Goku shoveled the last of his meal into his mouth and then licked his plate clean, not willing to leave a drop behind after the recent food shortage scare they'd just had. As always Chi-Chi had made magic happen. Who knew that worm meat could be cooked in so many delicious and different ways? And there was still plenty leftover. Enough to last even him a week easy.
Well, maybe a few days at least…as long as he didn't overdo it…
A heaving sound broke his train of thought, reminding him that not everyone in his traveling party had been thrilled with the new source of protein.
Namely Chi-Chi.
Goku piled the dishes in the sink haphazardly, and then spread out the bedding before padding over to the bathroom and knocking on the frame to alert Chi-Chi of his presence. She was currently leaning her head against the toilet, her body tensing every few seconds as if wanting to be sick but her lips were pressed firmly shut, as if to deny the possibility.
"Aw c'mon Chi-Chi…it wasn't that bad."
"It's a worm!" Chi-Chi whined, burying her face in her hands.
She looked so dang cute with her little pout that Goku couldn't help but smile as he took a seat beside her and rubbed her back soothingly. His Grandpa had always done the same when he'd eaten something he shouldn't have.
"Ya gotta eat Chi."
She had refused the first day, claiming to be content with her mango, but by dinner the next evening, with no end to the desert in sight, Chi-Chi had caved. He had offered to get her something from the magic pouch but she'd been too worried they'd be taking it from someone in need, and instead just sucked up her discomfort and swallowed several bites of the dish she had created from the giant worm they'd encountered the day before.
And then she had hightailed it for the bathroom.
Goku sighed as Chi-Chi took deep, steadying breaths.
Chi-Chi might look cute pouting but he still hated to see her suffering like this.
"C'mon Chi. Please let me get ya somethin' outta the bag?"
She nodded a bit weakly, making him frown, but he shoved those worries aside to focus on the task at hand, which was getting her something she could keep down. He imagined the item he wanted, reached into the bag and pulled out a nice juicy apple.
"Here ya go, Chi-Chi."
"Thank you."
She took a small bite and smiled when her nausea seemed to ease somewhat. A nice, crisp apple really did wonders. Releasing a sigh, she leaned back against Goku, taking another bite.
"Mmm, you know, it's not just the…" Chi-Chi grimaced, "the worm meat. This heat is really startin' to get to me too."
Which was saying something considering she lived on a mountain that had literally been on fire for years.
But Goku understood. "Yeah, it has been pretty hot."
They'd even gotten up early that morning in hopes of using the cooler hours to get out of this place but considering they couldn't tell which way was up from anything else, there was no way to guarantee they hadn't been going around in circles. Every which way they looked was just sand and Chi-Chi's radar device was nothing but static right now. If Nimbus could come to them, he was sure the little cloud could get them far away from here in no time but whatever was messin' with the radar was interfering with Nimbus too.
He hoped wherever his friend was, they were doing alright.
As for them, they needed to get out of this dang desert already. Luckily he still had one trick up his sleeve.
"C'mon Chi-Chi. How 'bout ya lay down and get some rest, hm?"
Chi-Chi looked down at her half eaten apple and sighed before nodding and offering him the rest. Not one to turn down food, Goku finished it off in one bite and then scooped her up, intending to carry her to bed, until she started protesting.
"Wait, I can't get into bed like this! I've been sweatin' all day."
She pushed on his chest but her attempt was weak at best.
"Ya want me to start ya a bath?"
"We can't," Chi-Chi sighed. "We need to conserve what water we have left until we can get out of this wasteland."
Hmm…Chi-Chi made a good point but she still needed rest, and he knew she was stubborn enough not to give in until she was clean. Thinking fast, Goku placed her on the bathroom counter, grabbed a small wash cloth and wet it a little, before rubbing it over Chi-Chi's face and neck, down her arms and back and stomach, and finally her legs.
It excited him a little.
This was the most he'd been allowed to touch Chi-Chi since they left the boat because she'd complained it was too hot to even snuggle. He wanted to do more but…but Chi-Chi wasn't feeling well and she'd never get better if she didn't get some rest…he knew this and yet he couldn't stop his hands from lingering just a little bit longer as he brought the cloth back up to her chest.
Chi-Chi seemed to sense his frustration though because she cupped his cheek with one hand and kissed the other before giving him a sweet smile. "Thank you, sweetheart."
Goku leaned into her touch, smiling sheepishly, before scooping her back up and carrying her into the main room. He lowered her gently to the futon and brushed back her bangs before covering her with a thin sheet.
"Rest up Chi-Chi. We'll stay here 'til tomorrow evening, so ya got plenty of time."
"Oh that makes sense," Chi-Chi murmured, already drifting off now that her body was finally able to relax. "It'll be cooler travelin' at night."
"True. But that's not why." Goku told her as he shucked off his clothes, including his underwear. Now that Chi-Chi had seen him completely nude, he didn't see the point in covering up when it was so dang hot!
"Mmm…then why?"
"You'll see!" He grinned, hopping down beside her. He scooched as close to her as he could without touching her and threw an arm over his eyes.
His snores followed soon after.
Chi-Chi frowned, wondering why he couldn't just give her a straight answer, but quickly lost that train of thought as she too fell asleep, dreaming about cool lakes and shady trees and an adorable boy offering her an apple. She slept long and hard and by the time she finally awoke the next day it was already nearing evening again.
Goku had already dressed and devoured more of the worm meat, as well as grilled her some fish. He'd obviously used that magic pouch of his again, but Chi-Chi was so grateful for something that wouldn't turn her stomach, that she couldn't find it in her to scold him for it. She only prayed he remembered to think of her father's household to avoid taking it from someone in need.
Once Chi-Chi had eaten her fill, she swapped into a fresh set of clothing and stepped outside as dusk began to settle into darkness and the sun disappeared beneath the horizon. It was chillier at night but she knew once they got going she'd warm right up.
She busied herself capsulating their travel home while Goku studied the sky until he spotted what he was looking for.
"Ready?" he asked, turning back to Chi-Chi.
Chi-Chi nodded. "All set. Do you know which direction we should go?"
"Uh huh!"
Goku stepped closer to her so he could point out the star that would guide them. "We just gotta follow that star there, the one at the front of the ones shaped like an arrow."
Chi-Chi frowned.
"I thought travelers were always supposed to follow the north star."
That was the really bright one right? Goku's star wasn't dim, but it definitely wasn't the brightest either.
