What Could've Been
Chapter 14: Helping Hand
The inward slanting eyebrows, wide-open eyes, pursed and possibly teeth gritting mouth, and slightly raised chin were all present on Tien and Yamcha. This combination of all four, which had long been classified as expression of righteous fury by the future cyborgs was something they could recognize any time of the day. Sported on many of their foolhardy challengers who must had believed they were on some divine mission to restore order and justice, such looks had once garnered nothing but sinister snickers now sent unshakeable shivers cascading down their skins.
W-what intense hatred those warriors have...it's like they can't tolerate the very thought of being on the same planet as our other selves...
And that's not all those humans are feeling now...No, there's much more to this...
To the former world tormentors' surprise, they were able to distinguish more than just the basest of human emotions from the two z-fighters. This realization of self-growth failed to bring any joy; however, as along came increased awareness of the wide range of negativity boiling underneath those already heaving up and down bodies undoubtedly about to blow.
They are...disappointed...even to the point of feeling betrayed...
Future Eighteen especially was sitting at the edge of her seat with cold sweats dripping down her face and heart pounding frantically. Despite the majority of her attention centered on one person alone, merely watching and carefully gauging his emotions hadn't been any less nerve wrecking than taking that of his companions into consideration.
Krillin...you of all people should know me...no, not me, I meant her...you should know her better than to doubt her right?
Thankfully, the warrior monk in question didn't appeared as biased as his friends at least, although he was definitely troubled seeing the way those intense brown orbs darted back and forth between the present cyborg girl and her brother encased in her arms. Having adopted a slight forward leaning posture and unclenched hands raised to chest level, the strongest human looked ready to approach the cybernetic siblings, perhaps to open a dialogue and quickly resolve the situation as Future Eighteen hoped.
That's right Krillin, you don't judge and take action without good reason, please end this misunderstanding before it gets out of hand...
With ten fingers held together in a prayer, the deceased terminatress began imploring Sixteen and other deities for help, a gesture shared by her partner in crime whose clasped together hands were pressed against his lips.
"You two might not know this, but some of us honestly believed you'd both turn over a new leaf!" Three-eyed Tien shouted before Krillin could take action, his voice booming loudly like a judge condemning criminals to harsh sentences. Further emphasizing his dismay were arms folded in front of puffed chest, cementing the level of disgust he had for the duo.
"That's right, and look at how you killer androids have wasted this opportunity. Running around burning everything in your path like you rule this world! Well we aren't just going to sit back and do nothing you know!" Scar-faced and wild-haired Yamcha declared next, his hands resting against his waist to resemble someone of unquestionable authority, ready to dispense punishment on the two delinquents caught in the act.
No no no! You guys got it all wrong! Why is everyone treating them like...like us...they haven't killed anyone yet...
"No wait you guys, why don't we hear what they have to say before passing judgement? Surely they deserve a chance to explain their actions?" Present Krillin's voice resonated through King Kai's house, immediately dispelling some of the mounting anxiety for the future cyborgs.
"And to hear what buddy? You've seem what they've done? You've heard of the wanton destructions these two have caused!" Yamcha had grasped onto the former monk's shoulder and pulled him back.
"But...," it was excruciatingly painful for the future blonde cyborg to watch the bald fighter adopting a pleading voice in front of his friends.
"No but Krillin, you've helped them more than enough already. These two robots need to face the consequences of their actions sooner or later." Tien concluded, sounding more resolute than ever.
Perhaps too drained from their previous endeavor or simply at a loss of words, the accused sibling's only rebuttal were blinking red eyes, eyes that could've easily been mistaken as predatory but to their future viewers, indignation and hurt were all that's visible. In a gesture that brought cheers from their audiences, the present brother and sister stood up in unison, hands linked together in a sign of unwavering familiar bond.
Unfortunately, this lack of hostile intention failed to untangle the web of mistrust, as the two defenders of the Earth scoffed at the sight.
"You can give us death glares all you want. But after our battle against Cell, there's nothing you two can possibly do that'll scare us." Tien stated matter-of-factly then, most likely to prove he's unintimidated, stepped closer to the duo.
Is...is he out of his mind? Has he forgotten how helpless he was last time?
The future cyborgs shared a puzzled look as did their present counterparts, whose only action so far was to stand tall with hands unseparated.
"Tien is it? The one who tried to save me when...when that monster Cell was hunting me down." The elder twin began at last after earning a silent nod from her brother. Having taken a deep breath that saw the ocean blue in her eyes return, her voice was firm and devoid of malice.
Her intended listener let out a huff but remained silent otherwise.
"Look," the blonde teen said slower this time. "I know it's hard to believe, but we...we weren't trying to destroy anything intentionally. It was just an accident." She finished, having to take several pained pauses mid-sentence.
Those sincere words clearly failed to do the trick judging from those reddening expressions.
"Hah right, so you've been unintentionally destroying things, just like how you two ended up hunting down Goku accidentally right?" Tien spat, all three eyes rolling.
"No, that's just not true. We haven't tried to cause any one harm since then!" The cyborg girl held out her hands in what her future self recognized as an apologetic manner.
Once more, her reasoning fell to deaf ears if not worse, seeing both human warriors leapt back and took up battle stances.
"Of course not, you two are probably just venting your frustrations that's all. And let me guess, now you are planning on letting off some of that pent up rage by blasting me with that open palm am I right?" Yamcha rebuked, his fingers curved like wolf's fang.
At the damning accusation, all the future cyborgs could do was shaking their heads indignantly, their hands balled into trembling fists and searing gaze blinking crimson. A devious thought that had only recently been suppressed began to surface too, one that shocked them yet neither could come up with an alternative solution.
What are the chances of them killing those two without alarming the rest? I mean they were clearly asking for it...
And Krillin, surely Krillin knew our other selves have no other choice...
Meanwhile, Present Eighteen merely stared at her quivering hands with wide, terrified eyes, her lips opening and closing, muttering something along the lines of, "No, I would not do that, I know I won't, I can't!"
"No you idiots, what sister is trying to tell you is that we don't want to hurt anybody! Now or ever!" Present Seventeen interrupted abruptly as he placed himself in between his sibling and the two fighters.
"Said the guy who was screaming like a madman just seconds ago." Tien quickly retorted, his fingers like crane's beak ready to strike.
"Say what? You think I love doing that?"
"Sure sounds like it, killer android!"
"Watch your tongue, human. You have no idea how painful it was for the two of us to be under that blasted doctor's mercy even after his death!" Present Seventeen's orbs were now a shade of arctic blue, a sharp contrast to the dangerous red flashing across them.
"No we sure don't Mr. Robot, but no matter how painful, we humans will never sink so low as taking it out on the innocents!"
Two columns of aura had flared up around Tien and Yamcha's muscle bound frames, their intensities only challenged by the violent green electric currents dancing all around Present Seventeen's deceptively slender body. The two energies met in the middle, creating gusts of wind that bent tree trunks like twigs and generating enough seismic activity that cracked the tranquil forest floor.
"Bro!" Present Eighteen turned to her sibling, face ghastly pale.
"Don't worry sis, let's quickly knock them out cold, you with me?" Present Seventeen had completely shifted his gaze from the two warriors to his lifelong partner, seemingly searching for permission with those somewhat wavering orbs.
Present Eighteen shut her boiling water of eyes and sighed, but when they opened again, only frozen glares remained. "I guess we have no choice." Giving her brother a nod, she then turned toward their opponents. "Don't worry Tien and Yamcha, it'll be like taking a nap!" Her tone was just as icy.
"Oh it won't be that easy time machines. And even if we fall in battle, even stronger fighters will come for you two!" Tien declared gravely, sounding more and more like Future Gohan during his last stand, which brought a revolting sensation to the deceased killers.
No...not like this! What's the point of enduring all that suffering just to condemn yourselves for eternity?
