Chapter 14: Burdens of Responsibility

In the dimly lit castle hall, the weight of Chi Chi's letter hung heavy in the air as Ox-King stood before Goku, his weathered hands trembling as he folded the paper and placed it back in its envelope. The solemn silence was broken only by the faint echo of their breaths in the cavernous space. Ox-King's normally jovial expression was now clouded with shock and sorrow. "Goku," he began, his voice thick with emotion, "I... I don't know what to say. I never imagined Chi Chi would... would..."

Goku watched his father-in-law with a mixture of concern and empathy, his own heart heavy with the news. "I know, Ox-King. I didn't see this coming either," he admitted.

The giant's shoulders slumped, a deep sigh escaping him as he ran a hand through his grizzled beard. "I should've been more attentive. I should've reached out to her more during the year you were away. Maybe... maybe then she wouldn't have felt so alone." Guilt gnawed at Ox-King's conscience, his thoughts consumed by what-ifs and regrets. He turned away, unable to meet Goku's gaze, feeling the weight of responsibility for his daughter's unhappiness bearing down on him like a crushing burden.

Goku stepped closer, laying a comforting hand on Ox-King's massive forearm. "It's not your fault. Chi made her own choices. She's a strong woman and she wouldn't have made this decision lightly."

Ox-King nodded slowly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I know, Goku. But still... I can't help but feel like I failed her in some way… and you and Gohan as well. I know it was a busy year, but I'm sure there are things I could've done if I'd just realized what was at stake. Hindsight is a killer."

Goku squeezed his father-in-law's arm reassuringly. "We'll get through this together, Ox-King. Whatever you need, I'm here for you. And don't worry about me. I'm pretty much taken care of. Bulma saw to that. She hired me a divorce lawyer and gave me a place to stay so I don't have to be all alone in the house on Mount Paozu that you built for us." He sighed and looked down. "So many good memories…"

With a heavy heart, Ox-King nodded, his resolve strengthening in the face of adversity. "Thank you, Goku. I just need some time to process all of this, like you had. Can you give me some space for now?"

Goku nodded understandingly, a somber expression on his face. "Of course, Ox-King. Take all the time you need. I'll be here whenever you're ready to talk," Goku determined.

As Ox-King turned to leave, a sense of determination flickered in his eyes, tempered by the pain of loss and the promise of a new beginning. With each step he took, he carried the weight of his daughter's sorrow and his own regrets, knowing that the road ahead would be long and difficult, but believing in the strength of family to overcome even the greatest of trials. The towering giant trudged to his private chambers, leaving some servants behind looking worried at the sight of his downtrodden demeanor.

Alone in the quiet solitude of his bedroom at last, Ox-King sank heavily onto the edge of his grand canopy bed, his thoughts swirling with confusion and sorrow. The weight of Chi Chi's revelation hung heavy on his heart, casting a shadow over the once-familiar surroundings of his chamber. With trembling hands, he reached for the letter once more, its words burning into his mind like a brand.

As he read over Chi Chi's words again, a deep ache settled in his chest, mingling with the guilt that gnawed at his conscience like a relentless beast. How could he have been so blind, so oblivious to his little girl's pain? The realization that she had kept such profound sorrow hidden from him struck him like a blow to the gut, leaving him reeling with a sense of betrayal and remorse.

Goku's words echoed in his mind, a beacon of clarity amidst the storm of emotions that raged within him. "What's best for Gohan should be everyone's top priority." The reminder brought a flicker of resolve to Ox-King's weary heart, a glimmer of determination amidst the darkness that threatened to consume him.

With a heavy sigh, he leaned back against the plush pillows of his bed, his eyes clouded with unshed tears. Why had Chi Chi never confided in him? Why had she chosen to bear the burden of her suffering alone, leaving him to discover the truth from Goku's lips? Why, why, why?

An endless series of questions echoed in his mind. Though Goku reassured him otherwise, he could not help but feel this whole mess was his fault. Had he truly failed as a father, as a protector of his only child's happiness? The doubts gnawed at his soul, leaving him adrift in a sea of self-doubt and regret.

But amidst the turmoil, one truth remained steadfast in Ox-King's heart: his unwavering love for Gohan. Whatever course of action he chose to take, whatever sacrifices he had to make, it would all be for the sake of his grandson and heir. With a silent vow, he wiped away the tears that stained his weathered cheeks, steeling himself for the challenges that lay ahead. As he lay in the quiet darkness of his room, the weight of his daughter's pain heavy upon him, the giant whispered a silent prayer into the stillness of the night, a plea for guidance and strength in the face of uncertainty. And with each breath he took, he vowed to be the pillar of support that Gohan needed to grow into a strong leader, no matter the cost.