But Goku was confident.
"Nah. That's what they wantcha to think but Grandpa taught me better."
It was safe to follow the north star most of the time but when odd things happened that weren't supposed to—like being stuck in a desert that never ended—then you needed to read the stars properly to find your way out.
His grandpa had taught him all sorts of symbols and names—that he honestly could never remember—but he recalled enough of the patterns and what they meant to know he could read them. He hadn't thought about his grandpa's lessons in some time but it brought a smile to his face knowing that Grandpa was still helping him, even after all these years.
Stealing one last look at Chi-Chi, Goku took off in a sprint with her hot on his heels, both eager to be on their way.
They ran for three hours without rest, only pausing every so often for Goku to check the sky and adjust their direction as needed due to the great distances they covered in such a short time. Chi-Chi had grown strong. What had previously taken her days now took mere hours and it made him proud of how far she had come. However it did mean there was a greater chance of veering off course in the process but Goku wasn't worried. The moon was bright, lighting their path with ease, and aside for a lot of sand, there was nothing to distract them.
In fact, looking at it now, he realized it was nearly full. Had it really been less than a month since the last time he'd seen the full moon?
Goku's gaze slid over to Chi-Chi running beside him and smiled. A month ago he'd been just a naive kid, still confused at his feelings for her. Now he felt every inch the young man he'd grown to be, ready to spend his life with the woman next to him.
She hadn't said yes yet but he knew when he asked her again that she would. This time would be different.
"Goku, look!"
"Hm?"
Goku was pulled from his thoughts by Chi-Chi's startled gasp and looked to see where she was pointing.
There was something just up ahead. Something bright. Real bright.
Goku shielded his eyes to keep from being blinded as the light seemed to flare even brighter for a few seconds before dimming down to a subtle glow.
When the pair could finally see again, they realized the light was coming from a large village.
"Oh!" Chi-Chi grabbed his arm, jumping in excitement. "People! Maybe we can restock our supplies there and find out how to get outta this place!"
"Yeah!"
They smiled at one another and then raced the rest of the distance before finally slowing to a stop just outside the entrance of the ethereal walled off town where two tall and stocky individuals awaited them.
"Welcome," the man greeted, his deep voice rumbling but warm. There was an intensity about him that probably frightened most people but Chi-Chi found herself smiling, suddenly reminded of her father. He was intimidating too, but he'd grown softer over the last few years. This man gave off a similar feeling.
Her gaze drifted towards his companion and her smile faltered, momentarily surprised to see an overly warm smile directed at her from the woman. Chi-Chi had met many people in her short life as a princess, and even more on her travels, most had been cordial but distant. However this woman was beaming at her as if Chi-Chi had done something she approved of, but what she hadn't the slightest clue. She'd just met the woman!
But Chi-Chi was raised with good manners, and so was able to push aside her confusion and respond in kind.
"Good evening." Or should she say good morning? They'd been traveling several hours now since it'd grown dark, it had to be in the early morning hours by now. "We apologize for coming to town so late. It seems we've gotten a little lost on our travels."
"I should say so," the man nodded. "We do not get many unexpected visitors in these parts. I am Zhong Kui and this is Mazu." He gestured towards the woman beside him, who nodded in greeting, and then tugged on his beard. "It's a wonder that you two managed to arrive here at all. It is nigh on impossible."
"Those who follow the stars will always find their way," Mazu murmured, redirecting her pleased smile towards Goku.
Goku laughed. "That's what Grandpa always used to tell me."
"A wise man then, but enough of this, you both must be weary from traveling through such harsh terrain. Please come in and let us assist you."
"That would be wonderful," Chi-Chi smiled. "If you could show us to your market and perha—"
"Your money's no good here."
"Oh, but…"
The woman's smile softened. "I recognize a pilgrimage when I see one. You and your companion are on a journey, as such, it is my honor to assist you."
"You best just accept," Zhong Kui added, looking at his associate with a wry smile. "She has strict rules about these things." He turned to Goku and clapped him on the shoulder. "While the ladies work on restocking your supplies, what say you and I see about obtaining a means to get you back on your journey."
"Ya mean you can get us outta this desert?" Goku grinned.
"Not me, no, that goes beyond my abilities," Zhong Kui admitted quietly. "But there is one here who should know of something or other…"
Goku nodded he understood and followed him past the gate before noticing this village was much larger than he'd first imagined. In fact, the village itself still seemed a few miles off from the entrance they'd just pass through but he realized the fields in between here and there that surrounded it were all filled with crops.
How they managed that in a desert, he didn't know, but at least it meant they'd be able to restock.
Goku glanced back over his shoulder to see Chi-Chi's reaction and frowned when he saw that the other woman was leading her in a different direction entirely.
He didn't like it.
He knew Chi-Chi could handle herself but he hadn't forgotten that guy was out there waiting to snatch her up and separate them forever. Last time he easily defeated the monster but what about next time? And what if the bad guy wasn't so easy to spot? Or used some sort of magic to lure her away when he wasn't looking?
"Worry not, she is safe within these village walls," Zhong Kui told him, his voice resonating in such a way that made Goku relax. There was something about the man—and the woman now that he thought of it—that was almost otherworldly. If he said Chi-Chi would be safe, then Goku believed him.
They reached the village then, a traditional looking town, with buildings all similar to the one he lived in with his grandpa. The streets were quiet, though not empty, with older men and women scattered about carrying on with their day. Goku's gaze didn't linger on anything too long, always too busy wanting to take everything in, but then one man meditating beneath a large dogwood caught his attention. The act itself wasn't strange but his third eye sure was.
"Hey! I have a friend who's gotta a third eye too! Maybe they're related?"
Zhong Kui looked to the man beneath the tree and nodded. "Ah, Yang Jian. It is most likely. He has sired several strong lines."
But Goku wasn't listening, already distracted by a man with an elephant head coming their way.
"Ah Ganesh," Zhong Kui greeted. "How goes it?"
"Well, thank you. But who is this? A new resident?"
"No, Tori was our most recent addition. Goku here is just passing through."
"A traveler then," Ganesh nodded, "Well I wish you luck, that you no longer lose your way once you leave this place."
"Thanks!" Goku smiled, feeling a bead of sweat drop down the side of his face. He knew there was something otherworldly about this place but he hadn't expected this!
