A Wonderful Life
By: SomeRandomPerson648
Chapter 16, Peace Time
A/N: Hey! So this chapter is going to show what had been happening on Earth, and it will throw a few seeds for later! With that out the way, enjoy!
As Earth's greatest threat explored the Universe's vast land, the Dragon team was left completely unaware of what is soon to come
But in the mean time, the group rest from their recent battle...
It had been a months since Cell's defeat, and things calmed since then, both socially and privately. Bulma has gone back to managing her company while both Trunks' train alongside their father, the older one having now learned the art of bottling in his problems, yet the 'problem' never takes stage, nor does it ever leave his mind
Prestina was the only one who experienced the greatest change. Throughout her time with the team she's grown comfortable with the members of the Z team and more so with the Briefs family
Bulma was a sort of motherly figure for her, kind and considerate towards her, but always strict and near unforgiving to the other men. 'Be more like her' she would often hear, which pleased Prestina as much as it made her uncomfortable, very. She also took express care of Prestina as she grew and cared for her, seeing as she was the only girl in the family, it would be a major waste to leave her to fend for herself
Kid Trunks was also more of a younger sibling, always playing pranks and practical jokes, but never taking too kindly to one's played against him. She didn't know what it was like to have a younger sibling, but seeing Trunks was about what she expected
Vegeta, however, was less family like and more like an acquaintance, not overly friendly but not cold. He held a conversation but for the most part he kept to himself, training and getting stronger
And finally Adult Trunks. He was friendly to Prestina, often attending to her needs diligently and always making light conversation. The two grew friendly with each other, Prestina being his first real friend he's ever made that wasn't already friends with his mother, and Trunks being her best friend in her greatest moment of need
Of everyone she's grown to know, Prestina was most attached to Adult Trunks. The two were often seen together hanging out, whether it was exploring parts of the city or doing mundane things like watching T.V. Trunks was almost always willing to show Prestina the things that Earth had to offer, and Prestina was always curious to learn more
As for the others Gohan and Videl's relationship had begun to grow. The day before, the two went on a small date as Goku and Hurcule observed from the sidelines. Meanwhile, Goten had just passed his grade with flying colors! Chi-Chi began enjoying and even looking forward to Goku's telepathic company while she cooked and cleaned as well
Sadly, Krillin's stay at Kame house had extended. Krillin was still contemplating as to what he would do, isolating himself and Marron from 18. Every passing day hurt him more than the last without 18, but he endured through it all. It wasn't just for himself that he split from 18, but for Marron as well, even if she couldn't understand what was happening
Meanwhile, 18 began staying in Monster Island and helped 17 protect the island. Though Krillin was intent on avoiding her, 18 was also intent on isolating herself, never quite working up the courage to confront him. She and 17 began to brainstorm and research important morals and values to upkeep, something that they've never done before. But for 18's family, 17's love life and themselves the two tried their best to improve themselves, fearful of the people they'd become if they didn't. Of the people they were years ago...
Vegeta did his level best to continue his life beyond the events of his last battle, but it wasn't rare to spot him staring at Cell's room, a reminder of his actions. He also spared with Kakarot every once and a while, but not with the same vigor as before. The family life mellowed him out, after the death of his family he became much more involved with them. In fact, today was yet another display of his new attitude...
Bulma sat in her square office as 16 stood at her side. She browsed the company emails she received while 16 spectated, matters of possible experiments, new patents and smaller business ventures were few of what she saw
"Dad always made this so easy." She commented as she drank from her coffee
Suddenly, the door cracked open as Future Trunks peeked through the opening
"Can I come in mom?" He requested. She nodded in response, allowing Trunks to walk through and close the door behind him
"I'm sorta busy right now son, could you tell me what you need?"
"I, um, wanted to ask if I could borrow money for the Satan Fair today." He said nervously, enough though he was well over twenty years old he still acted like a shy child when asking his mother for things
"The Satan fair? Honey that's just a waste of time, why do you want to go?"
"Actually it's not my idea. Videl gave Gohan, and a few others free tickets, and Gohan wants us to come as well. Father also decided he wanted to spend time with me and...well me. Plus Prestina is coming along, I'd be great to show her around the fair. And I believe Krillin and Marron are coming too." Trunks argued his case, suprising Bulma. He was oddly adamant about going to some silly fair, but his reasons were well enough
"Huh, Vegeta is going too? I thought he'd just say 'fairs are a stupid Earthling's waste of time.' Guess he really has changed." She commented. "I guess here's three hundred for the tickets, but the rest is out of your allowance, okay?" She said as she pulled out three hundred Zeni in cash from her purse and gave it to Trunks
"Thanks mom, aren't you coming too?" He asked, to which she shook her head
"No, I have to introduce a new scientist in an hour, and I have lots of Emails to revise."
"Ah, ok. Love you, bye." He added before quickly walking out the room and closing the door
"You should have accepted, Mrs. Bulma. It is unwise to exclude yourself from family outings, it weakens the bond between you all." 16 informed, to which Bulma chuckled a little
"Yeah, I would have if this stuff wasn't so important. It's not every day that we get another head researcher, I have to greet them in person to keep up appearances."
