Chapter 16: The Tale of the Phoenix
As Vegeta and Goku stepped out of the Gravitron, the late afternoon sun bathed the courtyard in golden light, casting long shadows across the polished cobblestones. Vegeta's breathing was heavy, his muscles fatigued from the intense training session. His training spandex clung to him, damp with sweat, showing signs of wear from the rigorous workout. Goku, his usual cheerful demeanor undiminished, clapped Vegeta on the back with a grin. "Great job, Vegeta! You really pushed yourself today."
"It's nothing less than what's expected," Vegeta replied, his words betraying a hint of exhaustion.
As they walked back to their chambers, a young female servant with medium-brown shoulder-length hair approached them. She stopped respectfully, her eyes darting between the two warriors. "Sirs," she spoke with a curtsy, her voice soft yet confident, "would either of you like me to draw you a bath?"
Vegeta shook his head, his attention already turning toward the comfort and privacy of his own room.
In sharp contrast, Goku's face brightened at the offer. "Actually, that sounds great! It'll save me some time so I can go check up on Gohan first," he said with a grateful smile. "Thanks so much, Miss…?"
"Valendra," she replied with a curt nod. "I'll have it prepared for you shortly."
"Thanks, Miss Valendra! Alright, I'll be back in a few!" Goku replied, running off down the hall.
Vegeta entered his room with a tired yawn, the strain of the training session lingering in his muscles, and made his way to the bathing chamber. He kicked off his boots along the way, the marble floors cool beneath his feet. Inside, the centerpiece was a free-standing porcelain tub with intricate gold trim. A walk-in shower sat adjacent, its clean glass walls gleaming in the soft light from a frosted window. Too fatigued to stand long, Vegeta started the hot water in the tub and shed his spandex. As the tub began to fill with steaming water, he sank into its comforting embrace, his body relaxing more with each passing moment. The heat soothed his tired muscles, easing away the tension of the day's exertions. He leaned back against the porcelain, closing his eyes as he drifted into a state of serenity. Nearly an hour passed in blissful solitude, the only sound the gentle lapping of water against porcelain. As Vegeta began to drift off to sleep, a soft knock at the door stirred him from his restful reverie. With a grunt of startlement, Vegeta pushed himself slightly upright, his body protesting the sudden movement. "What is it?"
The door creaked open to reveal Valendra, the young brunette chambermaid. Her eyes were downcast toward him in deference. "Forgive the intrusion, Prince Vegeta," she apologetically said in a soft voice, "but dinner will be served soon. Son Goku and the Ox-King have been asking after you."
Vegeta grumbled under his breath, annoyed at the interruption due to his nosy rival. He tried to think of a way he could get out of attending without insulting the Ox-King. "Would His Majesty be offended if I missed the banquet on account of fatigue? If there's any chance of being served privately in my chambers here, I'll take it," he hesitantly admitted, dreading the prospect of socializing with the other guests.
"Of course, Your Highness. It was mostly Son Goku asking. I'm sure His Majesty will understand. I'll let them know and send your request directly to the kitchen. It should take about ten to fifteen minutes."
Hearing his proper address for the first time in ages, spoken with neither sarcasm nor mockery, caused a sudden and painful tightening in Vegeta's throat. Turning his face away from the chambermaid and sinking deeper into the bathwater, he bit his bottom lip and clenched his eyes shut as old emotions and memories flooded his heart and mind. The prince tried to quietly take a deep breath, forcing his voice to steady. "Very well," he mustered in a low voice, the slightest tremor betraying his inner turmoil.
As the maid respectfully departed, a sense of relief settled over him. Half a minute passed before he sat up and started cleaning himself properly with a washcloth, and shampooing his hair. He rushed through his usual hygiene routine, taking only a few minutes. Soon, he had emerged from the depths of the now-lukewarm bathwater, his muscles relaxed but his mind still troubled. Droplets of water cascaded down his toned physique, glistening in the soft light that illuminated the chamber. With a fluid motion, he stepped out of the tub, his feet sinking into the plush bath mat below. Reaching for the nearby rack, Vegeta took a fluffy burgundy bath sheet, its fabric soft against his skin. He wrapped the oversized towel around his body and began to pat himself dry, enjoying the soothing feel of the exotic cotton.
As he worked, Vegeta's thoughts drifted back to the training session with Goku, his rival's unwavering determination a constant reminder of the challenges that lay ahead. But even in the solitude of the bathing chamber, he could not shake the feeling of insecurity that lingered within him. With a heavy sigh, he pushed aside his doubts, focusing instead on the simple task at hand. For now, all that mattered was finding a moment of peace amidst the chaos of his thoughts. He reached down to his discarded spandex pants and retrieved a few items from its pockets, his phone and his luggage capsule.
With a flick of his wrist, Vegeta activated the small luggage capsule on the sink countertop, its familiar hum filling the air as it materialized in front of him. He reached out and opened the suitcase, revealing its contents neatly arranged inside. Among his spare clothes, he selected a comfortable pair of clean snug navy-blue boxer shorts and a white tank top, both meticulously folded and untouched by wear.
Slipping out of the towel, Vegeta dressed himself in the soft garments, the fabric clinging to his form with a comforting familiarity. As he pulled on the modified boxers, he could not help but appreciate Mrs. Briefs' attention to detail. The two-inch slit down the back and the discreet buttons provided a convenient solution for accommodating his furry brown tail, a thoughtful gesture that did not go unnoticed.
Once dressed in his underthings, Vegeta set aside his phone and secured the suitcase, re-encapsulating it for safekeeping. With a sense of resolve, he took a deep breath and straightened up his posture, the memories of his past momentarily forgotten in the act of getting dressed. As he exited the bathroom, he prepared to spend the remainder of the evening in relaxation. But, alas, it was not to be.
As Vegeta's gaze swept across the chamber, it settled on a cozy corner adorned with an elaborately embroidered reclining armchair, positioned beneath a softly glowing floor lamp. A bookshelf lined with volumes of diverse subject matter stood nearby, inviting exploration. The rich aroma of aged leather, scented candle wax, and parchment filled the space, lending an air of tranquility. A cashmere lap blanket, neatly folded over the back of the armchair, beckoned to him, promising warmth and comfort.
Vegeta reached out and retrieved the blanket, draping it over his muscular thighs as he sank into the plush armchair. Leaning forward, he ran his fingers lightly along the spines of the books, quietly perusing the titles, each one a window into a world of local knowledge and possibility. Lost in his thoughts, he sought solace in the embrace of literature, a temporary but welcome escape from reality.
