Pan slumped onto the comfortable couch in the spacious lounge at her home, her energy drained after the day's unexpected adventure. The aroma of dinner and some snacks lingered in the air. Pan and her parents had a little adventure in the pantry of their house after she returned home. They'dswiped every snack in sight and Gohan promised to go shopping for her the following day to restock all her favorites once again.

She let out a tired sigh, grateful for the warmth and familiarity of her home. Gohan and Videl were busy cleaning up the dishes, a few smiles shared among them, while Pan relaxed in the family room.

Despite her exhaustion, Pan couldn't bear to miss out on spending time with her parents. The events of the day had been intense, but being with her family had made the fatigue bearable. As she rested on the couch, she reflected on the morning's turmoil.

She didn't really feel very different once Piccolo bound the power, but she knew there was a change, an added element to her life now. While she could no longer feel the difference of the Elemental power that awoke inside them during the ritual, there was still a discernible shift in her connection with Trunks.

She could feel him there, in the back of her mind. He was not prying into her thoughts or her memories, but his presence remained in her all the same. It felt like he was an extension of herself, just another personality in her mind. Pan could feel his emotions like they were her own.

They had always had somewhat of a connection in the past, but before it had been more like a subtle awareness of each other. Now, it felt as if someone had turned up the volume on their bond, amplifying it by a hundredfold. Pan couldn't shake the eerie feeling that came with this newfound intensity. She wondered if Trunks experienced the same heightened connection, if he could sense her emotions as vividly as she felt his. He felt calmer now, still a little stressed, but hopeful… and happy.

She knew that her having Saiyan blood meant she possessed more advanced telepathic abilities than humans. Pan contemplated the possibility of learning to control and build mental blocks in her mind, like she knew Vegeta could do. Trunks and Goten could speak telepathically at times, but she knew they also had a level of control that allowed them to keep that channel closed at will.

Pan knew she and Trunks needed to have a talk about their boundaries now that they had the capabilities to dive into each other's heads, but in the meantime she wondered if she could shield her mind from him by building mental blocks. Maybe she could create a similar barrier to what he has with Goten, to stop Trunks from entering the doors she would prefer remained shut for eternity. She didn't know how or if she could do it at all, but she wanted to try.

Closing her eyes, Pan delved into the recesses of her mind, attempting to create a mental barrier between herself and Trunks.

The idea of having some semblance of privacy in her thoughts appealed to her, but the bond seemed determined to defy her efforts. The process proved more challenging than she anticipated and the bond resisted her attempts, as if it had a will of its own.

On the first attempt, she felt the mental barrier crumble almost immediately. The connection with Trunks remained as strong as ever, a constant stream of emotions and sensations flooding her consciousness. Pan sighed in defeat but resolved to try again.

The second attempt proved equally futile. The bond persisted, unyielding to her attempts to establish a mental block. Pan's frustration grew, yet she remained determined to master this aspect of her Saiyan abilities.

Pan struggled with the mental exercise, feeling a mixture of frustration and curiosity. Pan knew Trunks could feel what she was trying to do because suddenly she started to feel him do the same thing…Try to block her out.

With a deep breath, she attempted it for the third time. As she focused on building the mental block, she sensed a subtle change. She felt her mind drifting away from his slowly, his presence in her head space duller than before.

The signal from Trunks was not as overpowering as before. It was as if her efforts had managed to create a faint shield, providing a degree of separation.

She focused her mind on strengthening that wall she'd just created and to her astonishment and her joy, she felt the barrier pull strong and Trunks was clouded out completely. It actually worked. That was it!

Pan's eyes snapped open, surprise evident in her expression. A small victory had been achieved, though she couldn't help but wonder if Trunks had something to do with her success this time around. The eerie connection had diminished greatly, going back to feeling like a background presence in her mind, granting her a moment of respite.

As Pan settled into the stillness of the night, she wondered what Trunks thought of this new connection they shared. She was sure he wouldn't be happy to know she poked around his emotions for a moment there, but Pan was just glad that he seemed to be in a better head space now.

The fear that had gripped Pan earlier that day had also started to abate. Dende's assurance that the Dragon Balls could be fixed, now that they powered up the crystal, filled her with relief. She trusted in the Namekian's abilities, finding solace in the hope that the Dragon Balls would soon be restored to their original state.

Pan's gaze wandered around the familiar surroundings of her home. It was a cozy place, filled with warmth and memories. The walls were adorned with family photographs, capturing moments of joy and laughter. The living room, where Pan currently found herself, was adorned with comfortable furniture and a large, inviting couch where they often gathered for family time.

