly, covering her face with her hand.
"What is required of us in this ritual?" Hideo asked his eyes kept flashing over to the food tables. He had ate plenty at school since almost every class had pizza or popcorn in celebration but damn Bulma's cooking was by far always the best.
"Just to have fun silly! Now go get you some food and socialize. We'll have you guys open up your presents later. Now go on." Bulma said and gave them all a little push towards all the people. Hideo slowly approached. Leery on what he was supposed to do or say. Luckily to make it easier on them Goku came up to them next. Naomi had to blink to shake off the surprise of seeing Goku in something other then his orange and blue marital arts outfit. He was actually dressed like he was going to a big social event or something from looking at him. A dress shirt and black vest along with dress pants. Kaylynn smirked thinking Chi Chi must have insisted on him wearing it since she was all dolled up in a purple dress and high heels as well. Bulma was always dressed nice so it was hard to see a difference in her.
"Come with me you guys! I have some people I am dying for you to meet!" Goku said in his chipper way. Grabbing Hideo and Naomi by their wrists and drug them to the crowd. Kaylynn followed not knowing what else to do. Goku pointed to a tall guy who looked…very much like Goku only he had shorter spiked hair and was wearing a pair of glasses and wore a blue suit. Next to him was a really cute girl with long black hair that was pulled back in a bun. Kaylynn was surprised to see she had purple eyes like hers. Only hers were a much paler shade then Kaylynn's dark violet one's.
"This is my oldest son, Gohan and his wife Videl." Goku said proudly smiling at Gohan. He missed his son terribly but he had a life of his own now. The life Chi Chi had always wanted for him and in truth what Gohan wanted. He was a hell of a fighter but he didn't enjoy it the way Goku did. He was proud of Gohan none the less for all of his accomplishments in and out of the battlefield. Naomi felt like she had heard that name before. She thought she had heard Goten talk about having an older brother before but that wasn't it. Then she remembered the night she had lost her control because of the moon. Goku had told her that "Gohan" once thought he would never be very powerful but he ended up saving the world against some guy named Cell. Wow, what an honor.
"It's nice to meet you guys I've heard all about you three. Dad says you guys have made more progress then any of us ever did." Gohan said with smile shaking all the teens hands. Naomi blushed. She didn't really feel that way.
"Yeah, besides I got to admit it's nice to see some more girls joining the save the world club." Videl giggled. "For a long time it was just me and 18 and lord knows I never did any actual saving. From what Goku says you two will rival all these guys soon."
"That's the plan." Kaylynn said boredly. Wondering if Gohan was at one time the strongest fighter on earth why he would stop fighting. It was just a waste of potential.
"Oh that reminds me! Krillin! 18! Come over here will ya. I want you to meet my students!" Goku called out. Damn how many people were here? Kind of strange of people to show up to at a party just to celebrate someone's birth. You would have to do that every year after all. But if it's earth's customs guess ya gotta get used to it. A short man with strange black and gray hair approached a long with a beautiful blonde skinny girl. 18? What a strange name. Though she had the eyes of a warrior. Hard and untamed. Hideo wondered how in hell a little dude like that could bag such a hot babe but quickly moved his eyes away so no one would catch him staring.
"Hey Goku." the man introduced as Krillin said. He looked at the three teens. "These the saiyan's I keep hearing about?"
"Yup. This is Hideo, Naomi and Kaylynn." Goku said happily pointing to the teens accordingly. Who all bowed when their name was called. It seemed like Goku and Vegeta knew a strange group of individuals. They were also introduced to a guy named Yamcha and his floating cat named Puar. They already knew Piccolo and Dende. Also Tien and Chiaotzu just not in the best of terms which was a shame because at the party they were actually really cool guys. Hideo found himself talking to Tien especially for some time. Though while talking to him Hideo was tempted to poke Tien's third eye to see if it was real. Kaylynn decided to inquire more about the first son of Goku. From what she had gathered from him in their brief conversation he was trained by not only his father but Piccolo as well.
"So, why are you so weak now?" Kaylynn asked in her blunt honesty making Gohan choke on the punch he was drinking. Videl hid her chuckles in her hand and moved to grab Gohan a napkin to clean up the mess he had made.
"Well umm…" Gohan started as he loosed the collar on his shirt a bit. "I just kind of fell out of the habit of training I guess. Mom always wanted me to have a normal life and go to a good school. So after Buu was defeated, I did. That and me and Videl decided we wanted to start a family soon so…I guess fighting became the last thing on my mind." Gohan laughed. Kaylynn resisted the urge to roll her eyes. What a weak excuse. Goku and Vegeta were proof you could be warriors and still have a family.
