Disclaimer: I don't own DBZ or the characters

"Bulma, hide your energy. Keep it hidden, no matter what."

The child nodded again and watched as her sister exited the warehouse. Her eyes caught the enemies, but she refrained from leaving the spot. She knew her sister had to have a way out of there, but when she saw her surrendering to the men she nearly gasped. Why was her sister giving up? It couldn't be.

She wanted to call out to her, but she felt the consciousness of her sister demanding she stay put. It was then that the big, green alien blasted the woman in the chest causing her to cough up blood. Bulma's eyes widened, her mouth dropping as no audible sound left her. She couldn't have seen what she did. It just couldn't happen.

That horrible monster had killed her sister.

Bulma kept her energy low, mainly because she had dropped to her knees. "Hey, she's still breathing," reached Bulma's ears, the reddish-brown fiend's voice only passing through her mind. She barely registered him saying, "Well, a strong one. That's alright. Lord Cooler will determine your fate. You and your mate's."

"What about the little brat?" the other alien questioned.

"Leave her. She wasn't important anyway."

Bulma jolted awake covered in sweat, her hand clutching her hair. "Bulma." Her head turned swiftly to see her mate was awake as well. He reached out for her, and she latched onto him clinging to his bare chest, gripping tightly on his body.

Vegeta had been stunned when he felt his mate's panic, and awoke to find her tossing and turning. Whatever she was dreaming was awful. He wondered if it had anything to do with the time she was captured by Cold. It had been traumatic for her, and she would occasionally have a dream that shook her soul, but she always calmed once Vegeta's arms wrapped around her. This time, it didn't have much of an effect as she continued to take ragged breaths and get control of herself. "Bulma," he called again, softer this time. "Are you all right?"

"Uh," she murmured out. "I…I…I don't know."

He patted her back, hoping she'd relax soon. "It's okay. It was only a dream. It wasn't real, remember?"

"Y-Yeah," Bulma stuttered, unconvinced. It had certainly felt real. She was still shaky as she pulled away from him, going to their window and looking out into the night. Vegeta joined her, taking her in his arms from behind. He had never seen her so shaken from a nightmare before. He wanted to make it go away.

"Mom, are you okay?"

"We sensed you all the way from our rooms, Mama."

Bulma and Vegeta turned to face their twenty year old son and fourteen year old daughter, Bulla. The woman forced a smile and tried to reassure her children. "It was just a bad dream," she conveyed. "I will be fine."

"That must have been some dream," Trunks muttered. "Do you need anything? I can go get you some water if you want."

"Maybe kamormiru tea?" Bulla offered as an alternative.

"Bring her both," Vegeta ordered. "Thank you."

"No problem, dad," Trunks replied as he hurried his sister out of the room.

Vegeta's attention was back on his mate, finally breathing at a somewhat normal pace. His hands began caressing her back in a comforting manner, his tail coiling around her wrist. "Would you like to tell me what that was all about?"

"It…that…that friend of mine, the imaginary one," Bulma stated. "I haven't had that dream in such a long time. It…it doesn't make any sense, Vegeta."

He nuzzled her neck and whispered against her skin. "Bulma, it's been thirty-five years since I was rescued, and I still have nightmares about Frieza. Clearly, it still affects you, what you dreamt all those years ago."

"Yeah, but it made no sense, Vegeta. I remembered the alien killing the imaginary friend, but nothing else. This time I heard voices. They were as clear as day."

"What did they say?" he questioned softly.

"S-She…told me to hide my energy and stay hidden, and I could feel her mandating I stay put when she interacted with the aliens. One of them killed her, and then they said Cooler would determine her fate, and asked what they should do about me, said I wasn't important. I woke up then. I didn't even know of Cooler back then, so why…?"

"We have been preparing all these years for him, just as I had been when I had that one horrid dream, the first time you visited Planet Vegeta, the one where Frieza morphed into King Cold and Cooler."

Bulma nodded. It made sense that she was projecting her anxieties in her dream. Still, she felt so shaken, she didn't know if she could get back to sleep. Sensing this, Vegeta suggested they walk the grounds for a while. By the time they returned, their children would have brought her the drinks. It would be a difficult day ahead if Bulma couldn't get rest, for they were to be a part of very important meetings the next day.

The royals of Planet Needell were arriving to discuss matrimonial bonds. For years, the king had been trying to get him to accept a proposal for his daughter. The king's sons were much older than Bulla, and their culture was starkly different from theirs. He honestly didn't want to bind his daughter to marriage. He preferred for her to have a choice. There were enough Saiyan males vying for her attention. It was fairly innocent considering her age, but she was respected for her opinions and sharp mind. The Needellens did not care much for the opinion of their women. They were supposed to be seen, not heard. In fact, they could only speak when addressed, and they could receive no physical contact for it would "taint" them.

Vegeta had a deal for the king, though. He found out after their last visit that Trunks had gotten close to their princess, Thia. The older prince had never seen his son so smitten before. He had confessed to his father that he invited the woman to watch him train, and then, ignorant of their customs, took her hand. This happened four years ago when the prince was sixteen. He and Thia were of the same age, both enjoying each other's company. Trunks told his father that Thia had been upset, blamed herself for not stopping him. To be honest, Trunks had secretly been wanting to court her, not ruin her in the eyes of her people. The two teenagers had been hiding this secret for years, never telling her father or brothers for they would dishonor her for just one, simple touch.

His son had been courting the Needellen princess in secret, showing her the Saiyan way of life. He treasured her and her opinions, always convincing her to be more assertive and relaxed. Thia responded well to the courtship doing things with the prince that would be forbidden in her culture, even during a courting. With courting, she could only hold hands or allow a kiss on the appendage, but if she allowed anything else, she would be ruined for marriage, even if it was to the one courting her.

