Yes I know it sounds like a prime time TV show but I couldn't think
of anything else. Let's see how many things can go wrong in this one.
She's not fully functional yet but she doesn't need to be to cause
problems...

Loren awoke with a start. She blinked her eyes as she tried to
remember what had frightened her. She stood up and gazed around the
room, looking for Trunks. She slowly walked towards the door and
turned the knob. She stepped out of the room and stopped in the
middle of the hallway. Ridel ran up to her and she picked the small
animal up. She patted his head and carried him down the stairs.
"Where is everyone?" she asked as she opened the kitchen
door. Ridel wriggled free of her arms and ran to his dish of water.
She laid her hand on the stove and drew back in shock at its heat.
She gazed at the oven and jumped when Ridel licked her feet. He ran
to the door and she followed him out of the house. He ran off and
Loren sat on the ground. She watched an ant run up her leg and tried
to get it to run up her hand.
"Well hello, dear. It's about time you woke up," Bulma said
and Loren gazed up at her.
"Where's...?" she started to ask as Bulma helped her up.
"Working. He has a job in a health club."
"How long...?"
"You were really sick. Come on, why don't we change you
clothes and go pay him a visit?"
"Ridel ran off."
"Ridel just went to find Vegeta. Now let's go inside. I've
got to take the cookies out of the oven."
"Cookies?"
"Bra's having friends over. I have to go into town anyway so
you can come with me. Well, they're done. How do they look? I'll just
set the pan here to cool."
Loren touched the cookie sheet and drew back sharply. She
reached forward to touch it again but Bulma drew her away. She gazed
questioningly at Bulma as she was led upstairs.
"Why did it hurt?" she asked.
"Because it was hot dear. Are you all right?" Bulma asked as
Loren sat on the bed.
"I think so but my finger looks different."
"Let me see dear. It's just a simple burn; you'll be all
right. Now, let's change your clothes. Our boy will be on his lunch
break soon."
"Why did he get a job?"
"Wear this dear. He wanted to help pay for the house."
"What house?"
"He wants to get a house for you."
"Why?"
"Hang on dear. You've got the shirt buttoned wrong. Here, let
me fix it."
She gazed at Loren, amazed at the change she had undergone.
She had heard everything from Trunks and Vegeta but the reality still
shocked her. She folded Loren's collar and drew back slightly as
Loren tightly embraced her. She gazed tearfully at Bulma and sniffed.
"I did something really, really bad, didn't I?" she asked as
she wiped her eyes.
"What makes you say that?" Bulma inquired.
"Because you're acting strange. I don't know what I did, but
I'm sorry. I won't do it again."
"I'm sure you won't. Put your shoes on dear. I'll go tell
Vegeta that you're awake. Wait outside for me dear."
Loren picked up her shoes and sat on the bed. She couldn't
help feel guilty for whatever she had done. She had no memory
whatsoever of the events that transpired after their return from
America but she knew that she had done something and she felt
terrible about it. She stared at the wall, wishing that she could
repent for whatever she had done. She blinked her eyes as she began
to cry. She placed her head in her hands and wished she knew why her
mind was so blank. She couldn't remember becoming sick. All she
could remember was her childhood and her family. How she had come to
be in Trunks' life was sketchy but she knew it was where she belonged.
"What's wrong dear?" Bulma asked as she walked into the room.
"I don't remember being sick. All I remember is when I was
little and my life now," Loren replied.
"Maybe it's for the best dear. Now get your shoes on and
let's go."
Loren put on her shoes and stood up. Bulma took her hand and
led her out of the room.

***************

I love her comment about Trunks hair. I can almost see a young Goku
saying something along those lines. Also just wait until they
actually go IN the pet store...

"Hey Mom. What are you doing here?" Trunks asked as he picked up a
towel.
"I just stopped by to see how you were doing," Bulma said.
"How's Loren? Is she awake yet?"
"She's outside honey."
"Really?! I'll be right back."
He walked out of the building and glanced up and down the
street. He smiled when he spotted her. She stood in front of a pet
shop gazing into the window. She stared at the puppies that
scratched the shredded paper they stood in and jumped when Trunks
took her hand.
"It's okay. It's only me," he said and she glanced at him.
"Your hair is gone," she said and he smiled.
"It's just cut. It's been that way for a while. Of course,
you wouldn't know that."
"How long...?"
"Over a month. You really worried me."
"I'm sorry."
"Hey, it's okay. I get off in a couple of hours. We'll do
something together, okay?"
"All right."
He kissed her and tightly embraced her. She winced as he
drew away. He looked at her and grinned sheepishly.
"Sorry. I don't know my own strength, I guess," he said and
Bulma patted him on the shoulder.
"Don't be so rough honey. It's her first day back on her
feet. You've had over a month of training. She hasn't," Bulma said.
"Yeah, you're right. Will you bring her back when I'm done?"
"Of course dear. We'd better let you get back to work. Come
on, Loren."
"Where are we going?" Loren asked.
"Outside," Bulma replied.
"Can we look at the puppies?"
"What puppies?"
"The pet store, Mother," Trunks said and Bulma smiled.
"Oh. Of course. We'll look in the pet store for a bit but you
already have an animal dear," she said.
"I know. I like animals," Loren said.
"I know dear."
"Aren't they cute?"
"Yes they are dear."
"What happens if no one buys them?"
"I don't know. Do you want to go inside?"
"Yes. I want to hold the puppies."
"No dear. I don't think you should. You shouldn't get so
attached to them. You've already got a dog."
"But they're so furry."
"You know dear, maybe we should take care of my errands
instead of going into the store."
"Look at that one. He's digging in the paper. Their eyes are
so adorable. They look so sad when they look at you."
"Let's go dear. We don't have room for six more dogs."
"Oh all right. Goodbye doggies."
Bulma drew her away from the pet shop and led her down the
street.
"If Vegeta wouldn't be so stubborn, when it came to shopping,
I wouldn't have to make these trips."
"What are you getting him?"
"Shoes. That man does NOT have the patience to sit in a shoe
store. I find it easier to buy him a pair and hear him complain about
my purchase than to sit in a shoe store with him for two hours."
"Why does he complain so much?"
"He used to be a prince dear. Do you remember that?"
"Should I?"
"I guess not. His past doesn't really matter. It's what he is
now that counts. Just like you."
"What do you mean?"
"Dear, it doesn't matter what happened in your past. He loves
you regardless of what you were. He only cares about what you are.
That's all that matters to him. That's all that should matter. Do you
understand?"
"I think I do. Those are cute."
"Let's get the shoes and then you can look at the toys dear."
"It was nice of him to get that bear."
"You know dear, I think the world would be a better place if
people were more like you.”
"We have to go in."
"Why dear?"
Loren pulled her into the toy store and picked up a stuffed
bear. She took it to the cash register before Bulma could protest and
set it on the counter. She pointed to a blue ribbon, which the sales
clerk tied around the bear and Bulma watched the toy get placed into
a bag. She paid for the bear and ran out of the store with Bulma
behind her. She ran out into the middle of the street, drivers
honking their horns in rage as Loren ran up to a small child who was
attempting to pick a man's pocket. The child, dressed in rags, gazed
up at her and attempted to run away but she held tightly onto his arm.
"Let go of me! I didn't do nothin'!" he protested as she
crouched down to his level.
"Store windows reflect a lot if you know what to look for,"
she said as he stopped struggling and began to cry.
"I...I just wanted to get money for food. My ma's sick and
she can't work and I'm so hungry."
"There was something else you wanted, wasn't there? Something
that could bring you comfort."
"I wanted to give something to my ma. Something that would
cheer her up."
"Loren what were you thinking, running across the street like
that? You could have been hurt," Bulma said as she ran up to Loren
and the child.
"I'm sorry. This seemed more important than my safety. Here,
why don't you tell your mother this is a gift? I'm sure she would
like it more than finding out that you were stealing for food. And
don't worry. I'm sure your mother will be feeling better soon. She's
got a very thoughtful son," Loren said and handed the boy the bag.
He opened it and took out the stuffed bear. He tightly embraced it
and gazed tearfully at Loren.
"Th...thank you," he sniffed and Loren smiled.
"He was looking right at you. I put a ribbon on it too. Your
mother likes blue, doesn't she?"
"It's her favorite color. How did you know?"
"He looked like he should have a blue ribbon. You might want
to put him back in the bag so he doesn't get lost."
"I will. I'm gonna go straight home and give it to her. Thank
you so much!"
"How did you know?" Bulma asked after the boy had run off.
"I didn't. I just saw his reflection in the window and here
we are," Loren said.
"You mean all of that was instinct?"
"I guess."
"This planet needs more like you. We'd all be a lot happier.
Oh look, there's the shoe store. Come on dear. I've got to take you
back in a couple of hours."
"Maybe Vegeta should have come with us. You said when he's
with you, buying shoes takes a couple of hours."
"We'll find something else to do, dear. I know you couldn't
stand hearing that man complain for two hours. What did you think of
Trunks hair?"
"I've never seen it short before. I don't know if I like it
that way."
"If you don't like it, you know he'll grow it out for you."
"I like his soft hair. I like the ribbon he wore. He looked
nice when his hair draped over his wings."
"He didn't feel right having it long since you weren't
around. Don't take it personally dear. Now let's see. He needs some
dress shoes. I'm glad I didn't bring him along. He absolutely hates
shopping for formal clothes."
"Formal?"
"Shoes that are worn with suits."
"He wears suits?"
"On occasion. You can't picture it, can you?"
"No."
"He looks quite handsome in a suit. I wish I could get him to
wear one more often."
"Would those work?"
"They're not his size. What's wrong dear? You look confused."
"They have shoes for men, women, and children but what about
shoes for me?"
"I've gotten so used to you that I've forgotten that you're
not like us. You would wear both kinds dear."
"It doesn't make sense. Why do they have men's and women's
things and not...?"
"Because dear, humans aren't like you and Nameks. Here's a
pair. What do you think?"
"I still can't see him wearing something like that."
"Well my shopping is done. Where do you want to go?"
"I still want to hold a puppy."
"We'll go to the pet store when it's closer to when Trunks
gets off work."

 

This is the actual pet shop incident that I was talking about. She is
right, though, a hedgehog ISN'T a dog and is someone going to be in
trouble when they get back home?

