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Gone	By : TristaML Category: Dragon Ball Z > Yaoi - Male/Male Views: 10329 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Dragonball Z or any of the characters. I do not make any money off of writing this fanfiction.

Chapter List
- 11
- 12
- 13
Nancy: Thank you so much! I'm glad to hear you think so! And just so you know, this chapter happens to be especially long, probably the longest in the story.

Macha: Lol, thank you! I think you may find Fronshir to be an interesting person, but that's about all I can say :)

Secretsaiyancrush: Your review was funny lol This chapter should answer some of your questions but not all :) Thank you for reading and reviewing!

Enjoy :)

Twelfth Chapter

Goku was keeping a close eye on the camp miles and miles away. So far they didn’t seem to be scheming in any way or causing any sort of trouble. It was sort of fun to watch them dancing around the fires with one another, playing and having a good time. Some of them had already built houses and others were settling under the stars with very little else. Goku smiled a little bit to himself but his mind was not completely at ease.

He honestly didn’t know where he was getting his bad ideas about his race anyways. He’d never really found himself outwardly thinking negative things about anybody or anything and yet here he is basically assuming terrible things and trash-talking them. He was trying not to, though. He knew there was another reason why he didn’t want to get involved and that was why he seemed to be building up a wall of disapproval between them.

He licked his lips since they were dried when the wind blew past him. He knew it was time to go back and attempt to speak to them again, he didn’t know if the time given would be enough. Goku did not at all feel okay with being named King of a people he knew not and cared practically nothing for. He’d only heard that they are a warmongering people, though that's not at all what he got from the display he watched before his eyes at this very moment. Still, it wasn't right for him to be King and he wasn't sure he completely agreed with Piccolo in not allowing them the proper knowledge of their true Prince, not that he had any mind as to where Vegeta is at this point in time, either.

He hummed to himself, spiking his energy for just a moment, willing anyone to come who would. He wasn't sure if Trunks or Goten would be joining them tonight, and was planning on letting that decision be up to them, but he knew Gohan would come. Piccolo may come, but he might not be joining the festivities. Goku wasn't sure he even wanted to, that's not what he came back for after all. He wanted to clear his name and rid himself of a title he barely understood, didn't feel was rightfully his and had no desire to carry.

Piccolo arrived first, landing behind Goku's still calmly seated form, not speaking a word. Gohan arrived shortly after and then Goku stood up from the mountain side.

"Wait for us," Trunks young voice rang as he and Goten landed less than gracefully behind the three of them.

Goku turned and smiled at Trunks before heading off, everyone else close in tow.

As they drew closer and could make out conversations below, they headed straight for the main fire which Von stood before. The great Saiyan smiled and bowed as they landed, welcoming them, they assumed, in the Saiyan language.

"Von," Goku said over the crackling of the heat, "I want to talk to you in private."

The saiyan nodded and motioned towards his ship which was a short few meters away. Goku nodded and Von led the way. The other young Saiyan's were hesitant to allow Goku to go in alone, but knew they had no reason to be fearful, watching keenly as he took confident steps up into the spaceship.

Once inside and behind a closed door, the noise from the commotion outside was significantly drowned out by the materials used for the craft. Goku was well taken with the extent of technology that he saw, nothing he would ever really be interested in learning how to use but impressive nonetheless.

"I've been waiting for you all day," Von's smile was almost contagious, his eyes almost twinkling in the dim light from the fires and stars outside of the high windows, "but then I suppose I've been waiting for a lot longer so I shouldn't be complaining."

Goku watched as the other Saiyan walked through the control room, which was larger than he expected it to be from the looks of the outside, and acted at ease around him, although they have never met before this day. Goku couldn't help but wonder what made Von so confident about himself during all of this. Goku finally told him, when they both came to a halt, what he came here to say, "I won’t be your King."

Von's smile never quit as his eyes stared into Goku's, "Sire," Von put his hand up in assurance as he saw an irritated look come upon Goku's face, "Would I be wrong in assuming you feel that Prince Vegeta should be King?"

"You would be correct," Goku spoke without really thinking, he wasn't sure what had come over him and why he was responding in the manner he spoke. He couldn't see what Von was getting at or why he felt the need to clarify that information, either.

"May I express my own opinion with you?" Von asked, again using his hand to gesture an open table for their thoughts. Goku nodded and he informed, "I agree with you, the Prince should be our King."

Von began removing his gloves as he spoke, undoing one tie of the wrist after another, pulling gently at each fingertip, bringing Goku's curiosity to mount, "You see, my father, whose name is [also] Vaughn, was the King's closest and most trusted advisor. Having served the elder King as a young boy before that, he lived along side the royals nearly all his life. His name, therefore, was very well known.

"My father and the King were rumored to be lovers," he shrugged, nonchalantly continuing to remove his armor and tug at layered garments beneath, "Over time they made secret plans under the reign of Freeza, one such plan was the staged death of Vaughn. He was to work with a few intelligible allies on a planet very far away as a spy on Freeza."

He dropped the heaviest part of his chest plate to the floor with a noise Goku barely heard, focused on him as he continued, shrugging clothing from his shoulders and sliding it down his arms, "The idea was that King Vegeta would have an upper hand in knowing before Freeza was planning to turn on the Saiyan Empire. They knew it was inevitable, and King Vegeta wanted his empire back."

He reached over his head and Goku noticed two identical tattoos now clearly visible on the underside of his biceps, a strange but simple elongated and round symbol about medium sized on his buff arms. Von grabbed the back of his undershirt and pulled it off over his head, revealing his bare, tan skin. He had an impressive form, but Goku remained concentrated on his words, "Strangely enough, King Vegeta told my father one day to alert the others and flee while he and his men headed into battle."

