Tournament

 

“Who the heck is that?”  Krillin asked as Trunks and Loren walked into the waiting area for contestants of the tournament.

“That’s Loren,” Piccolo said.

“What?”

“She’s asexual.”

“So Trunks, does this make you bi?”

“What?”  Trunks asked.

“You’re in love with both sexes,” Krillin said and Trunks blushed.

“Leave him alone. I hope the opponents are better this year. I’m tired of wasting my time with amateurs,” Vegeta said as the two walked up to where the others were standing.

“I’m sure you’ll get your share of good matches, Dad,” Trunks said. “Hey Gohan. Maybe I’ll get paired with you.”

“Maybe,” Gohan said smiling.

“As long as I don’t get paired up with any of you, I’ll be okay,” Krillin said.

“You are pretty strong Krillin,” Loren said and Krillin’s eyes brightened.

“Yeah I know but I’m not as strong as these guys.”

“They’re all sort of related Krillin. You don’t have the same power as a Saiyen and that’s okay.”

“You know, you’re right.”

“Every once in awhile she says something worthwhile,” Trunks said and Loren looked at him.

“You’re teasing, right?”  Loren asked and Trunks smiled.

“Of course love.”

“Don’t be so paranoid girl,” Vegeta said as he looked at them.

“Father’s right. I keep telling you not to take things so seriously,” Trunks said.

“It’s not my fault your language is so confusing,” Loren replied.

A tall male with long black hair walked past them and she squeezed Trunks hand, sensing an evil energy coming from the stranger’s body.  She gazed at Piccolo and Piccolo nodded his head, showing her that he had also felt the evil presence.

“What is it love?”  Trunks asked as he ran a hand down her neck.

“I’m not sure but I don’t like it,” she said and Trunks kissed her.

“It’s all right.”

“I don’t know Trunks,” Piccolo said and Goku looked at him.

“Is something upsetting the Namek?”  Vegeta asked and Piccolo glared at him.

“Shut up, Vegeta.”

“Let’s stop talking. We don’t want to upset you.”

“The only thing that’s upsetting me right now is you Vegeta.”

“So I was right. The big Namek is afraid.”

“Enough Vegeta!”

“What are you talking about, Piccolo?”  Goku asked.

“There’s something evil in that contestant,” Piccolo said as he watched the stranger walk out of the waiting area.

“He doesn’t look that tough. Has the strong Namek turned chicken?”  Vegeta asked and Piccolo bared his teeth.

“You know if you’d keep your mouth shut you’d live longer.”

“Why are you the only ones sensing it? I mean I have to agree with Vegeta on this one. He doesn’t look so tough,” Krillin said.

“I don’t know and that’s what worries me,” Piccolo replied.

“They’re pairing up for the elimination rounds. You’d better not disappoint me, Kakarot,” Vegeta said and Goku smiled.

“I’m just here to have fun,” Goku said.

“Isn’t that the whole point?”  Loren asked.

“Looks like you’ve got someone to identify with Dad,” Gohan said.

“It’s more than a game girl,” Vegeta said and Loren looked at him.

“No it’s not,” she said.

“It’s a competition.”

“That’s the same thing as a game.”

“Technically she’s right Dad,” Trunks said.

“It figures that you’d side with the woman,” Vegeta said.

“I agree with her on this point.”

“You’re up against Faron, Trunks,” Krillin said and Trunks nodded his head.

“Come on, hon. Let’s go outside,” he said and led Loren to a secluded part of the arena.  He kissed her passionately as he rubbed her crotch.  She moved her hips in response to his touch as his tongue probed her mouth.  He pulled away from her and unzipped her pants.

“Trunks!”  she said as he pulled her boxers down.  He kissed her flesh and she leaned back against the wall.  She still couldn’t understand why she would experience these feelings only in her male form.  Why were the feelings so different?

“Loren, you might want to see this,” Piccolo said and Trunks wiped his mouth.  He glared at the Namek.

“Can’t you forewarn me?”  he asked and stood up.

“You’re just lucky that I wasn’t Vegeta. He wouldn’t overlook it like I am.”

“Get dressed hon.”

“What?”  Loren asked as she watched Piccolo’s facial expression.  Something was obviously bothering him.

“Pull your pants up,” Trunks said as he pulled her boxers up.

“This is really bothering you, isn’t it?”

“He can’t be trusted,” Piccolo replied.

“Where did you two run off to? You both look slightly flushed,” Krillin said as Trunks and Loren walked back into the waiting area.  Trunks looked guiltily away from Krillin.

“We just went for a walk,” he replied.

“Uh-huh. Just like when she first landed, right?”

“He’s over there, meditating in the shadows,” Piccolo said and pointed to an unusually dark corner.

“I don’t like it,” Loren said as she shrank back.  She couldn’t understand the evil she was sensing but she knew that the evil was directed at her. Something terrible was going to happen.

“You’ll be going out there soon. Are you ready boy?”  Vegeta asked and Trunks let go of her hand.