With Trunks, she didn't care. Saiyans were quite physical with their courtships. They did not rest together until mateship, but during their courtship Thia found herself pressed up against the wall of a hidden corridor, the prince making her feel sensations that made her feel alive.

Explaining all of this to his father was difficult. Trunks felt guilty for hiding his courtship with the princess, but her parents would have murdered her if they found out. He would lose himself in her, forgetting everything about her culture, and she would egg him on stroking his tail. She wanted it, too. If Trunks officially courted her, she would remain on Planet Vegeta with them, and she would be free of this restrictive culture. She wouldn't have to fear her father's or brother's wrath. Vegeta agreed to formally petition for his son to court their princess in exchange for the king to stop pushing his sons on his underage daughter.

That wasn't the only meeting they had the following day. King Vegeta had heard from the Galactic Patrol. There was finally activity on the Arcosian front. Cooler was beginning to go after unallied worlds to increase his territory. With Cooler actively pursuing more lands, it was safe to assume that trouble was brewing. It had been what they were preparing for, probably why his mate had had such a vivid dream.

The prince led Bulma to the gardens, the night breeze doing the woman some good. She was starting to relax despite the realness of her dream. It still made no sense to her why she was dreaming about Tights again. After she awoke, her memories were still hazy, but the scene in the dream was ever present in her mind. Maybe, after all these years, she was finally beginning to lose her sanity.

Her head rested on Vegeta's shoulders as they sat down and enjoyed the evening air. Bulma was no longer shaking, which was a good sign, but she was still incredibly tense. "Will you be okay for later?"

"I will," Bulma assured him. "Besides, who else is going to help taper your temper when the king tries to reject your proposal?" Vegeta narrowed his eyes playfully at his mate. She smiled and started stroking his tail. "You know he wants Inone or Zolid to marry Bulla so that they can one day rule. They only wanted to marry off their daughter to someone else to form an alliance. I feel so bad for the poor girl."

Vegeta nodded. Having a daughter himself, he couldn't imagine silencing her or putting her down. The Needellen king always had something negative to say about his daughter, including the line where no one wanted to court her. Since Trunks did, it would have to be good enough to strengthen the alliance between the kingdoms. The young prince had already admitted that he would fight for her if need be, but if he fought the princes, they'd most likely need to be hospitalized. After Trunks heard them degrade the girl in front of him, he always saw red whenever he saw the two men. "She will be safe here," he assured the woman. "We will not tell them that Trunks has secretly been courting her. As we know, Saiyan relationships are private, anyway. They cannot ask anything, and if they agree, they will be allowing Thia to be courted under our customs, not theirs."

"It might piss them off, but I am not letting Bulla be courted by those ass wipes," Bulma growled, crossing her arms.

Vegeta chuckled at her and pulled her close. "Do not worry, woman. I would never allow our daughter to be put in that situation. The Princess of Saiyans will not be silenced."

Bulma flashed her mate a thankful smile. "I love you," she murmured.

"You complete me," Vegeta replied with a smirk before granting her a gentle kiss.

The morning came quickly, and Vegeta had to wake Bulma up. Normally Bulma woke up on her own, but she had been exhausted after her dream. The prince forced his mate to get ready for their day, and she quickly obliged. It was not a meeting she wanted to be late for. It decided the father of her son's and the Needellen princess's happiness.

Trunks was overwhelmed with joy as he sensed Thia's energy appear on the planet. He had their day all planned out, hoping to show her around the city more. Each time she visited, her father would not permit her to leave the palace grounds. He feared she would allow another man to touch her. It was already too late for that.

"So, your girlfriend made it," Tarble teased, Trunks snickering and shoving his shoulder. "Shut up," he laughed. "You're one to talk. How's Cella? Did Raditz and Peppan take it well?"

"They did," Tarble replied, blushing profusely. "I can't bring myself to call them aunt and uncle anymore…"

Trunks shook his head at his uncle's discomfort. "That's why I left that out."

Tarble smiled sheepishly at his nephew, though Trunks was more like a brother to him. They grew up together, always getting into trouble together until they started taking their lives more seriously. "Did you tell Vegeta yet? About being a doctor, I mean?"

Trunks nodded. "He supported it," he answered. "I'm not surprised. Nappa's son was a doctor, after all. And I still plan on training and fighting. I wouldn't give that up for the world."

The other prince grinned before frowning. "At least you've been able to study medicine and work with the palace doctors," Tarble grumbled. "I can't bring myself to tell my father I don't want to be part of the army. I'd rather help Bulma in the lab."

"If you asked, I'm sure she'd let you," Trunks offered. "Hell, if my dad can accept that Bulla wants to be an artist, grandpa can accept that you want to work on improving technology."

"You have a point," Tarble agreed. "I…just don't know when it would be the right time to tell him."

"You could tell dad," Trunks tried again. "When you decide to tell grandpa, he and mom would support you."

"Thanks," the other prince replied. "Now, you should probably get to the meeting. Tell Thia I said 'hi.'"

"Funny," Trunks teased, "I was going to say the same thing about Cella."

The two boys chuckled and shook their heads and got going to their respective destinations. It was going to be a big day. Trunks could feel it in his heart.

He had no idea what was to come.

Bulla was walking the grounds just trying to get away from the palace. She was no idiot. She knew she'd run into Inone or Zolid. The Saiyan princess couldn't stand either of the Needellen princes. They saw her as an object to be possessed, and Bulla was no object.

