PAGE 1<br/><br/>B: "Huh!" With one hand Bardock pushed his body up off the ground. His spiky black hair fell in wisps over his red bandanna that covered most of his forehead. He'd slowly been training over the last several years since he became Super Saiyan, a term he'd heard the Nemekian use who watched over the earth. He'd been searching for his son for years, and finally caught wind that he was in Tokyo, on Earth, with a wife and two children.<br/><br/>"Bardock!!" The child he'd saved a few years ago ran into the cave which he claimed as home. She was breathing hard, as if running for her life. This made Bardock rise, on his knees, "Yea What is it?"<br/><br/>Gracie, her big brown curls danced wildly over her head as she struggled to catch her breath, looked up at the man she thought of as a father with huge brown eyes, "Dende... he said someone's... coming to Earth.." she panted, her hands on her knees.<br/><br/>"I should care?" Bardock raised to his feet, pulling on the gold armour he wore from his home planet, Vegetasei. The black spandex pants hugged him tightly around the waist and legs as his hazel eyes studied Gracie.<br/><br/>Gracie took ahold of Bardock's hand, pulling on it slightly, "But Dende said he's strong!! Piccolo and Krillen are going to meet him to see if he's friend or foe."<br/><br/>Bardock asked, adverting his eyes away from the eight-year-old, "The point?"<br/><br/>"Kakarot might be there." She smiled largely, softly saying that last one in a sing-song voice.<br/><br/>M: A ball of bright light was speeding towards the earth's surface, almost like a huge flaming comet of white fire, tendrils of red flickering here and there. Unseen inside this ball of unknown origin, was a man, appearing human in appearance, curled up in a tight fetal position, his eyes closed, his arms wrapped tight around his knees, which were pressed against his chest.<br/><br/>Breaking through the earth's outer stratosphere, it hurled through the atmosphere, gaining even more speed, growing larger, until in a huge flash of light, it crashes into the earth's surface, creating a huge crater, at least twenty feet wide and ten feet in depth. Smoke rose from it, and spots of fire flickered on the ground.<br/><br/>As the dust settles, a figure could be seen standing up, and a man comes into view. Blood red eyes flick back and forth, taking in his surroundings. He was thin in stature, but it was obvious he was strong, from the muscular structure of his bare arms. In his right hand was a long bladed katana, still sheathed.<br/><br/>He radiated power, and gave off a strange aura that was unknown to those who were fast approaching where he was. Climbing up the side of the crater, he steps out, and looks around, using his left hand to push back the dark brown black bangs that were hanging in his eyes, so he could see a bit clearer. "Interesting..." he murmurs, noticing right away how similar the place looked to his home.<br/><br/>He bends his knees, and jumps up, springing like a rocket boosted bouncy ball, rising fifty feet in the air, and hovering there, getting a broader view of his surroundings. Slowly he turns around, until he spots something coming closer, moving fast. He narrows his eyes, his thumb pressing against the guard of his katana, unsheathing it a mere centimeter, just in case he needed to use it.<br/><br/>B: "He landed. Not far from here." Piccolo's voice was monotone as he flew in sync with his friend, Krillen. They were headed towards whatever made that large crater, and whatever was resonating a power he hadn't felt since Frieza. Green-toned skin was flashing through the air as they made it in record time to the crash site. He wore only his black GI outfit, but no turbon or hat. He glared at the man... if they could even call him that, in front of them.<br/><br/>Krillen, smaller in size and wearing a bright red shirt and khaki pants, looked intimidated as he hovered in the air beside Piccolo, "Oh man... this guy is giving me funny vibes, dude."<br/><br/>Piccolo studied this man, immediately taking notice of the katana. Almost immediately, he felt another presence showing. A look of confusion covered his face as he raised a brow, then looked over at Krillen, "I thought you said Goku wouldn't be coming."<br/><br/>Krillen, dumbfounded, nodded, "He won't. He AND Vegeta both said they had something else to do."<br/><br/>Piccolo became on guard. He looked about, first at the stranger, then around, 'Did he bring a friend..?' He had thought to himself. Before he could stop him, Krillen finally spoke out.<br/><br/>"Who are you?" He kept his eyes on this stranger, his short black hair flying in the wind.<br/><br/>--------------<br/><br/>Bardock held Gracie in his arms as he flew towards the strange energy. He hadn't felt something this powerful since he rose up against Lord Chilled years ago. He growled at the memory, infuriated that it took so long to get strong enough to destroy him. Gracie, seeing Bardock angry, softly reached up and touched his scar.<br/><br/>Bardock immediately calmed. He didn't know why... but Gracie always knew how to make him calm down when he was at his angriest.<br/><br/>"Bardock, I am afraid.."<br/><br/>Bardock blinked, sensing they were close to where this stranger landed. She could feel it, too. And it was scaring her. His eyes met the young girls', then they looked straight ahead, "What have I always told you?"<br/><br/>Gracie thought for a moment, then a soft smile portrayed on her lips, "Conceal, don't feel. But let the pride show. Never back down, and fear won't grow."<br/><br/>Bardock smiled, a genuine smile that Gracie has only seen few times, "Atta girl."<br/><br/>M: As he hovered midair, two figures appear behind him, and he could tell they didn't think he knew of their presence, one a smaller man, and a green man with large pointed ears. The smaller male calls out to him, asking what his name was, and he turns around, both looking at him, and he stares right back, slipping his katana out a bit more, light glinting off the blade. As he did this, his power level began to rise, slowly becoming higher and higher, until it soon it was past 1600, and still rising.<br/><br/>For a moment as he was silent, lowering his arm and the hand that was holding his bangs back, before speaking up, his voice calm and collected, and slightly medium in pitch, having a strange, unique accent to it. "I'm Nexus. Nexus Uriel. And who might you be?" Sharp, vampire like fangs flashed as he spoke, his teeth super white and perfect. His eyes narrow slightly, his brows pressing together gently.<br/><br/>The wind ruffles his hair, tossing it around before setting it back down against his head once more. His power level was now at 1800, but showed no signs of ceasing in rising up even higher. He looked at them, and could tell that both men were highly suspicious of him, he could see it in their eyes, but made no move to ease that suspision either, keeping quiet, his right hand on his blade, his left at his side.<br/><br/>Another presence was nearing as well, but Nexus keeps his eyes on the two in front of him. He wonders what they were doing, he wanted to get on with his mission. But he knew that while these two were he here, he wouldn't be able to do that. But he was patient. He knew if he needed to, he could easily defeat the two in front of him.<br/><br/>B: Piccolo reached up and slams a fist down on Krillen's head, "Idiot<br/>Just shut up and let me do the talking."<br/><br/>Krillen lets out a cry, glaring at Piccolo, "Hey!! That hurt, you ass!!" He holds the top of his head, but does what he's told. He lowered his arms, looking back at the man who called himself Nexus.<br/><br/>"What is your business here?" Piccolo raised his arms, moving them so that they crossed over his chest. Nexus' power was rising, and rising still. How strong was this being? The Nemekian heard Krillen crack his knuckles, a sign that he would be ready to fight. Piccolo glanced at Krillen, and then blinked as he heard the pitpat of two feet hitting the pavement<br/><br/>A man... and a little girl. But it wasn't the fact that this man had a tail that shocked Piccolo. It was the fact that he looked just like Goku, except his skin tone was darker, and he had a scar on his face in the shape of an x.<br/><br/>Bardock glanced up at the two men hovering in the sky before he set his eyes on the stranger. He raised his power level, the force from his energy flared out, causing his hair to blow upwards, "Gracie... hide."<br/><br/>Gracie did as she was told, jumping onto the ground and running off into another direction. Far enough to not get hurt, but close enough to see and hear what was going on. She stared at the man, and shivered. She sensed his power growing rapidly, with no signs of decreasing, and it gave her the creeps. Friend or foe, she knew Bardock would be prepared to fight. He was the strongest man she'd ever met.<br/><br/>Bardock stared at the stranger, and then grew annoyed at the fact Piccolo and Krillen were both staring at him. "WHAT?!"<br/><br/>M: Blank eyes stared as the two bickered, amused by the humorous display, but it didn't show on his face. The green one then speaks to him, asking what his business was for being there, but Nexus does not respond, instead looks the the smaller guy, who had cracked is knuckles, apparently ready to fight, and Nexus raises his eyebrows, a corner of his lip lifting a tiny bit, so he was smirking slightly.<br/><br/>Before anything could be done however, two more people arrive, one another man with a tail wrapped around his waist, and a small girl in his arms. Nexus looks to them, his eyes narrowing even more, a frown now on his lips as the newcomer looked straight at him. The man sets the girl down, telling her to leave, which she does, running off to get to a safe distance.