Chapter 15: Of Dreams and Destinies
Mrs. Briefs creamed softened butter and white sugar together in a glass bowl. The rhythmic whirring of the handheld machine filled the kitchen, punctuated by the occasional clink of metal against glass. With a satisfied nod, she turned off the beater and set it aside, wiping her hands on a nearby hanging towel. Just as she was about to move onto the next step, a gentle knock on the sliding glass door drew her attention. She made her way over to investigate, her apron swaying lightly with each step.
Peering through the glass, Mrs. Briefs spotted Dende accompanied by the eldest Namek, Morely. A smile spread across her face as she unlocked the door and invited them inside, the afternoon sunlight casting harsh beams of light around them. "Oh, Dende, Morely, what a pleasant surprise! Come on in," Panchy greeted them. They exchanged pleasantries as they stepped into the living room.
Dende's expression carried a hint of apprehension. "We heard from the other Nameks that Earth soldiers came and took your family," Dende said in a worried tone. "We wanted to make sure you're okay."
Morely nodded in agreement, his wise eyes reflecting his concern for the Briefs.
Mrs. Briefs waved off their worries with a cheerful demeanor, thanking them for their concern. "Oh, what sweethearts you both are! But don't worry yourselves too much over the matter. I'm sure my husband and daughter will be back soon. I truly appreciate your kindness though. Really, you're so sweet!" she assured them, her maternal instincts kicking in. She gestured for them to take a seat at the dining table while she fetched a pitcher of cool water from the fridge, the ice cubes clinking softly against the glass.
As they settled in, Dende's curiosity got the better of him and he inquired about Mrs. Briefs' current activity. "What are you making?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with interest at the ongoings in the kitchen.
Morely raised a brow, his gaze shifting to the mixing bowls on the countertop as well.
With a twinkle in her eye, Mrs. Briefs explained her culinary experiment, "Oh, I'm just testing a new recipe for Gohan's birthday cake by making some cupcakes. It's good to plan ahead."
The mention of the celebration brought smiles to the Nameks' faces, lifting the weight of recent events.
"It was his idea – blueberries 'n cream with cream cheese filling," Panchy said excitedly. "I'd offer you both to try one, but I understand Nameks don't eat food like us Earth people do. You get your energy directly from the sun, am I right?" she asked, receiving a nod from them both. "Well, even if you can't eat, I'm sure being a Namek comes with its own perks and pleasures. I'm sure not one to judge."
Dende smiled. "One of my favorite things to do is soak in the sun. It feels so good. Too bad there's less of it here than on Namek. But, when it is out, we absolutely love it. I can't even describe the feeling."
"Oh, I love sunbathing too! But us humans have to be careful since we have no fur to protect us. The sun can actually hurt if we spend too much time. It's called a sunburn, so we put a creamy substance called sunscreen on our skin to prevent it," she explained, placing a hand to her cheek as she leaned a hip against the counter. "Ah, sometimes I envy the anthros. They don't have to do none of that. They got hair all over that protects them." She laughed and returned her attention to the kitchen counter, using a spray oil can to grease the lining inside the muffin tins. "So, I suppose you all are really looking forward to the next round of wishes from the dragon? I don't blame you for wanting to get back home. When the time comes, please don't forget to write! You all have been such good company and so pleasant to have around."
"Oh, you're too kind, Mrs. Briefs," Morely said as he poured himself a glass of water.
Dende smiled warmly at Mrs. Briefs' words. "Thank you, we really appreciate the hospitality. I suppose we were just concerned about Dr. Briefs and Bulma. We weren't sure if they were going to be coming back anytime soon and we now know what it's like to miss loved ones. You see, we all miss our dear friends from Guru's village and look forward to reuniting with them some day."
Morely nodded, his eyes closed and his face solemn as he took a sip of his water. "Yes, the only thing that's troubled us at all has been our proximity to that saiyan. I must admit though, he did surprise us when he told us how we can restore those he killed to life. His motivations are somewhat a mystery."
Mrs. Briefs frowned. "Aw, I'll bet Vegeta dear felt bad when he saw how sad you all were about what he did. You know, I betcha he'll be willing to help find the dragon balls to wish your friends back, too. I'll ask him. Oh, if it's any consolation, I did hear him say just this morning that he's no longer a threat to Earth or Namek. Not quite the same as declaring himself a friend, but it sure is a start, don't ya think?"
Morely and Dende both blinked and exchanged glances with each other, then turned back to Mrs. Briefs. "He really said that?" Dende asked, receiving an affirmative nod from the blonde. "Wow…"
Morely cleared his throat. "I had been concerned all this time that he might turn on us at any moment. Knowing he actually said that does somewhat put my mind at ease. Maybe, an eventual reconciliation is possible, after all," he mused aloud, "assuming that Vegeta comes around to considering it."
Dende tapped his fingers on his glass. "Maybe, but I'm still kinda scared of him."
Morely placed the palm of his hand on Dende's head. "Time will tell, little brother. Time will tell."
Mrs. Briefs offered a sympathetic smile, understanding their apprehension. "It's okay to feel that way, Dende. Change takes time, especially when it comes to trust," she reassured him, her voice gentle yet firm. "But for now, let's focus on the present. Would you like another glass of water?"
Dende nodded gratefully, his features softening as he accepted Mrs. Briefs' offer. "Yes, please! Thank you very much, Mrs. Briefs," he replied, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.
Morely released Dende's head and turned his attention back to Mrs. Briefs with a grateful smile. "Again, thank you for your kindness and hospitality. It's always a pleasure to visit," he expressed.
