Royal Namekian Blues

Arrival Third Class

By Trynia Merin

Disclaimer: I don’t own the Anime or Manga Dragon Ball Z. My fan chars mean no harm to the series. I make no money from this fan story.

Son Goku slowly swam to consciousness. He felt the weight shifting on his bed, then blinked up into the face of his son Gohan sitting on the edge. A large tray of food rested on a tray table that had been set up. It was the size of a restaurant one, laden with multiple bowls of his favorite foods. Dressed in dark blue gi he'd gotten from Piccolo, Gohan smiled down at his father.

"Hey Dad, you ready for lunch?"

"Hey Gohan, you okay son?" Goku asked, sitting up. The silk pajamas were warm and soft against his skin, and he felt his heart pulsing strong in his breast instead of throbbing like a frightened bird.

"Sure Dad," he said, passing a pair of chopsticks and the first bowl. Goku immediately ploughed into the sticky rice. Most of it flew about the room, landing on the tablecloth Gohan had spread on the comforter.

"Huh, you look a whole lot better Dad. You're eating just like you did before you got sick!" Gohan grinned, grabbing up his own bowl. Goku peered over his son's shoulder through the open door. He heard Chichi's voice intermingled with that of another female, two boys, and the deep voice of his brother Raditz. They appeared to be laughing. Even Piccolo's grunts were audible.

"Hey, what's everyone doing out there? I hate being' stuck back HERE when they're having' fun out there!" Goku complained.

"Daddy…" said Gohan. Goku threw off the covers and swung his legs around. Grabbing up the tray he lifted it, then grabbed Gohan up in his other arm.

"Why do I got to stay in bed when I feel FINE?" Goku laughed. Gohan whooped as his father effortlessly hefted him and the vast tray. Dishes rattled while Goku took long legged strides out to the dining room.

"Goku sa, what the HECK are you doing out of bed?" Chichi yelped as she saw her husband walk in. He placed the huge tray of food down, then planted Gohan down in the seat to his left.

"Brother, are you insane?" Raditz gasped, getting up.

"Get back to bed!" yelped Chichi as she struggled to push Goku out of the entrance to the dining room. "Piccolo help me!"

"Goku, you're driving me nuts!" Piccolo grunted. "I'm out of here!"

Piccolo rushed out, leaving the Son family to argue over Goku's tentative state of health. Sweeping up Chichi in his arms, Goku whirled her about. Breathless she shrieked at the feel of her husband swinging her with a loud whoop. Gohan gasped with joy. Fermi and Bohr started to clap as Dr. Stellari got up out of her chair.

"I can't BELIEVE it!" she gasped. "Are you okay, Goku? I'm NOT going to be responsible for picking you up off the floor!"

"Goku sa! Put me down!" Chichi laughed as she saw the sparkling light in her husband's eyes.

"He's all better," Raditz suddenly grunted, narrowing his eyes. "Damn."

"Uncle Goku san! Wahoo!" laughed Fermi and Bohr, both leaping out of their chairs and rushing over. Goku swung Chichi around so he held her up by his hands under her armpits. Then he drew her down to kiss her lips. Gohan promptly blushed and groaned.

"Not in front of the kids!" Chichi yelped.

"Don't be ridiculous!" Raditz snorted.

"That's so sweet!" Stellari laughed, clapping her hands. She felt her husband's arm snake around her waist and give her hip a squeeze to see the couple kissing. Goku set a blushing Chichi down, then scooped up his young son and hugged him close.

"Hey what are you guys doing' over there! C'mere!" Goku laughed, motioning the others over. Already Fermi and Bohr rushed over to join the hug. Either one was clinging to his legs or Gohan and Stellari were reluctantly pulling Raditz towards him.

"This is humiliating," he grumbled ten suddenly found himself grasped up in a firm bear hug by his younger brother. Whooping, Goku squeezed Raditz tightly enough to lift him off his feet.

"I'm so happy!" he laughed, letting Raditz drop to his booted feet. "Whoopee!"

"Must you," Raditz groaned, burying his hand behind his face as Goku then leaned down and kissed Stellari on the forehead, and picked up her sons to hug them as well. Everyone was soon hugging in the awkward embrace and even Raditz had to admit it wasn't as horrible as he thought. Goku's joy was infectious, and the tension was broken like glass laughing into shiny fragments like stars glitteringly beautiful.

"Okay, enough mushy stuff, let's EAT!" Goku announced, sitting down and clapping his hands together.

"You heard him. Sit down!" Chichi said, pushing her hair back into some semblance of order. Soon Raditz blinked at the huge bowl of food shoved before him. He struggled with the blasted chopsticks, landing most of the food on his hair and face.

"Damn it," he mumbled.

"Watch your mouth!" Chichi said. Fortunately by this time Raditz had figured out the secret of lifting his bowl up to his face and simply used the chopsticks to shovel the mouthfuls in. It was as if he were deliberately copying Goku's lousy table manners. Most of the food ended up in his mouth anyhow.

"I give up," Chichi groaned.

"Hey, at least they like it," Stellari shrugged, downing her portions. "Besides, I'm glad my cooking's just as well received as yours!"

"It's pretty good," Gohan said politely. "Thank you!"

How surreal it seemed to Raditz as he finished up his last helping sitting at the foot of the table. Goku was laughing and joking with his son and wife while the twins chimed in. Plates rattled while all three boys helped to clear the rest, and march with Chichi to do the inevitable mountain of dishes. Still both brothers were packing away the remainder of the food that Stellari brought out.

"Sit down, will you?" Chichi called out. Raditz grabbed his wife with a large hand and plunked her down in the nearby chair.

"I guess I've got no say in the matter," she joked, picking pieces of rice out of Raditz long mane.

"You sure look a whole lot better with that stupid thing off your face," Goku said, wiping sauce off his lip with the back of one hand.

"That stupid thing saved your tail, Brother," Raditz said with a still Saiyan smirk. "So, are you done having us wait on you hand and foot?"

"I'm going crazy. I want to go out and spar," Goku nodded. "Want to join me?"

"All right then," Raditz nodded.

"Thanks Chi! I'll be back soon!" Goku called as he carried his stack of dishes in. Raditz shot Stellari a rather helpless look telling her he was out of his element emotionally. Grasping a handful of hair, Stellari moved over and sat on his knee. She pressed a kiss to his brow, hoping to ground him with her physical presence.

"This is… so strange," Raditz mumbled. "I see Father in him, and yet I don't."

"He's your brother," said Stellari softly.

"Hey, I was just thinking'," Goku said as he poked his head into the dining room. He gave a mischievous smile. "Hey I'm not interrupting any fun I hope?"

"No, unless your wife sees fit to be jealous and wishes your attention?" Raditz glanced up.

"Oh no way, she'd kill me if I jumped her doing' the dishes!" Goku waved his hands to negate the thought. "That's what later's for."

"You and thinking again, Brother? How odd," Raditz smirked.

"Goku what's up?" Stellari asked, still sitting on Raditz knee.