"She certainly likes animals," the pet store worker said as Loren
picked up a small kitten. She scratched its ears as it licked her
cheek.
"She already has a pet. She'd get all of these animals if she
could," Bulma said as Loren set the animal on the floor.
"I think you'd sell a lot more if they weren't so confined.
People put their children in playpens. Couldn't you do the same for
the animals? They'd be a lot happier if they could move around,"
Loren said as she gave the kitten a small fabric ball.
"She has a point. Put the kitten back if you're going to look
at other animals dear."
"All right."
Loren picked the kitten up and placed it with the others.
She walked over to a cage where balls of fur sat and gazed inside.
One of the balls unrolled itself and gazed out at Loren. The worker
picked up the hedgehog and handed it to her. She scratched its nose
and gazed into its deep black eyes.
"I knew right where to find you two," Trunks said as he
walked into the store.
"Hello honey. She insisted on coming in," Bulma said as Loren
turned around.
"Look," she said as she held out her hands.
"That's cute. Put it back, hon. You've already got a dog,"
Trunks said and Loren looked at him strangely.
"But...it isn't a dog," she said and Trunks smiled.
"I know that love. I meant that you already have a pet."
"But it's small."
"Put it back. If I let you get that one, you'd want every
other animal in the store."
"All right."
She set the hedgehog back into its cage and Trunks took her
hand. He put his arm around her waist and led her out of the store.
He ran his hand under her shirt and began to rub her skin. She
glanced at him and smiled.
"Well I'll see you two later. You'd better behave honey,"
Bulma said and Trunks flushed.
"Mother, it's been over a month," he protested.
"I know. That's why I'm warning you. This is her first day
awake. You can't be rough with her."
"All right Mother."
"Behave. I know you."
Trunks watched his mother leave and sighed. He drew Loren
close and gently squeezed her flesh. She laid her hand on his arm
and he kissed her neck.
"Come on honey, you know what I want," he said.
"You said you'd behave," Loren said and Trunks grinned.
"I will behave. Let's go get a room at a hotel, darling. I'm
entitled, aren't I?"
"I guess."
"Don't tell me you haven't missed it."
"I haven't been awake long enough to remember it."
"I need to job your memory then."
"Huh?"
"Trust me. Besides, Mother knows I'm going to do it anyway.
That's why she told me to behave. There's my car. Come on."
"You have a car?"
"Yeah. People wouldn't understand if I flew to work. We don't
have to go to a hotel. We could just drive out of town."
"Okay."
"Get in hon."
"Your emotions are high."
"Are they?"
"Yes. I can sense your excitement."
"What do you remember Loren?"
"Everyone here and Namek. What else should I remember?"
"Hang on. Let's just get away from all these lights."
"What did I do?"
"You saved all of us. Again."
"Why don't I remember then?"
"Honey, you're going to ask a lot of questions that I can't
answer. Just accept it love."
Loren blinked her eyes as she tried to think of a reply.
Trunks glanced at her and took her hand. She gazed out the window
and sighed.
"Bulma said that it didn't matter what my past was like. All
that mattered was now."
"Mother's right. Here we are. No one's here."
"Are you sure this is okay?"
"It's just a stop on the way home. We'll be fine. The stars
are coming out."
"Can we get out?"
"Sure. I don't have anything for us to sit on though," Trunks
said as he got out of the car. He watched her get out of the car and
sighed. He had missed her greatly. He walked around the car and
wrapped his arms around her waist.
"Why do you think there's so many stars?" Loren asked as
Trunks pulled her close to him.
"I don't know. Do you feel that?"
Loren leaned back in his arms as he unbuttoned her shirt. He
kissed her neck as he moved out from behind her. He gazed at her as
he took off her shirt. She flushed as he gazed fondly at her.
"You're making me shiver."
"Take the shorts of hon."
"Why?"
"Just do it."
She did as he requested and took off her shorts. He gazed at
her and grinned widely. He took her hand and pulled her close to
him. She gazed past him and Trunks ran his fingers through her
hair. She laid a hand on his shoulder and glanced into his eyes. He
kissed her and gently pushed her to the ground. He sat up and gazed
down at her.
"What are you thinking about?" he asked as he removed his
pants.
"Doesn't it make you feel so unimportant?" she asked as he
laid his hand on her legs.
"The stars? It just makes me realize how much more important
my life is to the people around me. We're in our own little universe
within a universe. I've completely lost you, haven't I?"
"No, I heard you. I believe you're right. What are you doing?"
"Trust me Loren. I know you'll remember what we have."

*******************

Someone is in trouble! I wonder why. I'm just surprised they can
share a room...

"He's back," Vegeta commented as Bulma laid down the book she was
reading.
"It's about time. I left them two hours ago," she said.
"These things take time."
"He said he'd behave."
"Did you expect him to? It's been over a month since he's
seen her."
"There you are. You said you'd take it easy with her. Where
have you been mister?"
"Not so loud, Mother. She's asleep," Trunks said as he
carried Loren into the house.
"You didn't answer my question," Bulma said and Trunks
flushed.
"Aw, come on Mom. Can I at least put her to bed before I get
into trouble?"
"He was only doing what any male would do," Vegeta said and
Bulma glared at him.
"You aren't helping anything," she said. "What are you doing
out here Bra?"
"It isn't often that he gets into trouble. What did he do?"
Bra asked.
"Come on, why do I get into so much trouble with her?"
Trunks asked.
"Because you haven't been a gentleman with her," Bulma said.
"I'm not the only one that hasn't..."
"Don't EVEN bring me into this boy," Vegeta said.
"You are in SO much trouble," Bran said.
"Quiet dear," Bulma said as Loren yawned.
"Well you can at least put her down now," Vegeta said as
Loren sat up.
"What's going on?" she asked as Trunks allowed her to set
her feet on the floor.
"Nothing hon," Trunks said.
"Go on upstairs dear," Bulma said as Ridel ran up to her.
"Did I do something?" Loren asked as she picked up Ridel.
"You didn't do anything. Go on up. I'll be there in a bit,"
Trunks said as Ridel licked Loren's cheek. She carried him up the
stairs and into her room. She sat on the bed and petted Ridel's fur.
She was sure that she missed something but she wasn't sure what it
was.
"Trunks is in trouble? Why?" Loren asked as Ridel lay his
head on the pillow. She stood up and removed her clothing. She
gazed at her reflection in the mirror for a moment then ran her hands
over her body.
"You'd think they'd let it go. I'm old enough to make.... my
own...decisions," Trunks said as he walked into the room. He shut
the door and locked it, watching intently as Loren ran her hands down
her legs.
"Did I get you in trouble?" Loren asked as she stretched.
"What?"
"Did I get you in trouble?"
"No! No, of course not. You look so beautiful love."
"I'm just stretching. I haven't moved in a long time."
She stretched her legs and Trunks watched her movements with
interest. He licked her lips as she continued to move. He knew that
it wasn't her intent to be sensual, it was just a natural affect that
she had on men. She turned around and glanced at his hungered
expression and frowned. She tilted her head in confusion as he
continued to stare at he intently.
"Are you okay?"
"What?"
"Are you okay?" Loren asked as she walked towards him. He
unconsciously transformed as she moved closer to him.
"Oh honey..."
"You look funny."
"Come here babe."
"Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. Don't stop moving."
"Why?"
"Because I love how you move."
"You're acting strange."
Trunks reached for her and drew her close to him. He kissed
her skin as he switched off the light. She gazed into his perfect
blue eyes as he ran his hands down her rump.
"I'm acting normal honey," he said as she ran her fingers
over his neck.
"How long?"
"How long what?"
"How long have we...?"
"Long enough for my parents not to make such a fuss about it."
"Why do they then? Stop that."
"Honey, you are so sensual."
"Oh...I like that."
"I thought you would. Let me get undressed Loren."
"Are you going to do what you did earlier?"
"Do you want me to?"
"I guess."
"I love you."
"Will she get upset with this?"
"Mother? No. How's that feel love?"
"I feel warm."
"It IS hot in here, isn't it?"
"Is that why you're sweating?"
"Maybe."
"Maybe?"
"Yes honey. You make it so hot in here."
"Is that good?"
"Be quiet love."
Loren fell silent as Trunks continued his movements. She
closed her eyes and gasped as Ridel licked her hand. Trunks smiled
at her surprise and stopped momentarily to push the dog away. Ridel
sat down and watched the two with interest. He wanted to play as
well but Trunks wouldn't let him. He growled to show his displeasure
and Trunks glanced at him.
"What's wrong?" Loren asked.
"Ridel wants to play," Trunks replied.
"I didn't know he knew this game."
"Loren..."
"What?"
"Nothing."
"What did I say?"
"Nothing. It's all right."
"Are you sure?"
"I'm sure."
"Mmm. That feels really good. Why did you stop?"
"Because I'm done."
"I liked it."
"I know you did."
"Again?"
"Honey...I need to get some sleep. I need to work tomorrow."
"All right."
"Loren please. I know it's been awhile but I've got a job.
Believe me, I would much rather stay here and...play with you but I'm
on thin ice with Mom and Dad."
"Are you sure I didn't get you into trouble?"
"Honey, you could never get me into trouble. Now come on,
let's get to bed."
"But I'm not tired."
"You wouldn't be, considering you've been unconscious for the
past month."
"I'm sorry."
"No honey. Don't take it personal. It took you that long to
heal. I understand."
Loren slowly smiled as Trunks helped her up off the floor.
He embraced her and led her over to the bed. Ridel stood up and
followed them to the bed. He jumped up on the blankets and lay
down. He watched Loren sit on the bed and shut his eyes.
"Lie down honey," Trunks said and Loren looked at him.
"I'm not tired," she said.
"You don't have to sleep."
"Where did you sleep when I wasn't awake?"
"Downstairs."
"Were you comfortable?"
"Yes. Now please honey, lie down."
"All right."
Loren did as she was told and Trunks lay beside her. He took
her hand and she glanced at him. He smiled as he ran his fingers up
her arm.
"Can you lay your head on my chest? I've missed that."
"Okay. You've got a lot of muscles in that chest."
"I like your compliments."
"I was making an observation."
"You make it sound so adorable. Stop running your hands over
me. I need to sleep."
"I'm sorry. I'm just trying to remember the feeling."
"You don't have to remember everything all at once. Don't
move so much honey. It's making it hard to fall asleep."
"I'm just trying to get comfortable."
"Hurry up then. At the rate you're going, I'll never fall
asleep."
"Your energy level is rising."
"I know."
"Why?"
"Just be quiet honey."
"But..."
"Quiet."

**********************

Piccolo gets rediscovered. Need I say more?