Mrs. Briefs returned their smiles with one of her own, feeling a sense of warmth in their shared moment. "Anytime, Dende, Morely. You're always welcome here," she expressed, pouring another glass of water for Dende and refilling Morely's glass. As they settled into comfortable conversation, the worries of the outside world faded away, replaced by the simple joy of companionship in the Briefs' cozy abode.
…
The early midday sun cast a colorful glow through the stained-glass windows of the Ox-King's castle, filling the room with specks of light. Inside, Vegeta lay at the foot of the bed, arms crossed over his middle. His chest gradually rose and fell in the steady rhythm of slumber. Beads of sweat glistened on his forehead, betraying the turmoil that raged within his unconscious mind. His brows furrowed in discomfort as he tossed and turned slightly, lost in the depths of his disturbed subconscious.
Suddenly, the tranquility of the room was shattered by the sound of the door bursting open. Goku, with his typical exuberance, barged in with a cheerful grin on his face. "Hey, Vegeta! It's almost lunchtime here. You coming?" he called out, his voice echoing off the walls of the chamber.
Startled awake, Vegeta suddenly jolted upright, his eyes wide with alarm. "No! Tarble!" he screamed, his voice laced with intense panic as if awakening from a nightmare. The prince's chest heaved with each ragged breath as he struggled to shake off the remnants of his unsettling dreams.
Goku's expression softened with concern as he approached Vegeta, taking note of the other's sweaty and pallid complexion. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice gentle as he reached a hand to steady the prince.
Vegeta recoiled at Goku's touch, his features contorted in a mixture of frustration and discomfort. "I'm fine," he snapped, his tone terse as he brushed off Goku's concern. With a dismissive grunt, he pushed himself to his feet and made his way to the door, his movements stiff and determined.
As they walked through the corridors of the castle, Goku could not shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air. "You sure you're okay, Vegeta? You seemed pretty out of it back there," he asked, his tone gentle yet persistent. "And what's a Tarble? Is that a person?" he further probed.
Vegeta froze and turned to stare at Goku with alarm in his eyes. "Where did you hear about Tarble?!"
Goku scratched his forehead. "Uh, you shouted it."
Vegeta shot Goku a sharp glare, his jaw clenched in irritation. "Don't barge in on me while I'm sleeping!"
"But…" Goku began, finally shutting up in response to a serious death glare.
As Goku and Vegeta entered the banquet hall, the lively atmosphere enveloped them in a whirlwind of activity. The scent of savory dishes wafted through the air, mingling with the melodic strains of music and the rhythmic beat of dancing feet. The Ox-King, towering over the rest at the head of the grand table, presided over the festivities with a jovial expression, his booming laughter echoing across the hall.
Servants and palace staff bustled about, ensuring that every guest was attended to with the utmost care. Young, beautiful dancers twirled gracefully in the center of the room, their colorful costumes swirling as they moved in perfect harmony to the music provided by the talented musicians. Vegeta's gaze swept over the room, his senses assaulted by the sheer magnitude of the celebration. He instinctively gravitated towards an empty table in the back, seeking solace in the relative quiet away from the throng of revelers. However, before he could claim his seat, Goku's firm grip on his arm halted him in his tracks.
With a determined tug, Goku dragged Vegeta towards the center of the hall, where the king's table was the focal point of the festivities. Despite his protests, Vegeta found himself reluctantly following Goku's lead, his demeanor betraying a sense of overwhelming discomfort amidst the grandeur. As they approached the king's table, a server appeared at their side, bearing a lavish plate piled high with gourmet delicacies. The aroma of the feast filled Vegeta's nostrils, triggering a powerful pang of hunger in his saiyan stomach despite his reservations. His eyes widened at the sight of the succulent roast piglet adorning the platter, its golden skin glistening under the glow of the chandeliers.
Gohan, seated beside his regal grandfather, caught sight of Goku and Vegeta as they arrived. The demi-saiyan beamed with excitement. "Hey, Dad, Vegeta! Glad you could make it!" he exclaimed, his voice brimming with happiness as he gestured for them to join the feast. When Vegeta happened to glance up, he noticed that his rival's son was wearing an embroidered silken outfit mostly in ivory white, very different from his normal wardrobe. Under a matching cylindrical cap, it appeared that the boy's hair had been cut much shorter, a marked improvement from his previous overgrown mushroom cap.
Meanwhile, Piccolo, the ever-observant Namekian, noticed the tension in Vegeta's face and body. He leaned in towards Goku once the latter had taken his seat, his voice low with concern. "What's going on with Vegeta? He seems… off," he whispered, his discerning eyes flickering with curiosity.
Goku leaned in to listen and then cupped the side of his face. "I'm not sure, Piccolo. Whatever it is, he's being stubborn about it," he murmured back, shrugging with his shoulders. When Goku looked back, he felt encouraged that Vegeta had elected to channel his energy into devouring his meal at a nearly Super Saiyan pace. As soon as his own plate was set in front of him, Goku followed Vegeta's example.
Amidst the festivities of the banquet hall, the air was alive with laughter and music, punctuated by the clinking of glasses and chattering guests. Goku and Vegeta, willingly or unwillingly, found themselves swept up in the revelry. As Vegeta polished off his plate with blinding speed, a servant swiftly whisked it away, leaving him momentarily alone with his thoughts amidst the celebratory crowd.
