House of Vegeta Highlights

HOUSE OF VEGETA HIGHLIGHTS 9

Storm Watch


Bardock moved through the castle at a measured pace. War councils had begun in earnest with conflict growing ever closer. Frieza's ships were sighted in formation a week's distance from Vegetaseii, just outside the Musakki asteroid belt. Barodck never ceased to be impressed at the sheer size of the castle. It could literally hold a city of delegates.

/Hn, impressive. There's much to plan./

Subordinates and politicians alike bustled everywhere, busy with meetings. Even members of the media had assembled, scurrying to their appointed spots for news briefs and press conferences. Bardock could barely hear himself think with the endless clatter of footsteps on marble floors.

"Ho, Bardock!!"

Peering across an alcove, the dark saiyan saw Nappa approach with the massive Cunn. He waved briefly in acknowledgement.

Cunn snorted as they reached him. "So. I trust your regiment is trained and at the ready, Bardock?"

"Better than yours, I assume." Bardock sneered in reply. His dislike for Cunn was well known, and they were bitter enemies off and on during the years.

Cunn stepped up, thick features twisting in a scowl. "Oh? Based on the way you fight I rather doubt it."

"Enough, Cunn." Nappa barked. "We aren't here for personal attacks. Bardock, the _Cosiglio_ will be meeting this afternoon regarding deployment. All sector six commanders are required to attend."

A brief nod. "Understood."

"It seems general Henock himself wants you there."

Bardock's eyes widened. "Henock? I don't understand!"

Nappa laughed. "When the only surviving general from the Polgor War wants you, don't ask questions."

"Ai." Bardock's voice dropped in awe. Henock was a legendary commander with vast political connections. He'd served in the goldstar brigade over two centuries earlier as a cub officer. His military strategems held word renown and were written in text for academy studies.

Cunn snorted. "Figures. Just another favor for this damned ovee (bastard royal)."

Bardock snarled. "Don't piss me off, Cunn. I haven't forgotten our fight at the conference!"

Nappa glanced at his companion. "Ai, but that's a matter for another day-"

"Bah!" Cun jabbed a thick finger on Bardock's chest plate. "You're welcome to do something about it...assuming you have the skill to survive the war!"

Obsidian eyes danced with dark fire. "I could show you...true power."

Nappa watched him strangely. "What say you?"

A snarl. "Nothing. One day, everyone will know." he turned and stalked off, tail bristling.

Cunn could only stare. "Nappa, did you see his eyes? I tell you, there's something strange about him!"

The bald general watched Bardock intently as he departed. "There are wheels within wheels, Cunn. I'm not a fool. The crown swirls in secrets."

Cunn nodded grimly. "I wouldn't presume on your loyalty, Nappa. But what do you know?"

"There is knowledge, and there is suspicion. The Coterie have hidden information not revealed. Those that survive, that is."

"I catch your meaning."

"Be certain you do. I know your history of plots, Cunn. You'll not involve me in fatal conspiracy!"

"I-" Cunn lowered his voice suddenly. "Nappa, give me some credit. But what of Bardock's besti (bastards)? Is anyone stupid enough to believe they're third class?"

"This is my final word on the matter. Their mother is a ragtail of the Sasse clan. No more will I say!"

"But Nappa-"

"Cunn, we have a war to prepare for."

"The rumors-"

Nappa snorted, annoyed. "Would it satisfy you to know that others are interested as well?"

Cunn grinned. "Any plans?"

"Perhaps. The future may be open."

A heavy laugh as Cunn slapped Nappa on the back. "Come, old friend. Let's you and I talk over drinks."

****

Bardock was in a foul mood as he made his way through the castle. He barely acknowledged junior officers as they saluted.

/One day I'll send you to hell, Cunn./

He smiled ferally at his own dark thoughts, when something seized his mind.

"What??"

It was familiar somehow. Wild confusion, pain. Disorientation. Memories of long ago he didn't wish to remember. A nightmare of swirling insanity.

