Of Fairy Tales and DragonBalls

by Hipstergecko

This is a collection of fairytales from around the world that have been DBZ-ified. Mostly humorous in nature, but varied in categories. Funny, dark, romantic, adventurous, mysterious, and more! I've tried to hit on ones that aren't very mainstream. AND I accept requests if you have a favorite! Newest story: Darling Roland

4. The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid
Based on the Story by Hans Christian Anderson (and Disney) and DBZ-ified.
Starring: Vegeta, Bulma, Goku, Vegeta Sr., Frieza, Mr. and Mrs. Briefs, Yamucha.

Requested by Rinfantasy. It's quite long, but I hope you like it!

A dramatic Vegeta/Bulma fic.

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Far out in the deepest ocean, beyond the oceanic current sensors, farther than the schooner trips and fishing tours, outside the range of cruise ships, dwells the Sea King. Beneath the crystal clear waters his grand kingdom lies adorned in rare gems and pearls the size of which no one has ever seen. Its walls are well fortified, but a great manner of life streams in, out, and around the city. Fish of all shapes, sizes, and colors dwell alongside its citizens. The citizens themselves are…

"Mermaids!" Shrieked the little girl. "Mermaids mermaids mermaids!"

"Now now Bulma," her father chuckled, "this is a story to get you to sleep. Not a true story!"

"Well… I'm gonna make it true!" Little Bulma stuck out her bottom lip. "I'm gonna prove that mermaids exist!"

"Sure you are honey." Dr. Briefs grinned. "Though I think you'd rather work on my new invention."

"You have a new one?!" She leapt out of bed excitedly. "Can I see it? What's it do? What system does it run on? How are the routers-"

"Tomorrow sweetie! Tomorrow!" Dr. Briefs laughed. "Good heavens! I can't even get through your bedtime story!"

"Sorry Daddy." Bulma snuggled back under the covers, looking up at her father with big baby blue eyes.

The scientist smiled through his mustache. "Okay, now where was I? Oh yes… the mermaids lived in the kingdom and prospered under the reign of their mighty king…"

*Years later*

"Alright guys, here's the deal!" Bulma shouted over the roaring waves to her crew. "This is our last day out here so let's not waste any time! We're testing the submersible's durability in bad weather, so I want all hands at their positions! You knew as well as I do that these are the roughest seas in the world! Let's move it!"

The men scrambled to their positions as the boat bucked furiously under their feet. The sky blackened and rumbled a warning of the swiftly coming storm. Bulma Briefs, blue hair blowing wildly in the wind, stood her ground amidships, pulling out capsule containers labeled T, V, and W.

"Test batch T!" She hollered into her microphone, hoping it could record her voice over the storm. "Capsule 1 initiated!" She pulled the capsule out of the case and hurled it into the waves. She waited for the familiar 'BOM' of the capsule opening.

Nothing. She dashed over to another crew member sitting at a console. "Results?!"

"Negative Ma'am! Failure to open! The capsule must've been dented on impact with the waves!"

She cursed and pulled another out of the case. "Capsule 1 failed!" She dashed back to the railing. "Capsule 2 Initiated!" She threw the capsule at the ocean. She dashed back to the console. "Status!?"

"Opened, but not transmitting! The storm must've knocked the sensors loose or something!"

"AUGH!" She ran back to the railing. "Test batch T failed! Moving on to test batch V!" She hurled two more capsules into the sea, with similar results. Cursing quite foully, she pulled out test batch W.

"Miss Briefs!" A crewman interrupted her, running up beside her. "Miss Briefs, the storm is too strong! We need to head back to the mainland!"

"No way!" Bulma shouted through the rain. "I've got one more batch! I am NOT leaving until I test this sucker out!" She yanked out one of the two capsules and hurled it into the waves. "Capsule 1 initiated!"

"Miss Briefs!" The crewman shouted angrily at her. "We don't have time! This boat wasn't meant to withstand storms like this! We have to get out, NOW!"

"STATUS!" She screamed, ignoring the crewman.

"Positive ma'am! It opened and is transmitting!" He screamed back. "It's weak, but it's working!"

"YES!" Bulma did a small victory dance. "FINALLY!"

Her jubilation died on her lips. Bulma was thrown from her feet as a powerful surge of seawater knocked the boat on its side. The crewman beside her was thrown to the railing. He watched in horror as Bulma was swept into the raging sea.

*Hours later*

Light burned through Bulma's eyelids. She let out a feeble moan and rubbed her face with the back of her hand. It grated against her skin. Sand? Bulma cracked open her eyes. The sun shone bright overhead, blinding her. She shut her eyes against the glare. What… what happened? I was on the boat and then… Her head spun in dizzying circles. It was hard to remember anything. It was even worse with the sun so bright.

Suddenly shade eased her eyes. She sighed in relief. Her baby blues slowly opened to see who was giving the shade.

A man. A beautiful man hovered above her. His handsome face, scrunched in worry, smoothed in relief as she looked at him. His eyes captured hers almost immediately. The twin pools of infinity sparkled in the sunlight. Her eyes drifted up to his hair which, even while dripping wet, somehow stood straight up to a flame point.

And sweet Kami alive his muscles!

Bulma tore her eyes from the incredibly sculpted frame. She opened her mouth to speak, but only a croaking noise emerged.

"Don't speak." The man spoke softly over her. "Your people are coming." He smiled at her and Bulma's poor heart did a triple back flip. "You were in danger, but you're safe now." His deep voice sent soothing waves of calm over her. Her eyes filled up with tears of relief and gratefulness. The man nodded and put a finger to his lips.

Then like a summer breeze, he vanished. Bulma heard splashing, but couldn't raise her head to see where he'd gone. Her ears picked up the faint sounds of shouting and soon the sounds of running feet. She turned her head to see a search party coming toward her. They called her name and she felt like crying.

Bulma was shipwrecked, battered and exhausted. Worst of all, she didn't even know his name.

*Elsewhere*

"Vegeta!" Goku called over. "Where ya been buddy? King's been looking for you everywhere!"

Vegeta ignored him as he swam past.

The muscular merman called Goku caught up with him in a second. "You weren't visiting the surface again were you? You know what kind of trouble you were in last time you did that."

"Shut up Kakkarot." Vegeta growled halfheartedly.

"Did you see the ship that sank? It must've been a little schooner or something. No idea what it was doing way out here." Goku shrugged. "No bodies this time. I'm glad everyone made it out okay."

"I said shut UP!" Vegeta flicked his tail and shot into the deep. He didn't want to talk about it. Especially since he just broke another one of his father's cardinal rules. His powerful form cut through the water, outdistancing Goku in a matter of seconds. He slowed when he reached the sea floor, choosing to skim the bottom rather than fight the currents above him. He remained silent as Goku eventually caught up to him.

"Vegetaaaaah. C'mon. What's the matter?" Goku looked over at him, concerned. "Was it me again?"

Vegeta laughed. "It's always you Kakkarot!" They'd been rivals and close friends for as long as either could remember, though if you asked Vegeta he'd never admit it. The prince looked down at the sand beneath him and frowned. "But no. It wasn't you this time."

Goku groaned. "Please don't tell me you beat up another dolphin."

Vegeta smirked. Cocky little jerks deserved it. "No, I didn't." His smirk faded. "It was something else."

Goku looked thoughtful. He did lazy flips through the water as they swam along the seabed. "Did it have something to do with that ship?" Vegeta stiffened and Goku nodded. "I knew it. Don't tell me you were the reason it sank?"

"No!" Vegeta spat. His father may despise humans, but he certainly didn't. Well, not all humans anyway. He looked off to the side grumpily. "The storm did that."

"Ahuh." Goku did a loop around Vegeta. "Well, whatever you did, your father ain't gonna be happy with it."

Tell me something I don't know. Vegeta grunted. He headed off in another direction and Goku let him go. "See you back at the palace." Goku called cheerily. Vegeta raised a hand in acknowledgement. He swam steadily until Goku was out of sight. Positive he wasn't followed, Vegeta dropped down a ravine and kicking his powerful fin, sped into a near invisible alcove in the cliff side.

He let out a sigh of relief and swam through the small tunnel barely wide enough for his broad shoulders. He emerged into a tall underwater cave. Using his ki, Vegeta sent small lights floating upward until the whole room was illuminated.

The entire cavern was filled with things. Weapons and trophies, armor and shields, small scales and shining stones covered the walls and shelves all around him. If you looked closer, you could see watches and books, computer chips and wiring, a camera and monitor, paintings and maps, and other things you wouldn't normally see underwater.

Vegeta relaxed. This was a place he'd come to since he was but a guppy. His secret place. It seemed phenomenally huge then, but was oddly comfortable. Even now, impossibly filled with things, it still gave off that comforting feel. He stretched out in the middle of the room and started into a warm up. He needed to limber up for what he was about to do.

As he exercised, he let his mind wander. The prince scowled. He hadn't really meant to save her, but he couldn't just let her drown. That woman, the blue haired one, dared the harshest seas for a week, just to test out her... thingies. Vegeta frowned. What were those things? They started out so small, yet exploded in size in mere moments. He thought to the one he'd picked up earlier. It was in a strange looking case and, while he was tempted, he didn't open it.

He continued in his kata, thinking. Why would the blue one challenge the toughest ocean for those things? How important were they? What were they? Who was she? Questions unanswered filled his mind. He'd noticed the humans as soon as they arrived there. He watched them for days, hoping to learn something from them. The blue woman captured his attention immediately. She'd commanded the others with such surety. He admired her. It didn't help that she was beautiful for a human. He shook his head at himself. His father would surely kill him for thinking that.

Even though it was true.

He finished his kata with a huff. There was so much more out there to see. To learn. Why wouldn't his father let him go? Vegeta nodded. He'd use this chance to try and persuade the king.

He floated over to his armor and adorned himself with the chest plate and mail. He picked up his knife made of the hardest coral found in the kingdom and placed it in the strap around his back. Reaching down, he set his tail with eight dark pearls of rank. As a final touch, he pulled out a necklace on which hung the largest shark tooth anyone in the kingdom had ever seen. It was his greatest trophy, for not many mer-people could fight with a megolodon and live.

He gave it a once over and looped it around his neck. Better to take luck with you if you were sure it wasn't where you were going. He turned and left the comforting place, allowing the ki lights to flicker out and return to him. He sighed and looked up at the surface. It was going to be a long day.

*Hours later*

"Have you gone completely insane?!"

Vegeta scowled at his father's words.

"You have not only disobeyed my law for the hundredth time, but you have saved one of those foul creatures to boot!" King Vegeta glared at his son heatedly. "They are nothing but monsters, polluting the seas with their filth! We have to go around, fixing what they break! What could've possessed you boy?!"

Vegeta set his jaw and glared right back at his father. "I am no boy." He growled.

"You act like a boy, so a boy you shall remain!" The king shouted angrily. "Disobey me again and I'll have you thrown out of my kingdom!"

"What kingdom?!" Vegeta shouted back. "This is no kingdom! We stagnate! We do not fight as we once did! There is nothing new for us down here in the depths! How can you not see that we are being weakened by your stubbornness about what lies above the surface?!"

"SILENCE!" The King roared. "I will not tolerate this kind of insubordination!" He raised a hand and pointed at Vegeta. "Don't think I won't banish you, boy!"

"And what?" Vegeta laughed scornfully. "You think you can? I dwarf you in power! Heck, Kakkarot, dwarfs you in power and he's dumber than a rock!"

A faint "Hey!" was heard from the crowd. The mer-people gathered around chuckled. Everyone had gathered to hear their king and prince argue. They watched eagerly to see if the king and prince would get in a fistfight again.

The king glared balefully at the crowd before sighing. He rubbed his eyes tiredly. "We do this every time you disobey me. EVERY time. Why do you dishonor me?"

Vegeta pulled out the capsule carry case. "I meant what I said. We are becoming weak. We need to know what the humans know." He pulled out the capsule and hit the button on top, much like the woman did. He tossed it in front of him and waited. It gave out a lout 'BOM' and burst in a flurry of bubbles. The mer-people around him cried out and scattered, but the king leaned forward fascinated.

The prince gestured at the device that whirred and clicked before them. "I found this on the human I rescued. It is beyond anything I've ever seen. If they are capable of this, how much more do they know? We can learn from them!"

The king narrowed his eyes at the submersible. He swiftly lifted a hand and shot a narrow stream of ki at it. It pierced the sub and carried through to the other side. Vegeta watched in surprise, as the clicking and whirring stopped. It sank to the sea floor and he glared angrily at his father, demanding an explanation.

"It is a spy." King Vegeta pointed to the remains. "They have created these machines to go deep beneath the seas in order to find us and capture us." He looked to his subjects gathered around them. "If anyone sees one of these things, or one that looks similar, you are to destroy it on sight. No one is to engage it directly. Keep to its back or sides where you cannot be seen." He looked seriously at his son. "And NO ONE is to engage with its operators. Are we clear?"

Vegeta stared at his father. That fool… He nodded stiffly and spun about, swimming out of the courtroom.

"And Vegeta." The prince stopped and turned to face his father defiantly. The king smirked at him. "Remember that I am still king. You are still my son. However unruly and immature you may be."

Prince Vegeta smiled graciously and raised his hand. He went for a salute, but it swiftly turned into a rather rude gesture. The courtroom was filled with laughter as he swam away. This kind of thing was common between the King and his only son. Everyone knew and loved the prince. Many of the ladies fancied him, but he never really showed interest in anything except the surface world. Though his defiant ways had saved them time and time again, the king tried desperately to keep his son under his thumb. They had a tendency to fight at the drop of a hat.

Goku, however, knew that something had changed. Vegeta had been serious. This was not one of those times he had disobeyed his father for the heck of it. For the thrill of the fight. He swam after his friend, hoping that he wasn't about to do something stupid.

*Hours later*

"You're not seriously thinking about it are you!?" Goku spread his hands in supplication. "Frieza was banished for a reason! You can't go out and ask that scumbag for help!"

"I'm not asking for his help Kakkarot." Vegeta tossed his royal pearls to the side. "I'm threatening him for his help."

"Don't do this Vegeta! Just go let off some steam. Go punch some dolphins or something!" Goku pleaded with his friend. "What you're thinking about doing is… is…"

Vegeta looked up from removing his armor, slightly amused. "Treason?"

"Treason! That's the word!" Goku stared at his friend. "You can't tell me that this is one of your stupid attempts at rebellion!"

Vegeta returned the glare. "It's not." He said, voice controlled. "I mean to go up there and learn what I can about the humans. If we don't change our way of life down here, we will go extinct."

"We won't go extinct! We live way longer than those humans do!" Goku frowned. "That's not the only reason is it?"

Vegeta looked away. An image of long blue hair and bright blue eyes overpowered his thoughts. Shaking his head, he grunted. "It's none of your business."

Goku tilted his head and studied his friend. A mischievous grin crossed his face. "The girl?"

Vegeta glared at Goku. "No!"

"The girl!"

"NO!"

"You like the girl!" Goku flipped out of Vegeta's reach. "You're going after the girl!"

"SHUT UP KAKKAROT!" Vegeta chased after his friend. They sped in dizzying circles around Vegeta's bedroom. "I am NOT going after some human!"

"Vegeta's got a girlfriend! Vegeta's got a giiirlfrieeeeend!"

Vegeta let out a shout and hit Goku square in the solar plexus. Goku doubled over and sank to the floor, that infuriating grin still on his face. The prince leaned over close to him. His eyes were dangerous, but a blush stained his cheeks.

"Not a word, or you die."

Goku smiled. He made a zipping motion across his mouth and threw away an invisible key. This didn't do much to encourage Vegeta, so he punched him in the ribs for good measure. Smirking at his rival's discomfort, he put his knife in its sheath and left the palace. He headed for a certain lagoon to see a certain scumbag about the surface.

*Days later*

"Hello Prince Vegeta." The scornful voice seemed to echo in the cavernous hole. "What an honor to have such a royal guest."

"Cut the crap Frieza." Vegeta flicked scum off his shoulder. "Let's talk business."

"Business? Oh, what could the prince of the entire ocean want with an outcast such as I?" The pale form of Frieza slithered forward. The sickly white and purple of his skin mixed together to form eight gently undulating tentacles. He held up a hand. "But wait, you're here about making a trip to the surface world."

Vegeta watched him carefully. This scumbag was detestable and slimy, but strong. Had he not been banished, half the kingdom would be in ruin. "How did you know that?" His voice, deep and resonant, made Frieza frown.

"I have my ways." He said, a smile returning to his pale face. "What do you want from me?"

"I know you can change people into other forms." Vegeta scowled. It was one of the reasons he was banished in the first place. "Make me human."

Frieza smiled more sinisterly. "Oh of course your majesty. But, I'm sure you already know I don't do my work for free."

Of course he knew that! Vegeta crossed his arms. "What do you want?"

"I will prepare a potion for you," Frieza went on as if he hadn't heard the prince, "that will change your tail into legs like the humans have. You'll be as swift and graceful on land as you are in the sea. However, since I can't change you permanently, you'll feel pain with every step. Like you were walking on knives. Your feet will bleed horribly."

Vegeta paled slightly, but nodded and said again, "What do you want?"

Frieza continued as before. "The potion will last for 3 days. During that time, learn as much or as little as you wish. I care not for that sort of thing. However, if you are to find that girl of yours and keep your legs, you must make her kiss you."

Vegeta stared at the pale scumbag. "Kiss me? Since when are you a romantic?"

Frieza frowned. "I'm not. The kiss swaps enough DNA to make the change last longer. If she kisses you, and I mean really kisses you as if she loves you, you will remain human. If 3 days pass and she does not, you return to the sea and die."

Vegeta looked at him sharply. "And what?"

"Die." Frieza said simply, showing his sharpened teeth. "Meaning your life is forfeit. You will return to mer-form and I will come to collect you. Then, you will belong to me to do with as I please."

Vegeta growled, "I belong to no one."

"Regardless, your body will have a hard time with the change. I have the medicines you will need to stay alive." Frieza smiled slyly. "You will need me. Thus, you will remain my servant until your body expires. That is my deal."

The prince stared at Frieza for a long time, silent. He scowled at nothing in particular and turned his back on the outcast. "Fine. I'll take your deal."

"Excellent." Frieza grinned. "I'll mix it up in just a moment, but first I need something from you."

"What more could you possibly need!" Vegeta snarled. "I've already promised you my life should I fail."

"Oh no no, dear prince." Frieza swam to the back of the hole and pulled out various noxious liquids sealed in bottles. "Those were the terms of the agreement. You might survive this and I receive nothing! I am asking for a down payment." He tossed a few into a cauldron where they smashed and mixed together in the seawater. "Nothing important really. Just your voice."

"My voice?" Vegeta looked at him incredulously. "How am I supposed to communicate without it?"

"Your voice is one that resonates through the sea like nothing I've ever heard." It was true. His deep tones swayed even the heart of the leviathan. He had a heck of a time rejecting all the love letters. "You believe you'll persuade the blue woman once you get up there, but if you speak, the resonance will break apart the subtle changes I'm making to your DNA. Besides, you've got your looks, those deep dark eyes of yours, how graceful you will be on your feet. What human could resist? Unless, of course, you don't think you can do it?"

Freiza let out a grunt of surprise as he found himself forced to the wall, the sharp blade of coral held at his neck.

Vegeta's voice was soft and foreboding. "I do not fear you. Don't make the same mistake of insulting me again."

Frieza swallowed nervously. Had the king not stripped him of his ki… He pushed the knife away slowly. "I meant no offense, my prince." He floated back to the cauldron which was now simmering with color. He turned and stared at Vegeta, the colors making his face eerily haunting. "Do we have a deal?"

Vegeta stared him down. Slowly he nodded.

