Dragon Ball Z: A Visitor From Another World

[Bardock]

Bardock, his hand on the trembling fur of Goku's tail, suddenly turned his head towards Piccolo, "What does this mean?"

 

Piccolo shook his head, just as shocked as anyone, "I-I don't know.. I never heard of this... Vegeta, have you ever seen this??"

 

Vegeta, after been embarrassed, had leaned up, staring at what happened. He'd heard the screams, saw the newly grown tail, and it sent him into a silent rage. Once again Goku had pushed himself past all the limitations... exceeded his power without trying, and was rewarded greatly. While Vegeta, on the other hand, still... remained... EXACTLY the same...

 

"Vegeta!"

 

Vegeta once again heard Piccolo, and he narrowed his eyes into his usual glare, "It is said, back home on Planet Vegeta, that if a Saiyan is in an extreme rage, then is consumed by that rage, then he holds the answer for a higher level of power. More than one can understand. It has never been heard of because no one has been able to achieve it." He clenched his teeth together, suddenly shaking, "Kakarot is now no longer just a Saiyan.. he's a few steps away from being immortal."

 

Krillen had made his way over, collapsing on the ground near where Goku lay, "Immortal...? No way..."

 

Piccolo stared at Vegeta, "Consumed by a rage? Wait, do you mean that Goku will not be himself?"

 

Vegeta was silent for a minute before he stood, "Does it matter?! He once again has managed to do the impossible and exceed EVERYTHING I have tried to do!" Vegeta angrily balled his fists, "It's... stupid...." he growled then, moreso talking to himself now, "Stupid... to be so jealous.. over what? Kakarot?? IT'S SO FUCKING STUPID!!!"

 

Bardock watched Vegeta, was about to say something to him, but Vegeta flew off then, going in a completely different direction from everyone else. He sighed then, shaking his head, "Leave him.. better to let Vegeta handle what he's going through on his own. As for Kakarot, let's move him.. he'll wake up soon and... we won't know anything until he does. Let's all get some rest.. we will need it."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

It was obvious that the training was coming to a close, and seconds later all but one of the copies remained, standing next to the group of men, arms crossed over his chest, watching what was going on, but saying nothing. For now he would just observe, and only when he was spoken to would he speak up. Only then, would he say what was on his mind, not before then, not a moment sooner.

 

This was all very interesting to Nexus, he was learning about the Saiyans without the others even realizing that he was doing so. Sighing softly, he turns his gaze from one man to the next, before turning his eyes on Goku, who was still out cold. Bardock then speaks up, suggesting that they move Goku, and then suggesting they all get some rest.

 

Nexus had to agree, they were minutes away from getting into one of the biggest fights ever. Suddenly he grimaces, and falls to his knees, clenching at his head, gritting his teeth. "Damn it, not now!" He groans, before disappearing in a burst of flames, leaving it so that there was only the real Nexus left. But where he was hiding it was hard to figure out, until a cry could be heard from above them all, and next moment he was falling down from the air, where he'd been hovering moments earlier.

 

His eyes were squeezed shut, and there was pain etched on his face as he fell. Soon though it was made plain to see why he was doing this, as a voice reverberates all around them.

 

'You had all better be ready...I'm almost there...fools...'

[Bardock]

Bardock sat beside both beds, on one side of him lie his son, and on the other lie Nexus. He rubbed his forehead, his head drooping once or twice as sleepiness started to take over. Not lore than a few seconds later, Piccolo walked up behind him, placing a hand upon the other Saiyan's shoulder, "Get some rest, Bardock.."

 

Bardock rose his head, shaking ut, "How long has it been?"

 

"Six hours..." Piccolo turns his head, blinking as he saw Krillen asleep next to Goku, an arm wrapped over his chest, "When did he sneak in?"

 

Bardock followed Piccolo's gaze, smiling softly, "About an hour ago. I had fallen asleep but didn't have the heart to move him."

 

Piccolo nodded, his eyes trailing yo Nexus now, "And him?"

 

"No change.."

 

"I see..." Piccolo crossed his arms over his chest then, thinking deeply. He'd be there soon.. and they were nowhere near ready.

 

"Piccolo.."

 

"Yes?"

 

Bardock didn't even look at him, "We don't stand a chance, do we?"

 

Piccolo was a bit taken back by the question, but then smiles, "We stand more of a chance now than ever. Did you see the way Krillen refused to give up? If we all push ourselves like that, then we all will come out alive."

 

Bardock nodded, "Yeah.. so it's true, then? Does Krillen die first?"

 

"When I had my vision, yes... but it might have changed since then.."

 

A soft groan interrupted Piccolo and Bardock, and when they looked over, Goku was leaning up, his hand rubbing his forehead, "Oww.. man, I feel like I drank all of Tokyo..."

 

"And all of Tokyo drank ME..." Krillen leaned up as well, cringing, "So I heard it right? Is this guy almost here?"

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

It won't be long...It won't be long...It won't be long...You fools...FOOLS!...I'll destroy you...I'll kill you...I hate you...You're nothing but a disgrace...Seeing you standing here sickens me...You're not a prince, you're a coward...FOOL!!!'