/It can't be!/

Turning suddenly, he bolted to an access corridor.

****

Prince Vegeta no Ouji was working out in the royal gym with several other elites. His physique earned open admiration and stares.

One such admirer was Necca, the daughter of a chief administrator. She blotted her face with a towel near the weights.

"Hn, our Prince is definitely primed for war."

Vegeta smiled at her in acknowledgement. "Indeed, Necca. After all, a ruler of warriors can't be soft, eh?"

Her deep eyes sparkled under wild bangs. "Ai, my lord Prince packs muscle on that frame. Methinks not one more ounce will fit."

"Ha!" Vegeta did an elaborate backflip. The other elites cheered and clapped.

"Well done, Prince!" Volstor shouted. "My father spoke of your athleticism and sharp speed. I'd scarce believed it until now."

Vegeta enjoyed the attention, running a towel over brawny shoulders. "I'm bad to the bone, Volstor. Will your sire attend the war councils?"

"He's already here, prince. I believe he had a session with the Cosiglio."

"Good. Excitement boils the blood, since Frieza grows impatient. The war approaches!"

The elites shouted in affirmation, fists raised.

Aryii commented next, grinning with pouty lips. "The war will be fought soon enough. But our prince looks delicious. Would a royal favor do, when the mood strikes?" she flipped her tail invitingly.

Vegeta landed on his feet lightly, smug. "My mate might disapprove. Saucy woman!"

"Bring Kakarot, too. We'll make plenty of sauce!" everyone exploded in laughter.

A tall, lanky first class spoke next. He was young, with a tighly muscled physique.

"One round, prince? Surely you'll accept challenge!"

"Hn, looking to get beat, Islu? I trust you've improved since our last spar?"

The smiling saiyan crouched. "Definitely. Shall we?"

The prince moved to spar, then suddenly stopped. A strange expression creased handsome features.

"Ouji? Is something wrong?"

Vegeta appeared distracted, looking off into space. "I'm afraid I'll have to delay our spar, Islu. I sense a family crisis."

Without another word he turned and made a quick exit.

****

Bardock followed the source of the mental assault, his heart full of dread. Down into the second level of the castle he went, through rarely used stairwells. Dim lighting was no obstacle to saiyan vision, and he soon found what he was looking for.

"No..."

Clipped growls echoed in the dark. A dimly silouetted figure lay at the base of the stairwell.

"Kakarot!"

Bardock leaped the railing and landed gracefully on the flight. In shock and horror he watched as his son mewed and rolled, limbs twitching restlessly.

"Chibi...what happened?"

"K...k...kkk"

Bardock cradled his son, examining for injuries. /Did he fall? Why is he here?/

"Talk to me, cub. Tell me!"

Kakarot covered his face with his forearms, shaking. A thick tail thrashed wildly, bending and crimping. Bardock pried his arms back and examined his face.

The young saiyan was frothing at the mouth, eyes glazed and unfocused. Bardock felt a cold pit in his belly, a reminder of the past.

"Don't give up, cub." his voice was rough with emotion. "I know. I'm here!"

A garbled growl was the only response.

Bardock looked around in the dark, thinking about his options. /I have to get him out of here./

He was about to move when he sensed someone. Looking up the stairs, Bardock saw the familiar outline of Vegeta no Ouji.

****

"Bardock?" the baritone was a whisper in the dark. The prince moved cautiously, not believing.

"Slowly, Vegeta." Bardock's voice was heavy. He held the thrashing Kakarot tightly.

The prince joined them in an instant, crouching low. The dark eyes were full of pain. "Koi..."

Kakarot seemed unaware. The wild head tossed around eyes rolling madly. Arms and legs spasmed as he strained in Bardock's embrace.

"What's wrong with him?!" Vegeta nearly roared in hysteria. "Was he hurt? Who did this-"

Bardock growled, shaking Vegeta's shoulder with a free hand. "Vegeta, snap out of it! Kakarot needs us."

