Disclaimer: Dragon Ball Z belongs to Toei Animation Co. Ltd., Viz, and was created by Toriyama. I do not own the anime or the manga. I own the fan characters Stellari, Fermi and Bohr. I make no money writing this fan fiction and am only borrowing the characters for a while.

Royal Namekian Blues

Trynia Merin

With Burdock’s help Stellari entered the waiting room. Security guards with Capsule logos on them quickly helped her and Burdock to a private elevator along with Goku. Nervously he stood in the enclosed space, focusing on making funny faces for the benefit of his nephew. Burdock raised his ki field, enveloping Stellari and Radzia in its green warmth.

"You really are something, Kakarotto. Never ceases to amaze me how easily you blew those androids away. But you didn't finish the job."

"He was once my friend," Goku said firmly.

"I hear you kid. If that was Toma or anyone else of my crew… but he's betrayed you…" said Burdock.

"You didn't see the part where he helped stop 13 and 17 by covering for us, so we could escape," Goku interrupted.

"I thought he was loyal to the androids now!" said Stellari.

"So did I. But I think he knows better. Unfortunately Yamcha learned that lesson too late. It's a shame you had to kill him," Goku sighed.

"I did what I had to so I could protect my family," Burdock said sternly. "IN war you can't always be squeamish."

"I know but… killing is the last resort!" Goku protested.

"You think I don't know that?" Burdock grunted. "My entire crew died because I blindly followed Freeza’s orders. You can't tell me you didn't want that lizard dead when your best friend…"

"Yamcha and Tien were my friends," Goku shouted back.

"I know, but this discussion's pointless," Burdock raised his hand. "Right now we've got to lick our wounds and figure out what the hell to do next."

Doors slid open, and all three of them exited grimly. Half of Goku's gi hung off his bare shoulder, while only a thin strap of his armored blue shirt remained. Clothing was covered in fine tatters while Stellari and Burdock’s armor was battered. Burdock’s battle jacket had suffered the worst; one strap blown off while half his left pair of leggings showed a muscular calf. His scouter lens was cracked and he pulled the thing off to toss it down on a table nearby.

Stellari sat on one of the lounge sofas. To her relief the blue and white armored figure entering was Bulma. She rushed over and hugged Stellari with relief, then hugged Goku who stood to the side. She shouldered one of the twins and looked at Burdock with admiration. "Vegeta and Trunks went off after 17… to try and stop them before they trace us here… Nappa went ballistic because Lunch has gone missing!"

"Damn," Goku sighed, shaking his head.

"You think Tien took her?" Bulma asked with fear in her eyes.

"I didn't see her where Yamcha took me. But whatever blasts didn't hit one of us hit Gero's computer," Stellari said.

"That piece of machinery's toast now," Burdock grunted. "Don't know if that's good or bad. Where's everyone else?"

"Your crew said something about protecting West City. Capsule's the first place I think they'd expect us all to go instead of Orange Star City," Bulma said. "We'd be safer all staying here till the others get better."

"I thought they said they'd wait to attack till these so called android games were happening," Burdock grunted.

"So did I. But I guess the computer went crazy when I showed up," Goku said rubbing the back of his neck with a nervous smile.

"Probably overrode all previous programming," Bulma shook her head. "Not good."

"What's worse is that Yamcha said something about all Saiyans becoming public enemy number one," said Stellari.

"Damn," Bulma swallowed hard. "Defiantly not good."

"That would explain why Krillin and Master Roshi are keeping their distance," Goku said sadly. Burdock mumbled when Goku handed his nephew over to the war hardened soldier. Carefully Burdock wrapped a gauntlet arm around the boy and set him on his knee. Planck stuck his tongue in his mouth and curled up against Burdock’s armored chest as if he had been there all along.

Bulma's telephone shrilled and she shot a look of apology to the others. "I have to take this. Excuse me!"

Nobody argued as Bulma strode off carrying her cell telephone to a more secluded part of the hospital complex. Left alone, Goku sighed and looked at his father and sister in law. "Chichi's probably worried sick about me. I'm going to go visit her," said Goku quietly.

"You'd better go. I'll stay here till Raditz and Kinoha improve," Burdock said. "Someone has to watch over her family."

He nodded towards Stellari, who was slowly rocking Radzia in her arms. Goku draped a blanket around her shoulders and she glanced up at him gratefully. Leaning over he kissed her forehead, and then leaned over to kiss each of the Saiyan children in turn. She stopped Goku with a hand on his arm. "Fermi and Bohr..."

