After four months of training, it is now a month until a year has passed. Goku and the rest of the Z-Fighters have been hard at work trying to prep themselves for the arrival of Trunks. Though Goku, Krillin, and Tien are now handling themselves at 10x normal gravity, they are still not quite used to it. Meanwhile, Bulma has been studying the other fighters and even devised a way for Chiaotzu to properly train his mental abilities. With the information she's recorded, her advancement in the understanding of ki manipulation is now unrivaled and she is now the world renowned expert in the field. While all this is happening, Yamcha had begun to fall behind on his training and decided to return back to his Baseball career. Though he does still train with Tien, he trains only a few days a week.

Trunks has also been training with Master Roshi to better his technique. Along the way, the old master had realized that trying to train the young adult would be difficult simply because Trunks couldn't lower his ki levels to that of the old hermit. In order to combat this, Roshi has also decided to go back to training as well. Asking Trunks for a Capsule Corp mini-gravitational device, the Turtle Hermit trains at 2x gravity on a regular basis. Roshi has also grown some attachment to Trunks after hearing his plight and has since decided to give him some help with people interaction skills, somewhat like a Father figure, albeit a perverted father.

Piccolo on the other hand has been training nonstop in order to make himself the most powerful of all. Though he still has a slight distaste for the Grand Elder, he has since become a bit more respectful to the elder. Piccolo still has his Father's intentions at heart, but he has slowly began to wean himself from the influences from the old Demon King. At about two months ago, he has begun training with Nail, which has shown to be quite the challenge.

All in all, our heroes are quite busy preparing and training. But with Christmas on the way, how do they prepare and celebrate? Read as each of our heroes prepare for the season of giving. Will they find happiness amongst all the stresses of trying to prevent a tattered future? Stay tuned to find out.

Age 758: Namek

Piccolo was sitting on the highest point on Namek, meditating in the cool breeze. He had been training with Nail earlier that day, and was now in need of some rest. The visions of the past months still came to his head every time he closed his eyes. Whether it be training with the warriors or mental "therapy" with Guru, they all still came to him with such force. He was still unable to feel kindness or empathy, but he was now starting to see the benefits of it. Though he still thirsts for vengeance against Goku, he now sees that his Father's vendetta should not be his own. Even though he still thought the Namekians were weak people, he was now warming up to them.

"Heh. I can't believe it, I'm starting to like these ingrates. All they do is be "nice", it's rather sickening, yet it no longer bothers me as much. I am yet to feel compassion, but I would assume these people could teach me. Of course my hatred for Goku is far too strong for any of their lessons to fill my heart, but I at least no longer hate them."

Just as Piccolo had finished his train of thought, his ears perked up and he opened up one eye.

"What is it Dende? Can't you see I'm meditating?"

"Uhh...uhhh..Yes sir?"

"Well you climbed a rather tall mountain to talk to me, so spit it out. What do you want?"

Dende is a young Namekian child fathered by Moori. Even though most of the people of his village told Dende to simply ignore Piccolo, citing him as a lost cause and a bad example of what Namekians should be, Dende is known to be always optimistic and still held hope that Piccolo could be changed.

"My people...we're...we're having a celebration. Would you like to join us?"

"Hmm. Join the idiots of your village for some ridiculous celebration, or stay up here and meditate? Hmm...the choice is so difficult."

"Ok Piccolo, I'll go back to the village. Thanks for at least talking to me."

Piccolo only stared at the young child. He was trying to find a response, a response that wasn't condescending and insulting.

"Listen kid, thanks for the invite, but no thanks. The people of your village have a distaste for me, and as an Earth saying goes, "Treat others as you'd like to be treated.""

Dende only nodded and walked down the mountain path with a bit of defeat on his face.

*Sigh* "Kid, do you want me to at least take you back to your village? I'm not staying for your stupid festival, party, or whatever the hell you want to call it though, but I will take you home."

Dende's eyes twinkled at the question and he only simply nodded.

"Oh Piccolo, they said you were a mean guy. Evil and just plain mean. But I didn't believe them, I can see that you're a nice guy underneath all that rough exterior."

Piccolo was surprised by the response. So surprised, he almost gave a slight grin. Alas, his pride wouldn't let him show any emotion, so he simply nodded and fastened his cape.

"Hold on Dende. I'm taking you home. I'm still not staying for your idiotic party."

Piccolo had grabbed Dende by the collar on his shirt and flew him to his village. When he landed, there were many Namekians dancing and drinking. Of course, when Piccolo had went to the center of the village, all the life had seemed to have been stopped.