"I...yes, you're right." The ouji held his mate's face tenderly. "Fight it, Kaka. You have to. You must!!"

The dark head jerked in Bardock's lap. "V...V...ve...ge...ta-"

The prince leaned into him. "Yes, it's me."

Expressive black eyes blinked, straining for awareness. "Ple...ase help...me."

"Shh" Vegeta kissed the wild head. "You're safe. We aren't going anywhere."

Kakarot covered his eyes again. "Too bright, too many voices."

"It's dark in here, Kakarot." Bardock soothed gently. "The voices will go away."

Kakarot nearly choked again. Vegeta tore a piece of cloth from his training pants and wiped his mouth.

"Easy, love."

Another cough. "No more voices?"

"No." Bardock stroked his hair.

Those eyes glazed again. "The dark tastes strange. I can't eat what I see!"

Vegeta looked at Bardock, striken. /What's wrong with him?!/

Bardock couldn't meet his eyes. /Not now, prince./

Kakarot relaxed suddenly, eyes closing. He was absolutely still.

Vegeta was about to ask something, but Bardock motioned him to silence. Kakarot opened his eyes again, staring.

"Kakarot?"

No response. The suddenly quiet saiyan stared upward without blinking.

"We need to move him, pandrae!"

"Not yet, Vegeta. He's still having a seizure."

"Seizure!" the prince still couldn't believe.

They waited, a grim vigil. Vegeta looked his mate over slowly. /His tail. Why is it cracked?/

/Tension. It will pass in a minute. Quiet now, Kakarot needs calm./

Gradually the young saiyan breathed normally. Kakarot jolted suddenly, looking around in confusion.

"No!!" he struggled against Bardock.

"Be still!"

Kakarot panted, staring into the eyes of his prince. "Vegeta, what's going on? What am I doing here in a stairwell?!"

Vegeta swallowed, choosing his words carefully. "You...we found you here."

Kakarot glanced briefly at his father. "But why?"

"You don't remember anything?" Bardock asked, voice strained.

"No. Something's wrong!" the wild saiyan tried to stand and nearly fell over. Bardock and Vegeta rose together and grabbed him.

"Don't move!"

"Stop looking at me like that. I'm not crazy!"

"Calm down, Kakarot." Bardock glanced toward an exit door. "We're leaving now."

"I know!" the young saiyan pushed away and started moving upward.

"Kisama!" the ouji swore, yanking him back. "Do you even understand what's happened here?"

"It's no big deal, Vegeta. I've lived through it before. Now let go of me!"

Bardock pressed to his other side. "No. No more of this, Kakarot. You're going to get tested again."

"I'm an adult. You can't force me!"

"I can still drag you. If necessary, I will!"

"We both will!" the prince confirmed, tense. "Please, don't fight us."

Kakarot shook his head, eyes down. "I don't want to fight anyone. Just...give me some space, leave me alone!"

The prince looked into his eyes. "There's no way we can do that. How can you ask?!"

The young saiyan abruptly changed expression, smiling. "Fine. Shall we go?"

Bardock didn't trust him, standing close. "No tricks, Kakarot. I know you!"

A disinterested shrug. "You're too suspicious, father. I had a minor relapse, so what? It isn't the end of the world."

Vegeta could only stare, not believing his words.

"Move." Bardock pushed him up the stairs, eyes dark. "Stop talking."

Kakarot turned, moving up. Suddenly he spun around, eyes wild and rolling.

"I'm leaving!" a flash.

"Wha-"

A moment later Vegeta and Bardock grabbed empty air. Both saiyans cursed in frustration.

"Shit. I knew it!" Bardock clenched his fists.

"Instant transmission." the ouji snorted. "We've got to find him, father."

Bardock stared at the space his son vacated. "We will. But the question is, where has he gone? Vegeta, you're his mate. What do you think?"