Ganesh took his leave and Goku and Zhong Kui continued on, bypassing different turns that seemed to lead to unknown spaces that blurred farther down their respective paths. Goku looked down one such alley and had to do a double take when he saw snow!
"What is this place?" he finally asked, noting some more funny looking people strolling arms in arms several feet away.
"It is known as many things." Zhong Kui answered, nodding in greeting to passersby as he went. "Many who call it home are here but seldom, but you may consider it a place of refuge if you wish. This way."
The older man finally turned down one of the mysterious side paths, this one leading towards a single tower on a small hill.
"Nezha!" Zhong Kui shouted abruptly, in a much deeper voice than Goku had heard from him thus far. "Come down for I must speak with you!"
"Oi! Ever heard of knocking?" cried a young boy from one of the many balconies.
He leaned out from a support beam, shielding his eyes from the nonexistent sun, and then leapt outward, lowering himself down gracefully with wheels of fire on his heels that spun rapidly to slow his descent. The young boy stopped well short of the ground however, preferring to remain at eye level with them both. If he didn't, he would have had to crane his neck, as he didn't even come up to Goku's waist line, but that didn't bother Goku. He had been proof growing up to never underestimate someone's size.
"Well you're not from these parts," the young boy frowned before sticking out a hand to introduce himself. "The name's Nezha."
"Goku," Goku greeted in turn, shaking Nezha's hand. He pointed his thumb at Zhong Kui. "This guy says you can help me and Chi-Chi get outta this desert, that true?"
"They are unexpected visitors," Zhong Kui said significantly causing Nezha's eyes to widen.
"Ah. Well since you survived long enough to find your way here, I see no reason not to assist you. Do you have a token I can use?"
"Token?"
"You know, like a personal item that I can transfer my power to?"
"Uh…ya mean like my clothes?" Goku asked, looking himself over.
"No, no," Nezha scoffed, sitting back on a nonexistent chair as he shook his head. "Something you treasure."
Goku reached behind his back. "Like my power pole?"
"Hmm…" the young boy studied the weapon for a moment but then shook his head. "Unfortunately it already has special properties. I could do it but I would be making its creator very angry." Nezha gave Goku a once over, noting his second god touched staff and the pouch at his side, and tsked when he didn't seen anything he could use. "No, no. Better to just get something new then. I'm sure Lu Ban has something I could use."
"Lu Ban?"
"A master craftsman," Zhong Kui smiled. "There is not a thing in existence he cannot make. He will have something, surely, that can fit your needs."
o0o
Chi-Chi made to follow behind Goku and the man who'd just introduced himself as Zhong Kui but the woman known as Mazu stopped her before she could take more than a step, and gestured for Chi-Chi to follow her instead. Figuring the supplies were stocked elsewhere, Chi-Chi did as she was told and followed quietly as she was led through a large field in the opposite direction of the others.
She couldn't help but stare.
How was it possible to grow crops in a desert? But now that she looked at the ground beneath her feet, Chi-Chi realized she wasn't walking on sand but the type of soil she would expect to see back home and everywhere else capable of growing plant life. Had they imported this all? Or was this just a true fluke of nature? She didn't know the answer but she thanked her lucky stars they had come across the village when they did.
Mazu spoke up after a minute had passed and said companionably, "Why do you not tell me about this trip you are undertaking, hm? I imagine you have had many adventures thus far."
Chi-Chi smiled wryly.
"You could certainly say that."
Going on the journey was an adventure in itself but that had surprisingly been only a small part of the things she had experienced thus far and she was happy to have a chance to share those stories with someone other than Goku. His friends hadn't really asked and she hadn't thought Bha-bi or Kenta would believe her, though after what happened their last night together they'd probably be more inclined to.
Chi-Chi shuddered and shoved that uncomfortable memory aside before proceeding to tell Mazu about all the adventures she and Goku had experienced, never once stopping to consider if this mysterious woman would believe her or her fantastical tales.
She just knew that she would.
Chi-Chi had just finished describing their adventure with Xuan Wu when they arrived at the entrance to a large home where a servant was waiting to open the door, as well as attend to anything they might want or need.
"This way Chi-Chi," Mazu called leading her down a long hall before guiding her into what could only be a kitchen, though it was a great deal more rustic than anything Chi-Chi had ever seen, and in the center of the room, sitting around a work station, were three women drinking tea. A plump, friendly looking woman, another who was heavily pregnant, and a tall lithe woman who had to be the most beautiful woman Chi-Chi had ever seen though she couldn't say why.
The light shifted across her tan skin as she rose to her feet and stepped forward to embrace first Mazu and then Chi-Chi before signaling with a pale hand for them both to join her and the others.
"Oh! I hope we're not intruding…"
"Nonsense," the woman dismissed with a wave before gesturing towards the two sets of tea cups that sat waiting for them. "Please join us, it has been many years since we have had an unexpected guest. I am Nüwa, this is Sheji and our perpetually pregnant friend here is Bixia."
Bixia snorted and shot Nüwa a knowing look before greeting Chi-Chi in turn. "Please join us, I know Mazu has probably already asked but she is not the only one who would delight in sharing your tales."
"Yes! It's been too long since we've had some fresh stories, please join us!" Sheji begged.
Still Chi-Chi hesitated. "Is there time? I'd hate to keep the men waiting."
"Let them wait!" The plump woman laughed. She grabbed the kettle and began pouring the tea. "Besides, you look like you could use the breather."
"And I will take any excuse to keep off my feet," Bixia smiled.
Mazu pulled a chair out for Chi-Chi.
"Rest assured, the men will be busy for some time. Long enough for us to hear your story and restock you twenty times over. In fact," her eyes twinkled. "You may think of this as payment. For a good story is worth its weight in gold."
"Well if you're sure," Chi-Chi smiled, taking a seat.
She thought over what she had told Mazu thus far and realized she had left out some important information. How could she truly explain what she and Goku were doing there, without even mentioning how they had originally met? Goodness. This was going to take longer than she thought! She took a sip of the warm tea to wet her lips and then began from the very beginning.
"It all started several years ago, when I was just a little girl…"
o0o
"Lu Ban!" Nezha called, banging on the door to a sizeable house. "Lu Ban open up! We are in need of your services!"
The door flung open, revealing a muscular man with bottle thick glasses, glaring at them for all the good it would do him. "I am in the middle of work!"
"You're always in the middle of work," Nezha huffed as Zhong Kui stepped forward and introduced Goku.