"I guess." Kaylynn said rubbing the back of her head. "Since you have a woman fighter as your mate you will probably produce strong offspring." she added trying to show her support the best she knew how but she noticed Gohan's cheeks turned a bright red. Videl chuckled even louder and grabbed her husbands arm.
"Thank you Kaylynn, I'm sure we will have amazing children. Looks like you and your brother and sister will have to help take over the earth's defense if we are ever under threat again." Videl said knowing it was probably just Kaylynn's lack of social graces to blurt our something like that.
"We hope so, but none of us have even reached super saiyan yet. It's very frustrating." Kaylynn whined.
"Ah you will get there. Turning super saiyan the first time is always the hardest part but after that it will get easier. Before you know it you will change to super saiyan two like that." Gohan said snapping his fingers for effect. Kaylynn's eyes widened.
"Super Saiyan…two?" she raised her eyebrow.
"Yeah you know…the level after super saiyan?" Gohan said suddenly feeling like he had stepped out of bounds. Of course his dad hadn't talked about super saiyan two yet. They'd have to turn super saiyan first. Now the poor girl will be even more discouraged.
"There is a level after super saiyan?" Kaylynn said so loud that Hideo and Naomi had heard her and soon Gohan was circled by three anxious saiyan's. "Show me." Kaylynn said taking it so far as to grab Gohan's shirt in her clenched fist. Gohan looked worriedly over to Videl then to Goku who was busy talking to Krillin and chuckling.
"I um…" Gohan stammered and was still uncertain if that was a good idea or not. Videl calmly patted him on the shoulder.
"Go on Gohan. It hasn't been that long has it?" Videl teased then looked over at the eager saiyans. "You know Gohan isn't a bad teacher either. He taught me all I know after all." Gohan blushed again. Then realized with four against one it seemed like he wouldn't win that fight. It was their party after all.
"Well…okay but not in here, Bulma would kill me. Let's go outside real quick I'm, sure we could sneak out without being noticed."
They followed Gohan to the back door and outside. Gohan took off his heavy dress jacket and folded it neatly on the picnic table outside. He looked around to make sure no nosy neighbors were peaking through their windows out them. God only knew what Bulma had to explain when it came to all the strange things that happened at the place. It was a business too for crying out loud.
"Okay looks like were not being watched." Gohan said looking around none the less one more time. "Since you have already seen super saiyan I will skip straight to it okay?"
At that Naomi felt the up coming power exploding from him. When he was just hanging out at the party they could barely differentiate his power from theirs. Now, it was just…incredible. When his power finally stopped rising Naomi would feel herself shaking yet again from the power super saiyan had to offer. Kaylynn raised her eyebrow. This guy was far more attractive now then he was before. With his glasses thrown to the side and his hair extended slightly and replaced with the unnatural golden type. Lightning like aura dancing around him. It was so beautiful one might be tempted to touch it but it would be instantly regretted because it would more then likely singe their flesh. Gohan smiled. Not out of arrogance or pleasure with the saiyan teens reactions. It just felt nice to be super saiyan again. He thought about it…he couldn't remember the last time he had the need or cause to go to super saiyan.
"Wow…" Hideo found himself saying without realizing it. Everything about Gohan was riddled with strength. His muscles his stance, his aura, everything. He thought super saiyan was overwhelming so he had never imagined that there was a level beyond that. There was the feeling of being on a hamster wheel again. These people…the one's that were at the party, sipping on wine, eating cake and laughing about old times were earth's finest. No matter how strong they got, something they had to remember was how much they owed these people. The professor standing before them may be a hero to some of his students but they had no idea how true that was. Since he was a child he fought to keep earth safe. Maybe there was more to being the warrior's they wanted to be besides getting stronger. Besides turning super saiyan. The bonds the Z fighters had to share was outstanding. Fight and die next to each other. Hideo found himself humbled once again. This time he didn't have to get his ass kicked to achieve that. Gohan much like his father was very upbeat and encouraging.
"Like I said. Once you reach super saiyan you can get to this level much easier. The best tip I can give you is find out what makes you tick. What makes your heart beat faster, what are you fighting for. Who are you fighting for? Don't be afraid of the rage that burns inside you. Master it. Use it as a tool." Gohan said. Feeling like he did his father's speeches from the past justice. Goku always seemed to know what encouraging word's one needed to hear to be driven to where they wanted to be . Everyone except Kaylynn seemed determined, but she was just frustrated. Why would they keep a second transformation from her? Every time she thought she was getting stronger something else would happen and she would feel weak again.
