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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
- 22
- 23
- 24
Maggie: Thank you again :) Yeah Fronshir was sort of a wild card character, he's not all bad and he's not all good.

Secretsaiyancrush: Thank you so much! I think you'll like this chapter :) but you might not then again by the end of it lol

Macha: Yeah, none of the relationships are settled and the situations between them all are still kind of up in the air. I had a feeling Videl's passiveness was gonna be maybe a bit of a shocker, but it's such a small part in the story to me.

Vegeta's introspection made you uncomfortable? Must have been the parts about Fronshir and Vegeta's confusion, there's no swaying there, just a loss of time and self-control that made Vegeta question things I think, but this chapter should clear up that uneasiness for you. Thank you again :)

As always, Enjoy

"-" denotes a change in perspective in the same scene

Twenty-third Chapter

Vegeta trained hard for long hours, ever consistent with that hobby. He could hardly focus on anything other than sparing or Kakarot. Every other thought was brief and pale, although he sometimes imagined where he would be right now if Fronshir never came along.

He knew he didn't want to travel in space for the rest of his life. There was no joy in it. He knew he missed Kakarot, but there was no certainty in that. His heart wrenched for he also knew he couldn't live without him, at least not on the same planet, maybe not even in the same galaxy. But now every time he thinks of him he can feel his presence, unlike before, and he longs to speak with him, though he doesn't know what to say. He can only imagine what Kakarot's been thinking all this time.

Vegeta went through phases of feeling guilty and embarrassed. Guilty because he was never interested in Fronshir, and he doesn't necessarily want Kakarot to know anything about him. Embarrassed because he knows others will ask, and more over, the others know he needed help. Help from Goku, the man behind the reason he left in the first place. Now he's headed back to Earth, for what? To give them an explanation? It isn't enough that Vegeta had been hypnotized, they would wonder at all the possibilities of the past year. Getting there seemed like the simple part compared to the exhausting and altogether unnecessary "welcoming" he will receive.

In the back of his mind, Vegeta's thoughts over all were growing more rounded and understanding. He began to realize that he didn't really care what anyone else thought, because it doesn't change anything. Things are what they are, and they are not what they are not, and that's all there is to it. It's no one else's business what he's been up to, and to fret about it is pointless. He only wished that he wouldn't have to explain things period, to Goku especially.

Vegeta will know their every thought, he remembered. The idea was still sinking in and he had to tell himself to use it wisely. He would just have to see how well he could contain his reactions. Besides, he has time to practice and perfect his new technique.

Many months pass quicker than Vegeta expects them to and he tries not to focus too much on how uncomfortable this whole thing is. He doesn't want to go anywhere else or do anything else, he just isn't sure about returning to Earth. It seems like a good idea on the surface, but the thought wears down his mind.

Kakarot is as unchanging as history. He knew he couldn't resist him, and won't be able to stop himself from tempting him, but could he face him and chance rejection again? His heart had decided so long ago that Kakarot was the only one for him, what will happen when he finds out how Goku really feels about him?

Vegeta felt faint at the thought of seeing Kakarot. Their last conversation was still fresh in his mind. Goku was so solid that night; so sure. Vegeta knew it hadn't been a spur of the moment thing, he'd been thinking about it. Goku doesn't seem like the type of man to change his mind once it's made up.

It all came back to the same thing, Vegeta didn't know what hurt more; the fact that Goku turned him down that day, or the fact that he never came to him before he left. He felt stupid for heading back to Earth when the possibility of anything having changed was so slim it could be called out with sarcasm. He was heading for heartache with no where else to go, teeter-tottering with indecision. He loves Goku, but Goku doesn't love him, when will he finally get that into his head?

A few more months went by and Vegeta finally decided that he would just have to take his chances. It's been so long and his feelings for Kakarot won't quit. He concluded he needed to be told one more time that there are no possibilities between them for it to be enough. He's strong, he can take it, it's not like it would change anything from how it is now.

Thinking of telling Kakarot he loves him puts an uneasy feeling in his stomach, but thinking of Kakarot walking away without Vegeta ever trying again is an unbearable thought. Vegeta began to rest easier on his way back with the promise he made to himself that he would kiss Kakarot's lips one more time. He wondered what he would have to say about that.

As more time wore on, he began to grow more nervous and altogether tried not to predict the outcome of his journey. He thought about Kakarot more often than not, but he didn't push communication with him anymore than he pushed his ship.

---

Von never did make it to see his King that night (or any night for a while after, actually). He was far too tired to make the journey from just having finished Horunta and traveling back to Earth. He did not return to the camp, but instead found refuge in some tree tops under the night shade and stars. When daylight broke, he roused slowly, and headed back to his people to see his daughter. Since his to-do list had grown so much yesterday, he knew he only had a certain amount of time he could get with Lune, and he wasn't willing to give that up.

Once he got closer to the site he realized Gohan was heading towards them and would arrive around the same time as him, though he was traveling much faster and from much further away. That has to be a good thing, he thought. Minutes later he landed in front of the Elder house, where Lune was playing outside. Other parents had brought their children to play this morning, too. Gohan landed moments later to the surprise of many that were surrounding them. They smiled at each other and Von noticed the tiny thing Gohan held in his arms, his daughter.