"He and his companion were lost in the desert, but were fortunate enough to find their way to our village. They need a means to continue on their way post haste."
"Found their way here?" Lu Ban repeated, questioningly. "Impossible! No mort—"
"It is not impossible, just improbable." Zhong Kui corrected, knowing the man would work himself up to a rant if allowed.
Lu Ban frowned, clearly still doubtful, but stepped aside to let them all in regardless though there wasn't much room for them when they finally all managed to squeeze into the space.
Goku stared, amazed.
There had to be hundreds of furniture pieces all stacked upon one another running up and down the length of the room with only narrow pathways forming aisles to navigate between them all. He wondered why anyone would need them all for when they couldn't even use them that way but before he could even ask Lu Ban was guiding them into another room, this one displaying various jars, weapons, cloth and jewelry.
Goku's gaze lingered over several pieces in particular as Lu Ban turned to him and started speaking.
"If Nezha is here, than I take it you need some sort of token for a spell. You carry a staff, do you prefer weapons? Blades? Perhaps an armor of some sort?"
"Huh?" Why was this guy talking about weapons? "Oh!" Goku snapped his fingers, suddenly understanding. "The staff was my Grandpa's, I'm a more hands on kinda guy." He grinned, punching his fist into his hand.
Lu Ban rubbed his chin as he looked Goku over. "Hmm, so no then…and I suppose that takes out rings too. What about watches? Or glasses? Do you wear either or both and if so in what color?"
"What? Uh…no, sorry. Whatcha see is what I've got, pretty much," Goku laughed uneasily, spreading his arms out wide.
"What about a pendant? Do you think you could wear one of those comfortably?"
"A pendant? What's that?"
"Something you wear around your neck, like this for example," Lu Ban said, pointing out an intrinsic design strung by a delicate chain.
"Oh you mean a necklace! Sure, I can do that." He'd just have to tuck it into his shirt but it wasn't like he hadn't done so before. "Hey if you can make that, do ya think you can make me somethin' else as well?"
"Well aren't you greedy," Nezha muttered though Goku still heard him.
He added hastily, "I can pay! Or if ya need someone strong to do some work around this place, I could do that too."
Lu Ban shot Nezha a scolding look before turning to Goku curiously. "What exactly do you want me to make and why?"
"Uh…"
Goku blushed but explained just what he wanted and pulled out the red stone he'd saved from that time he and Chi-Chi had gathered the glowy crystals to turn into paint. He wasn't sure what could be done with it but he remembered that guy on the fishing boat had done something similar to what he wanted, and by the looks of this place this Lubin guy was someone that could help make it happen.
"You've been holding out on us," Nezha complained, plucking the stone from Goku's hand. "This would make the perfect artifice for my power."
Goku snatched it right back.
"You can't! I need it for the other thing!"
"Do you want to leave the desert or not?"
"I'll find a way!" He'd shovel his way out if he had to!
"Calm down, the both of you!" Lu Ban ordered before snatching the stone from Goku's hand. He examined it closely and then gave a satisfied nod. "Yes, this will do nicely. It is a generous size. I can easily make what you are asking as well as fashion a pendant out of this. What say you?"
"You can make both?" Goku questioned, making sure he understood.
"Even a lesser craftsman could manage with the size of this stone. For me I could do that twice over."
Goku rubbed the back of his neck, he didn't know much about these things—in fact he didn't know anything at all!—so he'd just have to trust the guy. "Well okay then."
"Good! Now that that is settled, we just need to decide the design. What were you thinking?"
"Uh…"
Lu Ban shook his head with a small sigh.
"Let us try this again, I presume it shall not be you who wears it."
"N-No!" Goku's blush returned in full force, just imagining Chi-Chi wearing his gift. For some reason it made him nervous. "Though I guess I'll be wearing the necklace thingy."
"You could or you could offer it to your companion as well. Either way it makes no difference."
"Oh yes!" Nezha agreed, growing excited at the prospect. "I could even work the spell so that she'll always be able to find wherever it is she wants to go, not just to get out of this desert!"
"A guide to wherever her heart desires?" Zhong Kui added, with a small smile. "Now that is romantic."
Goku perked up. Romantic?
"Yeah! Let's do that then! That's perfect!"
"As long as she likes the design."
"Nezha!" Zhong Kui snapped while Goku began to panic.
"She has to like it!" He couldn't afford for her not to!
"Ignore Nezha," Lu Ban huffed, shooting the boy an irritated glare. "We will design her something fit for a princess!"
"Oh great!" Goku beamed, relaxing a little. "She is a princess, so that works."
Nezha frowned. "You bagged a princess? She sure has simple taste."
"Excellent point, Nezha." Lu Ban nodded as he took notes. "What else can you tell us about her, lad?"
"About Chi-Chi?"
All three men nodded and Goku grinned.
"Chi-Chi's the best! She's a fantastic cook and a great fighter. She's gotten crazy strong compared to how weak she was at the Tournament, but don't tell Chi-Chi I said that. She can be real scary when she's angry but that's okay cause I like it. Her eyes get all intense and exciting…it's great! But she's also real sweet and kind and an amazing kisse—"
"Alright already, you have told us enough." Lu Ban sighed, running a weary hand over his face. When would he learn not to ask such things from a lover? After a moment he added, "She sounds like a passionate young woman."
"You can say that again," Goku laughed.
"And she's a fighter did you say? Is that how you ended up here?"
"Yup! She wanted to go on a training journey so I tagged along. It's been great! The most fun I've had since forever!"
Three years with Kami and Mr. Popo had taught him a lot but man was it dull! On the other hand, he'd still learned lots with Chi-Chi—mostly about everyday stuff that he assumed most people knew—but every day with her just kept getting better!
"Before this we were on a boat and before that we had to climb outta a volcano from some Zeus guy and before that we—"
Zhong Kui held up one hand, silencing him. "Hold one moment please, do you mean Zhuque?"
"Yeah, him." Goku nodded. "At least, I think they were a guy. In fact, that's where I found that red rock!"
"That explains it then, you must be on your way to Baihu. Congratulations on being the first to make it thus far."
"Thanks!"
"Your adventures also give me an excellent idea for a design," Lu Ban said energetically. "One moment."
He brushed a few strokes across his parchment and then showed it to the others.
"Very elegant," Zhong Kui smiled while Nezha commented that he liked the flow of the lines.
