Selfless Wishes

by dynahops

Summary:

A time of peace two years after humanity's Genkidama against Majin Buu transforms the logic of the Dragon Team's love and the canon truth.

Notes:

Thank you for reading!

Chapter 1: Love of a Close Fight! (Goku)

Heads with hair glowing bright yellow like the sun charge the air with their Ki energy.

 

A storm begins to swirl around the two of them- whirlwinds picking up speed and bringing in clouds from the surrounding area.

 

The moisture in the air gathers and bears heavy and dark clouds as the sun is blotted out by a forming tempest.

 

Vegeta’s mouth opens and he howls out towards the heavens, enticing the vortex of clouds to release their energy.

 

A crash of thunder explodes against Goku’s ears at the same time as a bolt of lightning onto the lifeless rocky field below.

 

Goku clenches his fists and readies his stance to accommodate such a spike in power from his partner.

 

It takes no time at all for his excitement at fighting such a strong warrior to summon all the energy he needs to ready himself for the coming strike from Vegeta.

 

It’s just a blink of an eye and the other Saiyan is already above him- his powerful legs landing a heavy blow squarely against Goku’s chest.

 

The momentum knocks Goku down from where he was floating, and he uses the energy to flip himself around and back into fighting position.

 

His opponents arms are already raised, white gloves clenched into fists. He’s smirking; and knowing Vegeta- most likely in a smug attempt to amp Goku up.

 

This is all it takes for Goku to retaliate, and he’s shooting back up, flying into a roundhouse kick that Vegeta just narrowly blocks.

 

It’s Goku’s turn to smile now. Vegeta throws his leg away with his forearms and instantly looks ready to pounce.

 

Using the remaining force of the attack to spin in place and duck away from an expected lunge, Goku flies below Vegeta and quickly turns in the air.

 

The Prince does something unexpected then-

 

He’s spinning around as well- and when he shoots out a kick that knocks Goku right in the gut, he’s upside down!

 

Hovering backwards- Goku has little time to react because the Prince is flipping himself right side up and reaching out to grab the collar of his Gi.

 

Vegeta winds up a punch and delivers it directly to Goku’s jaw.

 

He rockets through the sky at the force of it.

 

A beat later- Goku comes to his senses- and bolts back to his fighting stance.

 

He is still dizzy when he brings his fists up for his counterattack. This momentary lapse is enough time for the Prince of the Saiyans to rush towards him.

 

Goku summons up his knowledge of the Kaio-Ken and let’s fire ignite within his body. He feels a rush of white hot heat fill his every muscle and burn his body until it is glowing visibly.

 

Vegeta’s fist connects with the side of his face- the impact stinging but not moving his face a centimeter.

 

Vegeta is waiting, his once smug expression now plastered into a full blown smirk.

 

Is he gloating despite this? He’ll give Vegeta what he wants!

 

He’s still in this fight and he’s going to show Vegeta who is stronger!

 

He grabs Vegeta’s arm like a vice, using his momentum to begin to swing him around in a circle.

 

It really ticks Vegeta off when he does that! He spins the other man around by the wrist and then with gusto releases his hold so that Vegeta is angled downward and is thrown full force into the sky.

 

The small opportunity of dizziness and embarrassment inflicted upon Vegeta is all that Goku needs to race down alongside him and connect his foot to the side of Vegeta’s face.

 

The Prince is knocked into a further vulnerable stance and Goku uses the chance to wind up a punch.

 

His fist is side-stepped and the speed in which Vegeta has recovered is as breathing-taking as the kick to the chest Goku receives for his carelessness.

 

Goku sputters-

 

A sheen of sweat is beginning to cover his brow. He feels a drop of blood leak down the side of his mouth. He’s a short distance from his partner.

 

Vegeta has his brows furrowed and his analytical gaze is searching out every twitch and breath that can be uses to find an opening.

 

Goku is doing the same.

 

He eyes Vegeta’s left arm and see’s the Prince hesitate just one tick too long.

 

He throws a mock punch and uses his momentum to spin somersault himself into landing a kick on the top of Vegeta’s head.

 

The Prince lets out a hiss of pain and tips back into the charged air.

 

When his gaze turns back on Goku- he looks rather angry.

 

Goku thinks this at least, because Vegeta then lunges at him with a roar and slams his fists into his gut in a barrage of fury!

 

Goku just barely has time to block the onslaught of fury coming from the other Saiyan.

 

“You-!” Vegeta grits his teeth and focuses all his energy to really test Goku for his resolve.

Grinning now, Goku puts up his fists and feels his Ki burst to it’s peak.

 

The two Saiyan men duck and weave through the onslaught of action and display of each other’s power.

 

The warriors are matched in their resolve and spirit to win; and so the battle from that moment on becomes a test of endurance.

 

Each fighter is pushing their mind and body to it’s limit to gain a foothold and secure a win.

 

The sky acts as a witness as electric bolts light up their invigorated faces. Goku sees the serious demeanor that Vegeta holds crumble subconsciously as the Prince openly smiles in pleasure at their battle.

 

The winds roar with the force of that of a hurricane as their match comes to it’s peak. Their auras are glowing and sparking around them. Goku sees the look of pure determination within the eyes of Vegeta as the other man readies himself to fire a beam of Ki; hands beginning to glow bright yellow.

 

He brings his own hands to his side and summons up his final wave of Ki to blast a cascade of azure energy in the direction of the other Saiyan.

 

The blackened storm clouds are are illuminated to their peak with both the lightning striking the ground and the furious warping and exploding of their energy beams.

 

Annihilating in the clash of energy,

 

tantamount to the shared testaments between them,

 

and all at once; their energy leaves the landscape as a final lightning bolt crashes into the ground!

 

It is only when they both fall to the ground and collapse simultaneously that a winner is decided. The storm loses it’s fury and the sky begins to shine through slowly dissipating clouds.

 

“How- does it feel… to lose once again, Kakorotto?”

 

He gloats out between heavy panting.

 

Goku raises his head up off the ground and makes an indignant face. He sticks out his tongue.

 

“Sure-? I’m pretty sure... I won Vegeta!”

 

He grins out his argument and absolutely delights in the upset that it causes to Vegeta. The Prince makes an effort to try and stand, only to lose his footing on the hard earth and fall back down with trembling legs.

 

Goku watches this with mirth and looks around him. Despite the remaining thunder clouds dissipating above, the ground is still warm from the earlier sunlight that had cascaded down before Vegeta and himself had arrived at the location to fight.

 

He recalls that their first fight had been in this very same rocky field.

 

The stakes had so much different!

 

He looks back at the other Saiyan and can hardly recognize the version of the Prince that had descended from the heavens and rained down his terror upon the land so many years ago.The land is still empty of all plant and animal life. He thinks that maybe this is the fault of the two of them! Since the defeat of Majin Buu, they had regularly started to come here to train together.

 

Here they are, sparring all the time; and Goku is loving it!

 

It was twice a week now that he got to really let lose with the other Saiyan and hone his fighting skills!

 

When Goku shows up at his door to train, he always is ready and willing to leave with him and give his best fight.

 

And it’s the best!

 

Goku never has felt better!

 

Having a partner that understands him and really pushes him to better himself to achieve his goal- well he wouldn’t wish it any other way!

 

He loves Vegeta; for being the person who he feels is the closest to him.

 

It’s just then that the thought of food pops into his head!

 

“It’s lunch time!?” He blurts out, summoning all his energy to sit up and gaze off into the horizon towards the direction of Kame House.

 

Vegeta gives a groan in response.

 

Unfortunately, Goku’s limbs don’t seem to be willing to move any further.

 

He resigns himself to flopping back down onto the rocky turf.

 

“You comin’?”

 

He earns himself a toneless grunt from the Prince.

 

Once Goku has regained enough energy to feel his limbs again- he’s got to get something to eat! If he can just tele-transport the two of them to Kame House...

 

Goku reaches to Vegeta, feeling the connective spark of Ki of their joined hands.

Notes:

Thank you for reading!
edit: rearranged this and chapter 3

Chapter 2: A Past Quarrel. (Videl)

The day is at it's apex and the sun is basking the Earth with it’s radiance.

 

Videl shields her eyes from it’s glory, eyes adjusting to the light as she steps out onto the tiled sidewalk from inside a café.

 

She holds the door open for her friend, Gohan. He steps out, a happy sigh escaping his mouth.

 

She smiles at him with a pleased expression. The two had just gone out for coffee after a morning of sparring. Well, it had mostly been her working on her techniques. Gohan had watched from the garden of her home estate with interest. Occasionally- he had stood up to help her with her form- or to let her help him with his own.

 

She finds it a bit endearing that he wishes to hang out with her while she trains- even if he doesn’t particularly enjoy sparring.

 

Videl waits outside the little building for a moment, watching the city scene in front of her. Hovercars pass by in front of her as people bustle about their days in a rush. It’s a typical Friday afternoon in Satan City, after all.

 

She feels him bump against her side. Their closeness is appreciated by her.

 

After everything they went through together- it’s hard not to image them being as close of friends as they are now.

 

And close is definitely how she prefers it.

 

For it wasn’t just their shared history of fighting threats so grand the sheer thought of their Ki still makes her head spin even years after their defeat-

 

No,- it’s their mutual love for justice, their shared inheritance of the burden of power- and so many other little things that just click between them. Videl gives a happy little sigh and brushes her dark hair from her eyes.

 

She’s got to ask herself just what her future will hold in store for her.

 

They are both high-school graduates from this summer on! After the fight with Majin Buu two years ago- settling back into normalcy had been difficult. However- with each other as support through the grueling tests and late nights spent studying- they had adjusted and graduated top of their class!

 

Searching for colleges had been difficult. Videl was sure she wanted to pursue martial arts as a little kid and was even more headstrong in her quest to become a world champion now more than ever!

 

Her friend, Gohan, was still set on pursuing a doctorate of some kind. For what- he still wasn’t sure. She had asked when their results had come in from their entrance exams. They both had applied for multiple scholarships. Videl remembers to have felt a little strange on the matter when her father had told her he could get her into any school just she say the word.

 

She had demanded that she apply like any other student would; adamant that being the daughter of the Great Mr. Satan not to be a factor in the equation at all.

 

Her father had reluctantly agreed.

 

They had applied to the same college within the city and had both been accepted to each other’s excitement. The sheer emotion that day had been so great! Videl remembers that she had jumped from her seat and hugged Gohan and her other friends like a vice.

 

Their friends Erasa and Sharpna had also applied and were accepted!

 

To Videl- it all felt too good to be true. Truthfully- she can’t help but feel this way despite her best efforts to rationalize her thoughts.

 

Because- well- Majin Buu had really frightened her in a way like never before! No amount of private martial arts training from her father nor the little she had with Gohan had actually prepared her for the sheer existential dread that she had to face going up against that... demon.

 

Seeing Buu- regular, happy and plump Buu- well… it no longer frightened her as it had during the first year after the defeat of his Majin version.

 

Though that dread hasn’t left. Videl can’t wipe something away like that just like slate! She still keeps with her the fear of her entire existence being wiped into nothingness. It channels her fighting when she dons her superhero costume and patrols the City with Gohan.

 

Small blessings. She feels she’s getting better, really! It’s just all the free time she’s had this summer that has let her thoughts ruminate.

 

It wasn’t something she liked to talk about to anyone in fact- but with Gohan, she knew it was at least something they could emotionally share.

 

She could talk with him about it, thankfully.

 

Videl places her hand on his shoulder and he looks to her unguarded. This brings a wide smile to her face and she suggests,

 

“Want to go out on the town?”

 

“Anywhere you want to!” comes his reply.

 

She turns her gaze to the scene in front of the café. A baby cries in it’s stroller while it’s mother tries to coo to it. An old couple hold each other as they hobble steadfast alongside a patch of planted flowers. A group of bicyclists in formation race down the bike lane that is to the side of the street.

 

She ponders on this for a moment, before Gohan exclaims suddenly, “Hey, I hear they opened a new exhibit at the museum!” His voice holds excitement at the prospect of going.

 

Videl hums in consideration and taps her index finger to her lips.

 

“Hm… well I suppose- though you know I kind of wanted to go watch a match at the boxing ring?”

 

And with that Gohan rubs the back of his head, sighing, “Oh now I knew you were going to say that. Okay- let’s go there!”

 

Videl places her hands on her hips and huffs, “Oh come on! You don’t sound excited at all!”