The lounge itself reflected the family's eclectic tastes. Earthly mementos blended seamlessly with the intergalactic artifacts that she had brought back from her first trip out into space, as well as some that was given to them by the many friends they'd made along the years. It was a testament to the diverse adventures they'd all had shared. The room was bathed in warm colors, creating an inviting atmosphere that felt like a sanctuary after the day's chaos.

Pan closed her eyes, savoring the peace that surrounded her. All her recent events had made her appreciate the simple joys of home. She missed the comforting hum of her surroundings when she was away, the sense of security that enveloped her within these familiar walls.

As Pan reclined on the couch, her mind drifted to Bulla, her best friend and partner in crime. She imagined Bulla's impatience, the dramatic eye roll she'd perform, and the theatrical sigh she'd release while waiting for Pan to visit.

Despite her excuse of visiting Bulla being a lie this morning, Pan knew the princess probably actually expected to see her today. The mental image of Bulla's exasperated expression brought a soft chuckle to Pan's lips. She missed her friend and knew a scolding was inevitable for not dropping by sooner.

Thinking about that also led her thoughts to Nate, the guy she had been seeing while in space. Guilt settled in her chest as she realized it had been almost two days since her return to Earth, and she hadn't even spared a moment to think about him. She wondered how he was doing, what he might be occupied with… if he missed her.

Recalling their last conversation, where he expressed his desire to continue their relationship once they got back to Earth, Pan's heart squeezed. The weight of guilt increased as realized that with everything else she was preoccupied with, she hadn't even checked to make sure his ship made it back to earth okay. She wondered if Nate might have had second thoughts about them now that he was back home and back to his normal life.

Pan's mind swirled with conflicting emotions. She wanted to reach out to Nate, yet, a sense of hesitation held her back. The events of the day had left her emotionally drained, and she wondered if it was too late at night to call him.

As she stared at her phone, contemplating whether to make the call, Pan decided against it. Tonight was not the time for such conversations and it was very late. The weariness in her bones begged for rest, and so she resolved to call him in the morning. The promise of a new day brought a glimmer of hope to her tired soul.

With a deep breath, Pan banished the lingering doubts and guilt. Tomorrow was a new day, a chance to reconnect with those she cared about.

As sleep gradually claimed her, Pan surrendered to the exhaustion that enveloped her. The challenges of the day melted away, leaving behind a sense of peace. In the quiet of the night, surrounded by the love ingrained in the walls of her home, Pan drifted into a restful slumber.

Roaring laughter echoed through the Capsule Corp kitchen as Pan animatedly recounted her intergalactic escapades to Bulla. The two friends found themselves doubled over the counter, heads thrown back, hands over stomachs, and tears streaming down their faces in fits of amusement.

"Tears. On my face," Bulla exclaimed dramatically, waving her hands in front of her eyes and then wiping at the corners. "I'm not wearing mascara, thank God."

Pan shot her a playful look. "And what about you?"

Bulla smirked, adopting her signature blaze attitude. "Well, my life hasn't been quite as interesting as yours."

Pan raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. "What about that guy... What was his name? Oh right, Leon."

Bulla's expression shifted, her eyes narrowing with a hint of annoyance. "Kami, don't remind me. You don't know how it is out there, Panny. Men are all only after one thing. And when they don't get it, their egos get bruised, and they become petty."

"That sounds very stressful," Pan sighed discontentedly. "Whatever happened to taking the time to actually know a person?"

"I know, right?" Bulla rolled her eyes. "Quick judgments based on appearances, job titles, and income. It's all about ego with these guys, as if genuine connection is a thing of the past. Now it's just about ticking certain boxes. That's been the vibes from my recent dates, at least."

Pan offered a sympathetic nod. "That's rough, friend."

"Yeah." Bulla said, her eyes gleaming with a hint of defiance. "Anyway, when that jerk Leon realized I wouldn't put out, he thought he could get it elsewhere and I'd still keep him around. As if." She rolled her eyes, dismissing the notion with a casual wave of her hand.

Pan rolled her eyes, a mix of exasperation and amusement on her face. "What an idiot. You dodged a bullet, B. Who needs someone like that dragging them down?"

Bulla smirked confidently. "He's lucky I didn't put any 'bullet' holes in him. Some guys need a reality check, and I was ready to deliver."

Pan chuckled, imagining the scenario. "That would probably make your dad proud," she teased. They locked eyes for a moment, sharing a silent understanding, and then burst into laughter, realizing that the thought of Vegeta delivering a reality check was entirely plausible in their Saiyan world.