Von turned his back to Goku completely, showing him another tattoo, a very large, very elegantly drawn out emblem that Goku thought he'd seen once before in a dream. Von said, "This is the symbol of the House of Vegeta," he let that information sink in for a moment before turning back around. He looked down at his right arm and there was another small image of something else Goku couldn't quite catch or simply didn't recognize Von seemed to look at fondly before speaking again, "My father sent the King's word out to those he could trust to protect other, but he did not flee. He went to join the fight but by the time he arrived it was already too late. There was no more Vegetasei and Freeza's ship had changed course once again.

"I was born two years later on a planet in the very outskirts of the reach of Freeza, where few knew of my existence. My father, having known about Prince Vegeta's survival, always told me I must to rejoin with Prince Vegeta and fight Freeza if necessary for the sake of our people. Vaughn was next only to the King and the Prince, he obtained expressed permission from the King who insisted any of Vaughn’s children have these markings."

Goku thought he understood but he didn't really see the significance if him telling him all of that. Von was born into a world that was not his home, where he would never be accepted, and the only way he would ever find peace is by following his Prince and rejoining those left of their kind. Was he supposed to be impressed? Was he supposed to be proud because he cared just as much for his people as any Saiyan should (he supposed)? Von was just as obsessed as Vegeta was he just had another avenue to take it out on. Goku asked, "Where's your father now?"

"He's been dead for a long time," Von face turned down a little but he stood perfectly still, tall and proud, "I learn in him everyday. He taught me who the Saiyans could trust and how to track down anyone and how to leave no traces behind." Goku found determination taking its place in Von's features and the man continued, "When he left us, we were a few dozen at best, now we are one hundred and fifteen all together, thanks to our women." Goku was surprised to hear the number he'd be clamoring to count. Von added, "There are more on their way to us, now."

Goku kept his mouth shut, not trying to give anything away. He listened while Von went on, “I tell you all of this so that you know where my loyalties lie and so that you see where I’m coming from in bombarding the place that I hear you call ‘home.’” Von’s eyes held upright honestly and a passion that was riveting as his voice broke through the near silence again, “All of my early life I was told of the Prince of Vegetasai, how he is a survivor, how I must be a survivor for my people. I heard of nothing else but the power and the glory of Prince Vegeta and it has been a life’s pursuit to find him.”

Goku was losing his footing, fast. He was still considering everything he'd just been told about the long journey Von had to come all of this way just to be disappointed. Goku told him, with what little emotion he could, "I'm sorry that it didn't turn out the way you had planned."

Von eyed him, as he had been, and said, "I'm not upset, Prince Vegeta is alive after all." Von's slate grey eyes pierced into him while Goku tried to follow up with something. "You're wondering how I know?" Von bent down, one hand on his knee as he lifted up a simple garment off of the ground and slipped his arms through the no sleeve opening, before grabbing a sash and tying it around his waist. When his eyes met Goku's he said, "You gave yourself away when I asked if the two of you together."

Goku didn't say a word, concentration mounting on his face no matter how hard he willed himself to remain calm.

"At first you said he's not here, then you expressly said you wished to change the topic when I brought him up again," Von seemed to be replaying the memories in his mind as though to account for their accuracy. "Also," Von smiled gently, "When I asked if you thought he should be king you agreed. One wouldn't normally offer up a dead man as their new leader. Besides, I wouldn’t venture to say that I man like him simply dies and no one talks about it.” He added for good measure at Goku's unparalleled silence, "We don't have to discuss this if you do not wish to, niz Epiqc, ah, my Lord."

Goku wanted to tell him to knock it off with the royalty thing, but he was a little distracted with the fact that he hadn't caught on to the small details before. Was Von trying to be crafty or did he just get lucky because Goku stumbled?

Von waited with an exceptional amount of patience for Goku to say something. He acted as though he had all the time in the world and didn't budge an inch as they stood in silence together.

Goku wondered what he was supposed to be saying right now. All he could think about what the fact that he wished Vegeta was here. He couldn’t focus on what Von was saying and he wasn't sure what he should tell him or what he even wanted to know. No matter what he told him about the Prince it wouldn't matter if Vegeta never comes back. Goku broke the silence with, "Vegeta is alive and well, if it makes you happy to hear it."

Von smiled at him and there was a gleam in his eyes that represented the peace that did follow in hearing those words whether he had been aware of it or not. He walked closer to Goku and put a hand on his shoulder, looking down into his eyes with thoughtfulness, "I would like very much for you and your family to join the others in celebration tonight. These heavy matters can be worn down with time," he began leading him over to the exit, "Not meant for discussion on such a glorious evening."

"Wait," Goku pushed his hand off of his shoulder and halted. He had almost forgotten about everyone else for the moment, only just then registering the dimmed echoes of their festivities. "I refuse to be King."

Von's gaze went from one eye to next for a few long moments, he looked hopeful and asked, "So the Prince is coming back?"

"No!" Goku said full of emotion but without conviction. He wasn't sure if he was denying it or declaring it and he was shocked to hear it come out of his own mouth. He couldn't hide his disposition. Angered by his mistake and the admittance itself Goku brushed passed Von and out into the middle of the room, upset with him, "Why do you push me so far?!" He stood amongst the foreign objects and couldn't seem to get a grip.

Von did not seem affected by his behavior in the least and he played the waiting game once again, letting his mind wonder about the complications of his Sire's heart. Finally he realized as he had presumed from his conversation with the man earlier that day, that Goku seemed to be in some sort of predicament, and he apologized to him for causing him any trouble and excused himself.

“I have more questions,” Goku was there, in front of him, in an instant, blocking the exit. Von took a few quick steps back, the shock transparent. “They can’t stay here,” Goku stated.