"That last name you told me sounds all hard to say. Why don't you just use mine?" Goku asked.

"Huh?" Stellari asked.

"Bardywhatsever sounds too complicated. Son Raditz an Son Stellari sound way better, don’t you think?" Goku suggested, pointing at the ID card Raditz had dangling around his neck.

"You suggest I share your name?" Raditz blinked up at him. His throat felt tied in knots.

"Yep. What do you think?" Goku glanced down at Stellari.

"I like it," Stellari said, kissing her husband's cheek.

"Humph, it's easier to write in Japanese," said Raditz quietly. "Very well, so be it."

"Cool, let's go spar!" Goku clapped his hands. Stellari got off Raditz knee and he leaned down to nip her ear. Casting her a smoldering look of promise he shed his house robe and picked up his armor and scouter.

"Nope, I've got something' better for you to wear," said Goku, throwing Raditz an orange and blue bundle. "That armor stuff is not too comfy. Let's try my training!"

"Rats," Raditz mumbled, seeing his wife's attempt at puppy dog eyes. He hated it when she would get mushy. Grumbling he headed out after Goku towards the area he used for training.

"Okay, better huh?" Goku asked.

Raditz brushed off the orange gi adorned with the turtle hermit patch and neatly stitched rips. He guessed that it was one of Goku's old uniforms because his brother wore no insignia on the orange clothes he now sported. He wrapped his tail around his waist overtop the blue sash, and tied his hair back in the leather band that he often wore.

"Strange armor in this vest," he complimented, fingering the blue shirt underneath the sleeveless top. It felt like the weigh was sewn in between two layers of mesh, comfortable but as heavy as his armored shoulder pieces. Well he recalled how it suppressed his brother's power when first arriving.

"All right, let's get started. Got lots to catch up on," Goku said, dropping into a stance. Raditz stiffly mimicked the pose.

"What do you intend to teach me?"

"A few things that might help ya against those androids," said Goku. "You got to learn some tricks that Vegeta didn't show you. I figure if you and Gohan both know 'em that'll be the edge we need."

"How do I get stronger?" asked Raditz.

"There's this thing called Kao ken," Goku whispered. "It's kind of hard and takes lots of energy, but it might be enough to boost ya up way past where you are. But you got to stop changing with those power balls."

"I don't get it…"

"Your strength's all inside you. You got to take that giant ape side and push it down. And it'll come up Kao Ken," Goku explained. "You act like it's not there unless you change, but it's ALWAYS there. You just got to unleash it while you're normal."

"Will I become Super Saiyan?"

"First you got to learn Kao Ken. That'll teach ya. The Super Saiyan, I don't know, but you have it in you. Gohan does, and I know you got to have it somewhere since you and I have the same blood… a bit," Goku nodded. "Now, arms like this… and legs like so. Raise your hands up, and feel the energy around you. Don't just feel inside, but everywhere, draw it to you…"

The sun slid down the hills as Stellari strode out to help Chichi hang up the wash. Her abdomen was at its maximum curve, and she felt the weight as her ankles were swollen. Loud shrilling yells and grunts could be heard as Gohan sparred with Fermi and Bohr. Finally he had opponents his own size to train with. Piccolo's yells and cries were drowned out by the high pitched boy's fighting cries.

"Push it! If you got time to complain you've got time to react!" Piccolo shouted at them. Gohan suppressed a smile and stood at Piccolo's side while Fermi and Bohr blurred out of sight.

"You got to take it easy," Chichi gasped as Stellari panted.

"I know, but I'm not an invalid! If you did it, I can," she whispered. Chichi nodded, then stood back to let her sister in law do her share of the work.

Blazing red split the bands of purple and green painting the horizon. The sun's red disc cast its glow over the mountain home, and Chichi shaded her eyes to see the beauty. Blasts of energy echoed with men's cries, and then they saw the sun increase in its intensity to blinding scarlet.

"KAO KEN!" shouted a male voice. Both Chichi and Stellari swiveled their hands to see a figure standing in crimson flames, his fist forward while his other was back. Red energy tinged locks blazed behind him while Raditz shot forwards toward Goku.

"That's it!" Goku laughed, suddenly meeting his brother's charge. Fists pummeled him in frenzy as Raditz slammed and kicked with ten times his power.

"Wow, what's that?" Gohan gasped. Piccolo stopped in mid spar to feel the building energies.

"It's Raditz. His energy's growing faster…" Piccolo grunted.

"Daddy's powering way up there," Bohr whispered, rushing over to watch.

"Way to go! Wahoo!" Fermi shouted with glee.

Goku and Raditz circled, their powers flickering and growing by the minute. Stellari grabbed Raditz battered scouter and put it on, gasping as she saw the numbers climbing. 10,000 rose to 50,000 as Raditz shouted, "Kao ken times FOUR!"

"Don't push it!" Goku cried.

"Saturday CRUSH! The power…" Raditz gasped. Suddenly Goku brought up his hands, and gold exploded as he reached Super Saiyan. Energies flared to full form and Goku's hands blocked the blinding purple sphere. It dissipated against him and Goku stood under a golden tower of spikes.

"It can't be," whispered Stellari. "He's 200,000 and he's not slowing down! Goku's just 1 million and he's holding back!"

"You have it in you," Goku gasped. "I can see it but you're holding it back! Show me what you have! Show me your TRUE power!"

"How?" Raditz gasped.

"Your family, everyone you want to protect. Imagine it GONE! Remember what Freeza did to your planet. How much you wanted to help your friends and family who cried out in pain and never knew what was coming!" Goku shouted, raising his hands and throwing a blast of energy. "It's coming at you… what can you do!"

"I want him to pay!" Raditz shouted.

Goku blasted off, into the air high above. Like a blazing red comet Raditz soared up till they were hovering high above the Son residence. From far below everyone saw the gold and red stars shimmering and illuminating them with aura like flickers of radiation.

"Don't get even! You've got the power. All the anger and hatred, push it aside! Think of how you have the strength to protect them! You can do it!" Goku cried. "Let it go!"

Gohan shielded his eyes at the blazing surge as Raditz brought his hands up. Chichi screamed with shock as Goku's energy attack increased. "What are you doing! Stop it Goku sa!"

"Raaaaaah!" Raditz shouted. "Damn him!"

Power slammed into Goku's beam, absorbing it. Raditz raised hands pulsed with power arching as he threw them forwards and fired his own attack. Goku blocked it. Then he cupped his hands at his side. "Ka me.. ha me HA!"

"Double Sunday!" Raditz roared. A blinding blue ray slammed into a gold one, pushing it hard. Both brothers locked beams in a coruscating push of war. Chichi shrieked in fear, rushing over to where Gohan stood shielding the twins. Piccolo moved before the others, his face raised to glance up at the two.

"He's doing it… he's pushing it out of him… I didn't believe it was possible," Piccolo grunted.

"Uncle Raditz," murmured Gohan as he felt the energies surging.