*Hours later*

Vegeta awoke lying on the shore. His head pounded with pain. He looked up at the bright sunny day and frowned in thought. What happened? He shielded his eyes from the sun and sat up. He'd come here at midnight to drink the potion. It was the last place he saw the blue haired woman, so he figured this would be the best place to start looking.

He massaged his temples. The transformation had been horrible. Upon swallowing the draught, terrible stabbing pain lanced through his body, knocking him unconscious. He didn't think it would last so long or be so intense. He was out for the entire night! This had better have been worth it, he thought murderously.

And was it? Hesitantly, the prince looked down at where his tail should be. Two tanned legs stretched beneath him, smooth and as muscular as the rest of his physique. He looked down at them in fascination. Slowly he lifted one leg and wiggled the toes experimentally. He swung the knee back and forth, watching it bend. Tentatively he tried levering himself up on the strange things.

And promptly fell on his naked rear.

Humans actually walk on these things? Vegeta scowled at the legs. How useless. He frowned in frustration. He had to figure out how these stupid things worked.

Pushing himself up on his elbows, he flipped over and rested on his knees. Slowly, he brought his feet forward and stood up. Immediately, pain shot through his feet and fire seared up his legs. He gasped in pain and fell back to a kneeling position. He panted, caught by surprise by the sudden pain. He knew it would be bad, but not that bad.

His mouth moved in a silent cuss. That scumbag probably made the potion worse on purpose. He paused. Again his mouth moved in a silent phrase. Vegeta grit his teeth. Not having a voice made foul language really unsatisfying. Fighting back the urge to scream, albeit silently, he once again levered himself to a standing position. The muscles in his legs rippled as he fought to find his balance. It was difficult at first. Fighting the pain and trying to stay focused on being upright.

He hadn't realized how being on land was very different to being in the ocean. It felt like he was being constantly pulled downward. It was so foreign compared to the consistent weightlessness of being under the sea. Yet after a few tries and agonizing minutes later, Vegeta stood firm on the wet sand. He crossed his arms and smirked in triumph. Take that dry ground! You'll never get the best of Prince Vegeta!

Now to try walking…

*Meanwhile*

Bulma plodded along the beach, lost in thought. All that work… those months sweating in the lab… those missed dinner parties… gone! All that effort wasted in one stupid storm. Hubris, she thought wryly, thy name is Bulma.

She sighed, brushing a few errant strands of blue hair behind her ear. She'd bitten off more than she could chew. Who knew that coming to the roughest waters in the world for a capsule test would be anything but ingenious? She probably should've done a few other tests before the hardest one of them all.

Bulma stared at her feet as she walked. Things could've gone much worse. She supposed that she should be thankful that no one was seriously injured. Herself included. Though that didn't stop her father and boyfriend from giving her the royal chewing out. She scowled. Yamucha, who had been failing to call her these past months while she was out of the country, suddenly felt he had the right to lecture her on the need to stay in contact. Overprotective mother hens. I'm a grown woman! I can take care of myself!

A memory passed through her mind. Dark eyes staring at her, concerned. A deep melodic voice, rumbling in reassurance. She blushed. Well, most of the time, anyway. She'd scoured the island, searching for the man who rescued her. But she couldn't find him. Had he just been a dream? A figment of her imagination? Her parents certainly thought so.

She sighed in frustration, kicking the sand irritably. This trip had turned out to be a complete waste of time and resources and here she was moping over some guy. She was a successful business woman and genius inventor. Rich, beautiful, impeccable sense of fashion, heck she even had a boyfriend for pity's sake!

An on again, off again, never calls to save his life type of boyfriend. She scowled at the waves. Yamucha had the tendency to let his eyes wander. It made her feel terrible. Wasn't she a good enough girlfriend for him? Bulma huffed. She could totally do better.

The blue haired genius sighed. Maybe she shouldn't be so harsh on Yamucha. She just had high standards. That's all. She tried to think of Yamucha's good points, but all thoughts in her brain ground to a screeching halt as she rounded a small outcropping of stone.

Naked man.

On the beach.

Running around like an idiot.

This would usually have the blue haired genius gagging and running for the hills. Maybe even calling the cops. But this guy…

Sweet Kami in drag.

Her eyes raked greedily over the gracefully running form. The muscles, so well defined, shone faintly with a thin sheen of sweat in the sunlight. She flicked her gaze up and saw his hair. It was like a flame of midnight. The light of recognition came into her eyes and before she knew it, she had stepped around the rock and was shouting.

"It's you!"

Surprise took the man from his feet. He tripped quite gracefully, if anyone can manage that, and smacked face first into the sand. He rolled about comically for a few seconds before righting himself and looking around furiously. His eyes settled on her and his expression changed. A smile flashed across his face, causing Bulma's heart to race. It vanished as he calmly and slowly rose to his feet. He made his way over to Bulma, wincing slightly as though walking was difficult.

He stood before her and folded his arms over his impressive chest. He was barely an inch taller than Bulma, if you didn't count his hair. A massive shark tooth hung from a cord around his neck.

"It's you… right?" Bulma said, trying not to stare. "You're the one who saved me, right?" He shook his head in affirmative. Bulma, though hopeful, was not convinced. She continued with a barrage of questions. "Who are you? What are you doing here? Why the heck are you naked?!"

The dark eyed man opened his mouth, but no sound came out. He scowled at his feet, obviously frustrated. He made several motions with his hands, as if trying to tell a story, but Bulma couldn't make heads or tails of it.

Her heart sank. "You can't speak?"

He frowned, shaking his head no.

Disappointment flooded her. She sighed heavily. "Then I was wrong. I guess you aren't him." He facepalmed, but she ignored it. She looked away shyly. He was still naked. "Were you shipwrecked or something? That storm a few days ago was really bad. That's the only reason I can think as to why you don't have any clothes."

He tilted his head at her, confused. Bulma frowned. "Do you even speak English? Naked. NAY-KED. No clothes." She pulled off her jacket and tossed it to him. He caught and studied it, a look of understanding coming over him. He turned slightly pink as he looked down at his nakedness. She blushed harder. "Just put it on!" It was a stylishly big jacket. Luckily it was long enough for him to cover his needs, if tight across the chest and arms.

Quickly, he slid his arms into the sleeves. He frowned at Bulma and cinched it around his waist fully covering himself. She breathed in relief. At last some decency. Bad enough she'd have daydreams about those abs. She reached over and patted him on the shoulder. "Finally. Now, let's get you back to civilization. Find you some help."

He caught her hand as Bulma pulled away. His dark eyes burned into hers as he lifted it to his mouth and kissed it gently. Face once again ignited in a burning blush, Bulma turned and started down the beach. Whoever this guy was, he'd certainly made an impression.

*Later*

"Well then! Who is this strapping young fellow?"

Vegeta tilted his head at the old man. This was an odd one. Lavender hair, white mustache, he had a small animal resting on his shoulder. It made strange noises. Vegeta vaguely wondered if it was something they used for food.

The prince surveyed the room he'd been brought to. Frankly, he was amazed that the island had so many wonders on its surface. Granted he'd seen this all from a distance and guessed to the nature of the buildings, but he'd never imagined the interior looking like this! It felt like he was back in his father's kingdom. The flora and fauna of the island mimicked the underwater paradise where he was raised. Granted, it had a different kind of splendor, but it was nice all the same.

The woman hadn't spoken much while they walked, except to lead the way to this dwelling. Speaking of the blue one… He glanced sidelong at her. She caught his gaze and blushed gently, opting to study the room instead. He smirked. Good to know she liked him with legs.

"Bulma, where is he from? What is his name?" The old man looked him up and down. "Why is he only wearing your overcoat?"

Her name is Bulma? Vegeta chuckled silently. What a strange name.

"Dad, I have no idea. I found him on the beach, running around in the buff." Bulma massaged her temples tiredly. "He can't speak, so I have no idea who he is or where he lives. Is he a native from another island? Was he shipwrecked? Does he have-"

"Oh my! What a handsome young man!"

Vegeta startled slightly as another woman entered the room. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled as the fluffy blonde woman charged toward him. She came much too close for comfort and he took a few steps back out of self preservation.

The blue one, Bulma, smirked at his discomfort. "Mom, this is… our guest."

"Well! Isn't he gorgeous!" The mom whirled on Bulma. "Where on earth did you find him? Are there more?"

Vegeta took another step back, a look of terror crossing his face. Bulma outright laughed at him. He shot her a death glare and resumed his former firm stance. This was no laughing matter! Humans can't be allowed to find the kingdom!

"Cut the guy some slack mom!" She looked sheepishly at Vegeta. "I bet you're really confused right now. Sorry. I'm Bulma Briefs. This is Dr. Briefs and his wife." She gestured to the people. "My parents."

Vegeta looked from Bulma to her parents and back. He nodded in understanding. The prince felt the triumph of a small victory. She lives with her parents… she must be unwed. He hung his arms to his sides and bowed deeply. Dr. Briefs let out a low "Hoh" and Mrs. Briefs gave a soft sigh.

"Well, at least we know he has manners." Bulma said wryly. Vegeta shot her a haughty look. Of course I have manners! You are addressing a prince of the most royal lineage!

She rolled her eyes. "Geez. Sorry."

He nodded in satisfaction. Good to know she can read facial expressions at the very least.

"Well whoever he is, I betcha he needs some clothes!" Mrs. Briefs gushed.

Vegeta's thoughts derailed. What?!

"Well…" Bulma tilted her head at the prince, "I guess he really can't run around in my coat all the time…"

"That settles it!" Mrs. Briefs clapped her hands together. "We're going shopping! Come on Mr. Strong, Tan, and Handsome!" She snagged his arm and started dragging him out of the room.

The prince easily pulled from the crazy lady's grip and returned to stand next to Bulma. He didn't have time for that! He had to learn as much as he could and get Bulma to kiss him! He couldn't go shopping.

Whatever shopping was.

Dr. Briefs chuckled. "Not to worry my boy. My wife may be a little overzealous at times, but you'll never find a better fashionista." He patted him on the back and tried to push Vegeta towards the waiting crazy lady. Vegeta didn't budge.

Bulma huffed. "Get going, you big baby!"

Vegeta bristled. Baby?!

"Going shopping isn't gonna kill you."

The prince frowned, unsure. His hesitation was all the answer Bulma needed. She pointed at her mother.

"Go."

Vegeta grumbled silently, stomping to the door. He'd endure this… shopping. Whatever the heck that was. Some insane rite of passage perhaps? In any case, it wouldn't get the best of him.

*Later*

"Well, what do you think Daddy? Should we go after the wreckage?"

"Bulma darling," Dr. Briefs scratched his head wearily, "don't you think you're beating a dead horse? Your ship is Kami knows where at the bottom of the sea! The sea currents are too unpredictable to send a manned sub down there without at least an idea of where we were going. Even if we had a way to track it, like a radar or something, it would still take weeks to get it back to the surface!"

"But we wouldn't need to get the entire wreck to the surface! Just the hard drive of the computer!" Bulma tapped the schematics. "I'm positive I can get the data we need from it. It recorded all of the data that the submersibles transmitted. Heck, I personally took the time to make sure that thing was completely waterproofed! If we find that computer, we won't need to dredge up the entire wreck."

"I still just think you're grabbing at straws here, sweetie." Dr. Briefs sighed. "But, I guess we could try it."

"Thanks Dad." Bulma smiled at her father. "Now I think we should start searching around-"

Both inventors jumped as a loud bang echoed through the guest house. Thunderous stomping made its way through the kitchen and up the stairs. Bulma was surprised to see her flame haired stranger burst into the small laboratory with an expression of boiling rage. He was still only wearing Bulma's overcoat.

"Uh… I take it you finished shopping?" Dr. Briefs ventured.

The stranger waved his arms in erratic angry gestures. His mouth moved, but no sound came out. This seemed to frustrate him further. He was in the middle of his silent rant when Bunny came into the room from behind him.

"Oh it went swimmingly!" She smiled cheerily. "We were able to find him the perfect wardrobe! I must say that he has quite the athletic physique…"

"MOM." Bulma massaged the bridge of her nose. "You're married."

She waved her hand dismissively. "Married, not dead. Anyway, he wanted to go in every shop we passed. It's like he's never been in town before! It was so much fun!"

Bulma looked over to where the stranger stood. He was still seething with anger. She picked her words carefully. "So why does our guest look so… unhappy?"

"I don't know honey." Mrs. Briefs frowned in thought. "I suppose he doesn't like underwear."

There was silence for a moment and then Bulma burst out laughing. The dark eyed stranger glared furiously at her, but she didn't care. After seeing him running around naked on the beach, the fact that he didn't like underwear was hilarious.

"Well, glad to see you're feeling better." Dr. Briefs smiled. "You haven't cracked so much as a smile since the wreck. This young man seems to be the ticket to your rehabilitation."

"What?" Bulma's laughter was brought under control. "No dad, I'm just relieved that we're getting the project going again."

"Well, enough about that." Mrs. Briefs moved toward the furious stranger. "Come on handsome. Let's get you cleaned up. Maybe you'll feel better after a shower."

The flame haired man looked at Mrs. Briefs with such a horrified expression that Bulma started cracking up again. "Mom! Mom please," she managed to say between bouts of laughter, "let me." She walked over and tugged on his arm gently. "We decided to let you stay here till we can get you back on your feet. I'll show you where your room is."

Though he kept shooting distrustful looks at both women, the stranger followed Bulma. Once they had left the room, Dr. Briefs looked over to his wife.

"Now darling, don't go getting any wild ideas…"

"Ooh but don't they just make the cuUUtest couple?"

"Dear, she's in a relationship with that Yamucha fellow."

Mrs. Briefs just smiled slyly at him. Dr. Briefs sighed in resignation. This wasn't going to end well.

*Later*

Shopping?! What kind of barbarians are these people?! Vegeta stood in the 'shower', as Bulma called it. After he'd gotten it to work properly, the prince needs no instruction, he was pleased to find out that it made the water quite warm. It wasn't salty, much to his disappointment, but it would have to do. He continued in his silent rant. Shopping… pah. More like she was trying to find out if I'd make a decent meal! He'd been poked, prodded, stuffed into so many kinds of clothing that he felt like a child's plaything! No one treats a prince that way!

He stared at the wall in agitation. The mother hadn't even let him explore. He'd barely seen any advances the humans had made, much less of their world. He hadn't learned anything! Except that the mother was unnerving.

Very unnerving.

Vegeta glanced down again at his feet and legs. He lifted his foot and cursed silently. Frieza hadn't lied. Every step was like treading on knives. There were no visible wounds, yet his feet felt shredded already.

The water flowing over his shoulders did little for his tension. This was difficult. He knew he would get used to the pain, but in all honesty, he wanted to go for a swim. Vegeta had never been away from the sea for this long. Heck, he'd never been away from the sea ever! Its rolling tide called to him, like an old friend. He could feel its pull, deep and fathomless…

No! He beat a fist against the wall in frustration. He had to focus! Now was the time for action, not moping around like an oyster who lost its pearl! Suck it up and take it like a merman!

He turned the knob and stopped the water. The 'shower' was still kind of a mystery to him, but he had more important things to worry about than how they got water inland. He let the moisture bead and roll off him, ignoring the towel that Bulma had left for him to dry with. He was a merman. Water was always a part of his life, on land or in the sea. She'd just have to deal with it.

Vegeta eyed the clothing with distaste. However, to appease the mother, he put them on slowly and methodically. Once clothed, he looped the shark's tooth back around his neck. He scowled at his reflection. How utterly pathetic. Clothing. Useless. Restricting. Bleh.

He left the 'bathroom' and headed for the kitchen. During his enraged storming earlier, he noticed the amount of equipment and technology in the 'laboratory'. It must've been some kind of work area. The glimpses he caught of the technology there gave him an idea of what he'd been missing. He'd have to get the woman to take him back there.

He entered the kitchen and saw a number of things being laid out on the table. Flat white things, thin silver things, hollow shell-like things, none of it made much sense to Vegeta. Mrs. Briefs flashed him a sunny smile in welcome. He tensed, ready to run for his life.

"Well don't you just look dashing!" She gushed, increasing Vegeta's discomfort. "I'll have dinner ready in a few minutes. I'm sure you haven't had anything to eat for a while." She placed a big bowl of hot steaming round things on the table before ushering him into a chair. "My husband and Bulma should be along soon enough."

He lowered himself into the chair. Looking at the table in front of him, he studied the slender silver things. They looked kind of like the weapons his people used. One looked like the trident his father wielded. The prince looked around the table and saw that there were small weapons for each seat. He nodded. We must fight for the meal. Perhaps I have judged these humans too quickly. Satisfied with the approaching battle, he attuned his senses to the room around him.

*Meanwhile*

Bulma sighed heavily. She straightened from her hunched position over the oceanic map and stretched. She didn't even know where to start. The survivors had lost all their bearings and had floated a fair distance before they were rescued. No one knew where the ship had sunk, much less where it lay now.

She paused as her stomach rumbled impatiently. This would have to wait. Now it was time to eat. She left the mess on the lab table and trudged to the kitchen. The smells made her mouth water. Her mom was a really good cook.

The blue haired genius entered the kitchen and slowed to a stop. The dark eyed stranger arrested her attention as he turned to pin her with his gaze.

He looked good in clothes.

She felt her face heat up as he studied her. Bulma gave him a small smile. "Well don't you clean up nice."

He scoffed silently and turned his attention back to the table. Bulma rolled her eyes and took her seat. Soon everyone was sitting at the table. Dr. Brief said a brief word of thanks to his wife for the meal and picked up his fork. He was just about to spear a piece of roast beef when out of nowhere another fork zipped past his hand and pinned the piece to the table.

Bulma was shocked. What in the…?! Dr. Briefs looked at the stranger, startled. The dark eyed stranger glared balefully at the good doctor. He raised his knife in readiness and assumed what one could only call a defensive stance.

"What the heck are you doing?!" The stranger didn't even glance at her. Infuriated, Bulma grabbed a roll and chucked it at his head.

His hand flicked towards the roll. Bulma watched, stunned as the roll landed perfectly sliced on the plate in front of him.

"OOOOOH!" Mrs. Briefs applauded. "I didn't know you could do karate!"

Bulma gaped at her. "THAT'S what you notice?"

"Bulma dear," Mr. Briefs said, gamely trying to pull the fork out of the table, "perhaps our friend doesn't understand the use of utensils."

"Obviously." Bulma scowled at her strange guest. "Look mister jungle man, this is called a fork. You use it to eat. See?" She stabbed a piece of potato and brought it to her mouth. She chewed angrily. "Not something you throw at the people serving you dinner."

The flame haired stranger watched her carefully. He frowned at her, but slowly put his knife down on the table. Reaching over, he easily pulled out the fork that Dr. Briefs had been unable to remove. The four holes went all the way through the lacquered wood. He sighed with something akin to disappointment and moved the food around on his plate in a bored fashion.

Bulma huffed. What a psycho. She resumed eating, noting that he just moved the food about on his plate. He didn't actually eat anything. She raised an eyebrow. "What the matter? Don't like roast beef?" she said, irritated.

His eyes flicked up to meet hers. She couldn't read his expression. He rolled his eyes and she hardened her glare, daring him to try it. He speared one of the pieces disinterestedly before bringing it to his mouth. As he chewed the lights seemed to go on in his eyes. Soon the plate of food disappeared in the face of his voracious appetite. He held out his dish for a second helping.

"Oh my! Somebody's got a good appetite!" Mrs. Briefs exclaimed, overly pleased that he was a fan of her cooking. She piled his plate high with more foodstuffs. The Briefs watched amazed at how fast their guest devoured his meal. He silently asked, or more demanded, a third and fourth helping.

"Good heavens." Dr. Briefs breathed. "Slow down my boy! It's not going anywhere."