…

The aroma of dinner filled the room as the Briefs family sat down at the table, Vegeta's entrance drawing a subtle shift in the atmosphere. Clad in his training gear, his aura of aloofness was palpable. He wasted no time in questioning Goku's absence, his impatience evident in his voice. Bulma, noticing his arrival, met his gaze and raised an eyebrow. "Goku and Gohan are visiting family down south for a few days," she explained, her tone laced with a hint of amusement at Vegeta's obvious irritation. Vegeta grunted in response, his attention drifting to the spread of food before him. Meanwhile, the conversation at the table turned to the unrest in South City, with Bulma passionately advocating for the protesters' cause. "It's clear that the government is covering things up," Bulma asserted, gesturing with her fork for emphasis. "Remember when Vegeta and Nappa invaded Earth? They tried to downplay the entire incident, making it seem like a hoax rather than a full-blown invasion by hostile aliens. They swept it under the rug to avoid widespread panic and maintain control over the population. That doesn't sit right with me."

Vegeta's gaze snapped to Bulma, a flicker of recognition crossing his features at her mention of his past actions. His jaw clenched subtly, but he remained outwardly composed. Dr. Briefs nodded in agreement with Bulma's assessment, his expression grave. "Unfortunately, governments have a history of concealing information to maintain order. It's a delicate balance between transparency and public safety."

Mrs. Briefs, her brow furrowed in thought, added, "It's troubling to think about what else they might be hiding from us." The conversation weighed heavily in the air, the implications of government secrecy casting a shadow over the otherwise peaceful dinner scene. "But then again, people do tend to panic when major events happen and that can lead to people getting hurt unnecessarily, as well as expensive property damage. I don't know what the right answer is. I mean, I can see the logic from both sides."

Dr. Briefs lovingly touched his wife's hand and gave it a squeeze. "As you know, dear, we here at Capsule Corp have been complicit in some of these cover ups. Remember when we summoned the dragon and we allowed the media to downplay it as one of my 'crazy' experiments? Think of what would happen if the whole world found out about the dragon balls and what they are capable of. It would be sheer madness. Instead, we sat by and allowed the world to think Porunga was just an enormous hologram."

Bulma sighed. "Well, you've got a point there. We wouldn't want certain information to fall into the wrong hands. If the Red Ribbon Army had never known about the dragon balls, think of all the violence and bloodshed that could've been avoided in the past. Thank heavens Goku put an end to that criminal scourge and now we'll never have to worry about them again," she said in a 'good riddance' tone.

Dr. Briefs nodded in agreement, his expression serious. "You're right, Bulma. The government's attempts to control information and manipulate public perception have far-reaching consequences. And as much as we may disagree with their methods, sometimes it's necessary to protect the greater good."

Mrs. Briefs listened intently, her expression thoughtful. "But at what cost?" she murmured softly, her gaze distant. "Is it worth sacrificing our integrity and honesty for the sake of maintaining order?"

Dr. Briefs sighed, his gaze turning somber. "It's a difficult question, my dear. There are no easy answers in matters of political ethics. But as long as we remain vigilant and continue to question authority, perhaps we can strive for a better, more transparent future. I know the events in South City seem frightening, but in time we might discover that there are positive outcomes to the unrest. Who knows? I may be a brilliant scientist, but not even I can predict the future." He chuckled heartily. "Perhaps someday we can invent a machine that can, but for now, we can only make our best educated guesses."

Bulma nodded in agreement, her resolve evident in her expression. "Exactly. We can't just sit idly by and accept things as they are. We have a responsibility to hold those in power accountable and demand transparency. Only then can we hope to build a better world for future generations."

Vegeta, who had been listening in silence, rolled his eyes at what he deemed an idiotic conversation.

Bulma noticed this and furrowed her brows at him. "You got a problem, Vegeta? Huh?"

Vegeta chuckled slightly. "Oh, nothing. It just amuses me how you Earthlings as a whole seem to have no idea that you're just sitting ducks in the grand scheme of things. Kakarott hasn't even told you what I told Kami yet, has he? It's entirely possible that another invasion is in the cards for your future. Frieza, you see, was not a lone warlord with impossible power. He was actually a member of a tyrannical family, the Colds. I'd say, given what Kakarott did to Frieza, there's a high likelihood that his family will come to Earth for revenge. Now, when that'll happen, I can't say, but I did warn Kami so he'll be looking in to it. Keep in mind, I didn't offer the courtesy of a head's up because I like you all, it's because I hate the Cold family more than I hate any of you. But, you're welcome, regardless. Just remember that there are powers out there in the universe that you cannot hope to comprehend and your continued existence as Earth dwellers is a precarious thing. You could easily be wiped out any minute, just like we saiyans were."

Dr. Briefs raised an eyebrow at Vegeta's words, his expression shifting to one of concern. "Another invasion? But we thought Frieza was the only threat," he murmured, his mind already racing with the implications of Vegeta's warning. Mrs. Briefs gasped in alarm, her hand flying to her mouth.

"Surely there's something we can do to prepare," Bulma exclaimed, her voice trembling with fear. Her eyes had widened in shock, her mind racing as she considered the implications of Vegeta's revelation. "If what Vegeta just said is true, then we need to take action," she declared, her voice tinged with urgency. "We can't just sit back and wait for another attack. We need to be proactive in defending Earth."