Chi-Chi walked out of the room wearing her casual clothing. She had her hair all in one bun, and she wore small golden earrings. She had a light pink shirt on and a pair of dark blue jeans with black tennis shoes and she had no makeup on. It was different from her usual outfit, but more comfortable as well. By her side was Goku, wearing an orange shirt with dark red patterns on it. He also wore a pair of jeans and blue tennis shoes, plus the halo still floated over his head as he walked through the door
"What's the name of the fair we're going to again?" Goku asked Chi-Chi
"It's Satan Fair, and shouldn't you know that already?" She asked as Goku chuckled a little and scratched the back of his head
"Sorry, stuff passes my mind all the time." Goku said as the two sat in the hallway to wait for Gohan
"So... how's Gohan doing with Videl?" Chi-Chi asked as Goku chuckled again
Chi-Chi, as close as she was with Gohan, didn't hear much about what went on between Gohan and Videl. No matter how much she pestered him he didn't disclose anything aside from where they went and what they did, maybe even a few 'it was great.' But Gohan talked more with Goku, since they were both men they understood each other better than she could
"Weeelll, they're doing great. What else is there to say?" Goku said, to which Chi-Chi pouted
"Don't play dumb with me! I mean what is going on between them? Where do they stand? Has anything changed?" Chi-Chi specified, getting more and more excited. Goku sighed slightly as he knew what she meant
"Well...there is one thing that's different...since the tournament." Goku said, taking Chi-Chi by surprise. This wasn't the type of gossip she'd except from her Gohan
"What is it? Surely it can't be that bad, right?" She said. Goku shook his head
"You're wrong. This is very important." He said in a grave tone, Scaring Chi-Chi
"By what I can tell she's been acting different after we revived her." He explained. "Gohan doesn't say much but I can tell that she's lost some of her edge. I don't know what happened to her, but I'm afraid she isn't as strong anymore, like she got soft, and I'm not sure if Gohan will like her the same way as before."
"What do you mean?! They've been friends for a while now! They should have a stable relationship!" Chi-Chi struggled to keep her voice down
"It's much more complicated than that. Saiyans are attracted to strong partners. It's why Vegeta's with Bulma, and I'm with you. And since Gohan is half Saiyan, I'm afraid he will notice this change. But since he is human, he could probably ignore that, I guess it's something keep in mind."
"...So that's what you mean. Wow, I never knew..." Chi-Chi said to herself, somewhat flattered by the complement on her strength yet worried
"Yeah, it's a bit tricky. I didn't think about it much until Kimg Kai pointed it out."
"Wait...you told someone about this?"
"N-not told! He's the guy who help me talk to you from OtherWorld after all!" Goku defended himself, but Chi-Chi was still a bit peeved
"It'd be a bit better if we'd keep this private." She said, even though Gohan's love life was already well documented by three other people
It was just then that Gohan and Goten left their rooms. Gohan wore a navy blue Hawaiian T-shirt with a pair of grey cargo shorts and black tennis shoes. His hair was the same as always, but it shined a little by the water he used. Goten wore the same, trying to inmate his older brother. Gohan wasn't one for dressing up, and it really showed
"Hey! We're ready to go now." Gohan said enthusiastically. But was stopped by his mother
"Wait wait wait, you're going out in that?"
"Hm? Well yeah, we're going to the fair."
"Yeah, there's nothing wrong with what he's wearing." Goku added, to which both of the other boys nodded their heads
"I guess I'll have to show you how to properly dress up." Chi-Chi sighed, it was hard living with mostly boys who had no sense of fashion or femininity, if only she had a daughter
Goku and Chi-Chi got up from the couch and gathered around. Gohan, Goten and Chi-Chi held their arms onto Goku as he attempted to sense Videl's energy. After a few seconds, the Son family disappeared from their house
"Damn, I never thought I would ever do something like this."
Vegeta thought while he waited outside. He wore a navy blue shirt with a white undershirt. He also wore khaki pants and dark blue shoes with white tips. He waited just outside the door to Capsule Corp paitently for both of his sons and Prestina. After a few minutes of waiting, the three came out of the building
Future Trunks wore a loose white shirt with dark blue sleeves, the center of the shirt said 'Capsule Corp.' in big letters. He also wore grey sweat pants and black shoes with white laces and a brown belt, all reminiscent to how he looked like when he was younger
"You need better cloths." Vegeta lectured his older son, who looked at his attire
"R-really? I thought I looked fine?" He thought. Clearly Trunks never learned how to dress, or at least learned from someone who had no sense of fashion either
Kid Trunks wore a very loose yellow tank top with dark blue shorts and black shoes with white laces, displaying the same problem as his older self, guess it might've been inherited rather than learned. But he got a pass only because he was still young
"I need to get you two better cloths." Vegeta commented as observed both of his son's outfits. They need some definite tweaking if they're going to be going out, but now was a little late
Finally, Prestina wore a white t-shirt that also said 'Capsule Corp.' In big letters as well. She wore baggy dark red pants and red high heels, a past outfit of Bulma's that she'd unconsciously taken up. She also used her ki to float a little, as she didn't know how to walk in high heels
She was...learning. Hopefully not from Trunks. Usually Bulma herself would interfere with the clothing, but Prestina (And both Trunkses it seemed) didn't have a sense of what was to be worn casually and what's worn on special occasions, such as today
"Lets get the show on the road, we're going to be late." Vegeta ordered as he began to float in mid-air. The three began to float as well until the four of them flew away. Kid Trunks spun himself around while he flew
"Now Trunks, I don't want you and Goten to make too much trouble. And Mirai Trunks, don't let those two destroy anything. Do you two understand?" Vegeta said, to which both Future Trunks and Kid Trunks nodded. "Good. I'll be with you two, so you better behave like rational adults." Vegeta spoke strictly to his sons. The two of them get along well, but can easily get carried away
"Yeah dad, we won't scare any people again." Kid Trunks promised
"Yes father. But why do you have to put me on a leash too?" Future Trunks asked
"Because of the time when you three nearly desintegrated a farmer, and the time you three nearly destroyed half the city, and the other time you three played around and accidentaly blew out the power to the whole city. Just because you're an adult dosen't mean you can't be punished." Vegeta told Future Trunks, to which he and Kid Trunks felt a little embarassed. It was easy for Future Trunks to go along with the kids, but he forgets that HE is the mature one sometimes