Pan looked at Bulla with a curious expression, her eyes reflecting a mix of innocence and intrigue. "Aren't you curious, though? About what it would be like?" she asked, broaching the topic of intimacy with curiosity in her voice.

Bulla, with a hint of surprise, looked at her. Pan had always been the shy one of the two, always private about topics like this, even with her best friend. Not that that ever stopped Bulla from prying.

Bulla took a moment before she responded, "I guess there's a part of me that's curious, but it never felt right. Plus, it's not like I get many chances to go out and explore those options." She shrugged, adopting a laid-back demeanor as she contemplated the intricacies of romance and her own experiences.

"Yeah I can understand that." Pan said, scratching the back of her head.

Bulla, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, asked, "Curiosity getting the better of you, Panny? What about you? What's the deal with you and this Nate guy? I've been waiting for you to spill the details, but my patience is wearing thin." She leaned back, a teasing smile on her face, ready for Pan's response.

Pan had a shy smile playing on her lips. "Well, I called him this morning and we're going to meet up tomorrow, but honestly, we haven't taken things that far yet."

Pan with her cheeks stained red, gave a brief pause before she continued, "We're still seeing how things go, taking it one step at a time. No rush, you know?" She looked at Bulla, a mixture of uncertainty and optimism in her eyes as she shared this aspect of her budding relationship with Nate.

Bulla, her curiosity unabated, leaned in and whispered, "But would you? If he wanted to, I mean." There was a twinkle of mischief in her eyes, as if trying to uncover the depths of Pan's thoughts on the matter.

Pan was sure her face resembled a tomato at this point, but she contemplated the question. "I–I think I would," she admitted shyly. "I've never really had those urges before, which is probably why I wasn't interested. But lately, I don't know, I'm starting to feel differently." She confessed, a mix of vulnerability and self-discovery in her words.

She wasn't one to be as open with her personal life like this, but this was Bulla. Pan knew if there was anyone who would understand her and would protect her secrets, it was her.

Bulla nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I get it. I guess that's just how our Saiyan genes work, huh? My dad mentioned something similar to mom about how our Saiyan side affects us in that way. Since you know, Saiyans tend to hit puberty later in life compared to humans, so I guess it makes sense. It's like our bodies are only now catching up with us or something." She shrugged, sharing a piece of personal insight into the intricacies of their Saiyan heritage.

Pan leaned in, intrigued. "Really? What else did he say about it?" She was genuinely curious, eager to understand more about the peculiar aspects of their Saiyan biology.

Bulla leaned in again, as if sharing a well-guarded secret. "Well," she began, "I know Mom told you guys that we'd probably hit puberty much later in life and to not worry about it. But the truth is, she was actually concerned when you and I both reached our twenties and neither of us got periods. She even considered the possibility that we could be sterile."

"What?" Pan exclaimed, genuine shock and a hint of fear coloring her expression.

Bulla waved a dismissive hand. "Relax, she doesn't think that anymore. Dad actually told her that pure-blooded Saiyan women didn't even get periods the way we do." She shared the information with a nonchalant air, as if unraveling the mysteries of their Saiyan heritage was just another day's conversation.

"Wait, if they didn't get periods every month, then how did they reproduce?" Pan asked, her confusion evident.

"That's the interesting part. According to daddy, Saiyan women went into heat," Bulla explained.

"What?" Pan exclaimed once again. "Heat? You mean like an animal?"

"I mean exactly that. It makes sense since we do have the capabilities to turn into large beasts." Bulla confirmed with a sly grin, her eyes hinting at her fascination with the intricacies of their Saiyan heritage.

"So you're saying I could go into heat? At any time?" Pan said incredulously, her expression a mix of shock and unease.

"Yep," Bulla confirmed casually.

"Why are you so calm about this? And why is this the first time I'm hearing of it? Don't you think this is something I should have known?" Pan's voice carried a note of frustration and surprise at the unexpected revelation.

"Ah, yeah, well, your mom actually does know, but even she was a bit weirded out by it. I think she probably believes it won't happen, and maybe that's why she didn't tell you. According to my mom's research, she thinks it's not really likely that we would go into heat. Instead, all signs are leaning toward us just being 'late bloomers,'" Bulla explained, attempting to reassure Pan about the seemingly unusual aspect of their Saiyan heritage.