Goku tapped Vegeta on the shoulder, drawing his attention away from introspection. The saiyan prince looked up, meeting Goku's gaze with a quizzical expression. Goku gestured to the imposing figure seated at the head of the table, the man's smile wide and inviting. "Vegeta, I'd like you to meet the Ox-King. He's Gohan's human grandfather," Goku introduced, his voice filled with respect for the venerable elder.
The Ox-King waved in the alien prince's direction affably. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Vegeta," he said, his voice carrying years of wisdom and experience. "I just wanted to express my gratitude to you for agreeing to train my grandson and son-in-law. I think it's important for them to know and appreciate all aspects of their heritage, even the alien ones, and we're thankful there's at least one saiyan left from the home planet with knowledge of what has been lost to enlighten them," he expressed.
Vegeta stared up at the giant, almost wide-eyed for a moment, before he came to his senses and bobbed his head in acknowledgment. "Yes, well… Kakarott wouldn't stop begging until I agreed."
Goku's face flushed a bit as he looked up at the king and rubbed the back of his head. "I mean… he's not exactly wrong about that. I guess I can be pretty persistent when I want something real bad."
With a smile of delight, the Ox-King reached over and patted Goku on the head with a massive hand. "That's one of the things I love most about you, Goku. You never give up, no matter the difficulty."
A servant appeared at the saiyans' side, bearing a tall platter laden with an assortment of Ox-Kingdom delicacies. The tantalizing aroma of the dishes filled the air, drawing the attention of the gathered guests.
The platter boasted a tempting array of culinary delights, including succulent braised oxtail adorned with a rich reddish-brown glaze that glistened under the light of the chandeliers. A decorative flower and sprout salad, drizzled with a delicate miso dressing, provided a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course, while roasted seasonal vegetables added yet another welcome burst of color to the feast.
With a flourish, the servant placed the platter on the table before Goku and Vegeta, the dishes arranged in a stunning display of culinary artistry. Goku's eyes lit up with excitement as he eagerly reached for a serving of the braised oxtail, his appetite whetted by the tantalizing aroma. Vegeta, too, found himself unable to resist the feast before his eyes, some of his earlier reservations about the palace melting away in the face of such sumptuous fare. As he savored the flavors of the Ox-Kingdom delicacies, he found himself filled to the brim with questions. His mouth remained too preoccupied with the endless task of consuming gourmet victuals, however, to bother asking any of them for the time being.
…
As the helicopter soared through the air on their journey back to Capsule Corp, Bulma's initial anxiety had long since given way to a simmering rage that bubbled just beneath the surface. General Pewter's condescending and dismissive demeanor during the military briefing had ignited a fire within her, fueling her frustration and anger with each passing moment. The way he spoke to her and her father, treating them as mere pawns in his grand scheme, only served to stoke the flames of her indignation.
Sitting beside her, Dr. Briefs glanced at his daughter, concern etched into the lines of his face. He could sense the waves of anger radiating from her and he knew all too well the source of her agitation. With a silent understanding, he reached out and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, offering a wordless gesture of support and solidarity. As the chopper descended onto the Capsule Corp lawn, the tension within Bulma reached its peak. She clenched her fists tightly, her nails digging into her palms as she fought to contain her ire. The whirring of the helicopter blades seemed to echo the turmoil raging within her, drowning out the world around her as they touched down on familiar ground.
With an aggravated sigh, Bulma followed her father as they disembarked from the helicopter, the cool breeze of the evening air washing over them. Dr. Briefs offered a quick farewell to the guards, his face betraying none of the turmoil brewing within his daughter. As they walked to the back entrance of the compound, Dr. Briefs maintained a steady gait, his hand still resting reassuringly on Bulma's shoulder. He could feel the tension radiating from her, the powerful anger threatening to consume her from within.
"Bulma, my dear," Dr. Briefs began softly, his voice a soothing balm against the storm raging within her. "I know how frustrating this must be for you, but we mustn't let anger cloud our judgment. General Pewter may have his reasons, misguided as they may be, but we must stay focused on our goals."
Bulma gritted her teeth, her jaw clenched with pent-up frustration. She wanted nothing more than to lash out, to defy the general and his stringent orders, to maybe even sic Vegeta on the lot of them as the prince had offered to do, but she knew doing so would only bring trouble. Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to calm down, the rage slowly subsiding as she regained control of her emotions. With a nod of gratitude, Bulma leaned into her father's touch, drawing strength from his unwavering support.
As they walked through the familiar halls, the weight of General Pewter's excessive demands hung in the air. Dr. Briefs glanced at his daughter, noting the furrow of her brow and the tension in her shoulders. He knew all too well the immense pressure she was under and he was determined to find a way to lighten her burden, if only for a moment. "Two weeks to complete all of those tasks," Dr. Briefs mused aloud, his tone laced with a hint of disbelief. "Seems like General Pewter is expecting us to work miracles."
Bulma let out a frustrated huff, her fingers curling into fists at her sides. "Tell me about it," she bit out through clenched teeth. "I swear, that man has no concept of reality. We're not gods, for Pete's sake!"
Dr. Briefs chuckled softly, a twinkle of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Perhaps, we should ask your mother to order an ample supply of fresh coffee beans," he suggested, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips. "We'll need all the caffeine we can get to stay awake for the next two weeks."
"That might not be a bad idea," she admitted. "But I think I'd prefer something a bit stronger after dealing with General Pewter…" like maybe one of Vegeta's fireball attacks up his butt, she mentally added.