"Showing off Gohan?" Came the amused voice from his father. Closely followed by Vegeta. He too seemed to look out of place without his usual blue martial arts uniform. It was replaced with a lighter blue long sleeved shirt and a pair of kaki pants. Not as spruced up as Goku was but still it was…different.
"Eh, it's the boy's only claim to fame let him have his fun." Vegeta laughed. For the first time at the party he was visibly seen. It's like the guy could blend in with the woodwork if he wanted to. Vegeta was appalled by Gohan. Yes, the kid's natural talent and ability was incredible. Sad to say at one time he had even overpowered Vegeta. Not that it mattered now. After Cell was defeated he stopped training. Had he tried even a little to keep up a normal training pace, when Buu arrived with his power combined with Vegeta's and Goku's Buu would have laid dead long before the possibility of transforming. Though in truth Vegeta didn't exactly help that fiasco along. Gohan was a disappointment. What a waste of somebody that had to the potential to already replace his father as the most powerful fighter in the universe. It was all the same. Now at least he had three students with just as much potential that wouldn't back out on training. Goku was a little disheartened by Gohan's choices but it was what was best for him. Seeing his son happy was all he needed even if it meant earth's fate would always fall on him, so be it.
Gohan chuckled a little bit and before the bewildered teen's eyes he flashed back to his normal form. The mind numbing powering disappearing in an instant as though it was some kind of nightmare that their brains conceived. Gohan placed his glasses back over his eyes and blinked to get his vision to straighten again.
"Seems your teaching is lacking dad. I had no idea these guys didn't know a thing about super saiyan two."
"Nah, we were going to show them. Just after they matured a bit is all. We don't wanna put to much pressure on them." Goku said. Not that they don't put enough pressure on themselves he thought. The kid's really were their own worst enemies. They wanted it so badly that they didn't realize that was what was holding them back. Their desire to turn into super saiyan was clouding their judgment. If you kept your eyes purely on the finish line you missed what could be coming up behind you. An easy mistake to make for those so young.
"Super saiyan two…is there a super saiyan six or seven that we don't know about?" Hideo sighed but smiled. To imagine being that powerful one day was exhilarating. Point was they were no more behind then the very fighter's before them when they were at their stage. It was something that was hard to remember when they were among champions on a daily basis.
"Don't be ridiculous." Vegeta said with a roll of his eyes.
"But hey, that's not why we are here! It's your birthday party! Let's get inside and get you guys some cake before it's all gone!" Goku encouraged. He truly wanted training or getting stronger to be the last thing on their minds. From school and training the kid's had no time…to be kid's. Goku wondered if they ever had time to. He saw the three playing a adult role early on the planet they were raised on. Now doubt their people's protectors and since the life form's there were just gelatinous figures who knew what all they had to do. No wonder they were so serious all the time. Goku led the small group back inside where Chi Chi was already waiting for the teens, but she was a little more aggressive with her insistency that they relax. He shooed them to a table and once seated she placed plates filled with both delicious food and scrumptious birthday cake and placed them in front of the individuals.
"Now stay put you three until it's time to open your presents!" Chi Chi said waving her finger. "I promise there is more to the world then fighting and I will get that point across to you even if it kills me." She said with a smirk leaving the teens behind. Kaylynn reluctantly poked at her piece of cake with her fork. Her tummy growled with anticipation and as usual it won out. She put a huge fork full in her mouth and her taste bud's exploded. A soft "mmm" noise escaped her rather she wanted it to or not. It was probably the best thing she had tasted on this planet. The cream cheese icing coated her tongue while her teeth sank into the fluffy chocolate cake. Everything else on her plate was abandoned and she quickly munched on the remainder of her cake. Hideo had half his plate clean before Kaylynn finished her hunk of cake. The guy ate like someone was threatening to take it away from him.
"So you guys are the new saviors of the world huh?" came a soft voice. Kaylynn looked up to see the girl named 18 standing with her arm's crossed in front of the table. "You saiyans are a resilient race I will give you that. Every time we turn around there is more of you guys fighting for the crown." she smirked.
"Your not human." Hideo said bluntly. It was hard to tell…but the feeling her strength gave off was different then everyone else in the room. When he concentrated he could hear her heart beat. It sounded almost mechanical compared to the steady pace of a human or saiyan's. 18 laughed.