Vegeta smirked at their reactions, his demeanor unapologetically arrogant. "You Earthlings are so predictable," he remarked, his tone dripping with condescension. "But don't worry, Kakarott and Kami are already working on a plan and the training that Kakarott, Gohan, and I are up to is, I presume, a part of it. Needless to say, my point is that there are no guarantees of safety in life. Mortals, especially weak ones, need to accept that fact. Out there in space, well, it's essentially what those old films you all sometimes watch on your television are like – a 'wild west' if you will. As of yet, there is no galactic government or police force to keep order out there in space. Who knows? Maybe in the future such an institution will be established and lend a greater sense of security to mortal existence, but until then, your best hope as a relatively weak planet is to remain unknown to the greater galaxy at large." As Vegeta finished his speech, the proud prince went right back to stuffing his smug face with what was left of dinner.

Dr. Briefs bristled at Vegeta's nonchalant attitude towards the looming threat. "It's unsettling to think we're at the mercy of such unpredictable forces," he mused, his mind racing with thoughts of potential defenses and countermeasures. "But, tell me, Vegeta… it would at least somewhat put my mind at ease to know this. Have you yourself completely parted with all plans of bringing harm to Earth in the future? In all honesty, I've been wanting to ask you just that question, but I could never pinpoint a right time."

Vegeta blinked in surprise, then swallowed and grinned. "Oh, that's a valid question, old man. You see, the reason I came to Earth in the first place was to use the dragon balls to break free of Frieza's control. Now that Kakarott has both rid the universe of Frieza and sworn an oath to cure me of the ice lizard's viral curse, I have no further reason to mess with your planet, or Namek for that matter, once it has been wished back. So, yes, you may take me off the list of potential threats, if you'd like. As of right now, I have no reason to make Earth a target and it's highly unlikely I'll find a reason in the future."

Dr. Briefs breathed an audible sigh of relief, as the question had secretly weighed on him for months. "Well, that's good to know." His demeanor changed as he chuckled a bit, rubbing the back of his head. "At least, that'll make it easier to focus our energies on the 'Cold family' threat you mentioned."

Mrs. Briefs paid little mind to her husband's inquiry concerning Vegeta's intentions. Her eyes reflected a mixture of fear and determination. "Look, we can't rely solely on Goku and Kami to protect us," she remarked, her voice steady despite the tremor of anxiety in her heart. "We need to take matters into our own hands and prepare for whatever may come. Right, honey?" she asked her husband.

Bulma's expression hardened with resolve as she nodded in agreement. "You're right, Mom," she affirmed, her voice tinged with determination. "We can't afford to be passive in the face of danger. We need to take measures to safeguard our planet and our future. What do you say, Dad?"

Dr. Briefs opened his mouth to reply, but Vegeta interjected first, "I suppose I somewhat admire your desire to be proactive, but don't forget I can count the sum of all three of your ki's on one hand. Kakarott and Kami are the ones I'd bet my future on if I was an Earthling. However, I'm sure you can use your collective intellects to provide those two with valuable support in their efforts. Before long, you'll all likely be called to a meeting at Kami's Lookout to discuss this matter and formulate a plan. Maybe when Kakarott gets back from his little family reunion, you can ask him about it." Vegeta chuckled as he rose from his spot, having finished his meal. "So, yeah… have fun with that," he concluded, strutting off.

Bulma gritted her teeth when he was gone. "Man, what an arrogant jerk…" she remarked, stabbing a piece of broccoli on her plate clean through with the fork in her hand.

Mrs. Briefs chuckled. "Aw, Vegeta's got his pride, but I think there's a lot more to him under the surface. Who knows? He might even help Goku fight for us when these Colds arrive," she proposed.

"That would be nice," Dr. Briefs spoke.

Bulma turned her nose up and folded her arms over her bosom. "Hmph! Well, that would sure be nice in exchange for all the hospitality we've shown him, but I wouldn't hold my breath. Anyway, I've lost my appetite," she declared, rising. "See you at tonight's meeting, Dad." With that, she stomped off.

Dr. Briefs and his wife were left behind at the table, exchanging stunned glances with each other.

…

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 763

Early Wednesday morning, the soft glow of dawn barely illuminated Bulma's bedroom as she lay nestled in the warmth of her blankets, deep in slumber. The shrill ringing of her phone shattered the peaceful silence, jolting her awake with a start. Groggily, she fumbled for the phone, her eyes still heavy with sleep, and answered without bothering to check the caller ID. "Hello?" she mumbled, her voice drowsy.

The somber tone of Chi Chi's voice on the other end instantly dispelled any remnants of sleepiness. "Bulma, I've canceled my portion of the Dreamland tickets due to Gohan's recent behavior. I'm calling to let you know early enough so that you can still get your money back for the tickets you purchased for the extra guests. I apologize if this is disappointing, but my fiancé and I have jointly decided it's for the best."