<br/><br/>The man began to raise his power level, his hair lifting as he did. Right as the guy did this, Nexus's eyes widening for a moment, but then go back to normal, and then unsheathes his katana in one swift motion, and right as he did, his power level spikes drastically, going from 1922 to 4000 in a split second, as the contained energy within the katana's sheathe was released.<br/><br/>However, even though his power level paused in rising, it wasn't over just yet, and the others would probably sense that fact. His blade flashes in the sun, a crimson line of what appeared to be a flame design ran down the middle of the blade. Wind whipped around him, his clothes being tugged at, his hair flying in his face. A crackling sound filled the air, like that of electricity popping, or lightning getting ready to strike. The fire spots on the ground flares up, becoming like large pillars.<br/><br/>"What indeed..." Nexus murmurs, smirking. Even though he was normally docile and relaxed, Nexus came from a planet of fighters. So when he knew there was a fight to be had, he was more than ready. His blood began to burn and boil with his warrior's spirit that desired battle, itching to begin, knowing that it would be pointless to explain anything right at that moment.<br/><br/>B: Piccolo was the first to respond, spiking his own energy higher. The aura around him glowed a bright golden color and he narrowed his eyes as he watched Nexus. His eyes darted back and forth between him and the other guy, who was still slowly raising his own power level. 'We need to be careful..' Piccolo growled softly, 'That katana looks really powerful.'<br/><br/>Bardock smirked softly, his hands clenched into fists. He raised into the air. Out of nowhere, Bardock finally raised his power level again substantially. His hair turned a bright golden color, his eyes a bright Turquoise Color.<br/><br/>Piccolo cried out in shock, "Another Saiyan?!"<br/><br/>"Whoa, tell me I'm dreaming..." Krillen couldn't believe his eyes. He turned his attention to Nexus again, who looked like he was ready to fight, "Okay, guys, can we talk about this for a-"<br/><br/>Krillen was cut off when Bardock suddenly growled, and phased out. Seconds later he reappears right behind Nexus, a kick aimed straight at his body.<br/><br/>M: The sudden rise in this new guys power level did not frighten Nexus, he knew that he'd be just fine. His eyes focused only on the now golden haired man, hearing the green guy say,in some surprise, that this man was a Saiyan. Interesting. He'd heard of this race before, but never met one. Now was the first time Nexus was meeting a Saiyan, another nationality of warriors, though in his opinion, their way of fighting was crude and unsophisticated, but interesting and would definitely try learning a thing or two from them.<br/><br/>Nexus could hear the smaller guy call out to them, but ignores his words as he tried to get them to talk, focusing his attention on this man only. He could feel the excitement, and next thing he knew, the guy was gone, just to appear right in front of him, a leg kicking straight towards him, but he just smirks, eyes flashing.<br/><br/>"You're not fast enough." He blocks the kick with his katana, however instead of using the bladed edge, he uses the flat of the sword. The leg connects with the sword, and Nexus shoves outward, flinging the man away, flipping backwards. He wasn't going to say this out loud, but he was not here to kill. He'd fight for a bit, but eventually he'd have to stop, because if he wanted to, he could easily obliterate all three of these people.<br/><br/>Reaching up, he pulls a small silver object from his clothes, and crushes it in his hand, silver dust floating away. 'Now then, let's see what we can do here.' He then readies himself again, ignoring but not blocking out the small man's growing complaints, he kept trying to get them to talk instead of fight. But he knew that wouldn't work, seeing the expression on this "Saiyan's" face.<br/><br/>B: Bardock growled as his kick was negated. Being shoved back, he flipped in the air before coming to a halt. He cracked his neck, getting ready in his fighting stance again. He could hear the smaller man cry out, waving his arms, trying to get his attention and it didn't phase him. As he started to move he suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder, and a strong voice say, "Enough."<br/><br/>Bardock glared, seeing the Nemekian hovering beside him. He shook off the hand, "Move!!" He flew at the stranger, this time throwing a punch at him.<br/><br/>Gracie watched from the sideline, her eyes in amazement as Bardock went at this guy with such pride, such honor, and bravery. It was almost as if he was scared of nothing. But at the same time, she was afraid for him, "Bardock! The katana, watch out for it!!"<br/><br/>'Who on earth would bring a child to a fighting area??' Krillen couldn't help but move his eyes towards her, watching her as she called from the sidelines. This girl reminded him of his own daughter, nearly eight years old now. He finally averted his eyes towards the Saiyan and he studied how he fought, 'It's almost old-school... no thinking, just going at it. If he continues, he will die.'<br/><br/>Piccolo glanced over at Krillen, nodding his head to show he was thinking the exact same thing.<br/><br/>M: Nexus watched as the green man tried to get this Saiyan to stop fighting, but it was no good, there was no stopping the man's pride, or warrior spirit. Shoving away from the pointed eared male, the man charges again, this time trying to punch him, but he just shakes his head, his eyes calculating every single move. "Once again, too slow." He says, his voice sounding as if he was slightly bored, as if this was just child's play.<br/><br/>When the man was withing five feet, he makes a forward slicing motion with the katana, and a blast of wind comes forth, knocking the man back once again, the turbulence from the air too great to push through. The effects of the wind blast could be felt by even the other's in the air, both the smaller guy and the green one, as it rushed past, and disappears in the distance.<br/><br/>He flashes from view, and before the one he was fighting could recover, he brings the butt of his katana's handle down hard on top of his head, the force great enough to send him crashing down to the earth below. He hovers up above, his eyes never once showing his actions, always calm and blank, but a flash of amusement could be seen as he grins a bit. This was way too easy, just like he thought it would be.<br/><br/>Glancing at the green guy and the short man, he shakes his head, it was obvious that Nexus didn't want to end up hurting the guy. And also it was apparent this was the fact, or else he wouldn't have just deflected the attacks, instead he would have struck back, slicing with his sword instead of using the side. "Just stop while you're ahead. I don't want to kill you." He calls, his voice echoing in the air.<br/><br/>PAGE 2:<br/><br/>B: Bardock felt the force of the Katana against his chest, so much it made his armour crack. He was shocked by the blow, and he tried to right himself. That's when he felt the other blow to the back of the head. He immediately plummeted to the ground, crashing hard.<br/><br/>Krillen watched, gasping as he stared at the newcomer. But he sighed softly, "Can't say I didn't see that coming..."<br/><br/>Piccolo nodded, lowering to where he was hovering just a few feet from Nexus, "Just answer me this.... friend, or foe?"<br/><br/>Krillen was trying to pay attention to what Piccolo was saying but he also wanted to go down to see if the Saiyan was alright. He had heard Gracie call his name, "Bardock!!!"<br/><br/>Gracie ran over to Bardock, pulling his head into her lap, "Bardock..? Please be okay..." Upon seeing Krillen, she covered his chest with her body, "Go away!! Leave him alone!!"<br/><br/>"Calm down, I'm here to help.." he leans over, softly touching Bardock's forehead, "God.. he looks so much like Goku, it's unreal..."<br/><br/>It was then that Bardock groaned softly, raising a hand to touch his head where he was hit. "Damn..." he opened his eyes slowly, realizing what happened and he glared up at the man, gritting his teeth in anger, "I am not a fool.." He started to move again, but Krillen rose in the air, right in his way.<br/><br/>"Bastard.." Bardock was getting annoyed by his meddling, "You want to die?!"<br/><br/>"Can you honestly not see that he's stronger than you?? He could tear you to pieces if he wanted to, but he instead just knocked you flat on your ass. Stop being such..." Krillen was struggling with the words, seeing Bardock with his black hair again, looking just like Goku, "...such a fucking Saiyan!"<br/><br/>M: Turning to face the green guy, who had moved closer, he grips his katana tighter, just in case. But it seemed that all the other wanted to ask was if he was a friend, or a foe. He doesn't relax his grip though, as he answered the question, his voice hinting at his boredom of this battle. "I'm a friend. But...." he narrows his eyes. "You could also say I'm a foe." A frown tugs at his lips, and he looks down to the ground.<br/><br/>The smaller man had descended, to see if the guy was okay, and as he did so did the girl, who kneeled down, pulling the guy's head into her lap. For a moment the two were arguing, but then the man woke, getting to his feet, trying to come up to Nexus again, but the short man blocked his way.<br/><br/>Nexus rolls his eyes, flipping his katana in his hand a couple of times, before slipping it back into it's sheathe, but even though he did this, his power level did not drop. Crossing his arms over his chest, he sighs, waits a few moments, then looks to the green guy again. "I don't want to hurt him, or any of you. That's the last thing I want to do. But, if he insists on fighting, I'll have no choice but to fight back."