"I wasn't expecting to see you here Piccolo."

"Well I'm not staying if that's what you're asking. I'm here to drop off Dende, and them I'm leaving. I was told by him that you people don't like me all that much anyhow, so there's no point for me to stay."

Moori said not a word but only stared at Piccolo. He finally nodded and Piccolo turned away.

"Piccolo, before you leave, we have been thinking. Maybe we have jumped to conclusions. If we got to know you better, maybe we could...uhh. What I'm trying to say is that if you stayed, maybe we could get to know you better."

Piccolo had stopped in his tracks. His mind was kicking itself, asking,

"Why are you stopping. Are you even considering this? You know this is idiotic."

Once more though, his pride overpowered his other emotions, and responded to the invitation by Moori,

"Trust me Village Leader, if you got to know me or my history, it would only cement your distaste in me. So with it, good day."

With the response now in the air, Piccolo flew back to the rock he was perched on and continued his meditation. After about a minute, he opened his eyes and looked down at the village. He soon saw the party go back to normal and the music going back to normal. This all enraged Piccolo, he thought that his presence and comments would ruin the festival. It made him seethe with anger knowing that he couldn't kill these people's mood. Just like a switch in his head, the evil in his heart that he so long tried to contain was starting to slither its way back to Piccolo, but he knew better. He knew it'd be best to simply curse them with words then blow them all up.

"I hate the idiots down in Moori's village. I hate all of them with their loud music, joyful dancing, and of course their happy smiles. I wish I could simply take their joy away. Killing them would be too extreme, and more than likely wouldn't bode well the old idiot. I wish I could..."

It was then when Piccolo got a horrid idea.

"Maybe if I were to join them and talk to them. Yes yes, they'd be so caught off guard. Then when they want to know about me, wham. I'd tell them all of my Father's evil deeds. That will truly ruin their day permanently."

With that, Piccolo decided to fly back down to the village and meet with Moori.

"Alright old man, I'll join you. In fact, I'll even tell you everything about me, that way there's no confusion or enigma behind my existence."

Moori only looked on with confusion but put a slight smile on his face.

"Ok everybody, Piccolo has decided he wants to talk to us. So, let's give him a chance. Everybody, sit around the fire."

Piccolo was now grinning an evil grin. He was going to tell these fools his true origins, and he would soon rid them of their happiness.

"Anytime you're ready Piccolo."

As soon as Moori had finished, Piccolo spoke. He told tales of his Father's evil deeds. How he slain countless men, women and children. Tales of how the great Demon King enslaved the Earth with fear. Then he told his tale, the tale of a lonely green boy, growing up without a Father, killed by a man with spiky hair. During the course, he saw disgust, tears, and sadness. When he had finished his tale, he got up and seeing their faces, was content with his plan.

"So, tell me fools. Do you really want to know my story now? After hearing all of this, are you all fearful and dead inside?"

At first, nobody talked, but then Moori stood up.

"Piccolo my brother. We were glad to hear your story. Now we finally know who you are, and now we no longer dislike you."

Piccolo's eyes grew wide. He was surprised by what he had heard.

"How can you people say that? After all the things I did? I don't get it. All of you people on this stupid planet think I'm some kind of soul with good within."

Moori smiled and quickly put his hand on the young Namekian's shoulder.

"My brother, you have done no wrong that isn't forgivable. You may share your Father's soul, but that isn't by choice, that is by design. What you don't share is his heart, and with that, we welcome you to the village. Because you yourself are not fundamentally evil, but only evil by force."

Piccolo couldn't believe what he was hearing. Before he had a chance to speak up, Moori continued.

"Piccolo, you've never had a family before, which is quite saddening. Though you may not want us, let us be your family for one day. Allow us to open your heart and let you be happy."

Piccolo still stood silently, but he turned around. On his face, a small tear rolled down his face, and a slight grin formed. Of course, he'd never let anybody see it, but he now started to understand compassion.

"Moori, once more, I appreciate the offer. Alas, my heart is still too tangled to honor this request. I will be honest, I came down here to ruin everybody's festivities. Once I returned to my mountaintop, I became angered with the fact that even my presence couldn't relinquish your happiness. I had hoped my story of my origins and of my Father was enough to break your spirits for the day, but alas it hasn't. With that said, I leave you all, with no malice held against you."

Moori was going to respond once more, but he knew it was futile and only nodded his head in response. Piccolo taking the cue, flew back to his mountaintop, but this time to meditate on this event and analyze his current emotions.

