Understanding Saiyan Culture Disclaimer: I don't own this, Toriyama and Funimation do. Any mentions of KISS or their fiction based characters are property of themselves, Marvel and Dark Horse. I do own Atomique, Fermi, Bohr and other fan characters except for Black Widow, owned by Bulma the Babe. I don't get paid for this so please don't sue me. This means no harm because it's fan fiction. Within the living room, Goten and Trunks pressed buttons violently as they guided their video game characters through Street Fighter II. Bohr and Fermi got up and toddled over to Atomique, hand in hand with Radditzu. "Mommy, why are you holding hands with Uncle Raddish man?" asked Bohr. "That's Radditzu, silly," said Fermi with a frustrated pressing of his lips. "My brother's such a toddler!" "Well, you fine young warriors… are you watching these two play a combat simulation?" Radditzu asked, a bit nervous around children he hardly knew. Especially since his experience with kids their age amounted to setting them into the space pods after testing their power levels, and hooking up the electrodes to the psychic teaching machines in the round pods. Although he remembered seeing Goku as a baby, he had only held his little brother a few times when transporting him to the main launch facility onVegetasei. After their mother was recouperating, Bardock had entrusted Radditzu with taking his little brother to the Conditioning center. Unimpressed with his son's puny ki, he figured Kakkarot would be another third class left behind. However Radditzu had felt a burst of power when he placed his brother into the conditioning pod. For the first few months, all new borns were taken from their parents and placed in the Conditioning center. Psychich machines imput all aspects of Saiyan culture into their minds like an assembly line. A relative, usually a parent, older brother, sister or mother would check on the progress of their family member. Bardock had volunteered a reluctant Radditzu for this duty, at least in the other universe. Closing his eyes Radditzu recalled waving goodbye to his fellow saiyans. He loaded his brother in the space pod, hooking up the multiple life support devices to the round bubble containing Kakkarot. Again the levels surged and Radditzu was annoyed his father had not thought to recheck the puny battle levels. In all honesty Radditzu was the only one who knew his brother's true potential. Something snapped him out of his reverie. He blinked and stared down at the twins looking up at him. One of them gave him a small smile, with eyes as dark as a Saiyan's. Their minds reached out and brushed his, and he gruffly rebuffed them. "It's not right to spy in someone's mind, young warriors," Radditzu telepathed. "You can speak in our minds just like Goku-san," Fermi nodded. "Indeed. And there is MUCH you have to learn. That I might teach you..." Radditzu nodded. "Hey, talk aloud!" Bohr urged, reaching up and tugging on Radditzu's pant leg. "Trunks is kicking Goten-kuns butt!" laughed Fermi. "Are you and my mommy holding hands cause you're special friends?" Bohr asked, walking over and looking up at Radditzu. "Is that why you said you'd teach us..." "Yes," she nodded. "I want you to get to know him a little better… he's not used to kids… but he would like to get to know you…" "You said you were like Son Goku-sama… his older brother. Will you be living here with us now if you and mommy are friends?" asked Bohr, hands on his hips. "He's the funny man's brother, so he has to be, and he'll probably live here when he's not working at the Prince's palace," said Fermi. "Do you have strong powers like Goku-sama?" "Yes, I do. Would you like to see them?" he asked. "Yeah!" Bohr clapped his hands. He raised his hands up to Radditzu, and he blinked at Atomique. "I think he wants you to pick him up…" she whispered. "Ah," said Radditzu, reaching down and gingerly lifting the boy by his sides like he saw Goku do. "Higher!" he laughed. Radditzu blinked, and Atomique smiled, swinging her arms back and forth. Dubiously Radditzu swung the boy with his brawny arms. Bohr squealed and laughed, smiling for joy. "Me next," said Fermi. "I wanna piggyback ride!" said Bohr. Sighing, Radditzu put the boy on his shoulders, and saw Goku giving him a grin. "Well, that's sorta the idea," said Goku, picking his brother up. "Like this…" Radditzu tried to duplicate what his younger brother did, and felt fists grabbing and tugging his hair. He didn't' mind at all, in fact he relished the strength the brat had. "You've got funny hair just like Mr. Funny man!" Bohr laughed. "Of course. He's my little brother," said Radditzu. "That's right," said Son Goku with a warm grin. Radditzu gave a non-committal grunt; much like Bejita did, and put his hands on the boy's hips. "Dad? Where'd Nissan and Videl go?" Goten asked them. "Why's that?" asked Goku, passing Fermi over to Atomique. Radditzu felt the hand drag over his cheek and couldn't help but laugh as he felt the boy crawling all over him. "Cause my mom and dad want me back before the late afternoon, Son Goku-san," Trunks said. "Perhaps I could take them, if it is permissible," said Radditzu, glancing at Atomique. Goku shrugged and looked at his sons. "But the twins?" she asked. "I am sure his Majesty will not mind the presence of these little ones," said Radditzu. "Aww, don't worry I can take 'em," said Goku. "You two probably want to catch up with Bejita and Buruma. I can bring them by when I visit…" "So you're gonna take me back, huh?" Trunks asked. "Yes your majesty," said Radditzu, inclining his head. "Ohhh… now this is interesting," Trunks grinned. "You are the son of the Saiyan no Ouji," Radditzu said, still bent in a bow. "Trunks, don't get any ideas!" Goten groaned. "Trunks, he is right, but don't let it get to your head, okay?" asked Atomique. "Aww you're not fun, Star Child-san…" At the sound of this, she and Radditzu both stiffened. When he growled in his throat she said quickly, "You don't have to be THAT Formal with me, Trunks-kun? After all your mom said it was perfectly all right, unless she's changed her mind." "Sorry, just call her Atomique-sama," Goten corrected him. "We'll take you back, your majesty, if my younger brother agrees?" Radditzu called. "Sure thing, Radditzu," said Goku. "I wanna go!" said Bohr, tugging on Radditzu's leg. He glanced helplessly at Goku. "Why