"I figured we'd see you once she regained consciousness," Vegeta
said as he walked past Piccolo.
"I don't need your sarcasm Vegeta," the Namek said as Ridel
skidded across the floor.
"Careful dear. The floor is slippery," Bulma said as Loren
ran after the dog. She lost her balance and shut her eyes in
anticipation of impact with the floor. When no pain came, she
opened her eyes and stared at the owner of the arms that had caught
her. She smiled in recognition as the Namek loosened his grip on
her.
"Have you gotten taller?" she asked and Piccolo smiled
slightly.
"You aren't wearing any shoes," he said and she gazed down
at her feet.
"You're right."
"My nails pierced your skin. I'm sorry. I didn't realize..."
"I've got it. We've had to keep an eye on her. Since her
healing powers aren't working yet, she's been very accident prone,"
Bulma said as she put a bandage on the cut.
"Where did Ridel go?" Loren asked.
"Outside. It's like having another child in the house."
"What does she remember?" Piccolo asked after Loren had
gone.
"Only Namek and us. Nothing more," Bulma replied.
"Has he told her anything?"
"She knows she did something, that's all. She doesn't really
remember how she came to Earth, though. She only remembers what was
dearest to her."
"Is she able to switch forms?"
"She hasn't done it but the knowledge is there. She was
confused as to why there are things for men women and children but
nothing for asexual beings. I'm afraid that I couldn't explain it
very well to her."
"Does she phase out?"
"Not completely yet. She's still rediscovering her abilities
among other things. Trunks was late this morning because she
rediscovered him."
"What?"
"She liked touching things. She had to feel all of his
muscles before he left. He was pretty embarrassed."
"She can be very embarrassing."
"We probably need to check on her. Where is she dear?" Bulma
asked as she and Piccolo walked outside.
"Right there," Vegeta replied as he pointed to Loren who was
sitting motionless in the grass.
"What is she doing?"
"I have no idea."
"Dear, what are you doing?"
"Waiting," Loren replied.
"Waiting for what?" Bulma asked.
"Waiting for him to come back."
"Dear, he won't be back for at least five hours."
"Okay."
"Honey, you can't sit there for that long."
"Sure I can."
Bulma sighed as Ridel licked Loren's hand. She allowed the
dog to climb into her lap and continued to stare down the road.
Vegeta shook his head and walked back into the house. Piccolo
walked up to Loren and laid a hand on her shoulder.
"Come on Loren. You're making them worry," he said and she
shook her head.
"I can wait. I get in the way inside," Loren replied.
"You don't get in the way."
"You haven't been here long enough to feel the tension.
Sometimes I wish I could remember everything."
"Don't pay any attention to Vegeta."
"How long is five hours?"
"Long. What are you doing?"
"Your hand is smooth. Is all of your skin like this?"
"Looks like Piccolo has been rediscovered," Bulma commented
as Loren took off Piccolo's hat.
"I'm glad I haven't been rediscovered," Vegeta said and
Bulma smiled.
"Are you saying that just to keep me happy?"
"What?"
"I know how you get with her. I didn't know someone so green
could get so red."
"I think we'll all be glad when she gets back to normal."
"Or the closest thing to it."
"You've got a point there."
"Although her child-like manner is so sweet."
"She's a very well developed child."
"Do you think I was too hard on him last night?"
"Well the boy IS full grown."
"I know but it was her first day awake. You'd think..."
"You don't think like a man. You wouldn't understand his
feelings."
"Loren please stop," Piccolo said as she ran her hands over
his antennae.
"You're strong," Loren said as Piccolo averted his gaze from
her.
"Would you get off of me?"
"It's amazing that someone so little has gotten so big.
You're red. Why?"
"Get off Loren."
"All right."
Loren sighed as she stood up. Ridel followed her back to the
roadside and sat in her lap. She petted Ridel's fur and continued
to gaze down the road. She would be patient and wait for Trunks to
return.

***************************

Note: When dealing with Loren, normal clothes do not phase out with
her. My move would be going better if I could land a job. I can't
stay with my folks forever. Anyway, here's the next installment...

"Wake up dear," Bulma said and gently shook Loren's shoulder.
"She was out here the whole time?" Trunks asked as Ridel
stretched his paws.
"She fell asleep about an hour ago."
"Loren..."
Ridel yawned and opened his eyes. He climbed out of Loren's
lap and shook his fur. He gazed at Trunks and barked in
excitement. Loren opened her eyes and glanced around for Ridel.
"There you are. Did you get tired of waiting?" Loren asked
as she stretched.
"I'm back dear," Trunks said and took her hand.
"Already? I thought you were gone for a long time."
"It's been five hours dear," Bulma said as Loren stood up.
"It has? Really?"
"Mother said that you sat there for the entire time," Trunks
said as he embraced Loren.
"I missed you," she said as she ran her hands over his
shoulders.
"Stop that honey."
"She rediscovered Piccolo today," Bulma said.
"I feel sorry for him," Trunks commented.
"Why do you say that?" Loren asked.
"Don't worry about it honey."
"What did you mean?"
"Nothing."
"Why did you say it then?"
"I wasn't thinking."
"Oh."
"It's a good thing you didn't have to work overtime," Vegeta
said as Trunks brought Loren and Ridel into the house.
"Couldn't you have given her something to do?" Trunks asked.
"She wouldn't have done it honey," Bulma said as Ridel ran
up to Vegeta.
"You can be stubborn, can't you?"
"Me?" Loren asked.
"Yes," Trunks replied.
"Why?"
"She's not stubborn. She's devoted," Bulma said.
"You're making it sound worse, Mother," Trunks said.
"Watch those hands honey. You know how she likes to explore
your skin."
"Couldn't you have said that differently, Mom?"
"Why don't you give her something to play with?" Vegeta
asked as Trunks pushed Loren's hands away from his legs.
"DAD! Honey, why don't you go on upstairs?"
"What did I do now?" Loren asked as she stood up.
"Nothing. I'm just going to get something to eat," Trunks
said as Ridel jumped to the floor.
"Leave something for your father," Bulma said.
"I will."
Loren walked up the stairs with Ridel behind her. She
watched him struggle up the stairs for a moment then knelt on the
floor and picked him up. She scratched his ears as she carried her
to Trunks' room.
"Why does he eat so much?" she asked as she walked into the
room. She set Ridel on the floor then gazed at her body. She
opened the door and picked up her clothing that lay on the floor.
"What are you doing?" Bulma asked and Loren looked at her.
"They didn't come with me," she replied.
"Did you go through the door without opening it?"
"Uh-huh."
"Get dressed dear."
"Are you mad at me?"
"Of course not dear. Now go on and get dressed."
Loren closed the door behind her and slowly put on her
clothes. She opened the window and leaned out, gazing intently at
an animal of some sort.
"What are you doing? You'll hurt yourself," Trunks said as
he walked into the room. He took her hand and pulled her in. She
looked at him for a moment then turned her attention back out the
window.
"You scared it," she said and Trunks stared at her in
confusion.
"What are you talking about?"
"The butterfly. You scared it."
"I'm sorry. You just can't lean out of open windows like
that. I'm staying here with you tomorrow."
"But what about...?"
"I don't have to work tomorrow. Loren, did you hear me?"
"What? I guess it's not coming back."
"Dear, I don't have to work tomorrow."
"Can you do that?"
"Of course. It's called a day off. It means that we can
spend the entire day tomorrow."
"Yay! What are we going to do?"
"What do you want to do?"
"I don't know."
"Come on, you must want to do something."
"Well, can we go into the woods?"
"You want to explore, don't you?"
"Uh-huh."
"All right. There's a pond near here. I could get Mother to
pack us a lunch and we could go swimming."
"But I don't need to eat."
"I know that."
"Can Ridel come?"
"I suppose. He can ride in the basket. What are you doing
now?"
"I don't know."
Trunks watched Loren run her fingers over his arm for a
moment then let go of her. She moved her hands to his chest and
began to feel his well-defined skin. He flushed as he watched her
intense concentration. Again, he knew that she didn't mean to be
sensual in what she was doing but she managed to be enticing
regardless of whether it was a conscious effort or not.
He grabbed her arms just as she started to move her hands
lower and she looked at him. She noticed the look on his face and
drew away. Ridel pulled on Trunks pants leg and Trunks gazed down
at him. He smiled as he picked the dog up and turned around to
speak to Loren. Her clothes lay in front of the door and Trunks
shook his head. He help Ridel in one arm and opened the door with
his free hand.
"Sorry about this Father," Trunks said as he drew Loren into
the bedroom.
"Can't that girl keep her clothes on?" Vegeta asked.
"Not when she phases through the door. I'm REALLY sorry. I
got distracted. I have no clue what she was thinking."
"Did she actually think anything when she did it?"
"DAD! Get dressed Loren."
"I didn't mean to get you into trouble. I'm sorry," Loren
said as Trunks tried not to stare at her.
"It's okay. Now go put your clothes on."
"I don't see how you can stand her," Vegeta said as Trunks
closed the door behind Loren.
"Dad, she's still recovering. Don't be so hard with her,"
Trunks said.
"You'd better keep an eye on her now that she can go through
walls. I don't want any surprises."
"Are you going to let her rediscover you, Father?"
"Don't get sarcastic with me boy," Vegeta snapped as Ridel
squirmed in Trunks arms. Trunks set the dog on the floor and Ridel
ran down the hall in search of his water dish.
"Sorry. It's just I can't help but notice how hard you try
to avoid her. Are you still upset that she saved you?"
"From what you've told me, as far as she's concerned, that
embarrassing moment never took place."
"Then why are you worried? All she remembers about you is
how harsh you've been with her."
Loren opened the door and walked past the two men. Trunks watched
her for a moment then glanced at his father. He sighed as he ran
downstairs. She had heard everything and her feelings had been hurt.

***************************

I don't think I've ever seen anyone as amazed by the flash on a
camera as Loren is. I just hope it doesn't hurt her eyes....