Age 759: Capsule Corp, West City

Capsule Corp's main building was for the most part empty, bar the Z-Fighters, as Dr. Briefs had relieved all the employees for Christmas Eve. Everybody was now sitting in the Atrium, which for the occasion has since been decorated and even had artificial snow being produced to give it more of a "Christmas" feel.

"Too bad Trunks and all of those out at Kame House aren't going to celebrate Christmas with us."

"You know Roshi, Bulma. He doesn't even celebrate it. Also, more than likely Angela will enjoy the beach more than the freezing cold."

"I suppose you're right Krillin. Speaking of missing people, where's Goku, Chi-Chi, and Gohan?"

Just like clockwork, Goku and Chi-Chi came walking in. Goku was wearing a leather jacket and blue jeans, while Chi-Chi wore her usual komodo, thick fluffy boots, and had on a heavy jacket.

"We're right here Bulma, sorry for coming in late. Goku and I had to get Gohan to bed. He was worried that Santa wouldn't come if he wasn't asleep, so we had to get him all dressed up for bed."

"Oh, the joys of parenting, eh? Anywho, Everyone is here. We can now start exchanging gifts."

With the signal, everyone began to exchange gifts. Chi-Chi got from Bulma a small car for her to travel in, while Chi-Chi gave her some hand stitched sweaters and a box full of ancient coins that her Dad had given her. Of course, the coins were for inspecting as the writings on the coins have since become unreadable, bar for a few that had various dates ranging from 19xx to 20xx.

"Chi, these are some strange coin. These probably are from an earlier era before the Great Earthquake of Age 212. It has some faces of ancient leaders inscribed on them. For example, the coin that looks copper has the face of the leader "Great Lincoln of the North". It is said by some that he lead his great army against the "Traitor Davis of the South." The story goes they were once a single kingdom, but Davis and his followers grew tired of Lincoln's rule and parted ways in less than peaceful terms. Supposedly, the historians of the time called it "The Civil War." Not much is known about the war other than it lasted for about four years, and in the end, the kingdom was once more reunited. The ancients were strange people, eh Chi?"

"Hmm, agreed. Strange stuff Bulma. Thank Kami we live in a time like now where we don't have wars anymore. Well, besides the obvious good versus evil, but we live in a time where we are all united under one banner."

"Indeed. Want to know something else that's strange? Christmas. Supposedly it's a holiday that even predates the ancients. Supposedly, it was celebrated by our early ancestors as a celebration for the birth of some special child. Apparently his name was James, or Jesse. Some say it was "Jesus." Of course, the pronunciation is varied on how it is said."

"Really? I heard it was celebrated as a way to amp up the economies of certain kingdoms of the time of the Ancients. I've also heard it was also celebrated as a way for people to serve terrible pastries and give horrible sweaters."

"Sweaters? My Lord Chi. That sounds almost ridiculous, yet at the same time, it sounds somewhat reasonable. The Ancients were known to do strange things."

"Sigh, I guess we'll never know. Though seeing how we celebrate it today, and how busy the stores are, it probably could have been a mixture of all of the above. Did you see the sweater I gave Krillin?"

As the two women continued their talk about history and gossip, the warriors sat around the circle and talked about what each of them got from each other. For the most part, it was boring stuff. New razors, belts, weighted gi's, the usual stuff. As warriors, they really never needed all that much, so giving gifts to each other was still somewhat strange. The only somewhat "exciting" gift was Tien's gift of a new all metal baseball bat to Yamcha."

After everybody had exchanged gifts, the Christmas Party began. As per custom, there was karaoke, and food and drinks were served. It was quite easy to figure out where Goku was, but everybody else had a fun time singing some of their favorite songs. Of course, the same could not be said about the audience. Somewhere in between, Angela swung by for a couple of hours. There was questions about how she was holding up on the island, how was Trunks, were they still together, ect. She answered everybody's questions as best she could, and also had a quick plea of her own. She wanted to celebrate Christmas on the island, but she had no decorations. Dr. Briefs heard this and gave her two capsules. One capsule had the decorations, the other had the feast. After receiving both capsules, she went on her merry way. Before she left though, it was agreed that everybody would go to Kame House sometime Christmas afternoon.

"Do you think going to Roshi's place to celebrate a holiday, mind you a holiday he doesn't even celebrate, is a good idea Goku?"

"Sure, why not? Who knows, maybe we can give him some Christmas spirit?"