"Who is anymore?" she said simply turning her attention back to the girls. Kaylynn and Naomi in unison hopped out of their seats as 18's arm came crashing down on the table making it snap in half. Hideo just sat there stunned and upset that his uneaten turkey leg now laid on the floor. He frowned. Though 18 seemed only interested in fighting the girls. He stood none the less, not knowing who exactly this 18 character was. For all he knew she may be aiming to seriously hurt his sisters. He had an almost primal instinct to look after them even though it was apparent they could take care of themselves. The party halted and all eye's turned to the three dueling females. An enraged Chi Chi stomped forwarded swearing loudly though it was unheard by the gals.
Kaylynn and Naomi easily dodged all of 18's attacks but she just as easily dodged all of theirs. Finally the attack stopped when 18 had both Naomi and Kaylynn's fists in her palms. She smiled when she saw the two girls she held captive were summoning ki attacks in their free hands and was more then ready to throw them at her. 18 released their fists and chuckled.
"Nice. You girls ever get tired of fighting with the boys all the time look me up. I will be more then happy to give you guys a few pointers." 18 she said sweetly then walked away. Leaving a confused and aggravated Kaylynn behind. Naomi on the other hand was smiling from ear to ear. She held her own against someone for once and she was fine. Not exhausted or beating herself up. Could she really have improved so much in that little time? 18 made her way back to a frightened Krillin but was stopped by Chi Chi who was yelling at her about starting a fight in the middle of their birthday party and how she carelessly broke one of Bulma's tables. Bulma on the other hand was giggling with amusement. Nothing seemed to keep intact at Capsule Corp. She had broken her fair share of dishes and with her boys immense power they'd always accidentally crush something.
Everything slowly returned to normal when Chi Chi had stopped yelling. Goku quickly cooled his wife's anger by leading her onto the dance floor when a slow song began to play. Naomi watched the display and smiled. They were adorable together. Eventually Chi Chi relaxed and rested her head on Goku's chest. He had come far when it came to dancing. Before the saiyan trio had arrived on earth Goku was insufferably bored and actually enjoyed all the lesson's she had to teach him. Goku was happy when his wife was happy. Doing things to make her happy was just an added perk. Besides dancing wasn't so hard. It was fluid and consistent movements just like martial arts. So once he conveyed it as such he found it much easier to learn. Even Kaylynn smiled at the scene. It was weird to see such a fearsome fighter being all lovey dovey with his wife but at the same time it was nice and sweet. Now the saiyans sat down to in the center of the celebration room. People handing them random boxes covered in brightly colored paper. Some of them were topped with bows. Hideo found this a very odd ritual. They all had boxes varying from size and shape, but none of them seemed to understand what on earth they would need so many boxes for. When they sat there with presents in their laps and dumbfounded looks on their faces Bulma giggled and explained that you were supposed to peel the paper from the boxes to see what was inside where the true presents were.
Feeling much more excited by this news the saiyans torn into their presents. Hideo was ecstatic to see his first present he opened was a brand new leather jacket. On forearm was stitched a orange star, which he assumed represented their high school. It didn't matter he loved the thing none the less and put it on immediately after he opened it. He felt that twinge of guilt when he saw that Tien of all people was the one who bought it for him. Wow, this group really took care of there own. Even when they ended up attacking each other. Kaylynn got a new pair of shoes and clothes and this werid device that made an irritating buzzing sound. They all got one. Bulma went to explain to the trio that they were something called "cell phones" and they were meant to be communication devices. Incase an incident like the full moon fiasco happened again so they had a way to call for help. Capsule Corp and Goku's house phone numbers already programmed in them.
Naomi was happy to receive a brand new pearl necklace that had also been ripped off her in her last fight. It was even more beautiful then the one she wore before. Tears filled her eyes. These people had welcomed them all so easily and went out of there way to make them feel at home. Chi Chi and Bulma especially. Chi Chi had also knitted all of them T-Shirts with their names on them in their individual favorite colors. It was sweet, and you could tell she put forth a lot of effort in them. After all the presents were opened the kids obviously loosened up and Kaylynn was happily dancing with both Goten and Trunks on the dance floor. Hideo was busy exchanging battle stories with Piccolo, Tien and Krillin. He imagined he could have a fun time outside of fighting with these guys. Piccolo was much more quiet then Tien or Krillin but he'd chime in with some old timey wisdom or tidbit. Hideo started to wonder how old the alien was, since it was harder to tell with him compared to earthlings. From the gray in Krillin's hair and the bags under his eyes he could tell he was getting up there in age but what was confusing to Hideo was that Goku was his old training buddy since they were small and Goku was only a few younger then him. Yet with a reassuring glance over to his mentor Hideo didn't see a single sign of age on the elder saiyans face. From the way his company was talking Vegeta was even older then Goku yet Hideo would have bet money that the two were the same age. It made him wonder if saiyans aged a lot slower then the humans did. If so that was good news for him at least.