"HAAAAHHHH…" Goku shouted.

"RAAAAGGGH!" Raditz yelled. Suddenly something inside him broke, and he felt white hot energies burst forth. He had struggled to hold them back and it was as if a barrier had shattered. The harder he pushed the more it built and he feared losing control.

"YES!" Goku laughed. "WOOHOOO!"

"What…" Raditz gasped, lowering his hands. He saw his brother kicking and punching the air like a madman. Goku's whooping laughter echoed through the mountains like a strange beast.

"Raditz," whispered Stellari.

"What the HELL Are you laughing at, Brother?" Raditz snarled at his brother's idiotic behavior.

"Let's show everyone! Follow me!" Goku laughed, zipping by Raditz. Grabbing Raditz shoulder he touched fingers to his forehead. The snatching sensation of IT whipped Raditz from the air and popped him down before the assembled audience.

"Goku, don't you DARE do that again!" Chichi shrilled as she saw her husband standing there.

"Uncle Raditz… Daddy… how did you…" Gohan gasped.

"Oh no, not him too!' Chichi wailed.

"Daddy, you look… all shiny," whispered Bohr.

"Wow, that's awesome!" Fermi cheered, clapping his hands. "You rock Dad!"

"Lucky bastard," Piccolo mused.

"What are you all STARING at?" Raditz snarled. Goku slugged his back.

Stellari staggered up, along with her twins. Raditz moved to catch her as she tripped, and her arms grasped his. Reflected in the lenses of her glasses he saw a blinding gold radiance. Teal eyes regarded hers, twin reflections of him staring back. Long locks almost touched the ground and the spikes on top of his head stood on end while the rest flowed like a waterfall of glistening sunlight.

Chichi promptly collapsed. Gohan rushed to catch his mother as she pitched backwards in a dead faint. He gazed in awe as the elder son of Burdock stood clutching Stellari to him. Her hands moved over his muscular chest as she was dwarfed by her husband's Super Saiyan form. "Precious one?" Raditz whispered.

"You've done it," she laughed. Raditz leaned down and kissed her lips. Power crackled over her form and she gasped with the soothing warmth. He leaned down and felt Fermi and Bohr hugging his legs and slapping his back with joy.

"You see, hmm?" Goku said, his own hair gleaming brightly. He reappeared by a prone Chichi, lifting her gently in his arms as Gohan blinked up at him in wonder.

"How… I don't get it… I tried so hard with the Prince. He could change like that," Raditz whispered. "The anger…"

"Anger to do what's right," Goku said. "A pure heart. Evil or good."

Suddenly Raditz gold hair flushed to black. Spikes dropped, and his hair retreated to hang only to the backs of his knees. His tail went from gold to brown, wrapped around his waist. Stellari leaned heavily on him, face buried into his chest.

"Mommy… you okay?" asked Fermi.

"Uh oh, you're wet Mommy…" said Bohr, as fluid began to drip.

"I… oh Kami," she gasped.

"What the…" Piccolo grunted.

"This baby's… coming…" Stellari gasped. Raditz swept her up in his arms.

Chichi blinked awake, and Goku set her down, his own super Saiyan form dropping as he saw the panic around him. "Goku sa… what on earth…"

"Chichi… she's dripping… just like when you had Gohan," Goku gasped.

"Quick, get her inside now!" Chichi yelled at Raditz. "Goku, get some boiling water. Piccolo and Gohan, get some firewood and fresh clothes. You two get out of your mom's way!"

Everyone scattered, following Chichi's barked orders. Within minutes Stellari was laying on the Son's bed, groaning as Raditz stripped off her clothes and Chichi draped a sheet around her. While she tried to shoo him out Stellari groaned, "I want him here! He knows what to do!"

"All right, whatever! Just stay out of the way!" Chichi yelled.

"They are Saiyan, woman! I know how to whelp!" Raditz yelled back.

"Shut up!" Stellari screamed. "Let Raditz help!"

"Gohan, get those two to your room! Keep them out of the way!" Chichi yelled. Gohan grabbed Fermi and Bohr's hands, and walked them out with him.

"But Mommy…"

"Just come with me okay guys?" Gohan urged. "Mommy says it can take hours for a baby to come. And she's done this before. And Uncle Raditz is with her, so don't worry!"

"Okay, if you say so," Fermi mumbled.

"Mommy…" whispered Bohr.

Goku anxiously rushed in with towels and hot water while Piccolo rushed out of the house. He didn't want to see Chichi's broom or frying pan materialize. So he stood just outside the door, cape and turban flapping in the night breeze while the activity transpired within.

"Hey relax, it's going to be okay!" Goku urged.

"She must walk…" said Raditz.

"Are you nuts?" Chichi asked.

"Chi, please listen to him," Goku urged. "Remember you did that squatting thing and it helped pull Gohan out of your belly?"

"Right, what am I thinking," Chichi mumbled. She grabbed the sheet and tucked it around Stellari while Raditz helped her to stand. Groaning she felt herself led into a walk. Her husband's arm supported her on one side while Chichi held the other. Goku marveled at the strange chant his brother was singing in a low growling rumble.

"What's that for?" Goku asked.

"Who cares, it's calming her. Goku sa, I think you'd better get some more towels and hot water. And get some clean clothes!" Chichi barked.

"Sure thing!" Goku nodded. He vanished with two fingers to his forehead.

"I don't think taking her to a hospital is safe. We'll just have the baby here," chichi nodded.

"I know what I'm doing. I've done this before. When Kakarotto… I mean Goku was born," said Raditz.

"You were THERE?" asked Chichi.

"Yes. With Planthor and Melaka in the birthing center just before I left for my latest assignment," Raditz said. "My mother took two revs to have him. He was a big child."

"Two of them," Chichi murmured. "C'mon, it's going to happen… just breathe…"

"Oh god," Stellari groaned, stumbling.

Gohan and the twins silently made their beds, and went about their day as the sun rose. Still Piccolo stood watch as the silent sentinel. Legs folded and arms crossed he levitated just in front of the Son home. Waves of energy surged around the demon king, crackling the very air with static.

A loud woman's howl was followed by Chichi's tired voice urging to push. Goku suddenly appeared in the yard, rubbing his eyes. "Hey Piccolo, what are you doing out here?"

"The same thing you are, no doubt. She kick you out?"

"I wanted to know what was going on," Goku breathed. "But Chichi can sure confuse the heck out of me."

"You saw Gohan born then," Piccolo grunted.

"You kidding? I was running around like crazy getting everything ready! I know where babies come from. Gohan took two days to come out of her!"

"Great, just great," Piccolo grunted. Goku plopped down on the grass, wiping sweat from his brow. He stared up as the sun arched up in the brightening blue sky while the Namek tried to meditate.

Gohan and the twins toted wash baskets out towards the line. They waved to the duo then set about hanging the wet laundry on the long thin line. Still the faint cries and chants echoed across the yard through the half ajar door. Another fresh series of shouts then faded into sobbing and a slight whimpering. When he was sick of sitting, Goku lay fast asleep, snoring like a buzz saw in the height of noon.