"Doubtful. The perverted old retch will only be full of Christmas spirit if somebody gives him a stack of dirty magazines."

Everybody got a laugh from Bulma's comment. In the end though, it was settled that everybody would go to Roshi's house.

After about 2 a.m, everybody had become to tired or drunk, so they went to bed. Goku and Chi-Chi were the most sober of the group, so they had to help some of the fighters to their houses. Luckily, they all lived on the Capsule Corp grounds, so it wasn't that hard. Eventually, the two made it back to their house and went to their room.

"That was the most fun I've had in years Goku. You know, I may not approve of you fighting around Gohan, or fighting in general, but I am glad we live here. Everything we need is a few blocks away, there are many schools for Gohan to study at when he gets old enough, and who knows, maybe one day you could open up a Martial Arts studio in the city. It'd be a great way for you to make money, have a job, and do what you love."

"Yeah Chi, I'd love that. You know, I miss living out in East District though. That's where I grew up, and it's my real home. At the same time, I've come to like it here, and some of the things the city brings, it sometimes does bring a slight smile to my face. You know what? When all this Android business is dealt with, I want to move back home. At the same time though, I want to also live here as well. I got it! Why don't we live here during fall and winter, and live in East District during the spring and summer? The West City heat is sometimes to much, and living in East District during the summer would just help us cool down. Plus, I know when Gohan goes to school, he'll be off during the summer. It'd be perfect."

"I'd love that Goku. I'm happy to see you're taking Gohan's education as seriously as I am."

"Well, honestly, I'd rather him be a fighter. At the same time though, why can't he be both? Trunks said Gohan helped Bulma build his Time Machine. If that Gohan was smart enough to help Bulma build a time machine without any proper schooling, why can't our Gohan? He's already talking, and Bulma even has him starting to read. Our son could be the most intelligent skilled fighter on the planet. Or who knows, maybe the whole universe?

Chi-Chi smirked at the thought of Gohan being both. At the same time though, she remembered what Trunks had said, Gohan wasn't skilled enough to defend himself from two killer Androids. As much as she wanted her son to be the smartest person on Earth, she realized that his intelligence wouldn't be enough to save him from a powerful attacker.

"You know Goku, sometimes I cringe at the thought of losing Gohan. The fact that there is a stranger from the not-so-distant future telling us our son dies is a scary thing. At the same time though, hearing what he has done with his life and how even in the darkest of days, our son choose the path of righteousness and try to help and save people."

"You know what? So am I. Chi-Chi, I know you're worried that he may one day met his demise, or even face an opponent like Piccolo, but I want you to remember something. He has the blood of fighters running through his veins. He has my blood, the blood of a race of evil aliens that love to fight and have the fearlessness to tackle any challenge. And he has your blood, the blood of a powerful family with the will to never give up and fight for what is right. I know, when I say it, it sounds kinda bad. At the same time though, it makes him stronger. And whatever he decides to be, I have no doubts he will succeed in it."

Chi-Chi started to form tears from her eyes after hearing Goku's speech.

"You're a damn good speech maker, you know that, right?"

Goku only grinned and held his wife tighter in his arms. He kissed her forehead and then he let her go. As soon as he did, they both got ready for bed. Within a few minutes, they were holding each other. Suddenly, Goku's eyes open up and he quickly recalled something.

"So Chi, I noticed that you didn't get me a present for Christmas, or had one rapped under the tree at least. I know you never forget presents, as I saw Gohan's under the tree. So where's mine?"

Chi-Chi opened one eye and gave Goku a long kiss. Once Goku had realized what was happening, he began to smile.

"Merry Christmas Goku."

Goku took the hint and turned off the lights. It was a Merry Christmas indeed at the Son Capsule. As everybody else was drunk from the party earlier, the two lovebirds quickly showcased why sometimes being sober was better than being drunk.

Age 759: Kame House

Trunks and Master Roshi had decided to take a break from training as it was Christmas. Though Roshi didn't celebrate the holiday himself, well take part in the traditions anyhow, he did like the concept of it and was respectful towards those who celebrated it. Angela had decided to go into town and buy some decorations and food the other day, and now she was now getting back.

"Where'd you go? I was worried sick that something happened to you."

Angela made a rebuttal by kissing Trunks passionately, and then spoke up.

"Well silly, I was in town buying some decorations to get this raggedy old house festive. Oh, and get presents?"

"Presents?"

"Of course. Why, do you people in the future not celebrate Christmas?"