Naomi and Kaylynn started joking and laughing with Goten and Trunks. Stating how envious they were that the boys actually got to relax during there school vacation, and how their training was bound to intensify since they had no other distractions. Kaylynn saw something in the corner of her eye and when she turned her head she saw Vegeta leaning against the wall. His arms crossed and one leg propped up on the wall. He indicated his head subtly for her to follow him and before waiting on her he turned and walked down the hallway leading back into the house. She had the feeling whatever Vegeta wanted, he didn't want a crowd to follow so she slipped away as quietly as she could. Of course she found him in the gravity room. The gravity wasn't turned on and he was sitting slumped over on one of the benches. She walked up to him and was hesitant on whether or not she was supposed to sit next to him.
He had been ignoring her a lot lately, not that he didn't have every reason to. Feeling even more awkward standing she sat on the far end of the bench leaving a good space in between them. Damn his almost endless silence. She had sat there already five minutes and he hadn't said a word. She examined his face out of the corner of her eye. He held the normal expression but those deep intelligent eyes always gave him away. The flicker in them suggested he was deeply debating something. Just then Kaylynn realized he had a small box sitting in his lap. Still remaining silent and tense Vegeta outstretched his arm in her direction with the little black box in his hand. She took it, but stared at it for a few seconds before opening. Looking over at Vegeta who was still staring at the wall in front of him. She opened it and was surprised to see the contents inside the box. It was what looked like a silver medallion. On it was inscribed a strange symbol she had never seen before. It looked kind of like a pitch fork only smaller with dashes in between the base and a half circled line underneath it. It looked to be in almost perfect condition so he must have just bought it not to long ago.
"It was the symbol for the saiyan army. I've had that medallion since before I could remember. My father gave me his just before I was taken to Frieza's ship. He was king so his was gold whereas mine silver. I gave his to Trunks, and seeing how you have a deep respect for our race I assumed you would give it a better home then the drawer it has been stuffed in for years." Vegeta explained. His eyes at last on her instead of anything else he could look at. Kaylynn was awestruck. This was his? Something he had, had since birth? How could she possibly accept that? This was the only thing the man himself had to hold onto the planet he loved, and he was the only being a live to truly remember it. How many years did he travel with this? Hiding it from Frieza and clinging onto it in times of hardship?
"Vegeta…I can't accept this." Kaylynn tried to say as politely as she could. The gesture was very flattering. Only his son had it's twin.
"I have no need for such sentimental possessions anymore. If you do not desire it then it will just return to it's drawer collecting dust and forgotten by time." Kaylynn studied Vegeta's face. Damn that man was hard to read. She still felt a little guilty in accepting it but without saying anything else she placed the medallion over her neck and it hung just above her breasts. She looked down at it and smiled. A strong feeling of pride swelled her. The medallion also represented royalty or someone of note and there she was wearing it. She wondered what was stopping Trunks from wearing his everyday.
"It suits you." Vegeta's voice forced her to come back to reality. She felt her cheeks get red and now she was thankful that Vegeta rarely looked her in the face when they spoke. She wasn't sure what the nature behind the compliment was but she was thankful for it none the less.
"Thank you Vegeta. I love it." Kaylynn said smiling. Hoping it was his weird way of confirming that everything between them was well, even after her constant defiance. None the less she ventured back to the past offense. "I'm sorry for all the trouble I caused awhile ago."
She was surprised that Vegeta's cold eyes hadn't burned a hole in the wall he was fixated on. His silence was starting to becoming irritating. Kaylynn's eyes widened when she saw a smile come across his lips and a soft laugh escape him. Only to be followed by yet another insult.
"You apologize to much." he explained. Standing from the bench and moving to stand in front of her. His arms folded across his chest. "You need to stand behind your mistakes just as strongly as your triumphs. If you keep apologizing for them then obviously you haven't learned anything from them. You disappoint me Kaylynn, don't tell me you are just another weak hearted girl?"
"Nothing about me is weak old man." Kaylynn smirked back at him. It was becoming clear that the only way to impress the saiyan prince was to show little to no emotions around him.