not? I'll bring Fermi and Goten with me… unless…" Sighing, Radditzu picked up the boy and put him on his shoulders. "If you wish it, I shall carry you. Unless you can fly… as I've seen…" "Piggyback!" Bohr laughed. Radditzu was amused to say the least. "I wanna go too," said Fermi, pouting. Reaching down, Radditzu swept him up and set him on his other shoulder. Bohr gave him a shove. "I'll take you, and you two can take turns, all right?" she suggested, picking up Fermi. Goku glanced at Radditzu with an enigmatic smile. "Guess you're a natural with kids after all?" Goku said, realizing this Radditzu wasn't the one who had all but killed him and his son. Rather he was a warrior who had served under Bejita, and had been ill used. Now he was trying to connect with his clan in a way like a lost prodigal son. Son Goku winked at Atomique as she steadied her son on her shoulder. "I'll be by soon, okay? Goten, Trunks, you okay with going with Radditzu?" "Sure, fine, it's cool," grinned Trunks. "Yeah, cool Uncle!" laughed Goten. "That'd be awesome, cause my Dad's always saying he wants you to come by and spar so he can see if he can still kick your butt!" Trunks called. "He did NOT!" Goten called out. "My daddy can kick your daddy's butt any day of the week, got it?" "Sure, right, whatever," Trunks laughed. "I'll bet you… two of my video games, any of your choice… that my dad challenges your dad the minute we arrive!" "Really? Do I get to pick?" Goten asked. "Mommy?" called the twins. "Dad, I just heard you were going over to take Trunks back?" Gohan asked, as he wandered in, tugging on his sweatpants. He saw Radditzu and Atomique standing there carrying each on their shoulders. "I cannot arrive without my armor… it is not seemly for a warrior to address his prince without…" Radditzu suddenly groaned. "Don't' worry, I'll give ya a royal pardon," Trunks said dismissively. "C'mon, Radditzu, let's boogie…" "They're going… with you?" Gohan asked, glancing at Goku. "Why not," said Goku. "Besides, Bejita's used to these two. And Radditzu does wanna see the Prince, right?" "Yes Brother. The children will be safe in my charge, do not worry," said Radditzu with a nod. "Now if you'll excuse me… we shall go… greetings Nephew…" "Um… hi… Uncle…" he said awkwardly, still jumpy around his uncle. Memories so vivid still persisted. Goku waved and shoed them all out the door. "Before you and Videl leave, I'd like to talk to you alone in the kitchen?" Goku asked. "Dad…" he snorted in frustration. "Are you SURE we can trust him?" "He's my brother. And he's NOT the Radditzu that kidnapped you. He's from another reality…" "Yeah cool, but he's still RADDITZ! HELLO!" Gohan snorted. "And now he's with… with…" "I know, but I trust her, and I'm gonna trust him. Trunks and Goten are fine with it, and I'm sure that Radditzu is going to be sure to protect them all. He's loyal to Bejita, remember?" "Yes… but I just can't…" Gohan snorted. "You'll have to get used to it. Because I made a promise to Bejita that I'd take him in. Saiyan family is everything you know… and considering that I killed him in this reality I owe him a chance…" said Son Goku. "You're just too trusting dad," sighed Gohan. "But all right… but if he hurts…" "Atomique and he are mates now. He won't do anything to hurt her, because he loves her," Goku said quickly. "Maybe it's something to do with what you were smiling about all through breakfast dad?" asked Gohan quietly. "Look, I'm glad you're happy and all, and I'm not mad or anything. I think it's GREAT that he found someone to make him happy… but I'm worried about you…" "What are you talking about?" he asked awkwardly. "Videl knew something was going down, and it's kind of hard not to notice these things when you've got… um," said Gohan. "Personal experience?" his father said with a knowing smug look. "I thought you wanted her yourself," said Gohan softly as he walked into the kitchen after Goku. His father reached into the fridge and pulled out two cans of soda. Tossing one to him, he sat down and cracked his open. Gohan sighed, and sat next to him, playing with his can nervously. "I did, but it wasn't right. And I'm glad that Radditzu was there for her…" said Goku. "You trying to convince me, or yourself?" asked Gohan. "I don't know…" sighed Goku. "But we both know… it couldn't' work…" "You know we're gonna have to face up to her… sooner or later… and Goten…" said Gohan. "It's mother isn't it? Are you still in love with her?" "Yes," said Goku. "That's why I've been holding off for so long. I didn't want to make anyone… angry at me again." "You did the right thing," said Gohan quietly. "I'm glad that you didn't… but what if Mom's… found someone special… like I have? Do you think it's possible…" "I want her back," said Goku. "But I don't know how…" "Dad, if that's what you want… look I'll find some way of helping you, you know that!" Gohan said. "Are you still angry at me for…" he asked. "For being away so long?" asked Gohan quietly. Goku nodded seriously, looking his son directly in the eye. "Be honest…" "I always am Dad. Sure part of me is still sore that you and Mom aren't together anymore, but I sensed something was always up the longer you were… away… she didn't exactly keep her mouth shut about it. I tried to convince her not to talk about it in front of Goten, because it's not nice to say things behind people's backs, if they're dead or alive…" said Gohan, sitting down at the table opposite his father, who flopped down in sadness. "I still blame myself. If I'd been there… if I'd known how upset it made her whenever I was gone… I know how selfish it was, but at the time…" "You did what had to be done. You don't' have to justify it to me, Dad, I get it. But beating yourself up isn't good either. Divorce stinks, but it's all for the best. I mean seriously, it wasn't healthy for her to have all that anger bottled up inside and hearing her fight with you sometimes was hard…" "You heard the arguments," Goku said quietly, squeezing his eyes shut. "Kuso…" "It's all over and done with, Dad. We all make mistakes. The whole point is, that you guys needed some time to work it out apart… but you might have to face up to it… if she doesn't want to return…" "I understand how upset she was now. More than I ever thought possible. Just how she managed to do it all amazes me," Goku shook his head. "I'm a bit angry at her