The ouji thought hard, features grim. "He might go to the gardens...or the west wing of the castle. Several chambers there are private and restful. Father often uses those for relaxation and quiet."

A nod. "We'll split up, then. Your saba will be beside himself."

"If he isn't already."

****

The aforementioned king stood near a window, his mind in turmoil. Two of his most trusted councilmembers sat at a table nearby, pausing in their meal.

"Vegeta, stop this. Come and eat!"

The Ou turned slightly. "Something is wrong, terribly wrong." a frown on dark features.

"What say you?"

The king abruptly turned to face them. "Hevva, Wenukk. Have my instincts ever been wrong, in your opinion?"

The two aged saiyans looked at each other in confusion. "That depends on what you're referring to." Hevva answered first, ignoring the king's glare. "What do you mean?"

"I feel...no sense! Kakarot's mental shields fluctuate. They are massive, and fracturing. This concerns me."

Wenukk closed his eyes briefly, thinking. Nearly five centuries old, he knew all palace secrets. "Foolish cub!"

The Ou snarled. "How dare you-"

"Silence! You were warned long ago, Vegetaan. In your quest for ultimate power you may well have doomed us all."

Hevva cracked a bone, thinking. Long spikes twisted in a pattern past her shoulders. "Wenukk speaks true. And Ublakka herself tried to stop your antics in the past."

"What's done is done. I don't regret anything!"

"No? Gedok foolishly left the crown at loose ends after his death. Had things been handled properly-"

The king crackled with power, raging. "Don't ever suggest my choice was poor. My mate was made to survive!"

The old saiyan glared back, his own eyes aglow. "Bah. Gedok himself I held as a cub, and Yuturo before him! The Bunii clan was ever entrusted with your line, Vegeta."

The Ou sighed, powering down. "I know this-"

"Gedok's blood always ran hot. Your sire and grandsire both had a propensity for...going outside the lines. And you thought to drop ovees in secret!"

Vegeta sat down slowly, face red. "I admit I've made mistakes."

"One in particular." Hevva stared at her ruler evenly. "You speak of Kakarot. His ki signature is impossible to ignore."

The handsome saiyan flashed sharp teeth. "Don't push me. Kakarot is no mistake, and if you say that again I'll-"

"Burn me, Vegetaan? A poor threat. I've lived a good life, and others know your secrets as well. Would you kill us all?!"

Vegeta stared down at his hands. "You helped raise me. I couldn't harm anyone loyal to the house. Not without cutting my own throat."

Wenukk clasped his hand. "Your concerns for Kakarot are valid. As I said, the coterie warned you long ago."

"It was love, always love." the Ou appeared defeated. "There may have been a grand design, but it was my father's, not mine."

Hevva almost appeared sympathetic. "Your sire thought to have another cub of power, one to compliment the line. He specifically sought out Fabrinni, an offshoot of Vegeta lineage."

Dark eyes widened. "What lunacy do you speak?! He loved the woman, Ubera. I know it!"

"Ai, love came later. But Gedok always had a strategy, a plan."

"I never understood his relationships. He loved the queen, also."

Wenukk nodded, swallowing fish eyes. "Ai, true. Your queen dam was from the Tenokk line. His plan was to outbreed to multiple super saiyan bloodlines."

Vegeta closed his eyes, thinking of the past. "Krukka, he had the morals of a borq bull. But I still loved him."

"Then fate turned on itself when you chose Bardock. The lunacy escalated-"

Vegeta Ou snarled. "Be careful what you say. No one insults family to my face!"

"You mated in heat and madness, Vegetaan. I've held council to six generations, and this house is the wildest yet!"

Vegeta roared with laughter. "My loins have forged an era of super saiyan unseen in the history of our people. No one else can claim that. Not Gedok, not Yuturo. Were he alive Vegeenaz Prime himself would bow at my feet!"

"Ai, you are the culmination of centuries, cub." Wenukk admitted. "The prophecies were true, though many of the Council refused to believe so at the time."

"They were fools. Old power fearful of the new regime."