The stranger ignored him and continued to tear through his meal. Eventually, after the seventh plate, he leaned back and sighed.

Bulma shook her head. "Wow. You must have been starving or something." The stranger gave her a look that said a very sarcastic 'really?' She bristled. "You don't have to be so rude about it!"

Dr. Briefs quirked an eyebrow. "Bulma, he didn't say anything."

"He didn't have to!" She gestured at the smug look on his face, frustrated. "He's like an open book!"

Dr. Briefs chuckled. "You understand him better than I do. Why don't you take him around the island tomorrow? He seemed quite interested in it from what your mother said."

Bulma pouted. "But what about…"

"Don't worry about that." Dr. Briefs waved his hand in a dismissing gesture. "It's not like it's going anywhere."

Bulma sighed. "I suppose not." She looked to the stranger. "Well, looks like we're going out on the town tomorrow." She said reluctantly.

*Hours later*

Vegeta walked along the beach outside the small residence. The sun had set a few hours ago and the moon had already risen above the surface of the ocean. Waves crashed along the shore, sending silver sparkles of reflected moonlight into the air. The moon itself was large and illuminated the beach so that every dune of sand was clear as day.

The prince looked out over the sea and sighed. It wasn't the fact that his feet felt like they were being cut to ribbons. It was being this close to the ocean. It aggravated him like nothing else. He ached for the sea, but dare not set foot in its soothing waters. If he returned now, it would be a sure sign of weakness. Frieza would come to claim him and he'd have to honor his agreement.

He scowled. Sitting around any longer in that house would have driven him insane. He needed to move. Work out some of the frustration that came from losing his ability to speak. He hadn't realized what a detriment it was until he'd tried communicating without it. He couldn't ask the woman to show him her lab. He couldn't ask about any of the things in the house. He couldn't ask her to kiss him, though he was sure she'd refuse. Frankly his pride got in the way as well. He was the prince! She ought to want to kiss him!

He kicked at a pile of sand in frustration, wincing as pain pulsed through the leg. This wasn't going well.

On the plus side, he'd gotten the hang of human legs. For the most part, they were quite easy to operate, though they took some getting used to. The prince rolled his shoulders. Maybe he would try an easy kata he'd done when he had his fin. Perhaps it wouldn't be too different.

Vegeta shifted his weight smoothly and started into the motions. He was surprised when the legs seemed to accommodate him well, barring the pain of course. He would kick powerfully with both of them, as he would with a fin, and catch himself on his arms. Flipping himself upright and around, he attacked an invisible opponent again and again. On an impulse, he found that he could attack by using only one of the legs, keeping himself upright with the other. It was rather painful, but effective. Pleased, he tried various combinations of things. To the casual observer, it was as though he was performing a complex mixed martial arts kata or even a gymnastics routine.

He paused in his exertions as he felt a pair of eyes on him. He looked back at the house and sure enough, there stood Bulma on the balcony, watching him. Panting, he allowed himself a sly grin. She's been watching me. He lifted a hand and ran it through his jet black hair, placing the other hand on his hip in a very cocky pose.

Like what you see?

Vegeta chuckled as the woman stiffened and darted from the balcony. He heard the slam of the doors and felt good about himself. Perhaps things weren't as bad as he thought.

Then again, Bulma would be giving him a tour of the island tomorrow. He didn't doubt that the day 'out on the town' would be just as bad a train wreck as before. But there was little more he could do than follow her. After all, she knew the island better than he did.

He just hoped there was no more shopping involved.

*The following day*

"Okay mister jungle man, let's get this show on the road!" Bulma declared, setting out from the little beach house. The stranger followed her at a leisurely pace, casually scanning the area around him.

Bulma glanced over her shoulder. She watched him look around and noticed that while his face didn't show any of what he was thinking, his eyes hid nothing. They sparkled with curiosity and darted to and fro. Cataloguing the things he was seeing. His face held a bored 'I'm too cool for this' expression, but his eyes made him seem like an overeager schoolboy.

He caught her eyes and raised an eyebrow in question. She giggled. "Not interested in the island, huh?" He scoffed silently and averted his gaze, a faint blush on his cheeks. He's too easy. She thought with amusement.

Soon they had reached the central hub of the island. The market lay before them in a tangle of life. A buying, selling, frenzied, noisy mass of humanity. Bulma took in a deep breath and savored the smells of spices and cooking foods from street vendors. She was about to start into the madness when she felt a presence close behind her.

She turned and saw her stranger just at her elbow. His face was a cold mask of indifference, but his eyes held a distinct glimmer of unease.

Aww. He's nervous. Bulma smiled. "Hey, no worries bub." She reached out and took his hand. "Just stay close and we'll be fine." He stiffened slightly when she took his hand and gave her a most haughty glare. She rolled her eyes at him and let go.

His eyes widened slightly and he made a grab for her elbow. He caught it and she smirked back at knew what he was on about. He scowled and dropped it like it bit him. If he could speak, she was sure he would've said something to the effect of 'this means nothing' or 'I don't need you, you need me' or something to that effect.

She laughed aloud. "Come on mister grumpy jungle man. Let's go exploring."

*Later*

Bulma fought back a giggle as she watched her mysterious stranger dart from one stall to the next with barely suppressed excitement. Now that he was finally over the sheer amount of people in the crowd, she could barely keep track of the guy. He could be so cute when he wasn't paying attention to what he was doing. Bulma smiled happily as he stopped and waited for her to catch up. She trotted up to him and smirked.

"Enjoying yourself mister jungle man?" She asked cheekily.

The stranger folded his arms and huffed, though his eyes sparkled with mirth. Bulma chuckled and followed him to the next stall. In the short time that they'd been exploring the island, she'd come to enjoy his company. Strangely enough, she found him rather attractive. Bulma blushed. Not that he wasn't easy on the eyes to begin with.

To be honest it was his personality that attracted her. He seemed so guarded at first, offstandish even. However, more time she spent with the silent tough guy, the more she found him to be rather personable. He had a sense of humor that mirrored hers. And as much as he silently teased her, to the point of her bursting out in anger, he was always courteous. Holding doors for her, walking in front of her as they carved a path through the crowds, glaring at other men who tried to chat her up. She giggled. It was like having a personal body guard.

She watched him walk through the little shop in appreciation. He carried himself with a haughty air, but was graceful in all his movements. He never bumped into people, but instead seemed to flow around them. Even last night his movements seemed almost too smooth to be real. Then again he was pretty jacked. Maybe he did martial arts?

Bulma saw him narrow his eyes at a dolphin carving. Even though he didn't say a word, she could tell he was very intelligent. His eyes were so expressive even when his face was a stony mask of indifference. That's how they communicated. She could guess what he was trying to say because of his eyes. His deep, dark, drown-in-the-depths eyes.

The blue haired genius coughed. I didn't just think that. Bulma looked around to try to distract herself by looking anywhere else. She had a boyfriend for heaven's sake! She wasn't going to fantasize about some hot stranger while he wasn't around... right?

Movement on the far side of the strip caught her attention. She smiled. "Hey mister jungle man!" She called over to the stranger. "You do martial arts right? Why don't you check this out?" She pointed to a wooden building and the stranger's eyes lit up. He strode over to her with that confident grace and together they went inside the dojo.

Inside were bunches of people gathered around to watch a sword dance. Bulma watched in awe of the spinning blades. The man on the platform flipped them around in such an intricate pattern that it seemed he was likely to take his own head off. They'd arrived in the middle of the dance and for the next few minutes, Bulma was entertained by the performance. At the end of it she found herself clapping enthusiastically with the rest of the audience.

"Wow. Hey mister jungle man, what do you… ?" Bulma looked around. Where'd he go? Did she seriously just lose him? Panic rose in her chest and she made her way towards the doors.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a challenger!"

Bulma stopped for a second and turned back to the platform. She let out a small cry of dismay as she recognized the stranger. He'd removed his shirt and held set of blades matching the ones seen earlier. The large shark tooth around his neck shone in bright contrast to his tanned skin.

She struggled her way to the stage and called to him in a stage whisper. "What are you doing?! You can't just march up there and steal the show! You'll get hurt!"

The stranger waved her words away with a confident smirk. His eyes twinkled and she got the message. 'Watch and learn.'

Bulma huffed and folded her arms. "Fine then! Just don't come crying to me when your face needs to be stitched back on!"

He laughed silently before moving into a ready position. His arms at his sides, his feet bare, he relaxed his body. His face, normally stone cold barring his eyes, smoothed as well. Bulma marveled at the change. He looked much younger when he wasn't scowling at something. Slowly he brought his arms up and began a sword dance.

Bulma's jaw dropped.

Ho-ly smokes. She couldn't tear her eyes away. The stranger's blades flashed in movements so graceful, so intricate, that it made the earlier exhibition seem amateurish in comparison. His body treated the weapons as mere extensions on his limbs as he glided and leapt through forms that seemed much too perfect for fighting. It was stunning. HE was stunning! Briefly, she wondered how long it took him to master it. Years maybe? Comparing this to the way he trained on the beach told her how determined he was. How hard he worked to get this good. She found herself genuinely admiring him.

His dance wasn't much longer than other one. The stranger completed his final form and returned to the stance he began with, letting out a heavy sigh. There was silence for a moment before the audience erupted into thunderous applause. Bulma cheered just as heartily as the rest of them. She watched as a man who she assumed to be the master of the dojo drew close to him and offered him a few words.

She watched as the stranger shook his head and hopped off the stage. He snagged his shirt and headed towards her, scowling at the pats on the back and words of praise he received. Bulma shook her head and grinned. Figures he wouldn't be the type to accept encouragement. She reached out and bopped him on the shoulder.

"Showoff."

As they turned to leave the dojo, she missed his eyes. The message in them was clear.

'Only for you.'

*Later*

Vegeta studied the books intently. Humans have a writing system in place. Who would've known? He picked one off the shelves and scanned the pages. It's similar to our script and easy enough to decipher. They probably come from the same root language. The 'bookstore' was a goldmine. History, literature, art, mechanical books, science books, all of it crammed into a small shop off the main drag. They'd been there at least an hour while he satisfied his curiosity. Though it only just fed the beast. This was such a small place packed with so much information. He was sure that this was just the tip of the iceberg. The prince set the book back on the shelf after a few minutes and turned to look for Bulma.

She stood outside the little bookstore, chatting with one of the locals. Vegeta felt an unusual surge of emotions, watching her laugh and talk with the girl. Her eyes sparkled in the bright sunshine and her face lit up with humor. He couldn't help but stare, caught by her. Abruptly Bulma turned and found his gaze. He stiffened and looked away, fighting the blush that threatened to overtake his face. He ran a hand through his black flame of hair and scowled. I'm getting in too deep. He never meant to actually like her, having attributed his earlier interest to pure intellectual curiosity, but he had the sinking suspicion that things were not so good under the sea. Heck, he even showed off his ancestral sword dance for her! He'd adjusted it for human legs, but it was still difficult even without the horrible pain!

This sucks. He thought in frustration. He shouldn't so be infatuated with her. She was human. He just needed her to kiss him. That's it.

But how? He was never good at flirting, even when he had his voice. Frankly he thought he'd just tell her that he was the same guy who saved her and then she'd kiss him upon request. Stupid scumbag taking my voice. How am I to explain myself? He trudged through the little bookstore absently, caught up in his thoughts. He stopped with a sigh and glanced up. A book caught his attention. It was old and covered with dark blue colored leather. A pattern of waves decorated it with an intricate silver inlay. Curious, he reached up and opened the book.

Vegeta's eyes got big. It can't be. The first picture he turned to was a picture of his people. Creatures with human tops and fish bottoms were depicted swimming around a lagoon.

Merfolk.

How?! Vegeta flipped through the pages quickly. How is it that they already know of us?! He turned to the front few pages and almost laughed silently with relief.

'Legends of the Sea'

They think we're a myth! Vegeta's mind turned quickly from relief to irritation. How dare they! No wonder these humans keep mucking about in the ocean. They think they own the place! He set the book back on the shelf. What father would say if he knew…

That's it! Vegeta grinned and ran through the bookstore. Bulma must know about our people! Perhaps things will be easier to explain this way. He strode confidently out to Bulma, interrupting her by grasping her by the wrist and pulling her inside the bookstore.

"Hey! Lemme go!" Bulma protested, pulling vainly against his grip. "I was in the middle of a conversation you jerk!""

Vegeta rolled his eyes and pulled her into the section. He selected the blue book with the silver waves and shoved the book in her face, pointing to the cover.

"You know what you are? Rude!" Bulma glared at him angrily. "We've been here for hours and NOW you find a book! We were just about to leave!" She rubbed her sore wrist, ignoring the book. "Geez you have a strong grip! Are you made of metal or something?!"

Vegeta smirked smugly. I'm a pure blooded merman. We are the strongest warriors in the sea. He shoved the book in her hands and crossed his arms. Read the stupid book.

Bulma gave him another angry glare before looking back at the book. Her face cleared in surprise as she recognized it. "Hey! I know this book! Daddy read it to me when I was just a little girl!" Vegeta raised an eyebrow and she continued. "Oh yeah. I used to be all into mermaids. I had my own little mermaid costume with the fins and everything." Bulma sighed at Vegeta's incredulous expression. "Hey, I was young. Don't judge." She flipped through the pages as she spoke. "Mermaids were the only real mystery for me when I was younger. I mean, I was hard into dad's inventions and all, but there was such a romance to them! I wanted to go out and prove that mermaids existed. I didn't find out that they weren't real until I was about 15." She shrugged at Vegeta's shock.

Not real!? NOT REAL!? Vegeta's righteous outrage was obvious. I'm real! I'm a Merman! I'm the prince of all Mermen! I saved you from that storm you ungrateful woman! You would be dead without me! How dare you suggest that I'm not real?! His silent rant didn't attract any attention.

"Chillax bub." Bulma backed away from the silently angry man. "I'll get you the book. Don't need to blow a gasket." She turned and headed towards the payment area, leaving Vegeta behind.

AAAAAAGH! Vegeta roared silently. WHY doesn't she believe?! He ran a fist into the nearby wall, punching a hole clean through spun about and paced angrily back and forth, feeling invisible knives slice into his feet. The prince didn't notice the pain due to the terrible ache in his chest. She doesn't believe we exist. He didn't want to admit his growing feelings for Bulma. He just knew she didn't think he was real and that really, really hurt. He shook his head angrily. I need to calm down. I just have to get her to kiss me, learn what I can, and go back home. Kiss, learn, leave. Kiss, learn, leave.

It's never that easy.

He calmed enough to regain his composure and moved to the front of the store. He watched her pay for the book and his heart ached. He scowled. Stupid emotions. During their time together he'd learned about her just as much as she learned about him. She was witty, smart, and had a dry sense of humor that he shared. She wasn't so easily impressed and she stood up to him more times than he could count. And that was just today! Bulma was a spitfire and was most certainly a beautiful woman. He smirked to himself. Especially when she's angry.

He shook his head, trying to clear it of thoughts of Bulma and failing. She was unlike any person he'd ever met. She wasn't strong, but she used her other abilities as compensation. He watched her, with no small amusement, talk down a salesman dead set on selling her jewelry. Vegeta rolled his eyes at the memory. Even he knew the diamonds were fake. Bulma called the salesman out on it and had essentially cleared him out for cheap. He chuckled. No, she is completely different than anyone I have ever known.

Bulma finished paying for the book. She turned and walked out the shop, Vegeta close behind her. Bulma stopped in her tracks and looked at him. He scowled at her and she sighed.

"Listen," she said, "I know we don't know each other all that well. Sorry if I said something back there to offend you." She smiled at him he felt his earlier anger dissolve completely. He leaned over the bopped her lightly on the head. She let out a yelp. "What was that for?!"

Punishment. He smirked at her cheekily. It would've been worse if you were in the kingdom. Father wouldn't take being called a fake lightly.

"Gee thanks mister high and mighty jungle man. What garners me this special treatment?" she asked sarcastically, rubbing the sore spot on her noggin.

Because it's you. Vegeta thought, giving her a genuine smile. He stuck his hands in the pockets of his pants and moved past her to the next vendor. He completely missed Bulma's flabbergasted expression and the reddest blush across her cheeks.

*Later*

Vegeta pulled the oars back in powerful strokes. Sending the little boat shooting across the surface of the water.

Bulma put a hand to her hair to keep it from blowing about. "Slow down you crazy jungle man! We're supposed to be seeing the sights! Not speeding to the next continent!"

Vegeta scoffed silently. It's a lagoon you stupid woman! What sights are we supposed to be seeing? Nevertheless, he slowed his pace. Soon they were drifting leisurely through the water as the sun set on the horizon.

The pair had rented a little rowboat to spend the evening on the water. Bulma had heard that it was beautiful at sundown when all the fireflies came out. Vegeta had rolled his eyes when she compared it to the stars coming down to mingle among the trees. Such nonsense. She didn't know true beauty. She'd never seen the northern lights dancing on a clear night while the stars sang in the icy sky above.

The sun disappeared below the horizon and Bulma leaned eagerly forward. "Now the fireflies come out!" Bulma said, looking about in excitement. "Quick! Row over there! Beneath that willow tree!"

Vegeta shrugged, but complied. They floated beneath the great drooping branches and he leaned back in the little boat. He didn't care about these fireflies. He'd seen them the first night while he was on the beach. Little flickering light bugs. What was so special about seeing them over the water? He'd rather spend his time teasing Bulma.

Minutes passed in silence. The prince watched as Bulma's excitement ebbed. Slowly eagerness turned to irritation. "Where are they?" She muttered, looking around. "There are supposed to be millions of them. Maybe they'll come out later." She turned to Vegeta, striking up a new topic of conversation. "You know, I feel really bad about not knowing your name. You think I could guess it?"

Vegeta gestured at her to continue. Maybe she'll get lucky.

"Florence?"

Vegeta made a disgusted face. What kind of a sissy name is Florence?

Bulma giggled. "Okay, I guess not. How about Dmitri?"

He shook his head.

"Eric?"

Again with the head shake. His expression became bored. She'd never guess it on her own.

"How about… Victor?"

Vegeta shook his head, allowing a little smile. At least she's getting closer. She opened her mouth to guess again when a loud call split the silence.

"VEGETAAAAAAAH!"

Vegeta stiffened and spun around to look out to sea. In the distance he could see something splashing through the waves. He cursed silently. That idiot! Why does he choose to show up now of all times?!

"Vegeta?"

The prince spun back around, wide eyed. Bulma looked at him with a satisfied smirk.

"Your name is Vegeta?"

Vegeta huffed, but nodded.

Bulma paused before laughing. "What kind of name is Vegeta?"

Vegeta glared at her indignantly. It's is a royal name! The name of my father and the name of my father's father! He crossed his arms. At least it's not as silly as the name 'Bulma'!

Her laugher slowed and she smiled at him. "Well, at least I don't have to call you mister jungle man anymore." She looked out at sea and frowned in thought. "Though it sounded like someone was looking for you. Should we head back to the docks?"

Vegeta shook his head. Any movement and Kakkarot will find us. I don't want to deal with that idiot right now.

She shrugged and started up another line of conversation. The world around them grew darker as they, or rather she, talked. Still no sign of the little glowing insects. Vegeta watched in amusement as she became increasingly agitated, but tried to keep the one sided conversation going.

Finally, after a solid hour of floating in the lagoon, Bulma had had enough. "This is stupid! We've been out here for an hour and no sign of any fireflies! Stupid bugs!" She vented. After a moment of red faced fuming, she deflated. She turned to her companion. "Sorry Vegeta. I really wanted to show you the fireflies. I guess that's not happening now."