<br/><br/>He pauses, closing his eyes for a few seconds, opening the again after a moment. "And I won't hold back this time." He was giving his warning now, so as he didn't need to explain later. His eyes glance to green man once more. "You understand this...right?"<br/><br/>B: Piccolo nods his head, looking at Nexus and crossing his own arms over his muscular chest, "I may just let you teach him a lesson. He reminds me of another Saiyan I know." He raised his dark eyes to Nexus again, "My name is Piccolo. I was once the guardian of Earth." He took a pause before adding, "As long as we son't have any problems, then no harm will come. But in order to know, what business do you have here, on Earth?"<br/><br/>Krillen stared at Bardock for a moment before he finally calmed slightly with the help of Gracie. He lowered to the ground as he placed both hands on his hips, "We think he isn't here to hurt anyone. So there's no need to be hostile." Krillen then finally smiled, "So I know three things about you so far: your name is Bardock, you're a Saiyan, and you look like my friend, Goku."<br/><br/>Bardock raised a hand to stop him. As Krillen blinked, Bardock raised his eyes to him, "I'm not here to be your friend. And I could care less about your friend. I'm only here for one thing."<br/><br/>Gracie appeared beside him, giggling softly. She hugged him around the leg, looking up at Bardock.<br/><br/>M: A smirk plays upon Nexus's lips as he listened to the words that were told to him, about teaching the guy a lesson. He had no problem with doing that, it would give him something to do while he thought of what actions he'd make next. Nodding in acknowledgment when the man introduced himself as Piccolo, he was a bit interested in the fact that Piccolo had said he was once the guardian of the earth.<br/><br/>However, when asked to state his business, the amused expression on his face disappears, and becomes blank. For a moment he was silent, lowering his gaze to watch the three on the ground, his arms lowering, and his hands curling into fists. Then he looks to Piccolo, his expression serious. "I will keep that information to myself. If I told you, you'd probably kill me." Looking away, he sighs. "But know this, I'm not a threat. All I can say about why I'm here...is for personal reasons."<br/><br/>Slipping the sheathed katana into his belt, he hoped that this guy wouldn't ask too many questions. He knew this wasn't his planet, he was pretty much invading this place, but he had his reason as to keeping his mission a secret. He looks to Piccolo again, and it was clear he wasn't going to say anything else.<br/><br/>He could hear what was being said below, by the three there. "And why are you here?" Nexus asks, raising an eyebrow. "Are you here to learn a lesson in how not to get your butt handed to you like a child? I could help in that, but I'm afraid school just got out for the day. Maybe next time." Nexus was known for his usual laid back, quiet demeanor, but there were times when he could be a bit more outgoing, and quite humorous.<br/><br/>B: If Bardock were a cat, his fur would stand on all ends, showing his annoyance. Instead, his tail unwound from his waist and the fur on it stood out in aggravation, "What?! Come say that to my face you half-pint wuss!!" Gracie was holding onto his arm, crying out when he had taken a step. Krillen sighed, shaking his head, 'Man, this guy won't learn...'<br/><br/>Piccolo narrowed his eyes at Nexus only slightly, "As long as you don't try to kill everyone, then I don't care. As for him-" he jut a thumb in Bardock's direction, his face turning serious, "I have a feeling things will get interesting."<br/><br/>"Can you let it go?? He's not hurting anyone!" Krillen had placed both hands on Bardock's stomach, since he was only as tall as the middle of his chest, not really holding him back, but trying to keep some level of peace.<br/><br/>Bardock stopped, growling as he crossed his arms over his own chest, a small blush portraying over his handsome features. Gracie took a few steps forward, her hands behind her back, and she looked up at Nexus, "Hey, Mister! What's your name??"<br/><br/>Gracie speaking to this guy.. in just that way made all the anger diminish from inside. She reminded him of Barry... the kid alien who had tried to be his friend when he had none. Even now, that happy smile on her face, her eyes big with unanswered questions. He looked up, eager to know if this guy would satisfy her hunger for answers... or shoot her down like he had done so with Barry in the past.<br/><br/>Piccolo lowered slowly, his eyes fixed on the new Saiyan, "He's got a good point. Who are YOU and why are you here?"<br/><br/>M: The strangest reaction came from Nexus. His demeanor seemed calm, but when the guy responded to him, he bursts out laughing, his voice echoing around them, the sound quite lighthearted and surprisingly sweet to the ears. "You're funny, you know that? You call me half pint, and yet you can't hit me once, even at my near weakest, plus with me holding back nearly eighty five percent of my sheik dur?" In his language, power level is called sheik dur.<br/><br/>Once Nexus calms down, he looks to Piccolo. "You need not worry. I promise not to harm anyone here. Del siku hajk. Or as you say here, 'on my honor'." He gave the man a reassuring look, and grins. "And I agree. Things definitely will be interesting." Then when he hears a voice calling, that was not either of the men on the ground, he looks down, surprised that the girl had spoken to him, curiosity in her eyes, no fear in her voice.<br/><br/>He looks straight at her, his face softening a bit. "You wish to know my name?" He smiles. Children where he came from were cherished beings, a treasure to treat with utmost care. "I am called Nexus Uriel. But you may call me Nyx if you like." Nyx was a nickname that he was given by the child he knew back home. With those words, he lowers himself down to the ground, landing lightly on his feet about twenty feet from the three already there.<br/><br/>He waited for Piccolo to land as well before walking over to them, however, he keeps a short distance between himself and the group, not quite comfortable to get too close just yet. He had noticed the faint blush on the guy's face after he'd teased him, wondering what that was all about. For now he just falls silent, his appearance once again becoming stoic and quiet, watching the proceedings silently.<br/><br/>B: Bardock was shocked at the sight. Nexus had welcomed Gracie's questions with open arms. Although he grit his teeth, he said nothing. If Gracie was okay with this... Nexus guy, then maybe Bardock could be, too. At that moment, he turned his head towards Piccolo, his eyes still narrowed, "My name is Bardock. Why I am here has nothing to do with you unless you know a Saiyan by the name of Kakarot."<br/><br/>Piccolo blinked his eyes, shock portraying over his face, "Goku? What do you want with him?"<br/><br/>Krillen was next to say something, shaking his head, "Oh man.. I had a feeling you were after him.."<br/><br/>Bardock tsked again, shaking his head, "'Goku'? Stupid Earth name. He is my son."<br/><br/>Piccolo once again showed shock on his face as he stared at Bardock. It was true, the resemblance was uncanny. But for Bardock to be alive... it wasn't possible.<br/><br/>Bardock stared at the people staring at him, and he felt the heat of another blush on his cheeks. God, he hated being the center of attention! "If you know where I can find him... it would be wise to just tell me..."<br/><br/>They were quiet for a while. Finally, Piccolo turned his head into the eastern direction. Oh man... things were getting interesting. Piccolo turned his head back, "No need... he and Vegeta are heading this way..."<br/><br/>M: After a moment, Nexus begins to back away, taking one step at a time, little by little putting more space between himself and the group of people. Since they were all distracted with talking amongst themselves, he saw this as the golden opportunity to take his leave. He had stayed long enough to hear the guy's name was Bardok, and what he was searching for. And that was good enough for him.<br/><br/>Slowly, so slowly, with measured steps, quiet and careful, he clears fifteen feet, then turns around and walks away, his power level slowly returning to nor all as the energy within him begins to return to the sheathe of the katana. Now that that was over and done with, he could finally do what wanted to do to begin with. However, he doesn't get very far when he senses two more people arriving, making him stop in his footsteps, once more clasping at his katana's handle.<br/><br/>'What now?' he thinks to himself, staring in the direction of east, where he felt them coming from. He was not looking forward to having to fight aimlessly again; he just wanted to focus on doing his own thing. Just what was with all these people coming from everywhere? It was beginning to annoy him.<br/><br/>Flying at great speed to where he'd been informed of where Piccolo and Krillen had gone, Goku hurries to get there. He and Vegeta had been told that the two had been gone for quite some time, and he was worried his friends had met up with some powerful foe and were stuck in a battle. Looking at Vegeta, who was flying next to him, he speaks up. "So, do ya think we're going to have to fight? I sure hope not!"