"They're still with Dad," Goku said, referring to the Ox King. "Should I have them come here?"

"No, they're safer where they are. Where's Chichi and Gohan?"

"I'll be taking them to Frypan valley so Chichi can rest and recover. If you like..." Goku said.

"I'll talk to them soon I hope. Better they rest and wait until Raditz comes around. I want to see them but..." trailed Stellari off. Burdock rested a hand on her shoulder and shook his head.

"You will stay put and rest. My son can go once he's well enough to check on your other brats. It's safer for you to remain here with your pups. I'll watch over you. If your sons are true warriors they can understand the seriousness of this," Burdock grunted.

"But they need me," Stellari said frustrated.

"No I think he's right. I'll tell them you're okay and that you miss them and will see them when it's safer," Goku shushed her. "They're old enough to know that Mommy's got to spend some time away from them. Besides, Chichi and I will be with them. It's better for them to be away from this place. Burdock will look after you till Raditz wakes up, right?"

"I will. You get going," Burdock said. "Besides if you've got a psychic link with those twins they'll be able to communicate with you to know you're there for them, right?"

"Yes," she sighed. "Give them my love Goku... I just hate not being around them!"

"I'll come back and IT Raditz there when he's well enough. You stay put okay?" he said. Nodding at Burdock, he touched two fingers to his forehead and vanished. Burdock stood up and sat in the sofa next to his daughter in law. She sighed and leaned her head on his shoulder when he draped a strong arm around her. Like her father, had so many years ago he held her as she trembled and struggled not to cry?

"I'll watch over you," Burdock said quietly. Stellari nodded, and they quietly held the twins on their laps. As time passed, Burdock accepted bottles of formula from capsule employees that happened to pass by.

"Mrs. Briefs sends this with her compliments. She says Prince Vegeta's ordered you to stay here, Mr. Burdock, and Prof. Stellari," said one of the guards.

"All right," she nodded. Saluting, the guard moved off. Burdock sensed that he needed to change the subject to calm his daughter in law during their wait. Therefore, the best thing seemed to be to get her talking.

"I always wonder how you managed to figure out how to trace these androids to begin with," Burdock said, trying to change the subject. Stellari traded Radzia for Planck. Burdock gently took his granddaughter and angled her in one arm while feeding her with his other gauntleted wrist.

"It was partly Raditz idea," she said. Burdock’s left brow angled up incredulously.

"No really!" she insisted, readjusting Planck in her arm and unhooking her armor strap. She discretely draped the blanket over her bare breast while he suckled. Burdock tossed her a wry grin, shaking his head.

"This I have to hear…" he said.

"Well it all started while these two were in the uterus," she said, her eyes staring off into the distance to fish for the exact memories. "I was making polymers and Raditz was trying to get me OUT of the lab…"

"Are you insane working in the lab while you're carrying our pups, woman?" someone grunted.

Stellari grumbled at the interruption of her latest batch of polymer. While her technicians could do the work she was devoted to pushing the special coating she was developing for Bulma's new project to its limits.

"Woman?" Raditz asked.

Her eyebrow cocked up at the mention of that word. To her despair, he had taken to the Prince's habit of calling his mate and wife 'woman'. With a mischievous smirk, Stellari grabbed a test tube and hurled it at the unsuspecting Raditz. Normally she would not dream of throwing lab glassware at anyone, but her husband was not just 'anyone'. He was a Saiyan, and they had notoriously hard noggins.

Raditz hand zipped out and caught the small missile with ease. Mouth quirked in a devious smirk he chuckled, "Nice try but futile."

"Unless you want your prince to barbecue us BOTH you'd better let me finish this, monkey man," she glared at him.

"What?"

"Who do you think this plastic is FOR, Raditz?" she glared at him. Suddenly he blurred from view and appeared directly behind her to grab her in his large arms. Stellari whirled around and sent her fist out towards his face.

"Nicely done, but you're still a bit slow," Raditz complimented, grabbing her fist in his enormous hand. The gauntlet covered his wrists, but the palms were bare save the straps crossing his thumb and little finger that held the armor component in place.

"Bulma wants the research done on the high density polymer this afternoon! She's making new suits of armor for Trunks and Ve… I mean the Prince and I can't let her down," she said.