Bulma's eyes snapped open, wide with surprise and growing anger as she listened to Chi Chi's unexpected announcement. Her grip tightened on the phone, her heart pounding with a mix of frustration and disbelief. "You what?!" Bulma exclaimed, her voice rising in indignation. "You canceled Gohan's Dreamland ticket? But why? And without even discussing it with me or Goku first? That's outrageous!"

Chi Chi's response was cool and composed, her words laced with a hint of defiance. "I canceled them to teach Gohan a lesson," she explained calmly. "He needs to understand the consequences of his actions. Running away from home was unacceptable behavior. As his mother, I will not tolerate it."

Bulma's temper flared at Chi Chi's reasoning, her frustration boiling over. "So, what? You're punishing him by ruining his birthday? That's ridiculous! And you're only telling me as a courtesy so I can sort out my own plans? How thoughtful of you!" Bulma retorted, her sarcasm dripping from every word. As Chi Chi continued to defend her decision, Bulma's anger grew, fueled by a sense of injustice on behalf of her friends. "Well, let me tell you something, Chi Chi," Bulma snapped, her voice tinged with fury. "I'll buy Gohan and Goku their own tickets and you can just stay home if you're going to be this unreasonable. They deserve to have a good time on Gohan's birthday, with or without you!" Bulma angrily slammed the phone down, her chest heaving with frustration. She threw off the blankets and swung her legs over the side of the bed, her mind already racing with plans to remedy the situation. "The nerve of that woman," she muttered to herself, her determination steeling her resolve. "I won't let her ruin Gohan's birthday."

After a fast five-minute shower, she threw on some clothes and stomped over to her personal laptop, where she logged into her Dreamland account. Her face lightened. "Ah, they're having a special two for one deal today? Perfect. I'll buy one ticket for Gohan and Goku can get his free!"

When she finished, she triumphantly rose to her feet and placed her hands on her hips. "Perfect, that oughta show her." She peered down at the floor. "Well, shoot, I don't want to distress Goku with this news, but maybe I should give him a head's up in case Chi Chi manages to make contact. Alright, I'll give him a call later and let him know I've taken care of it and there's nothing to worry about. Poor guy has enough nonsense weighing on his mind right now anyway. Hm, I better go over the party plans that Chi and I agreed on previously. Looks like I'll be taking over her portion of the to-do list."

Still angry from the confrontation, Bulma decided to ease her nerves by finding her mother to rant to about the situation. If anyone would be supportive about picking up dropped party plans, it would be Mrs. Briefs for sure. Once dressed and prepared for the day, Bulma went to find her mother in the kitchen.

…

The first rays of dawn filtered through the leaves of the trees, casting dappled shadows on the serene Zen Garden of the Ox-King's castle. With a heavy heart and a determined resolve, the Ox-King rose from his bed, his mind already consumed with plans to mend the fractured bonds within his family. He dressed hastily, his movements imbued with purpose, and made his way to the central tree where he knew Goku, Gohan, and Piccolo would be meditating. As he approached, he spotted the three of them seated beneath the tree, their faces serene in the early morning light. With a sense of urgency, the Ox-King lightly tapped Goku on the shoulder, gesturing for him to step aside for a private conversation. Goku complied, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he followed the Ox-King to a secluded corner of the garden.

"Something on your mind, Ox-King?" Goku inquired, sensing the gravity of the situation.

The Ox-King took a deep breath, steeling himself for the difficult conversation ahead. "I've made up my mind, Goku," he began, his voice tinged with determination. "I won't stand by and watch my family fall apart. I'm ready to mediate this situation to the best of my abilities, no matter what it takes."

Goku nodded in understanding. "Thanks, Ox-King. We could use all the help we can get right now."

The Ox-King's brow furrowed in frustration. "Unfortunately, I haven't been able to reach Chi Chi," he admitted, a note of sadness creeping into his voice. "I can't help but feel like she's avoiding me." With a heavy sigh, he turned to Goku, his gaze pleading. "Would you mind calling her from your phone and then handing it to me? Perhaps she'll be more inclined to answer if it's you calling. At least, I hope."

Goku nodded in agreement, understanding the urgency of the situation. He dialed Chi Chi's number and waited anxiously as the phone rang. To their surprise, Chi Chi answered almost immediately, her voice sharp with anger. "It's about time you answered your darn phone, Goku!" she snapped.

The volume was loud enough for both to hear. Instead of responding, Goku handed the phone to the Ox-King, who took a deep breath to steady himself before speaking. "Chi Chi, it's me," he said gently, his voice filled with regret. "I've learned of the situation. I apologize for using Goku's phone, but I was having a hard time contacting you. Listen, dear, I just want to say how sorry I am from the bottom of my heart. If anyone is to blame for this mess, it's me. I should've been there for you more."

Chi Chi's anger seemed to soften slightly at her father's words, though she remained guarded. "I… Okay, but what do you want, Dad?" she asked, her voice softer now, tinged with uncertainty and sadness.

