Russian Roulette

Bonds

A Chibi Tail by Dasia

Vegeta and Goku materialized in the living room of Capsule Corporation, the Ouji still fighting his mate’s hold, swearing loudly. Goku placed a gentle finger to his lover’s lips, “Baby, will you please calm down? You’re gonna wake the chibis.”

Vegeta’s tirade stopped immediately, almost like switching off a light. “What chibis? All of our children are grown, Kakkarrot.”

“The hell they are. They’ll always be our babies, I don’t care how old they get, “ Goku said, as he snaked an arm around Vegeta’s waist.

Vegeta looked suspiciously at his mate, “You’re trying to make me forget why I’m angry, aren’t you?”

Goku put on an innocent look, “Honey, let’s not fight. Not tonight. I just want to check on the kids, take a bath, and curl up in the bed for a day or two.”

Vegeta’s smile was tight, his emotions still raw from the night’s events. “Fine. Just fine. Pretend that it never happened, Kakarrot. That will help everything.” He turned on his heel, moving toward the stairs.

Goku’s soft reply stopped him, “I haven’t forgotten, Vegeta. I know that what happened tonight must have been painful for you. I asked you to do what I couldn’t. I asked you to…”

“You asked me to convince Burns’ of our power. So that he would fear and obey us. You did not ask me to scar him for life. That was my decision, “ Vegeta said.

“Do you regret it?” Goku asked, his heart in his throat.

“Of course not. That bastard got nothing more than what he deserved. It’s just…” he trailed off, for once unable to voice his thoughts.

Goku ventured, “It still doesn’t make it easy.”

“No. It was incredibly easy. Too easy, perhaps. I wanted to torture him…to maim him. I wanted to rip his throat out, koi. I had thought…” he paused a moment, before continuing, his voice lowered, “I am a father. I am your mate. I am not the man I once was, but I came very close tonight. I felt that uncontrolled rage stirring in my belly, and I know that I could have killed him, Kakarrott…and never felt a thing.”

“That frightens you.” It wasn’t a question.

“It does, “ Vegeta admitted quietly, “More than you will ever know.”

Goku laid a hand on Vegeta’s shoulder, but it was shrugged off. “Vegeta. You have every right to be angry. Just as Sage does…just as we all do…Sage was not the only one who suffered because of that bastard.”

“In no way does our pain compare to his. You have no idea…you can’t comprehend the torment that he has undergone…that he will always have inside of him.”

“I don’t…but you do, “ Goku stated.

“Yes,” he agreed, “I understand very well. Sage needs to exact his revenge, but I can’t stand the thought of it. I don’t want my child’s hands to be stained with blood, Kakarrot. I don’t want him to become what I am.”

“You’re a good man, koi. You can’t convince me otherwise. You might think that you’re still a killer, that you could have murdered Burns, but I know differently. Twenty years ago, before the children were born, if you had wanted someone dead, then that would have been it. You would not have thought twice about killing either Burns or his woman.”

A faint smile flickered across the moonlit face of the Saiyan no Ouji. “True. I won’t argue about that. He changed me…forever…in so many ways…”

“Frieza?” Goku asked lightly.

“Sage.”

Goku smiled as well, saying, “He changed us all, for the better. I’ve always felt that you and I would not be together, had it not been for Sage…”

Vegeta’s face softened considerably, as he placed a hand on his lover’s cheek, “I don’t know…some things are just meant to be…my little chukra just pushed matters along, in his own special way.”

The pair gazed into each other’s eyes for a long moment, before Vegeta put his arms around Goku’s neck. He laid his head against Goku’s strong shoulder, breathing in his lover’s familiar, comforting scent.

The larger Saiyjin stayed perfectly still, not wanting to lose this moment. Finally, he raised a hand and began to rub Vegeta’s back soothingly. Vegeta chuckled softly, his warm breath causing Goku’s skin to tingle. “I’m fine. What does Sage always say? I’m not made of glass…”

“I know you aren’t. But sometimes, I just wanna…hell, I don’t know…”

“You want to baby me. Well, cut it out, “ Vegeta said, pushing his mate away lightly.

“Okay, okay! Come on, koibito, let’s go check on OUR babies, “ Goku said, taking Vegeta’s hand and gliding up the stairs smoothly. The pair stopped outside of the boys’ room, Vegeta motioning for Goku to keep quiet. The sight that met their eyes nearly sent Goku into kawaii-overload.

In the large bed, Sage was surrounded by a pile of demi-Saiyjins that threatened to smother his small frame. Trunks had one arm thrown around his little brother’s shoulder, his face pressed to Sage’s ear. His silvery purple tail curled around their intertwined hands. Goten lay behind Trunks, one arm pillowing his head, the other flung over Trunks’ and Sage’s waists. His tail was laid gently across his brothers’ knees.

On the other side, Gohan had insinuated himself between the wall and Sage. He was snuggled under the covers, with a hand resting on his bond-brother’s chest. Between them, Gohan’s dark brown tail twined with Sage’s blue-black tail. Moonlight played softly over the sleeping faces, as the wind sighed through the trees.

“Get the camera, Vegeta. Go get it right now.” Goku whispered.

“I will NOT. Sage would die of embarrassment, “ Vegeta hissed back.

“I don’t care. It’ll be worth having a fuss over. I want that saved for posterity…I might need it the next time Gohan tells me to quit treating him like one of the chibis.” Goku said.

“Hn. He looks the same age as the boys, “ Vegeta commented.

“He must have gotten his youthful good looks from his father, “ Goku stated, grinning like a pup.

“Why, thank you, Kakarrot, “ Vegeta said, a smile quirking his mouth. Goku nearly facevaulted, but caught himself before he woke up the children.

Vegeta slipped quietly into the room, checking the locks on the windows. Goku murmured, “What are you doing? They’re all Super Saiyjins.”

Vegeta looked startled, then smiled sheepishly, “I suppose we both think of them as chibis, don’t we?”

Goku kissed each of the boys on the forehead, pulling the blankets around their shoulders. He leaned against the doorjamb, watching as Vegeta also kissed their sons. He stood away from the bed, and glided over to his awaiting lover.

They stood there together, silently watching their slumbering offspring, until Goku whispered, “Kinda makes you want to have another one…or two…or three…”

“The hell you say!” Vegeta said, “We’ve yet to get this brood raised up, without adding more to it. Don’t even think about it.”

“Aww…come on ‘Geta. They’re so cute!!”

“Until they wake up and open their mouths.”

Glancing up at his mate, he continued, “NO, Kakarrot, and don’t even try giving me those big eyes, it won’t work, “.

“Just one…I want a little baby Vegeta,” Goku whined softly.