"She's outside honey," Bulma said as she stepped out of the kitchen."
"I'm glad she hasn't learned to fly yet," Trunks said as he
ran out of the house. Loren sat in the grass watching a chipmunk
scamper across the lawn. He sat next to her and embraced her. She
leaned against him and he smiled. She continued to watched the
chipmunk as Ridel climbed into her lap. She gazed at him and began
to stroke his fur as he laid his head on her leg.
"Look at that. Isn't that sweet?"
"When are they going to get their own place?" Vegeta asked.
"He's working on it. You know that. Hello dear. What have
you been up to?" Bulma asked as Bra walked up to them.
"Homework. Are you spying on them again?" Bra asked.
"We're not spying on them."
"Uh-huh. You're doing exactly what Gohan's parents did.
Goten told me all about how strange they got with Gohan and Videl."
"I'd better get back in the kitchen."
"Parents sure act strange when you're involved with someone.
Sisters don't help either. Of course, some of the people my parents
hang out with make things worse. Like Krillin and Master Roshi,"
Trunks said as Loren continued to stroke Ridel's fur.
"Are you talking about that nice old man that you don't
like?" she asked and he smiled.
"It's not that I don't like him. I don't like how he treats
you."
"He talks about her an awful lot. He wants to know why you
two don't visit more often," Bra said and Trunks gazed up at her.
"What do you want?" he asked.
"The old guy that you don't like is having a barbeque
tomorrow evening and would like you over. It HAS been awhile since
you've done anything with the group dear brother."
"I've been busy."
"Come on, you can't have her constantly on your mind. You're
obsessed. What do you want, Daddy?"
"You wanted to go into town, didn't you? Get your money,"
Vegeta said and Bra ran into the house.
"Thank you," Trunks said and Vegeta smirked.
"You get into enough trouble with the girl. You don't need
your sister to make it worse."
"Thanks, Dad."
"You didn't sound very happy," Loren said after Vegeta was
out of earshot.
"Sometimes Father's compliments are more like insults. At
least Gohan's dad was more open about his relationship. It was his
mother that Gohan had to worry about," Trunks said as Loren
continued to pet Ridel.
"It sounds like you've got the reverse of Gohan. Why do they
do that?"
"I don't know but they like doing it. Do you remember Master
Roshi's party?"
"No."
"Well you fell asleep in my lap and my mom and Gohan's mom
made such a big deal about it. Of course, Goten's presence didn't
help anything. Then Krillin came and made things worse."
"How?"
"By being Krillin."
"Oh. I don't understand."
"It's all right honey."
"If you're going to bring her tomorrow, you'd better not run
off somewhere to make out," Bra said and Trunks sighed.
"Would you cut it out?" he asked and Bra grinned.
"You're just upset 'cause it's true."
"Dad!"
"You can torment him when you come back," Vegeta said.
"Why does she do that?" Loren asked as Trunks kissed her
cheek.
"Because she's my sister," Trunks said as Loren continued to
pet Ridel.
"That makes no sense. Why did you push him off? He was
asleep."
"I need to stand up. My muscles are hurting."
"But I'm comfy here."
"Let me up honey. I'm kind of thirsty too."
"Oh all right."
Trunks watched her stand and sighed. Hopefully, he could
convince her to wear something not so...revealing at the barbeque.
He didn't need her to invite trouble with Master Roshi.
"What are you doing?" Loren asked as she looked at him.
She was bent over, with her palms on her knees and Trunks glanced
away, trying to focus on something other than her cleavage.
"What?" he asked as he watched Ridel run into the house.
"What are you doing?"
"What do you mean?"
"You said you wanted to stand up but you're just sitting
there. Why?"
"I was distracted."
"Oh. By what?"
"Huh?"
"You're acting funny."
"No I'm not."
"You are too. Do you need help?"
"What?"
"Do you need help getting up."
"No! No, I can do it on my own."
"Then why aren't you? What was that flash?"
"What flash? Mother!"
"I'm sorry honey, but you looked so cute like that," Bulma
said as she walked up to them, carrying a camera.
"Did that little thing make the flash?" Loren asked as she
stood up straight."
"Yes."
"How?"
"Why don't you show her, dear? If I don't have dinner ready
when your father gets back, you know what will happen."
Loren took the camera from Bulma and studied it. She
pressed a button and blinked at the flash. She turned it around and
stared at the lens. Trunks stood up and laid a hand on the camera.
Loren looked at him for a moment then pushed his hand away.
"I want to figure it out," she said and he smiled.
"All right. Just don't break it," he said as she intensely
studied it.
"Hey, someone's back on their feet," Gohan said and Trunks
looked up."
"What are you doing here?"
"Checking up on you. So how long has she been awake?"
"Not very long. Maybe two days at the most. My whole family
has gotten weird again."
"Yeah, I know what you mean. I had to give my mom a complete
run-down of what I was going to do when I was out with Videl."
"Well you know how my mom is with here. Then there's Dad and
my sister...I'm just lucky I get to sleep with her. Every other
place someone walks in on us."
"Believe me, I know. Even having your own place doesn't help
very much. What's she doing?"
"She's trying to figure out how the camera works. How did
you survive? Your own folks are bad enough but you had your
classmates and Krillin and other people."
"YOU were one of those other people."
"Come on, you're Goku's son. It was funny to think of you in
love."
"There's more to life than fighting."
"I know."
"I think she likes the flash. You ARE bringing her tomorrow,
aren't you?"
"If I didn't, Mother would."
"You've got your work cut out for you."
"Yeah I know. I'll have to worry about getting it from all
sides tomorrow. Plus we'll be at the ocean and you know what that
means. Honey, let me have the camera. You've played with it enough."
Loren handed the camera to Trunks and sat down. Ridel ran
out of the house and Trunks picked him up. He scratched the Dog's
ear and glanced at his paws.
"You're going to need a bath today," he said and Gohan
smiled.
"You know, my mother was commenting on how you won't get any
children out of this. She felt upset by the fact that you get to
miss out on the joys of raising a child."
"Please. I've already got my hands full with these two. I
couldn't handle children too."
"That's what I told my mom. I'm surprised you can handle her
at all."
"She's really not that bad. Where are you going Loren?"
"Inside," Loren replied as she walked past them.

 

Dogs do not take baths in the bathtub. Try to get that concept
across to her...

"So what does she remember?" Gohan asked.
"Not much. Just us and her life on Namek. She can phase out
now which REALLY makes things hard on me. Father just happened to be
on the other side of the door she phased through today," Trunks said.
"Oops. That's right, actual clothing doesn't go with her,
does it?"
"No. That's another problem. She's got an awful lot of
eroticism in her innocence."
"Yeah but you've been a little too involved with her since
the beginning."
"What would you have done? We came to a pond, she asked me
if I liked to swim then took off her clothes in front of me. Don't
tell me you would have kept your head when a girl like that stripped
in front of you then invites you to touch her skin. Well...in some
cases, there's no place for logic and morals."
"You were also at that stage in your life when desires run
high. I wasn't. At that time in my life, girls were the furthest
thing from my mind."
"I couldn't help it. She still sees what we do as a game."
"Does she still treat Piccolo like a child?"
"I don't know. I was told that she rediscovered him earlier
today. I KNOW he was embarrassed with that."
"Has she rediscovered Vegeta?"
"Father's been keeping away from her. Of course, she doesn't
remember anything about her relationship to him. I think she
remembers how harsh he's been with her because she really doesn't
get close to him."
"Vegeta is a difficult person to explain."
"So is Master Roshi for that matter."
"True. Well, I'd better get home."
"Come on in and say hello to Mother. She'd be a little upset
if you were here and didn't say hi to her."
"You're right. I don't need to get you in trouble. You've
got Loren for that."
"Thanks a lot."
"It's true. You get into a lot of trouble with her."
"What can I say? It's Loren. Hey Mom."
"Will you explain to her that dogs do not belong in the
bathtub? Oh, hello Gohan. What brings you here?" Bulma asked as
Trunks ran up the stairs.
"I came to see if she was awake. Did he enjoy his month of
peace?" Gohan asked.
"No. Vegeta had to force him to be active. That was part of
the reason why he got a job in the city. After the third day of him
moping around the house, Vegeta set his foot down. Honey, is
everything all right up there?"
"We're fine Mother," Trunks replied as he shut the bathroom
door behind him. "Next time, wash him outside."
"But you said he needed a bath," Loren said as Trunks dried
the dog with a towel.
"Yes I did but I meant an outside bath."
"Do you take outside baths?"
"No."
"Then why should Ridel?"
"Because he's a dog."
"Why should that make any difference? What am I supposed to
do with this?"
"Please, dry yourself off and...get dressed."
"You're looking funny again."
"Here, let me dry you off."
"Not so hard."
"Sorry. Um...honey, could you....?"
"Could I what?"
"Your legs. Could you...so I can dry them?"
"I have no idea what you're trying to say."
Trunks forced her legs apart and brought the towel up to her
inner thighs. She whimpered in pain and he gazed up at her. He
dropped the towel and gently kissed her skin. She gazed at her
reflection in the mirror and began to explore her skin. She pulled
on her flesh then stopped as Trunks began to massage her skin.
"Honey, are you sure everything is all right in there?"
Bulma asked as she knocked on the bathroom door.
"I'm sure, Mother. I'm just cleaning up," Trunks said as he
stood up.
"I could help you if you unlocked the door, dear."
"I know that Mother but I have to find Loren a dry towel."
"I see. Come on out honey."
"But..."
"Come on out."
Trunks opened the door and Ridel scuttled out. Bulma glared
at her son and Trunks flushed. He opened his mouth to say something
but after seeing the look that his mother gave him, thought better
of it. He moved out of the doorway and allowed his mother to enter
the room.
"I was just drying her off, Mother," Trunks said as Bulma
handed Loren a robe.
"That may have been what you started out to do but that's
not what you were doing when I knocked, was it? Tie the belt around
your waist, dear," Bulma said as Loren looked at the piece of fabric.
"Aw come on Mom, don't tell me you never got this way.
Haven't you ever been over-come with desire?"
"Dear, why don't you go check on Ridel?"
"Okay," Loren said and took off the robe. She wore what
appeared to be a halter-top and a pair of leather pants. Trunks
watched her phase through the wall. Now that she could materialize
her own clothing, a portion of his problems was taken care of. Now
if only he could explain things to his mother....

*********************

Gratuitous shower scene!! Well, not exactly but we all know how she
likes to be helpful and she doesn't mean things the way others take
it...

"I heard you got it good from Mom while we were gone," Bulma said as
Trunks started the lawnmower.
"No, I love to mow the lawn and was the outside of the
house," Trunks replied as he began pushing the lawnmower.
"Really? Why the sudden love for menial labor?"
"I was being sarcastic."
"I know. So was I. So where's the thing you constantly get
in trouble with?"
"She's in the lab with Mother."
"No explosions yet. Maybe she's asphyxiated Mom."
"Look, I'm in enough trouble as it is. I don't need more
from you."
"All right, I'm going. Enjoy yourself, dear brother."
Trunks grumbled as he continued to push the lawnmower. Why
was she still treating him as a child? He was full-grown after all,
so why was he getting into trouble for wanting to do what was
natural? Loren WAS older than them all, after all. Why couldn't
his mother accept it?
"You really need to get your own place," Vegeta said as he
walked up to Trunks.
"I know Father. I'm working really, really hard. Can't Mom
be a little more understanding? I mean, it's not like I do it out in
the open or anything. And when I do it, I AM polite. I don't force
her into anything."
"You've told me enough."
"You know how she gets Dad. It's very hard to keep my head
when she's running her hands all over me. You know how hard she
concentrated."
"Yes I know how she gets. Why do you think I've been staying
away from her?"
"She's also been avoiding you. All she remembers is her
awkward moments with you."
"Oh hi. I was going to help you since I got you in trouble
but I didn't know you were busy," Loren said as she walked up to
them. She glanced at Vegeta and prepared to walk away when he laid
a hand on her shoulder. She gazed at him and he smiled.
"There's another lawnmower over there," he said and walked
away from them.
"I'm confused."
"Father's accepted you dear," Trunks said.
"Uh-huh."
"He's on our side. Of course, he's been our side for awhile
now but that's beside the point."
"What?"
"Never mind. Hey, how would you like to go out tonight?"
"I thought we were going out tomorrow."
"We are. We can do both."
"Okay. What are we going to do?"
"We'll find something. Go get the extra mower. The sooner we
get the grass cut, the sooner we can go."
"It's cut."
"How did you do that?"
"I don't know but we can go now. You said."
"I need to take a shower before we leave."
"Me too?"
Trunks stared at her; the thought of them together in a
shower was playing heavily on his imagination. She gazed
inquisitively at him as he continued to think of the shower. He
took her hand and tightly squeezed it She continued to look at him
in confusion and he smiled.
"Come on honey. Mother and the others will be busy in the
kitchen. We'll be able to take a shower in peace," Trunks said as he
led her into the house. Together, they walked into the bathroom and
Trunks locked the door behind him.
"Shall I turn the water on?" Loren asked.
"No. I'll do it. Let me get undressed darling."
"Okay. Do you want help?"
"Yes honey. I would love help from you."
He placed Loren's hands on his waist and she looked at him.
"Please honey. Just do it."
Loren slowly unclasped his belt. She let it fall to the
floor and pushed down his pants. He watched her pause at his briefs
and laid his hands over hers. She looked at him for a moment in
confusion as he pressed his hands into her. She smiled as he guided
her hands down his legs. He removed his hands and pointed to her
body. She looked at her clothes for a moment and then at him.
"You want to get in the shower with me, don't you?" he
asked. As he started the water.
"Yes," she replied and he smiled.
"Well you've got to take your clothes off."
"They are off."
"Come here then. Good girl. Go on in. I'm right behind you."
He closed the shower door behind him then stopped when Loren
slowly ran her hands over his back. She traced the droplets of
water down to his rump and he bit his lip as she moved to his legs.
He moved slightly and she glanced at him.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"Nothing. I'd just like to turn around."
"Oh. Okay."
"Stand up honey."
She did as he requested and he embraced her. He pushed her
against the wall and kissed her. He stopped when he felt where her
hands were and smiled. He once again placed his hands over hers and
gently guided them up and down in a soft, stroking manner. She
glanced at his face and tried to stop but her forced her to continue
to rub his skin.
"I like what you're doing Loren."
"You won't let my hands go," Loren said and he grinned.
"You put them there in the first place," he said.
"I guess it's a point of symmetry. I mean..."
"I know what you mean. I'm going to let go of your hands but
I want you to keep doing what you're doing, all right?"
"Okay. You didn't tell me you were going to play with MY
body."
"I like to play with you just as much as you like to play
with me."
"Your muscles are getting tight."
"Maybe you should get the soap."
"Okay. Oh, I dropped it."
"Well bend over and pick it up."
"I got the soap. You didn't tell me you were going to do
THAT."
"Are you complaining?"
"No..."
"Then don't complain."
'I don't like to stand like this."
"All right. Stand up babe. Good. Now turn and look at me,
dear."
She turned around and looked at him. She blinked her eyes
as the water dripped off her hair and onto her face. She shook her
head and began to run the soap over Trunks chest. He watched her
run the soap all over his body and flushed as she ran the soap all
over his middle. She was being precise in her cleaning and it was
playing heavily on his emotions. He licked his lips as he watched
her with interest.
"You need to rinse off."
"I know. Give me the soap Loren."
"Here."
He took the soap from her and crouched on her level. He ran
it over her body and she shivered. He tightly grasped her arms and
she winced. He flushed and drew away from her.
"I didn't mean to be so rough," he said and she smiled.
"It's okay. Can we get out now? I'm tired of water hitting
my face," Loren said and Trunks smiled.
"All right. We'll get out. You want to go do something,
don't you?"
"Uh-huh."
"Once we get into town, can we do what I want to do?"
"What do you want to do?"
"I think you know what I want to do dear. Here, dry yourself
off."
"I can't dry you?"
"No honey. If you do, we'll never get out of here."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Just get dressed Loren."
"Okay. Are you mad at me?"
"No. Where would you get that idea?"
"You sounded upset."
"I wasn't upset."
"Are you finished in there honey?" Bulma asked as she
knocked on the door and Trunks looked at Loren/
"Wait outside by the car. If we both come out, we'll never
get out of here," Trunks whispered as Loren's clothing materialized.
"Okay," Loren said and went through the wall. Trunks looked
at the wall she had gone through and shook his head.
"She isn't in there, is she?" Bulma asked as Trunks wrapped
the towel around his waist.
"No," he said.
"Are you telling me truth?"
Trunks picked up his clothes and opened the bathroom door.
"Why would I lie to you?"
"Where is she then?"
"Outside somewhere I guess. I'm taking her out tonight."
"Where?"
"I don't know. Just out."
"All right. You'd better be back here by eleven."
"Mother, I'm over twenty. Why are you giving me a curfew?"
"Because honey, you're my little boy no matter how old you
get."
"Just let him go. He'll come back when he's ready," Vegeta
said.
"Thank you Father," Trunks said.
"Just put your clothes on boy."
"Yes sir."