for leaving us with you," said Gohan seriously. "Your mother never stopped loving you, you must know that, son," said Goku, reaching across to take his son's hand. "I know… but… jumping right into the arms of that… that…" "Let it go. You're telling me to, so the next time we see her… when she has visitation with Goten, I'll try and bury the hatchet," said Goku. "I want to end all this hurt." "I'm just wondering why she didn't take us with her. I mean Goten asked me, and we always told him what she told me to say…" "He'd grown up here his whole life. He knows that mom wants the best. And that it was time he got to know his dad better," said Son Goku with a sad smile. "She planned it for so many years, if you ever did come back, don't you see?" asked Gohan. "All the better she's with someone who can appreciate her. Who can love her and treat her the right way she needs," said Son Goku. "And I want to be that man!" "Aren't you the least bit angry or bitter? I mean in all the time I've known you Dad… you just amaze me how you can…" "Of course I'm angry and bitter, but that's not going to bring her back or make things the way they were. But she's still your mother, and she will still have my full respect… that I failed to give her all these years. She didn't have to let me take care of you, you realize?" said Son Goku. "She's given me that chance, and if she sees that I've succeeded, maybe we can be a family again!" "But she did… I thought it was just to get back at you, but now I see why…" said Gohan. "She knew that I'd do everything to make it right, and I have… I've done the best I can… at least I hope I did," said Goku quietly, looking for a moment like a lost boy. "I can't make up for the time I lost… but I can at least try to make sure I don't' make the same mistake again…And I think she realizes that. And it is time we all started smoothing the hurt out… and see if we can be a family…" "Dad, are you sure?" asked Gohan. He got up and went over to hug his dad, slapping him on the back. "Yes. I love her. I need her. She's my other half, and I'll fight for her if I have to…" "Dad, just don't be unrealistic…" Gohan said. "I have to believe it," said Goku. "Um… not to change the subject… but sure you don't mind Uncle Radditzu taking the boys?" "Not at all. Atomique likes him practicing being a babysitter… and I think they're taking a shine to him. I don't think I'd want them listening to Mr. Satan's foul mouth, do you?" Goku grinned. "You're worried about them if Dragon Womyn is there… Atomique told you?" said Gohan. "Yes. I know all about the nightmares. I asked her one day when she was preoccupied… after a tutoring session, and it all came out. She's afraid she'll take Bohr-kun and Fermi-kun away… which is why I'm glad Radditzu is with her. HE won't let it happen. I know it. And now that he's with her…" "She won't dare with him around. I'm afraid he'd kill her," said Gohan. "Yes, but that's her problem, I only hope he doesn't," said Goku quietly. "Um well… uh… Have you called Videl's dad yet?" asked Gohan, cutting into the uncomfortable silence. "I will soon, I promise," said Goku, getting up and walking over to pick up the phone. "You and Videl get ready… I think the car's got gas…" "Okay Dad, let me know… I'll just say bye to Trunks and Goten, and round up the boys… does Atomique-san know?" "She does… take care ok?" "Sure Dad…" he nodded, as Son Goku dialed Mr. Satan's residence. After an hour, Trunks and Goten watched as Radditzu and Atomique both picked up the twins respectively. They strode out the door, and into the clearing. Momentarily they turned and saw Gohan exit dressed in his black pants, white shirt and a sports jacket. "Trunks, Goten, you guys ready to go?" asked Son Goku, striding into the clearing. He wore his usual orange training ensemble, but he'd also thrown on a loose blue windbreaker. "Yeah dad… are we gonna drive or…" asked Gohan. "Lame, we'll fly, right?" asked Trunks. "Of course," said Radditzu. "No other way your majesty…" "What did my dad say, Goku-san?" asked Videl, zipping up her coat and shouldering her bag. Gohan took a bag filled with various items for the twins and handed it to Atomique. Radditzu grabbed it and slung it over his shoulder. Goku leaned down to kiss each son before he left to get into the car with his daughter in law and son. "I told him a new fan just were DYING to meet him, and that you were bringing them over when you came home," Goku winked. "Ohh, you're clever but I don't know if my dad's gonna buy it!" Videl groaned. Instantly both boys chorused the famous Satan chant. "They've got THAT part down right," Trunks whispered to Goten. "That silly chant's perfect… even if it is lame… you sure you want them to go with US?" "Shh, Videl's got sharp ears…" Goten said, giving him a kick in the shins. "Ow, I'm so hurt," Trunks rolled his eyes, smirking. "Ready to go?" Goku interrupted. "Yep, let's fly. Later, Gohan!" called Trunks, waiting for the young couple to finish loading Videl's stuff into the trunk. Gohan kept a wary eye on the new couple and his brother and Trunks. Goku sighed, and wandered over to them. "I will care for her," said Radditzu, turning to Goku. "Wait, before you go… you two might want jackets," said Son Goku. He threw a windbreaker to Radditzu, bearing a sports logo of a baseball team. Putting down the bag, Radditzu held it up. Bohr levitated off his shoulder so he could draw on the coat, and admire it. "Thank you Brother. It suits me well," he nodded. Bohr landed and grabbed twin handfuls of Radditzu’s hair. Goku then handed him a long silk coat. "It's for her," whispered Goku. Radditzu stiffly held it up, grunting as he held her son on his shoulder and his bag slung around his body. Shyly she let the Saiyan warrior help her on with it, then smiled to Goku. Trunks and Goten shouldered their multicolored backpacks. The engine of the white car roared into life as Gohan pulled out and onto the main hover car road leading down Mt. Paozu. Atomique motioned them both over, saying, "Okay guys, I've got you for the day. We're gonna drop you off Trunks, and hopefully stay a bit because I think Radditzu here wants to talk to your dad…" "I hope that your majesty will grant me a favor," said Radditzu, inclining his head to Trunks. "Sure, I guarantee it," Trunks grinned, winking at Goten. "At least we're not putting up with Mr. Satan," said