Chapter 13: The Growing Strife
Goku cheerfully knocked on the door to the Gravitron. He was met with Vegeta's typical irritated demeanor as the prince opened the door. "Come on, 'Geets!" Goku urged, taking Vegeta's wrist and trying to pull him along. "It's time to meet Bulma in the clinic. Let's go find out the results of the tests she did." Vegeta grumbled under his breath and jerked his wrist away, begrudgingly following Goku nonetheless.
The orange-clad saiyan remained upbeat as they strolled past the Nameks gathered on the Capsule Corp lawn, Goku offering a friendly wave while Vegeta shot them a glare. Piccolo, observing from under a nearby tree, visually tracked their progress with keen interest. As they traversed the lawn and entered the compound, Vegeta noted Piccolo's watchful gaze and clenched his teeth in annoyance.
Once the heavy door shut behind them, Vegeta stepped closer to Goku and leaned in as they walked side by side in the wide corridor, speaking in a low voice. "Careful what you say around the Namekians, Kakarott. Their ears are as keen as a saiyan's nose," he warned, peering around suspiciously.
"You think?" Goku asked.
Vegeta's only reply was a solemn nod.
Inside the clinic, Bulma awaited them with a stack of papers in hand. "Goku, Vegeta, glad you could make it," she greeted them with a warm smile. "I've got the results of Vegeta's tests ready."
Goku beamed with enthusiasm while Vegeta crossed his arms, his expression stoic.
Bulma led them to a small examination room, where they took their seats. "So, to reiterate, I tested samples of Vegeta's blood, saliva, and urine in the lab. What I found was… interesting, to say the least. There seem to be some sparse particles of what I believe may be foreign matter, which were most concentrated in the saliva and least concentrated in the blood, but they were present in all three samples. In order to determine if these particles are indeed foreign, I'll need some samples from a healthy saiyan as a control for comparison. Given that Vegeta is not having a flare-up in his condition right now, I suspect that this might be the type of virus that goes dormant and hides in cells during inactive periods. However, it's possible I could be totally wrong. If these particles are present in Goku's body too, that would likely mean they're a normal part of saiyan biology. In that case, these tests are inconclusive."
Vegeta snorted. "Hmph! Well, good luck getting a needle in this bozo," he replied, flicking a thumb at Goku. "He'll probably run and hide at the sight of it just like he did his woman this morning."
Goku shrunk a bit. "Come on, Vegeta, can't you just forget about that…"
"A blood sample from Goku might not be necessary since the particles were found most concentrated in the other two samples," Bulma interjected. "Goku, do you think you could spit in a tube and pee in a cup for me? Once I figure out if these particles are normal or not, I can plan our next steps accordingly."
Goku's face lit up. "Sure, no problem! I almost gotta pee now anyway."
Bulma handed him a sealed cup and a test tube, pointing to the red line on the test tube. "Fill the tube this high with saliva, then twist the cap back on. And try to fill the cup as much as you can with urine. It'll improve my chances of finding any elusive particles with a bigger sample size. Analyzing these tests can sometimes be like searching for a needle in a haystack, I swear. The bathroom is out the clinic door to your left. When you're done, open the little door in the wall beside the toilet and put your samples in the blue basket inside. Also, there's a water fountain on the other side of the hall if you need a drink to help you urinate. Come back here when you're done. Got it?" the heiress instructed.
Goku gave a firm nod. "Sure thing! I'll be right back," he said, taking the items and rushing off.
Vegeta slumped a bit, scowling as usual, but said nothing. Bulma reorganized her stack of papers and set them aside before plopping a DynoCap on the table between them. "This is a cryogenic freezing unit," she explained, placing her hand on it to emphasize her next words. "If worse comes to worst, this is going to be our last resort. If you get sick again, we can freeze you until the dragon balls are ready to use in a few months. Let me warn you though, Vegeta, those who are frozen alive have a very difficult recovery period when they are unfrozen. It will be quite painful and you'll probably be in a pretty helpless state for a few weeks and confined to a hospital bed. You might even need physical therapy to fully recover your strength and mobility. But this will remain an option if all else fails. Understand?"
Vegeta gritted his teeth before reluctantly nodding. "Fine…"
"Now, I know you were amnesiac from your visit to the Bansho Spa with Goku, but for all we know right now, there is a chance that this mystical hot spring either cured your illness entirely or somehow effectively treated and stopped your latest flare-up. I have a group of scientists in the labs right now performing a myriad of tests on samples we procured of the Bansho's mineral waters. If beneficial properties are discovered, returning to the Bansho Spa when your next flare-up begins might be our Plan A or B. I'm also working on a few other potential treatment options to keep you alive until the dragon balls are recharged. Hopefully though, for all we know right now, it's possible you were cured by your last visit to the spa," Bulma explained, watching in interest as Vegeta examined the DynoCap.
Vegeta sat back in his chair and snorted. "Okay."
Bulma cleared her throat, placed her elbows on the tabletop, and interwove her fingers. "Keep this in mind, Vegeta. If you sense another flare-up coming on, I need to know about it ASAP. Don't you dare try to hide it. If you want to live, you'd better learn to swallow your pride once in a while and ask for help."
Vegeta crossed his arms again and glared at her, then turned his nose up with a "Hmph."
Goku loped back into the room. "I'm done! What's that?" he asked, pointing to the DynoCap on the table.
Bulma flicked her eyes to the door. "You can go back to the Gravitron, Vegeta. Try not to go too hard on yourself. Kami knows what stresses could trigger a flare-up," she said, effectively dismissing Vegeta.
Vegeta was all too happy to leave. He stood right up and stomped out of the room, leaving Goku alone with his blue-haired friend. "Man, what a moody little guy," Goku murmured, then he turned to smile at Bulma. "So… we all done here? Can I head out now too?" he asked enthusiastically.
Bulma waved him over and signaled for him to sit, which he did, looking attentive. She leaned in, narrowing her eyes at the door which Vegeta had left through, and then spoke in a low voice, "Goku, I'm going to need you to be a little vigilant for me. I think Vegeta is too stubborn to admit when he doesn't feel good. Our best chance of stopping his next flare-up is to catch it early. Pay close attention to his behavior and take note if it changes suddenly. Let me know if you hear a sneeze or even a mild cough, or other signs of discomfort from him. Do you think you can handle that?"
Goku nodded and returned a knowing look. "You got it, Bulma. I'll be your eyes and ears."
"Thanks! Alright, I gotta get back to work now," she said, rising and gathering her things. Both friends went their separate ways, Bulma to her laboratory and Goku to the Gravitron to join Vegeta.
…
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 763
Early the next morning, Gohan poked his father awake. "Hey Dad, it's time to record our dreams," the boy said, scrambling off his side of the bed and over to the desk by the window. He flipped open a notebook, grabbed a pen, and started writing enthusiastically as Goku yawned lightly and stretched.
The elder sat up in bed and glanced around. "Dreams… dreams… Oh, yes! Vegeta's homework for us."