Gohan took a few steps forward and reintroduced Pan to Von. She boldly looked up at him, and he smiled down at her and bowed. Gohan noticed Lune coming up curiously from behind her father. Gohan set Pan down and said, "This is my daughter, her name is Pan."

"Hi!" Lune's smile at this point was contagious. She reached out, grabbed onto Pan's arm and shouted, "I'm Lune, we were just playing a game- let's go!" and then she began to lead her in the direction of the other young kids. Pan followed right along, eager to learn about these new faces.

Von didn't ask questions, and as he drew closer to Gohan they became oblivious to the world around them for the brief moment of a kiss. Gohan looked at Von for a second longer, not really thinking about anything else, before he came back to earth and said, "I thought maybe you could teach me a little bit about all of this; your language, your methods..."

Von smiled, obliged, and said, "First things first, learn our language from the Elders, then we will talk."

He stayed busy amongst his people, putting the issue of Dunduil off while his Sire remained preoccupied and silent as well. Von expected that while he was around he could help keep an eye on things and there would be no need for alarm, and with Gohan amongst them most days and some nights as well, he knew there was no need for concern.

Over the next few months Gohan became very close to the Elders, who explained to him more about the Saiyans than he could ever get out of Von. He was not always able to see all of them at once, and they each have their own way about them, only answering questions they had the answers to. Gohan appreciated their honesty and also their impatience with him at times, they were pushy and persistent with their methods of teaching and simple with their praise. The believed that joy should come from the knowledge not from the impression of others. Time seemed to fly so fast while he was in their company, though they seldom settled for a moments rest.

They had all lived on Vegeta-sai and have stepped foot into the castle at one point or another. They told Gohan that many warriors were called to dwell within the castle walls at the time the King was amongst his people, though those years were long gone. The classes were more to support life than to support stations amongst the people. It wouldn't be wise to send a group of low-levels up against elites, instead you would pit them up with an easy job, one in which they could gain skill and conquer. It became a battle of the ego only after Freeza's men began to "put Saiyans in their place." King Vegeta never had the time to correct the matter, always too busy with what was right in front of him, but he was a well-meaning man when it came to his people, and had respect for all walks of life under their moon.

One of them, Ludant, said that she knew the Prince personally, but only as a very young boy, and she does not expect him to remember her. The other Elders told Gohan all about the type of work the Saiyans used to do for Freeza, how good their loyalty was, and how quickly it all ended. Gohan began to realize things he'd never thought of the more they talked about their past, which was intricate and sometimes confusing.

He took notice of how two of them, Hartonitch and Liji, spoke so majestically of the former King, Vegeta's father, who was apparently a man of great strength and renown, tall, taller than King Goku, even, powerful and wise. (Gohan found out Vegeta takes after his grandfather, who was a shorter man than his son.) They say he heard well Freeza's men, who murmured fearfully of the Saiyan's fast and ever growing strength all day long. Gohan once asked why the King never did anything. Grave-faced, Liji answered that Freeza had his son and all he could do to know that his young son would be safe was follow orders, but he did fight Freeza in the end, and lost.

They further explained that Freeza asked to borrow the Prince to train him as a young boy and teach him new ways, he would return him to Vegeta-sai for a while, only to take him again and again. Freeza did allow father and son to go on a few missions together, but their time was short lived. Freeza took Prince Vegeta with him everywhere, his prize, and kept him longer and longer as the years went by, making excuses for why he wouldn't or couldn't bring him back.

Gohan didn't need much more explaining to put the pieces together then. He heard the same story straight from Vegeta's mouth. He guessed that once upon a time Vegeta had a good relationship with at least one person, his father, something that wasn't based on lies and deceit, but he really wasn't given the chance for much else. Gohan wouldn't talk about Vegeta, even when asked, but he was storing information well.

He asked a lot of questions about Von and how he came to be their temporary ruler, never getting any answers from Von or his dad about it before. The elders were loud about Vaughn's relationship to the King, happy to mention his name. They said that he was jovial and understanding, the kind of man that you only dream about. They say that the (grandfather of Vegeta)King took him in as a boy of only seven years of age, after his father, an elite, was murdered in his own home, and he reared Vaughn up to be all that he knew he could be. (Vaughn's father was a very popular man on Vegeta-sai, even the King had spent time privately with him. He was very powerful and alarmingly intelligent, but he was not as he seemed.) Vaughn's allegiance to the royal house had always been unquestionable. As a grown man, his close, brother-like relationship to the (father of Vegeta)King gave him Godfather-ship to Prince Vegeta, even without a bloodline relationship. He and the young Prince were seldom parted before his staged death. One of the elders claimed that Prince Vegeta knew Vaughn's death was a hoax, but they would never know unless they asked, and they only assumed because the King, "Prince" Vaughn, and Prince Vegeta were very close.