"Yeah, I hope so," Pan said, a sense of unease lingering in her expression. A long-pushed-down memory resurfaced briefly, causing a shiver to run down her spine. She quickly pushed it back into the recesses of her mind, not wanting to delve too deeply into the complexities of her Saiyan biology at that moment.

The conversation was abruptly interrupted by Trunks walking into the kitchen. Pan shot Bulla a meaningful look, silently conveying the message not to breathe a word about what they were just discussing.

As Pan shifted her attention to Trunks, she couldn't help but notice his appearance. He definitely looked lighter than he did the day before now that the heavy burdens were removed. Trunks was clad in form-fitting gym clothes that accentuated his toned physique. Sweat glistened on his body, evidence of a rigorous training session. His disheveled hair and the intensity in his eyes hinted that he did some sort of training this morning.

Pan's gaze lingered for a moment, before she redirected her focus to Trunks' face. He had now joined them at the kitchen table.

"Hey, guys. What's going on?" Trunks greeted them with a casual smile, oblivious to the potentially awkward topic that had just been sidestepped.

Pan also took note of Trunks' calmer demeanor that morning. There was a noticeable shift in his mood, he definitely did seem happier, more at ease. As Trunks and Pan exchanged a secret look of acknowledgement regarding the events of the previous day, Pan observed that Trunks no longer outwardly showed the stress and tension that had been etched on his face in the past few days.

Bulla, noticing Trunks' unexpected presence, couldn't hide her surprise. "Hey, what are you doing here?" she asked, looking at him with a curious expression. The concern she had started to feel for him in the past few weeks was evident in her eyes.

"Well, good morning to you too, Princess," Trunks quipped with a touch of sarcasm. He moved smoothly to the fridge, his every motion deliberate and confident. As Trunks leaned down and grabbed a bottle of water, his muscles subtly flexed beneath the fabric of his gym clothes

As he turned back to them, Pan couldn't help but stare a little at the man in front of her. He caught her look and there was a subtle intensity in his gaze, as if he was taking her in without saying a word. He raised a brow at the attention she was giving him, but there was a moment of silent contemplation, leaving Pan to wonder about the thoughts swirling in his mind. Maybe she shouldn't have been so eager to put up that mental barrier.

Trunks eventually shifted his gaze back to Bulla, a smirk playing on his lips. "I live here, remember?" he stated matter-of-factly, his tone carrying a hint of amusement.

Bulla scoffed, shaking her head. "Yeah, right. He hasn't even spent a night here in over two years," she remarked to Pan, a hint of skepticism in her voice. Trunks, in response, rolled his eyes at his dramatic sister, dismissing her comment with a nonchalant gesture.

Trunks decided to enlighten them, "I actually came over to train with Dad." Bulla's eyes widened in shock.

"What? You, training? With Dad?" Bulla exclaimed, clearly taken aback.

Trunks shrugged, "Needed a change, you know?"

Pan, knowing that Trunks hadn't been keeping up with his training as much after she left, raised her eyebrows in surprise. According to Bulla, Marron didn't see the point in Trunks dedicating time to martial arts. She believed that having Vegeta and Goku around was more than enough protection, and she wanted Trunks to have a normal human life with her.

That particular perspective irritated Pan. She couldn't understand why Marron couldn't appreciate the differences of their Saiyan urges and the importance of honing their abilities. It was one of the few points of contention between them.

Bulla crossed her arms, still skeptical. "Well, color me surprised. Trunks Briefs voluntarily training. What's next, Dad taking up flower arranging?"

Trunks shot his sister an amused look. "Don't give him any ideas. He might just surprise us all."

Pan joined their laughter and chimed in, "Well I'm happy you're taking it seriously again. Now maybe you could actually give me a good fight." Pan says playfully.

Trunks Narrowed his eyes at her. "Don't get too cocky there Panny. You don't know what you're up against."

"I think I have a pretty good idea." Pan said with a sly smile.

Bulla shook her head, a smirk on her face. "Well, if you can keep up with Dad, you'll definitely be onto something."

Trunks laughed, "We'll see about that. Anyway, I'm headed back to the gravity chamber. Catch you both later."

As he left the kitchen, Bulla turned to Pan with a raised eyebrow. "Well, that was unexpected. Trunks getting back into the training game."

Pan grinned. "This change is definitely a good thing. I think things are going to be a little different from now on."

Bulla gave Pan her full attention curiously, "Yeah, well I think this 'change' had the influence of a certain someone all over it."

Pan raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And who would that be?"

Bulla smirked, "Maybe someone who had just returned home recently. You know, a certain Saiyan."