The Ox-King hesitated for a moment before continuing, his tone earnest. "I'd like for you and Mr. Cardinal to come to Fire Mountain as soon as possible for a mediation," he said, his words measured. "Gohan and Goku are here. I believe it's time for us to have a conversation as a family and clear the air."

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Chi Chi responded, her voice hesitant. "I... I don't know, Dad," she admitted, her uncertainty palpable. "I'll have to talk to Mr. Cardinal and see if he's able. He's a very busy man, but he has made it clear that he wanted a chance to meet you soon."

The Ox-King nodded understandingly, his heart heavy with regret. "Of course, Chi Chi. Just let me know," he said softly, his voice tinged with sadness. "And one more thing... Did you happen to get a chance to tell Gohan and Goku about the Ox Crown Festival yet?" he asked.

Chi Chi's silence over the phone spoke volumes.

Again, the Ox-King sighed softly. "I see," he murmured, his disappointment evident. "Don't worry, honey. I'll take care of it. You're overwhelmed. We'll talk soon." With a heavy heart, he ended the call and handed the phone back to Goku, his expression somber. "Well, that didn't go as smoothly as I'd hoped," he admitted, his voice tinged with regret. "But we'll find a way to make things right. I promise." With that, he pulled Goku into a comforting embrace, his silent vow echoing in the stillness of the garden.

Goku smiled and returned the hug. "Thanks! I really appreciate it. Uh, so, what's this festival thing?"

The Ox-King pulled back, making eye contact with Goku as he held the saiyan at arm's length. "Well, it's a pretty big deal! Here, come to my throne room and I'll tell you all about it. Then, whenever you're ready, we can break the news to Gohan together," he explained, ushering Goku into the castle.

…

The Bansho hot spring water sample bubbled gently in the glass vial as Bulma peered through a microscope, her brow furrowed in concentration. She adjusted the focus, her eyes widening with fascination as she observed the glittering minerals dancing in the yellowish liquid. The soft hum of machinery filled the lab, adding to the atmosphere of quiet intensity. Just then, the door opened and a young employee entered, carrying a printed booklet. "Good morning, Ms. Briefs," he greeted respectfully, his voice echoing in the spacious room. "I have the report on the Bansho hot spring water analysis."

Bulma glanced up from the microscope, smiling in satisfaction. "Excellent! Give me the highlights."

The employee cleared his throat, flipping through the pages as he summarized the findings. "Well, ma'am, it seems that soaking in the water samples effectively cured most viruses in tested rodents, though it only improved the condition of some others. Additionally, we found that the temperature of the water made a significant difference. Hotter water was more effective than colder water. This stuff is groundbreaking."

Bulma nodded thoughtfully, her mind racing with possibilities. "Agreed," she murmured, reaching out to take the report from him. "Thank you, Lipson. I'll review this in more detail now." As the employee left the lab, Bulma picked up her phone and initiated a video call to the Gravitron. The screen flickered to life, revealing Vegeta in the midst of an intense training session, his muscles glistening with sweat as he lifted massive weights in intense gravity. "Oh, Vegeta, darling," Bulma greeted with a smile, her voice carrying a hint of sweetness. "I need you to come to the lab. We've something important to discuss."

Vegeta paused mid-lift, a scowl forming on his face. "Can't it wait, woman? I'm in the middle of a set."

Bulma rolled her eyes, unfazed by his gruff demeanor. "Sure, sure, but try not to take longer than five minutes. Trust me, you'll want to hear this," she pointed out, flashing a glance at the report.

With a resigned sigh, Vegeta relented. "Fine, five minutes," he grumbled.

Bulma ended the call and started flipping through the report as she waited. True to his word, Vegeta arrived at the lab minutes later, his expression sour as he took a seat opposite Bulma at the table. "What's so important that it couldn't wait until lunch?" he demanded, crossing his arms over his chest.

Bulma grinned, eager to share her findings. "Well, you see, I've got both potential good news and potential bad news. Let's start with the bad, so we can end with the good. First of all, the samples that I got from Goku had no signs of those particles I mentioned. I have reason to suspect that those are the viral particles. Now, that could mean one of two things. It could mean that your soak in the Bansho Spa killed the virus entirely and left their dead corpses spewed about in your body fluids. Alternatively, it could mean that the water killed most of the viruses, but there are still some alive and dormant in your cells."

Ever the pessimist, Vegeta clenched a fist at the news. "Damn it…"

"As for the good news," Bulma continued, flipping through the report. "I've got some preliminary results back from our study of the Bansho hot spring water. It's… interesting, to say the least," she began, launching into an animated explanation of the test results. As she spoke, Vegeta's demeanor softened slightly, his curiosity getting the better of him as he listened intently to her discoveries.

When she finished her spiel, Vegeta was deep in thought. "So… I guess Kakarott isn't a complete idiot."

Bulma chuckled and clapped the booklet shut. "Nope, just a part-time idiot. So, in conclusion, even if the Bansho Spa didn't kill all of the viruses, it almost certainly killed most of them. And there's a good chance it could work again if you have another flare-up in the future. Then we can use the dragon balls to wipe out every trace of the virus that the magical minerals couldn't reach deep in your cells."