“We have one. And he breaks my heart at least once a day.”

Sobering, Goku gazed at his bond-son, sleeping peacefully, surrounded by his family. “He’s gonna be alright, though, isn’t he,Vegeta?”

“I don’t know, but I’ll do whatever it takes, be whatever he needs, to make it alright.”

A moment later, the duo left the boys’ room, and started to their own bedroom. Goku held out a hand, “Wait a sec, honey, please? I want to check on Pan and Videl.” He turned the knob slowly, carefully opening the door. He chuckled low in his throat, saying, “Sweetheart, come get a load of this. I think the Saiyjin puppy pile might be contagious.”

“What? What are you blabbering about?” Vegeta asked, peering under his mate’s arm into the darkened room. He smiled gently. Pan was lying on her side, curled up into a ball. Her mother’s arms were around her, faces nearly touching. Bulma was snuggled up to Pan’s back, strands of blue hair mingling with black.

Goku asked, “Wonder if Gohan went to the chibis on his own, or if Bulma crawled in bed with them first.” He crossed over to the window, checking the locks as Vegeta had done.

Vegeta snorted, “Obviously, Gohan left first. He would never have made it out of the bed, otherwise. He would have passed out immediately from the shock.”

“No doubt!” Goku said, then added hopefully, “Honey, aren’t they kawaii?! Oh, Vegeta…”

“Get it off your mind. We need daughters about like we need sons…” Vegeta said.

“I’ll beg. I’ll rub your back…give you foot massages…maybe you’d like some chocolate cake?” Goku whispered, as they left the room, pulling the door closed behind him.

“I can’t be bribed. Besides, I’m immune to your charms. Will you QUIT making those puppy dog eyes at me?!?”

“I’m done, I swear!!” Goku said, “Let’s go get a bath, lover. I’m damn tired.”

“So am I. I think this has been the longest day of my life,” Vegeta said softly. The pair stepped into their room, Goku switching on the light. He immediately kicked off his shoes, and began pulling his shirt over his spiked hair. “KAKARROT!! How many times have I told you…”

“Sorry, sorry!! I’ll pick them up, I’m sorry, “ Goku said, throwing his shirt on the bed.

“Don’t you dare leave that on the bed!!” Vegeta yelped, then turned his back, mumbling, “I’m not cleaning up after you…”

Goku grinned, “I’m not making a mess, I promise!” He pitched his shoes haphazardly into the closet, and his shirt and pants followed directly behind them. Goku closed the door guiltily, and stalked to the bathroom.

His mate had already cut on the shower, and was undressing while the water heated. The larger Saiyjin began snickering, listening to Vegeta growling, “Damn onna. All the money she has, and we still never have any hot water.” He looked up when he heard Goku’s laugh and said, “What’s so damn funny?”

Goku gave his lover a sweet smile, “You…you’re just so cute when you’re angry!” Vegeta folded his arms and glowered, but Goku was unfazed. He placed gentle hands on his mate’s hips, and leaned forward to steal a kiss. The Ouji dipped his head, and Goku’s kiss landed on his nose. “Oh, come on, ‘Geta…just a little kiss?”

“Absolutely not. I thought you were tired?” Vegeta said, smirking as he stepped into the shower.

“I got over it. Kiss me, please?” Goku asked. He pursued the smaller Saiyjin, the hot water drenching both men as they kissed under the spray. Goku moved away first, stretching up to his full height.

Vegeta was forced to his tiptoes, and he began to chuckle softly. “Come back here, you. You started this…” he growled, licking his mate’s full lower lip.

Inclining his head, Goku giggled, but stopped abruptly when Vegeta began to suck lightly. “Oh…Oh shit…Vegeta…”

“Hmm…like that, do you?” he asked, already knowing the answer.

“Yes, I do…” Goku was interrupted by his Ouji’s questing tongue. For a moment, he forgot what he was saying, where he was at, what his damn name was. Vegeta came up for air, and Goku had to put a hand against the wall to stay upright. “I…damn…what was I gonna say?”

Vegeta laughed, and replied, “You were about to say that we should stop…” Putting his arms around his mate’s back, he laced his fingers and squeezed tightly. “Suppose you’re right.” He nuzzled his face against Goku’s chest, and Goku held him close.

“Baby…you alright?” he whispered.

“I am…but then again, I’m not. Hell if I know, Kakarrot. I’m exhausted, and I’m worried, and I just want to forget this whole day ever happened, “ Vegeta admitted.

Goku kissed his mate’s forehead, eyes closing for a moment. He opened them, saying, “Let me take care of you, honey. Just for tonight.” Vegeta didn’t answer, and Goku took that as an affirmation.

He tipped Vegeta’s chin up, gazing at his lover’s deep obsidian eyes. “I love you, you know.” Vegeta’s gaze faltered, so slight a movement that no one else could have detected it. “You weren’t worried that I would…you were…baby, I will never stop loving you, and neither will the boys. What happened tonight was necessary. Yes, it was violent, and yes, it was difficult, but dammit, we’re Saiyjins. You’ve shown me the honor in being a Saiyjin, you’ve taught me to be proud of our race.”

“If you make me cry, Kakarrot, I’m going to smash your face in,” Vegeta murmured.

His mate replied without words, his large hands massaging tense shoulder and back muscles. He rained kisses on Vegeta’s wet head, hair plastered down from the water. “So beautiful,” he said, nibbling softly on his lover’s elegant neck.

“Oh, I am not, “ Vegeta said, “And I suggest you stop before we wake the chibis.” He pushed gently at Goku’s chest, stepping under the hot water.

A memory flickered, and Goku began laughing. Vegeta asked grumpily, “What are you laughing at, Kakarrot??”

“Nothing!” he said, tears streaming from his eyes as he bent down, holding onto his aching side.

Vegeta stared down at his mate imperiously, “Tell me. Now.”

“I remembered…ow…my side…Sage…yesterday….the bet…” Goku whooped, his entire body convulsing with laughter.

Vegeta glared, “I didn’t find it funny. Not at all.” The slight smirk on his lips said otherwise.

“He said…Oh Kami…Sage goes, ”Kakarrotto, Kakarrotto!!”…he sounded just like you, too…and I thought you were gonna bust a blood vessel.”

“Bust somebody’s head, rather. It was NOT that damned funny,” Vegeta said.

“Oh yes…it was…” Goku was panting, his stomach aching.

“I have never…well, maybe once…or twice…don’t know why they never say anything to YOU.”

“Well baby, they’re USED to hearing me!” Goku said.

Vegeta chuckled, “They’ll be hearing you again very soon if you don’t stand up.” His mate grinned, and made a sudden move toward Vegeta’s thigh. “Wha’?” he yelped.