“I’m more than ready, Father. I’m sure I can take him down easily,” Trunks said. “He doesn’t look that tough.”

“Well you’ll find out pretty soon. It’s your turn,” Krillin said.

“I’ll be back love.”

“Be careful,” Piccolo said as Trunks walked out into the arena.  Faron walked past him and Piccolo stiffened.  He flinched and glanced at Loren who stood holding his hand.

“The boy can take care of himself. Is a trait of Nameks to get paranoid as they grow older?”  Vegeta asked and Piccolo’s gaze darkened.

“Something is going to happen,” she said nervously.

“His blocking has improved,” Goku commented as he watched the match outside.

“He’s got to be fast to keep up with her,” Vegeta said.

“I never thought that you would accept this love affair,” Krillin said.

“I don’t accept it. I’m stuck with it. There’s a difference.”

“Sure there is.”

“What did you say?”

“Me? Nothing.”

“He’s just toying with Trunks,” Piccolo said and Loren looked at him.

“What do you mean?”  she asked.

“That’s going to hurt.”

“Block Trunks block,” Goku said as Faron delivered a series of kicks and punches to Trunks.  He slammed his fists down onto Trunks head and Trunks dropped from the sky and crashed into the ring far below.

“He should know better than to try a stupid stunt like that. I didn’t teach him to allow his opponents to walk all over him,” Vegeta said and Loren gasped in shock as she fell to the floor.

She grabbed her chest and tried to regulate her breathing as her hair became streaked with crimson.  Piccolo stared in concern as scrapes and scratches appeared on her body.  Something devastating had just transpired.  Loren lowered her head and closed her eyes as she fearfully awaited the announcement.

“Why isn’t he getting back up?”  Gohan asked.

“If he’s unconscious, I’m blaming it on you girl. You’ve taken his mind away from training. His focus has obviously gone down the drain,” Vegeta said.

“Are you all right Loren?”  Krillin asked as Loren raised herself from the floor.  Piccolo watched her in concern as the others gazed nervously at the arena.  Something was causing her extreme pain.

“Loren say something,” he said and she shook her head.

“I’m sorry Faron but you are disqualified. It’s official. Trunks is dead,” the announcer said and Vegeta transformed.  His gaze darkened with rage.

“What?!” he demanded. “That bastard. He’s a dead man. I swear I’ll kill him. My son…”

“Enough Vegeta. There’s someone who’s suffering much more than you,” Piccolo said and Goku looked at Loren whose attire had changed into a one-piece black suit with sleeves that tapered off at her wrist and covered the top of her middle finger.  She breathed laboriously as Piccolo offered her his hand.

“Loren…” Goku said as she slowly stood up.  The crimson in her hair dripped off, staining her clothes.  She said nothing as she walked out into the arena and stepped into the ring. Her hands shook as the announcer gazed upon her in fear.  Why did it happen? Why?

“Excuse me…sir but you’re not supposed to be out here,” the announcer said and shrank back when Loren gave him an extremely frigid look. “But for you we’ll make an exception.”

Loren jumped down into the crater that Trunks lay in and gently picked him up.  She ran a hand over his broken wings and kissed him, her tears staining his scarred and lifeless face.  She ran her fingers through his hair and caressed his face.  She took his hand into her own and gently squeezed it as she jumped out of the crater and walked solemnly back to the waiting area.  She laid him on the floor and stepped back, wincing in pain.

“Trunks…” Vegeta said and took a step forward.  Loren waved her hand and Vegeta stopped in his tracks.

“Don’t come near him. I’m not through with him yet. He’s seriously injured. I’m going to have to split,” Loren said as her other form appeared next to her.

“Keep him sustained. You have all the healing capabilities. Do not leave his side no matter what happens to me. He can’t die.”

“Loren I’m coming with you,” Piccolo said and Loren looked at him.

“There’s nothing you can do,” he said coldly. “This is my fight.”

“I can be there for you.”

“Fine. Let’s go. However, I am unable to protect you.”

“That doesn’t matter.”

“Come on then.”

Loren gazed upon Trunks’ corpse for a moment then turned and walked out of the waiting area.  Piccolo followed him and together, they flew off.  He gazed at Loren; his friend’s eyes had become dark and somber after the split.  He wasn’t sure what had happened to the timeless rose but he didn’t like it.  Something had changed her.

“Loren if you get hurt, you won’t be able to heal yourself, will you?”  Piccolo asked.

“I’ll do what I can. Don’t worry about me,” Loren replied as he landed on a barren island.  His eyes narrowed as he searched for Faron. The demon would pay and he would pay dearly.  Piccolo watched his friend’s actions, sensing the darkness that encompassed Loren.  He had witnessed what happened when she became angry and he hoped that this wasn’t a repeat performance.  Trunks was unable to stop her as he had done the previous time.

“I knew you’d come if I waited for you,” Faron said as he stepped into the light.

“Why? Why did you kill him?”

“If we can’t have the sanctuary then the key will be destroyed.”

“You can’t take him away. He has been given to me. He is mine.”