 

Words echoed inside Nexus' head as he lay there, eyes shifting back and forth behind closed lids rapidly, his lips trembling slightly. Completely unaware of the conversation that was going on mere feet away from the bed he'd been moved to. Nor did he move when Krillen or Goku woke up, instead remaining where he was.

 

They were all going to get hurt...some of them were going to die...he didn't want that at all. And yet there was absolutely nothing he could do about it, nothing he could change. Just like before, just the same as the last time something like this happened...he was helpless, hopeless, and trying so hard to just hold on to the moments he had left with the people whom he'd come to care for so deeply on Earth.

 

Only when the screaming, cruel voice of his brother Exodys booms inside of his head, making his ears feel as if they were ringing from how loud it was, did he opens his eyes, sitting up quickly in his bed. His eyes look over at Bardock and Piccolo. Saying nothing, his eyes did the talking. He was scared. And he was worried for all of them...he truly didn't care what happened to himself, as long as the others remained safe...especially Piccolo and Bardock...

 

Feeling tears sting his eyes, he quickly turns his head, so the others couldn't see. As he was reaching up to wipe away the tears, a voice once more echos around them.

 

'Are you ready? Meet me in the place where you all met my brother...and Nexus? You're better be there...Because this is for you personally. I have a little...surprise...waiting for you.' Laughter follows before it fades away, and Nexus narrows his eyes.

 

"Looks like...it shouldn't be too long...til everything happens."

[Bardock]

Bardock's eyes narrowed and he glanced to Krillen, who had stood, frozen in fear, "That answer your question?"

 

Piccolo nodded, turning his head away, 'Mister Popo, can you calculate their exact time of arrival?'

 

There was a slight pause before Mister Popo's deep voice rang out, so everyone can hear, 'It's... hard to tell. He IS a deity, after all. But if my assumptions are right, we have less than an hour.'

 

'Even if its only five minutes, we have time. Keep on the lookout. Let us know if someone shows.'

 

'Yes, Sir.'

 

Piccolo turned to Nexus then, "For every one minute in the real world, we spend six hours here. Every four minutes equals a day, so on and so fourth. Nexus, I want you to train with Bardock and Goku. They both need to perfect their strength. You're stronger than both of them."

 

Krillen leaned over, pulling on his red shirt, which was torn and dirty as he sighed, "I feel like this is all for-"

 

"Don't..." Bardock was quiet while he spoke, "Please don't finish that sentence.."

 

Goku's eyebrows were pulled into a saddened look, but a flash of brown made him blink and he turned his head, "Hm?" It was then that he saw the tail he had grown back, "Whaaa??" He turned his head, looking underneath him, then back around his shoulder as he stood up, "Yaaahhh! When did THIS happen?!" He had grabbed his own tail, pulling it in front of himself.

 

Krillen, a bit surprised at his reaction, tilted his head, "You regrew it a while ago. Vegeta said you regrew it because you were pissed off for a while, even though none of us knew why."

 

"Yeah.." Goku let a hand fall on the top of his head, "I remember being angry.. but, I don't know why I was, either. And I remember feeling like someone was ripping my spine out of my back.. but the rest is a blur."

 

Piccolo, "You'll need time to control whatever new power your body has ascended to. So I think we should train as soon as we can. We have at least six hours until Mister Popo tells us anything. Let's get started."

 

Bardock started to rise, but then took Nexus' hand, "We'll be with you guys in a minute.."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Nexus hear everything that was explained to him, and nods, though says nothing in response. He didn't think he'd be able to stop himself from being sick if he even attempted to open his mouth, so instead keeps quiet, his eyes shifting to each individual in the room, evaluating the expressions on each of their faces. Each had a different level of determination on it, which made Nexus feel a little bit better on how the outcome of this battle was to turn out.

 

His focus turns from Goku, who'd been freaking out about the presence of a tail that apparently wasn't there before, to Bardock, who'd taken his hand. He told the others that he and Nexus would be with them in a moment, making Nexus wonder what was going on. The Xerothuan had a quizzical look in his eyes as he gazed at the Saiyan who was holding onto his hand.

 

Once the others were gone, he takes a deep breath, and attempts to speak. His voice came out a little shaky, but he was thankful that he didn't get sick. "What's...the matter, Bardock?" He asks, eyebrows pressing together, a small frown on his lips.

[Bardock]

Piccolo glanced at Bardock, watching him for a moment before he turns away, "Sex can wait.. just remember that. It's more important that you and Goku get your power levels under control. So with that said, and I don't mean to sound like an asshole, but hurry up." Piccolo rose into the air with Goku and Krillen and flew off in the other direction.

 

Bardock let his face turn into a small pout, but he didn't argue. Deep down, he knew Piccolo was right. So, instead, he heard Nexus ask what was wrong. He rose his head, a look of worry etched his face for a moment. Bardock was worried.. really worried. But the scared look on his fiancee's face changed his mind on what he was going to say. Maybe he didn't have to.. maybe Nexus already knew...

 

Bardock rose to his feet, softly leaning over and kissing Nexus on the lips, "Nevermind.. its not important, after all.. Piccolo's right. We should resume training.. are.. YOU okay?" He placed the back of his hand on Nexus' forehead, "You look a little flushed.."