They reiterated Von's story about Dunduil and losing his father, stating clearly that they would never have allowed a change of hands in charge. They didn't discuss it for very long though, directing the conversation to the extensive training Von received as a child from his father, and how ill-prepared they all were to lose him. All of them were melancholy when it came to reminiscing about Vaughn, "It could have been yesterday, I recall it so vividly..." Ludant sighed about last seeing him twenty years ago. She said Von is the spitting image of him.

Gohan loved listening to all of their stories and seldom interrupted them, but there were things that bugged him that he tried to find answers for, like how come no one is suspicious of a Saiyan named "Goku?" Kuvir, the second woman of the five elders, explained to him the story behind his grandfather, Bardock and his son named Kakarot. She says that there are those few among them who know of King Goku's true name and birth father, but then she asked him, in a chirpy tone, "He goes by the name of 'Goku,' does he not?" Gohan could not deny that he does. Besides, he is, without a doubt, Saiyan, and that's all that really matters, they'll call him what he wants.

Over time Gohan grew curious and asked how they found out about Bardock, since it seemed everything happened so fast. Mushnor, the one who had led him to the Elders in the first place, also the oldest of the group, who reminded him of Piccolo with a knowing gleam in his eye and an emotionless face, told him that the same doctors who worked with the young Prince had worked on him and knew him well. Their names were Planthor and Manaka, some of the very best doctors on Vegetasai. "A funny thing," he said, "all the while King Vegeta was looking for Bardock, he was one person away, only the King did not know which name to call him by. Bardock had a different name in every city he ever visited, a very private and eluding man, and King Vegeta knew of all of them except for his rightful one for a very long time, which the doctors knew him by, only."

Gohan wanted to know more about Bardock, his grandfather, but he figured none of them knew anything more than what they said. Sometimes he wondered where they got their information from, but he knew it didn't matter. When he walked amongst the people he considered how much it took for them to get here, and at what odds. He found their existence kind of amazing, and was eagerly awaiting Vegeta's arrival, though he never brought it up.

He eventually gathered the nerve to ask the elders what they know about his dad, wondering what type of stories were floating out there in space. Liji told him that Goku is known as a hero and a wonder to most, but the details of his power they are ignorant to, besides the fact that he has become the Legendary. They did say they were interested to see him fight, but it wasn't like anyone was going to challenge him. Gohan laughed a little, guessing he understood, and thought about telling them that Vegeta was legendary, too, and so was he, and all of the half-blooded male children. He didn't mention it, though.

He asked them all individually if they would bow to the true Prince of the Saiyans. They all shuddered at the idea of resisting and concluded that they had bowed at his birth and would bow at his reign. (Mushnor added, to Gohan's surprise, "Long may he live," and a gleam in his eyes shone for just a second.)

After several sessions of narrowing topics down to the details of what Gohan really wanted to know, they began to discuss a little bit of their people's culture. Several of them had already congratulated Gohan on Horunta, and also on his refreshing interest in their General. They say that Von's grey eyes went cold when Duarlanell died, and they have seen them shimmer since, not until Gohan came along. They also mentioned how serious Von must be about him.

Hartonitch used Duarlanell and Von as an example to answer some of Gohan's questions, saying, "They were lovers and friends for a long time, though everyone knows Von prefers men. They settled together to start a family and create ties between their bloodlines. If anyone were to catch Duarlanell's interest, Von would have allowed her to leave him, and vice-versa, but the family would not be broken up. Saiyans can create these types of bonds and are capable of taking care of multiple families, financially, emotionally, and mentally. However, some Saiyans require only one mate, and cannot handle sharing. It all depends on the person."

These new ideas blew Gohan away and he could do nothing but listen acutely. Hartonitch went on to say, "All Saiyans require brethren, we thrive off of the shaping and involvement in one another's lives. Without the effort and balance others bring to us we can become stagnant and useless; even unhappy. Families often stick together or sometimes individuals find new families whom they fit better with.

"It's only natural that we stick together as a people instead of remain spread out until another home is found. We would go crazy like that, and, other problems would arise."

Gohan asked him how Nappa and Raditz came to be with Vegeta, having come to the conclusion that their presence with Vegeta was the only way the three of them survived over all those years. He wondered how his father managed, before remembering the hit on his head, which literally rewired his brain.

Hartonitch's answer was very long, but shortly explained, he said that Raditz entered into a competition at the youngest age allowed to enter, fourteen, and out of 270 million applicants, he was chosen to be play-mate of the newborn Prince by the Queen himself just before she died. Gohan marveled at those odds, while he learned that Raditz lived at the castle ever since, and travelled almost everywhere with the Prince, a second-glass, learning from the Elites. Then Hartonitch explained much more simply that Nappa was General of the Saiyan army, and therefore, the best fit for Vegeta's second companion. He also told him that the smallest number of men in a crew that Freeza allowed was three. (Hartonitch didn't mention how the rest of Freeza's men used to joke that they couldn't handle any more "monkeys" than that.)