The fourteen year old didn't know what the meeting was about, but she was certain the king was trying to arrange a marriage between her and one of his sons. Bulla grimaced. They were so much older than her. At least her parents assured her she had a say in whoever she decided to mate. She was thankful they were on her side.

Unbeknownst to her, her parents would be attempting to get her out of the situation entirely. She did know that her brother had loving feelings towards the princess, but she didn't know it meant anything. She saw them together at times, him kissing her when they two thought they were being sneaky. Bulla never told anyone, for she knew their planet's customs better than anyone. Besides, her older brother was happy. At least he had a chance of being with the one he wanted to court.

The one person with whom she wanted to enter courtship was on another planet entirely.

"Princess."

The cold, stern greeting of Inone caused Bulla's anger level to rise. She turned to regard the man and his brother approaching her. Of course, she mentally scoffed as she crossed her arms. "What?"

Both princes' eyes narrowed. "You should not speak to us that way," Zolid spoke. "After all, one of us might be your intended after today."

"Hell. No." Bulla retorted slowly, not caring that the two proper princes looked highly shocked and insulted. "My father would never agree to marry me off to one of you. You're like ten years older than me. Haven't you gotten the picture? I will not be objectified."

"Watch it," Inone hissed. "It is unbecoming of a princess to curse like that."

"Well, who cares about that shit?" she emphasized, angering both men once again. "We have a large difference between our customs, and I want nothing to do with you. Unlike on your planet, I actually have a say on who I enter courtship with." They were about to say something when she added, "And no, I don't have to tell you anything. Saiyan courtships are private." She smirked. "So if I've already entered one, there's no way I'd tell you about it."

She saw Inone's fists clench. She knew she'd get more of a rise out of him, and it didn't bother her. From what she sensed, she was much stronger than him. All he had to do was strike her and she could take him out. Out of nowhere, though, Raditz showed up and pulled her behind him. "I wouldn't do that," he informed the girl before glaring at the princes. "They probably wouldn't tell you this, but you making physical contact with them, even in self-defense, can betroth you to them unless you're already in courtship with someone else. Head to my house. Cella wants to see you."

"Okay," Bulla huffed. "Thanks, Uncle Raditz."

The older Saiyan didn't respond, but his glare held the princes at bay as Bulla flew off to his and Peppan's home. "I don't know what you were thinking, but if you had laid a hand on her, no amount of negotiations would have saved you. You'd have an entire race to contend with."

Inone scoffed. "Like you would do anything. No one would be stupid enough break the alliance."

"We wouldn't be the ones breaking the alliance," Raditz stated. "Aggressive behavior towards women is outlawed on this planet, and had you gone after the princess, you would have been spitting on the alliance, not us. Return to the palace immediately, and if I catch wind of either of you near the princess, just know you might lose a limb or two. A friendly warning."

Raditz slipped away from the two, leaving them in stunned stupor. Inone glowered at the now empty spot while Zolid scoffed and shook his head. "Watch yourself, Inone," Zolid admonished. "I hate how disrespectful she in, but you need to control your temper. If you don't get ahold of yourself, you could cause an intergalactic incident."

"Whatever," Inone grumbled. "Let's just find father."

The meeting was going well, though the king had at first had difficulty accepting the new arrangement. He knew the Saiyan prince, the future king, would not budge on the issue of his daughter's marriage. He did not want Princess Bulla to marry into their planets customs. Truthfully, the Needellen king did not want his daughter to partake in Saiyan rituals; however, no one else was interested in marrying her. Her strange appearance, tanned skin, black hair, and green eyes, in stark contrast to their race's light appearance, auburn hair, and turquoise eyes, was undesired among not only their soldiers, but many other races. The fact that the Saiyan prince was willing to take this child off of his hands in exchange for a planetary alliance would have to be enough.

If this teenager claimed to be in love with her, it was his loss.

The king would have to share the bittersweet news with his sons, but in the meantime, Trunks and Thia were able to go wherever they wanted. Now that Planet Vegeta would be her new home, the prince couldn't wait to begin the tour. He knew she would love it. She was already excited that she no longer had to hide her relationship with the Saiyan in fear of death.

The two of them, before fleeing the palace, ended up sharing a passionate kiss in the middle of the garden. Unfortunately, they had to be caught by Thia's brothers, Zolid instantly running to punch the Saiyan in the face.

Thia gasped when Trunks was nearly knocked over, having not been prepared. He managed to catch himself and wiped his mouth before he glared at the other prince. "May we help you?" he uttered darkly.

"Get your filthy hands off of my sister," Zolid demanded. "Our father will have both your heads for this."

Thia paled, but Trunks merely chuckled. "Clearly you haven't spoken to the king, yet," he slurred, a victorious smirk angering the Needellen. "I received your father's permission to court your sister. She will be living here, and your father, however much he didn't like it, knows she will be courted under our customs and not yours. It was a compromise considering my father will not yield when it comes to Bulla. If I catch either of you near my sister or intended again, well, let's just say you won't survive."

Zolid glowered at his rival prince, but he said nothing, his lips pressed firm into a thin line. He turned tail and left, indicating Inone to follow him. The older prince, Inone, sent a raging glare over to the newly official couple. Though Trunks was unfazed, he felt an intense foreboding in that look. His eyes narrowed, indicating that he wouldn't back down, and Inone looked away.

The Saiyan's attention went back to his intended. He graced her with a warm smile and embraced her shaking form. "Don't worry," he whispered in her ear. "I won't ever let them come after you."

She responded with a sheepish grin. "Thank you, Prince Trunks."

"Nuh-uh," Trunks scolded. "What did we say about the titles and all that? We're courting, Thia. I'm not going to treat you badly for dropping my title. You don't have to be insanely proper every moment."