Gohan tossed the recording device to Goku, who fumbled to catch it before holding it for a moment and staring at it cluelessly. When he woke up enough for his brain to start working, he shook his head clear and pressed the record button. "Uh, okay, so, uh, I think I had a dream... about training with Vegeta yesterday," he spoke hesitantly, his voice still groggy from sleep. "I… think I liked it, but I can't remember much else," he finished, adjusting his position under the covers. A certain sensation made his eyes widen and he slightly pulled back the covers, realizing that he was pitching a massive tent. His face flushed a bit as he yanked the covers back over himself and then stopped the recording.
Meanwhile, it only took Gohan a few minutes to diligently fill pages of his notebook. He jumped up with excitement. "Dad, I had the coolest dream ever!" he exclaimed, his black eyes sparkling in the morning light. "I was in this big bubble traveling through the ocean and I swear I almost realized I was dreaming near the end. I saw so many cool fish and corals and shells and stuff. It was all so colorful!"
Goku listened with a mixture of pride and envy as Gohan recounted his vivid dream. When they were both finished, and Goku's morning wood had thankfully subsided, they headed to the bathroom. Goku could not help but feel a twinge of disappointment at his own lackluster dream recall abilities. As they emerged into the common area, the aroma of fresh pancakes filled the air. They heard Mrs. Briefs humming as she bustled about, preparing breakfast with a contagious energy.
With eager anticipation, Gohan dashed ahead, his youthful energy infectious as they prepared to enjoy a tasty breakfast together. The Gravitron hummed in the background, indicating that Vegeta's diligent training regimen was still in swing. With a cheerful smile, Mrs. Briefs placed two plates adorned with a hearty breakfast spread of fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked sunny-side-up eggs in front of Goku and Gohan. "Gohan dear, I've been meaning to ask about what cake flavor you want for your birthday? If it's anything unusual, I'd like to get some practice in before the big day."
Gohan's eyes lit up at the mention of his birthday, his excitement palpable. "Oh, um, I hadn't really thought about it," he began, considering the question carefully. "But maybe something adventurous, like a galaxy-themed cake with blueberries 'n cream flavoring? We picked lots of blueberries while camping, so I've been thinking about it lately. It's one of my favorite fruity flavors!"
Mrs. Briefs nodded approvingly, her enthusiasm matching Gohan's. "Galaxy-themed, you say? That sounds delightful! Consider it done," she assured him, mentally planning the elaborate confection.
Meanwhile, Goku beamed with pride at his son's creativity, reaching for the maple syrup to drench his pancakes. "Sounds awesome, Gohan! I can't wait to see and taste the final result."
A faint yawn echoed down the hallway, signaling Bulma's imminent arrival. With tousled hair and pajamas askew, the blue-haired genius shuffled into the dining area, her eyes still heavy from sleep. "Morning, everyone," she murmured, plopping down into her seat with a groggy smile. She muttered something about losing track of time while tinkering with a new invention late into the night.
Goku and Gohan, mouths stuffed with pancakes, managed to mumble back their greetings.
Bulma rubbed her eyes. "Hey, Mom, is Dad joining us? I passed by your room and saw he was gone."
In the nearby kitchen, Mrs. Briefs placed a tray loaded with food on top of a rolling robot. "He ran off to the lab before the crack of dawn, dear. I'm sending his breakfast down now. I'm sure you'll see him at work." She sent the robot off before bringing in a plate for Bulma, setting it down before her daughter. Then she poured her progeny a cup of piping-hot coffee. "Eat up before it gets cold, sweetie."
As they savored breakfast, the cheerful ambiance was interrupted by the shrill ringtone of Bulma's cell. She snatched it up with a swift motion, her brow furrowing in concentration as she conversed. Naturally, the others could only hear her side of the dialogue. "Oh, good morning, Mr... Oh, you don't say? Well, that's no surprise." Her eyes flickered with a mix of determination and frustration as she listened intently to the voice on the other end. "Got it. I'll let him know immediately. I figured she'd make this difficult, but she's got less leverage than she thinks. Sure thing. Okay. I'll get back to you right after breakfast."
With a sigh of exasperation, Bulma ended the call and placed her phone back on the table, her expression a mix of determination and concern. Just then, the sliding glass door glided open, revealing Vegeta's toned figure, bare-chested and sporting a towel draped around his neck. As beads of sweat glistened on his skin from his rigorous early training session, he wordlessly took his seat at the table.
Goku and Gohan exchanged a quick glance, silently acknowledging Vegeta's presence before Bulma cleared her throat, seeking their attention. "Goku," she began, her tone serious yet composed, "that was Mr. Okoya. Chi's lawyer sent a response and Chin wants to know how we intend to answer."
Goku nodded in acknowledgment, but raised a hand in protest. "Uh, okay, but let's wait until Gohan's done to talk about it. He shouldn't have to hear about this stuff. It's too stressful for a kid."
Understanding the gravity of Goku's words, Bulma assented with a nod, choosing to respect Gohan's innocence in the matter. "No worries," she replied, her voice softening as she took another bite of her pancakes. "We'll chat as soon as he leaves." She then turned her attention to Vegeta, offering a polite greeting despite his silence. "Good morning, Vegeta." His only response was a terse grunt, but Bulma remained undeterred, unfazed by his typical brusqueness. "You're looking healthy this morning."
Flashing a big smile at Vegeta that went unacknowledged, Goku continued to enjoy his breakfast feast. Mrs. Briefs watched with a fond smile as Goku effortlessly devoured another stack of pancakes, amazed by his seemingly bottomless appetite. Meanwhile, she slid a towering serving of pancakes in front of Vegeta, drizzling it generously with maple syrup. The prince wasted no time, his focus solely on his meal as he dug in with gusto. As Gohan polished off his plate, his attention was drawn to the sight of the Nameks on the lawn. With an eager gleam in his eyes, he turned to his father, excitement bubbling within him. "Daddy, I see Dende. Can I go play with him until it's training time?" he asked.
Goku nodded enthusiastically, his mouth still half-full with pancakes. "Sure thing, Gohan! Have fun!" he replied, his words muffled by the food in his mouth. With a bright smile, Gohan leaped from his seat and dashed out the door, eager to join his friends for some pre-training fun. Once Gohan was out of earshot, Goku swallowed his last bite of pancakes and turned to Bulma, his expression shifting to one of curiosity. "Okay, so what's the news?" he asked, his tone expectant as he awaited Bulma's response.
Bulma paused, her mind whirring with thoughts as she processed the information. With a deliberate clearing of her throat, she lifted her steaming coffee mug to her lips, taking a sip to gather her thoughts before speaking. "Chin says that she wasn't too happy about his letter," she began, her tone marked by concern. "She reiterated that she definitely doesn't want Gohan doing any training whatsoever and her lawyer pointed out that she has two major advantages under Ox-Kingdom law."
Goku's brow furrowed in concern as he listened intently, his expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. "Advantages?" he repeated, his voice betraying a hint of worry.