"For your sake I hope that is true." Vegeta said turning his back on her and walking towards the control panel. Kaylynn had the feeling the conversation was over and got up as well. She didn't know what possessed her…probably all the sugar she consumed from the cake but without warning she ran up behind Vegeta and grasped him in a hug. Wrapping his arms around his toned stomach and resting her head on his back. It was the nicest and really most thoughtful gift she had ever received and since words did little to show the man her happiness she thought maybe a gesture would. The battle trained Vegeta had to restrain himself from elbowing her in her face but he didn't. Luckily the girl didn't feel the sigh that left him when he realized what she was doing though his eyes did widen in surprise. The hug lasted only a second before she ran back towards the door the she turned her head and called. "Thanks again." then left the room. Vegeta scowled not knowing how else to react. He hadn't realized how tiny her hands were compared to his until they were placed on his stomach. She quickly turned up the gravity as far as it would go and began his warm up techniques. Forcing his mind not to dwell on the subject.
When she found everyone again she saw that Hideo, Goku, Naomi, Goten and Trunks were outside playing a game but instead of using a conventional ball a ki one was being used. Chi Chi and Bulma sitting on the patio laughing at the sport. Goku was a good bit taller then anyone else playing so he had a small advantage over them. Holding the ki ball over his head as Trunks and Hideo jumped and dived after it. Chi Chi couldn't help but enjoy the sight. It was another reminder that as powerful of a fighter as he may be he was still just a big kid at heart. Kaylynn quickly joined Naomi's team and figured it as a saiyan version of football except no goals or points and the main objective was just get the ki ball from the other team no matter the cost. Trunks tackled Goten hard as soon as the ball touched his figured tips causing the two teens boys to collide into the white picketed fence that surrounded the large back yard. Kaylynn shared a laugh with everyone. Her heart became light and easy going for once. Maybe this was what it was like to be someone her age. Not fighting or training, just laughter, games and parties. She wished the moment would last but she wouldn't change her life for anything. She had a loving supporting family on the planet she was raised on and now she was blessed with a second family on earth. After tonight maybe even a few friends. Her masters even though they were tough on them, they were working just as hard to try and make their goals and dreams a reality. Not to mention if all else failed she had her brother and sister. All the party quests had left and Goku and Chi Chi were saying there goodbyes to the Breifs family. Meanwhile Hideo, Kaylynn and Naomi sat on the damp grass and watched the sun set.
The small pile of presents surrounding Naomi since she was to return with Goku and Chi Chi to there house. Hideo was wearing most of his presents which also included a pair of black shades and spike tipped black boots. He adored his new clothing and toys more then the girls though Naomi was ecstatic about all the pretty jewelry she got. To bad she couldn't wear them all the time since they fought all the time. It was almost a picture perfect scene. As the saiyans watched the sun set. The mixes of pink and orange colors combined with all the sweet smells of summer. What a gorgeous planet. What a perfect day.
"Happy Birthday…" Naomi whispered when she saw Goku standing by the door waiting for her to join him. The same smile plastered on her face since she had first took step into the party.
Her siblings chuckled.
"Happy Birthday." Hideo and Kaylynn said in unison. Not even the brutal training that was to come in the morning could bring them down.
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Summer was a time of peace and relaxation for most students. Though for the saiyan teens it was hardly a vacation. Hideo thought he had a clue on how crazy and brutal the training would be but clearly he didn't. At Capsule Corp the training went from one hundred times earths gravity to one hundred and fifty, their first day! Each day that passed an extra bit of weighted clothing was added. At this point the was certain that the saiyan prince had broken every bone in his body at least once throughout their training. If Vegeta thought they did little to impress him on certain days they wouldn't be healed until the next morning. Trying to figure out ways to sleep with both broken ribs and a broken ankle was very difficult. When he'd finally fall asleep about an hour later the alarm would go off indicating training would start again. Goku had upped their training as well. Only instead of brutal weight or gravity he would ask for seemingly impossible tasks of which Hideo wasn't even sure the meaning of. Like standing in the middle of the river and being told to stop the water from falling. What? How the hell was he supposed to do that? Of course Goku did it with ease to show it could be done. Instead Hideo would just stand there looking like a doofus no matter how he spiked his ki. Turned out it took a lot meditation to be able to pull that off which he appreciated. Both his mind and body being trained at the same time.
The two months of "relief" ended in no time and school would be starting again. Damn. As brutal as training was none of the saiyans particularly enjoyed having to go there. The day the school was going to start all three of them were standing outside Capsule Corp, almost at attention in front of Goku and Vegeta. Probably to discuss living arrangements in this new school year.
"Well guys, me and Vegeta have been discussing your progress the past couple of days and we have decided what we think is our best option." Goku explained cheerfully. Vegeta had a smug look on his face so Hideo wondered if "the best option" involved something painful. "You won't be going to school this year."
At that the students natural response was to yell and shout in glee. Kaylynn almost danced in excitement. No school, no books, no annoying people? What and awesome choice indeed. Of course the good news was always followed by bad news with these two.
