Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Light barely filters in the room before a loud alarm blares from a phone next to a sleeping body, jolting it awake. A hand blearily reaches out and shuts off the alarm. The blanket covering the rest of the body slowly slips down, revealing a half asleep woman. She stretches and subconsciously pats her head to check if her bonnet stayed on throughout the night. She yawns into her empty room and shudders her sleep away, begrudgingly getting up to start her morning. 

The woman’s phone rings steadily in her hand as she’s finished fixing up her hair, tiredly stepping down her stairs and into her kitchen. She observes the phone and who dares to call her this early in the morning. 

She huffs out a tired smile, answering the phone call, ‘you should know better than to call me this early Hughes’ 

A chuckle is heard from the phone, ‘what? Is the sound of birds and the crisp morning air not refreshing to you Nakala?’

‘No, the warmth of my bed and the darkness of my room is a drug and I am a stone cold addict. The only thing keeping me from overdosing is this job that apparently can’t function without its workers being there 24/7’ 

‘Correction, it cant function without you being there 24/7’ Hughes retorts, ‘and they might as well make a room for you to live in when they make you lead researcher’

‘Let’s not get our hopes up, I’m good at my job but I do not want their spot’ the woman pours hot water into a thermos, placing the tea bag and sugar into it while stirring. 

‘Don’t want to handle the responsibility?’ Hughes asks curiously.

‘More like, I’d rather research than be in charge of grown ass people on top of dangerous creatures’ she remarks, ‘now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a job to get to’

Hughes chuckles and bids her farewell, ‘see you in a bit’ and hangs up.

A car rolls up to an imposing gate surrounded by bulky security personnel. A man with sandy brown hair and mirrored glasses approaches the car that rolls down the window. He’s blasted in the face by the hot air of the car and takes an obnoxious step back.

‘Trying to melt my beard off, Ms. Roberts?’ He jokes as he holds his hand out for her security badge.

She hands it to him with a smile, ‘I would never’ 

The guard peers over his glasses as he hands her back her badge, ‘even if I told you that the Recovery Team deployed last night?’

He turns to open the gate and hides his laugh behind his closed fist as he hears her groan loudly as she drives up to a massive building. She doesn't flinch as an opening appears in the ground and leads to an underground parking garage. 

Two scientists converse passively when they're interrupted by the room’s double doors opening loudly as Nakala enters, taking a sip of her tea. When she and one of the scientists lock eyes she pointedly glares at him.

‘Hughes, Did you know the Recovery Team deployed last night?’

Her question answered at Hughes’s exasperated groan, ‘Not until a couple minutes ago. Haven't we been through enough?’

The other scientist visibly deflates, ‘as if we haven't been working on the east wing for months’

The trio continue their conversation as they take a seat at one of the tables.

‘They don't even take our advice to be careful seriously, especially when they're bringing a specimen in’ Nakala huffs frustratedly.

‘Let’s be real, their carelessness is going to get more agents killed and it’d only be their fault’ the other scientist folds her arms, ‘remember when they brought in the northern specimens?’

Nakala and the other scientist visibly shudder at the memory.

‘I’m not surprised they lost a third of their agents’ Hughes says, ‘they absolutely shoot first and ask questions later.’

‘We didn't even get any thanks for calming them down enough to want to stay here and be researched’ Nakala rolls her eyes, ‘if we weren’t there, they’d hurt others and themselves because of their recklessness’ 

‘Looks like we’re going to have to deal with it all over again, the question is how mad theyre going to be when they get here because of them, and how long its going to take us to take care of them’ the female scientist shakes her head. 

‘All I know,’ Nakala stands from the table and swipes her thermos to take another sip before placing it into the fridge in the main lobby, ‘is that its too early for a headache’

The trio look up at the intercom as an announcement is made, “All associates in Research Department to the Southern Wing”

‘Southern Wing? Haven't been that way yet’ Hughes holds open the door for Nakala and the other scientist, ‘that must be where they're gonna put whatever they find’ 

‘We’re already stretched thin with both the Eastern and Northern specimens, how are we going to handle yet another wing?’ Nakala huffs.

They head down a hallway where they reach an open room where other scientists are standing around facing two people standing side by side. 

‘The Chairman and Research director? Fun’ the scientist hums sarcastically. 

When the rest of the scientists and researchers filter in, the Chairman clears his throat. 

‘Good Morning and thank you all for coming! As some of you may know, we received information about an unidentified species from our Information and Security Bureau prompting the Recovery Team to deploy and receive them within the next few hours. Through consultation with your Director, we have decided that a few of you will be stationed here on a new job to research our new resident. Now, the Director and myself have talked about the best possible candidates to handle this assignment and they will be debriefed after this meeting. Now, your safety is our main priority so if you feel like you can’t handle it, then you can always be reassigned to more docile specimens to work on’

‘Aw man, I don't want to be reassigned,’ Hughes sighs, ‘my birds will hate me if they knew I was with another species’

‘Thankfully my bugs don't care either way. After I got through with them, they treat me like a queen’ their companion boasts.

‘Only you would be okay with those creepy crawlies, Smith’ Nakala shudders uncomfortably. 

After the Chairman concludes the small meeting and leaves, the director waves the other scientists away to go back to their duties. 

‘If you are already assigned to a specific wing, head back now. I will assign the rest to either assist you or be assigned for the Southern Wing’

Both Hughes and Smith look at Nakala worriedly as she deflates, realizing that shes one of the researchers not assigned to a specific wing.

‘I wonder if I could sneak you under my lab coat and take you to the Eastern Wing with me’ Smith opens the lapel of her long lab coat jokingly.

‘I’d rather take my chances with Hughes and the birds than the bugs. Thank you tho’ Nakala grimaces.

‘Cant take you with me to the birds in the Northern Wing, I’m pretty sure they’d stop eating and drinking as soon as they even remotely see anyone female or even feminine looking to put on displays’ Hughes pinches the bridge of his nose, ‘and I’d rather not deal with that again’

‘It’s too late to quit right?’ Nakala makes a face.

‘If you quit, then we’d be thinned out even more and I will hunt you down for doing that to me’ Hughes pokes her cheek.

She scowls and smacks his hand away and turns when she hears her name being called by the Director. 

Smith and Hughes give her a reassuring pat, giving her a soft “good luck” before going to their respective areas to work. The other scientists leave the room to continue their work, leaving Nakala with two other scientists. She suppresses an irritated sigh at one of the researchers she has to work with, the same one who throws her an arrogant smirk.

‘Well, well. The animal whisperer has graced us with her presence, let’s see if your help in the Northern Wing wasn't just luck like I suspected it to be’ he sneers.

‘Majoring in animal behavior and having common sense doesn't make me Dr. fucking Dolittle’ Nakala scoffs.

‘Might as well have given you want to be so close to them all the time’

‘Well excuse me for being interested in complex anomalies’ she rolls her eyes, ‘I’d rather treat nature with respect than treat them as potential for possible weapons’

‘Well what good are they if not that?’ Matthews argues, ‘why else do you think we keep them in here for? If they're not useful to us, or cant be used as a weapon, then they're better off dead’

Nakala gives him a look, ‘I still don't see why they transferred you from Information and Security to Research’

‘Cause apparently you all are too soft to want to poke and prod a few animals’ he taunts.

‘Enough Matthews, Roberts has enough credentials to handle the specimen that will be housed in the Southern Wing. If you did not already have seniority, then I would've already made her head of this Wing based off of her merits alone’ the Director reprimands, making Matthews scoff and walk away.

They watch him leave and Nakala looks at the Director, ‘even if I was qualified, I do not want his position’

‘Oh?’ They tilt their head, ‘I would've thought having an entire wing to yourself would be exactly what you would've wanted’

‘Not if he's going to be working with me’ she points to Matthews talking to another researcher, ‘he lacks compassion and basic levels of empathy. If it were up to me, i’d have him doing the cleanup’ she thinks on it then shakes her head, ‘on second thought, it’d be better to send him back to Information and Security’  

‘Unfortunately, due to the lack of staff in the research department, he’s going to have to stay. But if you feel that he’s impeding on our research and tampering with it, then report it to me and I will look into it’

At her raised eyebrows the Director points at her, ‘I will know if someone is being framed’ 

At Nakala’s pout, the director shakes their head and rests a hand on her shoulder, ‘just keep doing what you’re doing and everything will be fine. You do know he’s doing this to prove he's better than you’

‘Well, he's not so…’ 

‘Love the confidence’ the Director smiles, ‘the safety of the world could rely on that’

Nakala gives the Director a worried look, ‘what do you mean by that?’

The Director walks away with a leisurely step, ignoring Nakala’s call to them. She sighs and lolls her head back. So much for not having a headache.

Chapter Text

Nakala rests her head on her hands as she reviews a sheet of paper with vague information on it. 

‘What am I even supposed to do with this information, Rhodes?’ She sighs, ‘they’re basically telling me nothing’ 

‘I don't know, but I kinda like the mystery of it,’ Rhodes smiles up at her from her seat, ‘kind of like how they found the birds in the Northern Wing and us researching them’

‘I don't like being in the dark about this. We don't know how dangerous they could be nor if they are a threat to themselves and others. What you didn't know about the harpies, was the death count’ Nakala looks over at Rhodes flatly, ‘the Recovery Team handled them so recklessly, that they needed to be rehabbed. Both the team and the birds. A couple guys were hospitalized for weeks and a majority of the birds needed to be worked on for months.’  

Rhodes blinks as she covers her mouth in shock, ‘but…how do you know all of this?’

‘I have a friend on the team’ Nakala shrugs, ‘thankfully he’s one of the smarter agents and plays it safe’

‘Is he on the current Recovery mission?’ 

Nakala sighs, ‘yeah, I hope they aren’t hurt’

Both jump when the intercom beeps, “Southern Wing researchers to the Interrogation room”

Nakala and Rhodes exchange glances as they get up and make their way through the winding halls. They scan their key cards and are greeted to the sight of a semi large room with a thick semi glass side room, lighting up most of the space. Armed guards linger idly around the room as Matthews talks to one of them. Nakala looks around the room for one person in particular. Worry creases her brow and she looks at the nearest agent.

‘What happened to Cohen? Where is he?’

The agent looks at the solid transparent glass past her as they reply, ‘unconscious in the med bay. All because of that asshole’

Nakala looks at him in confusion and starts to look at the side room that the agent was looking at and before she can ask him about it, Matthews calls loudly to everyone in the room.

‘While we appreciate your efforts, Recovery Team, I believe that it is our turn to pick up where you left off with the subject’ he shoos them away.

When the agents leave, Nakala decides to approach the desk nearby the side room where Rhodes looks over some reports. She takes some of the reports Rhodes already read over and surveys them. She looks them over in confusion, “subject was shown to have immense strength and dangerous qualities, proceed with caution”  Immense strength and dangerous qualities? So then how severe are Cohen’s injuries? She looks over another report and reads that over as well, “it is unknown whether it is sentient given it did not respond to the agents orders and attacked them. There have been no loss of life, only injuries that left most of the agents temporarily incapacitated” So the attack was controlled? If this thing is very strong and is dangerous, how is there no loss of life? Nakala has no chance to ask the questions out loud before hearing Matthews attempting to communicate with the being inside. Nakala watches as he attempts to greet the being in various languages to see if it responds.

Matthews scoffs loudly and presses the intercom button once more, ‘hellooooo? I know you can hear me!’

‘Very professional’ Rhodes rolls her eyes and goes back to the reports. 

Nakala joins Matthews side as he continues to berate the being inside, not taking her eyes off of more of the reports.

‘Looks like we have a stubborn one’ Matthews grunts, ‘that or it‘s too dumb to understand what i'm saying’

He doesn't notice the way the being laying on its side nonchalantly on the couch with its head resting on its hand opens an eye to peer at him at the comment.

‘It was late when they brought it in, why don't you go get a coffee or something?’ Nakala looks at him, ‘it’s clear it doesn't want to talk to you if it can’ 

Matthews glares down at her but she meets his glare head on with a passive raise to her eyebrows and stalks off. 

‘How is the tension so thick whenever you two clash more stressful than a literal dangerous species not even four feet away from us?’ Rhodes jokes. 

They both fail to notice how the being now regards the two with both eyes open, long, fluffy red tail waving around curiously. Nakala turns her back to the being as she calls Rhodes to get her attention. 

‘What’s crazy is how long it took to sedate them’ she starts to pace and shakes her head in disbelief, ‘they had to shoot them twenty five times to take them down’

‘With the neurotoxin from the Eastern Wing right?’ Rhodes looks at her in surprise.

‘The exact same, I watched Smith extract and simplify the toxin myself. Smith told me herself that a drop the size of my fingernail is enough to drop three bull elephants in one dose’ Nakala explains. 

She notices the shudder Rhodes involuntarily lets out and huffs. And we have to research this thing? She feels a presence behind her and Nakala looks up from the reports as she hears a gasp from Rhodes. Nakala scrunches her face as she realizes that Rhodes is subtly pointing behind her.

‘Don‘t…don’t do that’ she grimaces.

‘Well, it's better that I warn you that it is behind you before you turn and find out how tall this specimen is to not spook it and yourself’ 

‘….how tall?’ Nakala squints uncomfortably at Rhodes who moves her hand to and fro. 

‘About six feet? Maybe more?’ She guesstimates.

Nakala blinks slowly and takes a slow inhale before she turns slowly. She's met with a bare chest framed by blood red fur. Eyes slowly trail up and meet piercing blue. She has to practically crane her neck up just to see its face. 

‘Huh,’ she takes in his features, the pale skin contrasting the equally crimson colored hair and striking blue eyes, ‘they really are tall’

She misses the smirk that appears on the beings face as she looks over at Rhodes, ‘male?’ 

‘Looks that way until further research’ Rhodes types into a laptop.

Nakala glances back at the being and pokes a finger a little past them, curiously feeling the coldness of the glass. The being squints in confusion as it leans down to look at her finger. She swallows down a chuckle when the being then turns to look at where he thinks shes pointing. He looks back at her with a pout as there was nothing to be seen and looks down at her with a tilt to his head. 

She blinks and voices, ‘so he's smart enough to know about pointing’ 

As she hears Rhodes tapping away at her keyboard to take notes, Nakala walks her fingers up the glass, watching them climb up and blinking in surprise when larger fingers mirror her actions. She chances a glance up to the being who doesn't notice her staring and instead observes her fingers compared to his. It gives her more incentive to observe his entire body. 

‘Clothing signifies some level of intelligence since wild animals don't really care for covering up’ Nakala reports, moving her fingers in various places and watching as he matches her movements almost playfully.

‘Judging by the fur along his body, and his heat signature,’ Rhodes concludes, ‘mammalian? Or mammal-like?’

‘Looks like it’ Nakala moves her hand away and smiles a little when the being pouts at the end of their “game” 

He then perks up when she tilts her head obnoxiously and does the same. She moves it back and lifts her arm, the being doing the same. She turns halfway and when the being repeats the action she notices the way his tail sways passively. 

‘He has a tail…the way it moves, feline?’ She turns to look at Rhodes who looks over and holds her chin in thought. 

‘Does he have any signs of claws or other feline attributes?’ 

Nakala moves her head around while trying to observe, the being making it a little difficult as he mimics her movements. While trying to look closer into his eyes she notices that theyre like her own.

‘We can rule out feline like,’ she concludes while still looking at the being who she noticed had leaned down to meet her eyes, ‘though, now that i can see him more closely, his features aren’t too different from our own’ she tilts her head back and forth in consideration, ignoring Rhodes barely hidden laughter at the being mimicking her head tilts, ‘….could be primate?’ 

‘That seems plausible’ Rhodes starts to tap quickly into her notes.

‘I mean we won't have a chance to examine him further unless he’s sedated to really make sure, but visual observations are just as helpful I guess’ she folds her arms and sighs, looking back at the being still standing there. 

Her eyes widen when the being winks and starts to stretch slowly, all while maintaining eye contact. Nakala blinks in surprise at the display and looks at Rhodes who coos playfully as she also witnesses what’s going on. She looks back as she makes her way to Rhodes side and tries to not ogle the subject clearly wanting to be ogled. 

‘I guess we can rule out the posturing being aggressive’ Rhodes chuckles as she types.

‘I think he's just showing off’ Nakala voices with a shake of her head, observing him once again.

When he turns his back in an obnoxious stretch, lifting his arms over his head, she notices something.

‘…is the fur color natural?’ She looks over at Rhodes, ‘are there any mammals, mainly primate, that have this type of coloration?’

Rhodes looks over and thinks on it, ‘only one I know that comes close is red howler monkey…but they're more a russet red, rusty colored than that deep of red from our guy over there’

‘And we can't really take any samples without us knowing how dangerous he is’ Nakala sighs, completely missing how the being turns his head to look down at her  then past her with an unreadable expression. 

‘Well, it looks like you’ve been making enough progress without the samples regardless’ a voice scoffs and the being notices how Nakala rolls her eyes and deflates, giving herself distance from Matthews as he walks up to the subject who turns fully to look down at him. 

The playful expression he once donned now turned impassive and bored as he walks away to get distance from Matthews. He sits onto the upper part of the couch and watches as Matthews leans to look over the reports Rhodes had made. 

She stands and stretches and addresses the two others, ‘Gonna take a pee break’ she looks over at Nakala who folds her arms, ‘you want anything from the food court?’

‘I’ll pass. Can you get my thermos from the main room? I think I forgot it in there’

‘You got it’ Rhodes smiles tiredly, closing the door with a small thud. 

After a few quiet minutes, Matthews hums as he finishes reading the reports and stands. The subject watches his every move as Matthews smirks at Nakala. 

‘Quite a lot of research done while I was gone Roberts’ 

‘I’m good at my job, Matthews’ she remarks

‘Oh of course you are’ he moves closer, ‘you are the director’s top chosen researcher to lead this division after all. Makes me wonder why you didn't want my spot to begin with’

‘Simple. I didn't want to deal with adults under me who feel entitled to others' work and pass it off to the higher ups to get a leg up in position. Makes me look bad’ she side eyes him, satisfied that his surprised and caught expression was seen before fading quickly into a closed off mask. 

Matthews scoffs and takes a quick glance behind her then chuckles, ‘you know, visible research is only half of what we need to do’

Nakala throws him a look as he comes closer to her. She can feel the tension in the air as he approaches but still chooses to stand her ground. 

‘Any physical research with the subject still awake could result in possible physical harm to both parties’ she warns as her eyes narrow, ‘I shouldn’t have to tell you that’ 

‘No, you don't’ Matthews looks down at her and leans down to her level. His hand reaches past her for him to lean in closer to huff out, ‘but given how strong this thing is, it's more likely that you’ll be in more physical harm than he will’

Nakala’s glares at him, her anger building, ‘I won't be in any harm because I'm not reckless in my research like you. He will most likely be sedated before I do any physical research with the subject’

‘Hmm, you think so?’

‘What are you getting at Matthews?’

Matthews throws her an uncomfortable grin and she hears a loud click from something behind her, ‘well, research needs to be done Roberts, and it looks like we’re all good with the visible aspect of this report. Let’s see how good you are when faced with a variable you can't control’

‘Matthews what are you saying?’

She doesn't get her answer as the door to the room holding the being is yanked open and she’s shoved inside. The door closes in front of her before she can even reach it, sounding off her fate with a loud click of the locks. 

There’s a tense pause in the air and all caution is thrown into the wind as Nakala stalks angrily towards the observation window to glare dangerously at a grinning Matthews.

‘Are you out of your fucking mind!?’ She seethes

‘Careful Roberts, don't want to agitate the subject, now do we?’ Matthews chuckles

Nakala feels a presence behind her and turns her head quickly to glare at the subject standing almost behind her. She doesn't flinch as it towers over her, blinks and cautiously holds up its hands, palms up and slowly back away. A  loud boisterous laugh turns her focus back on him.

‘Guess you scared it off for a little while then! Given how volatile he’s known to be, that fear won't last as long!’

‘You better hope he kills me Matthews’ she practically growls, ‘cause if I make it out of here I will make sure you regret doing this to me’ 

‘Aww Roberts, that's the plan!’ Matthews coos, ‘regardless of if he kills you or not, we’d still get some kind of information out of your interactions! Well, given how severely he injured the Recovery Team, I would hope he does kill you, those guys are in a lot of pain because of him’

‘The cameras’ Nakala brings up

‘Are off, thanks to yours truly. Cant have Surveillance losing their lunch with a gruesome scene now can we?’

Nakala’s anger builds as she watches Matthews begin to leave.

‘Now, it's getting late and I'm sure you’ll have an eventful night. I’ll be sure to inform the Director about the loss. I’m kind of hoping you make it out alive Roberts, we really can't afford to lose anymore agents, much less ones devoted to research. Oh well’ he shrugs and walks out, closing the door behind him. 

He passes by Rhodes who has Nakala’s thermos and she watches as he walks past her nonchalantly. 

‘Have a good night Rhodes’

She's confused at his behavior but continues to head back to the observation room. Weren’t there supposed to always be two researchers in the room? Rhodes steps in and sees the subject looking at something in his room. 

‘…where’s Roberts?’ She looks around the room in confusion. 

Her heart starts to sink when she locks eyes with the being who is just as confused as she is and gently nods in the direction of a corner near the door. Rhodes quickly places the thermos onto the desk and quickly moves so she can see what the being nodded to. She murmurs no repeatedly and sees that Nakala is sitting in the corner holding her knees.

‘Roberts! Are you okay!? How’d you get in there!?’ She calls to the intercom.

‘Matthews’ Nakala groans

‘Wh-How!?’

‘He pushed me in here’

‘We gotta get you out!’ Rhodes says frantically, ‘this is bad. Very bad’ she searches.

She looks around then huffs in frustration, ‘where’s the key!?’

‘Matthews is head of the research department in the South Wing, he has the key’ Nakala grumbles.

‘Oh that asshole is getting fired for doing this shit!’ Rhodes stomps, ‘literal researcher endangerment is justifiable cause for expulsion! I’m going to the director about this!’ She looks around then at the cameras, ‘there's evidence right there with the cameras!’

‘He turned them off’ Nakala explains

She’d laugh at the expletives firing from Rhodes mouth if she wasn't in extreme danger. Wondering why the subject made no attempt to interact with her but too pissed off to actually dwell on it. After her rant is over, she deflates in defeat.

Rhodes walks up to the glass and looks at her sympathetically, ‘do you want me to get you anything?’ 

‘It’s not gonna matter’ Nakala huffs 

Rhodes pouts internally and nods to herself, ‘I'm gonna get you some food. I know the cafe is closed given its late but…i'm sure I can find something given the circumstance’ she looks back at the being who is watching Nakala with unsure blue eyes. 

When she leaves, the subject watches as Nakala hides a yawn behind her hand and tries yet fails to stay awake. He looks around the room curiously and gets an idea, his tail twitching in excitement as he grabs the cushions from the couch and placing them onto the floor of a far corner. He grabs the couch but stops when he hears Rhodes coming back in the room with food and placing it on the desk. She takes a sandwich wrapped in plastic and unwraps it slightly and places it in a built-in box attached to the intercom wall. She looks at the being who approaches to see what she put in and levels him with a serious stare.

‘It’s food’ she explains and moves the box to make it inside the room.

The being’s tail sways lazily as he takes the sandwich and observes it. Rhodes fights the urge to yell at him as he rips off the remaining plastic and devours the sandwich in two bites. He looks happily at a peeved Rhodes and points to the other wrapped up sandwich.

‘That wasn't supposed to be for you’ she sighs 

The being tilts his head then looks over at a now sleeping Nakala, still sitting up in the corner. Rhodes misses the slightly guilty look the being throws at Nakala.

Rhodes looks at her and sighs, ‘the adrenaline must’ve wore off’

She grabs a blanket and pushes that through the box.

‘Not really sure you understand all the way but, can you at least make sure she gets this?’

The being tilts his head and takes the blanket. He looks from the blanket, to Nakala, to Rhodes and tosses the blanket onto the floor next to the cushions he piled in the corner. He grabs the arm of the couch and effortlessly flips it and places it into the corner with the rest of the couch cushions. He hears her sigh and turns to see her putting the sandwich into the box with a water bottle. Before she could push it towards him, she looks at him.

‘Look, you might not get it, but she has friends here. The only thing I can tell you is that it would be in your best interest to keep her alive’ she tears her eyes away from him to look at her then back at him, ‘please don't be the monster the others think you are’

Rhodes slowly starts to leave the room and throws one last glance at where Nakala is sleeping before she goes home for the night. The lights in the room dim, throwing both the being and Nakala in slight darkness. Glowing eyes approach the sitting body carefully, poking and prodding playfully. He chuckles when she buries her head further into her arms and grumbles. He looks back at the flipped over couch in the far corner then back at Nakala’s unconscious form with a playful smirk. 

Chapter Text

Nakala lazily stretches her body as she starts to awaken. She pulls the blanket covering her closer to her as she rouses from her sleep. Her brows furrow slightly as she feels how off the mattress she's under feels and blinks her eyes into focus. She's met with darkness and reaches out to feel a soft but hard surface. A wall? No, it wouldn't have any give to it. When she feels what she's sleeping onto, she realizes that it's the couch cushions. But…how did she get there? Nakala looks back at the makeshift wall and figures out that it’s the couch, but flipped over. 

She shifts to turn over to the side and her heart sinks. The subject she's trapped inside with is sleeping peacefully at her side, giving her a respectful distance but blocking the way out from the makeshift den. Nakala looks over his features and slowly rising and falling chest and carefully shoves off the blanket. 

‘I’ve got to find a way to get out of here,’ she thinks as she tries to find a way around him. She sighs as quietly as possible and deflates as she realizes that she’d have to crawl over him to get out. 

Steeling herself, she carefully starts to crawl over the being. 

‘Normally I’d be excited to be this close to the subject but pleeaasseee stay asleep’ she internally whines.

Nakala manages to have one hand and one foot on the other side of the being. She has to strain to hold up her weight on her tiptoes and fingertips given how much she’s underestimated how broad he is and how much contact she wants to avoid touching. She isn't taking any chances. 

As she starts to make progress by leaning more to the opposite side, so close to freeing herself, her traitorous stomach growls loudly, making her heart drop right into her toes. She closes her eyes and prays that the being is too deeply asleep to wake up…but her prayers aren’t answered as she hears what sounds like a snicker. 

‘This is it’ she refuses to opens her eyes ‘this is how I die for real this time’ 

She feels something slither around her leg and that makes her eyes pop open to see what it is. Nakala tenses when she sees the familiar long red tail gently wrapping around her thigh. Okay, m-maybe thats just a reaction to something close…doesn't mean he's awake, she ponders hopefully. She takes a deep and silent inhale before trailing her eyes up and watching as his stomach and upper torso starts to shake. Nakala blinks in confusion and chances to look up at the being and narrows her eyes as she realizes that the subject is laughing. Eyes closed and hands moving to grip his stomach, he laughs right into her face. She pouts and moves the rest over her body to leave out from under the makeshift den he made but before she can shift her other arm and leg free from her original spot, she's pinned in place as the being opens his eyes and looks at her. She takes a split second and tries to roll further away from him, only to bump into the coldness of the wall. Nakala tenses and closes her eyes as he joyfully reaches over and pulls her close, chuckling and batting her with his tail. He turns them both so that shes back where she tried to escape from.

The being starts to tap at her forehead to get her to look at him, even letting out a playful psst to get her attention. 

Nakala opens an eyeball to peek at him and he smirks before opening his mouth and obnoxiously whispering to her face, ‘youre not very stealthy, are ya?’ 

Both of her eyes fly open to stare at him. She blinks owlishly and shakes her head in disbelief. He can talk??? This whole time??? How?? Why didnt he speak until now?? Questions that all came out jumbled and confused and making him put a finger to her lips to shush her. She weakly slaps his hand from her face and attempts to sit up but he holds her down. 

She huffs and looks at him, exasperated but keeping her voice down, ‘so you can talk?’ 

‘Mhm’ he nods

‘For how long?’ 

‘….since…’ he thinks on it, ‘always?’

‘Why didnt you say anything when you were taken in?’ She blinks at him.

He throws her a passive shrug, ‘this seemed more fun. Gives me something to do while I look for someone’

‘Someone?’ She furrows her eyebrows.

‘Mmm more like, someones’ 

‘Plural?’

‘Huh?’ He blinks at her

‘More than one’ she explains and shakes her head, ‘who are you looking for? Why do you think they're here?’

‘I sensed them. I know they're here. I just gotta find them’

‘But’ she rubs the middle of her forehead to ease her growing confusion, ‘why not just say that? Why fight the Recovery Team and get yourself thrown in here?’ 

‘Well, I can't exactly just burst in here to look for them’ he shrugs after rolling his eyes, ‘too many people would get hurt’

‘Did you have the same thought when the Recovery Team came to get you?’

‘Hey, they challenged me and I didn’t say no’ he loosens his hold to fold his arms and pout, ‘not my fault they're a bunch of weaklings’

‘A bunch of weaklings that managed to get you here’ Nakala points out, prompting him to sideeye her with a smirk.

‘I was pretending to be knocked out’ he boasts, ‘figured that they’d take me right where the rest of my troop is since their signature came from the same area they left from’

‘So why not break your troop out and escape? You couldn’t be stealthy about it?’ Shes genuinely curious about the information present, clearly trying to temper her excitement at being able to communicate with a species unlike her own. She has more questions than answers and she feels as if she has all the time in the world to ask him given shes trapped in here. 

Even in this short time communicating, she doesnt feel as if hes a threat, given how she was informed of how dangerous he is. 

Especially as she watches him groan obnoxiously and flops onto his back, ‘being stealthy is boring’ 

 Before Nakala can remark back, her stomach rumbles loudly again, distracting them both. 

She grumbles and holds her stomach, mumbling out a sorry. She looks at the subject as she hears him shifting to get up and out of the den. When she moves to follow him, he turns and playfully pushes her back inside, leaving her to lay back, fold her arms and pout. A second later, a hand holding a wrapped up sandwich and water appears into view. She takes it carefully and starts to eat as he crawls back in. 

‘So’ he flops next to her, ‘since you work here. You can help me find the rest of my troop’

Nakala blinks at him, ‘its not that simple but i have an idea on how to get us out of here for a start’ 

He blinks and his tail twitches in interest as she wraps herself in the blanket and eats. 

‘You remember that asshole that locked me in here with you?’

‘He can get us out?’

‘Him and a few others. But only if we cooperate’ she explains, ‘my department specializes in research and results, if they find out that i'm unharmed and gave no results while I was in here and safely got me out, they’re gonna send another person in my position and most likely fire me’

That statement makes him pout but she continues, ‘but, if I give them new things about you that feeds into the research and can prove that you aren’t a threat to the facility, then it’ll make it easier to find the rest of your troop and possibly send you back home’

He tilts his head slightly and scratches his cheek in slight embarrassment, ‘uh, see…about that’

She looks at him as he avoids eye contact, ‘I kinda destroyed where we were living in my fight with your Recovery Team?’

‘So now you dont have anywhere to live?’ Nakala looks at him, ‘that was reckless’

‘Yeaahhhh,’ he hides his shame by turning and facing away from her. 

She shuffles a little closer to lean over and look at him, ‘we can probably give you guys a place to live in the Wing that i'm assigned to’

When he looks at her, she raises her eyebrows, ‘but thats only if you work with me on this plan’

He lays onto his back as he looks her over, ‘you want me to take out the guy that locked you in here?’

Nakala shakes her head, ‘I thought about it, but that would make me no worse than he is. Using others as a weapon is not in my nature’ 

He gives her a look she doesnt recognize and sits up. Well, as much as he can given his taller frame causing him to slouch heavily. 

He doesnt look phased by the uncomfortable position, ‘before we start, I think I should at least know the name of my partner,’ he throws in a wink.

Nakala huffs in amusement, ‘it’s Nakala’

‘Didnt they call you by a different name?’

‘My last name’ she explains

‘Weird’ he voices, ‘I’m Gogeta’ 

Chapter Text

The observation room is relatively quiet despite the chaos going on outside. Agents are rushing all over and yelling can be heard as Hughes and Smith fight to get into the Interrogation room.  

‘Let me in! I need to see if she’s okay!’ Hughes yells at a guard.

‘We were ordered by the Director to only allow those assigned to the South Wing inside…..and a clean up crew’

Hughes and Smith look at the guard in shock and anger.

‘She’s not dead…she cant be!’ Smith starts to tear up

‘I need proof’ Hughes glares, ‘I won’t believe she’s dead unless I have proof’

‘Have you seen inside?’ Smith challenges the guard who shakes their head, ‘someone in this department requested a clean up crew and an applicant for the department. Anyone ordering that would be sure that there is a loss of life’ 

Smith notices someone rushing down the hall towards the doors of the wing and calls out, ‘Did you call them here!? You ordered the clean up crew to come here!?’

‘Who!?’ Rhodes reaches their side, ‘I just got here after reporting Matthews to the Director. I never called them!’

‘Matthews?’ Hughes questions and Smith rubs her temples to alleviate her stress.

‘I’ll explain everything later, I need to check on Nakala’ she flashes her ID card and rushes into the room, Hughes and Smith following right behind. They’re greeted by the violent vibrations of her phone’s alarm and Smith warily goes up to the desk and takes her phone to examine it. At the sound of Rhodes shaky gasp, Smith risks joining her to where the observation room is and lets out a weak, relieved laugh. 

There in the observation room, Nakala is confusedly sitting on the back of the subject who is easily lifting her up as he does push ups. 

‘You’ve done 534 push ups and you're still not tired?’ She questions aloud, not noticing the relieved look on her friends face on the other side of the glass.

‘You’re okay!’ Rhodes calls out to her, causing Nakala to jump slightly and almost fall off Gogeta's back. 

‘Yeah,’ Nakala drawls as she looks at Rhodes and then Hughes and Smith, ‘uhh, good morning?’

‘Why are you in there?!’ Hughes smacks his palm onto the glass in frustration, ‘did you forget about the first researcher who tried this with the harpies!?’

‘You’re saying that like I came in here willingly’ Nakala slips off of Gogeta’s back and folds her arms as she walks closer to talk to Hughes. 

Smith and Rhodes watches as Gogeta shifts from a push up position to a sitting one, watching the interaction between the two with a curious sway of his tail.

As she explains the situation, Rhodes makes eye contact with Gogeta who raises his eyebrows. She gives him a grateful smile and nod and he grins and gives her a sneaky thumbs up. He looks back at Nakala and her friends and fights his chuckle at Smith’s angry pacing around the room. He knows that Nakala cant hear the expletives spouting from her friend's mouth but it would be obvious if she was looking her way. 

‘And how is that asshole not fired!?’ Smith seethes as she addresses the others.

‘It’s literally his word against mine until they decide to look further into it,’ Nakala explains, ‘and he’s the only one with the key to the room besides the Director’

‘That’s at least some evidence to prove he put her in there’ Hughes sighs, ‘but thats weak at best. We just have to wait for the Director to come and get you out’

‘That’ll be hard to do given the subject is still awake’ Smith points out 

‘Thankfully he hasn't hurt her’ Rhodes points out then taps on the glass, ‘how you holding up there Roberts?’

‘Well,’ she thinks on it, ‘I don't think i’m in any immediate danger’ she looks back at Gogeta who smirks at her then back at her friends, ‘I can confidently say I can continue my research from in here’

As Rhodes nods, the researchers all look towards the main door as it quickly opens and the Director rushes in.

‘Why are you all in here? I was informed that there was a loss of life’

‘Turns out whoever did that was confident that his victim wouldnt make it’ Smith scoffs and points over to the room Nakala is in as she weakly waves at the Director.

‘Rhodes filled me in on what happened and a thorough investigation will be set in place. I will get you out of there but first, are you in any danger?’

Nakala makes a face, ‘not really? But then again, all of our subjects are dangerous’

‘Would you want to be repositioned to another department?’

‘No, I'm fine. I can continue my research, but I have a request’

‘All ears’

‘Are the grounds in the South Wing ready to be used?’

‘Of course’

‘Can i request that the subject be relocated there?’

‘Do they pose a threat to the facility?’

‘No’ she says confidently, ‘not while under my care’

The Director sighs, revealing a small smile, ‘very well. I will inform the guards and other researchers in that Wing to prepare. I will let you know when they are ready’

‘One more thing Director’ Nakala calls after them, prompting them to turn to look at her, ‘don’t let Matthews get away with this’

‘You have my word an investigation will take place’ the Director nods, sets down the key to the door and leaves. 

They look at Hughes and Smith, ‘seeing that Roberts is safe, you two are to report back to your respective wings’

The two exchange a glance and look back at Nakala who waves to them.

Hughes sighs and looks at her, ‘at least hold onto your phone so I know you're still okay’

‘Already on it’ Rhodes puts her phone in the box to give to her. 

‘Stay in contact’ Smith points to her sternly, ‘and never do something like this again. My heart cant handle all of this okay? The bugs never do this to me’ she grumbles and leaves with Hughes. 

‘Okay,’ Rhodes sits at her desk with a huff, ‘while I order you guys breakfast, did you learn anything while in there?’ She looks at Nakala.

Nakala exchanges a glance with Gogeta, opting not to tell Rhodes about all of the things he told her while under the cover of the couch den throughout the night. Learning all about his species, his troop and how they got there. 

She looks back at Rhodes, ‘he’s smart and understands English at least’ she chuckles and doesn’t see him puff up in pride from behind her, ‘now that we gotta wait, we can try the physical research’ 

‘I’m game’ Rhodes gives her a thumbs up and boots up her laptop and readies up her docs.

Nakala looks back at Gogeta who stands a little too close, ‘do I have your consent to touch?’

The red head looks down at her smugly, throwing her a look that confidently reads you couldn’t hurt me if you tried. He opens his arms and nods his head as an all clear. 

‘Top to bottom?’ Nakala looks over at Rhodes who nods in affirmation.

‘Top to bottom’ she confirms and looks over, ‘let’s start with height’ she chuckles as Nakala stands next to Gogeta, ‘easily over six feet, if your 5’3 height is anything to go by’

‘I pride myself on being short and fun sized’ Nakala tilts her head up.

‘Whatever you say gremlin’ Rhodes jokes. 

Nakala looks over at her subject and points to his hair, him taking the hint and leaning down for her to touch his thick hair. He practically beams in pride as she runs her fingers through his bright red locs and coos at how well its been maintained. 

They both hear Rhodes chuckle, ‘your hand just disappears in it’

‘It’s thick!’ Nakala informs her and tries to smooth down the spiky edges that gives him a more intimidating look, both researchers being baffled that it moves back to its original shape, ‘interesting. Consistently maintains its form’ she tugs a little at some knots and makes a mental note to have it be brushed out.

When she reluctantly stops running her hands into his hair, she makes her way to his face, professionally holding his head in her hands. 

He throws her a mischievous smirk and she narrows her eyes at him, ‘Don’t make it weird’ 

He responds with a playful lick to her finger thats too close to his mouth, giggling at her grimace as she wipes the saliva onto his cheek. 

She blinks as she notices something and wipes at the markings under his eyes. 

‘Oh, its not applied’ she observes

‘That’s not painted?’ Rhodes calls

‘Apparently not’ she has him close his eye to rub at it gently, ‘unless its permanent when they first apply it’

She looks at him and whispers, ‘youre born with this on your eyes?’

She feels a single tap on her calf from his tail, their agreement for “yes”

She has him close both of his eyes and she notices something else as she looks at Rhodes, ‘oh, it’s like false eyes….look’

Rhodes peers over her shoulder from the other side of the glass and let’s out a surprised ‘huh, scary. False eyes usually appear on prey species to deter predators’

‘There’s no way this guy is a prey species’ Nakala voices, ‘that would mean that there’s something stronger than him to take him and his kind out’

‘Some primates are prey to other animals’ Rhodes points out.

‘True. But we’re also forgetting that some predators have false eyes as well. Like orcas and tigers. Those are apex’ Nakala brings up. 

‘It could be used for intimidation or to attract mates like how some primates have colorful facial markings’

‘That’s also true’ she moves her fingers off of his eyelids and regretting it when his eyes narrow playfully, ‘we’ll find out eventually now that he’s gonna be staying here’

Nakala makes a face as she looks into his eyes, blinking when Rhodes asks from behind her, ‘so we can rule out that eye contact doesn’t mean a threat?’

‘Or he doesn’t see me as one’ she voices, glaring slightly at his tail tapping her calf twice to tell her “no” and throwing her a look that reads not in the slightest.