Just when physical clash appeared imminent, a fifth aura of pure, radiant white barged in front of both parties. Separating artificial energies on one side and living forces on the other, this intrusion then formed an impenetrable barrier right at the middle, preventing further escalation.
"Krillin get out of the way!" All four combatants shouted in unison, showing various degrees of concern.
"Hey stop this! Let's all cool down for a second okay!" The aforementioned warrior pleaded desperately, earning him bewildered looks from all but the blonde cyborg girl whose emotionless demeanor softened almost immediately.
"But Krillin, even you must know they've been playing you for the fool right? Don't let your pity for these killers hinder your judgement! Now come back here before they try anything stupid!" The taller bald fighter said with a mixture of stern and worry.
"Hey, just for your information, we don't need anyone's pity, including K...I meant midget man!" Feisty words flew out of the raven-haired cyborg just as fast, earning him a soft knock on the head.
"Sis?" The younger twin winced.
"I'm all for hearing what Kril...this man has to say. It's never too late for action anyways." The elder sister assured her brother then proceeded to rub around the spot she had hit him.
While others might've missed it, Future Eighteen had managed to catch Present Krillin's hot chocolate colored orbs connecting with Present Eighteen's crystal blue gems for eyes in that split second. Although neither on screen were blushing, the deceased cyborg woman couldn't prevent the pink from surfacing across her cheeks.
It's going to be alright...I just know it...
"Thanks Eighteen, how about you Seventeen? And Yamcha and Tien? Common pals, at least let me try this out okay?" Once again, the monk hadn't bothered about his perceived image, lowering himself just to, as Future Eighteen reminisced fondly, to resolve a conflict.
It would seem like the ironically shortest warrior's perseverance had paid off, as his fellow z-fighters lowered their fists while the male cyborg retracted his flaring energy.
"It's your call buddy; we won't intervene unless you say so." Yamcha reassured with a smile.
"Or unless these two misbehave." Tien warned but otherwise made room for his friend.
Present Seventeen on the other hand patted his sister gently on the back. "I'm only agreeing to this because of sister dear. Don't think for a second I'm scared you tall baldy!" He spat icily, coupling those words with mean, crimson blinking glare.
Present Krillin, although expression still tense breathed a sigh of relief along with his viewers.
"Now let's just see if sister dearest is right about you." Future Seventeen muttered to himself, unable to help the slight admiration in his tone.
Onscreen, the self-appointed mediator had turned toward the accused. "Now Seventeen," he addressed without fear unlike when he had first set eyes on the supposed world destroyer, earning him a respectful nod from the male cyborg. "You said you aren't free from Gero even now am I correct? Care to elaborate on it?"
The raven-haired cyborg had winced at his tormentor's name but other than that exhibited no other outward traumatic symptoms. "I...," his lips quivered.
"We...we've been having nightmares about what that blasted doctor and his bug monster ever since." The older twin intervened as she squeezed tight on her brother's fingers.
"Nightmares?" All three pure humans exclaimed in unison.
"Yes, nightmares." Present Seventeen took a pause. "And like I said, you have no idea how much it hurts!" He all but shouted.
"Every time we close our eyes, those two appear before us. It's like they are never truly gone." Present Eighteen added, her head pointing at the ground then at the human trio as if seeking understanding nonverbally.
Tien and Yamcha both swallowed a gulp and, according to the future cyborg's enhanced vision, started having goosebumps all over their bodies.
Present Krillin's brown orbs meanwhile had gotten more emotional to the point of glistening like water reflecting under the sun. "I'm sorry to hear this, Seventeen and Eighteen. I underst...,"
"No you can't possibly understand Krillin!" The present cyborg girl interrupted vehemently before gasping and, with what must have been great effort, composed herself. "The nightmares...they can get so bad that our powers...our generators came online during our sleep." She finished, face still red and hair unkempt.
"No way, is that what you meant by not trying to destroy anything intentionally?" Even the stoic crane school martial artist was shaking at this point while his scarred companion palmed his face.
"That's right you fools!" The younger cyborg spat, his indignation shared by the future cyborgs.
About time you two dummies noticed you were in the wrong...jumping to conclusion...heh how despicable...
W-wait...but we killed them for no reasons in our time...compared to them, we were...we were...
Righteous fury died down as soon as it emerged within the deceased mass murderers as they both sat back down sporting looks of shame.
"I just know it. That mad man is to bear the entire blame!" The warrior monk was trembling like his companions, but only in his case in evident anger that required some form of quick breathing exercise to subdue. "Besides Tien and Yamcha, although we saw a lot of news report about forest fires and in some cases, isolated buildings exploding, there weren't ever reports of human casualties am I right?" He asked hopefully and, dare Future Eighteen say, confidently like he had everything figured out.
Once again, all Earth's two seasoned defenders could do was shaking their heads after prolonged pondering.
"You are right Krillin; it looks like no one's ever been hurt...so far." Tien replied with uncharacteristic sheepish.
Seemingly more sure of his hypothesis, Present Krillin turned determinedly to the wrongfully accused. "You two had been trying to stay away from populated areas am I right? To lessen the impact of your...nightmares?"
At the sound of those considerate words only a close friend would use, both pairs of cybernetic siblings nodded, albeit still hesitantly.
"The kids camping out at night who told the reporters they saw two people glowing in the dark with the man telling them to get lost, that was you wasn't it Seventeen? You were afraid you'll hurt them." The monk pressed further with that same caring tone.
For a moment, Present Seventeen's eyes glistened like they were covered by a thin sheet of water but then quickly blinked it away. Replacing the overly emotional display was his trademark snarky voice. "Well, I don't know about afraid, but yes, I'm the one telling those brats to get lost!"
"Well then, it's settled don't you two think? Seventeen and Eighteen weren't trying to destroy anything let along hurting anyone; it's all Ge...that freak scientist's fault." As if his triumphant voice wasn't enough, the now excited monk appeared like he's about to leap up the ground.
Very cute Krillin but don't get ahead of yourself...least you scared other me away...
Future Eighteen mused, taking note of how her present counterpart's demeanor was a mixture of touched and embarrassed.
"I...suppose you are right Krillin, but what now?" Tien began, sounding far from trouble-free. "So now we know these androids...,"
Dismay surfaced on the present twins instantly and both corrected with an angry "Cyborgs!"
"Sure cyborgs, so what if we know they aren't out to cause trouble? Something must be done with their nightmares and out of control power." The three-eyed warrior relented for the first part but otherwise kept his foot down.
The pragmatic question had all but swept away the atmosphere of triumph both in King Kai's house and on screen, plunging the two spaces into deep silence.
"Hey, don't worry; we'll learn to take care of ourselves better!" Present Seventeen said in evidently faux cheerfulness then spun around.
Yamcha scoffed while Tien rolled all three eyes. Even Present Krillin arched an eyebrow at the carefree youth, a sentiment shared by all artificial humans save for the exception of Future Seventeen who began clapping in approval, earning him a light elbow from his displeased female counterpart.
"Right baby bro but why don't we stay a bit longer to see if they can come up with any solution? There's no telling what will happen next time we lose control." Present Eighteen appeared equally unamused as she moved in front of her brother, blocking his path.
"Exactly Seventeen. Please, let's solve this while we are all here because I have to warn you," Present Krillin paused just to be sure he had the cyborg's attention, "Vegeta is also searching for you two and trust me, that guy's not open to reasoning."
No sooner was the Saiyan prince's name spoken did the elder sister's face paled visibly, something her brother didn't seem to notice as he started chuckling gleefully. Unlike last time, Future Seventeen didn't share the same enthusiasm as he shuddered involuntarily, his body from neck down feeling numb all of a sudden.
V-Vegeta...that battle hungry Saiyan who can easily best that monster after it devoured other me?
I don't believe I'll ever say this, but thank Sixteen Krillin found us first!
A fight against him will probably went as well as...well...us against Trunks...