Goten. "Mr. Satan? He's so funny!" laughed Fermi. "Almost as funny as Son Goku-san!" "He's LOTS more entertaining then that… he's a million laughs…" Trunks winked. "Now mind your manners, he's going to be Gohan's father-in-law!" Atomique cautioned. "Mr. Satan's the wrestler I've seen on TV, right, Goten-kun?" asked Bohr. "Yep, and he's gonna flip when you bring your girlfriend home with two kids," giggled Goten. "Oh please, he's just taking them so Mr. Satan doesn't try and fight him and get himself put in the hospital!" Trunks whispered, then shut up when Atomique glared at him. "We want to meet the funny wrestler man," said Bohr. "Later perhaps, young one," said Radditzu. "Now should we leave, sire?" "C'mon, no time to lose," Trunks nodded to the others, leading the way out of the clearing and down the road. Atomique glanced down at Goten who was exchanging confused glances with a smirking Trunks. "What?" he whispered, leaning close. "I'll tell ya later. It's gonna be funny seeing the look on my dad's face when he sees your dad today," Trunks whispered. "What?" "You'll see. It's gonna be great…" Trunks chuckled. "Let's go, time's wasting," said Atomique brightly. "Go on ahead, and see if you can outrun us…" "Are you kidding?" Goten asked, blinking at his Uncle and then his friend. "Last one there's a rotten egg," Trunks laughed, rocketing off first in a blaze of blue ki. "Hey no FAIR!" Goten yelled, hurling himself into the air after his buddy. Soon they were distant flashes of energy receding into the horizon. "Ready, little one?" Radditzu asked. She nodded, and both of them lifted off with equal velocity. Focusing the lavender chikara she pushed her energies downward like focusing her alchemy transmutation. Not wanting to seem too needy she pushed herself hard after Radditzu who was blazing ahead with his whitish blue ki envelope slicing into the air with ease. They managed to catch up to within a half mile, then a quarter of the two youths streaking ahead like comets in the sky. "Faster!" cried Bohr. "Mommy, faster!" called Fermi. She gasped as he held onto her neck, while Bohr held Radditzu by his hair. He grinned at her, enjoying the chase of the royal and his friend. "They're fast for someone their age… how can they have so much energy?" she panted. "Are you all right?" Radditzu asked her. "Sure, not a problem…" she panted, sweat pouring off her forehead. "Let me know if you need a breather," he said, reaching out and grasping her hand. She mumbled with embarrassment, but felt Radditzu transfer a bit of his ki into her, then he let go. Her body glowed and tingled with the excess Saiyan energy, supercharged. Shooting forwards, she soon matched pace while Radditzu closed the gap between them and his son and son's best friend. Within a few hours they crossed the distance to West City, and soon spotted Capsule far below. Both boys touched down on the front lawn. They bounded up to the front door, not looking behind them as Radditzu and Atomique landed side by side. She panted, and then felt his arm wrap around her waist to steady her against himself. Gathering strength from his physical presence, she managed to catch her breath. "Are you sure you are well, love?" whispered Radditzu. Her heart skipped beats hearing that term of endearment. "Yes, fine," she nodded, not as drained as she would be in years past. While she suspected he had given her a greater measure of his ki, she realized her own must be at a greater level than she'd imagined. Already for the past few months she had been able to train herself in that same way the Z fighters all utilized to sense ki, or as she called it chikara. "C'mon kids, let's go," Trunks called. "Down, down," laughed Bohr. Radditzu put the boy down gently, while Fermi slid down from his mother. "Wait for us!" called Bohr. "Trunks!" "Now don't run!" called Atomique. "C'mon you two, let's go," Trunks said, glancing at Goten. "You sure?" he asked, as Trunks reached out his hand to Fermi. Bohr rushed up, and grabbed Trunk's other hand. "Is that your wish, Sire?" asked Radditzu, inclining his head. "I'll take 'em in. And I'll announce you to my father…" Trunks grinned. "No worries. You two lovebirds just chill while I tell my parents you're here…" "Lovebirds?" asked Goten. "EWW!" "What's that?" asked Fermi, as Trunks urged them in. "Your mommy's got a new special friend," Trunks whispered. "Special friend?" Bohr frowned, entering the capsule corps door that swung open automatically. "Yeah… they're gonna get married soon," said Trunks. "No way Trunks, I didn't see a ring!" Goten snorted. "Well, my mommy can fix that," Trunks smirked. "Don't worry, he's cool… c'mon you two…" Radditzu moved closer to Atomique, breathing in her ear. He asked, "You don't sense them, do you? Your comrades?" "They could be masking it. I know that Bejita must be…" she whispered. "You need not fear them while I am here," said Radditzu proudly. Arm around her waist he nudged her towards the front pathway, and she separated herself from him. Even though he cast a hurt look, she grabbed his outstretched hand to mollify him. He squeezed her fingers in his own, swinging his arm between them as they caught up with Trunks and Goten. Trunks bounded in through the living room of Capsule Corps, chased by Goten and the twins. The two boys rushed around the legs of the maid who had just opened the door for them. Not surprised she maintained as much composure as she could while the purple and black streaks breezed past. "You promised to give me two new games if I won! So don't try and weasel out of it, Trunks!" Goten reminded him. "Um… well I did say that… but I meant they're new to you cause I don't play them so much anymore…" "Play fair!" called Bohr. "You promised! Don't be a cheater!" Fermi snorted. "You guys are no fun," grumbled Trunks. Goten grinned and slapped both twins on the back. "Stick close, I think this is the beginning of a real friendship…" he whispered. "Good grief, this place never ceases to surprise me, and I'm used to being in large ultramodern buildings more so then you… or am I jumping to conclusions?" Atomique asked, walking alongside Radditzu. Both of them had flown back with the rest of the group, returning Trunks to his parents, and wondering if they could catch a sign of Jeannie. "Well considering I lived in Frieza's compounds most of the time… it's primitive