"Though you won't be staying here either." Vegeta's gruff voice was like ice down Hideo's spine. What…was that supposed to mean? Were they only being trained by Goku now? Goku smiled at the young one's confusion.
"That's right." he confirmed. "You guys are to meet back here exactly two years from now to see what you have learned and how you have improved on your own. With this rate none of you are going to be a challenge for us if we keep training you. We get stronger as you do. My martial arts teacher had me do the same thing when I was young and I am very thankful he did. Now you guys can go out and enjoy the earth in all it's wonder on your own. You are going to be fighting for it one day so you must learn to appreciate it."
The teens just stared. How were they supposed to improve without them? Without their teachings, without the gravity room. Two years even? Wasn't that a bit extreme?
"Oh and I will have you know if any of you decide to run by back to the nest like wounded birds, it will not be well received." Vegeta smirked enjoying the pale shade of white Naomi's face had changed into.
"How…how are we supposed to get stronger without you?" Naomi asked feeling that school wasn't that big of a deal after all.
"Figure it out." Vegeta said coldly. If all of them were going to have the privilege of learning his battle techniques they were going to be deserving of it.
"Don't worry Naomi, you three are more then ready to take on the world as you are. Two years from now we will continue like we have been but until that day you have be on your own." Goku encouraged. Was this really happening? Even as they said their goodbyes to the group she didn't believe it. They couldn't even visit in the next two years. Both Trunks and Goten seemed just as upset as they were. It was nice having people there age so similar to them.
Chi Chi on the other hand hugged both Naomi and Hideo close to her. She was practically sobbing. It was kind of nice to see how much she truly cared about them considering how reluctant she was in the beginning.
"I don't care what either of those boys say all of you are welcome back in my house, you hear me. If you get in a jam just come home." Chi Chi said and Hideo smiled when she said the word home. Though they couldn't go back. If their masters found this necessary then there must be a purpose behind it. Bulma had even given them a capsule that had a small house for the three to stay in somewhere and some food for their trip despite Vegeta's protests. She couldn't just leave them in the cold. It wasn't right. She also assured them she would call to check on them as often as she could. With a sigh the three waved and walked away. Not knowing where they were going or what they would do. Still…it was exciting none the less. Some time apart may be a breath of fresh air. Maybe getting there ass kicked wouldn't be to sorely missed. The saiyans walked into the unknown, a part of them scared. Though they had no idea the deep darkness that was scheming hundreds of light years away.
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Somewhere in the deep dark crevices of space a lone space ship traveled at a slow speed to it's destination. Inside was five creatures with power that would make mountains crumble and even the bravest of hearts quiver with fear. Forgotten by both time, though it was mutual that they remind the universe of their presence. The had a special guest inside the ship. Despite the blood and others nasty things littering the once clean ships floor their guest proved that he had some valuable information. The universe truly was an interesting place, so many planets, so many possibilities. The word impossible held no meaning when you had literally the entirety of the galaxy to search. How long have they been on their search? Decades…maybe even longer searching through the endless stars and the black void and now at long last all their labor was starting to bear fruit. The unknown race of aliens were very talkative when any and every pain imaginable was inflicted on them.
"Captain." his subordinates voice broke the leader of the band of mercenaries thought process as he was staring out the massive window of the ship. His arms crossed patiently and his back to his men. Just then he realized a melody of pained screams and pleas of mercy had been silenced. He had hoped the fools hadn't destroyed the pathetic life forms before they got what they were after.
"What is it Pyry?" the known "captain" replied his eyes remaining at all the stars and not his men. He had little to know patience and despite their efforts it had taken a lot longer then anticipated to torture the poor sods into spilling their secrets. He wanted his answers now. He saw out of the corner of his eye that Pyry had moved to his side to talk to him more directly. The captain held in a grin when he was again reminded of the differences in all five of his teams races. Pyry was insanely skinny, almost to the point of starvation from the looks of it but in reality he was in perfect health. His skin was almost metallic looking in it's silver color and scaly, a top his head was an even darker grey. His eyes lacked the normal race's pupil and only the white was there. Ironic enough the man could see better then any other he had met. Could see in different worlds, planets, through walls, you name it. A rare find. To bad his planet a long with every one of them had been destroyed. He'd have enjoyed examining that race a little better, from people who weren't as insane and sadistic as Pyry.
"We've got some options." Pyry explained in sing song way. Cleary excited. The man was particularly hopping up and down. He moved to one of the prisoners that was barely hanging on to life and he propped his slender elbow on his dropping head. "From what this noble gent has told us, there are something called dragonballs that can be located on both planet Namek and planet Earth. You collect all seven of them and BANG!" Pyry smacked his hands together making a very loud smacking sound which startled the surviving prisoners and two of them screamed, causing Pyry to laugh manically. "Everything our little black hearts can desire."