Reaching past his lover, Goku held up his prize, the shampoo bottle. “What did you think I was after?”

“Bastard.” Vegeta growled.

“Probably, “ was Goku’s cryptic answer. He poured a small amount of the lemon-scented shampoo into his hand, and began to work it into his thick hair.

Vegeta was washing off, the strong peppermint soap (a family favorite) relaxing his tensed muscles. He moved out of the way, allowing Goku to rinse the suds out of his hair. Watching the larger Saiyjin, Vegeta was impressed with the raw power evident in his every move.

Goku opened his eyes, and the two shared a long look. Goku reached out a hand, his Ouji accepting it graciously. “Turn around, ‘Geta.” Goku said.

“You’ve GOT to be kidding, “ Vegeta answered.

Goku sniggered, “Not what I meant, hentai. C’mere and I’ll wash your hair.” He dispensed a bit more of the citrus shampoo and began to expertly manipulate it through the unruly strands. He kneaded Vegeta’s scalp lightly, his touch gentle and loving. He was rewarded with a low moan of pleasure. “Glad you like,” he whispered into his lover’s ear.

Vegeta replied, “Damn you. You always find my weak spots…”

Goku didn’t answer, just continued to work his magic. Vegeta’s head lolled against his lover’s shoulder, he was nearly asleep. As he washed the soap from Vegeta’s hair, Goku whispered, “Koi, water’s starting to cool down some, wanna soak in the tub with me?”

“Mmmhmmm,” Vegeta said. He leaned against the tile, as Goku rinsed off.

Goku stepped out of the shower and yelped, “Cold floor, cold, dammit, cold…” as he made his way over to the tub. He turned the knobs, and began to fill it up.

“Baby, c’mon.” Goku led his mate by the hand over to the bathtub. Settling down together, Vegeta’s head laid against Goku’s chest. The water was warm, and he was so tired…”Honey, you ‘sleep?”

“No.” Vegeta answered harshly, sitting up. His head swam slightly from the effort.

“You sure you don’t wanna…” he asked suggestively

“Uh-huh,” Vegeta said tiredly.

Goku grinned and said, “Worth a shot.”

The pair sat for a while, Vegeta’s voice finally breaking the silence, “Kakarrott…I meant what I said to Burns. I will keep my promise. I just want you to know that.”

“What promise?” Goku said, confused.

“That I’d take his ears, or his hands, or his eyelids.”

He paused, then continued, “If he forces my hand, koi, I’ll have no choice…I’ll do whatever I have to.” He looked down at the mark on his right arm, the mark given him by the changeling, Frieza. ”I don’t see how he could forget, though…”

Following Vegeta’s gaze, Goku took his lover’s wrist, gazing balefully at the light scars there. “I’ve never noticed this before…not really…I didn’t know what it was…”

“His claim. He owned me, well and truly.”

“That’s not the only scar he made, was it?” Goku asked, fearful of the answer.

“Not hardly. You know my body better than I do, I’m sure. Most of the scars I have come from Frieza…I’m not that weak, Kakarrot, to have received all of them in battle,” Vegeta answered.

“Great Kami, Vegeta. Why did he…” Goke began, trailing off thoughtfully.

“For the same reason that Stan Burns molested my son. To satisfy his lust, to satisfy his desire for power and control, to feed the monster that lives inside of his mind, to destroy something precious and beautiful.”

Goku gently pressed his lips to Vegeta’s marred wrist, and murmured, “I’m grateful…no, I’m honored that you allowed me to claim you, to put my mark on you. It must have been horribly difficult.”

Vegeta placed a hand to his neck, lightly caressing the bond mark given him by his mate. “That is different, Kakarott. You did not force yourself on me. Your claim mirrored my own…it bonded us together, made us whole. Frieza’s claim was meant to tear me apart, to remind me that my life was in his hands. Every time I looked at this scar, I knew who my master was. Even now, it haunts me. Time has faded it, but I know it’s there. It’s one of the worst tortures I can think of…I mutilated him, and I feel no remorse. I wonder if Frieza felt the same way when he disfigured my body.”

“Oh, Vegeta, “ Goku whispered, unsure of the right thing to say.

He continued, “ I swore that my sons would never know the pain that I felt, that I would protect them, and I’ll be damned if that bastard didn’t get to Sage anyway. My fault. I didn’t see it. Didn’t want to see it. I wanted everything to be fine, just as it had been for years. And so I missed the signs; I overlooked his changing behavior, and I’m the fucking reason it went as far as it did.” Vegeta ground to a halt, closing his eyes, trying to hold back tears.

Goku said hesitantly, “Baby, it was not your fault. None of us saw it, we were all just as shocked as you were.”

“Goddamn it, I knew what to look for!!” Vegeta exclaimed, “I just wanted it to stay the same…I didn’t want anything ugly or obscene to intrude on our lives together. I closed my eyes to everything but you and our children. I forgot…I forgot what evil was like, what evil can do. I forgot how it felt to be hungry, scared, alone. I was safe, secure, and dammit, I thought that Sage was too. Meanwhile, his entire world was being torn apart and scattered to the winds.”

Vegeta paused, running a hand over his face, “You noticed something was wrong, before I did. You pointed it out to me, and still I refused to see. I suspected, but I didn’t follow my suspicions.”

Goku’s voice was gentle, “Vegeta, Sage kept it a secret…from all of us. He was ashamed, and so he hid it from sight.”

“Don’t make excuses for me, Kakarrot. I am the boy’s father. I should have known as soon as it happened. I never wanted to make the mistakes that my father made.”

“I’m his father, too, I share the same responsibility for his safety that you do. Neither one of us knew until Sage told us. Burns’ is at fault. He used the child’s love for you , his pride in you, his devotion to you to control Sage, “ he said.

He laid a kiss on his lover’s shoulder, silence stretching between them. “What did Frieza use to control you?” Goku asked suddenly.

A harsh laugh, “The same.”

“Do you blame your father?”

“Yes.”

Goku blinked at the brutally honest admission. “Why?”

“Do you think I’m wrong for blaming him?” Vegeta became agitated, pulling away from Goku’s warm chest. He peered around at his lover, and asked, “Do you think there was nothing he could have done?”

“I don’t know. I wasn’t there. All I can say is had Ou not given you to Frieza, then both you and the planet would probably been destroyed.” Goku answered honestly.

“Perhaps. Perhaps not. But I don’t recall my father offering his royal ass instead of his son’s. I don’t recall him even attempting to fight. He never even raised his ki, Kakarrot, I know, I was wearing a fucking scouter. I don’t recall him saying a damn thing but “Yes, my lord, that sounds like a wonderful idea, I’m sure he’d learn a lot from you, “ he trailed off, thinking of that painful day, so long ago.