“The link has been broken. Your power has been gravely injured.”

“The seal binding you demons to the dark will be strengthened. You however, will be reduced to ashes.”

“Talk is cheap. I know that if I do enough damage to you, you will be dead.”

“You are going to die now,” Loren hissed as he unfolded white bloodstained wings.

Piccolo watched as a bolt of energy struck Loren.  His friend’s eyes darkened as a glowing light surrounded his fist.  He watched Faron with a frigid gaze as the energy around his fist grew in intensity.

“Loren stop,” Piccolo said but Loren didn’t hear him.

He raised his hands into the air and a stream of black and crimson flowed off of his body and into the air like a river of supernatural beings.  His injuries became more apparent and Piccolo gazed upon what seemed to flesh desperately clinging to a skeleton.  He averted his eyes as the corpse-like figure opened his mouth to speak.

“Die!”  Loren commanded as the entire sky grew unnaturally dark and gruesome cuts appeared on Loren’s arms.  He winced in pain as new wounds opened up.

***

“Loren!”  Trunks screamed as he sat up.  The female Loren wavered under the strain that her male counterpart was experiencing as Trunks stood up and flexed his wings.  He gazed at the female Loren who seemed to be using most of her strength to stand and took her hand.

“Take me there,” he said.

“You’re not fully healed,” she said and Trunks gazed at her.

“I’m fine. Take me there. I’m not going to let you sacrifice yourself to save me.”

“Trunks, that’s the kind of thinking you did when the androids were destroying the planet,” Gohan said and Trunks looked at him.

“This is different,” he replied.

“How is it different? Our friends had died at the hands of evil. What makes this any different?”

“Come on, if your wife was being hurt, would you just stand around?”

“He left to save you. It was his decision to do this.”

“Gohan’s right Trunks. You don’t want to make it worse do you? Besides, Piccolo is with…him,” Goku said and Trunks looked at him.

“Loren is in trouble. You expect me to stand here and suffer?”  he asked.

“You don’t want your mom to know that you’re dead, do you?”  Gohan asked.

“As far is Mother is concerned, I am dead,” he said.

“Trunks you don’t want to go do you? I mean that Faron guy is the one that killed you,” Krillin said.

“I’ll be careful.”

“You’re being stupid boy,” Vegeta said and Trunks looked at him.

“I’m going to do what I feel is right Father. Take me there,” Trunks said to the female Loren who was holding onto his arm for support.

“You’re not going.”

Trunks pushed the female Loren away from him and gazed coldly at his father.  He transformed and Vegeta sneered.  Was Trunks stupid enough to challenge his authority?  He was not about to let his son run off to certain death in his weakened state.

“I’m going Father,” he said.

“Don’t be such an idiot boy. You can’t beat that thing. I’m not going to explain to your mother why you died twice in the same day.”

“Get out of my way, Father. For your own sake.”

“My own sake? Are you threatening me?”

“Just get out of my way. I don’t have time for this.”

“Fine. Have it your way. If I have to knock you senseless to keep you here then I will.”

Trunks gazed darkened as a ball of energy formed in his palm.  He had hoped that it wouldn’t come to this, but he had counted on his father being more submissive than he actually was.  Trunks winced as he felt the pain that the male Loren was in and gritted his teeth. He hated to do this to his father but there was no other way. Vegeta wouldn’t listen to reason.

“Do you dare strike me boy?”  Vegeta asked as Trunks’ gaze darkened.

Forgive me, Father, he thought as he released an extremely powerful energy blast.  Vegeta yelped in surprise as he crashed through the wall.  Krillin shuddered in shock as Gohan and Goku stood silently watching the young Saiyen.  Trunks gazed at the hole in the wall for a second, then turned to the female Loren.

“Trunks…” Goku said and Trunks looked at him.

“Goku if I don’t go, the pain will be too much for me to bear. This hurts worse than any injury that I’ve had before. I have to go and no one is going to stop me. Not even you. If I have to fight all of you just to get to her then I will. Is that what you want Goku? Time is running out and the pain is increasing. I will kill you if that’s what it takes,” Trunks said coldly. “This is important to me. Can’t you understand?”

“This is crazy Trunks,” Gohan said.

“Quiet Gohan. Trunks…” Goku said as a ball of energy started to form in the younger Saiyen’s hands.

“I don’t have time for this. Please understand. You are all very dear to me but you don’t feel the pain that I feel,” he said as the light between his hands grew in intensity.

Goku looked at the younger Saiyen.  He was serious.  He was willing to kill to go to where he felt he was needed.  There was an emotion that clouded his eyes that Goku had never seen before.  It was as if he was gazing into a horrible nightmare.  The younger Saiyen’s eyes pulsated with a pain so horrible and intense that it made Goku wince.  Goku wryly smiled and stepped away from Trunks.

“All right,” he said. “I’m not ready to die again,” Goku said and Trunks heaved a sigh of relief.  He dropped his hands and lowered his eyes.