Gohan tried not to have a stupefied look on his face, but sometimes he was surprised at the things that he heard come out of the elder's mouths. They were open with him and treated him with more respect than he knew what to do with. They seemed genuinely happy that he was interested in what they had to teach, but they didn't push him in any particular direction; they only offered their time and their knowledge. All the while Gohan has been working on their language, which is a little tricky to speak, but very easy to read, and easy to learn. Understanding it was simple for him, but speaking it was like trying to muddle out a tongue-twister. They have not yet certified him on it so Von will not take him under his wing, though they spend all of their spare time together. Von seemed busy with his own set of projects and Gohan wondered what he was planning.

He focused on the Elders though, and eventually, he gathered some nerve and outright asked Mushnor about Apimic when they were both alone.

He eyed Gohan closely for a second and asked, "Where did you hear that word?"

"Von," Gohan answered shortly.

Mushnor was working clay expertly in his hands, and did not look up or stop. After a minute he wondered, "Did you not ask Von about it?"

"He didn't know very much," Gohan began to grow nervous, losing his ground.

Finally Mushnor asked, "What would you like to know?"

Gohan started with, "Why is it considered dangerous?"

The old Saiyan stopped what he was doing to look into Gohan's eyes. There was a shadow within them as he answered, "Because emotions are fleeting, power is lust-driven, and the lies the mind creates can fool golden hearts." Gohan became hot with embarrassment, before the elder went on to say, "My words are not meant for your ears, Prince Gohan. Go, and enjoy yourself this evening." Gohan could get no more from him that night. Though he wondered why such a thing existed within their people if it didn't have something wonderful to it, he let it go for now.

Six months into learning the language, he finally has it down to a passable point and is only getting better. He took away a lot more from his time with the elders than a new language and some history, though. He began to consider all of the events of Vegeta's past as applicable fact instead of obscure fantasy. He began to understand Vegeta's struggle in losing everything that was once promised to him, and losing it to a man who lied to him, and whom he served closely for so long. Gohan was excited for Vegeta's return, not nervous, unlike his father. He knew that no matter how angry he may be at first, eventually he will realize this incredible opportunity has been waiting for him and he'll grasp it boldly.

Slowly it came to him, why Vegeta had been so hurt with Goku's rejection that he had to leave. Goku is all there was left of his home. Vegeta loves him, genuinely, so much that he waited years for the opportunity just to show him. He really was the only reason Vegeta stayed in the first place. He's the reason Vegeta's changed so much over the years. Something about Goku brings out the best in Vegeta, even if he doesn't want to let it, he knows it. Sometimes it's baffling how ignorant they have all been to Vegeta's incentive all along. He came from an entirely unknown background and after losing his place in the universe, he tried to make it work with the only one who it could ever work with, and Goku turned him down.

Gohan wanted to know what Goku said to Vegeta that day, and he wondered if he would ever find out.

He finally realized why his Dad has been acting so strange ever since the arrival of the Saiyans. What a dunce he must feel like. Gohan hasn't even seen Goku since that day on the lookout, but he could imagine him eating away at himself, trying to figure out what the best course of action will be. He wondered what he's been up to, but he didn't plan on visiting him. He has a lot to think about.

Gohan understood, then, why Piccolo said that Goku thinks Vegeta needed his help and why there is a chance he may not come back at all. For all Vegeta knows, Goku's still as unchanged as ever, never even bothered by his absence. Gohan understood why Vegeta would think that, it's makes sense. After all, Gohan lost his Dad for eight years, and when he came back, all he really cared about was fighting. Everyone knows he cares, but he never shows it.

Gohan thought again of how come his father was able to survive on his own, or just with his Grandpa Gohan. After thinking hard on it, he realized that his father has always considered the Earth to be his home, his sanctuary, and as much a giver and provider to him as a family ever could be. He meditates upon it and finds joy in it, and it seems to love him back. Goku loved his grandfather very much, too, and rejected his Saiyan side, blaming it for killing him, once he learned the truth. The Earth and Grandpa Gohan were what replaced his need for family, and they were sufficient, until now. Goku has gone through Horunta, a little late, and finally realized that he needs a little bit more than training and food to be completely happy, as he once was.

Gohan wondered how much more pressure it was going to take for his Dad to crack.

---

He was proud of the young Prince Gohan, who has discussed lightly with him his plan to reintroduce him to his wife, and asked if he thought she should meet Lune. Von said that she should, and planned on allowing Gohan to take Lune even on his own accord (she adored Gohan). It was clear Gohan still was taking on a lot, but he was taking it on very slowly, and Von agreed with that, having plenty to do already. The nights when Gohan wasn't around Von found himself daydreaming of him, unlike when he was just around the corner and he could look at him, and when he was in his arms at night, then he rested soundly.

While Gohan has been amongst the people, learning also about their weaponry and methods, Von has been piecing together a plan to visit possible planets. Three reports have come back stating a total of five spots, three Von has already ruled out, but one in particular seems to draw him nearer. On screen it seems to glow like gold reflecting a fire. The elders say it's not quite like old Vegeta-sai, but then again, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Von committed to buying one more month's time, to see if any other leads come in and decide what the best course of action to take will be. He has a feeling, though, that he's probably most unwilling to let anyone else make the choice of where they will live other than himself. If he does not make the journey, and see for himself, and speak for himself, he will never be satisfied with the decision. There is no one else he could trust it to, and so much to consider.