Again all three men turned to Goku, who studied the image a little longer before pointing to the center.
"Is that supposed to be the rock?"
Lu Ban nodded, "Yes, that is where the gem will sit."
"Hmm…then I like it," Goku grinned.
"Truly?"
"Yeah! It looks like a flame! Its perfect!"
"Exactly! A fiery woman deserves something reflective of herself!" Lu Ban smiled excitedly. Inspiration had struck and he was eager to begin working on it but Goku still had one last question.
"How long will it take to make?"
"It will be done before the sun comes up."
"Really? That's great, thanks!" He had been afraid it'd take longer but it looks like these things went pretty fast.
Details settled, a moment passed where no one moved before Lu Ban began shooing them out the door.
"The sooner you leave, the sooner I can begin my work!"
He slammed the door behind them as Nezha grumbled, "You'd think by now he'd be used to being watched. Has he never had an apprentice?"
"Leave him be Nezha," Zong Kui sighed. "You know how those artist types are." He turned to Goku. "Are you interested in freshening up? Yao Weng's healing springs can soothe any aches and pains you may have gained from your travels, even the more serious ones."
"Sure!" Goku agreed. Even he thought he could use a bath after sweating in a desert for the past two days.
"This way then."
They parted ways with Nezha and then Zhong Kui took him down a narrow path that curved back round towards the main village where the springs were held nestled amongst the trees in the center of the town. After informing Goku that his things would be cleaned and stored in his room for the night, Zhong Kui bid him a good evening and took off; leaving Goku alone with a servant who handed him some bathing supplies and a robe for later.
Goku thanked them and then made his way inside the little enclosure where he threw off his things and scrubbed himself clean of all the dirt and sweat and what have you he was sure had built up over the last few days. When all he could smell was soap, he dumped a bucket of water over his head, shook his hair of excess water and then made his way to the springs waiting for him out back, jumping in without hesitation.
He disappeared under the water for a solid minute, just enjoying the moment and performing a few laps, before popping back up and leaning against the rocks with a sigh. He'd always enjoyed how weightless he felt in the water. It was entirely different from flying, where he had to use his ki to stay in the air. When he was little, especially right after his grandpa had died, he'd been tempted to just float away, letting the river take him away from his troubles, but he'd been too little and scared then to risk leaving everything he'd ever known.
Now he was much bigger—and braver too!—but there were still days he felt the temptation to let the river take him somewhere new, though now it was because he craved the adventure.
Funny how he hadn't felt that way since meeting Chi-Chi but then the last the thing he wanted to do was leave her behind. She was his and he was hers, whether they were married or not, and he knew that if he ever got that itch again, Chi-Chi would be right by his side, floating along side him.
His wife, Chi-Chi.
Goku smiled and sunk a little lower into the water, his head warm and fuzzy with thoughts of her keeping him occupied as his eyes slowly began to shut.
He was so sleepy.
The desert heat had made for miserable sleeping conditions and now that he finally felt refreshed from his bath it was hard keeping his eyes open. He settled in against the rocks, thinking a short little nap couldn't hurt, and then promptly fell asleep.
o0o
"A worm?! Oh dear me, now I've heard everything," Sheji shuddered.
Bixia was likewise horrified and had quickly stood and begun rummaging the pantries before carrying over a large platter burdened with snacks. "You poor thing, no wonder you look like you have lost weight."
"I do?" Chi-Chi wondered, looking over her figure. She supposed her clothes did seem a little loose…
"Eat up," Bixia commanded, placing the platter in front of her. "You need to recover your strength."
"That's not a proper meal," Sheji clucked, rising to her feet to no doubt supplement what Bixia had provided but Bixia just shooed her away.
"Of course not! This is just to tide her over while she freshens up in the springs."
'Springs?' Chi-Chi wondered. "But what abou—"
Mazu dropped a large jar on the counter, large enough to easily hold one of those hundred pound rice bags she liked to get from the stores, and opened it revealing just that.
"Here!" She grinned. "This should keep you from resorting to such desperate measures again."
"Oh, thank you! Just let me get a container and I can take a few scoops an—"
"Maz, you need to be more clear," Sheji chided, hip checking her. She turned to Chi-Chi and patted the jar. "It's all for you, pot included, and not just that one."
Mazu hoisted several more onto the table, and then left to retrieve the rest, as Sheji and Bixia lifted lids revealing everything they were providing. Multiple types of grains and dry goods, vegetables and fruits. There was even one filled with fish! Anything she could ever think to want in a basic pantry, in a quantity that not even Goku could eat through in a single day.
Chi-Chi felt overwhelmed.
"Oh! This is too much! Please we don't need nearly so much food."
That wasn't at all true but she couldn't in good conscious accept it all. Not when these people lived isolated in the middle of a barren desert!
Nüwa, who had been watching quietly while the others fussed, smiled and took Chi-Chi's hand in hers. "Worry not child, there is plenty more where that comes from, in fact…" she leaned in close to whisper directly in Chi-Chi's ear. "I molded the clay for these jars myself. Know they will never go empty, so long as you or yours live."
The woman's words resonated deep within her, sending chills up her spine and yet Chi-Chi felt comforted nonetheless. The whole evening had felt strange, sitting around a table with women she'd never met before this evening, talking and laughing like old friends. She had seen something like this once, on a television while waiting in a dentist's office. The women on the show had been family; aunts and sisters, mothers and daughters all gathered around a kitchen counter like this one laughing and smiling, and it had left her with an aching loneliness, knowing she'd never experience such a thing.
Not until now.
Chi-Chi smiled, blinking back tears. "Thank you."
"Of course," Nüwa said gently. "It is a mother's job to look after all her children."
All her children?
Chi-Chi tried to meet Nüwa's gaze but something with how the light hit the other woman's eyes made it difficult to discern her features. She looked back down, feeling very humble. This woman—no doubt all these women—were more than what they appeared.
"Take the goods," Mazu grinned, clapping her on the shoulder. "With our thanks for the story."
"It'll keep us entertained until the next traveler crosses our path," Sheji winked.
"Only promise you will not describe me as nearly so large when you next tell your tale," Bixia laughed, holding her pregnant belly. "Or at least say that I was glowing!"
Chi-Chi giggled and promised she would describe them in only the most positive of terms before transferring the jars to her storage capsules, as the women oohed and aahed over the technology. When everything was settled she bowed her head respectfully and thanked them for their generous gift but Mazu was quick to keep it short, clapping her hands together before barely a moment had passed.