 

Piccolo landed where Gohan was meditating, and when he opened his eyes he smiled, "Hey, you're awake!"

 

Goku nodded, smiling his normal goofy grin, "Yeah, I feel great! Hey, your power level's risen since I was sleeping, Gohan!"

 

Gohan blushes softly, laughing a little, "Haha.. I don't feel any different, but thanks.."

 

Goku laughed, then turned, looking at Krillen now, "And you.."

 

Krillen blushed softly as well before he looked up, "Uh? Me?"

 

"Yeah, who else?" Goku smiled, placing a ha d on the top of his best friends head, "I'm so proud of you. Doing what you did took a lot of courage.. and not backing down took a lot of strength. It's a big deal and deserves to be recognized.."

 

Krillen blushed again, laughing softly, "Ah.. it's no biggie.."

 

Goku chuckled again, "I'm looking forward to sparring with you Krillen! Oh hey, where's Vegeta?"

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Nexus' eyes had narrowed dangerously at what Piccolo had said before leaving, a frown upon his lips. He hadn't even been thinking of doing anything like that, even if it had been what Bardock wanted. The Xerothuan knew what was important right at that moment, and wasn't going to jeopardize it for some sexual whim or calling. Crossing his arms over his chest, he tries to calm himself, which, in his case, was pretty hard to accomplish, considering what was headed there way, and would have to face in a matter of who knew how long. It wasn't too far off in to the future, that was for certain.

 

His eyes fixated on Bardock, he waits for a reply to the question he'd asked, though the one he'd gotten after a moment wasn't the one he'd wanted. The brief contact of the Saiyan's lips against his own made his insides curl, and it felt like he was breaking, seconds away from shattering like a piece of glass, cutting himself as the shards fall to the floor. He knew that things were going to happen, things that he couldn't control, but...he just wished that this didn't have to happen. But fate was something one really couldn't change completely. They could alter it, yes, but rewrite the entire path that was laid down for them? Impossible.

 

He sighs softly, the hand upon his forehead gentle and caring. Lowering his eyes, a small pout forms on his lips. For a mere second a look of complete and utter desolate loss shone from deep within Nexus' red eyes, but it disappears within moments, and he looks up to meet Bardocks' eyes, forcing a half smile on his face.

 

No, he wasn't feeling well. But he wasn't going to admit it. Shaking his head softly, he shrugs his shoulders. "I'm alright." In all honesty, he felt like he was about to pass out again, from how full of anxiety he was at the moment, but he knew he had to be strong.

 

So, first, he gets up off the bed in which he'd been sleeping, a little shaky at first, his knees threatening to give out at any minute, but after a while he steadies himself.

 

"We should go where the others are...If there is nothing you wish to tell me, I would like to further my readiness for the arrival of my brother..."

[Bardock]

Bardock watched Nexus, and upon seeing him stand up, he shook his head softly, "You don't look alright.." He pressed the back of his hand against Nexus' forehead again, "When did you eat last? Preparing for your brothers arrival is important, but you'll never get anywhere if your mind and body isn't in tiptop shape."

 

Krillen and Piccolo had been explaining to Goku how Vegeta had run off after realizing Goku'd grown his tail. Goku turned his head, sighing as he nodded, "For someone who'd been left behind for so long, it's only logical for him to react that way."

 

"Do you really believe that?" Piccolo glanced at Goku beforw he rose his eyes.

 

Goku shook his head softy, "No.. maybe not.."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Turning to face Bardock as he was spoken to again, Nexus does not move when he was approached, or when the Saiyan places his forehead against his own. Hearing the question, he shrugs. He did not remember, maybe two or three days, four or more? "I do not know. A little over two days, at least." He sighs softly, stepping back now, running his fingers through his hair, and leaning his head back, staring up at the ceiling, taking a deep breath. Closing his eyes after a moment, he lets out the breath he was holding. Bardock was right about what he said. If he wasn't at his best, there was no getting better.

 

He then opens his eyes, and looks to the Saiyan, a look of defeat in his eyes, and all over his face. "You're right, as usual..." He murmurs, moving over to the bed and lowering himself on it, sitting there, glad to be off his feet. Even that short bit standing had made him unbearably dizzy.

 

He then chuckles humorlessly. "Though, Piccolo might get grumpy that it's taking so long..."

[Bardock]

Bardock sat on the bed beside Nexus, shocked to hear how long it had been, "Damn.. no wonder you look a little better than death." He placed his hand on Nexus' forehead again, "Stay here and rest. I'll grab you something to eat." He rose, quickly walking over to where Piccolo, Goku, and Krillen were, "Hey."

 

Goku was the first to turn around, "Hey. Everything okay?"

 

Bardock nodded, "Yeah. Nexus isn't feeling well, though. So I'll skip this one and get him something to eat and let him rest."

 

Piccolo shook his head, a bit of a look of shock on his face, "I'm sorry?? 'Skip this one'?? What the hell do you think this is, Bardock? A baseball game?? You're fighting to live, not for fun!"

 

Bardock rose his eyes, narrowing them slightly at Piccolo, "Don't fucking lecture me. I'm well aware of how important this is. We'll get nowhere without Nexus and he's not well. So fuck you."