but serviceable," he answered. She gave a surprised yelp as a lavender haired nine-year-old streaked past, pursued by his annoyed best friend. "Yikes, don't tell me that his Royal Whyness lets them rush around in here…" "He is the son of a prince," said Radditzu. "He does what he pleases…" "Trunks, Goten, KNOCK it off!" Buruma yelled as she entered the room. "I mean it! Or else anything you break's coming out of Trunk's allowance!" "Guess we got the official word," Atomique said. Flashing a fist out, Radditzu caught the back of his nephew's training outfit. It still never failed to astonish her how fast his reflexes were. Even though she had learned to track hyper speed with the training he'd given, it still blew her mind. "I apologize Mistress for his conduct," Radditzu said, bowing to her. "Uncle Radditzu, he started it!" Goten snorted. "Well, I shall finish it. Perhaps you and the Prince's son should go play outside?" "He's right," said Buruma. "But no sparring till you cleaned up what you broke, got it?" Radditzu set Goten down, and he meekly nodded in Buruma's direction. Both he and Trunks sulkily stomped out towards the way they came. Buruma sighed and turned to see them standing there. "Hello Radditzu, nice to see you… are you doing well at Son's?' "Mistress it suits me well," said Radditzu, saluting her. "I humbly request an audience with his Majesty…" "Oh, relax will you!" Buruma sighed. "Look, I'm sure that Bejita can squeeze you in. I'll tell him you're here…" "You should not trouble yourself, your Highness," said Radditzu. "Highness?" she blinked. "Oh yeah, I forgot. I guess that makes me Bejita's princess…" "Of course, your Majesty," said Radditzu, confused. "Relax, it's all right," said Atomique, holding his hand. Buruma gave her a wink. "How are you doing? Hope you don't mind me dropping by?" Atomique asked. "Never a problem. I was just surprised to see you… it's been ages! You and I never got around to you showing me that latest experimental compound you said you could transmute… because it could work GREAT with the new…" Buruma began to chatter excitedly. "Well, if you show me the lab…" she asked. "Radditzu, don't mind us… if you're looking for Bejita, he's in the GR, no big surprise. I'm sure he'd enjoy the chance to spar…" Buruma glanced over at Radditzu. "If that pleases your Majesty, then I shall do so," said Radditzu. "Tomique-chan?" "Go on," she smiled. "Why the heck not." "I shall see you later, her Majesty permitting?" Radditzu asked, inclining his head. "Of course," Buruma grinned. "We'll just enjoy talking about your polymer… you're dismissed Radditzu!" "If I'm not back by the time you're ready to go, come rescue me," Atomique teased. "Your Highness?" Radditzu blinked. "I'll make sure she emerges in one piece! Go run along Radditzu and find Bejita! There's a good warrior!" Radditzu nodded, and bowed before he walked down the hall to find his prince. He blushed when he realized he had no armor. "Oh, if you're looking for some armor, I have some new stuff in the locker room near the GR. Help yourself!" "Thank you, your majesty!" Radditzu waved as Buruma rushed her friend to the lab. "I was expecting Gohan or Videl bringing them back. Not that I mind you coming over… but is it my imagination or is he in an even better mood than usual?" Buruma whispered, leading the way to one of her extensive labs. "Let's just say he's been getting a better quality of rest," said Atomique. "Speaking of, are you still having trouble getting to sleep? I have an invention that might make it easier…" Buruma said. "But knowing you, you probably came up with some wonder drug…" "I'm an alchemist, but I'm not a drugstore," she joked. "Seriously I had been an organic chemist at one time. I do miss playing around with chemicals." "I heard you were teaching part time at Gohan's college. You finding ways of keeping out of trouble?" Buruma asked. "I try," said Atomique with a healthy blush. "Now, what was that new material you wanted to see?" In the Hyper Gravity training room Buruma had constructed especially for her husband, Bejita muffled a curse as a ball of ki slammed into him. Today he trained alone, pushing the latest set of training bots to the limit. An ever-present frown twisted his handsome features into his battle face, dripping with sweat. Yet as soon as he sensed the ki of his visitor, he barked a command in Saiyan to halt the session. He grabbed the towel to his left, with a bottle of spring water. The door slid open automatically, revealing Radditzu in a low bow. Bejita snorted a grunt that passed for a greeting he walked forwards, muttering, "Radditzu. Wondered what would take you so damn long to show your face around here again…" "I apologize your Grace for disturbing your exercise but I request humbly your counsel…" "You always manage to succeed in THAT area," Bejita mumbled. "Thank you for bringing my son. Is Kakkarot too lazy to do it himself?" "Begging your pardon Sire, but he seems preoccupied…" Radditzu nodded as Bejita gave him leave to rise. "Is he wondering about my erstwhile student?" asked Bejita. "Your pardon sire, that wasn't the MAIN reason I stopped by… other then to return your son… but while you mentioned it…" Radditzu said, walking quickly to keep pace with the Saiyan no Ouji marching down the long hallway. "She's been gone for the last week or so," said Bejita, walking through the double doors that led to the ultramodern expansive kitchen. He sat down at one of the places that had been set up quickly by scurrying staff. "Is that so, sire? May I ask why?" "You know as well as I do, Radditzu. To punish her for embarrassing me, I sent her and Nappa on a mission. You recall we got a message from another Saiyan? It seems that Napa's mate survived..." "Sire, are you serious?" Radditzu gasped, blinking hard. "Yes. I am. They're coming back in a few days. Which means that I'll have more Saiyan warriors to acclimate, and more reasons to keep the Z fighters placated so they don't suspect anything... sinister... as if it's anything of THEIR business..." said Bejita with a grumble. "They still don't trust us?" "No, and I don't care if they do. As long as they remain out of our way. We must become strong on this world to defend it against the Destroyers. Perhaps these fool ningen will see that the Saiyans are their best hope for survival. But I digress..." "Begging your