"Hmm," Raditz sniffed as he pinned her against the lab counter. "It smells much like that of those tin cans."

"You mean to tell me you can SMELL the androids?" she blinked.

"I'm a Saiyan, woman. When you've been purging planets most of your life, you learn to take in ANY scent that could clue you into the enemy's motives," Raditz chuffed.

"Then how come the Prince couldn't smell them?" she asked.

"His Majesty is a Royal. Their fighting skills are far superior to Third Class, but we rely more on our base instincts during a fight," Raditz explained.

"Wait a minute, you've given me an idea," Stellari said. Reaching up she grabbed the scouter off his ear. The suction gave way with an audible pop and Raditz rubbed his ear with a free hand.

"Do you mind?"

"These things can pick up any energy can't they?" she asked.

"Yes. But they are unable to account for potential battle power," Raditz shrugged. "And the Androids have no energy signature…"

"Except for their infinity batteries," Stellari said.

"Their power source? Of course, why didn't we think of that before? You're trying to tell me you can recalibrate my scouter to trace them that way?" Raditz nodded.

"Talk about mind reading, yes. I can't, but Bulma and her father can," she said. Raditz nodded and replaced the scouter once more. He saw the excitement in her face and decided to allow her to continue her work, but he insisted on watching her every move so she would not jeopardize the health of her young.

Raditz fought against the pounding behind his eyes. A light sniffling reached his ears, and he stared up into the blurry features of his spiky haired father, and an identically armored shape next to him. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Stellari moved close to him.

"Raditz! Wake up!" she urged.

"Precious one… you're all right!" he spluttered.

"Took you long enough to wake up, you lazy bum," Burdock grunted, giving his son's leg a playful kick.

"Father! What… where… I swore I heard Kakarotto!"

"My name's Goku," said the familiar voice. Son Goku stood on the other side of the bed, holding one of the twins while Stellari held the other. Burdock took the baby girl Saiyan from Stellari so she could throw her arms around Raditz neck. His strong arms wrapped her close and did not let her go.

"We triumphed then!" Raditz laughed.

"I understand why you did it, but he was my friend!"

"He betrayed you, Brother! He would have slain me to appear the hero. In addition, leave you to raise my children because he thought me unfit! This cannot go unpunished!" Raditz growled at Goku.

"What?"

"You had better listen to what he is saying, Son," Burdock said, grabbing Goku's shoulder.

"No… not Yamcha!"

"Wake up and smell the reality!" Stellari barked at Goku. "He would have done anything to prove his point! He even tried forcing himself on me!"

"I can't believe that Yamcha…" Goku squeezed his eyes shut.

"He did. Just by taking Stellari! Brother, open your eyes! He's one of them now!" Raditz snarled. He pulled Stellari onto the bed with him, and Burdock moved over to take the other child from Goku. Once she had both twins in her arms, she huddled against the bulk of Raditz.

"Goku, listen to me. I know what I am taking about. Raditz has no reason to make any of this up. Didn't he defend your own son, Gohan?"

"Is the boy all right?"

"Yes, he's all right. I managed to get a sensu to him," Goku nodded. "Chichi's just resting with him now. But if what you say is true about Yamcha."

"It is," Stellari said. Goku bit his lip when she recounted the whole story. Raditz added his own part as well. Pacing back and forth, Goku drew a deep sigh. To think that his own friends would sink so low just blew his mind. Even more so then the fact that Raditz and Piccolo were now his greatest allies.

"He was once a thief," said Stellari.

"Not that it justifies anything, but a desperate man will try anything to achieve his goal," said Burdock. Goku sank into the armchair near Raditz hospital bed. Miserable he hunched his shoulders, burying his face in his large hands. Tears formed in his eyes. Burdock grumbled and sat down on the armrest of the chair.

"No time for tears, boy. We must…"

"Father, let him be," Stellari said gently. "He doesn't know the Saiyan ways. He's human, like me…"

"Like you once were, girl," Burdock said quietly.

"What on earth are you talking about?" Stellari demanded.

"You passed ritual combat with me. I accepted you as a daughter in the family, as if you are a full blooded Saiyan before you were kidnapped," Burdock explained.

"IN all eyes of Saiyan law, you're one of us," Raditz said.

"Even for an 'inferior' race?" she grunted.

"You are no weakling," Raditz added. "Giving two children and fighting to protect them."