Bulma nodded solemnly. "Yes, the first is that courts traditionally tend to favor biological mothers," she explained, her words punctuated by a somber tone. "And the second is known as in regali splendore. It's an ancient Ox law dating back to medieval times when the testimony of royalty was given ten times the weight of a commoner's in court. Very outdated. I'm honestly appalled at her for even thinking to use it."
At the mention of royalty, Vegeta shot Bulma and Goku a glance of passive curiosity.
Goku rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his mind racing with possibilities. "Well, darn. I was hoping this wouldn't get complicated," he muttered, his voice heavy with concern. "What if Gohan told the court what he wants? Since he's the Ox-King's grandson, would he also get this in splendore advantage thing?"
Bulma pondered the question for a moment. "It's hard to say," she replied, her voice thoughtful. "He might be too young by law, but I'm sure Chin knows. When I get back to him after breakfast, I'll ask."
Goku's face brightened, hopeful as always. "That sounds like a plan."
"Hey, wait a minute... Now, I may be way off base here, but Goku... what's your relationship with the Ox-King like? Has he always liked you as his son-in-law?" Bulma inquired thoughtfully.
A nostalgic smile graced Goku's lips as he recalled fond memories of his interactions with the Ox-King. "Yeah, we're thick as thieves!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with warmth. "He's like a father to me."
Bulma nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. "Hmm... I wonder what he thinks about all of this," she mused, her brow furrowing in contemplation. "Have you spoken to him since you got the letter from Chi Chi? I mean, I doubt he'd be willing to testify against his own daughter, but that might not be necessary. Maybe, he can talk her out of some of her shenanigans. Can you give him a ring?"
Goku scratched his head, considering the suggestion. "Uh, not sure. Ox-King is super busy most of the time," he admitted, his tone apologetic, "but I can maybe leave a message. I'm sure he'll get back to me when he has the chance. Wish I could tell you for sure when that's gonna be, but it's hard to say."
Bulma nodded in agreement, her eyes alight with determination. "I think you ought to do it," she urged, her voice firm. "Find out what his take is on all of this. Maybe, he can serve as a mediator between you two. Oh, but don't reach out to him until I pass this by Chin. I want to get his thoughts first."
Goku drew his brows together and nodded solemnly. "Got it. Drop me a text when you two decide on the best course of action and I'll give him a ring. Come to think of it, I haven't been by to see the old fella in quite some time. Maybe, Gohan and I can take a trip down south this coming weekend?"
"I'll bet Gohan would like that," Bulma replied, getting back to her meal. She took her last few bites and downed the rest of her coffee before getting up. "Alright, I'm going to call Chin back and then hop in the shower," she concluded, grabbing her cell and raising it to her ear as she padded off through the kitchen.
Mrs. Briefs moved out of the way to let her daughter pass. "Would you like any more pancakes, Goku dear?" she inquired, holding a serving tray piled with another stack fresh off the griddle.
"Sure, but no more than five. I'm almost completely stuffed," Goku admitted, patting his bulging stomach. He glanced at Vegeta, who averted his gaze as he continued to make short work of his own victuals. Mrs. Briefs loaded Goku's plate with a short stack as requested before getting right back to her own meal. "Hey, 'Geets, are we gonna try that regression exercise again this morning?"
The prince snapped a momentary glance at him and nodded.
"Ah, good! I was left so curious yesterday when Chi Chi interrupted us, I think I might've had a dream about it or something related to us training. I couldn't remember the details, but I did record what I remembered, like you told me to. I think you're right in thinking that Gohan's going to whip me at this Control Training thing. He seemed to remember every gosh-darned detail of his dreams."
Vegeta paused, swallowing a bite, and then chuckled. "Well, to be totally honest, Kakarott, you've already exceeded my expectations for you. I figured you'd totally forget about what I told you to do until I brought it up again in the Gravitron. I was planning to laugh right in your face and call you a failure."
Goku frowned. "Is that how you habitually motivate your pupils?" he asked, then flushed a bit. "Well, I guess while we're both being totally honest, I probably would have completely forgotten if Gohan hadn't woken me up and immediately reminded me. I guess I should come up with some kind of self-reminder system for when he isn't around…" he uttered abashedly before stuffing down another pancake.
Vegeta smirked, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes as he watched Goku's reaction. "Motivation comes in many forms, Kakarott," he remarked, his tone teasing yet strangely genuine. "Sometimes, a little push is all that's needed to awaken one's latent potential." He took another bite of his pancakes, savoring the flavor before continuing. "And as for your forgetfulness, well, it seems you have your son to thank for keeping you on track this time," he added, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.
Goku chuckled sheepishly, scratching the back of his head in embarrassment. "Yeah, Gohan's definitely a big help," he admitted, his tone reflecting a mix of gratitude and amusement. "Guess I need to work on my memory skills a bit more." With a shrug, he reached for another pancake.
Vegeta nodded in approval, a faint glimmer of respect shining in his eyes. "Indeed."
"I know how you can remember when little Gohan isn't around," Mrs. Briefs chimed. "You could ask Bulma to program a robot to give you a wakeup call and a reminder first thing every morning."
Goku's eyes brightened. "Oh, yeah! That's a great idea, Mrs. Briefs!"
Vegeta stuffed the last of his pancakes down his gullet, washed them down with a glass of orange juice, and then rose to his feet. "When you're ready, I'll meet you and Gohan in the Gravitron. Try not to take too long," the prince decreed, heading to the glass door and sliding it open.
The prince's tail swished behind him, drawing the other saiyan's attention. "Sure thing," Goku replied, not averting his gaze until Vegeta was out of sight. Then he quickly finished up his own plate. The Z fighter got up and stretched, again patting his very full and very satisfied stomach. "Ah, that was amazing, Mrs. Briefs. Well, I'll see you again at lunch! Bye!" he said, following in Vegeta's footsteps.
"G'bye, Goku dear! Enjoy your training," Mrs. Briefs replied, using a remote control to call the robotic clean-up crew to help with the dishes. Then she went to the master bathroom to take a shower.
…
Goku was walking toward the Nameks when his phone rang in his pocket. He pulled it out and put it to his ear, pausing in his endeavor to retrieve his son. "Hello?" he greeted.
"Goku, I just got off the phone with Chin. He actually thinks contacting the Ox-King is a splendid idea, but he thinks you shouldn't mention the divorce when you call. He advises to keep it cordial and maybe bring up the idea you had about paying a visit. It is possible Chi Chi hasn't even told her father about the divorce yet. Just keep the conversation casual and see if he brings it up first. As for the in regali splendore thing for Gohan, my suspicions were correct. A child under the age of ten has almost no say in a custody dispute, regardless of royal status, as long as there is no documented abuse involved."
Goku snapped his fingers. "Well, darn. But, hey, maybe the Ox-King can help somehow even if Gohan can't. Alright, I'll give him a call and leave a message if I must. Is that all Chin said?"