The captain scowled despite his man's enthusiasm. He had heard tale of the dragonballs long ago. It was Freiza's undoing. To put that much faith in one mere wish was quite frankly idiotic. He was glad that during his rise of power he hadn't become to arrogant or blinded by it.
"The Dragonballs don't have the potential to fulfill my desires Pyry. I will not make the mistake that Frieza or Lord Cooler made." as soon as the last words left his lips he bit his tongue with his sharp dominate k9's. Larger then that of any other race he had seen. He cursed himself for letting the term of authority slip when the bastard had been dead and buried for years. Still he was thankful he let the word "Lord" slip over "Master." There was something very indignant about the term master. Probably why the Tyrant preferred that he use that term.
"If I am correct the Super Saiyans of legend reside on earth anyway. An annoyance that I'd like to avoid if at all possible." his other subordinate Bora said. Another completely opposite looking fellow. He was the shortest and his face was always masked behind wrapped pieces of blue cloth and the rest of him was hidden by his overly large suit of black and spiked armor. The only true features you could make of the man was his glowing orange eyes and his ghost white hands.
"Saiyans. They are the cockroaches of the galaxy no?" the only girl of the group Deirdre spoke with annoyance. She was the most humanoid looking being save the captain himself. She had beautiful lavender skin with predominate sharp ears. His hair was thick and curly and a light shade of blue. One of her beloved daggers placed playfully in her mouth as she spoke. Occasionally licking at the foreign blood there. "They refuse to die and when you finally squash one more rise to the surface to take it's place."
"The saiyans are of no concern." the captain said confidently. Brushing his silver spiked hair out of his face to rub his temple. After all this time and all they had heard about was the dragonballs then they were back to square one. "Though Bora is right, if we can avoid the monkeys we should do so. Last thing we need is the universe to be aware of us again and if anything, that race is persistent."
"Then there is some good news Captain Halwn." The remaining member of them Casimir said pulling off his once white gloves that were now stained with the odd black colored blood of his prey. Halwn rolled his eyes. Not at his men's actions but at the mess that was always left behind after their interrogations. The interior of the ship was an off white. All of it. Worse then even the most dreary of hospitals but it was the only ship they had managed to commandeer after Cooler finally met his end. It had all the necessities, a rejuvenation tank and several pods that they could take a long sleep in for the particularly long journeys along with the usual rooms and a kitchen so it would have to do. It just became an annoyance to keep it looking decent.
"We found it." Casimir said with a smile. Knowing only he and the captain would know what he was talking about. His double pierced lip curling into the most sadistic of smiles. If any of them were to be called a friend it would be Casimir. Halwn allowed his eyes to widen in surprise. They were the most predator like eyes in existence. Red with slits of gold mixed in, like staring into fire in it's purity.
"You are certain?" Captain Halwn asked turning to his second in command, though his gleeful face said it all.
"I promise on my damned soul." Casimir said. His black eyes dancing with all the possible opportunities. Not one wish…not three wishes…but eternal omnipotence. The power to bend time, shatter planets with a bat of an eye, to fulfil every desire in one swift movement. The elixir of life, death, destruction and peace. It was a myth to most people. Halwn had even heard it in tales of it in his youth on his home planet. Only to be told men driven to madness and wasted years in search for it. Up until now he had feared just that. He didn't want the dragonballs because they could not exceed their makers power. But this…had no limitations.
"Where?" the captain pressed.
"A planet called Capaita. What's even better is the life forms there have no fighting experience. Might as well pluck candy from a baby."
"Well…then we know our course then. Capaita…that's at least two years away. Damn…" Halwn sighed searching through the ships maps of the Galaxy. Conveniently they happened to be on the opposite side of the universe. Looks like sleep was unavoidable but how he longed to be their now!
"Oh, lord Halwn, can I please play with the rest of or friends in the meantime? Pleeaaassee." Pyry whined seemingly unaware of the bit of luck they had just encountered but what else was new? However Halwn was in a much better mood. A very good mood. It wasn't just a dream anymore but very much a reality.
"Very well, but clean up after your done. You know I despise getting my boots dirty." Halwn stated. Continuing to stare at all the stars. Finally.
A/N: The plot thickens! Haha. Sorry this took me forever to post. I'd like to also thank all of you that continue to read and review. Please tell me what you think so far, especially with my little twist. I hope you enjoyed! Thanks again.