Pan's cheeks flushed slightly, and she rolled her eyes. "I didn't do anything."

Bulla shook her head and smiled warmly. She gave Pan a side hug. "Thank you, Panny. I was really starting to worry about him. I knew he'd be happier once you came home. Nobody could cheer him up quite like you do."

Pan felt a twinge of guilt for taking all the credit for Trunks' improved mood, but she couldn't actually tell Bulla the truth about the Dragon Balls or the bond yet. She didn't even know if Trunks wanted to permanently keep this whole thing a secret. Just another one to add to their list.

"Well, I'm just glad he's in a better place now," Pan replied, a genuine smile on her face despite her guilt at omitting the truth. She appreciated Bulla's concern and was touched by the love the siblings shared.

Bulla playfully nudged Pan. "You're like our resident happiness bringer. Maybe you should start charging for your services."

Pan chuckled, "I think I'll stick to saving the universe for now. It seems to have a more significant impact."

The two friends shared a laugh, Bulla tilted her head. "Speaking of saving the universe, any plans now that you're back home? Besides keeping Trunks on the straight and narrow, of course."

Pan grinned at Bulla. "Well, you know, I might still dabble in a bit of universe-saving on the side. But on a more mundane note, I'm actually starting an internship with the Capsule Corporation's aerospace engineering department. Bulma's going to be my mentor."

Bulla raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Internship, huh? That's pretty serious. Are you planning to revolutionize space travel or something?"

Pan chuckled, "Maybe not revolutionize, but I want to contribute. Learn the ropes, make some advancements, you know?"

Bulla nodded approvingly. "That's awesome. Mom's a genius, and you're smart enough to probably pick up some of that brilliance just by being around her."

"Yeah, I'm excited about it. Plus, it's good to be back and have some sense of normalcy," Pan admitted, a hint of nostalgia in her voice.

Bulla leaned in, conspiratorially. "Normalcy is overrated, Panny. But hey, if anyone can make aerospace engineering sound cool, it's you."

Pan rolled her eyes playfully. "Says the girl with four degrees and counting, but Thanks Bulla."

Bulla took a thoughtful pause before suddenly suggesting, "You know, since you'll be working at Capsule Corp, it might be easier if you move in here. I mean, you're practically family, and it's not like our compound is short on space."

Pan blinked in surprise, not expecting the suggestion. "Move in? Well, I was thinking of getting a place nearby, you know, to have a bit of independence," she replied, a hint of reluctance in her voice.

Bulla raised an eyebrow. "Independence is overrated. Plus, think about it. No rent, home-cooked meals from the genius herself, or our chef, and you get to keep an eye on Trunks. It's a win-win-win."

Pan chuckled, recognizing Bulla's attempts to sell the idea. "I appreciate the offer, but I think my mind is set on having my own space. It's been a while since I've had that."

Bulla sighed dramatically. "Fine, be a responsible adult. But when you're stuck in traffic on the way to work or dealing with a leaky faucet, don't say I didn't offer you the easy way out."

Pan laughed, appreciating Bulla's concern and her unique way of showing it. "I'll survive, Princess. Besides, I need a bit of the ordinary in my life right now."

Bulla looked genuinely disappointed, "Yeah okay. It would have been nice though, it would be like when we used to have sleepovers, just it would be all the time. But I get it, wanting your own space and all."

Pan smiled, seeing a hint of Bulla's own longing for a more carefree arrangement. "You know, you could always get a place with me. It would be like the good old days, and we'd still have our independence and our own space."

Bulla raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Living together? Really?" Bulla tilted her head, considering the idea. "What about my dad? He's not really keen on letting me move out even though I'm 22 this year."

Pan rolled her eyes, acknowledging Vegeta's overprotectiveness. "True, but here's the thing. If he knew you were staying with me, he might actually be more inclined to let you have a bit more freedom."

Observing Bulla's contemplation, Pan continued, "And it's not like we'll be far from Capsule Corp. We can still pop in for family dinners and Trunks-bashing sessions."

Bulla laughed, "Trunks-bashing sessions? I like the sound of that. Okay, you've convinced me. If we can convince my parents, then let's do it! Let's find a place together! It'll be an adventure."

Pan grinned, happy to have her friend on board. Pan rose from her seat, excitement evident in her eyes. "Great! We can start our apartment search this afternoon. I'm so excited!"

"Wait, Where are you going?" Bulla asked as Pan headed towards the door.

Pan grinned. "Just going to change."

Bulla quirked an eyebrow. "Change? For what?"