"Ya know what baldy? I'd love that egotistic Saiyan to find me! Maybe beating his sorry ass again is just the remedy I need." Seemingly unaware of his future self's plight, the younger raven-haired youth had declared in a near singsong voice.
"I doubt you can pull that off cyborg boy." Tien stated in unamused sharp contrast to his listener's excited delivery.
"And why's that three eye?" Present Seventeen challenged.
"Huh, I don't believe I'll ever compliment that Vegeta, but he is now insanely strong. There's no way you'll last more than a few seconds against him!"
"Very funny, ya kidding right?"
An audible knock rang throughout the space, followed by the cyborg male's wince. "Ouch sis! What you do that for?" He whined as he rubbed the growing bump on his head, contributing further to Future Seventeen embarrassment.
Have I...have I ever acted like this? Surely I'm cooler than this right?
"I'm afraid Tien is right little bro. That Vegeta...he gave that grasshopper freak a beating after it...after it swallowed you." Present Eighteen chimed in solemnly, earning her bewildered gaze from the younger sibling.
"She's right Seventeen. Vegeta's hungry for a rematch and will use any excuse to go after you." Present Krillin, now standing in front of his listener, was pleading with emotional brown orbs and animated hand gestures.
It wasn't just the Eighteens, but both Seventeens were taken aback by the display of concern too.
Krillin...he does care...not just for sister dearest but also me...
A gasp of realization suddenly interrupted, prompting everyone to turn toward the retired bandit, whose left hand, now a fist had pounded against his right open palm. "Hey I know, how about we take you two to Bulma's place? I'm sure she'll be able to find a way to help you."
"Bulma?" Present brother and sister arched their eyebrows at the suggestion.
"Yeah Bulma, she's our resident scientist, I'm sure she can work something out." Yamcha continued, sounding genuinely wanting to help.
The reactions from the artificially altered twins was anything but touched; however, seeing their eyes blinked red, lips pursed. Even the deceased future duo, whose modification had taken place decades earlier, couldn't be any more intense as their energy encased fists shook harder than an earthquake's epicenter.
There's no way we'll let another scientist to ever lay hands on our bodies!
"Hey what's up with you cyborgs? I was just trying to help you know. Don't tell me this brings back nigh...," The scarred warrior had yelled indignantly until seemingly became aware of the problem, quieted down.
In response, Present Seventeen's murderous gaze took on a more sinister turn while Present Eighteen shut hers then started massaging her temple. "You guessed it genius, having another doctor or scientist check on us at this point is the last thing we'll agree to." The elder twin stated matter-of-factly after the crimson hue subsided beneath shut eyelids.
"Oh great, so what now? Do we have to get the Dragon Balls?" Tien muttered in evident frustration.
"The dragon what?" The raven-haired cyborg boy blurted, sounding more curious than upset.
The dragon balls younger me, the magical items that had brought you back to life...
But wow, that Tien, he's willing to consider using those on us again? And to think other me had just choked him out not too long ago...
Shuddering with newfound conclusion, the dead killers, murderers of onscreen humans' future selves turned to each other and nodded in unison.
It's not just Krillin...they are all good people...
"It's Dragon Balls brother dear, Kril...the monk and his friends had used them to...revive you and the others." Present Eighteen explained in a gentle voice and put a hand on her twin's shoulder least, as Future Eighteen guessed, him freaking out upon realizing he had once died.
All the pale faced younger twin managed out was a breathless ""Revive me...oh wow."
"Hey relax Seventeen, you are here now aren't you? And that's all that counts." Krillin's combo of cheerful and counseling voice had once again resonated through the room, sweeping away all the built up negativity. "Besides, I think I might know another method of getting rid of your nightmares." He assured, further uplifting everyone's spirit.
Present Seventeen arched an eyebrow while Present Eighteen's eyes sparkled like tropical sea water.
"R-really Krillin? Do you mean it?" For the first time since this confrontation had begun, the cyborg girl moved closer to the man often referred to as the monk in a similar fashion to the highway episode. Except this time, she had trepidation and hope written all over her flushed face whereas before, it was aloof playfulness.
Y-yeah Krillin, do you really mean there's a way to help out me and bro?
"W-well yes...Eighteen...I mean kinda I guess," Evidently shocked by the enthusiasm, Present Krillin had taken a step back, his cheeks equally pink.
"Okay tell me!" She demanded, only to be pulled back by her twin.
"Common little sis, let's give Krillin some space will ya?" Present Seventeen chided akin to a big brother scolding his younger sibling.
Across the screen, the older raven-haired cyborg began chuckling, eventually bursting into an uncontrollable laughter. "Yeah little Eighteen, you'd better give that man some...ouch!" His scream from the much harder elbow was just as loud.
For Present Krillin, shaking off his crush's feminine charm had obviously been quite difficult to say the least seeing it took him close to a minute to compose himself but when he did; the look of firm conviction was all that's left on his face.
"I know this might sound stupid to some, but I believe meditation might be the answer."
"The what now?"
Six pairs of blank stares were instantly glued onto the warrior monk as if he had spoken an alien language. The aghast expressions from friends and former enemies alike prompted the strongest human to wave those muscular yet short limbs in a comical way that somehow managed to return two cyborg women's blushes.
"You guys know, meditation. It's a mind calming technique I've been practicing since I was little," the dotted fighter stopped briefly, appearing to be what Future Eighteen deemed as reminiscing.
"I would meditate before all my battles and found it worked wonderfully, especially when I had to go up against stronger foes. It's got this magical property to it that transcends power levels and strength," he took another pause, emotional brown orbs now carrying a trace of deep pain that hurt the older blonde's heart.
"I know I don't have nightmares like you two, Seventeen and Eighteen, and I'm not pretending I can comprehend all your sufferings. But I too had been...well, let's just say wounded many times," the pained look had gotten so prominent at this point the deceased terminatress wanted to reach across the screen and hug him. "But every time I got scared of a new opponent, every time the fear of getting injured or worse hindered my spirit, I would simply sit down and meditate and," one last brief silence reigned, until Present Krillin's entire demeanor brightened, seemingly lifting the curtain of trepidation. "The doubts, the pain, the worries subsided, not completely of course, but enough for me to carry on with life."
He then extended an open palm toward the present cyborg duo. "Care to let me show you? Seventeen and Eighteen?"
Total silence downed on not merely the onscreen quintet, but the trio operating in real time. Even King Kai had stopped his leisurely tea sipping and observed quietly behind thick shades how his guests trembled in their seats, hands clutching jeans or skirts, and teary eyes round as saucers.
And the regret continues, the sins of their past haunting them, forcing them to look deeper within...
Present Eighteen meanwhile reached out her hand, those slender fingers travelling in snails pace toward his calloused ones. Right when they were about to make contact; however, those crystal blue orbs widened then narrowed dangerously, and the cyborg girl shied away much to her future counterpart's dismay.
"F-fine you old geezer, s-show me this...meditation of yours." She mumbled hastily.
"Well, if sister dearest is fine with this geezer than I'll join you." Present Seventeen chimed in nonchalantly.
Present Krillin's face was beaming with a mixture of joy and relief by now. "Great, now if you two will, please follow me."
The future cyborgs watched with wide-eyed wonder as their present versions, who shared the same genes and having undergone the same tragic childhood all the way to their transformation into war machines, adopted the same cross-legged posture only disciplined practitioners would. Obviously uneasy, possibly even skeptical at first, they nevertheless followed the cultured monk's instructions to the letter, shutting eyelids and adjusting breathing rhythms, resulting in three sets of chests exhaling then inhaling in widely different tempo.
Naturally, it was impossible for anyone to master this exercise of the mind on their maiden attempt. The awkwardness would turn into prime time entertainment for their viewers as the present twins wiggled restlessly in their rigid positions, even stealing glances at Present Krillin who was the very definition of a living statue, his mouth being the sole non-stop moving part.