It was sundown before the chanting stopped. Fermi and Bohr looked at Gohan who had suddenly dropped his pencil. In his room, the boys all gasped at the flux of power bursting forth. Two signals very strong and bright atop another with flickering chi. Loud cries pierced the silence, and then Gohan smiled.

"They're here," Fermi said.

"A brother and a sister!" Bohr laughed.

"How do you know?" Gohan asked.

"Please," said Fermi, rushing out.

"Wait, my mom might still be…" Gohan protested. Bohr grabbed his sleeve and dragged his cousin out after him.

Loud splitting baby cries fussed from the Son's bedroom. All three boys saw Piccolo standing watch just outside the door. "Mr. Piccolo?"

"I think the brats are here. Finally," he said.

"Gohan? Twins, come in here!" Goku's voice called out. "You got a new baby brother and sister!"

"Wow!" they gasped. Goku swung open the door, motioning the three boys to enter. He held a finger to his lips, then pointed to the huge double bed.

Chichi sat exhausted in the rocking chair, washing something off the floor. Their mother lay on the bed, a sheet pulled up to her waist. Raditz stood with his back to them, and they heard a loud squalling noise. At sound of the tap of martial arts shoes he turned and glanced down.

"Daddy?" Bohr asked.

"Come and see young warriors. Come and see your brother and sister," Raditz said with a smirk of pride. As he turned they saw a bundle of black hair in his arm, like a fluff ball of his in miniature. A furry brown tail curled around Raditz wrist and Fermi and Bohr suddenly realized it was a tiny baby girl sucking on his thumb.

Stellari cradled her arms around another bundle, its furry tail coiled around her forearm. Two dark eyes opened wide to stare down at Fermi and Bohr, along with a bundle of spiky hair sticking in many directions. A few spikes pointed upwards, while one curled down over the forehead. He lifted his fists and let out a squeal.

"Ohh wow," Fermi said. "He's cool looking!"

"Where's the sister in all that hair! She's like a princess Rapunzel!" Bohr commented.

"You want to hold him?" Stellari glanced down at Fermi.

"Um… I guess…" Fermi muttered. Bohr pushed past him to hold up his arms. Goku gently reached down and passed the baby boy to him. Bohr laughed as he tail curled around his arm and he held his baby brother with relative ease.

"Hey there! I'm going to show you all sorts of stuff now I'm not the youngest!" Bohr laughed.

"Dummy," Fermi stuck his tongue out. "I'm the oldest. Hey there!"

"Want to hold your sister?" asked Raditz. Fermi reached up and delicately took the bundle of hair curled around his sister's small body. She blinked up at him with dark eyes, then squealed. A fist seized Fermi's curly mop and tugged tightly.

"She's strong!" Fermi laughed. "All right, you're tough! Way cool! I'll show ya how to keep your brother in line!"

"Will not!" Bohr pouted.

"Will so!" Fermi laughed. "She's got hair like Daddy's. Weird."

"You got funny hair like Uncle Funnyman," Bohr ran his hands through the boy's hair. "And you got Daddy's monkey tail!"

"That is proof of their Saiyan blood, young ones," Raditz beamed with pride.

"Here, you want to hold her?" asked Fermi, blushing at the thought of holding a girl tugging his hair. Raditz gently cradled his daughter, then reached down as Bohr handed the son back to him.

"Can I?" Goku asked. Raditz passed him both babies, and Goku began to ooh and ahh in a very weird speech pattern.

"You're so CUTE, yes you are! Hey there little guy! I'm your uncle Goku!" he laughed. The boy gurgled, and grabbed Goku's nose.

"And you're pretty like your mommy!" Goku said as he rocked the girl in his arms. "Look at all that hair!"

"Brother, you're annoying," Raditz grumbled, as he took his daughter back. Goku rocked and settled the boy who was curling up in his arm.

"Hey, he's falling right to sleep. He's got good sense," Goku pointed as the boy yawned and curled up into Goku's red and blue gi. He stuck his finger in his mouth and suckled.

"They're beautiful, woman. I'm well pleased," Raditz whispered, leaning down to kiss his wife.

"Thank you," she whispered, beaming at Goku, then the others. Chichi smiled wearily, as Gohan moved over and hugged her tightly.

"Nice work," said Chichi. "Now let 'em feed. Gohan you'll have to get that breast pump, and I'll show Auntie how to use it…"

"Breast what?" Goku blinked.

"Never mind," Chichi sighed.

"What are you going to call them?" Gohan asked, before hunting for the device in question.

"Saiyan names of course," Raditz said.

"And human," Stellari interjected.

"Radzia," said Raditz quietly. "I always wanted that name for a girl. And my son…"

"Planck," said Stellari.

"Plank?" asked Raditz. "Hmmm it sounds strong like a warrior's name."

"Radzia and Planck. Nice names," Chichi nodded. Raditz sat down next to his wife on the Son's bed, cradling Radzia, while Stellari held Planck. Gently she opened her robe so he could nurse at her breast. Raditz grabbed at a dish of raw steak and rapidly chewed it. To Chichi's horror and shock he lowered his lips to Radzia's and kissed her gently. The infant swallowed the mouthful from her father and licked her lips.

"What are you doing?"

"It's Saiyan tradition," Raditz glared at her.

"Chichi, relax. They're a bit different from us," Goku glanced at his shocked wife. "Besides, makes sense to me since it's hard to have two at one time… I mean it's kind of hard to cover BOTH up at once…"

"Goku you're an idiot," sighed Chichi. She put a hand over her head. Raditz glanced at them and rolled his eyes. Stellari giggled, pressing her husband's outstretched hand to her face.

"Gohan!" Chichi called out. He returned with the item she sought, but Stellari lay there with the other baby gently suckling as Raditz draped a sheet for modesty. Lying on his side he slid his arm under her neck and pulled her body to his. Ki crackled around them both. Fermi and Bohr climbed up on the bed and watched their mother nursing with awe.

"Let 'em be, Chichi," Goku urged before Chichi could protest. "I think it's cute. They're all together."

"Mom, they look so peaceful," Gohan commented.

"Let's go leave 'em alone," Chichi relented, as Goku rested a hand on her shoulder. Holding his son's hand, and draping his arm around Chichi's shoulders he led them out into the rest of the house. Chichi wearily let Goku carry her to lay on Gohan's bed. He climbed into one of the twin's bunks, and saw his mother laying wrapped in his father's arms. Goku curled up and lay Chichi to sleep across his muscular body, arms closed tight in sleep to protect her.

Gohan's bed creaked a bit under the weight. Seeing his parents curled up, Gohan fell fast asleep.