 

Gohan just laughs and waves his hands in front of him, “Hey! I said I’d go where you want to!”

 

She raises a brow at this and taps her foot; hoping to prompt him to decide for the two of them!

 

He suggests sheepishly, “Well maybe if they hosted the match in the museum we would get what we both want?”

 

She smiles and pushes at his chest playfully, “Oh come on that’s ridiculous!”

 

He laughs and closes his eyes in mirth. She just shakes her head and grumbles out, “Not even funny…”

 

They two stay silent for a moment. The city moves around them. Videl glances up at the sky and sees a few fluffy clouds drifting across the blue lazily in the breeze. She decides for them and meets eyes with Gohan.

 

“Let’s go watch the match and visit the museum again tomorrow, okay?”

 

He pouts his lip a bit at this and nods, “Okay sounds good- but tomorrow is Bulma’s birthday, okay? You’re still coming, right?”

 

She perks up a bit at this statement. She hadn’t forgotten, but didn’t think that it was something that would take up the whole day. She was most definitely going to this party!

 

Really, though- by now she should know better. When Bulma throws parties- there are no expenses cut and the event usually lasts from at least noon to well after midnight.

 

Videl recalls this because she had attended Ms. Briefs parties in the past. That, and they had spent a decent amount of time with one another in the afterlife during the rampage of Majin Buu. It had been her, Bulma, and Mrs. Son sharing stories as they floated about the flower-fielded afterlife.

 

Unfortunately- those were dire circumstances to really get to know someone; though- she had gratefully appreciated not being alone. With Gohan’s mother- Videl feels she had signed up for a paid course teaching all about life being married with a member of a race of space ape-men. And how her life had been one chaotic turn after another what with every threat that was apparently warded off by her husband, son, and their group of friends.

 

Then, with Bulma- it was the same story just with it’s own spin of crazy and weird! It was hard to believe the two of them could put up with it!

 

Both of their husbands were fanatics for fighting- just like Videl herself. Though, she supposed they took it to a whole new level of extreme!

 

She giggles at her friend and can’t help but feel at how different he is to the both of them despite his Saiyan heritage.

 

She was thankful, really. For Videl, she thinks that those stories the three of them shared in the afterlife during the rampage of Buu had really kept her from giving in to despair.

 

It was funny- looking back on it now.

 

Videl smirks in excitement and pumped her fists, “Oh of course!”

 

Her friend smiles down warmly at her and adjusts the sleeves of his shirt, “Do you want to walk or…?”

 

She looks around them for a moment, watching as the people of Satan City busy themselves around them. She lets her Ki charge and lifts herself off of the ground, waving down at Gohan and taking off into the sky as her answer.

Notes:

Thanks for reading! This one is unbeta'd so i do apologize for typos, etc
here we go!

Chapter 3: Illusions of Tide. (Tenshinhan)

 

Goku tilts his head not unlike a curious animal, "You mean to say- you touch your wife there with... your own-?"

 

He's pointing to his lips as he smacks his a couple times. Next, he's looking up in what appears to be an inner act of him imagining a kiss- all the while he’s scratching at his temple.

 

"-Why?"

 

Seemingly utterly dumbfounded by this statement, Vegeta stares at the other man with an open mouth.

 

"You can't be serious, Kakarotto."

 

Judging by the tone of Vegeta's response; it isn't a question- or a statement. Ten figures it's more of a voiced observation from the princes' mind.

 

Yamcha snorts and looks away from the spectacle.

 

"Y'know Vegeta- I had my first kiss when I was a Ten. You'll never guess with who!"

 

The prince seemingly doesn't care at the jab from Yamcha- as he is too fixated on the shocking information of a kiss-less Goku being the ‘reality’ of the situation-

 

Ten glances from the flabbergasted Vegeta back to the taller Saiyan.

 

Goku meets his gaze from the side and shoots Ten a knowing wink with a grin and a nod.

 

-That or Vegeta really is as thick-headed as Ten has always figured he was.

 

Yamcha glances up at Ten, giving a sly look. His expression doesn't look mean spirited. Rather, a teasing look is twinkling in his eye. Ten ponders that after everything Vegeta has done to humanity; Yamcha feeling comfortable enough to tease their shared romantic escapades is about as close as the two will ever get to a relationship.

 

It’s then that the door to the living room opens and Krillin bursts in. Warm light spills in from the midday sun and a cool ocean breeze calms the slight tension in the room. Krillin has got his hands full with beer cases. The old man Roshi, who is seated on the couch beside Ten, is craning his neck to see everyone now gathered in the Kame house.

 

Ten smiles a bit towards his close friend, Chaos; he’s floating in through the door with a case of beers as well.

 

The two had left half an hour ago for the main land to pick up some more alcohol.

 

Ten doesn’t think he’ll partake, but he does think that it wouldn’t hurt to relax just for a moment.

 

He watches Krillin’s back as the door to the fridge is opened and the cases are loaded inside. With not-so surprising speed, Roshi moves past Ten to the kitchen and procures a brew for himself. The turtle hermit sets it down on the kitchen counter with a tink! He opens it and starts gulping the beer down with gusto and pleased sighs.

 

Ten stays where he’s leaned up against the window. He can see the soft green grass swaying outside in the warm summer sun. Outside, birds fly overhead and cast shadows in the sunlight.

 

Yamcha clears his throat and hops up, rubbing his hands in excitement and dancing over to the fridge, “Thank you, guys! Now- we’re talking!” He grabs a few drinks from the fridge and turns around to kick the door shut. Yamcha tries to grab Ten’s attention and holds one beer out with a motion and an expression with one brow raised.

 

Ten just makes a face and smiles with a shake of his head.

 

Yamcha rolls his eyes and sets the beer down in front of Krillin.

 

The shorter man laughs “You’re not even gonna wait til those get cold?”

 

He pops open the beer on the side of the counter and starts drinking regardless.

 

Yamcha just laughs and does the same, chugging his down in record time.

 

Roshi passes by Ten once more and finds his way in front of the TV. He sits down and turns on the appliance, his favorite channel already switched on and p laying in front of his shaded eyes . That seemingly takes the attention of the perverted old man quickly.

 

While he watches his usual yoga instruction videos, the men in the kitchen begin chatting amicably.

 

T en looks up towards Vegeta again. He had almost forgotten that the Saiyan prince was there.

 

Almost.

 

It was due to the defeat of Majin Buu and subsequent change in character of Vegeta that T e n no longer held up his highest guard around the other man. This didn’t mean he completely trusts the P rince . No- Ten isn’t sure Vegeta could do anything to change his mind about his sentiments towards the other. However, he has come to tolerate his presence in the face of Vegeta’s change of heart.

 

With all that was said and done- he figures he can at least be peaceful around the other man in the company of his friends and found family.

 

Krillin and Yamcha are laughing and talking about something in the kitchen. Goku approaches the door and passes through it. Vegeta follows him but stops short of the doorframe as it’s just a second later that Goku pops his head back in.

 

“We’re to spar again- so we’ll be back for dinner, okay?”

 

Vegeta huffs and crosses his arms in his typical fashion.

 

Krillin tips his head back, “Again? Okay- but we’re making lobster for dinner! Don’t be late!”

 

Goku pouts a bit at that and looks at Vegeta with an expression unreadable to Ten. He looks kind of sad, but also- questioning?

 

Vegeta just grunts and storms out past Goku through the door with a barked out, “Alright!”

 

He feels the smaller of the two Saiyan’s Ki energy blast off the ground of the island and into the sky. Goku looks between Krillin and the door in a moment of panicked haste and quickly runs out to follow Vegeta’s trail.

 

Their Ki fades into the calm energy of the sky and Ten gives just the slightest sighs in relaxation once Vegeta’s signature has left his senses.

 

It’s just the five of them inside the house now. Chaos starts to prep dinner for a couple hours from now.

 

He’s suddenly reminded of how long ago that it was that they were all together like this. The many threats that they as a group had faced were still fresh in their minds. The arrival of the Mage Babidi two years ago had thrown them into the loop once again after the relative peace from the fallout of Cell.

 

Chaos is rummaging through the fridge for the ingredients needed. Using his telekinetic powers, he starts unloading the butter, eggs, and various vegetables to prepare with. Ten wonders if Chaos feels happy knowing they’re all still alive and well to enjoy a meal together.

 

From across the room, he watches as Yamcha approaches hi m . He bumps his fist against T e n’s shoulder, a happy smile on his features.

 

“Hey Ten, we were wondering if you were coming to Bulma’s birthday party? You know it’s tomorrow, right?”

 

Ten looks a bit confused and his eyes move to look towards Chaos.

 

He gives Ten a smile and nods, psychically sharing, Wow, that sounds fun!

 

With that, Ten looks back to Yamcha and nods with an unguarded expression,

 

“Sure. We haven’t seen everyone in a while. I don’t see why not.”

 

Yamcha does a little spin and wraps his arm around Ten’s shoulders.

 

“Nice! Hey It’ll be great! Everyone is gonna be there!”

 

He drapes his arm around Ten’s shoulder, his voice lowering just a bit,

 

“Including you know who..?”

 

Ten makes a face of confusion. He ponders the question for a moment before shaking his head and searching the other man’s face for an answer.

 

Yamcha brings the beer to his mouth and drinks a bit, smirking behind the bottle,

 

“Launch.”

 

Krillin laughs and raises his hand that’s holding his beer.

 

I n front of the TV, Master Roshi gives a bit of chuckle.

 

Krillin meets Ten’s eyes with a suggestive, “You two haven’t seen one another in a while, huh?”

 

The two men both continue to tease and pry until Ten seemingly has had enough. He politely excuses himself after a minute or two of the ribbing and shoots a glance at Chaos before walking outside.

 

Outside, the sun is just as bright.

 

The ocean is a beautiful crystal blue color that sparkles in the horizon as waves dance farther away from the beach. Ten looks over to see his best friend floating after him.

 

Chaos lowers himself down to the grass and walks up beside Ten. He’s staring out at the ocean as well.

 

Beside them, under the hood of an umbrella and resting herself on a beach chair is Android 18.

 

She has a pleasant and open look on her face. Her and Krillin’s daughter, Marron, is perched on her lap

 

“Hi.”

 

Ten looks a little shocked. As does Chaos. Usually- she isn’t one to initiate conversation.

 

Marron is smiling widely when she waves her arms and echos her mother’s words, “Hiya guys!”

 

Chaos waves back to them both. “Hello 18, hello Marron!”

 

Ten grunts a bit and turns his attention back to the ocean scene in front of him.

 

Chaos feels a bit more open to talking and asks 18, “How are you?”

 

A seagull flies overhead and lands on the beachfront. Marron notices this and wiggles to be freed from her mothers lap. She squeals and runs towards it.

 

18 rises from her sitting position and faces them, placing her elbow on her lap and staying well within the shade created by the umbrella. She looks cool underneath it- matching her exterior. Still, she smiles as her eyes never leave the sight of her young child frolicking alongside the waves lapping the shore. The toddler is carefully approaching the seagull.

 

“Fine. Thanks.”

 

It’s probably the most Chaos has ever talked to her, he thinks.

 

Chaos watches h er for a moment. He t h en turns to continue to watch the horizon with Ten. The taller man isn’t saying anything as it feels better to listen to the c alming sounds of the sea.

 

They find themselves caught up in the present. If not now- then when?

Notes:

Thank you for reading- im excited to keep this going!
unbeta'd
edit: rearranged this and chapter 1

Chapter 4: Wilding About Serene Mt. Paozu! (Goten)

Rays of the late afternoon light beam down from the canopy of trees above. The late summer wind is warm and breezes through the rustling leaves. Bits of dust are illuminated into little glowing wisps. The air is hot against Goten’s face and he wipes his brow. In contrast- the grass is soft and slightly cool beneath his feet.

 

He’s standing at the edge of the forest- just on the outskirts of the property of his home. He sees smoke billowing from the chimney as no doubt his mom is already cooking dinner!

 

A bird flies overhead and Goten perks up from his semi-dazed daydreaming.

 

“Trunks- look!”

 

The bird lands on a branch just above their heads and pecks at it’s feathers. It eyes down towards the boys and notices Goten grinning it’s way.

 

“It’s the one I was talking about!”

 

It gives an inquisitive tilt of it’s head. Goten waves at it, his mouth widening in a toothless grin. This prompts it to hop from one tree limb to the next, making its way down towards Goten before flapping onto his shoulder.