She looks so disappointed. Vegeta found himself disturbed by the thought that she should be displeased. He made a snap decision and sat up. He leaned forward and formed a ki ball in his hand. Vegeta tossed the ball into the air and shattered it, sending mini ki lights drifting into the air all around them

Bulma stared at him in shock. "How did you…" Her voice trailed off as she looked around. The entire space under the tree was lit gently by the ki lights. Their golden glow gave the space a starry quality. Vegeta felt enormous gratification as her face lit up in awe.

"Wow!" Bulma turned her gaze back to him. A beatific smiled graced her looks. "It's so beautiful. Better than fireflies." She blushed and looked back up at the tree. "I've never seen anything like it."

It was nothing. Vegeta's expression softened. You're worth it anyway. He blushed at the silent comment and looked away. His heart beat violently in his chest. Was this love? Was this what it felt like? It was like those infernal light bugs had taken up residence in his stomach. He didn't know what to do. He brought his gaze back to Bulma and felt the feeling grow.

What are you doing to me? He shook his head. I can help myself when you're around. He wanted her attention. Wanted her smile. Wanted the fire that came out when they challenged each other. He'd fallen hopelessly in love with the blue eyed beauty. There was no two ways about it.

He looked down at her hands, trying not to give his feelings away through eye contact. He studied them. Suddenly curious, Vegeta reached forward and took her them in his own. They were small compared to his. More refined. He rubbed his thumb over the back of her hand absently. They were so different, yet he couldn't stop himself. He smiled ruefully. How had he fallen in love with a human?

He realized that he really wanted to kiss the girl. It wasn't just because he had to. No. He wanted to stay with the girl. To make her smile for the rest of her life. To bring out her fire. To love her.

The prince looked up from her hands and found Bulma staring back at him. Her eyes danced in the light of his ki, capturing him. They were as blue as the sky on a cloudless day. How he hadn't noticed before was beyond him. His heart thumped loudly in his chest at the emotions he saw there that he didn't have the presence of mind to name. She smiled shyly and he found himself leaning forward. Slowly he lifted a hand to her chin. She closed her eyes as he drew nearer. He closed his eyes and felt her breath on his lips.

"VEGETA!"

The loud cry from two feet away startled them both into motion. They jumped away from each other and with a loud cry from Bulma, toppled the little boat.

KAKKAROT! Vegeta surged from the water in a rage. The little ki lights vanished with Vegeta's loss of control. He zoned in on the black spiky hair and dove for his rival. He landed on him, beating his head mercilessly with his fists. Goku, having not expected that, was knocked unconscious. Vegeta picked him up bodily and hurled him out of the lagoon.

"What the heck was that?!" Vegeta whirled to see Bulma soaking wet, shivering in the waist deep water. He made his way to her, anger forgotten, concern written all over his face. She shouted at him angrily. "I'm fine you chowderhead! Where do you get off tipping the boat like that?!"

Tipping the boat!? Concern turned back into anger. I didn't tip the boat! You tipped the stupid boat!

"It wasn't me!" Bulma responded to his outrage. "You're the one who jumped!"

AUGH! It's all Kakkarot's fault! Vegeta beat the water with his fist. He's the one who ruined-

A wave of water washed over him, cutting off his thoughts. He spluttered and glared angrily at Bulma. She was dripping from the splash he made in his frustration. She scowled back at him and pointed a finger in his face.

"You started it!"

Oh so that's how you want to play!? Vegeta's smirk was absolutely evil. Fine! Take the wrath of the prince of all mermen! He splashed a great wall of water at her. She shrieked and was instantly drenched again.

"Oh no you don't!" She launched herself at Vegeta, tackling him into the lagoon.

Vegeta came up for air and dunked her down in retaliation. His victorious smirk disappeared as the blue haired genius kicked his feet out from under him. She surfaced and laughed at his indignant expression. He grabbed her around the waist with his own grin and plunged back beneath the water.

And so the war continued.

*Later*

"Vegetaaaaaaah! Why'd you beat me up?!" Goku rubbed his sore head angrily. "I've been looking for you everywhere!"

Vegeta scowled at his rival. You're the reason I failed to kiss Bulma! He tossed a shell at Goku's head and was satisfied to see it bounce off the bump on his noggin. You only got what you deserved.

"Ouch!" Goku scowled back at Vegeta. "I was just trying to warn you! The king sent the royal guard all over the ocean looking for you!" He held up his thumb and forefinger centimeters apart. "He's this close to putting a bounty on your head!"

Vegeta raised an eyebrow. Don't tell me you told him?

"I didn't tell him anything." Goku frowned. "But he was super angry. I think Frieza may have tipped him off somehow." He leaned forward and rested his arms on the dock. It was long past midnight and the inhabitants of the island were fast asleep. He'd found Vegeta waiting for him on a dock on the far side of the island.

It wouldn't surprise me. Vegeta sat cross legged on the dock. That scumbag likes to antagonize father to no end.

Goku set his chin on his arms. "I went to see him Vegeta."

The prince's eyebrows shot up. You did? His rival also committed treason? What for?

Goku caught his look. "Yeah I did." He sighed. "I was worried. Didn't know if you actually went through with it. I got there and threatened the scumbag." Vegeta smirked. Hearing that the normally peaceful merman actually threatened someone made him irrationally happy. Goku continued speaking. "Frieza told me all about the deal you made. I couldn't believe you would do such a thing. I had to find you." He looked at his friend sadly. "And now you have legs. I can't believe you sometimes."

I had to do it. Vegeta flicked another shell at him. It's not your place to worry about me.

"Vegeta." Goku's eyes hardened and he batted the shell away. "Don't go through with this. Even if you kiss the girl and stay human a little longer, I don't want to see you a slave to that monster." Goku leaned forward in agitation. "He plans to take over the kingdom. He'll use you if he can. Whether you agree to it or not."

Vegeta sighed. I know this Kakkarot. I don't intend to let him win.

Goku looked at him intently. After a moment he spoke. "Listen, there's a way out of this. If you come back to the king with me, we could explain-"

The prince slammed a hand on the wood of the dock, silencing Goku. No! I will not go back on my word! His eyes bored into Goku's. Trust me, I don't plan to give in without a fight.

Goku studied him. "You know, you're really hard to understand without a voice." Vegeta facepalmed and Goku snickered. "But I get you. When you face Frieza, I'll fight with you." He held forth his forearm. Vegeta stared at it before nodding. He lifted his own forearm and pressed it up against Goku's. The Merman way of making a promise.

Goku's eyes lit up and he smiled. "I don't know this girlfriend of yours, but you must really like her to do all this." Vegeta swiped at him and he dodged it, laughing. Sinking back into the water, he waved at his rival before vanishing into the depths.

Vegeta smirked briefly as he watched Goku swim away. That idiot will be the death of me. He ran a hand through his raven hair and stared out over the ocean. One day left.

*The following day*

Bulma sipped at her coffee. Strong and dark, just how she liked her men. She giggled. That was terrible. She left the kitchen and strolled over the laboratory, musing on the events of last night.

I haven't had so much fun in ages! Never thought Mr. grumpy could loosen up like that. She grinned at the memory of dunking him in the lagoon. His face was priceless! Strange thing was that he didn't look all too affected by the water. The only things that seemed to hold water were his clothes. His hair still stood up in that flame even when she dunked him time and time again. It was like the water didn't even touch him.

Vegeta. Now she knew his name. What a guy. Their time in the market had really blown away her expectations. He'd been so fun to hang out with. So interesting to get to know. Even though he didn't speak, he was a surprisingly good listener. He tried his best to communicate and tease her to no end. It frustrated her, but honestly? The teasing just made it better.

And then that rowboat ride. She'd never seen anyone do what he did! Kami it was so beautiful. Magical even. Her smile softened in remembrance. The little lights floating in the air, his dark eyes filled with passion and desire, his hands so strong and gentle on hers. It was so romantic.

She paused in her trek to the lab and frowned. When did she start thinking about him romantically? She had a boyfriend! Sure she was attracted to him, but she didn't think about actually having a relationship with a man whose name she just learned last night! She blushed, remembering their almost kiss. Would it be so bad to start one with him? He was strong, funny, genuine, and obviously attracted to her. She was most certainly attracted to the strong silent type. This isn't good. I've probably been leading him on. Bulma thought, mortified. Oh what would Yamucha say?

Yamucha wasn't the world's best boyfriend, not by a long shot. But Bulma wasn't going to be a two timing jerk just because he wasn't meeting her standards. She had that much respect for the guy at the very least.

Bulma walked on, feelings whirling in her mind. She reached the lab and walked to the table, looking over the maps she'd left jumbled up from yesterday. She sighed and plopped down in the seat. Back to business. She hadn't forgotten her mission, even with all the lovely distractions. Where to start looking…

She poured over maps and charts for the better part of the morning. She was so wrapped up in her work that she barely even noticed when the door to the lab swung open.

Bulma looked up and her heart thudded in her chest. She swallowed her emotions and gave him a smile. "Oh, hey Vegeta. C'mon in." Vegeta looked around the lab curiously. Bulma watched him walk from one station to another. "Yeah, sorry it's a bit of a mess in here. I've been working on a new type of unmanned submersible, so things are a bit chaotic now. Feel free to take a look around." She sighed and turned back her maps.

A moment later a hand entered her vision. It traced one of the lines on the map and she looked up to see curiosity in Vegeta's eyes. "This is a map of oceanic currents for this time of the year. I'm trying to figure out where my boat sank." She explained, rubbing at her eyes tiredly. "You probably don't know this, but I was shipwrecked about a week ago. All my data for the new submersibles was still on the ship when it sank." She offered him a weak smile. "I've been trying to figure out where it went down so I can retrieve my data."

Vegeta folded his arms and tilted his head. 'Why are they so important?' his eyes seemed to say.

"The submersibles rely on a new technology that allows them to adjust to various conditions." Bulma explained. "Intense pressure, burning heat, freezing cold, harsh currents, all so they can explore the ocean. I was testing them when my ship sank." She held up a finger. "Did you know that the ocean is the one place that we as humans have never fully explored? There are creatures down in the depths that we've never even seen! Things that seem almost alien!" She gestured at the piles of electronics. "With my technology, we can send subs even further than before. Explore the last unknown place on earth. Find out what's down there. Maybe discover something that could save our world from pollution."

For all his lack of expressions, Vegeta seemed genuinely surprised. He put one hand on his chin and looked back at the map in front of her. His brow furrowed as he studied it. He quirked an eyebrow at her and she nodded.

"Sure, take a look." She shuffled the maps on her desk till they could all be seen. "I could use all the help I can get." Together they studied the maps. Bulma murmured to herself while Vegeta silently examined the charts. A few minutes later Vegeta reached over and poked a spot on the map with his finger.

"What?" Bulma was startled out of her study. "What's the matter?"

He tapped the spot on the table. She looked down and noticed where he was pointing. Right between two opposing currents some 60 miles offshore.

"That's where you think it is?" He nodded. Bulma looked at him skeptically. "What makes you so sure?"

He pointed to another map. It was the one on which she plotted out the course of the boat from when they left the harbor. She followed his finger as he traced the course of the boat and then followed one of the major currents. It traveled along it right until it neared the opposing one where it stopped. He made a little spinning motion with his hand and her eyes widened.

"You think that it was spun around by the currents?" He nodded as she looked up at him. "Huh. I never considered that. It's certainly possible. If it was sinking, the storm wouldn't have affected it as much as the currents would have." She nodded to herself, excitement quickly erasing her previous intense concentration. "The ship was big enough that if it hit both currents, it would have spun about until it reached the bottom!" She reached over and stuck a pin at the spot Vegeta indicated. "I can't believe I didn't think of that sooner!"

Vegeta rolled his eyes as if he knew everything there was to know about the ocean. Bulma, undaunted, grinned and surprised him by giving him a bear hug. "Thank you Vegeta!"

The man stiffened under her grip. She blushed. Did I overstep? She thought. She started to let go when she felt his strong arms wrap around her, hugging her back. Bulma smiled and pulled away from him enough to look him in the eye. He had a smug little smirk on his face that said 'you are too easily pleased'.

She laughed. "Gloat a bit more why don't you." She teased, relaxing her grip on his shoulders. They stood, holding each other loosely, looking into each other's eyes. Bulma felt her heartbeat speed up at the look he was giving her. It was so tender. He lifted a hand to cup her cheek. She shivered at his touch and closed her eyes.

"Bulmaaaaah!"

The two of them froze. She pulled away from Vegeta hurriedly. "Yeah Mom?" She called back.

"You have a visitor dear!"

Bulma looked back at Vegeta. His disappointment was painfully obvious. He saw her looking and the expression vanished back into his cold, scowling mask. Her heart beat hard in her chest. He… he really likes me. She thought in amazement. She hid her blush by turning back to the door.

"Be down in a minute!" She got her blush under control and looked back at Vegeta. She smiled softly. "C'mon. Maybe it's somebody you know."

Vegeta gave her a mocking glance, but followed her through the door regardless. They made their way to the living room, trying to fight the awkward silence between them. They entered the room and Bulma was surprised to recognize the visitor.

"Yamucha?!"

"Bulma!" Yamucha's face broke into a smile. He rushed from his place across the room to envelop her in a hug. "Oh babe I missed you so much!"

"Yamucha, what are you doing here?" Bulma returned the hug, downright surprised. "I thought you were back at home with the team!"

"Naw babe!" Yamucha pulled away from her with a bright smile. "After I talked to you last, you know, after the wreck, I felt like a real heel. Forget the baseball, I had to come and apologize!"

"Aww Yamucha." Bulma pulled him into another hug. "It's okay, I know you were worried."

"Yeah, but I shouldn't have chewed you out like I did." He held her close, stroking her blue hair fondly. "Kami it's good to see you." They pulled apart and Yamucha looked over her shoulder. He stiffened. "Uh, who's this guy?"

"Huh?" Bulma turned and stared in surprise at her houseguest.

Vegeta looked about ready to murder someone. His muscles were bunched up beneath his blue button down shirt. His stance was wide and his hands were clenched into fists. His teeth were bared and for some reason they were oddly sharper than normal. She was sure that if he had a voice, he'd be growling or spewing profanities.

Ooooooh snap. Bulma blushed brightly. "Oh, yeah. Yamucha, meet Vegeta. He was shipwrecked about two days ago, so we gave him a place till he got back on his feet." She gestured to Yamucha. "Vegeta, this is Yamucha. My boyfriend."

Vegeta looked like he'd been slapped. Bulma felt a sharp surge of guilt as he slowly relaxed his muscles. His face returned to his usual scowl, but his eyes betrayed him. They told her how much her statement had hurt him and she felt even worse. He liked her and hadn't known about her boyfriend. He spun around and stormed out of the house before she had a chance to say anything.

"What's with him?" Yamucha broke through her thoughts.

"Oh just ignore him." She huffed, trying to hide her remorse. "He's overprotective. Ever since I found him on the beach he's been like my personal bodyguard."

"Really?" Yamucha furrowed his brow. "You haven't been cheating on me, have you?"

"Yamucha!" Bulma shouted, angrily pushing him away. "How dare you! I'll have you know I've been more faithful to you than you've ever been to me!"

"Bulma…"

"Ugh!" She turned in disgust and stomped into the kitchen. The nerve of that guy! Five minutes in and he thinks I've been cheating on him! What a lousy, insensitive…

"Bulma, don't be like that!" Yamucha followed behind her, pleading. "I know you'd never cheat on me! Really!" Bulma gave him a scathing glare and he sighed. "Look, I thought we were past all that. I know you've been true to me all this time you've been away." He gave her a weak smile. "He was just so defensive that I jumped to conclusions."

Bulma looked at him and relented. "Fine." She turned to the counter and poured herself another cup of coffee. "I guess I'm just still a little stressed about the wreck."

Yamucha looped his arms around her waist. "No worries babe. Listen, let's me and you go out on the town today. Forget about our worries for a while."

Bulma sipped at her coffee and nodded, content to spend some time with Yamucha. However, something told her she wouldn't enjoy herself as much as she had with Vegeta.

*Later*

He's her boyfriend.

She has a boyfriend.

Bulma has a freaking boyfriend!

To say that Vegeta was angry would be an understatement. He was shamed, hurt, and utterly embarrassed. There was another man in her life that he hadn't known about. Downright furious, he couldn't handle staying in that house a second longer. He wasn't angry with Bulma, but with himself. I should've known there would be other suitors! He berated himself. I am such a fool! He raged silently, holding onto his anger instead of letting hurt overwhelm him.

The prince stormed back to the place where he'd taken the potion. He needed to clear his head. If he stayed with the woman and the suitor… Vegeta scowled. The weakling. He corrected himself… the weakling would've suffered some harsh injuries. Reaching his destination, he took off his shirt. He was tired of wearing human clothing. Frustrated, he paced back and forth angrily. Somehow he needed to relieve some of his anger. He threw up his fists and started shadow boxing. He needed to beat something, in this case an imaginary suitor, to shreds.

Vegeta trained for long enough that sweat dripped off his frame. He panted with effort, pausing briefly to rest. The prince ran a hand through his flame of black hair. Now that the anger was more subdued, his distress over this situation appeared in his stance and on his face. What was he supposed to do? He wasn't human. He was temporarily given legs, stranded on an island, and only barely discovered anything about life above the waves. How could he compete with someone who already knew her world?

He paced along the beach anxiously. The prince needed a plan and needed it fast. Something that would win her over in the time he had left. Perhaps there was a certain ritual he could invoke? His brow furrowed in thought. Every so often, there would be challenges in his kingdom. Games of strength, dexterity, and skill usually between two fighters. Such things would determine the worthiness of the two warriors. Sometimes it was to prove themselves against rivals, other times to prove themselves to a mate. It was pretty effective. That is, if the female would have them.

Perhaps humans had something similar in their culture? Vegeta nodded to himself. Maybe he should attempt to initiate a challenge with the weakling. See how Bulma reacts to her champion being defeated in combat.

Suddenly, fire overwhelmed his senses. Vegeta gasped and stumbled forward. Pain coursed through his feet and surged up his legs. He fell to his knees and panted, squeezing his eyes shut tight against the terrible burning, stabbing sensation. His teeth ground together in an attempt to hold back an anguished cry.

After a while, the pain subsided into a sharp ache. He let out a shaky breath and turned over to examine his legs. The muscles were tense, trembling from the sudden intense pain. And while there were no visible wounds, his feet dripped crimson blood.

Vegeta's eyes narrowed. He looked back along the beach to see a trail of bloody footprints. He cursed. How had he not noticed? In his raging, he didn't pay attention to what he was doing. Apparently his new feet couldn't handle the strain he put on them.

He studied the amount of blood on the sand. I've had worse. Vegeta had been wounded in battle before, so this was nothing new. He smirked wryly. But the woman is going to have a fit.

*Later*

Bulma was throwing a fit.

"Yamucha, how could you!?" Bulma raged. "I was RIGHT THERE!"

"How was I supposed to know one of my exes would be here?!" Yamucha retaliated weakly. "She practically threw herself at me! What was I supposed to do?"

"Oh I dunno! Maybe NOT KISS HER!" She chucked her purse at her scarred boyfriend. "Ever think about how that would make me feel?!"

"She kissed me!" Yamucha dodged the handbag. "I didn't go looking for it!"

"Could've fooled me!" She stomped into the beach house, startling her parents in the living room.

Yamucha followed her, hands spread in supplication. "C'mon babe. You know I'd never cheat on you."

"Yeah!? Well what about Jennifer!?"

Yamucha flinched. "That was just a misunderstanding! I thought you said you didn't care!"

"Yeah, well maybe I did!" Bulma turned on him, eyes filled with tears. "I thought you'd changed! Guess I was wrong!"