“Thank you for understanding. Please explain my actions to Father. I really didn’t want to hurt him but he gave me no choice,” he said as he and the female Loren walked out of the waiting area.

“That was really scary,” Krillin shuddered. “I’ve never seen anyone so ticked off. I always thought he was the easy going one. Boy I’d hate to get on his bad side.”

“He would have done it, wouldn’t he Dad?”  Gohan asked as Goku walked over to the hole in the wall.

“Yes he would have Gohan. That’s why I didn’t try to force him into staying. As upset as he was, I really think he could have killed all of us,” Goku said.

“You’re kidding, right Goku?”  Krillin asked and Goku looked at him.

“No I wasn’t. Well I guess I’ll have to explain to Vegeta when he wakes up. He’s in pretty bad shape. Too bad I don’t have a sensu bean. He’s certainly going to be in pain when he wakes up.”

“He knocked Vegeta out?! Man I don’t want to be around when he wakes up. He’s not going to be very happy when he wakes up. Of course, he’s not very happy on a regular basis.”

“He’ll be okay Gohan. He’s not going into this blindly.”

“I hope you’re right Dad,” Gohan said. “I don’t want to lose him again. At least not in the same day.”

***

Faron screamed in pain as an unearthly bolt of lightning struck him.  His body pulsated with electricity for a moment then disintegrated.  Loren collapsed onto the ground, his appearance now resembling a corpse that had be drug through the street by a ravenous dog.  He lay in what could be considered the equivalent of human blood and painfully watched his sight slowly diminish as his breathing became few and far in-between.

Piccolo stood still, his enormous arms folded against his chest and his head bowed.  Tears dripped down his nose as the female Loren and Trunks appeared.  His ears perked up when the heard their footsteps and took a deep breath.  He couldn’t let Trunks see him emotionally upset.  He had to be strong for Trunks’ sake.

“Listen to me. I’m fine. Become whole again so that I can have the person I love,” Trunks said to Loren’s female form. “You can’t do this to me.”

She looked at him for a second then slowly walked over to where her male counterpart lay.  The Namek watched as she took her male form’s hand and became encompassed with the injuries that her male form had received.  She gazed at Trunks and saw the sadness in his eyes.  She turned her attention to the Namek whose heart was experiencing much more pain than she could bear and knelt beside her male counterpart.  She placed her hands on his forehead and disappeared.

“She’s going to be okay, isn’t she?”  Trunks asked Piccolo.

“I don’t know,” Piccolo replied softly.

“She can’t be dead.”

“Look at her. She looks like something that’s been eaten and spit out again. Why didn’t she listen to me?”

“You’re the most sensitive to her energy. Can you feel anything?”

“No.”

“Where are you going?”

“Does it matter? I can’t stand looking upon her like that. She deserved better. She would have been fine if she had her healing capabilities.”

“If she had let me die, would you have consoled her?”  Trunks asked and the Namek’s gaze darkened.

“I didn’t mean it like that!” he retorted.

“It wasn’t my fault that I died.”

Piccolo angrily turned away from Trunks and Trunks walked over to where Loren lay.  He gently raised her head off the ground and kissed her lips as tears stained her scathed face.  He stroked her once again blonde hair and tightly embraced her.  He wished that she would show a sign of feeling so that his mind would be at ease.  Granted that she looked terrible but he didn’t care.  All he wanted was for her to be with him again.  Piccolo turned to face them and glanced at her hand.  A finger twitched slightly and the Namek sighed.  Perhaps she wasn’t dead.

“Don’t leave me. I need you,” Trunks whispered as he took her hand into his own. “Loren…”

“Her energy level seems to be responding to you,” Piccolo said as he watched Loren’s injuries slowly disappear.

“How did she get so many scratches?”

“When Faron killed you, some of your injuries affected Loren. She split in order to save you and went off to fight Faron. She defeated Faron obviously but was badly injured. She was dying when you arrived but now that she has her healing capabilities, she seems to be doing better.”

“It was very noble, what she did.”

“Yes but I hope that I never have to see that side of her again. She’s getting stronger.”

“Good. Come on hon. We’re here for you.”

Loren raised a shaky hand and touched Trunks face.  He smiled and kissed her fingers.  She opened her eyes and gazed up at him.  She slowly smiled as she attempted to sit up.  Piccolo laid a hand on her shoulder and she glanced at him.

“You’re too weak to sit up,” he said.

“Trunks…” she whispered and Trunks smiled.

“Just rest love,” he said and kissed her.

“But everyone must be…worried.” 

“We’ll get back when you’re stronger.”

“But…”

“Shh. Just rest love,” he said and kissed her.

Loren sighed and closed her eyes.  She was glad that Trunks was okay as she fell sound asleep.  Trunks gently picked her up and stroked her skin.  He was glad that she was alive.  She was extremely weak but at least she was alive.  Piccolo watched him for a moment then glanced up at the sky.  It was getting late.  He turned to face the young Saiyen.

“Do you think you can carry her back to the tournament?”  Piccolo asked.