*********************

The answer to the question that was postulated earlier and much
embarrassment but that's just because she gets so easily focused on
one thing...

"What happened to you?" Loren asked as she sat on the hood of the
car.
"Mother got all nostalgic with me. Dad had to bail me out.
What did you do to the car?" Trunks asked as he started the engine.
"You don't like it?"
"You made it better. Thanks."
"You're welcome. Have they always been that strange?"
"My parents? Pretty much, yeah."
"Why?"
"I don't know. Please honey, not while I'm driving."
"Sorry."
"It's okay. Why don't you just look out the window?"
"I can't see anything. It's dark."
"Can't you see in the dark? Loren?"
"I'm thinking."
"What are you thinking about?"
"Huh?"
"What are you thinking about?"
"Why?"
"Why what?"
"Why are we the way we are?"
Trunks pulled the car into a secluded area and stared at
her. She lay down in his lap and gazed up at him. She took his
hand and searched his face for an explanation.
"I have no idea what you're trying to say," he said and she
frowned. She sat up and placed her legs on the dashboard as she
tried to think of a better way to explain her question to him.
"Why?"
"Honey, do you think you can show me?"
"Show you?"
"Yes."
"I'll try."
Trunks' eyes grew wide as she sat on his lap and ran her
fingers through his hair. She opened her mouth to say something
then stopped. He stared at her as he impatiently waited for her to
get her point across. She blinked her eyes for a second then leaned
close to him. She moved her hands from his hair and carefully
studied his face. He moved his hips slightly as he tried to keep
his emotions in check. She placed her mouth on his and deeply
kissed him. He pushed her away in shock and stared at her.
"THAT'S what you were trying to say?" he asked.
"Yes," she replied.
"Well why didn't you say so?"
"I did."
"That's right. You did."
"Do you have the answer?"
"Because we're supposed to be together. Do you remember what
happens when we're forced to be apart?"
"Not really."
"That's good. Honey..."
"What is it?"
"Get off of me."
"You don't like me sitting on you?"
"Please."
She crawled off of him and sat cross-legged, watching him.
He laid his hands on the bottom of his shirt and watched as her
clothing dissolved. She leaned back in the seat and began to run
her back up and down the seat.
"It's cold," she commented as Trunks continued to stare at
her. "What is it?"
"What?" he asked as she leaned close to him.
"You've got that look again."
"What look?"
"Are you just going to sit there?"
"Huh?"
"Did you change your mind?"
"Honey..."
"Do you need help again?"
"No! No, I'll get it done."
"Well, you could do the shirt and I'll do the pants. That
way it won't take so long."
She laid her hands on his pants and he involuntarily
transformed. She felt his energy level rise as she slowly pushed
them down. He bit his lip as he watched her hands. She looked at
him for a moment, and then glanced out the window. Trunks grabbed her
arms and she drew back in shock. She gazed into his perfect blue
eyes and he comfortingly smiled.
"It's all right. I'm ready to...play with you."

******************

Really short post. The parents are discussing the relationship.
Bulma still doesn't understand why he gets that way with her...

"How could you have let him go like that? You know what he's going
to do with her," Bulma said and Vegeta shrugged his shoulders.
"They're meant to be together. You keep telling me to accept
it so why aren't you?" he asked.
"She's different this time. She's acting more like a child.
He shouldn't be taking advantage of her."
"Better him than someone else. Look, they're both full
grown. Let it go. We can't force them apart, you know what happens.
Just let them do what they're drawn to do."
"I want to know where he got such a sick mind. It certainly
wasn't from me."
"You'll never understand his position."
"You're siding with him?"
"I'm going to have to. There are times when emotions take
precedence over logic. You may see what she does as cute but to us
men it's extremely...erotic."
"Really?"
"Shame on you, Daddy. Falling for a younger woman," Bra said
and Vegeta glared at her.
"She's older for your information," he snapped.
"Go on to bed dear," Bulma said and Bra folded her arms.
"I want to see how much trouble the guys get into."
"Bed."
"Oh all right."

**************

Someone is getting tired of the feelings towards the relationship.
She doesn't want to go back because of the way everyone is acting...

"Trunks..." Loren said as he ran his hands over her chest. He
kissed her neck as she ran her hands over his legs.
"What?" he asked as he gently squeezed her skin.
"Do we have to go back?"
"What?"
"Do we have to go back?"
"You mean, do we have to go back home?"
"Yes. I get you into so much trouble there. I don't like
getting you in trouble. Can't we just stay here? There's no one
yelling at you here. There's just us and...and...and I like playing
with you."
"I know you do honey. I'm working on it, believe me. I want
to get out of there just as much as you. Honey..."
"What?"
"Give me some warning if you're going to do that."
"You don't like it?"
"I didn't say that."
"Okay. Again?"
"Lie down."
"Yay!"
He smiled as he forced her to recline onto the seat. He
laid her left leg onto the steering wheel and gazed upon her for a
moment then leaned back against the door. He wondered if he could
convince his parents to lend him the extra money so that they could
move out.
"What is it?" she asked and he looked at her.
"What?" Trunks asked.
"You stopped. What's wrong?"
"I was wondering if I could borrow money from my parents for
a house."
"A house? I think I can make one."
"Really? Do you think you could manage that?"
"I think so. That hurts."
"Sorry honey. How's that?"
"Much better. I like how it feels."
"I know you do. Honey, after this, would you like to get out
and walk around?"
"Like this?"
"Sure. No one's around. You have a question, don't you?"
"Yes..."
"What is it love?"
"Um..."
"I can't...play when you're concentrating on something else.
Now tell me your question."
"Well you parents play, don't they?"
"...yes."
"Then why do they get so upset with us?"
"I guess it's something that parents do. Now don't ask any
more questions, all right?"
"Okay."

******************

The morning dawns and all a Saiyen cares about is breakfast. I think
she's lucky that he doesn't push her off so that he can drive back
home and eat...

"Wake up honey," Trunks said as he gently shook her. He pushed her
arm off of his chest and she opened her eyes. She glanced up at him
and he smiled.
"Hi," she said as he quickly kissed her.
"Hello. Can you get up? You were on me all night long."
"I'm sorry."
"It's all right. This car isn't made to sleep in."
"Move you leg."
"What?"
"I can't get up if your leg is wrapped around mine."
"Is that better? Honey watch where you're putting your
hands."
"Oops. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine. Now get up. If we hurry, we'll get home in time
for breakfast."
"You and food. What good does it do? Why do you eat so much?"
"Because I'm hungry. Where's my shirt?"
"Here somewhere. I'll look under the seat."
"Loren..."
"What?"
"Get dressed."
"There. Now can I look?"
"All right."
"We get to go swimming today, don't we?"
"Yes. Honey don't worry about it. As long as I have pants
on, I'm fine. All I care about right now is food."

*********************

Loren relearns how to fly and asks Piccolo an extremely difficult
question. Also, go to the bookmarks page and check out my updated
website. I've got four pictures of Loren up there.