She grimaces and turns to look at Rhodes, ‘I almost hate to say this…but his eyes are beautiful up close’ 

She doesn’t catch the surprised widening of Gogeta’s eyes but does catch Rhodes cracking up in her chair as she types the report.

‘Don’t wanna give him an ego boost huh?’

‘I didn’t but I know it’s too late’ Nakala huffs dramatically, now ignoring his gaze and happily swaying tail.

‘What color?’

‘Sky blue? Maybe robin’s egg? One of those, I’m moving on’

Nakala looks and feels along the bridge of his nose then to his mouth, ‘standard nose structure, similar to humans’ she gently pinches the bottom of it to cut off air flow and he jerks his head back to free himself to breathe. 

‘Basically the same as a humans until we look further inside’ she chuckles at his weakly thrown glare.

She then looks at him and opens her mouth, letting out a soft “ahh”. He looks at her mouth and notices how small her canines are before following her actions and making the same sound, albeit deeper sounding. 

‘…..oh’ Nakala blinks.

‘Holy shit’ Rhodes gasps, ‘those are his canines?’

‘Looks like it’ Nakala looks closer to examine his teeth, mainly the pointier ones, ‘could be all carnivore’

‘Omnivore’ Rhodes corrects, making Nakala look over at her in confusion.

Rhodes chuckles, ‘i gave him a sandwich that was meant for you and he ate it with no problem’

Nakala looks back at Gogeta with a narrowed eyed look and he purposely avoids her gaze in mild guilt, his tail gently rubbing her calf in a way of apology. 

They hear Rhodes chuckle as she types, ‘expressive as well’

‘We’ll have to get a measurement on the teeth and bite force strength later’ Nakala states as she swiftly moves her hand away from him trying to teasingly nip at the base of her thumb. 

She yanks his ear in retaliation and he giggles and reports, ‘ear looks human esque, will have to see further in through the scans’

She maneuvers him to stand upright by moving his head up to expose his throat carefully. He tenses when she touches along the center and gently strokes down his apparent Adam’s apple. She doesn’t notice his tail slightly quivering against her calf and damn near let’s out a grumbling purr when she reaches to scratch lightly at the soft hairs towards the back of his head. She had to traverse through thick hair to get to it but she’s not complaining about the results.

‘Neck is sensitive,’ she observes, throwing him a cheeky grin when he side eyes her.

‘Could be a defense tactic’ Rhodes types, ‘maybe his weakness is the back of his neck? That could explain the thick hair covering it?’

‘Maybe’ Nakala hums

She knows that’s not true given what Gogeta had told her that night in secret. She was taught the dos and don'ts of appropriate Saiyan body parts -as per her insistence- and the neck surprisingly wasn’t a do not touch area. 

‘Do not touch a Saiyan’s tail. That’s rule number one’ Gogeta holds up a finger.

‘Why not? You keep touching me with it!’ Nakala pouts 

‘Yeah. Cause I want to’ he folds his arms, ‘if anyone touches a Saiyan’s tail without consent then they’re gonna have a bad time, regardless of who it is. They have to trust you in order for you to touch it’

‘….so it’s a weak spot?’ she observes 

‘…I didn’t say all that’ he looks away from her and she smirks at him

‘But you implied it’

At his grumble she leans in, ‘so you’ll just crumble to the floor if someone hits it?’

‘Nice try, but my tail is a lot stronger than that to be brought down by just hitting it’ he smirks and baps her in the face with said tail before trailing it back behind him.

Nakala moves her hands further down the front of his neck to his shoulders. She pokes at the padded material of his vest in curiosity then slaps it, making him blink in surprise.

‘They feel like shock absorbers’ she looks at him for confirmation and sighs when he only gives her a look that she reads as your guess is as good as mine.

Before she can tell him that he’s hopeless jokingly they hear Rhodes ask, ‘I wonder if they make their own clothes or if he gets it from someone’

At her question, Nakala looks at him for and answer and he gives her another shrug. She shakes her head at him then has another thought, ‘are those the only clothes you have?’

He taps her calf once. Yes. She blinks at him and steps back a little. 

‘You’ve been in that area for a while and you only just wore that?’ She whispers.

One tap. Yup. She blinks as she comes to a realization then leans close to him to smell him. He chuckles and reaches forward to gently take the back of her head and smushing her face into his chest. Rhodes damn near spits out her coffee laughing as she watches Nakala flail wildly and try to free herself. After a second he lets her go and she hits his chest in retaliation, she weakly glares at him and he throws a look back at her that challenges hers. How do I smell?

‘So how does he smell? You’ve been in there with him for almost an entire day’ Rhodes lets out the last of her giggles. 

Nakala blinks and breathes through her nose then shakes her head and looks at Rhodes in surprise, ‘he smells like outside….but not bad???’ She tries to explain, ‘like earthy cinnamon’ 

‘Okaayyy’ Rhodes drawls ‘whatever that means’ 

‘You wanna smell him?’ She raises her eyebrows.

‘No thanks. I wouldn’t enjoy it nearly as much as you did’ Rhodes jokes. 

Nakala would never admit it, especially to those two, but Rhodes was right. 

So, instead of saying anything about it, Nakala tugs at the cloth of his vest, ‘can you take this off?’

‘Ooh forward’ Rhodes chuckles. 

Gogeta practically says the same as he slips it off his shoulders, staring right at Nakala with a teasing grin.

He lets the clothing thud loudly to the floor, making both Rhodes and Nakala look at it in surprise.

She moves to poke at the padding once more, ‘was that weighted????’ They both look at the wearer of said vest who smugly grins and flexes both arms proudly.

‘Alright muscles calm down’ Nakala walks back up to him, fighting a chuckle herself as Rhodes snorts.

She places a hand on his shoulder, lightly scratching at it, ‘kinda coarse’ she reports then moves to examine his back, ‘looks like fur covers around 90% of his body. Can’t know for sure because’ she looks at Rhodes and gestures towards his belt and pants, ‘and I will leave that for Examination’ 

Her eyes widen when she makes eye contact with Gogeta who smirks and grabs at his pants to pull them down and she quickly smacks his hands away, hiding her rapidly warming face behind his back. 

‘He might be my favorite addition to this place’ Rhodes laughs.

Nakala shakes off her blush and continues to look over and lightly scratch his shoulder blades to feel them. She stops when he abruptly leans sideways and he looks back at her with a cheeky grin and a point to his back.

‘This is research, I’m not scratching your back!’ Nakala protests, fighting to entertain him with a laugh.

‘Aww, look you made him sad’ Rhodes teases. 

Nakala rolls her eyes and glances at her subject who has a pitiful look on his face. She knows he’s joking but can’t resist the human urge to pet something with fur, no matter how dangerous it is. So she sighs and moves her hands to the top of his shoulders to scratch good enough for him to feel it and work her way down. Nakala uses that opportunity to notice that the fur along his spine is a lot thicker and when she follows where it ends, she sees that his baggy pants have a hole in them for his tail. She’s jolted out of her thoughts when she feels Gogeta’s body shaking and realizes that he’s giggling slightly. She notices that her hands have moved to his sides and she grins, opting to scratch and tickle him until he crumbles to the floor. 

She stands proudly as she reports to Rhodes, ‘subject has thicker fur along the spine and is extremely ticklish on the sides’ 

‘Noted’ Rhodes smiles as she types, then throws Nakala a cheeky grin, ‘you know you have to do the front now right?’ 

Nakala’s face straightens. She can feel her blush coming back, ‘do I have to?’

‘You ask that as if you’re gonna regret touching there. He already gave you consent to touch, right?’

‘Yeah but-‘ she feels a tap on her leg from his foot and looks down at Gogeta still on the floor. 

His arms are behind his head, chest on full display and his tail beckoning her closer to him.

She whines and gestures to him while looking at Rhodes, ‘look at him!’ 

Rhodes peeks over and laughs, ‘that looks like clear consent to me Roberts!’ 

‘Was me being smothered by chest not enough?’ She looks at Rhodes who giggles.

‘Not according to research’ Rhodes sing songs and gestures towards where the subject is laying.

Nakala rolls her eyes and looks at the red furred Saiyan on the floor.

She raises her eyebrows and puts her hands on her hips, ‘ I’m not touching your chest until you stand up Mr. Man’

She watches as he groans and begrudgingly gets up but with a cheeky smirk, decides to move extremely close to her personal space. Her being face to chest with him doesnt make things better and she feels her face warm. 

‘Go on Roberts’ Rhodes goads, full on laughing when Nakala jumps at Gogeta taking her hands and placing them on his pecs. 

Nakala feels her face burn full force now in embarrassment as she’s forced to grope his chest. She can feel his eyes searing her face as she pouts at the situation, giving his chest a retaliative squeeze. Nakala blinks when she feels how solid both mounds are. She doesnt notice the slight shiver he lets out when she trails her hands further down his chest. 

‘Solid’ the words slip out of her mouth and she quickly moves her hands to cover her mouth and step away from a puffed out Gogeta.  

‘Alright, thats as far as I'm gonna go until he’s fully homed in the South Wing’ she looks away from the two.

‘Good’ Rhodes smiles and answers the knock at the door, ‘because breakfast just got here’

Gogeta and Nakala both watch as Rhodes and a few guards place breakfast foods of all kinds on the table. When the guards leaves, Rhodes wipes her hands on her lab coat and looks around.

‘Now, to find you guy’s key to let you out’

As her back is turned she hears a loud crack behind her and a quick screeching sound.

Chapter Text

Rhodes slowly turns around as red and white lights blare around them. She locks eyes with Nakala on the other side of the Interrogation room and then at Gogeta who is now in the doorway of the now destroyed Interrogation room door. Judging by how nonchalant he looks as he makes his way to the food, they assume it wasn't malicious by any extent. They both flinch as the doors to the main room fly open, guards armed with weapons ready at the door, all pointing to the red furred Saiyan who doesn't even look their way. He raises his head when he feels a presence behind him and glances to see Nakala had rushed to block him from them.

‘He only wanted the food. He is not a threat’ she raises her hands plaintively, ‘it’s okay. You can go back now’

After a few seconds, the guards start to back off, leaving both Nakala and Rhodes in the room with the subject. Nakala huffs and semi glares at Gogeta who blinks at her apologetically. 

I was hungry, his eyes seem to say. 

As he continues to chow down, Rhodes and Nakala look at the door he opened without breaking a sweat.

‘…so, he could’ve done that the whole time…’ she begins.

Nakala shakes her head, ‘I’m trying not to think more about it’ she glances over at Gogeta, eyebrows furrowing as she sees him carrying his vest on his tail and cautiously approaching. 

Easy, he could be food aggressive, she warns herself.

They lock eyes when she gets close and he blinks at her as he continues to eat.

‘You could at least put your vest back on,’ she jokes, ‘and save some food for the rest of us, since we are helping you out’ 

Gogeta hums a little in thought then chuckles and steps away from the food to put on his vest, letting the duo pick their breakfast. Once they step away and hes dressed, he approaches the table once again, only to look at what theyre eating and scrutinizing it.

‘Whats with that face?’ Nakala notices after taking a bite of her sandwich.

With his hands on his hips he blinks, bewildered, Thats all youre eating??? His expression screams.

‘You can eat the rest, big guy, this is all we need until lunch time’ Rhodes shakes her paper towel wrapped blueberry waffles. 

Gogeta gives them one more once over before shrugging and going back to eating. Rhodes taps on Nakala’s shoulder and nods over to where she moved her laptop.

‘I want you to go over my notes and see if I’m missing anything to send to the Director’ she bites into her waffle.

Nakala nods and reads over the research report, thanking the stars that Rhodes is professional enough to leave out the embarrassing bits of the research that she had to endure. 

Definitely getting that 100$ Barnes and Noble gift card for your birthday for this Rhodes, she thinks confidently. 

After a few seconds of reading, Nakala nods her head, ‘looks good here’ and checks her phone after feeling the tell tale sign of a vibrating message, ‘and it looks like the South Wing is ready for you to live in “big guy”’ Nakala looks over and blinks as Gogeta was looking over their shoulder to read the reports as well.

He ignores Rhodes startled yelp and hums while pinching his chin, ‘hmmm, you didn't even include how good looking I am’ he pouts.

‘He talks!’ Rhodes bounces excitedly.

‘Didn't even put my name either’ he squints.

‘You have a name!’ Rhodes quickly moves to her laptop to type more but Gogeta stops her by blocking her path.

‘Nope. Too late now, its more fun if they dont know my name’ he grins.

Rhodes puts her hands on her hips playfully, ‘so you were just gonna let me call you different names without correcting me? Does Roberts know your name?’

‘She sure does!’ He looks over at Nakala who looks at him in confusion, ‘you wanna tell her or should I?’

Nakala makes a face at him, ‘its your name’

‘Fiinnee,’ he rolls his eyes, ‘the names Gogeta, but I don't mind Big Guy or even Red as one of those guys I fought called me before I helped him out, he seemed level headed’

‘Don’t tell me you killed him?’ Rhodes pales slightly

‘I have better control than that, small fry’ he looks down at her condescendingly, ‘I don't kill weaker opponents’

‘Well that’s good at least’ Rhodes sighs, ignoring the name he gave her, ‘and since we’re going to be working together,’ she sticks out her hand, ‘you can call me Rhodes, or Stephanie, or Steph for short’

Gogeta looks at her hand and chuckles as he shakes it, ‘I’m gonna call you Steph because you are short’ 

‘Wh-But she’s smaller than I am!’ Rhodes protests, pointing at Nakala hiding her laugh by eating the rest of her sandwich. 

After breakfast was cleaned up-not that there was much given Gogeta ate practically everything-Nakala and Rhodes flanked Gogeta’s side as they led him to the area he will be staying. When they move to turn a corner, Gogeta freezes calmly and looks in a direction opposite of them. The two stop a little ways ahead and look at him.

‘What’s wrong?’

‘Something up?’

After a pause he turns and grins at them, ‘all good. Thought I felt something over there!’ 

He falls in step back with the duo, ignoring the narrowed eyes look Nakala throws at him and passively rest his arms above his head. They make it to double doors labeled “South Wing” and Rhodes slides a key card to open them. A short blast of air greets them as multiple pairs of eyes look in their direction. All various reactions to Rhodes' cheerful smile, to Nakala’s dilapidated state, and to the new addition who towers over them both, lazily looking around the area.

‘Is-is that what we’re going to be housing?’ An intern speaks up carefully.

‘Yup!’ Rhodes looks around for her station and places her laptop there.

‘But the reports you put in from the research you gathered….’ Another says. 

‘Yes. He’s extremely dangerous but willing to cooperate with us’ Nakala explains, grabbing another key card and going towards a large glass door, Gogeta following close behind. 

When he looks through the doors his eyebrows raise and he looks at Nakala who smiles at him. Her smile falls quickly however when she sees him reach for the doors to yank it open like the Interrogation doors and smacks his hands away to yell, ‘stop opening doors like that! You’re gonna break it!’ 

She ignores his pout and slides the card, both watching as the doors open quickly. They’re greeted by the sunshine of the day as they walk into the small clearing that gives way to forested areas.

‘You’re free to explore the area. If it’s not to your liking, we can always renovate’ she looks up at him.

Nakala blinks in confusion as he crouches, then is quickly blown back a few steps as he takes off into the enclosure. 

She looks back at the other researchers who are equally stupefied at the events that occurred and says, ‘it might take him the whole day to explore the enclosure given how large it is, so if you don’t see him that’s fine’ 

Nakala starts to make her way back to the doors, ‘I need to make a checklist on what needs to be researched and get a hold of Examination for internals’

A knock on the window catches her attention as she sees some of the researchers pointing behind her and she turns and faces a bare chest lined with red fur. 

‘What?’

‘I’m done’ 

‘Done what?’ She looks at him in surprise, ‘you looked at the whole area!?’

‘Mhm! And I approve! Great spot for me and my troop!’ He takes her head to smush it into his chest in thanks.

Nakala’s face warms quickly at the gesture and she sputters out, ‘glad I could help, now let me go please!’ Doesn’t make it better that I’m the perfect height for this either, I hope he can’t hear my heart right now, she whines internally.

She tries to give them some space by pulling away but finds it impossible to move out of his grip. Peering up at him in question, she’s greeted by bright blue, ‘you’re still gonna help me find the rest of my troop right?’ Trying to hide the nervous tick of his tail.

‘Of course!’ Nakala offers him a reassuring smile, patting his arm to placate him, ‘I’m guessing you’re all a social species then?’

She gets her answer when he blushes slightly and looks away with another pout. 

‘Well I won’t let you be lonely for long. I’m pretty sure the Director would know where the others are so it’ll make this easy okay? I just have to ask them for their approval and the reassurance that everyone will still be safe to do their job’

‘They’ll be safe’ he lets her go to fold his arms across his chest proudly, ‘afterall, I am the strongest in my troop’

Nakala rolls her eyes at his statement. Of course the guy has an ego that matches his body size. 

‘Uh huh. Sure’ she shakes her head, ‘look, I need to find the Director and explain to them about your troop, you stay here and uh…I dunno, try to sense your troop again? Might make things easier to bring them here if we know where they are’ 

Gogeta rolls his eyes and plops onto the ground next to her, criss crossing his legs and closing his eyes, ‘I can still do that with you here’

‘Yeah but I can’t talk to the Director in here’

‘Why not?’

‘Bye Gogeta’ she chuckles and walks to the door.

She sees him peek an eye out at her and she huffs, ‘if anything, I’ll be right on the other side of that door. Knock if you need me’ 

As soon as she steps out she glances through the large window to see him tense up a little, brows creased in concentration. 

‘So Rhodes was right. You are good at this’ an intern says in surprise.

‘More like adapted to the situation, I’m just glad he’s more man child than homicidal monster’ she looks at them, ‘I’m gonna look for the Director, you know my line in case anything happens. And if I don’t answer, Rhodes is the next best person’ she points to Rhodes who raises her hands in the air at the praise.

Nakala gives Gogeta a quick glance before she walks out to find the Director.

Nakala makes it through the multiple hallways of the facility before she reaches the ominous door of the Directors office. She psyches herself up to knock but freezes when she hears talking. She has to shake her head a couple of times as she’s in denial at who she hears. The doors to the office slide open to reveal the one face she never wanted to see again: Matthews. Various emotions flash through his eyes: anger, confusion, disbelief and then later smug.

‘Look who managed to talk themselves out of death! Heard you’re buddy buddy with the monster now’

‘The only monster here is you, and I intend to make good on my promise’ she pushes past him to look at the Director angrily.

‘Roberts I understand your concern-‘

‘Why is he still here!? And don’t give me the understaffed crap, HE TRIED TO HAVE ME KILLED’

The Director throws her a withered look and pinches the bridge of their nose, ‘please. Take a seat, I will explain to you the current situation. Although you won’t like what I have to say’

Nakala huffs and plops down into the chair she once feared sitting into. Scrutinizing the nearly defeated look the Director throws at her, they start to explain, ‘I cant fire him’ they hold up their hand to stop her from interrupting, ‘that was first on the agenda when we actually found evidence of his actions, but not from what he did to you’

‘…so he’s done this to others before’ Nakala concludes.

‘Yes. So far, you're the only one that managed to survive your encounter with your subject’

‘I know we didn't get along but to attempt to kill me via mauling?’ Nakala seethes ‘thats next level kinds of deranged’

‘It is, and given I was going have him arrested and thrown in jail, I’ve been stopped from doing so…from the Chairman himself’

‘so he's being protected by him’ Nakala concludes.

‘Yes. I’m sure he’s just playing the role of protective father to keep his son from the trouble he’s likely to cause again’ 

‘Not if I can help it’ Nakala grumbles.

‘I will not condone attempts on life in my facility, retaliative or otherwise. The best I can do, is relocate him to Examination -which I have already done and has been approved of by the Chairman himself-, and put him on a different shift than yours’

They watch as Nakala leans back with a frustrated sigh, ‘so thats it then? No punishment’ she looks at them.

‘I only said I don't condone killing’ the Director points out with a glance at their computer and offers her a concerning smile that she picks up the implication quickly, ‘if anything happens to him accidentally I might have to file an accident report’

Nakala blinks at them in surprise. I dont know whether to thank them or be afraid.

‘I hate to bring this up, but you would also be safer if you were to quit. It would be a massive loss for the facility, and is your decision to make. You will be compensated for the rest of your life of course, but you will no longer be able to return back to the facility’

Nakala stands, looking at the director and sighs, ‘As tempting as that is, I will continue to work here. But I need a favor’

‘As long as it is within my power’ the Director folds their hands as they lean forward, ‘what is this favor?’

‘I have recently discovered that my subject is part of a social species’ she informs.

‘So he is not hostile towards the other interns and researchers?’

‘It’s doubtful, but I dont think that researchers that are aware of how dangerous he is will be of comfort for him especially with them being unfamiliar’

‘What are your thoughts?’

‘Are there more of his kind in the facility?’ 

There’s a pause and the Director stands and makes their way to a large file cabinet. They look through a drawer and one by one they take a file and place it onto their desk in a stack. Nakala counts seven in total and doesnt even hide her perplexed expression. He said several someone’s! Not seven someone’s! She watches as the Director sits back down at their desk.

‘This is all that has been reported of his kind. All subjects are in different areas of the facility for everyone’s safety. If you can ensure that no one will be harmed, then I will allow you access to those areas to bring to the Southern Wing’ 

Nakala throws them a look, ‘and you aren’t concerned that I wont release them from the facility?’

‘That would just cause more casualties for the civilians outside of the facility. If they make it back to the area that we had found them, they will be disappointed to find out that their home has been destroyed by our Recovery Team and your wing’s current resident. That’s why I believe their best interest is to stay here. We aren't an establishment that has evil intentions and I won’t allow it to be. Our main purpose is to house and contain special beings to protect both them and the human populace. You and I both know that the flora and fauna within the facility would result in very harmful effects to both parties if found out’

‘I figured’ Nakala gathers up the files and sighs. This will end up being a whole day process, ‘well, I better get to it then huh?’

‘Seems best. Though I wish you luck in your endeavors, let me know if you require anything else,’ the Director nods, watching Nakala try to juggle the files as she tries to read them back to the South Wing. 

Shes broken out of her info grabbing trance when the doors open to the South Wing and Rhodes joins her side. 

‘How’d your talk go?’ She takes a couple of the files to ease her struggling.

‘It was a lot that I have to tell you but first, where’s Gogeta?’ Nakala notices that he's nowhere near the window where she had left him.

‘Further in his enclosure, probably sulking, he looked a little upset that you left. I tried to tell him you’d be back but’ she shrugs.

Nakala sighs and hands her the rest of the files, ‘can you put these on my desk please? We got a lot of work to do when I get back out’ 

‘Sounds fun!’ Rhodes sits across from her desk.

Nakala pays no mind to the other researchers and interns that watch her in shock that she just casually walks into the enclosure. She makes sure to stand in their view in case of harm but she knows none will come to her. After a quick sweep around the area that she can see, she spots a familiar fluffy red tail near a bush. Nakala looks at it in confusion as it moves purposefully, making a “come hither” motion. She shakes her head and makes her way to the body the tail belonged to. Maneuvering to not touch said tail and pushing debris out of the way so she can freely walk further in and out of view from the other watching researchers. 

The owner of the tail was lounging next to a tree and when Nakala looked at him, he perked up. 

‘Took you long enough’ he pouts, folding his arms.

‘I was gone for 15 minutes, don't tell me you missed me already’ Nakala playfully puts her hands on her hips as she looks down at him.

He decides to say nothing and she doesn't tease him for it, choosing instead to sit in front of him. That draws his attention and his tail twitches in curiosity.

‘I’ll take that as a yes. But since you want to pout, I guess you don't want to hear about the good news I have’

She leans back and chuckles when he leans obnoxiously closer to get her to answer. 

‘It better be good’ he mumbles through narrowed eyes.

‘Oh, it’s better than good. Cause I can get to your troop and bring them back here’ she points at him, stopping him from moving closer as he listened, ‘but, I also have to make sure that they don't cause anyone harm and have to go get them myself’

‘Well, you can’t make sure they won’t hurt anyone without some help and I’m the strongest in my troop so I have to come with you’ he puffs out his chest, proudly.

‘And I can trust you to behave yourself?’ She raises her eyebrow at him.

He rolls her eyes and hoists himself up, taking her with him in a warm hug, ‘you’re giving us a place to live, why would I mess that up? And I’ll make sure that they don't hurt anybody either, though I’m sure a majority of them wouldn't hurt you’

‘A majority???’ She voices.

Gogeta ignores her tone of concern and starts to walks her back to the door, ‘well, lets get started then!’

‘Wait! We’re not going now!’ Nakala speaks up from his chest, ‘I have to go home!’

‘You dont live here?’ He looks down at her with a tilt to his head.

‘No, and I havent slept properly or took a shower since before I got locked in the observation room with you’

‘You can do that here’ he weakly protests.

‘No, I actually cant’ she argues back, ‘I’ll see you tomorrow so we can start getting your troop together’ 

When she tries and fails to wiggle out of his grip, she huffs and looks at him. Nakala notices a small look of anxiety on his face and gives him a sympathetic look and carefully wraps her arms around his neck to hug him. 

‘Look, being alone sucks but you only have today to deal with that. I promise that I’ll be back tomorrow’ she chances a pet to his hair and is gifted with a soft purring sound. 

She feels herself being put down and glances behind her to see that shes a few steps away from the door. When she looks back, Gogeta is already walking back to the dense underbrush.

‘See you tomorrow!’ Nakala calls, watching as Gogeta lifts an arm and gives her a wave to signal that he heard her. 

She could’ve swore that she saw the tips of his ears change to a slight red before losing sight of him in the enclosure. 

Chapter Text

‘You’re going back to work after everything that happened?’ Hughes looks at his phone incredulously.

‘And with compensation for the rest of your life if you actually did quit’ Smith shakes her head, ‘I mean, staying wouldn't be my choice but do you I guess’

‘I promised him I would help him reunite with his troop! How fucked up would I be as a person to just take the money and run after making a promise like that!?’ Nakala protests, ‘We all agreed that what we do always relies on trust’  

‘True. But still, it’s been what? Two whole days and you’ve already created a bond?’ Hughes points out.

‘He’s part of a social species’ Nakala shrugs, ‘I’m not surprised he’d be attached to a being that looks similar enough to him that hasn't attempted to shoot him’ 

‘Turns out, he wont be lonely for long’ Rhodes reassures, ‘we’re gonna be pretty busy the next few weeks with how many she has to bring into the South Wing’

‘If they’re anything like him, it should be a breeze. Given I have to take him with me when I do’ she grumbles.

‘Girl what!?’ Smith gasps in surprise, ‘thats extremely dangerous and reckless!’

‘It’s what was agreed!’ Nakala groans.

’You didn’t think at all that you could’ve been manipulated?’ Smith warns.

Nakala thinks on it, ‘No actually. He’s surprisingly simple’

’Plus there were multiple times where he could’ve just run amok within the facility given how strong he is just from the walk to the South Wing alone’ Rhodes explains. 

‘You are seriously testing the limits of the facility’ Hughes rests his head on his hand, ‘You’re gonna give the guards PTSD when they see him, you know that right?’

‘That’s hilarious’ Rhodes laughs, ‘wait, can I laugh? I know one of your friends was in the recovery team Nakala, how’s he doing?’

‘Cohen? I haven't even checked up on him since my subject got there, I’m gonna go see him’

Rhodes pauses, ‘you think thats who called him Red?’

‘How original’ Smith chuckles.

‘I wouldn't put it past him honestly, he’s always been more of a talker than a fighter’ Nakala explains.

‘Make sure you buy him a get better card’ Hughes chuckles, ‘though, lets hope that your boy isn’t territorial like my birds’

‘I mean, they’re only territorial when it comes to other men’ Smith points out, ‘how’s he with other researchers? Or even you Steph?’

‘I mean I guess he tolerates me, he doesn't really pay attention to the other researchers’ Rhodes shrugs, ‘whatever Nakala and the subject did in that observation room must’ve really made them close’ Rhodes says with a cheeky grin.

‘Why do you have to say it like that??? all we did was come to a mutual agreement that helps both parties’ Nakala sighs.

‘That agreement being?’ Hughes asks.

‘We give him and his troop a place to live after he and the Recovery team fucked up their home and in exchange we research them without issue’ she shrugs.  

‘Smart’ Smith nods, ‘honestly its something I would do if any of my bugs could’ve negotiated, but I’m just glad they don't really care what I do to them’

‘You’re one of the lucky ones’ Hughes sighs, ‘I do one thing the birds don't like and somehow I’m enemy number one until I smell like any female researchers’

‘So by proxy, we should be having a great time with the red boy and his troop then?’ Rhodes smiles. 

‘I hope so. And I cant wait for the stories’ Smith chuckles. 

Nakala finishes her cup of citrus tea and tosses it into the trash bin before making her way to her fellow researchers in the main lobby. She spots Smith and Hughes nearby the infirmary and smiles gratefully at them as they take the obnoxious balloons from her hands. 

‘Could you be anymore extra?’ Smith scoffs playfully. 

‘Aw, give her a break Smith,’ Hughes chuckles, ‘I’m pretty sure all of these balloons are the many anxious thoughts she’s had about him and his recovery and how she’s going to tell him that the one who put him in the infirmary is now her best friend!’

‘That’s not even remotely true!’ Nakala tries to argue, then pouts when it’s damn near close enough on both fronts, ‘and I’ll tell him about how we’re housing him, and not the fact that I was involuntarily locked in there with him. He’d lose his mind with worry, and I don’t need a mother hen’

She shoves the “get well” card she bought to Hughes with a pen and he chuckles and signs it before giving it to Smith who eyes it playfully.

‘I could put some very incriminating information about what you’ve been up to in here, and you’d be none the wiser’

‘Please don’t be evil at 7:30 in the morning’ Nakala withers, watching very carefully as Smith grins and writes a very innocent “it could be worse” on the side of the card.

After looking around for Rhodes, she decides that she’ll catch up to her around the South Wing area and walks inside the infirmary with Smith and Hughes. They have various small talks on their way to Cohen’s room where his door is wide open. A brunette with green eyes looks up from his book when he hears a knock and smiles warmly at seeing Nakala’s sympathetic smile only to burst into laughter as Hughes and Smith fight to enter the room past dozens of balloons that block their way to see him. 

‘I would’ve settled for flowers and a card you know’ He laughs, ‘you didn’t have to go this far!’ 

‘Yes I did!’ Nakala wrangles the balloons inside and practically smothers everyone inside with them, ‘I felt bad that I knew you were in here and had to take care of my subject instead of going to see you’

‘Oh yeah, how is Red doing? Hopefully better than I am’ he gestures to his broken leg, ‘didn’t get to thank him for saving me’

‘I’ll…pass that along to him since he’s doing fine’ Nakala looks at him in surprise. 

‘Wait, he saved you?’ Hughes takes a seat near his bed while Smith stands with her arms folded loosely in nonchalance.

Cohen nods in confirmation, ‘sure did. Toppled an entire tree to block the firing but managed to save me from getting flattened by it. I mean sure it resulted in some scrapes, bruises, and this broken leg, but I’d rather it be this than dead’ he shrugs, ‘crazy enough though, was that he apologized when he found out I couldn’t walk and put me somewhere my team could easily get me to bring me here to be looked at. Only thing that they told me was that they managed to catch him and bring him to the Interrogation room to be studied’

‘Well he’s not there anymore’ Nakala sits on his bed, ‘he’s now being housed in the South Wing, with me as his researcher’ 

Cohen pauses in thought but the only thing that came out was, ‘how’d that happen????’ 

‘Well-‘ she starts but is startled along with everyone else when Rhodes bursts in panting, ‘I’m here! Lemme sign Cohen’s card!’

She quickly grabs it from Cohen’s offering hand and signs it happily, putting a cute smiley face next to her name.

‘So what’d I miss?’ She looks at Smith. 

‘Roberts was catching him up to what happened the past two days’ she explains 

Rhodes looks at Nakala, ‘did you tell him about how Matthews tried to kill you by locking you in a room with our subject and how he basically got away with it?’

At Nakala’s look of absolute horror she hisses, ‘ooooh was that supposed to be a secret?’

‘Yes’ Nakala groans then looks at Cohen who is devoid of emotion, ‘but it’s handled! We have it handled!’

‘…..so he tried it again after being let off the hook the last time’ he concludes. 

‘Excuse me?’ Smith tilts her head, ‘so he’s done this before?’

‘Yeah. The dude is mental, it happened when I first started out here, I was stationed to guard some of the harpies going through rehab from broken bones when I watched him agitate one of the healthier ones and shoving a researcher in there. I was sworn to secrecy with that position and when I did try to get to report it, nothing happened. I was the only witness and he only seemed to get a slap on the wrist and moved somewhere else’ Cohen shakes his head, ‘he doesn’t even do a decent job and is clearly some kind of sadistic nutcase, so why keep him around?’

‘Bosses son’ Hughes answers. 

‘The Director has a son???’ Cohen looks at him and Hughes shakes his head.

‘No, Chairman’ 

‘So he’s practically untouchable then’ Cohen sighs and leans back into his bed. 

He then looks at Nakala, ‘that must’ve been really scary for you huh?’

‘At first, but I’m okay now’ she explains, ‘he showed absolutely no hostility with me when it happened’ 

‘They’re practically besties now’ Rhodes chuckles.

‘Shut up’ Nakala groans. 

‘That’s good though. At least you have that against Matthews if he tries again at your life. You are the only one that managed to survive his “method of research” so it wouldn’t surprise me that he’d try to do it again’ Cohen warns. 

‘That’s why I’m not letting him off the hook about it’ she dramatically whispers to him, ‘the Director let me get one good sweep under the rug from them in retaliation, as long as I don’t kill him’ Nakala explains. 

‘Huh,’ Cohen huffs, ‘well, they said for you not to kill him’

‘I’m liking you more and more Cohen’ Smith grins. 

‘But that would put her in the line of fire, literally if something were to happen to him so soon’ Hughes, ever the voice of reason adds in, ‘it’s best to lay low for a while, he’ll get his karma’

‘Waiting is boring’ Rhodes grumbles then checks her phone, ‘well, it’s almost time to work’ she nudges Nakala to get up. Hughes and Smith already waving bye at Cohen as they make their way to their own stations.

Nakala gets up but not without giving Cohen a warm hug, ‘I doubt that I can bring him here but we’ll work something out’ 

‘Take your time!’ Cohen smiles, ‘I’m not going anywhere!’

Nakala steps out and joins Rhodes’ side as they make their way to the South Wing.

‘You think he was okay last night?’ Nakala voices her concern.

‘Big guy like that should be fine’ Rhodes dismisses with a wave of her hand, ‘from the looks on his troops files, he’s been alone for at least a couple months’

Nakala can’t help but feel heartbroken for Gogeta, and makes sure to quicken her steps to the South Wing entrance. She hastily greets the other lower researchers and interns and signs into her computer across from Rhodes to clock in and doesn’t even check the emails and to-dos before sliding her key card into the enclosure door and quickly walking inside. 

She looks around, trying to spot familiar red fur and instead of calling for him, she continues to walk further in and out of view. Nakala’s anxiety starts to grow the further she walks in and doesn’t find him. Scanning along the tree line to make sure he doesn’t get the drop on her, she unceremoniously trips and falls into a pile of soft leaves. She blinks and sits up, looking around where she fell and notices that the area she landed in is raised up and surrounded by large leaf covered branches. Leaves carefully stripped away from discarded branches-that she may or may not have tripped over before falling into this new area-line what looks to be a large nest. She tests its durability by pressing firmly onto it and finding that it’s no different from sleeping on a mattress.

Nakala sits comfortably in astonishment at the build and jerks her head to the side when she hears a grumbling sound. Her eyes direct her to a dark red shape shaded by branches, it’s back facing away from her. 

‘Gogeta’ she whispers to him, careful not to startle him. He must still be asleep.

She crawls closer, trying to make as little noise as possible. When she’s a close enough distance she chances a light tap to his shoulder. No response. She tries again, only to get a soft snore in the process. Nakala huffs and sits back onto her calves, she softly puts her hand onto his shoulder, opting to scratch there but that only manages to get him pushed further into her hand and ending up flopping onto his back next to her knees. 

Regarding him and the soft look on his face as he sleeps, she leans a little over him and calls to him a little louder.

‘Gogeta~ you have to wake up~ we have to get the rest of your troop, remember?’

‘Five more minutes’ he grumbles, shifting to nuzzle into her thigh, ‘Five thousand more minutes’

‘What about your troop?’ She moves to pet him, ultimately being rewarded with a sleepy purr that makes her smile.

‘They’ll be fine’ he yawns tiredly, showing his sharp massive canines in the process, ‘nothings changed since I sensed them last’

‘You’re not worried?’

‘I’m never worried’

‘No, about you telling them how you destroyed you guys’ home? Nest?’ She gestures to what he’s made.

‘Nest’ he confirms, ‘and I made another one’ he sweeps his tail around the large, leaf covered area, ‘a better one’

‘It’s very plush and comfy’ Nakala remarks, missing the way Gogeta opens an eye to regard her at that statement, ‘but you can’t stay in it forever. You’re coming with me to go get them’ 

‘Ugghhh, right now?’ He grumbles.

‘Yes right now!’ She pokes his cheek, ‘you had me worried that you were a wreck in here by yourself for a whole day but I guess it was for nothing’ 

He opens both eyes to look at her fully, ‘you were worried about me?’ He sits up slightly.

‘Well, yeah. I figured you were a social species and didn’t want you to be depressed alone in this enclosure. And I guess I might’ve felt a little bad when I found out you were basically alone for months without them’ she feels her cheeks warm. 

She has to lean and look away from his looming presence and piercing gaze as he scrutinizes her closely. 

‘And since you're fully awake now’ she moves to stand, him following right after-albeit a little too closely which she ignores-‘we can go find your troop’ she turns to get out of the nest and later the enclosure. 

Rhodes doesnt even jump when she feels two bodies behind her. She turns slightly and smiles, waving one of the files as Gogeta grabs some food from a cart and eats.

‘Looks like you're gonna have fun with these Roberts. Thankfully, I put these in order from closest to farthest from the South Wing’ she notices Gogeta side glancing at one of the files, ‘you're taking him with you?’

‘Who else is gonna protect her?’ Gogeta smirks then baps Nakala with one of the folders, ‘lets go get him first’ 

Nakala leans over to look at who it is and shrugs, ‘sure. That’s on the way to where I wanted to bring you’ 

As they make their way out, Gogeta stops her, ‘oh wait I almost forgot!’ And gently places his hand on the back of Nakala’s head. 

Faster than she can react, she’s smushed between his pecs and held there. He ignores her flailing to get away and laughs along with Rhodes who’s enjoying every bit of what she's seeing. She’s released with a gasp of air and a glare at him as he grins.

‘Why do you keep doing that!?’ Nakala fixes her hair.

Gogeta just blinks and starts to walk away, humming something she doesnt identify. Nakala and Rhodes exchange exasperated and amused glances as the two walk out and down the hallway. When they make it to a fork in the hallway, Gogeta starts to make a way for the eastern path and Nakala takes his arm gently to lead him to the western hallway. 

She gives him a small reassuring smile, ‘don't worry, theres a small hallway that connects the two further down to get them, but before we do, theres someone I want you to see!’

He tilts his head in curiosity and follows alongside her. The smell of strong medicine and disinfection greets his nose and he looks around the unfamiliar area. He pauses when he feels her hand on his chest to stop him and he blinks at her once again. Nakala looks at him, making a questioning pout as she regards him.

‘Hmm, don’t think theres enough clearance I can get to sneak you in a room looking like that’ she grabs her phone and starts to type.

‘Like what?’ He begins to pout. 

Nakala throws him a flat look and gestures to his entire body, ‘I don't think you’ve noticed, but anyone would have to be blind to not see a 6 foot bright red haired monkey man walking around an infirmary with his tail all over the place’

‘Don’t need to hide when I’m the strongest’

‘Can’t let you roam around with a chaperone when you get thrown back into the Southern Wing enclosure for fighting staff’

Gogeta pouts and wraps his tail around his waist and opens his arms to say tada! Earning a chuckling shaking of her head. 

‘Well thats one problem down’ she looks around. 

Soon after, she spots a secluded scenic area and drags him there.

‘I thought you said i was noticeable?’

‘You are, but you can’t fight anybody if you get noticed’

She damn near laughs at his visible deflation when he hears her say that. 