Von’s humor caused him to laugh a little bit and relax. He answered, “That was never part of the plan. We’d hoped that you’d like the idea of finding a new home.”

Goku was becoming tired of all this talk and finally starting asking direct questions, “Who is ‘we’?”

Von shook his head, “See this is what I mean,” he smiled in lightheartedness, “It’s important that you know who you can trust. I am on yours and his Highness’ side.” He relaxed by visibly lifting and cracking his shoulders before letting them fall comfortably back. He looked at Goku again, “When I say ‘we’ I do mean a majority ruling amongst the people. There is little you and I can discuss here that does not get discussed, or is not being talked about out there. Our people make our decisions.

“Of course, there is a slight factor of strength not to mention prior knowledge and due respects, so that rules out who’s in charge over whom on a small scale at the end of the day,” he had a slight chuckle in his voice, but he spoke gently and Goku could tell he enjoyed his station in purity, “At the end of the day, every vote counts, even that of the smallest child.”

Von took a few steps closer and admitted, offering a hand out, “I get my council from elders in our group who I will gladly introduce you too. Our wisest have only good things to say about you,” his efforts to reassure Goku only did so much good.

Goku had trouble forming the question, “How could you come and just assume I would want to leave this planet?”

Von looked at him blankly before looking away, the answer seeming to be a little troubling. He walked a few paces to the left then turned and walked another few paces to the left before turning again and heading back to Goku. He said to him, “You see, I thought you and Prince Vegeta were together, and I figured, then, that the Prince would desire to start anew, and you would just… go with him.”

Goku shook his head, and admitted, “I’m confused,” while walking back into the main cabin to join the conversation further instead of lurking in the doorway.

Von tried his hand again, “You’re wondering why you were named King? You think it’s because of our Prince’s absence?”

Goku looked at him in waiting, wondering why he had to go in so many circles just to get one inch of understanding.

“The people want you as their King. Majority rule, as I said,” Von shook his head as Goku began to dispute him, “In all our years a Legendary has been promised to us, and you are him,” Von cracked a prideful grin, walking slowly closer to him, he continued, “You became the Legendary and destroyed Freeza, you have freed countless peoples, some who don’t even know of their freedom yet!” Von gripped Goku’s shoulders in his hands in a tight but fond grip, “You can ask them yourself and they will all tell you; they will have no other.”

Goku couldn't help but stare into Von’s eyes in awe. He told him, “I do not want to be King, Von. You can see that can’t you?” He looked deep into the other’s eyes and found them to fully understand although not very sympathetic. He said, “You have to tell them that.” Goku shrugged the man’s hands off of his shoulders and watched as he sighed and backed away.

“Maybe if Prince Vegeta was here he could force them into submission,” Von’s smirk continued, “I’m afraid if you imposed your will upon them it would only serve to make them heel to you all the more.”

“You’re kidding,” he almost growled, he felt like he could roar in his upset. Goku paused, “Why would they listen to him?”

“Well, he’s of royal decent, not to mention I hear he is a Legendary, too,” Von answered simply.

Goku wondered what his ancestors had to do with it. He didn’t believe in all that superstitious stuff. He told him, “I will not rule your people, Von, and I want to be left alone about it.”

Von felt the impact Goku’s words held like one ton being hefted on top of him. His whole body felt pressured as he looked into the other man’s eyes and he could not tear his gaze away. He slowly realized it was just a glimpse of Goku’s power that he was experiencing in effort to get his Sire’s point across. As it subsided and he could feel an ease of his breathing he finally responded boldly, “Where is Prince Vegeta?”

Goku would not answer.

“These people will stay here until I see him,” Von dared.

“I hardly think you’re in a position to be making demands,” Goku’s eyes narrowed at him.

“You don’t know where he is, do you?” Von’s voice was dropping in caliber, and his face was devoid of any inclinations.

Goku still would not answer.

Von’s countenance grew darker and he stared at Goku willing him to answer honestly. For all he knew Prince Vegeta sent him here to say all of these things because he truly did not wish to deal with any of it. He doubted that, though. He was being upfront with Goku and he wished he could receive the same treatment in return, but he did understand the hesitation, sort of.

He put up an offer for his side, “We will do no harm to the Earthlings and we will be no trouble to this land. I can promise you our visit here will go unnoticed.” Von saw a light go off in Goku’s eyes and he went on, “I will send men out to look for a suitable planet while these people rest and I will reserve the announcement of your denouncement of the crown-”

“No, Von-”

“-until further notice,” he insisted in interrupting so that he could finish, desiring for Goku to hear him out. “I feel it is in your best interest to give it time.”

“I don’t need your advice!” Goku felt like it was very odd of him to react in such a way, even as the words flew out of his mouth, but he couldn’t help it.

Von could see an internal confusion going on in the man’s mind and spoke again, “My duties here are not yet finished.” Goku felt his riling coming down the more calm Von remained around him. He didn’t know why this man seemed to know his reactions before he even had a cause to do them. Von talked openly, “I am not here to steer you wrong or ruin your life. I am here to find my Prince and if you can help me, I would appreciate it.”

A long silence ensued. Von’s patience was impeccable. There was nothing Goku could think of to say at this point in time that held any bearing. He supposed he was getting what he wanted but at the same time nothing was being resolved. There were so many angles to view the whole picture from and not enough time to delve into every one of them. Finally Goku asked one thing that had been bothering him, knowing he could stop the conversation at any time if he needed to, “Why do you think Vegeta and I were ever a couple?”

It was Von’s turn to be silent, though a small smile graced his features. He took a moment to gather his thoughts and then confidently told him, “I don’t believe in coincidence.”

Goku was a little upset at that answer, it didn’t tell him anything. Was that his manly way of saying he’s a hopeless romantic?