 

Piccolo's eyes widened and he reached out angrily, snatching Bardock's wrist. He pulled him back, "Is this a game to you?! We have less than an hour in the real world! He could be here any minute!" He calmed, sighing before he let go, "Look.. you, Goku, and Krillen are our best chances right now.."

 

Krillen looked up when his name was mentioned, "What? Me? Don't you mean Vegeta?"

 

"No. I meant you." Piccolo's head turned, "Vegeta is MIA at the moment, so we can't count on him. You've improved more in the past 24 hours here than you ever have in your lifetime. I'm sorry, Gohan.. but your strength won't be a match against Exodys."

 

Gohan nodded, "I know. I'll still try my best, though."

 

Bardock nodded to Piccolo, "Please understand that I am aware of all of this.. but I can't leave Nexus."

 

Gohan shrugged then, "I can take care of him.."

 

Bardock blinked at Gohan. If Gohan, in fact, did that, Bardock could be free to train. "Okay.." he nodded, "Make sure he eats and rests. Let me know the minute he feels better."

 

Gohan rose to his feet, "Of course. I'll take good care of him." He rose up to go get some food for Nexus.

 

Piccolo nodded, watching Gohan go. Then he turned to Krillen, "Tell me something.."

 

"Hm?"

 

"How is it that you got so much stronger?" He looked a little suspicious, "Only Saiyans get stronger if they're beaten to near death. How is it you got so much stronger?"

 

Krillen stared at Piccolo, a small smile etched on his face before he turned away, "I could tell you.. but what would be the fun in that?"

 

Goku chuckled softly ad he stretched his arms over his head, "He can be pretty as secretive."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Once more Bardock speaks to him, and touches his forehead. Nexus nods softly when he was told to stay there and rest, while the other god him something to eat. Sitting there, he watches as the Saiyan gets up and walks to where the others were at, and begins to talk to them. With his superior hearing, he picked up on everything that was said, but acts as if he was oblivious to the conversation.

 

Like he'd predicted, Piccolo was not happy with what was going on, obvious by the harsh words that were said. The reply that Bardock gave in return made his heart flutter. He was shocked that the other would said that. Did they really need him? Was that true? In all honesty, he thought his presence here was just a pain, causing trouble for the others. It was his fault that Exodys was coming there in the first place...

 

His thoughts were confirmed by what Piccolo said next. He named a few names of who were important, and his was not one of them. Closing his eyes, he lets out a soft sigh. His old self would have been insulted by that, but now...now he was relieved. For once he wasn't being completely relied on, and it was such a weight off of his shoulders. Sinking back onto the sheets of the bed, he opens his eyes once again to stare up at the ceiling, still listening to what the others were talking about.

 

Gohan offering to take care of him was a bit surprising, but not unexpected. In fact, Nexus was grateful that it was him, he always thought of Gohan as a friend. A small smile formed upon his lips when he heard Bardock speak to Gohan, telling him to make sure that the Xerothuan ate and rested, and to inform him the moment he was feeling better and in good health.

 

No longer focusing on the conversation that Piccolo, Goku, Bardock and Krillen were having, he waits for Gohan, following what Bardock had said and just laying there and resting. He felt weak, this was not who he was. He was the most powerful Xerothuan, the prince! So why? Why was he just doing nothing? How could things have gotten like this? He thought back to a conversation he'd had with his brother, who said that if he went to earth he'd become soft, weak, less than nothing...Was this really true? Was that what was happening? And now, now Exodys was coming to them, he'd be there any moment...and there he was, just laying there...doing absolutely nothing.

 

A lump begins to form in his throat, but he forces himself to fight back the tears that threatened to fall. Squeezing his eyes shut, it started to become hard to breathe, but he fights it. He was not weak... "Damn it..." He mutters, his words shaky and broken. "My brother was right..."

[Bardock]

Gohan had done what he said he would do. He'd grabbed some leftover pizza, ramen, and roasted chicken from the fridge. He'd warm it up near Nexus. As he flew back towards Nexus and landed, he caught the last part of what Nexus was saying. Obviously, Nexus hadn't noticed Gohan yet, so he smiled softly before speaking, "I dunno about that." Gohan set everything down, holding one container of leftovers in his hands. Soon, his palms started to glow as he spoke, "You came to Earth wanting to learn. You never expected to fall in love. Fate has a funny way of making things happen.."

 

The glowing stopped and he opened the lid, smiling at aroma of ramen filling the air around him, "My Dad taught me this trick.. we use our ki's to draw out heat, and it'll warm stuff up for us. Eat something.." he held out the container.

 

Bardock stretched his arms above his head, his eyes glancing up to look at Piccolo, "Nexus is important in this fight, too, you know.."

 

Piccolo blinked, "I'm sorry?"

 

"You said me, Kakarot, and Krillen are the keys to winning this fight. Nexus is, too." Bardock glanced at him again.

 

Piccolo said nothing, but kept that stare on Bardock for a little while. Bardock got to his feet, and he suddenly felt a huge lump form in his throat. Why was Piccolo staring at him so intently? Did he know something that no one else knew? Or worse.. did he have a vision?

 

Piccolo stared at him, still. No kind of emotion was forming on the others face. Bardock let out a small gasp, "Does... does something happen to Nexus?"