"Yes, that's all for now. He's currently answering the last letter, pointing out how crass it is to even think of invoking a law as outdated as in regali splendore. So, we'll have to wait and see what happens."
Goku sighed. "Okay. I understand. Ugh, I swear, this back-and-forth stuff is bugging me."
"I know, Goku. Lawsuits can be pure torture, but hopefully things will take a turn in our favor soon. Stay strong, buddy," Bulma said reassuringly. "I gotta get in the shower now. See you later."
"Bye, Bulma," Goku replied, ending the call. He put his phone back in his pocket and turned back toward the Nameks. Goku spotted Gohan and Dende chatting up Piccolo, who was hovering cross-legged under a tree. He whistled loudly to get Gohan's attention. When the boy looked over, he waved him toward the Gravitron. "Time to get to work, Son!" he called. Gohan waved goodbye to his friend and ran over.
…
Minutes later, in the heart of the Gravitron, Goku and Gohan stood before Vegeta, their enthusiasm discernible as they awaited the commencement of their Giant Monkey Control Training. Vegeta, his demeanor stern and authoritative as ever, gestured for them to take a seat on the mats arranged neatly on the floor. He strode to the control panel and adjusted the gravity to ten times that of Earth's. Then he pressed a series of buttons, sealing the chamber's windows and plunging the room into a dim, crimson glow reminiscent of Planet Vegeta. The atmosphere grew heavy with anticipation as Vegeta's voice cut through the silence. "Close your eyes, Kakarott," he commanded, his tone brooking no argument. "Sit cross-legged, back straight. As for you, Gohan, you just watch. This exercise isn't for you yet."
Goku focused his mind and poised his body for the challenge ahead. Meanwhile, Gohan watched his father with intense concentration and curiosity. With a sense of reverence, Vegeta guided Goku through a mental regression exercise, urging him to delve deep into his memories. "Step back five years," he instructed, his voice echoing in the chamber. "I suppose your son might've been an infant about this time. Recall to mind the emotions and sensations common to you. Now, another five years, before he was born. Perhaps, it was before or after you met and bonded with your woman. Think of what you were doing at the time, what your cares and priorities were, etc. And again, go back another five years."
Goku followed Vegeta's guidance, his consciousness drifting through the corridors of time as he recalled moments from his past. Images flickered in his mind's eye – adventures with Bulma, training sessions with Krillin, and the countless battles he had fought to protect the ones he loved. But as Vegeta urged him to journey back even farther, to a time before he met Bulma, Goku's brow furrowed with concentration.
His mind became a whirlwind of memories, swirling and shifting like fragments of a dream. He recalled the warm smile of his Grandpa Gohan, the gentle touch of his hand, and the wisdom in his aged eyes. But amidst the flood of nostalgia, a darker memory emerged – a moment of unparalleled pain and anguish, etched into the depths of Goku's subconscious. Suddenly, the Z fighter bellowed, his breathing ragged as the memory consumed him. "Grandpa!" he cried out, his voice laced with panic and desperation. Images flashed before him – his grandfather's face contorted in agony, his cries echoing in the stillness of the chamber, and then a monstrous roar. Tears flooded Goku's face, his features etched with pain.
"Daddy!" Gohan cried.
Vegeta silenced the boy with a harsh wave of his hand. His expression remained stoic, his eyes fixed on Goku with unwavering intensity. "Focus, Kakarott!" he commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos of Goku's mind. "Channel your grief into strength. Only then will you master the power of the Great Ape and gain the power to never commit such atrocities again. Leave the chaos behind and go back farther, to when you were a younger child. This man that you loved and killed is still alive and well. What good things do you remember of him?" The prince paused, allowing Goku time to relax into his memories. The expression on his face turned peaceful and even joyful. After a few moments of silence, Vegeta spoke again, "Now, go back to when you first met him. What was your very first encounter like?"
Goku released a shrill scream and jumped to his feet, grasping his head in pain. "Ack, Vegeta, I can't remember back that far! My head hurts," he cried, his eyes squeezed shut in agony. "Ow, ow, ow!"
Vegeta's eyes widened in surprise and he strutted over to Goku, pulling the Z fighter's hands away and lightly placing his fingertips to the spot. The ridge on Goku's scalp was pulsing under a thick layer of jet-black hair. "Interesting…" the prince muttered to himself. "Very interesting indeed. Hm, it seems that your head injury scrambled more than just your programming. But that's okay, we have something to work with regardless. You remembered one of your transformations. Go get some pain meds from the yellow-haired woman, drink some water, and come back to the Gravitron when you're ready," Vegeta instructed, pacing over to the control panel and powering down the Gravity Room.
Daylight flooded the chamber, worsening Goku's pain. The Z fighter covered his eyes with his hands and almost lost his balance. Vegeta caught him by the bicep and led him to the exit, pressing the button to open the door. At the threshold, Vegeta whistled to the Nameks and waved for Dende to come over. When he did, Vegeta handed Goku over to him. "Kid, take Kakarott to the yellow-haired woman."
Gohan jumped to his feet. "I can do it! I can help my dad!"
"No," Vegeta countered. "I need to talk to you about something. You stay here. The green kid can do it."
"What happened to him?" Dende asked, trying to support the saiyan to the best of his ability.
Vegeta shook his head. "Nothing, he's just got a headache. Go on, go," he said, ushering them both down the stairs before disappearing back into the Gravitron with Gohan. As the door closed behind him, he turned his attention to the younger saiyan, who looked very alarmed and also a little upset. "You should be happy, kid. He actually made some progress today. I honestly wasn't expecting much."
Gohan sat back down, his bottom lip quaking a little. "I… I never saw my dad cry like that."
Vegeta shrugged. "Well, young children cry a lot and Kakarott was not in his adult mind when that happened. He was regressed. So, don't read much into it. Now, Gohan, are you aware of any specific times when you might have transformed, other than during my battle with Kakarott on Earth?"
Gohan blinked in surprise. "Wait… I transformed when you fought my dad?"
Vegeta, facing the control panel again, glanced back at Gohan with a raised brow. "Didn't anyone tell you after the fact? What about Krillin? He witnessed it," he remarked. "He never said anything?"
Gohan shook his head. "Oh… I'm not sure if I actually transformed at the time, but… after Radditz died, Mr. Piccolo took me to an island to train and prepare for the year when you and Nappa were gonna show up. I remember, the first night was super hard, but then I woke up the next morning in a new outfit and discovered that my tail was gone! It was the first time I ever lost my tail. Maybe… I don't know… and I remember the night after that, I saw that the moon was almost full. Do you think I might've…"
"Transformed?" Vegeta interjected. "Yes, it seems likely. My guess would be that Piccolo removed your tail to turn you back and that's why you woke up without it. Let's go talk to the green man to confirm if that is true or not. Then maybe we can do a similar regression exercise with you like I did with Kakarott."
"Oh, no! I hope I didn't hurt anyone!"