Trunks looked at Angela hard and tried to find an answer. Even though they've talked about it multiple times, Trunks was still afraid that he could scare Angela off if he talked about the Androids. The concept of dating the past version of the person who ruined your life, literally mind you, is still a struggle. Trunks is afraid he may say the wrong thing, and their happiness is shattered, and then she'd join Gero. Finally though, he came up with an answer.

"Honestly Angela? Not really. In my time, the Androids have destroyed most of civilization, so celebrating the holiday like people of the past, or today in present tense, is difficult. Though every once in a while, Mom makes a feast for the survivors that hide in some of the bunkers."

"Oh...I...see. Sorry to hear that sugar."

"It's...it's alright."

Master Roshi had sensed the awkwardness in the situation and had decided to forward the topic.

"So Angela, where did you get the presents from anyhow? If you had anymore, you'd be Santa himself."

"Honestly Roshi, most of these presents are from Bulma and the gang. Though I did get something for the two of you."

"Hehe. I'm excited. Is mine a picture of you in nothing but panties?"

"...No. That'd be for Trunks."

Trunks face turned a slight tinge of red, and Roshi's face went from disappointment to a big smile.

"Trunks ol' boy, she's got you rapped round her finger, doesn't she?"

"Yeah, I guess so Master."

There was a bit of a laugh, and then things went back to normal. Angela pulled out a capsule, which popped out a bunch of Christmas decorations. She grabbed some of the garland from the pile of stuff and went to decorate the living room.

"Is Launch around? I'd like to have a feminine touch to my decorating, and I'd like a second opinion when I'm done."

"She left earlier this morning, but if you'd like, me and Master can help you out."

Roshi said nothing. He'd never celebrated Christmas before, and now his home was being decorated with all the trinkets and ornaments of the seasonal holiday. He wasn't opposed to celebrating it, but he had no idea what was going on.

"Honestly, I'm going to sit out on helping to decorate. I'd have no idea where to start and I'd be nothing but a hindrance to the progress you kids will do. If you need me, I'll be outside sleeping on my lawn chair."

Roshi left the small house and proceeded to the beach to lay in the chair he was accustomed to sleeping in. Once Angela could hear Roshi sleeping, she quickly grabbed Trunks.

"Listen Trunks, we need to hurry and decorate. Last night, I dropped by at Capsule Corp. Everybody has decided to come celebrate Christmas over here."

"Wait what? Why? Roshi doesn't even celebrate the holiday."

"They want to cheer up the old man. Fill him with Christmas spirit. Listen carefully, I need you to start helping me decorate. They'll be here this afternoon, so let's hurry up."

"Ok then. Question though, why were you gone till this morning?"

"Because I can't see in the dark. Even with headlights, I'm still not comfortable with driving at night."

"I see. Well, I'll be getting on it."

The two sprang into action and quickly decorated the inside of Kame House, making it into Christmas Central. Trunks had finished decorating the tree and was about to put the star on top, but Angela stopped him.

"Let Roshi put it on. From the sound of it, a lot of people are saying he doesn't like Christmas."

Trunks nodded and decided to do finishing touches around the outside of the house. As an added bonus, he plopped on a Santa hat onto Roshi. The old Master was sleeping, so he was none the wiser, until he heard his phone ring. He woke up, saw Trunks, and quickly asked.

"Are you going to pick that up, or are you going to stare at me like I'm a dead body."

"Got it Roshi."

"Thanks Angela. Now Trunks, go somewhere else, I'm trying to sleep."

Trunks nodded and went inside the house. Angela quickly grabbed Trunks and once more pulled him to the side.

"That was Bulma. She said they just left West City and are all flying here via plane. They'll be here in about 3 hours. Till then, do you want to see what I picked up at the mall yesterday?"

Trunks only nodded, as he knew words would only worsen his mannerisms.

"Well suggah, I got this new lacey underwear set. I spent a little cash, but it's all worth it."

Angela inched closer towards Trunks. She got up to his ear.

"Do you want to see if it fits real snug?'

Trunks once more only nodded his head. His mouth was now wide open and he was drooling enough that he could flood the island.

Of course before Angela could walk into the bedroom, she quickly realized something.

"Trunks, did you cook the food?"

"Uhh...no. Did you?"

Angela quickly turned her head, signifying no. The two stared at each other for a few seconds, and then their eyes got real big.

"Damn it. We forgot about the food."

"I thought it was cooked?"

"No, only some of it."