“Bardock,” Von spoke again, “He fought the last day.” There was a faraway look in his eyes and Goku watched him closely, “Vaughn had been trying to contact him for so long. But Bardock was tricky and he didn’t trust anybody. There was no communication with him unless you forced him into it, and there were few who could force him into anything.”

“Who is Bardock?”

“Your Father.”

Goku laughed, the first time he actually felt himself laughing slightly out of anger, and he said, “I don’t care about any of that.”

“No?” Von said, a little put off, “Bardock was a genius on and off the battlefield, no doubt where you get your brain and brawn from.”

“What does that matter now?” Goku growled at him, tired of playing around with useless information.

“If your father hadn’t been who he was, you would not have lived,” Von put the pieces together for him. “The King had already worked closely with and favored Raditz, sending him to serve the Prince. Raditz’s real father is unknown but he was raised by Bardock, who is your biological father,” Von felt like he was providing a life’s explanation to Goku and Goku couldn’t care less.

He smirked, “Yes, Bardock, the mighty father of Kakarot.” The acknowledgment that crossed Goku’s eyes in a flash did not go unnoticed. Von nodded his head, “Yes, I know your real name. It is known only by the elders and me.

“In fact, I almost didn’t believe the reports when they’d said that someone who claimed to be a Saiyan named ‘Goku’ from another planet had defeated Freeza. I scoffed and dismissed them, no Saiyan would go by any other name than the one he was given but I reconsidered when I’d heard that Prince Vegeta had been there fighting as well.”

“How is it possible that you know all of these things? Who were you getting reports from?” Goku knew he wasn’t all-too-up-to-date with things on his side of the universe, but how could one person become so privy on things that he had never been involved in or even near?

Von laughed a little, “My father knew of a few Saiyan’s who had slipped under the radar since the destruction of Planet Vegeta. Freeza, unfortunately, found out about nearly all of them and sent the best of his men out to hunt us down and destroy us one by one if necessary. The only one he’d ever planned on keeping alive was the Prince so that he may serve him as one of his mightiest warriors and take care of his doings.

“My father and I saw each other very rarely during my early years. He was always jumping around and keeping me with whomever he knew he could trust to keep me safe and alive while he was busy setting up his forces and dispending units in their proper places, some for defense, some for scouting and bringing back reports, others for performing more grounded and natural duties such as having children and becoming versed in any and all art forms as to be our peoples teachers. Vaughn is the one who set up the majority of the systems that I used when I took his place as General amongst our remaining fighters.

“I don’t know all of his secrets and honestly I just think he had luck on his side and that he was very likable sort of man. For as many Saiyan’s who just so happened to be out on a mission or to have been sneaking off somewhere when they weren’t supposed to and managed to escape Freeza’s certain death, are as many as who joined him and brought their allies along as well.

“They were cunning and swift when they had to be for survivals sake, and we managed to keep the majority of our people’s existence under the radar from Freeza. The fool only thought there were some 17-20 Saiyan’s known by name to murder, including my father, when really there were around 55-60 that were actually formulating plans and following orders and causing a threat, that doesn’t include the ones who were staying put and out of harms way.

            “Freeza grew tired of playing games, though, after years and years of wasting men to our troops and spending too much time allowing the few of us he knew of to become stronger and mock him he knew he had to take care of us once and for all. He became increasingly angry when he noticed that not even Zarbon or Dodoria could take out my Father and his crew in his day. He sent out his top dogs. You’ve fought them, The Ginyu Force.”

            Goku watched as Von seemed to forget where he was going with his story. He could tell that the other man was staring deep into his eyes, and he wasn’t sure what he was looking for or what he was thinking about. A few seconds later Von began to speak again, though he still seemed to be dwelling on all sorts of things. “Freeza met his quota and that was all he cared about.

            “With the help of the elders and those who supported my father and believed in me, we were able to lie completely out of range of Freeza or any of his spy’s radars and gather in number and strength. I was ten when he was killed and fifteen when I was named the new General, under guidance. My main goal was to continue on in my father’s quest to support and protect our people and attempt to rejoin the Prince in an uprising.”

            Von held his hands behind his back and took a few steps over in the cabin, looking up at the stars through one of the higher windows, lost in thought. Maybe not quite lost, there was a warm glow to his eyes and Goku imagined he was reminiscent. He said, “I spent most of my interests in following Prince Vegeta’s whereabouts. He only ever travelled with Radditz and Nappa, or, on rare occasion, Freeza himself. I would send one of our members out to return in a month one day, and two weeks later another, and two weeks later another and so on, that way I had step by step, moment by moment updates on anything that might have gone on with our Prince.

            “I became very suspicious when my reporters consistently came back telling me that he was heading farther and farther from Freeza’s ship and no longer responding to his rule. Once I realized that the Prince had made the severance complete between himself and Freeza’s order, I could no longer use my same strategies for I had no way to keep up with him or know where he was planning on heading next without being told of a specific mission.

            “Instead I went about it another way, sending out three at a time to return every two months with reports from Freeza’s knowledge base and also from the lines connected to the scouters of the three men we meant to rendezvous with.

            “We learned most of our information from Freeza’s links, surprisingly. A lot of it had been nothing but rubbish, threats and disappointment and remarks on how foolish the Prince was. However, after a long time with practically nothing, we learned practically everything.

“First off that our Prince was on Earth which is where you were. I knew your destination, but I didn’t know that he did. Actually, it was quite clever of Prince Vegeta, to head all the way out into what, to Freeza, might seem like the middle of nowhere, and he was very careful to mention things over the scouter at that time. I would have headed this way to get you myself, but you were so far out of the way of everything else and I was more concerned with keeping low key for the time.