"A regime that could be the end of us all eventually." Wenukk warned. Hevva stared at her plate suddenly.

Vegeta glared at them both. "Get to the point, assuming you have one."

The old saiyans snarled before responding. "Shall we be blunt?" Hevva finally asked.

"Talk!"

"Kakarot should have been dealt with at birth. You know how he rated, what his potential is-"

Rage hazed Vegeta's vision. "You dare suggest I should've killed my own cub?!" a ki ball formed in his hand, crackling with light. "Maybe you've lived too long!"

The ancient councilors stood back in horror. "Do what you must." Hevva stared at the glowing ball. "But you know the truth, Vegetaan! Our deaths won't change that."

Vegeta grinned wickedly, still expanding the explosive ball. "Old people throw their lives away needlessly. Should I let you live?"

"We won't beg." Wenukk clenched his fists. "Do what you will, Vegetaan. I'll see your father in hell!"

Vegeta absorbed the ball. "A king keeps his word. I said you were loyal, and you told the truth. No saiyan could ask for more."

The aged saiyans breathed a sigh of relief.

"A power play, king?"

A sneer. "Of course."

"But why?"

"Because I can. Don't anger me again."

Hevva shook her head, sitting. "You have your mother's temper, cub. And Aperdis was prone to worms."

"I don't have worms!"

"You had them with Kakarot, as I recall. By coincidence Bardock had them as well."

"So what?!"

"There may be a point where breeding becomes a detriment."

The Ou gulped wine from a bottle. "What say you? Would you rather be ruled by ragtails?!"

"Bah." Wenukk snorted in disgust. "Ruled by shaggy idiots with weak blood? Sooner would I see the realm collapse!"

"Well said, Wenukk." Hevva agreed.

Vegeta paced the room. "I trust then, our heir ascendant meets with your criteria? He is perfect, and blooded to rule."

The ancients nodded. "Ai, he's perfect." Hevva agreed. "Intelligent and powerful. There has never been a question about the ouji."

"And there is still Raditzsu."

"Hn. He would need cultivation. Being raised as ragtail hurts his evaluation. But the cub is headstrong and mature, powerful in body. Ai, perhaps. But you have a named heir."

"I have three."

"Not named to the public, I say. There is a difference."

A pause. "This brings us back to the original topic, Kakarot."

The elders sighed. "What would you have us say, Vegetaan?" Hevva wanted to know.

"I know what he can be, old ones."

"We've nothing against the boy. He's finely made, loyal and the ultimate warrior. But-"

"Say it."

"The cirumstances of his birth make him unstable and dangerous. You laughed at the warnings. He's been in and out of clinics over the years-"

"During his childhood. Not since!"

"The projections, Ou. His power curve at birth was ridiculously small, almost an anomaly given his breeding. You were disappointed."

"Ai, I thought my instincts were haywire to be so wrong."

"When his power curve exploded later you barely contained yourself. The Gedarnu (examiners) evaluated him again and were fearful of the future. We wanted no repeat of what happened with Brolli."

"Kakarot isn't that brain damaged vegetable. Brolli was second class with genetic deformity in his bloodline. Paragus was full of shit."

"Brolli nearly destroyed everything. And Kakarot's ability is even higher-"

"I don't want to hear this nonsense again. I've been told more times than I can count. Kakarot is intelligent, an excellent father and loyal to the throne-"

"A moon cub whose power curve may even surpass Vegeta's. He has hypersensitive instincts and reactions. If there is ultra saiyan potential, the power will worsen those attributes."

The Ou couldn't believe his ears. "You're saying my son could be powerful enough to go mad?"

"It happened with Brolli! This is why you were warned, Vegetaan. And Bardock's Fabrinni blood is the catalyst."

"You forget his power, old one."

"It will be needed, one day. But not for the reasons you hope."

The Ou was smug. "I remind you of Raditzsu."