Vegeta shrugged. "I suppose Piccolo would know," he replied, heading back to the door and opening it. Gohan hopped up and followed him out to the lawn. As the elder saiyan descended the stairs and approached the group of Nameks, most of them looked alarmed and backed away, making a path for the prince. When Piccolo came into view, his eyes snapped open. The look he gave Vegeta was piercing, but when he spotted the younger saiyan trailing behind him, Piccolo's face lightened.
"Hi, Mr. Piccolo!" Gohan called, racing past Vegeta to greet his mentor.
Piccolo grinned. "Hey, kid. Is your dad alright?"
Gohan stopped in front of him, rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah, I think he'll be fine. He just had a strong reaction to part of the training we're doing. Anyway, Vegeta and I wanted to ask you a few questions in private, if that's okay? It'll help me with my training! What do you say?"
Vegeta stopped several paces from the pair, his arms folded across his chest. Piccolo shot a momentary glance at him and then returned his gaze to Gohan. "Uh, sure. Where to?" asked the Namek.
Vegeta pointed a thumb at the Gravitron behind them, not saying a word.
As Piccolo rose to his feet, Vegeta spun on a heel and paced back toward the futuristic structure. Gohan followed him and Piccolo followed Gohan. When all three were inside the chamber, Vegeta shut the door.
"Alright," the Namek said, looking back and forth between the two saiyans, "what is this all about?"
"The kid believes he may have undergone a Giant Monkey transformation on the first night of his training right after the death of Radditz. He needs you to confirm if this is true. Did you by any chance happen to witness anything of the sort?" Vegeta inquired, getting right down to business.
Piccolo raised a green brow in surprise at the unanticipated question, but then nodded. "Yes, I saw the whole thing. He was staring at the full moon as if hypnotized for a few moments before the transformation started. It caught me off guard, to say the least, but I was able to figure out in time that I could revert him to normal by chopping his tail," he revealed, reaching down to tousle Gohan's hair.
"Ah, that explains it," Gohan replied, chuckling a bit, his cheeks pink with mild embarrassment. Then a look of concern befell his face. "I… I didn't hurt anyone when I transformed, did I, Mr. Piccolo?"
"Nah, kid. There was no one else on the island, but you did tear up the land a bit. So, what's this training that you're doing?" Piccolo asked inquisitively. "Is there any way I can help out?"
"You just did," Vegeta spoke. "We needed you to confirm that he transformed on that occasion, so we don't waste our time with a regression exercise that serves no purpose. Well, Gohan, it looks like you have less to fear than your father did in delving into those old memories, since nothing truly traumatic took place. However, your father is likely more practiced in meditation and mindfulness. That's probably the only advantage he has over you though. For you, it's just a matter of practice and repetition."
Gohan bounced up and down slightly in excitement. "Oh, really? That's great! I'll do whatever it takes."
"Vegeta, I gotta ask," Piccolo uttered, causing the prince to tense slightly. "What persuaded you to help Goku and Gohan out with this endeavor? My last impression of you was that you still hated them."
Vegeta snorted. "I'm not fond of them," he confirmed, "but Kakarott offered me a thing or two that made it worth my time. That's all you need to know, green bean. Your presence is no longer required." With that, the prince pressed the button to open the Gravitron door and peered at Piccolo expectantly.
Piccolo chuckled. "Very well," he replied, giving Gohan another quick tousle on his overgrown mushroom top. "Kid, if there's any other way I can help you out with your training, you let me know. I'm almost always available," he concluded, pacing past Vegeta and descending the stairs.
"Sure thing! Thanks again, Mr. Piccolo," Gohan said, waving goodbye as the automatic door rose up and sealed the two saiyans back into the titanium chamber alone. The boy turned his attention back to Vegeta. "So, are we going to do the regression thing now? I think I'm ready," he declared.
"Soon," Vegeta replied, padding back over to the control panel. "First, I want to test out your meditative abilities. You may need practice in quieting your mind first before we delve into an actual regression. Go ahead and sit like you saw Kakarott do earlier." Vegeta left the gravity off, but remotely sealed all the windows and turned the lights down to reduce distractions. "When we do the actual regression, it might be best to have your father here, so he can see what it looks like from the other side. Not sure how much longer he'll need to recover, but we can fill the time with meditation practice. Get comfortable."
…
Bulma and Aloha sat side by side at an oversized computer monitor in the former's personal laboratory. "So, the primary encryption algorithm we're using for the Capsule Corporation system is based on a hybrid of elliptic curve cryptography and quantum key distribution," Bulma explained. "It's designed to provide top-level security against both conventional and quantum computer attacks."
Aloha leaned in, examining the complex code on the screen. "Ah, I see. And how are we managing access control? Are we implementing role-based access control or attribute-based access control?"
Bulma smiled cleverly. "We're actually using a combination of both. Role-based access control defines permissions based on predefined roles within the organization, while attribute-based access control allows for more granular control based on specific user attributes such as clearance level and department."
Aloha nodded. "Interesting approach! And what about intrusion detection? Have we deployed any anomaly detection systems to monitor for suspicious activity?" she further probed.
"Absolutely," Bulma confirmed, tapping a few keys to open another window on the screen. "We've integrated machine learning algorithms into our intrusion detection system to analyze network traffic patterns and identify deviations from normal behavior. It's crucial for staying ahead of potential threats." Suddenly, a timer on Bulma's workstation went off, breaking their concentration. "Oh," Bulma said, "I usually have a five-minute coffee break around this time. Would you like to join me, Dr. Along?"
"I'm not a fan of coffee, but could I get a chai latte?" Aloha inquired, reaching up in a gentle stretch to relax her shoulders. "By the way, you can call me Al if you like. That's what my friends call me."
"Chai latte it is, Al. I suppose it is time we drop the formalities when it's just the two of us," Bulma agreed, typing a code into an app on her cell phone. "I'll order us some protein snacks too to keep our minds sharp. So anyway, after lunch, you'll get some study time with the manual up in the West Tower. That's good news, by the way. It means your background check came back squeaky clean. Today, I'm going to escort you there, but once you've worked here a few months, you'll get your own Blue Access Card. Along with security clearance comes a substantial raise. What do you have to say to that?"
Aloha could not help but fidget in excitement. "Oh, what I'm most looking forward to is my first paycheck. Then I can move out of my crappy apartment and find somewhere nice. We get paid every two weeks, right? Money is kind of tight right now. Oh, since we have a moment, can I ask you where the Capsule Corp dump is? Do you need security access to go there? I like to recycle old parts into new things. It's one of my hobbies, but of course I'd never think to do it without permission."
Bulma looked surprised. "A crappy apartment, huh? We can't have that. If you're really in need, I can give you an advance on your pay to help you get into some better accommodations. Although, if you'd rather avoid the paperwork, we have many empty guest rooms in the Capsule Corp compound. I can send a robotic assistant with you to help you move your things this evening. What do you say?"
Aloha's already large eyes turned to saucers. "You would do that? That's so… kind of you."