pardon, Sire, but Jeannie... Dragon Womyn, seemed quite unwilling to change. She's adopted Saiyan customs..." "You wonder WHY I recruited two Non Saiyans. Well, since the Destroyers were so hell bent on chasing them, I figured the enemy of my enemy is my ally, as the ningens say. Better to have them on my side. Now that I have you, Nappa, and Nappa's mate, we can begin to rebuild what was once lost..." "Will we continue the tradition of planet brokering?" asked Radditzu. "Begging your pardon." "That chapter in our history is no longer profitable. Why waste time doing that when we can make our own world here among the ningen. They will beg us to protect them. And perhaps we can forge a stronger world when our numbers are again plentiful..." said Bejita quietly. "I like this... world... and I don't want to sell it to ANYONE. Besides, why sell what we can acquire for our OWN usage. Freiza is no longer a threat here... and we can grow strong to fight his doppelganger from the Destroyer's realm if they should see fit to send him here..." "I had wondered that.." "One of these days I shall lead a mission to kill Freiza in the dimension you and Nappa came from, after I polish off the destroyers. Then we will be properly avenged," Bejita said with a smirk. "But we are not to discuss with anyone... under pain of death..." "As always you know I shall not be so foolish to question your will, sire," said Radditzu reverently. "But enough of this. I know that there is something else that concerns you," said Bejita. A slow smirk came over the Saiyan no Ouji's face as he fixed Radditzu in a stare. Radditzu averted his gaze in apology, then realized his Prince seemed quite pleased with him. "Took you damn long enough, bakayarou," Bejita said with a slow smirk. "Is that your chief reason for coming here? To ask for my approval?" "If you please sire, it depends on what you mean…" he said, scratching his head with a nervous smile. For a split second Bejita saw an expression that was more Son Goku then Son of Bardock, and flinched. "Don't give me that crap, you third class clown. You seem extraordinarily pleased with yourself, and that suggests you've shown good taste in your selection," Bejita said with a snort. This was the last thing he needed, his warrior getting caught with that stupid naiveté common to this planet's weak inhabitants. "Does your Majesty approve with my choice of mate?" asked Radditzu, frowning severely in the manner common for a Saiya-jin. "Indeed. Far better than to let her mate with Kakkarot. Little wonder you and he have been training her so hard. Otherwise you'd have been a fool to even try. Although the day that she undid a solid year of training in ten minutes with what I thought was a decent student proved to me that you could have taken her three months ago…" Bejita said, glancing at the seams of his glove rather than his warrior's face. Radditzu was relieved, because that showed Bejita wasn't going to blast him into oblivion. "Sire?" asked Radditzu. "That fool brother of yours isn't sure of what's supposed to happen," he said, lowering his voice. He leaned close to Radditzu, who angled his head nearby. "No doubt. I had suspected Sire, that he desired the retrieval of his mate. He did indeed desire Atomique for his own, but I wished her for myself…" Radditzu whispered, catching the smug smile erupting on the Saiyan no Ouji's face. "You've done well, Radditzu. Too bad your little brother doesn't share your sense of timing. I suppose we should make plans to get that loud mouthed harpy back together with Kakkarot before he goes crazy…" "Sire, if I may ask a favor?" said Radditzu, dropping to one knee and inclining his head, with one arm held forwards. "You wish the traditional mating ceremony? It shall be arranged. She must be trained as a Saiyan warrior because she has so much raw power. I won't stand for Kakkarot training her since she's YOUR mate. I shall make certain everything is in place," said Bejita. "Now, if you have any other news to relate to me, join me in the GR…" "Yes your majesty," Radditzu grinned, like a cat that had ingested a sizable canary. He was glad that his prince thought well of his move, and hoped that there would be news of his new mate's nemesis. Yet what if Atomique refused Bejita's offer? No, he couldn't think of that. She accepted him as her mate, she would gladly accept all other aspects of what came along with it. Meanwhile in the lab, Atomique stirred chemicals together in the setup she'd put together like tinker toys. Buruma was glad to see her new friend liked the organic lab she had donated funding for. Wearing a white lab coat over her smock, Atomique seemed quite at home for the first time in months. As Buruma handed her a fresh notebook, she glimpsed the scarf around her neck. "What's that for?" she asked Buruma. "Oh… my scarf?" she asked. "Yes… if you don't' mind me asking… is it something personal? Every time I see you you're hiding your neck…" "Oh… well if you must know, it's well…" "Where Bejita bit you?" asked Atomique. Buruma's blue eyes widened. "What do you know about that?" "Well Gohan… bit Videl there… and I saw the mark this morning," said Atomique. "Really! That's great!" Buruma laughed in joy. "Does that mean that…" "Yes!" Nodded Atomique. Both women laughed and danced. Buruma hugged her tightly, and then slapped her back, like she was an old friend. She released her friend and saw her pull at the collar of the Chinese silk shirt she wore. "You okay?" she asked. "Nothing… it's just so exciting…" "You seem a bit overdressed… isn't silk kind of hot inside under a coat? You could have worn one of those new…" "Um I prefer this style," she said quickly, turning from Buruma. "What's' wrong, you can tell me… did you… are you…" "I…" she trailed off, grabbing the lab counter. "I'm not sure… and now seeing… that's the way that…" "What ever are you talking about. Did something happen?" asked Buruma, catching her shoulder. "I don't know… Buruma… how does Bejita know that you're his… mate? Because of that?" she asked, pointing to Buruma's scarf. "Well, yes… but we do have wedding rings… I mean he DID marry me but why are we talking about me instead of what's bothering you?" "It's nothing… nothing you should worry too much about… I mean it's not like I can be as close as you and she were and I'm not expecting just because…" "You're not making