Dr. Briefs chuckled again, his laughter echoing down the hall. "Fair enough, my dear. We'll have to plan a celebration once this ordeal is over," he suggested, his voice warm with affection. "A chance for you to relax and unwind with your friends. What do you think? How about a good old-fashioned barbecue?"
Bulma considered his words, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. "Well, sure. It is only fair given that I might actually have to miss Gohan's birthday party to meet Pewter's insane demands. I hope Mom won't mind taking on more responsibilities for the party planning. I was really looking forward to going to Dream Land, too… I know Goku and Gohan will be disappointed," she pointed out sadly, receiving a pat on the back. A get-together with her friends sounded like just what she would need after completing the mountain of work she had been given. "A barbecue sounds like a great idea," she admitted, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'll try to make it up to Gohan for missing his party."
"Sure, sure," Dr. Briefs replied supportively.
As they continued their journey through the halls of Capsule Corp, Bulma's thoughts drifted to her friends and she could not help but think of Aloha Long. The young girl had expressed an intense interest in meeting the Z fighters and Bulma could not think of a better way to celebrate than with just such a gathering. With renewed determination, Bulma pushed aside her frustrations and focused on the tasks at hand. She knew that with her father by her side, they could overcome any challenge that came their way. And when the time came, they would celebrate their victory with a gathering to remember.
…
The elevator ascended smoothly, carrying Chi Chi upwards through the heart of Orange City's bustling metropolis. As the doors closed, enveloping her in the confined space, the silence allowed her thoughts to roar louder than ever. With each floor passed, her anger simmered and churned, a turbulent storm raging in her chest. She stood tall and composed, her dark eyes fixed on the changing numbers above the elevator doors. The soft hum of the elevator's mechanics provided a rhythmic backdrop to the tempest brewing in her mind. How dare Goku involve her father in their personal affairs. The nerve of it all left a bitter taste in her mouth. When this whole proceeding had begun, she had borne no ill will against Goku at all. She simply wished to go her separate ways from him amicably and begin her new life.
Chi Chi's fingers clenched the strap of her handbag, her nails digging into the leather as she fought to contain her frustration. Her father, the Ox-King, had always been a source of strength and support for her, but Goku's decision to approach him about their divorce felt like a betrayal of the highest order. As the elevator continued its ascent, Chi Chi's thoughts drifted to Mr. Cardinal, her fiancé, waiting for her at the top of the skyscraper. Despite her anger at Goku, she found solace in the thought of being with someone who understood her ambitions and respected her independence. Mr. Cardinal represented stability and security, qualities that had been sorely lacking in her tumultuous relationship with Goku.
Her soon-to-be ex-husband used to trust her judgment and readily bow to her whims, but as Gohan had grown older and Chi Chi had recognized how intelligent the boy was, her priorities had changed drastically. As far as she was concerned, Goku's only crime was that he had stayed the same and failed to grow with her. No, in the grand scheme of things, Goku was relatively innocent. Clueless, but innocent. Indeed, Chi Chi knew exactly who the real culprit was: Bulma Briefs. Thanks to the blue-haired bimbo, Goku had somehow developed a stubborn streak overnight. The thing that enraged the young mother the most was that Bulma had the inconceivable audacity to undermine Chi Chi's parental authority in the act of disciplining her own child. "How dare she…" she bit out through gritted teeth.
The elevator pinged softly as it reached the top floor, jolting Chi Chi out of her seething reverie. With a deep breath, she straightened her posture and smoothed down the wrinkles in her dress, steeling herself for the meeting ahead. As the doors slid open, revealing the opulent top floor corridor of the Red Pharmaceuticals Headquarters, the Ox-Princess stepped out, ready to bulldoze all obstacles that lay in her path. Her steps echoed down the corridor, heels tapping out a rhythm of stubborn determination against the polished hardwood floor. As she approached the imposing double doors of Mr. Cardinal's office, a servant in a crisp uniform greeted her with a bow. "Your fiancé has eagerly been awaiting your arrival, madame," the man announced, opening the doors with a flourish to allow her easy entrance.
Entering the opulent CEO's office, Chi Chi found herself enveloped in the warmth of the luxurious surroundings. Mr. Cardinal, immaculately dressed in a tailored suit, rose from his desk with a smile that lit up the room. Their eyes met, and for a moment, all the tension melted away as they exchanged shy smiles. As the door closed behind her, Chi Chi felt a wave of emotion wash over her, threatening to overwhelm her once more. Without hesitation, she rushed into Mr. Cardinal's arms, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Oh, R-Rust!" she sobbed, her voice choked with emotion. "I'm just so, so angry!"
Mr. Cardinal held her close, rubbing her back in soothing circles as he murmured words of comfort. With his gentle guidance, Chi Chi regained control of her emotions, wiping away her tears with the back of her hand. He handed her a clean white handkerchief as a courtesy. "Chi Chi," Mr. Cardinal began softly, "I've put the lawyer situation on hold, just as you asked." He paused, meeting her eyes with a reassuring smile. "Rearranging my schedule on such short notice wasn't easy, but I've managed it for our sake. We'll have to take an overnight flight Saturday evening, so I can make it back by Monday morning."
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Chi Chi thanked him profusely, her heart swelling with love and admiration. "You're the man of my dreams," she whispered, her voice saturated with sincerity as she embraced him once more. However, as they pulled back from the embrace, Chi Chi's earlier frustrations resurfaced, her brow furrowing. "I just can't believe he had the audacity to go to my father. And that... that damn Bulma!" she growled, her anger reignited by the thought of Goku and Bulma's interference in her personal affairs.