It took sooner than expected; however, for the troubled twins to adopt relaxed expressions. Their breathing too would eventually synchronize flawlessly and with it, gone were the unnecessary movements. As if blending into nature itself, the gentle heaving of chests started imitating the sway of vegetation in the wind.
My...how...Sixteen they appeared...so calm, so peaceful...
So weightless and worry free...
Perhaps even tranquility could be infectious, or perhaps they were simply tired of the ceaseless turmoil in their former lives, Future Seventeen and Eighteen had adopted similar postures, down to the linked hands that the present duo had undoubtedly deviated from Present Krillin's orthodox one on purpose.
Tien and Yamcha, whose existence had long been forgotten by the viewers but remained faithfully by Present Krillin's side, were now standing a good distance from the meditating trio by the trees. Appearing awed yet pleased, these fighters looked on silently, the forms of their former enemies reflecting off those tension-free orbs.
For how long this tranquility lasted, no one knew for sure, but when the cultured monk addressed his students again, half of the sun was submerged under those lush green hills, painting the scenery a warm pink hue.
"K-Krillin?" Present Eighteen asked drowsily, barely able to stop the rhythmic nodding of her head.
"Glad to hear you are still with me Eighteen, but try not to doze off next time okay?" Present Krillin chided playfully, his grin wide as a Cheshire Cat's.
Greeting the monk were narrowed eyes and pursed lips of the cyborg girl while her future counterpart uncharacteristically giggled. "In your dreams midget man!" The younger blonde retorted vehemently then turned to her brother, giving him a hard tug. "Tell him bro, I wasn't sleepy am I?"
Instead of supporting his embarrassed sibling though, Present Seventeen merely toppled over, his body colliding against her shoulder before snoring loudly for all to hear.
Ear piercing laughter erupted from the three pure humans, their merry voices bouncing around King Kai's room, tormenting all artificially enhanced human within earshot. Most displeased of them all was none other than Future Seventeen, whose eyebrows furrowed to the point of distorting his handsome features.
W-why's this other me so laid back? Sure, he doesn't have to be bad, but he's still the fearsome Seventeen after all!
A completely different kind of reaction was unfolding on screen; however, seeing Present Seventeen snuggled closer to his sister regardless of how hard she shook him.
"Hey, it's alright Eighteen. I guess this means our little exercise works." Present Krillin suggested warmly, earning him a puzzled glare.
"Huh? What are you blabbering about old geezer?" The elder sister snapped but in the process, lost her hold on the younger twin who fell on top of her, staining her cloth with drools. "Now look at what you've done to me you noseless baldy!"
Evidently fighting back another laughter, something his two companions clearly hadn't succeeded, the instructor spoke the next part with utmost sincerity, "Don't you see Eighteen, your brother isn't having nightmare anymore. Don't you think that's mission accomplished?"
W-wait, Krillin's right! I'm no longer having...no, this other me hadn't suffered from a nightmare...
With his crunched up face unfolding, Future Seventeen rejoined his female counterpart, whose cheeks were flushing for the umpteenth time.
That is probably the most peaceful sleep my other little bro's had in ages...thank you Krillin!
"Hey, I agree with Krillin here. Looks like it's problem solved." Yamcha chimed in; attention glued to the prophesized world destroyers leaning against one another.
"Yeah, but there's no telling if their nightmare will return though." Stoic Tien pondered aloud, albeit only after he had wiped off the tear in all three eyes.
"No, it's okay," Present Eighteen stated firmly, her words without bite while hands running across her sibling's shoulder lengthen hair. "We should be all set" she paused briefly, looking as if brainstorming for the most appropriate phrase before opening her lips hesitantly once more, "I guess you are a good...I meant good at what you do, monk."
It wasn't the most eloquent expression of gratitude. In fact, according to Future Eighteen, her present version was butchering it like an amateur, prompting the older blonde to blink crimson eyes at the younger girl in an unprecedented display of displeasure.
Seemingly never bothered by her icy demeanor, Present Krillin flashed her a thumbs up and his trademark toothy grin. "No problem Eighteen, if you ever need me, just let me know okay?" He replied, dazzling eyes reflecting off the last of the diminishing sunlight and earning more vibrant blushes, not to mention an immediate avoidance of eye contact.
The short statured fighter then shifted to his fellow companions, resting a hand on each of their shoulders. "Well guys, what do you say we leave them alone? There's nothing here worth troubling for right?"
Yamcha nodded readily and Tien, although apparently unsure, eventually consented the same way.
Future Eighteen watched with heavy heart, knowing if there's a prelude to farewell, the scene unfolding before her must be it. Praying to Sixteen secretly, the desperate older blonde had wished for time to stop all the while fighting back the urge to ask King Kai to slow the playback speed.
Oh common girl! What are you waiting for? Stop acting like you don't care!
No amount of internal scorning could move her younger self though. As for Present Krillin, whose cheerful expression was replaced by pained longing and back slightly slumped forward, had already begun walking away from the cyborg duo, his frame supported by the taller warriors.
No, don't go...
When will I get to see Krillin again?
"Wait Krillin!"
An urgent calling by name cut through the gloomy silence and nearly made the monk and deceased murderess jump.
"Yes Eighteen?" Present Krillin yelled in what Future Eighteen considered as the most beautiful rendition of her name yet.
"Thank you."
Seconds later, three streaks of pure white flew across the forest sky, led by none other than an overly animated, tomato red Present Krillin. Across space a time, a weirded out Future Seventeen gazed upon his catatonic sister, whose face a matching color as her crush.
The frosty moon was hanging high up on the starry sky while cries of nocturnal creatures permeated the soundscape by the time Present Seventeen woke up, yawning and outstretching his limbs. During the long hours of his peaceful slumber, the previously nightmare tormented youth hadn't so much as uttered a single word. It provided much-needed relief not only for the audiences who were slightly traumatized by their doppelgangers' constant screaming, but also for Present Eighteen.
"Sis, how long have I been out?" The raven-haired male whose mane nearly blended into the night inquired as he rubbed those surprisingly vibrant blue eyes devoid of fear.
"Nine hours, eighteen minutes, and seventeen seconds." Came the young blonde's reply. Sitting cross-legged since the z-fighters left, she had remained mannequin still, her thumb and index finger forming a circular shape exactly as Krillin had taught.
"Wow!" He exclaimed, continuing his waking up exercise of rotating stiff neck that cracked loudly.
"I know right?" Present Eighteen paused then continued in a hesitant voice. "Did you...dreamt of anything?"
No please, no more...say that you've dreamt of nothing...
Her twin brother's triumphant smirk was all the answer the future twins needed, resulting in them slumping back like deflated balloons, anxiety free. As for the present cyborg girl, although her face remained unmoving, evidently immersed in meditation, her sapphire-colored orbs sparkled ever so brightly in the dark.
"Nice bro, I'm glad yo...,"
"Actually," He interrupted abruptly, garnering him a raised eyebrow. "Believe it or not, I did dreamt of you and Kri...I meant that monk. I'm not going to go into details, buttttt," the last word was drawn out far longer than needed. "You guys didn't do anything funny when big brother was asleep right?"
Whatever Present Seventeen's intentions were, he succeeded in disrupting his sister's spiritual journey, who leapt up onto her feet akin to feline touching water. "No we didn't you brat! I was too busy monitoring my baby bro's progress." She spat icily.
This display of anger had failed miserably at intimidating her target; however, as the younger brother merely raised his hands in mock apology while his future self snickered gleefully to the older blonde's dismay who, to her credit remained stone cold.
Nice try little bro, but I'm far more experienced than other me...
"Hey hey, easy sister dear, just checking okay? As your only family, I have to be the man and screen that baldy for ill intentions!" Present Seventeen's cheeky tone hadn't changed one bit despite difference in content, to which his huffing twin promptly turned her back on him. "Okay sis, now I'm serious, it was all a joke I swear to Sixteen!" He whined, grasping her shoulder only to receive an ear-to-ear grin.