 

He wanted to tell him. Tell him everything. But he remembered the promise he'd made to Nexus. So he softened his look, and gave a small smile, "No, Bardock. Nothing happens to Nexus."

 

A look of relief floods Bardock's face, and he nods, "Okay. Who starts?"

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Opening his eyes, Nexus looks over at Gohan, who had come back from getting food, listening to what the other had to say. Despite the kind words that came out of his mouth, Nexus still felt guilty and weak, but forces a smile on to his lips. Gohan had a point. He'd only first come to earth to study about the planet and it's inhabitants, not find love and want to settle down. In fact, he'd planned on returning to Xeros when he'd finished, and even after meeting the others at first he'd still planned on that...until he realized he had feelings blossoming towards them. Now he was caught between a rock and a hard place, with nothing but broken glass and thorns beneath his feet.

 

The scent of ramen filled the air, and wafted towards his nose, making his stomach gurgle angrily, as if complaining about not being fed for such a long time. Accepting the food, he concentrates on the conversation that was going on at a distance once more as he began to eat, wondering what they were talking about now.

 

Once again, the topic had orbited it's way towards him, and Bardock was talking about how he was important to the battle, the same as the others. He had to repeat what he said, and the response he got from Piccolo was silence. Bardock speaks up again, asking if something happens to him, and a sudden rush flowed through his veins, biting his lower lip, he glances over at the group, wondering if the Nemekian would keep the promise that he'd made.

 

But he need not worry, as Piccolo responded with the answer Nexus had been praying he'd give. No, nothing happens. It was a lie, yes...but he didn't want anyone to know. He wanted them to focus on getting stronger, not worrying about him. Come what may, who knows, maybe he'd survive?

 

After that was all said and done, he sighs softly, and looks to the container holding the ramen, or rather, the empty container that used to hold ramen in it's insides. He was surprised that he'd finished it already, but there was really no surprise, considering he ate just like Goku, even when he was concentrating on something else entirely. Looking to Gohan, he smiles a bit. "Thanks for the food...I'm actually a bit hungry still..."

 

As he waited, he scratches the back of his neck. "Hey. I have a question for you...Do you think...Do you think that you could do me a favor?"

[Bardock]

Gohan had been heating up some fried rice when Nexus thanked him, and gave a hint he was still a bit hungry, "Way ahead of you. Do you want beef and broccoli, or orange chicken?" He'd held up two containers after handing Nexus the rice and he blinked softly, staring at his friend, "A favor? Of course, Nexus. I'd be glad to help you out with a favor."

 

Piccolo sidestepped, a hand coming down on the back of Krillen's neck to send him to the ground, "Faster, Krillen! You'll never ascend in power if you give up! Now focus and hit me!"

 

Krillen growled angrily as he got to his feet. He hated it when Piccolo was his sparring partner. As cool as he could be, Piccolo was still an asshole, "Stop moving and I'll hit ya, already." He'd irritatingly murmured as he got back into fighting stance. A split second later, Krillen moved, and his kick was quickly negated. This sent the smaller male into a blur of hits and kicks, all with greater and greater force than before. Piccolo easily dodged, barely moving his body as he watched Krillen.

 

It was odd, but it seemed as though that if Krillen got shot down multiple times, that would be the time his power would get the better of him. Maybe if Piccolo could make him angry enough, Krillen's power could exceed even Goku's.

 

It was at that moment, a flash of gold hit his eyes. Piccolo had struck a hand over Krillen's face, sending him sideways. But before both could utter a word, Piccolo grabbed the chain and yanked. It was a thin chain, and a gold-silver ring with four diamonds, shaped as a square, was in the middle.

 

When Krillen felt the chain snapped, it was as if time stood still. Krillen let out a gasp, and hit the floor seconds later. He lied there, shocked and dismayed at what happened. Krillen pushed himself up, glancing at Piccolo as the other studied the ring.

 

"Give it back.."

 

Piccolo let his eyes tear away from the ring, shaking it up into his hand as he let out a smirk, "Give what back?" An asshole move, he knew. But maybe this would be the push he needed.

 

Krillen was on one knee, his head lowered, "You don't understand.. please give it back to me.."

 

Piccolo smirked again, closing his fist around the ring that held Krillen's heart, "You want it? Take it from me."

 

Krillen's rage got the better of him, then. Next thing anyone knew, Krillen felt a wind explode from under him and he disappeared. Krillen reappeared beside Piccolo, and slammed a fist against his face. Shocked at the speed, Piccolo smirked, phased out, and then sent a hit on the back of the smaller man's shoulders, "You gotta do better than that, Krillen!"

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

"Orange chicken would be good." He replies, after taking the rice that was handed to him. It smelled great, and he took a few bites, savoring the flavor upon his tongue. Looking back at Gohan, he felt relieved to hear the other say that he would do him a favor, and it was as if a large weight had lifted from his shoulders. Lowering his eyes to the rice in his hand, he smiles a small smile, sighing softly.

 

He knew he could count on his friend. It was one thing that he was really appreciative about Gohan.

 

"I know we already agreed to not let me go at this alone, but...I...I don't want anyone to get hurt. So, can you promise me that if Exodys decides to come at me...and only me...can you promise me that you'll keep the others from interfering?"