Mr. Cardinal listened attentively as Chi Chi poured out her frustrations.
"I was too upset on the phone to mention it, but Bulma's defying my authority over my own son," Chi Chi explained, writhing with indignation. "When I called her about canceling Dream Land, she said she would be buying Gohan and Goku their own tickets in my place and told me to go kick rocks, essentially."
Mr. Cardinal bristled with outrage on her behalf. "The nerve!"
Chi Chi nodded. "Indeed. I won't be able to teach my son a lesson with this interference," she confessed, her voice trembling with anxiety. "What if he ends up becoming a juvenile delinquent in the future? Imagine all his unique potential going to waste because of that blue-headed floozy!"
Mr. Cardinal reached out and gently took Chi Chi's hand in his, offering reassurance. "Chi Chi, neither I nor the divorce lawyer will allow that to happen," he said, his voice firm with conviction. "We'll make sure Gohan is taken care of, no matter what. When things are set to rights, you will be free to discipline your child as you see fit and he will come to understand the cost of his defiance. You'll see."
Chi Chi's tense expression softened, a glimmer of hope breaking through her stormy emotions. "Thank you, Rust," she expressed, gratitude lacing her words as she squeezed his hand. "I don't know what I'd do without you by my side through all of this." She leaned in, pressing a kiss to his cheek, finding solace in his unwavering support amidst the chaos of her life. "I just need to let go and trust the process."
"Absolutely," Mr. Cardinal replied. "Now, shall we to lunch?"
Chi Chi wiped her face clean with the handkerchief, straightened out her clothes, and nodded, smiling sweetly. "Yes, dear, that sounds like a marvelous idea. I'm open to anything."
…
Al Long sat at the sleek desk in the Capsule Corp guest room, surrounded by a bucket of machine parts salvaged from the company's dump. With a determined expression, she meticulously sorted through the jumble of components, her fingers deftly picking out the pieces she needed for her makeshift drone project. As she examined each part, her mind raced with calculations and schematics, analyzing the potential of each component and envisioning how they could come together to form a functioning drone.
The genius's keen eyes scanned the array of parts, searching for the necessary components to bring the creation to life. A gyroscopic sensor here, a microcontroller there – each piece held the promise of unlocking new capabilities for this one-of-a-kind drone. Al's mind buzzed excitedly as she mentally cataloged the parts she found, jotting down notes and sketches in a worn notebook beside her.
"Ah, this accelerometer should provide the stability I need for stable flight," she murmured, carefully adding the sensor to her growing collection. "And perhaps this infrared sensor could be repurposed for thermal vision." With each discovery, Al's confidence grew. She relished the challenge of repurposing discarded technology, finding ingenious ways to combine and modify the components to suit her needs. It was a puzzle, a test of her engineering prowess, and she was determined to succeed.
As Al continued working, she thought of the possibilities ahead. With video, audio, and thermal vision capabilities, her drone would be a valuable tool for reconnaissance and surveillance. She imagined the thrill of seeing her creation take flight, soaring through the air with grace and precision. Once complete, she would use it to go on a remote journey to her hometown and snoop out Ashley's whereabouts. If no one from there would help her make contact, she would make it herself. Thus, she remained focused on the task at hand, methodically assembling the drone piece by piece. With each connection soldered and circuit tested, she moved one step closer to a reunion with her childhood friend. As she worked up until the end of lunch, Al knew that she was on the verge of creating something truly extraordinary.
Al Long delicately soldered a tiny circuit board, her hands steady as she carefully connected the intricate network of wires. This part of the drone's design was particularly delicate, requiring manual precision and attention to detail. As she worked, her mind whirred with calculations, ensuring that each connection was made with utmost accuracy. Suddenly, the calm in the room was shattered by Dr. Briefs' voice echoing over the company loudspeaker. Al jumped in her seat, nearly jolting the delicate part she was working on.
"Attention all employees," Dr. Briefs' voice boomed. "In response to the civil unrest in the south, Capsule Corp has just been conscripted into the Earth's military. This will entail significant but temporary changes to the direction of the company, including increased production of military technology and equipment."
Her heart raced as she listened to the unexpected announcement, her mind struggling to process its implications. Al's hands paused mid-solder, her mind reeling with the shift in circumstances. She had not anticipated such a drastic change in the company's focus and the implications for her drone project were quite possibly staggering. Would she be forced to put her passion project on hold for now?
"All personnel currently on the premises are to report immediately to the head of their department," Dr. Briefs continued. "Please, stop whatever you are doing and make your way there in an orderly manner."
With a heavy sigh, Al set down her soldering iron and carefully placed the delicate circuit board aside. The urgency of the situation was clear. Rising from her seat, she hurried into the bathroom and quickly altered her appearance for work. Whenever she was by herself, she preferred to keep up a more masculine look for the sake of sheer comfort. Once she had changed clothes and outwardly become a woman again, she made her way to the door, her mind racing with thoughts of the upcoming challenges. As the prodigy stepped into the corridor, joining the stream of Capsule Corp employees scurrying to their respective departments, Aloha braced herself for the uncertain future that awaited her and her colleagues.
…
After lunch, Goku led Vegeta through the grand corridors of the Ox-King's castle, their footsteps echoing against the polished stone floors. They emerged into one of the castle's largest courtyards, where the afternoon sun bathed the cobblestones in a golden glow. Towering walls surrounded them, adorned with intricate carvings depicting legendary battles and noble warriors of ages past. Goku scanned the courtyard, his eyes alight with excitement, searching for the perfect spot to set up the Gravitron. Finding a big empty space bathed in sunlight, he grinned and reached for the DynoCap strapped to his belt. With a practiced flick of his wrist, he activated the device, the faint hum of its energy field filling the air.