At the pleasant reveal, Future Eighteen couldn't resist but mocking her own sibling with a mischievous, "Gotca!"
"Fine sis, but don't you think it's your turn to sleep?"
The younger twin's uncharacteristically sincere suggestion immediately suspended the victorious feelings of both Eighteens, whose reactions were identical wide eyes of trepidation. In another display of genuine concern, Present Seventeen began massaging her shoulders while Future Seventeen did the same for his partner in crime.
"Common sister dear, you know you'll have to fall asleep for real to see if this meditation works right?" He pressed on and when she still appeared unsure, continued, "Don't you have faith in that monk?"
T-that's right, shame on me, I need to trust Krillin more...
The younger blonde, appearing to have come to the same conclusion, nodded firmly.
Therefore Present Eighteen, under the watchful gaze of her brother, laid down on the large clearing outlined by scorched marks and, after a deep breath, closed her eyelids. Illuminated by moonlight for all to witness, her features, although tense at the beginning, gradually appeared ever more relaxed till they resembled that of the cultured monk she tried to imitate.
After an indefinite time into her slumber, a soft tune started drifting across King Kai's room. At first, the audiences had no clue as to the source and even considered it part of nature since, rather than disrupting the songs of nightlife surrounding them, it blended into the forest soundscape. It was only when an off-key note disrupted the tranquility did they discovered Present Seventeen had been whistling while meditating and was trying to integrate cries of howls and insects into his melody.
Inspired by his other self's displayed creativity, Future Seventeen soon joined in the musical fest, an act Future Eighteen couldn't help but contribute to with her higher pitched delivery.
"I'm pretty sure you aren't supposed to whistle when you meditate little bro." Meanwhile, the sleeping blonde on screen, as if chiding everyone, stated dreamily, her eyelids still shut.
"And I'm pretty sure you aren't supposed to talk when sleeping, baby sis." The younger brother retorted without missing a beat. "Besides, Krillin never mentioned anything about not whistling right?" He teased and was rewarded by his twin's rosy cheeks.
"Quiet brat, I need my beauty sleep."
"Yes ma'am."
Like brother like sister, Present Eighteen wouldn't wake up, much to everyone's relief, hours afterwards when gentle morning sun had replaced the moon above. Now sporting a well-rested smile, she got up slowly and surveyed her surrounding, no doubt taking in the beauty of this untarnished environment.
"Morning sis, slept well?" Present Seventeen greeted without shifting from his cross-legged posture.
"You can say that bro, so what happened?" Her expectant gaze had trained on him, that and her serious tone made it crystal clear jokes weren't welcomed.
"Well, aside from your snoring and sleep talking, nothing was wrong." His reply was equally matter-of-factly.
Immediately, Present Eighteen's eyes widened in near comical fashion, her mouth opening then closed rapidly, replacing the confused look with inquisitive stares.
Smart girl; don't fall victim to his teasing...
Future Eighteen nodded proudly, a sharp contrast to the pouting Future Seventeen.
"You lied, I call your bluff." Orbs piercing like lasers locked onto the cyborg youth's poker face, gradually dismantling the façade until he broke off contact.
"Aww shucks, whatever sis."
The next several days flew by like a snap as the present twins continued their reclusive life style deep inside the mountain ranges. Despite not truly nightmare free, seeing both would still on occasional twist and turn in their sleep, eyes blinking red underneath eyelids and calling for help, the uncontrolled energy released had subsided to weak blasts that quickly disintegrated into thin air and later mere sparks on fingertips. So minute was the disturbance, a good sibling cuddling was all it took to set things right.
No longer scared of the present cyborgs' unintended destructions, the future cyborgs found themselves admiring how their younger selves were able to master their bodies in a relative short period. Every time another episode of environment wrecking trauma was aborted before its full effect was unleashed, they'd cheer aloud, unafraid of the blue-skinned guardian passing judgement.
Krillin, he's really come through for me, for us again!
Most vocal of them was without a doubt the elder sister, who was pleasantly surprised by how she had stopped chastising herself for harboring thoughts of a certain monk. Perhaps transformed by the new outlook, her eyes, although devoid of emotions when the viewing started, were increasingly a shade of healthy ocean blue, a trait shared by the younger blonde.
My...my, sister's...really changed...by that Krillin no less...
His attention divided by two sisters' developments and that of his other version's, Future Seventeen found his heart weighing heavy and light seemingly at random. Torn by the awakened notion of needing to be happy for her along with realization of a third individual occupying her head, he tried alleviating this growing pain by joking alongside Present Seventeen.
How'd that other me do it? It's like he's unbothered by sister's growing affection for that...that monk...
Who just happened to have saved a copy of us for that timeline...
Thankfully, one element future brother and sister could see eye-to-eye was with the present cyborgs' growing peace along came more opportunities to appreciate nature. Pale, lifeless eyes that once reflected nothing other than ghosts of their pasts had begun searching everywhere for wildlife hidden amongst heavy foliage.
"Look sis! What's that strange, fat looking bird with a long beak? It's not a woodpecker is it?" Present Seventeen whispered quietly, his excitement only betrayed by that quivering index finger pointing at an oval-bodied bird and crystal blue orbs flashing yellow.
Present Eighteen cupped her chin in her hands, those piercing orbs blinking the same color. "Definitely not bro, it's too big and doesn't fly." She moved closer and sure enough, instead of taking off into the air, the creature scurried off on its legs.
"Aww sis! Look at what you've done! You scared it away!" The younger twin complained, hands resting on waist.
His sister nearly rolled her eyes but stopped seeing his serious demeanor. "Hey, at least I've just proven it's a flightless bird right? You think it's a cousin of chickens?"
Evidently still upset, the brother's eyes narrowed. "No idea sis but try not to spoil my fun okay? Sixteen won't be too happy with you scaring his friends away will he?"
Across the screen, Future Seventeen shook his head in amusement, voice snarky. "Yeah sis, stop scaring away Sixteen's favorite animals will ya?"
"Can it baby bro!" Future Eighteen chided half-heartedly, her fist bumping his waist utilizing no more strength than ticklish amount.
"Ouch!" The brother yelped playfully.
I must be overthinking...sis will always be sis...with or without Krillin's involvement...
I hope...
As the present siblings' bird viewing developed into what their future counterparts classified as an obsession, they journeyed ever higher up the mountain till thin blanket of snow covered the rocky slopes and ice particles visible all over pine trees. In this world of pure white, brother and sister erected a thin layer of artificial energy that nevertheless didn't stop them from exhaling crystalized vapor.
"You know bro, we should probably head downward at night cause I sure don't want to sleep here out in the cold." Present Eighteen complained, her hands stuffed inside jean pockets.
Like a true explorer, Present Seventeen merely turned around, grinning teeth shinning in the sun. "Hey common sis, so what if it gets a bit chilly up here? It's not like we'll get sick right?"
"Maybe, but that doesn't mean it's comfortable staying out under this weather." She reasoned, swapping away a few flurries of snowflakes.
His response came in the form of a nonchalant shrug. "Tsk sis. If makes you feel better, we can always build us a shack."
Just then, the sharp cry of a bird of sorts rang through the icy world, shocking not only the twins on screen but the indoor ones too. The camera angle soon tilted skyward following the present sibling's point of view, revealing an unexpectedly huge airborne bird, its wingspan probably several times that of its lesser kind.
"Wow, just look at the size of that thing!" Future Seventeen blurted out first.
"Yeah, makes me wonder why haven't we seem one before in our time." Future Eighteen chimed in, her excitement outweighed by disappointment.
"Dunno sis, and how weird we don't even know its name," He stopped abruptly, eyes dimming till they're a lifeless monotone. A glimpse at his partner's direction yielded the same grief-stricken expression.
We were too busy killing humans or rather anything that moves to pay them any attention...