Out in the living room, a turbaned figure entered. Piccolo sensed the peace descent like a blanket and scanned the home. He wandered towards the master bedroom and saw the family curled up together like animals in a den. Bohr was curled up in Raditz long hair while Fermi lay next to him. The mighty Saiyan warrior lay with his arms wrapped around his wife and infants slumbering. Piccolo grunted and closed the door on them. He then turned to Gohan's room where he heard a loud rumbling. Squeezed onto Gohan's small bed was Goku and Chichi tangled together in a heap. Gohan lay on the bottom bunk of the bed that had accommodated the twins.

Piccolo leaned down and pulled the covers over Gohan. He tossed another comforter over Chichi and Goku snoring away. Carefully he shut their door, then exited to the main room. He sat down on the rug Indian style, folding his arms across his chest. Soon he closed his eyes and fell into deep meditation with a smirk on his face. His family was safe.

He stopped himself. His family? Two former enemies now turned friends. Years ago he would have killed them with his bare hands. Now they were his family. Gohan was the son he never had, for reproducing would severely cut his power down. All his knowledge he bestowed on that boy while Goku was dead in anticipation of his own demise. Somehow Piccolo knew his battle with the Saiyans would be his last. How wrong he was for life was waiting to give him a second chance. Gohan had softened his stone heart. In turn Raditz marriage to the earth scientist had melted a soul of ice and eased the blackness clinging to the Saiyan's heart. There would always be a part that was dark, but the light had broken through to fill Raditz entire being. To have a pure heart for only a moment was necessary, be it pure good or pure evil, to forge a Super Saiyan.

Goku had spoken of levels beyond. Piccolo grunted and dug deeply. His soul was troubled, and he knew there was a possibility he would take the same extreme step. Across miles and time another half beckoned to him, and he knew what he had to do. The two must again be made whole to save the planet he so desired to rule. Piccolo's plans of world domination had not been erased, simply postponed. He saw that alliances with the Z warriors kept all other unsavory elements in check so he could rule in his own way.

Ultimately the Saiyans disturbed him. Prince Vegeta's slowly growing population of Saiyans were a possible menace. While he needed them to defeat the androids, what sort of threat would they pose once the alliance was no longer necessary? Perhaps he could find a way to convince them to leave Earth so he could take what he wanted.

A new guardian would be needed. His thoughts centered on the innocent young Dende. Perhaps the boy would be up to the task. Much had to be done, and Piccolo knew time was short. The androids known as 14 and 15 were but a prequel to the two horrors known as 17 and 18. Just where they were was anyone's guess. Gero was awake, and time was running out.

Time. Perhaps there was a way to buy time. Inside Kami's lookout was a chamber where a year could be passed in a day on the outside. If two would enter, they would emerge as fully trained. Now that the youths were born, they would be vulnerable. Two Saiyan children lie under the roof, while his mind sensed another spark in Chichi's womb. Small but powerful enough for him to discern with his ki sensing powers.

The Saiyans would be a problem. How could he convince them to take off the tails, Piccolo wondered. Perhaps the woman Stellari could be convinced, but there was also…

He smiled. Raditz wouldn't pass up the chance to train. He and Goku could enter the room of Spirit and Time for a day and power up. Then Gohan and he could do the same, once he had become whole. The boy could be pushed suitably while the woman Chichi watched the children. Stellari's powers were considerable on their own. She and the Ox Princess could be formidable in their own right. Time was running out, but it was not the enemy. Piccolo smiled and pondered all these plans as he drifted off.

It had been a fortnight since the birth of the twins at the Son Household. Bulma and Vegeta continued to search for traces of the androids, but had found evidence eerily quiet. The Z warriors had taken a momentary pause, while Trunks pondered the perturbation in the deadly beings appearances. Still everyone kept on their guard

The Son family ate a small picnic under the midday sun. Stellari sighed as she leaned into Raditz chest. Despite his insistence wearing the armor, she felt very comfortable around her husband. Below in the valley she saw the flashes of light as Gohan and the twins sparred. She reached down and curled her arm around Radzia who was curled up in her lap. Planck was exploring the silver light through the blades of grass.

Chichi and Goku were nearby picking apples from one of the large trees. Goku was punching one tree after another just gently enough so Chichi could catch each falling fruit. Both loved the simple game to test their reflexes. Ever since Goku recovered from the heart virus he was spending as much time with her as he could from his training. Piccolo levitated nearby, watching the progress of Gohan's sparring with the twins.

"Back here, small one," Raditz urged, tugging on the boy's collar. The small Saiyan whelp wore a black armored vest top over his onsies, for Raditz had insisted both Saiyan children be brought up with the proper training.

"Everyone is wearing armor but me," Stellari murmured. Radzia curled up on her father's lap, snoozing. Her small vest was also black in color, held to her small chest with a single strap that passed over one arm and under the back. A light pink onsie completed the outfit with gloves and small white boots. One of her small ears was pierced and jewelry from a coppery red metal hung from it. As for Planck, he climbed into her lap and hugged her neck.

"Umma, umma," he mumbled, nibbling on her ear.

"That's enough, sweetie," she said. Raditz grunted and pointed to one of the containers of meat. She tried tentatively to chew it up. Raditz watched with pride as she kissed his lips and transferred the chewed mouthful to her son's. Planck hungrily swallowed each masticated portion moistened with Stellari's saliva.

"You're a pro at this," Raditz observed. "And while we're on the subject of it, I have something for you…"

"What?" she asked. Raditz reached under one of the armored panels of his outfit, and pulled out a capsule. He passed it to the scientist, who held it in one hand. Planck tried to grab the shiny object from her.

"Not for you brat, come here," Raditz pointed to a place by his knee.

"Fafa," he gurgled, and released his grip to toddle over to his father. Raditz nodded, and the boy plunked down next to where Raditz knelt with Radzia on his lap. She yawned and settled into her father's arm, then sucked her thumb.

"Like this, keep your tail in," Raditz chided the boy. Lightly he tried to guide the boy's tail around his tiny waist, and Stellari shook her head.

"How old do they do that?"

"About this age. Now go open your present woman. I'm anxious to see if it fits," he said.

"Demanding aren't you?" she glared at him.

"Amma, present, present!" Planck gurgled.

"Good grief, he said what I thought he did?"

"Saiyans can talk at a much younger age. Now go on… there are some bushes over there," Raditz said, lightly swatting her rear as she got up. Stellari grumbled but Raditz blinked up with that smirk that drove her wild. He lay on one side, grabbing more meat to chew up and feed to the sleepy Radzia and Planck who were both squirming on his armored lap.

Goku glanced down with his mouth full of apple at Raditz. "Man he's a natural Chi."

"I never figured he'd be so good with children, but he's a surprise. There's more of you in him every day," Chichi nodded, gathering apples in her skirt. Goku leaned over and dropped another into the improvised basket.

"Mmm, you think you can make a pie with these? Like Stellari does?" Goku asked.

"I could try, but you're eating half of them already, Goku-sa!" Chichi swatted his arm.

"Mommy!" called Gohan. "Look at what I can do!"

"Gohan, you need to stop training and eat lunch!" Chichi called. "I almost forgot."

"Humans," mumbled Piccolo.