The elders blinked. Wenukk stared in shock. "He was not tested for the other ability-"

"You insult me. Genetically he has latent null ability, like mine."

Hevva and Wenukk looked at each other.

"Have you forgotten the checks and balances of nature? There is still time, and much to do."

Wenukk rubbed his head, thinking. "Ironic that the power you helped create will be needed against itself."

"Fool! I have no patience for riddles-"

The air shimmered suddenly. Without warning, a young warrior appeared in the room as if from nowhere.

Everyone stared in surprise.

"I apologize for the sudden appearance, but I needed to get away."

The Ou stammered at his youngest. "Kakarot!!"

****

Vegeta no Ouji and Bardock walked briskly through the milling mob in castle corridors.

"I need to know what happened." the prince insisted. "If he's ill-"

Bardock shook his head quickly. "You've never seen him have an attack up close, have you?"

The ouji paused. "No. I just assumed the seizures stopped after his first rut."

"There were...other incidents. We can't talk here, prince."

Vegeta watched the bustling activity all around. "No. Let's search about an hour. If we don't find Kakarot, we can meet in the eastern chambers."

Bardock nodded, bounding away. "Done!"

****

Kakarot looked to his Ou. "I know this seems abrupt, but I need to talk to you."

Hevva and Wenukk watched the young saiyan closely.

Kakarot clasped his king on the shoulder. "Privately. Something happened earlier-"

The Ou nodded grimly. "I know, chibi."

"You do? But how?"

"I felt it."

"Huhh." Hevva coughed loudly for attention. Kakarot turned.

"Ah. Greetings, elders. I remember your recommendations."

Wenukk gawked. "What say you, ouijian?"

A flip of tail. "Your cold greetings and haughty stares. It came to my attention some time ago you wanted me killed."

"You insolent-"

"I make it a point to keep updated on such matters."

The Ou snarled. "Control yourself. Now!"

"Adieru." Kakarot bowed slightly. "My apologies...I'm having a difficult time here." he rubbed his temples vigorously.

Hevva's eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Ai, cub. You are in pain?"

"Yes, granddame. The prince and my sire found me awhile ago, indisposed."

Vegeta led him to a chair. "Sit, I'll call Glerunn."

Nodding weakly, the young warrior complied. Wenukk looked him over.

"Is it happening again, ouijan?"

Kakarot glanced briefly at his king. "I'm not certain I should say-"

The Ou pulled a green cord. "These are my most trusted counsellors, Kakarot. They know every house secret."

Dark eyes went wide. "All of them?!"

"Ai-"

"Then perhaps they have answers I seek-"

The Ou shook him. "Stop it! There's a more immediate concern, your health."

"I still have questions, you know." another wince in pain. "It's too bright in here." Kakarot covered his eyes, leaning over the table.

"Fool! Be silent until Glerunn appears!" Vegeta dropped at the table next to him. Kakarot lay against him heavily. The dark head lolled backward over a broad shoulder.

"Can't focus...want to sleep."

Vegeta edged him up. "I want you to stay awake until Glerunn appears."

Kakarot closed his eyes. "He's insane again."

The Ou blinked in shock, staring at his son. "What?!"

"Vegeta!" Hevva shouted in alarm.

"I won't hear it, woman-"

Kakarot spoke again, eyelids fluttering. "Like Brolli...end of us all..."

Vegeta Ou glared at his counsellors. "He's linking!"

"No, Ou!" Hevva denied it. "The boy's delusional-"

"Don't lie!" the king roared. "He hears your thoughts."

Kakarot shook his head clear then stood abruptly, enraged. "Liars! You think putting me away solves your problems? Fools!" he pointed at the aged saiyans, hand crackling with power. Hevva and Wenukk raised their arms against annilation.

"Kakarot!" The Ou moved to stop him, when the air sizzled. Bardock suddenly appeared behind his son, punching him in the base of the skull. The young saiyan collapsed in his father's arms with a moan.

Everyone took a moment to compose themselves.