As Vegeta basked in the tranquility of his surroundings, the sudden intrusion of Goku shattered the peaceful atmosphere. Startled, he looked up to see Goku's concerned face looming over him, the man's expression a mix of worry and disappointment. Before Vegeta could gather his thoughts, Goku blurted out, "Vegeta, why aren't you coming to dinner? Are you feeling sick?" His words cut through the silence like a knife, leaving Vegeta momentarily speechless as he grappled with the unexpected interrogation.
Vegeta quickly shook his head, denying any illness. "No, I'm not sick."
Goku's concern persisted, his eyes searching Vegeta's face for signs of truth. "Really?" Goku pressed, his voice filled with skepticism. "You seemed pretty tired after training. You sure you're okay?"
Vegeta's jaw clenched slightly at the persistent questioning, irritation simmering beneath the surface. "I said I'm fine, Kakarott!" he retorted, his voice edged with frustration. "I just need some time alone. Is that too much to ask? For fuck's sake, stop standing over me and go back to the damn banquet!"
Goku furrowed his brows in suspicion, unconvinced by Vegeta's attempts at assurance. He leaned in closer, trying to examine Vegeta's face for any signs of illness. "I don't know, Vegeta. You seem off," he said worriedly. "Even Piccolo noticed it. Are you sure you're not hiding something?"
Vegeta recoiled as Goku attempted to touch his forehead, his irritation boiling over. "Don't touch me, Kakarott!" he snapped, swatting Goku's hand away with a scowl. "I told you, I'm fine! Now, leave me be and go back to your precious banquet before I lose my shit and punch you through a wall!"
Goku backed off, his eyes narrowed. "Alright, Vegeta," he conceded reluctantly. "But if you're lying and you really are sick, you better not try to hide it. Got it?" With a final warning glance, Goku turned on his heel and left the room, but poked his head back through the door. "And I'm checking on you after dinner whether you like it or not!" he decreed before leaving Vegeta alone with his thoughts.
Vegeta let out an exasperated sigh after the door clicked shut. The last thing he had needed was another disturbance to his already unstable sense of peace. He pinched the spot between his eyes and massaged the area, squeezing his eyes shut. "Fucking Kakarott…" he muttered as he tried to think of ways to evade yet another unwelcome visit, his thoughts having become a tumultuous storm again.
The sound of a gentle knock on the door broke through the quietude.
Remaining seated in his comfortable armchair, Vegeta called out in a firm voice, "Enter."
A well-dressed, tall, and slender male server guided a polished sterling silver table with wheels into the room. The aroma of hot food wafted from beneath the silver platters as the manservant offered a polite bow before he removed the tops of the silver platters, revealing a sizable personal feast.
The prince's eyes widened at the sight of the mouthwatering spread, his stomach growling in anticipation.
The server poured him a tall glass of bubbly tropical fruit juice, which sparkled enticingly in the soft evening light. "Is there anything else Your Highness requires before I take my leave?"
Vegeta shook his head, offering a curt nod of thanks. "That will be all," he replied.
With a final bow, the manservant left the room, leaving Vegeta alone with his feast. As soon as the door clicked shut, Vegeta wasted no time in indulging himself, eagerly sampling the array of dishes before him with relish. The flavors exploded on his tongue, a welcome distraction from Goku's chaotic interruption. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to forget the idiot and enjoy the pleasure of a good meal.
After indulging in the lavish feast, Vegeta found himself overcome by a wave of post-meal fatigue. With a contented sigh, he closed his eyes, intending to rest for just a moment. Unbeknownst to him, time slipped by unnoticed as he drifted into a light slumber. When he finally stirred, it was with a sudden start, his eyes snapping open as awareness flooded back into his senses. Checking the time, he realized that the banquet would soon be coming to an end, and with it, the inevitable return of Goku. Groaning at the thought of facing his persistent rival once more, the saiyan prince hastily rose from his seat.
Without bothering to change into anything more formal, he threw on a pair of stretchy jeans and hurriedly left the room, the desire for solitude propelling him forward. As he made his way down the hallway, passing the occasional palace staff person, his mind raced with the need to find a quiet sanctuary where he could be alone with his thoughts. Eventually, the flame-haired saiyan stumbled upon the Zen Garden, its serene beauty drawing him in like a magnet. The sight of the tranquil surroundings offered a welcome respite and Vegeta found himself wandering through the meticulously manicured landscape.
He found a secluded spot under a sprawling tree, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. Remembering a practice from his youth, he decided to embrace the familiar ritual of hanging upside down by his tail to meditate. With practiced ease, he positioned himself beneath a sturdy branch, allowing his body to relax into the inverted position. With legs crossed and arms folded, he closed his eyes and focused on his breathing. A greater sense of peace descended upon him, the gentle rustle of leaves above providing a soothing backdrop to his thoughts. In this tranquil moment, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the garden, Vegeta felt the weight of the universe lift from his shoulders, if only for a fleeting moment.
…
Goku stepped back into Vegeta's room, expecting to find the prince there, perhaps getting dressed or even snoozing in the bed or armchair. However, to his surprise, the room was deserted, save for the now-empty rolling table that had held Vegeta's dinner feast before the hungry saiyan had devoured it all. Frowning in confusion, Goku called out, "Vegeta?" His voice echoed in the chamber, but there was no response.
Thinking that Vegeta might have stepped into the adjacent bathroom, Goku approached the slightly ajar door and knocked lightly. "Vegeta, you in there?" he called again, listening intently for any signs of movement. When no reply came, Goku's brow furrowed in concern. Where could Vegeta have gone?
A maid passed by the open doorway, bowing politely as she squeezed past Goku. "Excuse me, sir."
Seizing the opportunity, Goku asked her, "Have you seen Vegeta?"
The young girl shook her head, her expression apologetic. "I'm sorry, Mr. Son. I haven't seen Prince Vegeta. Perhaps, he went for a stroll in the gardens or to visit another part of the palace?"
Goku nodded, albeit somewhat disappointed by the lack of information. "Thanks anyway," he replied before turning his attention back to the room. With Vegeta's absence becoming increasingly concerning, Goku decided to rely on his keen senses to locate him. Closing his eyes, he focused his energy, reaching out to scan the area for Vegeta's distinct energy signature. However, to his surprise, Goku found that Vegeta's energy seemed to be deliberately suppressed, making it difficult for him to pinpoint his exact location. Frowning in confusion, Goku wondered why Vegeta would intentionally hide his ki.