"Right...We won't do any of that today." Future Trunks promised as Kid Trunks nodded his head. Prestina giggled in the background. It was true, whenever she was with them, Adult Trunks would usually follow along with what the kids were doing. Not in a childish way but just silly
A small detail that Prestina also noticed was that Future Trunks and Vegeta did seem to put their conflict behind them, since now they interacted more and more with each other. At least now Prestina could put their conflict behind her as well, and stave away from accidentally reading people's minds
The group quickly flew for a many minutes before finally reaching Satan City. There were dozens of towering buildings and cirucular tunnels that went through the city, some skyscrapers in the shape of toothpicks a sphere on top. But what made this city stand out from the rest is the statue of Hurcule Satan in the center of the city, along with the World Martial Arts grounds near the center, and the large fair along the side of the city
The group landed at the entrance of the fair, a large walled off park with many large rides sticking out of the cover of the surrounding walls. There at the gate was the ticket booth, attached to the side of the large gates with a window
In front of the them was Videl. She wore a puffy pink dress that had a white coller and long sleeves, and she had a yellow cloth wrapped around her waist too. She had a dark purple cloth on her legs and black slippers too. She also wore a golden medalion that had a green emerald around her neck. She was majestic, and it was clear that she took her date seriously and with lots of anxiety, a pity that Gohan was the complete opposite
She waited anxiously for Gohan to arrive and when she saw the Briefs she and waved at them as they approached, holding multiple colored plastic wristbands in the other hand, presumably for the Son Family. "Hey guys! how're all of you?" She asked kindly as Vegeta took note of her easy going attitude. Strange, he remembered her to be a lot meaner
"Maybe it was the beating from the tournament." He concluded almost immediately, a beating as badly as hers would've petrified the average Saiyan, let alone a human
"Good! I can't wait to see what this place has!" Prestina exclaimed, she grew more and more excited as she observed the passing carts zipping through the rides far above the fair walls, as well as the massive amount of people going in and out of the large metal gates. Kid Trunks says that the rides are fun, but Future Trunks hasn't been in one, like her. He never mentioned why though. In any case, she'd managed to hype herself up
"Has Gohan not arrived yet?" Future Trunks asked as Videl frowned a little
"Not yet, but I'm sure he'll make it." She hoped. Just as she said it, Goku, Chi-Chi, Goten and Gohan appeared beside them out of thin air
"Wow, how uncanny." Vegeta remarked
"Hey! Sorry we're late, just a little bit of location problems." Goku excused as he rubbed the back of his head. In all fairness it was hard to discern a ki signature from millions just like it
Both Videl and Gohan faced each other, both nervous. So much so that the both of them held a tightly clenched fist behind them to center themselves
"So...I um, like the dress."
"Oh, thanks! And I um, like the shirt." She returned the compliment, even if it wasn't all too true
"Really? Mom said I should've worn something fancier."
"Well, guess moms are right sometimes." They shared a laugh, though something as silly as a shirt didn't bother either of them
The group walked up to the booth large metal entrance gates that opened up the park grounds. Vegeta and Future Trunks went up to the ticket booth while the rest of the group went in line to the gate. The man behind the counter looked up to see the two men
"How many?"
"Three adults and one kid." Future Trunks said. The man typed a few buttons on his keyboard
"That will be two hundred fifty zeni." The man said. Trunks pulled out his wallet and pulled out the cash his mom gave him. After some trading, counting and processing the man eventually handed the two four colorful plastic wristbands
"Here you go, enjoy." He said as he passed the change to Trunks
"Thanks." He said in return as he took the money and tickets. He and Vegeta walked into the line leading to the entrance and cut between a few people to get to the rest of the group
"Here we are, four passes to Satan Fair." Future Trunks presented, giving Vegeta, Prestina, and Kid Trunks their bands, and everyone placed them on (Prestina needed some help with hers though). After a few minutes of waiting, the group finally went through the entrance of the fair
They entered to see a large plane with over hundreds of structures, stands, rides, trading posts and even tents with many different trinkets and gifts. There were many clashing colors and themes in the park, no one post looked the same as the other, giving everything a vibrant and unique touch. There was a large circular building in the middle that was labled as 'Food Court' as well, already being sized up by the Saiyans and half-Saiyans
"So, what're we going to do first?" Gohan asked everyone. Chi-Chi chuckled a little, and so did a few others
"No, don't mind us. We're going on a few rides with the kids, you two have a date to get on." Chi-Chi said, making Gohan and Videl blush. Kid Trunks and Goten snikered immaturely at the mention of a date
"Okay then, we'll see you guys later." Gohan said as he held Videl's hand and walked away with her
"Hm... Hey Trunks. Could you tell me what a date is?" Prestina asked, yet another new term that she was learning from Earth
"What? Oh a date! Well... I guess it's when two people go outside and have fun together." Trunks explained in the simplest terms he knew
"Ohh. Like we do?"
"Yep, but guess the term would be 'friendly date.' Gohan and Videl are in a 'romantic date' if that makes sense." Trunks further explained, adding more nuance to the term
"There's a difference? Guess I still have more to learn!" She though, content with having learned even more about human culture
"Hehehe, I thought you two were going on romantic dates." Kid Trunks teased
"Yeah! Like love birds!" Goten followed along, both kids imitating kissing sounds to further their point
But Adult Trunks, having enough of their antics, bonked them on the head with two fists. It was rude to make assumptions like that, it makes people uncomfortable, namely Prestina. And Trunks too
Prestina only giggled as she watched the three bickering between themselves. She loved seeing the love and care that Trunks' family displayed, even in the strangest moments
As the kids and Future Trunks argued immaturity, Krillin came joging into the park, carrying Marron at his shoulder. He wore a casual red T-shirt with the word 'Tacos' on it. Aside from that he wore simple khaki pants with blue sneakers, and his hair was actually cut to be shorter and a bit spiky. Marron wore a wonderful light blue dress with matching shoes and a bow
"Sorry we're late guys, I got lost a little on the way here." Krillin excused, to which Maron nodded in agreement
"It's alright, join the party." Goku invited
Krillin said as he put Maron down. She wobbled a little before walking over to Goten and Kid Trunks, who've stopped fighting and already began exploring along with Prestina and Adult Trunks
"So, where to first?" Vegeta asked the gang of adults
"Well Gohan and Videl went to the left, probably towards the wheel. I say we go to the right to the fun rides." Chi-Chi planned, everyone nodding their heads in agreement