Pan laughed. "To kick Trunks' butt."

Bulla shook her head fondly. "Of course. Priorities. You never change do you?"

With a smirk, Pan headed off to prepare for her sparring session with Trunks, leaving Bulla amused by her friend's unyielding commitment to keeping life exciting.

Pan made her way to the room she always used whenever she stayed over at Capsule Corp. To her surprise, everything was exactly where she had left it, as if time had frozen in that space. The familiar scent of the room embraced her, triggering a rush of memories.

As she opened the door, she couldn't help but smile at the unchanged surroundings. Some of her clothes were neatly folded on a small table, the same way she had left it years ago. The shelves still held her favorite books, and her old backpack lay on the chair.

The room, though seemingly untouched, was immaculate. The cleaning bots had clearly been in there regularly, maintaining the order and cleanliness. It was a testament to the advanced technology of Capsule Corp, where even dormant rooms were kept pristine.

Curiosity tugged at Pan as she unzipped the backpack, and memories flooded back as she peered inside. The familiar scent of the bag mixed with the faint aroma of some long-forgotten snacks she used to stash in there, making a metal note to toss those sealed packets. Thank God she didn't leave anything open there. Pan couldn't help but smile as she pulled out a worn notebook, its pages filled with doodles, sketches, and hastily written notes from her training sessions with Vegeta back in the day.

Digging deeper, her hand brushed against something cold and metallic. She pulled out an old Capsule Corp Cell Phone, a relic from her adolescent years. It still looked functional, and a pang of nostalgia hit her as memories of late-night calls with Bulla and Marron flashed through her mind.

But tucked away at the bottom was a small photo album. Pan flipped it open, revealing snapshots of adventures, family gatherings, and candid moments with her friends. The images captured a time when responsibilities were simpler, and the weight of the world hadn't fully settled on her shoulders. There was one photo in particular that Pan wanted to see. She flipped to the last sleeve in the album that held a small picture with 3 people in it. Trunks, herself and her grandfather who was at the time even younger than Pan.

Pan kept this photo here to remind herself that even though they went through a lot of pain during that time in their lives, not all of it was bad. In fact she loved and cherished every moment before because she got to spend it with two of her most favorite people in the world, even if her grandfather was a handful as a child. Even so, she was glad that Shenron had restored her grandfather to his original age as a boon for defeating all the shadow dragons in the end.

With a satisfied sigh, Pan carefully put the album back and zipped up the backpack, cherishing those little pieces of her history that she had temporarily forgotten.

Pan went to the closet and pulled down a set of navy blue training Gi, a pair of black boots, and a red sports bra to go underneath. The familiar ensemble felt like a second skin, a uniform she had worn countless times during her training sessions and sparring matches.

Heading to the bathroom, Pan changed into the comfortable yet functional attire. Tying her hair into a practical braid, Pan examined herself in the mirror. The reflection revealed a young woman who had grown stronger, both physically and mentally, during her time away. The intensity in her eyes mirrored the determination that fueled her every move.

Pan took a moment to appreciate the changes in her body, recognizing the strength that came from years of hard work and dedication. She was taller now, her body more trim than it was before, subtly curving in the right places, her jaw was sharper as she'd lost what remained of her baby fat, and her eyes held a spark within them that brightened up her entire appearance. Pan knew she was considered beautiful but she hadn't seen herself that way until this moment.

With a final look in the mirror and adjustment to her attire, Pan gave herself a nod of approval. Ready for the sparring session, she left the room with a sense of purpose, eager to face the challenges that awaited her in the training arena.

Pan made her way through the hallways of Capsule Corp, marveling at the exquisite artworks lining the walls. Portraits of the z gang's past adventures and the Briefs' different innovations adorned the spaces, capturing the essence of their remarkable histories. The corridors felt like a gallery of memories, and Pan couldn't help but appreciate the beauty encapsulated within the very walls of the futuristic headquarters.

Continuing her journey through the familiar halls, Pan reached home gym where she spotted the state-of-the-art 'Saiyan Proof' equipment. Memories of training sessions with Vegeta and sparring matches with Trunks flooded her mind.

Pan's excitement surged as she approached the gravity room, anticipation tingling in her veins. The prospect of a real sparring match after three years thrilled her, and she could almost taste the adrenaline that came with pushing her limits. Sneaking a peek through the glass, Pan spotted Trunks engrossed in his training routine.

Trunks moved with a fluidity that spoke of his years of experience. His kicks and punches were precise, each movement calculated and deliberate. Pan observed him executing intricate combinations, seamlessly transitioning from defensive maneuvers to offensive strikes. His training seemed almost like a dance, a choreography of strength and skill.