"I forget sometimes, Trunks," Thia replied, taking his hands. "Now, what did you have planned for the day?"

"A whole heck of a lot," he answered with a wink, making the princess blush. "Just, let's go check in with Nappa first. If anyone comes looking for us, he'll let them know we went out."

Due to the negotiations with the Needellen king running late, plus having to see them off since the king's disgruntled sons wanted to leave the planet, Vegeta and Bulma were running late in meeting with the Galactic Patrolman. That meeting would take place in the throne room with his parents. Zorn informed them that the appointment had already begun.

Vegeta pushed open the doors to the throne room, his eyes focusing on the agent who had visited. He was astounded when he saw the familiar face of the patrolman he had briefly met on the jungle planet, the one he let go despite Frieza's orders. "Jaco," he greeted coolly, though his voice did reveal his surprise.

The short agent turned away from the king and queen to look at the prince and his mate. He too seemed amazed. "Prince Vegeta," he returned. "It's good to see you again. It's been a while."

The prince nodded before looking to his father. "So, what information did he bring?"

"Actually," the queen interjected, "your father wanted to wait for you and Bulma to arrive. We have just been catching up. How was your meeting with the Needellen king?"

"It went well," Bulma replied. "Trunks is officially courting Thia. She will be residing in the palace close to Bulla." The princess looked over to Jaco, who seemed to be studying her, and became wary. "Um, yes?"

"Nothing," Jaco answered. "You just look very familiar. I can't place it."

"Well, she is our leading scientist," the king offered. "Maybe that's how you know her."

"Maybe…" Jaco breathed out, still trying to figure it out before shaking his head. "Anyway, now that everyone is here, we need to discuss a few things."

"You have the floor," Vegeta allowed. "We want to know everything."

"For starters," Jaco began, "we have reports indicating that Cooler has reinstated the Planet Trade Organization, and there have been planets that his soldiers have been apprehending outside of the alliance, even some distant planets we have not yet heard of or discovered. He is hoping to forge a powerful army to come directly after the Saiyans. Some royals on allied planets have made agreements with the frost demon, and they have been let go. So far, they are just minor planets, but it's only a matter of time before Cooler becomes bolder. He blames the Saiyans for his father's death. Since he was not there, he only heard from other Arcosian citizens that Prince Vegeta attacked, and he knew nothing of his father going after his mate, so he believes the Saiyans actively declared war. He won't rest until you all fall."

"It figures," Vegeta grunted. "I can believe it. Even if Cooler knew that his father had lured us there by kidnapping Bulma and planned to kill me en route, he would still come for us. He cared nothing for Frieza, but everything for his father."

Jaco nodded. "You got it. Hit the nail on the head. Also, we at the Galactic Patrol have contacted Earth. Cooler is planning on travelling to the planet. He believes that, despite the broken alliance, it will spur war between the Saiyans and Arcosians, seeing as it's the princess's planet. We heard that you, King Vegeta, attempted to mend the bond with Earth and they refused. Because of this new threat, they are open to renegotiation, but only if the Galactic Patrol has advocates present. They want no misunderstandings."

King Vegeta internally panicked and looked to his son and Bulma. "We already knew," Vegeta explained. "Kakarot informed me years ago."

"I didn't want to disappoint you," the king apologized.

Vegeta shrugged. "It's fine," he retorted before retuning his attention to Jaco. "So basically, Cooler plans to attack Earth. When?"

"Unfortunately, we have no idea," Jaco sighed. "We know that there is still time. He's planning something else that will take time, but whatever the project is, we haven't a clue. He won't descend upon Earth until it's ready. It may be months before he ever arrives; however, I recommend that negotiations take place immediately."

"We agree," the queen declared. "Please, set up the meeting right away."

"Sounds like a plan," Jaco said happily. He looked over to Vegeta. "If anyone has a chance of finally getting rid of the Cold family, it's you."

"Thank you for this information," the prince responded before looking to his mate. "I will go discuss this with Raditz and look for volunteers."

"Vegeta…" His attention shifted when his father spoke, his eyes guarded. "If we're going to renegotiate the deal, you can bring anyone along with you. I'm sure many in the army would volunteer, but you will be able to bring more soldiers if you need."

If Vegeta was touched by his father's words, he didn't show it, but Bulma sensed something stir in her mate's mind. "We can discuss tactics later. I still must discuss some things with Raditz, and our children may want to accompany us to visit their other mother world."

"Of course," Kalina responded. "You and Bulma are dismissed. We will discuss a time for negotiation with Jaco and give you the details later."

Vegeta led Bulma out of the room, and once they were sure no one was around Bulma hugged Vegeta tightly. "I can't believe it," she whispered. "We…We can really go back? That actually just happened, right?"

Her answer was a satisfied smirk and a chaste kiss on her forehead. "It happened. How are you feeling? I can't get a decent read on you."

"Sorry," Bulma apologized. "I'm just excited and happy and just a little scared. I've missed mom so much, and Kakarot and Chi Chi. I haven't spoken to my dad ever since…"

"It's a big deal," Vegeta interposed, "but it will be fine. We will have to speak with Trunks and Bulla. They'll both want to go. Our daughter has been itching to meet Kakarot's second brat."

Bulma laughed. Her mate was highly correct. There had been many times in the last night hours where they had stumbled across Bulla in the communications room speaking with Goten. It made sense that they got along as they were very close in age. Lately, though, Bulma had seen a change in her daughter. Whenever they spoke with Kakarot's family, she always made sure to dress up. She rarely did unless she was trying to impress. The princess, also, did not express interest in courting any Saiyans who pursued her or requested a single date. Most of the time, she walked in on her daughter complaining about boys to the Earthbound Saiyan. "So you noticed that, hm?"