"Lunchtime!" Bohr and Fermi laughed, stopping their sparring.

"Over here, young warriors," Raditz waved. Three youths flew towards the huge picnic blanket, followed by Goku and Chichi walking hand in hand. Chichi disgorged the huge load of apples into one empty blanket, and started pulling out the food capsules from the basket by Raditz hip.

"Here I'll take her," Goku offered. He took Radzia from his brother, and toddled her while Fermi and Bohr wiped their hands with some of the sani clean that Stellari had in her picnic basket.

"Where's Mommy?" asked Fermi.

"Over in the bushes hiding," Bohr said. He reached down, pulled Planck to sit in his lap, and took a bottle of breast milk out of the basket to start feeding him.

"Gohan, go wash some of these apples in the river for dessert. Goku, I'll start with the salad," Chichi nodded. "And you get your wife back here! I won't have her missing lunch! She may not be eating for three anymore, but she needs her strength."

"I'll get her," Raditz said as he stood up.

"Fafa!" Radzia gurgled.

"Stay with your uncle, girl. I'll be back," he said. "Start without me."

"Daddy, what's up?" Fermi asked, standing up.

"I suppose you can come with me," said Raditz as the boy tagged along trying to match his step.

"I'll help Auntie Chichi," said Bohr, waving to them. "Go find Mommy and tell her she's it!"

"It's not THAT kind of game," groaned Bohr. "It's a grown up game, right daddy?"

"Yes, that's right, young one," Raditz nodded. Impressively Fermi matched his stride with three steps to every one of his.

"Mom! Are you in there? There's food!" called Fermi.

"Well, aren't you going to come out and show me?" Raditz asked.

"Are you SURE this is right?" came Stellari's voice.

"Come out. I need to know if the material works," Raditz called.

"What’s up, Dad?" asked Fermi.

"I have a little surprise for your mother, young warrior. Something for her training," said Raditz, tapping his foot impatiently. "Do get a move on, woman!"'

"Why do you call her that when you know her name, Dad? C'mon!" Fermi glared up at him.

"Saiyan tradition," Raditz grunted.

"More of that Saiyan stuff again, I get it. I know you're not being a meanie, but it still sounds weird," said Fermi suspiciously. His red orange gi resembled his 'uncle' Goku's complete with a training shirt underneath and a Son karate patch on the front and on the back. Except instead of blue, his training shirt was green and long sleeved. Bohr's was yellow so they could tell the two apart from a glance.

"Are you sure this design is right?" Stellari asked. Out of the bushes she strode, her muscles gliding under a black armored suit. Her sizeable bosom was encased in a black armored vest with green shoulder straps. They matched the color of the paneling down the back that spread from the spine, and the hip guards and venting on the abdominal. Instead of a square neck, the vest had a modified V showing her cleavage partially. Reluctantly she pulled at the wrist guards that were a cherry red matching those covering her boot tops.

"Mom you look cool. Where'd you get the armor?"

"A present for our anniversary. Mind you, boy it's Saiyan custom for a male to give his woman a suit of armor when he destroys hers. To show her his ability to provide. I fashioned that myself out of the same material mine is made from," said Raditz.

"Where did you get it? I didn't know you could MAKE armor," she glanced at him, shy about her bare shoulders showing. "And why THIS design?"

"Green signifies technical grade Third class Saiyan guard. You serve the Princess and Prince in your technical capacity with weaponry. The red guards on your wrists and ankles denote you're a team leader for you are in charge of a scientific unit," he grunted. "Shoulder pads are optional, but this offers better ease of movement."

"I'm going to punish you for this. I think I look… strange," Stellari shivered.

"You look fit to be the mate of a Saiyan warrior, love," Raditz said as he reached for her hand.

"Mommy, you are radical! What's the big deal!" Fermi glanced up.

"Nothing," she said.

"C'mon, Mom, give," said Fermi, tugging on one of the long green hip guards.

"Oh, I'm just going to give your Father a little talking to about his fashion sense."

"It's not like those silly superheroes on TV," said Fermi.

"HEY, Raditz, c'mon and eat will ya?" Goku called as they turned.

"Go on, join them. I'll talk to your father alone," said Stellari. She leaned down and kissed Fermi, who dashed over to join the others. Grabbing up her coat she slid it on over the armor.

"Are you displeased?" Raditz asked.

"It's… sweet… but I don't feel COMFORTABLE in armor… must I…"

"I don't want you dead, love. It's better to have protection," snorted Raditz. "And the Prince would be displeased if you wore the wrong…"

Suddenly Raditz tensed. His eyes widened in shock, and he grabbed her hand, pulling her after him. Both of them raced to where Goku was standing in battle mode near Gohan. "Damn it…"

"Goku?"

"Uncle?" asked Bohr.

"Something's not right," said Fermi. "Mommy!"

"You sense it too?" asked Goku as Raditz rushed up.

"What ARE you wearing?" Chichi panted.

"No time for that! Chichi, we've got to get the kids out of here!" Goku hissed.

"Mommy?" Bohr asked.

"Fermi, Bohr, take your brother and sister and go with your Aunt," Raditz ordered.

"Gohan, go with your mother. Let Piccolo and me handle this," said Goku.

"Goku… what's going on?"

"You've got to get your family out of here now!" Piccolo snorted.

"Kinto un!" Goku shouted. The gold cloud sizzled down, and he grabbed up Chichi. Stellari grabbed up Radzia from Bohr.

"Shit," she gasped.

"Go love, now!" Raditz shouted.

"Mommy?" Bohr asked.

"C'mon let's GO!" Stellari urged.

"Gimmie the other," Chichi barked. She grabbed up a squirming Planck, while levitating Nimbus up.

"Get on the cloud with her now!" Stellari urged to Fermi and Bohr. "It's faster."

"Goku sa!" Chichi called.

"Chichi, go now!" Goku shouted. "Go home! Don't look back!"

"Daddy," Gohan said.

"Go with them, Gohan. That's an order from me," Piccolo grunted. "I need you to protect the women."

"Now just a moment…" started Chichi.

"Don't argue, let's go," Stellari said. "You stay SAFE!"

"I'll be right behind you," Goku promised, blowing Chichi a kiss.

"Go, woman," Raditz urged. He nipped her ear as they levitated into the air. Soon Flying nimbus shrank to a glowing trail in the sky. Gohan and Stellari rocketed up after them. To Stellari's delight the armor seemed to cut down on wind resistance as she struggled to keep up.

"Fafa!" Radzia whimpered.

"Hold on love, your Father has work to do," Stellari said.

"Mammamam!" Radzia sniffled, hugging her neck tightly around the green collar. Stellari pushed herself after Gohan, her purple ki trail increasing in energy.

"That's Saiyan armor isn't it?" Gohan observed.

'Yes, but that's not important. What did you sense?"

"Some energies coming this way. I don't know what they are, but I'm going back to help once Mom and everyone else is squared away," Gohan said.