“Then we heard of Namek and the dragonballs. By that time things seemed to be happening so fast and my men only got what information they could. The names of the Namek Piccolo, your son Gohan, some earthlings named Yajirobi, and Krillin, the name of an earth-woman named Bulma, who also travelled to Namek,” he chuckled a little, “Brave friends you have.

“Over time we continued to collect information on your allies and family, though I won’t say our research was as extensive and detailed as it had been in the past for my interests in our Prince.

“It took a very long time for us to regroup and come up with the materials and means necessary to make the commute out to meet you and rejoin with our Prince, and I waited until I was certain of your whereabouts, particularly the Princes location before we launched.”

Von shook he head and changed the subject slightly, “Anyways, you can see where my disappointment lies.” He smiled and in it Goku could see humor, as though he was laughing at himself. He continued, “I trust it’s starting to make a little bit more sense to you?”

Goku didn’t respond in any way, still not sure what he thought about all of this. He was beginning to feel like he’d brought all of this upon himself simply for being what he is. Why did all of this have to happen? Why did their planet have to get destroyed and why was Vegeta allowed to survive as a slave for Freeza’s will? These Saiyan’s had survived so much over the years and Goku had remained so blind to it.

Von saw that Goku still seemed to be puzzled by some things and pursued once again from where he’d been a few minutes before, “King Goku, listen. The former King Vegeta sent you, alone, far away the day he planned to fight Freeza.”

Goku wondered how his response had been so dead on to his thoughts and realigned their gazes, listening.

“Your father and his crew had been ordered by Freeza himself on a special job. Bardock’s crew left him behind with an injury, and when they arrived on the site of Planet Meat Dodoria and his men were waiting for them,” Von detailed further. Goku’s brows drew closer together, a little interested in this story, though he was sure there were thousands just like it, “By the time Bardock got there every member of his crew was dead.”

“Why?”

“The same reason Freeza wanted all of us dead. He knew that if for whatever reason the King and Bardock ever did rendezvous he might actually have some trouble on his hands, especially if the Prince got involved,” he answered. “Freeza ultimately sacrificed thousands of his own men in order to wash his hands of us.”

Goku didn’t feel like anymore explanations were in order. He was exhausted just listening to all of it and he didn’t think he wanted to hear anymore of Von’s stories for a while. Goku finally asked, “Don’t you tire of living in the past?” baring his teeth a little angrily at him. Part of him thought it was nice to get a better vision of what happened so long ago, but not necessary.

Von answered quickly, “Don’t you see that’s why I’m here; to start a future?”

Goku did see that. He said nothing and let him speak whatever was on his mind.

“You hesitate to join us this evening,” Von smiled softly as he saw the recognition go through Goku’s eyes. “I wish you wouldn’t.” He let their stare linger before turning away. He walked towards the door having felt like they’ve discussed enough for the evening. “I wish you would trust me. Alas, with time, you will,” his exit was quick after that.

Goku couldn’t help but wonder why Von trusted him so much. He left him inside of his spaceship where Goku could simply sniff about their belongings or destroy their devices, yet Von wasn't in the least bit concerned for any of those things.

Goku was beside himself. He had all afternoon to consider how he was going to handle that and he didn't handle it well at all. This was too heavy a burden for him. He found himself hanging his head low and was not finding the peace he usually could gather. He had just been told amounts of information that he still didn’t know what to do with or if any of it was wroth anything to him.

His problems were not the Saiyan's fault, he knew that, and they certainly weren't Von's. He was having internal issues with Vegeta's departure now far worse than before. Is this guilt? Maybe it's humility? The last thing he ever wanted to do was look like the bad guy, especially to Vegeta.

Goku had to shake his head to rid himself of these thoughts, knowing they had no ending. But then what is he to do? Should he go out and spend time amongst these people while Vegeta remains unwise to their existence? Or should he refuse to be involved at all? Or should he go find Vegeta?

---

“Come on!” Trunks yelled to one of the other Saiyan boys. He and Goten had joined some children their age playing a game with some object they called an “abikkay,” which looked like a usual kickball but much heavier. Goten got on one team, Trunks joined the other and they were quickly catching on and having so much fun. It was such a difference being tossed around and playing with kids that they could actually compete with.

            Gohan watched them as he did a little exploring himself, smiling, walking through the groups of people, listening to the conversations as he passed by. Most of his concentration though was on his Dad and Von. His father had been in the ship talking to Von for quite a long time, but now his ki had left the site all together and Gohan was having a hard time picking up on Von’s again with all the fires and commotion going on about him.

            “Prince Gohan,” a few women, who looked around his age some maybe a little older or a little younger called out to him, beckoning him closer, giggling.

            Gohan smiled but did not follow their calls, still interested in exploring. He knew he’d seen a few of the same faces smiling at him as they passed him by now, but still he felt like it hadn’t all sunk in yet. Beside the fire there were people telling jokes, passing around food and drinks and inviting others to dance. Out in the open there were families and friends gathered around and mingling with others that passed them by.

He’d been stopped earlier by a few men who asked him if he was there for the fight against Freeza. He told them that he was and they began to make a fuss about the power Freeza held and how still some of them couldn’t believe that King Goku had defeated him. Gohan shook his head and walked on, not interested. They only know part of the whole story, and besides, they’ve defeated Cell and Buu by now, too, neither of those dangers did these people seem to know about, it was probably best that way.

            An older man came up to Gohan as he was making his circles and grasped him with a firm grip on the arm. Gohan turned and looked at the man, who despite his old age had much life in his eyes and strength at his fingertips. He said nothing to Gohan and led him off into a small cabin that had been expertly fastened by some wood from the nearby forests. Inside it was dimly lit by the window openings where the star and firelight came in. The floors were covered with blankets and pillows and there were four other elderly people, two women and two men, who sat in a half circle with cups and bowls of food and drink in front of them. A few people came in and out of the small house, catering to their needs as requested, smiling at them and bowing slightly, asking them if they needed anything.