Before he could delve deeper into his thoughts, Goku was distracted by the sound of King Kai's voice.
Goku, it's me, King Kai! the jovial deity suddenly exclaimed, his voice crackling with excitement. Sorry for the long delay. I just got back to my planet after a crazy time over at Princess Snake's place. Her parties are really 'slithering' into the spotlight here in Other World! Not to mention she's a 'ball' python on the dance floor! he declared, followed by a long bout of snorting laughter.
Goku flushed. Oh, heh heh… he replied, rubbing the back of his head. That's a good one, King Kai!
I know, right?! So, how are things going on Earth these days? I hear it's really thawed out since January. Winter's gone faster than you can finish a meal, am I right? King Kai remarked, chortling again.
Goku suppressed the urge to roll his eyes and forced out more internal laughter. Ha, ha… well, Earth is okay right now, but, uh, thanks to Vegeta, Kami and I have some concerns that we need to address.
Vegeta?! Alright, what did he do this time? If you really need it, we can maybe send a guy to smack that boy straight. I know at least one Destroyer who sure wouldn't mind going to Earth to practice his 'Saiyan slapstick' routine! King Kai joked, launching himself into yet more snorting and giggling.
Goku sighed and slapped his forehead. No, no! Vegeta didn't do anything. He told Kami and I that Frieza had a father and brother. Since I defeated Frieza, Vegeta suggested that they might come to Earth for revenge. I was wondering if you know anything about this Cold family and if they're headed our way.
Silence reigned.
Uh, King Kai? You still there?
Another moment of silence. Seriously? Not even a giggle?
Huh? Oh, um, yeah, ha ha ha! That's actually really clever… Goku replied, tapering off at the end.
There it is! Anyway, let me think… Cold family, Cold family… Ah, yes! If I'm not mistaken, Frieza's father King Cold is retired. He's been kicking back and taking it easy back on their home planet for the last several years since he handed the empire over to Frieza. If anyone's been out and about, it would be his eldest Coola. Let me see, Planet Winter, if I recall my galactic maps correctly, that would be over… King Kai uttered, thinking aloud. Wait just a minute, Goku. I gotta move to the other side of my house to get the right signals. Hold tight for a bit and I'll be back, he concluded, his voice sounding farther away.
Sure thing! Goku replied, plopping down on the armchair Vegeta had been using. It was enveloped in the prince's scent. The orange-clad saiyan whistled and twiddled his thumbs as he waited, cupping an ear to listen to the hallway in hope that Vegeta might be on his way back. No such luck.
Ten minutes passed. Goku! King Kai cried. Holy smokes! You won't believe what I just saw!
Goku was so startled, he fell sideways out of the plush armchair and landed on his head. He scrambled around to right himself, discombobulated. Oh no! What is it, King Kai? Is it bad?
Oh, it's bad, Goku. Gregory and Bubbles were arguing over a piece of fruit. When Gregory managed to get his paws on it, Bubbles just turned right around and farted on him. It was so rude! Oh, and I checked out Planet Winter. King Cold doesn't appear to be in his palace right now. Uh, look, give me some time to do some remote sleuthing and I'll try to track the old lizard down, see what I can find. I'll get back to you as soon as I know something. Sound good? You take care now, Goku! King Kai related.
When the telepathic communication ended, Goku sank to the floor. "Now, that was just painful," he said to himself, running his hand down the length of his face. He felt braindead. "King Kai, man… I swear." Goku huffed and then hopped up, dusting himself off, before venturing off to find Vegeta. As he entered the hall, he sniffed around and caught a hint of the scent trail the prince had left behind.
…
As the sun dipped below the horizon, illuminating the Zen Garden with a soft ethereal light, glowing lanterns took the place of the fading sun, their warmth flickering gently against the stone pathways and verdant foliage. The serenity of the garden was punctuated by the distant hum of conversation as the banquet guests lingered, their voices mingling with the rustle of leaves in the evening breeze.
In the shadows of the trees, Vegeta remained concealed, his keen senses attuned to the passing conversations of the guests. He listened intently, catching snippets of gossip and laughter as the guests moved about the garden, their silhouettes illuminated by the soft glow of the lanterns.
Lost in his thoughts, Vegeta was unaware of any approaching presence until a sudden beam of light pierced through the darkness, illuminating his face. Startled, the saiyan prince tensed his whole body instinctively, his tail constricting tightly around the branch above him. With a sharp crack, the tree limb snapped clean off, sending Vegeta tumbling straight downward in a flurry of leaves and branches.
With lightning-fast reflexes, the Ox-King lunged forward, his massive hands reaching out to catch the falling prince around the middle. With a grunt, he pivoted Vegeta upright, his powerful grip steadying the disoriented warrior and placing him back on his feet. "Ah, there you are, Prince Vegeta!" boomed the Ox-King, his deep voice cutting through the stillness of the garden. He stood over the flame-haired one, accompanied by a single female attendant, Valendra, her dark eyes wide with concern. "I'm so sorry about that! I didn't mean to startle you," he added apologetically. "At dinner, my son-in-law expressed concern that you might be ill. I'm glad to see that you're actually looking quite well."
Caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the imposing figure, Vegeta blinked in surprise. He quickly regained his composure, straightening his posture and offering a curt nod of acknowledgment. "Ox-King," he replied, his voice clipped and authoritative. "What brings you here at this hour?"
The Ox-King's booming laughter echoed through the garden, a sound as warm and comforting as the flickering lanterns above. "Just taking a leisurely after-dinner stroll through the garden, my friend," he said with a jovial grin. "And it seems I've stumbled upon quite the unexpected sight!"
Valendra stepped forward, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "Are you alright, Your Highness?" she asked, her voice soft and soothing. "You're not injured, are you?"
Vegeta brushed himself off with a nonchalant wave of his hand, averting his eyes. "I'm fine," he muttered, his tone brusque. "I was just meditating and wasn't expecting to run into anyone."
The Ox-King chuckled heartily, clapping Vegeta on the back with a force that nearly knocked him over. "No harm done, my boy! I'll just have to be more careful next time," he said with a chuckle. "The last time I saw a saiyan hanging by the tail was over a year and a half ago. Gohan used to do it all the time while playing in the woods. It was so darn cute! In fact, Goku did it too when he was a kid."
A light rosy tint formed on Vegeta's cheeks and he awkwardly stared at a spot of grass as his tail lashed behind him lightly. "It just helps me focus sometimes. It may look uncomfortable, but it isn't."