 

He looks up at the other male again, a pleading looking in his eyes. Nexus truly hoped that Gohan would oblige with his request, there was nothing more that he wanted at that point and time...but to keep the others from getting hurt. He didn't want them to pay in pain, or even with their lives, for something that was his own mistake.

 

"Please. Please say yes..."

[Bardock]

Gohan held the box of orange chicken in his hands, heating the container up. His eyes met Nexus, giving off a small smile back to his friend. But once he heard the favor fall from Nexus' lips, his smile slowly, slowly slide from his face. His hands stopped glowing as he stared, at first in confusion, then in sadness. Gohan sighed softly before he glanced down, "Nexus.. I can't promise you that I'll be able to stop everyone. Fact is, my Dad, Piccolo, and Bardock are all stronger than me. I will promise you that I will try my best..."

 

Goku was blocking Bardocks hits as he heard the arguing between Piccolo and Krillen. He looked to Bardock, giving A 'tome-out' motion and turned his head to watch. Krillen was giving it his all, quickly and angrily hitting and kicking at Piccolo. Piccolo blocked most, dodged the rest, still holding the chain clenched in his hand. He caught Krillen's fist, smirking as he let the ring dangle from the clenched hand, "You want this, right?"

 

Krillen glared at Piccolo, swiping his hand out to grab it. He missed by Piccolo moving his hand away again. "Damn it, you're pissing me off!" Krillen's forearm clashed against Piccolo's, "You have no idea how important that is to me!"

 

"It's a ring!" Piccolo scoffed softly, "If you want it, you need to beat me! Get over the mountain and take whats yours back!"

 

Goku blinked softly, "A ring?"

 

Bardock saw the confused look on his sons face and he tilted his head. Before he could say anything, however, Goku disappeared. He reappeared, taking Piccolo's wrist that clenched the chain. Piccolo stopped, allowing Goku to take the chain and he studied it for a moment.

 

Krillen landed, his face turning red from embarrassment. Goku looked at the ring, then he blinked. He'd found this ring years and years ago, when he was still a child. He and Krillen were camping for the night, and Goku came across the ring. Krillen had asked what they should do with it. Goku said he didn't know, and just Gave It To Krillen, saying it was a gift.

 

Goku had just been joking all those years ago, but Krillen must have... taken it seriously. Goku looked up, staring at Krillen, "You kept it... all these years, and you kept it. Why?"

 

Krillen sighed, looking away for a moment. At first he said nothing, then his voice rose, "No matter how hard I tried.. you were always better than me." He stuffed his hands inside his pockets, his eyes still adverted. Then he looked up, but his eyes never met Goku's, "It wasn't long until our enemies were in a whole other league.. and I just couldn't keep up with. But I still trained, and still tried because I refused to give up." His eyes met Goku's finally, "And even when you reach your full potential, fill in the gap so far until its impossible for me to reach you.. I won't stop trying. Because you're my best friend... and I love you.."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

A faint smile, filled with sad disappointment appeared on Nexus' lips as he heard the response that Gohan gave him. His shoulders rise and fall just slightly as he shrugs half heartedly. "Even the smallest effort to try and keep them back would be a great help...Thank you. I knew I could count on you. You're...You're a great friend." Smiling a bit more, he glances over at the group who were fighting, Krillen against Piccolo.

 

It seemed to get out of hand after Piccolo had taken something from the smaller man, but after a short moment passes, Goku takes back whatever the Nemekian had taken, and being curious, Nexus focus's on the conversation, as well as seeing that the thing within Goku's hand was a silver necklace with a ring dangling at the end. Apparently it was from a while back, and from what Nexus guessed, it had been a gift from Goku to Krillen. It meant a lot to the smaller male, he could see that fact written all over Krillen's face.

 

Now no longer paying attention to them, he glances over at Gohan, confusion in his eyes.

 

"Hey, Gohan. What is the significance of a ring? What's it supposed to symbolize?" He hadn't been told yet what it meant.

[Bardock]

Goku stared at Krillen, a complete look of confusion and a hint of a blush plastered his face. He didn't really know what to say at the moment, nor coild he form the words he wanted to say. A few moments pass before a chuckle broke the silence. Krillen and Goku turned their heads as Vegeta stood a few feet away, "Wow.. that was so sweet, I could almost puke. I always knew you were a wimp, Monk, but I didn't realize how disgustingly sweet you could be. My, how your ex-wife must be laughing at you, now."

 

Krillen glared at Vegeta's condescending tone, but he said nothing. Both hands still stuck in his pockets, he just stared at Vegeta.

 

Vegeta took a few steps forward, gently taking the ring from Goku and he studied it, his face still holding that smirk, "A pretty little ring... humor me, Monk. Why DID you keep it all these years? Because Kakarot gave it to you? Surely that reason alone isn't enough to hold your interest?"

 

Krillen looked away then, shrugging his shoulders carelessly. He wouldn't give the reason.

 

Vegeta stared at Krillen, as if waiting for an answer and then he let out a small 'tsk', as if he remembered something, "Oh that's right. You held onto it because it's the only way you can pretend Kakarot loved you."

 

"Shut up, Vegeta.." Krillen finally rose his eyes to him, glaring at the Saiyan.