<br/><br/>B:<br/>Vegeta, dressed in his usual attire of black spandex pants and a black tank with white boots and gloves, tsked as he flew beside Goku, "Not that it would matter, anyway. If we do fight, I'll just destroy him." Vegeta smirked softly, glancing at his friend out of the corner of his eye. In all honesty, he had tried to tell the male that his friends would be fine, and it'd be pointless to go. But there was no talking Goku out of helping his friends.<br/><br/>It was also strange.. Vegeta was feeling a ki from three new people. The warrior who was landing on Earth and another that he'd been feeling for a few days now. He never knew when it would be best to bring it up to Goku, since it seemed like everyday something was going on. First Bulma left Vegeta and Trunks, then ChiChi divorced Goku. After a few moments, Vegeta finally stopped, "Kakarot... there's something you should know.."<br/><br/>---------<br/>Bardock's eyes traveled to the East, shocked to learn that his son was on his way. Damn it!! What would he say?? Bardock took a step away, fighting inside what he wanted to do... what he wanted To say.<br/><br/>Feeling the weight on Bardock's chest and heart, Gracie turned, pulling on Bardock's arm until he was at her level. She smiles and places her hands on his shoulders, "Conceal, don't feel. But let your pride show. Never back down, and fear won't grow."<br/><br/>Bardock looked at Gracie, smiling softly at her. He leaned forward, pressing his forehead against hers for a moment before he stood again, taking a deep breath. They were close... soon, Bardock would see his son again.<br/><br/>M:<br/>Glancing at Vegeta, Goku smiles. He was still worried though, so when Vegeta suddenly stops flying, he halts too, looking at him, a surprised expression in his face. "What is it? Can it wait? I gotta see if Krillen and Piccolo are okay. I know they're tough, but still. This guy is supposed to have a massive power level!" He waits for Vegeta to speak, seeing the expression in his face, wondering just what could be on the other's mind. They had been through a lot recently, so it was probably something about that.<br/><br/>His annoyance did not show on his face as he stood there, and eventually, like before, moves so he was hovering up in the sky, to get a more broad view of anything coming from whatever direction, this time the case being in the east. Why now, of all times? No doubt it was like Piccolo and the other guy of whom he'd yet to learn the name of. To figure out who he was.<br/><br/>Glancing back at the group, he guessed there was no chance for slipping way now. He'd have to stick around a bit longer. Though...the name Goku struck something in him. He had to ask. He goes down, and walks over to where the others were standing, and glances at Bardok before looking to Piccolo. "This Goku you speak of...is he a Saiyan too by any chance?" He waits, gripping his sword tightly.<br/><br/>PAGE 3:<br/><br/>B: Vegeta takes Goku's arm, holding it tightly, "Don't you feel it, Kakarot? There are TWO distinct power levels. One is the newcomer... and I have this feeling the other is a Saiyan. His reading is higher than the others. If the monk is there, he could beat him easily. Maybe stand his ground against the Green Giant." He pauses before any outburst was cast, "Yes, I know, they have names. "I don't trust this other Ki... you remember the last time a Saiyan came face to face with us..." his grip tightened on Goku's arm, "I almost lost you.. twice..."<br/><br/>-------------<br/><br/>Piccolo's eyebrow raised slightly at Nexus, nodding, "Yes, he is. But Goku is not an enemy. As long as no harm comes to his friends or family, he will leave you be." He narrows his eyes back at Bardock, who hasn't moved from his spot.<br/><br/>Sensing Piccolo's wary, Krillen walked up to him, "Okay, what's up, Piccolo? You're looking a bit stressed out."<br/><br/>"Krillen... the last times Saiyans came looking for Goku, they always ended up trying to kill him. Raditz,Vegeta, Nappa, Turles, Broly..." he kept his eyes on Bardock still, "I don't trust him..."<br/><br/>Krillen nodded, understanding, but he glanced at Bardock as well, "Yeah.. but Piccolo... Bardock's not nearly as strong as they were. Are you sure he's gonna be the same?"<br/><br/>Piccolo shook his head, "I don't know.." he finally turned his attention back to Nexus, "Why?"<br/><br/>M: "Yeah, I feel it. Which is why we've got to get to the others!" He knew what Vegeta was thinking, and he felt a bit bad that he was doing this against the other's own wishes. When he hears the rude nicknames that Vegeta says, he was about to retort, but was cut off before he could say anything. "I remember alright. That won't ever happen again. Don't worry. I'll be fine." He smiled at Vegeta to show he was confident he'd be alright. He looks to the direction they were heading, itching to get there right away.<br/><br/>His suspicions confirmed, Nexus looks away, his eyes narrowing, a frown in his lips, and his jaw clenches. "Shit..." He had not been expecting to meet the other so soon after arriving. He barely hears what Piccolo says next, or the conversation between him and his friend. he only thing he picked up was the last bit. They were worried that Bardock would be a problem, huh?<br/><br/>Then, they stop talking, and Piccolo turns to him again, asking why he'd asked about Goku. His eyes flash a bit, the frown deepening. He answers before he could stop himself, his voice completely serious, unlike his calm and docile way if speaking. "You shouldn't worry be worrying about Saiyans right now." He grits his teeth, his grip so tight on the blade if his katana that his knuckles were white.<br/><br/>Like before, he slips his katana a bit from the sheath, so once again his power level began to rise steadily. He had something he had to get done, though it was a bit sooner than he'd expected or hoped. It was his mission. But Nexus wasn't going to follow the rules. "I want to stay here on Earth. And one way or another, I'll make that happen."<br/><br/>B: Vegeta stared at him before letting his arm go and nodded, "Alright... Then let's go.." He wasn't so sure Goku would be safe. But as they started flying in that direction, the only thing Vegeta could do was pray... and hoped God was listening.<br/><br/>-----------<br/><br/>Piccolo was shocked at the angry look on Nexus' face but before he uttered a word, Gracie suddenly came up to Nexus, no fear, no hesitation. She looked up at him, her eyes wide and saddened, "Nyx… Bardock has been searching a long time for Kakarot... you're not going to hurt him... are you?"<br/><br/>Bardock had only heard the sound of his katana unsheathe and he growled angrily, "Ten years..."<br/><br/>Krillen and Piccolo both looked at Bardock now. His power level was rising, his hair started to glow again and electricity was sparking from where he stood. He turned to Nexus, angrily watching him, "Ten years I scoured every inch of the galaxy, searching for my son. I have a chance to see him and I'll be damned if some freak takes that away from me. If you touch my son... I'll kill you where you stand!"<br/><br/>Bardock knew he stood no chance against this man... but this would be the one time he would die trying.. die all over again, just for the chance to meet his son.<br/><br/>M: When the little girl comes up to him, his eyes widen in surprise, but his expression softens a tiny bit, his eyes glimmering with what appeared to be some sort of pained sadness as he looked back into the girls' brown ones. He ignores any stares he was getting at that moment, and kneels down so he was eye level with her, and answers her question, his voice low and soft, filled with quiet misery.<br/><br/>"No...I'm not. I promise. Del siku hajk. On my honor." He presses a clenched fist over his heart, and stands up straight. He had spoken soft enough so that only she could hear, which was what he wanted, though he sensed that Piccolo might have heard him as well. With ears as big as those, he's got to have powerful hearing as well.<br/><br/>His eyes look at Bardock now, who had spoken up, his face angry, his words angrier. Nexus was not intimidated though, instead his eyes flash with annoyance and irritation. He fully pulls out his katana, and points it directly at the Saiyan. "I'd like to see you try and kill me!" He growls, baring his sharp fangs. "Now stand down! You'll get your chance to speak with your son. But that's AFTER I deal with him. What's fifteen more minutes of waiting?"<br/><br/>His power level had spiked once again, he was at 4,000, but unlike before, it kept rising. He knew he had to plan this carefully, or he'd ending up accidentally hurting everyone there. The only person he planned on getting hurt right then, was himself. He looks to Piccolo, his eyes serious. For a moment he was silent. Then he speaks up, his voice solemn. "I meant what I said earlier. I promised to not bring harm to anyone here, and I gave my word as a warrior. And where I'm from, warriors don't go back on their word."<br/><br/>With one last look at Bardok, his the look on his face showing he wasn't messing around, he jumps up into the sky, and hovers, waiting for Goku to appear.<br/><br/>B: Gracie smiles at Nexus, watching him as he rose into the air and got ready to do whatever he needed to. She then heard Bardock call her name, and she spun around, prancing back over to where he was standing. She saw that same blush on his face, anger taking over his features and as he opened his mouth to yell back, Gracie pointed up as she saw two men flying towards them, "Look!!!"<br/><br/>Goku was the first to land and he gave a small 'hm' as both boots clapped against the ground. He smiled, glad to see Piccolo and Krillen okay, "Hey!"<br/><br/>Vegeta landed after him, as soft as a cat, and he just crossed his arms over his chest, staring at the back of Goku's head.