The Ox-King laughed boisterously again. "Well, I wouldn't know," he readily admitted, stooping down by Vegeta like a towering adult preparing for a chat with a toddler. The movement compelled Vegeta to look up and meet the sovereign's eye. "So, tell me, Prince Vegeta. Your papa was a king too, right? From what I have been led to understand, this King Vegeta ruled a whole planet, didn't he?"
His eyes widening slightly, Vegeta nodded.
"Wowee! Leading an itty-bitty kingdom is tough enough as far as I'm concerned. I can't imagine the kind of pressure your father was under. Billions of subjects instead of just a few thousand? Count me out!"
Vegeta harrumphed. "Well, he certainly wasn't as happy as you are," he conceded. The prince turned away, intent on walking a few paces, but was stopped by a massive hand on his shoulder.
"I'm so sorry about what happened to your home world. If I lost my people, I'd be lost as well. And you know what? I almost was lost, twice! Did you know this castle has been rebuilt two times in my lifetime? It's true! It was destroyed on two separate occasions by a massive fire. In fact, we still call this place Fire Mountain in remembrance of the catastrophes. Before all that, it was called Pleasant Mountain."
Vegeta glanced back over his shoulder and raised a brow, his curiosity piqued. "I wondered about that…"
The Ox-King nodded in an exaggerated manner. "You know, there's an old legend from the isles just south of here about an immortal bird called the phoenix. It's a remarkable tale," he said, settling into a cross-legged pose on the cobblestones as he prepared to regale his guest. "You see, the legend of the phoenix is one of triumph over tragedy, of destruction followed by rebirth," he continued, his voice carrying a hint of reverence. "Long ago, in the southern isles, there lived a magnificent bird known as the phoenix. It was said to possess feathers of shimmering gold and eyes that sparkled like gems."
Vegeta listened in silence, his curiosity piqued by the mention of a legendary creature.
The Ox-King's gaze grew distant as he recounted the tale. "Legend has it that the phoenix made its nest atop a towering mountain, a place of unparalleled beauty. This was back in the days before people had colonized the isles. One fateful day, a group of settlers arrived on a boat and started mindlessly tearing down the trees to build themselves a city. Over time, the remaining wilderness became badly degraded by the unscrupulous activities of the settlers, causing a terrible drought to strike. Sparked by one man cooking his goose over an open flame in the thirsty forest, a great fire grew out of control and swept through the whole land. It consumed everything in its path, including the human settlement, the mountain, and the phoenix's nest. But, despite the destruction, the phoenix did not perish from this Earth. Three days and three nights passed with no signs of life on the barren land. But then, on the dawn of the fourth day, the phoenix emerged from the ashes. It had been reborn, its feathers aglow with renewed vitality. From the ashes of its former self, the phoenix rose, stronger and more magnificent than ever before."
Vegeta's eyes widened. "So, your castle is like the phoenix. Why not call it Phoenix Mountain?"
The Ox-King nodded, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Indeed, Prince Vegeta. The phoenix symbolizes resilience and renewal, a testament to the indomitable spirit that lies within us all. No matter how dire the circumstances, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow." He leaned in and whispered, "I'll let you in on a little secret. At Gohan's upcoming coronation, the mountain will be renamed."
Vegeta cast his eyes down, his thoughts turning inward as he reflected on the Ox-King's words. "Yes, well," he began in a low voice after a momentary pause. "It's nice that Ox-Kingdom and the phoenix were able to do those things. I'm happy for you," he uttered in a voice tinged with defeat.
"Vegeta," the Ox-King said, compelling the prince to meet his eye again. "A mortal king can't do such extraordinary things alone. He needs beloved friends and allies, those so loyal they would not hesitate to die for him and what he stands for. The hardest part about ruling a kingdom, no matter the size, is the diplomacy, the building and maintaining of strong allegiances. Indeed, a mountain cannot stand without its base. But the magic needed to rebirth a living thing reduced to ashes? Well, that's the easy part."
Vegeta was left slack-jawed as the giant threw his head back for another uproarious laugh.
Ox-King firmly clapped Vegeta on the back again and then rose to his feet. "You have a good night, my boy, and think about what I said," he concluded, turning to stroll off as if nothing had happened.
As the stars began to twinkle, Vegeta's gaze was drawn upwards in the wake of the Ox-King's departure. By some lucky chance, he found the barren spot in the sky where his planet had once been.
Valendra remained behind momentarily, offering the prince a polite curtsy. "Good night, Prince Vegeta," she uttered in a soft voice before turning to follow the king back inside the halls of the palace.
As the two exited the garden, Vegeta watched them go in stunned silence. Despite the unexpected encounter, a sense of gratitude dwelled within him. In the presence of the Ox-King's unwavering kindness and Valendra's quiet reassurance, he felt a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness clouding his mind.
"Darn it, Vegeta!" Goku declared, emerging from the shadows with a look of feigned annoyance. "Why can't you tell me stories like that? See, it isn't that hard. And don't run off again. I mean it."
Vegeta rounded angrily on Goku and stomped his foot. "Damn it! Will you people stop sneaking up on me?!" he blared, earning enough hearty laughter from Goku to rival the Ox-King's. Vegeta growled and tried to stomp off in the opposite direction, only to end up with an unwanted follower.
"Hey, come on, 'Geets," Goku said, jogging right up beside him. "You gotta admit, the man knows how to tell a good story, and you got a bunch of 'em in that spiky head of yours just going to waste."
Vegeta snapped a glare at Goku before turning his eyes back in the direction they were going. "I'm not telling you a bedtime story, Kakarott. If you want one, ask the Ox-King. I'm sure he'll be glad to oblige."
"Aw, but he doesn't know any stories about saiyans. Besides, I've already heard all of his."
"Well, that sucks for you," Vegeta replied as they stepped into the castle corridor, exiting the garden. He paced back in the direction of his bedroom, hoping to successfully lose himself in some historical Ox-Kingdom literature until bedtime. However, he was suddenly stopped by a large hand gripping his arm. Gritting his teeth angrily, he tried to shake Goku off, but the man's hold was firm. He furiously rounded on a stern-faced Goku. "Let me go, Kakarott! How dare you touch me like that!"
"You're not thinking of running off to hide in your room again, are you, Vegeta?" Goku interrogated, loosening his grip slightly. "The night is young," he pointed out, his face lightening. "There's a stargazing party down by the lake, not to mention a musical performance in the castle theater. That's where Piccolo and Gohan are. Come on, little buddy, let's go have some fun! Do you have to be such a buzzkill?"