Turning her attention to the gravity reading, Pan noted that Trunks was pushing himself in 300 times gravity. Pan was surprised, despite not training for so long, he moved with agility and precision. Pan was genuinely impressed by his ability to maintain such control and speed under the intense gravitational force. It fuelled her determination to step into the gravity room herself and test her own limits against the challenge that awaited.

Pan's mind drifted to her own training experiences, especially during her time in space. She recalled the days when she had to train mostly in secret, exposed to varying levels of gravity on different planets. But she still wondered how she'd fare with the challenge of 300 times Earth's gravity.

Pan pressed the intercom, her voice resonating through the gravity room, "Hey, you up for a challenge?" Trunks, in the midst of a kick, stopped midair and turned to face Pan. Narrowing his eyes, he smirked and hit the button to open the doors.

As the doors slid open, the intensified gravity hit Pan immediately, making her feel heavier than anticipated. However, she took a moment to stretch and loosen her muscles, adapting to the increased pressure. Trunks watched her with a keen eye as she gracefully stretched her body, demonstrating her flexibility. She effortlessly fell into a split, touched toes on one side, twisted to replicate the motion on the other, and finally sat with her legs together, bending until her chest met her legs, fingers reaching beyond her toes.

"You ready?" Pan inquired, her gaze steady as got up and bounced from one food to the other.

"Ah yeah," Trunks replied, a hint of distraction in his tone.

They both assumed their sparring forms, a charged energy lingering between them. A smirk plays on Trunks' face, "Don't expect me to hold back, Panny."

Pan narrowed her eyes at him,"I'd be offended if you did." The stage was set, and with a nod, they plunged into their fighting stance, ready to engage in a spar that would test their Saiyan strength and determination.

The air crackled with energy as they circled each other, Saiyan instincts sharp, and muscles primed for battle. Pan's eyes, onyx with hints of gray, locked onto Trunks' ocean blue gaze, determination radiating from both warriors.

The first move came from Trunks. A lightning-quick jab aimed at Pan's midsection. She dodged with a swift sidestep, her lithe form almost defying the gravity that sought to anchor her. Trunks followed up with a roundhouse kick, but Pan countered, seamlessly blocking the strike and retaliating with a sweeping leg kick.

Their movements were a symphony of precision and agility, each anticipating the other's next move. Pan unleashed a rapid barrage of punches, her fists a blur as she closed in on Trunks. He deftly parried the onslaught, his movements calculated and efficient. With a swift spin, Trunks created distance and propelled himself forward with a powerful ki-enhanced dash.

Pan met his advance head-on, a clash of fists and kicks echoing in the gravity-laden atmosphere. The sound of their blows reverberated through the room, a testament to the sheer force behind each strike. Pan, with a burst of speed, executed a series of acrobatic flips, narrowly evading Trunks' punches. Her feet touched the ground just in time for a sweeping leg sweep that caught Trunks off guard, forcing him to readjust his balance.

The Saiyan warriors continued their dance, the ebb and flow of their movements creating a dynamic spectacle. Trunks showcased his swordsmanship, summoning a glowing energy blade into his hand. Pan's eyes widened. When did he learn to do that? That was definitely new. She just barely dodged and blocked each strike, her body moving in synchrony with the erratic dance of the blade.

Pan retaliated with a burst of energy, her fists charged with ki. Trunks expertly parried, his sword a metallic blur as he countered her attacks. The clashing energies created a dazzling display of colors, illuminating the gravity room with an otherworldly glow. Pan was glad that Bulma reinforced the walls of the gravity room or else the entire place might have caved with the display of power they were throwing at each other.

She wasn't about to let Trunks continue gaining the upper hand, Pan, with a sudden burst of strength, disarmed Trunks, sending the energy blade dissipating into the air.

Unfazed, Trunks unleashed a barrage of energy blasts, each aimed with pinpoint accuracy. Pan, in a display of finesse, deflected and dodged the projectiles, her movements almost hypnotic in their grace. The room crackled with the residual energy of their exchanges.

As the battle raged on, both warriors tapped into their Saiyan Blood, increasing their levels of power as the fight continued. Pan's aura flared, a vibrant golden light that matched her changing hair color, as she propelled herself forward with newfound speed. Trunks, not to be outdone, ascended to Super Saiyan, his own golden hair shimmering with energy.