With that the group was off. Goten, Trunks, and Maron ran towards the rides while Future Trunks and Prestina ran after them. Meanwhile, everyone else slowly walked in their direction. While the kids and two adults ran in circles, the group of adults conversed about the recent events
Bulma walked down the hall, towards the conference room. She had set 16 to help around the workshop and lab while she took care of something. She wore a bright red dress that went up to her chest and down to her knees. She also had a matching pair of red high heels, and a pearl necklace, along with two golden earrings. She dressed to impress, but not TOO much, not to give the wrong idea. Yet her marvelous figure did all the talking for her
Once she reached the room, she opened the door to reveal a few men in suits, her board of directory. The most of them were old, they'd been around since her father was still head of the company. As much as Bulma liked them and found them useful, it could be a pain sometimes to convince them into actions they saw as 'non profitable'
But among them was also a lady. She had wild brown hair and black glasses. She wore a short dress that had a red and blue pattern, along with matching high heels and black stockings that covered her forearms and legs. She stood against the wall patiently with a small grin on her face, one that displayed to everyone that things were going her way
Everyone turned to see Bulma walk in. The men in suits all reached in to shake her hand. "We're very glad you could make it on time Mrs. Bulma. Now, to introduce the newest head of research. Her name is Jinzo Nijuichi, and she has quite the record." The oldest man said as Jinzo grinned
"Please, call me Jin." She corrected as she outstreached her arm towards Bulma
"And I'm Bulma Briefs, but call me Bulma." They both introduced themselves as they both shook hands
"So, it has been agreed upon that you will personally tour the new head, correct?" An old man asked Bulma, to which she simply nodded
"Good, then we shall take our leave, farewell." The man excused before all the men left the room, leaving the only two women alone
"No matter how many times I'm around them, I never get used to how they behave, almost robotically." Bulma added to make friendly conversation. Jin chuckled a little and smiled
"That's true, men in suits are the strangest, especially around powerful women." Jin mused, the two shared a small laugh, now in well enough terms
"Alright then, let's get this show on the road. If you would follow me to the lab, I'll show you to your new workplace." Bulma said before walking out of the room with Jin close behind
Time went by very smoothly for the group, as they all went through the whole fair. Gohan and Videl went on a romantic journey around the park while the kids played in the rides. Future Trunks and Prestina joined in aswell, but the roller coasters weren't as fun, since they could already fly. Still, the experience was new for both of them, Prestina for never having heard of a fair before, and Trunks for never having seen a fair before, another thing he missed out on in the future
The group of adults talked mainly about Cell, but they also included a few trivial things, like their new lives, their daily work, and Prestina
Goku was training rigorously under the Supreme Kai and learning how to better control his ki, but also paying many visits back home to prevent him from getting homesick. Chi-Chi talked about the farm she started with the boys as well as their studies. Vegeta didn't mention much, training and the occasional outing with his sons and Prestina, sometimes Bulma too, were what he mentioned
Krillin's life was the most interesting, or rather different. The other three knew that he split with 18 after a major fight broke out, but only Goku and Vegeta knew the true reason why he left her, Chi-Chi was under the impression that the love simply 'died out'
Vegeta's guilt crunched his gut as Krillin spoke about his new life with Roshi, mundane yet entertaining. Marron liked the beach and loved to play along the shore and swim as much as she could, which at least entertained her. Krillin never verbally stated his true feelings towards his wife, nor for his new life. But Vegeta could guess what they were, and they were accurate
"She made the same mistake as I did. And now she pays the price." He thought, imagining himself and Bulma in their shoes until he removed the thought, finding it too depressing for the moment
Elsewhere, Kid Trunks and Goten glanced at each other mischievously as they looked at the kid in front of them. They had a small plan that just might do the job. But their grins alone revealed enough to Future Trunks, who was not willing to get in trouble for those two
"You shouldn't be playing around like that, not after what father told us."
"But TTrrruunkkksss! That kid's a big jerk to those other kids!" Goten groaned
"Yeah! We just want to give him a tiny scare!" Kid Trunks whinned. Prestina and Future Trunks looked up to see that the kid in question was pushing around a few other kids, like any bully. This tipped him over in their favor
"...Fine, but no energy attacks, got it you two?" Future Trunks asked, to which the two cheered
"Oh, can I join!" Marron exclaimed, both Goten and Trunks nodded
"Yeah yeah yeah! You could distract him for a sec and then we could pop out and go Super Saiyan!" Trunks planned as the two sprinted away
Just as the kids left, the was an ominous voice that spoke from just behind Adult Trunks and Prestina, startling them
"Those are some mighty fine kids you got there, sunny boy." A man with a thick southern accent said. Trunks and Prestina turned around to see three strange looking figures
The first one was short and purple, with a large lime green hat that had a red ball on top. He wore yellow sunglases that covered his eyebrows and a yellow rain coat that was unbuttoned and it streached all the way to his ankles. He had a large red bow that had the letters 'RR' on it, and he wore a barely visible white shirt. He also wore light blue pants and black shoes. And finally, he had yellow lips, purple skin and two silver rings attached to his ears
The second one was the tallest, but also the most robotic. His skin was a metalic grey that shinned against the evening sun. His black hair was all pulled down onto a long pony tail, and he was bare chested. He wore a brown strap across his shoulder that attached a brown shoulder pad on his left shoulder. He wore brown gloves and brown boots with orange socks, but the most interesting part was that he only wore a large dark green cloth around his legs. He also had a brown belt with the cloth attached to it, along with a golden belt buckle that had the same 'RR' in the shape of a bow. Finally, he had no eyebrows and two small silver rings attached to his ears as well
The final man was slightly taller than Future Trunks, but still shorter than the second man. He had grey silver hair that flowed down to end of his neck, and he had a dark green trucker hat with a light brown front that had the same 'RR' bow logo on it. He was bare chested, but wore a small light brown vest over his dark green overalls that had the 'RR' logo on the left side. He had eyebrows that matched his hair and two small silver rings on each ear rather than one on each, and he also had brown gloves on