Vegeta pulled out of Goku's grip. "I'm good, Kakarott. I've had my share of interaction for the evening, as you've just witnessed. Now, if you want to go enjoy some festivities, don't let me stop you."
"But I want you to come!"
Vegeta growled. "Why?!"
Goku poked his fingers together bashfully. "Because… pretty please?"
Vegeta stared at him blankly, completely exasperated. He pinched the spot between his eyes and sighed. "Alright, Kakarott. I'll tell you what. If I swear on my father's grave that I will attend at least one banquet with you tomorrow, will you please leave me alone?" he asked, with extra emphasis on please.
The taller saiyan frowned. "Two," he countered. "I want you to attend at least two, and no backsies."
"Fine!" Vegeta blared before storming off.
Goku was left behind, disappointed but looking forward to the next day. He smiled and padded off.
…
SUNDAY, MAY 17, 763
Sunday morning dawned on a particularly beautiful day in the Ox-Kingdom. Vegeta was soundly snoozing in his king-sized canopy bed, sleeping in for the first time in a while, when Goku barged in yet again. "Vegeta! Vegeta! Wake up!" Goku shouted, bouncing around the room like an overexcited child.
His voice echoed through the grand chamber, causing Vegeta to groan. Rolling over in bed, he pulled the comforter over his head and muttered, "Go away, Kakarott. I don't need any more of your nonsense."
But Goku was undeterred. He tugged at the comforter, exposing Vegeta's messy hair. "Come on, Vegeta! You promised to attend at least two banquets with me today. The food is going to be amazing!"
Vegeta peeked out from under the comforter, giving Goku a withering glare. "So what? Does my promise mean I can't wake and dress in peace? I swear to the gods, you're the bane of my existence."
Goku bounced up and down in place. "Okay, fine, but hurry up! It's only thirty minutes until breakfast," he declared, racing back to the door. Then he turned and looked back. "You promise you'll hurry, right?"
"Buzz off!" the prince snapped.
Goku growled lightly in frustration. "Okay, but you better hurry," he warned before departing.
After a few moments, Vegeta angrily threw the comforter off with an exasperated snarl. "I swear, one of these days, I'm gonna kill that guy," he murmured to himself, pivoting around to set his feet on the plush rug beside the bed. He ran his fingers through his ruffled hair before taking in a deep breath and slowly releasing it, using mindfulness to bring his blood pressure back down. As he got up, he uttered to himself, "I'm going to punch him so hard, his ancestors in Other World will be knocked back to life."
Vegeta's muscles tensed as he rose from the bed, his eyes gleaming with fiery resolve. Ignoring the warmth of the comforter that he had angrily discarded moments ago, he strode into the bathing chamber, where his luggage capsule awaited him on the sink countertop. He decapsulated it and opened the suitcase, pulling out a fresh pair of spandex training clothes. Hurriedly, he got dressed and confronted his reflection in the mirror with a fierce scowl. He ran a brush through his unruly hair, taming it into submission with a grimace. Grabbing his toothbrush and paste, he attacked his teeth with angry vigor, the sound of brushing echoing through the room like the distant battle cries of a warrior. After ensuring his teeth were as polished as his pride, he straightened his posture, ready to face the day ahead.
Exiting the bathroom, Vegeta's gaze fell upon the grandfather clock on the wall opposite the foot of his bed. It indicated that he had twenty minutes until the breakfast banquet began. Hoping for a few moments of peace away from his rival's exuberance, he decided to head to the Zen Garden. However, as he stepped out of his room, he came face to face with Goku standing right outside his door with the biggest, most annoying grin the prince had ever seen. Vegeta jumped in startlement, his irritation flaring. "Kakarott, were you waiting in the corridor this whole time?!" he demanded, his voice sharp with annoyance.
Goku's response was a cheerful nod, oblivious to Vegeta's irritability. "Hey, 'Geets! Perfect timing! We can head to the banquet hall together," he exclaimed, grabbing Vegeta's wrist and pulling him along.
Vegeta's protests fell on deaf ears as Goku dragged him towards the banquet hall. Along the way, they passed the chambermaid Valendra, and Vegeta was the first to notice her presence. "Good morning, Miss Valendra," he greeted her with a curt nod as Goku dragged him down the hallway.
Goku smiled at her presence and gave her a friendly wave.
"Good morning, Your Highness, Mr. Son," she replied, blinking at their arrival as they hurried past.
As they entered the banquet hall, Vegeta felt a wave of relief wash over him. Unlike the chaotic event of the previous day, the morning banquet seemed quieter and hosted fewer guests. The music playing in the background was soothing, a stark contrast to the boisterous tunes of the later banquets. Making their way through the hall, Goku pulled Vegeta directly to the king's table yet again, where the Ox-King, Gohan, and Piccolo were already seated, engaged in small talk. Vegeta could not help but notice the relaxed atmosphere around the table, a welcome change from the lunch gathering of the previous day.
Goku ushered Vegeta into his seat and then plopped right down beside him. "Good morning, guys!"
Gohan, Ox-King, and Piccolo turned their attention to Goku and Vegeta, offering greetings of their own. "Morning, Dad and Vegeta!" Gohan said with an air of excitement, putting down a comic book.
Vegeta grunted in response, rubbing the last remnants of sleep out of his eyes. Goku launched into conversation with Gohan, his enthusiasm evident. "Hey, Gohan, I can't wait to continue our Control Training after breakfast. I actually had a dream last night that I remembered by myself!"
"Woah, really, Dad? That's great!"
However, before they could delve further into their training plans for the day, the Ox-King interjected, a hint of authority in his voice. "Hold on there, Goku. Remember, Chi Chi and Mr. Cardinal are expected to arrive later this morning. We'll need to attend the mediation in the throne room, which might interrupt your training session. But, of course, you'll be free to continue it afterward. Just keep that in mind."
Hearing this, most of the joy drained from Gohan's face and he looked down, poking his fingers together.
Vegeta somehow managed to notice the sudden change and grew curious. "What's your problem, kid?"
Gohan frowned. "Oh, nothing…" he replied. "It's just… Mr. Cardinal is kind of scary." He looked up to the Ox-King. "Grandpa, can I sit on your lap during the mediation?" he bashfully inquired.
The Ox-King patted the boy on the head. "Don't worry, Gohan. You don't have to be there."