Vegeta watched with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism as Goku tossed the DynoCap into the center of the courtyard. With a sudden burst of light, the device exploded into a cloud of white dust, obscuring their view for a moment before dissipating to reveal the fully-assembled structure. Goku turned to Vegeta with a grin, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Well, Vegeta, what do you think?" he asked, gesturing towards the Gravitron. "Are you ready to take your Super Saiyan training to the next level?"
The prince nodded, following Goku up the steps and into the gravity chamber. "As of last night, when I finished my workout, I was to the point of being fully comfortable in 100x gravity. Should we try going up again?" he asked, walking up to and looking over the central control panel.
Goku shook his head. "That shouldn't be necessary. I hadn't exceeded 100x gravity before I was able to make the transformation. Let's just try to retrace the steps I took to get there on Namek. When I first arrived, I was able to fight those Ginyu guys with no problem, except for Captain Ginyu. Because of his trickery, I ended up badly injured. That's when you, Krillin, and Gohan took me to recover in an Isolation Chamber on Frieza's ship. It wasn't until after that that I was able to achieve the…"
"Ah, yes, Kakarott!" Vegeta interjected. "You do recall one of the many known facts of saiyan biology, right? When we saiyans make a full recovery after being injured nearly to the point of death, we get a considerable boost in our power level. So, perhaps, if we engage in an all-out fight and you beat me severely, then I can take a senzu bean and come much closer to the power level you achieved just before your fight with Frieza. I suppose that would roughly simulate your recovery after Ginyu's attack."
Goku turned to look at Vegeta and frowned. "But, Vegeta, I don't want to beat you up that bad!"
The prince chuckled and turned from Goku, pacing a few steps away, the tip of his tail twitching slightly. "Yes, well, given what the blue-haired woman recently told me about my condition, that might not yet be the best course of action. You see, it's possible that I might no longer have the virus, but in case I still do, she advised that I should push myself in training, but not overexert until we know for sure that I've been cured… In other words, we'll have to wait for the dragon balls before we try to emulate what happened to you with Captain Ginyu," he explained as he began a round of shoulder stretches and rotations.
Goku's face lightened and he rubbed the back of his neck. "Oh, I see. Well, that's good to… Wait, what do you mean that you might or might not still have the virus? She doesn't know for sure? Were the test results inconclusive or something?" he asked in concern, probing for more information.
Vegeta hesitated to answer. "Kind of? It wasn't entirely clear. What she gathered from your samples was that you lacked the 'foreign particles' detected in mine. However, tests with the Bansho water samples concluded that it actually does have the ability to destroy viruses… to an extent. So, there's a good chance it killed most of the viruses in my system, meaning that those particles she detected were just their dead corpses. But it's still possible that some intact viruses survived hiding inside my cells. Unless I have another flare-up, there will be no way to tell for certain whether I'm still infected or not. Therefore, the wisest course of action would be to proceed with caution and avoid triggering another flare-up. A trigger could be excessive physical or mental stress, I suppose. For now, we'll just have to focus on the slow route to power for me, regular sparring that doesn't lead to excessive injury. Then, in a few months, we should be able to dramatically pick up the pace," he clarified, glancing over his shoulder.
Goku rubbed his chin with a thoughtful expression. "Yeah, that makes sense. So, in terms of our impact with today's training, I should try to wear you out, but not cause injuries requiring treatment. Right?"
Vegeta began his static stretches, his muscles flexing and rippling beneath the dark spandex. "Yes, that would be ideal. I have yet to spar under gravity exceeding Planet Vegeta's. Thus far, I've only been lifting weights and doing calisthenics, which as you know is not the same thing. Let's aim to be worn out by thirty minutes before suppertime. Then we can wash up before we eat. And let's start at 20 Gs. We can go up if it's not enough. Turn the machine on. It'll add resistance to our stretching as well."
"Alrighty!" Goku declared, stepping closer to the control panel to turn on the Gravitron. As it hummed to life, he pressed the up arrow until they were both standing in 20x Earth's natural gravity. The orange-clad saiyan spun back in Vegeta's direction, who was facing away from him. He lowered himself into a lunge, watching intently as Vegeta went through his own stretching routine. The prince moved with a grace and precision that caught Goku off guard, a stark contrast to his usual stiff body language. As Vegeta leaned forward into a deep hamstring stretch, his leg extended straight out in front of him, Goku could not help but be impressed by the flexibility on display. "I still think it's pretty cool that you can do that…"
Immediately, Goku saw Vegeta's smaller frame tense, and the prince cast a glare over his shoulder. "Do what? Stretch? Don't be ridiculous, Kakarott. You can do it, too," he replied dismissively.
Goku frowned as he lowered himself into a groin stretch. "Not like that, I can't…"
"Will you be quiet! You're breaking my concentration with your muttering," Vegeta warned.
Goku flushed, watching in silence.
Paying the larger saiyan no mind, Vegeta fluidly transitioned into a perfect side split, lowering himself gracefully to the Gravitron's metallic surface with seemingly effortless ease.