“I should be able to,” Trunks replied.

“Let’s go then.”

***

“They’re coming back,” Goku said and Piccolo walked into the waiting area.

“Where is that boy? I need to have a few words with him,” Vegeta asked as he winced in pain.

“Um…maybe you should stay still Vegeta,” Krillin said as Bulma wrapped his arm.

“Why didn’t you listen to him instead of picking a fight? I hope she’s all right,” Bulma said.

“Don’t touch it woman,” Vegeta snapped.

“It’s your own fault from what I hear. Now stay still. You’re making it worse.”

“How is she?”  Gohan inquired.

“He’s coming with her. She’s extremely weak,” Piccolo said as Trunks slowly walked into the room with Loren in his arms.

“She looks dead,” Krillin commented and Bulma looked up.  She let go of Vegeta’s arm and ran over to where her son stood leaning against the doorframe for support.

“She’s unconscious. At least she’s in better shape than she was,” Piccolo replied.

“She looks terrible. What happened honey?”  Bulma asked.

“I don’t know. It was over when I got there,” Trunks replied.

“We need to get you in the infirmary. Your father should go too but he’s being stubborn.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt him.”

“Let me take her,” Piccolo said. “It looks like you’ve got some explaining to do.”

“I know you didn’t dear. You both get so stubborn at times,” Bulma said as Trunks slowly walked up to his father.

“I’m sorry Father. I really hated to do that but you gave me no choice,” he said and Vegeta grinned.

“You’ve got a lot of power in those arms. You’ve obviously been doing something more than wasting your time with her. Kakarot informed me that you threatened to kill them if they stood in your way. I would have liked to see that,” he said and Trunks sighed.

“I felt her injuries. I felt her pain. It was terrible Father. It wasn’t like the pain I experienced living in fear of the androids. This was a hundred times worse. I just couldn’t stand around and not do anything.”

“Come on honey. Let’s get you fixed up. You too Vegeta. If you want to continue this conversation, you’re both going to do it while you’re lying in bed,” Bulma said and Vegeta glared at her.

“I’m fine. I don’t need any help,” he said.

“It would put my mind at ease if you’d let them look at you Father. I know you push yourself beyond your limitations but I already feel pretty guilty for injuring you. Please don’t compound the problem,” Trunks said.

“Here’s the infirmary,” Goku said as he opened the door for Trunks.

“Thank you,” Trunks said and walked over to the bed that Loren lay on.  He took her hand and glanced at Piccolo.

“Sleep right now is the best thing for her,” he said as he ran his fingers fondly over her forehead.

“Come on honey, we need to get you into bed as well,” Bulma said and drew her son away from Loren’s bed. “Lie down Vegeta. You know this is the best thing for you. You just won’t admit that I’m right.”

Loren stirred and the Namek glanced at her.  She opened her eyes and glanced at him.  He smiled as she stared into his deep black eyes.  He ran his fingers through her hair for a moment then caressed her face.  She watched him for a moment then looked around the room for Trunks.

“Bulma’s taking care of him. He’ll be fine,” Piccolo said softly.

“Tell me something. When I was out there…what…what did I do? I don’t remember,” she whispered and the Namek sighed.

“Your power was extremely dark. It reminded me of when you tried to destroy yourself. There was a demonic presence in your eyes and I never want to see it again.”

“When Trunks died…I was…extremely hurt. My feelings took control of my mind. All I knew was that I had to…destroy him for…Trunks’ sake.”

“You almost died out there. It disturbed me to stand there and watch, knowing full well that there was nothing I could do to help you.”

“I’m sorry. You chose to come along.”

“I know. Apparently Trunks was extremely torn up about your split. He threatened to kill everyone just to come to your aide.”

“Are you serious?”

“Well it looks like someone is awake. How are you doing, dear?”  Bulma asked as she walked up to Loren’s bed.

“I’m awake,” Loren replied.

“You’re talking as well. Can you sit up? You lie back down Trunks dear. You also need to regain your strength.”

“I didn’t mean to make him worry so. I did what I thought was right.”

“It’s all right dear. He wasn’t willing to let you go.”

“Without my healing powers, I left myself extremely vulnerable. I could have died. Would I have died Piccolo? Isn’t death just an eternal life in another dimension?”

“I don’t know. The way you said it makes sense,” Piccolo replied.

“Don’t worry about death dear. You’re going to be perfectly fine,” Bulma said.

“She’s asleep again.”

“Piccolo, I know this sounds crazy but would Dende be able to help her? He’s a healer.”

“She’s not up to traveling that great a distance.”

“Well couldn’t you convince him to come here? He doesn’t have to be at Kami’s all the time, does he?”

“I’ll ask if he’s willing to come here. If she wakes up while I’m gone, please tell her where I am.”

“All I need is my daughter and the entire family would be here,” Bulma said as she looked around the room.

“Can’t I at least sit by her side?”  Trunks asked and Vegeta looked at him.

“Just let her be. You’re going to spend a lot of time in the training room to make up for what you did,” Vegeta said and Trunks smiled.