The trio stared at Kid Trunks, Goten Marron as the two mini Saiyans terrorized the single child. Future Trunks could immediately tell one thing that was very off about these men. They didn't have any Ki signatures
Trunks tensed at the sight of the three, especially since they didn't have any ki. He clenched his left hand as he looked at them, immediately raising his voice and guard. The action caused Prestina to panic a little, who couldn't tell why he was so hostile so suddenly
"And who the hell are you..." Future Trunks demanded in a menacing voice that caught their attention
"Oh my! I seem to've lost my manners. The name's Android 13, but you can call me 13 for short. The big one is 14, and the pint sized one is 15. They don't really talk all that much." Android 13 introduced as he received an irritated side glare from 15
13 outstreached his right arm to shake hands with Trunks, but the time traveler refused it
"If you three are Androids, then what the hell are you doing here, and who activated you. Last I checked we destroyed Gero's lab." Trunks said as 13 put down his hand
As he said this, Marron walked up to 15 and curiously looked at him. The small Android grinned and lifted up his hat slightly, revealing a glass dome full of cables and lights. The little girl gasped as he put down his hat, but Future Trunks noticed this and set her just behind him, not trusting the Androids for a second
"Oh, you want answers? Well for one, we just came here on a little trip. The technical word for it is 'Scouting Mission,' but don't tell anyone I said that." 13 explain in a somewhat cocky manner, which made Trunks slightly confused. "And since we're well accuanted with the late Dr, you should know by now that he has far too many labs lying around. And as for who activated us, well, I don't want to spoil the surprise, but you'll find out pretty soon." 13 said as the group of adults walked towards them, along with Goten and Kid Trunks. Everyone except the kids eyed the trio suspiciously
"So Trunks...who's the guest..." Vegeta asked, also raising his guard quickly, along with Goku as 13 turned to smile at them
"His name is Android 13. The other two are 14 and 15." Trunks introduced them in response
"Are they here to cause trouble?" Goku asked, 13 chuckled a little at the question
"Oh don't get your brain in a twist. We here were just leavin', right guys?" 13 asked as 15 nodded. 14 stared at Goku as he stared back, unwavering in his conviction
"Oh! You guys look pretty strong! Are you going to come back to fight!" Goten asked as Kid Trunks nodded. 13 kneeled on his right knee so that he was at eye level with the two boys
"Sorry sport, but we aren't really welcome. But tell you what, next time you see us...let's have a friendly spar, you and me. What do ya' say?" 13 offered as he ruffled up Goten's hair a little. Goten smiled at the thought while Chi-Chi gave 13 a deathly stare
"Sure!! See you later!" Goten said as 13 stood up. 14 flew up to the air while 15 got a container from his pocket and opened it. He drank what seemed to be normal alcohol for a bit, before closing it back up again. 13 and 15 began to hover over the ground a little
"It seems we've overstayed our welcome, farewell!" 13 said, waving goodbye along with 15 as they flew away. Only Goten and Kid Trunks waved back, the rest of the adults continued to stare
"...I didn't like them, not at all." Chi-Chi said aloud as almost everyone agreed
"Why? We haven't seen them before, and they looked pretty friendly." Prestina said, still confused by the tension. She was also actively trying not to read their minds, in order to avoid memories or feelings she wouldn't want to experience
"No...that was just a face. Those Androids are good at lying..." Future Trunks revealed, though it still didn't dawn upon Prestina. Just then Videl and Gohan walked towards the group
"Hey, what happened? Why's everyone staring at the sky?" Videl asked
"Androids, more of them. And something tells me that they aren't here for no reason at all..." Future Trunks explained with a hateful glare. How could he not see this? Videl remained confused, but Gohan was suddenly serious as well
"And what numbers where they? Hopefully they're the only ones that could appear." Gohan said
"No, they probablly are. They're 13, 14, and 15." Goku declared. "Last I checked Bulma said that 12 through 9 were just models, and Eighter was considered a failure. I still wonder where he is after everything." Goku sidetracked as he recalled his Android friend, Android 8, from his childhood
"Wait, what do you mean Androids? I thought they were our friends? Like 16, 17 and 18." Prestina wondered, forcing a sigh from Future Trunks
"That wasn't always the case. In fact, the Androids were our sworn enemies once upon a time, they ruined my future and are the reason why I'm here. To protect another time." Trunks explained, Vegeta put a hand on his sons shoulder to ease his tension, he could see the grip of his fist beginning to draw blood
Trunks took a moment to calm down, grateful that his father was there to provide comfort. "Its...a real can of worms. I should explain it to you later, when we have a moment." He promised Prestina, who nodded in response
"Either way we should get going, the park is closing soon and my dad gave me a curfew." Videl said as she waved goodbye to everyone as she floated away
"Yeah, we should get going as well, it takes a while for me to fly home." Krillin said as he picked up Marron and left
"Welp, I guess this is bye for now! NIMBUS!!!" Goku yelled at the sky
After a second, the trusty golden cloud flew into sight. It stopped just in front of Chi-Chi so that she could climb on. The Nimbus flew away as everyone said their goodbyes. Goku, Gohan and Goten then flew after it as they left Vegeta, Kid Trunks, Prestina and Future Trunks to stand there
"Wow, I didn't think that people could ruin the mood so quickly." Kid Trunks spoke sarcastically. Unlike Goten, he noticed the dirty faces and hidden meanings, but he still didn't know what was up with those three guys
"...Come on, we've had enough fun for the day. And you two are grounded. I'll see you both at 1AM in the Gravity Room for your punishment" Vegeta ordered as he flew away. Kid Trunks and Adult Trunks both groaned a little before going up to pursue Vegeta, along with Prestina just behind them
"Well, I guess there's still a lot I don't know about them." She thought, surprised by all of their sudden hostility. Luckily for her, non of it was directed at her
Jin and Bulma entered the fairly empty workshop to see a clean and well organized room. There was a door that lead to a small office, and the walls hung various different tools. There where a few metal tables, and one table had a desktop on it. There were also many beakers and burners on the tables as well
"And this is near the end of the tour. Here we work on different typs of technology." Bulma said as they walked towards the small office. They entered the room to see a single desk with a computer on it. It was plain, but it wasn't the place where they would spend the most time in
"And this here's your office. Here you'll store all of your personal documents and folders, so you won't really be here very often." Bulma said as she closed the door to the office
"Ok, that's it. I hope to see you work hard!"