Their clash reached a crescendo, the sheer force of their blows creating shockwaves that reverberated through the room. Pan, fueled by the Saiyan spirit, unleashed a devastating energy wave that surged towards Trunks. He responded in kind, erecting a barrier of ki to deflect the powerful attack. The room trembled under the force.

Pan, seizing an opportunity, closed in for a final strike, her determination burning bright. The air quivered with the residual energy as she delivered a powerful kick, actually catching Trunks and sending him hurtling towards the wall.

Trying to Seize the opportunity, Pan lunged forward, aiming to bring the spar to a decisive end. However, Trunks, already anticipating Pan's move, regained his composure and in a swift maneuver, he stood and grappled Pan, his arms encircling her in a Full Nelson hold. Pan, momentarily caught off guard, felt the pressure on her arms intensify as Trunks pressed his chest against her back, lifting her off the ground.

"Give up, Pan," Trunks whispered, his breath warm against her ear.

His warm breath against her ear sent shivers down her spine, and the firm press of his body against hers ignited an unfamiliar awareness. The gravity room's air seemed to crackle with tension as Pan grappled with emotions she couldn't quite comprehend.

The oddity of the situation left Pan conflicted, her Saiyan instincts tangled with a subtle undercurrent of something else.

Before Pan could contemplate the feeling, Trunks tightened his grip, pulling Pan's arms further back, the heightened pressure in the gravity room seemed to intensify in tandem with the physical strain. Pan's muscles, already fatigued from the fierce battle, protested against the added tension. The pain in her arms mirrored the intensity of the battle, yet surrender was not an option. Pan, with gritted teeth, spoke through the strain, "I'm not giving up."

Trunks tightened his hold, a mixture of determination and a hint of reluctance in his actions. Just when she thought she couldn't take any more, another voice sounded in the room.

"Well, isn't this interesting," the voice emerged from the doorway, disrupting the two Saiyans.

Trunks and Pan, pulled out of their focused haze, turned their attention to the source of the interruption. "Father," Trunks acknowledged, quickly pulling his face away from Pan.

"We were just sparring," Trunks explained, clearing his throat to dispel any potential misunderstanding.

Vegeta, standing in the doorway, didn't immediately respond. Instead, he raised a skeptical brow, his expression unreadable. The gravity room, once filled with the echoes of their battle, now hung in a tense silence as the Saiyan prince assessed the situation before him.

"You've gotten stronger, brat," Vegeta remarked, attempting to maintain a nonchalant demeanor. However, Pan couldn't help but detect a glimmer of pride in his eyes as he spoke.

Vegeta's acknowledgment filled Pan with a sense of joy and pride, yet her Saiyan nature wouldn't allow her to admit it out loud. "Well, I haven't just been sitting on my ass all this time," Pan retorted, injecting a hint of sarcasm into her response.

Vegeta scoffed, his scrutinizing gaze shifting to Trunks. "Well, at least that makes one of you." Trunks, in response, rolled his eyes, but there was a subtle spark in his expression that Pan couldn't quite decipher. Perhaps a trace of shame or something more complex lingered beneath the surface.

"Do you want to join us, Vegeta?" Pan asked, extending an invitation. Once again, Vegeta scoffed, appearing almost offended.

"That's a fine invitation, brat, but I'm here to kick you two weaklings from MY gravity room," he retorted with irritation. Pan narrowed her eyes at him, a mix of annoyance and a hint of nostalgia for the familiar arrogance of the Saiyan prince.

"Whatever, we were done anyway," Pan said dismissively, not divulging the internal struggle she had faced moments ago. If Vegeta hadn't walked in when he did, she wasn't sure if she could have held on much longer. Her Saiyan pride wouldn't have allowed her to quit, but it was a silent relief nonetheless. And she didn't even want to contemplate the odd feeling that was building within her at the close contact either.

Pan saw Trunks' smirk out of the corner of her eye. Knowing he was probably thinking that he was about to win, she jabbed an elbow into his stomach, making him double over as she made her way to the door.

Trunks followed her, and just as they were about to leave, Vegeta's voice interrupted them. "Your training starts at 6 am sharp tomorrow morning. Don't be late…Both of you."

Pan, surprised at the unexpected offer, or order more like, smiled brightly in agreement. Trunks, more subdued, gave his father a nod of acknowledgment before turning to leave. Pan followed him out, the anticipation of what lay ahead bubbling within her. The Saiyan trio, each with their distinct pride and determination, exited the gravity room, leaving behind the echoes of their spar and stepping into a new chapter of training under the watchful eye of the Saiyan prince.