Goku's eyes widened in amazement. Whoa, that's incredible! he internally exclaimed, barely containing his excitement. I've never seen anyone do the splits like that! He had seen Vegeta in battle, but witnessing this display of agility and flexibility up close was something else. Goku found his eyes drawn up the length of the prince's tail to the smooth sheen marking the curvature of Vegeta's buttocks. A sudden tightening in Goku's orange gi pants created a sharp pain with the position he was in, causing him to fall backward on his rear. "Ooh! Ow, ow, ow…" he heaved aloud, hissing as he held the left side.
Vegeta cast another glance his way. "What's your problem, Kakarott?"
Goku flushed. "Oh, um… I overextended. Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you."
A hint of suspicion passed through Vegeta's expression before he shrugged. "Well, just be careful then, I guess. If you get yourself injured and delay my training again, I'll be pissed," he pointed out.
"Uh, sure. Okay."
Vegeta rushed through the remainder of his static routine and then rose to his feet in a smooth movement, using his muscular tail to push himself up from the ground. At this point, he launched himself into a brief but animated routine of dynamic kicks and lunges. "Alright, I'm ready when you are."
Goku hopped up, a focused expression on his face as he prepared to test Vegeta's strength and agility. With a swift motion, he extended his right arm, holding his palm out in front of him. "Alright, Vegeta, let's see what you've got. Let's start with a series of punches and kicks, then in ten or fifteen minutes, we can transition into some freeform fighting," Goku said, his voice filled with determination.
"Okay," Vegeta replied, narrowing his eyes with a confident smirk as he took up an offensive stance. He felt ready for whatever challenges Goku had in store for him. The prince began with quick jabs, his fists moving like a blur as he aimed for Goku's open palm. The orange-clad saiyan's reflexes kicked in and he deftly blocked each punch with the necessary amount of counter-force. As Vegeta kicked his speed up a notch, Goku's focus intensified. He matched Vegeta's movements with lightning-fast reflexes, his hands moving with expert precision to intercept each blow. The sound of fists meeting palms echoed in the gravity chamber. As the flurry of punches continued, Goku could not help but be impressed by Vegeta's strength and agility. The prince's assault was relentless, proving him to be a formidable foe.
After several minutes of intensity, Goku halted the exercise with a satisfied grin. "Great job, Vegeta!" he exclaimed, clapping the prince on the shoulder. "Your reflexes are as sharp as ever. Now, let's do the same thing, but with high kicks," he said, repositioning himself. "Aim for my solar plexus and I'll block."
Vegeta's performance with kicks was equally impressive, if not more so given there was an element of heightened flexibility involved. Both saiyans were breathing harder by the time they finished.
"Alright, now let's work with freeform sparring, no energy attacks. In this round, your goal is to strike me in the jaw while I try to avoid the hit. When you nail me in the jaw, that means you win."
Vegeta nodded in acknowledgment of Goku's instructions, his focus sharpening as he prepared to go on the offensive. With a swift movement, he launched himself forward, his muscles tense with anticipation. Goku mirrored Vegeta's stance, his eyes locked on the prince as he prepared to evade his attacks. The chamber echoed with sounds of impact as the two saiyans engaged in their intense sparring match, their movements fluid and precise. Vegeta lashed out with a series of lightning-fast punches, aiming for Goku's jaw with precision. Goku ducked and weaved, his movements agile as he dodged each strike with ease. But Vegeta was relentless, his attacks coming faster and harder with each passing moment.
Goku was particularly impressed by Vegeta's speed more so than his power, the former of which had perhaps been improved by the weight loss he had suffered. Less surface area meant less air resistance, after all, and Vegeta was not yet back up to his normal level of bulk. Goku was surprised to find himself struggling to keep up in his normal form. With a sudden burst of speed, Vegeta managed to land a solid blow to Goku's jaw, a triumphant smirk gracing his lips as he pulled back from the strike.
Goku staggered back slightly, his hand rising to touch the spot where Vegeta's punch had landed. Despite the stinging sensation, he could not help but be impressed by the prince's skill and determination. "Nice shot, Vegeta," Goku said, his voice brimming with admiration. "You win this round. Alright, for the next round, you'll be the one defending, but I'm not going to punch you. My goal is to touch your jaw with these two fingers," he explained, holding up his pointer and middle. "Just hold me off as long as you can. This is mostly for me to test your stamina," he added, taking up an offensive pose.
With a nod, Vegeta readied himself. Soon, they were at it again in a series of blinding motions. Vegeta lasted five minutes before he felt a tap on his chin make it through his defenses. He relaxed his pose and stepped back before folding his arms over his chest. "I'm not accustomed to defending from taps."
Goku chuckled. "As martial artists, we should be ready for anything. What if a future opponent has a venomous stinger that only needs to tap you to disable you? You never know, so it's best to be prepared."
Vegeta considered his words for a moment and bobbed his head. "That's a valid point. I have seen strange alien fighters out there with all kinds of biological weaponry. Anyway," he said, lowering himself back into a fighter's pose, "what next? If we continue at this intensity, I definitely won't be worn out by supper. Either up the difficulty of your challenges or up the gravity, it doesn't matter to me."
Goku clenched his fists and furrowed his brows. "Oh, it's going to get harder, so I hope you're ready!"
Vegeta laughed. "Well, bring it on, then!"
…
The sun hung westward in the azure sky as the gilded open-air carriage, drawn by a team of majestic royal oxen, made its way down Fire Mountain on a cobblestone road. Gohan sat beside his grandfather, anticipation sparkling in his youthful eyes as they began their tour of the kingdom. Piccolo, stoic as ever, observed the surroundings with keen interest. The rugged landscape unfolded before them, bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. Gradually, the winding path widened into the bustling main street of Ox City, filled with life and activity. Crossing a sturdy bridge spanning a roaring river, Gohan marveled at the raw power of nature beneath them. "It's incredible," he remarked, his voice filled with awe.