They both quickly ran to the kitchen and tried to prepare the food as fast as possible. They had only three hours, and they knew that some of the food would take longer than that. Trunks decided he would use some of his ki blasts to cook some of the food. Angela had no time to argue, she wanted that food done fast.

After two hours of cooking, the couple finished setting the table. They had looked at each other and gave a nod of approval.

"Well since the food is done cooking, wanna go see if the small"

She came closer to Trunks' ear after each word.

"Skimpy"

"Sexy"

"Lingerie"

"fits?"

Trunks grabbed Angela by the waist and pulled her close. As he was about to speak, the phone rang once more. Annoyingly, Trunks grabbed the phone and picked up.

"Who is it?"

"Oh, Mom?"

"You'll be here in how long?"

"Uhh...ok. We'll be ready."

Angela looked at Trunks with sad puppy dog eyes. She finally sighed and asked.

"How long till they arrive?"

"About twenty minutes."

The two of them sighed together and decided they should dress for the occasion. As soon as they were dressed, they waited by the beach where their friends would land. Within minutes, the rather large craft appeared in the skyline and was slowly coming their way. As to ensure that their arrival would be a surprise, it was agreed that the Z-Fighters would carry the craft by hand once they were almost there. Bulma wanted to scare the old man, and the only way is to ensure they make a silent entrance. It seemed her luck was even better once she found out that Roshi was asleep.

As soon as they were near a piece of land that could safely hold the craft, the Z-Fighter lowered the plane to the ground below. Once landed, everybody quietly entered Kame House and Bulma returned the plane to it's capsule. Once everybody was in place, Trunks and Angela woke up Master Roshi.

"Roshi, it's almost time for your aerobics girls show. You best get up."

Master Roshi woke up immediately after hearing this. Of course, he forgot it was Christmas, so his show wasn't even being broadcast. He continued running towards his house were he was greeted by green and red everywhere, and all the Z-Fighters in his living room.

"What in the world is going on here?"

"Hey Master Roshi, nice to see you up and about. We though we could cheer you up for this Christmas by coming here."

"But?"

"Yeah Roshi. Goku and I agreed that maybe you don't like Christmas all that much because you weren't in the spirit. So, that's why we're here."

"But..."

"We also thought that maybe you were a bit lonely, so we decided to keep you company."

Roshi was now somewhat agitated by his guests. They waltz in and don't let him say a word.

"What are you meatheads blabbering about? I don't have any qualms about Christmas."

"But...but...but you never celebrate it."

"Of course not Goku. I don't see a need to celebrate it. I don't believe in the holiday, but I do respect those who celebrate it."

"So, does that mean you're mad at us for trying to bring it on you?"

"No. I'm annoyed that everybody thought I didn't celebrate Christmas because of some saddening or dark memory. I don't celebrate Christmas simply because I don't want too."

"Oh, sorry Master Roshi. We really thought you were a Grinch."

"Goku my boy, you and everybody else is strange. But since you're all here, we might as well celebrate Christmas."

"YAAAAAYYYYYYY!"

"As long as I get to kiss one of these pretty ladies under the mistletoe, I may even celebrate it more often."

The warriors got a good chuckle, while all the ladies got a little angry at the comment. Bulma got over it though and gave a kiss on the forehead to the old Turtle Hermit. Of course, Roshi got real red, and his nose started to almost bleed, until he felt something holding his leg. Roshi, looked down and he saw little Gohan hugging his leg.

"Hey there Gohan, whatcha doin down there?"

"Thawnk you Santa. I got everything I wanted for Cwistmas. Well, I did want my two fwont tewth, but oh well. I liked the colowing book and the book with all the pwetty animals. Can I ask you one quewstion though?"

"Uh...sure Gohan."

"I thought you were supposed to be fat. Your belly is kinda small. Why is that?"

Roshi was completely dumbfounded. He felt his forehead and realized somebody had put on a Santa hat on him, which of course made him kinda irritated, but he got over it once he looked back at young Gohan. Finally, he gave the boy an answer, a crude one, but one he knew the youngster would understand.

"Well you see Gohan, I'm not actually fat. The reason I look fat is because I use all the Christmas Spirit energy coming from all the good little girls and boys, and use it to travel all around the world. By the time I'm done delivering presents, I go back to normal size because I had used up all the energy."

"THAT'S"

"SO"

"COOL! SANTA, CAN YOU TELL ME ALL ABOUT YOUR TRIP? AND YOUR REINDEER? AND..."