 

From beside him, Goten sees Trunks make a face of interest- though he quickly crosses his arms and tilts his head.

 

“This is what you wanted to show me, Goten?”

 

He sounds kind of grumpy, Goten thinks. So, the dark haired boy turns his attention to the the bird hopping from his shoulder to his fingertip. It’s got brightly colored feathers that sparkle in the low angled sun.

 

“Yeah! He even told me his name!”

 

Goten looks back to Trunks and notices that he doesn’t look convinced.

 

“Really?”

 

He’s still got his arms crossed and just raises an eyebrow in waiting.

 

Goten looks back at the bird and then back to his friend.

 

“Will you tell my friend you name?”

 

The little bird hops from his fingertip to Goten’s shoulder and sways as it begins to sing.

 

Trunks watches the little creature for a moment and uncrosses his arms. Maybe he likes it’s song? They both watch the bird for a moment, listening to it’s melodic trills and whistles. It’s after a couple of moments that the animal eventually quiets, ruffles it’s feathers, and flutters away peacefully.

 

The two of them wait a moment, watching the forest continue to bustle with it’s din. Goten finds himself on the ground, watching a colony of ants marching in line towards their hill. They waddle in file with little leaves in their mouths towards their home.

He remembers his older brother telling him all about insects. Gohan had pointed out one day to Goten that these types of ants don’t actually eat the leaves they carry! Instead- it’s for the fungus growing inside their den.

 

Goten had asked his brother what a ‘fungus’ was. He had said it was like a mushroom.

 

And with that memory recalled- Gohan imagines one giant mushroom residing just beneath the soil. The thought of it dug up, seasoned, and cooked has Goten now sighing at the thought of the food. He casts a wistful glance towards his home where Trunks’ and his respective moms told them to wait outside until dinner is done.

 

It’s then that Trunks speaks up, “Goten, I like the bird- but don’t you want to go do something more fun?”

 

He looks up, finding that Trunks is facing towards him, hands on his hips.

 

“Like what? I’m too hu-ungry!”

 

His mind is a bit spaced out with the thought of food for now, but he definitely wants to explore with Trunks! It’s because the mountains surrounding his home are so fun to play in!

 

Trunks thinks for a moment, gazing up at the canopy of leaves overhead.

 

“Hey- I know! Let’s go catch a fish!

 

He pops up from his spot on the cool earth and hops about Trunk’s static form.

 

“But mom said that we have to wait for dinnertime so we can all eat together!”

 

He balls up his fists and mock punches in the air a couple times- just to get his mind off the emptiness in his stomach.

 

Trunks grabs onto Goten’s shoulders and shakes his form,

 

“Then we’ll just bring it back home after we cook it!”

 

Goten’s mouth waters at the idea of a whole cooked fish from the clear waters of Mount Paozu. He shakes his head rapidly and gulps audibly,

 

“Mom is gonna be really mad, Trunks!”

 

“That’s if she finds out!”

 

Goten doesn’t like the implication of eating without his family- but it’s at the exact moment that his stomach gives a large grumble. Goten still isn’t convinced.

 

“What if we miss dinner?”

 

Trunks offers Goten his outstretched hand with a smirk,

 

“We’ll be quick! We’ll bring it back to them and we can all eat it- together!”

 

Goten looks back towards his house and chews the inside of his cheek. He knows his mom, dad, Ms. Briefs, and maybe even Mr. Vegeta will be there! The thought of everyone together would be really sad to miss out on. He thinks maybe he should just wait to decide- but it doesn’t take long to change his mind as his stomach roars out in protest again and he grabs Trunk’s hand with a giggle.

 

Goten figures that Trunks has a point. They’ll just snag a fish to eat and be back even before mom and Mrs. Briefs have even finished cooking!

 

They race off into the forest at once, the green paradise washing past their forms. The sun is hot on their hair and the tailwind on their backs is cool.

 

Goten remembers a fishing spot that takes them deeper into the forest,. The louder buzz of insects and animals greats them. There is noise all around them: the trickle of unseen streams, the crunch of grass and ferns beneath their feet, and the rattle of bamboo in the soft breeze.

 

The two boys are sent into into a foraging frenzy as they bound about the bountiful wilds.

 

Trunks swims about a stream as he searches for fish while Goten gathers lychees He manages to snag a big one before he knows it. It’s flopping in his hand when he exits the waters edge. Trunks finds Goten at the edge of the trees- picking fruits from their branches and stuffing them into the front of his gi.

 

Trunks approaches his friend and stops at his side with a smile to ask if Goten is ready to head back home.

 

A chitter sounds out from above their heads. They both to gaze up and are met with the curious faces of a family of monkeys. They eye the two boys suspiciously before swinging and climbing in closer to inspect.

 

“Oh I bet they want some food!” Goten chirps and reaches for a handful of lychees. He offers them to the creatures and they start picking them one by one and eating them noisily.

 

They’re soon gobbling up all that Goten had picked. The younger boy squawks and just watches it happen.

 

Trunks just facepalms, turns away, and sighs out exasperated, “Goten!”

 

He doesn’t immediately get a response; instead hearing loud giggling erupt from the other. Trunks peeks open an eye to fix a glare at his friend but is met with the sight of the troupe of monkeys grooming Goten’s hair and licking his face.

 

Trunks can’t help but just shake his head incredulously and laugh and point.

 

Suddenly- the monkeys start all at once and scatter back into the forest canopy- the lychees they were devouring now scattered about the ground.

 

Trunks shifts the giant fish on his shoulder so that he can bend down to pick one up.

 

“What happened? Did they think I was laughing at them?”

 

He inspects the lychee fruit for a moment before turning his gaze back to Goten.

 

The boy’s mouth is puckered and his eyes are as wide as saucers.

 

Trunk’s doesn’t have to turn around to know the source of his friend’s reaction.

 

Instead, he feels a hot- unbearably stinky breathe exhale across his entire back.

 

“DUCK!” Goten shouts and it springs Trunks into a crouched stance- just as a set of massive jaws collides above his head.

 

Trunks scrambles out from under the hungry maw of a dinosaur and sprints just out of the way of a giant green tail.

 

He screams towards Goten who is still in front of the beast, “RUN!”

 

The dark haired boy turns tail and dashes into the forest, the dinosaur crashing after him.

 

Trunks picks up speed and follows after the two, fish still in hand.

 

The grove shakes and shudders under the gigantic footfalls of the dinosaur. Animals scatter out from underfoot in the chase.

 

Trunks finally catches up with them and sees the wagging tail of the lizard as it closes in on Goten.

 

He feels rage at the thought of the snarling monster hurting his friend and it powers him up and into the air. He kicks out and feels his foot collide with the side of the dinosaur’s face right as it corners Goten against a cliff face.

 

The dinosaur takes the impact with a roar and staggers a moment. Then, it’s reeling about on it’s feet and lunging back towards them, mouth open in all it’s toothed glory.

 

“THE FISH!” Goten points at Trunk’s catch and that’s all it takes for him to toss the fish straight into the gnashing maw of the monster.

 

It gives them just enough of a distraction to make a get-away. The loud chomping of their would-be dinner fades into the distance as they approach home rapidly.

 

The two boys never slow down until finally they screech to a halt just short of the edge of the property. The sun is beginning to set already and casts the area in a warm orange light. The wind still rattles the bamboo in a pleasant chime. They’re panting in exertion, hearts racing and hairs still standing on end.

 

He glances at Goten. He’s covered in dirt, lychee juice, and his hair is filled with twigs.

 

Trunks figures he must look the same.

 

The two boys share a look between one another before they both break out into rambunctious laughter. They only stop when they need to catch their breaths. A shared thought passes between Trunks and Goten: What will be worse, the dinosaur eating them- or what will await them when their moms see them?

Notes:

thank you for reading! sorry for mistakes- this is also unbetaed. q.q
I was thinking of drawing illustrations for each chapter once ive got the story going. who knows?
i think also ill make a pass with each upload on the previous chapter for mistakes until i find someone who may want to beta this. thanks again!

Chapter 5: Peace of Heart and Stomach. (Chi-Chi)

The stars are shining above her head- winking and glittering like jewels.

 

Chi-Chi exhales a breath into the rapidly cooling nighttime air. She pats down the front of her apron and feels it’s soft fabric. The edges of the garment are fringed from years of use in the kitchen of the Son household.

 

She watches as fireflies dance around the reeds of the stream nearby. If she listens, she can faintly hear a gentle murmur as it trickles steadily.

 

She feels she deserves a bit of a moment to relax with just herself after dinner. It had gone great- her friends and family had gathered together to sit down and share their lives.

 

Her life has been one tumultuous journey up and down mountains of chaos- so a moment for them all to unwind and see each other safe and sound it is all she wishes for, really.

 

Still, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

It’s just then that the front door to the house opens and her friend Bulma steps out from the amber lit interior. The sound of plates clinking and water running comes from inside the house for a moment before the door is shut. Bulma claps her hands together with a loud sigh and finds her place next to Chi-Chi’s side,

 

“Wow- I am full!” She grins pleasantly and leans against the chilled white wall of the capsule home.

 

This brings a mirrored smile to Chi-Chi’s face. She had cooked a vegetable medley stew with tofu and a mountain of steamed jasmine white rice to compliment it.

 

Truthfully- Chi-Chi still surprises herself with her cooking skills. She would think someone as rich and refined as Bulma wouldn't find her creations noteworthy.

 

However, she feels that the expression the other woman wears on her face says enough as a testimony to her craftsmenship.

 

Bulma sets her jacket higher on her shoulders. Chi-Chi finds it endearing that her friend is always adorning herself in a new and fanciful outfit. Today- it’s a red fluffy jacket with a dark colored dress. She’s got white heels on that are complimented with golden jewelry adorning her neck and ears.

 

Usually- Chi-Chi is content to dress in a similar fashion every day. It doesn’t bother her to see her friend is the opposite. In fact- she enjoys looking forward to what extravagant outfit Bulma will appear in next!

 

"Chi-Chi! You never fail to impress me with your cooking!”

 

She swipes the pad of her thumb onto her red-painted lips.

 

"Did you do something different this time?"

 

Chi-Chi ponders this question for a moment as she thinks of an answer. Eventually- she nods and leans herself onto her hip.

 

"Thank you! Well- yes!"

 

Bulma mirrors her nod with a focused look is in her eyes. It seems that her blue-haired friend is expecting an answer.

 

Chi-Chi grips the fabric of her apron.

 

“Well-… we don’t see that much of one another… don’tcha think? Having our families together is a big deal to me!”

 

Bulma’s eyes gain a certain emotion to them that looks to Chi-Chi as if the cogs in her head are turning.

 

She considers that Bulma is extremely smart- what with her creating so many inventions Chi-Chi felt she could barely understand how to work- let alone how they actually functioned! Bulma must be very deep in thought to be silently thinking over something like a family dinner.

 

The other woman raises her finger and her expression turns from that of pondering to a pleasant lightness.

 

"That's got me thinking! I wanted to ask you something!"

 

Chi-Chi blinks and tilts her head, feeling ready to hear what the other woman is about to ask.

 

“Would... you be interested… in cooking for my birthday?” Her friend’s eyebrows upturn a bit, “I know it’s extremely late notice- so I really understand if you can’t!” Her hands are folded in a prayer-like posture.

 

Chi-Chi’s eyes widen and she opens her mouth.

 

Cooking, for an entire birthday party?

 

She cooks enough every day to feed three parties!

 

Chi-Chi wrings the edge of her apron and waves her hand, “Of course!” She brushes a stray strand of hair back into her bun.

 

Bulma waits a moment before continuing-

 

“I have a group of chefs that I want you to direct! Just say the word and they’ll prepare whatever you want to make!”

 

This leaves Chi-Chi at a bit of a loss.

 

Direct? An entire ensemble of chefs? Everyone... at a party eating her food?

 

“Don’t worry- I won’t need help! I’ll do it all myself!””

 

A cool breeze brushes through the land. She doesn’t shiver- suddenly feeling pumped up. Ususally- it just her cooking for her family when they all manage to be at the right place and time. But- knowing that she could feed an entire party including her friends and family?

 

Well, that just sets her heart ablaze with passion!

 

 

Bulma looks delighted to hear that and fails to stifle a laugh. Chi-Chi has got her hands balled into fists.

 

“I insist on letting them help Chi-Chi! Here- I’ll just need a list from you about what ingredients will be needed, okay? Can you tell me now or later?”