He knew Gohan had been studying eagerly and may be a little upset with him when he tells him he's going to leave him for a while, so for now he decided he would hit two birds with one stone and go visit Gohan and Videl at Capsule Corp. and then talk to Bulma about some faster ships. Gohan would know nothing about his trip until it was time if he could help it. No sense in ruining his good mood on that news.

Sometimes Von hoped that his King would show up to talk with him, but he seemed to be no where around these days. Von wanted to know if he had any more information but assumed that there was nothing more to know by his absense. Von shrugged it off, smiling down at Lune in his arms, as he landed and entered the C.C. mansion. Gohan found him instantly and kissed his lips for far less time than Von would have liked. Smiling, he kissed Lune's forehead, she giggled, and then he brought them to the rest of his family.

-

This is the third time they have all gotten together like this, Bra and Pan included, and Videl hasn't had too difficult a time with this new situation. They've been taking it slow, though, and getting to know Von and Lune has turned into something to look forward to. When she saw how Von was with their daughter's, it touched her, and she could not deny the respect he treated her with at all times. She became more curious about Von than anything, seeing a similarity in him and Vegeta, where he looks almost bored and out of place, yet with a sharpness and quick wit, he pays attention to every detail and makes stunning observations.

After spending time with Von (and asking Trunks and Goten about him), Videl could see why Gohan fell in love with him. The real epiphany was when she realized Gohan had always been thinking about someone else. First Vegeta, as she learned from the brutal mouth of teenage Trunks, and now Von. Gohan prefers men, she admitted, though it was confusing. Somehow he'd convinced her that he loved her and that he enjoyed her. Doesn't he?

It's not Von that Videl has a problem with, necessarily, it's this whole idea of sharing Gohan, which seems to be normal for him. She began thinking about what Bulma had always said about Gohan being "Saiyan," Videl had never really considered what impact that might have. He's always seemed normal to her, except for the certain intensity that seemed to roll off of him. That and an innate intuition that he's always had, along with Vegeta and Goku, they seem to communicate on some other level at times. Even Von and Gohan seem to be talking when they just look at one another, and Videl wondered if Gohan heard her talking to him in her mind.

As she thought it, Gohan had been playing with Pan, but then he turned to her, lifted her chin so that she would look into his eyes, and kissed her, smiling gently. He planted another small kiss on her cheek and she knew that he does love her and always will. There is a bond between the two of them, and Videl wasn't willing to give it up. The incredible feeling she gets from touching him and being kissed by him woos her every time. As long as Gohan can keep up with both she and Von, she would be there for him.

She wondered about the possibilities between them, suddenly more aware of the situation than she had been before and a little embarrassed by it. She began to think about Von and Gohan sleeping together, now those images she couldn't get out of her head. She wondered if her feelings would last, and also took into consideration everything that was going to happen. If Vegeta is on his way back, as they say he is, and Von finds a new planet, as he says he will, does that mean Gohan is going to leave with them? That would mean Videl would have to go, too. She was nervous to bring it up, she didn't want to be the only human on a planet full of Saiyans. Would Bulma come, too?

She found Von a little intimidating when she considered his background. They really don't know much about him, and she's so weak in comparison to their entire race. If she's uncomfortable around just one, how would twenty feel? Or a hundred?

Videl held on to the time she has left and decided to take things in one by one. Eventually she would get to know Von very well, and she and Gohan would discuss all the details of their futures together when the time was right. All she knew right now is that she feels a warming comfort by the scents of the men around her and is happy at the sight of the three tuckered out children on the floor. Her eyes began to fall to a close as she listened to Gohan and Von speaking quietly to one another.

-

Gohan took the children to their rooms once they passed out and let them sleep while Von carried Videl into her bedroom, and laid her down on the bed. Gohan and Von made love in another room briefly, before Von tore away. He didn't want to miss his opportunity to speak with Bulma. Gohan begged him to come visit him after he was done talking to her and he said that he would.

"A ship? Sure, I have some you might want to take a look at. I will admit, though, Vegeta took the best ship I had, and I didn't bother to make another one, in case any of the boys try to follow in his foot steps." She was quick to lead him to another part of the house as she went on, "I don't know what type of system you're used to, so it might be a change, but I think it will be an upgrade, if you don't mind me saying so."

Von smiled at her, hoping she was right and she was. When he got into all the details of the ship's making he was amazed at her knowledge and skill. This ship was at least 30 times faster than his, though he wouldn't admit that right off the bat. Was it durable, though, and was it ready to go? She admitted there were a few more things she would like to do to it before she let him take it, but those things would take two weeks, tops. After a long discussion Von asked for permission to borrow the ship and she granted it to him, happy to do it.

"So," she said, leading him into the kitchen after offering him some coffee, "explain something to me. You've never met Vegeta before, right?"