            “Sit down,” one of the women told him, pointing to a cushion that would join him with the circle. The man who had brought him there took his seat beside her and they all seemed very eager for him to join them.

            Gohan sat cross-legged on the ground beside the man, following suit to the others, very interested in what they had to say. He could feel a calming hum overtaking him. It crept into his skin as he entered the room and was still warming him, soothing his soul. He figured it was their combined kis working together to achieve this effect; at least, that’s what it felt like, a blanket of shelter being thrown over him.

            “You are very handsome, like your father,” One of the men spoke; his quiet voice shaky, a small smile on his lips while the others nodded. He turned to the woman sitting beside him, “Mip xipimcifiq Von’it aeffim tip jinobsjifims epiq sgifjiq qifsviqim,” (No wonder Von’s been so impatient for their return) his smile broadened but the only thing Gohan understood was the word “Von,” and even that could have been his mind playing a trick on him.

            “Something troubles you,” the man who brought him inquired, patting his hand gently, he soothingly said, “Relax, my boy.”

            Gohan wondered how they could read him so easily. He was, for the most part, elated to be here. He finally told them, “I just have so many questions.”

            “Answers will come with time,” the first women spoke again very slowly, much like everyone else around here. They all had smiles on their faces and Gohan would have wondered if there was some type of joke going on that he didn’t know about if it wasn’t for the tender nature of their joy.

            “Fikciqt!” (Elders!) Von said loudly as he opened the door and walked into the room another woman following him very closely. “Hippic fufmijimh sip vi!” (Good evening to you!) He bowed, not taking notice of the extra company in the room. He rushed through the small area to the opposite side of the door, grabbing a bottle off of one of the mantles. He brought it over to the woman who had remained by the door and practically pushed her out, shutting the door behind him.

            “Xibit sgibs Iseri?”(Was that Iseri?) one of the men asked Von, then turned to the man sitting beside him, amusement twinkling in both of their eyes.

            “She has Lune for the evening and she was complaining. I don’t know what for,” Von exclaimed enthusiastically, approaching the mats they all sat upon, “She practically takes care of herself!” He got onto his knees in the circle in between one of the women and the man who sat next to Gohan, a large preoccupied smile on his face. He leaned into the middle of the circle, grasping one the large pitchers and began filling everyone cups with the water in it one by one.

            “Von, you have missed something,” one of the men told him, his smile brightening still.

            “What?” he asked, confusion on his face, and looked to his right when the man motioned for him to do so. Well this was embarrassing, here he was on his hands and knees practically stretching out in the middle of the circle and Prince Gohan was staring straight at him and he didn’t seem interest in tearing his sight away. Von’s breath was caught and his eyes couldn’t meet the young man’s after the first few inevitable moments. He pulled back, not sure what to say, and was immediately grateful for the dim light in the room, although it wouldn’t help hide him completely. “Good evening Prince Gohan,” He’d been so concerned with the trouble that damn Iseri was always causing him that he didn’t even bother to see if the elders had company.

            The man to his right took the pitcher from his stilled hand and proceeded filling up the glasses himself, many of the elders had still had small smiles on their faces and listened intently as Gohan’s voice became very small as he said hello, looking into the center of the circle.

            Von, who was practically busting out of his shell two minutes ago, had become very reserved all of the sudden and quietly spoke the woman to his left something in their Saiyan language. She smiled at him and gave a curt nod.

            “Xgiz cipim’s vi siblif sgif Oqijimdif pivs bimic bimtixifiq gijit rivfitsjipint?” (Why don’t you take the Prince out and answer his questions?) the other woman who had not yet said a word offered of him. She turned to Gohan, “Von will gladly accompany you around, if you’d like.”

            “Sure,” Gohan answered quickly, a little quicker than he’d meant to but he didn’t like the fact that they were all speaking in a tongue he couldn’t seem to pick up on yet, and he thought it’d be nice to have conversation he could participate in, not to mention he was very interested in actually meeting Von.

            Von stood up and walked a few feet towards the door waiting for Gohan to catch up.

            Gohan stood up and walked towards him, then turned around and did a slight bow to the people who watched keenly, thanking them, though they didn’t really do anything expect for make him feel welcome. He was glad for it. Von opened the door and waited for Gohan to walk through it first before taking his leave and closing it behind them.

            Von watched Gohan’s back, studying his solid and alluring silhouette; “Let’s get a better look, shall we?” he took off into the sky, Gohan right behind him.

            There was a small cliff nearby, a few hundred yards, a good distance to be away from the majority of the noise, but close enough to see all the detail of the party going on below. As they landed Gohan caught sight of his brother and Trunks playing what looked like a rough game of tackle with the other kids. Trunks was dominating every one as usual and it made Gohan laugh a little bit.

            Von smiled, enjoying just looking at the young man and the way the wind tossed his hair and his clothes. He looked and smelled like a Saiyan although he could tell his scent was slightly off, it was no less attractive. His eyes were so deep and his body was advantageous to say the least. He didn’t know anything about him but ever since he had seen him this morning he desired to learn everything there was to know. He hadn’t really considered King Goku’s sons much before this morning, not to mention Prince Vegeta’s, who was quite handsome and a fiery to say the least.

Gohan turned his head to the side to look at Von, catching him staring and when their eyes locked neither of them could look away.

“You have questions?” Von’s smile was warm and inviting. He stood tall along the edge of the mountain-side, his body opened towards Gohan.

Gohan waited a moment, gathering his thoughts, which he found particularly difficult to do around this man. “How is this possible?” he gestured towards the Saiyans.