Vegeta shook his head, chasing away the errant thoughts, “Well, fuck him. Fuck him for not trying. No, I don’t think that a planet should have been obliterated for the sake of one child. But, I will say this, I would have never let my son go without a fight. Frieza would have been forced to pry my cold dead hands from around his neck. I might have died, but I would not have fed my son to the beast. I would have killed my own child, to keep him from Frieza.”

“Vegeta, you aren’t your father. You didn’t hand Sage over to Burns. And if your father had killed you…there would be no Sage, there would be no Trunks, and there would be no Goku.” Goku finished solemnly.

Vegeta put a hand to his lover’s chest, “Sage blames me, Kakarrot. As surely as I know that I blame my father, I know my son must blame me. I go to bed with that thought, and wake up with that thought. It tears at my heart, that I’ve failed him. I could rip Burns’ into little pieces with my bare hands, but it wouldn’t repair the damage that has been done.”

Goku protested, “He DOES NOT blame you. He knows what you’ve done for him. He couldn’t love you any more if he sat down and tried. You did not fail him. Sage’s pain is as much a part of him, as yours is a part of you. You couldn’t take it from him, without making him into someone else. He is who he is. We have to accept that the little boy we knew is gone, but that the young man who is here now is still Sage. He needs us just as much, if not more. You can’t spend the rest of your life, punishing yourself for events you had no control over. Stanley Burns, on the other hand, can be punished for his crimes…and he will be…and no matter what you do to him he will deserve every second of it.”

“I know. I know all of that, but I still feel…guilty,” Vegeta whispered, “Not for Burns. I could care less what I do to him. I owe Sage everything, Kakarrot, you know that. From his very first breath, he made me a better man. My bond with Trunks, with Goten and Gohan, with Pan, with YOU, all of this came about because of Sage. I say that we would have found each other, but I don’t really know if that’s true. What would my life have been like had he never been born?”

“Very, very lonely, I think…and very sad,” Goku answered, “For me, anyway. Vegeta, I know what you mean, the bond that I have with Sage is different than any of my other bonds. None of my children chose me for their father. But Sage did. He wanted his Baka, and he got me, heart and soul.”

Vegeta smiled, and put his head on Goku’s shoulder. “He stole my heart and my soul, as well. Along with my face and my name. Sometimes, he’s more like me than I am.”

“He worships the ground you walk on. He idolizes you, I think you know that. Sage wants to be just like his Tousan.”

“That’s not a good thing, Kakarrot, “ Vegeta said dejectedly, burying his face in his lover’s neck.

“Bullshit! That’s just fucking bullshit, honey! Dammit, look at me!” Goku said, tilting up his lover’s obstinate chin.

Vegeta didn’t meet his eyes, murmuring, “I’m better than I used to be, that’s true. That doesn’t change what I’ve done. I’ve laughed while the dying screamed for mercy, I’ve murdered countless innocents, purged entire planets of every inhabitant. I’ve been given so much, and I know that I don’t deserve any of it. I haven’t been punished for my crimes, only rewarded. Sage has suffered for my sins…” Vegeta looked up, his obsidian eyes glittering with unshed tears.

Goku broke in sharply, “Vegeta, you’re obviously too tired to think straight. Dear heart, Sage was molested by a sick pedophile, it had nothing to do with you. He was not being made to suffer the consequences of your actions. What you did in the past means nothing, you are a defender of innocents now, and have been for nearly half of your life.”

“I didn’t defend him, Kakarrot!” Vegeta’s voice rang out, “I did it for him, all of it for him! I became a decent man, a good father…for Sage. But in the end, he was the only innocent I couldn’t protect!!”

“You weren’t able to stop it from happening, koi, that doesn’t make it your fault!” said Goku, his voice rising, “You’ve done everything you possibly could to keep Sage safe. You have made sure that Burns will never harm another child.”

“Kakarrot, Sage is not out of danger, can’t you see that? If anything, his peril is even greater than before. What if Sage kills Burns? I promised that I would let him have his revenge, but I don’t know what it will cost him. That son-of-a-bitch deserves to die, but I would rather kill the bastard myself than see my son damaged further.”

Goku argued, “He must make that choice, for himself. He must be given control over his own destiny. You can’t live his life for him, baby. Remember that Sage is NOT you, Vegeta. He must search out his own way, make his mistakes, have his regrets, fuck up sometimes. We all do, it’s how we learn and grow. You found your way, darling, and so will Sage. Believe that. Have faith in your son.” Goku put a hand to Vegeta’s face. Vegeta turned his head sharply, not wanting his mate to see the single tear that was sliding down his cheek.

The larger Saiyjin whispered to his mate, “Dear heart, you are the backbone of this family, you hold us together, make us strong. You have never failed us, any of us. Yes, we both made mistakes, we probably should have known what Burns was doing to Sage. But we didn’t. You have to let go of your guilt, you have to be strong for Sage. He needs your guidance, koi. You must accept his decisions. Right or wrong.”

“I don’t want him to be like me. I don’t want him to be a murderer, no matter how completely justified Burns’ death would be. I know how that feels, to take a life, I never want him to know that feeling. I never want him to look into the eyes of someone he loves, and see fear lurking there, “ Vegeta hissed.

“None of us fears you, Vegeta. We feel respect, admiration, awe, but never fear, “ Goku said, smoothing a hand over his lover’s shoulders.

Vegeta raised shuttered eyes to his mate and said quietly, “I saw it tonight, in your eyes. I saw fear.”

An infinite amount of time seemed to pass before Goku finally replied. “That’s true, you did. I admit that, at the time, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But you did nothing more than what was needed to get through to Stanley Burns. You could have done a hell of lot worse, but you didn’t. You kept your control, you kept your edge, and I don’t have any qualms about your treatment of Burns. You did what you had to do, in order to avenge our son and to protect other children. I told you earlier that there was nothing to forgive. I meant what I said.”

Vegeta didn’t answer at first, but the muscle that twitched in his clenched jaw spoke volumes to his mate. “Vegeta…I love you, my heart, nothing can change that.” Goku said simply.

“I know that you do.” Vegeta said, then added in a near-whisper, “I love you, koibito. I’m sorry…forgive me for all of this. I never meant to unburden myself onto you.”

“What else am I here for? I’m your mate, your companion, your partner. I’m supposed to help you with problems. Vegeta, you aren’t alone anymore. The sooner that you realize that, the better off you’ll be. You can depend on me. I won’t back out on you, just because things get a little rough. We’ve been together for thirteen years now, honey, haven’t you figured out yet that I’m not going anywhere?”