‘Well fine, just don't hurt them bad enough to kill them’

‘Give me some credit, I told you I don’t fight weaker opponents and the runt that I saved only got hurt because he got in the way partly’ he looks off in the distance and scratches his cheek, ‘he's not dead…right?’

‘Thanks to you I’m still alive’ a new voice is heard, making them both turn to see Cohen wheeling himself inside the scenic room.

Nakala moves out of the way to let Cohen approach Gogeta. 

‘Glad to see you're okay Red’ Cohen smiles and holds up his fist.

‘Likewise Runt’ Gogeta meets his fist with his gently, ‘sad to see you’re in this sorry place’

‘I’ll manage, won’t be back to my job for another couple of weeks but at least I’m still alive’

‘Good mindset to have’ Gogeta pats his head, ‘might even have to stop by her territory so we can train you properly’

‘Nakala knows nothing about fighting Red’ Cohen shakes his head with a chuckle.

‘Hey!’

‘Not her. My troop, we’re off to go get one of them now. When you're all healed up, i’d be glad for myself and the others to make you stronger’

‘Looking forward to it!’ Cohen nods.

Nakala glances at a happily humming Gogeta as they make their way down a hallway. She enjoys the tune and walks up to two guards in front of a room, reassuring the guards who tighten their weapons when they notice Gogeta that they mean no harm and are here for a pick up.

‘There’s only one thing in there and it’s not to be picked up’ one of the guards stated.

‘Relocation I mean,’ she explains, ‘I have full approval from the Director for the subject within that room to be moved to the South Wing’

‘It’ll take a few more of us to move the subject to the South Wing’ the other guard explains.

‘I dont need a whole team’ Nakala argues

‘It took an entire team to get them in there to be contained, and no offense, but I doubt a researcher could drag him out by herself’

‘I’m not by myself’ she gestures to Gogeta who smirks at the guard.

The two guards exchange glances and one swipes his keycard, unlocking the door for them to enter, ‘you have ten minutes before we go in there with the team to check if you are alright’

‘Got it’ Nakala nods in affirmation, grabbing the handle and walking inside, Gogeta following close behind. 

They see a being leaning against the far wall with his eyes closed. His eyes open to reveal steely blue when he hears the doors close. His brows furrow as he looks at Nakala’s petite form and then hardens when it looks above and past her at the red haired Saiyan behind her. The fur along his body raises in anger as he pushes off the wall and stalks up to them, pointing a finger at Gogeta and growling out, ‘you absolute IDIOT’

Chapter Text

‘You sure took your sweet time getting here! Do you know how long it’s been!?’ The being seethes as he stomps up to Gogeta who chuckles weakly and holds his hands up. ‘Where have you been!? What took you so long!?’ He stops when he sees Nakala unintentionally blocking him from getting too close to Gogeta. She flinches slightly when she feels hands gently grab her arms and she squeaks a little when he moves her to the side, giving her a gentle, ‘excuse me’ before glaring back at Gogeta and going back to yelling at him. 

‘What could have distracted you for so long that you let everyone end up here!? Did you even have a plan!?’ He grabs the lapels of Gogeta’s vest to shake him angrily. 

Nakala is a little worried about Gogeta’s safety for a second but it dissipates when she sees him laughing and scratching the back of his head as he explains himself. She uses that time to look at the two and compare their appearance, taking out a pen from her pocket, sitting a safe distance away and filling some info out to report to Rhodes when they get back. 

Despite both being of similar height, the most notable of the new addition is that instead of having deep red fur like Gogeta, his is a brighter red. She notices that he also has red markings along his eyes like Gogeta but a faint light is seen glistening next to his face. Oh! Earrings! Her excitement grows as she looks between the two and their comparisons especially when she regards his outfit in contrast to Gogeta’s. Where Gogeta has his vest along with a long ribbon belt and baggy pants with wrappings on his wrist and ankles and boots, the new guy is bare chested with the same ribbon belt, a black waist cape and baggy pants but with gauntlet gloves with boots to match. She’s glad that there are more like their species since she always thought that another one of his kind would also have bright red hair, but the new subject has a shocking black. Still spiky and intimidating, she muses but mentally waves it off. She jumps when she hears sudden yelling and looks at the two to make sure everything is okay.

‘YOU DESTROYED OUR HOME!?’ The subject yells.

‘YEAH BUT I GOT US A BETTER ONE’ Gogeta yells back then points to Nakala who blanches, ‘she helped!’

The new subject side eyes him in disbelief and makes his way over to where shes sitting. 

She watches him approach and crouch in front of her, ‘theres no way this idiot found us a new home since I’m the one who found our last one so I’m gonna assume it was all you and thank only you for giving us a new home. Sorry you had to deal with him for a while,’ he nods back to a now pouting Gogeta who walks up to them and moving behind her, ‘it must not have been easy’

‘He actually was very nice when I first met him, a little goofy, but not as bad as he could’ve been’ Nakala explains.

The new guy blinks in surprise then glances up at Gogeta, ‘wow, you finally found somebody who can actually tolerate you Gogeta’ he taunts.

‘It’s cause of my charm, I got her wrapped around my finger’ Gogeta grins.

‘Says the one who sulked like a child when I left for 15 minutes’ Nakala fires back with a smirk at him, enjoying his pout as they hear the other saiyan laughing jovially. 

‘That’s it, we’re leaving. Time to drop him off in the new territory and get the others’ Gogeta folds his arms and makes his way to the door, wrapping his tail around her waist and lifting her as if she weighs nothing and walking out. The guards don't notice Nakala at first and raise their weapons but stifle their laughter when they see her exasperated face being carried away gently by his tail. One of them gives her a weak chuckling wave as they walk away.

Nakala huffs as shes carried away and meets the eyes of the new subject who slows his steps to talk to her. 

‘I didn't get to introduce myself earlier, I’m Vegito’ he smiles, ‘is our territory really that good?’

‘Nakala,’ she smiles, ‘And I think so, i haven't heard Gogeta complain. He even made a nest and it’s very comfy’ 

When she looks through the file and her notes, she completely misses the raised eyebrows of Vegito and the proud smirk from Gogeta that they give each other. 

‘So everything is provided?’

She nods, ‘once we figure out how much you need to eat per day plus what your stomach can handle, then we can get started on meal plans!’

‘Mhm. So then what do you get out of all this?’ He looks at her.

‘What do I get?’ She tilts her head.

‘Yeah, you like our caretaker or something?’

‘More like a researcher that is interested in your species and wants you to thrive comfortably while youre staying here’ she explains.

‘Gogeta mentioned a deal you both had that got us the territory but wouldnt tell me’ he leans a little closer and purrs, ‘you’ll be sweet and tell me right?’

‘Ah’ she feels her cheeks warm, ‘well, it was that me and my team get to research you and your troop without harm and in exchange you get a new territory in the facility as well as food and anything you could ask for. Within my limits obviously, there are other beings that live here and we accommodate them as well’

‘So what is this? A place for nonhumans?’

‘Kind of in a way. We keep nonhumans safe as well as the public,’ she shakes her head, ‘and given how strong he is as an example,’ she points behind her at Gogeta, ‘the public would either panic if they saw him or try to kill him and now that we know that theres six more of your species, it would be beneficial for both parties if you all stay here. We don't want you or others harmed’ she explains. 

She smiles warmly at him and he blinks in surprise. Nakala feels her feet touch the floor gently and she turns to see that they're in front of the South Wing entrance. 

‘Oh we’re here’ she realizes then looks at Vegito, ‘ready to see your new home?’ She pushes the door open where eyes immediately latch onto the newcomer who isn’t fazed in the slightest. The stares don't last long when Rhodes walks up happily to the trio.

‘He looks so much different from Gogeta!’ 

‘I’m just as excited as you are but I’m gonna need you to calm down’ Nakala chuckles as Rhodes deflates.

‘Why don't you show Vegito the nest while I find the next member?’ Gogeta murmurs into her ear, ‘I can distract Steph while you do so’

‘It’s your territory’ Nakala argues.

‘Eh, he’ll probably brag on how good he made this nest given the first one he made couldn’t even hold up against two of our other members, so it’d be good that you come with me. That way I can judge it without a fight’ Vegito waves and moves Nakala towards the doors to the enclosure, ‘I’m just itching to see how small it is and how bad the nest looks!’ He calls back at a Gogeta who gives him the finger while his back is turned. 

When Nakala opens the door and lets Vegito walk in and take a deep breath of fresh air, exhaling in content. He looks over at Nakala who gazes back at him expectantly.

‘Huh?’

‘You’re not gonna…’ she gestures to the area, ‘You’re not gonna run off to see how far it goes?’

‘I want to see the nest first, wouldn't do me any good if I just ran off to see and I accidentally ruined it’ he shrugs.

‘That’s smart’ Nakala closes the door and leads him there.

‘Let me guess,’ Vegito lifts a branch out of his face to let her pass by him, ‘thats what dumdum did when he first got here?’

He gets his answer when Nakala simply looks back at him and tries not to let a laugh slip.

He chuckles and joins her side when the nest is right at their feet. He scrutinizes it by stepping in and applying pressure in places. He catches the scent of both Gogeta and Nakala and hums. No wonder she smells like him…the scent is weak so they haven't done that yet, he ponders. He notices her still standing at the edge of the nest and gives her a look.

‘Why the heck are you all the way over there?’

‘This is your troops nest!’ She calls.

‘Yeah, so why aren't you in here?’

‘Cause I’m not part of your troop?’ She questions.

He makes another face and walks up to her, his face visibly confused, ‘you’ve already been in here tho’

‘Yeah to wake up Gogeta’

‘So?’

‘What do you mean, so? I’m lucky to even be alive, if he wasnt such a goofball I would've been killed if I went into a nest that I wasn’t part of!’

Vegito gives her an unblinking stare then chuckles and shakes his head.

‘What’s so funny???’

‘Well I mean I could tell you,’ he settles himself into the nest and grins up at her still standing form, ‘but whatever this is is much more amusing’

‘Nothing about this is amusing if I can potentially get killed, Vegito!’ 

‘You won’t be killed’ he waves it away ‘you’ll be fine’

‘Right’ she huffs, ‘cause Gogeta is the strongest?’

‘We both are. And if he’s fine with you being in the nest, then so am I’

‘Well thats reassuring’ Nakala sighs, ‘I hope you enjoy it here, I’m gonna go see if Rhodes hasn't talked his ear off with questions’

‘Oh! One more thing!’ He calls.

She turns to look at him and jumps when he's suddenly in front of her, a languid smile on his face. She feels his hand on the back of her head and tenses when her cheek meets the bare part of his chest.

Not again, she internally whines and doesn't even try to pull away due to how pointless it is. She notices his face getting closer to her’s and he hums, ‘thanks for doing this for us, I’ll make sure the others including the red haired idiot don't hurt you or your subordinates’ 

‘Youre welcome and thank you????’ Nakala mumbles loud enough for him to hear and he releases her with a smile, making his way back to the nest to lounge into it. 

As soon as Nakala steps out of the enclosure, shes surprised by Gogeta showing up in front of her. 

He shows her another file and grins, ‘lets grab him next!’

She takes the file and looks it over, mentally figuring out where they have to go. She passively leans away from Gogeta moving closer to sniff her and she sideeyes him. 

‘Do you have to be so close?’ She gives him a look 

‘Why do you smell like him?’

‘Huh?’

She isn’t given an answer before he curls the file with his tail and crushes her in a tight hug.

‘What the hell!’ She flails ‘let go!’

‘Nope. We’re going to get the next member, just like this!’

As they make their way out, Nakala yells, ‘you don't even know where it is!’

Gogeta looks over at Rhodes, and Nakala following his gaze throws a glare at Rhodes as well, ‘Rhodes you better not!’

‘Take a left, turn right, third door on the right’ she smiles.

She cackles loudly as she hears Nakala yelling about her being a traitor as Gogeta laughs down the hallway. 

Chapter Text

‘Aw c’mon, you're not seriously mad at me are ya?’ Gogeta looks at the peeved bundle in his arms.

Nakala looks away from him and pouts, choosing to ignore him.

‘I do it to keep you safe! There, happy?’ 

‘How is you smothering me in your chest, keeping me safe!?’ She argues.

‘Cause if you don't smell like me, the others won’t know that you're telling the truth’ he says matter-of-factly. 

‘You’re with me to clarify that I am telling the truth. No smothering needed’ she snaps back. 

‘Oh look, we’re here!’ He sets her down in front of another room.

He notices that there are no guards blocking the door this time and tilts his head in question.

‘This place is for beings that aren't a threat, there’s not really any need for any guards here’

Gogeta shakes his head and chuckles, gesturing for Nakala to open the door. As she does, Gogeta opens the door to address the being inside, her following close behind.

‘Seriously Goku? You couldn’t even fight off people trying to bring you to strange places? Have we taught you nothing????’

Nakala moves to the side of him to enter further in the room to see who hes talking to and barely gets a glimpse of them before a large red blur flies past her and to Gogeta who catches them easily. 

‘You came!’ The being cheers.

‘Answer me’ Gogeta huffs and drops the large saiyan, who doesnt even flinch at the treatment, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment.

‘Ah…well, I was gonna fight back but uhh…they were super weak and I didn’t want anyone to get hurt. Plus when I went with them they gave me a bunch of food and now I got my own room!’ 

‘I can’t believe you got lured into this place with food like a common animal’ Gogeta shakes his head, ‘would you even have gone back?’

 ‘Of course I would have! This place isn’t like home. And now you're here to bring me back right?’ he thinks on it then looks at Gogeta, ‘can we eat before we leave? They got a bunch of new ones I haven't yet!’

‘You got every chance to eat this places food given that we’re living here now’ Gogeta explains, ‘thanks to her’ he nods to Nakala with a smirk.

Nakala glares at him, ‘don't make it seem like I'm the one who destroyed your home. It’s thanks to me that your troop even has a place to stay!’ 

She jumps when a large figure looms over her, drowning her in shadow. Eyes like the sun greet her curiously, just as bright and she blinks up at him.

‘You gave us a new home? What happened to the old one?’

‘Your troop member destroyed it’ she throws Gogeta under the bus, sideeyeing him.

‘Oh…I'm just glad it wasn't me this time!’ He giggles.

He looks down at her once more, ‘our new home, it’s nice yeah?’

‘I think so, we already have Vegito there and are going to get the others in your troop’

‘Whoa! Vegito is here too!?’ He turns to look at the red haired saiyan who rolls his eyes at him.

‘You didnt sense any of them when you got here? You really do have rocks for brains when youre hungry’

‘I sensed them! But no one was in danger so I focused more on eating instead’ Goku pouts, folding his arms.

‘I can get you something to eat when we get back if you want?’ Nakala offers him with a smile.

She chuckles when she sees the amazed look Goku throws her. Could his eyes get any brighter??? Nakala is soon swept off of her feet and smothered once again in a bone crushing hug.

‘Thank you! Are we leaving now?’

‘We can leave now’ she chuckles. How is he so scary yet precious???

‘Great!’ He makes his way to the door, ignoring the slightly peeved look Gogeta throws at him, ‘I can’t wait to get there! I’m starving!’ He looks back at Gogeta to lead the way and he does so silently. 

Nakala feels a small squeeze to her body and looks up to see Goku looking at her.

‘I’m Goku by the way!’ He grins.

‘I’m Nakala!’ She smiles back. 

‘So are you the one who’s gonna take care of us?’

‘I’ll be researching and providing for you if that’s what you mean’ she explains.

‘…providing’ he says quietly, staring at her. 

Nakala feels a little unnerved by his glowing stare and notices that they’ve stopped walking. She turns her head to see if Gogeta stopped as well but he kept walking towards the South Wing. Before she can call out to him to stop as well, she feels a warm breath at her neck. Her face quickly warms when she feels his lips there immediately after, slowly rubbing them and his cheek against her skin. 

‘G-Goku??’ She stammers.

‘You smell nice’ he hums.

‘Can you let me go?’ She squirms a little.

‘But you smell good’ he whines quietly.

Before she can protest, she sees a blood red arm reach out from behind her to grab a fistful of pitch black mane to yank Goku’s head back.

‘Let her go Goku’ Gogeta says flatly.

Another whine is released from him before he reluctantly lets her go, Nakala shaking off her flustered nerves as Gogeta growls something to Goku that she doesn’t understand and Goku mumbling something back in the same dialect. 

Gogeta looks at Nakala, ‘he’ll be on his best behavior’ and continues to lead them.

Turning the corner, Nakala feels something fuzzy brush her arm and looks to see Goku close to her. 

‘Sorry about that, guess I’ve been away from contact for a while. I just missed how it felt for a bit’ he avoids her gaze and rubs the back of his head.

 A gesture she notices that he does whenever he’s embarrassed. This being is damn near larger than me and could break me in half no problem I bet…so why do I want to hug him!!!???? This isn’t even fair!  

Nakala bites the inside of her cheek in thought and with a glance at Gogeta’s back, she slides her hand against Goku’s to hold it to reassure him. She can’t ignore how large his hand is compared to hers but doesn't question it as she notices how his eyes light up at the simple gesture and practically beams in happiness til they make their way to the research room. Rhodes says nothing as she watches Gogeta separate their hands and move Goku to the enclosure, shoving him inside and ignoring his pouting face but lighting up quickly when Vegito appears and they hug warmly. She tilts her head when she sees how Vegito smells Goku and throws him a cheeky grin as the other rubs the back of his head and laughs off a blush before they walk off further into the enclosure. Both Nakala and Rhodes exchange a glance as Gogeta grabs a random file before walking off out of the door. 

‘Let’s go’ he mumbles as he holds the door open for her. 

‘What’s up with him? You’d think he’d be happy we’re getting them back together’ Nakala tilts her head.

Rhodes hides her chuckle behind her hand, ‘I think he’s jealous’

‘You think so? That’s so childish’ Nakala snickers as she jogs a little to catch up to the red haired male. 

When she catches up to his side, he hands her the file, ‘where to next?’

She looks at the file and then at him, ‘it’s this way. Come on’ she takes a chance and grabs his hand like she did to Goku and she feels him tense up before blinking in realization and practically puffing up in pride, a self assured smirk on his face as she leads him to a nearby room shaking her head at the swift change. When they enter, their smiles fade quickly when they witness the scene before them.

Chapter Text

Various guards are being tended to by medics in the main room while others point weapons to the adjacent room in front of them. 

‘What happened here?’ Nakala asks, catching the attention of a few guards who notice Gogeta behind her and point their weapons at him as well.

Gogeta isn’t too fazed and blinks in confusion as to why he was also targeted when he just got here. He smirks at the guards when Nakala stands between them and states that he's with her.

‘This area is under lockdown due to violent activity, you and him can’t be in here’ a guard states. 

‘There’s a being in here that is to be relocated’ Nakala explains, ‘we’re here to get him’

‘They need to be sedated before transport’ another guard states.

‘They don't really need to do that’ Gogeta whispers to Nakala and rolls his shoulders, ‘let me deal with him, I can set him straight’

‘If they let you in there, we don’t know how much damage you two could do. Plus I doubt if they can’t handle whoever is in there, they absolutely can’t handle you too’

‘I’ll be careful’ he shrugs, ‘plus, you're handling me not them’

‘I’m working with you’ she presses, ‘I'm not your handler’ 

When Gogeta leans back and groans, Nakala gets a thought.

‘Is there a way to talk to him?’

‘Not with me’ Gogeta rolls his eyes, ‘he's too fired up, I might get too annoyed and knock him unconscious. Would that work if he’s knocked out in the new territory?’

’Would you like to be beaten unconscious and woken up in an unfamiliar place?’

Gogeta scrutinizes the idea then huffs ’Thats fair’ 

‘…would it be safe if I go with you?’ She offers.

Gogeta makes a face and before he can respond, he sees her talking to the guards about being a mediator. She manages to sway them a little with her throwing in the Director’s approval and they relent, everyone but Gogeta jumping in surprise when a body is thrown into the reinforced shock glass in the other room.

‘Now you're just showing off’ Gogeta scoffs and joins her side as she makes her way to the room.

‘Stop’ a guard points his weapon at Gogeta, ‘it was only agreed that she go in, not you. You're the same as him, you cant be trusted’

Gogeta and Nakala exchange glances and he sighs, folding his arms behind his head, ‘Fine. But once I feel you're in danger I'm going in there, and I’m not gonna be nice’

‘You think you can take him in there?’ A guard challenges making Gogeta side eye him with a smug smirk, ‘of course I can. We might be the same,’ his eyes glow threateningly, ‘but I'm stronger’ he watches her enter the room from the other side and watches carefully, his tail twitches slightly in mild worry for Nakala. His body tense.

Nakala tries not to throw up as the smell of blood permeates the air. She looks around and sees the fallen guards that unfortunately met their fates at the hands of the being standing in the center of the room. She was confused at first as she sees only a curtain of bloodied hair, black pants and dark boots lined in gold to match that remind her almost of the boots that Vegito wears. She jumps when the door to the room slides closed loudly in the deafening silence and tenses when she hears the being take in a deep breath, letting out a sinister laugh.

‘So all it took was a couple mangled bodies and death for them to come to their senses and reward me with a woman’ the Saiyan turns and looks her right in the eye. Shes frozen to the spot as golden orange eyes pin her in place, matted spots of blood on his arms and bare chest not to mention the paltry lighting in the room that she can’t discern if his fur is dark red or a reddish brown. Nakala does manage to shake herself out of the sight and realize that he’s slowly stalking towards her, an eager grin on his face. She slowly moves out of his pouncing range but is met with the cold of the glass behind her, effectively trapping her deeper into the room and away from the door. Her foot squishes against something on the ground, making her look quickly and she instantly regrets it when she sees a bloody severed hand under her foot. She squeaks and quickly moves her foot away but leaves her open to his attack. Nakala flinches and covers her head with her arms to protect herself. She can feel the massive weight of the attacker without him even touching her, his presence suffocating. Before she can take a peek to gauge how close he is, she feels something against her hand. When she chances a look to what it is, she realizes that it’s his face, he was sniffing her hand, brows furrowed. 

He snatches her wrist so he can look her in the face, ‘why do you smell like him?’

‘…..who?’ She says carefully

‘My dim witted brother!’ He snarls, ‘I knew his signature was here but I didn’t think you’d sleep with him over me’

Stunned, Nakala can’t control the offended tone and yells out, ‘WHAT!?’

A large bloodied hand covers her mouth and he leans to nuzzle her neck as he muses, ‘hmm, no. You didnt sleep with him, the scent is too weak. That’s perfect.’ He licks a stripe up her neck, wrapping a long tail and thickly muscled arm around her waist to keep her pressed close to him, making her shudder in uncertain fear as he growls into her ear, ‘because now i can make you mine’ 

Nakala places her hands onto his chest to feebly attempt to push him away but it only makes him push harder into her, a rumbling purr being felt through her palms. His advances are soon cut short when a firm knock is heard and felt from the opposite side of the glass, grabbing the beings attention and making him tense in fear. 

‘What is he doing here?’ He growls and backs away, taking Nakala with him further into the room, ‘you can’t stake your claim here’

They watch as Gogeta points to Nakala and then points to himself.

‘She bares Goku’s scent, not yours and even that is weak. You have no claim Gogeta’

‘I think he means that he's with me, work wise’ Nakala speaks up, having calmed herself down at the sight of Gogeta being present, ‘I’m helping him by bringing your troop to a new home in the facility’ 

‘And why would you do that? Why risk your life by working with him???’

‘Mainly for research’ she makes a face, ‘and what do you mean risking my life? You're the only one who’s ever made me think that it was in danger’

‘You’re very foolish to think that I would’ve given you anything less than unending pleasure but it seems your senses are truly dull if you don't sense the deathly intent he is giving off at the moment’

She glances back at him but he keeps his eyes fixated on the red haired saiyan on the other side of the glass. It made her think that even though she was still in the arms of a killer, he was effectively cornered by a much larger predator despite the glass between them. Like a mouse in the paws of a cat who is about to be caught by a tiger. Nakala thinks on what kind of face Gogeta must be making for this being to be so tense and wary and glances at her companion who looks so passive about this, even waving at the two when he has both of their attention. He’s such a goober, how is this guy so scared of him? 

Nakala decides to play into his fear in order to get herself out of this situation. 

‘Well, if you can sense his intent, then I think it would be in your best interest to let me go unharmed and come with us’

‘And why would I do that?’ Her captor doesnt look at her, his sights trained on Gogeta as if the red haired saiyan could jump him at any time. 

‘Because there’s an entire territory for you as well as being taken care of with no problem. There’s already two of them in there and they seem content’

’You think you can keep all of us contained?’ He chances a glance at her, ‘you think you can control him?’ He nods at a smirking Gogeta on the other side of the glass. 

’I’m not here to control him. My job is to provide for you guys and make you all comfortable enough to stay here and be researched’

The saiyan hums with a cocky smile, ‘might be a good thing for a woman to provide for me for once’

’I'm doing this for everyone’ Nakala corrects.

’Didn't know I had to be sharing’ he grumbles, ‘as long as I get first dibs’

’First dibs on what!?’ She looks at him incredulously and he rolls his eyes.

’You, of course. What else would my provider be doing????’

’Making sure you're alive?????’ 

‘That doesnt sound nearly as entertaining’ 

She tries to squirm out of his grip only to be held closer by her waist attached closely to his hip by his tail as he makes his way out of the room. Practically using her as a human shield as Gogeta approaches the two casually, she can feel him tense up silently. She watches as he gives the saiyan a closed eyed smile but does catch up on the slight growl Gogeta has in his tone when he places a passive hand on his troop member’s shoulder and giving him a strong enough squeeze to make a point.

’Might be best to let her go before I have to make you Raditz’ 

Nakala blinks when she feels a reluctant squeeze to her waist then a slow release from his tail, peeking up to see Raditz fold his arms and grumble. She notices that the armed guards have made room for the three and approaches one of them. 

‘Can you please inform the Director about the loss of life and any injuries my new subject has committed? I will make sure this doesn't happen again’

’Consider it done’ one says.

’You have to deal with two of them now, how are you still alive?’ Another side eyes her. 

‘I have to take care of eight of them’ she sighs and looks at him with a small raise to her eyebrows.

She doesnt miss how some of the other agents balk at her in surprise.

‘You’re insane…you in research?’

’I am’

‘Then God help you with that one’ he nods to Raditz who looks less than amused that Gogeta is so close to him, ‘and the seven others that you have to take care of’

’Thanks I guess’ she grimaces.

She notices how tense the guards get and turns her head to see Gogeta leading Raditz by his shoulders closer to them. 

‘He’s excited to see the territory and we have to go get the others’ Gogeta reminds her with a fanged smile. 

‘Right’ Nakala nods and nods to the guards as they walk out of the room, leaving the guards to call for cleanup. 

She follows behind the two, looking around and smelling something off. 

‘You good back there?’ Gogeta throws her a glance from over his shoulder, taking in her confusion.

’Yeah,’ she rubs her nose, ‘does it smell like blood in here to you?’

’He’s drenched in blood so I was just gonna throw him in the lake before he gets in the nest’ he grins.

’You will do no such thing!’ Raditz snarls from his hold.

They make it to the South Wing doors and Nakala doesn't even look at the interns and Rhodes who cover their mouths and noses at the familiar smell of blood in the air. 

‘Are you okay?’ Rhodes looks her over.

‘I’m fine. There’s a cleanup crew being utilized where we got him’ Nakala explains.

’…because of him I’m guessing?’ Rhodes points to the new addition.

’Mhm. He’s dangerous, but I think we won’t have to worry about much since Gogeta seems to keep his more violent tendencies in check’

’So what are we to expect when you and him leave?’

’Well Vegito claims that he's just as strong as Gogeta so I think he can also handle him’ she sighs, ‘I almost hate to say it, but it was a smart move getting Vegito first’ 

She rubs her nose again and pouts, ‘why does it still smell like blood in here?’

’Ah right!’ Rhodes leans over her desk to get something out of her bag, ‘you got a little something on your face, its why I asked if you were okay’

’…please tell me there isn’t blood on my face’ Nakala grimaces.

’I’m gonna choose to not answer but I think you already know’ Rhodes throws her a look from over her desk as she searches.

Gogeta joins her side soon after Rhodes pops up with a face wipe and Nakala side eyes him, ‘this entire time you didn't tell me I had blood on my face?’

’…you didn't want it there?’ Gogeta tilts his head curiously.

’Why would I want someone’s blood on my face!?’

’Thats fair. Hold on’ she watches as he obnoxiously licks his palm and before she can protest he actively cleanses her face of blood with his saliva covered hand.

Rhodes hides her laugh as best as she can as she can physically see Nakala internally screaming. Watching as she flails around to get away from the “cleaning”, Gogeta eventually pouts and growls for her to stay still as she tries to fight out of his hold. When he deems her face clean by his standards, he steps away proudly and wipes his hand on his pants, ‘There. Face clean’

He’s confused by the mortified look Nakala throws at him and decides to look over at the rest of the files as Nakala grabs the few face wipes from a giggling Rhodes and furiously wipes her face. 

‘Wow, not even a thank you’ Gogeta scoffs playfully, metaphorically dodging the daggers Nakala tries to stab him with by not making eye contact with her. 

He notices something and attempts to distract her by showing her another file. 

‘These two might be a problem for you, but theyre in the same place’, he points to the other two files, ‘while these two are a lot easier but are the farthest away. Take your pick’ he waves the files in her face playfully. 

She narrows her eyes at him then snatches the file and walks out of the room. Gogeta glances at Rhodes who smiles passively and shrugs, ‘it’ll pass in time’

’All I did was help’ he huffs.

’Squish her between your boobs again. She enjoyed that last time’ Rhodes jokes.

’Boobs?’ He tilts his head.

Rhodes points to his chest and he laughs, ‘If that’ll help her not be mad at me!’ Before running out and catching up to her. 

Chapter Text

When Gogeta catches up to Nakala, he's happy that she’s waited up for him before she entered the room but his warm smile falls when he notices how tense she is. He can practically feel her apprehension in the air and leans down a little to look her over. 

‘Nakala’ he says softly. His tone of voice jolted her out of her disassociation and made the woman blink up at him. 

‘This is the Examination Room’ she says tersely. 

‘I remember you bringing up this room before’ he continues in his soft tone, ‘is it that bad going in there?’

‘Going in there isn’t the problem’ she stares at the doors,’ there’s someone in there I'd rather not see again’

’Want me to go in there?’ He offers. 

Nakala leans her head back with her eyes closed and takes a deep breath to calm her nerves. 

Her eyes open slowly and meets his, ‘you don't have the credentials to get them out, but I appreciate your offer’

Nakala blinks in surprise when Gogeta reaches out and gently brings her to his chest, a soft rumbling being felt through her cheek. She doesn't notice his warm smile when she lets out a relieved sigh and wraps her arms around his middle. Lightly scratching the fur along his back in her way of thanks and smiling as that earns her a stronger rumbling. He feels her tense and looks down at her shocked gaze, letting out a hum in question.

’We definitely have to go get them if they're in there. I can’t imagine what he's done to them if they were left in his care’ she grimaces, ‘or lack thereof’ 

‘They're strong. He couldn’t do much to them since their energy is fine’

She glances at the door apprehensively, ‘and you're sure it stayed fine this whole time?’

Gogeta scratches the side of his cheek, ‘there were times where one of theirs did jump a couple times but it stopped when I got here’

Nakala steps away to approach the doors, ‘I don't like that. The quicker they get to the new enclosure the better’ she readies to swipe her key card and glances at him, ‘you got my back right?’

Gogeta rolls his eyes, ‘you think I would’ve comforted anybody else?’

Nakala shrugs, ’probably not but I’m glad you did’ and swipes her card.

At the sound of a beep, the two are greeted by frantic movement in every corner of the room. Both of their eyes dart around trying to assess the situation and fail when they can’t visibly get any answers. One of the examiners hears the doors open and glances over, blinking in shock at the two in the doorway watching the scene. 

They stomp up to Nakala, pointing to Gogeta and huffing, ‘Look, we’re a little hectic at the moment, so if you need this one examined, you're gonna have to wait. We have our own to deal with and recently they haven't been cooperating, despite our efforts’

’Efforts?’ Nakala throws them a look, jumping in shock when the two hear loud electrical buzzing followed by a pained scream from one of the rooms. 

Nakala hisses in empathy in the direction of the screams and notices Gogeta’s fur stand on end. She can practically feel the anger rolling off of him behind her.

‘Yes. Despite the command change, we were seeing improvements albeit unconventionally. But it seems like the species that look a lot like this one, are causing a lot of trouble since we got them,’ they passively point at Gogeta, ‘if you're here to drop him off in our department, we’d be happy to take him in but you’ll have to wait. One of our subjects is not long for this world due to an unorthodox experiment from our boss so give us around an hour or two for cleanup and disinfection’

Nakala has to back into Gogeta for comfort on both parts as she fights the urge to cuss out the oblivious examiner. She does relax a little when she feels his tail around her calf for reassurance as she explains why shes there.

’I’m not here to drop him off’ she tries to hide her growing hatred for the actions taking place here, ‘I’m here to pick up the two species that have resided under your care by orders of the Director’

’…You're here to pick them up? And put them where???’ The examiner scrutinizes her.

’South Wing enclosure’ she states, ‘effective immediately’ 

‘I would need approval from my superior’ they state and at this point Nakala is tired of hearing from them.

At the sound of more electrical buzzing and screaming as well as chirps and guttural sounds from other creatures in the area, Nakala no longer wants to deal with it and makes her way to look for Gogeta’s troop members. When the examiner moves to stop her by grabbing her wrist, they’re immediately blocked by Gogeta stepping between them, pinning them in place with his icy stare as she looks through the glass observation rooms. He hears her small gasp and makes her way to her side to see what shes looking at. 

A large shape is hunched over in the corner of the small room, tightly holding themself as a way of self comfort. Nakala quickly moves to the key reader and swipes her card, her anger quickly leaving the room as she enters with Gogeta close behind when she sees the being trembling when they hear the two come in. Nakala glances sadly at Gogeta and even his anger simmers down when he regards his troop member.

’Broly’ he says quietly, earning a strong jolt from the saiyan in the corner. 

Under a curtain of dark spiked hair, pale yellow eyes peek over a dark -almost black- red furred arm. Nakala maintains a safe distance away from the unfamiliar saiyan as Gogeta walks up to him quietly. Broly lifts his head slowly to assess him and visibly relaxes when he sits next to him and bumps his head into Broly’s back affectionately. Nakala hears them grumbling something between themselves and notices how large Broly is compared to Gogeta. 

‘And i thought Gogeta was large’ she thinks in controlled astonishment.

She blinks in surprise when the two look at her and Broly further uncurls himself from his protective position, ‘?’

’I’m leaving this place?’ He says so quietly she has to focus to hear him.

’You are’ she warmly smiles at him, ‘whenever you're ready’

Broly turns to look at Gogeta who stands and nods his consent and Nakala tries not to rush to aid him when he weakly stands and painfully stretches his limbs. That all takes a backseat when she sees him approach her and she involuntarily holds her breath when he practically towers over her. Not meeting his curious yet intense gaze she notices something around his neck and her blood boils. Both Broly and Gogeta notice the anger on her face and Broly leans back a little when she points at the collar around his neck.

’Did they put that on you when you came here?’ she says through clenched teeth.

Broly looks away from her and nods, ‘they said it was to help me’

’Of course they’d tell you that shit’ she internally growls then shakes her head, ‘I’m pretty sure you're better off without it’ she gives him a small smile, ‘would you like it off?’

Her heart simultaneously warms and breaks when she sees the hope the large saiyan throws at her. 

‘I’d like that very much,’ he says warmly, giving her a small smile. 

It should be illegal to be that massive and adorable, She internally growls.

She notices how thin it is and looks at him, ‘you never tried to take it off?’

’I cant. Whenever I tried I would get a stronger shock for longer’ he explains.

’So they did improve it’ she sighs.

’What do you mean? I can just grab it and break it’ Gogeta scoffs and reaches for the collar which beeps loudly and the blood visibly drains from Broly's face as he's soon doubled over in pain from the electricity flowing violently from the collar to his throat. A deafening scream fills the room and Nakala’s heart breaks seeing the large saiyan crumble to the floor gripping the collar for dear life to escape the pain. Her eyes meet Gogeta’s guilty ones and clap her hands to catch his attention and snap him out of his panicked confusion.

’There should be an off switch somewhere in the main room’ she maneuvers around Broly to look for the number of the collar then looks back at Gogeta, ‘look for number 341 and get someone to shut it down for you. If they can’t or won’t help you turn it off, find the remote and break it’ she informs hastily.

Gogeta rushes past her and back into the chaos of the main room, easily dodging examiners to check out the computers. He has no idea what to make of the screens but luckily bumps into a floor cabinet that reveals controllers with numbers on them. He goes out on a limb and finds a controller with the number Nakala gave him and breaks it effortlessly. His ear twitches when he no longer hears Broly’s pained screams and quickly makes his way to the room to see Nakala gently running her fingers through his hair and offering soothing words of comfort. 

She quickly spots Gogeta entering and asks, ‘did you find it?’

’It wasn’t in a computer but I broke the remote’ he reaches out for the collar again and before Nakala can yell at him, he manages to grab and break the collar effortlessly.

The pieces fall away before Broly’s eyes and he buries his face further into Nakala’s chest as he heaves a sigh of relief and deflates at the reassuring pets and coos she gives him to help. 

She looks at Gogeta, ‘I don't know whether to bring him to the South Wing first and then come back for your other troop member…’ she trails off, lost.

’I thought you didn't want to come back here’ Gogeta points out, grabbing under both Broly and Nakala’s arms to lift them to stand gently. 

‘I don't, but I don't want him to stay here any longer than he needs to’ Nakala explains.

’But you hate this place, or whoever is in here so I can’t just show up to our new territory without you and leave you here by yourself’ Gogeta argues gently.

’Yeah but-‘

’I’ll wait,’ Broly cuts in, drawing both of their attention.

’But you're hurt’ Nakala argues.

He gives her a weak smile, ‘If it’s to get both of us out of here and not come back, I’ll wait’

Nakala stressfully weighs her options then huffs, ‘Fine, but you're not staying in this room’ 

She assists Gogeta in leading Broly out of the room, absentmindedly petting his arm to soothe him. When the trio walk out, they dont notice that the main room has significantly quieted down. Nakala looks around to see where she can place Broly with minimal interaction and freezes when her eyes meet with a familiar pair that fills her with pure fury. 

‘Well…look who it is’ the owner of the voice lounges in his chair.

Gogeta blinks in realization and peers over at Nakala to gauge her reaction to seeing Matthews in the same vicinity. 

He jolts when Nakala’s hardened stare is directed at him and states, ‘We’re getting Broly out of here’

’So you want to come back?’ 

‘I don't feel comfortable enough leaving Broly here by himself, we’ll have to come back for the other troop member’ she starts to lead Broly to the door.

’Umm, I don't think so’ Matthews sing songs, waving his hand passively.

At his gesture, a few guards block the exit to the Examination Room, keeping the trio from leaving. Gogeta sizes up the guards as he moves both Nakala and Broly behind him and Nakala glares at Matthews.

‘I’m bringing him back with me to the South Wing and I’m coming back for the other subject. You aren't going to stop me Matthews’ she growls.

‘Mmm’ Matthews hums then smirks at her, ‘no, you're not’

’Watch me’ she challenges.

Matthews chuckles and stands, shaking his head, ‘let me clarify. You are fully welcome to take them off my hands Roberts, but only this once. I’m not allowing you back here penalty free to take something from me a third time. So the choice is yours, either leave now with that one,’ he points to Broly who looks away from him, ‘or risk your life to get the beast in that room and take them both’

Chapter Text

Nakala gives him a level stare and bunches Gogeta and Broly together. 

‘I’m not making any decision unless its agreed upon by you two’ she states.

’Aww, you need approval by your pets…thats cute’ Matthews taunts.

Nakala chooses to ignore him but Gogeta throws him a snarling glare, only being gently coaxed back to the huddle when Nakala touches his shoulder. 

‘I don't want to leave Broly out here by himself if both of us have to go in there to get your other troop member’ Nakala huffs.

’Have him come with us’ Gogeta shrugs.