<br/><br/>"I was worried, guys.. Gohan said you had been gone a while and-" he blinked when he finally saw Bardock, shock coming over his face, "Hey... do you guys see a... bigger me standing over there..?"<br/><br/>Bardock stared at Goku, feelings overwhelming him at that very moment. He took a step in front and softly reached out, "Kakarot.."<br/><br/>Goku blinked, confusion washing over his face as he stared back, "You... know who I am? Vegeta is the only one who calls me that. Hey, you must be that Saiyan energy that Vegeta was talking about."<br/><br/>Bardock nodded his head, "You are my-"<br/><br/>"God, I REALLY hate to break up this reunion." Piccolo interrupted Bardock, stepping in front of Goku, "But there is something that NEEDS to be taken CARE of..." he gritted his teeth, looking upwards at Nexus who was glaring at Goku and hovering above them.<br/><br/>Goku looks up then, "Oohhh.. right." He nods and rises in the air, waving a hand, "Hi. I'm Goku!" He smiled at the person in front of him.<br/><br/>M: The one called Goku arrives, and Nexus just watches quietly from above, waiting patiently, but at the same time, wanted to get this over with. And apparently Piccolo sensed this too, because he interrupted their little conversation, and tells the others something needed to get done, looking up at him. Nexus nods to Piccolo, and then looks to Goku as he came up to greet him.<br/><br/>"Yes, I know who you are. I'm Nexus." He points his sword at Goku, his face serious. "And I'm your enemy." Making a downward slash, he sends a blast of wind to the ground, which whirled around the group, preventing them from interrupting, or getting in the way. He knew the wind would eventually fade, by hopefully by that time things would be settled.<br/><br/>Focusing on Goku again, he grips his katana tighter. "I'm supposed to kill you. But I'm not going to. But that doesn't mean..." he fazes out, to reappear right in front of Goku, and punches him in the gut. "I'm not going to fight!" He finishes, this punch knocking Goku back, but it wasn't as strong as before from when he was fighting Bardock. Nexus knew he had to hold back.<br/><br/>He waits for Goku to retaliate, bracing himself for the attack. Just a little bit longer, and then he'd ask his request. There was a reason he had to fight Goku and no one else there. Yes, there were other people whom he was supposed to fight, but none in the group....that he knew of anyways.<br/><br/>Once Goku begins to fight back, Nexus would fight too, but it was obvious that he was holding back, allowing himself to be a punching bag for this guy. It didn't matter though, as his wounds start to heal immediately. 'Do not hold back, Goku of the Earth. Hit me with all your strength, with everything you've got.' He thinks to himself, knowing eventually he'd be asking Goku the major request soon.<br/><br/>B: The punch sent everyone to gasp, staring up at the two. Vegeta glared at Nexus, "Fool!! I'll rip that arm right off!" He started to rise but Piccolo took his arm, mentally telling Vegeta this had to happen. Vegeta stared at Piccolo, then looked back up, concern crossing his face. Piccolo squeezed his shoulder, reassuring him Goku would be okay.<br/><br/>Goku had been knocked back, and he grunted from the hit. However, with no mark, Goku smirked, "I see.. well, this might be fun after all. However..." He phased away, and reappearing behind Nexus and sending his elbow down on the back of his head, "No LOW BLOWS!!"<br/><br/>He waited for Nexus to right himself, crossing his arms over his chest. That smirk still portrayed on his lips.<br/><br/>M: Slightly dazed from the blow to the head, or so he made it appear, Nexus rights himself once more. Without hesitation,he slips his katana back into it's sheathe, before slipping it securely by his waist, held there by the belt he wore. He wouldn't be needing it for this particular fight. No, he was just as capable with fighting bare handed if he needed to, or just didn't feel like using a blade.<br/><br/>"No low blows. Agreed." He then goes at Goku again, faking out at the last moment, aiming at first a kick at Goku's right side, but then switches up and punches Goku's left. Again and again they receive and deliver blows to each other, though Nexus mainly kept on the defensive. Blocking some attacks, but not all of them.<br/><br/>He grits his teeth, and glares at Goku. "COME ON! GIVE ME ALL YOU GOT!" He yells, blood dripping down the side if his face from a cut on his forehead. "DON'T YOU DARE HOLD BACK ON ME! HIT ME WITH ALL YOUR POWER! OR MAYBE THIS IS YOUR BEST AND ALL THE THINGS ABOUT YOU I HAVE HEARD ARE LIES? I'D BE ASHAMED TO BE YOUR FRIEND IF I KNEW THE STORIES WEREN'T TRUE!!!" He was provoking Goku, trying to find Goku's weakness. His voice was harsh and cruel sounding, and his blood red eyes flashed in anger, but also hinted some other emotion, like that of regret and sadness.<br/><br/>Then he remembers what Piccolo said, a devilish grin forming on his lips as he comes up from behind, and puts Goku into a tight hold, muttering in the other's ear. "Or maybe...you brainwashed them and they really aren't your friends? You're just some guy who was so lonely he forced others to be near him, is that it? Geeze Goku, I wouldn't imagine that of you....but some people may look and act nice and sweet, but inside they are nothing but heartless monsters."<br/><br/>Nexus hoped this would infuriate Goku enough to fight a bit more, as Nexus bides his time, waiting for the right moment to ask his request. He could feel the others staring, but did not care. The only thing he wanted, was for them to stay out of the way.<br/><br/>B: Goku received and delivered his own blows, glaring at this guy. The punches and kicks were nearly invisible to the naked eye, but his friends could keep up, watching every moment of the fight. When Goku felt Nexus behind him, heard the whispers on his ears, made him stop and think. Then, he turned, giving Nexus a blow to his face with nearly 85% of his power, "LIAR!!"<br/><br/>His eyes traveled down to Vegeta, then back up to Nexus. Piccolo watched this, then he closed his eyes.<br/><br/>'I know what you're doing...' Piccolo mentally spoke to Nexus, 'But if you really want to get him angry, you're going to have to hurt Vegeta. The only time he showed his true strength was when someone he cared about was hurt.'<br/><br/>He was helping the enemy... Piccolo was well aware of that, but he was curious of why this fight was taking place in the first place. If Nexus was true to his word by saying he was not there to hurt anyone... why was he fighting Goku?<br/><br/>Goku glanced at his friends again, more so at Vegeta, and he narrowed his eyes, "You all need to get back!!" After that he flew at Nexus, angrily crying out as he landed more kicks and punches to the other at mach speed.<br/><br/>PAGE 4:<br/><br/>M: Holding his face, he winces, that had actually hurt. He hears Piccolo's voice in his mind and glances down at this so called Vegeta guy, but then quickly looks to Goku again, blocking his next attacks, thinking hard, trying to come up with something.<br/><br/>Then he gets an idea, and fazes out from being in front of Goku, to being directly over the group on the ground. He begins to rub his gloved hands together, so fast his hands were a mere blur. After a few seconds, a spark of fire appears, and he seperates his hands, his whole hand on fire, both of them covered with dancing flames. He makes them grow with ki, and soon they were large balls of fire.<br/><br/>"Okay, let's see if this works..." he murmurs, raising his and then making a downward throwing motion. “SENSHŌ KI BALL!" He hurls a huge ball of fire downwards with a loud yell and it moved fast, which grew in size the closer it got to the group. It seemed it would hit them, but at the last moment it swerves when Nexus moves his hand, slamming into the ground twenty feet away, the sound of it colliding like that if a small explosion, dust and debris flying everywhere, smoke rising in the air.<br/><br/>He looks to Goku, who was at least fifty feet away. "NEXT TIME I WON'T MISS!" He yells, but he was bluffing. There was no way he was actually going to hurt them. "I hope you were right about what you said Piccolo... " he mutters with his mind, glancing down then back up.<br/><br/>Side note: Senshō Ki Ball (Fire Spirit Ball)- Much like that of a spirit energy ball attack, but with fire fueled by ki. It grows in size depending in how far it travels in distance. The further the distance, the much more powerful it gets. He can control the direction it goes with the fire in his hand which he threw it with.<br/><br/>B: Vegeta watched this fire ball, then his eyes widened slightly as it started to come closer towards the group. He raised his arms, as if protecting himself and waited for the collision. He could hear a child's scream...<br/><br/>Goku gasped, "Bastard!!" And he phases, using a technique called Instant Transmission to move directly in front of the group. As he prepared to stop the ball, it moved twenty feet away. Goku glared at Nexus, angry now that he'd threatened his friends.. his mate. He turns slightly, looking at Vegeta from the corner of his eye, "I love you..."<br/><br/>Vegeta looked shocked and started to say something until Goku disappeared again, now directly in front of Nexus. He quickly transformed to Super Saiyan two, and threw his fist into Nexus' stomach.<br/><br/>"I didn't care when you tried to make me look stupid."<br/><br/>He yelled out as he brought his knee up into Nexus' stomach next, "I didn't even care when you threw that low blow."<br/><br/>Another cry as he once again disappeared and reappeared, grabbing Nexus from behind, holding him in a headlock, "But the minute you try to hurt ANYONE I care about... is the moment you seal your fate!! Give me a good reason why you shouldn't die!"