Everyone in the room flinched at the venom in Bulma's voice. Mrs. Briefs cleared her throat uncomfortably, mother instincts going on high alert. Dr. Briefs brought his newspaper up to eye level. "You're in hot water now boy." He muttered.

The baseball player grimaced. "Bulma…"

"Don't you 'Bulma' me!" She interrupted. "I'm up to here with your antics!" She stuck a finger in his face. "This isn't the first time this has happened Yamucha! You better shape up or we're through!" And with that she spun on her heel and stormed out of the room, leaving a stunned Yamucha gaping behind her.

"Stupid Yamucha." Tears spilled down her cheeks. "Why do I even put up with him anyway? He's never gonna change." This wasn't the first time this had happened. He had wandering eyes and wandering hands. She stomped upstairs to her bedroom and considered breaking up with him, again. "Maybe I'm better off being single for the rest of my life. Maybe I should be like Tesla." She sniffled. "A true genius! A sexy, lusted after genius who devotes her life to science, my one true love! Never taking a husband and just…" She leaned her forehead against the door to her room. "… just talking to pigeons for the rest of my life." Mimicking Tesla's love life was probably not the best idea.

She was about to enter her bedroom and have a grand old pity party when she heard a crash. What was that?! She turned from her door in alarm and headed down the hall. It came from Vegeta's room! She pulled open the door to the guest room and charged inside. The sight she found, surprised her.

Vegeta was hopping on one foot, hanging on to bandages that were wrapped around his legs and arms. He looked hopelessly entangled in the white material. Around him were various things that had been knocked to the floor while he was wrestling with the gauze. He froze when she came in, looking for all the world like a mummy trying to disrobe. He had an absolutely mortified expression on his face. He wobbled, trying to keep himself upright, but lost the fight with gravity and toppled to the floor with a thump.

Bulma couldn't hold it in any longer. She burst into laughter. She held her sides and leaned against the doorframe in mirth. The look that Vegeta shot her would've killed a small animal in its intensity. He grabbed a wad of bandages and hurled it at Bulma. It hit her square in the nose, but she continued laughing.

"Oh Kami Vegeta!" She laughed, almost hyperventilating in an effort to control herself. "What are you doing?!"

Vegeta sat up and scowled at her. He silently gestured to his feet which were messily wrapped in bandages.

Bulma chuckled, sadness and frustration temporarily forgotten. "What, did you step on glass or something? You need to learn to wear shoes Vegeta. Seriously." She leaned forward and pulled the gauze away. "Next time, just ask me for help, alright?"

Vegeta scowled at her. He crossed his arms in defiance. His eyes said something to the effect of 'I don't need your help'.

"Whatever mister." Bulma rolled her eyes. "I'm going to help you now, so just suck it up." She reached for his foot and he swung it out of her reach. She scowled and lunged for it. He smirked and played a game of keep away. "Vegeta you jerk!" She shouted. "Let me help!" Vegeta rolled his eyes, mirth twinkling in their depths. After a few more minutes of teasing, he let her catch him. Bulma grinned in triumph, but held his leg firmly. She pulled away the remaining bandages and noticed the blood stains on his skin. She examined the foot. "You don't look all cut up… Where'd all the blood come from?" He gave her a look and she snorted. "Fine. Don't tell me." She took the clean, unraveled bandages and gave his leg a firm, but gentle wrap job. She repeated the ministrations on his other leg.

"There." She said, overlooking her work. "That wasn't so bad now was it?" Vegeta looked at the bandages disinterestedly. She sighed. "Listen, about earlier. I should've told you I had a boyfriend. I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to lead you on like that." She scowled at the floor, the feelings of hurt resurging in her chest. "Yamucha is… not the greatest. In fact, he's a complete and total idiot, but I won't cheat on him. I won't stoop to his level."

A hand placed gentle fingers on her chin, lifting her gaze and to meet his. She hadn't noticed when he moved so close. Vegeta's dark eyes demanded her to explain herself. She saw such concern for her there. It was startling in its intensity. Bulma stared into those eyes and felt gratitude.

Might as well tell him. She sighed sadly. "It's nothing. Just…" She groped for the words. "I thought he'd changed, you know? He's a good guy, but hasn't always been faithful. I worry about what our future might be. I… I don't want to feel like somebody's sloppy seconds anymore."

Vegeta's eyes hardened. He got to his feet and effortlessly lifted her to hers. His expression didn't change, but he placed his hands on her shoulders and looked into her eyes. He searched them for a while, making her felt oddly exposed before his gaze. Those eyes were so dark and piercing. Like he could seek out her motives with a single glance. After a moment or two of continued searching, he leaned forward and rested his forehead against hers. His eyes fell shut and he breathed evenly. She closed her eyes and held her breath. His skin was cool. Her heart fluttered in her chest.

Vegeta made her forget about her problems so easily. What was it about him that was so comfortable? So reassuring? So refreshing? And now, so close to him, why did she feel such anticipation?

The pressure lifted from her forehead. She opened her eyes to see Vegeta's back. He left the room so suddenly that Bulma was bewildered. She was so sure he was about to kiss her. Blushing, she hurriedly followed him.

*Downstairs*

Vegeta stomped through the house, ire rising against the weakling. He dares to seek out other females while still pledging himself to Bulma? He thought in disgust. What lowlife scum. If he was going to test his plan, now was the time. Her honor needed to be saved. Sure he'd been embarrassed when she burst into his room unannounced, but he'd heard the yelling downstairs and noticed the tear tracks on her cheeks. Yes she forgot her woes in his predicament, but as soon as she mentioned the weakling the sickening emotions returned to her face.

She was hurt and by Kami he wasn't going to let the fool get away with it!

He found the weakling in the kitchen, leaning against the counter. Wordlessly he strode over to him and slapped him across the face.

"AUGH!" Yamucha staggered away from the prince. "WHAT THE HECK MAN?!"

Vegeta crossed his arms over his chest. I challenge you for the right to pursue Bulma. He sneered at the taller man. Though it will hardly be a challenge.

"Why you little…"

"Yamucha!" Bulma gasped. Vegeta winced. He'd forgotten she'd followed him. Bulma rushed past him to Yamucha's side. "Yamucha, what happened?! Are you okay?!"

"I'm fine!" He held a hand to his cheek, glaring hotly at Vegeta. "Your bodyguard just hit me!"

"Hit you?" She turned to Vegeta, a stern look on her face. "Vegeta! You can't just hit people like that!"

Vegeta scoffed at her. I do what I want, woman.

Yamucha took Bulma's hand, still glaring at Vegeta. "C'mon Bulma. Let's get out of here."

Bulma pulled her hand away from Yamucha's. "No Yamucha. I'm still mad at you ya know." She scowled at him. "In fact, I was just telling Vegeta about your cheating ways. I think you deserved that little slap!"

Vegeta laughed at the weakling's expression, though no sound emitted from his throat. The woman takes my side! He smirked mockingly the scarred man. You aren't even worth her wrath.

Yamucha winced at her words. "Geez Bulma! I said I was sorry! You didn't need to send out your dog!"

Bulma bristled. "He's not a dog! And even if he was, he's certainly not mine!"

"Obviously." He sneered at Vegeta. "You're my girl!"

Vegeta sneered at the taller male. Your girl? Without warning he grabbed Bulma's wrist and spun her around, pulling her close to his side. Are you certain of that fact? He smirked smugly and planted a kiss on her temple.

"Vegeta!" Bulma was shocked. Her red, blushing face was immensely gratifying to the merman prince. The utterly enraged look on the face of the weakling only added to it.

"THAT'S IT YOU PUNK!" Yamucha advanced on the flame haired man. "YOU'RE GOING DOWN!"

Vegeta released Bulma gently. Ignoring the taller man, he spun on his heel and left the room. He couldn't keep the triumphant grin from his face as left the little house. His plan was working. There was a courting ritual and he'd just invoked it! Now to see what challenge the weakling will decide upon. Tradition dictated that as the challenger, he needed to allow the other party to decide the terms of the match. Would it be a test of speed? Strength? Technique? Perhaps a test of intelligence? Endurance? The prince reached what he deemed an appropriate distance from the house and turned to face the weakling.

His dark eyes widened in surprise as a fist came within inches of his nose. What in the… He dodged to one side only to be met with a roundhouse kick. He dropped low to avoid it and executed a back handspring to regain some distance. He landed and fell into his newly adopted two-legged stance, bewildered.

Yamucha stood in front of him in his own fighting stance, regrouping before charging into another attack. Vegeta was stunned. No words beforehand? Don't humans have any honor whatsoever? He dodged the next few attacks easily. He smirked to himself. Regardless, it seems he has chosen fighting prowess. An area in which I excel! He caught a punch with a ruthless grin, twisted the arm behind the back of his assailant and pushed him roughly away.

The weakling shouted in frustration. He spun around to redouble his attack, but was met with a right straight to the jaw. He cried out in pain and held his face with one hand. Angrily he tried countering with a leg sweep, but a low twisting punch to the gut caught him off guard.

"AUGH!" Yamucha stumbled back. He took a new stance, one more cautious and studied his opponent. "You've got some fight in you, I'll give you that." He said begrudgingly.

Vegeta sneered at him arrogantly. And you have none whatsoever.

"Stop it!" The men paused, turning to look towards the house. Bulma was running at them in a fury. "Stop fighting!"

"Stay out of this Bulma!" Yamucha snapped at her. "He's been asking for it!" He turned back to Vegeta, going in for a punch. "What kind of stunt are you trying to pull anyway?!" He ranted. "Bulma's mine, you mute freak!"

That is yet to be seen, you human waste of space. Vegeta dodged the blow, hitting Yamucha square in the face. She said she wouldn't lower herself to your level. I assume because you are no higher than the dirt you crawl upon. Yes, none of the insults were aloud, but Vegeta said them all the same. They exchanged a few more blows until another direct punch to Yamucha's face caused the weakling's nose to pour blood. Ha! First blood is mine! I have the victory! He lowered his fists with a smirk and turned to Bulma. I have defeated your-

He felt a punch hit the side of his head and he stumbled back a step to catch his balance. Dark eyes narrowed in anger at the fool who had dared to continue the bout. He'd drawn first blood! By rights the match was over! The weakling grinned infuriatingly, swiping his bloody nose with the back of his fist.

Vegeta felt his blood boil at the insolence. Fine! You want a brawl?! I'll give you a brawl! He set his feet together and, in the merman style, held one hand in a strange floating position in front of him with the other in a solid fist at waist level.

"No Vegeta!" Bulma screeched. "Don't!"

Vegeta scowled. She doesn't want me to bloody him further? He sighed irritably, but held his stance. The things I do for this woman… Yamucha advanced on him. He waited until the scarred man was almost on top of him before dropping low and swiftly coming up inside Yamucha's hit zone. The scarred man jerked in surprise, but was unable to stop the flurry of pinpoint attacks dealt to him by the shorter fighter.

Vegeta finished the barrage of strange punches and danced away gracefully, floating and pivoting on his feet. Surprisingly, Yamucha didn't feel any damage. He smirked and started moving towards Vegeta with intent to destroy, but encountered a problem. His arms didn't move.

He grunted with strain, but still no movement. He stared in horror at Vegeta. "What did you do?!"

I took away your weapons. Vegeta relaxed from his stance. He crossed his arms and stared at the scarred man. Concede.

Yamucha grit his teeth. "You think that'll stop me from kicking your butt?!" He ran at Vegeta. "I'll still beat you down!"

In your dreams, perhaps. Vegeta's own wry comment made him chuckle. Then, in classic merman fashion, he leapt up and kicked him powerfully in the chest with both feet. Yamucha went sailing away and Vegeta flipped himself about so that he was once again standing in that arrogant pose. Yamucha hit the sand with a dull thud and the prince was satisfied.

That is, until Bulma entered the picture.

"Yamucha!" The blue scientist rushed over to her beau. "Yamucha, are you okay?!"

"I'm… fine…" Yamucha managed. He felt like he just got kicked by a horse. Catching his breath was rather hard at the moment. He was pretty sure that more than one rib was cracked. "I really… under… estimated him…"

"No kidding! You shoulda known better you moron!" She turned on Vegeta. "And you! What were you thinking?! You could've killed him!"

Foolish woman. Vegeta scowled at her concern, confused. I have more control than that. He pointed haughtily at the weakling. Besides, he started it.

"AUGH you're such a jerk!" Bulma turned back to Yamucha. "I'm so sorry Yamucha!"

"No… I'm sorry Bulma." Yamucha looked up at her with a pained smile. "I shouldn't… have let her… kiss me…"

"Oh Yamucha…" Bulma shook her head sadly. "You goober." She helped him to sit up and lifted one of his arms over her shoulders. "C'mon. Let's get you inside and fixed up."

Vegeta watched the scene with alarm. Wait… She's showing him affection? Over his loss? He watched them move slowly back into the house. Dismay filled him. Was she offended by his performance? Did he do something wrong in the disabling blow? He ran a hand through his black flame of hair, distraught. I think I may have misunderstood something.

*Later*

Yamucha sat on the couch, resting his cracked and aching ribs. He shifted slightly, grimacing at the pain the little motion caused. Did that mute freak really have to beat him that badly? He'd been to the only doctor on the island who reassured him that it was nothing life threatening, or even in need of surgery. Even so, it would still take a while for his ribs to heal. His thoughts were redirected as the beautiful Bulma entered the room.

She offered him a glass of water. "Here ya go Yamucha." She smiled apologetically. "I really am sorry about all this."

"Hey, it's not your fault you have a homicidal house guest." Yamucha accepted the glass of water.

Bulma fought down a rather indignant comeback and smiled weakly. "He's… not that bad once you get to know him." She knew that Vegeta was going to win that fight from the very start. Part of her even cheered him on as he bloodied Yamucha's nose.

"Sure babe." Yamucha chugged the water. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and set the glass down on the coffee table. "I'll admit that we got a little bit out of hand."

"A little bit?" Bulma laughed, the comeback coming out anyway. "Yamucha, you provoked him and he kicked your butt!"

"That's not fair!" Yamucha pouted. "He provoked me! I'm a victim here!"

"You provoked each other." Bulma waved his excuses away. "Both of you are arrogant jerkfaces. Let's move on." She looked at him and smiled. "How's the team? I never did ask how the guys were."

"Oh. They're fine." Yamucha shifted uncomfortably. "Tien's still dating Launch, Krillin's still seeing Juu… Not too much has happened apart from this season's games." He looked down at his hands. "Speaking of relationships, Bulma, I need to talk to you about something."

Bulma quirked an eyebrow at him. "Oh?"

"I haven't been straight with you. I really came all the way out here to talk… about us."

"Oh." She sighed. Here comes the inevitable "it's not you, it's me" speech. Finally it was time to resolve the issue. "Well, I can't say I haven't been expecting this. I mean, we've been dating off and on for what… ten years now?"

"Something like that."

"Yeah. I get the feeling that we can't go on like this." She glanced behind her to see Vegeta standing in the doorway. She flashed him a grin. He smirked and she turned back to Yamucha. "We've changed a lot since the beginning and neither of us want to stay boyfriend-girlfriend I'm guessing."

Yamucha smiled. "You got that right babe."

"Right then." She nodded, smiling. She felt a lot better about this breakup than she thought she would. "So how about we just go ahead and-"

"Marry me!"

Silence.

Bulma's jaw dropped. "Wh-what?!"

"Marry me Bulma!" Yamucha leaned forward earnestly. "I don't want to stay this way! We're always apart and I don't want that anymore! Things get between us like that stupid wreck and we're back to yelling at each other! I'm in love with you and want to marry you!"

This is NOT what I expected! Bulma was flabbergasted. She stared wide eyed at her boyfriend. What do I even say to that?! She'd honestly thought they were breaking up, but no! Yamucha wanted their relationship to be permanent! Deeper even! Could she handle that? With all the things he's said and done in the past? Repeatedly done in the past!?

Yamucha kept going, unaware of Bulma's internal struggle. "I want a family with you Bulma! I don't want anyone else to get in the way of our happiness. You feel the same way! Let's get married!"

"I…" Bulma stuttered. "I don't know what to say." She really didn't.

Yamucha smiled, reaching over and clasping her hands in his. "Just say yes."

She hesitated. "I… this is so sudden. I need some time to think." I need some time to sort myself out.

The scarred man nodded, though he looked a little disappointed. "Okay. Sleep on it tonight. But please, make me the happiest man in the world tomorrow, alright?"

She nodded. Bulma pulled away from Yamucha and turned to leave the room. Oh Kami, what do I do? She glanced around half hopefully.

But there was no sign of Vegeta.

*That night*

Vegeta stared over the ocean. He stood on the balcony of the second story and watched as the moon rose to take its place in the sky. In one hand he held the sharp knife of coral he'd recovered from the place he'd come ashore.

He was out of time.

The prince looked down at the knife. I could threaten the woman to kiss me, or I could say my farewells and leave. Either way, he would lose. Lose his honor in threatening the woman he loved to kiss him, or lose his freedom at the hands of the kingdom's sworn enemy. Which loss would he prefer?

He scowled. If it hadn't been for the weakling's proposal… Yamucha had done it. He'd gotten to her before Vegeta did. The prince's heart sank into the pit of his stomach when he heard those words. The small hope that she would refuse was squashed as she made excuses. She hadn't made up her mind about the suitor at all. It meant that she didn't see him the way he saw her. She didn't feel the same way. It meant that Vegeta was as good as gone. She would choose the weakling.

And he was out of time.

Vegeta clenched teeth against the anger and sadness. He stared at the knife in his right hand. I can do this. I don't need emotions interfering with my plans! He thought bitterly. All I need is my strength. Strength enough to defeat my enemies! Strength enough to do what needs to be done! I don't need the… I don't need Bulma to love… He felt tears leak from the corners of his eyes. Salty and warm, they trickled down his face. He furiously rubbed the back of his hand across his face, scrubbing the sign of his weakness away. Stupid emotions! Who needs a heart anyway?!

He turned and leapt from his balcony to the one next to it. He landed softly and peered through the glass doors. Slowly, silently, he eased them open and crept to the bedside where his love lay sleeping. Lying there in the moonlight, she looked ethereal. Her pale skin shone like alabaster. Her blue hair fell in soft waves around and across her pillow. Her face was relaxed and her lips were parted slightly as she breathed the steady breath of deep sleep.

Vegeta couldn't look away. Even asleep her beauty astounded him. He shook his head, clearing it. Now was not the time for emotion. He clenched his teeth and slowly brought his knife up. He thought to plunge it into her pillow and wake her, shocking her into giving her what he wanted. Yet as he raised his arm, he paused. In that moment, Bulma gave a soft sigh and smiled. He froze, studying her. She remained sleeping, the smile fading from her face. Despair creased Vegeta's handsome features and he dropped his arm back to his side.

He couldn't do it.

True, it wasn't like he was actually going to do her harm, but he just couldn't do it. Even the false action seemed to him a betrayal. He loved her. He didn't want to become the kind of man she would hate. Even if his head wanted to, the deepest part of his heart denied the idea vehemently.

Emotions. Vegeta chuckled to himself wryly. Forget Kakkarot, emotions will be the death of me. He knelt at her bedside and ran a gentle right hand through the blue tresses, careful not to wake her. He lifted his other hand and pulled from his neck his greatest trophy. The moonlight made the pale shark tooth shine. He looked down at Bulma and smiled sadly. My greatest triumph, I give to you, human woman. Rarer than the leviathans of old, more precious to me than the tears of the ocean, you alone are the one thing I couldn't conquer. He laid the tooth down on the mattress beside her pillow. Look upon this trophy and remember me. He looked again at her wistfully. May the waters of the deep always bid you welcome, Bulma Briefs.

He turned from her then, running to the edge of the balcony and leaping off its precipice. He landed on the sand and took off down the beach. He sprinted towards the water, running as fast as he possibly could. At the water's edge, right as the surf drew back to punish the sand once more, he jumped into a smooth dive. He hit the water with nary a splash.