Vegeta answered, his voice rough, “I know that you aren’t going anywhere. I just wonder if sometimes you’d like to.”

“NEVER. You act like I’m such an innocent in all of this. I dislocated his fucking wrists, koi, twice, just to hear him scream. I’ve been with you, every time that you’ve gone after Burns, and I will continue to help you, in the future. I don’t have any remorse, either, for what happened tonight. Doesn’t that tell you something? I’ll help Sage, too, when he’s ready, because I think that is what’s right.”

He paused, then added, “I’ll follow you to the ends of this planet, and the next. You’ll never be rid of me, even in death. I plan to spend my entire existence pissing you off in some way or another.”

Vegeta groaned loudly, but then said, “I suppose that’s not so terrible. I deserve much worse than being accompanied through eternity by the man I love.” His smile was gentle, and Goku leaned over, kissing his Ouji full on the mouth.

He pulled away, whispering, “Vegeta, we’ll get through this, you and I and our boys, all of us together. That bastard can’t defeat us. Our bonds are too strong, our love is too powerful. We can’t be beaten, we WON’T be beaten down by this. Not by Burns, not by Aycock, not by Frieza, not by anyone or anything. I trust that you’ll protect me, and our children. I need for you to have that same belief in me.”

Vegeta answered solemnly, “I trust you, Kakarrot. With my life, and the lives of our family. I don’t have a choice, you’ve proven yourself to me time and time again.” Silent tears streamed from Goku’s ebony eyes as he embraced his lover tightly.

“Alright, that’s enough,” Vegeta said, after a few breathless minutes, “Kakarrot. Let me go right now! Kakarrot…” he warned, beginning to growl deep in his throat. Goku finally released his mate, his smile was radiant.

“Water’s getting’ cold. Let’s go to bed, koi, “ Goku said, eyes still wet. Vegeta nodded in assent, and stood to leave the tub. Again, Goku held out a hand to his mate, which Vegeta accepted graciously. As he stepped over the side, he tripped, nearly falling, but Goku caught him in his strong arms. “’Geta, you okay?” he asked worriedly.

Vegeta chuckled softly, the bridge of his nose turning red. “I’m alright. I’m just tired. Take me to bed, koibito.”

Goku grinned, grabbing a towel and throwing it to his mate. The two of them dried off and brushed their teeth, the larger Saiyjin giggling at his bruises reflected in the large mirror. Vegeta took him by the shoulder, turning Goku around to get a better look at his injury.

“You don’t pull any punches, I’ll say that much, “ Goku said, blushing at his lover’s frank perusal.

Vegeta’s fingers feathered lightly over the bruises. “I’m not sorry. You knew that I wouldn’t take your interference kindly. You did it anyway. You’re either damned brave or damned foolish to challenge me when I’m that angry.”

“Wasn’t trying to be brave.”

“So you admit that you acted foolishly?” Vegeta asked.

“Just didn’t want you to do anything that we would regret.” Goku stated flatly.

“I wouldn’t have killed her, koi. I just wanted to wring her neck a little bit.” Vegeta said, kissing his mate’s darkened eyelids.

“We all did, but I couldn’t allow you to do it. I hope you understand.”

“I do, actually, “ Vegeta said frankly, “I don’t always like it, but I suppose that’s one of the things I love about you.”

Goku grinned as he inclined his head slightly, “You gonna kiss my nose, and make it all better?”

“I wouldn’t hold my breath, if I were you.” Vegeta said haughtily, turning on his heel and heading into the bedroom. His shoulders were shaking with silent laughter, as he pulled on a pair of loose-fitting black sweat pants.

Goku whined softly, as he fished in the closet for his favorite plaid pajama bottoms. “Come on, ‘Geta. It really does hurt. A lot.” He put on his best wounded expression, and crawled under the covers.

Vegeta turned off the light and slid into the bed. “That was the idea. How many times have I told you not to pick me up like a damn puppy? Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Not to mention that you did it again tonight.”

“I didn’t pick you up. I held onto your arm. I’m SO SORRY that I didn’t let you kill her. Will you EVER forgive me?” Goku asked, with mock-sarcasm.

“No. Never,” he said straight-faced, pulling Goku’s face down to meet his, “Now, come here and kiss me, fool,” His lover complied readily.

A short time later, the pair broke apart, both panting slightly. “Hmm…I suppose that I could look over your transgressions…kiss me again.” Goku’s loud purring set them both to laughing. Finally, exhaustion once again overtook the Ouji, and he settled against the headboard.

“Honey, c’mere and let me hold you, “ Goku whispered. He held out his arms, and Vegeta moved into his lover’s embrace. Snuggling into the crook of his shoulder, Vegeta laid his tired head on his mate’s broad chest. The low rumbling was soothing, and in no time at all, he was drifting off to sleep.

Goku, on the other hand, was too keyed up to sleep. The adrenaline from the day’s events was still coursing through him, and, though fatigued, he wasn’t able to sleep. Staring up at the ceiling, his thoughts turned immediately to his bond-son Sage. He said a silent prayer to the Supreme Kai, that his youngest son would grow up happy and someday find peace. Goku startled a bit when he heard the bedroom door creak. Craning his neck, he caught sight of a familiar upswept flame of hair.

Sage’s soft voice hissed, “Baka, Tousan…you awake?”

Goku replied, “I’m awake, honey, but your Tousan’s out like a light. You wanna come get in bed?”

Sage nodded, padding around to the other side of the bed. “You can’t sleep, Baka?” Sage asked as he slipped in beside his bond-father. He, too, snuggled in Goku’s arms, nuzzling his face against Goku’s chest.

“No, baby. What about you? We checked on you guys earlier, and you were sleeping. You have a bad dream?” Goku’s voice was tinged with concern.

Sage shook his head, “I know they were just trying to make me feel better, but I was about to suffocate. I don’t mind sleeping with my brothers, but that’s ridiculous.”

Goku chuckled, “You’re a lot like your Tousan. He can’t stand to be hovered over, either.”

Sage stared at his father for a moment, then looked away. He looked Goku squarely in the eyes, then said point-blank, “Tell me what you did to that bastard. I want to know now.”

Goku balked, “Baby, I know that you want to know, can you…”

Sage interrupted him quickly, “No, I cannot wait. I’ve waited long enough. Just do as I asked you, please.”

“I can’t, Sage. I just can’t. Not tonight…” Goku’s voice trailed off absently.

“That’s bullshit, Baka. You promised me. You said that you would tell me, “ Sage said accusingly.

“I did not say that. Your father made that promise, not me. Besides, it’s his story to tell. Sage, I’m asking you, hell, I’m begging you to be patient. This night was hard on your Tousan, he did some things…well, it wasn’t pretty. Necessary, but not pretty.”