<br/><br/>M: Exactly what he'd wanted. To infuriate Goku. Make him attack with all his strength. Which is exactly what happened next. The excruciating pain he could have gone without, but he knew that getting hit with this kind of power was destined to hurt like a bitch. And man, did it hurt.<br/><br/>He coughs up blood, wincing as he felt two of his ribs break. It would be over soon though, if Goku complied. He didn't struggle in the headlock, but remained still, his hand clasping onto Goku's forearm, and a satisfied smirk forms on his lips. "You're angry. Good." He coughs again, more blood coming from his mouth. "And to answer your question, I don't have a reason why you shouldn't kill me. Actually..."<br/><br/>Nexus breaks free of the headlock, and moves so he was hovering right in front of Goku, staring into his eyes. "Go ahead. Hit me, right here." He points at his chest, at the area where his heart was. "Go on, kill me. Or at least do some damage." The reason he asked if this was because there was a certain object inside of him that tracked his life source, and unfortunately he couldn't destroy it himself. Only by someone he was sent to fight could destroy it, but it had to be powerful enough to do so. Or at least do some significant damage.<br/><br/>"GO ON!!! DO IT!" The flames on his hands flare up again, as he waited. "KILL ME!" This was the request he'd been holding back on making, the thing that was so important. 'I kept my word, Picollo. There was a reason why I did this. To be honest, I just wanted to see earth, but...it  looks like that isn't going to happen.' He says this to Piccolo with his mind, resigning himself to death as he stood there.<br/><br/>B: Vegeta stared up at him, watching in anticipation, "Kakarot!!"<br/><br/>Piccolo grimaced, fighting the urge to step in, to stop Goku. But he knew it wasn't his place. Only Goku would make this decision. If it wasn’t destined to happen, then it would not happen. Piccolo knew better than try to mess with destiny. "Goku.."<br/><br/>Gracie tried to break free of Bardock's grasp, "No!! Nyx, you promised!!" She had tears running down her face as she stared up at Bardock, "Papa, please!! Help Nyx!!"<br/><br/>It nearly broke his heart to see Gracie in such turmoil, but he finally understood now. He shook his head sadly, "I... can't."<br/><br/>Goku stared at Nexus for the longest time, his face showing nothing but a fighting glare. At first he rose a hand, pointing it straight at Nexus' chest. Aura resonated from his hand, his power level reaching and sky rocketing well over 15,000, and still rising. Just as suddenly, though, he powered down, lowering his hand. His hair turned back to black, but he kept that hardened look on his face, "No."<br/><br/>Vegeta gasped, "What?!" But nearly everyone else just smirked softly.<br/><br/>Goku turned his body, looking at Nexus over his shoulder, "You picked a fight thinking that I would automatically try to kill you. However much research you have done on me, you might want to redo it. Now bask in your decisions and live with it."<br/><br/>M: Nexus closes his eyes, ready to accept death, his heart pounding in his chest, awaiting the final blow. But it doesn't come. He hears Goku tell him no, and slowly opens his eyes to look at the other in front of him. "No?" His face was blank, there was no telling what was going on in his mind at that very moment.<br/><br/>"I see."<br/><br/>He stares at the back of Goku's head, listening to what he was told, and simply sighs, shaking head. "You're too soft. If you won't do it, then I'll just have to find someone else to do it for you. Don't think this is over just yet. I just might come after you again." Lowering himself, he lands on the ground, and walks away, wanting nothing more than to do what he wished, which was to learn about this place, to see it's wonders, to try new things.<br/><br/>But that wouldn't happen until he figured out a way to get rid of the tracker. Knowing full well he'd probably be watched from now on because of what he'd just done, he needed to come up with a new plan, but carefully. He wasn't quite sure if he was willing just yet to tell anyone the facts and details of his mission, not even Piccolo, whom he was slowly beginning to trust the most out of all of them.<br/><br/>Sitting on a rock about fives hundred feet away, he turns his back to the group, setting his katana across his lap, trying desperately to ignore the pain that his broken ribs were causing. Reaching up, he wipes the blood from his forehead and his chin, before closing his eyes, and calming himself down. "One way or another... I'll be free. I'll be free to do what I wish."<br/><br/>B: Krillen walks over to Gracie, whispering something in her ear and handing her something. After a moment, she skips to where Nexus was and she softly tugged on his shirt, "Nyx... here." She holds her small hand out, opening it up to reveal a small bean in her palm. "It is a... senzu bean." she struggled to remember what Krillen said, "It restores power, strength, and heals wounds."<br/><br/>Piccolo watched as Nexus walked away. He knew that he needed to keep an eye on him. If he tried this again with anyone else, they might actually do it. Piccolo just wished he knew what it was that Nexus was trying to be free from. A few angry cries made Piccolo glance over, and he saw Vegeta was angrily shouting at Goku, asking why he'd said 'I love you' before going back to fight Nexus. Piccolo smiled softly, seeing Goku embrace Vegeta in a hug. It was about time Goku found someone that truly made him happy.<br/><br/>Bardock watched Gracie carefully, not taking his eyes off of her. Not when Goku walked over, he broke his eyes away just a moment to nod at Goku, "You fought well.."<br/><br/>Goku nodded back, "Thank you.. are you going to explain who you are?"<br/><br/>Bardock nodded, "Yes.. but we have time for that later.."<br/><br/>Gracie smiled up at Nexus, still holding out her hand, "You scared me, you know.."<br/><br/>M: Hearing footsteps coming closer, and then feels a tiny hand pull at his shirt lightly, before he opens his eyes and looks to see that the girl had come over to him, and was holding something out to him. It appeared to be a tiny bean, his eyebrows pressing together, a puzzled expression on his face, but like all the other times, it was softened a bit because of who it was who was talking to him.<br/><br/>Listening to her explanation, he reaches out and accepts the apparently called senzu bean, looking at it in the palm of his hand. For a moment he does nothing, and then he glances at the girl, before putting it in his mouth, and eats it. Nearly right away he feels the effects, and sure enough, everything that he'd been told would happen, takes place, his energy becomes normal again, he felt his power retain itself, and his ribs heal, as well as his other injuries.<br/><br/>"Thank you..." He murmurs, noticing that she still had her hand out, even though he'd taken the bean. Then he hears her words, a soft smile on his lips now. Reaching out, he gently clasps her hand in his, which was slightly warm to the touch, like sitting by a warm stove on a winter night, or placing your hand around a cup of hot chocolate.<br/><br/>"I apologize. I didn't mean to frighten you. It was not in my intentions to do so. I never, in my entire life, would even think of harming a child, especially one as kind and sweet as yourself." He pauses, placing his other hand on top of the one around the girl's hand, enfolding her tiny hand in both of his own.<br/><br/>"That reminds me. You know my name...but I do not know yours. May I ask you, what your name might be? It would honor me greatly to know your name.."<br/><br/>He stood up, his hands still around hers, as he waits for her answer. He was also curious as to why she was so kind to him, considering what stunt he'd just pulled, what he'd just done. To be honest, he thought she'd hate him, and yet, here she was, talking to him.<br/><br/>B: She smiled up at Nexus, holding his hand in hers for a moment. After he gave that heartfelt apology, she nodded her head, giggling as her curls shake softly, "Its okay. I knew you were a good guy. You can't be bad because you're so nice. My name is Gracie. But I don't have a last name." She turns her head to look in Bardock's direction, "Bardock didn't tell me." She pulls on Nexus' hand, towards the others, "Come on, see Bardock again. I know he's mean sometimes, but he can be really nice. Hey, you don't have anywhere to go, right? You can stay with us!!"<br/><br/>Goku watched Gracie, smiling at the fact that Nexus was so sweet on her and he glanced at Bardock, "Your daughter? Is she a Saiyan, like us?"<br/><br/>Bardock shook his head, also keeping an eye on her, "Three years ago I found her wandering the streets, crying... and her clothes were drenched in blood."<br/><br/>Goku blinked, "Oh my god..."<br/><br/>"Yeah... her parents had been killed and she was left alone. She took a liking to me and she's been by my side ever since." Bardock glanced at his son briefly.<br/><br/>"Does she remember?"<br/><br/>"No. Thank god... it took three months to get her to stop screaming at night."<br/><br/>"So... what is she?"<br/><br/>"Human. I found her in America." He overheard the part about Nexus staying and he blinked, "Hey, what??? Gracie!!" Aggravation arose on his face along with a small blush, "You can't invite random people to stay with us!! Who's to say he won't kill us in our sleep!!"<br/><br/>Goku laughed giddily, "Ah, they'll be fine. I havn't seen an enemy be that sweet to a child since... well..." he looked over at Piccolo, smiling softly, "Him."