much sense… believe it or not you DO have friends here, despite the length of time, and if something's bothering you, I may be able to… wait… did he DO something to you?" "Jeannie appeared in my dreams. I dreamed about Star Child…" "Your husband…" "Yes… but he severed the mind link with me. I can't hear him in my thoughts… and Jeannie appeared in my dreams, and then Son Goku…" "Wait, slow down!" Buruma said quickly. "Why don't we talk about this all over coffee… in the kitchen…" Once they were alone in the kitchen, Buruma poured coffee for herself and her distraught fellow scientist. Atomique had said little since they had shed their lab coats and sat down beside one another at the small wooden table in the breakfast nook. Chairs creaked slightly as Atomique shifted, taking the mug of fresh coffee steaming in her face. "Arigato," she nodded. Buruma nodded back, setting down a plate of tempting pastries that would have put her mother's blood level of glucose to shame. "My mom always loved these. She and my dad are out of town. Chocolate always makes me feel better when I'm mixed up… and I'm sure you're confused as hell by the look of it…" "Buruma, I know you and Son-kun… and…" "This has nothing to do with him, so don't worry about that," said Buruma quickly. "My friendship with you doesn't need anyone's approval. Now just please relax and tell me everything. I promise I'll do whatever I can to help… I might be a bitch to some people because I tell it like it is, but that doesn't' mean I won't listen when someone needs an ear…" "When I woke up, Radditzu drew off my excess energy. And then the next thing I know… one thing led to another…" "Okay… you can tell me all right. I'm not going to flip out or get mad. Goku's one of my oldest and dearest friends. If something's happened with you… and he's part of it… it's my business to know… or is that why you didn't want to tell me that he bit you?" "You know?" "It's obvious why you're so worked up…" "Because you're his best friend, I figured you might be leery to know… what happened. And that you might still think that he belonged with… or should I mean we're talking about his brother here…" "Like I said, this isn't about that. Did he bite you, on the neck? Is that why you're hiding with that smock?" she asked. Atomique nodded, unbuttoning the top silk buttons to reveal a red bruise in the exact same place that Buruma recalled hers. Untying her scarf, she showed the mark she bore, and glanced at both. "Exactly the same place… you can see why I'm nervous, because I heard that they mate for life… and if…" trailed off Atomique. "No wonder you're freaked. Are you sensing any thoughts or feelings not your own?" "Yes. Just like with Paul, only more… intense. It's like I can feel… and sense things… like I'm partly somewhere else…" "Did you bite HIM?" "Yes," she nodded, looking guiltily. "Thank heaven for small favors, or you'd be going nuts and so would he by now," said Buruma. Reaching across she took her friend's hand and squeezed it. Both women embraced, as she gave her a much-needed hug. "I'm happy, and it's great, but I'm scared…" "Are you scared because he might hurt you? Because Bejita would make sure…" "Bejita can't stand me," she groaned. "Bejita hates most people. But he respects you, and it's not just because you kicked his student's butt…" Buruma giggled. “I refuse to believe that till I see it…” said Atomique, rolling her eyes. Buruma grinned like a Cheshire cat and squeezed her shoulder. “Look, take it from me, those monkey men can be bakayarous, but deep down there's nobody more devoted to a female then one of them. If you caught him, then I'm sure it's all good. After all, he's Goku's brother. There has to be capacity for good… and I don't' think you need to hit him on the head either…” “I care deeply for him. God… Kami knows why, but I've fallen deeply in love with him… so quickly…” she smiled shyly. “Good. Then it's a chance to celebrate. I figured he had the hots for you the instant you two started arguing…” “Is that a Saiyan thing as well?” “You kidding? It's part of how they show affection… by yelling at each other…” she snickered, mimicking Bejita's expression eerily. “I'm doomed,” she groaned. “But Son Goku doesn't seem exactly happy… is it true what people say?” “What do you mean,” Buruma asked, sipping her coffee thoughtfully. “He seems disappointed when I came in with Radditzu this morning. Like a lost puppy. Did he really have… feelings for me?” “Kami… I'm afraid so. Look, I'm glad this happened. Because what I'm about to tell you will clear it all up… you should know the whole story behind why Chichi left him…” “But is there a chance… I think he still loves her…” “He does, but let me start from the beginning. They divorced nearly two years ago. But Chichi had been talking about leaving him for a long time, since he was dead… and she had been lonely, and in that time she'd met someone else. I figured it out, because I put 2 and 2 together, and Bejita smelled another male on her whenever she'd come by with Goten…" "Bejita knew?" groaned Atomique. "Yes. He didn't care for it, but he figured that since she was human, she'd be lonely. He knew for a while that this was going on. But since Son-kun was dead… and then when she heard that he was coming back for the Tenkachi Boudakai… she stopped seeing whoever it was. Things seemed great, because she was going to see her Goku again. But then Majin Buu…" Buruma frowned. "Goku told me parts of it… that awful battle…" shuddered Atomique. "Yes. Chichi was changed into something else like all of us were. When she realized Goku was really coming back to life, she wasn't sure how to take it. Shortly after that, she came over alone to talk to me. She asked me to promise not to tell Son-kun, but she was planning on leaving him… of course I was angry, hurt and confused for both their sakes. But I couldn't say that I was surprised. Of course Bejita overheard the whole thing, and it was all I could do to stop him from making an ass of his smug self…" "How did…" blinked Atomique, gulping the last of her coffee. Buruma poured her a second mug. Listening to her friend she dumped sugar into the swirling black brew. "I tried to convince her to give it another chance, but she said she'd made up her mind. I asked her if she was going to take Goten and Gohan. She said she suspected Gohan already had figured