 

Gohan, a bit taken back by the question, blinked a couple times before he laughed softly, "A ring?" He let one hand scratch his cheek, completely unaware he would have to explain, "A ring? Well.. a ring can symbolize a lot of things. Love, friendship, trust.. wedding rings are a sacred bond. It just shows you're no longer on the market. A promise ring is just that. A promise. Whether it be the promise of marriage, or to stay faithful. A friendship ring is a bond that two people will always stay friends. No matter what."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

"Hm..." Nexus looked over at the group again, before focusing his attention on Gohan. Rubbing the back of his neck, he tilts his head. "That's a rather...strange thing to symbolize such a bond. For me anyways. Where I'm from, it's much different. Our promise ring as you call it would be marking, or rather the biting of the neck, and as for the marriage...well, I think I'll keep that secret of my people to myself. But let me tell you it's rather beautiful." He smirks, not quite ready to give away all of the facts of where he was from and what their customs were.

 

Once again he looks at the other, who were now talking, Vegeta having joined them, but Nexus didn't care. His eyes were gazing at Bardock, a slight look of longing in his expression.

 

"However...A ring sounds nice... It'd be nice to have one. Though I'd be afraid to lose it, what with all the fighting I do..." He falls quiet, his mind wandering elsewhere. He thought back to the time when he and Bardock had shared a moment together, and the words that the Saiyan had asked of him. If he, Nexus, would marry him, Bardock. And he'd said yes... Now, as he sat there, eyes focused on that man, he wondered...would Bardock get him a ring?

 

"Promises...and commitment. I can relate...It's round, so...eternity? Yes, I like the sound of that...." He was muttering to himself now, though not once had he looked away from Bardock. Completely forgetting that Gohan was still standing there.

[Bardock]

Gohan smiled at Nexus, nodding softly, "I guess when you're not from Earth, I suppose our customs can be characterized as strange or unusual. But it's tradition. My Dad even got my Mother a ring. I wear it around my neck, see?" He pulled a leather string which attached around the said ring. "After Mom died, Dad was convinced he wouldn't find another woman to be with. It was pretty much around that time he realized he started to have feelings for Vegeta. Then Bulma left Vegeta, but not on bad terms. She'd given her wedding ring to Trunks to keep. I'm not quite sure of he actually kept it, though. With Vegeta coming out, the news was pretty hard on him." He hid the string under his Gi again before he continued to warm the orange chicken, "Why the sudden interest in rings?"

 

Vegeta smirked softly before he did something that shocked everyone watching. He casually tossed the chain towards Krillen, who caught it, but had a confused look on his face as he looked back up at the Saiyan. Vegeta crossed his arms over his chest, "You don't need to hold onto something in order to wish for it to happen. The ring is useless. All it does is hinder your training. Be smart and rid the thing. When you're ready, we'll spar."

 

Krillen stared at Vegeta for a while, but at the mention of the ring being useless, Krillen tightened his grip on the chain. Who was he to say his ring was useless?! How dare he?! Krillen was about to say something back until his eyes set upon Bardock, then Nexus. Thoughts raced through his mind for a few minutes before he sighed. He realized in some ironic way, Vegeta was right. Holding onto the ring was, ironically, holding him back.

 

Krillen shook his hand, making the ring bounce into his hand as he closed it into a fist again, "Bardock, can I talk to you for a minute?"

 

Bardock blinked, "What? Me? Sure, I guess.." He followed Krillen away from the others before he sat, "Alright. What is it?"

 

"Congratulations are in order, I hear." Krillen smiled softly, "I hear you and Nexus are engaged."

 

Bardock blinked, "What?? Who told you that?? We have said nothing to anyone!" His eyes narrow slightly, "What's going on? How is it that you're so different than before?"

 

Krillen smiled softly, "Alright, but you gotta promise to keep a secret, okay?" His eyes glanced over towards Piccolo and the others. Piccolo glared, clearly annoyed. Krillen chuckled, "It's driving him insane.. unable eavesdrop and listen." Krillen crossed his arms over his chest, "Did you know I had a birthday a month ago?"

 

"I wasn't. I apologize. Happy belated." Bardock kept his eyes on the smaller male.

 

"Thank you. You know, I was second choice for everything. Behind Goku, I was left behind. I couldn't keep up with his strength."

 

"Krillen, you're not making any sense."

 

"Bulma let me use the Dragonballs.. And I only made one wish for my birthday. Bardock, I was tired of being the weakest.."

 

Bardock blinked, "You asked Shenron to make you stronger?"

 

"No.. that's cheating. I wouldn't ask for that. But I did ask Shenron to.. make me more like Goku.."

 

Bardock blinked again, "That's why your energy skyrocketed.. our feelings channel our power. Wait, so you're blocking Piccolo from listening? God, he must be pissed!" Bardock couldn't help but laugh. Then he turned his head again, "Why are you telling me this?"

 

Krillen held up his hand, the ring dangling from his fist, "Because as much as I hate to admit it, Vegeta is right.. I don't need this anymore. Because now I know."

 

Bardock's hand reached out, nodding softly, "Know what?"