"That might be the case and I'm honored, but the point is that Goku's friends are now turning on him because they think we're a threat," Stellari said. She badly wanted to go comfort Goku, but Raditz held her firmly along with her children.

"Boy, I… suppose I must allow you your tears," Burdock grumbled.

"Crying doesn’t make me less of a warrior!" Goku snapped at him. "So you can just FORGET that nonsense now!"

"Father, let him be," Raditz relented. "Besides he can kick our asses. If feeling makes a Saiyan stronger then we might be the ones who can learn something."

"If you can accept me as a Saiyan and a human woman as a Saiyan Princess you should accept that Goku has a point. Both races will become one to survive," said Stellari.

"Earth is my home, and yours. Don't you see?" Goku huffed. "The Saiyan race doesn't have to separate itself. We can make a NEW legacy here, on Earth."

"And we are," Raditz said quietly. "With Gohan, and Trunks, and these two here."

"Piccolo was right when he said we can ALL protect earth. And we can't let these androids ruin our lives," Goku said passionately as he stood up. Eyes flared turquoise and then his energies flared nova white-hot. Burdock swallowed hard to see his hair standing on end and the entire floor shake with the energy of Goku's transformation.

"Must you do that indoors?" Burdock asked.

"I have to remain Super Saiyan to build up my powers to fight the Androids. That's what Gohan and I were doing while in the Time chamber."

"Can one really learn quickly in that place?" Burdock asked.

"Yes," Goku nodded.

"A day lasts a year, or so they say," Stellari said.

"Perhaps if you and Burdock entered, you might increase your own powers," said Goku.

"I don't wish to leave you alone for a whole day," said Raditz to Stellari. "Let alone a year."

"I'll do whatever it takes to better defend my family," said Burdock.

"Then perhaps I can take you," Goku said quietly. "While nobody's expecting it."

Stellari nodded, then turned to kiss Raditz one last time. He held her close and then kissed their children. Burdock nodded and both sons stood near their father. Goku bade them both to grasp his shoulders, then touched his forehead with two fingers. Soon Stellari was alone on the bed holding her children. Curling up with them, she allowed herself to sleep.

Elsewhere in the hospital, others relaxed and waited in lobbies and hospital bedrooms. Commandeered by Capsule, the Orange Star Hospital was the nerve center of Z warrior resistance, at least the Saiyan contingent. In one such lounge a few floors down, the Prince of all Saiyans and his son were trying to contemplate what to do next. The sun had just risen in bands of gold and orange, spreading in red bloody bands along the eastern sky. Sharp shadows and angles were cast by what seemed a harsher light. Bulma was asleep in one of the many beds, but Vegeta had left her side only an hour before the dawn to talk with Trunks.

Nappa had rocketed off in a jealous huff. The androids had taken his woman, and he intended to make them pay. Bliss had come to Trunks with tears in her eyes, pleading for his aid. Vegeta swore to take it upon himself, and now Trunks would endure leadership. Vegeta felt the power surge, and frowned when it vanished suddenly. Trunks sat up, crushing the Styrofoam coffee cup in his hand. Both of them looked at each other when their senses beheld the power traces a thousand miles away.

"He's taken his sire and brother to the lookout," said Vegeta thoughtfully. "I suppose he thinks they can be of some use."

"Makes sense, Father," said Trunks. "But now of all times?"

"We have to find Nappa and stop him from going crazy," said Vegeta.

"But that would leave this place undefended, Father," said Trunks.

Vegeta drew himself up to his full height, sticking his chin in the air. Resting gloved fists by either hip he said, "I have prepared for that. Turles and some of the other Saiyans will stay here and defend this place. In addition, you will stay here while I go after Nappa myself. And Kakkarotto's brat Gohan is also here."

"But Father…" Trunks protested.

"Kakarotto might end up hogging my glory when he returns. You can tell the clown to stay here and then you will fight at my side," Vegeta said with a mean grin. "And I will finally put an end to these pieces of scrap."

Trunks nodded, and squeezed his eyes shut shortly. Sighing he said, "All right Father. But don't let your pride get the best of you."

"Humph, you have much to learn of true Saiyan Pride, boy. But I suppose I'll take your advice under advisement," Vegeta grunted. HE grabbed his scouter and placed it on his ear. Touching the stud, he opened the link.

"Commander Turles sire?"

"Come and bring Burdock’s team to the base. Have them stand ready to defend here while I venture out after Nappa. Have Bliss join me," said he.

"Understood your majesty."