Young Gohan continued to ask questions, and Roshi continued to look somewhat awkward, trying to find an answer. Everybody had a good laugh, and even took pictures of the fond moment. Gohan, completely oblivious to the fact that this man was in fact Master Roshi, was happy and listening carefully to the stories Roshi told. He of course had no idea what Santa would do, but he told his stories of his Martial Arts adventures, and mixed in elements of Christmas into it. After Gohan had tired himself from all the excitement, he fell asleep in Roshi's lap. Roshi had put Gohan in his spare room and decided to join everybody at the Christmas party.

And this my friends ends Chapter 8. I will say, this chapter has been the most fun to write, namely because it is a Christmas Special. I want to apologize for the delay once more, but as usual, I've been busy. I would like to thank you all for understanding and also thank you for your patience. I will say though, I took extra care with this chapter, as I was trying to ensure I wasn't going to alienate my readers who don't celebrate Christmas. Actually, this is my favorite Chapter so far. I get to showcase my love of U.S history, my ability to parody, and my ability to write an enjoyable story. I actually went through 3 or 4 betas on this story to ensure it was up to snuff, and what you're reading is the third draft. That's right, third draft. I normally go through two, but this chapter was one I really put my effort into. I would've released this chapter Saturday actually, but I got a mild head injury from working on my garage door. Damn thing hit me in the head, grazed my scalp, and caused me to get 12 stitches on the three inch cut. Delicious.

As a quick note, next chapter isn't going to be an actual chapter at all, it's going to be a look at my writing process. I've been seeing lots of suggestions and feedback, and I would like to address them properly, as I know this chapter is one of my longer ones, and making you guys read it anymore would be a marathon.

Anywho, as usual, I will respond to reviews. Thank you for them, and keep them coming.

Reviews:

R1- xilor:

"This is not a comment, but a request. Can you have Chaotzu build a city of casinos over a dessert with Yamcha and Krillin as his friends who help him run it. Then make it into a comedy where Yamcha impregnates, lets say three bitches, has two daughters and one son. Later Trunks and Goten fuck his daughters and are forced to marry them by Vegeta and Goku. All the while, they all they live on Tien city named after Tien by Chaotzu."

Response: Uhh...I don't think so? I'm sorry, but the concept is just strange, sorta. Actually, I kinda like it, in a strange sort of way. As the concept actually isn't that bad, hell, I could make it into a Sin City-esque type of story. Though, I'm not one to really take requests, and even if I were, I have little time to write more than one story. Hell, I have one story that's still in Hiatus hell right now, but that's for different reasons. Also, I took the liberty in fixing your review's grammar, as it was somewhat headache inducing.

R2-bongo:

"Good chapter, but hurry that shit up. You look like a loser. It's not that hard to write chapters, asshole. You describe shit, create a mental visual of what's going on. Also, don't kill any Saiyans. Offer a chance to fight killer androids that can kill the Legendary Super Saiyan they might like something like that their saiyans also spare zarbon and make him fight dodoria make the frost demons face the androids also if possible the more the merrier then get rid of trunks after the cell games and turn angela into 18 and stop fucking around also one more thing have trunks adapt the planet trade healing chamber so it gets added to the story lots of people like it fuck cui before namek make nappa a kid because lets say he would still be an asshole so kame could punish him and erase part of his memory before namek saga have trunks ambushed by cooler and they fight, and thays my tricks add other stuff on your and get started. Fuck nuts!"

Response: Uhh...and to think, I started to fix your review, but quit half way through. =P

Anywho, I really have no way to respond to this. In this review, you complement me, give me a few suggestions, and then insult me. Ok then, that's new. Thanks for liking the new chapter. Now, let's get to the meat of this review. Sir, if writing were that easy, I would be popping out chapters like a factory. Would they be up to the quality I set them out to be? Fuck no. There's a reason I don't just write what comes to mind, it isn't good writing. A good chapter takes more than a mental image. If you haven't noticed, I try to create believable characters that sound like they would if this were the manga or the show. I am stickler about characterization and actions. In all honesty, I could say, "fuck dayt shit. Time to write and publish." Let me tell you, I did that before, actually my first story, "A Dawn of a New Future" follows that ideology. In fact, I stopped writing it simply because I felt I wasn't doing the story justice by rushing it and let my actions and descriptions take the place of actual quality characters. With that being said, I ignored everything else you said after, because it doesn't even make sense. From a writers point of view, everything you suggested is ridiculous and isn't going to work. I'm not trying to push you down, but there's a reason my story has thus far been praised, because I put care and thought into my writing. I'm yet to see my loyal followers of this story to insult me, or push me to write a product quickly and sacrifice quality. I'm sorry if you disagree with that ideology, but that's how I roll. I'm a perfectionist. If you wait next chapter, I will go into depth about MY writing process and how I come up with what I do.