His suggestion is rebuffed when Nakala shakes her head, ‘If that asshole is willing to trap me in there with just you in the hopes of having you kill me, I don't doubt that he’d trap me again with three of you in a room. Death would be certain at that point’

’Hey, give me some credit. If I didn’t hurt you then, I’m not gonna now. I wouldn't let anybody hurt you, not even them’ Gogeta pointed his thumb at a surprised Broly who vigorously shakes his head.

‘I wouldn't hurt you either’ he says quietly. 

‘But can you guarantee that your troop member won't?’ She looks at them both, feeling a little apprehensive when the two look away in uncertainty. 

‘You shouldn’t be in any danger’ Broly tries to reassure her, ‘you don't smell like them’ 

‘Would it make it easier if you just went in there?’ Nakala looks at Gogeta, ‘you said you're the strongest and you can explain the situation to them’

’Yeah but I’m not exactly his favorite and I doubt he’ll be happy to see me especially after he hears about me destroying our home outside’

’You destroyed our home???’ Broly looks at him sadly, making Gogeta look away and huff.

’Yes, and I’m very sorry about that. It’s a good thing that she had pulled some strings to get us a new one’ he folds his arms as he nods at Nakala.

Nakala has to look away from Broly’s amazed face to stay focused on the task and not throw herself at him to embrace him.

 ‘So I guess I have to go in there alone then’ she sighs.

’I’ll still be fast enough to save you if you are in danger’ Gogeta pats her head.

’I’ll help too’ Broly nods minutely. 

Nakala nods and glares at Matthews, ‘I’ll go get them myself’ and makes her way to the room theyre being held in.

’Not so fast’ she feels an arm slung casually over her shoulder, ‘it’s too dangerous to go in there with that thing alone. I’ll chaperone, you know, make sure you’ll be okay. Cant have another incident now can we?’ 

Nakala shoves him away from her angrily and he shrugs but keeps pace with her. He slides his key card and gestures for her to enter first, not meeting her threatening stare as he follows behind. The two approach a large being practically strapped down to a flat table against the far back of the wall. His massive body tightly subdued by a makeshift straight jacket. Two thick tubes run from the back of the table and into the skin tight muzzle on the beings mouth.

Nakala whips her head to glare at Matthews, ‘you're gassing him?!’

’What else could we have done? Everything else wouldn’t work on him’ he shrugs.

She grimaces at the callousness of his behavior and looks over at the saiyan. His dark red eyes muted from the drugged gas. This is not what Examination is supposed to be doing. This is a mess.

’You should’ve seen him when they got him’ Matthews boasts, ‘He was savage. An animal. Would've slaughtered everyone in my department had he not killed an intern and a subject in one of those rooms that emitted said gas to knock him out for a short while. It was enough to get him strapped up in this’ he gestures to the table, ‘you’d need to keep him constantly gassed to be this complacent, and it’s just the subject you asked for that you wanted so I cant wait to hear about all the damage he will inevitably cause you and your team. Hell, he might even do what your pet failed to do for me the first time’

A loud snarl bounces off of the room that draws both of their attention to the saiyan in front of them. Noticing quickly that his intense blood red stare isn’t trained on her, she quickly makes her way to the back of the table and grips onto the attachments to free the tubes. She quickly covers her mouth to shield herself from the gasses that leak out and eventually close on their own. Shes nearly knocked out from how violently the table rattles at the saiyan thrashing and darts back to the front of them where Matthews runs his fingers through his hair.

He lets out a low whistle, ‘now you’ve done it Roberts’

’Drugging and torturing your subjects might be your method, but it isn’t mine. He’s not just some mindless killing machine’ She growls at him.

Another loud snarl reverberates around the room, once more demanding their attention, glowing red eyes looking down at them, ‘Leave’ 

‘Huh, guess he can speak. Thought he only spoke in growls,’ Matthews chuckles, ‘Well Roberts I guess he doesn't want to go with you. Lets go’ he moves to grab her arm which she snatches away from him.

’Not you’ that stops both of them in their tracks as they both look at him.

He’s staring directly at Nakala then his intense gaze shifts to Matthews, ‘You’ 

‘I can’t exactly leave her all alone’ 

‘Hasnt stopped you before’ she calls him out without hesitating, earning his glare in return.

Several loud snaps are heard around the room and to their horror the large Saiyan has snapped the straps to the table. Only the echoes of his feet hitting the floor and the thundering of their hearts are heard in the room. He towers over them both but his malicious stare is directed solely at Matthews.

’Out. Now’

Matthews takes one glance at a still frozen Nakala and smirks, turning to leave, ‘you don't have to tell me twice. Better hope your luck doesn't run out here Roberts!’ He waves and steps out of the room. 

The doors close and taking the opportunity of everyone’s tense watching of the two in the room, he sneakily locks the door behind him. His eyes meet a pair of glowing steely blue and pale yellow further into the room and chuckles to himself as he walks in the opposite direction of their owners. He knows they have no power here, all of it was given solely to the human inside the room with the biggest threat to the entire facility. 

Nakala glances up at the Saiyan, choosing to stay as still as possible when he circles around her. She tries not to flinch away when he invades her personal space and comes to the realization that she smells of both Broly and Gogeta from earlier. Nakala chances a look up at him and notice in mild surprise that his murderous look thrown at Matthews is completely gone as he regards her. It’s more like passive curiousity and she bites the inside of her cheek as she slowly yet carefully lowers herself to the floor to sit. Nakala has to reign in her excited squeal when she sees him move to the front of her to sit as well, legs crossed, tail curiously waving to and fro. 

She nervously plays with her fingers, ‘…I’m sure you have questions’

’Why are you here?’ a low grumble comes from behind the muzzle.

’To get you and Broly out of here and to a new enclosure where the rest of your troop will be re-homed’

At his confused blink, she continues, ‘okay so Gogeta destroyed you guys home’ she starts, flailing frantically at his irritated growl, ‘by accident! And he came here to come get you guys but things ended up happening, I got locked in a room with him by the asshole you told to leave in the hopes to kill me-‘ in her rushed explanation she doesn't notice the Saiyan’s arms flex in anger, ‘and fast forwarding a few unimportant events, Gogeta and I getting five out of the seven of your troop so far, and now you guys have an entire enclosure!’ She weakly waves her hands as she finishes. 

‘Enclosure?’

’Ah, umm’ she thinks on it, ‘its kind of like a territory’ she elaborates.

’…you’re giving us your territory?’ He narrows his eyes.

’Uhh, yes?’

’Why?’

’Because you don't have one? And I am technically taking care of you guys so’ she shrugs, leaning back as the Saiyan leans closer to her face to scrutinize her.

’…..providing?’ He stares.

’If that’s what you want to call it’ she gives him a small smile, ‘I can’t imagine you’d want to stay in a place like this’ 

‘What do you gain from this?’ 

‘What do I gain? Well, Gogeta and I both agreed that for you and your troop members to live in this enclosure, me and my team can research you guys safely on both ends’ she explains carefully, ‘we don't do anything without consent and we try and limit the amounts of pain you’d experience while we’re gaining knowledge’ 

‘You are in charge of this research?’

’I will if you’d want me to’ she blinks.

The Saiyan closes his eyes and grumbles. Before Nakala can ask if anything is wrong she watches as he effortlessly stands despite his arms being bound, blinking in surprise when she feels his thick tail carefully wrap around her middle to lift her onto her feet. Nakala looks up at him in explanation and meets his eyes as he glances back, nodding towards the door for her to open it. He doesnt move an inch as she slips out of his tail’s hold and maneuvers around him to open the door. Her heart dropping to the floor when she realizes that it’s been locked. The feeling of dread vanishes and is quickly replaced by setting anger at the audacity of Matthews to try and attempt this again. 

She feels the looming figure behind her get closer, ‘I can feel your anger’

’I don’t think I have ever hated a person more’ she turns to look at him, ‘because even now, he hopes that you’d kill me while we’re in here’

’You think I will?’

’I can only hope that you don’t’ she sighs, ‘we just met and honestly I’m still afraid that at some point something in this place does end up killing me. My only regret would be that I couldn’t get to see Matthews getting what he deserves’

’You wish for revenge?’

’More like karma’ she explains, ‘if I’m killed in here, he’d just move on to the next person who threatens his ego’

’You have a key’

’The door can only be unlocked from the outside’

That earns a deep growl from the towering figure. Nakala moving to the corner closer to the door to avoid him when he hunches over slightly with a snarl and with a short flex, rips through his straight jacket. Her shock doesnt end when she watches as he glares at the door, digging his fingers into it with a loud bang, and ripping it from its foundation. Examiners on the other side quickly run out of the way when the saiyan takes the door in his hands and tosses it out of his way as he steps through. He looks around the room and spots Gogeta and Broly who try and look a little ways past him for Nakala. Said person still standing in the corner in disbelief at the events. Her eyes blink quickly as they track movement slowly moving back into the room towards her. The familiar feeling of something fluffy around her middle lifts her gently and carries her out of the room towards its owner. She pokes her head out from behind the Saiyan’s back to look for the other two Saiyans who mentally sigh in relief. 

There’s a tense silence in the air thats broken by a single clapping. Nakala as well as the Saiyans look over at Matthews in his chair, continuing to clap slowly with a smirk on his face.

’Well well, you surprise me again Roberts! I guess a deals a deal, the two are yours, congratulations. Enjoy your pets-‘

A bolted down table flies past Matthew’s face, narrowly taking his head off and imbeds itself deeply into the wall behind him. Matthews looks at where his life could have been taken and turns to look at the assailant who threw it. Not getting a chance to do so when a massive hand grips his entire head, lifting him from his chair, and slamming him forcefully to the ground. A single teary eye meets the smoldering red of the hands owner, his hands weakly and fruitlessly attempting to free himself from the hand that grips his head tighter with a loud snarl. No one dares to move or even breathe except for one who approaches the two. 

Nakala looks down at Matthews from over the saiyans shoulder, ‘looks like the consequences have finally caught up to your actions Matthews. And while I would love to see the instant karma…I’m not like you’

She lightly touches the saiyans arm, her eyes meeting the deep red of Matthew’s attacker, she speaks in a soft voice, ‘I know we only met today but it will only get worse for you if you take his life. If you let him go, I will personally owe you a debt, whatever it may be within my power’

The saiyan growls, ‘He’s scum’

’He is’

’He needs to die’

’He does’ she agrees, ‘but my offer only stands with him being left alive’

 The peeking eye flashes in anger at her but is snuffed out quickly as the grip of the saiyans hand gets tighter and with a huffing sigh, he stands with Matthews still in his hand. The saiyan looks down at Nakala flatly and drops Matthews in a heap at his feet, leaving the man to cough for air on the floor. The saiyan moves to look down at Matthews, purposefully shielding Nakala from looking at him. Nakala feels a short brush against her back and looks down to see that it wasn’t from the Saiyan blocking her view but the red haired Gogeta who brushes past her to get her attention. Nodding towards the door with Broly in tow, she follows behind them as they make their way out of the room. Nakala turns to make sure the other Saiyan is behind them and is relieved to see him close behind her, still glaring at everyone in the room, daring the examiners to follow them. The chance never comes as when the doors close behind the group, they rush to take care of Matthews.

As they continue down the hall, Nakala can feel the eyes of the Saiyan behind her. The silence and feeling finally gets to her and she slows her walk so they walk side by side. Her steps needing to quicken with his wide strides. 

‘Thank you…for earlier. And for listening to me’ she looks up at him.

Clear red eyes look down at her as he takes in her thanks. 

He lets out a huff, ‘he still needs to die’

’I know. You won’t get any complaints here’

Her eyes lock onto movement in front of her and meets the calm gaze of Gogeta who glances at Broly and the new saiyan before nodding at her. 

She nods back in understanding, ‘I’m Nakala by the way’

She’s met with a surprised look from Broly, ‘…..my name’s Broly’

Nakala then looks at the saiyan next to her expectantly and he folds his massive arms, ‘…..Cumber’ 

He looks away from the warm smile Nakala throws at him and they make it to the South Wing. The doors open and Nakala meets the eyes of Rhodes who smiles at her.

’Hey you're back! How was-whoa’ shes stopped in her tracks when she takes in the new arrivals.

Nakala throws her a look that warns to give them space and she nods in understanding as the group makes it to the enclosure doors and she swipes her key card to let them in. They’re met with the curious glances from the others from different angles and when the trio walk in. Nakala leaves them to greet the three and hastily walks up to Rhodes who blinks in surprise.

’I guess I can’t call Gogeta “Big guy” anymore after seeing those two….holy shit’ she watches as Nakala pulls out her phone, confused by her flustered state.

’?’

’We’re going on lunch’ she tells her urgently calling someone on her phone.

’What? Now?’ 

‘Yes. Now. Lets go’ she urges then looks around the room to the other researchers and interns, ‘leave them be for right now. Research won’t start until we get the last two. And even then, I still feel like we should wait a day until then to let them acclimate’

’So just finish the usual paperwork and make arrangements then?’ A researcher calls out.

Nakala nods and the two quickly walk out as someone answers the phone on the other line.   

Chapter Text

‘Wait, so he got moved to Examination!? That psychopath!?’ Smith exclaims.

’And did that same shit to you again!?’ Rhodes joins in.

’And you didn’t let the new subject kill him!?’ Smith adds in.

’It still would've been her responsibility’ Hughes explains, ‘it would've looked like she commanded her subject to attack him based on what he did to her. Even though it wouldn't be her intention, it would look like shes using them as a weapon’

’Oh, I’m not even done’ Nakala paces the room, gaining the rapt attention from the small group, ‘you remember when back in the day they used to use the shock collars?’

’Yeah…’ it dawns on Smith and her anger worsens, ‘…he is not’

’He is! It looked different from the first time they used it and I remember it was used for correctional behavior but this’ Nakala shakes her head,’ this was just torture. One of my subjects literally crumbled to the floor after the other tried to grab the collar and it shocked him for longer than it should’

’One of them? Not both?’ Hughes points out.

Nakala shakes her head, ‘No, they had the other one strapped to a table, drugged with a sedative gas in a straight jacket’

The room falls silent and Nakala continues, ‘After I got him out of the gas, he easily shook off the effects and later broke out of the straitjacket like it was nothing. Only satisfying thing was that he choke slammed Matthews after he called them my pets’

’The other subjects were easy enough despite the other one that might be a little homicidal but this was the only time where this bothered me this much’

’Given how big they are, I’m completely convinced anything smaller than them would've killed them if they had been in the same situation’ Rhodes shakes her head.

’…all of this happened in a day’ Cohen leans back in a huff in his hospital bed.

’And we still have two more to go’ Rhodes leans back, ‘hopefully its a cakewalk’

When Rhodes and Nakala walk back to the South Wing, they see Gogeta sitting at Nakala’s desk, lounging and looking at the other two files. 

Nakala doesn't even question why he's at her desk and just moves behind him to rest her head gently on top of his hair. 

‘I’m not making you uncomfortable by doing this right?’ She murmurs.

’Nah’ he hums.

’Good. I need the comfort’ she nuzzles further into his hair ignoring Rhodes' surprised face that she's throwing at a blushing Gogeta.

He gives her an intense look that threatens her not to tell Nakala and she grins and gestures zipping her lips. 

‘How’s Broly and Cumber?’ He hears her ask into his hair.

’They calmed down once they saw the nest. They’re fine now’

’And everyone else?’

’Just waiting for the last two to be completely comfortable’ he explains and shows her the file.

Nakala lifts her head slightly to look at where its located and blinks, ‘Oh, The Sanctuary’ 

‘That a problem?’ 

‘No. They’re great, anything residing there isn’t a threat in the slightest. It’s mainly a rehab center’ Rhodes explains.

’Then we should get going’ Gogeta gets up gently, making sure not to hurt Nakala as he stands. She grabs the other file and leads him out of the room. 

‘So what are we in store for when the troop is all together?’ He looks at her.

’Well first off, it’ll be a few days of easy research before we do anything serious. We’re gonna do usual measurements and basic samples tomorrow’ she thinks aloud, ‘But I don't think I want the info we found to go to Examination given what happened’

Gogeta shudders obnoxiously, ‘last thing I want is that guy having anything of mine’

’Exactly. And I’ll be damned if all of my hard work gets used in a way to hurt you guys or as a weapon to hurt others’ she huffs.

Gogeta smirks at her and holds her close to his chest affectionately, ‘Aww thank you Provider~’

’Why do you and the others say it like that? Am I not supposed to provide for you guys?’ She narrows her eyes accusingly at him, ‘its not a gender thing is it?’

Gogeta hums, ‘maybe? It’s just different to have a female providing for us’ he scratches his cheek, ‘usually it’s the other way around with our species. But I don't think we’d be bothered by it. I know I’m not’ 

They make it to the doors of The Sanctuary and are greeted by surprised faces.

’Oh! Robert’s! How are you? Strange seeing you here’ a researcher approaches her with a smile.

’Hi Bradley, I’m here for a subject of yours, he should be here in the sanctuary’ Nakala explains.

’I’m sure I can make a guess on who you mean’ he chuckles and points to Gogeta behind her, ‘but you're not here for the other one?’

’Other one? Both are here?’

’Oh yeah, they didn't want to be separated when they first got here and given they weren’t inherently violent when we got them- more so just curious to their situation- we let it happen for their mental state. They’ve been very well behaved since being here and we’ve enjoyed their company,’ he gestures to the entrance of the Sanctuary and Gogeta looks at Nakala who smiles.

‘It’s good here’

Gogeta nods and makes his way inside, Nakala and Bradley following behind. Nakala marvels at the beauty of the Sanctuary and nods.

’Nakala, I must ask you’ Bradley begins, gaining her attention, ‘my team and I have grown somewhat attached to the two subjects, are they going to be happy going with you and your team?’

Nakala nods, ‘the enclosure they're staying in has already the approval of the other troop members that they are apart of’

’Other troop members?’ Bradley’s eyes brighten in intrigue, ‘there are more than just the being that came with you and our two? That’s fascinating!’

’The circumstances that came before to make this happen was a rollercoaster ride but I’m glad that we’re giving them a proper home’ she sighs. 

‘I’m glad. I figured they were a social species. When the two were reunited it was heartwarming but it still looked like they were missing something and weren’t completely happy with their situation. They did assist us in various things which I am grateful for but their happiness is our bottom line’

’I’m glad they were in your care Bradley’ Nakala smiles.

The two jump in surprise when Gogeta pops up between them with raised eyebrows and an unamused look.

‘What’s up?’

’They need proof, so if you two are done talking’ he swiftly picks her up and carries her away from Bradley who chuckles and waves at her. 

Nakala squirms a little in his hold and he puts her down heftily. 

Before she can scold him for his behavior shes stopped when she hears, ‘Good. She isn’t hurt’ from one voice.

‘I’m surprised she trusts you enough to carry her here’ says another.

She turns and blinks up at the two Saiyans peering down at her. They’re a little shorter than Gogeta but not by much. Still taller than herself, Nakala can’t help but stare at one of them. He nervously looks away from her gaze as she looks over his features. She’s seen every one of the troop members and while she noticed that some have similar traits-Gogeta being an outlier when it comes to hair given its bright red-she has never seen any mammal with hair that is purple before. Even the fur along his body is more of a purplish hue than the shade of red that she noticed was a trait they all shared. She did notice that they both shared the same light blue eye color if not a little deeper blue in hue. She doesn’t notice how uncomfortable shes making him by looking him over and Gogeta apologizing to him for her, stating that shes just curious. She feels hands gently grip hers and her attention is diverted to the soft golden eyes of his companion. Just like his companion, he isn’t spared from her inspection as well. Instead of being uncomfortable about her curious gaze, he welcomes it with a warm smile.

’Gogeta explained that you have an enclosure for us to live in?’

’Thats right’ Nakala nods, ‘Everyone is already there. They’re waiting for you two’

’And you as well?’

’Oh, I’m not part of the troop, I wont be staying in there with you guys’ she shakes her head.

That causes both of the two to look at her in mild surprise, ‘but…you smell like them’

’And they clearly have accepted you’

Now Nakala herself is being examined by the two, inspecting her and subtly smelling her. She looks over at Gogeta in question and he just smiles and hums. 

‘Did you make a nest?’ The blue eyed Saiyan asks.

’Gogeta did’ she answers.

’But you provided the territory’ the golden eyed one concludes.

’Correct’ she nods, ‘as well as food and anything else you guys could need’

The two exchange glances then look at Gogeta, ‘she isn’t part of the troop?’

’I never said that’ Gogeta smirks, folding his arms behind his head.

They give him a look and the golden eyed Saiyan shakes his head lightly then looks at Nakala.

’I believe introductions are in order, seeing as how you’re providing for us now. I’m Gohan’ he smiles wide, revealing sharp fangs.

She feels a tap on her arm and looks over at the blue eyed Saiyan who nods at her, ‘Trunks’

’I’m Nakala’ she smiles, relieved that everything is going well.

’So what do we have to do when we get to our enclosure? Gogeta didn't specify’ Gohan asks.

’Just some research on your species, nothing that should cause too much pain but if it does then we will stop. Your comfort is my top priority, just like in the Sanctuary’ she explains, ‘But I’m not starting until tomorrow when everyone is comfortable in the new enclosure’

’Then I guess we’d better head over there right?’ Gohan smiles, ‘I’m sure everyone would be happy to see us’

’I’m just glad that you guys are gonna be all together’ she gives him a warm smile.

She’s engulfed by lithe arms and blinks as she registers the fact that shes being hugged. Shes instantly warmed and feels a soft purring sound coming from him as she hears a muffled “thank you for doing this for us”

She chuckles and hugs him back, giving him a muffled “you're welcome”. Nakala doesn't hear the short growl from Gogeta that makes Gohan separate from her and rubs the back of his head in embarrassment. Trunks side eyeing him with a short smirk as Gogeta grabs Nakala once more and carrying her away from the two, huffing out a short “lets go” before making his way out of the Sanctuary. Nakala chuckles as she says bye and thank you to Bradley and his team, the same waving and saying bye to her as well as Gohan and Trunks who warmly wave back at them. 

As they make their way down the hall both Trunks and Gohan notice something between Nakala and Gogeta, exchanging confused glances. 

‘You two seem close’ Trucks voices earning a glance from the two.

’I should hope so, since everyone basically assumed that I’m in charge of you guys in regards to research’ Nakala shrugs, ‘honestly if I had to be in charge of him and he didn't like me, this would've been a lot more difficult!’ 

‘Do you think you would enjoy taking care of us?’ Trunks tilts his head

’I think it’ll definitely be an experience but given I can communicate with you guys to see how to help you, it will be easier to take care of you’ she tilts her head to and fro while she muses, ‘as far as enjoying it? Umm, if everything goes smoothly then…yeah? I mean I’ve been around him for a couple days’ she pats Gogeta’s shoulder earning a small reciprocative squeeze, ‘and while its been an emotional rollercoaster, I don’t think I’ll be quitting because of you guys anytime soon’ 

‘Lets just hope the others don't chase you off then’ Trunks shakes his head as they make it to the South Wing doors.

Nakala waits patiently as they step inside, even waving at an amused Rhodes who smiles at the interaction and waves back. Her patience turns to confusion as she sees them approach their enclosure, feeling Gogeta reach into her pocket to get her key card and letting them inside….her included.

’Uhhmm…Gogeta?’ She tries to look at him but can only see the mass of red hair. 

‘Hm?’

’I’m in the enclosure’ she points out.

’You are!’ He agrees. 

’Why am I in the enclosure?’

’Why?’

’Yes?’ She glances at Gohan and Trunks for any insight but is only met with equal confusion and a passive shrug. 

‘You don't want to be here?’

’I didn't say that. I’m confused as to why you brought me in here’ 

‘Don’t worry about it. I have my reasons why I’m bringing you here’ 

‘Can I get an explanation please?’

’Hmm…’ he muses, ‘nah’ 

‘Why!? Don’t tell me you're holding me hostage’ she’s met with silence and she starts to squirm, ‘….Gogeta’

Nakala then looks at Gohan and Trunks who don't look worried in the slightest.

’We won’t let that happen’ Trunks reassures. 

‘Thanks’ Nakala sighs, body shaking slightly when she feels and hears Gogeta giggling.

‘Don’t expect much. They’re the smartest and also the weakest troop members’ he whispers to her, laughing as she deflates.

‘That’s less reassuring’ she sighs and tries to talk Gogeta out of this scheme.

Nakala thinks of a method and easily rules out yelling and brute force. That bs never works out safely. She side eyes the red haired male and carefully wraps her arms around his neck, burying her fingers into the soft hairs into the back of his neck and scratching softly. She feels his head turn to her direction slightly and uses that to nuzzle into the side of his neck. He stops all movement as she does so and wraps his tail around her waist. Here goes nothing, she mentally sighs. 

‘I cant provide for you if you keep me hostage in here’ she mumbles loud enough to hear in his ear.

She feels him chuckle and tenses when she feels his breath on her ear.

’There you go again having little faith in me’ 

’Huh?’ She blinks in surprise as she feels his hands grab her arms gently and pulls her away so that she can lean back and look at him and his grin. 

‘But thats okay, I know you don't really think that!’ And unwraps his tail from her waist and replaces it with his hands, giving her a reassuring squeeze before launching her away from him.

Nakala yelps in shock and instead of feeling the harsh ground that she expected to feel under her, she bounces a little onto familiar soft leaves. A couple chuckles are heard around her as she opens her eyes in surprise and are met with passive red, shades of gold, and various blue eyes. Their owners all lounging in the massive nest Gogeta created. Nakala looks at them all, blinking quickly as she realizes where she is and is about to get up quickly to leave but is held down by an arm holding her shoulders to a sturdy body. 

‘I would’ve came here sooner if you convinced me like that’ 

She turns and meets the honey eyed smirk of Raditz. A certain smell hits her nose and she covers it when she realizes what it is, moving out of his grip. She doesnt get very far with his hold still on her and he only releases her with a roll of his eyes when Cumber at his other side lets out a low threatening growl at him. 

‘Why do you still smell like blood? I thought you’d wash that off in the lake!’ She moves further away from him and gently bumps into the fluffy side of Vegito who smiles down at her.

’He did. Guess it just stuck to him’ he shrugs.

’I’ll add grooming to the list then’ she sighs then perks back up and stands quickly to point at Gogeta who still stands at the edge of the nest with a content smile on his face, ‘wait. You never told me why I’m in the nest! I’m not supposed to be in here!’

‘Why would the Provider of the troop not be allowed in the nest?’ Goku tilts his head in confusion.

’Because I’m not a part of your species???’ She explains.

’But your scent was already in here’ Broly points out.

’And since a certain someone made it his job to completely cover your scent to keep it for himself, I’m glad Gogeta brought you back in here to reapply it’ Vegito sideeyes Raditz who lounges back proudly.

’I wasn't supposed to be in here in the first place’ she groans and looks at him exasperatedly. 

Gohan looks up at Gogeta from his sitting position, confusion painting his face.

’You never told her what the nest means?’

’I want to see how long it takes her to figure it out. Shes smart’ he nods.

’Why? What does it mean?’ Nakala turns to look at Gohan who palms his forehead.

’I guess I’ll have to tell you tomorrow, it’s getting pretty late for you isn’t it?’

Nakala looks up and notices that the dome’s settings that reflect outside light has moved to sunset naturally and she starts to move out of the nest. She’s gently blocked by Gogeta and she pouts.

’Gogeta…I’m going home’ she says sternly.

She sees the slight apprehensive look on his face and headbutts his arm gently when she sees his pout and hums, ‘I’ll be back tomorrow’ 

All eyes watch her walk away, the soft sliding of the door signaling her leave.

’You made a great choice Gogeta!’ 

‘I agree!’

Chapter Text

’So I have an issue’ Nakala sips her tea as she walks into the main lobby.

’Lemme hear it’ Rhodes downs her coffee.

’We have to do our research right?’

’Right’ Rhodes nods.

’That research has to go to Examination’ she points out.

’Right’ Rhodes nods again then pauses when she realizes the issue, grimacing, ‘Oh…Ew. I don't like that, I see what you're talking about’

‘Who knows what they’d even do with the information we give them and it’s not like we can just lie’ Nakala huffs. 

Rhodes hums as they make their way to where Smith and Hughes are sitting waiting for them.

’The only thing I can think of is maybe asking the director for their insight?’ She shrugs. 

‘Insight on what?’ Hughes overhears as they take a seat across from the two.

’We realized that all of our research will have to go back to the very place that was torturing subjects to begin with’ Rhodes explains.

’Ew’ Smith grimaces.

’Right. I dont feel safe giving him and his team vital information on my subjects’ Nakala huffs.

’I had a few of my interns wanting to be transferred to Examination but given their reputation and how one of the interns there was thrown to the wolves so to speak, they quickly changed their thoughts’ Hughes informs.

’You think the Director would let us have our own Examination room if we asked?’ Rhodes looks at Nakala.

’Wouldn't that need renovation?’ She looks back.

’We have our own Examination room’ Smith raises her hand, ‘its mixed with Medical’

Nakala and Rhodes exchange a glance in hope and nod in determination. 

‘Okay lets go over the plan’ Nakala looks at Rhodes seriously.

Rhodes nods, ‘you talk to the Director about a joint room with medical and I’ll look around Research for anyone wanting to take that challenge. Got it’ 

They high five in teamwork and Rhodes pushes the door open to the South Wing while Nakala bolts to the Directors office. When Rhodes rushes inside she unknowingly runs head first into a familiar bare chest. 

Gentle hands hold her from falling to the floor and she hears a chuckle, ‘Where are you off to in such a hurry? And aren't we missing somebody?’

Rhodes blinks up at a curious looking Gogeta and shakes her head, her determination returning. 

‘We’re both on a mission at the moment, she’ll be back in a couple minutes’ she explains.

Gogeta regards her for a second before shrugging and sitting at Nakala’s desk, calmly yet curiously watching Rhodes flit from researcher to researcher then intern to intern to ask something he no longer cared to listen to and choosing to lean back and relax.

Further down the hall and a short elevator trip above a level later, Nakala knocks urgently at the Director’s door. There’s only a short moment when the door opens and the Director themself blinks down at her.

’Roberts? To what do I owe the honor?’

’Is it possible for our medical team and a couple interns to also be part of our own Examination team?’

’…Is this because of the incident that occurred there yesterday caused by your subject?’

’Okay that situation was wild from the start. Given what I have seen with the practices that have occurred there, I have reason to believe the research that we will have done should not be given to that department. My subject was acting in self defense due to trauma caused by that department’ Nakala defends then pouts and looks away, ‘…plus he deserved it’

The Director shakes their head with a small chuckle, ‘my fear was that you would've allowed your subject to kill him in that moment but I see that my fear was misplaced. I see I made the right choice in making you Lead Researcher after all’

’…I was Lead Researcher this whole time!?’ Nakala blanches.

The Director blinks at her, ‘…you weren’t aware? You had far less restrictions in your searches and was a better pick than most in the department. Even more so with how well your subjects have reacted to you and your team’

At the bewildered state of their subordinate, the Director places a hand on her shoulder, ‘I wouldn't think too much into it, just continue to do what you're doing. Send me an email of this request so it can be verified and I’ll have it done. I expect to see a lot of results Roberts’

Nakala nods, ‘you can count on me!’ 

The doors to the South Wing push open gently as Nakala steps through. She jumps a little when both Rhodes and Gogeta fight to get her attention. Her pushing him away and him picking her up and putting her somewhere else.

’Whoa, whoa! No need to fight guys!’ Nakala tries to control the chaos.

The two glare at each other in mock hostility.

’Move Gogeta, I have more important news’ she points at him.

’I’m her subject so I’m her top priority Steph’ he challenges back.

Rhodes narrows her eyes at him then looks at Nakala, ‘I got 3 researchers and 5 interns that are down for Examination if its merged with Medical’

‘I just have to email a report to the Director about the merge but other than that its practically a go’

’I’ll type up the report, you take care of your precious subject’ she grins cheekily at Gogeta who sticks his tongue out at her, making Nakala chuckle.

’Hi Gogeta, what do you need from me?’ She gains his attention immediately and he scratches the back of his neck as he loses his train of thought.

’…I was just wondering on what you’re gonna do first now that you’re here’

‘Oh! Right! Well I can just do the basics, like height, weight, hair and fur samples’ she thinks on what happened yesterday and adds, ‘if everyone is okay with it, a grooming session could also help with the process’ she notices the blank look Gogeta’s face and feels as if she misspoke. ‘…that okay?’

’is that okay!?’ He grins and scoops her up, ‘that sounds great! I knew I made the right choice in scenting you!’

’Huh???’

’Lets go!’ He walks her over to the enclosure and she frantically pats at his arm to stop him.

’Wait! I have to get the stuff for grooming and samples!’ She protests.

Her request is seemingly ignored as he drops her into the nest where everyone is either still asleep or dozing in the morning shade. Some lazily open an eye when they feel a new body plop into the nest and in a second a few gravitate to the new arrival, wrapping an arm, leg or tail around her. 

Nakala pouts up at a content looking Gogeta, ‘I have a job to do Gogeta’

’Do them here’ he shrugs. 

‘The things we use to do height and weight are heavy or bolted to the floor in the medical room, it’ll be easier to bring everyone there for that and then collect the grooming samples’ she shuffles slightly from her position despite Raditz’s leg under hers to prop up her legs, Vegito’s arm around her waist, Gohan’s tail around her wrist and after turning slightly to see Cumber laying on his stomach with his side against her back. Gogeta watches as she pulls out her phone and maneuvers around everyone to peer at her conversation on the phone and settles in next to her.

’Well since I’m stuck here, I’m gonna see if someone can drop off the grooming stuff as well as the morning delivery. Lets see if food can wake everyone up so we can start’ 

‘That’d wake me up’ Gogeta nods. 

Nakala narrows her eyes, ‘that reminds me. Why are you awake right now?’

Gogeta blinks at her and rolls away from her side, ignoring her obnoxious gasp to turn his back on her. 

‘Nuh uh’ she grunts as she squirms her way out of various holds and tries to reach Gogeta’s back.

Her hand lands onto Goku’s stomach as she leans to poke at the red haired male’s shoulder accusingly, ‘you missed me didn't you?’

She sees the slight blush on his ear and the twitching of his tail before leaning over to see if his face can tell her more. But as she adds more weight to the other saiyans stomach she feels him shift and accidentally flops onto him with a surprised huff. Shifting to get up from the close proximity, she pauses when she smells something coming from the Saiyan below her. Nakala leans closer to make sure shes smelling it from him and yelps when a pair of arms pull her closer to a strong chest. A lazy yawn is heard above her head but makes no movement to release her, making her huff but on the bright side, she can identify the smell coming from him being a soft non-overpowering citrus smell. Nakala shifts slightly and sees Gogeta looking over his shoulder at her to make sure shes okay, only to shift back to chuckle at her predicament, full on laughing when she moves to kick him in his leg in retaliation.

’You’re not gonna help me out? Really?’ She whispers dramatically.

Gogeta shifts to look at her with his head in his hand, ‘you don't need my help’

’Even if I say please?’ She gives him her best puppy dog look which only earns her a playful bap of his tail to her face.

’That cute look won’t work on me’ he states even though the tips of his ears are burning, ‘and waking up Goku should be a breeze, you already know what hes obsessed with’

Nakala huffs and thinks about it. Gogeta smiles when the realization appears on her face and she shuffles further up Goku’s chest. He has to force down his growl when Goku purrs and Nakala smells more of the citrus aroma coming from him. 

She ignores it in place of getting free and whispers, ‘Goku…theres food on its way’

’Mmm’ Goku smiles, ‘Food?’

’That’s right! Lots of it! You just have to let me go’ she persuades.

She shifts dramatically into a sitting position as Goku bolts upright, yawning widely. Nakala uses that to carefully move off of his lap as he stretches his arms. He looks around then pouts when he doesn't see anything outside of the nest and she feels moderately guilty when sad golden eyes regard her.

’You lied, theres no food here’

’It’s coming, I didn't lie’ she reassures and moves over to wake Gohan. 

As she shuffles over to the lithe Saiyan, she accidentally brushes past Raditz’s tail which causes said appendage to wrap tightly against her wrist as he lazily gets up. He drags her away from Gohan and closer to him with a low chuckle at her pout.

‘That’s some way to wake someone up~’ he leans over her. 

‘I was trying to wake up Gohan. Not you’ she says flatly.

’Yet you touch my tail and not his’ he smirks, sliding it up her arm teasingly.

’By accident’ she argues and moves to get up, shaking his tail off.

The action caused her to be close enough to notice another smell mixed with the old blood on his fur but not wanting to be near Raditz enough to try and figure it out. He sees her eyes narrow then shake her head and turns her back to him where Cumber is sleeping onto his stomach. Nakala opts out of waking him up and carefully maneuvers to Vegito using Cumber’s calf as a makeshift pillow. Luckily, Gohan’s head was against his side. She makes her way to the two and pokes at Vegito’s cheek, making him grumble. She hears a louder grumble near her and both her and Gogeta blink in surprise while Goku laughs and rubs the back of his head. 

‘…you want me to call them to see where they're at?’ Nakala chuckles.

’…maybe’ he looks away.

As she pulls out her phone she feels a warm body shifting next to her and later sitting up. She doesn't pay them any attention as she waits for the intern to answer their phone and later talking to them on said phone about the delivery. Knowing her limits she absentmindedly runs her fingers through Vegito’s hair as she talks. The conversation is short and she hangs up, looking at Goku and smiling. 

‘They’re around the corner from the South Wing’

She watches Goku get up and stretch, ‘I’m gonna go meet them at the door!’

’Let them come into the enclosure and dont eat everything please!’ She calls after him.

Hearing his mischievous giggling as he leaves the nest makes her doubt he’d listen so she looks at Gogeta who is watching her pet Vegito intensely.

’Can you stop him from eating everything please?’

She sees him blink once then reach over and smacks Vegito’s stomach, making the Saiyan grunt loudly in pain and sit up.

’Spoiled’ Gogeta growls, making Vegito smirk at him.

’Jealous’ he spits back.

’Guys!’ Nakala snaps, gaining their attention, ‘Can you stop Goku from eating everyone’s breakfast please?’ 

The two don't stop their silent challenge as they stand and get up to leave. Nakala notices that Raditz has stood as well, leaning his body to the side to softly pop the joints in his back.

’Oh, you’re gonna help them?’ she’s surprised.

’Of course not’ he scoffs, ‘but if those two are gonna stop Goku from eating everything, they're going to be too distracted with him to see me’ he makes his way to the opposite of where the two had left, ‘I just need to bide my time’

She watches him go and shakes her head. 

‘He’s always been like that’ a voice to her side sighs, startling her.

She’s met with the soft amber eyes of Gohan and blinks at him before sitting in front of him. He tilts his head in confusion as she looks at him determinedly.

’You’ she points at him and he smiles and points to himself.

’Me?’

’You said you were gonna tell me about the nest today’

That makes his eyes widen and he looks away shyly, ‘…uhh…don't you want to wake the others first?’

Nakala turns and sees that only Trunks, Cumber and Broly are still asleep. The closest one to her was Trunks and she stands on her knees to roughly shake his shoulder to rouse him. Gohan hides his laughter behind his hand as Trunks flails awake, hair bedraggled and looking at her in half asleep shock. 

‘What!?’ He looks around and upon finding no threat around the nest, looks at Nakala who is smiling at him, ’What happened!?’ 

‘Nothing, food is on its way. Good morning!’ She beams as he looks at her flatly.

She watches as he flops back onto the nest with a huff, tail lightly tapping the nest in mild irritation. Nakala apologetically rubs Trunks’ arm and the tapping comes to a stop. 

‘And the other two?’ Gohan nods to the still sleeping Cumber and Broly. 

He sees Nakala look over at them and gives him a small smile, ‘I’ll let them sleep. They’ve been through a lot yesterday’ she thinks on it, ‘and couple months actually’ 

She frowns as it dawns on her and feels something soft touch her thigh. Expecting it to come from Gohan she looks at the tail and her eyebrows raise as the fur’s color is of a more purplish hue. She looks over at where Trunks was laying and meets his deep blue gaze.

’You feel guilty?’

’…A little. If I knew about what they went through earlier, I would've chose to give them a home in the South Wing sooner’ 

‘You’ve given us all a home and now they're okay’ he turns his head away, ‘you don't need to feel guilty anymore’ 

‘I’ll try not to,’ she huffs, then looks at him, ‘…you're not gonna run off?’

’Why would I when youre right here?’

’You wanted to see me?’ she asks innocently.