"Till then, my son is in charge. Obey him as you would me," said Vegeta. Trunks swallowed hard as his father said these words. Slowly he removed the scouter from his face and handed it to Trunks. Both wore the armored chest plates that Bulma had given them.

"Vegeta, what's all this about?" Bulma demanded, flinging open the door to the lounge.

"Stay here with Trunks. I'm going after Nappa," said Vegeta.

"But Trunks can…."

"This is a matter of Saiyan pride," said Vegeta.

"It's ALWAYS about that! We need you here! I cannot bear the thought of…" Bulma spluttered.

"Hush woman," Vegeta said, pulling her close. A quick kiss of his lips silenced her next words. Trunks hid a smile behind white-gloved hands to see his parents locked in each other's arms to share a last passionate smooch. Then he released a panting and breathless Bulma.

"Damn it, that's NOT fair, Vegeta!" she grumbled.

"Stay here, and protect your mother," said Vegeta. Reaching out he grasped Trunks shoulder.

"Be careful Father," Trunks nodded. Vegeta grunted then strode towards the bank of windows covering one wall of the lounge. Vertical blinds swished lazily back and forth, in the light of day. Vegeta opened the window, and then climbed out to levitate in midair. Bulma moved close to her son Trunks, who wrapped his arm around her shoulders to hold her close. Both watched Vegeta span his arms and roar loudly to summon the blazing gold flames of his Super Saiyan form. Strangely, the spikes of his hair stood up straighter. Muscles bulked and swelled to twice their size, giving Vegeta almost steroid musculature.

"What's he doing?"

"That's the form we discovered beyond Super Saiyan," Trunks said. "But he can't hold it for long. He must really think that he's going to battle his hardest."

"Vegeta…" Bulma yelped. Widows rattled with the force of the shockwave Super Vegeta left in his wake. Soon only a gleaming yellow star twinkled on the far horizon to remind them he had hovered there. Trunks held his worried mother close.

"Don't worry Mother, I can do the same. And if he needs me, I'll be there in a flash," said Trunks.

"But what if he doesn’t come back! There are three androids out there still! And four if you count Krillin's lady friend!" said she.

"Krillin’s managed to work some strange charm over her. She is actually staying with him at Kami house. She wants nothing to do with Android 13 or his plans. Piccolo and him managed to help her escape from the rest. So as long as she remains hidden, he can't touch them," Trunks whispered.

"You mean she's on OUR side?"

"For the moment," Trunks said. Bulma felt a surge of hope. If Krillin could change one android's mind and try to help her hang onto humanity, there might be hope for the others. She wiped tears from her eyes as she buried her face in Trunks chest. He had grown two inches in the year he had spent in the Hyperbolic time chamber, his muscles filling out the blue suit and white breastplate so he stood with the same bulk as Goku. Long hair spilled around his face on either side, giving him a solemn appearance.

"Trunks," she said, reaching up to touch his hair. She drew back and regarded him with clear blue eyes glistening with tears. Trunks wiped them away with a gloved finger.

"Yes mother?"

"Can I cut your hair right now? Before anything else happens? Not that you don't look cute like this, but I just think you might like to be able to see," she said, pushing a strand behind his ears.

"All right," he nodded, knowing that it would give her something to do so she could keep her mind off Vegeta's desperate mission. He let Bulma place her white gloved hand in his, leading him away to share a simple custom of haircutting. Life had to continue he realized, as the gleaming gold of the sun beamed through the windows and painted his curves and angles in its radiance.

"Father, come back soon," Trunks pleaded.

The room at the Orange Star hospital was a modified medical suite, the size of a general living room with sofas and a few chairs. One or two desks occupied a far corner, and a unisex bathroom stood just to the left of the main entrance. On one side of the chamber were floor to ceiling windows covered with half slatted vertical blinds. The Regeneration tank occupied the far left corner opposite the windows.

Muffled by fluid, the words of two people speaking came to Kinoha's ears. She blinked through the fluid that her body drifted inside, seeing the figures through the curves of the tank. Facing with his backside to the tank was her mate, she could tell by the sexy way in which his legs and torso merged together under that armor. His tail swished around his ankles and he was speaking to the Stellari girl who had mated her older son.

"She's coming round," said Burdock, spinning his head about. Stellari moved over to see the liquid sloshing around from the occupant. Quickly Burdock rushed to open the tank, and Raditz crossed the room to help him. He handed the baby he carried to Stellari so she held both twins on either hip. Fermi and Bohr walked over flanking her to watch the woman emerge.