Instantly the change began. As fire seared through his legs, Vegeta swore he heard Frieza's laughter. The heartbreak took him fully then. She was human. He was a fool. She could never love a creature of the sea. How could he ever have thought this was a good idea? As blackness overcame over his mind, the prince vowed to never again set foot on land.

*The following day*

"Have you checked the waterfront? He might've gone down there to work out."

"He's not there Dad. He's not in his room, he's not on the beach, and he's not even in the kitchen!" Bulma clutched the massive shark tooth to her chest. She spent most of last night working things out with herself. When she awoke that morning, she found it next to her pillow. But the man it belonged to was nowhere to be found. Truly it was the only thing she had of his. She turned as the front door opened. "Mom? Is that you?"

"Yes dear!" Mrs. Briefs hurried in. "Did you find him?"

"No." Bulma looked at her earnestly. "Did you see him in the market?"

"I'm sorry honey. There wasn't any sign of Vegeta." Mrs. Briefs frowned in worry. "Oh I do hope he's alright. That young man seemed so alone when he arrived here."

"I'm sure he's fine honey." Dr. Briefs reassured her. "He's quite the capable fellow."

Bulma sighed. "But why would he leave? I thought he was happy here." He certainly seemed content. Well, as much as she could tell. She frowned angrily. "Jerkface could've at least said goodbye before he left."

Mrs. Briefs looked at her daughter pointedly. "He probably didn't want to."

"Huh?"

"Think about it Bulma. Things were going swimmingly until Yamucha arrived." She said. "It's like those soaps I watch from time to time. The mysterious sexy newcomer falls for the girl, but when the boyfriend shows up, they fight. Yamucha asked you to marry him and Vegeta leaves."

Bulma's eyes went wide. "What are you saying?"

"Good heavens dear! The boy was head over heels for you!" Her father exclaimed. "I may be a bit scatterbrained sometimes, but even that was plain to see!" He motioned with his hands. "The fight between them was over you! When you didn't outright reject Yamucha, I bet he thought he had no chance!"

Mrs. Briefs nodded. "He left rather than pine over your new engagement." She said simply. "Easier for him to leave than to confront you with his feelings. Just like Edward and Julianne. Poor boy was heartbroken after Bernard proposed. Oh I do hope they get back together in season six."

"Darling, this isn't a TV drama."

Bulma was stunned. "He… left because of that?" He liked her that much? That he'd rather leave than see her with another man? Was… was he in love with her? Her heart welled with affection, but was soon eclipsed by irritation.

"That idiot!" She shouted, exasperated. "OOOOH! When I find him, I'm gonna hit him so hard his grandchildren are gonna feel it! Why are ALL the men in my life so romantically blind!?"

Dr. Briefs was bewildered. "I'm sorry?" He watched Bulma stomp to the door. "Where are you going?"

"To find Yamucha." Bulma said angrily. "I need to tell him that I'm not going to marry him."

*Elsewhere*

Vegeta awoke to the gentle ebb and flow of the tide around him. He floated motionless in the water, drifting on the current as light as a feather. He rubbed his eyes sleepily. Well, he was back in the sea. Hooray. He thought sarcastically. Yawning, he stretched his arms and…

He paused. Legs or tail? What did he have now? The prince looked down and saw his long, beautiful tail. It stretched out languidly beneath him, tough skin almost shining in the light. A thrill of joy caught him and he reached down to stroke the familiar fin. It seemed so long ago that he'd lost it. He gave it an experimental flick and shot through the water. He reveled in the feeling. No pain. No fire! He flipped and spun and cavorted like a guppy through the deep. It felt so good to swim again.

"Well, I'm glad you are adjusting properly."

Vegeta stilled at the grating sound of the voice. He turned and scowled at the figure before him.

"Hello Prince Vegeta." Freiza smiled, sharp teeth glinting in the sunlight. "I'll trust that you didn't forget our little deal."

How could I? Vegeta growled silently. Though it seems that I don't need your pathetic potions to give my strength back to me.

Freiza smirked. "You know, I think I prefer you without a voice. Makes you a better servant."

I hate you so much.

"It certainly has knocked you down a few pegs if nothing else." He cackled as Vegeta silently said something he was sure was offensive. "How wonderful it was to see you writhing in pain. Such a shame it ended so soon. Ah well." He tossed him a small vial filled with a dark viscous liquid. "Drink that. It will soothe the pain of your transformation."

Vegeta rolled his eyes at this, but obeyed. He was honor bound after all.

Frieza watched him down the draught and smiled. "You belong to me now my prince." He beckoned to the merman with a pale hand. "Come, we have quite a journey ahead of us."

Having no choice, Vegeta followed the octoman. A sinking feeling settled in the pit of his stomach. He had an idea of where they were heading. He inwardly hoped he was wrong.

*Later*

"King Vegeta!"

The king's head snapped towards the archway. A servant sped through the water, screeching to a stop right in front of the throne.

"My king!" He pounded his fist over his heart and bowed. "I have news about your son!" He panted.

King Vegeta's eyes hardened. "What news? Speak up!"

"He… he is returning to the palace grounds!" The servant gasped out. "Sentries have seen him coming through the west gate!"

The king scowled. Something was off. Vegeta never used any of the gates into the city. Claiming it was too public of an entrance. "Anything else?"

"He was in the company of…" the servant swallowed nervously, "the traitor Frieza."

It was as if a cold current swept through the throne room. King Vegeta's glare was downright frosty as he turned to his head of the guard. "Nappa, prepare the palace. Every guard is to be on high alert." Nappa bowed and he turned back to the servant. "Go now and tell the ambassadors to remain in their rooms."

"Yes my lord." The servant swam away in a hurry.

King Vegeta scowled to himself and reached over, gripping his trident fiercely. He directed his glare out the window into the throne room. They would be here shortly.

Mere minutes later, as the king predicted, Prince Vegeta and the traitor Frieza swam into the throne room. His grip tightened on his trident as he spoke.

"Vegeta! What is the meaning of this!?"

Vegeta scowled fiercely at his father, gesturing at Frieza. King Vegeta looked at his son in puzzlement. Why did the prince choose to remain silent? He was about to shout in anger at his insolence when Frieza started laughing.

"My apologies, your highness." He laughed mockingly. "But what your son means to say is that I have recently collected on a little wager of ours. He lost his voice and his freedom." A wicked grin, sinister and cold, stretched over his pale face. "Your son belongs to me now."

"What?!" King Vegeta glared at his son in outrage. "Is this true?!" Vegeta sighed heavily, but nodded an affirmative. King Vegeta slapped his forehead. "You've got to be kidding me." He muttered.

Frieza laughed again. "I assure you that this is no joke." He clapped his hands together. "Now, I believe we have business to discuss."

Both mermen sneered at the octoman, but King Vegeta spoke. "I have no business to do with you, traitor!"

"Oh, but don't you want to regain your son?" Frieza said slyly. "After all, I have control of him. His power, his will, his life is all to serve me. Do you not wish to see him freed?"

King Vegeta looked at his son. He chuckled dryly. "He got himself into this mess, he can get himself out."

Vegeta rolled his eyes, but a smirk appeared on his face. He knew his father would not bow to Frieza's wishes. In fact, he'd counted on it.

The octoman paused. "Oh really?" He tapped Vegeta with one of his tentacles and suddenly, Vegeta was ramrod straight. His expression broke into one of extreme pain. He opened his mouth and screamed silently. King Vegeta rose from his seat in alarm.

"What have you done?!"

"The medicines I have given him have a nasty side effect." Frieza said with a smile. "They've made it so that any touch from the poison in my body is enough to drive him mad with pain. With any luck he'll die with incredible agony." He put a hand to this chin. "Oh, but this is a problem he has to work out for himself. You won't help him."

King Vegeta looked helplessly on as the prince twisted in pain, trying to scream, but no sound coming from his throat. He grit his teeth. "Foolish boy. What had you to gain from this oath?"

Vegeta caught his words. In unbearable torment, he locked his eyes with his father. His teeth clenched against the pain, but King Vegeta saw the words in his eyes.

Don't do it.

In that moment, the king didn't see the prince. He only saw his son in agony. His heart tightened within him. He knew he couldn't let him go on like this. Despite his rebellious ways, despite all the times they fought, he loved his stubborn son and would do anything for his health and happiness. King Vegeta slumped slightly in defeat. "What do you want, Frieza?"

Frieza was pleased as punch. "The return of my ki, if you please."

King Vegeta flicked his eyes to the ceiling, as if pondering the decision. Nappa caught the signal and slowly moved his mermen into the room. Then the King swung his trident around and pointed it at Frieza.

"Release my son first."

Frieza smiled viciously. "Return my ki first, or your son will experience this until he dies."

"Fine!" King Vegeta sent a burst through his trident and in an instant, the ki he'd stripped of the octoman returned to Frieza's body. In the same instant, all the guards in the room charged.

The octoman laughed in triumph and spun, creating a small vortex as he knocked weapons away and shot ki blasts, taking the guards by surprise.

King Vegeta ignored this and rushed to his son's side. Vegeta was still rigid with pain. The son looked at the father with angry betrayal in his eyes. The king snorted. "You are my son. What else did you expect me to do?"

Vegeta would've scoffed had he a voice. The King reached out to grip Vegeta's shoulder gently. The touch sent stabs of pain through him, but Vegeta withstood it.

"Let's get you to the medical wing." King Vegeta brought his son in close, voice soft. "I won't let you die from your own stupidity."

"Ah, but that's just what is going to happen." The king whirled around to see Frieza, surrounded by the blood of his warriors drifting in the water. "You see, I don't much appreciate being attacked like that. I believe I'll just let Vegeta die." He casually lifted a hand and shot King Vegeta with a deadly beam of ki.

King Vegeta let out a roar of pain and clutched his chest. Vegeta felt a new kind of terror as he saw blood flow through the water from the wound in his father's chest. His father looked at him and gave him a strange half smirk. Like Vegeta, his father had very expressive eyes. The words were obvious.

I'm proud to have you as a son.

He lapsed into unconsciousness and something in Vegeta broke. The abject terror that filled him was replaced with a rage deeper than he'd ever felt. He screamed.

Sound ripped from his throat.

Frieza spun around at the scream. His eyes went wide. "Impossible!" He spat. "That spell couldn't be broken by anything but my death!" A fist met his face and he went spinning into the wall.

Goku grinned, blowing water over his knuckles. "Vegeta is a surprising guy." He shot through the water to meet Frieza in a flurry of punches.

"Fool! No one is stronger than I!"

Goku dodged a poisonous tentacle. "You're the one who's the fool! Vegeta is stronger by far!" He retaliated with a hard kick from his tail. "Heck, I'm stronger than you and I'm dumber than a rock!"

Infuriated, Frieza fought harder against the merman. As they battled, Vegeta continued screaming. He'd lost the woman he had fallen in love with, he'd lost his freedom at his own hands, and now he'd lost his father. It was all his fault. He couldn't deal with it any longer. The guilt took a back seat to rage. Frieza mortally wounded the king. Mortally wounded his father. The rage overwhelmed the pain and his ki shot to heights previously unknown to him. He was left with only power and thoughts of vengeance.

On the other side of the room, Goku took a hard punch to the face and spun away to dissipate the damage. Frieza was stronger than he anticipated. Having to watch for poison made it even harder. He moved to gain some distance from the octoman and his eyes met Vegeta's. He saw the utter fury there and he grinned toothily.

"Let's get him Vegeta."

The next few minutes were chaos. It was a whirlwind of blood and violence in the seawater. The battle was hard, but Frieza was surprised to find himself at a disadvantage. All the years that the octoman lamented the loss of his ki, he neglected to strengthen what little he did have. As a result, he was no match for the warriors who trained like it was the very water they breathed. At the end of the struggle, there were two very bloody and beaten mermen. There was no sign of Freiza.

Only a cloud of sea foam drifting in the current.

*Meanwhile*

"What do you mean 'no'?!"

"I mean 'no' as in 'no I'm not going to marry you'." Bulma stood with her hands on her hips and defiance flashing in her eyes.

"But I'm in love with you Bulma!" Yamucha cried, getting up from his place on the couch. "You are in love with me too!"

"No, I'm not." Bulma said determinedly. "I thought I was before, but now I'm sure I'm not."

"How can you say that?"

"I realized that we're not suited for each other." Bulma said. "You don't want to be tied down to one girl and I don't want to just be a convenient girlfriend to you. You talk about marriage, but after ten years of the same stuff, I don't think it'll go any different."

"What!? That's not true!" Yamucha's face darkened. "I bet it was that guy! Your houseguest.He's the one who pushed you to this wasn't he?!"

Bulma huffed in irritation. "No one made me make this decision. I said what I meant before. You haven't changed since we first started dating. We don't talk like we used to, we don't have that connection anymore, and frankly your eyes wander too much. I don't want to be in a relationship that only takes."

"So you're saying you don't have feelings for him?!" Yamucha yelled accusingly, ignoring her explanations. "Even after you told me he was just your guest!?"

Bulma scowled at her now ex-boyfriend. "He really was just my guest!"

"You like him, don't you?!" Yamucha was red faced and angry at this point. "Admit it!"

"You know what?! I do like him!" She hollered at the scar faced man, fed up with his crap. "He may not be able to talk, but he makes me feel what I haven't felt in years with you! He's smart and stubborn and hard to read sometimes, but so am I! In fact, I think I'm in love with him!" She got up in his face and growled the next words menacingly. "So back off."

Yamucha was flabbergasted. There was nothing he could do but watch as Bulma turned from him and walked through the door, slamming it behind her.

Bulma stomped her way to the main entrance of the hotel. As she went, her pace got faster and faster. Soon she was running away from the hotel. She only stopped after she made it to the shore.

The water lapped at the beach in its steady rhythm, but was nearly drowned out by the thundering of her heart. That was a lot harder than she thought it would be. She meant what she said, but seeing him there, insisting he was in love with her… the temptation to let it all go and be like they'd always been was strong. Still, she remembered all the times where she felt heartbroken even in the midst of their relationship. She tried to make him understand how she felt, but he still ignored all the signs that they weren't right for each other. It wasn't right. She had to get out.

She didn't regret her decision. In fact, she felt lighter than she had in a long time. Yet as Bulma looked out over the water, she felt her heart clench. She put a hand to her chest where the large shark tooth lay over her heart.

"Vegeta, where are you?"

*Elsewhere*

Prince Vegeta lie on the slab of marble, terrible wracking pain pulsing through him as the dead octoman's poison did it's work through his body. Beside him, on a similar slab of marble, the king lay bleeding from the gaping hole in his chest. Various mermen sped around the room, trying to find a way to heal their king and prince.

So far, nothing was working.

Goku, badly beaten himself, leaned against the prince's slab, face pinched in worry. Vegeta trembled, straining against the poison and the pain. He grimaced in sympathy.

"Hang in there Vegeta. The medics are doing everything they can."

Vegeta grunted and opened his eyes. Pain rippled above, under, and in him, but he did not acknowledge it. Instead, he spoke to his rival in a grating voice, painful in its disuse.

"Save my father first." He ground out. "Keep the king alive."

Goku nodded gravely. "We're working on it." He didn't know how to tell the prince that things weren't looking good for either of them. He laid a hand on Vegeta's shoulder against his better judgment. "You didn't kiss the girl, did you?"

Vegeta cursed as the pain of heartbreak resurged in his chest. The bodily pain was hard enough to bear by itself. "What's it look like?!" He spat viciously, trying to jerk away from Goku.

Goku didn't retract his hand. "Vegeta, what happened up there…"

"No." Vegeta interrupted him. "Don't speak of it." He grit his teeth. "It doesn't matter anyway." That door was closed. There was no going back. He turned his head to the side. "How is my father?"

Goku looked over at the slab where the king lay. King Vegeta was deathly pale. The fact that he was still alive, albeit barely alive, was miraculous. However, efforts to keep him alive were going nowhere fast. The big merman's face crumpled. "The king…"

"Your highness!" An abrupt call startled Goku and he turned to see a silver blue merman swim up to him quickly. Vegeta jerked his head up to look at the servant who addressed him. "My lord prince! The ambassador from the far east said he may help!"

Vegeta narrowed his eyes at the servant. "The Namekians?"

"Yes!" The servant swam back to the door and ushered the two mermen in. They were green in color and had long eel-like bodies. The smaller one was adorned in a robe of sorts that billowed behind him when he swam. The taller one was obviously the bodyguard for the smaller one.

The little eel merman bowed courteously, though in an urgent manner. "My prince, I am Dende, ambassador of our people. We Namekians have healing abilities and if you wish, we may be able to…"

"Heal my father." Vegeta interrupted as pain wracked his body. At this rate, he wasn't going to last much longer. "Please… Heal the king."

Goku looked in shock at Vegeta. Since when did he ever say please? The little Namekian bowed again and darted over to the king, his bodyguard hot on his fins. He placed his hands flat on the King's chest and began the process of healing him. Goku looked at Vegeta, worry plain on his face. "Vegeta…"

"I'm dying you idiot!" Vegeta ground out, pain beginning to overwhelm him. "That poisonous scumbag… gave me a potion to increase his poison's potency." He looked at Goku with a scowl. "I was honor bound to obey… and now I am reaping the repercussions." He directed his gaze back at the ceiling. "My kingdom… no, my father should not have to pay for my foolishness. He needs to be healed first." A small, painful smile stretched his mouth. "You were right Kakkarot… I never should've… gone to the surface… I am… such a fool."

Goku looked on in horror as Vegeta's eyes slowly closed. "No… No Vegeta!" He gripped the merman prince's shoulders and shook him harshly. Vegeta groaned in pain, but Goku ignored it. "You are not giving up! I don't care what I have to do, but you are not dying on me today!" He powered up his own weakened ki and pumped it into Vegeta.

Vegeta's eyes flew open. He stared at Goku in surprise. Sharing his ki? His eyes narrowed. He threw out a punch with just enough strength in it to knock Goku away. The taller merman sailed away with a squawk. He righted himself and looked back at Vegeta in shock.

The prince glowered at his rival and long time friend. "You don't get to give your ki to me when you need it to keep your idiotic self alive."

Goku growled at him, showing his sharp teeth. "That is not how a merman is supposed to die!"

Vegeta wrenched himself off the marble slab to float towards Goku. "It doesn't matter anyway! Things won't ever be the same!" He threw a feeble punch at him, but hit only water. "After my treachery, I deserve nothing less than death!"

"Are you crazy?!" Goku exclaimed. He threw his own weak punch and actually managed to hit the prince. Vegeta cried out in pain at the light blow. It sent him sailing back to bump against the marble slab he'd been laying on. He howled again in agony and flopped over onto it, helpless to stop himself much like the fish that was taken out of water.

Goku swam weakly over to him, drifting down to look him dead in the eye. "You were following your heart! You wanted to learn about humans! You wanted to learn about the blue woman!"

"Her name… is Bulma."Vegeta gritted out. He lay there curled into a fetal position. The pain wouldn't stop. Things were beginning to blur in his vision and he felt unbelievably nauseous. He was sure he was dying.

"Bulma then!" Goku pulled Vegeta upright enough that he was staring straight into his dark, pain filled visage. "Don't regret that! It wasn't your fault that Frieza was a scumbag! Don't take his crimes upon yourself!"

Vegeta focused his bleary eyes on his friend. "You idiot." He said, head lolling slightly to the side. "I was a prince… Today… I was a fool."

"So you made a mistake! Accept responsibility for it! Don't use death as an excuse to run away from your problems!" His stern face crumpled a bit. He squeezed his eyes shut. "Please don't die Vegeta. This kingdom needs you. Your father needs you. You're my best friend and I need you too." He tightened his grip on the prince's shoulders. "I'll even let you punch dolphins again."