"Of course. Just come poke me after work and I'll get you all set up. As for the dump, just remind me later and I'll take you by the area myself. I like your pro-recycling attitude!"
"Thank you so much!" Aloha lauded as a robot rolled into the lab bearing a tray of drinks and snacks.
…
Goku lay on the living room sofa, his expression strained as he tried to find relief from the pounding ache in his head. A mask over his eyes blocked out the harsh daylight. Mrs. Briefs moved around him with a gentle touch, adjusting the ice pack on his head with motherly care. She noticed the tension gradually dissipating from Goku's features and smiled kindly. "Feeling a bit better now, Goku dear?" she inquired softly, her voice filled with concern. "Was there anything else I could get for you?"
Goku emitted a light groan, his voice strained. "The pain is easing up a bit. Thanks a ton, Mrs. Briefs. I don't think I can manage to get up just yet, though. How long until lunch?" he asked.
Checking the time, Mrs. Briefs replied, "Two hours, but I'd be happy to get you a snack if you'd like."
Goku considered for a moment before declining. "I think I'll wait a bit. The headache is making my tummy feel a bit queasy, but the medicine seems to be working. Just took a while to kick in."
Nodding, Mrs. Briefs quietly padded away, making sure not to disturb Goku further. "I'm going to do some housework. Call me if you need me," she offered before disappearing into the next room.
Goku attempted to nod in response, but he winced at the slight movement, his discomfort evident. He rested for a few moments, taking deep calming breaths, before his ear twitched at the sound of the sliding glass door. Goku tried to peek out from under the mask, but withdrew in pain at the bright daylight.
"Daddy, we came to check on you," came Gohan's voice. "It's been over an hour. What's taking so long?"
Goku lightened up hearing his son's voice. "Ah, Gohan, Mrs. Briefs gave me a tenfold dose of Tylenol, but it took some time to actually kick in for a saiyan like me," he murmured back.
"That bad, huh, Kakarott? Maybe, you should consult the blue-haired woman or her father," Vegeta remarked, sliding the glass door closed behind them. "Anyway, while you've been recovering, I've been having Gohan practice his meditation skills in preparation for his own regression. We found out from Piccolo that Gohan underwent a transformation soon after you and Radditz died. I plan to have him regress to that and also see if he can remember the transformation he experienced during our battle. However, your son struggles to quiet the noise in his mind. My guidance is not needed to teach him proper meditation. You can do that. And after my abysmal performance during our training yesterday afternoon, I really think I ought to continue my independent weight training for a day or two alone until I am again comfortable in 100x gravity. I'm almost there. It shouldn't take much longer. I think we should break for a day or two and reconvene when all three of us are ready for the next steps. What do you say?"
Goku frowned, wincing as he tried to adjust his position. "Aw, Vegeta, I didn't think your performance was that bad. But, okay, that doesn't sound like a bad idea to me. I'll go work with Gohan independently and then we can reconvene on Thursday or Friday to see how things are going."
"What day?" Vegeta repeated, sounding confused.
"Those are the days of the week on Earth, Vegeta," Gohan explained. "Today is Tuesday, tomorrow is Wednesday, then comes Thursday, then Friday, and then the two days of the weekend, Saturday and Sunday. After that, we start over on Monday. All seven days make up a week."
Vegeta blinked. "Ah, yes, I admit I have not fully familiarized myself with Earth's calendar system yet. Fine, then Thirdday or Friday it is," he conceded, turning back toward the sliding glass door.
"Thursday, Vegeta," Gohan corrected. "THURZ-day."
"Yeah, whatever! I'm off to do my own training. Gohan, while your father is down, maybe you can work with Piccolo on the meditation. He seems to be a master of it from what I can tell and he did offer to help, after all." With that, the prince of the saiyans departed, leaving the two Sons alone together.
Gohan turned his attention to Goku. "Daddy, is there anything I can do to help your head feel better?"
"It's already getting better by itself, so don't worry about it, Gohan," Goku said with a sigh. "But, oh man, that was by far the worst headache I've ever had. I can't remember a worse one. It felt like my skull was splitting open." Somehow, Goku smiled lightly despite the pain. "Kinda happy we were actually able to get somewhere in the training though. That means there is hope I'll be able to get my tail back."
Gohan smiled too. "You really want it back that bad?"
Goku shakily tried to sit up, wincing. "Well, it's a natural part of my body. Besides, in the future, I hope to be able to use the power of the Giant Monkey to help defend Earth. Wouldn't that be great?"
Gohan nodded as he padded over to help his father get situated. "Yeah, it would."
Goku felt a buzz in his pocket and quickly fumbled for his phone. Slowly, he pulled the mask back and peeked out with one half-lidded eye to read the screen's caller ID. He then pressed the answer button, replaced the mask, and pressed the phone to his ear. "Hey, Bulma?" he greeted.
A sigh came from the other end of the line. "Hey, Goku. The news I have is kind of a bummer. It sounds like Chi Chi is essentially wanting to declare war. Chin thinks you should go ahead and give the Ox-King a ring to try and help resolve this situation. Otherwise, there's a high likelihood we're going to end up in court. Now, I am confident that we can get a fair ruling with Chin on our side, but going to court in and of itself is a big time commitment and very stressful. I imagine it's something you'd prefer to avoid."
"Ah, yeah, I would. Oh, hold on a minute," Goku replied, covering the speaker momentarily. "Hey, Gohan, why don't you go chat up Piccolo about meditation training? I gotta take this call."
Gohan nodded. "Okay, Daddy. I hope you feel better," he said, stepping back and heading out the door.
Goku waited until he heard the door slide closed before putting his ear back to the receiver. "Alright, Bulma, tell Chin I want to do whatever is best for Gohan, even if that means going to court. But I will go ahead and give the Ox-King a ring right now, just to see if he might be able to help calm Chi Chi down."
"You got it, Goku. I'm sorry this is turning out to be a pain, but we'll get through it. I promise."
Goku leaned carefully against the back of the couch. "Well, I owe you a ton regardless. Anyway, you get back to Chin and I'll call the Ox-King. Will chat again later. Thanks, Bulma!"
"Alrighty! That's the spirit, Goku. Later, gator," she replied, ending the call.
With a subtle smile, Goku searched his contacts and found his father-in-law's information. He waited while the phone rang for a few moments. Then he heard the line pick up. A woman's bubbly voice came on the phone. "Ox-King Castle! This is Yoka, the royal receptionist. How may I direct your call?"
"Good morning, Miss Yoka. This is Goku. I was wondering if I could speak to the Ox-King. If he isn't available, I'd be happy to leave a message," he replied in an equally amiable tone.
The receptionist gasped slightly. "Oh, Goku! It's been a minute. Let me check on His Majesty's schedule to see where he is right now," she indicated, audibly shuffling through some papers. "Hm, yes. Oh! It looks like he's just getting back from officiating the Spring Calving Ceremony. Let me put you on hold and see if I can grab him before he gets caught up in the next order of royal business!"