“I don’t want to hear the edited version. I want to hear details. It’s bad enough that I’m not allowed to go, the least you could do is tell me what happened. I’m not a child, and I was the one who was hurt by that bastard, not you two. I deserve something. Quit yanking me around, and tell me what the fuck went on tonight.” Sage said, his voice rising.

Goku put a single finger to his bond-son’s lips, and said gently, “That’s enough. I know that you’re angry, but I’ve given you my answer. I will not be the one to tell you. I can’t. Don’t ask me anymore, honey. I don’t want to argue, not tonight anyway. We’ll have a nice big quarrel in the morning, if you like?” He put on a hopeful look, and Sage’s face softened.

“I hope you know that I’m not going to let this go. He made a promise…”

Goku injected, “And he’ll keep it. He won’t go back on his word. Never has, never will. You know that, Sage. He’s just trying to protect you, I think.”

“I don’t need to be protected. I’m grown. I just want some answers.”

“You’ll get them. I’ll say this, however, demanding answers from your Tousan is probably not a good idea. If I were you, I’d tread softly for a few days. His nerves are stretched to the breaking point.”

“I’m not scared of him.”

“I’m not saying that you should be. I’m saying that you can hurt him, deeply, and I’m asking that you hold off until he’s back to himself. I don’t want you two ripping at each other, baby, “ Goku said, smoothing Sage’s wild locks.

Sage acquiesced, “Fine. I’ll play nice.”

“Glad to hear it.” Goku said, planting a kiss on Sage’s forehead, “I don’t know who’s more stubborn, you or him.”

“Where do you think I got it from, Baka?” Sage asked sweetly. He gazed silently at his Tousan’s sleeping visage for a long while, Goku’s soft purr vibrating in his ear.

He reached out with one elegant hand, and cupped Vegeta’s cheek. Sage whispered, his voice filled with awe, “He’s so beautiful.”

Goku smiled and agreed, “Yes, he is.”

“Do you think I’ll look like that?” he asked, looking up at his bond-father.

Goku’s laughter echoed through the room, “Honey, you already do! You look exactly like him!”

“No, Baka, that’s not what I meant. I mean, will I look like Tousan when I’m older?” Sage said witheringly.

Goku glanced from father to son, then answered, “You will, but I don’t think you’ll have the same air of melancholy about you, that Vegeta does. He was hurt as a child, for so long and in so many ways, that his pain will never leave him. It’s a part of him now. There are lines etched into his face, from grief, and worry, and sorrow, that I hope you will never have. You have been injured, as well, but you have had your family to support you. I hope that you will have more good memories than bad, and that your face will be lined from laughter, instead.”

Sage’s smile was tremulous, “I hope so, too.” He nestled against Goku’s side, and continued his scrutiny of his Tousan. “I am gonna be taller than him, though, right?”

Goku whooped, and began to laugh so hard that he had to sit up to breathe. The displaced Ouji sat up and asked grumpily, “Wha’s matter? Wha’s so funny?”

Goku was bent over at the waist, holding his head in his hands. “Nothing, nothing. I’m sorry, baby,” he choked out. Sage smirked at his father, but didn’t say anything.

Vegeta finally realized that they had a visitor, and asked sleepily, “Sage, wha’s wrong? Y’ need something?”

Sage answered blatantly, “I need you to tell me what happened tonight. I need to know what you did to him.”

Vegeta’s eyes became alert, and he was now fully awake. He focused his gaze on his son, and said, “I can’t. Not now.”

Sage snorted, “Not you, too. I’m not asking for much, Tousan, not at all. Please, just tell me. I have a right to know, and you gave your word.”

Goku interceded, “Sage, please, honey…”

Vegeta held up a hand, “I can take care of myself, koi. Sage, I will tell you everything you want to know. Not in the middle of the kami-damned night, though.”

Sage looked as if he were about to protest, but the set of his father’s jaw told him he wouldn’t get very far. “I’ll wait. But you’d better quit stalling. You’ll tell me…”

Vegeta interrupted, “When I’m damned good and ready. You should know that by now.”

Surprisingly, Sage grinned at his father’s statement, and said nothing further. Goku was finally able to lie down, both Vegeta and son were enfolded in his loving arms, and his deep rumbling purr comforted and soothed.

A little time passed, the silence finally broken by Sage’s clear voice, “Tousan, tell me a story.”

Tousan asked gently, “What kind of story, aisoku?”

Sage blinked at the term of endearment, but answered, “A story about me, about when I was little.”

Vegeta opened his mouth to begin, but was cut off by Goku, who was trying not to snigger, “Once upon a time, there was a young Super Saiyjin named Sage, who took a bet from his brothers…”

“And if his Baka doesn’t want to sleep outside, he’ll refrain from finishing that sentence…” Vegeta intoned.

“It was a dangerous gamble, but Sage was not easily deterred. He would brave his father’s wrath, and his vicious tongue, and win the wager…” Goku continued, oblivious to his Ouji’s threats.

“My vicious tongue?!? I do NOT have a vicious tongue, you miserable fucking ass-bastard, “ Vegeta growled.

“Sage knew that he must speak the truth, telling the world the fateful words that had exploded from his father’s lips…”Goku was barely hanging on, he was about to burst with laughter.

“You son-of-a-bitch!” Vegeta said, smacking Goku in the forehead, “Your name is hardly fateful…and nothing exploded anywhere.”

“I wouldn’t say that, “ Goku grinned wolfishly, and Vegeta whacked him in the face with his pillow. Sage, who had been calmly watching the proceedings, dissolved into helpless laughter, at the sight of his Tousan and Baka having a pillow fight.

It ended abruptly when Vegeta’s fist “accidentally” brushed Goku’s nose, and he yelped with pain. “Okay…okay…I give!! Don’t hit me again, “ he cried, throwing up his arms in mock-fear.

“Hentai. Ecchi hentai, at that.” Vegeta said, the pair lying back down together.

Sage was giggling softly, as he looked at both of his fathers. “I’m SERIOUS. Tell me a story…”

Vegeta looked thoughtfully at his son, and said, “Well, let’s see. I suppose we should begin at the beginning…the birth of a prince.”

His father’s deep voice wrapped around Sage like black velvet, “I was present at your birth…no, let me rephrase that. I suppose I orchestrated your birth. You were, not surprisingly, stubborn even in the womb, and turned at the last minute. You came into the world tail-first, and sent the poor doctor into a swoon. I should have taken that as an omen.”