"He didn't come back last night," Bulma said as she set the table.
"He'll be back soon. It's almost time to eat," Vegeta
commented as Bra walked into the kitchen.
"Someone's back. So how much trouble is he in?" she asked
as Trunks ran into the kitchen.
"It's not all gone is it?" he asked as he sat at the table.
"Where is your shirt, mister?" Bulma asked and Trunks
shrugged his shoulders.
"Couldn't find it."
"Let the dog out," Vegeta said and Bulma opened the door for
Ridel. He ran outside barking happily and Loren picked him up.
"Hi. I didn't mean to leave you alone last night," she said
and he licked her face.
"He let you sleep with him? I didn't know Vegeta could be so
nice. Of course, I really don't know a lot of things. I feel
empty...like I've got part of something that is obsolete. I'm
confusing myself. Hey, would you like to live in a house of your
own? We could run through the house and never get in trouble. We
could swim without any clothes on too. Wouldn't that be fun?"
"What is it with you and water?"
"Piccolo!"
Ridel ran happily up to him, barking loudly and the Namek
forced at smile.
"How are you doing?"
"Me? I'm fine."
"Can you fly yet?"
"I don't know. I haven't tried."
"Do you remember how?"
"Is that why you came?"
"Not the main reason."
"Oh. What was the main reason?"
"I wanted to see if you were doing any better."
"I'm fine. At least I think I am."
"What do you mean?"
"I feel like I have something that I don't need. You've
always been so concerned about me, Piccolo. What really happened to
Namek? How did I get here?"
"You don't know?"
"Should I?"
"Stop that."
"Don't tell me you've gotten too old to play."
"Loren, I'm over three centuries old."
"So?"
"Hey, thanks for showing up and keeping her busy. We were
eating," Trunks said as he stepped outside.
"I found your shirt," Loren said and handed it to him.
"Thanks. I've got to go change. I was just checking up on
her."
"I haven't done anything."
"Good."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I'll be right back."
"Hey..."
"It's all right," Piccolo said and she looked at him.
"But..." she protested and he genially took her hand.
"Don't worry about it. Now, weren't you going to attempt to
fly?"
"Was I?"
"Yes."
She closed her eyes and began to concentrate. Piccolo let
go of her hand and stepped back. He folded his arms and watched her
stand firm as she searched her mind for her ability to fly.
"You're making her think too hard," Vegeta said and Piccolo
glared at him.
"Shut up!" he retorted. The grass bent in response to the
energy Loren emitted and Piccolo's robe blew in the wind.
"What's going on out here?" Trunks asked as he stepped
outside, still buttoning his shirt.
"Quiet boy," Vegeta said as Loren began to hover above the
ground.
"So THIS is where all that energy is coming from," Goku said
as he appeared next to Piccolo.
"She's almost got it," Trunks said as she rose higher into
the air.
"She HAS got it," Piccolo said as Loren opened her eyes.
"Will you answer my question now?" she asked as she sat in
mid-air. Ridel gazed up at her and barked. Loren looked at him and
raised her hand. The dog gave a startled bark as it floated up to
her. She took it into her arms and waited for the Namek to answer.
"How did you do that?" Trunks asked.
"I don't know."
"Well this will save time. Instead of walking, we'll fly.
I'll see if Mother's finished with lunch."
"I'll answer your question later. It looks as though you've
already made some plans," Piccolo said as she set her feet on the
ground.
"Okay. Let's see if they need help," Loren said and Ridel
barked in agreement.
"What's her question?" Goku asked.
"An extremely complex one. She wants to know what happened
to Namek and how she got here. I can't tell her the truth. It won't
make any sense to her. She wiped all of that from her mind after she
banished that thing," Piccolo said.
"Looks like you've got some creative thinking to do."
"Yes. I don't know what to tell her."
"Come up with something. I've already got my hands full with
her," Vegeta said.
"What's she done now?" the Namek inquired.
"The boy wants to get out."
"You mean...move out?" Goku asked.
"He's tired of his mother stifling his emotions."
"You mean...?"
"Women will never understand the effect Loren has on men,"
Piccolo said as Ridel ran out of the house with Loren behind him.
"Loren, put him in the basket. I'll get a blanket," Trunks
said from the hallway.
"What basket?" she asked as Ridel began to dig in the grass.
"Over there girl," Vegeta said and pointed to a basket
sitting neat the house.
"Oh. Um...thank you."
"Stop him from digging in the yard."
"I'm sorry. Come on Ridel. You're not supposed to dig."
"Wow. You were actually nice to her," Goku said and
Vegeta glared at him.
"I've got to tolerate her since she won't be going
anywhere," he said.
"She's afraid of you. All she remembers are the bad times
with you, right?" Piccolo asked.
"It's better this way. I don't have to worry like others do."
"You look cute like that. Let's see where Trunks is," Loren
said as she carried the basked inside.
"He was the first thing she looked for when she woke up,"
Vegeta commented.
"He was the reason she stayed," Piccolo said.
"Hey, bring that back!" Trunks cried as Ridel dragged the
blanket outside. Loren slid into Trunks and Trunks caught her. She
gazed up at him and he smiled. He gently pushed her away as Bulma
stepped out of the kitchen with another basket.
"Dear, don't run in the house. I'm afraid you'll hurt
yourself. Here you go honey," Bulma said as she handed Trunks the
basket.
"Thanks Mom. Go get Ridel and the blanket and put them both
into the other basket. And Loren..." Trunks said and Loren looked at
him.
"What?" she asked.
"Walk out of the house."
"That's no fun."
"Please."
"Oh all right. I'm not going to like it."
"As soon as you get those things done, we can go."
"Really?"
"Uh-huh."
"There she goes. And after you told her not run in the
house. Are you sure you want your own place?" Bulma asked and
Trunks smiled.
"Mother, no matter where I go, you'll always check up on me.
All I want is a little more privacy," he said as he walked out of
the house.
"She's over there boy," Vegeta said and pointed to where
Loren sat, tying a ribbon around Ridel's neck.
"You've really got your hands full with those two," Goku
said and Trunks smiled.
"I know. I don't regret it though. I just hope I keep my
patience with her," he said as Loren put Ridel into the spare basket.
"Even if you don't, you know where she'll go."
"Yeah. Hey, I'll see you guys later. I don't know how long
that dog will stay in the basket."
"Did we get the brush off?" Goku asked as Trunks and Loren
flew off.
"They're young," Piccolo said.
"Well..."
"Yes, Goku. She's young. The past doesn't exist any more.
She'll never entirely be on out level but she's closer than she ever
was before."

*********************************

A pond in a secluded spot filled with water...well we all know she's
happy. Ridel gets to enjoy swimming as well in this one and he's got
a basket full of food so it appears that everyone is happy...

"How's this?" Trunks asked as he landed. Loren laid the basket on
the ground and looked around. Ridel crawled out of the basket and
looked around as well. Trunks placed around Loren's waist and she
jumped.
"It's okay honey. The water's over here."
"Water?" she asked and he kissed her neck.
"Yes love. Get Ridel and follow me."
"Okay."
"Honey..."
"What?" Loren asked and turned to face him. She laid her
hands on her knees and gazed at him. He stared at her in awe. Why
did she have to be so free with clothing? He gazed at her bare
chest and bit his lip as he tried to think of what her was going to
say. Ridel pulled on his pants leg and Trunks gazed down at him.
"You're just as excited as she is, aren't you?" he said as
he picked the dog up.
"What were you going to say?"
"Huh?"
"What were you going to say?"
"When?"
"Just now."
"Oh. Nothing."
"Are you mad at me?"
"Why would I be upset with you?"
"Well...you won't look at me."
"You aren't wearing any clothes."
"I thought you liked that."
"I do."
"Then what...?"
"Look honey. I can't concentrate when you're not wearing
anything."
"I no fun swimming in clothes."
"There it is. Wait a bit love."
"Why?"
"I'd like to sit down."
"All right."
Loren sat at the edge of the pond and stared at the water.
Trunks set the food and Ridel on the ground and took the blanket out
of the extra basket. He laid it on the ground and then looked at
her. He smiled as he sat behind her and ran his hands over her
shoulders. Ridel climbed onto Loren's lap and she petted his ears.
Trunks took off his shirt and stood up.
"How long do we have to wait?" Loren asked as Trunks took
off his belt.
"Not much longer love," Trunks replied as he pushed his
pants down.
"Are there fish in there?"
"I don't know."
"Can I look?"
"Soon dear."
"You look better without clothes," she said and he smiled.
He crouched behind her and embraced her.
"I'm ready when you are," he said as Ridel licked her hand.
"Can he get in the water too?"
"Can he swim?"
"Well he was in the bath with me the other day."
"All right. He can come in too. Loren, do you remember the
first day we saw each other?"
"Sort of. I remember that you swim really well."
"There was a lot of energy in our closeness then."
"There isn't now?"
"I never said that."
"Isn't that what you meant?"
"Let's just get in the water."
She watched him climb in and frowned. He gazed at her and
pulled on her feet. Ridel crawled off her lap and walked over to
the edge of the pond and cautiously placed his paw into the water.
She carefully put him in the water and Trunks grabbed her arm. She
looked at him.
"What?" she asked as he gently pulled her forward.
"Come on in love," he said.
"What did you mean when you said that?"
"Said what? I want all of you in darling."
She climbed into the water and watched as Ridel paddled up
to her. She patted his head and stopped as Trunks pressed his body
into hers. He kissed her neck as she watched the dog swim to the
edge of the pond. Something brushed against her leg and she drew
back in surprise. She gazed into the water and watched some fish
swim past her.
"You didn't tell me you were putting your hands there."
"Honey, I don't have to tell you everything. Now stay still."
"The water's cold."
"You're complaining a lot Loren."
"I'm sorry."
"It's all right honey."
"I just like to be told things."
"I understand. Why don't you turn around?"
"Move your hands then."
"All right. Do I get to...play with you later?"
"Sure. We play well together, don't we?"
"Yes honey. We do. We've always played well together."

***************************

This may be the post that answers all those burning questions about
Loren. Others have been doing a lot of thought on her situation as
well...

"She's digressing," Dende said.
"That's what I've been sensing," Piccolo replied.
"Her power level is unsteady but it makes sense. There
would have been no way for her to continue living with him the way
she was. In a sense, she crucified herself. The Loren here now is an
incarnate of Kalina. The residue of who and what she was before will
slowly fade away leaving only traces of inexplicable memories and
powers."
"She'll still be able to fight won't she? She hasn't become
a human with no special abilities, has she?"
"She's not human, but she is closely related to the humans
and Saiyens for that matter. I received a message concerning her
from the Supreme Kai. Apparently he's been doing a lot of thinking
on her case. He said that it's a first. She's gone from immortal to
mortal. She can still heal herself as needed but there is one
thing that she can do that she couldn't do before. She now has the
ability to regenerate."
"Regenerate as in...?"
"Yes."
"Isn't she still androgynous?"
"Yes and no."
"What do you mean yes and no?"
"The way I see it is that since she can regenerate, she will
remain the opposite of what her offspring will be."
"That sounds logical but I can't see her reproducing. She's
got the mind of a child. I don't think she's mentally stable for
something like that."
"Of course, none of this has been proven. It's all theory."
"Yes, but I have the feeling that soon, it's going to turn
to fact."

*********************

Once again, she expresses her thanks for him in her wonderfully
awkward manner. If what the Nameks are theorizing is correct, maybe
he shouldn't be so quick to...um...take advantage of her...