 

Chi-Chi wastes no time and begins reciting out a long list of foods that come across the top of her head. Bulma eagerly grabs her phone from the pocket of her jacket and starts jotting down the ingredients. With a few suggestions thrown in by Bulma, the two women settle on a spectacular dinner that will prepped during the party.

 

When the two finalize the meal plans, Chi-Chi claps her hands together,

 

“Well..when do I need to be there?”

 

Bulma looks up from her phone and pockets the object. She poises her hands out, palms facing up.

 

“How about I send a car for you after breakfast so you don’t have to worry about traveling?”

 

Chi-Chi pauses a moment, feeling a rush of excitement at how her plans have changed. She is surprised when the other woman closes the distance and hugs her, their hips bumping.

 

“-Yes, that’s fine! Thank you…!”

 

Bulma grins and squeals a bit as she shakes her fists in excitement,

 

“Oh- it’s going to be so fun! Thanks so much, Chi-Chi. I really appreciate this!”

 

She suddenly feels transported back to her younger self. Chi-Chi embraces her back warmly, tilting her head to the side so it bumps gently against Bulma’s.

 

She’s known the other woman for so many years. Through so many battles and dangers; they still talk to one another and want one another in their own respective lives. It feels great getting closer to someone with whom she shares so much history with. It warms her to her very core.

 

“Of course- anything for my family!”

Notes:

ty for reading! unbeta-ed

Chapter 6: The Old Geezer Rises Again! (Roshi)

Roshi wakes up in the same way that he does every morning.

 

The sound of lapping waves greets his now conscious mind. A warm breeze floats in the from the window and blankets the atmosphere of the Kame House.

 

His eyes open blearily.

 

The sun is shining in through the eastern window, peaking itself above the horizon and painting the sky in brightening pastel.

 

He rises from his bed once sleepiness flows away from his mind and body.

 

Roshi retrieves a shirt and pants from his closet and dresses himself.

 

Wafting up from downstairs, he can smell what must be breakfast already being cooked. Voices echo in a calm din throughout the house. Their words can’t be distinguished- but their inflection sounds light-hearted.

 

He grabs his sunglasses from the spot he always places them and fits them to the bridge of his nose. A comb is used to shape his beard and he takes some cream to massage into his scalp.

 

With a quick trip to the bathroom- he’s soon greeting the youngsters that he shares his life with.

 

Krillin and Android 18 are sitting at the kitchen island, sipping both on their own glasses of orange juice. It’s fresh- as evident by a couple of squeezed rinds laying on the table next to them.

 

Oolong and Yamcha peak their heads up from their fixed gazes on the TV, Yamcha perks up with a smile and throws Roshi a wave.

 

Roshi rasies his hand and gives a contented hum.

 

He passes by the two and with a quick motion- grabs the TV remote and switches it to his favorite channel.

 

Oolong makes a noise of exasperation- but quickly turns his attention back to the TV to watch.

 

He likes the background noise it provides and has provide d for so many years spen t with his friends and family. Roshi stops in front of the fridge and opens the door. He takes a chilled glass of water and chugs it from the bottle.

 

Krillin sips from his orange juice and tilts his head towards Roshi, “Hey- you want some eggs?”

 

The old man shakes his head and turns to walk back towards the TV.

 

He finds himself kneeling before the television- watching the forms move in front of him. It’s one of his favorite yoga programs. The instructor calls out poses as a group of women move in tandem.

 

It’s quiet for a moment aside from the pleasant sounds emanating from the speakers of the TV and relaxed clinking of glasses on the kitchen island.

 

Yamcha yawns from behind him after a moment. He stretches his arms out a bit, asking,

 

“Hey Master Roshi- you’re going to Bulma’s party right?”

 

The old man nods his head with a sound of affirmation. He’s going of course! He thinks Bulma always throws the best parties.

 

It seems Yamcha shares the same sentiment, because he continues,

 

“Y’know- something always seems to happen at one of her parties. Can’t miss ‘em!”

 

Oolong shifts in his position and just snorts,

 

“Remember when Goku let all the dinosaurs loose? I almost got eaten!”

 

Yamcha makes a noise of amusement, “You weren’t the only one! I had to save his wife!”

 

From across the room, Android 18 huffs, “I remember it a little differently.”

 

Yamcha must have turned to face her, because his voice echos away from Roshi, “Oh really, how so?”

 

She chuckles a bit and doesn’t respond as sounds of others entering Kame House comes from the front door.

 

Roshi turns his head away from the TV to see Marron racing inside. She’s followed by Puar floating inside and Turtle sliding in after some time.

 

Krillin laughs a bit an greets his daughter by facing her and picking her up onto his shoulder, “Hi sweetie, want some juice?”

 

The girl nods with a happy smile and hugs him.

 

“Yeah that was pretty funny, but last year was better. I mean- Bulma got her head stuck in the front gate!”

 

Oolong just snorts again as Puar floats up to them.

 

“Yamcha!”

The little cat taps Roshi on the shoulder, smiling as wide and sanguine as ever.

 

“I remember when you first met her that you could barely talk!” came a high pitched giggle from the shapeshifter.

 

“H-Hey!”

 

Laughs echoed from Krillin

 

Oolong pips up again,

 

“I remember that well!”

 

Turtle scoots forward across the room as evident by the soft noises of his carapace on the wooden floor.

“I... remember Krillin’s... girlfriend-!”

 

Yamcha snorts along with Oolong.

 

Roshi hears the young man sputter out from behind him, evidently embarrassed.

 

Krillin quickly responds, “Yeah and now I’ve got a loving wife and family!” 18 makes a pleased noise from beside him.

 

“I’m never settling down,” came the retort from Yamcha after a pause in the conversation. Roshi turns his head from his TV program and flashes the man with a thumbs up. From beside Yamcha, Oolong crosses his arms and nods his head.

 

They continue chatting from a while, eating breakfast and relaxing until it’s time to ready themselves.

Notes:

thanks for reading! ^.^ next chapter is Yamcha...some shippy moments too! unbeta'd

Chapter 7: A Phenomenal Party! (Yamcha)

Yamcha finds himself outside the doors of Capsule Corp. He’s putzing around the front for a bit to escape the noise from the main party.

 

It’s as clear and cheery as a day can get. A few beads of water drip from the glass in his hand. He sips the foam of his drink while glancing around. The sun is starting to dip toward the horizon.

 

From inside- he hears a loud crash from the direction of the kitchen.

 

Sure enough- Chi-Chi’s booming voice echos from inside. She’s really laying into those cooks. Well- in fact- they aren’t really cooking anything. They haven’t all day as she’s taken it upon herself to cook everything herself.

 

Yamcha wipes some foam from his lip. Figures, considering who she usually has to cook for!

 

He nabbed a slice of pizza earlier and takes a bite from it. He can’t help but feel a bit absurd at the notion of life carrying on as is. Of course- the whole planet being destroyed is no big deal for his friends.

 

A birthday party is a special occasion after all.

 

He’s not mad- just kind of flabbergasted at the turn of events his life has taken ever since he met Goku.

 

Some days enjoying the afterlife- some days eating junk food like it never happened. It’s kind of your run of mill turn of events for a person like him.

 

He misses the simplicity of his life in the desert.

 

Still- he doesn’t regret a thing.

 

The fire in his soul when he fights alongside his friends makes it worth it.

 

He’s free to do anything he wants now- and deep down- that’s still what he yearns for.

 

He feels a presence float near him and is pleased to find Puar smiling down on him. Soon after, he finds he’s being persuaded back into the fray of the party.

 

Yamcha shuffles past others, weaving in between finely dressed woman adorned with glittering jewels and the modestly clad farmers that wore their very best overalls and boots for good measure.

 

The Briefs family doesn’t discriminate. He always liked that about them.

 

Still, he dressed himself up like the show-pony he is. A pressed green suit and black shirt turns a few heads and that’s fine by him.

 

Yamcha stops in front of the bar, meeting eyes with the barkeeper and ordering another drink for himself and Puar. The beat of the music is catchy and not too loud for his taste. It’s some new age mix that sets a good mood for dancing.

 

He floats onto the wooden counter and motions towards the dance floor. Everyone is really feeling the party it seems like!

He sees Bulma dancing about the floor with a drink in her hand. She looks happy- and the wrinkles around her eyes are genuine in their emotion. He can’t help but mirror the expression she wears. It’s nice to see the girl so upbeat- always was.

Years in the future- he’s sure he’ll still feel the same.

Naturally, Goku is bumbling about the dance floor but still managing to make it work like he does with everything .

 

He eyes Vegeta- who is watching from the outskirts next to Piccolo. Both have their arms crossed and neither look upset. Yamcha figures they’re being their usual wallflower-selves.

 

The old man Roshi is at the punch table, chatting with some women who look rightly justified in their livid expressions. He turns away when the both of them whack the glasses off his face with a loud smack and some well deserved shouting.

 

The bartender grabs his attention and hands him his drink. From beside him- Puar floats down and sits himself on the wooden counter. The shapeshifter sips at his fruity drink with a happy sigh.

 

He drifts in his thoughts a bit before he is startled a bit when he f eels a hand on his shoulder.

 

He glances up to see Tenshinhan and Chaos.

 

The other man is looking down at him with his usual unreadable expression. Chaos smiles widely and waves. Puar pats his paws together and pipes up,

 

“Ten, Chaos!”

 

He floats up and away from his bubbling drink and into the arms of Chaos.

 

The two spin around a bit before settling next to one another at the bar.

 

Tenshinhan takes a seat next to him.

 

The two meet eyes and a smile passes between them.

 

He can hear Goku making some kind of scene from behind him. It comes as no surprise that Vegeta’s booming shout accompanies it.

 

“Hey- how’s it going?”

 

Yamcha’s mouth quirks up in a smirk and he shrugs.

 

“Oh- y’know how it is…” he takes a swig from his glass, “...and yourself?”

 

Tenshinhan looks out into the party as a rather loud crash comes from the punch table.

 

“Busy training the students. It’s worth it- but the party- it’s nice.”

 

Yamcha finds he can relate to that. He isn’t working like Ten is- but he definitely needs occasions like this to let himself find where he stands with his friends.

 

A rather loud yell comes from Goku- and he feels the Ki of both him and Vegeta rocket up into the sky. No doubt- they’re off to spar.

 

He shakes his head, huffing to himself in amusement.

 

Tenshinhan is still looking out into the party.

 

Yamcha glances over, following his eyes just to see what’s captured the other man’s eyes. What he finds causes him to smirk.

 

Sure enough- he’s got all three eyes focused on a certain purple haired gal.

 

Yamcha watches Ten’s body language for a moment. He doesn’t give anything away. No twitches or jitters- but his eyes are fixated on the girl. He laughs out loud and this causes his friend to glance back towards him. Yamcha reaches out and is angling Ten’s head back to where he was looking.

 

The other man looks a little lost- so Yamcha helps,

 

“Y’know- we haven’t seen Launch in a while. How about you go say hi?”

 

Ten opens his mouth like he wants to speak- but no words come out. Instead- his jaw kind of flaps up and down.

 

“I- um…”

 

Yamcha’s smile turns into a full blown grin.

 

He claps the other man on the shoulder, “Oh c’mon! That’s rich! Here- I’ll go talk to her!”

 

Yamcha gulps down the rest of his drink with a loud, happy sigh and slams it down onto the counter. He jumps up from his seat and starts for the dance floor.

 

Behind him- he hears an audible gasp from Ten and that just sets him into motion.

 

He approaches the girl and clears his throat from behind her. She perks up, the red bow on her head bouncing as she turns around. Instantly- her expression turns from mild surprise to the carefree visage she is always wearing.

 

Launch throws her arms around him, giggling,

 

“Yamcha! Hiya!”

 

He gulps a bit, letting his arms wrap around her thin frame gently.

 

“Hey Launch. It’s been a while, huh?”

She gives him a little squeeze before pulling away to look up at him. Her deep indigo eyes are so soft and cute in their openness.

 

Yamcha clears his throat again, patting her back gently. She pulls away, but takes his hands in her own.

 

“How are you? Been busy?”

 

The question from Yamcha has her smiling. She brushes a lock of velvet y hair behind her ear. She’s dressed in a pretty magenta skirt and a white blouse.

 

Her eyes glance up as she thinks,

 

“Thank you- I’ve been good! Busy driving my food truck around y’know!”

 

Yamcha perks up as he senses Tenshinhan’s Ki from behind him. He squeezes her hands and motions with his thumb to the other man watching from the bar.