"Mother, you're all right!" Raditz fussed. He tugged the leads off her. Burdock held out a robe for her to wrap around her because she was nude like many tank occupants.

"What… who… the babies!" she gasped.

"They're all right love, how are you feeling?" Burdock asked his mate. Carefully he pulled her into his arms. Inundated with nutrients, her hair dripped a large puddle onto the floor. Green ki surged around Burdock’s armored body to evaporate the liquid. Raditz rested a hand on his mother's shoulder.

"Put me down you dummy," she said in Saiyan. He did so, and they shared a kiss together. Raditz hugged her tightly when Burdock finally let her go.

"Mother…" said Stellari, rushing over with the twins.

"You're okay," said Fermi and Bohr excitedly.

"Young ones, I'm glad you're all right," she said, leaning down to give each of the twins a nip on the ear. Fermi and Bohr winced a bit but still allowed this since Stellari gave them a meaningful look. Striding over to her, Kinoha held out her arms to Stellari. Shyly Raditz mate walked over and accepted the hug. Kinoha took either baby and placed them on her hips.

"I hear this one risked his tail. Was that so, Burdock?" Kinoha asked. Burdock blushed as Stellari leaned over and hugged him, and Raditz gave his father an embrace as well.

"Shut up," Burdock mumbled, feeling embarrassed. His mate gave him an arched brow, and then handed her grandchildren back to Raditz and Stellari.

"He saved all three of us. He's a hero," Stellari said looking fondly at her father in law.

"I only wanted to stop that stupid android from being an ass," said Burdock, brushing off his newly repaired armor.

"Mother, I have a new set of armor for you here," said Raditz.

"Good boy," she nodded as he pulled a capsule from his pocket and handed it to her. "You're lucky, Stellaring, you know that."

"I am. He was worried sick. And I understand you tried to defend Chichi as well," said she.

Suddenly into the room appeared Goku, with Chichi in his arms. Frantic with worry Chichi rushed over and rested her hands on Kinoha's shoulders. "Oh thank Kami you're all right! I wanted to thank you for trying to save my little Gohan and me from those awful tin cans!"

"You're welcome," Kinoha laughed as Chichi gave her a crushing hug. The female Saiyan grasped Chichi up off her feet to return it and Chichi laughed. Setting her down the two women looked at one another fondly. Goku awkwardly shifted weight from one foot to the other seeing his wife so comfortable with his birth mother he hardly knew.

"I… wanted to thank you too," Goku said nodding his head as he strode over.

"You're welcome, my boy," she smiled warmly. Goku held out his arms and she went to him, giving him a hug as well. Not sure of what to do, Goku patted her back awkwardly. She nodded and separated herself from him.

"And all three of you had quite a battle didn't you?" said Kinoha.

"How could you tell?" Goku asked. She tapped her temple and grinned.

"Mating bond. I suppose that's something I'll have to fill you in on, my boy," she said to Goku.

"Yes someone SHOULD explain this to me!" Chichi glared at Goku who sighed.

"Is Gohan all right?" asked Kinoha.

"He's still healing in the hospital," said Chichi.

"Why not put him in a tank?" asked Kinoha.

"Because I don't want to push him! He needs to rest!" Chichi answered. Burdock shook his head and sighed.

"Since you're his mother, I respect your judgment," said Kinoha, with a look at Burdock.

"I'm glad SOMEONE does," Chichi sniffed. Stellari coughed loudly.

"Um, I'm sure we have a lot to catch up on, Mother. But perhaps we can do so over some food?" Stellari said.

"Good idea, Stellaring. I'm starving," said Kinoha.

"That's one thing we have in common," Goku chuckled. She smiled at him, her ivory teeth gleaming brightly in the artificial light. Accepting the armor, she strode over to the small bathroom off the chamber to put it on.

"Well, what does Bulma say?" asked Burdock.

"Basically Vegeta and Trunks have spotted Seventeen and Thirteen out looking for me. They've watched but haven't done anything fortunately. But Vegeta says I should stay in hiding till he decides what to do," Goku wrung his hands. "She's also traced that missing console."

"What missing console?" Burdock asked.

"Um, the one from Nappa's space pod," Raditz answered.

"Drek, no wonder the androids have counters to our powers," Burdock suddenly answered. All heads swiveled on the warrior.