By Sixteen...oh no, he might even hate us for what we've done!
Unburdened by their uncommitted sins, the present cyborgs meanwhile were sprinting across forest floor led by an overjoyed looking Present Seventeen whose jet-black locks swayed in the air. As they traversed across the snowy terrain, two trails of increasingly long footprints marked the ground, curving and swerving, documenting the arduous nature of this wild chase.
"Bro, why don't we take to the sky? It'll be much easier keeping track of that eagle! Unless you think this is more fun." At last, the bird's name was revealed through Present Eighteen's suggestion, instilling more guilt for the deceased life takers.
"No sister dearest, have some patience will ya? I just don't wanna cause this lovely fella distress. Also, I need to see where it lives." Present Seventeen sounded quite professional, his motion tracking gaze never taking off his target.
Gradually, the tree density decreased until a clearing of sorts ahead became visible, which just happened to be where the eagle had begun circling around on top then, perhaps having ascertained it wasn't being followed, descended onto a tall pine tree.
"Hah, what did I tell ya sis, my method works doesn't it?" The younger brother declared proudly before stopping abruptly in his tracks.
"Hey, what are you doing?" Unable to stop her momentum, the elder sister collided into her twin and knocking him face first onto the snowfield.
From across the screen, the future cyborgs were pleasantly surprised by the reason behind the younger male's action. Standing in the middle of the field, with an even more impressive mountain as backdrop was a two-story log cabin of sorts. Although its windowpanes were dirty if not damaged and front door ajar hanging by its hinges, the place appeared to be positively abandoned, devoid of any trace of activity evident from the lack of footprints on the snow.
The recently perched accipitridae suddenly let out a shriek and, as if responding to its summons, more majestic birds came swooning in. For the future cyborgs, it was the very definition of Sixteen's dream home, one deep within wilderness, surrounded by many winged friends.
I-Is this it? Have they finally found a permanent place?
Searching deep into their memories, the deceased world conquerors began comparing the rundown shack against many of their dwellings for nearly two decades, their eyes a never-ending glow of yellow.
It's nowhere near as large as our latest...mansion...nope, definitely not enough space to park as many cars as I want to...
I wonder how many closet space this...house has. Can it fit a hundred? Two hundred dresses? No way...
All of the sudden, the small cabin lost much appeal for the future twins. Not that it stopped their present selves from exploring of course, as the two opened or rather, flicked aside the wooden door and were greeted by a puff of cough inducing dust that, once cleared, confirmed their viewer's disappointment.
The desolate, cobweb-infested living room had but a flimsy dining table as its sole furniture. On the far side was what appeared to be a smog-covered fireplace and scattered all around the sorry excuse of a creaking wooden floor were broken lanterns.
No, oh no, no way is it good enough for me...I mean seriously, who even use fireplaces? And lanterns? Doesn't this place have electricity?
Future Eighteen had all but concluded mentally while her present counterpart looked disappointed by the hut, seeing his downward arching mouth and dimming eyes.
Upstairs, the second floor could barely be rated as marginally better with two empty rooms in dire need of fixing. Shattered glasses and broken window frames laid strewing about, allowing wind to blow more snow inside.
"So, whatcha think sis? Ya think this place good enough for you?" Contrary to his audiences' impressions, Present Seventeen had asked all excited then, with a release of green artificial energy, cleared the supposed living quarter of ice particles.
"Hmm, looks better now bro," Present Eighteen paused, adopting a pondering expression during which the older blonde begged with all her heart she'll reject the dump. "It'll need some work but if we work together, we can turn it habitable I'm sure."
W-wait what? No, you can't be serious!
As if capable of sensing his twin's distress, Future Seventeen had leaned closer and grasped her hands in his in their trademark familial bond. "Oh common sis, I'm sure they'll work something out," he counseled and, after seeing how downtrodden she still was, whispered the next part, "besides, thanks to...Krillin, now that their powers are under control, they can create any home they desire right?" It took some efforts saying the monk's name, but the younger brother nevertheless managed out.
True to his prediction, those monotone orbs regained their ocean blue color; a sight Future Seventeen found himself enjoying more and more.
Krillin Krillin, that little monk who's stolen my sister dearest's heart...I would've blown him away before this viewing began but...
It sure is nice seeing her happy...
In a scene all too familiar to the deceased killer team, their present counterparts collaborated seamlessly onscreen, minus the mass murdering that was. Working sleeplessly, they chopped down woods using monstrous strength, peeled off tree skin akin to skinning banana, then with the precision only two artificially enhanced humans possessed, processed the organic matters into something useful.
Rocks and more sturdy earth materials were no match for the cybernetic altered twins either, seeing they resorted to carefully calibrated finger beams to carve fine stone slaps out of mountainsides.
Wow...how come we've never thought of using our power that way?
Gazing upon their hands, the future cyborgs unfortunately could only conjure imageries of cleaving through human flesh or blasting holes in their victims. Stained with blood was an understatement, the butchers realized, and their stomachs turned in disgust, wavering eyes ashamed of watching the innocent duo at work.
We...we might've killed that sick doctor but were never truly free of him...using our powers to carry out exactly what he had intended...
These two...they had broken his grip...turning their...abnormality to good use...
In the spam of a day or two, the majority of the flaws had been amended, the broken windowpanes replaced, gaps on walls plugged in, building foundation reinforced with fine masonries, and even new furniture added.
"So sis, what do you think of this?" Present Seventeen had held up a wooden chair made of straight boards, its geometry rigid yet structure devoid of nails, pieced together instead by precise insertions. As if proving its durability, the proud craftsman leaped onto his creation then proceeded to do a little tap dance, testing it beyond doubt.
"Not...bad...," Present Eighteen spoke, clearly unimpressed.
"Oh? You think you can do better?" He challenged, eyebrows raised, lips pouted.
"Tsk of course, come here little bro."
"Gladly big sis!"
She led him into her chosen room where a rather delicate looking chair featuring all the curves, decorations, and polishes of an advertise-worthy product.
"Oh!" He gasped akin to someone having the air sucked out of his lungs.
The sister, outwardly cold as she was, responded by gently patting him on the back. "Hey, don't take it too badly bro, mine's probably not as sturdy as yours. Besides, if you want I can help you refine it."
Before such kind offering, both Seventeens nodded in unison, with the future one unaware he's not her intended audience.
"Sure my all-knowing sis, just don't make mine too girly like yours okay?" The onscreen raven-haired cyborg reminded playfully, having to dodge a jab aimed at his stomach.
Whatever household items the present twins couldn't create out of their environment, nightly mall raids took care of. Like two out-of-season Santa Clauses, they airlifted bags of presents back home, garnering curious stares from good boys and girls of North City in the process.
Soon, the interior of the once abandoned cabin appeared positively habitable with curtains hanging over fixed glasses, carpets draped across wooden floor, candles and refilled lamps placed at key spots, not to mention tableware that had their viewers scratching heads.
W-what's the point of having plates and bowls? It's not like they are going to eat now is it?
Despite having furnished their home, the present siblings nevertheless opted to stay outdoors at night. Against the backdrop of such well-lighted winter retreat oozing with comfort, they took turns sleeping out on grounds cleared of snow while the other one kept a watchful eye during meditation.
To say the scene was heart breaking was underselling by multiple digits for the deceased destroyers, who had lost count of the buildings they've wrecked, intentionally or otherwise.
Maybe they cherish the cabin too much cause they remodeled it?
B-but surely the nightmares are in the past...right?
On one snowy morning, roughly two weeks after the present twins' arrival, the younger brother, clothed in recently acquired jacket, asked exactly what was on the future cyborgs' minds. "Do you think we are in-control enough to live in our new home sis?"
"No idea bro," The usually confident elder twin answered dejectedly, all skin except her face hidden inside thick furry attire.
He frowned. "Do you want to try? We can always leave if things get out of hand."