 

“Hey- y’know Tenshinhan- he was asking about you! You two haven’t seen one another in a while! Let’s go say hi, eh?”

 

She blinks wide and glances from behind his shoulder. The innocent smile on her face just widens.

 

“Oh- Ten is here?”

 

She let s go of Yamcha’s hands and walks over to a quickly flustering Ten.

 

Her back is faced away from Yamcha, but he reads her body language as she stops just in front of him. She looks kind of nervous, wringing her hands in front of her chest. He can make out their conversation just barely enough to hear her greet him and him let out a small hello. Chaos and Puar are far more boisterous in their salutations- and hug her with earnest love. Puar floats back over to where Yamcha is standing at the edge of the dance floor.

 

“It’s so nice to see Launch again- isn’t it Yamcha?”

 

He nods with a smile- focusing on his taller friend whose shoulders are hunched up a s he sips his water with a stilted demeanor not really fitting a trained martial artist.

 

Because of this- Yamcha hops up and down to gain his friend’s attention. Sure enough, Ten is looking back towards him with an incredulous expression.

 

Puar glances between the two of them once more before giggling.

 

Yamcha motions with his hands to convey his intent to Ten- curling them into claws and mocking his signature Wolf Fang Fist. Naturally- his best friend Puar is helpful enough to shapeshift himself into a bouquet of flowers.

 

He smirks as h e swears he can see Ten’s face go red.

 

A cool breeze sweeps through the air as the sun begins to set. Leaves kick up from the ground and swirl in the air. The bass of the music thumps the ground beneath their feet.

 

Launch is quivering a bit. At first- Yamcha thinks she’s gotten cold- but then quickly startles as the young woman sneezes loudly.

 

Her hair streaks yellow and suddenly a very different side of Launch appears. Yamcha hears a small gasp from the woman. Suddenly- shes’ embracing her arms around Tenshinhan in a rather heated display of affection.

 

His smirk subdues into a smile. He looks over to Puar who is mirroring his expression.

 

The party is just starting!

Notes:

thanks for reading! This one took a while because I really want to express Yamcha and do him justice!

Chapter 8: A Foreign Light. (Piccolo)

Piccolo snarls his teeth and breathes out a sigh of exasperation. He does not particularly enjoy the company of strangers- let alone hundreds of them.

 

The pompous air that some of the humans exude irks him at best- and at worst is when Piccolo usually checks himself out either physically or mentally.

 

This is why he meditates. So that he can calm himself before these emotions lead to thoughts. And- so that if he fails to prevent these thoughts- that he can prevent himself from acting on them unwisely.

 

The party is as extravagant as one can imagine being throw by the heiress of the richest family in the world. There are- of course- hundreds of guests; a mix of business partners and friends of friends.

 

All things considered, compared to what they could do, it seems fairly quaint.

 

Piccolo breathes out a sigh of relief when he spots Gohan, who seems far more than happy to weave in and out of the party- chatting pleasantly. He even apologizes when someone bumps into him, stopping to chat about the party and ask if the other person is having fun.

 

Piccolo wonders just how he can deal with inane small talk. Truly it is beyond him.

 

He can stomach it for so long before he quickly looses interest and no longer humors the other character. Gohan is happy making others happy. He genuinely seems to gain a benefit from letting others exude their presence onto him. Piccolo feels a bit sentimental at the thought.

 

However, he immediately half-regrets looking at Gohan because the other man catches his gaze and their shared eye contact seems to inadvertently magnetize his friend towards him.

 

He breezes by a couple party-goers and makes his way to Piccolo. He has a glass of alcohol in one hand and a little sandwich in the other. Piccolo turns to face him. He’s smiling in earnest- looking very at home around all the other humans.

 

“Hi Mister Piccolo!”

 

He’s looking up at him with an expression that seems to be searching. Piccolo doesn’t say anything. So, the kid asks predictably,

 

“You look kind of upset. Are… you not feeling up to party?”

 

His tone of voice makes it seem like the kid is teasing him just a little. Figures- he knows just how much Piccolo would rather be doing anything else. Regardless, he offers his food and drink to Piccolo with outstretched arms. Piccolo shakes his head no with his palms facing Gohan.

 

“Thanks- no.”

 

He appreciates the sentiment from the other. Usually- the others in their shared group don’t entertain the idea of asking him pleasantries. In reality- no one else really dares to talk to him in such an honest manner. Of course he would say no to them as well if say Bulma or Goku asked him to eat or drink. He doesn’t enjoy the feeling of eating. He turns away from Gohan.

 

A loud boom startles him a bit. Ah, yes- how could he forget that Bulma loves her firework shows? Gohan perks up even more. His grin is now from ear to ear.

 

“Look Mr. Piccolo!” A hand is patting at his shoulder and guides his eyes to the sky.

 

Around them, the party-goers make various noises in awe and the ground shudders as explosions of light color the sky. Piccolo resists the urge to cover his ears. He'll humor this display a little longer- just for Gohan.

 

In fact- there is something about the other man; his Ki is flaring for a response- negative or positive- from Piccolo. Unspoken words are being shared between them- but Piccolo is unable to decipher them. Not with all this noise.

 

Slowly, he lets out an exhale. His ears burn as he senses Gohan has turned his attention away from the sky and is now looking at him.

 

He can see the other out of the corner of his eye. He’s staring rather obviously.

 

Piccolo watches the sky for a moment longer before he finally caves in, shifts his gaze, and finds Gohan looking at him with his usual candid expression- though Piccolo notes his eyes in this new light.

 

Both of their faces mirror a surprised expression for a moment. Fireworks dance and reflect upon his face- painting it endless colors. He cannot help but stare at the display more vivid than the one exploding in the sky.

 

I do believe that he is staring at you-

 

and you are also staring at him rather obviously-

 

when long ago you’ve tortured him to save your own skin.

 

The kid is still smiling at him so pleasantly; like he always has. Piccolo smiles back.

 

Something causes him to rip his eyes away and fixate them back to the sky. A rather loud firework explodes above their head and he can’t help but let a snarl turn his lip up and he grumble out a uncomfortably discontented noise. He isn’t sure what just passed over him while looking at Gohan. He simply knows that if he looks back to the other man- at this moment- he would be stepping into uncharted territory.

 

He doesn’t know what to do. There are a million Earth customs that he could recite to appear normal and in control of the situation. Truthfully- Piccolo is a bit taken aback at his own willingness to entertain foolishness like a party of this magnitude. It’s really telling of how soft hes gone.

 

He did not think that this ease of closeness he has so often seen enacted by Earthlings around him would ever rub off on someone such as himself. He thinks he should be embarrassed and hesitate more- be more gruff and less transparent with his body language.

 

The look in Gohan's eyes returns to the forefront of his mind.

 

It is not an unpleasant feeling to be here with his friend- the exact opposite really. He feels each boom from the fireworks reverberating through his body and strengthening his own heartbeat.

 

Shouldn’t he tell the boy off? Anyone could be able to see them standing together so closely. His family- his friends. Doesn’t Gohan know this? Part of him wants to push Gohan away and demand to know how is it that he wants to be here with him instead of with his family. Especially- he wants to know why Gohan isn’t with that classmate of his with whom he is so clearly close with.

 

Despite everything; he cannot find it within himself to speak up.

 

He enjoys how they are standing side by side, facing the display.

 

It’s some minutes later that the fireworks show peters to the end. A stray thought to pull the other man in closer- into his cloak- runs through his mind despite his better reasoning. He wonders if Gohan would be able to hear how heavily his heart is beating. He only knows that the boy is still watching him instead of what he ought to be looking at. These thoughts and the confidence to act on them dies with display.

 

He finally summons his energy to turn his head; only to find Gohan now staring out into the crowd of people. They’ve begun cheering and the sound of all the noise is quickly growing borderline unbearable. He raises his hand to his face and makes a beckoning motion.

 

This captures the boy’s attention once again. Piccolo makes a point to his ears while he wiggles them.

 

His friend perks up with an attentive expression and nods. He smiles warmly and lingers his gaze on Piccolo’s face for a moment before returning his attention to the crowd.

 

Piccolo swivels around on his heels. He’s got to get somewhere quieter as all this noise is just too much for his senses. However- with his haste- he’s turning full force into his departure and nearly knocks straight into someone.

 

Not just someone; It’s the wide blue eyes of Videl standing between him and the blissful quiet inside Capsule Corp.

 

Something is shared between them unwillingly from his part. He suddenly feels far too exposed out here. He levels her stare for a moment- then strides past her to depart into the crowd of watching party-goers.

 

When he reaches the side door to enter the Capsule Corporation's building, he finds the world drowned out aside from the two voices of Gohan and Videl. He isn’t sure what it means but the tension in his gut suddenly is much heavier. He hears them greet one another. They sound happy to be in the presence of one another. He can’t move away quick enough. Once inside- he can hear the base of music begin to play outside.

 

He swears he won’t watch this time- but finds his eyes following Gohan and his schoolmate as they begin to dance. For fear of Gohan’s safety.

 

Their forms are intertwined.

 

She’s hugging him. It’s closer than when they all gathered here for last year’s party. They are a lot alike and have an ease of contact- though she is smaller next to him.

 

He doesn’t want her any closer.

 

He has to tell himself to look away. Why is that even a thought he is having? What is this sick feeling in his throat? He is suddenly reminded of his father. With a silent gasp- Piccolo comes to a fuller understanding on the the old decrepit man’s covetous nature and his sentiments felt about the Earth and all it’s treasures.

 

His mind wanders further than it ever has.

 

What if he and Gohan were dancing?

 

He grimaces and is unable to tear his eyes away.

 

He wants to step in time with the other despite not knowing how to dance nor caring for the overbearing music. Would Gohan laugh at him?

 

A foreign smile quirks up his mouth despite any higher reasoning screaming at him to think logically.

 

Everyone would stare. Would it be worth it?

 

The hushed disdain and silent judgment; to enact that upon Gohan as Piccolo is already so accustomed to?

 

Why would Gohan wish for that? There is no way- and on the slim chance that there was- well Piccolo will never allow something like the two of them dancing to occur in the first place!

 

It is foolish to even entertain a notion of this magnitude.

 

He is a monster. Alien, foreign, and completely out of touch.

Notes:

thanks for reading! some shippy moments- we'll see how this goes hehe?

Chapter 9: The Chance of a Future. (Android 18)

The party is in full swing and Android 18 is more than happy to watch from the sidelines.

 

Her daughter, Marron, is playing in the grassy interior garden of the Capsule Corp. dome. Around her, an array of domesticated dinosaurs romp around peacefully. They’re trained well by the father of Bulma; as evident by how they only sniff curiously towards Marron and don’t make any moves to approach. Regardless- 18 keeps the young girl within her line of sight to ensure her safety.

 

She’s playing in a bed of flowers alongisde Bulma’s son, Trunks.

 

Marron is poking at a colorful flower inquisitively and her big blue eyes are wide with childish wonderment

 

18 watches as Trunks follows her motions with his eyes, tilting his head this way and that.

 

That boy has already seen much in his young life. Fusing with Goten against the singular evil that was Buu has changed his demeanor greatly. He is rather steadfast in his convictions to watch over others- and has a sense of self that is beyond his years.

 

He’s watching over her daughter alongside her mother.

 

A twinge of guilt grips at her core. She recalls the mirrored version of the boy before her. They never were acquainted.

 

A glance down at her hand causes her to wince. She can’t help the pang of guilt every time she sees the young man. She recalls for the thousandth time that her husband Krillin had explained to her years ago the dynamics between his friends and her self in a different timeline.

 

They had only started to get to know one another back then. He has always been truthful with her. The thought has stuck in the back of her mind ever since.

 

She remembers that he has and continues to try to persuade her mind away from guilt for a crime she did not commit. He tells her that in another timeline- he could be evil himself.

 

The thought just doesn’t stick with her. Her Krillin- well… she can’t imagine that he could ever be evil.

 

The two youngsters are whispering to one another, giggling quietly and glancing up at her shyly. Her daughter smiles at her and returns to whatever whimsical world she finds so entrancing within the petals of a simple garden flower.

 

From behind her- she hears footsteps approaching.

 

It’s her husband.

 

Marron looks up with a smile and is instantly bolting over to her father to jump into his arms. 18 watches as the two embrace with a fond feeling in her core. The young girl parts from Krillin and motions to her friend to follow her as she races towards the doors of Capsule Corp. She calls out,

 

“I’m gonna go play outside with Trunks, Papa!”