Vegeta was on the brink of consciousness, but still he smirked in that arrogant way of his. "Cocky… little freaks… deserve it." He flopped back on the marble slab, motionless.

Just then, the two Namekians rushed over. They shoved Goku out of the way and laid hands of Vegeta, both of them. The tall one pumped ki into the beaten form and the small one sought out the poison. They had come here asking for help from the great warrior race. They just hoped that they were not too late to help the great protectors of the sea themselves.

*Days later*

Bulma slumped at the kitchen table, idly playing with the shark tooth that hung from a cord around her neck. She was at a loss. There had been no word from Vegeta for days. No one had seen him since that day at the market. No one knew him on the island or in the surrounding islands either. Where did he come from? Where did he disappear off to? Did he have a family? More questions piled up around her ears and she sighed. The mysterious man she cared for simply vanished.

Her pocket buzzed and she reached down to pull out her phone. More messages from Yamucha. She groaned. When would he learn to just let things be? She leaned her head in her hand and stared at the screen awhile. She'd made a good choice in breaking up with Yamucha. The stress of that relationship had all but left her. Now though, what had she gotten herself into with Vegeta? He was gone and she had no way of finding him.

"Bulma?" The blue haired genius was pulled from her thoughts by her father's concerned voice.

She looked up at her father's concerned face. "Yeah dad?"

"How are you holding up?" The older scientist pulled out a chair and sat down beside his daughter.

"As well as can be I guess." Bulma shrugged halfheartedly. "Still no word about Vegeta." Things were really dragging her down of late. Where could mister grumpy jungle man have gone?

Dr. Briefs gave her a small encouraging smile. "Don't worry Bulma. I'm sure he'll turn up somewhere." He patted her on the back. "In the meantime, I think I have something that might cheer you up."

Bulma quirked an eyebrow at her father. "Oh yeah?"

The mustachioed father smiled and pulled a small, black hard drive from the pocket of his lab coat.

Bulma's eyes went wide as she took the hard drive from his hands. "You… how did you…"

"Well, since you had the spot marked on the maps in the lab, I sent a small team of divers to find the darn thing." Dr. Briefs grinned. "It was right where you marked it, perfectly waterproofed just like you said."

Bulma leapt out of her seat with a squeal. "Oh THANK YOU daddy!" She threw her arms around her father. "I can't believe you found it!" She released the good doctor and fled the kitchen, dashing straight for her laboratory. She called out behind her. "I'll let you know what I find!"

She hurtled into the lab and made a beeline for her computer. She plugged the external hard drive in and began pouring over the data from each of the test runs they had performed. It felt so good to be doing something useful again. Moping around over Vegeta wasn't doing her any good and now that she had the hard drive back, she felt driven again.

Page after page of data filled the screen as she looked through the files. She noted that until the submersibles broke, all the opened ones managed to record some data about their surroundings. Too bad all of them were broken and gone at the bottom of the sea.

She skimmed through the data for test batches A-V rather quickly. Most of them had the almost the exact same pattern. There was only a few seconds recorded. All the opened ones showed signs of severe weather and trauma to the instruments. It was only when she got to test batch W did she see change in the data.

"Hmm... Test batch V was kind of a dud." Bulma ruminated to herself. "Test batch W was the last one we had. I wonder how much information capsule one recorded before it sunk." She tapped the keyboard anxiously, bringing up the data of batch W. To her utter surprise, there were two steady signals of information received. One dated from the storm and the other from a few days later.

She narrowed her eyes. She could've sworn she lost the second capsule when she was swept overboard. How in the world did it get activated? She compared the data files side by side. Both had been opened and both had recorded video footage. She'd installed a camera to each submersible when she made them, but until test batch W none of them could even go into the start up sequence for the camera because of the harsh weather. Furthermore, submersible 1 showed severe weather readings, but submersible 2 showed calm, warm waters.

Curious, Bulma opened the video file of the first submersible. Waves beat the camera hard even as it sunk beneath the ocean. There was no sound, but she bet the wind was howling just as bad as she remembered. She saw through the eyes of the little submersible the tilting and final collapsing of the boat. It spun about as it sank lower into the water, approaching and colliding with the submersible. The little machine was spun round and round before the hull smacked it again and the video on her computer was nothing but static. She sighed softly at the sight. She felt bad for her little creation, even though it was mostly machinery. Still, this was great! She knew what she had to do to make them better.

She smiled to herself, thinking of all the ways to improve them. She clicked on the video from the second submersible. Time to figure out how the mysterious nonsensical readings came to be. Bulma waited for the picture to focus and tapped her fingers impatiently.

The image became clear and she was shocked into stillness. Her jaw worked soundlessly. It was a short video, only lasting a minute. Then screen went dark and finally she was able to utter the only words she could think of right then.

"DADDY COME QUICK!"

*Minutes later*

Dr. Briefs removed his glasses. "Mother of Kami." He said, more than shocked. He stared sightlessly at the darkened screen for a moment before reaching over to replay the video once more.

The image fuzzed in slowly. The camera automatically focused itself and the picture became clear. A vast, richly decorated room filled the screen. Before them, seated on a throne made of shimmering coral and precious stones, sat a merman.

Dr. Briefs had to rub his eyes a second time. It was no lie, no trick of the lens.

There was an actual merman on camera.

He was half man, half fish, with a trident and a crown, sitting on a throne upon a raised dais obviously made for royalty. He wore armor of shimmering opalescence and had many dark pearls around his tail. His hair defied gravity in a sharp flame shape. His face was noble, angular and fierce as he studied the camera. His dark eyes were narrowed with suspicion. His lips were curved in a scowl surrounded by a short military styled beard.

Another figure floated in from the side and could be seen talking and gesturing to the camera. He had the same type of armor and the same dark pearls around his tail. He turned and pointed to the camera, looking at it for the first time. His hair was in the same flame shape as the merman on the throne. He was younger and clean shaven, but the resemblance was uncanny. He had the same fierce look to him as he spoke. The same nobility and haughtiness the merman on the throne had.

And he was painfully familiar.

"It's Vegeta." Bulma breathed, eyes wide. "Vegeta's a mermaid."

"Mermaids exist." Her father gripped the back of her chair for support. "Sweet Kami alive mermaids exist."

They watched, astounded as the one on the throne lifted a hand and shot a beam of light at the camera. The picture fizzled out slightly and the low battery icon blinked before the video died completely. The two scientists stared at the blank screen once again.

Bulma looked at her father, eyes still as wide as dinner plates. "Vegeta's a mermaid."

Dr. Briefs replaced his glasses and forced himself to breathe normally. "It seems that way, yes." He said. "But how in blue blazes did he have legs?"

Bulma felt electricity tingle up and down her spine. It was like getting a shot of adrenaline. "Oh Daddy, it totally makes sense! He didn't know about table manners or food or clothing! Plus, when we went to the book store, he absolutely freaked out over a book about mermaids!" Her eyes sparkled with excitement and the questions flowed from her like water. ""Who was the one on the throne? His father? Is he royalty of some kind? And why couldn't he speak? How did he get his legs? Why did he show up here? Why choose to stay with us? Why…" She clapped her hands to her mouth in sudden clarity.

Dr. Briefs was feeling overwhelmed, but asked her, "What is it Bulma?"

"It was him." Bulma felt the epiphany rattle her being. "He's the one who saved me."

Her father's eyes went wider. "You… you mean he's…" He put a hand to his head. "I thought it was just you having a touch too much sun that day."

"I was beginning to think so too." Bulma's heart started beating hard in her chest. A smile spread across her face. "But Vegeta is the one who saved my life. He saved me that day and because he found my invention he came back to see me." A blush grew across her face. "He wanted to see me."

Dr. Briefs, though he was still reeling from the discovery, smiled at his daughter. "Why, if I didn't know better, I'd say you've fallen for the boy."

Bulma's blush deepened in intensity. "Daddy! This isn't the time for that! We have just made one of the biggest discoveries of our lifetimes! You know what we have to do now, right?"

"What's that dear?"

Bulma whirled back to the computer and typed away quick as a flash. "We have to find him!"

*Days later*

Goku swam against the current, watching his charges from near the surface. He had been tasked to help escort the Namekian ambassadors back to their part of the ocean. A full contingent of 30 seasoned warriors had been assigned with him to make the journey. They swam in a large school, keeping a close eye on the pair as they fought the currents back to the east.

Goku watched the taller Namekian assist the smaller one against the flow and smiled. He was so very thankful for what those two had done for his people. It was only natural that they be repaid. Originally, they had made the journey to ask for help and support against a species of shark that was slowly killing them off. However, once they saved the king and his son, they were assured that no beast in the sea would be able to touch them. The warriors of the great city of Atlantica would not let their kindness go un-repaid.

The tall merman felt joy bubble up in him. His king was alive! He did a few summersaults in the waves. His best friend was alive too! Granted, he was confined to the palace as punishment, but still! He was alive and as surly as ever!

Actually, Vegeta seemed to welcome the punishment. But it was strange. Never before had the prince been willing to stay in one place for any length of time. He'd always been roaming the seas, fighting battles, punching dolphins, and policing the waters wherever he found himself. He liked it that way and frankly, so did Goku. They had adventures that no merman would ever believe.

Yet, after this last bit of fighting, he supposed Vegeta had better stay put and make things right with his father.

Lost in his thoughts, Goku didn't see the boat until it was almost too late. He let out a squawk of surprise and dove deeper to avoid the nasty blades that propelled the boat forward. He'd seen what those things could do to a manatee. He turned and felt an irrational anger against boats. Couldn't humans stay on land where they belonged? Leave the manatees alone!

He slowed in the water, suddenly curious. Why was this boat way out here in the middle of nowhere? They were far away from touring routes and pretty far outside the range of the normal schooner trips. No fish flocked in this part of the ocean. It was too out of the way of spawning paths. What were these humans up to?

Goku glanced back at the ambassadors. They did not pause to see the boat as he did. The contingent swam steadily onward. He furrowed his brows as he fought with himself. Would they really need him to follow along? He made a snap decision and swam to the boat, deciding to take a look. The warriors the king chose could handle anything that came their way. He wouldn't be missed.

The merman's spiky mop of hair broke the surface of the water silently. He swam parallel to the boat for a while, circling it and trying to get a read on the humans. He heard voices, but couldn't see who they belonged to. The sides of the boat were too high. Goku frowned. Somehow he had to get up higher. An idea popped into his mind and he dove back beneath the water. Seconds later, he shot up and out of the water in a mighty burst, practically flying up the side of the boat. He caught the railing in a firm grip and used his powerful arms to carefully peek over the side.

"Daddy, did you hear something?"

Goku gasped and ducked behind the railing. It's the blue human… I mean Bulma! What was she doing out here? He tried to keep his long shimmering tail from slapping against the side of the boat and peeked back over the side.

A man with violet hair was talking to her. "No… Did you?"

Bulma frowned. "I thought I heard a splashing sound."

Goku winced. His exit from the water wasn't very silent. Hopefully they wouldn't investigate. He strained his ears to hear what they were saying.

"I'm sure it was just the boat. Anyway, are you sure it was around here?"

"Pretty sure." Bulma said, walking dangerously near where Goku was spying. "It's as near to the last known signal point as I can tell." She sighed. "I just wish there was a better way to find him."

Goku swallowed nervously, ducking down as Bulma leaned her back against the railing. The man spoke again. "Well, we have to go a bit further. That's all. Don't give up sweetie."

Bulma nodded. "Yeah. There's nothing on sonar yet except the occasional school of fish." She crossed her arms. "I don't know Dad. I just wish I knew exactly where he is."

Find him? Where he is? Goku felt anxiety over their conversation build in his chest. Who are they looking for way out here?

"We'll find him. Don't worry." The violet man leaned on the railing beside her. "The boy certainly can't be too hard to find. His hair is very distinctive."

His hair?

Bulma giggled. "Don't let him hear you say that. He'd probably hit you."

"Nonsense!" The man blustered slightly. "He's a very respectful young man! I don't think he'd hit the father of his future wife!"

Future wife? Goku watched in puzzlement as Bulma turned from the man, face very red.

"Daddy! He doesn't even know I love him!" She said indignantly, eyes squeezed shut as the blush burned across her cheeks. "I don't even know if Vegeta wants to get married!"

Goku's jaw dropped. They're looking… for VEGETA? His gaze snapped to a gleam of white on her chest. A large familiar shark tooth hung from a cord around her neck. It bumped gently against her collarbone as she moved. His eyes widened. That's… that's the tooth of the megolodon! That's Vegeta's greatest trophy! He looked back at Bulma in wonder. He gave it to you!? Wow. A smile stretched his face. He really does love you. He's in love with a human. Who'd a thunk it. The smile faded away as he considered it. The prince didn't want to discuss his time on land. It sounded like he regretted ever going up there. Yet here Bulma was, looking for him with his most prized possession around her neck. He frowned to himself. What happened while he was up there?

Goku heard a loud gasp and snapped out of his reverie. His eyes locked with the very surprised eyes of Bulma. She had turned around fully and saw him hanging there plain as day. They stared at each other, completely flabbergasted at the sight of each other.

The violet man standing beside her caught on and stared openly at Goku. Slowly he removed his glasses. "My Kami…"

"Uhh…" Goku had been caught. He just broke one of the most important rules in the kingdom. Don't let humans see you. Normally he would've panicked and immediately sunk the ship as to discredit anything the human would say. No human would believe another human about mermen when he'd just been in a brain scrambling accident. Trauma or whatever. However, in light of new information, mainly that his best friend was in love with this blue human, he merely smiled.

"Bye." He released the railing and dove back into the ocean, ignoring Bulma's pleas.

He gracefully hit the water and spun about, speeding toward the palace faster than a sailfish. He had to tell Vegeta that Bulma was looking for him! She wanted to see him bad enough that she tracked him down to the middle of the ocean. Goku grinned. The look on the prince's face was going to be priceless!

*Later*

"Vegeta! There's something I gotta tell you!" Goku yelled as he screeched to a stop in front of the royals.

"Kakkarot? What are you doing back?" King Vegeta asked, slightly taken aback. He stared down his nose at the warrior. "I had not received word that the ambassadors arrived safely."

Goku met the eyes of the king and flinched. That was not the proper way to address royalty. He thumped his fist over his heart and bowed to the king. "Sorry your majesty, but I have important news for the prince."

King Vegeta looked his son's best friend over in amusement. "Very well, make your report."

Goku looked up nervously. "It's… uh… only for the Prince's ears."

"Nonsense!" King Vegeta smirked. "Whatever is said to the prince can be said before the king."

Still the tall merman hesitated. "Well…"

"Out with it!" Vegeta hollered, irritated. He crossed his arms over his armored chest. "I haven't got all day Kakkarot."

Goku sighed. He knew Vegeta was going to regret this later. "It's Bulma, my prince. She wishes to see you."

Vegeta's face did a sudden transformation. His jaw dropped. His eyes went very wide. His face was immediately set aflame by a hot blush that seared up his neck and face. His jaw worked soundlessly as he sought to come out of the shock those few words put him in.

King Vegeta watched his son struggle with emotion and chuckled. "Why Vegeta. You never told me you were seeing a mermaid!"

"I'm not!" Came the indignant reply. Vegeta turned away from them both and tried to control himself.

King Vegeta laughed aloud and lifted off his throne. He floated down beside Goku and grinned. "And who might this lucky mermaid be? Who has caught the attention of our tumultuous prince?"

Goku caught the teasing tone of the King's voice and smiled slyly. "She is very pretty. Did you know that prince's favorite color is blue?"

"KAKKAROOOOOOOOT!" Vegeta tackled Goku to the floor. "SHUT UP!"

"So a lovely blue maiden. One of the Sinthians perhaps? I never thought that you'd actually…"

"NO!" Vegeta whirled on the king. "You stay out of this!" He grabbed a big chunk of Goku's hair and hauled him out of the throne room. "We need to talk!"

The king watched his son haul the unfortunate merman into the corridor and snickered. Not much fazed the prince. This had to be something important. Or at the very least, something embarrassing. Silently floating to the archway, the king secretly listened in on his son's private conversation.

"What do you mean she's looking for me!?" Vegeta hissed.

"That's what she said!" Goku's voice was strained. "She was out there with another man with violet hair on a big boat!"

A boat? King Vegeta's furrowed his eyebrows. Were they not talking about a mermaid?

"A boat?! You mean she's close!? How in the world did she track me this far?! I left nothing behind!" Vegeta's voice was painfully serious.

"…You left behind the megolodon tooth."

There was a brief pause. King Vegeta marveled. His son gave away his greatest trophy. Again, that never happened! Who was this girl?

"I do not wish to talk about it."

"Vegeta… you love her, don't you?"

"I said I do not wish to talk about it!"

"Why else would you leave your most treasured trophy with her if you didn't care about her?!" Goku argued. "You can't tell me it's because you…"

"She didn't choose me!" Vegeta interrupted angrily. The King's eyes widened at the angry passion in his son's voice. "I left it there because she chose another!"

"Vegeta…"

"I swore I would never go back there again." Vegeta continued. "I don't need to know about humans, I don't need to learn about the surface, and I don't need her!"

Humans?! Warning bells sounded in King Vegeta's mind. The girl is a human?!

"That's why you came back?" Goku's voice was soft. "She chose another and you had to fulfill your agreement with Frieza?"

Vegeta growled low in his throat. "I swore I would take my punishment and die fighting the control of that scumbag." His voice became soft. "I'd rather lose my freedom than lose my honor."

This was bad. He hadn't known about the prince's deal with the now dead octoman. He went on land and lived in the company of humans?! The angry king was about to confront them when Goku spoke again.

"She said she loved you."

The king paused.

"That's impossible." Vegeta's voice was scornful. "The weakling suitor had already…"

"He wasn't with her Vegeta. There was no one else on the boat, besides the violet man." Goku said adamantly. "You love her! She said she loved you! Why else would she be searching for this part of the ocean?"

"How do you know this?!" Vegeta challenged. He paused. "Wait… don't tell me they saw you!"

"Ahah… Well..."

There was a slapping sound and a groan. "I don't believe this."

"Come on Vegeta." Goku tried. "It's not all that bad…"

"Yes it is! You've broken the one rule I actually kept while on the surface! They didn't know about merfolk besides in legend and myth. Now they've seen you!"

"Well they had to have known about you too! How else would they have known to look in this part of the sea?!" Goku argued back.

"I don't know!" Vegeta yelled. "But I'm not going to just swim by as she finds our people."

"But Vegeta, you can't leave the palace!"

"Seeing as you royally screwed us over, looks like I'm going to have to!" Vegeta spat. Goku started to protest, but was interrupted. "No! You stay here. That's an order. I don't need you screwing this up. And not a word of this to my father!"

Goku sighed and the sounds of swishing water filled the hall. Once he was sure his son had gone, the king came around the corner, startling the tall merman. "The spy Vegeta brought to me after he saved the blue woman. That's what she used to track us." He rubbed the bridge of his nose in irritation. "This is why we have rules about going to the surface."

The merman looked away, ashamed. "Uh… h-how much did you hear, your majesty?"

"All of it." The king studied him for a moment before sighing heavily. "Kakkarot, is what you said true? Is my son in love with a human woman?"

Goku nodded, eyes carefully averted from the king.

"And she loves him in return?"

"Uh… yes your majesty."

King Vegeta let his hand fall heavily on the warrior's shoulder. "Come. There are things we must discuss before my son does something we all will regret."

*Meanwhile*

Vegeta cut through the water at an amazing speed. Never before had he gone so fast. It might've been the strength increase from the painful ordeal on land. Or perhaps from the near death experience after fighting the traitor. Either way, he didn't think much about it. There was only one thing on his mind.