"Father, what are you talking about?" asked Raditz, narrowing his eyes.

"When Bliss was rescued she said she heard about a missing console. We never found it," said Burdock. Thoughtfully he scratched his temple just under the red blood soaked bandana he wore in honor of Torah.

"Bulma says Krillin has. It was in the house that Seventeen and Eighteen were using as a 'base'. Krillin’s brought it back to Capsule for them to look at. It was really… different," said Goku.

"Why did THEY have it?" asked Burdock.

"I don't know. Krillin said he was trying to get answers from 18. He's gone to look for her to meet her in their usual place…"

"Usual WHAT?" Stellari asked.

"I think he and 18 are dating," Goku said with a chuckle. "She's staying at Kame house right now. Krillin and Master Roshi are watching after her because she wants nothing to do with Seventeen or the other androids any more. Luckily seventeen has no idea where she is."

"How is THAT possible?" asked Burdock.

"Um, another little device Bulma made. Those um… neutrino thingies disrupt android communication as well as power. So as long as 18 has one with her, they can't track her. And she's willing to help us," said Goku.

"Since when did THIS happen?" Burdock blinked.

"It's news to me!" Stellari said, grabbing Goku's arm.

"Krillin convinced her to help us. She doesn't care for 13 at all, and is worried about her brother. She knew that if she joined him, she'd have no chance to escape. But putting her trust in us, she figured she might have a chance to save them both," said Goku quietly.

"I say we trust her," said Raditz.

"Why?" Burdock asked.

"Because love makes people do strange things," Raditz said with a wry grin at Stellari.

"I still can't believe Krillin has fallen in love with one of those robots," Chichi shook her head. "But at least one of them has sense!"

"The Prince has ordered all of us to stay back while he scouts with Nappa, and the other elites. My crew's busy protecting West City and Capsule," Burdock said folding his arms. "Luckily no androids have dared attack. But something tells me they're still going with that Android Games plan."

"Yes they are," said Goku quietly. "18 told us all she knew. Bulma wants all of you to come back to Capsule. At least where it's safe."

"I thought Capsule was under attack," Kinoha said as she strode out, wearing her armor once more. She shifted the silver arm rings that matched that on Burdock’s upper left arm into position again. This time she wore a blue vest and black spandex beneath it. The shoulder straps of her armor were brown and it had no armored panels.

"Not anymore. Not till the games," said Goku. "We have two weeks. Android 13 has issued a challenge to all Saiyans to show themselves there. If any of us attack any androids or humans they'll kill any Saiyans they see."

"So that's why the Prince wants us to hide in the shadows," Burdock muttered, pacing around.

"I don't like it at all," Kinoha snorted.

"The Prince wants you to take Chichi and the children, and watch over them. That includes Gohan," said Burdock.

"But Gohan could fight…" said Goku.

Angrily Chichi stormed up and glared at him. "No more! Gohan nearly DIED. I will NOT allow him to fight! I refuse it!" said she.

"But we need his help!" Goku protested.

"Not THIS again," Stellari sighed, shaking her head as Fermi and Bohr moved close to her and Raditz.

"I've heard ENOUGH!" Burdock thundered. He clapped his hand into his fist, making a loud popping sound that stopped Chichi in mid tirade.

"Father?" Raditz asked.

"Goku, you're a FOOL to let that boy fight! He's not got the proper control of his powers!"

"He HAS," Goku said angrily, glaring at Burdock.

"Maybe, but the boy is of more use protecting his mother," said Burdock. "Especially since the Prince, his son, and Raditz and you are Super Saiyans."

"I disagree!" Goku said angrily, marching over and stepping right in front of Burdock. Arms folded across his chest Burdock stared his son straight in the eye. Fisting his hands at his sides, Goku bit his lip.

"Goku… Kakarotto, you know I’m right. Gohan shouldn't have to fight when I am alive and well. If you and Raditz can achieve this legendary, then what's to stop me from trying?" Burdock asked.

"Father…" said Raditz quietly.

"He's right," Kinoha nodded. "I'm tired of having my grandchildren die when we're the warriors. Gohan is no warrior."

"But he is! He's stronger than me! Only HE can defeat 13!" Goku blurted out.

"Bullshit," said Chichi angrily. "He's only eight years old and he's SCARED!"