Relief settled over the young boy. "Really? Yay!"
Vegeta raised a brow. "What, why? Is he really strong or something? Who is this bozo?"
Goku nudged the prince. "Don't call people mean names, Vegeta," he said, earning himself a glare.
"But Vegeta's right, Dad. He is kind of a bozo. I mean, you don't like the guy either," Gohan pointed out.
Goku blinked and then chuckled. "Uh, I mean, I've never met him, so…"
"So, who the hell is he?" Vegeta probed, getting annoyed at the lack of answers to his questions.
Goku looked embarrassed and scratched his head. "Uh, well, Mr. Cardinal is… is…"
Gohan drew his brows together and jumped up in his seat, clenching his fists as he addressed Vegeta. "He's this mean jerk that stole my mom from my dad and me! And now he thinks he has the right to tell me what to do! I hope he just goes away and never comes back, but I doubt I'll get that lucky."
"What do you mean he 'stole' your mother? Do you know where he's keeping her?" Vegeta asked.
Piccolo slapped his forehead. "The kid's not talking about a kidnapping, Vegeta. He means that Chi Chi left Goku for this Mr. Cardinal guy. By 'stole,' Gohan means that he took her affections away."
"Yeah!" Gohan confirmed, angrily crossing his arms before plopping back down in his seat.
Vegeta held up a finger and opened his mouth to speak, but then a blank expression overtook him. There was a long pause. "Okay, wait. Let me get this straight…" he said, turning to point at Goku. "Kakarott's mate, the feisty black-haired human woman known as Chi Chi who interrupted the first day of our Control Training, has betrayed Kakarott and turned to another male for… 'affections.' Please, correct me if I am mistaken." An awkward silence befell as no one corrected the saiyan prince. Vegeta's eyes panned the group. They all looked down at their laps uncomfortably or twiddled their thumbs. "Banishment."
Piccolo, Goku, Gohan, and the Ox-King's eyes popped open. "What?" they said in unison.
"Banishment, Your Majesty. I propose banishment," Vegeta clarified, addressing the Ox-King. "Clearly, you Earthlings are too soft for what he really deserves, which is execution, so I think banishment sounds like a fair compromise. Banishment for this Mr. Cardinal, for sure. Now, Sire, as to how you wish to discipline your own daughter, that's entirely up to you. I won't pretend for one second to have an inkling of what the challenges of fatherhood are like, especially when it comes to strong-willed offspring."
As everyone looked up awaiting his reaction to Vegeta's words, the Ox-King blinked. "Uh, well, I um…" he began just as the first brunch-style dishes began to arrive, carried by attentive castle staff. A tantalizing array of delicacies adorned the banquet tables—coffee and tea steaming in ornate cups, waffles and pancakes glistening with syrup, fresh fruit arranged in vibrant displays, whipped cream piled high, roasted fingerling potatoes emitting a spicy aroma, sausages and bacon sizzling on platters, and countless other delectable options tempting the taste buds of the banquet attendees. "Hey, you know what? Let's put this matter aside for now and just enjoy breakfast. What do you all say?" the king finally blurted.
The group nodded, their attention diverted. Vegeta's mouth watered at the sight and aroma of the food before him, his appetite stirred by the feast laid out on the table. He could not help but eye the offerings with a mixture of hunger and anticipation, eager to indulge in the culinary delights fit for royalty. As the king's table was served first, the saiyan prince's anticipation rose. He could hardly wait to sample each delectable dish, savoring the flavors that promised to tantalize his senses and satisfy his appetite.
Each attendee helped themselves to as many portions they liked of whatever they liked. For the first few minutes, no words were exchanged as everyone (except Piccolo) just ate and ate. After a while, Piccolo and the Ox-King struck up a light conversation about the sequence of events at the upcoming Ox Crown Festival, with Gohan occasionally chiming in with an exclamation of amazement or an opinion.
All in all, Vegeta found the Sunday breakfast banquet a much more pleasant experience than he expected.
…
The private airship descended gracefully into the courtyard next to the Gravitron, guided by the gentle breeze and clear skies. Inside the vessel, Chi Chi and Mr. Cardinal sat side by side in passenger seats, their hands intertwined as they awaited their arrival. Despite the calm exterior, Chi Chi's heart raced with anticipation. It had been over a week since she last saw her son, Gohan, and the thought of reuniting with him filled her with a mix of excitement and nervousness. As the ship approached its destination, her anxiety grew, manifesting in the subtle fidgeting of her hands and the nervous tapping of her foot.
"Chi Chi, darling, relax," Mr. Cardinal said, squeezing her hand gently. "We'll be there soon."
But Chi Chi could hardly contain her emotions. The sight of the castle looming closer with each passing moment only served to heighten her anticipation. She longed to see Gohan in the flesh, to hold him in her arms and hear his voice once more. As the airship touched down on the fresh-cut grass of the courtyard, Chi Chi's resolve shattered. With a burst of energy, she threw off her seatbelt and leaped out of her seat, nearly breaking through the hatch door in her haste. Mr. Cardinal watched with amusement as Chi Chi raced into the castle. He knew better than to try and stop her when she was in such a state.
Inside the castle, Chi Chi's footsteps echoed loudly through the corridors as she zipped towards the banquet hall, where she knew her child would most likely be. Her heart pounded in her chest, each beat a reminder of the precious moments she was about to share with her beloved son. Finally, she burst into the grand chamber, shattering the peaceful gathering of guests, musicians, and staff. Oblivious to having become the center of attention, the young mother's eyes scanned the room until they landed on the familiar figure of Gohan at her father's table. With a cry of joy, she rushed towards him. She leaped up onto the table, sending plates crashing and food flying in all directions. A sterling silver bowl filled with whipped cream came down right on top of Piccolo's head and Goku ended up with a face full of frittata. Vegeta ducked just in time to avoid a meaty projectile as everyone present in the hall gasped.
"Gohan, my dear son!" she exclaimed, her voice choked with emotion, as she squeezed the little prince around the middle. "I've missed you so much. Why, oh why, did you ever have to run away?!"
Gohan blinked. "Uh, hi, Mom."
"Chi Chi!" the Ox-King scolded. "Have you no self-control? Look at the mess you've made."
Overwhelmed by a flood of emotions, Chi Chi burst into tears, her grip on Gohan tightening as she lifted him up into her arms. "I swear, my s-son. I'll never, ever let you out of my sight again!" she sobbed, her words barely coherent amidst her tears. "Oh, Gohan! My baby boy! My poor, sweet child!"