“All right, Father,” he said as Bulma touched his forehead.  He winced in pain as she applied a damp cloth to his head.

“I’m glad she saved you honey. You don’t know how hurt I was when they announced your death. I couldn’t believe it. You couldn’t be dead. It was hard to accept that you had been killed dear,” Bulma said.

“Looks like someone is regaining consciousness,” Vegeta said as eh watched Loren’s arm twitch.  She opened her eyes and forced herself to sit up.  She winced in pain as she grabbed her chest.

“Lie back down dear. Don’t force yourself,” Bulma said as she walked over to Loren’s bed.

“Where’s Piccolo?”  she asked as she gasped for air.

“He’ll come back. He went to get Dende. Lie down hon.”

“Where’s Trunks?”

“Mom…” Trunks protested and Bulma looked at him.

“No honey. She’s in pain,” she replied.

“Couldn’t we at least share the bed?”

“No!”  Vegeta snapped.

“I don’t think he was serious dear,” Bulma said and Vegeta frowned.

“Yes he was.”

Trunks blushed as he watched Loren slowly lie back on the bed.  He wished he could hold her close as she fell fast asleep.  Trunks laid a hand on his stomach and glanced at his mother.

“Mom…” he said and she turned to him.

“What is it dear?”

“I’m hungry.”

“All right. I’ll be back. You stay right there Vegeta. I’ll get you something as well.”

“Hey guys. How are you doing?”  Goku asked as he walked into the room.

“Make sure those two stay put. I’ve got to get them something to eat,” Bulma said as she walked past Goku.

“I’d be much happier if I could be near her,” Trunks muttered as Bulma walked out of the room.

“Why don’t you share the bed?”  Goku asked.

“You’re not helping anything Kakarot,” Vegeta said.

“You’re right. That was a stupid suggestion.”

“Actually, I liked it,” Trunks said.

“Shut up boy,” Vegeta said.

“Trunks…” Loren whispered and Trunks sat up.

“Dad…” he protested.

“No!”

Trunks folded his arms and scowled.  It just wasn’t fair. She wanted him and yet he couldn’t go to her.  Why did parents have to be so unreasonable at times? He glanced up at Vegeta who sat glaring at him and sighed.  It was extremely hard for him to hide his emotions from his father.

“I know what would cheer you up. I bet you guys would like a visit from everyone,” Goku said.

“No, Kakarot,” Vegeta said.

“What happened to the tournament Goku?”  Trunks asked.

“It’s been rescheduled. Most of the people left after Loren and Piccolo took off,” Goku replied.

“I’m back. I brought some help. I couldn’t carry it all by myself,” Bulma said as she walked into the room.

“We’ve got our hands full with these men,” Chi-chi said as she set a tray of food on the table.

“How are you doing?”  Gohan asked as he walked over to where Trunks sat.

“Better. I’m glad I’ve got something to eat. I’m starving,” he said as he gratefully took the bowl that Bulma handed him.

“I can eat on my own,” Vegeta said as Bulma took the fork away from him.

“No you can’t. Your arm is still causing you pain. If you’d cooperate, it would heal a lot faster and I wouldn’t have to watch you so closely,” Bulma said.

“How’s Loren?”  Gohan asked Trunks.

“She hasn’t moved,” Trunks said as he picked up another bowl.

“How is she?”  Piccolo inquired as he walked into the room.

“Where’s Dende?”  Bulma asked.

“H couldn’t come. He says that she’s beyond his healing capabilities. She looks so cold and distant”

Piccolo sighed and took her hand.  Her fingers wrapped around the Namek’s hand and he glanced at her.  There was an emptiness in her touch and he wondered if something had been lost during the battle.  She had definitely changed and the Namek hoped that the effect wouldn’t be permanent.

Her grasp softened and he looked at her.  Her form had changed.  He touched her feminine face and sighed.  It would take her awhile to completely regain her strength but at least she was clearly doing better.  Being able to switch forms signified that she was doing better.

“She looks so sweet when she’s asleep,” Chi-chi commented as she leaned against Goku.

“Can you sense her strength Piccolo?”  Goku asked and the Namek looked up.

“She’s getting stronger. How are you feeling?”  Piccolo asked as he gazed at Loren’s open eyes.

“Better. Let go please,” she said and Piccolo let go of her hand.  She winced as she sat up and glanced at Trunks who was reaching for a third bowl of food.  She laid a hand on the bed frame and set a foot on the floor.

“Are you sure?”

“I’m going to try.”

She slowly stood up and Vegeta glanced up.  He smiled as he set an empty bowl on the table.  She wavered slightly and Piccolo touched her shoulder and she glanced at him.  His soft black eyes gazed fondly upon her as he gently forced her to sit on the edge of the bed.

“Don’t push yourself,” he said.  “Besides he’s eating right now. He can wait.”

“She’s sitting up,” Vegeta commented and Trunks glanced up.

“You’ve changed,” he said and she smiled.