 

A glance is shared between 18 and her husband. She approaches him and the two leisurely walk side by side towards where Marron and Trunks have ran off to.

 

As they make their way towards the door- her eyes inspect the various people milling about the inside of the dome. Some are carrying drinks alone while others are holding hands with their partners.

 

She tilts her head slightly at the sight of Piccolo leaning against the wall alone. That in and of itself isn’t so odd. However- he is staring out the window with a fairly rare expression on his face. 18 feels that he almost looks forlorn. She follows his gaze and is somewhat surprised to see just who he’s directing it towards.

"What do you think?" She asks to Krillin.

 

"What do I think of what- the fireworks- the party?"

 

They pass through the hall and exit the dome. She notes that outside is quieter than before.

 

She could hear the explosions from earlier when her husband had said he wanted to go outside to watch. It seems to 18 that most of the party goers have worked up an appetite from the fireworks display; as most are now filing to a buffet table next to the bar. She can hear the soft chirping of crickets from beyond the fence above the sound of dance music. The air smells of nitrates.

 

Marron is running around the grassy lawn playing tag with Trunks. It seems the young Goten has also joined in. Fireflies are beginning to buzz out from the bushes and leaves they were hiding in. The children squeal and frolic around them

 

She perks up upon seeing the blue hair of Bulma cross in front of her view. The other woman meets her gaze with a pleased smile and nods towards 18 in a silent gesture of the intent in taking over her motherly guard duty.

 

18 glances back towards the mansion's doors with a silent exhale. She can hear bustling inside- drunken hoots and hollers. The party seems to have really started. She smiles and returns her gaze to her husband.

 

"How about some drinks?"

 

Krillin smiles widely in turn and nods his head, "Now you're talking! Let's go find Yamcha, eh?"

 

He touches her hand gently, rubbing the pad of his thumb over her delicate fingers. She's gazing out towards the bar where it seems that her husband’s friend has already found himself right at home.

 

Krillin leads her over to the bar counter. Yamcha is nursing a glass of beer with a wistful look on his face being cast towards the dance floor.

 

He seems to be watching Tenshinhan and a blonde haired girl who 18 believes to be ‘Launch’ dancing rather neatly together. The two have never met- but she’s been told many stories by her husband.

 

Android 18 finds a seat next to Yamcha and orders herself and Krillin some light drinks. The other man sighs out and hugs Krillin in a rather natural motion for someone who is tipsy. She reminds herself that the two share a lot of history and have no problem with closeness. Yamcha leans back against the bar counter and orders another tall glass of beer for himself along with some sandwiches.

 

“How’s it going Krillin?”

 

Her husband ruffles his hair and smiles, “Oh well y’know- we were just hanging out earlier- you know I’m good!”

 

Yamcha just huffs and shrugs his shoulders, “Yeah.”

 

Krillin pats him on the back and tilts his head inquisitively, “Hey Yamcha- what’s up?”

 

There is a rather long pause from Yamcha. It’s after a moment that the other man straightens his suit and throws his hands up in gesture towards the dance floor in mock-theatrics. He wastes no time in exclaiming, “Oh- to be young and in love!”

 

18 and Krillin gaze out towards the dancing crowd. Tenshinhan is holding hands with Launch, the two of them silently dancing together. She spots Gohan and Videl sharing a conversation with smiles on their faces all the while they sway with the music.

 

Their drinks arrive and 18 brings a stripped straw to her lips. The fruity flavor that hits her taste receptors masks the alcohol well.

 

She gazes up towards the dance floor and is somewhat surprised to see a rather familiar face.

 

"Well look who it is,” she deadpans.

 

Her husband follows her eyes and he just snorts,

 

“Oh!”

 

Sure enough, it’s the ‘Grand’ Mr. Satan. He’s jiving around in the goofiest possible manner. He’s got two ladies draped around his shoulders and he’s boisterously laughing at every little thing they whisper into his ears. She watches his charade for a while before setting her glass down.

 

Her husband jumps in his seat a bit, “Oh you’re- yep- you’re going to talk to him aren’t you?”

 

She’s already on her feet, sauntering towards the tall man. She’s about halfway the distance between them when the oaf finally catches sight of her. His face is priceless of course- but not in the way that could be used to pay the bills.

 

That’s when she stops in front of him with a cross of her arms.

 

“The money.”

 

She’ll give him credit where it’s due; he only looks half as much like he’s about to piss himself than at the tournament.

 

He’s putted on an air of bravado while glancing around, gulping audibly, “H-Hey! Listen ladies- why don’t you both excuse me for a moment?!”

 

She swipes her cold eyes across the two women. She quirks up a brow and follows his cowering form as Mr. Satan slinks towards the buffet table; where the oversized gumdrop that is Good Buu is stuffing his face with all manner of deserts.

 

Mr. Satan stops in front of the tubby creature and holds up his hands in a pleading motion.

 

“Buu… you know where my wallet is, right?”

 

Buu grunts between mouthfuls, shaking his head.

 

He turns back to Android 18, palms facing up, “Can we… work this out… another time?”

 

She squints her eyes- eyebrow twitching.

 

This is the very, very last chance she’s giving him.

 

Notes:

Thanks for reading! I'm definitely thinking about doing a visual doujinshi of this in the future. For now, here's the perspective of Android 18! I may go back at some point to revise chapters, fix errors, or rearrange some dialogue! I've actually got the next 4 chapters basically ready to be polished. Gonna have to start brainstorming some more!

Chapter 10: Family Is Worth the Time! (Krillin)

Watching his lovely wife Android 18 causes a charmed smile to light up his face. To cause Mr. Satan to dash for the fence with his tail between his legs is amusing, after all! She doesn’t give chase- despite her clenched fists.

 

Krillin isn't scared by her unlike the self-proclaimed ‘World’s Strongest’. Well- that’s kind of a half truth. Deep in his heart- every time they lock eyes- he’s still just as smitten with her as the day they met. She’s so beautiful after all; both mentally and physically.

 

Watching the familiar scene causes him to reminisce. He knows that there are countless timelines similar to future Trunks’. Ones where his caring and motherly wife is brainwashed into actions that create a version of her so alien to Krillin that he isn't sure he wants to think on it.

 

It isn't a reality for him. For another Krillin- another universe- maybe it is.

 

The thought makes him feel both incredibly lucky- and somewhat melancholy!

 

He figures that ruminating on the subject isn't helpful- and switches his attention to the woman objectively in front of him. He walks up to her, nudging her with his hip.

 

“You’re not gonna go after him?”

 

18 glances down at him and just cocks her hip to the side with an indignant look,

 

“And give him what he wants- more publicity?”

 

Krillin laughs at her rhetorical question. She’s most likely right! Mr. Satan has a way of turning any story against him into a captivating feat of strength from himself! Krillin thinks it’s a true testament to his abilities of persuasion.

 

Seeing as how he helped to save the universe and all, he can’t really fault the man.

 

After watching the absconding form of Mr. Satan disappear, Krillin returns to the bar alongside his wife. He grabs his drink and takes his seat next to Yamcha. It seems the other man was watching their little scene in amusement.

 

Krillin finds himself roaming his gaze across the outside lawn of the Capsule Corp. at all the familiar faces.

 

The party has a calm sense of security with everyone eating and mingling to enjoy themselves.

 

He glances out to where his child, Marron, is sitting on the grass with her friends. It seems that they’re being chaperoned now by Gohan and Videl. Chi-Chi is also with them. She’s saying something to her son that seems to have both him and Videl flustered.

 

Ten and Launch are approaching them from where they had been dancing privately. The girl’s hair is back to purple- he notes- and this causes him to silently relax in a reflexive reaction he forget he even had!

 

If Krillin didn’t have a sense of déjà vu before- he most certainly does now!

 

He looks over to his wife. Beside him, 18 has a certain look in her eye. He pats his head in a moment of understanding. He needs to introduce his wife to Launch; now being a perfect time!

 

Beside them, Yamcha is beckoning Ten and Launch over. Ten levels a piercing look at Yamcha that Krillin can’t quite discern.

 

Yamcha just holds up his hands in a gesture of innocence towards the taller man.

 

Launch pipes up, “I haven’t been to a party like this in so long...-” she gasps out upon catching sight of him, “Krillin!”

 

The woman bounds over to him, throwing a hug around his head and squeezing tightly. He hugs her back- a fond remembrance of their shared time together washing over him.

 

He separates from her after a moment to turn his body towards his wife. With an outstretched arm, he motions to her,

 

“Launch! Hi! Hey- I’d like you to meet my wife!”

 

The girl’s carefree smile is now being directed at Android 18. His wife offers a hand to shake- to which Launch simply throws her arms around the other woman.

 

The face on 18 is one for the photo-books. She looks surprised, then confused, but slowly lets a pleasant emotion overtake her as she embraces Launch in turn.

 

It melts his heart. He watches the blonde locks shimmer in the artificial light of the Capsule Corp home. She's so beautiful that he looses himself for a moment.

 

The two of them properly introduce, exchanging their names in a genuine greeting. It’s kind of funny to Krillin how only now are they getting acquainted!

 

The five of them relax themselves at the bar- chatting in comfort.

 

They tell old stories to 18 of the adventures between Master Roshi, Launch, Yamcha, and himself.

They reminice on their participation in tournaments, the lazy days spent around the house, and the weeks of training in the wilderness! He tries not to blush when his friends tease him as Launch gushes, claiming that Krillin was just the cutest little boy!

 

It’s so sentimental to be together with his friends. It feels like such a lifetime ago! He only wishes that Goku and Roshi were here as well! Roshi is probably off somewhere getting up to trouble- and Goku is most likely sparring out with Vegeta. He looks over to his wife.

 

She’s sipping on her drink. Her red painted lips capture his attention for a moment before he follows her gaze. She’s staring off at the form of Piccolo- who is now outside- leaned up against the dome of Capsule Corp. with his arms crossed as usual.

 

The sight of the once-evil man brings back it’s own host of memories as well…

 

It’s quiet for moment between the group-

 

Then, 18 speaks up,

 

"I think Piccolo and Gohan are together."

 

Krillin stares at her-

 

What?

 

He glances over to Yamcha- who takes a drink of his beer and raises a brow. He doesn't really look surprised. In fact he just shrugs, "Yeah they usually are."

 

Android 18 still has her eyes on Piccolo.

 

Krillin’s eyebrows shoot up as he finds that the Namekian is staring right at them. A challenging look darkens Piccolo’s expression.

 

Why would she state something like that at random? The inflection in her voice concerns him as well because it almost sounds like an... implication? He leans into his wife and whispers in a hushed voice,

 

"Together?"

 

She casts a glance at him and tilts her head ever so slightly. Krillin dares a glance back at Piccolo. And, despite being across the garden filled to the brim with chattering people and loud music, he swears he sees Piccolo's ears twitch.

 

"What!" His voice rises to a rather high level and he quickly quiets himself, “Together together!?”

 

18 just smiles and shrugs, brushing some of her hair behind her ear, "What is there to say? You know I'm not much for gossiping."

 

Krillin waves his hands immediately and just closes his eyes, "18! You know what? Nevermind- I mean-!”

 

That wins him a full on laugh from 18. He isn't even sure what's so funny about this whole scenario.

 

18 gives a little giggle, "Oh- you're really caught up on this?"

 

He's staring at Piccolo way too obviously. To make matters worse- the once evil demon king looks like he’s now approaching them-

 

"-Eep! It's him!"

 

Yamcha raises a brow, eyeing the Namekian for a moment before returning his gaze to Krillin.

 

"What? What's up with him?"

 

Krillin quickly covers his mouth with his hands.

 

Yamcha takes a drink of his beer and raises a brow. 18 rolls her eyes.

 

From across the counter, the food Yamcha ordered arrives. He quickly becomes focused on the pile of sandwiches set out before them. Yamcha grabs a couple and starts eating between swigs of his beer. Krillin stuffs his face with food- if just to calm his nerves.

 

He’s sure that his wife will find his messy eating annoying. However, Krillin feels like his entire worldview is being shifted. Piccolo and Gohan? What brought that on?

 

His attention focuses back to where Piccolo was. He now seems to have vanished- as per usual.

 

The music continues to blast from loudspeakers. A rather tense pause in their conversation sets Krillin a bit on edge. Yamcha then clears his throat and points with his thumb towards the dance floor with a raised brow, "Hey 18- wanna dance?"