"She's not very discrete in her actions," Vegeta chuckled. "Last week she asked to skip training because she was working on one of her art projects. I went to contact Kakarot, and she was there talking with the boy."

"She didn't see you, did she?" Bulma asked with motherly concern.

Vegeta shrugged. "If she did, she didn't react to my presence. I slipped back out to give them their privacy. It isn't right to eavesdrop, and I did enough of that when I overheard you talking with the harpy that first day."

The couple started walking side by side through the palace when Bulma said, "You know I don't mind that. If you hadn't, you wouldn't have known to come to the club and things might have turned out differently."

The prince hummed in response before he stopped by the courtyard. "I'm going to reconvene with Raditz. I know my father is okay with sending soldiers along with us, and that is fine, but truthfully I think we all need to go. Raditz, Peppan, Cella, and even Bardock should accompany us. I would prefer if Nappa was there as well, for Bulla's sake at least. The whole army cannot come with us, not when it's possible that Cooler could attack this planet instead. Unlike with Frieza, I don't know how Cooler thinks or what his plan is. He is nothing like that bastard or their father."

Bulma sighed. "I guess we have our work cut out for us. I'll go find Bulla. I'm sure Trunks is out with Thia, still. We can tell them all when Trunks comes back."

"We should go out tonight," Vegeta suggested. "To the restaurant. We can tell them there. We should tell Tarble, as well. He's expressed interest in visiting Earth. Knowing Cella will most likely be going to meet the rest of her family will increase that desire."

"I'll tell him, too," Bulma agreed with a wink. "Now, I don't want to hold you up. See you later?"

Vegeta held her close and pressed his lips to hers. It was quick, and he pulled away to reply. "Of course, woman." And then he was gone.

Bulma couldn't help but lick her lip before nibbling on it as she grinned. She was still so shocked that she was finally going to return to her planet. It made her realize just how much she loved her home world. She did love Planet Vegeta, too. Her heart held hope that the two planets would be able to come to an agreement. If that happened, she'd be able to visit her family any time, and Kakarot's family would be able to visit the other half of their family.

She had faith that everything would work out. It had to.

"I just can't stand those jerks!"

Bulla huffed and tossed herself back in a chair as she looked at the face on the screen. Goten had offered her a sheepish smile before asking, "What happened?"

The princess scoffed and crossed her arms. "Those Needellens happened. Thankfully all that garbage is over. Trunks is courting their princess, so they'll stay away from me. I've been hearing it around the palace all day. The creeps left today."

"That's good news, though," Goten replied unsure earning a glare. He nervously rubbed the back of his head. "What did I say wrong, Bulla?"

"Nothing," she eventually sighed. "I just can't deal with this anymore. I get that I'm almost fifteen, but other races are pressuring me to be betrothed to someone. I don't want that."

"You said your parents wouldn't force you to do anything you didn't want to do," Goten reminded her. "You have to trust that they'll handle all that stuff. Instead of worrying about it, focus on the things you like to do, like training or the art stuff. By the way, congrats on the winning submission in the art competition on Planet Tairyn. I was able to look it up."

"How?" Bulla questioned. "I thought certain communications were barred for you guys."

"It was a neutral planet, Bulla. I asked dad about it after you told me about the submission. I wanted to see it."

"But why?" she pressed, blushing profusely and hoping Goten couldn't tell over their connection.

Goten seemed perplexed that she was even asking that. "Because it was yours," he answered simply. "You're good at what you do."

"Thanks," she returned, turning away slightly in embarrassment, her face still red. "I feel a little better now. You're right. Mama and Papa won't agree to anything if I don't want them to. They always support me."

"Exactly, so there's no need to worry, princess."

Her friend winked at her making his giggle and grin. "Oh, you nut." She sighed contently before a thought occurred to her. There were times where she would get this same thought, but she knew it was impossible. She only voiced it to Goten one other time, and it led to them both being upset. Still, she needed to voice it. "I wish we could me. I know what happened, but this is crazy. The planets need to make up already."

"Bulla," Goten murmured before shaking his head. "I don't know if that'll ever happen. We…might have to wait and see what happens when your parents take over, but until then…at least we have this."

She released a heavy breath. "Goten…I…you…you can't turn me down if I say this." Goten nodded, not understanding what she was about to say. "The reason I'm struggling so much with this is because I know who I want to be courted by…you."

Goten instantly turned red, his throat getting dry. He tried to clear it as best as he could. "Bulla…you know I'd love that too. It's why I haven't dated any of the girls at school. But…you're the princess. Eventually, you might have to start…" He swallowed awkwardly, and Bulla could feel that it was very hard for the teenager. "You might have to start dating or courting or whatever you call it to get to know people."

"Goten, you can't tell me not to put my life on hold when you're doing the same thing," the female Saiyan grunted.

The Earth-raised Saiyan didn't know what to say, so he decided to change the subject. "So..." he started uncomfortably. "What else did you do today? It couldn't have been all bad."

Bulla frowned, annoyed that Goten would change the subject any time she dared to try and talk about a possible relationship. She understood why he did that. It was a difficult topic to broach considering the political distance between them. Of course, Bulla and Trunks knew that their grandfather had attempted to mend things with the Earthlings, but he was unsuccessful. It was beyond frustrating. "I went to your uncle's for a little bit," she replied dryly. "He caught me with the princes. I knew Inone was about ready to attack me, but Raditz intervened because I would have betrothed myself if I even tried to defend myself…since I'm not in courtship."