Von could think of nothing else other than to get a little bit closer to him, to wrap an arm around him, an itch he hadn’t felt with anyone in a long time. He resisted, tired of talking so much as he seemed to be longwinded this evening, he answered, “It’s such a long story…” leaving it at that for a moment to see if there was anything else on the inquiring youth’s mind.

Gohan looked back out into the encampment, letting his eyes roam from group to group but keeping track of Trunks and Goten. It was hard to concentrate on anything other than the man that stood next to him. He let his sight realign with Von, sweeping from his boots and legs up to his neck and face and resting on his eyes. He’d never met anyone so striking in his life. He pushed that thought aside and asked, “Why did you name my father King?”

“It is what the people wanted,” Von did take step closer and turned to look out at the small town below, their shoulders would have been side by side if not for the height difference.

“My family is not interested,” Gohan looked back out into the crowd, keeping an eye on Von from the side.

Von half-smiled and half-frowned at that statement, he sounded just like his father, he told him, “You may come to change your minds with time,” wishing to leave it at that.

Gohan assumed that’s exactly what he’d told Goku. He asked, “Are you saying we don’t have a choice?”

Von didn’t want to tell him that’s exactly what he was saying because he didn’t want to piss him off. Instead he chose to respond with, “I’m saying you should give it time.”

Gohan didn’t like that answer. The elder folk told him answers would come with time, and now Von was offering answers and his answer was that things would come together with time. That didn’t mean much to him at all. He didn’t say anything, crossing his arms over his chest in his mounting frustrations. It wasn’t just his lack of providing information that made Gohan exasperated.

Von watched as Gohan’s body language closed up. It was exactly the opposite of what he wanted to happen. What was wrong with this picture? They were being given the opportunity to rule a mighty race and they blatantly refuse. Something in him turned cold the more distant Gohan became.

He could tell that the young man was interested in his heritage, though, unlike his father who seemed quite intent on avoiding the Saiyans altogether. Von took a step back to face Gohan again and gently grasped his arm, causing him to undo their crossing. He waited until their eyes were fixated on each other’s but once they were his words escaped him.

Von wanted to pull him closer by the grasp he had on his arm and lean down and truthfully, he wanted to press their lips together in a tantalizing kiss but he didn’t think Gohan would really appreciate being hit on so strongly and so soon. Gohan was easily the most handsome Saiyan he’d ever seen, and there was something about him that screamed might and seemed a little dangerous, but his favorite feature on the youth was the intelligence that he saw lying within. It was a toss up between what would make a move first, his voice or his desires.

They began to talk at the same time, what was being said lost by the distraction of the other’s instant interruption. Gohan laughed a little, looking down at the hand still on his forearm, unable to start again.

“Qifkibew,” Von whispered, speaking more to himself than Gohan.

Gohan only looked up as far as to watch Von’s broad chest rising and falling with every deep breath that he took. He heard in his mind the word “Relax” clear as day, and he felt a calm coming over him but not like before. This time there was no uncertainty within him. He felt himself going lax and drew a little nearer to Von, slowly looking up at the gorgeous Saiyan, having no less of a reaction this time than the first time he’d looked at him. Von smiled down at him, finally removing his hold. Gohan wished he hadn’t.

“Who are you?” Gohan found his voice after some time in silence.

Von seemed to have an endless supply of smiles for Gohan and he answered, “I’m just another Saiyan like all of them,” he said, gesturing out to the crowd.

Gohan looked back over to them having almost drowned their noise out completely. He had thought that he had so many questions for the Saiyans but they were slipping his mind at the moment. Maybe Von wasn’t the person he should be asking, all he could think about was inching just a little bit closer and getting him to touch him again, maybe he wouldn’t mind.

At first he thought that his body was acting up again but this wasn’t quite the same as the rush he felt when he began to panic about his transformation. It was pure, clear, and obvious. Un-ignorable, yes, unstoppable, almost, yet secure as opposed to the shattered feeling of his primal lusting body. He willed himself to stay right where he was and feared that even that might not be a great idea. His heart rate was climbing and he couldn’t keep his thoughts from becoming besotted if he tried.

Von’s eyes rolled to a close on their own accord, a reaction to the humming warmth of the body next to him, and then he noticed it. There was something else different about Gohan’s scent, but due to the unique nature of it he hadn’t quite picked up on it before. “Horunta,” he whispered aloud.

“What?” Gohan asked his voice thick and full of intrigue and he turned his gaze upon Von’s face.

“Horunta,” Von lifted up his voice, feeling the word get carried away by the wind. He could tell his breath was becoming a little quicker, his eyes more focused, and his heartbeat was quickening. This was not good.

“What is that?” Gohan looked confused, staring at Von’s face before honing in on his eyes. Von’s eyebrows rose a little in his surprise.

He picked up on Gohan’s arousal but felt that he’d caught onto pretty slow, not having noticed it before if the young man had already been interested. Either way it egged him on, scent being the most prominent of ways to defer from one thing to another. Finally he heard himself saying, “You’re so close,” the words dragged out of his mouth and his eyes narrowed as he filled his nose with his scent once again. He gathered more concentration, “You don’t know?” He hoped he wouldn’t have to lay such a shock on the young man.

“…Transformation?” Gohan suddenly realized what he could be talking about. He caught the scent of the man next to him with the change of the wind and nearly buckled against him in the want it contained. It was consuming and desirous, and had he not been so curious about his new condition he would have just said to hell with conversation all together. Still he managed out, “I don’t know much about it… Explain it to me.”

“Ah,” Von wasn’t sure he would be able to and he did not hastily jump into an explanation of such things. Most Saiyan children grew up simply understanding what it meant by its presence in their lives, but Gohan may not have encountered it before and he deserved to know. “Horunta means ‘platform’ in the ancient tongue,” he began, and Gohan liked listening to the accent his tongue carried when he spoke in the different language. He went on, “It is something we all go through.” He dared moved the slightest bit closer to Gohan, having a harder time resisting the urge now that his thoughts were directly on the young Prince.