<br/><br/>M: "So.,,you're called Gracie..." Nexus smiles, and simply allows himself to be tugged along by her, listening to her talk. However, when she offers him to stay with them, a faint red blush forms on his cheeks, and he bites his bottom lip, shaking his head. "N-no, that's alright. I'm sure I can find somewhere to stay. Besides...."<br/><br/>He hears as Bardock calls out to them, and hears what was said. "It seems like he doesn't want me to stay...I don't blame him though." As much as he wanted to stay with the little girl named Gracie, he didn't want to anger Bardock any more than he already had.<br/><br/>They reach the group, his hand still being held onto by Gracie, and he stands there feeling a bit awkward. After a moment, he clears his throat, and speaks up. "Well, it seems I've uh...over stayed my welcome, so...I'll leave you all be now. It was nice meeting you. Piccolo, Gracie, All of you." He turns around, and gently pulls his hand from Gracie's grip.<br/><br/>Before he walks away however, he reaches into a small pouch at his side and pulls out a tiny silver chained locket, the round locket having an image etched in a pretty scarlet color of what appeared to be a four winged Phoenix, the eyes set with red rubies. Inside was a bright red and gold downy feather, and a tiny mirror on one side of the locket. "Here, for you." He reaches out and places it in Gracie's hand, folding her fingers around it.<br/><br/>"If you're ever in trouble, or just want to talk, open it up, hold the feather close to your heart, and think of me. I'll be there." He then walks away, regret in his footsteps. He half hoped he'd be stopped, as he got further and further away. But he knew Bardock was right in not trusting him. He sighs softly, as distance grew between them.<br/><br/>B: Gracie took the locket, holding it against her chest and sighing, "It's lonely by myself.." she glanced up at Bardock, half playing the sad little girl to make Bardock change his mind.<br/><br/>Piccolo raised a brow as well as Krillen and Goku, and they all stared at him, shaking their heads. Bardock saw this and got on the defensive, "Don't look at me like that. I said no."<br/><br/>A few moments later, he glanced, still seeing everyone staring at him, "I mean it, cut it out!! What makes you think I care??"<br/><br/>Goku smiled softly, "Come on.. you know... I think he may like you.."<br/><br/>The blush deepened on Bardock's face as he waved his arms, "What?! I don't care about anyone liking me! I am a Saiyan and Saiyans only care about-"<br/><br/>"Upholding honor and pride. We all know that." Krillen nodded his head and smiled slyly, "But Gracie sure takes a liking to him..."<br/><br/>Bardock groans softly, placing a hand over his face before he finally turned in the direction of where Nexus was moving, "HEY!!"<br/><br/>Once Nexus stopped, Bardock slowly walked up to him, coughing softly. He didn't look at Nexus, but kept his arms over his chest, "If you'd like to stay.. then Gracie would be happy. You can stay with us if you want." He then looked at Nexus, "But that doesn't mean I forgot how you humiliated me in front of her." He paused for a moment, sighing, "Don't break her heart.. she's been through enough already."<br/><br/>PAGE 5:<br/><br/>M: As he walked further and further away, he suddenly hears a voice calling to him, which surprisingly was that of Bardock. Stopping in his steps, he slowly turns around, and sure enough, walking towards him, looking quite irked and bothered, was Bardock himself. He raises an eyebrow, surprised a bit by this new development. He hadn't thought any one would actually come after him, especially not this stubborn guy.<br/><br/>Another new development he hadn't seen coming was when Bardock speaks up, saying he could stay with them if he wanted to. A grin breaks out on his lips at the next statement that was made, a soft chuckle following after he replies, his words snarky and teasing.<br/><br/>"Of course you won't. And I won't forget that I owe you a proper, private schooling lesson in how not to get your ass kicked by a supposed 'half pint wuss'. I don't know why you'd say such a thing, since you couldn't even touch me, even with me holding back. Heh...you're a natural comedian." He cracks up laughing, before getting a bit more serious again, bringing up Gracie.<br/><br/>"As for Gracie, breaking her heart is the last thing I'd ever think of doing. I'm not the kind of person to hurt a child on purpose, emotionally or physically. So you can be assured on this at least. Gracie's heart is like a fragile gem in my hands, and I'll do whatever I can to keep it and her from breaking, no matter what it takes." He places a curled fist over his heart, like before. "Del siku hajk. On my honor."<br/><br/>B: Bardock looked at Nexus and slowly his face got redder. A large stress mark appears on his forehead before he bursts out, "Oh is THAT so?! Let me tell you something, brat! You may be cute, but you don't have the willpower I have!! I will beat you one day!!"<br/><br/>Gracie was too busy dancing around in circles happily. She finally grasped Nexus' leg and hugged him tightly, "Thank you, Bardock!! Nexus, we'll have so much FUN!"<br/><br/>Goku giggled softly, winking at Krillen for the smart move of bringing Gracie into it. He eventually walked up to Nexus, placing a hand on his shoulder, "If you need help.. or want someone to talk to, Piccolo is a pretty cool guy. You two hit it off quickly, and I saw that. Are we good?"<br/><br/>M: Nexus simply answers Bardock with another laugh, his sharp teeth flashing in the sunlight. "And when will that be, huh? Even by the time I'm an old grey man, hunched in a wheel chair, you STILL won't be able to beat me! You might want to get your head checked, I think there's a few screws loose upstairs if you know what I mean." He grins devilishly before going on.<br/><br/>"AND you say I'm cute too? Oh, I feel so flattered! Bet ya didn't mean to say that out loud. Oops!" He continue to laugh, and smiles even more when Gracie hugs his leg happily, hearing her words to him. Nexus nods in agreement. "Yes, I agree. We will have fun." His smile hid the pain he was feeling deep inside. For now he'd have to settle for this arrangement until other things could be taken care of.<br/><br/>When Goku came up to him, the smile on his face slips a bit, but does not vanish completely. He glances at the hand on his shoulder, and listens to what he was told, noding, and glancing over at Piccolo, who was just standing there, watching the whole proceedings quietly. "Yes....we're good..." He tells Goku, and holds out his hand to shake and show his sincerity. 'For now...' he thinks to himself.<br/><br/>He then looks to the small guy. "I know all of your names, except yours. What do I call you?" Placing one hand on his hip, he waits for a response, and ruffling Gracie's hair lightly with the other, as he looked to the guy.<br/><br/>B: Krillen blinks, running a hand through his hair as he points to himself, "Huh? Me? Oh, um.. I'm Krillen."<br/><br/>Bardock gets even more flustered, getting even redder, "Wh.. so-I.. well.. SHUT UP!!"<br/><br/>Roars of laughter echoed over the hills as they laughed at Bardock . Gracie giggles softly and then takes Bardock's hand, "Bardock is like my papa. He saved me from America. Hey, does that mean you'll be my mama, Nexus??"<br/><br/>Another wave of laughter erupts in the air. Piccolo just smirked, shaking his head before his eyes traveled back to Nexus. Both eyes trailed down his body and clothes and back up again. He wondered what he was thinking about, and he wanted to help, 'So.. do you?' He mentally thought to Nexus, curious about Goku's comment About Nexus liking him as Goku reached out and shook his hand happily.<br/><br/>"Great!! I'm starving, how about something to eat??" Goku smiled largely and placed a hand on his stomach.<br/><br/>M: "Nice to meet you Krillen." He smiles, before turning to Gracie, who had spoken up. Nexus' eye twitches comically at Gracie's question, his cheeks darkening a bit more. "No, I don't... think that's exactly how things work..." He laughs some more, and then calms down, chuckling every now and then. He never knew he'd get along so well with these people, especially after what had just happened and all.<br/><br/>He feels eyes looking at him, and then Piccolo was speaking to him in his mind, asking him if he did. Did what exactly? Glancing at Piccolo, then looking to Bardock and the others, before nodding at Goku's request to get something to eat, he answers the question, mentally of course. 'Do I what? I don't know what you're asking me about...' He hadn't heard Goku's comment about him, so of course he had no clue what Piccolo was asking of him.<br/><br/>Why did he get the feeling this question was about Bardock? He sighs to himself, rubbing the back of his neck. "So, you say you want to get something to eat...? Well, I want to see around, so, maybe somewhere with a lot of things to view?" He didn't know where they might go, as he'd only heard of fast food restaraunts and such in stories where he came from.<br/><br/>There were a lot of things in this world that didn't exist at his home. Fast food, convenience stores, huge cities with lots of corporation buildings, cars, and the list was long. After he'd asked this of the others, his own stomach rumbles softly, making him blink in surprise, then become a bit embarrassed.<br/><br/>"Heh...looks like I'm hungry too. Now that I think about it, it's been almost a week and a half or so since I've had any food to eat since I left to get here..." And, as if on cue, his stomach growls again, louder than before, almost as if it was agreeing with his statement. "Eh he he he..." He chuckles, rubbing his neck again.<br/><br/>B: Goku nodded his head, "I know a great place. You'll love Earth! When we're done eating, we'll take you around!"