Surprisingly, Bulla could feel Goten's concern and a rage she couldn't name. The other Saiyan even looked angry, but he managed to rein it in. "I'm glad Uncle Raditz was there," he said hoarsely. "I'm sorry you even had to worry about it. I take it you spent time with Cella?"

"I did," Bulla murmured softly this time, hoping her calm voice would soothe Goten. "We sparred for a little while and then just talked. She told me that my uncle is officially courting her now. I'm really happy for them."

"That's really awesome," Goten chimed.

"Bulla?"

"Oh, I guess mom is looking for me," she murmured quietly as she looked to the doorway then back to the monitor. "Will you…will you be free tomorrow?"

"Sure," he told her, grinning widely. "It'll have to be after I have school though. Lots of tests before summer break."

"Alright, then," Bulla sighed. "Have a good day, and good luck."

Goten hung up, and Bulla was left to her thoughts momentarily before her mother entered the room. "There you are," the woman cooed. She took a seat next to her carbon copy. "How is Goten?"

Bulla looked to the woman, alarmed, but relaxed when she saw her mother's smiling face. "He's…he's okay. What did you need me for? Is everything okay?"

"Yeah," she answered. "Your father and I just wanted to talk to you and your brother about something. He already got in touch with Trunks, and Tarble and Raditz's family will be joining us later at the restaurant."

"Party?" Bulla inquired, interested. "Is it for Tarble's and Cella's courtship being official, or Trunks's and Thia's?"

"Neither," Bulma chuckled. She looked over to the screen, her brows furrowing before she sighed. "You know what? You've been struggling with this distance just as much as I have. We're all going to discuss it, and as long as you promise not to tell Goten, I can tell you now. Your father wants to surprise Kakarot."

Bulla became even more enthused. No one in her family liked secrets, but when they decided to have surprises they were always fun. "Tell him what?"

"We're going to leave for Earth tomorrow," Bulma informed the girl, smiling when her eyes widened. "The bad news is that Cooler will eventually be making his move, but it led to the leaders of Earth wanting to renegotiate. They know they can't handle him alone. Your grandparents got right on the negotiations."

"But…what if they want us to leave when Cooler is gone?"

Bulma shook her head. "It won't happen. Part of Earth's concern was that Planet Vegeta would pull away again if what my father did ever happened again, despite it being one person. Your grandfather admitted that he hadn't been thinking clearly, that he had nearly lost his son and that he had become paranoid. The leaders understood, and since the Galactic Patrol also agreed Earth would never be forced out again, they agreed. Trade and travel between Earth and the allied planets, including ours, will start back up immediately."

"We're actually going to Earth? We can meet our grandparents and Goten and Papa's friend?"

"Yup," Bulma chirped happily. "So, let go of all those gloomy emotions I felt from you. How about until your dad comes to get us, the two of us go clothes shopping for the trip."

"Oh, can we?" Bulla excitedly asked. "Let's go!"

Bulla was out the door seconds later causing the Earthling woman to laugh. She hadn't felt her daughter this excited since she had started talking to Goten privately. Thankfully, everyone had been taking the news well. It still felt unreal, like a dream. Instantly, Bulma's nightmare from the early morning hours struck her and made her frown. Why couldn't she put it aside like her dreams of Cold? That alone made no sense to her. It had just been a dream.

Normally, as she went about her day, those feelings would pass and the memories of the dream would become hazy. For this nightmare, it was only becoming clearer. She could remember details of the unfamiliar building where she had hid behind the crates, but at the same time she felt she knew exactly where it was. Her mind tried to focus even more on each detail, but it was becoming foggier and giving her a headache.

Sensing the shift in her demeanor and the slight jolt of pain, Bulla returned concern etched on her face. "Mama? Are you still coming?"

The softness and fear in the teenager's voice brought upon a need in Bulma to reassure her and assuage her anxiety. "I'm fine, baby," she cooed. "Let's get going. We have a lot of ground to cover before tonight."

Bulma walked over to the girl and guided her away from the communications room. She allowed her daughter's enjoyment to wash over her and put her overactive thoughts aside. Bulla needed her tranquility, especially going further. It wasn't just a simple vacation to Earth, and Bulma was sure at least some of the people who not be happy about their return. They were entering into war, most likely, but they couldn't focus on that fact. Bulma knew she'd have to help keep her family calm, Vegeta especially. She knew he wouldn't want to return to his hostile mindset. They would have to find a way to blend their battle readiness together with the positive aspect that was being reunited with friends and family.

They didn't know what to expect once they returned.

Raditz and Vegeta had spoken with the army, deciding to bring twenty troops along with them while the others remained on Planet Vegeta. They would accompany the royal family on a large ship and be housed in various locations around the planet. In contrast, both Vegeta's and Raditz's family would remain at Capsule Corp. Once a week, the troops would meet there. Bulma had suggested they train there, for they had plenty of private testing facilities, and they wouldn't have to worry about restraining themselves and using their ki.

Trunks had been amazed that the Earthlings finally decided to renegotiate, though he was a little irritated that it took a new threat to cause it. Still, he was looking forward to meeting his grandparents. He starkly contrasted his future counterpart who grew up hating his grandfather. He didn't know what caused the man to deal with Cold, but both of his parents claimed that there was an underlying reason the man refused to reveal it. He always knew his father had very little respect for the man, but for his mother's sake he never said anything negative. Of course, Thia would be joining them there. Despite the looming threat of Cooler, Trunks could not leave Thia behind when she was still estranged to his home planet.