’I knew Gohan had to explain some things to you today and I wanted to help fill in any blanks he forgets’ 

‘Yeah, and I’m gonna need it’ Gohan sighs and scratches the side of his head, ‘she wants to learn about nests’ 

Trunks tenses up a little at the word and turns to sit up to look at her curious gaze. 

She shrugs, ‘it’s considered research’ 

‘Should it be?’ Gohan looks at Trunks but Nakala intercepts.

’Given how everyone treated me being in here like it was a big deal should be considered research because it clearly leads to behavioral responses and holds some kind of significance to your troop’ she states professionally. 

‘You’d be correct in that for the most part’ Gohan confirms. 

‘Tell us what you know about nests first,’ Trunks tells her.

Nakala ponders on it, ‘well, in nature its usually a place where an animal would sleep and feel safe and give birth in certain circumstances and different species. I’ve only seen you guys sleeping in here but that only leaves me with more questions concerning you guys’ 

‘Ask away’ Gohan crosses his legs and leans forward.

‘So I understand that a nest is detrimental to your species, but does it matter who makes the nest? Like if I had brought you or Vegito in here first, would you guys have made it instead of Gogeta?’

’Unless its been established that any one of us is either the provider or stronger than the rest then yes, but so far we’ve all just accepted that Gogeta made the nest. If Vegito were to make it then we would be uneasy as it would be a challenge to the troop leader but if Gogeta was okay with it then we would be fine. If I were to make it, then it would have a high chance of being destroyed by the troop leader as it isn’t my place and he would be stronger than I am and rebuild it himself. Plus I wouldn't have the audacity to build a nest for the troop if I wasn't the troop leader or provider’ 

‘So is being a provider and troop leader two different titles?’ 

‘Both titles can fall onto one person if they fulfill both roles’ Trunks explains ‘this circumstance is different though because youre not of our species and female’ 

‘Does it change a lot of things?’ Nakala blinks at him as she realizes, ‘Usually males fight constantly when in the presence of a female. I kinda thought that with me being in here that it would be chaos given the ratio of males’ she gestures to the two plus Broly and Cumber still asleep, ‘to female’ she gestures to herself, ‘hence why I was surprised that I could just be in the nest and everyone would still be fine’ 

‘It changes things by a lot but it might be for the better in my opinion’ Gohan voices, ‘because you would be right about the ratio, with any female we would be fine but with a female that has been essentially part of the troop?’ He shakes his head, ‘would be a mess. All of us would be fighting just for a glance from you’

’So what makes it different now? I’m inside the nest, does that mean I’m essentially part of the troop?’

Gohan and Trunks exchange glances as they think about it.

’Practically yes. You had our established troop leader’s scent on you and the nest meaning that hes accepted you as one of us and when we met you, you already had the scent of everyone else so we just assumed they’ve accepted you too. Now what makes you different is that if you were just a female that the troop leader scented and had in the nest, we would assume that you two were a mated pair’ Nakala can see the tips of Gohan’s ears turning red as he doesnt look at her.

Trunks notices his discomfort and decides to continue for him, ‘But that particular scent isn’t present and we already recognized you as our provider. Now the title as provider is mainly a rank above troop leader…’

’But I’m not the strongest’ Nakala chimes in.

’But you have let Gogeta build a nest in what is essentially your territory. You have the say in what the troop does because its basically “your territory, your rules” and you go unchallenged until you are not a provider anymore, you give your territory to the troop leader for whatever reason, or we think you're unfit to provide for us’

’I’m almost afraid to ask what happens if you guys think I can no longer provide for you’ Nakala moves her knees up to her chest to comfort herself.

Theres a massive weight that she feels gently against her back and feels a sleepy rumbling from the shape. She turns and sees only the thick curtain of hair and muscled arms of Cumber. His head shifts to sleepily glare at Gohan and Trunks in warning before going back to sleep when he feels her relax. 

‘Best case scenario, you would be chased out. But given you are part of the troop, your title would just end up falling onto the troop leader. You’re in a strange spot at the moment because the only one that you’ve scented albeit impartially is Gogeta’

’When did I scent Gogeta????’ She blanches at them.

’Last evening???’ The two say in unison. 

‘Right before he dumped you in the nest’ Gohan explains.

’Wouldn't shut up most of the night after you left’ Trunks shakes his head.

’But I didn't smell anything???’

’Your nose isn’t as strong as ours I’m guessing, but you do have a scent’ 

‘Is it bad!?’ Nakala tries to smell her lab coat but is stopped by a heavily blushing Gohan.

’No! No! You smell great! Please don't think we don't like the way you smell’

’Then why are you blushing!?’

’It’s the process that you’d have to do in order to solidify your position as provider is what has him like this’ Trunks looks away. 

‘What’s the process?’ She looks at them.

’…you’d’ Gohan clears his throat, his blush ever present, ‘have to scent everyone in the troop. It’s some weird biological response that calms…and establishes us as being yours’

’you mentioned a particular scent earlier, what’s that about?’

She notices the uncomfortable shifts between the two and Gohan coughs into his hand, ears burning.

’Ah, the *ahem* claiming scent. Thats…something we can talk about at another time right?’

Theres a silence in the air. Nakala blinks, understanding how reluctant both are to not talk about this topic and decides to drop it for now ‘lets…go back to the nest topic’ earning agreeing nods from the two. 

‘So what would happen if one of the interns or researchers were to come inside the enclosure if I wasn't here?’

’We’d be uneasy but no one would be allowed to get close to the nest unless they’re part of the troop. Unless you tell us that they're to come in, then we’d keep a close eye on the “intruder” but if you didn't want the intruder in the enclosure then we’d force them out’ 

‘So what happens outside of the enclosure and the nest?’

’You're still in charge since we’d have to return to your territory and the nest that we sleep in. We would have to want to leave your territory altogether to refuse to listen to you outside of the enclosure. You don't have to worry about us running away or breaking the rules’ Trunks chuckles.

’But it can happen if your position as provider isn’t solidified’ Gohan explains, ‘So if you plan on showing us off at some point, that would have to be done’ 

‘This is a lot of information’ Nakala thinks to herself how shes going to relay this back to research and Rhodes.

She huffs then smirks at Gohan, ‘Since you helped me out I guess you’ll be the first I scent then’

’Ah..Hah…that’d be a horrible idea. You’d have to scent strongest to weakest’ Nakala is watching him mentally fight off his blush, thoroughly finding amusement in teasing him.

’Says who? Am I not Provider?’ She teases, ‘By what you two told me, I can technically do whatever I want’

’Y-you can but…think of the others, what would they say?’ he tries to talk his way out of it.

’They’ll get their turn’ she playfully pouts, ‘unless…you don't like the way i smell…’

’Actually you smell better than most-‘ he covers his mouth quickly, the blush he fought so hard to get rid of coming back full force.

He chances a glance at her widely grinning face and grabs an amused Trunks to stand with him, ‘Ah! Is-is that the food I smell!? Oh boy am I starving! Lets go Trunks!’ 

Nakala watches as Gohan practically drags Trunks out of the nest with a small chuckle. 

She feels her phone ring and sees its from an intern and she answers, ‘yes?’

’Umm I’m at my second cart of food’ they report shakily.

’Did they eat all of it?’ She groans.

’Well I have one more cart but I don't think they know that, is that all of them?’

’No I have two more on their way and the other two asleep. I’m going to wake them up, do not tell the others that theres more food’

’Yeah…I don't think I have any say in the matter anymore. Plus I think they heard me’

’Ugghhh’ Nakala groans, ‘put me on speaker and hold it as close to the red haired one as safely as possible’

She waits for a second for the intern and after a minute she hears the intern say, ‘okay you're on speaker’

’Gogeta’ she says plainly.

’Nakala? How’d you get in this thing?’

’Don't worry about it. Did everybody eat?’

’…not everybody’ he drags it out.

’Did Trunks and Gohan eat?’

’Uhh…they just got here’

’Okay. There’s another cart of food coming’ and she can practically feel his excitement, ‘and only Gohan, Trunks, Broly and Cumber can eat from it’

When she hears his and Goku’s whine she tries to keep her voice stern and not laugh into the speaker, ‘You are not going to gorge yourselves while the others haven't eaten yet. I’ll see you soon’

Theres a shuffling sound on the other end and she hears an amused chuckle, ‘I’m liking this new assertive side to you provider’ she hears Raditz purr.

’I’m hanging up’ she shakes her head and ends the call. 

She sighs and looks down at Cumber who she suspected to still be asleep, blinking in silent surprise when she sees him looking right at her. 

‘…good morning?’ She weakly smiles.

’You’re holding food for us’ he states.

’Yeah. I had to tell the others not to eat it so, better get to it’ she looks over at a still sleeping Broly, ‘now to wake up Broly’

Cumber shifts slightly to see Broly sleeping close enough for him to hit him in the face with his tail. The saiyan’s face twitches and he buries his face further into the nest. Nakala glances at Cumber who hits him repeatedly with his tail, forcing Broly to grumble and swipe at said tail. Loud thumps resounding from the actions that she is convinced would’ve caused significant damage to anything other than their species. 

She gently stops Cumber from reaching over to grab at Broly when she hears him growl lowly.

’Easy. Let me try’ she chuckles, crawling over to Broly and gently petting him, ‘Broly…come on baby boy, you gotta wake up. I got breakfast’

Her body practically vibrates from how loud the purr he gave off as a result and she fights off her laugh. Moving her hand out of his thick hair and him lifting a sleepy head to chase it, that seems to wake him up enough to sleepily open his eyes and smile at her. Nakala hears Cumber stepping closer to them and grabbing Broly’s arm to pull him and Nakala who clung onto Broly’s other arm to their feet with one hand. The act doesn’t affect Broly in the slightest and he yawns quietly as Cumber drags him and Nakala out of the nest and to the entrance of the enclosure. Nakala glances at Cumber and how he still has his muzzle on from Examination. I wonder why he still has it on. Is there any damage done to his face that he wants it covered? There’s a scar on his jaw that i can see, but is that it? She jumps in surprise when she meets Cumber’s passive stare. Nakala breaks the stare when she hears boisterous laughter and irritated talking. The trio is greeted by an intern blocking the third food cart barking something to Goku and Gogeta who laugh and try to dart around them playfully to get to the food. Gohan and Trunks seem to eat from said cart teasingly as they watch the scene.

’No! Roberts made it clear that you're not to get to this food! You’ll be in big trouble!’ They warn shakily.

’Just one thing! She won’t notice if there’s one thing gone!’ Goku chuckles, trying to reach the food around the intern.

’Throw us something will ya?!’ Gogeta laughs.

’Sorry! Cant!’ Gohan chuckles, taking another bite of some fruit from a cup.

’Provider’s orders’ Trunks takes a sip of orange juice, smirking from his cup at the duo.

Nakala watches the scene with a hand on her hip and a relieved sigh. Grateful that even though they could easily move the intern and or harm them to get to the food, they choose only to mess with them and do as she asked. She reaches Vegito’s side with a weak pout, folding her arms and shaking her head.

’I thought I had told you to keep Goku from eating the food, not join in, Gogeta’ causing said Saiyan to freeze and turn slightly to face her. 

He watches Broly walking past them then Cumber shouldering both him and Goku out of his way. Gogeta pouts and walks over to Nakala who is talking to the intern about grooming supplies, plopping his head onto hers and whining. 

A hand gently pats the side of his face, ‘you already ate’

His obnoxious whining is ignored as Nakala diligently listens to the nervous intern. 

‘We have the grooming supplies on a cart right near the door if you want to groom them here or the med bay’ they explain.

’Hmm, I’m gonna do that here after measurements. Do you want all of them at once or one at a time? I still have to inform Rhodes of what I learned so I will be away from them for a minute’ she explains then gives Gogeta’s hair a small tug to get his attention, ‘if they act up, let me know’

She feels his tail lightly squeeze around her calf for reassurance as he chuckles.

’We can try a few at a time to make the process easier and relay the  information to Rhodes all at once’

’That’d help, that way by the time she gets it I’ll be done with my report’

’Alright! I’ll let everyone in Medical know to be ready for whoever you choose’ they warily meet Gogeta’s passive but intimidating gaze and looks back at Nakala, ‘please send a text on who we should be expecting and anything we need to make note of’

’Understood’ Nakala smiles. 

The intern quickly makes their way out of the enclosure to inform Medical and Nakala texts Rhodes about the new info that she learned.

’So who’s going up first?’ She hears him above her head. 

‘You and Goku’

’Any reason why?’

’Gotta get the two trouble makers out of the way first’ Nakala moves away from him, smiling at his pout.

She gestures over to Goku for him to follow her out of the enclosure and shoots a text to the intern. She sneaks a glance at Cumber who removed his muzzle to eat and blinks in surprise. Oh, there was nothing wrong at all. But blinks in surprise when he opens his mouth to take a bite of fruit. I…will definitely have to do a canine length measurement because what the hell. Shaking off her surprise, she leads them to an adjacent room next to Research and gives them a semi-stern look.

’Best behavior okay?’

’You’re not coming in there with us?’ Goku tilts his head.

’No. I learned something about you guys that needs to be documented, I should be back in the enclosure when everyone’s done’ 

‘What’d you learn?’ Gogeta narrows his eyes at her suspiciously ‘I don't remember telling you anything’

Nakala points to his chest, ‘that’s because I had Gohan tell me about how important a nest is no thanks to you’ 

Gogeta holds his hands up in surrender as she continues, ‘so no, I’m not gonna be in there with you two, so be good and listen to the nice medics and interns’

He watches her walk over to her desk and his eyes widen when she turns to give him a cheeky smirk, ‘Provider’s orders’

Rhodes gives her a look as Nakala takes a seat.

’Learn anything this morning?’ She bats her eyelashes.

’A lot,’ Nakala smiles, ‘Lets get started’

Chapter Text

Nakala stands and stretches her back. She looks over at Rhodes who is eagerly reading her report. 

‘So now you're off to get the fur samples?’ She glances up from her screen.

’Mhm. Should be fun’ Nakala rolls her shoulders, ‘I just hope we have enough shampoo for two of them’

Rhodes’ eyes widened playfully, ‘oh yeah, omg both of their hair is at least the same length and size as us. They’re gonna need at least 3 to 4 bottles each. I’ll order a few more’ she types an order on the computer, ‘just in case’

’I appreciate you’ Nakala smiles. 

‘I know’ Rhodes grins and rests her head on her hand, ‘so…’

’?’

’When are you going to “claim” your boys?’ She smirks.

Nakala feels her face getting hot, ‘Not for a while!’ She states.

’You have to. By the way you reported it, it’s important to do so’ She giggles at Nakala’s turmoil.

’I don't even know how to claim anyone. I might just give the “territory” to Gogeta so that way I don’t have to’

’Do you think that would help or hinder research? You couldn’t bring them anywhere with you if you left that to Gogeta’ Rhodes argues lightly.

Nakala groans as she realizes that Rhodes is right, glancing over at a few interns carrying non-scented shampoo to the cart near the enclosure entrance. 

‘Look, we all have to do things that make us uncomfortable in the name of research. I worked on a farm before this, I had to do a lot of things I wasn’t comfortable with at first but I had to do them’ she shrugs, ‘be thankful that its not a sample for anything downstairs yet’ she points out.

’Yet!?’ Nakala blanches.

’Theres no way you’ve been here this long and don't think we wouldn't collect that too’ Rhodes gives her a look.

’No I knew, just…’ Nakala sighs, ‘not anytime soon hopefully’

’But it will happen Roberts’ Rhodes grins evilly, ‘and when it does…you might have to be there to “help”’

‘I will leave that strictly to Medical’ Nakala argues.

’Sure’ Rhodes shrugs again, ‘you say that now’

’I am saying that always’ she shakes off the warming on her face.

’Let me know how you feel after scenting the boys first’ she smirks and nods to the enclosure where they see Cumber and Raditz waiting for her. 

Cumber silently beckons to her to come with them and she shoots a pointed look at Rhodes, ‘not a word’

Rhodes grins and waves her away, ‘I’m looking forward to your report Roberts!’ 

Sticking her tongue out at her, Nakala bumps into the grooming cart in front of the two saiyans. Neither address her hiss in pain and attempt to move the cart out of the way, but it was futile. It doesn't even attempt to budge despite her tries. 

‘I have no clue how that intern got all of this in here’

‘Don’t tell me youre too weak to move this thing’ Raditz huffs.

’It’s heavy!’ Nakala grunts. 

’Hardly!’ He grabs the handle of said cart and moves her out of the way to drag it easily into the enclosure. 

Cumber moves Nakala in front of him to gently push her into the enclosure after Raditz and the cart where the others are either sitting around where the food carts had left or stretching casually. They all look at the trio and perk up when they see Nakala. The heat rises back to her face when she meets Gohan’s gaze and remembers Rhodes’ words and quickly makes her way to the cart to look through what was piled on. 

She feels a presence behind her and assumes it’s Gogeta so she turns to talk to him about scenting and tenses when she sees Gohan next to her.

’Is that non-scented?’ he looks over the shampoo then at her.

’It is’ she squeaks out, making him raise an eyebrow in confusion.

’…you okay?’

’I will be’

’But you’re not now?’ He wrings his fingers nervously ’was it something I said?’ He inquires softly.

’No, no. Well…not really’

’I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable’ he says softly.

’No, it needs to be done. I need your help with executing it’ she presses.

’With what?’

’Are you upsetting our provider Gohan?’ Gogeta saunters up to the two.

’I want to know how to scent you!’ She whispers stressfully.

Her whisper was only meant to be heard between the two but given how shocked and surprised the others looked at her with various expressions, that wasn't the case. She chances a look over at everyone to confirm if they heard her and instantly regrets it. Vegito and Goku grin excitedly at her, Broly and Trunks look away from her and shifting with massive blushes on their face, Cumber doesnt look as if it phases him but given the slight squint in his eyes she can tell that hes amused by what happened, and Raditz…She knew she shouldn’t have looked at him, not with the lascivious gaze he throws at her and licking his canines. Nakala decides to then look between Gohan and Gogeta, instantly feeling bad as Gohan’s entire face and bare chest is red from his blush and hiding his face in his hand. She looks at Gogeta who has not looked away from her from the beginning, small blush on his face as well as a hopeful smile.

’Was I…not supposed to say it out loud?’ She peeks over at Gohan who looks as if hes struggling to stay in front of her. 

‘No…this is fine…you didn't know’ he tries to shake off his blush but it persists, ‘just umm…its supposed to be something done without words’

’So I ruined it?!’ She whines, defeated.

’You didn't ruin it. Gohan just didn't tell you the process’ Gogeta side eyes him, mainly for putting their provider under duress.

‘That’s why I wanted to work on him first’ that gains the immediate attention of the two, ‘so that way he can tell me how to do it’

’That’s not a smart idea’ Gohan blinks at her and glances at Gogeta, ‘as much as I would like to help you Nakala, I’d rather not get pummeled by the troop leader for a misunderstanding’

Nakala looks quickly at Gogeta, ‘You’d do that to your troop member?!’

’Yeah, absolutely!’ He says matter-of-factly, ‘thats an open challenge if I ever saw one. How dare the weakest get scented first before the strongest!?’ She blinks at his mini rant, ’I wouldn't even have given him a chance to get your scent on him! Even if you’d done so in secret, I’d have kicked him out of my troop for that!’ 

‘Oh my god, you are so dramatic! He already told me that I had scented you yesterday!’ She argues and he shakes his head stubbornly.

’Wasn't strong enough, wasn't done properly’ he reaches out to hold her to his chest where she smells earthy cinnamon before turning to address his troop members with a wide fanged grin, ‘so if anyone thinks that they can take me on to be scented first and come for my title, you're welcome to try! I have a reason to go all out now!’ 

All stay silent except for Vegito who chuckles and shakes his head at the display. Cumber standing at his side to throw an intense stare at Gogeta.

’If she didn’t already have a bond with you, I’d say she’d be fair game and challenge you for another rematch for the title…’ his eyes glowing in mirth. Cumber dips his head in agreement, gaze meeting Nakala’s for a short moment. Gogeta grins at the possibility of a challenge but is relieved when he sees Vegito fold his arms and starts to walk away, ‘but it seems I’m too late and it’d probably worry her how rough we are, so I’ll just wait for my turn’ he stops a little to look at Nakala with a cocky smirk as the others leave to give them privacy, ‘don’t take too long with the dumb-dumb sweet Nakala, and don't be afraid to shove him away when you need to’

‘I’ll…keep that in mind’ she manages to squeak out, watching Vegito wave passively and pat Cumber on the shoulder as they disappear into the small forest underbrush along with the others. 

Nakala takes a second for everything to sink in and tries to give herself enough space from Gogeta, who releases her, albeit reluctantly. He’s still relatively close, damn near chest to chest-more like face to pecs-with her and puts his hands on his hips. 

‘So, lets get started! Just do what you did last night and I’ll talk you through the rest!’ He sits in an excited huff, tail proudly swishing behind him.

’Wait! I need to get fur samples first,’ she looks through the cart and pulls out a wide toothed comb, fine toothed comb, sample bags, and leave in shampoo. She marks the bags and grabs a wide toothed comb and shampoo, glancing at Gogeta’s massive hair. He blinks at her in confusion and watches as she approaches him carefully.

’Ya scared of me or somethin?’ He smirks, pulling her closer to him with his tail. 

‘No, I just dont know how you’ll react to me combing your hair,’ she hesitates. 

‘Well, I won’t bite if thats what you’re afraid of. I already told you, you couldn’t hurt me if you tried’ he folds his arms. 

‘Fine’ Nakala pops open the shampoo bottle and squirts some in her hand and starts to work it into his hair, effectively massaging it into his scalp. 

His head lolls gently with her movements, eyes closed and purring softly he murmurs, ‘you said this wasn't scented?’

’No’ she reaches for the wide toothed comb in her pocket when his hair is sufficiently cleaned and glides it through the strong strands. 

‘Good. Makes the scenting process easier’ he sighs happily.

’How’s that work by the way?’ She can feel her face heating up as her curiosity gets the best of her, plucking the red hair from the comb into a bag. 

‘Hm?’ Gogeta’s eyebrow lifts slightly when her fingers leave his hair, snapping him out of his comfortable trance and stretching lazily, ‘It’s better if I show you. You done yet?’

’Not yet. Hold your horses’ she writes “Hair Sample” on the bag and grabs the shampoo again to work it into her hands. 

She approaches his arm and looks at his vest. Do I just do an arm? The rest of him-chest wise-should get cleaned. She touches his arm with the back of her hand and pouts that it feels coarse. Yeah, he’ll need the shampoo.

Gogeta seems to read her mind and swiftly removes his vest, tossing it haphazardly out of the way. He throws her a teasing look and kneels to grab at the ribbon holding his pants up, earning a warning shout from Nakala.

‘I’m taking a fur sample from your arm most likely, nothing waist down. So,’ she flails her hand to shoo his hand away from his belt, ‘stop that’

He sighs with a small smile but remains kneeling. Nakala moves over to his side to shampoo his arm, him assisting by lifting his arm and watching as her soft hands lightly scratch his fur. She’s lost in thought as she makes her way to his back, grateful that she can no longer feel his gaze on her as she sits behind him. Gogeta sitting back onto his backside to give her easier access.

‘You’re not gonna go lower?’ He glances back at Nakala.

’Lowest I’ll go is near your tail and I know you're not gonna let me touch that’ she scoffs playfully.

She blinks when she realizes that her hands are on his lower back and quickly retracts them. Only to have them brought back to their previous place when said tail gently guides her back, but doesnt retract. Snaking around her wrist and arms to bap playfully at her face.

’You never asked’ he chuckles.

’You told me not to. Ever’ she argues back.

’Yeah. Well, this is different’ he folds his arms, ‘I trust you now’

’Why? Because I’m a provider?’ She chuckles and tries to catch his wiggling tail before adding more shampoo to her hands. 

He snorts and turns to look at her, ‘Even if you weren’t’ placing his tail in her hands, ‘I like to think that you’ve held up your end of the bargain and I am a merciful troop leader-ah~!’

Nakala hides her shock at his full body shudder with an amused look as she gently stroked the shampoo from the base of his tail to its tip to gauge his reaction. 

‘You were saying oh merciful troop leader?’ She bats her eyelashes at his blushing unamused face.

‘I’m starting to think this was a bad idea’ he chuckles breathily.

’What?’ She continues, playfully adding pressure, ‘If you want me to stop, you can tell me you know’

Gogeta says nothing for a short while as he silently entertains the warmth growing in his lower belly. His hands gripping his thighs as he fights the growls and purrs threatening to come out of him, trying not to scare her. He gets a moment to breathe when her hands stop feeling his tail to reach for the shampoo bottle, shaking himself and his urges off as she moves to his other arm. Nakala keeps silent when she sees Gogeta purposefully turn his head away from her, tips of his ears still a little red. She makes a face when she catches the smell of earthy cinnamon once more and moves to sit in front of him. Narrowing her eyes and gathering more shampoo, using the last of it to get the fur along the sides of his bare chest. 

‘You smell like cinnamon’ she states, deciding to break the silence.

’Yeah, you said that before’ he still looks away from her.

’Do you know where its coming from?’ She asks, trying to distract herself as she rubs shampoo on his sides and blatantly ignoring the extremely noticeable bulge in his baggy pants.

Gogeta looks at her finally and pats his pecs. Nakala tosses the now empty shampoo bottle onto the cart and wipes her hands on a towel as she regards his chest. Grabbing the fine toothed comb and using that to poke at his pectoral, earning a chuckle from the Saiyan. He grabs her hand and places it between his pectorals, rubbing it between them and releasing her hand.

’Smell your hand’ he nods.

Nakala tilts her head and moves her hand to smell it, eyebrows raising in surprise as she smells the familiar scent that lingered there. She looks at him in surprise and he winks at her playfully.

’Now, hurry up and get your sample while I’m still feeling nice’ he folds his arms.

Nakala throws him an unamused look and moves around towards his back where she gently slides the comb through the thicker fur all the way to the tip of his tail.

’Oh I’m so sorry troop leader’ she gets up quickly when she sees him visibly shudder and purr loudly in surprise. 

She can feel his burning stare on her back as she walks to the cart to put the fur sample in a separate bag labeled “Fur Sample”. Taking her time to staple together the two bags and put his name on it, she tenses when she hears a shift on the ground behind her and later strong arms around her waist. Her cheeks warm significantly when the smell of cinnamon engulfs her and a rumbling from his chest against her back.

’Nakala’ she hears the frustrated growl from the Saiyan behind her, ‘I’m trying to be patient here’

’…You’re doing a great job at it’ she lightly jokes, trying to temper his frustration.

’Yeah? Think I should be rewarded for it?’ She feels his smile in his tone.

’Rewarded?’ She parrots, ‘what reward were you thinking of?’ Audibly squeaking when she feels him pull her closer to him, feeling just how much was hidden in those baggy pants. I didnt mean to tease him like that! 

Catching her shiver before he could notice, she feels him move to growl into her ear.

‘I can think of some things,’ he presses further into her and purrs, ‘but I don't think you’ll let me get that far. After all, you haven't even scented me yet and the others would throw a fit if I left that kind of scent on you’

She feels herself being pulled back and to the floor, onto the lap of the smirking Saiyan. 

‘There’s multiple scents that you give off?’ She tries to keep herself distracted from the position he paws her into, effectively straddling his cross legged form.

’There’s only two that are important. One that you can’t dodge anymore now’ he smirks down at her.

’I wasnt dodging…I was just…delaying the inevitable’ she mumbles out, avoiding his gaze.

’Mhm’ he muses, ‘do you remember that little trick you tried to use yesterday to get me to let you go?’

’I do’ her cheeks warming once again. It didnt even work. All it did was leave me feeling embarrassed. 

‘Good. I’m gonna need you to do that again but a little different,’ he pushes the hair draping along his shoulders to his back to expose the bare skin of his neck to her, ‘you put your mouth here and rub your scent. Simple’  

‘That is not simple’ she pouts, ‘I don't even know what I smell like! And do I just kiss your neck or something else?’

’You’re thinking too much about it’ he pulls her close and moves her head to press her mouth to his neck, ‘its easy’ 

Nakala tenses at the proximity and holds her hands on his shoulders. She fights the urge to smack him when she feels his arms pressing her against his chest and purring. A long tail weaves its way around her thigh and tightens as he chuckles.

’I’m waiting, Provider~’ he growls softly, chuckling as he hears her groan in embarrassment.

’You’re sure this is the only way?’ She whines against his neck.

’Only way that I’ll accept’ he smiles as he feels her deflate onto him.

Nakala huffs and bears it, choosing to get comfortable by moving her hand to his hair now made soft and distracting herself with that. Her brows furrow as she comes to a realization. Am I thinking too much into this? This is clearly something that’s normal within their community. She reflects on what Rhodes has told her earlier and sighs internally, staring at the bright red hair in front of her and swallowing down whatever embarrassment she was starting to feel. Any other researcher would jump at the chance to be in my position, she reflects and this is not the worst thing I’ve seen researchers be allowed to do by their subjects. She’s aware of how patient Gogeta is at her hesitance and moves her arms around his neck as she adds more pressure to the side of his neck to further the scenting. This being could’ve easily killed me multiple times over and yet trusts me enough not to do that. Him and the others even let me into their troop and all i’ve done is practically reject that by trying to avoid their customs. She nuzzles him a little forcefully, eyes closed and brows furrowed in silent apology. I didn't even thank him for everything hes done for me, she internally chastises herself.

’Nakala?’ She hears the gentle tone of the Saiyan against her, ‘scenting’s not done until the other side is marked’

Nakala silently moves to the other side of his neck and doesnt move. 

‘Having second thoughts?’ Gogeta lightly jokes, tail quivering when he feels a light pressure against his neck and registering what Nakala is doing.

’No’ Nakala hums, alternating between kissing and nuzzling his neck, ‘I’m gonna see this through with your troop…and with you’

Gogeta falls silent as he feels a prickling along his spine as she continues.

’I just…want to thank you for letting me do this and being so gentle with me since the beginning. You didn't have to do any of that let alone listen to me and work with me and I’m grateful you trust me with this and other personal things’

She feels his head bury into her shoulder as he holds her tight, ‘you’ll make a fine provider’ he purrs.

’Well, I cant exactly do it without you troop leader’ she chuckles, giving him a small peck to his temple.

She pauses when she hears something fluttering around them. Her hands around his neck doesnt feel as if he was making the specific sound from his body internally and parting his massive hair to peer into the woods for something that isn’t him. What catches her eye however, is movement along his back. Nakala curiously watches as his fur ripples, starting from his spine and moving along the rest of his furred body.

’…Gogeta-‘ 

‘Ignore that’

‘…I dont think I can’ Nakala blinks and shifts to look at his back, almost mesmerized, ‘how are you doing that?’

’Not talkin’ he shakes himself and the feeling away, his fur flattening and breaking her out of her fascinated trance.

’Was it something I said?’ She leans back to grin at him, ‘I didn't know you could do that, what causes it? Does it hurt? Is there a spot that triggers it?’

Gogeta closes his eyes and shakes his head, ‘Now I’ve done it’ he ignores her excited questioning and carefully pulls down the front of her shirt just enough to rub his cheeks against her collar bone. He jumps when she scratches the small hairs on the back of his neck and carding her fingers through his hair and throws her a flat stare when he figures out what she’s trying to do. Gogeta can’t bring it to himself to be mad at her-not that he is or has any right to be for being curious-and stands both of them up.

’Alright, scenting is done for now’ he huffs, ‘best get to the others before we’re here all day’

’I wouldn't mind if it meant I get to figure out what that was’ Nakala chuckles and points to his back.

’Well I do mind’ Gogeta folds his arms, ‘Scent the others and maybe I’ll tell you what that was. At least finish this job before you start another one’

’Finneeee’ Nakala sighs, glancing at him and giving him a warm hug, ‘Thanks again for everything Gogeta’ 

Once again she hears the ruffling of moving fur and throws him a wide grin and a gasp. Before she can say anything else he pouts and shakes his fur and blush off, avoiding her gaze.

’I’m gonna go get someone and forget what you did to me’

’You didn't like me scenting you troop leader?’ Nakala playfully pouts, earning his side eye, ‘and can you get Gohan for me?’

‘It’s gonna cause problems but alright’ Gogeta smirks at her and makes his way into the underbrush.

Not long after she wipes her hands on a nearby towel, does she hear various crashing and arguing. She blinks when she sees Gohan and Vegito exchanging frustrated growls in their language. They make it to her side as she shakes a shampoo bottle and Vegito gently grasps her chin. 

‘Sweet Nakala, you wanted me to go next right? It’s only fair isn’t it? I am the strongest second only to Gogeta, so it makes sense that I’m next to be scented’ 

Okay I have an idea to diffuse the situation. She puts down the shampoo to hold Vegito’s head in her hands. His eyes widen and his tail waves excitedly when she leans him down to her level. 

‘You’re right, you are supposed to be next but I need Gohan’s help with something’ she coos, rubbing his cheek to placate him.

‘But I’m stronger than him’ he whines, taking her wrists gently and nuzzling into them.

’I know, and I’ll make sure to give you extra care when I get my sample from you, okay? Just let me scent and talk to Gohan and I promise you’ll be next’ she makes her best puppy dog face, rendering the blue eyed Saiyan speechless. Vegito growls slightly and sighs, removing her hands from his cheeks and nips the pad of her thumb. 

There’s a warmth on her face as he throws her a burning stare, ‘I’m gonna hold you to that Sweet’ and backs off, taking confident strides further into the enclosure. 

Nakala jumps in surprise when she hears the clearing of a throat, ‘well that was kind of awkward’

’Gohan I am so sorry! I didn't realize you were still there!’ She hides her face partially by her hand in embarrassment.

’It’s fine honestly! I’m pretty sure I would've gotten a gut punch had I said anything to break the “moment”’ he air quotes with his fingers. 

‘Still,’ she gestures for him to take a seat next to her and gathers the shampoo on her hand, ‘I didn't think that would work on him’

‘You’d be surprised what we’d let you do, given you’re our provider’ 

‘Do I want to know what that means?’ She leans to look him in the eye, which he promptly avoids, hoping she doesnt notice the blush burning his ears. 

Gohan coughs nervously, ‘Uhh no. Not yet at least. So uh…what did you learn while you were scenting Gogeta? Was he any help?’ 

Nakala shakes her head, ‘yes and no? I learned some things but I have no explanation for them’ she works the shampoo into his spiked hair.

’Oh boy’ he chuckles ‘Let me hear them’ 

‘So…’ she waves her shampoo covered hand around passively, ‘I learned that the scenting process takes place when the subject of higher rank places their mouth here and here’ she points to the sides of his neck, ‘and the recipient of the scenting rubs their face here’ she points to her collar bones, ‘and then the scenting is done’

She blinks as she sees Gohan furrow his eyebrows and shake his head with a small chuckle.

’Of course he’d teach you that way of scenting someone’

’That was the only way he’d accept’ she works the shampoo into his hair gently, ‘But! He did tell me-well showed me-where your scent gland is that I can actually smell’ she points to the center between his pecs as she reaches for the comb and collects the hair sample.

’Well at least he told you that much’ he chuckles, ‘but there is one thing he didn't tell you’ 

Nakala looks at him as she works the shampoo onto his arm, nodding for him to continue. 

‘There’s one more way of scenting someone’ he looks away and scratches his cheek, ‘a less…intimate way’ 

He feels her hands stop moving towards his back and hums in question. Gohan only sees the top of her head and feels it thump lightly against his back.

’What we did was intimate!?’ She whines.

’Hey, don't beat yourself up. It’s completely normal between provider and troop leader…if the circumstances are similar to this’ 

Before Nakala can develop any self doubt, she feels Gohan’s tail gently wrap around her arm in comfort, prompting her to continue. She manages to finish his back and arm and meets his warm gaze when she works on his front. Nakala blinks up at him and tilts her head a little as she gathers a fur sample from his back when he turns it to her.

’Would it make you more comfortable if you scented me the non-intimate way?’ He twists back to face her, making her look at him, perplexed.

’Would that make you more comfortable if I scented you in a non-intimate way? It isn't up to me Gohan, I care about your comfort. It’s your choice’

’Ah…well’ he blushes lightly, ‘I think to be on the safe side, I should show you how the other part of scenting is done’ he nods, looking away so she doesnt hear, ‘I don't think my heart could handle you scenting me the other way’

‘So how is the non-intimate way done?’ She asks curiously, smiling down at him as she puts the bags of samples next to Gogeta’s after labeling them. 

Gohan gestures for her to stand in front of him and she does so readily. He gently takes her hands and shows her her wrists. 

‘To scent from a less intimate distance you would lick here and just rub the side of the recipient’s neck. Their reciprocation would be as you explained before, where we would rub our faces here’ he lets go of one of her wrists to point at her collar bone area, ‘thus accepting you as provider’

’And if the recipient isn't willing to accept me as provider?’ She lightly licks her wrist, catching Gohan’s attention and earning a blush in return.

He blinks quickly and coughs into his hand, ‘the only one with authority to deny reciprocation would be the troop leader. So if we didn't smell you on him then that means youre not part of the troop’ he chuckles and tilts his head to expose his neck for her to rub her wet wrist onto the side of his neck, ‘but it’s a little too late for that don't you think?’ 

‘I think it’s way too late’ she chuckles and repeats the process on the opposite side. 

She pulls her wrist away when she feels shes finished and looks at him, ‘you think I can be a good provider?’

Gohan throws her a closed eyed grin and scoops her into a hug, nuzzling her collarbone, ‘you're going to do great! I have no doubts!’ 

Nakala happily hugs him back, enjoying the soft purring he gives off. 

’Well aren't you two just the happy couple?’ An amused voice causes Gohan to tense in embarrassment and quickly release her from his hold. He abruptly stands and shields his heavily blushing face away from the confused Nakala and the now giggling Vegito.

’Wasn't I supposed to call for you, Vegito?’ Nakala playfully puts her hand on her hip, trying to diffuse the attention on Gohan.

’Yeah but you were taking too long so I thought I’d come and see what was the hold up’ he approaches them and nudges Gohan who still avoids looking at him, ‘looks like I was right to check up on you two huh?’

’D-don't misunderstand’ Gohan huffs.

He leans slightly away from Vegito as he invades his personal space to smell him. 

‘Oh, looks like you're done scenting him if my nose is correct’ he looks at Nakala who nods.

’I am’ she smiles, ‘I learned a lot’

’Oh isn't that nice’ Vegito says in a mockingly sweet voice, ‘so it’s my turn now right?’ 

Nakala huffs and shakes her head, ‘Yes, it’s your turn now, must you be so mean to him?’

’No no, it’s perfectly normal behavior’ Gohan waves it away and starts to make his leave, ‘glad I could help! Let me know if you need anything else!’

’Thanks Gohan!’ She waves happily as he disappears from view.

Nakala turns to look at Vegito who doesnt look guilty in the slightest when she pouts at him.

’What?’ 

‘Nothing, have a seat’ she gestures for him to sit near her and he smiles and plops down next to her as she regards him with her hands on her hips. 

He leans back onto his hands and smirks at her, ‘Ooh, is this when I get “extra care”?’ 

Nakala purses her lips and shakes the shampoo bottle. I did say that, so i guess the non-intimate way is out of the question, she internally huffs. With a roll of her eyes, she gestures for him to come to her and he does so, albeit choosing to stand on his knees to be eye level with her chin. Nakala works the shampoo into his hair and furrows her brow when she notices the hooded look he gives her.

‘What’s that face for?’ She hums.

’I like your fingers in my hair…it feels nice’ he hums.

’I like petting you, this shampoo makes your hair and fur soft so…’

’So, you’ll be petting me more often?’ He hugs her. 

‘I could if you stop being mean to others’ she combs through his hair and bagging the sample.

’I am never mean. You just like challenging our customs’ he pouts when she wiggles out of his hold to get another bottle of shampoo to work onto his arms. 

‘Mm hmm’ she hums and starts to work on his back, trying to ignore the playful look Vegito throws at her from over his shoulder and his tail that strokes gently at her face, neck and arms. The movement getting in the way of her work and lightly irritating her, she grabs his tail to keep it to the floor next to her.

’Oooh, don’t want to do that sweet Nakala’ he slips his tail from her grasp to wrap it around her middle and bring her close to his side where his arm joins his tail, ‘might make me want to claim you if you keep doing that’ 

Nakala narrows her eyes at him, ‘were you always like this?’