The Ox-King nodded, a proud smile gracing his weathered features. "Indeed, Gohan. Our kingdom is blessed with natural beauty beyond compare," he affirmed, giving the boy a pat on the head. Entering the commerce district, they were greeted by a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Stalls adorned with colorful banners offered an array of local delicacies, handmade crafts, and exotic goods. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of freshly-cooked food and the lively chatter of merchants and customers alike. "This is where the heart of our city begins," the Ox-King explained, gesturing to the crowded bazaar.
Piccolo, his keen eyes scanning the surroundings, nodded in silent agreement. As they continued their journey, they passed through a tranquil residential area, where quaint multi-storied homes nestled amidst lush gardens and winding pathways. The streets were lined with vibrant flowers and fluttering banners, adding to the picturesque charm of the neighborhood. Finally, they arrived at an open square adorned with a magnificent water fountain. Local artisans worked tirelessly to decorate the area with colorful ribbons and intricate designs, preparing for the upcoming and highly-anticipated Ox Crown Festival.
Gohan's heart swelled with pride as he gazed upon the grand square. "It's beautiful," he breathed, overcome with emotion. "Everyone looks so happy. I'm so lucky to share in the heritage of this place."
The Ox-King placed a hand on Gohan's shoulder, his eyes sparkling with delight. "And it will be even more beautiful right after your birthday, my boy. Soon, you will be crowned heir apparent to the throne amidst the cheers of our people. For two whole weeks, the kingdom will be rife with celebration!"
Gohan gazed ahead with eyes full of resolve, envisioning his destiny as future ruler of the Ox-Kingdom. "Is it hard to be a king, Grandpa?" he suddenly asked, his nerves getting the better of him.
The giant returned a toothy grin. "Well, it certainly has its challenges, my boy. Some days, weeks, months, and years are harder than others. Think of it like this, Gohan. Being a king is kind of like being a father of many. That's why my subjects often call me 'Sire', you see. You'll, in effect, be a public servant and your job is to take care of your people, to make wise decisions that bring them prosperity and reduce their suffering to a bare minimum, to lead them with love and compassion toward a brighter tomorrow."
"Wow! So, I can do lots of good if I become king, huh?"
The Ox-King let out a hearty laugh. "You certainly can, Gohan. But don't forget, if you're unscrupulous, you can cause suffering too. Some kings have even caused great suffering unintentionally, simply because they didn't understand the value of a zeni or know the burdens the common people faced. I do my best these days to be a king of the people. Gone are the days when I holed myself up in my castle or chased away perceived intruders for fear of losing my fortune. No, I like to be out and about in the city streets. My subjects are like extended family these days. They no longer fear to come to me with their concerns, as they once did. Our true wealth as a kingdom lies in our people, you see, not the castle treasury."
Gohan had a thoughtful look on his face. "Well, I know I'm never gonna be mean to people cause my dad taught me not to. But when you say the value of a zeni… does that mean the math I'm studying can help me be a better king in the future? If so, well, I'll study even harder!" he said enthusiastically.
Ox-King lightly clapped Gohan on the back. "Absolutely! The more knowledge and wisdom you can obtain before you ascend the throne, the better off you and the kingdom will be. So, study to your heart's content, my boy. You are your mother and father's son, after all. In time, the strife between your parents will become a thing of the past and I have every faith that you'll make them both incredibly proud."
As the carriage continued its journey through the outskirts of Ox City, the landscape transitioned from bustling streets to tranquil countryside. Small mansions of the nobility dotted rolling hillsides, their elegant facades standing as symbols of wealth and status. Gohan and Piccolo observed the scenery with keen interest, the quiet beauty of pastures a stark contrast to the busy city they had just left behind.
"Wow, it's so peaceful out here," Gohan remarked, his eyes taking in the verdant fields and gentle hills.
The Ox-King nodded, his gaze sweeping the expanse. "Yes, this is the true heart of the Ox-Kingdom." As they ventured farther into the countryside, the landscape transformed into vast plains where hundreds of thousands of oxen and cattle roamed freely. The rhythmic sound of their hooves against the earth filled the air, creating a symphony of life and movement. "The Ox-Kingdom's main source of monetary wealth lies in its abundance of livestock," the Ox-King explained, his voice full of pride. "For generations, our people have relied on the pasture-rich land and the animals that feed from it to sustain us."
Piccolo observed the grazing herds. "It's impressive," he admitted, his stoicism softening slightly.
As they continued their journey through the countryside, Gohan felt a deep sense of connection to the land and its people. He understood now more than ever the importance of preserving the traditions and values of the Ox-Kingdom. The carriage rolled on, the green stretching out before them in an endless expanse. And as they journeyed deeper into the countryside, Gohan knew he was witnessing the true essence of his heritage, a land rich in history, culture, and the enduring spirit of its people. After visiting a few smaller towns and villages, they turned around and made their way back to Fire Mountain.
Gohan felt his stomach gurgle and placed his hands on it, looking down. "I think I'm getting hungry."
The Ox-King tousled Gohan's dark hair under the cap he was wearing. "See how the golden sun leans to the west? Palace staff are surely setting up for dinner as we speak. Once tonight's banquet wraps up, it'll be time for the last leg of our tour: the castle itself and the ruins that lie beneath it."
Gohan's eyes lit up again. "Ooh! I can't wait!"