"Thank you Mrs. Bulma, I won't let you down!"
"Good! Now then, it's almost closing time. I'll take my leave, but feel free to explore the office some more, 16 will lock up when you're done." Bulma mentioned as she walked out of the room
"Wait a minute, 16 is here? But where?" Jin asked herself. Just as she thought it, Android 16 walked into the room
"Ge-Gebo?!" Jin asked as she received a quick flash of memory about her late son. But after a second, she composed herself
"...So my calculations are correct. You are an Android as well. My scanners were unable to detect you."
"Wait! What're you talking about?!" Jin attempted to compose herself, trying to play it cool, but failing miserably
"But the question is, what model are you? You also must be related to Gero, as you refer to me by the name of whom I am modeled after."
'Jin' was able to gather her thoughts and sigh, guess her plan was already soiled. She had to think of an out quickly, but if push comes to shove she'd have to do something rash. Fight
"It looks like you can sense ki. Very well then, I shall reveal myself. I am Android 21...and I am Dr. Gero's wife...well, Ex wife." 21 revealed, surprising 16
"You must have been converted into an Android. But not by Gero himself, as I have no record of those documents."
"That's correct. I wasn't converted by my husband. Instead I was converted a few months ago, right after the Majin threat." She explained
"I see. So what is your goal here. I assume that you are still affiliated with the army." 16 got straight to the point
"Actually, before I tell anything else...will you tell Bulma about this?" 21 questioned, tense and beginning to sweat
"...No...I will not..." 16 said, surprising 21 and letting her breathe a sigh of relief. If her cover would've gotten blown this fast, then she wouldn't forgive herself
"Thank you, and yes, I still am. I'm... their new leader after all, and have been for a while now. It wasn't until recently that I became an Android, so I'm...still working the kinks on that..." 21 explained further, sort of revealing her true personality under her guise of 'Jin' or 'Leader of the Red Ribbon Army, something rarely seen
"...It's...good to know that Gebo's mother is still alive. I am sure that he would be glad..." 16 added, thinking about the man he was modeled after. Even if he didn't know him well, he knew him well enough that he was just like he was. 21 smiled at the thoughtfulness of 16
"...Thank you...16." She said, and for a moment she showed a bit of weakness, exposing herself to what she still saw as her own son. After a second of silence, her head began to churn a little as she realized what she was doing. Her mood suddenly shifted as her smile left her
"But I'm only here to research on Capsule Corperation, and nothing more. So are you going to help me? If not then get out of my way." 21 spoke agressively. 16 noticed her sudden change of mood and responded acordingly
"If it means I will be able to see the state of the fallen army, then I shall." 16 agreed with shockingly little hesitation, making 21 smirk with pleasure
"Good, now it's getting late isn't it? I'll take my leave. Tut-alu!" She said as she walked out the room, a confident pep in her step
"Something is wrong. Her personality immediately shifted from the past recordings, she is changing, and not for the better." 16 theorized. "With this alliance I will feed her information on Capsule Corp until I can see into her plans. But I musn't tell Bulma, it will only make matters worsen." 16 thought tactically as he turned off the lights to the room and left
Krillin landed on the beach of Kami house. It was getting dark, and the sunset had just passed. Krillin set down Marron and the two walked towards the house
"Wait!" A voice said behind them. Both Krillin and Maron turned around to see 18, in a ranger uniform similar to 17's, but without the gloves. She looked a little different. In fact...there were what almost looked like bags under her eyes. How long was she awake for? Weeks? She's normally allowed to go a single week without sleep before it began affecting her, so seeing bags was worrying
"Mommy!" Marron yelled in exitement as she rushed forward and hugged her mother. The two hugged for a full minute before 18 set her daughter down
"I missed you too sweetheart. Can you go in the house and start brushing your teeth? Mommy and Daddy need to have a talk." 18 said. Marron nodded her head and dashed inside Kami house, leaving Krillin and 18 alone
The two looked at each other for an awkward minute, there was much that needed to be said, but neither found the words to say it. Eventually it was 18 who broke the ice, the nerves got to her
"So...how're...things? It's um...been a while."
"... Good I guess. Nothing worth mentioning... And you? How're you?" Krillin asked with worry, seeing the bags under her eyes gave him the shivers
"Well...I'm currently living with 17 and helping him and his girlfriend around the island, mainly just helping with pochers and keeping the Cell jr.s in place." 18 responded as she kicked a little sand with her foot
"...That's good."
"Yeah...17 and I have also been working on our morals...with the help of his girlfriend...I have mine down on paper, so I don't forget." 18 chuckled a little as she pulled out a folded peice of paper from her pocket and handed it to Krillin as proof, hopefully this was enough to at least make her feel better about herself, but that failed
Krillin read through the piece of notebook paper a little. It was a list organized in bullet points with many simple and easy to follow statements. It included things like 'don't hurt people,' and 'never kill'
Seeing the words was like a blow to the gut for Krillin, and if he didn't feel bad before he definitely did now. Roshi was right...she didn't know any better did she?
"And where was I to tell her this?" He wondered, knowing damn well where
"Listen, I just wanted to say-" 18 began before she was inturrupted by Krillin
"No, let me say it..." Krillin said as he already knew what she was going to say. "These past months have been really lonely for me and Marron. Really all this time I've just been evading this moment because of how I thought it would turnout. But here goes...I'm sorry." He said, surprising 18. He's sorry?!?
"I'm sorry for being so insensitive and not realizing that you're really new to having morals and all. I'm sorry for not being there to care for you while you suffer from just leaving Cell's twisted mind. I'm sorry for not helping you improve your morals and help you get through your impulses. I'm sorry...for not being a good husband..." Krillin said as he stared at the sand, tears falling from his eyes
After months of thinking, Krillin had decided that he was to blame for what had happened. If he just knew what he was doing, he would have known to help 18 more, to do more for her than what he had. Because he felt it to be his responsibility that 18 didn't know any better
But after a second, 18 ran forward and hugged him, tears falling from her eyes as well
"No...you weren't EVER a bad husband Krillin, I was a bad wife. I should've known that hurting people isn't a good thing, but I did it anyway! All because I was so...stupid." She cried, but hesitating in the last sentence, the topic of Cell was still a spot spot for her. "And now because of me and 17 Cell was on the loose because we ruined him! I'm the one who should be sorry, not you!"