"Chichi… please!" Goku whirled his head on her. Everyone stood in strange odd clusters, Goku facing his father while Chichi stood to his immediate right, and Kinoha flanked her own husband. This left the twins near their mother and Raditz as spectators to the fierce argument.

"You don't get it, Kakarotto. He's my grandson and I say he stays to protect the family. Your wife is RIGHT," said Burdock angrily.

"You don't have a say in this!" Goku blurted out. His hair flared gold as a blast of wind knocked them back, and flames surrounded him.

"Brother, stop it!" Raditz snapped, as Chichi leapt back and dove behind the sofa for cover. She knew her husband wouldn't hurt her, but she was so stressed she wanted to take no chances. Fermi and Bohr closed ranks to shield Stellari with a glowing purple TK field and windows rattled.

"You're baring your fangs at me, pup?" Burdock laughed as he sized up Goku. Heaving with anger Goku stared down at his father with turquoise eyes.

"You… you don't understand!" Goku said in a deepened voice. "He's got to fight."

"No he doesn't," Burdock said firmly, hands on his hips. "Not if I fight in his place."

"But… but…" Goku stammered. Another gold aura flashed against the windows, rattling the panes and causing papers to flutter around the room. Kinoha moved over to shield Chichi who was huddled behind the sofa.

"Brother, listen to him," Raditz said, zipping between Goku and Burdock. Two pairs of turquoise eyes fixed in a deadlock staring match. Power surged between Goku and a Super Saiyan Raditz. Suddenly it seemed bolts of lightning crackled around Goku, and it terrified Chichi. The door suddenly flew open to reveal Trunks wearing a drape, half his hair cut while the rest flopped on one side of his face. Chasing him was Bulma carrying a pair of sheers.

"What are you doing?" Trunks cried. "Are you trying to shake the hospital apart? Goku!"

Yelling, Trunks flared his own Super Saiyan energies. His hair stood up on end, half of it spiky while the rest was short giving him an uneven comical appearance. Widows shattered, showering everyone with glass. Fermi and Bohr threw up their hands, generating a TK shield to stop the assault. Bulma screamed, hands to her ears.

"Goku stop it!" Chichi screamed, pushing her face into Kinoha's breastplate. Both of them huddled in a corner for cover. Burdock stood his ground, behind Raditz who moved between father and son. Trunks pushed Raditz back, his own eyes fixing into Goku's. Lightening surged through the room, vaporizing and setting things on fire.

"His power's incredible," gasped Trunks. "He's… he's gone beyond Super Saiyan Ultra…"

"Goku! Knock it off now!" Bulma screamed at him.

Trunks flared his own power, muscles bulking up. Yet Goku's entire body crackled with blue lightening, his hair standing up on end and glowing hot white as his eyes and face took on a terrifying fierce appearance.

"Enough," Raditz said. "Goku, listen to us."

As soon as the wind had started, it stopped. Still electricity crackled across Goku's upheld hand. In surprise he glanced down at himself, then at Trunks blocking his immediate space. Almost nose to nose the Ultra Super Trunks faced off against this ascended Goku. "You… that's even more powerful than me."

The golden glow surrounding Raditz subsided at the same time the lightening faded. Hair leeching of its radiance, Goku seemed to diminish in stature. At the same time Trunks did as well, his hair dropping back to its former position. Bulma clicked her tongue, still brandishing her scissors. Burdock’s muscles twitched a bit, and he leveled his gaze on Goku again. Sighing, Goku shook his head and exhaled. Chichi and Kinoha rose from the ground, still keeping their distance from the immediate area.

"Are you done yet?" Bulma asked angrily. "You're lucky you didn't cause more damage with this shit! What were you thinking?"

"I think we need to talk privately, Kakarotto," said Burdock slowly as he looked at Goku.

"Fine, I agree," Goku nodded. "Chichi, stay here. I won't be long."

"Where are you going?" Trunks asked his hair still only half cut.

"Someplace less fragile I think," said Burdock.

"I'm coming too," Raditz said.

"Me too!" said Trunks.

"Wait; let me finish cutting your hair at least!" Bulma grumbled. “This is the second time you’ve gotten out of me doing this since we arrived here!”

“Mom!” groaned Trunks, blushing. This quashed a very tense moment that had evolved in the room. Especially evident when Burdock started to laugh along with Goku. Yet when both father and son met eye to eye, the smile faded.

“All right Trunks, let Bulma finish the haircut,” Goku relented. “Come and join us when you’re ready.”