’Never had anyone bring it out of me until now’ he grins, earning her eye roll as she reaches for the fine toothed comb and collects the fur sample from his arm, wiggling out of his hold to bag the sample.

‘You know thats dangerous to mess with a woman’s feelings like that’ she shakes her head.

’Who’s messing?’ He smiles passively, grabbing the air around her gently back to him after she labels the samples. 

She huffs and steps into his grabbing range to allow him to bring her close to his chest. Nakala gently moves his head to the side to scent him but he stops her.

At her hum in question, he purrs, ‘Pet me while you scent me’

Why do you have to say it like that??? She internally screams, silently complying and scratching his scalp before planting soft kisses along one side of his neck. 

In the middle of her nuzzling him, she feels him purr, ‘you can do better than that Sweet’

He feels her pause and blinks in happy surprise when she holds his face in her hands and gives him a flat look. Before he says anything she obnoxiously starts to drown him in quick pecks all over his face, purposefully avoiding his lips and nuzzling him all over his face, jaw, and neck. Nakala pulls away with a triumphant look on her face. How’s that for doing better? She pulls away, expecting him to look smothered in her childish affection and snorts as she sees his close eyed content smile and realizing that since she started he never stopped purring. 

‘You really liked all that?’ She chuckles.

Vegito hums happily and pulls her close, ‘very much so’ he nuzzles her collar affectionately. 

When his nuzzling takes a little too long she huffs in amusement and gently moves his head away from her collar, ‘alright, you’re probably holding up the line. Go get Cumber, please’ 

Vegito blinks out of his daze and stands, stretching out his limbs casually. 

He regards her when she piles a bunch of shampoo bottles to prepare for the large Saiyan, and says carefully, ‘I can stick around if he scares you’

Nakala pauses and looks at him, ‘why do you say that?’

’Cumber’s the most violent of all of us, I wouldn't be surprised if you're afraid of him’

’Aren't I safe because I’m Provider?’ 

‘Cumber isn't known to follow rules, it’s why most times Gogeta and I had to be around to rein him in. Most times it takes both of us to keep him under control,’ he gives her a gentle hug and says quietly, ‘Gogeta told me about what happened when you two left to get Cumber and Broly…I don't want him to hurt you, even accidentally’

Nakala thinks on it and reassures, ‘you say all that but, ever since meeting him…he hasn't hurt me yet. I appreciate your concern and if it makes you feel better, you can be close by when I scent him to put your mind at ease okay?’ 

Vegito hums and puts his hands on his hips. 

He relents with a sigh, ‘Just shout and I’ll be there’

’You got it’ she gives him a reassuring thumbs up, watching as he repeats her actions and heads further into the enclosure. 

A few moments later, she shakes a couple shampoo bottles wondering why is it taking so long for Cumber to arrive. 

What if he doesnt want to accept me as Provider? She pauses in her shaking.

Familiar rumbling is heard behind her, making her jump in surprise, turning quickly to see Cumber’s massive form close to her. 

‘Oh! Hi!’ she startles.

He blinks at her, tail curiously waving back and forth.

’I didn't hear you coming’ she gestures next to her for him to sit and he looks at the spot before sitting in a soft thud.

Nakala looks him over in thought on where to start and grabs a hair tie. Her momentum to get the samples done is cut short when she meets his stare. Piercing red eyes pin her in place and Vegito’s warning rings in her head. Cumber furrows his brows and eyes the hair tie in her hands and is confused at her hesitation. His tail twitches in slight frustration and he folds his arms. He damn near is eye to eye with her from his seated position and gently wraps his tail around her ankle, spooking her out of her train of thought. 

‘You think too loud’ he closes his eyes.

‘I do not’ Nakala pouts.

’Then voice your concerns’ 

‘I don't want you to be mad at me if I do’ she says carefully.

Cumber looks at her with a raised eyebrow, ‘talk. I’ll listen’

’About my concerns?’

’Yes’    

Nakala squints at him, ‘…..you promise not to get mad?’

’Your words cannot harm me’ he closes his eyes.

Nakala sighs and tries to relax herself before gently gathering his massive hair to tie it into a ponytail, the image would be comical if she wasn't thrown into her thoughts. 

She shakes the shampoo bottle as she huffs out, ’Well, for one, I don't like how you all were separated for a while and that the only way for you all to be reunited is to be in this facility’ she pours half a handful of shampoo into her palm and working it along the length of his arm. 

‘And you can always say “we’re better off here” but are you? Would you have wanted to go back where you were? Do you even like it here?’

Cumber opens an eye to regard her outer turmoil as she steps around him to add shampoo to his other arm. 

‘And everyone was picked up in different areas, so if Gogeta and I couldn’t come to get you all, everyone would just be separated from each other. And if that was the case, then you and Broly were in the worst possible place being in Examination’

Cumber blinks at her, eyes furrowed. He watches as she haphazardly tosses the empty shampoo bottle onto the cart and grabs another one. She shakes it as she moves to his back and doesnt notice how Cumber continues to stare at her.

’I can only imagine how angry you must’ve felt being in a place like that. Having Matthews leading that team to “take care” of you would've been the worst possible life for both of you and part of me wanted you to kill him when you grabbed him. Does that make me a bad person? To want some kind of revenge after what he did to me? He did horrible things to both of us but does it make me just as bad as him if I never would have stopped you from hurting him? Would I have been okay after that?’ She combs over his arm to put his fur sample in a bag. 

‘…Do you feel okay now?’ Cumber meets her gaze, using his tail to wrap around her calf, shifting his shoulders a little when his hair is freed from the hair tie.

Nakala blinks her daze away and gathers more shampoo into her palm. As she works it into his scalp, she smiles slightly.

’Talking about it actually is making me feel okay. I’ve worked with other beings and creatures and to be honest, I think I’ll like working with you guys more’ she adds the last of the shampoo through the strands of his spiked hair and carefully working on shampooing the tail that passively drapes itself along her palm, ‘as dangerous as I’ve seen some of you guys become, I don’t really feel as if I’m in any danger’

She moves to look at him and he raises an eyebrow at her curiously.

’Even with you, both Matthew’s and Vegito warned me about how volatile and dangerous you are and yeah I’ve seen it but you listened to me and let Matthew’s live. So I don't think you're as bad as they made you out to be’

Cumber gives her a look that lasts a minute before closing them and folding his arms.

’You still owe me’

’I know. I haven't forgot’ she chuckles and combs out his hair, detangling the matted parts and bagging the sample. 

 She stands in front of him and tilts her head as she looks at his muzzle, ‘…are you going to reciprocate with the muzzle on?’

Cumber furrows his brow in confusion and Nakala snorts.

’Are you going to keep that on when you accept my mark?’ She licks a stripe along her wrist.

’Do you want it off?’ He squints in amusement, enjoying watching her squirm as she steps closer.

’It’s completely up to you’ she fights the heat creeping along her face.

Nakala gestures for him to tilt his head to expose his neck to her and he moves his hair out of the way so she can mark him with her wrist. 

’I don't really understand why you want it on all the time’ she voices out loud, pursing her lips quickly when he side eyes her as she works on the other side of his neck. 

‘You don’t have to tell me, it’s fine if you want it on!’ She flounders, waving her hands frantically to not make him upset.

Cumber rolls his eyes and huffs before reaching up and removing the muzzle, letting his tail hold it for him as he reaches around her to pull her closer to him. She notices flecks of gold in the deep red of his eyes as he stares into hers. 

‘You worry too much’ he grumbles as he nuzzles into her collarbone, causing her to damn near vibrate from the deep purr he lets out.

’I-I do not’ she weakly argues back as he pulls away and stands.

She leans against the cart to steady her weak knees and Cumber puts his muzzle back on with a smirk. When she gathers herself up, Nakala looks at Cumber when he grunts out her name. His eyebrow is raised in question and she blinks in realization at his silent question.

’Oh! Uh…Can you get Goku for me?’

Cumber nods and walks further into the enclosure. Nakala looks over her inventory of items and organizes what’s empty and what’s not, piling everyone’s fur and hair samples neatly. It takes her a minute and she pauses. 

What’s taking Goku so long? Does he not want to be scented? He seemed excited about it when I blurted it out to Gohan. She turns in preparation to call out to him but ends up yelling in surprise when the Saiyan in question appears in front of her, making him jump in surprise and giggling.

’Whoa! Didn't mean to scare you there!’ He laughs.

’How are you so quiet!?’ Nakala holds her chest to calm her heart.

Goku rubs the side of his head and grins, ‘I ah- wanted to see how close I could get before you noticed’

’How long were you standing there!?’ She blinks at him, not noticing another body arriving, albeit silently behind her.

‘Umm a little while?’ He scratches his ear then looks up, ‘kinda the same amount of time as Gogeta’ he points over her shoulder.

’Huh?’ Nakala blinks at him and turns, jumping in surprise when Gogeta blinks at her, ‘W-when did you get here!?’

Gogeta hums, ‘Right after you screamed. Why’d you do that?’

’He scared me’ Nakala points to Goku. 

‘Oh, he didnt hurt you did he?’

’No?’ They both say.

’Oh, then I’ll leave you to scent him’ he chuckles then starts to walk back through the underbrush. 

He looks over his shoulder at Nakala, ‘might wanna be careful though, Goku tends to bite people’

’…Excuse me?’ Nakala blinks, watching as Gogeta laughs and disappears.

She looks back at Goku who sits next to her legs, ‘you bite people!?’

’I haven't today’ he giggles.

’Today!?’ She blanches, ‘Who else have you bit before!?’

She blinks in disbelief as she gathers shampoo in her hands and works it into his hair as he counts on his fingers silently. He has to count on his fingers. 

‘Goku…’

’Hm?’

’Have you bit any innocent people?’ She combs through his thick hair.

‘No, I don’t hurt innocent people’ he purrs, watching dazedly as she pulls away to bag his hair.

’So who have you bit?’ She gathers more shampoo into her hand and starts to work on his arm.

’Hmm, I'm gonna let you guess. It’s more fun this way!’ 

Nakala pouts at him and thinks, pouring more shampoo and scooting towards his back. 

‘Was it someone from your troop?’

’Yes…’ he trailed off, feeling the softness of his arm

‘…I don't like the way you said yes. Don't tell me you bit everyone’ she shakes her head.

She notices his silence and nervous flicking tail and raises her eyebrows.

’Goku…’

He avoids her gaze.

’Did you bite everyone in the troop!?’ She scolds

‘Not everyone!’ He pleads, ‘just when we were sparring!’ He looks away and plays with his fingers, ‘and one other time when we were eating and someone tried to take food from me’

’Goku you can’t just bite your troop members!’ She scolds, working down his back, ‘were any of the injuries serious? Do you bite out of aggression?’ I doubt it would be out of aggression, even though he has a chronic resting bitch face that would scare most people. Plus from what I’ve seen, Goku is one of the nicer troop members given records. 

‘No! Of course not! They usually can handle me biting them’ he scratches his cheek and avoids her bewildered gaze. 

‘Okay who and how many times?’ She works the shampoo on his other arm as he thinks on it.

‘Well I bit Gogeta when we were sparring more times than I can count!’ He giggles as she takes a fur sample of his arm, ‘but he bit me back so I guess we’re even! Umm, Vegito tried to take food from me and I bit his arm, Cumber and Raditz tried grabbing my tail and I bit them. I think Trunks and Gohan are the only ones I haven't bit!’ 

‘That’s not something to be proud of Goku’ she steps around him and regards his not at all regretful face, ‘so now that I’m provider, am I going to be bit next at some point?’ 

Goku grins, showing off gleaming fangs and pulls her close to him. He nuzzles her collarbone and hums, ‘no, I’ m not gonna hurt you’ 

Nakala tenses, ‘wait! Don't I have to mark you first!?’

’Hm?’ He doesn't hear her, too busy rubbing his cheek and mouth around her collarbone and purring softly. 

She huffs and grabs his head sternly, pushing his head back enough to nuzzle the side of his neck. She ignores his pouting whine as she moves to the other side. When Nakala finishes she pulls away and chuckles at his pout, giving him a quick peck on his forehead that brightens his mood.

’Alright, go get Broly for me’ she pats his cheeks, forgetting right away how large Goku is when he reluctantly lets her out of his hold and stands. She blinks and watches as he bounds off into the brush to get the other Saiyan. 

Nakala rests her hand on her hip as she counts how many shampoo bottles she has left. Am I getting too comfortable around them? I know most researchers have some kind of relationship with their subjects but am I getting too close? They’ve established I’m part of their troop but how deep does that go? I can leave but they can’t. She frowns, I’ll have to ask Gohan or Trunks about it, I could just be overthinking it.  

‘Nakala?’ She hears a soft voice call her name, prompting her to turn her head. 

She locks eyes with Broly who gives her a small smile and smiles back. As she gestures for him to have a seat next to her and the cart, he does so with a curious glance at the cart. 

‘Just taking stock on if I’m going to need more bottles, which looks to be the case’ she huffs and types on her phone to inform Rhodes who responds with a cheeky emoji and a “sending an intern with more bottles” a second later. 

Broly watches her carefully as she shakes the shampoo bottle and approach him. He’s surprised when she asks softly, ‘permission to touch?’ and nods just as quickly as she asked. 

As she works on his hair, he tenses for a second before visibly relaxing. I’ll be as gentle as i can, poor guy has been through a lot in Examination and the last thing i want is to stress him out more. She massages the shampoo into his scalp and cards her fingers through his now made soft hair. Nakala notices that his head lolls in the direction she massages his head and movement behind him attracts her attention. His tail moves and twitches almost in search of something and she carefully moves her foot towards it. Her heart warms when his tail makes contact with her foot and delicately wraps around her calf, resting there as she continues to work on his hair. Nakala has to twist slightly uncomfortably to grab the wide tooth comb and take a hair sample. She tosses the labeled bag gently onto the others before grabbing another bottle and she feels Broly leaning against her softly. 

‘I can’t work on your arms if you're leaning on me baby boy’ she chuckles, surprised she successfully rights his posture with no problem. 

He languidly watches Nakala massage the shampoo on his arm and side and hums softly, ‘you don't have to be so gentle, I won’t break’

‘I know that’ Nakala furrows her brows, ‘I just feel like you deserve some kind of pampering after what you’ve been through’

’Ah’ he doesnt hide his blush, ‘you shouldn’t feel any regret, you didn't do it’ 

‘I know but I'm surprised you aren't more upset’ she huffs, shaking her head.

‘I’m in a better place now’ he hums, ‘we live somewhere better and have a provider that isn't Gogeta. You're nicer’ he smiles softly, ‘and I like the nickname you gave me’

Nakala tilts her head in confusion and then feels her face heat and moves to his back, ignoring the amused look he throws over his shoulder at her. 

‘I’m sorry! It just slips out sometimes’

’I like it!’ He smiles as she works on his back, ‘it’s something only you call me’

Yeah cause you deserve it, she internally chuckles. 

‘I was worried I did something wrong when you had Cumber call Goku instead of me but after this I worried for nothing’ 

Nakala pauses and looks at him, ‘you were worried? About what?’

’Well…I am stronger than Goku, so when you chose him when I'm stronger I was a little upset but Gohan told me that you wouldn't know everyone’s strength rank so I don't feel as bad’

’…Was I supposed to mark through strength rank? How was I supposed to know that?’

’That’s how its normally done. But you didn't know anything about that so its no harm done’ 

‘I’m not offending your customs on purpose I promise’ she whines, unintentionally stroking his tail and making him shudder. 

He carefully moves it out of her hands and adjusts his front while she doesn't notice and shakes his head as she steps to the side to work on his other arm and side.

‘You’re not a Saiyan, its alright’ he smiles, ‘Plus, as Provider you can do whatever you want. There’s not much we can say or do about it’ 

‘I expect you to have a say if you don’t like what I’m doing Broly’ she sighs.

He watches as she steps to his front and looks at his neck with a worried frown. It still looks a little raw and she sighs as she licks her wrist. I should’ve had Cumber hit Matthew’s on Broly’s behalf, she internally grumbles. Broly notices her hesitation and gently takes her hand. She blinks in surprise when he moves her wrist to rub against his neck. He lets it go and looks at her expectantly and she hastily licks her other wrist, watching as he does the same to that hand.

’That doesn't hurt at all?’ She asks in worry.

‘It’s healing’ he reassures, gently ushering her closer to him with open arms. 

She needs no further prompting as she damn near smothers him in her chest in a hug that causes her to vibrate more as he purrs and nuzzles the skin of her collar area. After a few affectionate pats and forehead pecks they eventually part. 

‘You want me to get Raditz?’ He grimaces.

She shares his facial expression and shakes her head, ‘He’s gonna need the most work so he's going last’ she waves it away, ‘can you get Trunks for me?’ 

He nods with a smile and as he disappears, an intern shuffles in with armfuls of shampoo and drops them into the cart.

’Thank you’ she smiles.

’How’s it going in here boss? I’m glad that the silence in here wasn't something horrific’, they gather up the empty shampoo bottles and regard the sample bags.

’Nothing crazy. The silence is a good thing this time’ she reassures.

’How many left?’ 

‘Just two, after that I'm heading home’ she stretches. 

The intern eyes the samples and smiles, ‘I saw how intimidating those guys look and how they behaved during measurements. They just let you get samples like that? Are they all just harmless?’

‘Absolutely not. Were you here when one of them was literally covered in blood?’

The intern blanches, ‘n-no!? How are you just in here like they’re not a threat!?’

Nakala hears quiet rustling approaching them and shrugs, ‘they’re a threat, just not to me I think?’

‘You’d be right’ she hears a voice behind her, eyeing the now wary intern.

‘Alright…I’ll go tell the others that you’re fine and almost done with the samples’ they glance at Nakala and whispers, ‘if you’re ever in danger blink twice and we’ll help you get out’

That makes Trunk’s eyebrow twitch in irritation as Nakala whispers back an amused, ‘I appreciate it’ as they hastily walk out.

They hear the doors hiss closed in the distance and Nakala glances back at Trunks who gently grabs a shampoo bottle to examine.

‘Don’t take it personal, we’ve had plenty of incidents where researchers were trapped in a habitat of their subjects and barely made it out alive’ she gestures for him to sit and he does with a quiet pout. 

‘It’s not like we’re going to do that to you. Not when you’re already established as Provider’ he folds his arms. 

‘Can you blame them though?’ She shakes the shampoo.

‘No’ he sighs, doing the same before popping the cap open and adding some to his hand.

Nakala watches in shock as he rubs the shampoo onto his arm and chest and blinks.

‘Why are you doing it yourself?’

‘Huh?’ He glances at her, ‘I’m supposed to?’

At her distressed demeanor he blinks in surprise, ‘don’t tell me you’ve been shampooing us yourself!’

‘I thought I had to!’ She deflates and whines.

‘I mean if it’s between you and the troop leader it’d be fine but everyone!?’ He shakes his head, ‘that explains why everyone was in a good mood’

‘Was it not like some kind of bonding exercise?’ She weakly hopes.

Trunks glances at her as he works on his other arm and hums. 

‘I guess if you wanted it to be that that could work. It’s just a lot when you’re being established as Provider to the rest of the troop. Grooming another is bonding but with that title this early it’s like it’s too soon y’know?’

‘Thanks for telling me after this Trunks’ Nakala huffs.

‘You didn’t mess anything up if that’s what you’re worried about. The others all seemed fine by it. They were practically fighting to see who you’d pick next since you weren’t going in order!’ 

‘Still sorry about that’ she mumbled and makes her way to his back.

‘Don’t be! Fighting amongst each other is bonding as well and we do that a lot’ he scratched the back of his head.

He contentedly watches as she rubs shampoo over his back and working it in.

‘At least I can do this part’ she sighs. Trunks watches as she works her way down his back. Nakala missing the blush forming on his ears and cheeks as she gets closer to his tail.

‘You-you’ve touched there too?’ He coughs.

She looks up at him in confusion, ‘yeah, most of the others let me…why?’

‘No reason!’ he quickly turns his head, feeling the heat rise up his spine when she grasps his tail gently, ‘if-if they let you touch their tails during this it should be fine-I-should be fine’

‘If you don’t want me to touch your tail you can say that’ she loosens her already loose grip when she sees how fluffed up he got, ‘I don’t want you to be uncomfortable’

Oh trust me Nakala I am far from uncomfortable, He shudders. 

‘How-how about this?’ He tries to cover his heavily blushing face with one hand while directing hers with his other, ‘just put shampoo on your hands and I’ll do the rest’

Nakala makes a face, ‘okay’ watching as his reddish purple tail weaves around her palms and fingers carefully. When it pulls away to tuck around his waist to hide a growing bulge, he hears her stand behind him. The gentle combing of a fine toothed comb along his shoulder calms his frayed nerves and gives him a breather as she bags the fur. A purr damn near rips out of him as she cards her fingers through his hair. Trunks tenses yet again when she tugs a few knots out of his hair, mumbling apologies and that she’ll try to be gentle. 

It’d be better if you didn’t, he internally muses, blush coming back full force when she tugs a little harder at another knot.

This time she sees him full on shudder and quickly takes her hands out of his hair. He almost broke and let out a whine of disappointment. Almost. 

‘Let me bag this up then I won’t hurt you anymore I promise’ she soothes.

She watches as he hides his face in his hands and stands abruptly when she taps his shoulder to signal that she finished. She jumps, startled and visibly confused as he hides his face in her shoulder. 

‘Trunks?’ She blinks when he gently grasps her wrists and mumbles out.

‘Please?’

Nakala nods and gently licks her wrists, still confused as to this sudden change in demeanor. Even more so when he hides his face from her to mark himself.

‘Did I hurt you?’ She asks carefully.

‘’M embarrassed’ he mumbles as he nuzzles her collarbone area.

‘Embarrassed?’ She tries to take a peek at his face but he turns quickly and shuffles towards the nest, leaving her perplexed.

She hears loud rustling right after and a menacing laugh makes its way towards her, signaling her last subject for the day. Nakala sighs and tosses the empty shampoo bottles below the cart with the others and gathers four more to the top. 

Of all the ones to take forever…why’d it have to be with him?, she internally whines.

She smells him before she feels his overwhelming presence behind her and she tenses. She knows she can always call Gogeta if she yells like last time and somehow that gives her comfort enough to turn and look into his mischievous yet intimidating golden orange gaze. 

‘…you know he’ll come if I yell’ she warns, not at all enjoying the grin that followed.

‘So will I’ he winks.

Nakala’s eyes widen at the implication and wills the warmth of her face away as he laughs at her reaction.

‘I’ve no intention of harming you Provider, that is, if you do a good job’ 

Nakala gives him an irritated glare that he chuckles at. She gathers the shampoo and before she can touch his arm he turns away from her, causing a frustrated huff to come out of her. 

‘What?’

‘Work on my back first’ he gathers his giant mass of hair to his front.

‘What if I don’t want to? What if I had a system?’ She protests.

‘What if I pinned you and claimed you as mine?’ He throws a look over his shoulder to gauge her baffled reaction. 

That shut her up, he smirks and turns back when she starts to hand scrub his slightly matted fur clean. 

At least he won’t smell like blood now, she sighs.

‘Go slower, I want to savor this’

‘This is not pamper a killer day’ she grimaces. 

‘Hmm. Shame’ he hears her move to his side and effortlessly picks her up to put her behind him once again.

At her questioning tone he wraps his tail around her wrist, ‘you’ve missed a very important spot Provider’ 

Nakala scoffs, ‘your tail doesn’t look like it needs cleaning’

‘Yeah? Well my tail isn’t a different color than the rest of my fur. So get to it’ he orders.

Nakala rolls her eyes, Someone’s bossy for not being in charge, and notices that his fur isn’t dual toned. She sees that the blood soaked fur still on his arms and tail made it look black while his cleaned back was a brownish red. She grimaces when she sees the cracked reddish colored shampoo that littered the ground near their feet. 

This is going to take forever, she internally sighs and shampoos his tail. She ignores the way the thick fur along his spine fluffs up but perks up immediately when he lets out a growling purr. 

I should feel bad that I’m hurting him like I did Trunks but I don’t, she smugly grins to herself, maybe this time he’ll stop being so provocative.

She’s broken out of her thoughts when she hears him huff her name, head tilted back. 

‘What?’

‘Harder~’

‘What!?’ She tries to back away only to bump into the sample cart. 

Nakala jumps when thick blood dried arms keep her trapped between a rock and a hard place. There’s no mistaken the heated blushing smirk he throws at her. Gold orange eyes appraise her lazily as she tries to push him away. 

‘I’m not working on your back anymore’ she grumbles, finding no give to his movements. 

‘That’s fine’ Raditz looks down at her.

’So can you move? I need to work on your arms’

’Whats wrong with right here?’

’…Proximity?’ She grimaces, ‘you are in my personal space’

’How unprofessional to let something like that get in your way’ he chides playfully, enjoying the unamused look on her face.

Clearly he’s not going to make things easy so Nakala stubbornly squirts a handful of shampoo and reaches to work it along his arm. She sweeps off the dried shampoo mixed with blood and is satisfied with the results of her efforts. Nakala grows suspicious of his sudden silence and glances at him as she shampoos his other arm.

’…you're suspiciously quiet’ she voices.

Instantly regretting it as he leans in closer to growl purr into her ear.

’Is this better?’ He nips the lobe of her ear, pressing her further into the cart.

’Obviously not’ she admits breathlessly, growing uncomfortable at the angle hes pressed her into the cart, ‘Can you move? You're making my back hurt’

She feels him pull away slightly and lean down only to yelp as he grips her thighs and lifts her on the edge of the cart. 

‘I meant by backing up!’ She scolds, prompting him to move further between her legs.

’You smell sweet when I’m close, why would I pull away?’ 

‘Boundaries?’ She argues.

‘Don’t have any clue what that is’ he shrugs.

Nakala sighs, It’d be easier if I just had an intern do this for me. But they’d end up mangled or worse if they had to work on him. She looks at his smug grin flatly and gathers up his hair, moving it to and fro then huffing.

‘Can you at least turn so I can reach your scalp?’

‘Hmmm. No’

‘Fine. Be difficult’ she states, gathering up shampoo in her hands and working on the ends to the middle of his lengthy hair. She tosses the now empty one and lathers her hands before looking at him once again. 

‘You’re not gonna lower your head for me to get to your scalp, are you?’

‘Gotta work for what you want’ he smirks, not taking his eyes off of her. 

He watches as she leans up close to his face, trying his damndest not to just move closer to mash his lips against hers and blinks in amused surprise when she grips the hair close to his forehead and shoving his head down. That makes him bark out a laugh as she works on his scalp and beyond where she can reach. He hears her let out a breath of relief and growls against her stomach. Cheap trick, nothing to lash out over. But this I can’t let go unpunished.

Thank god I took a gambled risk and it paid off, Nakala lets out a breath, I was for sure certain he was going to retaliate. She shakes out the dried blood from his hair, completely misunderstanding his head lowering for access to shake out the rest of the dried blood. Her body tenses as soon as she feels heat close to her crotch and tries to move away from where he’s bent but his arms wrap around her thighs to keep her still. 

‘Raditz’ Nakala warns.

‘I wasn’t lying when I said I liked this new assertive side of you Provider’ he mouths the top of her clothed thigh. 

‘Am I gonna need a third party to watch you from now on?’ She warns as he opens his mouth to bite lightly at her other thigh. 

‘No. But you’d better hurry and get your sample before the others get jealous over how wet I make you’ 

‘You-you absolutely do not!’ She aggressively combs through his hair and bags it just as quickly.

‘No?’ Raditz peers up at her and lifts his head, hands squeezing her thighs and applying gentle pressure to pry them apart, ‘then why don’t you open up so I can see for myself?’ 

‘Because that’s not professional’ she tenses her thighs to keep him at bay, making him roll his eyes and scoff.

‘You and your professionalism’ his tail swishes behind him and his eyes narrow when he sees her lick her wrist. 

He swiftly moves his head out of the way of her wet wrist with a growl. 

‘What? So now you’re rejecting my position?’

‘You think I want to be scented that way?’ 

‘It’s the only way I’m going to do it because of your behavior’ she states matter-of-factly. 

At his pout she quickly rubs both wrists against the sides of his neck, prompting him to jump and look at her, baffled. She yelps when he growls and pulls her close. A faint citrus smell makes its way to her nose and Nakala freezes when she feels one of his hands leave her hip to yank her shirt down to expose the top of her breasts. 

‘Raditz!’ 

Her scolding goes unanswered as he buries his face into them and lets out a growling purr. After a minute of rough nuzzling he pulls away but not without a wide nip to the top of one of her breasts. Earning a firm slap to the side of his face, making him release her with a laugh. 

He stands and licks his fang, ‘I think I’m going to like these little experiments Provider’ 

‘Don’t get used to it’ she huffs, watching as he walks away into the underbrush with a pep in his step.

She straightens herself up and tries to right her ruined collar but gives up when there’s no saving it. Nakala takes the cart full of empty shampoo bottles and samples and walks out of the enclosure. Her subordinates and interns suppress a chuckle at her bedraggled state but Rhodes laughs when they come to collect the samples and tosses Nakala her coat. 

‘You look like you had fun!’ 

‘Hush. I’m going straight home’

Chapter Text

The beep of the South Wing door opens and Nakala and Rhodes steps through mid conversation. 

‘I’m telling you, they smell but not in a bad way!’

‘Like the same?’

‘No different, Gohan confirmed for me that it’s from a scent gland between their pectorals and that’s what Gogeta was doing when we were getting the rest of his troop’

‘Earthy cinnamon as I remember you saying’

‘Yeah’

‘Scenting you or marking you?’

‘They called it scenting. I know I’ll most likely get answers from Gohan or Trunks if I ask. Trying to ask “the great and mighty troop leader” just sounds like a run around of ask and dodge’

‘Is that the plan for the day while the samples are still being processed?’

‘Looks that way. Expect a report to go over with that’ 

‘You got it’ Rhodes pauses when she sees the door to the enclosure wide open.

Nakala notices it as well and looks at an intern, ‘Has that been open the entire time?’

‘Just early this morning, it was either we opened it for your boy or he opened it himself. We didn’t want to give you anymore trouble and paperwork so we did. Surprisingly enough no one came out to run amok so we just forgot it was open until Rhodes pointed it out’

‘So why did he want it open in the first place?’ Nakala shakes her head.

The two continue to listen as they log into their respective computers.

‘No clue’ the intern shrugs, ‘they weren’t even seen anywhere near the door until we just brought them breakfast’ 

Rhodes looks up from her computer, ‘you gonna ask him?’ 

Nakala shrugs, ‘I’m curious as to why as well. I doubt it’s for something malicious’ 

She stretches and sighs, ‘guess that’s two things I gotta do today’ 

‘Don’t forget you gotta meet up with Smith and Hughes with their subjects later this week’ Rhodes calls out to her. 

Nakala throws her a thumbs up as she tentatively walks through the open door to the enclosure. She looks at where the interns usually leave the breakfast carts and finds the carts clearly eaten but everyone was missing. She heads over to the nest and no one is there as well. Distant splashing and laughing is heard and Nakala decides to follow it. Nearly tripping over a soaking wet boot and getting slapped in the face by a pair of hanging wet pants leads her to the lake where the troop decides to lounge and swim. Nakala sees a mess of semi wet red hair and playfully sneaks up on them as they continue their conversation. 

‘She should be here by now, its not like her to be late’ Gohan says.

’Right? I left the door open for her and everything!’ Gogeta places his hands on his hips, ‘She likes us too much to skip out on seeing us so I wouldn’t worry about it’ 

‘She’s probably closer than we think’ Vegito smirks as he rests his head on his arms along the slope of the lake. 

He as well as a few others notice Nakala sneaking up on an unaware Gogeta. All thankfully staying silent to watch what chaos could unfold which does when she playfully spooks him and blinks in surprise when her hand phases right through his now disappearing body. Nakala practically steps where he stood and is visibly perplexed at what had transpired. 

‘Oh, you didn't know he could do that?’ Gohan blinks and Vegito grins.

’No!?’ Nakala blinks at where Gogeta stood and looks at Vegito, ‘why is it that every time I interact with you guys I learn something new!? What else aren't you telling me!?’ 

‘Nothing that wouldn’t be hilarious if we didn't let you figure it out yourself’ he shrugs. 

Before she can say anything else, a presence is felt behind her and purrs into her ear, ‘Boo’

Her yelp makes a few flinch and strong hands firmly keep her from leaping into the lake in fear. 

’Nice try’ Gogeta chuckles as he stands her back up but holding her close to his chest, enjoying her squirm to get away as his fur is still wet. 

‘That’s just gonna lead to more research Gogeta’ she whines and pushes him away, ‘I don't think I have it in me to see if everyone can do that today’

‘You don't have to worry about it, I'm the only one who can do that’ Gogeta puffs his chest. 

‘Yeah but can everybody do something else?’ She turns to look at him then shakes her head, ‘no, that’s something for later. That’s not why I'm here’ she focuses herself. 

‘You’re doing more research?’ She hears Trunks ask.

’Nothing too crazy while the fur samples are still being processed. I’m actually trying to prove a point to Rhodes since she doesn't believe me’ 

‘Doesn’t believe you about what?’ Gohan swims next to Vegito’s side to get closer to her. 

‘That you guys have a specific smell! She thinks I'm making it up but I literally told her that Gogeta smelled like earthy cinnamon when we first met’ she crouches to explain to him, ‘you even confirmed for me that you guys have a scent gland between your pecs’ 

‘And you wish to find that out now?’ She hears the teasing lilt of Raditz in the distance. 

‘Sure, I mean everybody is here’ she shrugs.

Nakala sits at the edge of the lake as Vegito moves Gohan out of the way. She watches as his eyebrows raise. 

‘I don’t think I like that look you're giving me Vegito’ she narrows her eyes at him.

’You probably shouldn’t. Can I go first?’ 

‘Yeah if you want-should I be concerned that you're so eager to go first?’ She looks at him suspiciously.

’You should’ Gogeta side eyes her as he steps past her to step back into the lake. 

It takes her a second to process that shes just seen Gogeta’s furred outer thigh, tail, and bare ass before he’s chest deep into the water. 

‘You’re all naked!?’ 

The splash of water in front of her causes her to flinch back as Vegito rises from the water to tower over her with a cheeky grin, answering her question easily as she glances down to his bare waist then quickly away. 

‘You know what, thats on me. I saw the clothes and knew everyone didn't have anything else to wear much less swimwear so what else could you all be besides naked’

’I’m ready to be researched Provider~’ Vegito purrs, laughing soon after as Nakala stands abruptly, pushing Vegito back into the water. 

‘I’ll go get some towels for you guys when you're done’ she walks away, stopping to look at the still wet clothes, ‘and I’ll wait for those to dry. Meet me by the window when youre ready. Dry and clothed please!’ she quickly leaves the scene. 

‘You scared her off Vegito’ Goku pouts.

’Not for long’ Vegito chuckles.

Rhodes watches as Nakala walks out and approaches an intern to drop off a load of towels near the lake. Nakala meets Rhodes’ waiting smile when she takes a seat across from her to be at her computer. 

‘Any results?’ 

‘There’s been a delay’ Nakala sighs.

’Deets?’

’No’

’Aww don't be like that!’ Rhodes whines.

’I will absolutely be like that. You don’t know what I just went through’ She throws her a withering look.

’But I’ll find out at some point’ Rhodes cheekily grins, ‘I’ll catch you slipping’

’I’m taking it to my grave’ 

‘Oh come on! We’ve been here for years and seen practically everything there is to see! You don't even flinch at dead bodies anymore! What could you have seen that you won’t tell me!?’

’Not everything’ they turn at the sound of someone knocking on glass, greeted by the mischievous smirk of Vegito on the other side. Nakala stands and points to Rhodes, ‘I’m keeping this to myself. Now let me prove you wrong’

’Have fun!’ Rhodes smiles, watching Nakala gather up a small bag of cotton balls and make her way to the enclosure and to the Saiyan eagerly waiting for her approach. 

’Nakala’ he practically purrs as she closes the distance.

’Are you going to behave?’ She raises an eyebrow before pulling out a soft ball of cotton.

’I always behave’ he throws her a fanged grin.

’Sure’ she rolls her eyes, ‘now’ she points to his chest-the scent gland between his pecs specifically-‘do I have your permission to touch you?’

Shes answered by a resounding hum, ‘you can do whatever you want Provider’

Nakala grimaces at his tone, ‘don't say that. If you had said that to someone with bad intentions they would've jumped at the chance to take advantage of you’

Vegito simply blinks and leans down to pull her closer, ‘please take advantage of me’

’Alright, stop playing around’ she knocks on the glass to get Rhodes’ attention then rubs his scent gland with the cotton ball. 

At the sound of the door opening, Nakala smells the cotton ball and looks at Rhodes in surprise.

‘What’s this one smelling like?’ Rhodes saunters up, offering a friendly wave at Vegito who waves back. 

‘…eucalyptus I think?’ She smells it again, ‘definitely eucalyptus’ then hands it to Rhodes who smells it for herself.

Her eyebrows shoot up, ‘it is eucalyptus!’ 

‘I told you they smell like something but its not bad!’ Nakala points at her. 

‘…well now we have to see about the others!’ Rhodes bounces in place after excitedly typing into her phone. No doubt documenting the scents for her own nefarious purposes. 

‘Of course’ Nakala huffs then looks at Vegito, ‘you can choose who is up next’ 

Vegito pouts, ‘…now?’

’Yes now, don't tell me you want to stay here with us while we do this?’ Nakala tilts her head.

Theres a pregnant silence in the air and Rhodes chortles. 

‘Go get someone else Vegito‘

’…Why can’t I stay?’ Vegito pouts. 

’Right Roberts, let him stay!’ Rhodes defends in amusement.

’Go get someone else and then you can stay’ Nakala rolls her eyes.

She ignores the giggles from Rhodes as they watch the black haired Saiyan dart off deep into the foliage of the enclosure. Nakala side eyes Rhodes as leaves and branches shuffle and shake and Rhodes looks back in excited confusion.

’What? At least this way I can officially meet the others!’

That makes Nakala come to a realization, ‘you really didn't get to meet the others’

’I’m comfy being on the side lines, you know that, but in the off chance you're not here and I have to be you for the day, then introductions should be in order’

’True. Can’t have you being in danger while I'm indisposed for any amount of time’ Nakala agrees, ‘I wonder if I could make you stand in Provider if I’m ever gone for a day or two’ 

‘That’s not gonna happen’ a calm voice breaks her out of her external pondering. 

The two turn to see that Vegito didn't just get someone, but someone’s. The entire troop to be exact. Gogeta saunters up to their sides with folded arms. 

‘As cool as you are Steph, you don't have what it takes to be Provider’ 

‘Ouch’ Rhodes feigns her hurt feelings with a hand to her chest and Gogeta tries to soothe said hurt feelings with a reassuring hand to her head.

’I didn't mean it like that. All the stuff Nakala went through, you don't seem the type to do what she did to earn the title’

’Fair’ Rhodes nods in agreement.

’So is her life in danger if I'm not in here and she has to run tests?’ Nakala asks warily. 

Gogeta thinks on it with a playful hum.

’No,’ Gohan inserts himself to ease their worries, ‘I’m pretty sure she’s at least close enough to you for us to not perceive her as a threat’ 

‘She won’t be allowed in the nest though’ Gogeta explains.

’Because she’s not in the troop’ Nakala concludes.

Gogeta and Gohan nod.

’What if I scented her and made her part of the troop?’ She raises her eyebrows, testing the waters. Rhodes, just as intrigued, looks between the three curiously.

’If the troop leader and provider were the same then it could work…’ Gohan tilts his head.

’But there’s not and I say no’ Gogeta folds his arms passively.

Nakala looks at Gohan for confirmation.

’It has to be unanimous I’m afraid’ he shrugs.

’Wow and I thought you were cool’ Rhodes lamely pouts. 

‘I am cool. I just don't want any fighting between you two if I agree to let you in. You're still fine to be in her territory’ Gogeta reassures with a sway of his tail.

’Why would we fight when we work together?’ Nakala tilts her head.

’And we’re friends???’ Rhodes questions.

’We know that intellectually’ Gohan tries to explain, ‘but instinctually…’

Nakala’s eyes widen and she looks at Rhodes who’s gears are still turning in her head, ‘They’d think you’d be competition!’

It takes Rhodes a couple minutes before her eyes widen as well, ‘Ooohhh, like a pride! Would I be like a new male coming in out of nowhere?’

’Exactly’ Gohan nods.