Vegeta jumped to his feet, a fist clenched in determination. "Yes… that means I don't have to…"

"Hold on, Vegeta," Bulma interrupted, signaling him to sit back down. "This information doesn't mean you can throw caution to the wind. In case you still have some dormant viruses, I need you to think back to when you had your previous flare-ups. Did anything stressful or notable precede them? We would be wise to avoid triggering another one, even if we have a good counter measure. When you're training in the Gravitron, I'd say it's okay for you to push yourself, but not as hard as you possibly can. Be mindful. Once the dragon balls are ready, you can go all out with your training, but be careful until then."

Vegeta nodded, his lack of stubbornness catching Bulma off-guard. "Fine, I will."

The blue-haired genius grinned. "Alrighty. Well, we can update Goku when he gets back from his little trip. Until then, you're free to continue your training in the Gravitron… with caution."

Vegeta stood up and nodded again, departing. Bulma admired his backside as he padded out of the lab, disappearing into the hall. Her heart fluttered and she released a soft sigh before getting back to work.

…

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 763

Morning dawned on another busy day at Capsule Corp. Vegeta strode to breakfast with his usual air of confidence, expecting to find that the other saiyans had returned from their family reunion. Frowning, he scanned the room, unable to sense Goku or Gohan anywhere on the grounds. "Where are Kakarot and the boy?" he demanded, his voice tinged with irritation as he took a seat at the table.

Bulma glanced up from her tablet, concern flickering in her eyes. "Uh… I'm not sure, Vegeta. They should've been here by now," she replied, furrowing her brow in confusion as she glanced around.

Just as Vegeta was about to voice his annoyance at their absence, his phone rang, interrupting his thoughts. He picked it up with a grumble, hearing Goku's voice on the other end. "Where are you, Kakarot?!" Vegeta demanded. "Training starts after breakfast and I won't tolerate lateness."

"S-Sorry to bother you, Vegeta, but I wanted to let you know that our trip to Fire Mountain has been extended due to some... uh… unforeseen circumstances," Goku explained, his voice apologetic.

Vegeta's scowl deepened. "Extended? Why can't you stick to the plan and come back for our training?" he demanded, frustration mounting. "You're the one who wanted this, remember? The deal was your damn idea! A Vegetan Oath is the very last thing you ever want to be in breach of! It's a serious thing."

"I'm not backing out on our deal!" Goku insisted before sighing on the other end of the line. "It's complicated, Vegeta. But listen, maybe you could bring the Gravitron to Fire Mountain for the weekend? We can train together during our free time," he suggested, his tone hopeful.

Vegeta considered Goku's proposal. "I'll talk to Bulma about it," he muttered before ending the call.

Bulma raised an eyebrow as Vegeta hung up the phone, clearly curious about the conversation. "What did Goku want?" she inquired, setting down her tablet and giving Vegeta her full attention.

Vegeta scowled. "He can't return until 'Monday.' He wants me to bring the Gravitron to Fire Mountain so we can train there," he explained, his tone begrudging. "I don't even know where Fire Mountain is!"

Bulma nodded, though a hint of concern crept into her expression. "Just be careful with the Gravitron, Vegeta. We don't want any accidents," she cautioned, her voice tinged with worry. "And don't worry about navigation. I'll set up a GPS to show you the way before you leave. Now, sit down and eat."

As they resumed breakfast, the room was suddenly filled with the shrill ring of Dr. Briefs' phone. Vegeta stomped a foot on the ground, making the room rattle around them. "Damn it! Your Earth devices are driving me nuts!" he blared before digging back into his pile of sausages, trying to ignore the sound.

Dr. Briefs' mustache tilted into a subtle smirk and he picked up his phone, his expression growing serious as he listened to the voice on the other end. His wife and daughter could only hear fragments of the conversation, but it was enough to convey a grave situation. Once Dr. Briefs ended the call, Bulma could not help but blurt out, "Gee, Dad… what was that about? Is everything okay?"

Dr. Briefs sighed, his cordial demeanor replaced by solemnity. "My suspicions were correct. Earth's government plans to induct Capsule Corp into developing technology for the military to help quash the civil unrest in the south and prevent it from spreading," he revealed, his voice laced with concern. Bulma's eyes widened in shock at the news, her mind racing with the implications. "Mandatory summons to meet with a top military commander at 10 AM," Dr. Briefs added, his tone grave.

Vegeta raised a brow in curiosity. "What do you mean 'induct'?"

Dr. Briefs glanced up at Vegeta. "I mean they intend to enlist Capsule Corp's resources and expertise to develop technology specifically tailored for military use," he explained, his voice tinged with frustration. "It's likely they want to leverage our advanced technology to gain an edge in dealing with the civil unrest. We haven't been inducted since… well, the Red Ribbon Army's invasion, but we were all too happy to help with that. This situation in the south… Well, it's quite a bit more morally ambiguous."