it out, and she didn't' want to take Goten out of school. I said that I'd take him if she wasn't able to… because she'd gotten a job in another city…" "A job? Good for her!” nodded Atomique. She reached for a cream filled donut, biting into it ravenously. Buruma grabbed an éclair, licking chocolate icing off her lips. In between bites she continued, "She's been hired as an accountant for a pretty prestigious firm. She didn't waste her time those seven years just doing nothing. So after a long talk, she gave me some money to set up a trust fund for the boys. Then she told me that she was going to see to it that Goku learned what it was like… put him in her shoes. I demanded that she tell the whole truth. So a few days went by, and then I went to see both of them. Son Goku was devastated because she'd finally broken it to him. Vegetal and I showed up at his house and he was an emotional wreck. Needless to say, Bejita was pissed, but I told him to back down. So we took Goten for a few days while I stayed with Son Goku, and Gohan. Eventually the whole story came out. She had pretended everything was fine for those last few weeks… and then she left when Goten was visiting Trunks…" "She just left them, Goku said. But I don't think she's the sort of woman who would do that without a good reason…” "She had told Goten she was going away on a trip, and that he was to stay with Daddy because Mommy needed to go do something important," sighed Buruma. "And that when she was done, she'd come back and have him come for a visit. And then in a few months, she and Goku took the family to dinner here, and everything was explained. I'll tell her that she did the whole thing with class, because there was no shouting, no screaming and just a very matter of fact explanation to both sons that it wasn't their fault. Goten was really upset, and Gohan wasn't too happy, but she made it quite clear that she couldn't live with him anymore. Not till he proved he was willing to stay and take care of the family. Of course Goku got it in his head that he was going to do whatever it took to make it right, so Chichi said the only way he could was to take care of the boys himself. And then that's how it happened…" "Weren't they… bonded?" asked Atomique, sipping her coffee thoughtfully. "Bejita says that Saiyans can bond in three ways. By blood, by children, and by soul. Rarely do all three happen in a mating bond. It's true that a Saiyan bites his mate on the neck to claim his property. But she has to bite him in return if she wants to show that she is truly his. She can refuse, but still bear his children." "Goku said that they raised kids in incubators…" said Atomique, shivering visually. "Yeah. And shipped 'em off world. Only Royals were born naturally anymore. So most of the mating bonds were more for the sake of sexual release. But Saiyans are monogamous after they pick one partner to breed with. Sex, food, and fighting are the three desires most important. But it was getting more and more socially unacceptable to form lasting emotional soul bonds. Those are only possible if the female continually drinks the male's blood, and lets her mind open to his the first time they mate after that exchange. But Chichi never bit him back. He said he could sense her, because they had children together, that bonded them in one of the ways, and because he'd marked her, that counted as a typical Saiyan bond. But she never bit him back. Usually 2 out of three are required to be officially mated, in Saiyan society." "So you can have children and share blood. Or share children and a soul bond if both mutually bite?" asked Atomique. "Yes. Or you can choose not to reproduce and so forth and so on. It's rare to have all three happen… like in the case of Bejita and myself," she blushed with pride. "But Goku and Chichi are bonded by the fact they have children. But she never fully accepted the soul bond or the blood bond. And well… it's hard to say how a Saiyan bond works with a non Saiyan… it's totally unpredictable…" Buruma shrugged. "I feel like I'm encroaching someplace I shouldn't be…" she shivered. "It was Goku's silly idea to take you in anyway. And now that you've done this, it solves one problem already…" “Now we can get Goku and Chichi back together, right!” nodded Atomique. “Absolutely. Unless she doesn't' want him back… and I'm hoping to Kami she does…” “Let me know how I can help…” said Atomique. Then her face fell. “What?” "That's why I'm scared… I made such a commitment once to a man who wanted me… and look where it got me. I don't think I deserve such an honor… I mean Radditzu is a great guy… once you get past the raw meat eating, and the past he's got… but you and Bejita are happy… right?” "Hey, he did it cause he cares for you, baka," sighed Buruma impatiently. "I thought I wasn't capable of falling in love, but now I'm in over my head," she gasped, shivering as she sobbed into her hands. "And I'm not sorry, but I'm scared it will be taken away… and what if Paul comes back…" "He's the one who shut you out. He's dead… unless you have some religious thing about…" "Till death do us part I swore. But he made it clear he cannot be what I want of him," said Atomique quietly. "I'm just really happy that he's found someone special. Take my advice and don't look back. You be good to him, because he's my best friend. And I'll support this if you both really want it…" said Buruma with a smile. “But what if Chichi doesn't want Goku back?” "If you're worried about Chichi, don't be. You're not responsible for her, or Goku's past. So let it go. Just enjoy the special thing Radditzu's offered you, because you're a hell of a lucky woman. Hopefully Chichi will see what Goku's done, and she'll learn how much he's willing to do to prove he loves her alone." “Good I hope so,” nodded Atomique. "Now, why don't we see what those idiots are up to… because I for one don't want another crater in my yard?" Buruma grinned. "Where's Jeannie?" "Who the hell knows?" Buruma shrugged. "Bejita made it clear he wasn't training her as long as she kept ranting about revenge!" "But he always says he's going to fight Goku…" Atomique winced. "He always does. It's a male thing. But Jeannie was threatening to take the twins away, and actually kill you. Goku and Bejita never would kill each other's families. They keep their thing between THEM," Buruma said quickly.