"Now that business is concluded, what say you to a bath? I am sure a long soak in our hot springs will do wonders for your aching muscles."
Chi-Chi perked up.
"Hot springs?"
"Oh wait!" Bixia cried, scampering off to gather one last thing. She hurried back with a small jar, identical to the others but able to fit comfortably in one hand, and pressed it into Chi-Chi's arms. "Just wanted to make sure you took some of this tea. It does wonders for cramps and makes labor a breeze!"
She patted her bulging stomach, making Chi-Chi blush.
"Oh we haven't—! I mean we…we're not…I…we're not married!" Chi-Chi stammered, slapping a hand to her cheek.
Mazu laughed whole heartedly, while the other women chuckled a bit more politely, though still clearly amused.
"These things are only a matter of time," Bixia smiled. "Trust me, I know." This time when she patted her stomach, she raised a brow significantly, making Chi-Chi giggle.
"Fair enough. Thank you all, for everything."
Nüwa embraced her as the other women gathered close. "You are most welcome, child."
"Now how about that bath?" Mazu grinned. She threw an arm around Chi-Chi and guided her out the door as Chi-Chi waved farewell to the others.
o0o
"Rrrribbit! Rrrribbit!"
A frog landed atop Goku's head and leapt off again, hot in pursuit of a large moth, startling him awake.
"Huh? What? Who?" He asked, looking around for what had woke him, but seeing nothing he settled back into the water.
How long had he been out for? And for that matter, how long was it til daybreak? That Lubin guy had said he would be done before then but he didn't know when that was.
And where was Chi-Chi?
As if his thoughts had called her, Chi-Chi's scent suddenly hit his nose and he could hear a light humming from the other side of the paper thin wall that separated his side of the springs from what he suddenly understood must be the women's.
And then her shadowed outline appeared and Goku perked up.
"Oi Chi-Chi!"
"Hm?"
Chi-Chi clutched her towel to her chest as she searched for the source of the voice, only to spot Goku's familiar silhouette waving at her as he made his way closer.
"Goku! Is that you?"
"Sure is!" came his cheerful reply from the other side of the screen. "The water's great, Chi-Chi. Hop in!"
"Yeah?"
Chi-Chi dipped her foot in the water, testing it and then lowered herself the rest of the way, sighing as the heat soothed her tired muscles. "Oh this is nice!"
"Toldja," Goku laughed, drawing closer until he could lean against the screen.
He breathed in deep, comforted by her familiar scent of smoke and wildflowers, mixed with the minerals of the spring, then heard a splash somewhere behind him.
"Chi? Ya good?"
Chi-Chi didn't answer but a sudden rush of water told him she'd taken a dip.
"Oh it feels so good to be clean!"
Heh. He knew she'd love this place. Goku smiled and settled back against the screen wall.
"Hey Chi-Chi, ain't this almost like sharing a bath?"
"You really wanna do that, huh?"
"Well sure! Sharing a bath is the best!"
He and Grandpa only ever got to indulge in one once a week, since they had to fill the tub themselves with water they carried up from the river at the base of the mountain, but it had always been his favorite time. Not just cause he liked playing in the water but also because the bath seemed to energize his grandpa as well. Now he knew it was because his grandpa had been feeling his old age, but he hadn't understood that then. Goku just liked how happy it seemed to make him.
"I used to share with Grandpa all the time…but after he passed, there was no one to share with. I guess I just really miss it."
Chi-Chi pressed a hand to her chest. "Oh Goku!"
She hadn't realized that was why he kept asking her to share a bath! Just thinking of her sweet Goku all alone for so long brought tears to her eyes.
"I promise as soon as we're married, we can share as many baths as ya want!" Maybe even sooner but she wasn't quite ready to admit that to him just yet.
"Yeah?" Goku grinned. "I'd like that."
The thought of relaxing with her like they were now, except together, filled him with happiness but it warmed his heart even more to hear Chi-Chi talking about marrying him like it was a done deal. He couldn't wait for Lo Mein to finish making his gift so he could give it to her.
He hoped she liked it.
"Goku? You still there?"
Goku jumped slightly. "Huh? Oh yeah, sorry. Just enjoying the water but it sure is making me hungry."
He rubbed his belly and licked his lips. He hoped Chi-Chi was able to restock. She'd still been able to make a delicious meal out of the worm meat but he'd gotten spoiled on all the other things she could make.
Chi-Chi's thoughts weren't far from his own. Even with all the snacks the women had filled her with, she still felt like she could eat three times her normal dinner she was so hungry.
"Me too. It must be our bodies finally regulating themselves after gettin' out of that heat."
She pressed a hand to her stomach, hoping to ease the aching emptiness, when an attendant appeared informing her that a meal had been prepared for them.
This news was greeted with cheers from them both and they quickly exited the hot springs and dried themselves off, slipping on the robes that had been provided, before following the attendant out from the bath house to where a feast was being held.
And feast was the only accurate description, at least to Chi-Chi.
When they arrived they were greeted with the sight of a table meant for twenty, covered in stacks and stacks of food, though there were only two seats at the center of the table.
Surely this couldn't all be for them? But when Chi-Chi asked, the attendant insisted this was normal.
"The healing springs take quite a lot of energy to restore you of any various injuries or illnesses. This meal helps counter that."
"Don't worry Chi-Chi, I can eat whatever ya can't," Goku grinned, shooting her a wink that made Chi-Chi smile wryly.
"Oh I'm sure you will!" She shook her head in amusement and then took a seat. "Well…as long as it doesn't go to waste."
And it didn't.
The dived into their meal eagerly, trying a little bit of everything, or in Goku's case, a lot of everything. Chi-Chi didn't know what in her needed healing besides her empty stomach, but her lack of knowledge didn't stop her from eating several plates of noodles, meat, dumplings and vegetables, nor the several slices of cake after that she had for dessert.
By the time they finished, Chi-Chi was stuffed and ready to sleep.
So was Goku, but as they were being showed to their room for the night, Zhong Kui appeared and pulled him aside.
"What's up?" Goku asked with a yawn, patting his round belly but if Zhong Kui was put off by his behavior he didn't show it, he merely smiled and handed him a thin book shaped box before gesturing for him to open it.