The couple hugged each other for several minutes, enjoying the other's warm presence that they hadn't felt in months
"But, you were the one hit the hardest by him, you and your brother..." Krillin thought to himself, knowing that 18 and 17 were tortured within Cell's mind for hours
In the end, both sides felt guilty over what had happened, 18 felt that she should have known better, but Krillin felt that he needed to do more, to be better for 18
But in reality, both of them were trying to find a way to fix what had happened, and had taken upon themselves to shoulder all of the responsibility, when in reality it was something that was meant for the both of them
After many minutes, the two let go and faced each other, both sniffling and wiping tears from their red eyes
"Wow...it took four months just to say that..." Krillin commented, forcing a chuckle out of the two
"Yeah...So, what do you say. Ready to go back home?" 18 asked, as Krillin nodded
"Listen...what happened to Cell wasn't right...but let's just forget about that for now...I can't stand being alone anymore."
"I can't stand being alone either."
The two hugged for a moment longer before Krillin then let go
"Marron!! Come out here!" Krillin yelled for their daughter. After a few seconds, she came running out the house, along with Master Roshi and Oolong
"So, you two are getting back together again. About time." Oolong remarked as Marron ran into Krillin's arms
"Here I thought you were going to let such a great dame to waste!" Roshi remarked. Usually, 18 would do something in retaliation, but right now she was so over the moon that she actually just let it go
"Yeah, sorry for taking so long Master Roshi." Krillin apologized
"Oh don't be, you and little Marron have been much needed company." Roshi said as the trio began to float
"Thanks for the hospitality you guys! We'll come back tommorow to pick up our stuff, goodbye!" Krillin said before flying away with 18 in tow. Oolong and Roshi waved as the trio left the beach
Although the two left with happy hearts, the issue had not yet been resolved. And yet, for the moment, both were willing to accept that, all for the sake of being in each other's arms again
Gohan rolled around in bed, unable to sleep. The day went well for him, In fact the date was great! But something was off...
"I don't know what happened to her, but I'm afraid she isn't as strong anymore, like she got soft, and I'm not sure if Gohan will like her the same way as before." The voice of Goku echoed through his mind. He managed to overhear the conversation between his parents, and tried to ignore the points that were made...until his date with Videl
"I don't want to admit it but it's true...something has changed in Videl. Has she really fallen from her old spirit?" Gohan thought as his mind was active as in the day time. His thoughts wandered mainly about Videl, but he soon had another thing to ocupy him...
Gohan's mind suddenly shifted into a hyper realistic memory that he has no recollection of
He was suddenly kneeling on the floor, in tears. He was in Bulma's kitchen, but there was a trail of blood that led to a lab coat in the middle of the floor. The room was battered and beat, as if it was older and more run through. There was an overwealming sensation that overcame Gohan, he felt like millions of daggers stabbed him in different places. Gohan forced out a yell that sounded much more like Adult Trunks than himself. The room was colored a blood red as he could feel his power expand and overflow
"Cell! Cell! CEEEEELLLLLL!!!!!!!" He yelled in furry as his aura exploded, destroying most of the kitchen and creating a hole in the roof. He dashed upwards and flew in the direction of a somewhat familliar Ki signature...
"Gohan...Gohan...Gohan!" A voice yelled inside of Gohan's mind, snapping him away from his day dream. When he came to his senses, his aura was golden, and radiated in the dark room
"What the, Piccolo?"
"Yeah, also me and Kami by default. Plus Dende aswell." The voice of Nail spoke to him, followed by many confirmations
"Wow, what happened?"
"Your power and mind were surging quickly, this really only happens with the bigger Trunks, but you aswell?" The voice of Kami inquired
"Gohan, what was it that you were dreaming about?" Dende asked
"Well, it wasn't a dream. I was just thinking about Videl and suddenly I was trapped in this memory. The odd part is that I'm not really sure where it came from, cause it sure isn't mine." Gohan explained, there was a moment of silence
"Then it must be Trunks'. Trunks has been getting memories of Vegeta after they fused, and you two did fuse after all." Piccolo stated
"That could be a reason, after all that kid has gone through enough to give nightmares for years." Nail commented
"...Well it would make sense, I did sound like him for a bit." Gohan thought
"What happened in the dream? It must be a very painful memory if it made you involuntarily transform." Asked the voice of Kami
"I mean, it was pretty vauge. All I saw was a blood trail leading to Bulma's kitchen. There was a lab coat with a little blood on it, along with what seemed like Bulma's pants. Suddenly I saw red and transformed into a Super Saiyan 2 for what seemed to be the first time. I then blew up the kitchen and went looking for something while yelling Cell's name." Gohan said
"It seems to me that you felt Trunks' memory, when Bulma died." The voice of Nail answered
"Wow, I didn't think he felt so much pain in that moment..." Gohan said
"That is true, Trunks has been through too much, even as a kid. I'm glad he's here with us." Dende said
"Then I could only assume how well he's doing now that there're more Androids." Gohan mentioned
"What?" The Namekians all asked, forcing Gohan to explain Trunks' encounter with 13, 14 and 15 in detail. When he was finished then others were left stunned
"So there are more threats to consider, I thought Majin Buu and Cell were the end of it..." Dende worried, the Dragonballs still weren't active yet so if anything happened now things would get dicey
"There's no need to worry, when the time comes we will deal with them accordingly." The voice of Kami reassured everyone
"Hm... I guess, I can see why Trunks hated Androids so much, at least more than before." Gohan wondered. "He was so against 17 and 18 turning good, and I can see why. But the emotions I felt as him..."
"Like we said, he's been through a lot. It's why, he is the way he is." Piccolo clarified. "When you see everyone you love die before you, it's hard to forgive those that hurt you."