 

Krillen dropped the ring and chain in Bardock's hand, "That Goku will never love me the same way I love him.." Krillen smiled a little, "A secret between you and me, Nexus is curious about the ring.. you should give it to him an engagement ring.."

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

Glancing towards Gohan, who had spoken again, he saw the ring that was being spoken about, and nods. Before focusing once more on the group, he listens to what was being said, a backstory so it seemed. All this was a bit confusing, he wasn't used to such tradition, but he had indeed come to earth to learn about the customs, had he not? This was an interesting fact about the place, and if he was honest with himself, he wanted to find out even more. Hearing the question about the sudden interest, he just shrugs.

 

"Just was wondering is all..."

 

His eyes narrow as he watched Krillen and Bardock separate from the group, and as much as he wanted to listen in, they were probably talking about something private. So, he just watches, and was surprised to see the smaller male hand Bardock something. Apparently the Saiyan was just as surprised, so that made Nexus even more interested in what was going on. He was itching to find out what they were talking about, and was tempted to just say 'fuck it' and listen in, but held back. There was no way he'd do that.

 

Even though the smell of the warming Orange Chicken reached his nose, causing his stomach to gurgle again, he was too focused on those two men to notice.

 

"So....what happens during a marriage...here...?" He asks, not looking over at Gohan as he asked, but was speaking to him nonetheless. He wondered if it was anything like that on Xeros, but since the concept of rings was so foreign, he was pretty sure their binding ceremonies were much different too.

[Bardock]

Gohan finished warming the chicken, and he glanced back at Nexus before opening the lid, "Well.. traditionally two people wear white, symbolizing the new life they would make together. Theres music and dancing, and a giant cake." He laughed softly, "Mom told me that Dad didn't know what the cake was all about and he'd eaten half of it even before the ceremony began. But the actual ceremony.." he smiled softly, "You can write your own vow, or j ust repeat from a priest. Dad wrote his own, even though he just promised to train hard and beat all the enemies. " he lauhhhed again, as if he were reliving the entire thing. Maybe he was at one point.

 

Bardock closed his fist around the ring, "Thank you.. so, what, I just give it to him?"

 

Krillen shook his head, "You gotta do it right.. one knee and tell him you love him." Krillen smiles again, "He may cry.. but if you say it the right way.. like.." he took Bardock's hands, "Take him like this.. and say something like 'When I saw this ring, I knew I wanted to be with you forever..' "

 

Bardock blushed softly, staring at Krillen before he took his hands away, "You.. wanted to say this to Kakarot?"

 

Krillen smiled softly again, "I wanted to say a lot of things to Goku... but it doesn't matter anymore, does it?"

[~*~FaLlEn*SnOw~*~]

"That definitely sounds like Goku..." He chuckles softly, he could almost imagine the entire thing, see it as if he were actually there. The smile slips from his face after a moment, a dull aching starting to beat in his chest. Would he ever get that? Why did he suddenly find himself longing for such a thing? Was it because he knew that was going to die? Never get that happiness that he so longed for? That had to be it. Sometimes, when he was alone, he would often think about just leaving earth, and forgetting this ever happened, not wanting to get more attached, but now...that was not an option. No, he was stuck, he had to stay, or else they'd all be doomed. Because of his own stupid mistakes.

 

He finally looks away, brows pressing together, a small frown tugging at the corner of his lips. Nexus had to know. And the only person he could ask, was his friend.

 

"Do you think...do you think that someone who has killed a loved one...deserves happiness? If they stole the chances of a young ones life being great, take away their future with a single flare...do they have the right to live in joy? Or would they be better of living in misery, and to be ended and be given the same destiny that they had given to the other? I want to know...does a murderer deserve marriage?"

 

He looked up at Gohan, a longing to know the answer in his eyes. Without even realizing it, he'd sent the same message to Piccolo through his mind, as his desire to know what the answer was being quite great. He wanted to know...no, he NEEDED to know.

[Bardock]

Gohan watched Nexus, a look of shock, which slowly turned into a look of sympathy, coming over his face. He thought about what Nexus asked him for a few minutes before his hand rose and he took off the glasses he wore. He looked down, trying to think of the right way to say what he wanted to say, "Nexus.." he began, then he rose his eyes back up to his friend, "If you'd asked me that when I was a child... my answer would have been no.. but in the years of battle, seeing how many people who originally started out as evil came to be.. well, good, I'd have to say yes."

 

Piccolo had heard the question, but in order to not be obvious, he tried to act like he didn't. It hurt to hear Nexus speak like that.. but he knew all too well how the other felt.

 

At the same time, Krillen picked up on the conversation as well. Shocked that he was able to hear as well as Piccolo, he couldn't help but glance over at Nexus. His chest hurt, right in the middle, where his heart was, 'Why.. what is going on? Why do I have this.. sinking feeling in my chest?'

 

Gohan smiled softly, "If you want the best example.. look at Vegeta. He was in a class A warrior elite base. They went to other worlds and took whatever they wanted. Like pirates. In the end, Begeta became aware that what he was doing was wrong, and he stopped." He ran a hand over his dark hair, "Yeah, he's still a dick. But.. I guess what I mean to say is.. if you genuinely are remorseful for what you had done, what you did, whatever it may be... then why shouldn't you find happiness?"