 

She scoffs lightly and cocks her hip, brushing herself against Krillin's side.

 

"I'm happy here."

 

She smiles down at him so genuinely that he feels something flutter in his heart.

 

“Unless… you would like to dance?” She asks.

 

Krillin nods, beaming up at her.

 

He offers her a hand and she takes it. Her hands are cool and so soft within his own. They make their way to the dance floor, sides brushing up against one another.

 

Krillin couldn’t ask for anything more than what his life has already given him.

 

They take their stances in the middle of the floor effortlessly. Krillin settles his hands on her hips. She drapes her arms around his shoulder, her fingers tickling the hairs on back of his neck.

 

Together- they sway with the music. He cannot feel her Ki, but her body is so strong and solid against his own. She is something he could spend his entire life with- and still never fully understand her unique rarity.

 

Krillin feels sentimental with this notion. In the years that she’s known him- and that he has known her- they’ve come to become inseparable. There is no Android 18 without Krillin- and likewise- no Krillin without Android 18.

 

He smiles up at her, and seeing her mirroring his emotion causes his heart to swell with love and tender, protective affection.

 

She turns her gaze away and he follows it.

 

She’s looking out at their child. Marron is watching them from the side of the dance floor. She looks inquisitive; trying to figure out just what her parents are doing.

 

Krillin beckons her over with a wide grin.

 

The little girl races over to them, smiling innocently. She reaches out her hands.

 

Krillin takes her left hand and his wife gently holds her right. The three of them dance together as the music picks up. Soon, Marron is jumping up and down, laughing and playing as any child should.

 

Krillin gazes between the two girls most important in his life.

His wife; the one who takes him and makes him better. And- his daughter; a girl who is so small and yet already already on the path to be stronger than he is!

 

Krillin remembers that as a child, he had no idea that love would bless him this way. Now, he knows deep in his heart that to have a moment like this is what he always wanted from life.

 

Notes:

Thank you for reading!!
I love them; Krillin and 18. They are absolutely a wonderful ship!

Chapter 11: Message of Heart. (Vegeta)

The night air is still hot. Above- the moon is full and round.

 

Vegeta gazes up from his position laying against the cool Earth. The stars twinkle down at him; winking and glittering. His eyes cannot leave the sight of the white orb.

 

Still, he manages to glance away to find that Kakarotto is standing up and stretching his limbs.

 

Vegeta glances at his form; not surprised to see that he is still invigorated despite their recent sparring.

 

What does surprise him is when the oaf decides to plop himself down right next to Vegeta.

 

He startles and narrows his eyes, hissing out between clenched teeth,

 

“Have you lost your mind?!”

 

Kakarotto is looking at him with a tilted head. He pouts his lip a bit,

 

“Hum?”

 

They aren’t touching- but the closeness is setting Vegeta on edge. After all- just a couple minutes ago- they were both trying to punch and kick one another without restraint.

 

Kakarotto smiles, “I’m hungry! Are you ready to head back?”

 

Vegeta scoffs, his hackles lowering just a bit. Of course- that’s all this fool thinks about!

 

He nods and readies himself to stand. That is until Kakarotto grabs his hand.

 

Huh?

 

They’re close enough that they don’t need to teleport back.

 

So- what is he grabbing Vegeta’s hand for?

 

Kakarotto smiles at him in the dumb, overly bright way he always does to everyone.

Vegeta isn't sure he understands what is happening. Kakarotto is touching his hand. He's letting him touch his hand. It is far, far too intimate an act for them.

 

Well- maybe it was in the past.

 

Had Kakarotto touched him like this before their fusion- well the oaf wouldn't have even been able to get physically close enough in the first place to do so.

 

Vegeta isn't much for feelings or thinking on them. In fact- for most of his youth and adult life- the only feelings he could understand were the nauseating rush of blood-lust towards the planets he conquered and the welcomed agony of guilt that came after.

 

He’s been trying to meditate through these… ‘feelings’- and it's certainly something he's working on. He's never going to admit it out loud- but it helps.

 

It doesn't fully satiate him, however.

 

That's why he fights Kakarotto, after all.

 

He wonders if the other man shares the same benefit from their sparring sessions?

 

The way he touches Vegeta's hand is something he tries to find a comparison to. If only to compartmentalize how to respond internally. He realizes that in all his postulating- that he’s still just sitting there holding hands with his rival-

 

That thought reels Vegeta into throwing his hand away from Kakarotto’s.

 

He would have to meditate further on this.

 

Kakarotto now looks confused and something akin to hurt.

 

Vegeta’s mind reels in confusion at how he could even empathize enough to recognize that emotion on the idiot’s face.

 

He doesn’t know what to do. This sentimental feeling he’s having is alien to his senses.

 

He hates Kakarotto.

 

But he was never indifferent.

 

Ever since his dance with death and the fusion they performed to destroy Majin Buu- well... it was no longer as cut and dry as simple hatred.

 

He had been ready to lay it all away. His pride, his individuality, and his life.

 

Just to protect the Earth. That’s all Kakarotto wished as well. While fused- Vegeta had learned this fact because the sheer power they shared had been both physical and mental.

 

It surprises them both when Vegeta presses his forehead against Kakarotto’s.

 

The other man gives a bit of start and looks up at him in disbelief. He doesn't seem to pass any judgement or ill will as he stares into Vegeta’s eyes in what must be his normal empty-headed nothingness.

 

He looks a little confused- Vegeta will give him that.

 

He just keeps his forehead there, gazing down at the puzzled and yet open look in Kakarotto’s eyes. Finally, he lets his eyes fall shut in closed comfort.

 

He thinks Kakarotto is holding his breath because he sags just a little once Vegeta is no longer staring at him. The oaf shifts a bit, makes a couple of noises deep in his throat and then seemingly settles himself. They stay like that for a moment, foreheads touching.

 

He shivers. It must be the night air that is beginning to chill him.

 

They are the last full blooded Saiyans.

 

Vegeta isn't sure how long has passed. He knows that when he finally opens his eyes- Kakarotto has his eyes closed. He most likely isn’t asleep- but is meditating instead?

 

Something about the thought strokes Vegeta's ego; that he could make the other man feel so safe.

 

Vegeta nudges his temple against Kakarotto’s.

 

The other man makes a small noise of contented-ness. He blearily opens his eyes and fixes them into a pleased expression.

 

“Y’ready to go now?”

 

He’s squinting down at their hands now in disbelief. Somehow- during his inner ramblings- their hands have winded up back together. He rises as Kakarotto helps him to his feet.

 

Vegeta dies a third, sacrificial time. The version of him that had landed on this planet more than a decade ago would be livid.

 

He lets go of Kakarotto’s hand to get a head start towards the party.

 

The night air whips his face as the ground becomes a blur beneath him.

 

He only dreamed of the power he now holds. Back then- what sort of person he was now seemed so foreign.

 

Vegeta watches as they pass over a forest. Once, wouldn’t have thought twice of destroying it and every living thing within it. A solemn pang of guilt creeps up back into his mind.

 

Kakarotto flies underneath him, gazing up at Vegeta with a challenging expression. He wastes no time before increasing his speed and blasting off towards Capsule Corp. Vegeta summons his energy and does the same.

 

When they touch town upon the lawn of Bulma and Vegeta’s home- he feels a weight relax from his shoulders.

 

He stops only on his direct path to the buffet table to search for his wife. She’s chatting alongside Kakarotto’s wife and their children. Thankfully- she looks up upon noticing his approach.

 

He gives her a private smile and starts helping himself to whatever food he can get his hands on. It seems that Kakarotto has already beaten him to the table. Soon, between the two of them, at least a dozen or more plates of food are set out in front of them, and quickly being devoured.

 

He hears his wife approach as he stuffs his face with a meat bun.

 

“Oh! Vegeta you’re back. I was wondering when you’d get hungry,” She chides with a teasing bite. She’s got a glass of sparkling champagne in her hand.

 

He grabs it from her fingers and downs the fizzy sweet alcohol.

 

Bulma just gasps and places her hands on her hips,

 

“Now that’s just rude!”

 

Her eyes are twinkling now.

 

Vegeta chews and swallows the rest of his food before clearing his throat,

 

“Oh- did you want a hello?”

 

She huffs and rolls her eyes. The blue-haired woman bends down and gives his cheek a kiss. Her lips are soft and he feels her smirk against him.

 

“You know- I was hoping the two of us could dance before the night is through.”

 

He follows her gaze as she moves away. Her hands find their way to his shoulders and start massaging them.

 

“It is my birthday after all.”

 

The line is corny at best- but the way that his wife says it just sets something in him alight.

 

He sets his sight on the noodles next. Using the chopsticks to shovel them into his mouth, he turns back to her. She makes a face somewhere between amusement and disgust.

 

Chi-Chi is now beside Kakarotto. She’s already laying into him. “You two never find any time for us! I’d like a dance as well you know!”

 

Kakarotto also has a face full of food and manages to smile sheepishly while he scarfs down dumpling after dumpling. Chi-Chi glazes over at Vegeta, “And you! At least have some manners and say hello to your wife!”

 

V egeta gulps down his mouthful and rolls his eyes.

 

“Oh excuse me, Princess.”

 

Chi-Chi raises her eyebrows and a rather nuanced smile sets itself on her lips. She crosses her arms,

 

“That’s right.”

 

Vegeta looks over to where Bulma was and finds that his wife is now at the dance floor. She’s holding hands with Trunks as the two of them dance; mother and son.

 

He feels something in his heart that words wouldn’t do justice to describe.

Notes:

Thanks for reading!
Some kakavege moments! Next chapter is Bulma, then Gohan!

Chapter 12: Cajoled to Dance. (Bulma)

Bulma brushes her hand through the thick, spiky hair of her husband, Vegeta. He grunts in appreciation. She's watching the dance floor with renewed interest after taking a break to cool down and drink some wine. Her son, Trunks, is still out dancing with his friends Goten and Marron. It absolutely cheers her up to see the three of them getting along so well. They are the light of her life. And, knowing that despite what her son went through- that he can still engage in regular childlike play- well it soothes a worried pang in Bulma’s heart.

 

She glances back towards her husband.

 

Unsurprisingly, Goku is still scarfing down plate after plate of food. They had gone out to spar and only recently returned. Now, this is something that Bulma was more than used to- though it did irk her a bit when she just wanted alone time with her husband.

 

However, what does strike her as strange is that Vegeta is no longer eating. Of course, compared to any human- the amount of food her Vegeta can chow down on is absurd. It just that instead- he’s looking alertly at Bulma instead of stuffing his face. Well- he's more alert than Goku- who seems to be nearly passing out in his seat in a food coma.

 

Vegeta’s expression softens. Bulma is captivated by the look in her husbands eyes.

 

Around them, the steady beat of the synth-y bass pulses throughout her entire body.

 

At once, she feels inclined to kiss him. She wonders if he would shy away from her advance.

 

So instead, she traces her finger around in a circle across the rim of her wine glass. She brings that same finger up to her painted lips, choosing then to look down at Vegeta through thick lashes.

 

His gaze- unmistakably interested- greats her.

 

She feels warmth fill her chest. She’s suddenly reminded of how grateful she should be that she can even appreciate his attention. Or rather- anything at all.

 

It feels like the fight with Majiin Buu was a lifetime ago. It had been an emotional rollercoaster for Bulma. An understatement, really. It had been the single most terrifying experience of her life.

 

Truthfully- she still wakes up sometimes in a cold sweat- afraid that everyone she loves was once again gone.

 

Thankfully, Vegeta is often there to hold her close.

 

Far more than he was before.

 

The thought must have passed her expression, because Bulma feels one of his gloved hands reach up and grace her own. His face has become searching now. Vegeta stands up, brushing off his lap. He strokes the thumb of her right hand and his eyebrows furrow.

 

Before Buu- he was never like this. Never so emotionally in tune with her. She ponders on what exactly has changed.

 

Could it be his sacrifice, him losing everyone, or maybe the fusion with Goku?

 

She isn't sure. She knows that since the year or so of time that has passed between them saving the universe- that her Prince is so much more open with her. So, it was probably all of those things that swayed him into this more emotionally available version. She isn’t complaining. Bulma is joyful for every day that she gets to live with her family and loved ones.

 

He's gently stroking her arm with his hand now. He smirks just a bit and surprises Bulma with what he asks,

 

"Would you like to dance?"

 

She takes her finger away from her mouth and pokes his nose.