’Even though theres no reason for us to fight at all if she was allowed in?’ Nakala signifies. 

‘And that I don't want her title at all?’ Rhodes adds with a raise to her hand.

‘It’s the possibility that it could happen that would leave all of us on edge thats the problem’ Gohan sighs and looks sympathetically at Rhodes who looks not at all bothered by it.

‘It’s for the best honestly. She is more responsible than I am’ she points her thumb at Nakala.

’Somebody has to be’ Nakala rolls her eyes and looks at Gohan, ‘when we’re out with our other friends, she’s the one who gets in the most trouble with her antics’

’Trust me. I can relate’ Gohan whispers back.

’Didn't we have something we were doing?’ Rhodes breaks them out of their secret whispering, watching as Nakala takes a deep inhale and groans. 

‘Yes, thanks for reminding me’ she grimaces, ‘Gohan, you're closer. You're up next’

’Next for what exactly?’ He tilts his head.

Before she can explain, shes stopped by Vegito calling out, ‘Wait don't tell them what you're doing!’ 

‘Why???’

’It’d be funnier’ He shrugs with a closed eyed grin.

Nakala looks at Rhodes who grins as well, ‘it would be funnier. I agree with him’

’Oh no, now theres two of them’ Nakala shakes her head before looking at Gohan, ‘do I have permission to touch you?’

’Of course’ he smiles, jumping in surprise as her hands land on his pecs gently. 

He gazes down at her furrowed concentrated brows and quickly picks up on her motives, chuckling and releasing a small amount of his scent where she takes a careful smell. 

He watches as she turns to Rhodes, ‘Earthy lemon’

’Everything is earthy with you’ Rhodes chuckles and approaches to smell him as well.

‘It’s not an artificial lemon smell’ Nakala defends.

’You’re not wrong but its like…fresher? Greener? Kinda like if you threw an open lemon outside and you can still smell it’ Rhodes tries to explain.

They completely ignore the blushing that Gohan has on his face before Nakala looks at her companion flatly, ‘lemongrass?’

’Lemongrass!’ Rhodes types it out on her phone. 

Nakala looks at the bag of cotton balls in her hand and tucks them into her lab coat pocket. Don’t even need these anymore.

‘Can I ask why you're documenting this?’ She raises her eyebrows.

Rhodes looks up from her phone with a cheeky grin, ‘sure….only if you tell me what you saw earlier’

’I’m still taking it to my grave’ Nakala stubbornly moves Gohan over to Vegito and gesturing Goku over to her. 

‘Can I tell her?’ Goku asks as Nakala pokes around his pecs.

’Absolutely not!’ she looks at him, pointing at his forehead.

’What if I ask someone else?’ Rhodes chuckles, looking over at Cumber, ‘you know anything big boy?’

Cumber furrows his brows at her then folds his arms, ‘no’

’If I tell you, will I get special treatment?’ Raditz saunters up to them, throwing a smirk at Nakala. 

‘If you do, I'm kicking you out of the troop’ Nakala warns, leaning to smell the scent coming from Goku’s chest, ‘Hmm, Citrus? Orange-y’

’Doesn't it have to be unanimous?’ Rhodes calls out, leaning to smell then nodding in agreement and typing it into her phone.

’You can try Provider~’ Raditz towers over Nakala, ‘But out of us two, I have seniority’ 

‘I’m sure she can make a pretty good argument to convince me’ Gogeta backs her up with a smirk, ‘it wouldn't take much’

’Thats cold of you Troop Leader’

Nakala feels a tail wrap around her calf and turns to where Gogeta continues to have his stare off with Raditz. The stare breaks when Rhodes looks at Raditz in confusion and he grimaces at how close she gets to his face.

’Why do you look familiar?’ She turns to look at Nakala who now pats lightly at Gogeta’s chest.

‘That’s the one who came in covered in blood’ she states then points to Gogeta, ‘Cinnamon’

Rhodes uses that to move away from Raditz to smell Gogeta and type in her phone, ‘Right, right. I’m just gonna…move over here. Who’s up next?’ She looks over at Trunks leaning against the glass window, ‘pretty purple?’ 

Trunks shakes his head and chuckles as Nakala sighs, ‘Raditz is closer so he’s next’ 

‘And why should I do what you want when you said you would kick me from the troop?’ Raditz raises an eyebrow at her.

Nakala wrinkles her nose at him, ‘you were going to tell her something I didn't want told in exchange for special treatment, thats on you’ 

‘Aww, are you embarrassed by our troop in such a state?’ He side eyes Gogeta who rolls his shoulders.

She does miss the curious look he throws at her before she scoffs, ‘of course not…it’s just…not something I want to tell others out loud what happened’

‘Did you like what you saw?~‘ Vegito purrs.

That gets the attention of everyone in the troop.

Nakala groans loudly and Raditz cuts her off, ‘Answer or you don't get to know how I smell. This experiment will end with me’

’Nakala!’ Rhodes whines.

’Alright. Fine!’ Nakala groans, silence in the air as everyone listens closely as she mumbles, ‘I did’ 

‘Did what?’ Raditz smirks.

’Like what I saw, okay! Are you happy now?’ She admits.

’I am’ he purrs. 

She purposefully ignores the fluffed up troop members with closed eyes when a particular smell hits her nose. When she recognizes what the smell was, her eyes fly open, ‘Citronella???’ She looks at Rhodes.

Rhodes gives her a thumbs up from behind Gogeta, ‘I’ll take your word for it for this one’

‘Well let’s go to someone that you aren't wary of‘ Nakala shakes her head and makes her way to Trunks, whose tail flicks curiously as the two approach, ‘do I have to coax it out of you too, Pretty Purple?’

’No,’ Trunks chuckles, opening his arms to invite them in, ‘unlike them, I like things to run as smoothly as possible’

The two lean in to smell his chest and he watches as they visibly deflate against him with a pleased hum. 

‘Lavender’ Nakala mumbles in content.

’Mhmm’ Rhodes sighs, bonelessly typing in her phone. 

After a while of enjoying the scent the Saiyan gave off, Nakala reluctantly pulls away and pats Rhodes.

’Alright next one, we gotta finish this’ she shuffles towards where Cumber stands nearby, eyeing Nakala who looks at his shirt with furrowed brows. He’s still when she pushes her fingers against his chest in confusion. She tugs at his shirt carefully and looks up at him.

’Can you lift this for me please?’ 

She watches as he yanks the bottom of his tucked in shirt up and is blasted with a fresh woodsy scent. The skin tight shirt flaps closed as he gazes at Nakala’s pondering face. Rhodes snaps her fingers in realization.

’Rosemary!’

Nakala leans over to take another smell and nods, ‘Rosemary. I wonder what the reason is to have these specific smells’

’We’ll figure it out. I’m more surprised that those in a troop dont have the same scent’ Rhodes observes her notes.

’Maybe they’re newly formed?’ Nakala looks over at Gogeta who’s scratching his ear, lost in thought, ‘how long have you all been in a troop?’ 

Gogeta blinks at her and hums, counting on his fingers then shrugs, ‘I lost count at 10 human seasonal cycles, anything after that I stopped caring’

’It’s been 50 human years actually’ Gohan raises his hand. 

‘You all look relatively young,’ Rhodes scratches her head in astonishment, ‘how old even are you guys?’

’Ah…that we aren't too sure of. None of us can really recall how we even got here. Most of us all remember being around humans when we were small but scattered,’ Trunks explains, ‘it wasn't until we got older that we managed to find each other’

’Fun times’ Vegito sighs happily.

’No, not fun times’ Gohan side eyes him, ‘all we did was fight and Broly almost destroyed an entire village’

Nakala notices Broly flinching at the memory and hugs his arm, gently rubbing her cheek against the fur on his arm to soothe him. His tail wraps around her ankle in thanks.

Rhodes looks over at Nakala, ‘The fur samples could tell us something more accurate but if they look like theyre around our age based on visual observations and Gohan says its been more than 50 years…’ she rubs her temples in frustration, ‘the only way to get as close as possible is to practically wait until someone dies naturally to see for sure’

’It already looks like they have a longer lifespan than humans if they look like this at around 50 years’ Nakala takes in how soft Broly’s fur is for comfort and grumbles, ‘I don’t want to think about any of them dying. This was supposed to be a fun experiment’ 

They take in her somber demeanor and before any of them can move to ease her hurt, she’s engulfed by large furry arms. A soft purring seems to soothe her worries and she hugs Broly gently.

’If it helps at all, I can tell you who’s older in order based on how we met but I can’t give you any accurate numbers’ Gohan wrings his fingers, itching to join the hug but keeping his distance. 

‘That could help’ Nakala mumbles from Broly’s comforting hold. 

‘Lets see’ Gohan paces in thought, ‘when we found each other, Trunks and I were around the same age, Broly is a little older than us, then Goku, umm’ he scratches his head, ‘not really sure which one is older between Gogeta and Vegito, but Raditz is older than those two and Cumber is the oldest’

’And no matter how many times we fight,’ Vegito stands and stretches, ‘he still doesn't hold back on us young ones’

’And I won’t’ Cumber walks up to Nakala still in Broly’s arms and gently touches his forehead with hers, ‘we’re going nowhere’ before walking off further into the enclosure. 

A strong scent drifts in between Nakala and Broly and it makes her stomach grumble in hunger. 

‘How are you sad and hungry?’ Rhodes shakes her head with a small chuckle.

’Shut up’ Nakala whines, ‘he smells like basil’ 

‘Really?’ Rhodes steps closer, smiling when Nakala gently taps Broly’s arm to release her and after a quick once over to see if she feels better, he frees her.

Instead of Rhodes smelling Broly, she obnoxiously leans to smell Nakala instead. Nakala leans back in confusion as Rhodes sighs, ‘thats basil alright’ only for a second later, making her own stomach grumble in hunger. She ignores the pointed stare from Nakala and types into her phone.

Nakala soon after receives a text from Hughes and looks at Rhodes, ‘guess its lunch time’ she pauses when theres another growl from nearby and Goku scratches the back of his head in embarrassment, ‘for everybody’ she chuckles.

After texting a couple interns she looks at the golden eyed saiyan, ‘the carts should be here in a couple minutes, looks like its a noodles day for you guys’ that gets several more growls from the others and Nakala giggles, leading Rhodes out of the enclosure.

’Let me type this up on my laptop and we can head out okay?’ Rhodes shakes her phone before heading out of the enclosure and toward her desk.

’Sounds like a plan,’ Nakala moves to follow right behind her but is stopped by an arm around her waist and pulling her to a tall, firm body smelling of cinnamon. She didn't have to guess who it was holding her, placing a hand on the other arm across her chest in a warm hug. 

‘Yes?’ she hums in amusement, running her fingers through the thick red hair brushing against her cheek.

’You’ve worked here a while, yeah?‘ Gogeta lifts his head to rest his chin on her shoulder.

’A couple years now’ she nods.

’You’ve had any subjects die before?’

’Of course. But you guys are a…special case’

’You gonna explain before you go?’

Nakala sighs, lightly scratching at his scalp as she murmurs, ‘the subjects I was assigned to were either non-sentient and lived lives too short to even form some kind of connection, or were sentient and assigned to others. Theres some I had a hand in caring for and still have some kind of closeness, but not like this’ she pats his cheek, ‘not like you and the troop’ Gogeta feels her deflate slightly, ‘I guess my fear is losing you guys when we’re just starting to get close’

’Takes a lot to get rid of us’ Gogeta tightens his hold, ‘if anything, we’d outlive you before you have a chance of losing us’

’Gogeta was that supposed to make me feel better? Now I’m gonna be sad that you all will forget me when I die’ she huffs, smiling at his attempt to comfort her. 

‘Hey, give us some credit, our memory might be a little bad but we’d never forget you Nakala’ he nuzzles into her neck and purrs, ‘I’d find you in the afterlife…fates be damned’ 

Nakala feels her face warm and sees Rhodes getting up from her chair and getting ready to leave. She unwraps his arms enough to turn and cup his face, regarding the unfamiliar shine his azure colored eyes meet with hers. 

‘That’s very sweet of you to say Gogeta’ she turns his head to kiss his cheek sweetly, not noticing how the Saiyan turns almost as red as his hair when she brushes her cheek against his afterwards, ‘but lets worry about that when we get there alright?’ 

‘Alright. But there better not be anymore being sad with me around, got it?’ He bumps his forehead with hers.

’Got it’ she chuckles.

She steps away with a smile and turns to join Rhodes’ side but pauses in her step when she hears a fluttering sound. Her sharp turn to face the owner of said sound gets a stiff, stern look from the Saiyan still in the doorway. 

‘Was that what I think I heard, Gogeta?’ 

‘You didn't hear a thing Nakala’ his tail waves before walking off back inside.

‘Are you two ready to make your orders now that it’s getting warmer?’ Smith takes a bite out of her burrito bowl.

’Orders?’ Rhodes sips her soda.

’Yup’ Hughes wipes his hands on a napkin, ‘the pest control needs to be ordered early before the bugs somehow get in. The birds always start molting around this time and that always attracts the bugs while their feathers are coming back in. They catch them while they're vulnerable and its a pain to deal with because it puts the birds in a mood’

’Oh, you're talking about the arrival of pests?’ A voice chimes in.

The group looks over to see Bradley coming over and taking a seat between Hughes and Rhodes. 

‘You think we’re going to need to order any?’ Nakala asks.

’I’m surprised you haven't ordered any as soon as the temperatures outside reached 60 degrees. Your subjects are mammalian so I figure they’d be the first ones to experience an issue’ Bradley deduces before taking a bite of his sandwich, ‘my problem is rodents trying to eat the resources in The Sanctuary and putting the creatures there in danger’

’We didn't see anything bug or rodent related when we were in there earlier but I’ll definitely check out the nest before we go home’ Nakala thinks on it, ‘you would think there would be something given they were picked up from various locations but i haven't even seen them itch a scratch that would be concerning’ 

‘It would be better to check now and order some later just in case. It’s easier to repel them than to try and get rid of them all. Bugs are tenacious’ Smith hums.

’Wait, why do you need pest repellant? You work with bugs?’ Rhodes asks, looking at Smith who finishes off her bowl.

’I need a specific powder to dust them with when they also molt because their skin becomes soft and squishy and easy for blood sucking parasites to latch on and live beneath their skin when it hardens. It’s a problem to remove them when that happens’

Everyone at the table grimaces and Smith shrugs, ‘she wanted to know, and I don't disappoint’ 

‘Just for that you're buying me a drink for my pain and suffering tonight’ Rhodes pushes her food away from her in disgust.

’Looking forward to it!’ Smith chuckles.

’So what were you doing in the enclosure today?’ Hughes looks at Nakala.

’I was trying to prove to Rhodes that my subjects have smells so I was proving her wrong’ 

‘And what did you conclude?’ Bradley tilts his head.

’They do have a smell and its specific to each individual’

’Is it bad?’ Smith asks.

’They all smell good actually’ Nakala concludes with a raise to her eyebrows.

The troop is still eating when Nakala determinedly walks into the enclosure. They watch as she walks past them slurping on noodles and makes her way to the nest. She looks closely at the leaves as she sits inside, flipping a few large leaves over to find any insects. She finds none and she sits back in a confused huff. All of their scents mingle within the nest, prominent but not overbearing. Nakala stands abruptly with her hands on her hips and a confused look on her face. The troop notices her approaching them, lost in thought and are too busy eating to question her behavior when she steps up to the member closest to her: Broly. The large saiyan blinks in curiosity when she runs her finger along his arm, openly looking for something. She moves from his arm to his back then to his hair. Still finding nothing. 

‘Have you guys been itchy lately?’ she asks as she moves to check over Goku. 

They shake their heads, various slurps being heard as she continues her searching.

‘Seen any bugs lately? Rodents?’ She looks through the curtain of Cumber’s hair and scalp.

’None that we know of’ Gohan tilts his head, chuckling as she checks him over, ‘does this have anything to do with what you're doing?’

’It does. I’m trying to see if I need to order pest repellent to help you guys out so it doesn't make living here uncomfortable. You’d be surprised with the luck some Wings have had when it came to pests swarming their subjects’

’Ah, thankfully you won’t need to order anything’ he reassures, stepping past her examining Raditz to place his empty bowl onto one of the carts, ‘we never had any issues with that’

’Our bodies are too strong to deal with something that burdensome’ Raditz hums as she parts his hair. 

‘It can’t be that simple can it?’ Nakala thinks out loud as she parts the fur along Vegito’s back, ignoring his lingering tail trailing her calf playfully. 

‘You’d be surprised with how little we have to worry about any bugs’ Trunks adds his own bowl to the cart. He doesn't even flinch away from Nakala going through his hair and fur before moving to Gogeta who leans against her leg as she looks through his hair.

’If we see or feel something we’ll let you know’ he hums.

’Still, thats really weird’ she places her hands on her hips and tilts her head, ‘you guys are warm blooded, and its starting to get warmer, bugs should be all over in here’

’Ugh I hope not’ Vegito shakes out his fur in disgust.

’Maybe you’ll come to a conclusion on your way home’ Trunks chuckles.

When Nakala looks at him, he points up at the setting sun in the enclosure, signaling the end of her day.

’Oh, alright then I guess I’ll see you guys tomorrow’ she turns and walks out of the area. Earning a couple waves as she leaves.

The door swishes closed and Rhodes hands her her bag, ‘ready to go?’ 

‘…yeah’

’Whats that look for?’

’This whole bug thing…’

’You checked their nest?’

’Yeah, and the troop themself. Nothing. They said they never had to deal with stuff like that’

’Weird’ Rhodes looks at her phone, ‘well I’ll send you the list of smells the boys have in case you start to miss them when you're home’ she throws her a cheeky grin as they make their way out of the South Wing.

’Aren't you full of jokes’ Nakala rolls her eyes as she receives the text and looks it over.

They make it to the parking garage and to their cars when Nakala stops in her tracks, eyes glued to her phone when she comes to a realization.

’Rhodes!’ She calls out to her companion who pokes her head over the roof of her car.

’Yes?’ She blinks.

‘They’re a natural repellent!’

’Huh?’

Nakala shows her the list she made and her jaw drops.

’Oh my god!’

Chapter Text

‘So…you lost a bet’ Hughes tries to blink the thought process into his head, ‘and now you have to…’

’Call them cat like things and pretend that they're cats for the day’ Nakala nods, filling him in.

’And you’re not supposed to tell them?’ Bradley tilts his head.

’No, that’d ruin the bet’ she explains.

’…you don't seem bothered by it’ Cohen points out.

’The best way to get over an embarrassing bet is to act like you're not phased by it to the one who set the bet, can’t give them the satisfaction’ she states.

’I’m glad you think so!’ A cheery voice pipes in.

Rhodes carries a small box walking into the main lobby with Smith in tow. She greets everyone with a smile and shakes the box at Nakala, gaining the confused look from Cohen.

’How did that box get through clearance?’

’They looked through it and I told them about what it’s for and they said it was okay because it wasn't a threat to building security or living security’ she excitedly shakes the box.

’…what’s in here???’ Nakala warily eyes the box Rhodes hands to her.

’Part of your bet’ Smith smirks, anticipating Nakala’s reaction for what was in the box.

With a raised eyebrow, she tentatively opens the box and closes it quickly with a now warming face.

’Rhodes…what is your problem???’ She whines.

‘It’s the bet!’ She grins evilly, ‘why? are you embarrassed?’

Don't give her the satisfaction that it bothers you, thats how she wins. You can’t give that kind of advice and chicken out now. ‘Nope’ Nakala shakes the box, ‘now I wanna know how they react to all this when I tell them they have to wear it’

’Can’t tell them that either~’ Rhodes sing songs.

’What!?’ That stops Nakala in her tracks.

’That’d give them a hint at the bet that you can’t tell them was a bet until we leave’

Nakala stares at an excited looking Rhodes, ‘you might be just as evil as Smith’

’She’s learning, just be happy that you didn't lose a bet against me’ Smith smiles.

’No. I learned my lesson from Hughes the last time we went out’ Nakala shakes her head.

’Left my therapist speechless that day’ Hughes huffs. 

That leaves Bradley and Cohen to side eye Smith’s proud demeanor warily as they hear the all clear from the intercom and all move to their respective areas.

’I expect some pictures with your subjects Roberts!’ Smith chuckles.

’Not on your life Smith!’ Nakala calls back, pointing to Rhodes, ‘if I even see you taking pictures I'm reassigning you to a different department’

Rhodes dramatically gasps on their way down the hall, ‘you’d do that to your favorite assistant!?’

Nakala mocks her gasp, ‘you’d give your boss an embarrassing bet to do to her unsuspecting subjects and record it!?’

Rhodes pauses then nods, ‘okay, point made. But! I promise I won’t take any pictures, just in case something does go wrong and I'm not held accountable’

’This is why Gogeta said you couldn’t be provider’ Nakala sticks out her tongue, swiping her card to open the South Wing.

They're greeted by an intern holding a tablet.

’The fur samples have been processed and we’re ready for the next test!’ She hands the results to Nakala to look over, waiting for her signature to send the report to the Director after she signs into her laptop.

‘We’re going to do stamina testing today’ Nakala signs the tablet and hands it back to the intern, ‘I know we have a couple treadmills in Medical so I’ll send a little at a time’

At the interns nod and hasty leave to drop off the report, Nakala sighs, ‘guess I better go and tell them what they're gonna be doing today’

’Don’t forget the bet~ and I will be asking the boys what they think is going on before we leave’ Rhodes grins, laughing as Nakala grimaces at her and tucks the box into her arm and walks to the enclosure.

Nakala sighs loudly as she steps through the now always open door, thinking of her next move. Okay, calling them cat things shouldn’t be too hard and neither should putting these on them, but keeping them from removing it is gonna be a different problem altogether. 

‘Good morning Nakala!’ A voice calls a short distance away.

She looks over at the Saiyans at the food carts and internally chuckles. Time to have at least a little fun. 

‘Good morning my little kitty cats!’ She expertly keeps herself from laughing when she hears a few choking on their drinks, ‘is everyone ready for the next test?’

’That test being?’ Trunks clears his windpipe from any excess water.

’…Kitty cats???’ Gohan sputters.

They watch as she sets down the box nearby, rummaging around it as she explains, ‘Your fur samples practically confirm your ages-well age differences-as well as other things’

She feels the fabric around her fingers and tries not to inwardly cringe at the little bell attached to the middle. Nakala steps carefully up to the troop with a smile, hiding the slip of fabric behind her back, gaining the attention of the troop about her suspicious behavior. 

‘Judging by the results I’ve found, you're all part feline. Not primate’ she falsely deduces.

Gohan and Trunks look at her in confusion, ‘that’s…not correct’

’Is it really hard to believe?’ She steps up to Goku who tries to see what’s in her hand before she gestures to his hair, ‘he’s got a mane, fangs, long expressive tail, silent, growls and purrs. Pretty feline if you ask me’

’You have a point but we don't have claws or eyes or whiskers like a feline’ Trunks tries to argue.

’Does that really matter, kitten?’ she practically trembles to hold in her laughter when she sees his fur fluff up and cheeks redden, ‘just because you have a majority of the traits doesn't mean a few can’t be missing’ She shrugs not seeing the amused suspicious looks from a few of the others. 

‘Does this test have anything to do with your new discovery?’ Gogeta folds his arms.

’No, you're all doing standard stamina training today, just seeing how long you can last on a treadmill and how fast you can run. We have a few machines for you to try but you’ll have to split into small groups’ she presents the strip of fabric with the bell, ‘I’m gonna tie these on you for research purposes and so you don't scare the medical team with your feline tendencies, ' she smiles innocently. 

Nakala watches Gogeta walk up to her side, leaning down to whisper, ‘what game are you playing Nakala?’

’Something I can’t tell you until the end of the day, tiger‘ she whispers back, noticing the way the fur rises on his arm and opting to smooth it down carefully, ‘It’s something harmless but the test is real’ 

She thinks she’s going to get some kind of retaliation, even scolding, when he stands and shakes his head. He looks down at her with a smirk, ‘fine Nakala, I’ll play along. So who’s going up first?’

’Why don't we leave it to the collars?’ Raditz nods to the fabric in her hands, ‘that one seems to have my name on it’

Name on it!? Nakala blanches and frantically looks around the fabric to find that it does have his reported name on it. Rhodes I’m going to throttle you. She can practically feel the cackle Rhodes will give her later when Nakala finds out she knows what shes done. A more pressing question jumps to the foreground of her mind.

’How do you know that?’ She genuinely asks, looking at him. 

‘Just because we lived in isolation doesn't mean we don't know how to read’ he scoffs.

Nakala looks at him flatly and Gohan answers, ‘I found some books in abandoned houses and buildings and in my excitement taught the others to read as a precaution’ 

‘It was extremely boring’ Vegito stretches, ‘thankfully we don't have to do it anymore, no offense Gohan’

’None taken. I’m glad it’s still being used to this day!’ He grins. 

A shadow falls over Nakala and she shrinks back slightly as Raditz towers over her.

’Well?’ He eyes the collar, not even lifting a hand to grab the offered strip.

’Here’ she hands it to him. 

She’s confused as to why he leans in closer, noses brushing and he purrs, ‘Tie it on me yourself Provider’

There’s a distant threatening growl and she sighs loudly as she ties it around his neck, ‘can’t have a cat fight before the test begins. Settle down’ she points to the door next to the enclosure entrance, ‘same place where they took measurements’

’Ooh can you tie mine next?’ Vegito pushes Raditz out of the way, holding the collar with his name on it. 

‘I mean I guess’ she huffs and ties his snugly around his neck. She notices the gleam of his earrings and taps them with a small chuckle, ‘they match your new bell’

There’s a mysterious look on his face as he shakes himself, testing the noise of the bell before giggling, ‘Oh I'm gonna enjoy this!’

’…Enjoy what?’ She looks at him warily and blinks in surprise when he gives a playful peck to her forehead before walking away. He shouldn’t look that good in a collar. She shakes her head.

She reaches into the box and pulls out another one and peering at the name: Broly. Nakala hesitates, looking over at the sitting Saiyan and the faded healing scar on his neck. Her brows furrow and she comes up with another idea, stepping up to him confidently.

’Arm please’ she smiles as he lifts it and she ties it around his wrist, ‘thank you baby boy’ she hugs him then points him to follow behind Vegito who waits for him. 

She feels a presence behind her and glances to see Gohan looking at her conspiratorially, ‘Nakala’

’Yes my adorable cat of a man?’ She bats her lashes.

He fights the blush that threatens to appear, ‘I feel like we both know that we’re not felines’

’I’m not sure what you mean’ she bumps her head against Cumber’s arm, ‘are you going to tell me that he is not a big cat?’

’He’s not-we’re not-‘ Gohan tries to argue but is stopped by Gogeta patting his shoulder.

’Don't you have a tree to climb and get stuck in, kitty cat?’ He chuckles.

’I know how to get out of trees Gogeta’ Gohan furrows his brows.

’Well I don't know about you’ he stretches then looks at Nakala playfully, ‘but I see a mouse that needs hunting’

Nakala’s eyes widen when she also notices the excited gleam in Goku’s eye as well. She moves to hide behind Cumber’s large frame, peering over his massive hair and shoulders.

’You’re not serious’ she squeaks.

Gogeta grins, taking a step closer, ‘what’s the matter? I’m only doing what cats do’

’You’re gonna hunt me? You have an advantage here, thats not fair!’ Nakala argues as he advances towards her.

’Then you better tie those collars on us to give you a crutch’ he chuckles.

’That hardly counts!’ She scurries over to the box to put distance between them, ‘you're taller and stronger than I am!’ 

‘And faster’ he adds with a playful sway of his tail.

’Thats besides the point Gogeta’ she whines, ‘and proves it as well!’ shes wary when she fishes out his collar and he leans in for her to tie it around him. 

She’s hesitant to get too close to his smirking face as she ties it around his neck and jumps when theres a rush of air next to her.

’Can I join the hunt too?’ Goku looks at her excitedly.

’No!’ 

‘Yes!’

’Gogeta!’

’What? It’ll make this more fun!’

’Yeah for you!’

’You’ll have a good time’ he assures, standing up straighter to look at Trunks and Gohan, ‘you joining us?’

Nakala exasperatedly looks over at them for their answer as she ties the collar around Goku’s tail, sighing in relief when Trunks shakes his head.

’Guess I’ll do the cat-like thing and take a nap somewhere sunny’ taking his collar and tying it around his neck. He walks past her with a chuckle, ‘have fun Nakala’ and further into the enclosure.

Nakala whines and watches as Gohan ties his collar around his neck and makes his way to the enclosure entrance, ‘I’m…going to find something out’ 

‘Don't leave me with them’ Nakala whines and he turns at her tone, worried at first then relaxing with a small snicker.

’Don’t worry Nakala, if we were actually feline this would be worrisome but you're safe’ he steps through the doorway to investigate their provider’s strange behavior.

Nakala sighs in defeat as she plays with the last remaining collar in her hands. Guess I should just accept my fate. She regrettably trudges up to Cumber and tries to figure out where she can tie this collar so that it wouldnt snap with just a flex of his muscles or break under the mass of his hair. A long tail appears in her view and she meets blood red eyes. A raised eyebrow and tail moving towards her hands is the hint to tie it around his tail, which she does so. 

Nakala sighs as Cumber stands and looks down at her, ‘Don't tell me you're joining in too?’ 

He doesn't answer but moves to stand in front her, blocking her from the other two Saiyans. That makes them perk up in realization and Nakala hears them growl in excitement. She peers over Cumber’s side and meets Gogeta’s eyes.

’Looks like you’ve got another crutch Nakala’ he grins, ‘let’s hope it helps you out’

Sharp fangs snap playfully at her thigh, making her yelp in surprise at how close Goku got but a massive hand reaches down to grab the smaller Saiyan’s face and throws him forcefully away from her. Cumber turns and nods for her to run, Nakala picking up the hint instantly and taking off. But not without yelling to the red haired Saiyan trying to get to her but being stopped by her now made bodyguard.

’Really!? Not even a head start!?’ 

‘Too many crutches!’ Gogeta laughs back at her, dodging a swipe from Cumber and ducking under a strong kick to run after his provider, getting stopped in his tracks yet again when his leg is grabbed and he too is thrown away from her. 

Nakala briskly jogs through shady trees and branches, looking for a place to hide, scoffing internally, having to resort to hiding like an actual mouse, She internally sighs. There’s a small dark area that she chooses to hide out in and deflates. She jumps when a shadow looms over her hiding spot and yelps when a large hand stands her up to face them: Cumber.

’Bad hiding place’ he growls, shedding her lab coat and throwing it in a bush away from them, ‘mask your scent’

’With what?’ She asks in a hushed whisper that goes unanswered as he moves her in a different direction and follows her there. She gets an idea and heads to where she knows the nest is located. It’s almost in view but then she doesn't hear Cumber’s thundering footsteps behind her. They’ve stopped. She turns and sees him standing eerily still a small distance away from her.

’Cumber!’ She whispers and he drops into a power stance, growling threateningly to a seemingly empty space. 

Before she can ask what he sees, his body turns to land a devastating blow to a pouncing Goku straight to the forest floor. She flinches at the pained grunt he lets out before hes thrown away from them once more and steps closer to say something to Cumber but he’s soon kicked forcefully and sent back a short distance with a loud thud that makes the branches shake from the sound. Gogeta charges in with a right hook that Cumber braces for but he soon disappears just as quickly as he arrived. Before Cumber realizes the trick Gogeta is pulling its too late as another strong kick from his other side sends the larger saiyan through the nearby trees, splintering them and sending them splayed along the ground. One nearly falls onto Nakala herself before shes scooped up by Gogeta and taken to a different location within the enclosure.

’That looked like it hurt Gogeta, is Goku okay too?’ She watches where she thinks the two were injured.

Gogeta looks over his shoulder and laughs, ‘they’ve been hit worse!’ He then growls and holds her closer, ‘you should be worried about where im going to stash you for myself little mouse~’ 

She deflates in his arms as he chuckles and finds a spot thats mostly blocked by large rocks and low hanging branches. It’d be a comfy spot to just relax but Nakala is placed inside with a grinning Saiyan blocking the doorway to her only exit. There’s a makeshift sunroof above her but too tall to climb through without being caught. She doubts she would even make it with the intense way Gogeta was watching her. 

His eyes seem to glow as he crawls slowly up to her, caging her in with a smirk, ‘you gonna tell me what’s with the cat talk now Nakala?’

He watches as she groans and hides her face, ‘all I can tell you, is that I lost a bet to Rhodes and you have to promise you won’t tell her or let her know. I can tell you the whole bet before I leave’

Gogeta looks unimpressed, ‘well how am I supposed to promise that when you're keeping things from your troop leader Nakala?’

’…sorry?’ She grimaces, peeking through her fingers.

’You will be’ he hums, taking her wrists gently and pinning them next to her head, forcing her to meet his hooded stare, ‘because you’re being punished’

’Punished!?’ Her face warms, ‘for what!?’

’Keeping secrets from your partner’ he states matter-of-factly.

He leans in closer to purr in her ear, ‘and I thought we were closer than that’

She fails to hide her shudder as she lets out a breathy, ‘we are!’ 

‘Good’ He gently nips below her ear, thoroughly enjoying how her thighs subconsciously clench against his hips as he starts to move lower, ‘I’m glad’ he kisses between her neck and shoulder, ‘but the punishment still stands’ freeing her wrists.

‘I’m-I’m being punished for not telling you the terms of the bet???’ She breathes, hands fruitlessly trying to give them some distance and space to breathe but the red haired Saiyan barely moves. Judging by how Gogeta’s tail trails up and down her leg purposefully and his hands now start to leisurely pull her shirt up to expose her soft stomach, he isn’t planning on going anywhere. 

‘That’ he nuzzles the softness of her stomach, ‘and for losing a bet’

’It’s not like I wanted to lose!’ She tangles her fingers in his hair, attempting to stop Gogeta from mouthing at her stomach but fails.

’But you did’ he purrs and gives her a playful stare, ‘now you have to deal with this bet…’ he sensually grips her hips, ‘and with this game’

’Haven't I been through enough?’ She whimpers as he trails kisses up her stomach, heat pooling in her stomach as the timbre of his voice rumbles through her body.

’You did it to yourself Nakala’ he licks a stripe up her neck, ending it with a playful kiss to her jaw, ‘Don’t lose next time’ he pulls back slightly to take in her flustered features and smirks, ‘I almost wish that you do though, so we can have times like this more often’

’You can’t be serious’ she shuffles, trying to lean up onto her elbows but inadvertently gets closer to Gogeta’s face who brushes his lips lightly against hers.

’Want me to prove it?’

Theres a ground shuddering thud outside of the makeshift den that makes both of them tense in surprise. Gogeta facing the threatening growl approaching them with a disapproving huff. 

‘Kill joy’ he sighs and sits up, too busy listening to the new body stomping closer to them to notice Nakala coming to grips with what almost happened. 

She jumps when her phone vibrates in her pants pocket and a quick swipe across the screen reveals a text from one of the interns.

”The three you sent have crazy stamina. Sent the results to Rhodes. Bells were a bit annoying but we’re not going to ask about it. All clear to send the next two or three” 

Nakala hastily texts back that the next three are on the way and is taken aback at how quickly Gogeta is yanked out of the den. She quickly follows behind and before Cumber can send the red haired Saiyan flying, she stops him by frantically waving her hands to get his attention.

’The others are all done with their test, and since I cant find Goku yet-‘ they look behind her but say nothing, ‘you two are next’ she carefully takes Cumber’s arm to lead him to the side door near the enclosure. His grip on Gogeta’s vest tight as he takes him with them, Gogeta twisting out of it easily to sit atop the larger Saiyan’s shoulders smugly. 

As they step through the medical doors, Nakala makes her way to Rhodes and a curious Gohan who takes in her bedraggled state and lack of a lab coat.

’You having fun in there?’ She chuckles.

Nakala points at her from over Gohan’s shoulder as he sits at her desk, ‘because of your bet, I’m now being hunted’

’Really!?’ Rhodes laughs, ‘well you look alright to me! You're doing great at getting away!’

’Did you mask your scent with Gogeta’s because he’s stronger?’ Gohan tilts his head, ‘thats a smart idea’

Nakala’s face warms at why she smells so strongly of Gogeta and shakes her head, ‘it’s been a mess of a day. Are you ready to go up next? Gogeta and Cumber are already in there’

’Not Goku?’ He blinks.

’I can’t find him’ she explains.

Both Rhodes and Gohan point behind her with furrowed brows and she turns to see Goku eerily close to her. He flinches when she yelps in shock, back pressed against Gohan’s out of reflex.

’How long was he behind me!?’ She looks at Gohan who chuckles.

’We literally watched him follow you out of the enclosure but we both thought you knew he was there’ he shrugs.

Nakala turns to Goku who practically laughs at getting the upper hand, ‘were you there when Cumber showed up and grabbed Gogeta?!’

’Pretty much, yeah’ he grins.

’How didn’t I hear you!? Does your bell not work?’ She’s baffled when he turns and shakes the tip of his tail, the playful tingle of the bell ringing out.

’I didn't move my tail the whole time! It took a lot not to let you know I was there’ Goku chuckles.

Nakala pouts and stops Gohan from walking past her to go to the medical room.

’No, you’re not going. Goku is’ she points to a surprised Goku and gestures for him to come closer to her which he does curiously. She unties the collar from his tail and ties it to his neck, leaning back and pointing for him to go to Medical. He takes a step and the bell on his collar jingles causing him to whine.

’Aw, now it’ll be harder to sneak up on you’ he deflates.

’Good’ Nakala scolds, ‘maybe now you’ll learn not to scare me like that. If I cant be here because my heart leapt out of my chest, then who’d provide for you?’ She turns him to face away from her to lead him to the Medical room where they have Gogeta and Cumber facing individual treadmills.

’Got one more for you’ Nakala calls, parking a pouting Goku at the last treadmill. 

She steps out through the other door and back into the enclosure to find Trunks. Her eyes scan over the partially damaged area from the other Saiyans and shakes her head. Carefully stepping over the large trees to find a sunny area where Trunks could be, shes stopped halfway through when she hears the telltale sign of a bell. She freezes and carefully looks around to spot who could be around and spots golden orange eyes watching her from the shade of a nearby tree. At this point my heart is just going to walk right out of my chest, she inwardly groans.

’Guess the prey just walks right up you in this place’ she practically feels the grin on his face.

’If you think I’m coming to you while you're standing in the dark all ominous like that, then you're crazier than I thought’ she takes a step back which he notices, eyes glowing more intensely. They dip slightly and she tenses as she realizes that he’s crouching.

’So I’d have to come get you myself?’ 

‘I’d prefer if you didn't’ she takes another step back, ‘or give me a head start at least’

’What do I get if I do? It’s already easier to catch you right now’ 

‘…What would you want?’ she narrows her eyes skeptically.

’Time with you, alone’

’Why? So you could kill me?’

’I could have multiple times over Provider. I have no need to do so now. Do you want the extra time or not?’

Nakala shuffles on her feet to mentally deliberate, ‘can I ensure my safety?’ 

‘You’ll be in very capable hands’ he purrs, ‘now hurry up’

Not being told twice Nakala heads for the sunny area where she knows Trunks would be further in the enclosure. She ducks down low when she hears a flurry of footsteps and jingle of a bell. The footsteps stop abruptly near her and she shoves herself backwards through a wide branched bush and at the feet of a familiar large bodied Saiyan. 

He blinks down at her and crouches, ‘Nakala? Why are you on the floor?’

’I’m hiding from Raditz, wanna help me?’ She asks.

’Why didn't you ask me?’ A voice from the other side of the bush pouts.

Nakala blinks and realizes that the other being that she had heard was Vegito. She makes a face at him, ‘for all I know, you wouldn't hesitate to hunt me too’

’I wouldn't, this sounds like a lot of fun’ he nods in agreement, ‘plus Gogeta already filled me in on your punishment’

That makes her pale nervously. How much did Gogeta tell him!? Am I going to have to deal with them both now!?

’Punishment? What did you do?’ Broly looks at her innocently.

’Nothing! Gogeta’s punishing me for losing a bet! It’s unfair!’ She pleads.

’That does sound unfair’ Broly’s eyebrows furrow. He helps her stand with a determined look in his eye, ‘I’ll help you Nakala’ tail waving happily as she throws herself at him in a gracious hug.

’Thank you Broly!’ She rubs her cheek against his chest affectionately, ‘this day has been so weird and I’ve been through it today. You're the best cat I’ve ever met!’ 