"So, they're essentially conscripting us into their war effort," Bulma clarified. "We must comply."

Dr. Briefs nodded solemnly. "Precisely. And given the urgency of the situation, we have little choice but to comply with their demands," he admitted, his shoulders slumping under the weight of the revelation.

Bulma's mind raced with possibilities, her concern for the potential consequences of Capsule Corp's involvement in military affairs evident on her face. "But what about our ongoing projects? What about the advancements we're making in energy technology and space exploration?" she questioned.

"Now, wait just one damn minute!" Vegeta blared, jumping to his feet. The Briefs went silent and looked up at him with alarm in their eyes. "So, you're saying… that you're essentially being… enslaved by your planet's governing body." His angry expression morphed into a clever one as he panned his eyes to Bulma and smirked at her. Then he abruptly folded his arms and turned his nose up in a snooty manner. "Go on, woman. I know what you want to ask me, but you have to say it regardless or the answer is no. I suppose I might be open to persuasion, but you better make a pretty passionate plea regardless."

Bulma looked at him like he had grown a second head. "Um, what?"

He rounded on her, snickering in satisfaction. "'Your Royal Highness, Prince Vegeta, please, please free us from this tyranny,'" he said in a bad falsetto intended to mimic Bulma's voice, before reverting to his normal deep tone. "That's all you have to say and then you can consider it done. I'll blow this 'military commander' sky high if he indeed has the balls to show up here and try to intimidate any of you."

Mrs. Briefs brought her hands to her heart. "Oh, Vegeta dear, that's so sweet of you to offer."

Bulma jumped up and slammed her hands down on the table. "It's not that simple, Vegeta. Earth's politics are complicated. We don't solve all our problems by blowing shit up 24/7, you dumb saiyan!"

Vegeta roared in laughter and snatched his plate up from the table, taking it with him. "Right, right, woman. Listen, I'll keep my pocket device with me. When you change your mind, feel free to give me a ring. Bye," he snapped back, throwing his head back with laughter as he departed.

As Vegeta stomped out of the room, leaving behind a stunned silence in his wake, Bulma seethed with anger. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides as she struggled to contain herself. "That arrogant, pompous, smug, high-and-mighty...!" she began, her voice rising with indignation.

Dr. Briefs placed a comforting hand on Bulma's shoulder, his expression filled with understanding. "He means well, dear," he said gently, his tone soothing. "But he has his own way of expressing it."

Bulma let out a frustrated sigh, her shoulders slumping in defeat. "I know," she admitted, her voice tinged with resignation. "But sometimes His Royal Highness can be so damn infuriating!"

Mrs. Briefs offered a sympathetic smile, her eyes soft with affection. "He's just trying to help, dear," she pointed out, her tone gentle. "In his own... unique way. Albeit, very unique, I admit."

Bulma felt her anger slowly dissipating as she took a deep breath to calm herself. "I know," she conceded, her tone softer now. "But that doesn't mean he has to be so... so... aggravating!"

As the tension in the room eased, the Briefs family exchanged knowing glances, a sense of camaraderie binding them together in the face of adversity. With their minds set on finding a solution to their predicament, they rose from the table, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

…

The helicopter blades thrummed rhythmically as the military transport soared through the air, carrying Bulma and Dr. Briefs to an undisclosed location for the secret military briefing. Inside the chopper, Bulma's nerves were on edge, her fingers tapping anxiously against her thigh as she stole glances out of the window at the passing cityscape below. Dr. Briefs, on the other hand, sat beside her with an air of stoic composure, his expression unreadable as he stared straight ahead. The guards sitting across from them did not break eye contact for a moment during the whole flight, creeping Bulma out even more.

As they approached their destination, the helicopter began to descend, the whirring of the blades intensifying as they neared the landing. Bulma swallowed hard, her heart pounding. The chopper touched down with a soft thud and the doors slid open, revealing a team of stern-faced and heavily-armed soldiers waiting to escort them. Father and daughter stepped out onto the tarmac, the roar of the helicopter fading into the background as they were led towards a nondescript building nearby. The soldiers maintained a steely silence as they guided them through the facility, their movements precise and efficient.

Inside, they were ushered into a dimly-lit conference room. The imposing figure of General Pewter came into view. He stood tall and commanding at the head of the long table, his sturdy frame exuding an air of authority demanding respect. His broad shoulders hinted at years of disciplined training and his build suggested he was no stranger to physical exertion. Every movement he made was purposeful and precise, reflecting the disciplined nature of his character. His hair was cropped close to his scalp, emphasizing the sharp angles of his face and drawing attention to his piercing gaze. Steely gray eyes seemed to miss nothing as they surveyed the room with a keen intensity. His features were chiseled and stern, with a prominent jawline that spoke of determination and resolve. His expression was set in a firm line, hinting at a man who was accustomed to giving orders and having them obeyed without question.