“I’m more comfortable this way,” she replied and Bulma walked over to her side.

“You’re looking much better dear. You were out for quite a long time,” she said as she took Loren’s hand.

“I don’t’ remember much.”

“Loren does anger destroy a part of you? You couldn’t remember what happened when you were self-destructive so long ago,” Piccolo said and Loren looked at him.

“I don’t know,” she replied.

“Now can I get up Mom?”  Trunks asked and Bulma smiled.

“All right dear. You’ve waited as long as you obviously can,” she replied.

“Thank you.”

Gohan watched Trunks stand up and smiled.  The younger Saiyen was a lot calmer now that she was doing better.  There was definitely a link between the two and Gohan was glad that the link had been repaired.  There had been an unearthly darkness in Trunks’ eyes and Gohan never wanted to see the darkness again.

“How are you hon?”  Trunks asked as he put his arm around her waist.

“It would be nice to stand,” she replied as Trunks brought her closer to him.  She laid her head on his shoulder and Bulma smiled.

“They’re so sweet together. There. Do you feel better now?”  Bulma asked and Vegeta glanced away from her.  She smiled as she stacked the empty bowls on the table.

“We’d better get home. It’s getting late,” Chi-chi said.

“Do you need any help Bulma?”  Goku asked.

“The only one that I’m afraid to move is Loren,” Bulma replied.

“I can travel. I just can’t walk yet,” Loren said as Piccolo laid a hand over her own.  She glanced at him and he smiled.

“The Namek wants to help. Isn’t that touching?”  Vegeta asked and Bulma glared at him.

“Be quiet Vegeta,” she hissed as the Namek gently picked Loren up.  Trunks stiffened as Piccolo’s hands brushed against his legs and the Namek glanced at him.  Trunks grinned sheepishly as he gazed into the Namek’s eyes.  Piccolo’s gaze hardened momentarily as he turned away from the young Saiyen.

“Where am I supposed to take her?”  the Namek inquired.

“Just take her back to our place and put her on the couch. We’ll be there shortly. I just have to locate my daughter,” Bulma replied as Piccolo walked out of the room.

“Loren I want you to promise me something.”

“What is it?”  Loren asked.

“Don’t ever split again.”

“What happened really hurt you didn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right. Just don’t do it again.”

She raised a hand to his face and touched his ear.  He smiled and bent over to kiss her.  Their lips touched and the Namek gazed into her eyes.  He was so glad that she had become whole again.

“We’d better get going. I’ve got to get you to Bulma’s before they get there,” Piccolo said as he stood straight.

“Thank you for being so concerned,” Loren said as he took off.

“I’ve explained to you many times why I’m so concerned.”

“I know. I can still be thankful can’t I? Piccolo?”

“Your skin doesn’t feel right.”

“What?”

“I’m going to land down there.”

“What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know. I don’t think you’ll ever heal completely from that battle,” Piccolo said as he set Loren on a rock.  He placed her hands on her legs and studied them.  She looked down at him and sighed.  The Namek studied her skin and frowned.

“You have a strange mark on your leg.”

“Where?”  Loren asked,

“Right here. It’s on your upper thigh,” he replied.  “It’s shaped like a cross.”

Loren raised her dress and gazed at her right leg.  The Namek averted his gaze from her crotch as he stood up.  She ran her hand over the mark and winced.  The Namek gazed at her as she slowly walked towards him.  She stopped and glanced at the mark on her leg.  It had grown red around the edges and the Namek took her hand.

“We need to get you to Bulma’s. Can you fly?”

“I don’t know. I can try.”

“Wait. Can you take us to Bulma’s?”

“Sure. I forgot that I could do that.”

Loren closed her eyes and Piccolo watched as Bulma’s living room appeared in front of them.  He laid a hand on the bottom of her dress and yanked hard.  The fabric ribbed and Loren stared at the material hanging limply from the Namek’s fingers.

“Why did you do that?”  she asked.

“Sit down. I’m getting some water,” he said and walked into the kitchen.  Loren sat down and looked at the mark on her leg.  She raised her hand as the air roared with the sound of an approaching helicopter.  Piccolo walked out of the kitchen carrying a damp rag.  He knelt beside her and applied the rag to her leg.  She winced in pain as Trunks ran into the house.  He stopped when he noticed Piccolo kneeling on the floor.

“What’s wrong?”  he asked as the Namek stood up.

“I don’t know. Is your mother coming?”  Piccolo asked.

“Eventually. She’s having some trouble with Father. What happened to your dress love?”

“I tore it. Look at her leg.”

“What is it?”

“I don’t know. Take a look at her leg will you?”  Piccolo asked Bulma as he walked out of the house.

“Where did that come from?”  Bulma asked.

“She didn’t have it before,” Trunks said.

“You would know her best boy,” Vegeta said and Trunks blushed.

“Leave him alone,” Bulma said as she pressed the mark on Loren’s leg.  She yelped in pain and Trunks caressed her.  She leaned against him and tightly closed her eyes.