Von noticed she stopped to get an affirmation and he said, "Right."

"How did you know about him? I mean, I guess what I really want to know is, why go through so much? Aren't you disappointed that he's not here?"

Von thought to himself, That's the question of the century, and he smiled, his eyes seemed very far away. Von was reminded of a time when he was young and he his father was always telling him to lift his chin up and square his shoulders when he least wanted to, he would say, 'Do you think Prince Vegeta's giving up right now?' Vaughn told him to listen to the still-small voice within as a young man, though sometimes it's nowhere to be found. When it came to Prince Vegeta, Von felt hope inside of him. It was more like a life-long dream to meet him, more a selfish wish than anything else. In his passion he's pulled every Saiyan along with him in his pursuit to find a man half the universe fears while never considering what would come next. Finally he answered, "Had you asked me that when I first got here, I might have said yes," his face became stern and he added, "I will only be disappointed if I never get the chance to meet him."

Bulma saw the expression on his face, and she wondered out loud, "Why?"

Von said simply, "He's my King."

She asked, "Then why crown Goku? He doesn't want to be king, believe me."

Von said, "He killed Freeza, he is the Legendary, and the people desire him as their leader. Besides, I thought that he and Prince Vegeta were together, then there would be no need to argue over the crown."

"Trunks mentioned you saying that," Bulma nodded, "which is another thing I want to know. Why would you assume two people you don't even know would be together?"

He was growing annoyed by that question. If they had been together, would everyone have been so baffled by his foresight? Or would it have seemed a mere observation? What did it matter where his opinion stemmed from? Finally Von said, "It made sense to me, that's all. I imagine Prince Vegeta wouldn't stay somewhere for too long if he didn't have a reason to. Now answer this," he said and Bulma was surprised by his forceful change in attitude, "Why does everyone act like it's such a farfetched idea when it doesn't seem to be completely off base, and yet no one wants to tell me what happened?"

Bulma snapped back, "Only Goku and Vegeta know what happened." She sighed, "If you ask me, Vegeta left because he's Vegeta, and he did everything he could until he couldn't anymore."

Von furrowed his brows, uncertain what she meant by that. Bulma smiled and grabbed a cup of coffee to take with her as she began to walk out the door, leaving Von to his thoughts.

He asked her, "You're coming with us? When we leave for New Vegeta."

Bulma smiled at him again, but gave no answer and left.

When Von got back to Gohan, Trunks was standing outside of the door, waiting for him. Von bowed to the Prince, who was growing older and more attractive day by day, and he wondered what he had to say to him this time. They sat up on the roof top together and Von waited quietly for Trunks to speak.

"You are a full-blooded Saiyan, right?" he began. Von nodded at him, and he said, "So you have intuition and insight?"

Von replied, "Sometimes."

Trunks' blue-eyes drew Von's focus as he spoke freely, "My dad says that some Saiyans can sense one another, no matter how far away they are. Not like sensing ki, but like reading their energy. He says he felt Goku even when he was dead." (Gohan had explained the Dragonballs and a brief history of himself and how he met Vegeta all those years ago, but still it was odd to hear about someone dying and coming back to life.) Trunks continued, "If my dad could feel Goku, why did Goku push him away, like he didn't feel him, too, when it's obvious that he does?"

Von couldn't come up with an answer quick enough. Trunks said, "It's Goku's fault my dad left, but I guess Goku was the reason he stayed on Earth. I never knew that." Von realized Trunks was confiding in him and he listened attentively as he revealed a little bit more, "Everyone's always had mixed feelings about my dad. He's not like Goku and no one has ever really liked him, except for my mom and Gohan. He never did anything to anyone though, just fought 'em once a long time ago, when Gohan was just a kid. So, everyone is afraid of him. But my dad just ignores them. The only person he ever thought about was 'Kakarot.'

"I will admit it made me happy to know that Gohan was mad at Goku for letting my dad leave the planet. It's not the first time he left us, last time he left looking for Goku. The next time Goku left, he was dead, and my Dad couldn't follow him, so he waited."

Somehow hearing from Trunks' younger, still learning perspective made Von see the dimensions of Vegeta and Goku a little bit more. He tried to take in the young man's somber but hopeful mood as he went on, saying, "Gohan's grown up a lot, he's moved on. It wasn't just you, my dad leaving had a pretty big impact on him and I happen to know that he's very excited about his return even if Goku's not."

"Why not?" Von asked, unsure of interrupting although it was too late.

Trunks answered, "I think he feels guilty he's been named King of the Saiyans even though he doesn't want to be king. When my dad finds out he's gonna be pissed and then whatever chance Goku may have had at working it out with him will be gone."

"Oh," Von said, "I thought..."

"He's a pretty complicated guy, my dad, and I used to think Goku was simple, but I'm beginning to think he's a little complex, too."

Von didn't know the history between King and Prince had other issues, in fact, it seemed to be based on issues and miscommunication or lack thereof. Von began to understand that some things were totally out of his hands.

"My dad's on his way, you know. It's not just Goku who can feel him. He is heading towards Earth."