Bulma.

Why was she here? What motive could the human woman possibly have to come searching for him? She didn't know he was a merman. She didn't love him. Surely Kakkarot was wrong. He hadn't been chosen.

The more he thought about it, the angrier Vegeta became. Who did that human woman think she was? How dare she search for him after all that she put him through! After all he went through to learn more about her world! Didn't she have any decency? He didn't even want to see her!

Even though he denied it to himself, he really did want to see her. He wanted to see her again, see her smile, see her defiant eyes once more, but his pride, his hurt, and his heartbreak refused it violently. The mix of emotions was making him a little sick to his stomach.

He shook his head. Regardless of his feelings for the blue haired woman, which were currently confusing as all get out, he had to find her before she found his kingdom. Humans weren't allowed to find the kingdom. He was the prince and this was his responsibility. He screwed up once already. He wasn't about to let his father down again.

In the distance, closing fast, a boat could be seen cutting through the waves on the surface. Vegeta narrowed his eyes and shot towards it. In no time at all he was directly beneath the boat. He coiled under the ship, poised like a serpent about to strike. He poured his ki into his fin and his hands. The objective was to shoot though the hull like a spear. With any luck he'd hit the engine room and cause it to explode. Sink the ship, destroy the proof, and discredit the human. That was how it worked. He'd done it before.

He was about to do it when a thought struck him.

What if this wasn't Bulma's ship?

Hescowled at the boat. Dang it brain! The prince cursed. Just sink it and move on! It's not a problem! But the thought kept nagging at him and the boat began to pull away from his position. Finally, he allowed the ki to dissipate. I swear I'm turning into Kakkarot. If I start hanging out with dolphins, I'll off myself. He sighed heavily and swam alongside the boat, keeping pace with it.

He ascended through the waves and circled the boat, straining to see anything on the deck. The sides of the boat were too high. He heard voices, but they were drowned out by the waves breaking against the prow as the boat traveled onward. He grit his teeth in anger. This was getting too troublesome. He really should just sink the ship and head back to the palace.

But what if this was just a mistake? Would he really risk drowning innocent humans?

Vegeta groaned into the water, making little bubbles around his mouth. I hate my brain. Slowly he scanned the boat until he found the indents that made a sort of ladder to the deck. They were the ones that divers use sometimes to descend beneath the ship. He reached out of the water and slowly pulled himself up, hand over hand, to peer across the deck of the boat.

His dark eyes went very wide. There, on the other side of the boat, leaning against the railing, stood the blue woman.

Bulma Briefs.

Soft blue hair ruffled by the wind, challenging blue eyes scanning the water, soft lips pursed in thought, she was still beautiful. As startlingly beautiful as the day he saw her brave the roughest seas in the world. He swallowed, heart suddenly pounding much harder than before.

It really was Bulma's ship. Good. Now I can sink the ship without any regrets.

Yet even as the bitter thoughts churned in his mind, he lingered on the side of the boat. Watching her. For some reason, he couldn't tear himself away. Vegeta scowled in disgust at himself. It was stupid. He knew the two of them could never happen. She didn't love him and he could never be with her. He would live out his life alone and turn to sea foam in death just like the rest of his kind. This was what he accepted.

And here she was… ruining it all by simply being in the same waters.

The longer he hung there, the angrier he felt. What was wrong with him? He needed to get rid of her. He concluded. That's how this would all end. Sink the ship and be rid of the female once and for all. He was about to let go of the side and dive back down into the water to carry out his plan when a voice from the deck startled him.

"Bulma dear, don't you think you should be monitoring the sonar?"

Vegeta blinked. Her father is here? He watched the older mustachioed man walk over to Bulma. Curiosity overpowered his dark thoughts and he stayed where he was. I should find out what they are up to while I am here, he reasoned.

"Sorry Dad, but I don't think the sonar is going to be of much help." Bulma smiled ruefully at her father. "I think they have found a way to hide themselves. Otherwise sonar would've found signs of mermaids far before we did."

So they are here to find us. Vegeta's eyes hardened. He was going to have to sink the ship now, regardless of his original motives. Somehow that thought didn't sit well with him.

"True." Dr. Briefs sighed. "I honestly didn't think it would be this difficult to find him."

"You and me both Dad." Bulma rubbed her arms against the chill spray of seawater. "Vegeta must really not want to be found."

The good doctor put his arm around his daughter's shoulders. "Don't worry dear. We'll find him. And then you can tell him everything."

They really are searching for me. Vegeta's curiosity ate at him. Why would the woman be searching for me and not the kingdom? He almost didn't want to sink the ship anymore to find out what he meant by 'tell him everything'. He shook his head. No. I can't lose my nerve now. Sink the ship, return to the palace, and punch Kakkarot in the…

Bulma huffed suddenly, interrupting Vegeta's train of thought with an irritated comment. "I just wish he would've told us he was a mermaid."

There was a pause.

"A MERMAID?!" Outraged, Vegeta hauled himself over the side of the boat. "I AM NOT A MERMAID!" He shouted angrily at the pair. "I am a merman! MAN! MALE! Not a female you stupid woman!"

There was another pause.

Bulma stared at him with wide eyes. "V-Vegeta?"

Dr. Briefs removed his glasses. "Mother of Kami."

Vegeta smacked himself in the forehead. Great. Now they know I'm here. Things just kept getting worse. "Screw this." He muttered angrily. He flipped around on those powerful arms of his and launched himself back into the sea.

"Vegeta wai-"

The prince hit the water before she could finish speaking. He sailed down to what he deemed an appropriate depth beneath the boat and turned. He brought his hands together and raised his ki. As he prepared himself to attack the boat, a splash and flurry of bubbles hailed a second entrance into the water. He was stunned to meet the flashing blue eyes of Bulma as she dove down through the waves.

"What are you doing?!" Vegeta watched her swim awkwardly down to his level. Humans aren't good in the water! As evidenced by her almost drowning the last time she went overboard. "Stupid woman! Are you trying to get yourself killed again?!"

Bulma flailed about, making motions with her hands. Vegeta snarled at her. "I have no idea what you are trying to say. Nor do I care."

A stream of bubbles fled Bulma's mouth in response. Her eyes went wide and she tried to turn and swim back to the surface. She'd gone too deep and panicked. Her movements were erratic and jerky, her clothes heavy with water.

Vegeta groaned aloud and let his ki dissipate. Didn't she realize humans can't breathe underwater? What was she thinking? Without a second thought, he scooped her up and hauled her back to the surface. They broke into the fresh air and immediately Bulma started coughing. She gasped and choked and clung to Vegeta for dear life.

"How many times do I have to save your stupid self?" Vegeta grumped as she coughed. He couldn't deny that holding her like this felt really good, but he didn't have to let her know. It was bad enough that he saved her again.

"As many times as it takes!" She gasped out.

Vegeta grunted. A blush started to form on his cheeks and he loosed his grip on the woman. "Release me. You can swim on your own."

"No way!" She gripped Vegeta tighter, coughing and breathing erratically. "I lost you once! I am never letting you get away again!"

Well, that was confusing. "Aren't you promised to the weakling?" Vegeta sneered in sudden repulsion. "What motive could you possibly have to…"

"I'm not marrying him!"

Vegeta was shocked into silence. She wasn't going to marry the weakling? Was he dead? Perplexed, he stared at the woman in his arms. "Aren't you out here to find my kingdom?"

"No!" Bulma finally caught her breath. "We didn't even know you were a mermaid…"

"Merman!"

She rolled her eyes. "Fine, merman, until a few days ago. We're not here to find Atlantis! We're out here to find you!" She stared hard into his eyes. "You left before I could tell you! I'm not in love with Yamucha. I'm in love with you!" She looked away shyly as Vegeta's face went blank with surprise. "And I was hoping that we could, you know, give a relationship a try."

The prince was at a loss for words.

They floated in silence for a moment as Vegeta took all this in. It was kind of hard to believe. He was totally ready to live his life without her and here she was asking to be a part of it? It was more than he ever could've hoped for. But still, a human woman in love with a merman? That would never work. Who was he trying to kid? His dark gaze captured Bulma's and he sighed.

"I can't."

"What do you mean?"

He chuckled mirthlessly and held her at arm's length. "Look at me. I am a merman. You are human. We are too different."

She shook her head. "I don't care. I still want to try."

He sighed, pulling her close to rest his forehead against hers. "Stubborn woman." Of course she wouldn't care that they were fundamentally two different species. Vegeta kept trying to come up with a solution to that problem, but every solution he found ended with parting. Even though they couldn't be together, perhaps they could come to an alliance of some sort. Only if father decides to ever let me go back. He thought bitterly. It would never happen. The king would never, ever knowingly allow his son to live with humans.

The minutes passed slowly, floating in the gentle waves as they held each other. Neither wanted to let go.

"Prince Vegeta!"

Vegeta stiffened as the voice rang out from behind the pair.

Bulma looked at him wide eyed. "You're a prince?"

"Shut up woman!" He hissed. He turned slowly, pulling Bulma closer to him. There before him floated the one merman he knew he'd have to face. Time for the conversation he really wanted to avoid.

"My King." He bowed slightly as protocol dictated. Bulma's eyes went wide and she gripped Vegeta tighter.

King Vegeta sneered down his nose in open distain. "I have spoken to you before about venturing to the surface world have I not?"

Vegeta scowled at the waves. "Yes Father." He said in a biting tone.

"Apparently you do not hold my threats as anything more than empty words." The king's voice was dangerously low and angry. "It was not to be done. Then I find that you have not only broken my decree once by going to the surface world without my knowledge," Vegeta flinched at this, "but now refuse to sink a ship because of a human? Was I not clear enough when I said I would banish you should you ever disobey that decree?"

A gentle squeeze around his shoulders made him look to the woman in his arms. He stared deep into her blue eyes and felt his ire soften. She loved him. She wanted a relationship. He steeled his resolve and glared back at the king.

"I made a deal with the traitor Frieza to go learn about humans. You may think that our civilization thrives beneath the ocean, but there is nothing new for us. In the three days I was on land, I learned many things that you couldn't even begin to imagine."

"You made a deal with the traitor to go live with humans!" He gestured to Bulma with the dangerous looking trident he held in his hand. Bulma shrank back against Vegeta fearfully.

"I did it in order to save our people!" His gruff voice carried a note of warning to it. He lifted his eyes challengingly to the king. "You cannot tell me that we do not suffer as a people from our ignorance! The knowledge we lack could save us and our home from those who would see it destroyed! I was not going to turn down the opportunity! It would've been foolish not to!"

"That was not your only reason, was it not?!"

He paused. "No." Vegeta looked at Bulma. His eyes filled with such tenderness that it sent pangs through her heart. "It was not." Bulma hugged him tighter, resting her head on his shoulder.

The king paused. His thoughtful look disappeared almost instantly as he returned to shouting at his son. "Your rebellion against my authority nearly killed you!"

"Even so," Vegeta looked back up at the king, "I do not regret my choice. I only regret that I was too weak to stop the traitor before he nearly destroyed us." Sorrow colored his voice slightly. "If you mean to banish me, fine. I deserve nothing less for what I have done to the crown."

"Are you certain?"

"Yes." He raised his chin proudly. "I accept my punishment honorably. Even to the end of my days as foam across the tide."

King Vegeta smirked. "That's what I thought." He lowered his trident and stabbed out at the couple floating across from him. His ki burst out in a beam of light that shot straight for Vegeta and Bulma.

Without hesitation, Vegeta thrust Bulma away from him. She floundered briefly in the water, helpless to stop the beam of light from striking Vegeta dead in the chest. She watched him go limp and cried out in alarm. A strong pair of arms caught her from behind just as she started to swim towards him. She struggled crazily against the grip.

"Woah! Easy there miss Bulma!" A familiar spiky headed merman entered her vision. He grinned in a carefree way. "Don't worry. Vegeta will be just fine."

"But-a-wha-he just shot him!" Bulma protested, squirming to get away from the merman.

"Well… I guess he sorta did…" The merman scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "But it was for his own good you know."

"His own good?!" Bulma thrashed about, foaming the seawater around her. "Are you crazy?!"

"Just calm down a second okay?" The big merman held her arms still. "Look! He's fine!"

King Vegeta had lifted his unconscious son into his arms and was swimming towards the boat that was coming back for Bulma.

"He doesn't LOOK fine!" Bulma argued.

"Well he is fine." The merman protested, pulling her along as he swam after the king. "Just you wait and see."

When they got to the ship, Bulma shouted up at her father to kill the engines. The boat stopped and Bulma pulled herself from the water. Her father disregarded her soaking wet state of being and gathered her into a massive hug.

"Bulma! Are you alright?"

"Yeah dad, I'm fine." She pulled out of his grip. She turned to see the king lift himself up on a huge swell of water. Vegeta lay unconscious in his arms. Beside him, the burly merman smiled cheerfully.

"Human woman."

Bulma gulped slightly as the king addressed her. The king of all merfolk was a bit scary. She neared him and bowed slightly. "K-king Triton?"

The big merman beside him laughed aloud. The king shot him an irritated glance. "No. King Vegeta, if you please."

"O-oh."

"Tell me, is what I've been told true? Even after so short a time, have you truly fallen in love with my son?"

Bulma looked first at the king, then to the prince in his arms. She reached out and tenderly caressed his face.

"Yes."

The king's eyes narrowed. "Are you willing to care for him? To spend your life with him?"

She looked back into those dark eyes and nodded. "Yes."

"I see." He turned from her. "Go back to the island from which you departed." The king said. "We will meet you there." Then the water lowered back to the sea and they were lost from sight.

*Hours later*

Vegeta groaned and cracked his eyes open. Bright sunlight nearly blinded him. What happened?

Oh yes. His father shot him with his trident.

Where am I? He lifted a hand to shade his eyes and took stock of his surroundings. He was on a rock not too far from the island where Bulma lived. He turned and was face to face with his father and best friend. His father looked stern, but Goku was grinning with the 'I-know-something-you-don't-know' grin.

Vegeta narrowed his eyes. Goku grinning like that was never a good sign. What did his father hit him with anyway? He'd never felt ki like that before. "What did you do to me?"

"Prince Vegeta!" The king's voice rang out, completely ignoring his son's question. "You are hereby appointed ambassador to the human race."

Vegeta stared at his father blankly.

"You are to learn about humanity and life above our domain as to further improve on our own way of life." The king continued. "Furthermore you are expected to make a monthly report about your goings on. You will also be called upon to defend our waters like normal, but under the condition that you must return to the surface world after saving our people."

What? Vegeta gaped at his father. He can't possibly be suggesting I be banished to the human world.

King Vegeta smiled at the absolute confusion that was his son. "This is your only chance to refuse, so make your choice wisely."

Vegeta looked so lost. Goku burst out laughing. Even the king let loose a chuckle. Seeing the normally arrogant prince this out of whack was a treat. His father pointed down and Vegeta dropped his eyes. He let out a gasp of surprise.

He had human legs.

"How?!"

"I'm the king." His father said matter-of-factly. "I can do anything I want."

Vegeta's jaw dropped. The king had the power to give him human legs and was giving him permission to explore the human world? What kind of topsy-turvy world had he awoken to? This was crazy! This couldn't be right! Dubious, he looked to Goku for confirmation. The big merman grinned even wider and nodded.

"Why?!" He demanded, grasping for sense in this sudden senseless world.

"Cuz you love her Vegeta!" Goku all but sang. The king reached over and bopped him on the head, silencing him.

"You were never happy under the sea." The King looked solemnly at his son. "The more I tried to keep you down there, the more you rebelled and the more you hated me." He averted his eyes shamefully. "You are my only son. Your happiness is my happiness. Your future is my future. Even if it is above the waves among humans."

Vegeta was caught flat footed. His father actually approved of a human? And was letting him go to be with her?! How in the world was he supposed to respond to that?!

"I-I…" He stuttered. Movement on the shore caught his eye. A woman with flowing blue hair ran towards the water. She looked out across the ocean and waved frantically.

A blush flamed its way over his face. There was no real way to express the myriad of emotions he felt in that moment. He was happy, joyful, grateful, excited, eager, nervous, thankful, and flustered all at once. He figured there was no way to express his gratitude that didn't involve making a fool of himself. After all, he was a prince! There was an image to uphold. However, as hard as he tried not to show his joy, a genuine smile slowly overtook his confused scowl.

Vegeta scrambled to his feet. He met the king's eyes and bowed gracefully, almost touching the rock he stood upon with his forehead.

"My king, it is my honor and privilege to accept this appointment. May it bring prosperity to your reign evermore."

King Vegeta looked tenderly at his son. "You've chosen a fine mate." He clapped a hand on his son's shoulder as he straightened. "I shall miss you, Vegeta."

Vegeta nodded stiffly, though not unkindly. He was more touched than he was wont to admit. He gripped the king's own shoulder and brought him in for a fierce, slightly awkward hug that neither Vegeta knew how to take properly.

He released his father before turning and diving gracefully into the water. He broke the surface and swam powerfully to shore. Bulma rushed out into the water to meet him. They met in the surf. He lifted her free of the water and held her tightly. She gripped him just as ferociously. They embraced in the midst of the crashing waves. They were almost knocked sideways by the force of the waves. Bulma laughed with wild abandon, eager to be with this man. Vegeta grinned madly, absolutely enthralled with the woman in his arms. They pulled away slightly and smiled at each other. Neither regretting their choice.

And then he kissed the girl. And she kissed him back.

*Back on the rock*

"Well, that's a happy ending." Goku grinned. After a moment of watching the happy pair, he sighed. "I'm gonna miss him. Who's gonna keep him out of trouble now?"

King Vegeta quirked an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?" He gave the confused merman a mischievous smile and pointed his trident in his direction. "You're going with him."

Goku let out a surprised squawk as the same ki that changed Vegeta's tail into legs, hit Goku square in the chest. The big merman toppled back into the water. Conscious, but flailing as he tried to swim without knowing how to use his new legs.

King Vegeta laughed aloud and sent Goku to the shore on a wave of water. The king watched him float towards the couple on the beach, grinning to himself before returning back into the sea. He had to prepare for the changes his son would make when he returned. More specifically, for the mate his son would return with.

Vegeta caught sight of the black mop of hair floating towards them and broke the kiss. He groaned. "You've got to be kidding me."

Bulma looked behind her and giggled at the former merman floating in the surf. "Looks like we've got a friend." Vegeta growled low in his throat and Bulma rolled her eyes. "Aww, c'mon Vegeta. It can't be all that bad, can it?"

"You have no idea." Vegeta muttered. He sighed and nudged Goku with his foot. "Kakkarot, what are you doing here?"

Goku sheepishly smiled up at his best friend. "I'm supposed to be your bodyguard. Can't leave the palace without me I guess." He lifted his bare leg and wiggled the toes. "Little help?"

Vegeta groaned and hauled Goku to his feet. Bulma averted her eyes with a squeak. "What is it with you mermen and showing up naked?"

"No idea what that means!" Goku said cheerily.

"Of course you don't." Bulma smacked herself in the forehead. "Kakkarot, is it?"

"Call me Goku."

"Right. Goku. C'mon inside. Let's get you two cleaned up." She started back to the house.

"I can't believe you followed me." Vegeta grumbled as he helped Goku find his footing.

"Well you know, I couldn't just let you go off and have an adventure without me." Goku said cheekily. Vegeta scowled and dropped him. Unused to human legs, Goku fell to the sand with a yelp.

Bulma turned and chuckled as the two started fighting. They were best friends alright. A sly smile spread over her face as she studied them. Speaking of friends…

"You know Goku, I have this friend you ought to meet."

Goku looked up at her. "Yeah?"

"Yeah. Her name's Chichi."

THE END