Bulma's nerves threatened to overwhelm her as she took her seat, her clenched palms sweating as she waited for the briefing to begin. Beside her, Dr. Briefs remained an impenetrable wall of composure, his expression betraying nothing as he absorbed the details of their surrounding environment. His calm demeanor served as a source of strength for Bulma, grounding her in the face of uncertainty.

When the commander first spoke, his voice cut through the silence of the room like a knife. Bulma could not help but jump slightly at the harsh baritone. "Dr. and Ms. Briefs, I'm glad you could make it. Strap yourselves in. We have a great deal of heavy business to go over and no time to waste," he decreed.

…

As Vegeta traversed the Earth's atmosphere, the world beneath him unfolded like a vibrant tapestry. The wind whipped past him, tousling his gravity-defying hair as he followed the arrow on his GPS wrist device with his brow furrowed in irritation. In the expanse below, the landscape was a kaleidoscope of colors and textures: a vast mushroom forest spread out like a patchwork quilt, its towering fungi casting long shadows over the forest floor. Majestic mountains loomed on the horizon, their peaks crowned with glistening snow, while shimmering lakes and meandering rivers cut through the verdant valleys below.

As the saiyan prince pressed on, the scenery shifted, revealing the breathtaking beauty of a bustling civilization. Vegeta's GPS indicated it was none other than the Ox-Kingdom. Fire Mountain rose majestically in the distance, its slopes veiled in wisps of mist. Nestled atop the mountain was the white castle, its turrets reaching towards the heavens like golden spires. Surrounding the castle, a small city lay sprawled over the rolling green hills, its streets bustling with activity. Beyond the city limits, endless pastures stretched into the distance, dotted with grazing oxen as well as small towns and villages.

Hovering in the sky, Vegeta caught himself marveling at the sight before him, the grandeur of the Ox-Kingdom stirring memories of his own long-lost home world. His attention was arrested when he felt Goku's ki rise and begin to approach. A dot appeared over the white castle that steadily grew larger. "Hey, 'Geets! Glad you could make it! I take it you've got the Gravitron with you?" Goku asked, waving as he flew toward his fellow saiyan. He stopped about ten feet from Vegeta in the sky over the city and beckoned him down. "What are you hovering around here for? Come on, let's go. It'll be lunchtime in an hour. We might as well get some training in while we can," he enthusiastically proposed.

"Tch," was Vegeta's terse reply as he folded his arms over his chest and averted his eyes. A funny feeling had come over him, one of heart-rending nostalgia and homesickness. "I don't know, Kakarott. Maybe we should just start after lunch. Here," he said, all enthusiasm for training temporarily gone from his demeanor as he tossed Goku a large DynoCap, "find somewhere to set up the Gravitron."

Goku caught it, but frowned. "What, why? Aren't you at least coming down to the castle?"

Vegeta shook his head, refusing to meet his rival's eyes. "I'll meet you after lunch, I swear it," he replied, turning to head toward a section of mountainous forest. He was about to blast off, but felt a firm hand on his wrist holding him back. Vegeta turned back toward Goku, glaring. "Don't touch me, Kakarott!"

"I'm sorry to do this, but you're acting a bit strange and Bulma asked me to keep an eye on you for any odd behaviors that might indicate you're getting sick again. I'd really rather you didn't go far. If you want to rest a bit before lunch, that's fine. We've got a room ready for you down there."

Vegeta tried to shake him off, but Goku held firm, not so much as blinking when the prince stared daggers at him. "Fine! Let go and show me to this so-called room you spoke of," he decreed.

Reluctantly releasing his grip, Goku offered Vegeta a reassuring smile before leading the way towards the castle. As they descended towards the imposing structure, the gates were already open to welcome them, revealing a grand courtyard adorned with lush gardens and ornate fountains. Inside, the corridors were lined with intricate tapestries depicting scenes of legendary battles and heroic feats on ox-back. Goku guided Vegeta through the winding halls, his footsteps echoing against the polished marble floors. Eventually, they reached a set of elaborately-carved doors adorned with the crest of the Ox-King.

Pushing them open, Goku revealed a spacious chamber fit for royalty. Sunlight streamed in through stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the room's plush furnishings and gilded accents. A large bed with silk sheets stood at the center, flanked by ornate dressers and velvet-upholstered chairs. Goku gestured towards the amenities with a proud grin. "Here you go, Vegeta. Your home away from home," he announced, his tone brimming with hospitality. "Feel free to rest up before lunch. And if you need anything, just let me know or ring the tassel by the bed. Someone will come to tend to you."

Vegeta grunted in acknowledgment, his gaze sweeping over the opulent surroundings with a hint of begrudging appreciation. As Goku left him to his own devices, the prince plopped somewhat angrily onto the luxurious bed, his thoughts swirling with conflicting emotions. The place triggered memories in him, both good and terrible, and part of him wished he was not in a castle at all. Despite his initial reluctance though, he could not deny the allure of the comforts that awaited him in the heart of the Ox-King's castle.

Soon enough, the prince had drifted into a light reverie, mostly losing awareness of his surroundings.