"You will do NO such thing!" Chichi shouted. Soon they reached the safety of the Son residence, and she brought Kinto un to land. Quickly she hastened the children inside, waving to Gohan and Stellari.

"But mom, they might NEED me!" he said.

"Gohan!" Chichi called. He blasted off, soon a small white comet in the sky as Chichi screamed after him.

"I'll go with him," said Stellari firmly. "Can you manage?"

"OH please bring him back!" Chichi lamented.

"Mommy?" Fermi and Bohr asked.

"Take CARE of your brother and sister, boys that's an order!" she said. "And do exactly as Aunt Chichi says!"

"Mommy be careful!" Bohr cried as he felt her quick hug. He took Radzia and dashed in.

Stellari nodded and ran out the door. Grumbling she grabbed a bandanna and tied her hair back then reached for the scouter on the table. Raditz insisted she wear one, as she could not sense ki very well. Grumbling she put the thing on which acted like a double pair of lenses. Green tipped boots pounded against the dirt path, and she reached the tall rock. Judging the distance she dashed forwards then pushed down with her hands and back leg to thrust herself up for extra measure. Her mind took over, pushing her body as she panted.

"Gohan!" she shouted. "Get back here!"

Purple ki flared. She was thankful for Raditz training to focus her energies better. Ever since her pregnancy it seemed her ki had doubled even at resting state. Somehow the armor she wore also seemed to focus her ki and aid in the even flow. Just what properties the armor had she wasn't sure, but she knew that she would give Gohan an earful. Soon she caught up with his figure. He wore the evil tribe uniform of a Mazuko in honor of Piccolo's contribution. His own hair fluttered in the breeze, held back by a ponytail holder. Already he was growing like a weed, every day seeming to gain an inch or so.

"Aunt Stellari, you should go back!" Gohan called.

"Nothing doing! You just HAD to run off!" Stellari shouted. "Your mom's not someone to brush off!"

"I have to fight! I have an awful feeling that something terrible is going to happen to Dad, Uncle Raditz and Mr. Piccolo!" Gohan protested.

"No wonder,' Stellari mumbled, focusing her scouter. "Those traces aren't human. I'm reading infinite power batteries. The sort that Androids are made from!"

"But how could we sense energies when…" Gohan spluttered.

"It was a trap. Damn it!" Stellari gritted.

"Then I was right! We got to hurry!" Gohan gasped. "Can you keep up with me?"

"Just watch me, Gohan," she said.

"Grab on!" Gohan urged, gripping her hand tightly. He poured more of his ki into his aunt, tugging her along with him as he poured on more speed. The Saiyan third class armor increased her streamlined shape, making it less of a chore to pull her in his ki envelope.

"More energy readings from that way!" Stellari pointed with her red gauntleted hand.

"It's Vegeta and Trunks!" said Gohan.

"Damn," Stellari mumbled.

"What the HELL is Kakarotto doing!" Vegeta ranted as he banked his course to meet Gohan.

"I don't know!" Gohan shouted.

"Your majesty it's a trap! I'm reading Android plastics!" said Stellari.

"Humph, what are you doing here, woman?" Vegeta glared at her suspiciously.

"Professor Stellari, you mean you can trace Android plastics with a scouter?" Trunks asked, his purple hair tied back. It had grown considerably, and gave him a rugged look.

"Yes Mr. Trunks!" She said.

"I told Kakarotto to stay out of this!" Vegeta snarled.

"Vegeta, he's my dad, and I'm going to help him!" Gohan snapped.

"You dare address me like that, boy? Don't you know who you're talking to?"

"Father please, we need them. Who knows what we're running into!"

"Woman, how many traces does that toy tell you? Why did you not tell me sooner you could detect those tin cans, eh?" Vegeta glared at her.

"I'm sorry, your Majesty. I hadn't time to tell your wife… I mean you're…" Stellari stammered, not sure of what to use.

"That will be enough. Tell me where if you wish to be of any use!" Vegeta barked orders to her like she was one of them. Perhaps it was the armor she wore.

"Southwest, by the Tenkachi Budokai, island chain," said Stellari.

"Trunks, come with me," said Vegeta. "You may come along if you can keep up! But don't get in my way!"

"I won't, Vegeta," said Gohan, grabbing Stellari's waist and pulling her with him.

All four warriors rocketed over the ocean for what seemed miles. Vegeta and Trunks led the way, followed by Gohan and Stellari. Tense silence predominated. Gohan strained his senses as Stellari tried to recalibrate her scouter. Occasionally Vegeta would grunt a question in her direction, and she would answer if she detected any traces of plastic, or android power sources. Thanks to Raditz and Bulma working independently, a few Saiyan scouters could be locked into the frequency of the Android's power batteries. A secondary detector could sense the presence of the ki proof plastics used in their housings. After an hour flight they approached a small chain of islands. Vegeta and Trunks white booted feet landed first. Shortly afterwards landed Stellari's green boots capped in red legwarmers, and Gohan's small pointy Namekian boots.

"Stay close to me, Aunt Stellari," Gohan urged, reaching up and taking her hand. Like a true gentleman, he held tightly and guided her with him. Ki sizzled along his skin, and she felt it crackling through their joined hands.

"This is a red ribbon base, Father," said Trunks, inhaling deeply. "But where are Goku and Piccolo?"

"Something doesn't seem right," Vegeta mumbled, narrowing his eyes. "I'm getting multiple senses."

"Your majesty, Goku and Piccolo aren't here! The readings aren't their latent power levels!" said Stellari.

"You telling me I don't know Kakkarot's trace, woman?"

"The scouter's been adapted," said Trunks quickly. "Isn't that right? Is that one of the new models Mother made?"

"Raditz fashioned it. He said he'd recalibrate to account for levels up to beyond Super Saiyan," said Stellari as Vegeta glared at her.

"Is that so? Explain, woman!"

"Oh you'll find out soon enough," said a slow feminine laugh.

"No, it can't be you… you were supposed to be in Ginger town," gasped Trunks. Two figures landed, standing opposite Vegeta and Trunks.

"Oh shit," Stellari gasped.

"I'm bored, Brother. Are THESE the Saiyans?" asked the slender blue eyed female with an icy stare. Blond hair fluttered over her beautiful face. Next to her stood a handsome man of the same height and slender build. Both of them seemed far too pretty almost doll like.

"You… you monsters, where's Goku and Piccolo!" Trunks shouted.

"Shut up boy. You are more of those tin cans from Gero?" Vegeta smirked.

"Huh he's a real bright guy huh?" the boy said.

"Seventeen and Eighteen!" Stellari shivered.

"Well well, I guess you've heard of us. How exciting," said 18 sarcastically, tapping her foot. "And 16 said he could handle the others? I think one of us should have given him a hand because these four don't seem like a challenge at all!"

"Give me a break, sis. I like warming up," said 17, crackling his knuckles. "After all, these two blew 14 and 15 away…"

"What do you want!" Gohan shouted. "Where's my DAD?"