Von looked at Trunks closely, impressed with him. From what he could tell, these demi-saiyans were no more lacking in strength and ability than the full-blooded ones, and they seemed to be more in tune with each other, probably because there are so few of them.

"You better make sure you pick the right place to live. You're gonna have to impress my father," Trunks smirked playfully and Von grinned at him.

He spent as much time with Trunks as the Prince wanted, listening as he filled in some blanks from his past. He eventually fell asleep against Von's shoulder and so Von carried him inside and placed him in his bed, where Goten had snuck in and was curled up fast asleep under the covers.

When Von got back to Gohan it was much later than he had planned and he was asleep as well. Von lifted him up and carried him into the room where Videl slept. He placed Gohan at her side, and lay on the other side of him, sleeping almost the moment his head hit the pillow.

He awoke early, kissing Gohan's cheek, he grabbed his daughter and headed back to camp, where he was sure he would see Gohan later.

---

Iseri has followed Von per Dunduil's orders enough times to find her way to Capsule Corp and back on her own. Dunduil made her promise him when the time was right that she would bring him to the former home of the Prince. She wasn't sure exactly what all Dunduil had in mind, but she guessed he wanted to meet the Prince's "wife," whom they call "Bulma."

Iseri hasn't figured out how to go about Dunduil's other orders, which she didn't quite understand, but she would do as she was told. It was all about waiting for Goku to come around and then once he did, she wondered how long he'd stay. For now she was to take Dunduil to C.C. so that he could learn the way himself, but he would only travel at certain times, usually brief hours during the night.

She knew something was up with him and it frightened her. There is a faraway look in his eyes these days, as though he was struggling with something. Iseri didn't know if Thelel planned on doing anything with the information she gave her, and she wondered why no one else seemed even the least bit aware of the situation. Dunduil's lack of action within the group should be rousing some suspicion, but everyone seems so preoccupied right now.

Dunduil followed close behind her, pushing her onward, memorizing every detail of the travel in the dark. When they came upon the large house Dunduil smirked but then grew very small and dashed back towards the others, as though he was running from his own shadow. Iseri wondered at his behavior and tried to catch him, but she couldn't keep up.

She couldn't imagine the trouble he seems to have gotten into, and a small, unnoticed part of her wondered what troubles he was scheming.

---

Man, am I really at a cross road, Goku thought. What to do about Vegeta? How to break it to him? How to explain it to him? How to get him to understand? Those were just questions to one half of his problems. His other half has a whole different set of questions; How to apologize? How to admit he was wrong? How to make it up to him? How to get his love back? And finally, how to make him stay, for good?

But first, how to get him here. Goku has this gnawing fear that Vegeta's only going to come back to check up on his family, give a quick appearance, and then bounce, as cold as ever. He keeps thinking he won't be allowed the time of day or given a chance to say anything at all. He's not even so sure Vegeta'll come back.

Goku just wanted him to get close enough to sense the Saiyans, then he would definitely make the rest of the journey. It wouldn't matter at that point what Goku had to say, Vegeta would immediately take things into his own hands. But what if the Saiyans find a new home, as Von suggests? Vegeta won't sense anything or find any urgency to come back. Also, since he won't know anything about it, it will be Goku's responsibility to break the news to him, and, if he doesn't tell him exactly what happened, when he finds out they consider Goku to be their King, it might throw their entire relationship back to square one. Goku was not willing to take that chance, but telling him about the Saiyans' ignorant choice was also not exactly on the top of his to-do list.

With each passing day it seems like Vegeta is traveling slower and slower. He wanted to know why. He wondered what he's been doing for all this time and tried and tried to imagine what happened way out there in space, but nothing came to mind. He knew it could just be his perception of things, a watched pot never boils after all. Attempting to communicate with Vegeta was out of the question, too, Goku wasn't sure they could relay messages clearly enough to try, and even when Vegeta called to him and Goku answered, he never got a response. Goku was okay with waiting to a degree, he wasn't sure what to say, and he ought to really be thinking about it.

He's been dreaming about Vegeta, worse than before, for the last several months since he could feel him again. His imaginary Vegeta was almost so real it hurt to wake up and realize that he's still so far away. Goku couldn't get him off of his mind, and he didn't want to. He wanted to make something happen, instead of waiting around for chance to occur. He didn't think there was anything he could do, but he was feeling desperate.

He went to the Saiyan campsite one time before Von left to try to ease his mind by gaining some knowledge of where Von was in his plans. His visit with him was pleasant as it usually is, but he was disturbed by something that happened when he left. A young girl, the same young girl he saw Von with some months ago, the same one who watches over Von's daughter, came up to Goku while he was alone and about to leave.

"Your highness," she said as she put her hands on his shoulders gently and swung her tail about her hips, "You've been away for so long. Stay awhile."

There was a scent in the air that Goku had never smelled before, it was attractive, he liked it, and he could have sworn it was coming from her. Goku became alarmed when he noticed he'd allowed her to stop him and he still hasn't left.