"Hey Mom. Thanks for the food. It was great," Trunks said as he
walked into the house with Ridel behind him.
"Where's Loren?" Bulma asked as the dog slipped across the
hardwood floor.
"Outside. She saw a chipmunk when we landed. Where is
everyone?"
"Your sister's over at Maron's. Your father is in his usual
place. How is she doing?"
"Okay. I think I can keep her out of the water later today."
"Really? I know how she likes to swim. Do you think you can
manage that?"
"I'm going to try."
"You didn't tell me she could switch forms."
"Huh? Oh, hi honey. He's over there."
"Who?" Loren asked.
"The dog," Trunks said and pointed to Ridel who had just
climbed onto the couch.
"He's going back to sleep. You better not wake him up again."
"What have you been doing to the dog, honey?" Bulma asked.
"Every place that he fell asleep in, Trunks would make him
move," Loren said.
"Why?"
"Honey..." Trunks protested and Bulma looked at him.
"He kept changing the play area," Loren said and Trunks
flushed.
"The what?" Bulma asked.
"You know..."
"Dear stop," Trunks said and Loren looked at him.
"Well you shouldn't have been so mean to him."
"I'm sorry. Now will you PLEASE stop talking? Mother doesn't
need to know what happened."
"Did you go too far with her again?" Bulma asked.
"Mother, if we're supposed to be together, how can I go too
far?" Trunks asked.
"You can, honey. Believe me. Where are you going dear?"
"I don't know," Loren said as she walked past them.
"Are you going upstairs?" Trunks asked.
"I guess."
"Don't go anywhere without telling me, okay? I don't want to
go looking for you."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I just want you to stay where I can find you."
Loren looked at him for a second then walked out of the
room. Trunks sighed as he sat next to Ridel and patted him on the
head. The dog licked his hand and Trunks smiled.
"You're going to behave this evening," Bulma said and Trunks
sighed.
"Yes, Mother. You know. I'll be glad when Bra gets involved
with someone. It'll take your mind off of me."
"Your sister's better behaved than you. Looks like someone
is hungry."
"Hey, Dad."
"Do you know where the other one is?" Vegeta asked as the
dog stood up and turned around then lay back down.
"She's upstairs," Trunks replied.
"Are you sure?"
"You're right. I'd better go check on her. There's no
telling what she's doing."
He stood up and walked upstairs. He opened the door and
looked at Loren, who was sitting on the bed, looking out the
window. He sat next to her and embraced her.
"What are you doing?" he asked and she blinked her eyes.
"There are little birds in that tree."
"Really?"
"Yes. Stop."
"You look so beautiful honey."
"I'm bored."
"Are you?"
"Yes."
"Father's out of the training room. Would you like to use
it?"
"I guess."
"Come on, I'll go with you."
"Okay."
He helped her up and led her out of the room. He ran a hand
down to her rump and gently stroked it. She stopped and looked at
him. He flushed as she ran her fingers over his arm. She moved to
his chest and he glanced away.
"You started it," she said and he grinned.
"I know. Not there hon."
"I'm sorry. You know I don't mean to do it."
"I know. Let's just get downstairs."
"Okay. Trunks..."
"What?"
"I'm glad I met you. I don't remember how but I'm glad I
did."
"Oh honey..."
"What?"
"Let's go back to our room."

**************************

Really REALLY short post. Aren't sisters wonderful? At least she's
consistent in her places to run to...

"What is she supposed to be?" Bra asked as Loren walked down the
stairs.
"Don't make fun of her!" Trunks snapped.
"Calm down, dear brother. So this is why she isn't human."
"Accept it will you? Loren, it's all right. Thanks a lot
sis."
"Where'd she go?"
"She's at Kami's I bet. Why do you have to tear into her so
much?"
"It's not different than what I do to you."
"Loren is over-sensitive to emotions. What you may see as a
sarcastic remark, she sees I as a personal attack. I had just gotten
her calmed down and you had to show up."
"I'm sorry. I guess you'd better get her back."
"It's going to take awhile to convince her to come back."

*****************************

At least Piccolo is so patient with her. Somebody has to be. She’s
also got to learn not to take that family seriously. Things would go
a lot smoother if she didn’t...

”You’re taking things too seriously,” Piccolo said as he embraced
Loren.
”I can’t help it, She always says negative things. It really
hurts. It’s like no one wants me,” she said.
”Look, you’ve got to learn not to take what that family says
so seriously. Many times a lot of what they say is not meant to be
heard. Now calm down. He’ll be up here shortly.”
”But when they fight about me...I can sense their hostility.
It’s too much. It hurts.”
”There’s no hostility here, is there?”
”No. I quiet here. Just like it should be.”
”Don’t do that.”
”Why?”
”Because Trunks will be here soon.”
”He’s seen me with you before.”
”I know you didn’t mean it the way it sounded but you should
stop anyway.”
”Oh all right. You’re getting red again. You know, I wish
that my skin was as smooth as yours. It’s like a frog’s skin.”
”He’s right there, Loren.”
”Honey, please don’t take what Bra says seriously,” Trunks
said as he ran up to her.
”It’s not what she says, it’s her feelings. They’re so
overwhelming. I...I can’t deal with it,” she said haltingly and
Trunks tightly embraced her.
”She’s got a point. There are a lot of underlying emotions
in the human language,” Piccolo said.
”We can’t help it,” Trunks said as he ran his fingers
through Loren’s hair.
”Then Loren, you’re going to have to learn to deal with it,”
the Namek said and Loren glanced at him.
”I’ll try,” she said and Trunks kissed her.
”Good. I’ll also try to get my folks to work with you
okay?” Trunks asked.
”Okay.”
”Smile honey. It’s not that bad.”
She slowly smiled and Trunks returned the smile. He drew
away and gazed at her. Tears still glistened on her face and he
wiped them away. She smiled again and he kissed her.
”You probably should go back. Your family will be worried
about you,” Piccolo aid and Trunks nodded his head.
”You’re right. Come on honey,” Trunks said and pulled on her
hand.
”Hang on. Goodbye Piccolo,” she said and tightly embraced
the Namek.
”Come on Loren. Let him be.”
”How can you stand her?” Dende asked after the two had left.
”Growing up with her increased my tolerance with her,”
Piccolo said.

******************

Trunks gets firm with her and Loren plays follow the leader with the
dog and a bug. Also, Bulma finds out about what REALLY happened in
the shower...

"We're going to Krillin's," Trunks said and Loren looked at
him.
"Is Puar there?" she asked.
"Yes. I know you like her. Just don't play hide and seek,
okay?"
"Okay. We'll play with the...turtle in the water. What's
wrong now?"
"PLEASE try to stay out of the water."
She stopped and looked questioningly at him.
"Why?"
"I don't want you taking your clothes off to swim."
"You said you wouldn't have a problem with it if I stayed
like this."
"I know what I said but..."
"I don't have to take my clothes off."
"What?"
"I didn't in that one place, did I?"
"No, you didn't. Okay, you can go in the water if you stay
the way you are now, okay?"
"Thank you!"
She tightly embraced him and Trunks flushed. He moved her
hands away from his crotch and awkwardly grinned. She stroked his
hair and watched the tint change in the light.
"Honey please stop," Trunks said and Loren looked at him.
"It's only your hair. Why can't I?" Loren asked.
"We need to get back home. Would you tell me when you're
doing that?"
"You said you wanted to go home. There it is."
"Stop running your fingers through my hair."
"Well it's so short. I have to run my fingers through your
hair a lot. I don't want to forget the feeling."
"THERE you two are. Thank goodness," Bulma said as Trunks
pushed Loren away from him.
"We need to hurry then. I probably should take quick shower.
No," Trunks said when he saw the look of excitement on Loren's
face. Her face fell and Trunks sighed. He couldn't allowed her to
come into the shower. If he did, they would never get to Krillin's
and he would never hear the end of it from his sister. He watched
her walk into the living room and sat on the floor next to Ridel.
"I've never seen you so firm with her. She's crushed," Bulma
said as she watched Loren despondently stroke Ridel's fur.
"She wanted to get in the shower with me. I HAD to say no,"
Trunks said.
"Yes, I suppose you did, but did you have to say it so
forcefully?"
"I wasn't forceful. She's still here, isn't she?"
"Yes, but look at her honey."
"Mom if I have to go there, I need a shower. Can't you cheer
her up?"
"All right honey, I'll try. Go take your shower."
Loren ran her fingers through Ridel's fur and Bulma sat next
to her. She gazed at Bulma for a moment then turned her attention
to the dog. Ridel licked her hand and she smiled.
"Dear, are you all right?" Bulma asked.
"Why couldn't I have gone with him?" Loren asked.
"He needs to clean up on his own."
"But I could help him."
"No honey. He's perfectly capable of cleaning himself."
"But I'd be careful. Just like the other day."
"Which other day?"
"The day I cleaned him up."
"Well you're not cleaning him today. Why don't you take the
dog outside dear?"
"All right. Come on Ridel."
"Just stay away from the training room. That man refused to
take a break today."
Loren picked Ridel up and carried him outside. She walked
over to the training room and looked in the window. She could feel
Vegeta's energy and wondered what had driven him to Earth. He gazed
in her direction and she jumped. She ran off with Ridel in her arms
and Vegeta shook his head. He wished that she would act a little
more mature for her age as he dodged and energy blast.
"What do you want to do?" Loren asked as she set Ridel on
the ground. The dog stared at a bug and began to follow it. Loren
got down on her hands and knees and followed Ridel. The dog
intently followed the beetle, which seemed to be completely unaware
that it was being followed. It crawled over a blade of grass and up
another one.
Trunks stepped outside and stared at the procession. He had
not idea what was going on and he wasn't sure if he should ask. He
leaned against the house and watched them with interest. Bulma
stepped into the doorway. She watched Loren and Ridel for a moment
then glanced at Trunks. Trunks shrugged his shoulders.
"I have no idea what's going on," he said.
"Don't you think you should tell her that you're out? You're
going to be late," Bulma said.
"But they're having so much fun. You're right, though. We
need to get going. Loren..."
"I didn't know you were done," Loren said as she stood up.
"We need to go," Trunks said as she picked the dog up.
"Go where?"
"You want to see Puar, don't you?"
"Yes. Let's go!"
"Dear..."
"What?"
"Ridel."
"What about him?"
"Set him on the ground."
"Why?"
"Because we're going."
"Can't he come?"
"I suppose he can."
"Yay!"
"You're squeezing him, honey."
"Oh, I'm sorry Ridel."
"Let's just go dear."
"Okay."

*************************

Everyone's at Master Roshi's and they're making fun of the
fact that all the couple has at this moment is a dog...

"He looks so much like you," Krillin said as Trunks petted Ridel.
"Cut it out Krillin," Trunks said as Ridel licked his hand.
"He IS your son, isn't he?"
"So where's your other charge?" 18 asked.
"With Puar. I don't know what they have in common," Trunks
said as he set the dog on the ground.
"Well we've missed you. You should have visited us more
often, man," Krillin said.
"I've been working."
"That's not what your sister said."
"You're listening to her?"
"You weren't around to defend yourself."
"What?"
"Well you weren't."
"Hey there. I haven't seen you in awhile," Gohan said as he
picked the dog up.
"Hey," Trunks said.
"So where's your other one?"
"She had wanted to play with Puar and the turtle. They're
probably on the other side of the island."
"Aren't you worried?"
"Not really. She's natural which means that I've got nothing
to worry about."
"It's Loren."
"You're right. I'll be back."
Trunks walked to the other side of the island where Loren
and Puar were playing in the water. He watched them for a moment
and smiled. Loren appeared next to him and he jumped as she
embraced him.
"Are you going to join us?" she asked as he stopped her
hands from going any lower.
"I was checking up on you," he said and Loren looked at him
strangely.
"I haven't done anything wrong."
"Good. Stop honey."
"Come on and play with us."
"Come on Trunks!" Puar cried and Trunks smiled.
"All right. Let me change. I brought a suit with me. I'll be
right back."
"We'll wait right here," Loren said and sat on the beach.
Puar sat beside her and Loren gazed out at the water.
"I've really missed you," Puar said.
"I'm sorry. I wish I hadn't been sick for so long."
"I wanted to visit but Bulma wouldn't let me."
"I'm sorry. I'm still getting over it I think."
"It's okay. You're here now."
"That's right. Where's Ridel?"
"Who?"
"My dog. Where is he?"
"Maybe he's on the other side of the island."
"Trunks had him last. I'll be back."