R3-Masenko56:

"Just gonna put this out there: Goku should be stronger. By my calculations, in three years time, Goku should be a Super Saiyan. And with him a Super Saiyan, he and Trunks will be able to up the ante in training.

But on a lighter note, why didn't, in the original story, Toriyama have Trunks go back in time to Goku's fight with the Red Ribbon Army to and tell Goku not to spare Gero? Because if you ask me, the android saga and Cell saga just seems a little redundant. Am I right?"

Response: Well, I don't want to spoil too much, but I can definitely say this, Goku will not be a Super Saiyan by the Saiyan Saga. I will say this though, Vegeta and his crew will not be expecting what is to happen to them on Earth. All in all, hilarity will ensue. That's all I can give. Oh, that and Goku can take on Vegeta in his Ozaru form. THAT'S ALL YOU'RE GETTING FROM ME!

Now as far as Toryiama not doing what you suggested, it's because Goku never meet Gero. In DB, Goku destroyed RR's Muscle Tower, their head operations building. With it, he took down hundreds of soldiers, but he never meet Gero. IIRC, Gero was only created just for DBZ and his origins with the RR were made to give him a reason to hate Goku. Don't quote me on that last part, but yeah. Goku and Gero never exchange phone numbers in DB.

Also, I fucking love the Android/Cell Saga. That Saga is the best Saga hands down. Fuck Buu, it's full of filler and asspulls from the wazoo. Namek/Frieza was ok, but shit it was long. Saiyan Saga was meh, but Cell. Oh ho Cell and Androids. That saga still brings a definitive smile to my face. Opinions are opinions, so meh. =P

R4-LILFOC:

"This is an interesting concept.

Poor Krillin Trunks just stole his girl

aww we need some baby Gohan (like the cute little baby Trunks parts in the cell saga)

and some insight into how Trunks feels about his relationship with his mentor (I think he originally did want to go to the past to see Gohan but the show chose to focus more on him and vegeta and him and goku)"

Response: You know, I actually wrote this chapter with the baby Gohan in mind. You just cemented my reasons, so thank you. Now, as far as how Trunks' feels about Gohan, it really isn't anything new. I believe everything that needs to be said can be found in Manga or the TV special, mainly because there was nothing else. The relationship between the two was nothing more than brotherly love, because they were both warriors in a world that was cold, heartless, evil, and lifeless. Trunks never had somebody to train him, and Gohan never found somebody to pass his teachings to. Think like the Hero's shade from Twilight Princess. Though, I do agree, the show did focus more on Trunks' training with Vegeta. Of course though, I say that with subjectivity, because Vegeta didn't really train Trunks, he trained near Trunks, but not with him.

R5-aFanAddict:

"It's rare I see a story come to my email that I feel like reading the new chapter instead of eventually bulk reading. You are the afore mentioned case. I love this story!

Now as far as your questions to me, I will take them as non-rhetorical and answer.

Krillin: he is the best friend of Goku. I feel that he could be abducted and probed. He knows Goku's ins and outs.

Yamcha: he's a hot head. He's also known to be a money lover. He may start to feel inferior to the others. Want more power. Something along those lines.

Thank you for the update. Hope college gets a little better. I know the struggles of college (part of the reason I haven't decided to go yet), so hopefully the winter break coming up will go some good."

Response: Thank you aFan. I'm happy to know you enjoy my story.

Like I told Masenko56 earlier, I don't want to spoil too much, you're on the right track. In fact, fuck you. You told everybody who it's going to be =P

I'm kidding of course. You're real close, and honestly, you probably won't be too surprised on who becomes this Universe's 18. But I will tell you this, Gero is a manipulative bastard. In fact, if I had kept this one section at the end from draft two, you'd probably question if I've been reading too much Stephen King. I decided to not include it, mainly because the story is long enough as is, and because I don't want to ruin the mood of the story.

Also, thanks. College is definitely getting better, and actually, I think you'll enjoy college. Let me tell you, college can be stressful, but I am much happier stressed in College than I ever was in High School. So, yeah. If you want to go to college coming this fall, I'd suggest you go. It's a learning experience, and you'd probably like it.