As Chi Chi squatted on the edge of the king's table embracing her almost-six-year-old son, two of the palace guards who had been in the corridor caught up with her. The shorter of the two exclaimed, "Princess?!" A great commotion then erupted in the banquet hall as the guests and staff alike tried to process the abrupt presence of the king's daughter and what her hasty arrival might signify.
The Ox-King rose from his seat, casting a commanding presence over the chaos that had erupted in the banquet hall. With a firm voice, he called for order, his words cutting through the commotion like a blade. "Enough!" he boomed, his voice resonating throughout the chamber. "This is no way to behave in the presence of esteemed guests and dignitaries. Janitorial staff, attend to this mess immediately!"
As the clean-up crew hurried into action, the Ox-King turned his attention to those seated at his table, his expression grave yet composed. "We must proceed to the throne room for the mediation in an orderly fashion. Please, let us maintain the dignity befitting our station," he decreed in a steady voice.
Meanwhile, amidst the chaos, Chi Chi slowly began to come to her senses. Her tears subsided as she took in her surroundings, her eyes widening with realization. When she saw Goku, she rounded on him as if she was about to chew him out, but stopped in her tracks the moment she noticed the presence of Piccolo and Vegeta at the table. That was when she completely snapped out of her emotional reverie.
With a sharp intake of breath, Chi Chi lowered Gohan back to his seat, her over-protective maternal instincts taking hold. Turning towards Vegeta and Piccolo, her expression hardened into a glare as she addressed them with an accusing tone. "And just what do you two think you're doing here?" she blared, her voice laced with anger. "What business do a couple of monsters have at a royal gathering?!"
"Chi Chi, that's enough!" boomed the Ox-King as his daughter entered a fight pose.
Piccolo and Vegeta exchanged glances with each other before the latter burst out laughing. "What's this, princess? Are you challenging us to a fight? Forgive my critique, but you might be a bit outnumbered."
Goku's face reddened. "Uh, Chi Chi, I asked them to come for training…"
With lightning-quick speed, one of Chi Chi's angry fingers materialized less than an inch from Goku's face. "I'll get to you in a second, mister. For now, you keep quiet!" she commanded.
A bluish tinge appeared on Goku's cheeks and he sank in his seat slightly.
Vegeta confidently rose to his feet and snickered, unphased by the woman's bossiness. "My, my, Kakarott. I think I'm beginning to understand how things fell apart between you two. Clearly, you're attracted to a woman with spirit, but you haven't a clue how to handle her," he remarked in an amused voice.
Slap! It was lightning quick. Vegeta's head was momentarily jerked to the opposite side from where Chi Chi's palm had landed on his left cheek. Complete and utter silence fell over the banquet hall and everyone froze at the echoing sound of the assault. After a moment of quietude, there was a collective gasp. The saiyan prince did not move, his brain working overtime to process what had transpired.
Everyone was agape, the Ox-King's jaw practically on the floor.
Gohan was the first to find his voice. "Mom, stop it! You can't just hit people because you're mad!"
Vegeta straightened his back and looked up at Chi Chi with an unreadable face. Then he threw back his head in raucous cackling. "Oh, Kakarott, you really did pick out a firecracker, didn't you?" he praised between chuckles, turning his attention to the Ox-King. "I see your family will need privacy for your 'mediation.' I'll just get out of your hair then, Sire." He glanced back at Goku, smirking. "Kakarott, you know where to find me when you're available for training. I'll be doing calisthenics in the Gravitron." With that, the arrogant prince strolled out of the banquet hall, his laughter echoing through the castle.
Goku, his face ice blue, looked up at the Ox-King.
The sovereign's face was dripping with beads of sweat. "Well… at… at least, he has a good sense of humor about it?" he uttered to Goku, equally mortified as his son-in-law. Then he drew his brows together and rose up again to his full height, taking Chi Chi by the wrist. "All right, that does it. Dear, it's bad enough that you turned a banquet into bedlam, but assaulting a royal guest? Absolutely not!" he boomed, pulling her down forcefully off the table. "To the throne room and I mean now!"
…
Vegeta returned to his bedroom, feeling rattled in more ways than one. On one hand, he was a little mad that he had been so publicly insulted, but on the other, he was more than a little bit aroused by the incident. Given that he wore spandex, he naturally had to storm out before certain things became… noticeable. With the quick application of cold water to his face in the bathroom, he was able to calm things down in his nethers. After freshening up, he padded out of the bathroom and was quick to hear a light but rapid knocking on his bedroom door. Knowing it could not be Goku, he said, "Enter."
Valendra poked her head in, her dark brown eyes large with concern. "Your Highness, I just heard about what happened in the banquet hall. Are you alright?" she asked, her voice betraying a hint of urgency.
Vegeta cleared his throat and smirked. "Yes, I'm fine. She just made herself look like a fool. I'm heading to the large round contraption in the courtyard. We call it the Gravitron and use it for training. If anyone needs me, that's where I'll be," he replied, pushing his way past her through the second double door.
Valendra pivoted to face him as he passed. "But, are you sure? The Ox-Princess is widely known to be the strongest woman in the whole world and, from the gossip I overheard, she hit you really hard!"
The prince chuckled, stopping momentarily in his tracks to grin back at her over his shoulder. "She's the strongest woman in your world and, to be brutally honest, that's not saying much. You have a nice day, Miss Valendra," he remarked before he continued to strut off down the hall, proud as ever.
…
As Mr. Cardinal stood waiting in the throne room, the atmosphere was one of solemnity and worried anticipation. Several fit palace guards adorned in hats made of ox fur and horns stood sentinel, their presence a testament to the security of the chamber. Mr. Cardinal nodded in acknowledgment to the head guard, receiving another polite nod in return. Before long, the room began to fill with the arrival of various dignitaries and attendees, their footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors. Among them was the Ox-King, leading his daughter by the wrist with a firm yet gentle grip. As they entered, two guards closed the doors behind them, sealing off the chamber from the outside world.
Once inside, the Ox-King released Chi Chi's wrist, his expression grave as he motioned for her to join her fiancé. "You will accompany Mr. Cardinal for the duration of the mediation," he instructed, his voice carrying the weight of royal authority, "seeing as you two are making your case together."
Chi Chi's brow furrowed in confusion and frustration. "But why can't Gohan come in?" she exclaimed, her voice tense with desperation as she stomped her foot angrily. "I want to see my son!"