**********************************

It's pretty bad when Puar knows what he's thinking. Bra and company
make comments on the couple's behavior and Goten insults women in
general. Oops!

"What now?" Trunks asked as he unfolded his swim trunks.
"You look nice that way," she said and he smiled.
"That wasn't the reason you came here."
"Where's Ridel?"
"Gohan has it. Him. I meant him."
"Oh, okay. I didn't know where he was and I was..."
"Worried?"
"Yes. I don't want him lost or anything."
"I feel the same way about you."
"You do?"
"Yes. Let's get back outside Loren."
"Okay."
"Don't start running my hands over my chest."
"But it's so firm."
"You can touch me all you want when we get a place of our
own."
"Really?"
"Yes."
"I like that idea. Can I touch your entire body?"
"Honey, when we get out own place, you can run your entire
body over me."
"That sounds fun."
"What sounds fun?" Puar asked.
"Nothing," Trunks said.
"Are you being naughty again?"
"No."
"He just said..." Loren started to say when Trunks placed
his hand over her mouth.
"You don't need to explain it to her," he said and Puar
giggled.
"Your face is really red," she said.
"Why DO their faces get red?" Loren asked.
"It usually happens when they're thinking something naughty."
"You're looking a little pale, brother," Bra said as she,
Maron, and Goten walked up to him.
"He's got a nice build," Maron said.
"I'm just as strong as he is," Goten said and Bra and Maron
giggled.
"Someone's jealous," Bra said as Loren walked towards the
water.
"So THAT's what she really looks like. Weird," Goten said
and Trunks glared at him.
"Calm down. It's not an insult," Bra said.
"He gets sensitive just like Gohan. What is it with women?
They mess you up."
"EXCUSE me?"
"You're on your own, Goten. I've already got someone that
needs looking after," Trunks said and walked down to the water.
"I thought you had forgotten about me," Loren said and
Trunks smiled.
"I could never forget about you, honey."
"Is that supposed to be good or bad?"
"That's good darling."
"Oh. I was worried."
"Why?"
"Well your language can mean so many different things. I
wanted to make sure I understood it correctly."
Trunks splashed water in her direction and she smiled.
"Do you think your parents acted that weird when they were
young?" Goten asked.
"I KNOW my parents didn't act like that. Mom still has a
hard time getting Daddy out of the training room to do maintenance
around the house. Daddy says the menial labor is for Trunks," Bra
said.
"I've never seen him do housework," Maron said.
"You aren't around when he gets in trouble."
"I know Gohan acted this way. My parents were probably this
strange too," Goten said.
"What's going on back here?" Gohan asked as he walked up to
the others with Ridel in his arms.
"Look at them. They remind me of you."
"Thanks little guy. Geez! You're fast."
"Did you behave?" Loren asked as she took Ridel from
Gohan's arms. The dog licked her face as she carried him to the
water.
"That's why he gets into so much trouble with her," Bra said.
"She also hasn't been awake for very long. She needs time to
adjust."
"What exactly happened? Dad never gave me a satisfactory
answer," Goten said.
"Why don't we all go to the other side of the island and
I'll explain there?"

********************

Trunks don't squeeze so tight! She's not up to her full strength yet.
Loren echoes his feelings for her and the lust for food destroys a
perfect moment. Loren is left behind while the rest stuff their
faces, which may or not be a good thing...

"Stop splashing. You're going to get water in his eyes," Loren said
as Ridel paddled over to her.
"Is ocean water good for him?" Trunks asked.
"As long as he doesn't try to eat it, he'll be fine."
"You mean, drink it?"
"Uh-huh."
"He'll never make a swim team," Krillin said and Trunks
glanced up.
"Where's Roshi? I haven't seen him lurking about. Don't take
him out too far," Trunks said as Loren went deeper into the water.
"I guess he's still inside. Are your parents coming?"
"Last I knew they were. What?"
"Well you said he couldn't go out more so he can stay with
you," Loren said.
"Loren, no. You're still recovering from your illness. Stay
close to shore," Trunks said.
"But..."
"I don't want to lose you."
"There's not enough water by the land."
"No. I don't want you hurt."
"Looks like she's throwing a fit," Krillin said.
"Honey, please. I don't want you to get really hurt," Trunks
said.
"Can she?"
"I don't think she can heal herself yet. Mother's kept a
first aide kit handy. She's been accident prone."
"Really?"
"Yes. I've got my hands full with these two. We're going to
have to give you a bath to get all that salt out of your fur."
"You've been in a lot of trouble these past few days I've
heard."
"Mother's been overprotective and Loren's been...Loren.
Let's see, what has she done? She gave the dog a bath in the
bathtub, almost ran into the wall because she was chasing Ridel, and
she's been rediscovering things."
"Rediscovering?"
"Yes. She likes feeling things. Where are you going now?"

"That way," Loren replied.
"All right. Behave," Trunks said and Loren looked at him.
"Why wouldn't I?"
"Because honey you...never mind."
"What?"
"Nothing."
She sat down and looked up at him. She frowned as she tried
to figure out what he had meant and Trunks sighed. He walked over
to her and held out his hand. She gazed at his hand for a moment
then hesitantly took it. He pulled her up and hugged her. He kissed
her neck and she flushed. Krillin smiled as he watched Trunks.
"My she DOES have wandering hands," Krillin said and Trunks
flushed. He drew away from Loren and pushed her hands away from his
body.
"What did I do now?" she asked.
"YOU try explaining it to her," Trunks said as he held
tightly to her arm. She tried to pull away and his grasp
tightened. She began to cry and Trunks' grip softened.
"I didn't mean to hurt you honey. Are you all right? Look at
me, dear."
She gazed up at him, still whimpering with pain. He gazed
comfortingly at her and warmly smiled.
"How can you deal with her?" Krillin asked and Trunks
shrugged his shoulders as she buried her head into his chest.
"It's hard at times but I don't regret it. Calm down honey,"
Trunks said as he ran his fingers through her hair.
"You...you," she sobbed and Trunks gently caressed her.
"I didn't mean to. Come on, dear. Calm down. I'm here. I
didn't mean to do it. Now please darling, smile. You look a lot
nicer when you do. Tears don't suit you."
She slowly gazed up at him and he wiped the tears from her
eyes. He gazed warmly at her and she began to laugh.
"Stop that. I'm ticklish," she protested and Trunks grinned.
"I know. It's good to hear your laugh. Now, don't you feel
better?" he asked.
"Yes. Where's Ridel?"
"I don't know. I guess he ran off."
"We need to find him. I don't want him lost."
"Yeah, you don't want your son lost," Krillin said and Loren
looked at him.
"What are you talking about?" she asked.
"He's just teasing you," Trunks said.
"Why?"
"What?"
"Why?"
"He doesn't mean it seriously."
"Oh. Stop."
"You need to smile dear. There you go."
She smiled and he returned the smile. He kissed her deeply
and she brought a hand to his hair. She ran her fingers through his
hair and Gohan shook his head as he walked back up to them.
"I'd like to think that I wasn't as bad as you," Gohan said
and Trunks drew away from her. His face was extremely red as Loren
looked at him in confusion.
"I can't help it. She's just so arousing."
"You are SO into her."
"Yes I am. I love her so much."
"Trunks..." Loren said and Trunks glanced at her.
"What is it?" he asked.
"I feel the say way."
"Do you?"
"Yes. Shouldn't I?"
"Yes you should."
"Good. I was worried."
"Don't be worried baby."
"Okay," she said and he smiled.
"That smells good," Gohan commented as Trunks pushed Loren
away.
"We'd better get there first. I'm hungry."
"I'll race you."
"Your legs are longer than mine. You can cover more ground."
Ridel barked and Trunks glanced at him. He picked up the
dog and ran after Gohan to the other side of the beach.

******************************

Last post! And boy does this one give you a lot of questions to
think about...

Loren sat on the beach and stared at the water, still not
understanding the strong desire for food. She sighed as she
searched for something to do. She wanted to go out into the water
but he didn't want her to. She picked up a handful of sand and
watched it run out of her hand and back to the ground. She wished
that Piccolo was there. At least then she would have someone to
talk to while everyone else was eating. She gazed out at the water
and stood up.
She headed towards the edge of the water and stepped into
the water. She switched to her female form even though Trunks had
told her not to. She had grown tired of her natural form. It felt
awkward, as if it was smartening she no longer needed.
Loren waded out away from the shore and began swimming. She
closed her eyes as she remembered the rivers on Namek. She wished
that Piccolo wasn't so grown up because she missed playing with
him. She swam underneath the water and further away from the shore
as she thought about her childhood. Loren drew back in shock as a
strong arm prevented her from going out further. She emerged from
the water and began to cough.
"I told you not to go in the water," Trunks said as he
pulled her back to shore.
"I was bored," she managed to say after she had caught her
breath.
"There was a reason why I didn't want you out in the water."
"I'm sorry. What else could I have done? Everyone else was
eating."
"I have something to ask you."
"What?"
"Well let me say it. Just listen, all right?"
"Okay."
"Loren..."
"I'm sorry."
"You've changed so much because of your decis...illness. Are
you really the way you remember yourself?"
"What?"
"Are you really both? I know you can switch forms, but do
you need to? Do you really not get hungry? Are you just this way
because it's what you know and not what you truly are? Are you
becoming like us like Piccolo said?"
She stared at him, thoroughly confused by what he had said.
She picked up Ridel and stroked his fur as she tried to make sense
of what Trunks had said. She sat on the sand and gazed out at the
ocean as she began to think about Trunks barrage of questions.
"Are you coming back with me?" Bra asked as she walked up
to Trunks. "What's with her?"
"She's thinking," Trunks replied.
"Looks like you'll be here for a while. What did you say to
her?"
"I wanted to know if she was really different from us. When
she was on a higher level, she had no need for gender and food. Now
that she's decided to stay, is she still this way or is she still
recovering from the trauma? She was able to change but was that the
last time? Is she no longer androgynous?"
"Okay, you've thoroughly lost me. Is what you're saying is
that perhaps she's more human than she realizes?"
"I think so, yes."
"Then perhaps Daddy WILL have a real grandchild."
"WHAT?"
"If she IS just female, Trunks, there's a ninety-percent
chance that you're a father."
"Huh?"
"Come on, with as much time that you spend together, it's a
sure thing. That is, if we're right in our assessment."
Trunks stared at Loren in shock. This was an entirely new
light on the situation. His main concerns had been getting a house
and getting her back to normal but was her definition of normal more
close to home than ever before? Was the Namek correct? Was his
sister correct for that matter and if she was, what would his
parents say?