 

He blinks at her in a way she wants framed for her to always look at and to remember.

 

He's so cute.

 

"Okay!"

 

She sets her full glass down on a nearby table and takes his hand. Off to the dance floor, where the party is at its height. Couples dance around them, spinning and jiving about amid the strobe lights.

 

Vegeta doesn't pull away, but he hesitates and simply moves his feet back and forth. The beat is catchy and basic; enough that Bulma does a twirl and shakes her hips, tilting her head back and forth and making a smile at him.

 

Remembering his Saiyan blood- she makes sure to raise her brows and grin in a challenge.

 

This seemingly sets him off as he starts to nod his head to the beat, body facing her own.

 

She feels a bit of rush at watching him open himself up in such a way. The last party they had was just him hugging the wall. Still more open since everything that happened with Buu, but-

 

She is simply overjoyed at this beauty in front of her! The warmth in her chest burns and spurs her on to dancing even more extravagantly. She twists her arms above her head, tapping her feet against the dance floor as she sways with the rhythm. She closes her eyes and lets her movements become looser and more flowing. She still feels aware of his eyes on her form as she flits across the floor.

 

She extends an arm, opening her eyes and expecting to see him in front of her.

 

He is there, already grasping onto her arm to tug her in closer.

 

They meet in a waltz style- and although it is entirely unfitting of the party music- she can't seem to care as they begin a fast-paced jig.

 

Back and forth they sway and rock to the heavy beat. She tugs on him to twirl her and he aides her in doing just that. Bulma feels the cool air of the building breezing past her flushed skin. She's exerting herself like she hasn't in months! Her heart beats to the rhythm of the drums as she pulls him close and then lets him spin her around and around once more.

 

His expression is dark and yet so inviting.

 

It feels like they’re reenacting the tumultuous ups and downs of the relationship. Bulma leaves the floor at times to grab a drink of water or a bite or two of food. However, she is always right back to Vegeta, her Prince, to continue the high of the night.

 

It’s when a rather slow song comes on does Bulma feel that she's had enough. For the last couple songs- their movements have become rather lustrous and provocative. She figures that they had better make their exit.

 

She runs her manicured fingers up the sleeve of his vest. She tugs at the hem of his dress shirt. It’s in rather pristine condition considering that he had been out sparring with Goku a couple hours ago!

 

"I'm awfully tired- aren't you?"

 

He tugs at the collar of his shirt, as if he's also feeling the heat.

 

His smirk is downright mischievous now. He teases her, "I've hardly worked up a sweat. Giving up already?"

 

With that, she wraps her thigh around his waist, letting him dip her down to the flow of the beat. She is wrapping her arms around his shoulders when she leans in to giggle,

 

"Oh, I've still got plenty of energy."

 

Bulma brushes her fingertips against the shell of his ear. It gives a twitch and she watches as he closes his eyes for a moment.

 

When he opens them again with heated fire- she kisses his lips and coaxes his desire with a whispered proposition:

 

"How about a private dance?"

Notes:

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 13: To Ponder in the Dark. (Gohan)

Gohan finds his mentor in a meditative state just below a tree, far from the loud bass reverberating from the Briefs Mansion.

 

He looks so naturalistic and fits right it with the garden landscape surrounding him.

 

Fireflies twinkle and blink, fluttering around the garden. They hide within the grass and then pop out, flitting about the lakeside.

 

Piccolo’s eyes are closed. His ears twitch as Gohan approaches.

 

It’s quiet for a while. The only sound being the chirping of crickets and the distant sound of the party.

 

Gohan shivers and hugs his arms. He’s not cold. He does nothing for what must be a minute; waiting to see if Piccolo will say anything.

 

There is no auditory response from the other- though the silence is not uncomfortable. Finally, Gohan sighs out a sound to psyche himself up and and speaks up as to make himself known.

 

“Thanks for coming to the party, Mister Piccolo!”

 

The floating man gives him a hum of acknowledgment. His arms are crossed. Gohan knows he’s listening, just that he needs to be warmed up to conversation just a bit.

 

“Thank you for inviting me, Gohan,” his response is straightforward- albeit in a rather quiet tone.

 

With that, Gohan approaches just a little closer. He looks so peaceful.

 

He studies the meditating man in front of him. Piccolo’s face is neutral in expression. He only twitches ever so slightly when Gohan shifts his weight or exhales audibly.

 

Before he can stop himself- he finds he’s inspecting the face of the other. Skin that is reflecting the deep indigo of the midnight sky is just faintly highlighted around the sharp edges of his cheeks and brow-bone by distant artificial lights. Supplementing this- Gohan is entranced by the blinking signals of fireflies; their biolights shine like whispers just faintly audible upon his visage.

 

Piccolo chooses this moment to open his eyes and fix his gaze onto Gohan.

 

He’s rather close and wonders for a moment just how close he can get. The thought startles him as he realizes how long he has been staring and he jumps away to a more socially acceptable distance with a start.

 

He doesn’t know what to say or do! He was definitely way too close to explain that away!

 

-Though it doesn’t seem as though he needs to because Piccolo is reacting no different than how he normally does.

 

He’s just staring with his usual open- though intense- expression

 

He feels the need to reach out- to grasp for his hand. Would that be okay? Gohan licks his lips subconsciously.

 

In front of him, Piccolo’s eyes open wider and he straightens his posture.

 

The weight of the air changes and this sets off Gohan, forcing him to make some action.

 

So he spouts out about his life and dreams.

 

“I’ll be going off to college in a few weeks.”

 

Piccolo is perked up; his eyes are shifting in understanding. He looks interested in what Gohan has to say.

 

“A-And, well- I’m excited!”

 

Gohan gets a slow blink in response. He is still floating in the air, legs crossed and hands poised in a meditative posture.

 

He lets his words sink in so as to get a grip on his runaway mind. His teacher surely only wants to hear the logistics of Gohan’s plans as a student.

 

That’s surely all there is to discuss between themselves, correct? He’s always been realistic with his goals about his studies. He’s known that he’s wanted to study- to learn- all his life!

 

When Piccolo continues his silent- albeit attentive, physical- responses, Gohan feels his voice is strong enough- nervous as well- when he states,

 

“I ... I finally feel that I’m one step closer to achieving what I always loved most in life-”

 

He gestures to Piccolo- with his palms facing up and arms wide. He blinks a couple times,

 

“To be a scholar!”

 

Gohan smiles; He’s known this his whole life- and now he’s so close!

 

The older man uncrosses his arms and his ears perk up. He is lowering himself to ground and with Piccolo standing up to his full height does Gohan realize that he hadn’t backed far away enough.

 

They're close.

 

Piccolo doesn’t move away nor any nearer. He’s looking at Gohan with an expression that is somewhat eerie in how genuinely soft it is.

 

He loses his sense of here and now as he is swept up and transported to another place and time. The last time he had seen such an expression was years ago. It had been after the fight with Majin Buu- when his father, Vegeta, and Mr. Satan had worked together to save the universe and everything in it.

 

Alongside all of humanity- he had breathed in life given back to him by the Dragon Balls. Piccolo, his brother Goten, and Goten’s best friend Trunks; they had also been brought from the dead. He had been so overjoyed and overwhelmed with how the afterlife would come to pass for them- only to find himself flesh and blood once again.

 

He remembers looking over to his teacher- only to be met with a similarly shocked expression on the face of Piccolo.

 

They had been gone, and were given a chance once again through a wish.

 

Back then- Piccolo had met his gaze with such intensity that it had shifted Gohan’s entire worldview. He had no words for the look they shared those two years ago. It had left a lasting mark on his heart. The many journeys they had shared in the past felt like they had culminated into that single moment. He thought that was the last time he would ever feel like that.

 

And yet- every time he felt his best friend’s Ki- that same feeling returned to his heart-

 

It was the same look he was being fixed with now that made his whole body stand to attention.

 

Once again being directed at him is that same Ki energy. It’s wishing for…for something that engulfs him in it’s warmth and guides him into taking a step right up to the man in front of him.

 

And with that does Piccolo startle. He makes a rather surprised expression.

 

Gohan can’t look away from the dark eyes fixing him to the spot where he stands. Though, he notices that the expression Piccolo is wearing is rapidly changing to something he’s never seen before.

 

Their shared space and it’s unspoken words; it feels to Gohan as if it does nothing to hide his Ki and how much it must give away to Piccolo. This is the first time since Buu that thinks he is at another crossroads and that he may make the wrong call and fail everyone in what is needed from him.

 

He doubts himself and thinks that he is seeing too far into this bond they share. Did he push too far?

 

A mentor to a student, one partner in battle to another, a friend of a friend- these are bonds that are only possible shared platonically, correct?

 

What does Piccolo wish for?

 

Gohan subconsciously extends his hand just a bit. He opens his mouth-

 

“Mister Piccolo?”

 

Something shifts in Piccolo’s eyes and they cloud over with an expression Gohan hasn’t seen in a very long time. He suddenly looks so alien and so… so distant.

 

“I’m happy for you, Gohan,” comes the reply, words just barely above a whisper.

 

His throat feels stuck with unsaid words and he’s sure that he’s doing something wrong.

 

“I wish you well with your studies.”

 

The words are genuine, but the inflection in which they are said is what throws Gohan off.

 

They are final.

 

The sound of crickets dull for a moment. Likewise- the music from the party has conveniently stopped. The silence that follows does nothing to ward off his quickly mounting tension.

 

Piccolo tips his head down- eyes closing. Gohan thinks his expression looks in pain; mirroring his face during one of the long drawn out fights against that of their shared enemies of the past.

 

It has been years since he has presented himself so coldly.

 

He’s backing away from Gohan then and surprises them both by bumping his back into the trunk of the tree in which he had sought refuge under. This display of flight halts the younger in his tracks. Gohan looks down at his hands; his claws are flexing and gripping into the banded portion of his bicep. If Gohan were to reach out- he could feel for his hand and hold it within his own. His heart gives a sudden flutter and his fingers twitch- wanting to be somewhere else-; wishing to be laced together with those of the man in front of him.

 

He wants to ask- to please tell me what is going on with us?

 

He can’t simply express how he feels- can he? There's just no way that Piccolo feels the same. He’s got to say something!

 

Ki energy flares from Piccolo and he opens his eyes. When he meets eyes with Gohan- his expression still retains it’s icy demeanor. His mouth flashes teeth as he speaks,

 

“Listen kid, I think they’ll be missing you at the party. How about you head back?”

 

Gohan pauses and really absorbs that look he’s now being fixed with. Just a second ago- it was warm- so inviting.

 

He closes his eyes. Now, it’s like he’s been transported back to where they had first met.

 

All the memories come flooding back.

 

How could he forget those first nights spent cold and exhausted from a day where his innocence was taken? What of the dangerous wildlife coexisting with the fear of enormous jaws waiting to devour him alive? The terrorized atmosphere of tension of what the future would rain down upon the Earth with the arrival of the Saiyans. And amplifying it; the knowledge that if he ran, there may be no hope left for the Earth.

 

He sighs out and lets his shoulders relax while a smile returns to his face.

 

Thankfully, he remembers the vivid moments spent exploring the jungles and oceans during that year. He was free from the mundane tasks of civilized life- instead allowed to explore and learn about the world around him naturalistically. He recalls fondly the smell of sweet flowers and the sound of birdsong waking him up to each new day. What of the peaceful nights spent with a full belly and a fire to keep him warm from within the safe confines of his cave? How could he forget of the weight of his sword and all the power bestowed upon him so that he may one day wield it in the wish of protecting the lives of those he loves?

 

Most of all, Gohan remembers the feeling of the Ki who had given him this power- always watching over him from high in the sky.

 

Here with Piccolo; he doesn’t have to remember. His eyes are blinking open and Gohan gingerly looks up at his friend.

 

The man in front of him- his demeanor opens up for one moment. Though, just as quickly he guards himself again with narrowed eyes.

 

“Gohan.”

 

He feels his body tremble.

 

Next, Piccolo asks with a twinge of confusion in his voice,

 

“I’m sure you’ll be busy with your studies coming up soon, yes?”

 

Piccolo hesitates for a moment, furrowing his brow-ridge. Finally, he continues,

 

“Be sure to come and visit the Lookout when you have time.”

 

The most faint of smiles comes to Piccolo’s face, and this in turn makes Gohan smile heartfelt in return.

Notes:

Thank you so much for reading! What lies in store for these two I wonder...?