<br/><br/>(Speeding things up to a few weeks later..)<br/><br/>Bardock sighed in his sleep, completely unaware that Gracie was putting her clothes on to go outside. She had seen Nexus was already out of the room and wanted to go find him. Gracie then pulled her curls up and pinned them back with hair pins. After doing that, she smiled and opened the door of the home Krillen helped Bardock find.<br/><br/>Speak of the devil, there he was, on the other side. He smiled to her, waving, "Hey!"<br/><br/>Gracie smiled, "Hi, Krillen."<br/><br/>"Bardock home?"<br/><br/>"Asleep. Tell him I went out?" She didn't wait for an answer before she darted out the door.<br/><br/>"Um... sure." He stepped inside, sitting beside the bed of the small home. He smiled as Bardock sighed in his sleep and he tilted his head softly. Krillen couldn't help but still notice how much Bardock looked like Goku, and it started to mess with his head a little. Krillen had been hiding for years that he had a major love-crush on Goku... he couldn't tell him. Not now.<br/><br/>Even now as he watched him, he moved his hand and placed it upon his chest. Then it slowly moved to cup his cheek. So much like Goku... before he stopped himself, he leaned over and softly pressed his lips to Bardock's.<br/><br/>M: It had been about two weeks since Nexus had arrived on Earth. Even with all he'd seen while he'd been there, his hunger for knowledge of the place still wasn't satisfied, proof of this being how early he got up to go and look around, and how late he returned to the place he was calling home for the time being. Everyday he'd go to different places, that morning he'd gone to the library to return some of the books that a boy he'd met named Gohan had checked out for him. He was surprised to find out that Gohan was Goku's son.<br/><br/>Every now and then, when he was out, he'd feel eyes watching him, and he'd look around, to get a glimpse of a white cape, or green skin disappearing behind a corner. He suspected it was Piccolo keeping an eye on him, just like he'd expected would happen. But he'd pay no heed, and continue what he was doing.<br/><br/>So far he hadn't met anyone else whom was on his "list", but he doubted that would last for long. Sighing, he reaches the library, and puts the books into the drop off box, hearing them *thunk* as they hit the bottom. Turning away, he reaches into his pouch, to pull out a list of things to do that he'd written, but couldn't feel it. Opening it, he sees it wasn't in there anymore.<br/><br/>Sighing in annoyance, he turns to go back to the house. He probably left it in the drawer of the nightstand in his room. Unfortunately, he and Bardock shared a room, but thankfully there were separate beds. Not that he actually used his that often. At first Bardock had complained about the arrangement, but eventually after a while he'd shut up about it and let it go.<br/><br/>Reaching the house, he heads inside, sensing not just the still sleeping Bardock, but someone else too. Frowning, he quietly moves through the house to the bedroom, seeing the door was open a bit. As stealthily as a cat, he slips into the room, just in time to see Krillen...kissing Bardock?!? He moves forward, like a shadow, and sneaks up on Krillen.<br/><br/>Without a chance to let the other react, he slips his arms around Krillen, putting him into a tight holding body and headlock, and presses his hand firmly over Krillen's mouth so he couldn't yell out. Pulling back, he forces Krillen away from Bardock. "What the hell do you think you're doing?!" Nexus hisses, his voice low and livid. He knew what would happen if Bardock was awaken too soon, and it wasn't pretty. He didn't want to even try to imagine what Bardock would do if he awoke to someone kissing him.<br/><br/>Nexus backs away more, not seeing or sensing the unlit standing lamp behind him, as he tried to get away from the sleeping Saiyan, and accidentally knocks it over by bumping into it due to his hastily put steps, sending it crashing loudly to the floor. He freezes, looking like a statue, as he stared at Bardock in his bed, his red eyes wide, his heart thumping wildly in his chest, his breath held as he waited to see what he feared would happen, Krillen still tight in his grip.<br/><br/>B: Krillen suddenly felt the arms around his neck and chest, and the hand clamp over his mouth. He let out a muffled cry. Upon hearing Nexus' hissed and angry question, he tried speaking again, but his voice was still muffled. 'Oh damn it! What the hell was I thinking?!' Krillen thought to himself, cursing silently for being so dumb. Kissing Bardock wasn't in his plans to do, it just sort of happened. Krillen was still trying to speak through Nexus' hand when they bumped into that lamp, causing it to crash to the floor.<br/><br/>Bardock's eyes shot open from hearing the crash. He immediately leaned up, glaring ,"Who's th-Nexus??" The glare disappeared from his face and replaced it with a confused look as he stared at his roommate. Nexus had Krillen in a strong headlock, his hand pressed firmly against his mouth to keep him quiet. Bardock blinked a few times, the covers falling away from his bare chest.<br/><br/>Krillen could die. Die right there, in the middle of the room. 'God, don't ask, Bardock. Please don't ask...' Krillen would never be able to explain this to him, let alone explain it to any of his other friends. Redness flooded his face as he closed his eyes, praying he wouldn't have to explain...<br/><br/>Bardock narrowed his eyes, but only just slightly. He could feel that Krillen was fighting something, but he didn't know what. "What the hell is going on? Why are you holding Krillen as if you're trying to abduct him? And why is his face so red?" His head tilted lightly.<br/><br/>Krillen let out a defeated whimper. God, this was so humiliating..<br/><br/>M: Just as he feared. Bardock woke right up, looking right over at them, wide awake. "Crap." He mutters, as Bardock looks at them, and asks what was going on. Nexus could practically feel the embarrassment rolling off Krillen, and saw the back of his neck turn red. No doubt his face was red too.<br/><br/>A huge, goofy smile forms in Nexus's face, his eyes twitching, as well as the edges of his lips. "Huh? Oh, nothing is going on, nothing at all! In fact, I was just seeing our friend Krillen here out of the house, isn't that right, Krillen? As for why his face is red, I accidentally gave him something REALLY spicy to eat, and as you can see, he didn't exactly like it." He releases his hold from Krillen, and without even waiting for Krillen to answer, he shoves him out the door of the room, quickly gets the list he'd come for, and leaves the room after Krillen.<br/><br/>"Bye, go back to sleep!" He says, before slamming the door shut, and shoving Krillen along, and to the outside the house, closing the front door behind him. Looking to Krillen, he glares, his red eyes annoyed. "What the hell were you doing?! He would have KILLED you if he'd woken up when you pulled that stunt! Are you ASKING for a death wish?!" He crosses his arms over his chest, before sighing a loud sigh.<br/><br/>Shaking his head, he just begins to walk away again, before pausing to look back at Krillen. "You're lucky I was there to help your ass. Think next time before acting." He knew he had no right to preach, he could use the same words said to him at times. Sighing one last time, he shoves the list he'd come to retrieve in his pouch, and heads off, walking down the sidewalk.<br/><br/>"Hm...I know my list says to go and look at these so called music stores, but...I really need to train a bit. It's been a while. Hmm... I wonder what Piccolo is up to..." He shrugs, it was just a thought. He'd remembered Goku saying if he needed anything to ask Piccolo. But he wasn't quite sure how to contact the guy. He decides to try something. 'Hey, Piccolo...you there? If you can hear me, come to the place we first met, in about an hour or so...' He calls with his mind as he walked, not sure if it would work.<br/><br/>After a bit he goes to where he had first met everyone, not even caring at that point. Reaching the spot, he proceeds to take off his shirt, revealing a thin, but muscular body underneath, his form like that of a strong feline. Smooth skin with muscles that ripple majestically each time he moved. He pretty much had the body of a male model, perfectly toned and beautiful. And, on his shoulder, was a marking much like that of what was on the locket Nexus gave Gracie. A red four winged Phoenix, surrounded by a circle of flames.<br/><br/>He then takes off the outer part of his pants, leaving just the black baggy part, the end tight at the knees, but flexible so he could move. Lastly came off his gloves, revealing hands and fingers bound in white bandages, and his shoes, which were pretty much socks and shoes combined. Putting his clothing on to a rock, as well as his katana, he takes a deep breath, and stretches out first.<br/><br/>Once finished, he begins. For about an hour he smashes rocks with his bare hands, practices jumps, and does several other things, the sun now hot on his back, the sounds of him training echoing all around. Sweat begins to glisten on his skin, and drip down his face, his hair becoming sweaty too, drops of the salty liquid sliding down to pause at the tips of his hair, before falling off when he moves.<br/><br/>At one point he takes a break, resting against a rock, and closing his eyes, taking deep breaths. It felt good to use his muscles like this, he hated going without training, or at least regular exercise, for so long. He sighs, and without even realizing it, he dozes off against the rock, his breathing becoming slow and steady as he falls asleep.