Gohan thought that he sounded just like his father and Vegeta with the small bits of information they gave him. He asked in his hazed state, his eyes moving between Von’s chest and neck and lips and eyes, not sure where to settle, “What happens? What’s the point?”

Von was much more interested in showing Gohan was happens than explaining it to him. He wasn’t so sure Gohan would understand even if he gave him a textbook definition. He licked his lips, looking down at him, his willpower being tested much this evening, “Once we’ve reached and experienced Horunta we are much more sufficient in gathering energy and maintaining our natural balance. It’s about growth and a gain in perception. We learn fulfillment and master self-awareness through it.”

Those were some heavy words he was throwing around. Gohan didn’t feel like he had any better grasp on this “Horunta” thing, not from what he was hearing and what he’d seen, the two seemed almost contradictory.

“You must experience Horunta with another, you cannot go it alone,” Von added, now putting Gohan’s thoughts into place. He continued, “Sometimes the first person you are with is not the one you needed and you’ll have very little time in between to choose the correct partner.” He felt the weight of his words sinking down into Gohan as the young man turned his gaze away from him. He touched his face and so gently Gohan could have blushed as Von eased him to look up again, “You’ll have to make a decision soon, Prince Gohan, lest we all begin to fight over you whenever you come around.”

Gohan’s eyes widened. Two weeks ago he was sucking his dad’s dick when it got too difficult to deal with and there was no one else who he could go to about it. Now he was being told he would be fought for if he did not choose someone he barely knew.

Von knew what it was like to go through Horunta, scary and uncertain and once you’re in the throws of it you have little if any conscious to your actions much less control over them. He wanted to be more supporting for the young man but his judgment was obviously clouded and his interests weren’t exactly pure. His hand went from holding Gohan’s chin to caressing his cheek, his fingers stroking the smooth skin back to his ear and then back onto the side of his face while he leaned in closer.

Gohan welcomed Von’s proximity without hesitation and he licked his lips with anticipation. He didn’t know if it was because Von’s scent was overwhelming him or that his tail had decided to tangle with his, or maybe it was this “Horunta” thing, but he wished Von would just do as he willed with him. His eyes fell to a close and he waited ardently to be kissed.

Von brushed his nose with Gohan’s and continued to rub them together with fevered affection, a very deep purr calling from his chest. Their lips were dangerously close but Von was suddenly nervous, a surprise to himself, and he could not bring himself to kiss the young man before him. Gohan’s body fell the short distance into the older man’s and Von tightly gripped him tight, clutching onto his back with both hands. He breathlessly spoke, “What timing…”

Gohan knew he what he was referring to and couldn’t agree more. He wound his arms around Von’s neck, his fingers fallings through the man’s silky hair and he pressed forward, lifting onto his toes to attempt to kiss him.

Von pulled back, Gohan moving with him though the larger Saiyan successfully avoided his attempts. Gohan’s eyes opened and embarrassment took its place on his features. Von shook his head, smiling, rubbing their noses again, he whispered sweetly, “Jay xijitig sip bupijic be nijitsblif.” (I wish to avoid a mistake.)

Gohan didn’t know the meaning of every word, but the meaning of the statement he felt had been explained to him. Von didn’t want him to rush into things or react simply upon impulses. He wanted him to be sure of his decisions as to not cause any regrets. More than that, Gohan knew that Von wanted him, really wanted him, and Gohan felt the same desires towards the older man and wished he would just claim him.

Von’s hands still seizing his back and gripping into his clothes were more than welcome. His body was more heated than the bonfires roasting below. He felt a great amount of energy entering beneath his skin, crawling into his core, like he was powering up, only it was completely internal. He wanted to rip into Von, scratch his way down his neck and chest, stare heavily into his eyes as they explored one another, taste his mouth and skin, bite his throat and lap up all the blood, and ride him like he’s always imagined sex could be. He could feel Von’s heartbeat pounding only a few inches from his and he wondered what in the world the man was hesitating for, wasn’t it obvious he’s practically made his choice already?

Gohan’s lips were the closest they could get without making contact at the very moment his phone began vibrating, throwing them both way off guard as it pulsated very closely to his and Von’s rock hard members, which they’d been enjoying grinding together in slight, barely noticeable movements through their clothes subconsciously.

“What is that?” Von’s couldn’t help but wonder, surprised by the random tune that seemed to come from the same device that had just sent smalls tremors between them. Gohan groaned aloud, throwing his head back as Von held him in his arms, not at all hiding his disappointment.

He parted from the other man reluctantly and pulled out the offending object, knowing it was Videl’s name that he was going to see on the caller ID.

Von wouldn’t let Gohan get too far from him, one of his hands still firmly clutching his side, the other grabbing mindlessly at the material of his shirt.

Gohan was very irritated at his reminder that he already had a lover. Technically he wasn’t supposed to be getting any sort of intimate with any one. He wasn’t about to tell Von that he had a wife and a three year old daughter. He slowly met his eyes with a rueful look and told him he had to go.

Von tried to stop him. He pulled him back against his body with both hands, whispering “Mip,” into his neck, which Gohan quickly figured meant “no.” He melted into his touch for a split second.

“I’ll come back,” his voice was airy and passionate as he ran his hands through Von’s hair again, regretting his decision to leave altogether but they’d stayed long enough this evening. (Videl must have seen Goku arrive at his house…)

The older man reluctantly allowed Gohan to flee to cliffside and gather his brother and Prince Trunks. “Not soon enough,” he muttered into the wind.
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