Everyone began to prepare for the journey once they returned to the palace. Raditz had gone to his father's place to inform him of the plans. Though the man hardly reacted, his bags were packed and he was staying over at Raditz's and Peppan's listening to his granddaughter prattle on about how excited she was to go to Earth with Tarble not that they were a couple. He sneered in derision, though Raditz's glare was enough to keep him silent. The father didn't want his daughter getting the same talk that he and Kakarot always had.

All that was left was for Bulma to inform her mother of the arrangement and ask to use Capsule Corp.'s resources. Vegeta was fine with her informing her mother of their return. He knew the woman had sacrificed much to remain with her husband and away from her daughter for so long. As long as he got to surprise his longtime friend, he didn't care who else knew.

Bulma moved to the monitor, using it to contact Capsule Corp. It rang for a while, Bulma believing her mother might either be out or sleeping, but then her call was answered. Her mouth dropped open in shock when it wasn't her mother's face that greeted her, but her father's. He too looked stunned, especially when Bulma's surprise disappeared, a gentle smile taking its place. "Daddy," she greeted. "How are you? It's been forever. I…I didn't think anyone was going to answer."

"I wasn't," Dr. Briefs admitted, "considering the last time I even used this thing." He scoffed and shook his head, and Bulma knew exactly what he meant. "I am so sorry, Bulma. I never meant for any of that to happen…"

"It's water under the bridge," she assured him. "Everything has been fine…just, Cooler…eventually he may attack Earth."

"That's not a surprise," the other human muttered angrily. "It was only a matter of time. After what that bastard did-"

"Dad," Bulma interjected, "I didn't call to talk about Cold. I was going to ask mom…well, I guess I should explain things. I know what happened, that King Vegeta tried to renegotiate and that the Earthlings wouldn't listen to him or you or Kakarot. But now that Cooler is on the move after all these years, the leaders decided to cooperate with us for protection."

"What?" her father asked, dumbfounded. "But I thought…"

"We did too, but they know that if Cooler attacks…none of you are prepared."

"We're a little prepared," Dr. Briefs assured her. "The technology you left here, the plans for the shield, I created it for Earth's protection."

Bulma couldn't hide her disbelief. When she had left all of the information behind, she didn't know if her father would be able to accept the use of alien technology. "Y-You did?"

"It was the least I could do, Bulma," he sighed. "I screwed up. I admit that."

"Will you ever tell me why?" she asked, her father looking away. "Daddy, it's been a little over twenty years. Isn't that a long enough time to keep us in the dark."

"Trust me," he murmured, "it would do you more harm than good to know. I cannot tell you. You have to accept that."

Her eyes narrowed but she said nothing before forcing herself to relax and push back the betrayal. "I'll accept it for now, but only because I don't want to fight right now. Back to what I was saying…the Earthlings agreed to receive our help. We will be leaving for Earth tomorrow. It's just a couple days travel."

"You're…you're what?" the man nearly shouted.

Bulma smiled and nodded. "We're coming to Earth. Just me, Vegeta, the kids, Kakarot's family, Vegeta's brother, and about twenty soldiers. If it's okay, I thought they could use the rooms where you used to do weapons testing before Capsule Corp. got out of the weapon-making industry."

Dr. Briefs was still in a daze from when Bulma announced they'd be coming back to Earth. It was both a blessing and a curse, for he knew the Saiyans probably still had their issues with him…let alone his daughter's husband. "Daddy?" He snapped out of his thoughts when his daughter's soft voice reached his ears.

"Yes," he said, "it's okay. We hardly use those facilities anymore. I will do anything I can to help. Again, it's the least I can do."

"Thank you," Bulma responded warmly. "Well, I need to go soon since tomorrow is an early day, but we'll see you in a couple of days. Daddy, I love you."

"I…I love you too, Bulma. I'm sorry."

"I know," Bulma offered. "I forgave you a long time ago, after he said he put ideas in your head. I still want to know what he meant, but I'll drop it for now. Like I said, it's been twenty years. I just want to spend time with you and mom. Trunks and Bulla are looking forward to meeting both of you."

"T…T-T-Trunks is?"

"Yeah." His daughter offered him a sad smile. "He didn't grow up hearing horrible stories about you as he would have on Cold's ship. All we've said is that there was a reason for it that we don't know. Neither of the kids were happy about it, but you're still their grandfather."

"I don't know what to say," the scientist marveled. "I…thank you for that. I was certain your husband wouldn't want them to have anything to do with me."

"Mate."

"Excuse me?"

"Vegeta is my mate, daddy," she corrected him. "We've always used the Saiyan terminology. His parents adopted the universal husband/wife terminology, but we call each other mates. And Vegeta is angry with you, but he doesn't hate you. He wants answers just as much as I do. He knows how Frieza and his father operated."

"Can he figure out what Cooler is planning?"

Bulma hesitated, knowing that her mate really couldn't. Even Jaco had said Cooler was completely opposite from his father and brother. That wasn't exactly comforting, but she couldn't lie to her father. Lying would just make things worse between them. "Unfortunately, not even the Galactic Patrol knows what he's planning. They can't even tell us if he'll really attack Earth or if he had one of his allies slip that information to the patrol to get the whole army away from Planet Vegeta. It's all really a guessing game."

Her father nodded, not satisfied with the answer, but considering he didn't figure out Cold until it was too late, he needed to trust whatever the Galactic Patrol and the Saiyans could do. "In any case, you are all welcome here," he extended the invite. "Your mother will be so happy to see you, too. She's missed you. I…I've missed you too."

"Then…why haven't you ever come to talk?"