At the question, Present Eighteen gazed back at the product of their labor hesitantly, her eyes fluctuating between sea water hue and arctic white.
Oh please, what's other me worried about? Doesn't she want to sleep on your fine room, on that warm bed?
I mean if I put that much effort into something; I would definitely put it to good use...
Future Eighteen crossed her arms in front of her chest and scoffed, whatever reservation she had for the rundown dwelling had since evaporated into thin air and replacing it, a growing fondness borderlining attachment.
Present Seventeen clearly shared the deceased cyborg woman's sentiment too, as he clasped her shoulders utilizing enough strength that his startled sister jumped up from her spot.
"We are going to sleep in our new home today sis, or rather, you'll sleep on your bed while I stood watch. How's that?" It sounded more of an order than anything, and when she still appeared indecisive, he spoke the next part resolutely. "You think Krillin teaches us meditation just to see you camping out in the wild sis? Common let's do this!"
Krillin...Krillin who's always here for us!
Future Eighteen's heart couldn't possibly beat faster even as a ghost without organic constraints.
That night, after they had finished their tasks, the present twins walked into Eighteen's room, which was now packed with her hand-made furniture and mountains of stolen clothes, transforming the former empty space into a mini fashion storage. Evidently still hesitant, she sat up on the mattress for a few minutes staring at her companion whose feet began tapping the floor.
"Well sis? Are you going to make me wait all night?" His words dripped with impatience.
"No bro. I'm counting on you." She replied showing no signs of sleep but once her head hit the pillow, those heavy eyelids closed automatically.
"Good night sis! You deserve this." Like the loyal sibling he was, Present Seventeen pulled the blanket over her body and sat beside her bed cross-legged.
Seconds passed, then minutes and eventually hours, yet not so much as a whimper escaped the sleeper's lips with the only sounds being soft whistles from the brother whose jewels for eyes sparkled blue in the dark. Ever so vigilant, he nearly leapt up on several occasions, limbs seemingly triggered by slightest signs of distress. Outside the window, moonlight increased then increased in intensity while the stars came and went, illuminating these two souls on the verge of breakthrough.
Please Sixteen, watch over them...
Unsure whether to be thankful of such endearing sight or nervous of what had yet but could very well happen; the deceased killer, never truly known peace in their lives, initiated a silent prayer.
When morning sunrays finally signaled the end of this test, the young blonde was still curled up in her bed, those dainty fingers gripping her blanket tightly, not to mention a pool of drool was visible on the mattress.
"Hey sis." Present Seventeen crept silently to her side and whispered silently, garnering him nothing but continued light snores from the sleeping blonde.
"Wakey wakey sister dearest!" He said again, adopting a louder, playful tone this time.
Her only response was to turn her back on him then curled into fetal position.
"Tsk tsk tsk...," The brother wiggled his index finger then passed his sincere message directly into her exposed ear, "You've done it sis; that monk's method worked!"
Working like magic, those crystal blue orbs snapped opened immediately. "R-really? Are you sure bro?" There wasn't a trace of sleep in those words, replacing it a mixture of disbelief and accomplishment.
"Of course sis, but now it's my turn!" He nodded before yawning abruptly. The annoying sound resonated across King Kai's room but to the future cyborgs' surprise, it was like music in their ears.
"Sure baby bro, happy to watch over you, in your man cave!" Present Eighteen grinned evilly, seemingly fully revitalized.
"Hey I'm just glad I don't have to stay in your clothing store any longer." Present Seventeen barely managed to stick out his tongue before he was shoved out.
From across the screen, Future Eighteen turned to look at her twin dead in the eyes. "Hey, how come you've never let me into your room too?"
Facing her abrupt inquiry, all the younger brother could do was putting up a straight face. "Why sis, it's not like mine has anything of interest to your picky taste."
"Whatever, we shall soon see!"
His was a much sparsely populated room. The floor was clean for the most part free of unpacked boxes. The same couldn't be said of the walls; however, for every inch of it was covered with posters of cars, birds, or nature.
"Wow baby bro, if only you would spend as much thought on your fashion sense." Present Eighteen had opened a nearby wardrobe and shook her head at the nearly empty cabinet containing but the plainest looking jeans and shirts. "Maybe it's time I take you out cloth shopping again." She added, fingers clasping her chin in a thoughtful posture.
Another ear-piercing yawn greeted her, followed by a loud thud as Present Seventeen had already thrown himself on the bed, bouncing a few times and creating sounds of springs reacting to his weight. "Whatever you say bossy sis, just make sure I don't accidentally torch my beloved decorations okay?"
"You can count on me, brother dear." She smiled, her fingers brushing those raven-locks from his face in a display of familial warmth.
Like sister like brother, his slumber was uneventfully peaceful despite rather noisy as loud snores never ceased escaping from that parting and closing mouth. Perhaps unable to concentrate, the elder sister alternated between meditation and leaning over his sleeping frame, her emotional orbs watery at times, reflecting their fair share of ever changing sunlight.
"Hey sis, have you ever watched over me like that?" Future Seventeen had interrupted hours into his present self's rest, his heart fluttering at how caring the onscreen sister appeared.
Her only response was to grasp his hand in hers tighter than ever, her warmth no less intense than her present counterpart's.
The house was almost pitch black when Present Eighteen finally put her hands on her brother's shoulders and, with what the future cyborgs assumed to be all the gentleness in the world, shook him awake.
"Did I...did I overslept?" Present Seventeen blurted out as he surveyed the environment, sharp sapphire-colored orbs shining in identical fashion as his twin's.
"Maybe, but does it matter? You've made it too!" She replied, sounding stress free at last.
I...I can't believe it! Him too! He's free too!
The future cyborgs could barely contain their overwhelming joy as the main stars of this show embraced in an inseparable hug that drew trails of moonlight reflecting tears.
As if already having the next step planned out, they proceeded to light up all the candles and lanterns, filling the screen in a dazzling shade of orange. Now both downstairs in what must be their designated dining area, the present twins pulled open a cabinet and took out what appeared to be a bottle of wine.
No way...are they really going to drink it?
The answer came in the form of two glasses placed on the polished table that were soon filled with reddish liquid.
"I can't believe I'm really going to drink this. It's like...it's like I'm a...," Present Eighteen paused all of the sudden.
"Hey, no more negative thoughts sis, let's toast to us!" Her brother tapped his glass against hers before she could object.
"Right, a toast, to our success!" The sister raised her voice at the end, clearly meaning what she said.
"And a toast to those who's helped us!" He stated, switching to a serious tone.
"Sure, to Krillin!"
Three loud gasps filled King Kai's room as all except for the young cyborg girl looked positively dumbfounded at what had blurted out of her mouth. Evidently unaware of what she just said, Present Eighteen merely gazed at her brother, whose full-on grin could only be classified as that of shit-eating type.
"Hey, why are you...," She stopped in her tracks the second time that night except this time, it clearly wasn't out of grief, seeing those cheeks flushed redder than the glass of wine on her hand.
To make matters worse, a teasing whistle soon came out of a certain mischievous twin's mouth, causing the pinkish red to spread downward even before she had consumed the alcohol.
"You brat!" Present Eighteen yelled, seemingly expelling her pent-up embarrassment in one go.
"Woah, woah sister dearest, it's not me who said that monk's name remember? Anyways let's just drink sister dearest!" Present Seventeen interjected, fumbling for words before downing the entire glass in one gulp then went for another, leaving his sister to gingerly sip on her drink.
Across the screen, Future Seventeen was laughing his head off till he lost balance and rolled onto the floor, a sharp contrast to his twin's trembling form.
"King Kai! I'm going out!" Out of nowhere, the older blonde stated then, without getting permission from her host, simply left.
The deceased terminatress strode across King Kai's grassy planet in large strides, her steely gaze more resolute than ever. So determined was the cyborg woman at realizing her newfound quest she didn't even stop when hearing her partner-in-crime calling from behind.
