#mcjinvegeta

Three years had passed since the tournament’s end. Since Goku had been offered training by Whis himself, and had accepted without hesitation. Everyone had expected a wait, of course, and this wasn’t even the longest of the Saiyan’s many departures from Earth. Yet somehow, it seemed different this time...

No one would feel his return, for his ki was almost completely concealed. Not by choice, just by nature. Goku wore a strangely somber look, and it was with grey eyes that he examined his surroundings. Capsule Corp...With just a moment’s focus he knew that Bulma was deep underground in her lab, the boys were across town with Chichi, and Vegeta was right where he expected him. Goku didn’t even knock to announce his presence, sure that the proud Prince would hardly notice over the sounds of his workout. 

     “Long time no see, Vegeta. Keeping up your strength, I see.”

His back was turned to the other Saiyan, form hunched over in his seat. Brooding, an odd enough activity for the one who was a seemingly endless spring of energy. Tonight, he seemed far removed from his usual self, having slinked away from dinner in order to find some solitude. Yet he didn’t scorn Vegeta’s presence, he only wished that no one else would get involved, or see him like this. I need to stay strong for everyone, but...

     “Oh, are you going outside, father?”

Bulla asked, immediately standing from her spot at the table and making to follow. Usually, she kept her distance from the proud warrior. Not out of any sort of lack of love, but because she knew the Prince’s nature...and it was not one to be affectionate often. Still, today in particular she had kept quite close to Vegeta, following him like a duckling would its mother.

“Father! You’re...home early? Trunks is still out with Goten...”

“....Vegeta....? Can we put that sparring session on hold? All of that food made me tired...”

“Hey...what’s the matter Vegeta? Don’t tell me you’re tired already.”