He sighed, having expected the question. Dr. Briefs didn't want to tell his daughter much, but he needed to give her something. In actuality, he was always so tempted to tell her the truth of why he had listened to Cold, that she had had a sister that lost her life tragically. He was disgusted with himself for having believed the Arcosian king, but what was done was done. He couldn't tell Bulma, for he was sure her mind would unravel. The hypnotherapy had worked, and the therapist had assured her all thoughts of Tights and Celen were lost. It was better for his daughter's mental health if she didn't know. Even the therapist had agreed when seeing how distraught the child was. He had to protect her.

"Bulma…I couldn't face you," he confessed. "I couldn't bring myself to speak with you or your hus…mate. What I did…it was unforgivable, Bulma. I can't take it back, and it sickens me. To know what would have happened to you and Trunks…words cannot express how horrible I feel over this."

"I understand." And Bulma did understand. She knew how difficult it was to form words to express something so complex. This is why Saiyans had bonds. Even Vegeta had expressed how difficult it was to have a full conversation with his father despite the man asking Vegeta to confide in him more often. "Just know I don't hold any of it against you. One day, when you're ready to tell me, I'll be willing to listen. I promise."

"I don't doubt that," Dr. Briefs surrendered. He knew his daughter wouldn't drop the topic unless he agreed to at least tell her one day, even if it was a lie. "When I'm ready to explain it, I'll let you know. For now, get some rest, and please have a safe journey. I hear space travel can be rough."

"Rough?" Bulma questioned with a shrug. "It's not so bad. The ships are so much better than they used to be…well, according to Vegeta." He could tell how much she truly loved her mate when her eyes lit up as she spoke about him and laughed lightly. "Good night, daddy. See you in a couple of days."

The two disconnected their monitors and Bulma went off to bed. She sensed that Vegeta was still awake, pinpointed him in Bulla's room. Both her mate and daughter seemed content. They must be having a nice conversation, she thought, not wanting to intrude. Instead, she decided to go check on their newest guest, Thia. It was time she start getting to know her son's intended.

Meanwhile, on Earth, Dr. Briefs was still overwhelmed by the news he received. Everything was about to get much more complicated, though seeing his daughter and grandchildren would bring him such joy. He knew his daughter was right. He wanted peace between them, too, so he would play nice with the Saiyans. After all, despite what he had originally been told, the Saiyans had never did him or his family any wrong. He was ashamed that he hadn't considered the idea that King Cold had lied to him.

When King Cold had contacted him, he had been skeptical, but when the stranger had mentioned his daughter by name, the Saiyans, and her mate, he had no reason not to hear him out. All he had known was what Bulma had cried out, that Tights had been killed by aliens. He hadn't considered that the attack had been orchestrated. It shouldn't have surprised him, but it did.

Tights had returned from her space exploration. The rest of the flight staff had been returned home before his daughter ever shown herself. When she did, she informed her parents that she had joined an alien police force. His wife hadn't known what to say, but he had. He argued with his daughter about it for days, which prompted her to leave once again. He hadn't seen her for years after she had gone back out there, and then she had returned with a Saiyan, the race he was warned against.

Celen knew the doctor distrusted him, though he did try to have an actual dialogue between them. He had wanted to be civil with his mate's father, but Dr. Briefs refused to warm up to him. The two of them left for space again, to live on the Saiyan planet after Bulma's birth. Again, the doctor and his daughter argued, her mate overhearing everything. He tried to reassure the man that he would protect his daughter, but he held no faith in Celen. He was the monster that lured his little girl away.

He barely saw his daughter or her mate, the two only returning at random times. Celen had won over his wife somehow, and the doctor could not stand that the Saiyan had been poisoning his other daughter as well. There was nothing he could do about it, so he distanced himself more. The fact that Tights eventually was going to have a child with the alien was infuriating.

The one good thing was that both Celen and Tights wanted the child to be born on Earth, so he expected to see his daughter. He had heard her message not long before Christmas. She said she were to arrive for Christmas with Celen. Instead, she had lost her life and Celen was nowhere to be found.

Dr. Briefs punched the computer table, ignoring the pain as he thought about Cold's words. He had told the doctor that the bond Tights shared with Celen was used to control her, that Celen, to protect himself, had sent the aliens to attack her, controlling her to return to her planet. He forced her to meet up with them, knowing that she and the child would die in the process. Celen had used her. That's what King Cold had told him, and he could never forgive the Saiyan.

Only, he understood more now, seeing the race's prince with his daughter. He had been so distraught when Cold had taken her, ready to fight for her. These bonds did connect them, but Bulma and Vegeta both still had their own free will. The fact that she looked so healthy and happy after twenty years was all the more proof. Maybe if he hadn't hated the Saiyans for so long, he would have been able to see the signs. Maybe he should have heard them out, asked more about Frieza. Maybe he should have witnessed their wedding instead of pleading to the monster Arcosian to save her. He should have called her earlier, maybe even told her about Tights on the message so that she would have called him back before she could be kidnapped.

He could not change the events from those twenty years prior.

All he could really do was inform his wife and prepare for the arrival of his daughter and the other Saiyans. He would try to make amends, give them anything they needed for training, and maybe, just maybe, finally talk to Vegeta. Surely, he would understand how important it was to keep quiet about the issues. Bulma's sanity could very well be at stake.

That was what he would do. Somehow, he would find a way to get the Saiyan prince alone. As long as someone knew, maybe everything could be rectified, and Bulma would be safe. Of course, the doctor did slightly understand that Saiyans normally didn't keep secrets from their mate. It was a risk he'd have to take. He only hoped the Saiyan cared enough about his daughter to do the right thing.

A/N: And there we have it! The first chapter to what will hopefully be just as epic a story as the last couple :D I hope everyone enjoyed it!