Gohan though back to his outburst in anger way back when Cell and Buu were still a threat. He couldn't really understand why he punched his own father, even if the news of what he did to Cell was mind breaking. But now he had a better perspective
"Kami knows what he's going through now, trying to put things past him."
"Actually I don't." The voice of Kami joked
"Well, with that mystery solved we should get out of your hair. Goodnight Gohan." Piccolo said
"Night Gohan." The many voices dismissed as they left Gohan alone
"Wow, who knew..." Gohan thought as he finally laid still in bed. His conciousness now drifted into sleep...
Android 21 flew through the late evening sky, straight towards a hill alongside an open field. She stopped just in front of the side of the small mountain and spotted a metalic door, hidden behind some well placed bushes but still fairly visible. Beside it there was a panel stuck to the wall. She punching in the numbers and watched the metal doors make way for her
She floated in to see 13, 14, and 15 standing there, minding their own business. 13 also held a bag full of stolen chocolates, per 21's request
"Here ya' go ma'am. Might I say, your cravings are getting stranger and stranger by the day." 13 commented before 21 happily snatched the bag from his hands and began to claw through it
She tossed the bag onto a metal table in the living room and went down the hallway, walking into a room. Inside the room there was a massive desktop with an equally large control panel full of buttons that all did various actions and procedures, and above that was a large monitor
"Quit talking about that and tell me how it went!" 21 yelled impatiently at 13 while the other two stood in the corner. She slumped lazily into the rolling chair and unwrapped the chocolate bar in her hands
"Nothing much. We discovered that the weakest of the bunch can go Super Saiyan, and that the pink lady is also with them. The one that was with Majin Buu." 13 debriefed, the last one caused 21 to choke on her chocolate. "But, we were easily discovered. We didn't engage, and managed to smooth things with 'em."
"Damn it! The point was to be hidden and undetected! Now we've lost our suprise! How much did you reveal?" She asked him as she set down the chocolate bar and made a report
"Nothing important, just a small backstory. No identities revealed nor any alligences that weren't obvious enough." 13 remarked, looking down on his vest that clearly showcased the Red Ribbon Army logo. Keeping secrets was a little hard when you have your team flag etched into your only cloths
"...So I see things are going swimingly..!" A voice said from behind everyone
The Androids turned towards the entrance of the room to see Cell, leaning on the wall beside the door. How was he here? They clearly shut the door! And he said he was off planet now?
"You!! What the hell are you doing here!!" 21 questioned in outrage. 14 and 15's eyes glowed as they scanned him from top to bottom
"I see you've found the trio of outdated junk, not bad." He remarked, giving 13 a nasty frown. "Anyway I came here to see how things are going, and I do say that I am very impressed. Not only have you begun researching the enemy but you also have done some, 'soul searching.' Not bad at all, here I was thinking you were just all talk."
When Cell left, he decided at the last second to split himself in half using Tien's old technique, and leaving one half to spectate the Earth, to the copy's immense displeasure. Still, when they fuse back the copy won't have to worry about boredom
21 blushed a little, but less in an embarrassed way and more in seething rage. What the hell was he doing looking through the computer?!?! All of her sensitive documents were in there!
"You think I'm not smart enough to run this place? Not only have I gotten some more of our head scientists into Capsule Corperation, but I've also lured 16 onto our side!" 21 exclamed to regain her composition. Cell was surprised to hear this
"Hm, now that's something worth celebrating about, but I see you're already doing so." He said, pointing at the bitten chocolate bar. When he did so 21 snatched it and set it behind her. "Hm...an Android modeled after Gero's wife meets the Android modeled after Gero's son. Truly he has decided to keep things quiet with Bulma upon your request, just so he can attempt to do his own research." Cell guessed
"What are YOU doing? Are you here to assist, or to be a bother?"
"Actually, I'm currently in the southern section of our galaxy, I just sent this clone of myself here a few days ago to check up on things. Until I've returned, I will not help you." Cell explained, to 21's annoyance
"Damn you!! Why do you have to take soo long!" 21 said as Cell began to walk out of the door
"Because if I remember correctly YOU are the one to disturb me first." Cell snickered, making 21 even angrier. He just couldn't help but be annoying, that's the least he would do after being forcibly revived
"But I do have one piece of information that would prove useful." He mused. "You see there is a small 'toy' in one of Gero's hidden sub-labs. There aren't many gadgets of his left active or complete, but if you manage to find it, you'll have a REAL advantage against the Dragon team."
"Say, not to but in or anything, but how the hell do you know so much about the ol' doctor's work?" 13 asked in less of a chipper mood than before, not taking kindly to Cell's earlier insult
"I was programmed with all of Dr. Gero's inventions, labs and creations recorded into my mind by the time I was born. Luckily, only you all know that I know this, I haven't told another soul."
"If only you were to use that knowledge to be useful for once." 21 jabbed, now plain annoyed by Cell's stay. If he was going to drop by and taunt her then she might as well complete her whole operation by herself
"Oh would you look at the time!" He looked at his wrist for comedic effect, and a lazy excuse. "Now then, off I go!" Cell said as he exited the lab and flew through the night sky, through the pried open metal doors
"...Damn that failiure. And I should be going to sleep, I have apperances to keep up after all." 21 sigh as she finished up her typing and walked out of the room. 13, 14, and 15 decided to go into their capsules, now ready to turn in for the day
21 walked down the hall and into the final room, her room. She entered to see a room of simple design. The walls were grey and there were only three doors, one leading to the bathroom, one to the closet, and one to the hallway. The bed was large and a light red of color, along with basic red pillows, and a small pillow that was in the shape of a heart
The room underwent many changes as of late. For some reason 'this' room, void of much color other than a few plushies of value. Yet seeing it now, it looked a little off. Was it always this...blank?
She entered the closet and began to sift through her cloths, noticing the same trend with her incredibly bland and uninspired outfits. She HAS to improve her closet too, this modest crap just wasn't cutting it anymore
She eventually changed clothes into a tasteful purple velvet nightgown. She left and then layed in her bed. She clapped twice, automaticaly turning off the lights
"Soon, I will take over the world!" 21 thought as she drifted into sleep...