Goku raised a single brow but did as he was told, only for the second to shoot up and join the other in surprise. It was the gift he'd commissioned, as well as the necklace, but it was the addition of the third item that confused him. He shot the other man a questioning glance.
"Lu Ban managed to save enough of the original stone to add that last piece. To make it a complete set," Zhong Kui smiled, with a roll of his eyes. "But enough about that, what do you think?"
What did he think?
Goku studied the jewelry. He didn't know much about this sort of thing but it sure all looked sparkly and nice. They even shined the stone so it shone a deep fiery red. It looked even better than the sketch he'd seen.
"It's great!"
He hoped Chi-Chi liked it.
"I am glad you think so. Rest well tonight. Tomorrow will dawn bright and early."
Goku studied the man for a minute and smirked. "Heh. I knew there was something funny about this place. We'd already walked most of the night before we got here. So what? Does the sun not come up 'til we go to sleep?"
"Something like that," Zhong Kui smiled. "This place is a sanctuary. A place for weary spirits to rest and on the rare occasion," he nodded towards Goku, "a place for lost travelers like yourselves to recuperate for an evening."
"A very long evening."
"As long as it takes."
Goku smiled widely. He knew of another place like this on Kami's lookout. He didn't know if it worked quite the same but that didn't matter. "Great! I'm gonna sleep good tonight!"
"Pleasant dreams," Zhong Kui chuckled.
"Right back at ya!"
With a final wave, Goku stuffed the box into the opening of his robe and continued down the path Chi-Chi had taken, following her scent until he spotted the attendant standing outside another traditional looking building. They guided him through a courtyard before sliding back a screen wall to reveal a room with a bed and Goku figured this was where he and Chi-Chi were being put up for the night.
He stepped inside and the attendant slid the screen door shut but Goku was more focused on taking in his room…and who wasn't in it.
"Chi-Chi? Chi-Chi, where ya at?"
He could smell her but he couldn't see her.
A different screen slid open revealing a smiling Chi-Chi already wearing her lightest pajamas. Goku liked these best cause they showed off her legs and boobies—even if it was torture only being allowed to look and not touch because of the heat—but now that he thought of it, it wasn't nearly as hot as it'd been the last few nights. Maybe Chi-Chi would let him snuggle up then?
He would have asked but he got distracted when he noticed a second bed behind her.
"What's that Chi? Ain't that the bathroom?"
She shook her head and leaned against the door frame. "We were given separate rooms. This one's mine."
"Well give it back. We don't need it."
Chi-Chi smiled, a light blush on her cheeks. "Oh? And why's that?" she asked, stepping closer to slide her arms around him. "Don't like sleeping alone?"
"No." Goku pouted, he never had, but especially not now after waking up next to Chi-Chi everyday. "I like wakin' up to you."
At his words, Chi-Chi's eyes went all sparkly and her blush and scent deepened, luring him in. He liked when Chi-Chi got like that.
It made him wanna kiss her.
He tugged her closer and she pulled her hands from his back to slide up his chest instead.
"I like waking up to you to—huh? What's this?" she asked, pulling out the box that Goku had hidden inside his robe.
"Hm?" His gaze dropped to her hands as she started opening it, remembering too late what was inside.
"Hey wait, don'—"
"Oh my!" Chi-Chi gasped, gaping down at the jewelry. These had to be some of the loveliest pieces she had ever seen! They were clearly a set, the ring, necklace and earrings, all with the same simple but strong 'S' shaped curve of gold wrapped around an ample ruby; and she liked how each piece looked like they could stand alone on their own, bold enough to be a statement but not too much that together they came off gaudy.
She honestly just couldn't stop staring… especially when the ruby caught the light just right…it looked just like a…
"Ya like it?"
"Like it?" Chi-Chi scoffed. He couldn't be serious. "Goku it's gorgeous! But where did it come from and why do you have it?"
She looked up at him then, wanting answers, and was surprised to find Goku rubbing the back of his neck, looking shy and almost…bashful?
But…but why would he be bashful unless…
"You weren't supposed ta see it yet," He pouted. "I already messed up the first two times, I didn't wanna mess up again. I was gonna find an apple tree and then we would spar and pick flowers an—"
"What? You're losin' me sweetheart."
Goku huffed, blowing his bangs up, and tried again. "Our first date. I was gonna recreate it."
You…you remember our first date?" Chi-Chi asked tearfully. "B-But you didn't even remember me at the Tournament! How could you hav—"
"That's not true! I just didn't recognize ya but as soon as you told me your name I remembered. You just looked so different! And you were wearing all those clothes! If you'd of shown up in your old outfit I would have easily remembered ya then!"
"Hmph! You would have liked that wouldn't you?" she teased, tapping his nose.
He really would have but it was better she didn't. Not with Master Roshi and his friends hanging around.
"I know I hurt ya, not recognizing ya right away, and…" he swallowed and tugged at her pajamas, suddenly feeling nervous. "And I know I do lots of things that make ya angry or sad, even though I don't mean to. There's lots I don't know or don't get and I'm always makin' a mess of things but I…I wanna sleep with you forever, Chi-Chi."
"Goku!" Chi-Chi scolded, a blush spreading all over her body. She understood that he probably wasn't talking about that but couldn't he have put it a better way?!
"What?" Goku pouted. "What'd I say?"
Chi-Chi pressed a hand to her burning cheek and looked away. Of course he would want to know, and she didn't mind explaining most things, she just wished this time was about something a little less embarrassing!
"What you said…it sounded like you meant you want to do the thing that only married couples do…every night."
"Well sure!" he grinned. "What we've done so far is fun! Why wouldn't we?"
"But you still shouldn't say those kinds of things!"
"Why not? We're alone and I meant what I said, I wanna sleep with you forever Chi-Chi." He reached for her hand, pulling her closer. "I wanna be with you forever." And then her dark pretty eyes were searching his and suddenly Goku felt like he couldn't get out the words he needed to say without choking.
"I wanna…I mean, uh…will you…with me that is…uh…I…"
"Goku…" Chi-Chi whispered, her breath held tight in her chest. "What…what are ya tryin' to say?"
"Marry me?"
"OH!"
Chi-Chi slapped her hands over her mouth as tears sprung in her eyes, the sight of which of course made Goku panic, but she was just too overcome to do anything else other than shake her head, which only seemed to make him panic more!
"Chi-Chi?! I'm sorry Chi-Chi! I messed it up again but I can do better, I promise, just please don't cry!"