Vegeta grinned, then added solemnly, “ You curled that little blue and black tail around my arm, and I was done for. Immediately, I felt a connection to you, and then when I turned you over and looked into your eyes…you were so calm, so relaxed, it was as if I had known you forever. You’ve had me wrapped around your little finger ever since. ”

Sage snickered, “Damn straight.” He grabbed his father’s hand and laced their fingers together. “Tell me more. How did I get my name?”

Vegeta pulled his son’s fingers to his lips and murmured, “’cause you smelled like sage, and Trunks wanted that to be your name.”

Sage shivered delightfully, “Tou’tan quit that!”

Vegeta smiled at the childhood pet name, “Seems your mother had been using my sense of smell to bend me to her will. Trunks noticed the similarity, and your mother confessed that she had been using shampoo and lotion that smelled like sage. Hence your name.”

Sage grinned, “Explains why everyone always gets ME to ask you for stuff.”

Vegeta inhaled deeply, “Mmmhmm…”

“And why there’s a stash of sage shampoo in our bathroom,” he added. Sage grinned at his bond-father, who was feigning innocence.

Goku protested, “I have NO idea what you’re talking about, Sage!” He blushed under the piercing gaze of his beloved.

“Oh, please, Kakarrot…as if I didn’t already know. It doesn’t work half as well though…Sage’s smell has a sweetness to it…” he said absently.

“Of course it does, ‘cause Sage is so SWEEET, “ Goku said, and got a slap on the chest for his troubles. “OOF! Hey, you!”

Sage growled, “I am NOT sweet, Baka!”

“Oh, heavens no, not you!” Goku said, “But I’ve gotta say that you were the sweetest baby ever.”

Vegeta snorted, “I wouldn’t go that far.” He kissed Sage’s knuckles, and continued, “He was obstinate, demanding, forceful, and imperious. In other words, a Vegeta.”

Sage giggled, “Yeah, and don’t you forget it.”

“As if I could.” Vegeta said, looking meaningfully at his son, “It’s like looking into a mirror.”

“My Vegetas,” Goku sighed happily. He hugged them both tightly around the shoulders.

“Hn.” Sage grunted, “Well, you were my Baka first.”

“That’s right. You claimed me, heart and soul. I was yours, from the moment I first saw you.” Goku whispered.

“No, I wasn’t. I had to bite you first, didn’t I?” Sage said, “You and Tousan were being stubborn, I’m sure.”

“Not me!” Goku protested, “I’m never stubborn.”

“Tell me, Baka. Tell me how we became bonded,” Sage pleaded.

Goku acquiesced, “Mmm…let’s see. I came over to spar with your Tousan…”

Sage interrupted, “Oh, is that what you were calling it…” His grin was contagious, and Vegeta had to bite his lip to keep from laughing.

“Chibi hentai,” Goku said, “We weren’t together then…anyway, you were sick. You had a cold, and I was helping your father take care of you. We had been in the shower, hoping the steam would clear your lungs. I brought you in here, and laid down on the bed with you. I was rubbing your back, when, all of a sudden, I got the biggest surprise of my life.” He smiled gently at his bond-son.

“I bit you…blood-bonded with you…” Sage whispered, awe in his voice.

“Hey, who’s telling this story?” Goku said, grinning, “Yes, you did. You latched onto my wrist and began to drink as if you were supposed to be there. I guess you were, because your Tousan didn’t Final Flash me when he found out about it.”

Vegeta said simply, “Wasn’t upset. Made things easier for me.”

Sage sighed happily, “Tell me MORE.”

Goku chuckled, “That was your first word. More. I can still hear your little chibi voice yelling, “More Baka, Tou’tan. More Baka.” He nuzzled Sage’s hair, eyes shining with tears.

“More. Now.” Sage growled.

Goku burst out laughing. “Okay, okay. You always got what you wanted, even then. I remember the night I pulled you into my bed…this was before you bonded us, you must have been about two months old. I woke up, and you had a death-grip on my tail. I was too tired to notice that you had pulled yourself all the way from your crib to the guest room. Your poor little arms. Makes my knees weak just thinking about it.”

“Kakarrot, everything makes your knees weak,” Vegeta said, “Let’s not forget the incident in the doctor’s office.”

“What?!? I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Goku said, blushing furiously.

“Right. Well, I remember…” Vegeta trailed off.

Sage immediately said, “Tell me, Tousan, about the doctor’s office.”

“Hai. It seems you and your brothers needed to be vaccinated against measles, and your Kassan and Kakarrot decided to take you to the pediatrician. Unfortunately, your Kassan had failed to inform the baka that there would be needles involved.”

Goku shuddered slightly at the mention of the word “needle”. Vegeta snorted, but Sage hugged his bond-father tightly and said, “It’s okay, Baka.”

Vegeta continued, “By the time I got there, you had barricaded yourself under the sink, and refused to come out for anyone. I finally talked you out of there, and got you to take the shot. You sat in my lap…and your Baka ran for the hills.”

“Hell yes, I did,” Goku said, unashamedly.

“Never mind him, Baka.” Sage said, “That damn shot hurt. I remember that much.” He rubbed his arm thoughtfully. “I wanna hear more.”

“There are thousands of Sage stories. Hard to pick out just one,” Goku admitted. Then he said, “One story never fails to make me laugh, though. You were three years old, your father and Gohan were gone. Come to think of it, your Kassan and grandparents were away as well…”

Sage interrupted, “They left you alone with us?” He blinked in disbelief.

“Yep, and believe it or not, you all survived. I ordered pizza for you boys, ‘cause I sure as hell wasn’t cooking. As soon as your behind hit the chair, you started yelling that you didn’t want this pizza, you wanted THAT pizza. Goten and Trunks had pepperoni, and even though you hated it, you meant that you were going to get their pizza. So they traded you for it, and I’ll be damned if you didn’t sit there and pull off every single pepperoni before you ate it.” Goku giggled, just thinking about it.

“Oh, I did not. That’s not funny,” Sage protested.

“Yes, it was. You were just so damn calm about it, “ Goku said, “Anyway, the other part of the this story is that later that evening, you crawled into bed with me, snuggling one of your Tousan’s training shirts. Used, of course.”

Sage flushed, “So what?” He looked away guiltily.

Goku gazed thoughtfully at his bond-son and sniffed the air tentatively. “Mmmmm, something smells GOOD.” He nuzzled his face closer to Sage, and Vegeta raised his head, and peered over his mate’s chest.

“Sage, is that MY shirt?” he asked in disbelief.

Sage snapped, “NO! It’s mine.” He wiggled closer to Goku and stared defiantly at his father.

“The hell you say. If it smells of Vegeta, it either belongs to me or Kakarrot,” Vegeta retorted.