"Hey sis, wait for me will ya? What's gotten into ya sister dearest?" Future Seventeen, hands still clutched over aching stomach and stumbling from lack of strength, finally managed to catch up to her speed walking. "Really sis, where you up to?" He inquired again after placing a hand on her shoulder to still her movement.
To the younger brother's surprise, she had halted then, after a deep breath that stabilized her trembling body, declared in a pained voice, "I'm going to get Krillin, the Krillin from our time bro. Are you with me?"
He almost palmed his forehead for being so dull. "Sure sis, I'm always with you and you know it. But for all we know, Krillin's been avoiding us ever since so how are you supposed to find him?" There wasn't a hint of playfulness in that sincere voice.
"I...I don't care, this is a small planet and he won't hide from me forever!" She spat vehemently then, in a clear sign of determination, activated her target system, causing those pale blue eyes to blink red and filled with diagrams.
Future Seventeen couldn't help but swallowed a gulp seeing his twin nearly switching back to her old murderous personality. On closer inspection; however, he was able to discover minute differences.
Sis is not...she's not directing her anger toward others, but at herself...
It was a welcoming revelation, one that galvanized her companion, fueling him with both curiosity and energy.
"Sure sis, I'm with you, let's go find that elusive monk." He said, cat-like eyes flashing crimson red as his own target system came online.
Working as a team, the cybernetic altered duo scoured the tiny planet in a systemic fashion, covering acres after acres of land at a time, leaving no stone unturned. So laser focused were the duo neither took notice of the grunts and yells of other warriors in training.
"Hey look at those two killers! What are they doing? Trying to destroy this planet too?" Future Tien called out as they approached, effectively summoning the z-fighters who formed a wall of battle ready warriors all adopting various stances.
Gazing at the group composed of their victims, all glaring daggers at them brought forth, much to the deceased killers' surprises, nothing but a flood of self-resentment.
These people, none of them were bad; none of them had to be our enemies...
We...we are the ones who turned them against us...
Amongst the assembled fighters, only innocent-looking Future Goku didn't give off an aura of deep-seated hatred. In fact, the spikey-haired Saiyan appeared rather curious of the duo, even approaching them on his own accord but was quickly pulled back by an enraged Future Gohan.
"No dad, I know what you are thinking but I'm telling you don't do it. After what they've done, they shouldn't be given any assistance."
The future cyborgs, with their enhanced hearings, could easily make out every spiteful word from their sworn nemesis's mouth. Weighed down by undeniable shame that threatened to overtake their conscious, the accused nearly turned away.
"Look, I know you people have good reasons to hate us, but I'm not here for you guys today. Just tell me where Krillin is and we'll be on our way!" Future Eighteen was only able to deliver her sentence by drawing strength from her brother's firm handheld that never ceased sending warmth through her once more shivering frame.
P-please...just let us through...haven't...haven't we suffered enough?
As predicted though, the deceased protectors of Earth from their time merely let out a collection of angry remarks.
"Huh, let me guess, you want to find Krillin right? Well it's too bad you heartless woman. You've not only killed his physical body but soul as well so beat it!" Future Yamcha's explosive statement rang louder than all others, his tone far damning than the one Present Yamcha used on the present cyborgs which, despite harboring feeling of betrayal, never carried such undiluted rage in retrospect.
"Yamcha's right, I still can't believe you and that other cyborg girl are the same person! Just know that you aren't her and our Krillin doesn't want you!" Future Gohan all but screamed, every syllabus, every hint of unbearable pain in his voice etched deep into his audiences' hearts.
Krillin...didn't want me? That's not true, it's a cruel lie...even if I killed him...
Now barely able to suppress the tears swelling up her eyes, Future Eighteen took off without care, dragging her companion along.
In her blind sprint fueled by nothing but raw, undiluted emotions, the deceased killer, whose wild blonde strands wouldn't stop getting in her line of sight, suddenly found herself bumping into something hard and sturdy.
"Great, what is it this time?" She muttered dejectedly and looked up, finding to her surprise a never before seem tree; one so large that even by careful estimation was at least several times that of others.
"Wow, will you look at this thing sis, this just might be my new favorite spot on this planet." Future Seventeen mused aloud, evidently trying his hardest to put that unpleasant encounter behind him.
"Whatever, it's not what I'm looking for." Future Eighteen spat but nevertheless still put her free hand against the thick tree trunk while the other one never separating from her brothers.
Krillin...Krillin will probably like this tree won't he? Yeah, it seemed like something he'll enjoy...
Wait, of course he'll enjoy this, which means!
Seemingly revitalized by the thought, the blonde cyborg began circling around the towering vegetation. Pace by pace, she uncovered the plant until a gasp escaped her gaping mouth.
"Killin!"
The sheer amount of excitement shocked even herself, for that sitting at one corner with his back facing her was a short statured individual dressed in that trademark orange gi printed with the kanji meaning "Turtle". The person's cleanly shaven head, his other and perhaps most outstanding trait, was so reflective it was akin to staring right at the sun in some angles.
"Krillin!" She called again, voice more emotional than ever.
"Just go to him sis!" Future Seventeen encouraged, no longer able to stand the sight of his suffering sister.
Therefore, Future Eighteen ran forward, but only after sparing her loyal companion a grateful look and heartfelt "Thank you brother!'
Krillin! He's really here! Krillin's made it to King Kai's planet just like I knew he would!
At that moment, every step she took, every pace she covered seemed to last forever. It was as if no matter how fast she travelled, it was never fast enough to make up the deep longing that had been plaguing her soul since his demise.
"Krillin it's me, don't you recognize me? I'm Eighteen!" She yelled yet again, running speed increased by the mere thought of reuniting with the warrior monk.
Now at last, all my worries will be no more!
"I know it's you, Eighteen, but please, don't come any closer."
Her heart had skipped more than a beat hearing his voice in person. Clearly not processing his request nor the uncharacteristic aloof tone; however, the future blonde continued walking closer akin plants drawn to sunlight, the source of her energy.
"Yes Krillin, it's me, Eighteen. What are you doing here all alone?" She was right behind him at this point and, with great trepidation, reached out a hand.
"No please Eighteen, not now."
This time, his words were unmistakably clear, prompting the cyborg woman to halt her advance.
"But why Krillin? Why are you so cold?" She asked, voice nearing imploring range.
A sigh escaped Future Krillin's mouth. "You know why." He stated simply, face still turned away from her.
While for untrained ears, such statement would've came across as emotional neutral but for Future Eighteen, especially having heard the warrior monk umpteenth times to the point of memorizing every subtle changes, his delivery carried a light tinge of longing, hurt, and dare she say, distinct regret.
"You do know things didn't have to go the way it did right?" The cyborg woman had regained some of her confidence and with it, her haughtiness returned. Reaching out once more, she grasped him firmly on the shoulder then lowered her mouth to his ear.
"You could've chosen a different path you know!"
Greeting her were two pools of beautiful brown that, upon closer examination, sent shivers down the deceased murderess's heart with the polarizing hues they encompassed.
"You are mistaken Eighteen, I never had a choice...," Future Krillin had taken hold of her slender wrist and, without inflicting any pain, pried her fingers aside. "Your plan for us, how could I ever go along with it!"
A/N: Thank you all for this long wait but at last, here's chapter 14. Hope you all get to enjoy the reunion of Future K18. I know it's a pretty big moment so really hoped it has the impact it deserves.
Also just to let everyone know, but there's a chance I'll take March off from working on this story as I'm a bit conflicted as to how to proceed. Should I take a temporarily halt, I'll work on my other stories so rest assured, the K18 love won't stop.
In the meantime, please feel free to tell me how this chapter, which I considered one of the most important ones to date, read to you all. I take reviews, whether negative or positive pretty seriously and even if some of you don't want to state the obvious, what's apparent to you may not be apparent to me.
That is all and until next time!