"Sure thing! I'll wait."
Goku heard a click before some traditional instrumental music took over the line. He waited patiently for a few minutes, not expecting much. Then, suddenly, he heard the Ox-King's jubilant voice. "Goku, my boy! How are things? I've been expecting to hear from you. How's Gohan? Is he around to chat with?"
"Oh!" Goku blurted. "Ox-King, hey! Yeah, it's great to speak to you again too after such a long time. Gohan's actually doing pretty great right now. Uh… so, I was just wondering if…"
"Ah, I'm so glad you called, Goku. I presume that means you've heard the news from Chi Chi?"
Goku's face fell. "The… the news… Oh, yeah, I did. Um…" he said with a gulp, thrown off guard by the Ox-King's enthusiasm. "It's… uh… I mean, I… Aw, gee… It's just hard to…"
"Don't sound so mopey. It's excellent news! Just think of the festivities that are to come, all in honor of your little boy. I know it seems overwhelming, but if you want my honest opinion, I think Gohan is more than ready. When I saw him standing tall and confident on TV facing off against the saiyans, I just knew he was the one! Tell me you have as much faith in him as I do, Goku. The boy's going to need at least one parent in his corner on this and Chi Chi has been so difficult to contact lately. By the way, how did the kid react when he found out? Was he excited? Scared? Over the moon?" the Ox-King interrogated.
Goku tore off the mask over his eyes, somehow suddenly cured from his physical pains. "Uh, wait a minute… are you talking about Gohan's sixth birthday party?" he asked, leaning in.
The Ox-King chuckled. "Well, yes, and the event that comes after it. Surely, Chi Chi has told you…"
Goku blinked cluelessly. "I… uh, well… Aw, shoot. You know what, Ox-King? I think this conversation would be easier in person. Gohan and I have a couple days to ourselves. Maybe, we should just come to Fire Mountain and have a heart-to-heart. There's a lot to discuss, after all. Can we drop by later today?"
"That would be wonderful! Yes, yes, please do! I'll have a feast in store for you when you arrive!"
Goku's mouth started to water. "That sounds amazing! Alright, it's a plan. Later, Ox-King!"
"Catch you later, Goku."
After hanging up, Goku let out a relieved sigh. The Ox-King's jovial demeanor boosted his confidence that the big man would be willing to help resolve the situation with Chi Chi in a good way for everyone involved. Goku tossed off the ice pack and mask, rising to his feet with a look of determination. He stowed his phone back in his pocket and peered out the sliding glass doors, his eyes seeking out the group of sunbathing Namekians. He saw his son sitting by Piccolo under the tree and went to have a chat.
…
As Mrs. Briefs returned to the living room with a fresh ice pack for Goku, she noticed that there was no one present. The blonde housewife could only assume that the Z fighter must have felt better and gone back to train with Vegeta in the Gravitron. With a gentle smile and a pleasant hum, she proceeded to the master bedroom to don her exercise clothes. Minutes later, she returned to the living room and settled onto the plush rug in front of the TV, intending to tune into her favorite exercise channel.
As she flipped through the channels with the remote, her attention was arrested by the World News, its headline displaying a bird's eye view of parts of South City engulfed in billowing smoke. The urgency in the reporter's features compelled her to turn up the volume, her eyes fixed on the screen as she listened intently to the unfolding report. A female reporter, clad in a crisp navy-blue blazer and holding a microphone with the network's logo, appeared on the screen, her demeanor poised yet tense. "Good evening, viewers," she began, her voice projecting a sense of urgency. "We're live from South City, where tensions have escalated into civil unrest. Crowds have taken to the streets in anger." Mrs. Briefs leaned forward, her eyes wide in concern, as the reporter's words painted a vivid picture of chaos and dissent. "Eyewitnesses describe clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers, with reports of property damage and multiple arrests. Police report that they have yet to identify the cause of the unrest, but speculation runs rampant as citizens demand transparency and accountability from their leaders."
A sense of unease settled over Mrs. Briefs as she listened, her heart sinking at the sight of the turmoil. With a hand to her chin, she murmured, "Oh, my," her thoughts racing as she pondered the implications of the unfolding events. Without hesitation, she reached for her phone, sending a message to her husband and daughter, urging them to pause and tune into the World News for updates on the unfolding situation.
…
A few hours later, Goku, Gohan, and Piccolo soared through the sky, heading southeast towards Fire Mountain. Goku expressed his gratitude to Piccolo for accompanying them, knowing that having the Namekian around would provide valuable moral support during the visit to the Ox-King's castle. Gohan, nestled between them, bubbled with excitement about seeing his grandfather after such a long time.
As they flew, Goku traded places with Gohan and leaned in closer to Piccolo, his voice barely audible over the rush of wind. "Hey, Piccolo," he uttered, "the law guy mentioned that Ox-King might be able to talk some sense into Chi Chi and prevent a messy court battle. Once we're there, would you mind taking Gohan aside for some training while I have a chat with him alone? That would be extra helpful."
Piccolo nodded. "Of course, Goku. Anything to help Gohan and ease the tension."
Goku sped ahead, his keen eyes scanning the horizon. "There it is!" he exclaimed, pointing towards a majestic white castle adorned with glistening gold peaks, nestled amidst lush green hills that rose into a mountain. The sight filled Gohan with awe, his memories of Fire Mountain from his infancy too distant to recall with clarity. "Oh, wow! I don't hardly remember this at all. It's so big!"
As they approached the castle gates, they were greeted by a group of male guards donning tall ox-skin hats adorned with decorative horns. "Welcome! We've been expecting you," announced the head guard, leading them through the gates and into the grand entry hall. They followed him straight back to a pair of ornate double doors, each one towering above them. With a graceful gesture, a staff member opened one, ushering them into the opulent throne room. "His Majesty will join you shortly. Please, make yourselves comfortable," the man indicated, gesturing to an array of plush seating scattered throughout the room.
Goku and Piccolo went to take their seats, whereas Gohan zipped around admiring every detail of the spacious chamber. "Wow, Daddy, I hardly remember any of this. Did Mom really grow up here?"
Goku chuckled. "Well, she did for part of her childhood. After Master Roshi put out the first fire, the castle was rebuilt from the ground up. Before that, my understanding is that things were kind of a mess."
As Gohan walked through the royal throne room, his eyes widened in awe at the magnificent sights before him. The grandeur of the chamber overwhelmed him as he took in the opulent surroundings. His gaze fell upon the majestic throne at the center of the room, its intricately carved frame adorned with depictions of noble oxen plowing fields and farmers tending to their crops. The seat itself was draped in luxury fabrics embroidered with images of oxen in various poses, symbolizing strength, diligence, and prosperity.