“Well, we know it isn’t mine,” Goku pointed out.

“How’s that?” Vegeta queried.

“Too small.” Goku ducked under his pillow, but that didn’t stop Vegeta from biting his chin…HARD.

“Leave Baka alone, Tou’tan. Fine, maybe it is yours, but I found it, so it’s mine now.”

“WHERE did you find it, chukra?” Goku yelped.

“In the gravity room…” he paused, thinking about the question. Realization dawned. “Oh…you guys are gross…”

“We are not…we’re Saiyjins.” Vegeta grinned at his son, who smiled faintly, embarrassed to be caught wearing his father’s shirt. “Sage, I don’t mind. You’re more than welcome to my clothes, used or otherwise. I’d just be careful where I picked them up from.” He leered at his mate, who collapsed into a puddle of giggling Goku.

“Tell me another story,” Sage demanded, hoping to change the subject.

At the same time, the bonded men said, “Do you remember the zoo?!” They laughed, and Goku continued, “Oh yes, the unholy trio goes to the zoo…with Yamcha, no less.”

Sage snorted, “I still can’t stand that bastard. He deserved what he got.”

Goku said, “You’re just mad because he stole your peanut butter.”

“He shouldn’t have messed with me…my only regret is that the squirrels didn’t gnaw his balls off.” Sage said, a tinge of sadness in his voice.

“The zoo, Kakarrot, you were talking about the zoo.” Vegeta reminded his lover.

“Oh yeah! Well, you and your brothers…not Gohan, he was away with Piccolo…” Goku began.

Sage interrupted innocently, “Was Piccolo lending a hand?” He had only been a chibi when Gohan had went into his first heat, but he and his brothers never failed to get a kick out of teasing Gohan about it.

“Hush, you. As I was saying…you had a plan to get back at Yamcha…a plan which involved the zoo and a eleven-foot alligator named Sazuka.”

“It was NOT my idea!” Sage protested.

Vegeta shot back, “Please, all the plans began with you. You were the ringleader.”

“The hell I was! That was Trunks’ plan, Tousan,” Sage argued.

“Yep, it sure was!” Trunks’ voice rang out from the doorway, “Mine and Goten’s.”

Goten gave his fathers a sleepy smile, “I didn’t do it, nobody saw me do it…” The two boys padded into the bedroom, Gohan on their heels. He was rubbing at his eyes tiredly.

“You left us!” he pouted at Sage.

Sage retorted, “You guys were smothering me!”, and he snuggled closer to Goku.

Gohan padded over to the end of the bed, and grabbed his fathers’ toes, “Can we sleep with you, Daddy?” he begged.

“Ask your Father,” Goku said, in a high-falsetto voice.

Vegeta sniffed, “Don’t you have a wife? Go sleep with her.”

“Not as long as Bulma’s in there, I’m not!” Gohan said, “Come on, Ouji-sama, let us stay. I promise we’ll be good.” He put on his best Son-hopeful expression, and waited for the Saiyan no Ouji to level his judgment.

“Hai. But be quiet, or I’m sending all of you out.” Vegeta warned.

“Yes, my king,” Gohan whispered, climbing over his father’s legs to get in beside Sage. Trunks slid in bed and put his arm over his father’s waist, Goten curling up behind him.

Gohan threw an arm around Sage and took a deep breath, “Mmmmm…Sagey goodness,” he murmured.

“Cut it out!” Sage said, “And don’t call me Sagey.”

“Wasn’t calling you Sagey, I was saying that you smelled sagey,” Gohan explained.

Trunks and Goten started giggling at the exact same time, and Gohan retorted, “Be quiet, Truten!”

The boys shrieked, their voices mingling, “Don’t call me Truten!!”

Everyone laughed as Gohan finished, “Well don’t act like it!! You’d think you guys were joined at the hip or something…”

Both boys blushed furiously, finally hiding under the pillows when Sage added, “Yeah, cough full moon cough”

“Alright, that’s enough!” Vegeta growled, “You damned chibi hentais go to sleep! All the damned beds in this house, and you all want to pile up in this one…”

Gohan sniggered, “Aww…he’s so cute when he’s angry.” He leaned over Sage and Goku, and attempted to land a kiss on his Ouji. The low growl that issued from his father’s throat stopped him dead in his tracks. “Whoa. Never mind! He’s all yours, Dad, you can keep him!!”

Vegeta smirked, “You can look, but don’t touch.”

“No, no!! I’ve decided that I’ll take the little one! ” Gohan replied, wrapping his arms around Sage and kissing him on the face repeatedly.

Goku growled, “I told you, Gohan, he’s already taken!” Goten and Trunks started laughing hysterically, as Goku got smacked in the head again for his troubles.

Gohan smirked, “No, Daddy, don’t worry, I meant the pocket-sized version,”

“I am not little!” Sage yelled, “And don’t even say it…”

“Say what?” Gohan asked innocently.

Sage growled, and spat, “I am NOT travel-sized for your convenience!”, setting off a chain-reaction of giggling that lasted for nearly ten minutes.

Finally, the fatigued Saiyjins and demi-Saiyjins quieted down, and began to drift off to sleep. Sage was surrounded by the elder Sons, Gohan’s tail patting his back soothingly, Goku’s rumbling purr echoing in his ear. Trunks’ head was buried against Vegeta’s shoulder, Goten’s arm thrown across both father and son.

In the near-twilight of sleep, the blood-bonds that connected their minds were open, the normal daily defenses relaxed. It was in this haze that their dreams blended, and thoughts flowed freely. Sage was close to slumber, when a thought, not his own, invaded his head. His eyes flew open and he gently cupped his father’s cheek. He whispered, “Oh, Tou’tan. I don’t blame you. Not at all. It was not your fault. Don’t ever think that it was.”

The Saiyan no Ouji awakened, and his eyes began to well with tears. He choked out, “You should.” He turned his face away, trying to quell his emotions, but Sage would have none of it.

Forcing his father to look at him, Sage echoed Vegeta’s words from earlier, “Never hide your eyes, Tou’tan. You are a prince…and you are my pride.”

Vegeta did not answer, but he smiled at his son faintly. He took Sage’s hand into his, and the pair fell asleep together, surrounded by their family, wrapped in a warm cocoon of love and affection.

As the sun rose over the treetops, soft light streamed over the pile of Saiyjins. The last of their kind, they were as closely knit as a family could ever hope to be. The events of the day and night before had taken their toll, but the bonds that held them together were unbreakable. Honor, pride, loyalty, strength, and abiding love…these are the ties that bind. No matter the enemies, no matter the dangers, no matter what, the last remnants of the Saiyjin race would face them together. And they would prevail.

To be continued?!?