He tried to think of what he did wrong or how he could make it up to her but it wasn't until he heard her giggle and felt her throw herself into his arms that he realized those were happy tears.
"Oh Goku! You don't have to change a thing, everything you said and did was perfect!"
"It was?" he asked hopefully, needing to hear her say more.
"It was for me at least," she promised before pulling back slightly to lean up and press a kiss to his adorable cheek. How had she gotten so lucky? "I know you're not perfect. Neither am I. But if you can handle my temper—"
"Course I can!" Goku blurted out incredulously. "Your tempers hot!"
Chi-Chi rolled her eyes with an amused smile and pressed a finger to his lips, "Then I think I can handle your faults as well."
With that said the two stared at one another, both waiting for the other to speak, before Goku finally had to ask.
"Sooooo…is that a yes?"
"Yes!"
"YES!"
Goku leapt up into the air—
—and drove his head straight through the ceiling.
"OW!"
"Oh no, Goku!"
Chi-Chi grabbed his leg and tugged, dragging him down on top of her along with several beams from the ceiling. Goku did his best to shield her from what he could but there was still a mess when the dust settled, with pieces of wood—large and small—all over the floor and bed, not to mention the gaping hole in the ceiling.
"Oh dear…" Chi-Chi muttered when it was finally safe for them both to sit up. "And after they've been so generous with us too." She sighed and pressed a hand to her cheek. "We'll have to make sure to fix it in the morning."
"I can do it," Goku offered, still beaming from ear to ear, high off his victory. There was nothing he couldn't do right then.
Chi-Chi smiled at his enthusiasm but then noticed all the scratches all over his face. "Oh darling! Your poor handsome face. Here let me kiss it better."
She pressed a dozen kisses and then some, to each and every scratch, making Goku giggle, but then her kisses drew closer to his lips and he seized the chance to kiss her directly, slipping his hands into her hair, keeping her close. Chi-Chi still tasted like the cake she'd had for dessert and he couldn't help but lick her lips and slide his tongue into her mouth, relishing the way he made her moan.
Their kisses grew stronger then, more frenzied, and then Chi-Chi was in his lap, grinding her hips against his, and Goku knew just how he wanted to celebrate her finally saying yes.
She said yes!
He wanted to shout it to the world but for now he'd settle with making Chi-Chi scream instead. So with his hands gripping her butt and Chi-Chi wrapped tight around him, Goku hopped to his feet, carried her back to her room and then dumped her on the bed before returning to kissing her breathless.
"Oh Goku!"
Chi-Chi sighed as his hands moved across her body, never staying in one place for very long. She scraped her nails against his back and stomach, lingering in his hair, and just admired the gorgeous specimen of a man whose heart she had somehow won and the way his robe was falling open to reveal all his hard earned muscles to her eager eyes.
How had she gotten so lucky? She didn't think she'd ever know.
But then she lost all thought completely as he trailed his kisses from her lips to her breasts, nibbling her nipples through her thin tank top as his fingers reached for her shorts and pulled.
Chi-Chi felt his tugging but it wasn't until he managed to yank her shorts off completely that she froze and pressed a hand to his chest.
"W-Wait, are you sure?"
Goku paused, confused. "Sure about what Chi? It's your turn remember?"
"I know, I know, it's just…" she hesitated, fidgeting with her fingers. "It's just I've heard it's not as easy for women to…ya know." Chi-Chi blushed and waved her hand a little. "Have a happy ending."
"Really?"
Goku blinked, trying to remember if Kani had ever told him anything about that but came up blank.
"Why's that?"
"I don't know," Chi-Chi shrugged. "I've just heard it's more difficult."
It was just one of many things she'd overheard from the maids over the years but given the subject she'd been too embarrassed to ask anything about it.
"So…you're saying it's a challenge?"
"I…what?"
Chi-Chi barely had time to process what Goku was asking before he was on her again, this time with even more energy if possible, and then he was ripping off her panties but before she could even scold him or tense up—expecting him to jump right in—Goku surprised her again by pausing for a moment and instead reaching for her gently, running his fingers slowly up her thighs and then tracing the outer most parts of her intimate area, making her shiver.
She covered her face, too embarrassed to watch, and then Goku's callous fingers were touching her, stroking her, slipping inside of her and making her squirm in such a way that she was too busy trying to stifle her moans to remember anything else.
Goku was fascinated.
He had seen a girl's part before, with Bulma the first time they met and then from all of Master Roshi's nudie magazines, but he had never really taken the time to examine it or imagine how much fun it could be to touch. Not in the same way Chi-Chi's boobies were but in the way it made her twist and squirm in pleasure. The way she moaned as his finger disappeared inside her.
And that scent.
He finally knew where that mouthwatering scent kept coming from.
And it made him hungry.
He pulled away to examine her fluids long enough for Chi-Chi to open her eyes and see what the hold up was only to find him studying his hand.
"G-Goku? What are you…"
And then Goku popped his fingers into his mouth and groaned at the taste.
Chi-Chi blushed, suddenly realizing just exactly what he was tasting, and then he was diving back into her, only this time with his face, and Chi-Chi was too astonished at the feel of his tongue and lips devouring her to even think about stopping him, and then he was sucking on her clit and her heels were digging into his back and her hands were tugging at his hair. She wanted to squeeze her thighs shut but Goku was stronger, his muscular body pinning her firmly in place, open and splayed to his feasting lips as he sucked and licked and nibbled and gobbled her up until Chi-Chi lost track of time, of her senses—of anything really—only aware of his mouth on her and his fingers stroking her insides, pumping in and out of her slowly at first and then a little faster and faster and faster until she was throwing her head back with a scream as euphoria threatened to drown her.
Chi-Chi collapsed back to earth—and the bed—completely spent as Goku lazily licked up her juices until the tears in her eyes made him freeze.
"Chi-Chi?!" He crawled back up to her side in a panic. "Chi-Chi did I hurt ya?"
Chi-Chi chuckled, unable to help herself, and snuggled up against him. Oh her poor sweet Goku. Always so worried about hurting her, the silly man.
"That was amazing."
"Yeah?" Goku perked up. "Then…those were happy tears?"
"Definitely happy tears," Chi-Chi muttered, already drifting off to sleep. The past few days were finally starting to catch up with her.
He pulled her close, snuggling up to her, but it wasn't until Chi-Chi was practically gone that she finally heard Goku mutter, "piece of cake."