The Ox-King sighed heavily, his gaze softening as he regarded his daughter. "Chi Chi, this mediation concerns matters of the royal family and of state," he explained patiently. "It is not appropriate for a young child to be present. Please, trust in our judgment," the sovereign decreed.
Reluctantly, Chi Chi acquiesced, though the worry etched on her face remained evident. She cast a longing glance towards the closed doors, her heart aching to be reunited with her son again. Yet, she knew that for now, she had no choice but to abide by the rules of the royal court. With a resigned sigh, Chi Chi turned to join Mr. Cardinal, who stood straight-backed in the middle of the room, her mind racing. As she stood beside her beau, she could not shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at her heart.
As the chamber filled with attendees, the Ox-King took his seat upon his throne, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with a regal air. Spotting Goku among the crowd at the back of the room, seemingly hiding fearfully behind Piccolo, the king beckoned him forth with a swift hand motion, directing him to take his place near the right side of the throne. Piccolo accompanied Goku part of the way, staying closer to the crowd as Goku nervously made his way to the designated spot. Leaning over to whisper to the Ox-King, Goku reluctantly confessed, "I had no clue that so many people would be present."
The Ox-King offered a reassuring nod. "Matters concerning the future of the royal family are always public, Goku. But don't worry, I've got your back," the king whispered back, flashing a smile.
As the Ox-King cleared his throat to address the crowd, Goku chanced a peek over at Chi Chi, who was glaring at him from her position by Mr. Cardinal's side. However, her anger was not the first thing Goku noticed. Suddenly, his saiyan instincts kicked in and he tensed, falling into a martial art pose as he recognized the familiar facial features of the man standing beside Chi Chi. "You!" Goku charged forward, facing off against Mr. Cardinal, his voice filled with accusation and disbelief.
Piccolo stepped forward, alarmed by Goku's aggression. "Goku, what's wrong?" he demanded, his voice tense with concern as he tried to assess the situation, glancing between the two men.
Goku's demand cut through the tension in the room as he confronted Mr. Cardinal, his voice firm. "Where have I seen you before?" Goku questioned, his brow furrowed. "You look strangely familiar."
Mr. Cardinal, however, maintained a dignified demeanor, a hint of arrogance coloring his response. "I have no clue what you're talking about, musclehead," he retorted smoothly, his tone dripping with condescension. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Rust Major Cardinal, the esteemed individual who took care of the king's beloved daughter when her husband either couldn't… or wouldn't."
The attendees in the room uttered a collective gasp. Goku growled in frustration, his suspicions only deepening at Mr. Cardinal's dismissive demeanor. Before he could react further, the Ox-King lunged out from his throne, his large hand closing around Goku's arm with a firm grip. "Easy, Goku," the Ox-King murmured, his voice a soothing rumble of reassurance as he guided Goku back to his designated place near the throne. "We must maintain decorum in the presence of our guests," he gently explained.
Reluctantly, Goku allowed himself to be led back to his position, though his eyes remained fixed on Mr. Cardinal, a fire of distrust burning in their depths. As the tension in the room simmered, the Ox-King cleared his throat, his regal presence once again commanding the attention of the gathered crowd. The Ox-King's great voice filled the chamber as he called the mediation to order, his regal presence silencing the murmurs of the gathered attendees. With a nod of acknowledgment to all those present, he greeted them in his usual civil tone, his words carrying the weight of authority. "Lords and ladies," he began, his voice resonating with gravitas, "the case at hand is a dispute between my beloved daughter, the Ox-Princess Chi Chi, and Mr. Cardinal, versus Son Goku, my son-in-law and father of the future king."
As he spoke, the attendees listened, their expressions reflecting a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. Solemnity hung in the air, as all understood the significance of the dispute unfolding before them.
"The goals of today's proceedings," the Ox-King continued, his tone measured and deliberate, "are to work out an amicable solution to the conflict at hand and secure the future of the Ox-Kingdom." The great sovereign paused for emphasis, allowing his words to sink in. "To be clear, this is not a court case or trial in which a mandatory ruling will be made either way. It is a mediation intended to help restore harmony and cooperation between all members of the royal family." Turning his attention to his daughter and her new beau, the Ox-King's gaze softened with paternal concern. "Chi Chi or Mr. Cardinal," he addressed them respectfully, "would one of you be so kind as to explain your side of the story?"
As the room fell into a hushed silence, the Ox-King's words hung in the air, a beacon of hope amidst the tension that permeated the chamber. With a solemn nod, he pledged to withhold judgment and offer advice that was fair and reasonable, embodying the wisdom and impartiality befitting a king. "Please, proceed," he concluded, his voice carrying a note of encouragement as he awaited their response.
As Chi Chi's eyes remained downcast, Mr. Cardinal, sensing her distress, took her by the hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. His gesture was met with a faint, grateful smile from Chi Chi, who clung to his arm for support. Stepping forward, Mr. Cardinal addressed the gathered audience with an air of confidence. "Good day, esteemed lords and ladies," he began, his voice projecting with authority. "I am Rust Major Cardinal, the current sitting CEO of Red Pharmaceuticals." His introduction elicited nods of recognition from some of the attendees, who were familiar with the businessman and his accomplishments. Murmurs of acknowledgment rippled through the crowd as they registered the significance of his presence.
With a polite smile, Mr. Cardinal continued his speech, projecting his voice so it echoed to all corners of the room. "I am here today to provide insight into the circumstances surrounding this dispute and to work toward a resolution that serves the best interests of all parties. In truth," Mr. Cardinal began, his voice carrying a hint of sorrow as he recounted his version of events, "I met Chi Chi over a year ago during a company vacation to the mountains with my top executives." As he spoke, Mr. Cardinal's gaze softened as he cast a reassuring glance at Chi Chi, who stood by his side, her expression one of vulnerability and sorrow. "During a stroll in the woods," he continued, "I happened upon this beautiful young lady weeping by a lake." The room fell silent, each attendee captivated by the unfolding narrative.
Chi Chi's grip on Mr. Cardinal's arm tightened as tears welled in her eyes, her emotions raw and palpable.
Goku could not help but be moved by her profound sorrow. As Chi Chi's tears fell freely, he reached a hand out in her direction, his voice barely a whisper as he uttered her name, "Chi Chi..."
The tension in the room was heavy as the emotions of the moment threatened to overwhelm them all. With bated breath, the noble audience waited to hear the rest of Mr. Cardinal's version of the story, eager to understand the sequence of events that had brought them to this point of familial strife.