"How the hell should I know, brat?" asked Seventeen. "Unless your father's named Son Goku. If that's the case, he's in a whole world of hurt!"

"How dare you!" Vegeta snarled. "Kakarotto is MINE! Nobody goes after him but me! The Saiyan Prince…"

"Yeah yeah we know all about you, your HIGHNESS," 18 taunted, flipping her hair in disdain. "You think you can take us on, little man?"

"You'll be eating those words, you flying toaster," Vegeta snarled. "Just because you're a woman doesn't mean I won't recycle you into something more useful, like a washing machine!"

"Father," Trunks said.

"Oh really?" 18 snickered. "Let me handle this hothead. You can have the others."

"Father…" Trunks said.

"Keep back Trunks. Get OUT of my way. I've been WAITING for this," Vegeta laughed evilly. Vegeta and 18 suddenly phased out, and then reappeared thousands of feet in the air. Soon the sounds of their smashing fists and flying kicks were heard.

"Looks like I'm stuck with the trash," said seventeen.

"Gohan, get out of here!" Trunks shouted as Seventeen suddenly zipped out.

"Uh uh, no fair! You're playing with me, punk!" seventeen snickered, materializing with his hand upraised.

Gohan stepped forwards but Trunks shouted at him to keep back. He gasped to hear the collision of Vegeta's white-gloved fist with 18's belly. She doubled over and flew back. Unfortunately her hands raised before her, forming a red sphere.

"Infinity bullet!" she shouted, hurling it towards him.

"What the hell?" Vegeta gasped, raising his gloves to block.

"HEEHHA!" Seventeen sneered, his shoes kicking out towards Trunks punches. He kept just ahead, his handsome face taking in the sight of the purple haired youth.

"YEAAAAH!" Trunks shouted, suddenly gathering his energies. His eyes flared blue, and his hair stood up into a crown of spiky points. His elbow shot out, slamming into 17's knee.

Seventeen cuffed him off with a wide arcing slap. Trunks flew back, stunned as he spat blood from his aching mouth. As he struggled to recover, 17 raised one hand up, and the other at his wrist. Twin spheres formed, and they launched on a course towards the retreating armored figure.

"Trunks!" shouted Gohan. Letting go of Stellari's hand, he phased out, then reappeared to block the blasts. His wrists crossed and the two blasts crashed into his small arms.

"GOHAN!" Stellari screamed as smoke kicked up. Trunks crashed into the ground near the wrecks of airplanes. Stellari rushed towards him, then levitated to streak after him.

"Huh, don't you have anything better to do, you shrimp?" seventeen taunted.

"You won't hurt my friends!" Gohan snarled, his feet peppering 17 with sharp jackhammer kicks. He flipped and slammed his boots into the android's face. 17's head snapped back and he flew for a distance. Spreading his arms, he recovered quickly.

"Nice, but that didn't even leave a scratch, want to try again?" 17 laughed.

"Why you…" Gohan snapped. "You enjoy hurting people!"

"So what?" 17 laughed, hurling several blasts towards him. Gohan diverted each one, then sent them crackling back. Angrily he shot forwards, his fists raised to punch.

"FIELD ON!" 17 shouted. Gohan screamed as he crashed into the solid energy barrier. Fire lanced through his veins and he shot towards the ground.

Meanwhile Stellari helped Trunks to stand on wobbling boots. He shook his head, gasping as his chest heaved in and out. "Easy there…"

"Professor… what…" he breathed.

"Those androids are merciless…" he panted. "I'll be okay… you should keep back…"

Just then their eyes darted heavenwards to see the flashes of fire from Gohan and 17's battle. Vegeta's gold aura blazed in and out as he traded blows with 18. Neither android seemed capable of tiring.

"Gohan!" Trunks gasped, seeing him plummeting downwards.

"Damn it…" Stellari cried. She and Trunks exchanged a glance, then blasted off leaving trails of blue and purple energy. Each had a similar purpose in mind: to save Gohan from being dashed to pieces. While they knew his body was sturdier due to his half Saiyan blood Gohan could still injure himself badly without their aid.

"Get Gohan, I'll take 17!" Trunks shouted.

"Right!" she nodded. Green and black armor streamed with purple energy, her dark brown hair held back by a red bandanna. Stellari hurled her ki and shaped it into a stream of arogel to surround Gohan so he would land harmlessly. The soft plastic coated him into a balloon shaped cocoon that broke the shock of his fall easily like a parachute. To catch him would be suicide for her fragile human body

Trunks slashed his sword, batting off the energy blasts 17 tossed towards him. Stellari moved to cover Gohan with her hands raised.

Her scouter bleeped with energies nearby. Two corresponded to Goku and Piccolo fighting off another android plastics power signature. She realized the power indicated they were not far away. Other power traces indicated Nappa and Chablis were not far from Capsule. Raditz power trace was zooming in their direction.

Vegeta seemed to hold his own against 18 while Trunks struggled with 17. She sensed they were merely toying with her Prince and his son. She moved towards Gohan who was squirming in the heart of his cocoon.

"Get that brat out of here, Professor!" shouted Vegeta's voice. "I need no help!"

"Yes your majesty," she nodded. Shock filled her when she realized Vegeta's voice sounded in her head. Since when could he telepathically communicate with humans other then Bulma?

Gohan groaned, feeling himself gently picked up while plastic was pulled away. Apart from burns and bruises he was mostly ok. Stellari still cradled him under the neck and arms like he was her own child, checking for broken bones. "You all right Gohan."

"Is Trunks…"

"He's fine. I've got to get you out of here."

"Vegeta can't fight them alone!" Gohan insisted.

"I don't want to argue with him. I think we'd be better off helping Goku and Piccolo," she nodded. "He didn't say we couldn't do that. And besides, there are two others on their way here to help."

Gohan groaned as Stellari blasted off holding him under the arms and back. "I think… I can fly… Aunt Stellari."

"Just relax. You're still dazed. Those blasts burned your skin badly. You took a huge risk blocking them," she chided.

"I'm okay, really, you don't have to worry," Gohan said as he squirmed a bit. "I can fly…"

"Okay," she nodded, letting him levitate out of her arms.

"Let me help you. Your energy isn't as much as mine…"

"You worry too much, kid," She chided him. "I can fly on my own if you can manage."

"Daddy and Uncle Raditz would want me to protect you," Gohan said. "It's the right thing to do."

"Let's go help your father and Mr. Piccolo. I just wonder where Raditz… ah yes… he's with them too!" she said.

"This way, I feel my Daddy this way," Gohan grunted, motioning to her to follow. Aunt and nephew shot off over the sea towards another island in the chain. As they flew along, Gohan's eyes widened with fear at two other traces on Stellari's scouter. Yet to him they were flairs of Saiyan ki that were disturbingly familiar. One of them mimicked the nightmarish traces that had drawn the curtain on Vegeta's arrival. Nappa. It had to be Nappa. Gohan had no contact with the huge Saiyan ever since he'd been wished back. While Raditz was bad enough, Nappa was an even more daunting nightmare