Moving around the room, the boy marveled at the towering pillars and archways that lined the space, each intricately decorated with reliefs depicting peaceful pastoral scenes of oxen pulling carts laden with bountiful harvests. Colorful banners and flags bearing the emblem of an ox's head hung from the ceiling, adding a vibrant splash of color to the regal setting. As Gohan explored the room, he paused to admire the fine art and tapestries that adorned the walls, each one depicting rustic scenes of oxen grazing in lush meadows or farmers plowing fertile fields. The rich hues and intricate details of the artwork mesmerized him, transporting the young boy to a world of idyllic countryside landscapes.
Near the throne, Gohan noticed a magnificent candelabra crafted in the shape of intertwining oxen horns, its golden flames casting a warm glow over the room. He ran his fingers along the polished surface, marveling at the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Continuing his exploration, the child came across a display case containing symbolic objects of power, including a royal scepter adorned with miniature oxen figurines and a ceremonial battle ax engraved with scenes of oxen charging into battle. Each item exuded an aura of strength and majesty, reflecting the kingdom's reverence for the noble ox.
Lost in wonder, Gohan took in every minute detail of the throne room, his heart swelling with pride at the rich heritage and traditions of the kingdom. As he admired the decor, he could not help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such magnificence firsthand. He ran back over to his father, ready to gush about the things he had seen, but the sound of a door creaking open soon captured his attention. It was followed by the booming voice of his beloved grandfather. "Goku, Gohan! You made it!"
Goku jumped to his feet, a big grin on his face as he rubbed the back of his head. "Ox-King, hiya!"
The giant enveloped both saiyans in a great big bear hug, lifting them both off their feet. "Oh, for Pete's sake, we need to plan more family reunions. There's simply no reason a whole year or more should go by without us seeing each other. Gohan, my boy, you've gotten so big! How's school going?"
Gohan waited until he was placed back on his feet to refill his lungs with air and answer. "Oh, it's great! I caught up on all my homework and now I get the whole summer free to spend with Dad and Mr. Piccolo."
The Ox-King paused when he noticed the Namekian still seated behind his son-in-law and grandson. "Oh, Mr. Piccolo, I see? So, you've all made friends, I take it? That's good to hear."
Gohan jumped up and down excitedly as Piccolo stood up and dusted off his cape. "Yeah, Mr. Piccolo trained me in the martial arts. He took care of me the whole year after Radditz came to Earth."
The Ox-King's hearty laughter filled the throne room as he approached the Namekian and clapped him on the back with a force that nearly sent the green man stumbling. "Well, well, well, looks like you've been keeping busy, Mr. Piccolo! Training Gohan, you say? That's quite the responsibility. I also heard about what you did when that mean old uncle of his snatched him from his papa. You helped rescue him. I can't thank you enough for what you've done! Consider yourself welcome in my kingdom anytime!"
Piccolo nodded, his usual stoic expression softening slightly with a subtle one-sided smirk. "It was an honor to train Gohan. He's a quick learner and shows great potential," he said in response.
The Ox-King's eyes sparkled with admiration as he regarded Gohan. "I'm not surprised at all. With Goku as his dad and Chi-Chi as his mom, it's no wonder he's turned out to be such a remarkable young man."
Gohan beamed with pride at the praise, his chest swelling with a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, Grandpa. The training was really tough, but I've been doing my absolute best."
The Ox-King's gaze softened as he looked upon his grandson. "And your best is more than good enough, Gohan. Now, come, let's not waste any more time standing around. We have much to discuss and even more to celebrate! Follow me to the banquet hall, where we'll feast like kings and catch up properly."
With that, the Ox-King led the way out of the throne room, his booming voice echoing through the corridors of the castle as he regaled Goku, Gohan, and Piccolo with tales of past adventures and cherished memories. As they followed behind him, Gohan could not help but feel a sense of warmth and belonging wash over him, grateful for the chance to reconnect and strengthen the bonds of family.
An hour and a half later, when the feast had reached its sumptuous conclusion, Goku sent Piccolo and Gohan off to practice their meditation in the royal Zen Garden. Then he pulled his father-in-law aside. "Ox-King, there's something we really need to discuss. It's about Chi Chi…" he began.
The jolly king's countenance turned sober. "Alright, Goku. What is it you need to tell me?"
…
Aloha's eyes sparkled when her employer presented her with the immaculate guest room that she would be staying in. It had a queen-sized bed, a spacious bathroom, and a great view of the city. "Wow, this is so much better! No sign of a cockroach anywhere. Thank you so much, Bulma."
The blue-haired genius smiled. "Now, keep in mind, you don't have a kitchen here, but the cafeteria where you go for lunch is also open for dinner to overtime and late-night employees. I heard they're serving roast beef tonight, as well as a few other tasty options. No charge if you work here, naturally. If you get lonely, you can hang out in the break room and chat up some peers. Don't let their age intimidate you. You're just as intelligent as anyone else who works for us, if not more so. And if you'd like a little quiet time, there's a library at the end of the hall with some great newly-released titles in many different genres. Unless you've got any burning questions now, I figure I ought to leave you to get settled. There's some nonsense going on down south and my dad is concerned that the military will show up for our technological assistance, so he's called an emergency after-dinner meeting for the top execs."
A robotic cart rolled into the room behind them, stacked with a few suitcases of Aloha's meager belongings. Aloha stepped out of the way. "This is a great start, but I'm pretty tired. I might just go grab dinner and then read until bedtime. No burning questions right now, but I'll send a text if I think of one."
Bulma backed up to the door. "Well, I'll leave ya to it, then. Have a great evening, Al!"
"You too, Bulma!" Aloha replied, waving as her employer retreated. She watched with a sigh as the robotic cart unloaded her luggage for her and then flopped down on the bed, stretching out in comfort. "This is uh-may-zing," she uttered to herself, digging her fingertips into the fluffy comforter.
After taking a moment to revel in the unparalleled luxury of her new surroundings, Aloha decided to freshen up with a long hot shower. The bathroom was pristine, with gleaming fixtures and fluffy white towels neatly folded on a nearby shelf. She luxuriated under the steaming water, feeling the tension of the day melt away with each passing minute. Likewise, the ache in her shoulder dissipated even more.
Once she was properly relaxed, Aloha wrapped herself in one of the plush towels and proceeded to get dressed in casual attire suitable for dinner. She opted for a comfortable pair of jeans and a cozy sweater, slipping on a pair of sneakers before grabbing her book and heading out of her room. As she made her way down the stairs towards the cafeteria, Aloha could not help but marvel at the sleek modern design of the whole compound. The walls were adorned with futuristic artwork and the soft hum of machinery filled the air, giving the whole place an atmosphere of innovation and excitement.
Upon reaching the cafeteria, Aloha found herself greeted by the tantalizing aroma of roast beef and other delicious dishes wafting from the serving line. She joined the queue, exchanging pleasantries with her new colleagues as they waited to fill their plates. Once she had her meal in hand, Aloha scanned the room for an empty table and quickly spotted a group of her more youthful peers chatting animatedly in one corner. With a friendly but shy smile, she made her way over and introduced herself as 'Al Long', eager to make progressive new friends and start her journey at Capsule Corp on the right foot.