She seemed to swoon him with her touch and her eyes, her skin, her smell, her hair... She wound her tail around his waist and began to lead him inside of her empty temporary home. Her eyes shined at him and she moved her hands down Goku's warm body and then pressed their bodies together while pulling him further into the room. Goku tried to pull away but not very hard as he could not deny his arousal. Her tail wiggling softly against him, the feel of her hands putting pressure on him, it all seduced him so quickly, so new and so right. She kissed his lips and when he tasted her it was second nature to want to reach down and attempt to touch her flower.

Goku felt some type of instinct taking over. This female obviously wanted one thing from him, and a small part of his body seemed obliged to give it to her. Quicker than could be registered by the woman, Goku pulled down her pants and reached around her small, feminine form, feeling her smooth ass and sticking his fingers inside of her already wet body while his other hand held her tail straight up by her neck and out of the way.

Iseri squealed, shocked by his frowardness with her, and feeling vulnerable as her upper body was trapped against his. She was not expecting it to go as simply as Dunduil had stated. It didn't take much for her to become aroused by the King, he was gorgeous, and just smelling him turned most of the Saiyan crowd on, so luring him in by her scent was easy enough. Still, she wondered why he's so keen in playing with her. He's acting more curious and instinctual than most Saiyans she knew. His grip, his grip was impossible, his body is harder than steel.

Goku snapped back to reality as he realized what he was doing. He's never been with a Saiyan woman before, or smelled one or tasted one for that matter. He was thrown completely off guard by this girl, but he didn't actually want her.

He gripped her shoulders and looked her in the eyes and Iseri's blank and almost frightened face explained everything to him. Dunduil. Goku frowned at her and shook his head and she looked away.

Every once in a while Dunduil keeps popping up in Goku's head. Because he bit him, he can sense whenever he's thinking of something evil. Goku usually deflects his thoughts, not bothering to understand them, and at the same time he sends out a warning to Dunduil, and the man stops whatever he was doing or thinking in his tracks. Goku's tired of his pitiful distraction, finding it a waste of his time and energy. Somehow he knew that if he got far enough away, he and Dunduil wouldn't be able to affect one another, since their bond is not complete. Technically, though Goku didn't know how he knew this, he somehow understood that Dunduil was under his control as long as they are within influential boundaries, and those had limitations.

Dunduil must have some ideas in his head about how he would like things to be, but Goku couldn't be bothered to waste his time with him. He left the Saiyans that night the same way he came.

Three months later now and Von is already well on his way to choosing a planet. Goku already knows which one he will pick, having discussed it with him and noticing his subtle smirk about one of them in particular. Now everyone was waiting on his return as well as Prince Vegeta's. Gohan was not happy about Von's decision to leave, and he was upset in particular that he made him stay behind, but Goku approved.

Now that Von's plans were in motion, Goku couldn't find any rest. He needed to see Vegeta. There was a lack of communication between them but their souls sizzled at the approach of one another. Besides, Goku felt as though he was on the brink of chaos. He was so focused on Vegeta for the main part of the year that he had to purposefully drag his thoughts away from him in order to get anything done. There were points when he felt if he let go of his attention on Vegeta that the stubborn man might withdraw again, whether he stay on course to Earth or not. Goku could only imagine the angry look on his face, the one he'd have next time he saw him.

Three months later and Goku felt like he was doing nothing. Von was already on his way back, wasting no time, and that meant that when he got here, the rest of the Saiyans would finally pack up and leave with him. That would only be two more months from now. Gohan won't be able to be stopped from going this time, and neither will Trunks and Goten.

Goku didn't want to wait for Vegeta to take his sweet time anymore. He wasn't sure he could stand allowing him to come too late and ignore him, or presume the situation incorrectly, as unbelievable as it already is. He would wonder why Goku waited so long to tell him! He would never understand!

Unwilling to sit still any longer, he knew he was crazy for even thinking what he was thinking, but he had to try it. He shut everything else out and concentrated on nothing but the buzzing existence of Vegeta, who was still very far away. Goku knew he should try to get somewhere closer first, instead of trying to jump onto a moving object that he had no way of knowing the speed, direction, or location of. Still, he pressed on, taking his time to concentrate on his objective. He decided to try things a little differently in this case. Instead of imagining Vegeta in his mind, he asked the universe to send him a picture of the Prince as he is right now, allowing his mind to accept the possibilities, and show him the other man. Vegeta is out there, if he could just see him as he is, he could be there.

After a very long time of tearing down anxieties and distortions of reality, inside there was a certain feeling that told him he was ready to see Vegeta again. Images flashed through Goku's mind of planets, many he was unfamiliar with, but some he recognized, barely. As his mind worked to transmit information to his thoughts he noticed himself slipping forward, Instant Transmitting to five, six, seven, eight different places across the universe within an instance.

More planets and a gap in space later, Goku came upon a ship, something that looked like Bulma designed. Goku passed through space and time, unsure of how he managed it, he appeared to simply step inside of Vegeta's ship.

Vegeta was sitting in his console chair, his arms folded over his chest, partly dozed off, when he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.
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