"Bardock-"

The dark saiyan's eyes were full of pain. "Vegeta, forgive me."

****

Bardock gently lay Kakarot on an ottoman as the others observed.

Hevva gained her wits. "You arrived in time, Regent Bardock. Your whelp tried to kill us!"

A heavy sigh. "I know. I sensed his explosion of ki after he escaped."

The Ou found his voice. "Escaped? Explain, Bardock!"

Bardock glanced at the ancients. "Can they be trusted?"

"How dare you, boy?" Wenukk stood to his full height. "Before you and your king were born did we keep the secret. We knew Gedok's plan!"

The dark saiyan stared in shock. "Impossible!"

"No." Vegeta said softly. "They know everything, Bardock. Now tell me what happened."

Bardock watched the elders as he spoke. "Vegeta and I found him on a stairwell. He was having a seizure and was hearing voices."

"By the gods." Wenukk shook his head in dismay.

Bardock snarled at him, fists balled. "Be careful what you say!"

Hevva pulled on the Ou's sleeve. "Send him to the Vexne Institute. The facilities there-"

The Ou whirled on her. "Lock my cub away with insane dregs, drugged and medicated? Beddatka!!"

"It's for the good of the realm!" Wenukk shouted. Bardock charged, grabbing his throat in a lock.

"I'll break your fucking neck, you dried up _koon!_"

The old saiyan coughed against the hold, pushing. "Stinking, crazy ovee...Gedok was a fool!"

"Shut up!" Bardock kept choking him. Vegeta and Hevva finally pulled him free.

"This isn't helping, Bardock!" the Ou hissed, holding tight.

"No, but I feel better."

Just then Vegeta no Ouji and Glerunn burst into the room.

"Vegeta!" the Ou shouted, still separating Bardock from Wenukk.

"What the hell is all this?" the Ouji's face darkened in anger, seeing his mate lying on an ottoman.

"There was another episode." The Ou was cryptic, silencing Hevva with a look.

Glerunn approached the prone figure before anyone could answer. "What happened to Kakarot?"

The Ouji kneeled by the unconscious saiyan. "And who knocked him out?"

"I did, Vegeta." Bardock admitted.

The Ou sighed. "Glerunn, have Kakarot taken to the royal med facility. Full psyche, blood and brain scans. Contact Oova and Lenoriz."

The physician checked the young saiyans' pulse, stunned. "Are you saying what I think?"

"Ai, and do it quickly. We'll talk later."

"Hn! Let me check something."

Everyone fell silent as the physician ran a scanner over Kakarot. He frowned.

"I don't like this."

"What's that supposed to mean?" the ouji was agitated now.

"Prince, I'll confer with the royal family as soon as possible. Right now I need to contact the royal meds."

The prince moved forward, tail lashing. "You aren't taking him anywhere-"

"Vegeta." Bardock squeezed his arm, halting his motion. "It's for the best. You know this."

"Ai." the proud head hung low.

The Ou drew himself up. "Everyone here. This doesn't leave these chambers."

****

The elders beat a hasty retreat, returning to their duties. Kakarot was placed on a portable bed by attendants and whisked out. The family sat together quietly, comparing notes.

"This can't be happening, not now." the ouji was subdued. "Kakarot fought so hard-" he couldn't continue, choking with emotion.

"Who speaks of defeat?" the Ou grabbed his son's chin, holding it up. "Vegeta, banish these thoughts. I mean it!"

"Ai, father. It's difficult." deep eyes glittered wetly. "The chibis won't understand why their father is...away."

"We'll deal with that, cub." Bardock replied, coiling tails. "But your saba's right. We can't overreact. Your brother is strong and well made!"

"With the blood of royalty in his veins." the Ou added defiantly.

"But will that be enough?" a new voice sounded, deep with worry.

Everyone turned from their places at the table. Radtiz stood in the entranceway, arms folded. The darkly handsome saiyan was grim.

"Tell me what happened to Kakarot..."