“Where does it hurt hon?”  he asked as she clenched her hands into a pair of fists.

“She posts a problem. She’s not human so all the medical capabilities I have won’t help her,” Bulma said as Trunks ran his fingers through Loren’s hair.

“That demon didn’t touch you did he?”

“I don’t remember anything about the fight,” Loren replied as she laid her head on Trunks chest.

“It’s discolored. I wish I knew what to do,” Bulma said.

“Why aren’t you wearing anything on your legs?”  Bra asked.

“She’s injured honey. Why don’t you get ready for bed?”  Bulma asked as she pressed down on Loren’s leg.  She squeezed Trunks’ arm for support and he winced.

“Not so hard love,” he said.

“It hurts,” she said as tears streamed down her face.

“I know but you’re hurting me.”

“I’m sorry. Trunks…”

“It’s all right.”

She stood up and Bulma watched her.  Trunks flushed as he gazed at her panties.  He wished that he could take them off and run his hands over her smooth flesh.  He wanted to kiss her skin and make love to her.

“Enough boy,” Vegeta snapped and Trunks drew back in shock.

“What’s wrong?”  Loren asked as she turned towards him.  Trunks stared at her front in desire and Vegeta smacked him on the head.

“I’m sorry Father. I couldn’t help it,” Trunks said as he rubbed his head.

“Would you put some clothes on the woman?”  Vegeta asked Bulma as she pressed her hands onto the back of Loren’s leg.

“The pain seems to be localized around that mark,” she said as she watched Loren’s expressions.

“So what can we do?”  Trunks asked.

“For now we’re going to let her get some rest. Help her upstairs dear.”

“You’d better behave in that room of yours boy,” Vegeta said as he watched Trunks take Loren’s hand.

He helped Loren up the stairs and into his room.  She ran her hand over the bed as Trunks took off his shirt.

“You were so beautiful lying asleep next to me. I thought for sure that I was going to get it from Father the next day,” he said as he took off his pants.

“He was scary then,” Loren said and Trunks smiled.

“Well you caused an awful lot of awkward situations. Are you going to lay your head on me like you usually do?”

“I guess. Don’t do that,” she sobbed and Trunks looked at his hand.  His fingertips rested directly on the mark.  He placed his hands around her waist and kissed her.  She pushed him away and began to cry uncontrollably.

“What’s wrong hon?”  he asked as he reached for her.

“I can’t touch you,” she sniffed as she gazed at him through tear-filled eyes.

“What?”

“It hurts when I touch you. I don’t know what happened but we can’t be close to each other anymore. I’m so sorry Trunks!!”

“Are you sure that’s what’s causing it?”  he asked and tried reaching for her again.  She drew back and he sighed.  He wished that he could do something to help her.  It hurt him so to see her in so much pain.  He wanted to touch her and console her but he couldn’t.  She looked at his hurt expression on his face and turned away.

She wanted to touch him but knew that she couldn’t.  Something had happened during the fight with Faron and it was directed at the link.  The demon’s ultimate goal was to destroy the link.  Perhaps he had done something to cancel the link out.  She winced in pain and glanced up.  Trunks lovingly embraced her as she grimaced in pain.  She pulled out of his embraced and he watched her.  She gasped for breath as Bulma opened her son’s door.  Trunks pulled a blanket over the lower half of his body and flushed.

“What’s happening honey?”  she asked as she walked into the room.

“I can’t touch her,” he replied as she sat between the two.

“Come here dear.”

Loren laid her head in Bulma’s arms and sniffed.  She glanced at Trunks and began to cry some more.  Bulma looked at her son’s pained face and sighed.  Something was obviously hurting the two.  She comfortingly embraced Loren as Vegeta stepped into the doorway.

“What is going on in here?”  he asked.

“Would you show me what you mean honey?”  Bulma asked Trunks.

“I don’t want to hurt her,” Trunks said. “Seeing her like this already hurts me so much.”

“Please honey. I need to know this.”

Trunks hesitantly reached out for Loren’s arm and touched her.  She drew back sharply and gazed tearfully at his hurt facial expression.  Vegeta watched the two and frowned.  Something definitely wasn’t right between the two.

“Come on dear, let’s go wash your face,” Bulma said as she helped Loren stand.  Trunks watched her walk out of the room and sighed.

“What the hell is going on boy?”  Vegeta asked as he sat next to his son.

“I don’t know. I can’t touch her and she can’t touch me without putting her in pain. I wish I knew what was going on,” he sighed.

“So something is keeping the two of you apart?”

“Didn’t you see the pain in her eyes? Damn! I wish I could do something to help her.”

“Calm down boy. You’re on thin ice with me.”

“It’s just frustrating to not be able to do anything for her.”

“Get dressed and go into the training room,” Vegeta said as he walked out of Trunks’ room. 

He put on his clothes and walked out of his room.  He went into the training room and switched on the gravity simulator.  He screamed in a mixture of frustration and pain as his transformation to a Super Saiyen grew stronger. He wished he knew what was happening to their relationship.