Her body vibrates with his thunderous purr and she grimaces when something pokes her cheek. Vegito leans to pout in her face, finger smushing against her cheek, ‘hey, why am I not the best cat you ever met?’

’You're trying to follow through on a punishment that wasn't my fault. Not very best boy of you’ she makes a face at him. 

‘Let me make it up to you’ he reaches for her but its smacked away by Broly.

’Nope. Not taking any chances’ she shakes her head.

’Good. I was hoping you’d do this the fun way!’ He reaches again for her playfully only for Broly to move her out of the way again.

It becomes a game of standing keep away for a minute before Vegito’s hand stops in front of Nakala’s face. He taps onto her nose gently with a cute ‘boop’ before his hand closes to a fist and launches it at a leaping Raditz, sending him flying past the nearby trees. 

‘Looks like I bought you more time’ he chuckles, ‘don't make it too easy for me!’ He nods in a direction past him and Nakala takes Broly’s hand to take him with her deeper into the underbrush. 

They make it to a small sunny patch and she hums at the warmth before spotting a reddish purple tail. 

‘Oh! I’ve been looking for him!’ She walks up to it and seeing the rest of his body resting on a branch, comfortably basking in the sunlight. He looks so peaceful sleeping like that. Too bad i have to wake him up. She pats Broly’s arm and points up to Trunks, ‘you think I’d be safe up there?’

’You should, I can distract them down here’ he nods, picking her up gently and climbing the tree to place her practically onto Trunks’ back.

’Thanks again’ she gives him a passing kiss on his forehead and adjusts her body so that she isnt putting too much weight onto the still sleeping Trunks. She watches Broly drop down onto the enclosure floor and head towards a particular direction. Theres a slight shift below her and a fluffy tail strokes the back of her thighs.

’Mmn?’ He dozes awake.

’It’s me. Good morning sunshine’ Nakala lightly scratches his shoulder blade.

’Nakala?’ He tries to turn but that makes her wobble in imbalance and he wraps his tail around her waist tightly to keep her from falling off the branch he’s laying on, ‘how did you get up here?’

’Broly’ she answers plainly, clearly leaving him with more questions than answers.

He rests his head back onto his arms, eyes closed, ‘still being hunted?’ He feels her rest her body onto his back and sigh, ‘unfortunately. Broly is running distraction for me at the moment. Sorry if I'm heavy’ 

‘You’re good’ Trunks hums.

’You're really taking this whole “taking a nap in the sunshine” like a cat thing pretty seriously huh?’ she plays with his hair thoughtfully.

’I was just going to wait this whole thing out but then I suddenly got the appeal. Didn't think I was going to actually take a nap like some lazy house cat’ 

‘It does feel comfy up here. I wouldn't blame you for taking a nap’ she nuzzles into the thick fur along his spine, ‘if I wasn't being hunted right now I’d definitely love taking a nap up here with you’

’We’ll take a rain check’ Trunks hums with a content smile, ‘Vegito is on his way over here, for you I'm guessing’ he chuckles at her groan, giving her a reassuring squeeze with his tail when she seemingly tries to burrow under his fur.

‘You think if I'm quiet enough he won’t see me?’ She chuckles into his shoulder.

Theres a snicker from below them, ‘Doubtful, you’ Vegito hops up to boop her on the nose again ‘still have a punishment to deal with’ 

‘I can’t just take a nap with Trunks?’ She whines, not even putting up a fight when Vegito chuckles and untangles her from Trunks’ tail.

’Afraid not Provider’ Vegito grins, scooping her up and gently dropping to the ground.

Nakala squirms a little in his hold as he passively carries her around the enclosure, a look of confusion making its way to her face as he hasn't put her down yet. 

‘…Where are you taking me Vegito?’ She adjusts her position in his hold to look at him.

’Somewhere where I can voice my complaints’ his tail waves. 

‘Complaints?’ 

‘Yeah! Complaints!’ Vegito playfully glares at her, ‘I got a bone to pick with you!’

’I got enough to worry about right now and now you want to complain!?’ She glares back, ‘can you voice your complaints after I’m done being hunted?!’

‘Uh no? It’s important’

‘Well its gonna be hard to hear you out when I’m fearing being hunted’ she raises her eyebrows at him, ‘you know, as a mouse, cats are pretty scary’ 

Trying not to let her face warm when he pulls her close, she feels his purr.

’Hmm, thats true’ Vegito nuzzles her cheek, grinning at her deflated limp body after her attempt to give them distance fails, ‘but you don't have to worry about that, I can protect you’

He feels the flat tone of Nakala as she rests her chin onto his shoulder, ‘how are you gonna do that when your hands are full?’

’Oh! Easy!’ He laughs, ears perking at the distant thrashing coming towards them and excitedly looking around for something. Vegito feels Nakala tense against him as the crashing gets louder and closer, and gives her a soothing squeeze.

Not soothed in the slightest, Nakala moves to turn to where she hears branches and bushes snapping and breaking but something else catches her eye. Vegito has his tail wrapped securely around a tree as thick as his arm and before Nakala can ask why, she blanches as he uproots the tree effortlessly and swings it to knock a pouncing Raditz clear across the enclosure. Blinking away her initial shock, she huffs as he drops the tree carelessly. I’m gonna get such a chewing out from the landscapers. Nakala manages to twist to look at him but his focus is elsewhere. When he catches her incredulous stare at him he winks.

’Meow~’

‘You are a menace’ she concludes.

’I’m not even done!’ He chuckles, ‘watch this!’ He twists slightly to block a thundering punch from Broly coming from Vegito’s opposite side with a strong kick to counter it. When he moves to snatch Nakala away Vegito sweeps his legs and plants his foot onto Broly’s chest as he hits the floor. 

‘No! My baby boy!’ Nakala reaches for Broly to help but is jostled by Vegito who’d put his hands on his hips if he could.

’See! This is what my complaint is about!’ He pouts, ignoring Broly struggling to move his foot with a growl, ‘how come he gets most of your affection!? You even gave him a nickname before me! You met me first!’

‘…Technically I met Gogeta first-‘ she quiets quickly when he narrows his eyes at her, ‘but-but look at him!’ She points her foot down at Broly who grips onto Vegito’s ankle, ‘he’s adorable! And hes been through a lot!’ 

The two completely ignore Broly’s blush to continue to argue.

’And now he’s in a safe place, so are you going to stop?’ Vegito snaps.

’Of course not’ Nakala lightly kicks his thigh, ‘are you really that jealous of Broly that you’d hold both of us hostage!? Gogeta isnt like this!’

’Yes he is! You just dont notice! Only difference is that you almost give him everything he wants from you!’ 

‘…Almost???’

’You’re not changing the subject’ he bounces her in his arms to shake her out of whatever train of thought she hopped onto.

’So what, you want what they got?’

’I want more. I deserve it’ he puffs out his chest.

’Just because you're touch starved does not mean you deserve more than them’ she pinches his cheek in playful retaliation, ‘but your complaint has been heard and is considered’ she narrows her eyes as Vegito grins in triumph, ‘only if you let him go’ 

Vegito blinks at her in confusion at first then his eyes widen in realization as he lifts his foot to free his troop member. Broly sits up to scratch his chest passively and warms as he catches Nakala’s worried gaze. He gives her a thumbs up before Vegito shakes her once again. 

‘I let him go’ he leads.

‘Fine’ she thinks on it, ‘next time I'm feeling affectionate, I’ll go to you first’

’Compliments too?’ He blinks.

’You really are like a cat’ she sighs, ‘fine, if I'm feeling like it’

She notices his silence and looks at his contented gaze as her pocket vibrates with a message from the interns. She pulls it out to read it, subconsciously playing with the bell on his collar and making him purr. 

“Almost done with the subjects, is that the last of them?”

She texts them back about the last two and pats Vegito’s shoulder.

’Most beautiful and handsome kitty in the entire world?’ She says mockingly sweet.

’Yes?’ Vegito drawls, tail waving in delight.

’Can you bring me back to my office please? I still have a job to do’

’Hmm’ he turns to face where the entrance to the enclosure is located, ‘do I still get my deserved affection?’ 

‘Only if you're good’ she purses her lips, hoping to God that he doesnt pick up the wording, but she cant be that fortunate.

’Oh, I’ll be the best’ he purrs, giving her a teasing squeeze before starting to walk off.

Broly perks up when Nakala calls his name, ‘Can you tell Trunks that he's next and to meet us near the Medical room?’

He nods and takes off out of view as they make their way to the main room of the South Wing where Gohan, Goku and Gogeta are talking to Rhodes.

‘Oh! There you are!’ She shakes her head, ‘thought you got eaten for real this time!’

’No, not with them fortunately’ Nakala sighs as she runs her fingers through Vegito’s hair still facing away from everyone. 

‘I’m sure you’d taste great Nakala!’ Goku grins, ‘if your scent is anything to go by!’ He moves behind Vegito to look at her.

’Thanks but thats not something I want knowledge of anytime soon’ she smiles back.

’I bet she tastes sweet’ Vegito purrs, prompting Gogeta to passively join their side.

’She does’ he side eyes the now surprised black haired Saiyan and plucks her from his arms to place her onto the floor. 

Nakala completely ignores the hushed and curious growls and chitters coming from the two as she rubs the warmth from her face. A minute later as she looks over the results from the others, theres a weight onto her back that she doesnt need to look to see who it is: the eucalyptus smell gives it away. She passively pets him as she reads and Rhodes snorts.

’Someone’s craving attention’

’Out of 8 cats, theres bound to be a clingy one’ Nakala jokes.

’Meow’ Vegito smirks, draping more of his body onto her back.

’So you haven't told them yet?’ Rhodes rests her head on her hand.

’Of course not, but they're smart so they definitely know something’s up’ Nakala explains.

’Still haven't removed them yet’

’Removed what?’ Gogeta leans over their desks.

’The collars?’ Vegito pipes in.

’Shh, cats cant talk’ Nakala deflects.

’So if I took this off?’ Gogeta reaches for his collar, prompting her to stand straight and take a hold of Gogeta’s wrists. 

‘I’d be very very upset. You don't want your provider to be upset do you?’

His grin is all too knowing as they have a stare down. This has something to do with the bet, doesn't it Nakala? Of course it does, don't make it worse for me.

’Fine. Can’t leave someone so precious to me so heartbroken on me removing their gift’ He side eyes her.

’Oh, thank you oh merciful troop leader’ Nakala mockingly praises, spotting Trunks stretching and walking towards the Medical room.

She turns and nods at Gohan, ‘your turn kitty cat‘

Gohan makes a face and looks at the time on her laptop, ‘hopefully we get an explanation by the time you leave for the day’ he mumbles to himself before following Trunks inside the nearby room.

Head tilted, she turns to also look at the time. Guess I should gather them all together to make it easier. She looks over at Vegito messing with the bell on Broly’s wrist, the larger saiyan curious to his passive motives. Nakala steps closer to them, gently saving Broly from further pestering with her hands on Vegito’s.

’Handsome boy?’

’Yes?’ Both Gogeta and Vegito say in unison, shooting each other a playfully challenging stare.

Nakala blinks then points to Vegito in amusement, ‘this one’

She purposefully blocks the smug grin he throws the the red haired troop leader, ‘I’m sure the others are in the enclosure and want an explanation for my behavior. Can you bring them in here please?’ She flicks the bell on his collar. 

‘I guess’ he stretches, tail flicking lazily as he saunters his way into the enclosure to retrieve the others.

’Since I’m here already, you can tell me’ Gogeta folds his arms.

’No. I’m not repeating myself more than once when I say it’ Nakala leans against her desk, ‘it’s too embarrassing’ Besides, you already know the main part of it so don't be so coy. She shoots him a flat look.

She spots the rest of the troop coming towards them and gestures for them to take a seat around her desk. They take their respective places and Nakala feels a twinge bad at the stray branches, sticks and leaves still present in Raditz’s hair. He watches with a raised eyebrow as she steps carefully behind him and removes the debris.

’I can’t have you looking a mess in front of my employees’ she rationalizes, allowing his tail to wrap around her ankle.

’Whatever you say’ he purrs, thoroughly enjoying the grooming in front of the others. 

A distant jingling of bells grabs her attention as she watches Vegito and Goku bounce around Cumber in a playful act to grab each others collar. That gets an annoyed growl out of Cumber who in a flash, reaches at Vegito’s neck. Nakala almost shouts in alarm but calms down when she sees that Cumber merely grabbed the bell and crushed it between his fingers. He tosses it away, narrowly missing hitting Gohan who approaches with Trunks and takes a seat. Trunks doesn't even flinch when Cumber grabs at Goku and takes his bell as well, dropping him to the floor and tossing his bell over his shoulder. 

‘Looks like everyone’s here’ Rhodes sing songs, cheekily looking at Nakala who huffs and rests her hands and head onto Raditz’s head.

’Okay, so I haven’t been entirely truthful with everyone…’ she leads, ‘you're not feline at all’  

’Which I'm pretty sure we all knew that’ Gohan chuckles.

’Regardless, the reason for my behavior was because I lost a bet…to Steph. I couldn’t really tell anyone until the end of the day since that was included’

’And the bet was to call us cats?’ Trunks rests his head onto his hand, ’With Collars too?’

‘All her idea’ she gestures to a grinning Steph.

’But you lost’ Raditz pipes in. 

‘Not like I wanted to call you all cats and give you collars!’ Nakala argues.

’Did you not enjoy yourself?’ Gogeta winks at her.

’Calling you cats was fun but being hunted? No, not at all’ she avoids eye contact with him. Mentally chasing their interaction with a metaphorical broom out of her head. 

’I had fun!’ Goku grins and Nakala side eyes him.

’We’re not doing it again’ watching him deflate in disappointment, ‘and since its time for me to go, I’m freeing you from the collars’ removing the collar from Raditz neck and making her way around him to toss it into the wastebasket next to her desk.

She’s stopped when he scoffs, ‘Why are you throwing mine away?’

’Huh?’

’Clearly you put it on me and are Provider-‘

’You want to keep it????’ She stares in disbelief.

’I want you to keep it’ he folds his arms.

Before she can profusely refuse, Rhodes waves her hands at her to stop her.

’If you don't want them can I keep them?’

’What are you cooking up now???’ Nakala narrows her eyes suspiciously.

’Nothing that you wouldn't enjoy’ Rhodes smiles.

Nakala rolls her eyes then looks at the troop, ‘If you don't want your collar you can toss them out, I wont be upset’ I’d be less embarrassed if anything. 

After a beat, Gohan reaches behind his neck to remove his collar and walks up to the bin. Nakala doesn't get to feel hurt by his blatant rejection of his collar for long as Gohan simply removes the bell, tosses it, and gently places his collar in her hands with Raditz’s. 

She notices the slight blush on his cheeks, ‘if you wish to toss it then thats fine but I’d much rather give you something that was mine, if for only a short while’

The blush intensifies as she reaches up to hug him, murmuring, ‘I’ll keep it safe’ 

She doesn't get the chance to tease at how flustered he gets as he quickly follows Raditz back into the enclosure. Cumber stands and slides the collar off of his tail. He removes the bell and hands her the collar with a gentle but firm bump of his forehead against her temple. Goku pouts as he places his own collar on top of Cumber and the others.

‘It’s not as fun without the bell, it’s better if you keep it’ he engulfs her in a warm hug and leaps onto Cumber’s shoulders as he walks into the enclosure. 

She watches as Broly hands her his collar, bell intact.

’I don't want anything to damage it’ he rubs his arm, ‘it would make me feel better if you kept it’ 

He lets out a soft purr when she holds him close, cooing and nuzzling his cheek. She ignores the annoyed growls from a certain Saiyan and releases him. 

‘Give me yours since you want to be upset’ she gestures her collar filled hand at Vegito who’s affronted.

’I’m keeping it!’ He puts his hand on his collar to shield it.

’Um no?’ She shakes her head

 ‘Uh, yes?’ He inches away from her in challenge but looking conflicted because he also wants a hug from her.

He watches as Trunks walks over to hand her his collar, giving her a gentle hug and side eyeing Vegito playfully. 

He brushes past the stronger Saiyan, placing his hand on Vegito’s shoulder, ‘better get the hug while shes giving those out for free Vegito’ he teases and leaves the room with Broly. 

Nakala raises her eyebrows in question at him while Gogeta removes his collar and hands it to her. He makes a show of placing his hands on the side of her hips to cage her in as he welcomes her hug. Eagerly nuzzling her cheek and neck to rile up the black haired Saiyan. A teasing purr is all it takes for Gogeta to be yanked away by his vest and his spot being taken by a huffing Vegito. Blinking in amused surprise, Nakala tries to press her luck by reaching for his collar only to flinch away her hand when he playfully snaps at it. With one last aggressive cheek nuzzle he pulls away and walks side by side with Gogeta who also tries to reach for Vegito’s collar, earning a fiercer snap from his troop member and getting a laugh out of them both. Nakala watches with a shake of her head and turns to place the collars in a drawer near her and catches the mischievous grin of Rhodes.

’I am never taking anymore bets from you again’

Chapter Text

’Miss Roberts?’ A small voice breaks Nakala out of her hyper focused typing of reports.

She looks at the intern curiously.

’The strength tests are due to be brought in soon, should we leave the South Wing doors open and close the enclosure door?’

’Sounds good’ Nakala nods and leans over the side of her and Rhodes’ desk to where Gohan is sitting on a borrowed chair and reading animal species/anatomy books, ‘Wanna head back in there to let the others know? The doors won’t be closed for long, it’s just a formality in case the sounds trigger our subjects’

Gohan blinks, ‘I’m guessing something had to have happened for it to be this way?’

Nakala nods, giving him an exasperated look, ‘yes. Thankfully it’s only temporary, I'm not expecting you all to fly off the handle when you hear loud noises but it’s to make everyone else feel better’ 

‘I got it’ Gohan stretches, taking the book with him as he makes his way to the enclosure doors, ‘I’ll keep everyone in the loop’

’Thank you’ she calls, nodding at the intern near the door to close the doors once Gohan is fully inside. 

Theres a knock at the doors of the South Wing and Nakala calls for them to enter. A few interns keep the doors wide open as various machines are wheeled and driven in, the actual machines being used all massively folded within the back of the vehicles. All but one employee enters the medical room on the side to set up the strength testers and approaches Nakala with a tablet.

’Standard strength testers should take about half an hour to setup, just need a signature in case of any damage. We’re not really expecting any of them to actually break the machines, but you know all these formalities’

’Of course’ Nakala reads through the pdfs of documents before signing them. 

As she goes through the pages she doesn't see the operating manager trying to spot her subjects through the glass. He moves obnoxiously around the glass, prompting her to look up from the tablet.

’What are you doing?’

’Your subjects. I heard a couple of them killed some people, even incapacitated a top researcher’

He must mean Matthews, she blinks at him, ‘all subjects within the facility have some level of danger, you know that’

’Yeah, but can they be trusted not to attack any of my guys?’

’Not without reason. They're more retaliative than reactive’ she goes back to reading and signing.

’So they listen to you? How tall are they? What do they look like?’ 

‘All of your questions will be answered when everything is set up’ Nakala mentally rolls her eyes.          

’You have to go get them right? All by yourself?’ He looks at her incredulously, ‘no team?’ 

’No. They're not mindless animals’ she scoffs. 

The operating manager rolls his eyes, ‘if they weren’t they wouldn't be in this place’ 

Not wanting to hear anymore she hands the tablet over to her intern to double check through it and plops onto her chair in a huff.

’It’s about to be a long day’ she rubs her temples, ‘and this time I don’t think its gonna come from the boys’

‘That operator guy was a tool?’ Rhodes looks up from her computer.

’He thinks they're just animals and wants to see them like its a zoo’

Rhodes grimaces and continues to type, ‘who hires these guys?’

’No clue. But what I do know’ she looks over at where an intern waves at her, signaling that its all clear to follow through with the experiment, ‘is that this is about to get real annoying’ 

They turn their heads when they hear a quick knock and an amazed gasp following right behind. The collective sigh the two let out as Gogeta on the other side of the glass grimaces at the operating manager and points to him from the glass. His eyes scream confusion at this new person and he looks at the two. 

Under his enthusiastic staring, the man turns to look at them as well, ‘Why is he wearing clothes?’

’…Oh my good lord’ Rhodes reclines in her seat and blocks her eyes with her arms, ‘i'm guessing you don't need brains to set up machines but come on’

Nakala stands with an exasperated sigh and makes her way to the enclosure door, ignoring his question and pulling out her key card. There’s a presence uncomfortably close to her and she looks at the man flatly. 

‘Is there a reason you need to be this close Mr….’

’Stanson. And you’re going in there by yourself? Who’s going to protect you in there?’

’I don't need any protecting in there’ she explains.

’Are you sure?’ He points to a now glaring Gogeta towering over them both, watching the interaction, ‘he doesn't look very friendly.

He probably wants you away from me, and I do too, she pinches the bridge of her nose.

’He’s probably agitated that youre keeping him from getting out’ she rationalizes, ‘so I will bring them to Medical and meet you there’

‘If they're okay with you being in there then why can’t I go in there with you?’

’Because if you go in there and they don't know who you are, you will be maimed’ she states. I’d probably let them too if you ever tried to sneak in just to see them like some exhibit. 

‘No offense but I know some animal defense tactics that would have me last a lot longer in there than you’ he argues.

’All offense’ she raises her eyebrows, ‘They. Dont. Know. You. You're already impeding on this experiment with your own self interest and my data will not be tampered with because of your curiosity. So’ she gestures to the Medical Room door, ‘I will get them ready and meet you inside’ 

Before he can argue, Nakala slides her key card and steps inside the enclosure. She tenses in confusion when Gogeta pulls her close and growls at Stanson holding the door open. She turns and sees him quickly letting the door close behind her. They both watch in peeved disbelief as Stanson shuffles into Medical.

’Nakala-‘

’I know’ she stops him, ‘let me go explain to the others what you’re about to be dealing with, cause it’s about to be a lot. Both physically and mentally’ 

She notices how the fallen trees of yesterday were nowhere to be found and gets the answer to her mental question when the nest is in full view. Where there was once a comfy pile of small soft leaves with a ring of thicker leaves surrounded by sticks and branches for support, theres now support beams planted deep into the ground and a thick leaved roof above it, the foundation of the nest looked even more fortified and the nest itself seemed to have doubled in size. She doesn't notice how Gogeta puffs up in pride at her surprise at the upgraded nest, watching proudly as she walks around it in awe and testing its stability. 

‘Gogeta, you did this?’ she looks up at him from her pressing into the newly made nest edge. 

‘Sure did!’ He beams, ‘I saw the trees just lying around on the ground from yesterday and with Gohan’s suggestion I made the nest better’

’You did a great job’ she carefully steps in, not hearing the faint fluttering of fur hidden behind a passing breeze.

Her voice jolts him out of his daydreaming and he blinks at her, ‘huh?’

‘Where are the others?’

’Probably still near the breakfast carts’ Gogeta shrugs, reaching out to lead her to where they moved the carts to eat, ‘we were eating when Gohan told us about you locking us in here for a bit’

’Yeah, sorry about that. It’s not like I don't trust any of you, its more of a formality in case the loud sounds prompted a violent reaction from you guys’

’It definitely bothered Cumber, Trunks and Raditz who was still asleep thats for sure’ Gogeta chuckles. 

Well that’s great to hear that two of the more violent ones are now in a sour mood, she internally sighs. The rest of the troop are soon seen near the third cart of food when they turn and spot the two approaching.

’Oh, is the door now open?’ Gohan blinks.

They watch as Nakala’s face goes through a range of emotions and she takes a stressed exhale. 

‘Yes which is why I need to warn you all now that theres going to be new people in Medical to operate the machines to determine your strength today-‘ she begins.

’And you think we’ll hurt them?’ Vegito tilts his head.

’With what I dealt with, I wouldn't be surprised’ she rubs her temples then look at the group, ‘look, you don't have to talk to them. Hell, you don’t even have to acknowledge their existence. All I ask of everyone, is to practice restraint and to try to control your emotions with this’

’…you have to warn us about this’ Trunks leans forward from his sitting position, ‘how bad will this be?’

’The process isn't bad at all but the people who operate them…’ she trails off, ‘I hope that its just one thats the problem’

’Could they be removed?’ Gohan suggests.

’Not when he's the one who has to be there to make sure nothing happens to his machines unfortunately. But I can’t account for what he and his team will do, so I'm asking you, as your provider, to behave as best you can’

’And if our best leads to murder?’ Raditz tosses an apple core behind him.

’Then it’s not your best’ She side eyes him.

He chuckles and stands to stretch passively, stepping in close to her side, ‘look at you trying to see the good in others’ he coos, mockingly pinching her cheek.

Nakala pouts at him and mentally gathers herself before leading the troop outside the enclosure and into Medical where every eye is focused on them instantly. 

‘Incredible!’ Stanson marvels, approaching way to rushed for any of their liking, ‘and here I thought they’d all look like the red head!’ 

Nakala tenses and steps in front of Broly, quickly stopping Stanson from getting too close with a stern hand up, ‘My subjects are here. Explain the machines to them so we can document the results’

Stanson practically pouts, ‘thats mean of you, keeping them from us’

’They’re not for you’ she sternly states, joining Rhodes and a few of her medical staff along the wall to observe, ‘they understand what this is for, and now that everyone is here, we can start the experiment’ 

’Fine, fine’ Stanson saunters up to a machine with handles facing up at an angle, ‘this baby here handles pressure up to 5 tons’ he points to a small screen, ‘this screen will light up with numbers that tell us how strong you are! If you do a good job, I'm sure your handler will give you a reward!’ 

Rhodes and Nakala grimace at his tone and it isn't lost on the troop either. Gogeta turns to look at Nakala who nods. I told you. Please behave. He steps up to the machine and Stanson grins at him.

’Before you start, let me show you how its done’ he grips the handle tightly and tries to make a show of pulling it down. 

They watch as Stanson’s face turn as red as Gogeta’s fur as he struggles to barely make it a third of the way before the screen lights up with his score. He releases it with a barely contained catch of his breath, letting the handle loudly bang against the machine and smiles, ‘there you go, we’re not asking for you to strain yourself to try and beat my score. Most of my guys can’t even get past that, so there’s no hard feelings if you can’t either! Do just enough for the machine to light up so the staff can write it down’

Gogeta raises his eyebrows at Stanson who gestures for him to proceed tauntingly. He grips the handle half heartedly and looks at Nakala who mouths out “don't break it”

‘It’s alright if you’re not strong enough big guy’ Stanson smiles as Gogeta watches the screen light up with a bright single digit number.

Gogeta blinks and simply pulls the handle down, watching the number on the screen jump up in number exponentially then read: MAX. An intern taps the number into the screen of their tablet and Rhodes glances at Nakala who is also trying to maintain her composure at seeing Stanson’s shocked face at the reading. Gogeta even makes a show of it while the intern records the reading, making taunting eye contact with the man before slowly pushing it back up and walking away. He joins Nakala’s side while folding his arms and leans against the wall, thoroughly enjoying how Stanson tries to pull it down again to find a fluke and coming up with nothing. He sneaks a glance at Nakala who tries to hide her amused smirk. He did say he was the strongest so I’m not surprised, Nakala mentally shrugs. 

‘…Alright then. Guess you’re pretty strong’ Stanson huffs, ego clearly hurt, ‘lets see how you handle this one’ he shows off another machine to him, ‘all you have to do is bring these bar as close together as you can. You think youre strong enough for that?’ 

Gogeta rolls his eyes and steps up to the machine. He grabs onto the bars and tries to ignore Stanson’s jovial taunts of “stop being such a tough guy” and “don’t have to be a show off for the pretty ladies” before he pulls the bars together with a soft clink and holding it there for the intern to record once again. 

Rhodes leans over to murmur to a visibly irritated Nakala, ‘why is he talking to Gogeta like he’s one of the boys???’

‘I don’t know’ Nakala grouses, ‘but he needs to stop’ 

‘Okay okay. You’re pretty strong!’ Stanson pats Gogeta’s shoulder forcefully making the Saiyan shrug off his touch with a look of annoyance, ‘now this last one needs you to lift from the bottom to the top. You can lift one at a time before it gets too heavy, or you can put on a show and lift them all at once. Now I’ll have to warn you, not even my toughest guys can lift more than two of these higher than their own heads’

He’s not one of your guys, what are you trying to prove??? Nakala mentally rolls her eyes. She watches as Gogeta flashes her a wink and squats to scoop his hand under the last of the weights. He stands with no effort and lifts it high above him, even standing under it to look Stanson in the eye as the same intern records that as well. When the intern nods at Nakala, Gogeta puts down the weights gently and makes his way to her. He bumps his head against her shoulder to silently alleviate the tension in her body and she rewards him with a thankful run of her fingers through his hair.

’Seems the lady is impressed!’ Stanson grins, completely missing the peeved look on her face, ‘now who’s next to follow that up?’ He looks over at the mildly irritated troop, ‘dealers choice?’

’No, I have my own lineup’ Nakala steps away from the wall and makes sure she stands between Stanson and the troop to approach Vegito separately. She has his undivided attention as she whispers, ‘I know that you're second strongest, but I have reason to believe that this experiment isn't going to work out how it needs to. Can you trust my thought process on this?’ 

Vegito makes a show of thinking hard on it before nodding, gesturing for her to proceed on her process; she’ll get no objection from him.

’Thank you. Now, can you show me who the middle strongest is between you all?’

Vegito blinks then plainly points to Goku and then Broly. Nakala gently moves Broly up to the front to be next then Goku. She looks over the rest then moves Trunks right behind Goku and stops there. 

‘Start with these three for now’ she states, moving back to Rhodes and Gogeta. 

‘Damn, you got them wrapped around your finger don't you? I mean, that one is even wearing a collar’ Stanson chuckles, ‘I wonder what you even talked about and if he even understood you’

’That’s not your business to know, just do your job’ Nakala grimaces.

’Ooh bossy. Guess you can say whatever you want when you got a face like that’ he nudges Broly obnoxiously, earning a strong flinch away from him at the machine, clearly uncomfortable. 

‘No need to be so jumpy big guy!’ Stanson pats him, ‘the machine won’t hurt you!’

’Stop touching him’ Nakala warns, only getting a dismissive wave from Stanson. That makes Gogeta’s tail twitch in mild irritation.

At the machine, Broly just as easily pulls the handle down as Gogeta does and the screen also reads: MAX as it did before. The intern looks at Nakala then records that as well. 

‘Oh well it’s pretty obvious that you’d ace this one!’ Stanson praises, putting a firm grip onto Broly’s arm and squeezing, ‘those arms aren’t just for show then!’ He laughs off Broly’s grip on his wrist to pry him off. 

Throughout the experiment, Broly presents the same results as Gogeta all while dodging the physical praise Stanson tries to drown him in. He shuffles away to Nakala’s side to give them distance, his tail curling around her ankle in thanks as her glare at Stanson and his employees keeps them getting closer to her and the troop. Goku curiously approaches the machine as well when Stanson gestures him up next.

’Not as big as the other one’ he muses aloud, then looks at Nakala’s intern, ‘don't expect the same results’

The intern furrows their eyebrows and ignores the comment. As Goku goes through the machines, Rhodes gets Nakala’s attention with a soft nudge from her elbow and nods for them to talk in private. Nakala glances back at Gogeta who shrugs and watches them walk quietly to an unoccupied corner. 

‘Are we really gonna put up with this guy throughout the entire experiment?’ 

‘Unfortunately so’ Nakala shakes her head, ‘thankfully this is just a one and done and we won’t have to deal with him and his team anymore’

The two turn quickly when growls and gasps are heard and see Stanson and his team getting too comfortable in taunting and goading the troop now. They witness one of his staff try to reach for Goku’s tail as he walks by and now flipping their hair and cooing when Trunks steps up, clearly agitated. The jeers continue as he maxes out the machines and before they can attempt to touch him in any way, she moves between them. Nakala shoots a furious glare at his staff member who recoils and pretends he didn't try to touch her subject by avoiding her gaze.

’Aww he didn’t mean anything by it! Let them have a little f-‘

’We’re taking a break’ she states firmly, gathering the rest of the troop to lead them out in front of her.

’What? Just like that?’ Stanson follows close behind, ‘we haven't even gotten through to the others! It won’t take that long! Come on! Why are you so uppity?’ He tries to stop her with a grab to her arm thats swiftly blocked by a strong grip to his wrist. A deep threatening growl silences everyone in the room as Gogeta keeps Stanson from getting closer to Nakala. His grip doesn’t lighten up no matter how persistent Stanson tries to get out of it and only releases him when everyone is in the main room and Nakala calls out to him. Stanson rubs at his wrist as Gogeta throws one last glare over his shoulder before the doors to the Medical room closes fully. Once the doors hiss shut behind them, Rhodes lets out a frustrated sigh and walks up to her desk to decompress, watching as Nakala walks into the enclosure with the others.

’Nakala?’ Gohan calls softly, watching as she rubs her temples to ease her anger. 

She looks up at him and her anger slowly peters out when she notices his apprehensive stare. Her gaze sweeps over everyone’s irritated and mentally exhausted state and waves, ‘we’re not going through with this experiment anymore. I’m done. Everyone go and cool off, I’ll figure something else out thats more accurate’

’Is that why you had us go in that order?’ Trunks tilts his head, ‘I’m sure we told you about who’s stronger than who without the tests’

’If you even want to call it that’ Vegito scoffs, ‘we all got the same results despite our obvious power level difference’

’Obvious to you’ Nakala points out, ‘but not to us to document. I’ve already informed the director that it will be given to them by the end of the day’

’And it can’t be done tomorrow? Everyone is on edge and clearly you're upset about earlier,’ Gogeta brushes his arm against hers.

She leans against his arm and sighs, ‘remember when we first met and I said that there needs to be results with the research we do here?‘

’Yeah?’

’Time also plays a factor into it. The more I delay information the more others can use that as my department doctoring results’ she stops Gohan from chiming in and replying, ‘it’s happened before, thats why that rule is in place’

’And what purpose does that serve in documenting who’s stronger in order?’ Trunks tilts his head.

’As a fail safe in case a subject needs to be subdued’ she explains, ‘but I have reason to believe that it’s not for you’

’Your company thinks we’d turn on each other?’ Raditz rolls his eyes.

’I don't think thats it’ Nakala paces in thought, ‘most of you have shown how powerful you are and while it hasn't been disclosed if you all are stronger than every being in this facility, it’s clear that if theres been a breach that anything threatening coming in here would be met with trouble’ 

She catches the worried gaze of Gohan, ‘and yes it has happened before. Closest thing I can say about it given its happened before I worked here, is that it was like a fox getting into a chicken coop according to records’

’Aww and are you worried about something coming to hurt us?’ Vegito purrs.

’Actually yes. You said I'm your Provider and it would be really messed up if I didn't care about any of you’ she makes a face.

’You didn't see how mad she got with that guy?’ Gogeta chuckles and rubs his cheek against hers, ‘if looks could kill, he’d be vaporized’

’Speaking of!’ She steps away, ‘I gotta talk to Rhodes about something, I’ll be right back’

She quickly dashes out of the enclosure to approach Rhodes who whines, ‘don't tell me we’re going back in there’

’No, we’re not doing it anymore. We gotta find another way to get results’

’There were no results to be had! All four of the guys you picked maxed their machines out so the information is still inconclusive even if you add the rest!’ Rhodes angrily gestures to the air. 

Nakala notices that its surprisingly quiet in the area and turns to ask an intern, ‘are they still in there?’

’Oh, no they said they were going on lunch’ they explain.

’…They got here 2 hours ago and now they're taking a lunch?’

’I hate these guys so much’ Rhodes grumbles.

‘No, this is a good thing’ Nakala realizes, pulling out her phone quickly to make a multi-person call. 

‘Hello?’

’Whats up?’

’Since when do you call during work hours?’

’You all know I wouldn't call at work if it wasn't detrimental to research and I couldn’t leave’ she explains to the group.

’Are you in danger?’ Hughes asks seriously.

’Don't tell me you're trapped in another place’ Smith lightly jokes, albeit apprehensive to know the answer.

’No but I’d rather prefer that after everything thats happened’ Nakala grumbled.

’Please don't say that’ Cohen scolds, ‘tell us what happened’

As Nakala tells the group what went on, she fights getting worked up again and huffs, ‘now they just went on lunch and I'm hoping they take longer cause they work my last nerve’

The call is silent in collective disbelief and Smith hums.

‘I mean’ she drawls, ‘would this be so bad for your subjects to fly off the handle?’

’That would be using them as a weapon, Smith’ Hughes rationalizes.

‘You’re no fun’ Smith huffs.

’Could you scare them?’ Cohen pipes in.

’Doubtful without some kind of violence’ Nakala sighs.

’Wait, what are you testing?’ Hughes asks.

’Strength’

‘They got new machines?’ Cohen asks.

’Not that I know of, they look the farthest thing from new’ Nakala peers to see one of the machines.

’Hmm, well rumor has it that the guy running the machines has been taking the money for better upgrades to line his and his crew’s pockets and keeping the old rundown machines until they're obsolete. Are your guys able to use them properly? No issues?’ Cohen voices.

’Only issue is that they're stronger than the machines so the data isn't accurate’ Nakala explains, ‘but I have to give the Director something’

’You have more than one reading from the machines?’ Hughes asks.

’Yeah, twelve from four subjects’

’And you have 8. So Thats something I suppose’ Hughes ponders.

‘We’re trying to figure out another way. The only issue is getting them out of here so we don't have to deal with them again’ 

‘Oh, thats easy. Just break the machines’ Smith says simply.

’…’

’Am I wrong?’ They can hear the smile in her voice, silently challenging someone to tell her it was.

’They're not hurting his staff…’ Hughes thinks aloud.

’The machines are outdated… you technically wouldn’t get in any trouble if the machines that get damaged aren’t up to date’ Cohen adds.

Nakala and Rhodes exchange glances and Nakala says into her phone, ‘you make a compelling argument, thank you all for your contribution’

’Let us know how it goes!’ Smith laughs before ending her call.

The others do the same and Nakala looks at Rhodes, ‘are we about to do this?’

’I won’t tell if you won’t, but the biggest question is…what’s the plan here?’ Rhodes conspiratorially leans over her desk.

’We’re gonna have one of the boys break the machines’

’Which one though?’

Nakala thinks on it, ‘it cant be someone who already got tested’

’Then that leaves, Gohan, Vegito, Raditz and Cumber’ Rhodes hums, ‘Gohan might be too nice. Vegito?’

’He’d get the job done but I think he’d do too well’ Nakala huffs, ‘just breaking the machines makes me feel like they wouldn't learn a thing’

’You want them harmed!?’ Rhodes dramatically gasps.

’Too much?’ Nakala squints uncomfortably.

’That depends, the only other two are Raditz and Cumber and they’re both known to murder according to records. Cumber looks like he’d just walk in and destroy everything and everyone in the room without prompt’ Rhodes admits.

’I don't think I’d be able to stop him if he decides to fly into a rage like before’ Nakala sighs, ‘I had to owe him last time. I can only imagine what I could do this time’

’…then that leaves Raditz’ Rhodes voices, ‘the most excitedly homicidal one of the whole troop’

’I know. But out of both of them, I might be able to convince him more than Cumber’ 

‘Well good luck with that’ Rhodes points to the door loudly opening and Stanson and his crew walking back in and heading to Medical, ‘I’ll have staff medics on stand by…and clean up crew’

Nakala gives her an exasperated look before heading to the enclosure where all of the troop is scattered, only a few are in the nest and not one is the Saiyan she’s looking for. 

‘Has anyone seen Raditz?’ She looks around, ‘I have to ask him something’

’Last I saw he went that way’ Gogeta points behind them, ‘why?’

’The less you know the better. Trust me’ she gestures for him to stay lounging as she walks past the nest to find Raditz. 

She walks past Broly sparring with Trunks and Goku, throwing a friendly wave at the trio before going further into the brush. Stepping over a growing bush that was destroyed, shes stopped by a shuffling sound nearby. Nakala follows it carefully and sees Raditz scratching his back against a tree. 

‘Provider’ he smirks as he continues his scratching, ‘care to do this for me?’

Before she can retort, she gets an idea, ‘if I do, will you hear me out?’

Raditz’s scratching comes to a slow stop and he approaches her. He turns his back and sits in a huff, ‘what is it you want from me?’

At her hesitation he turns and raises an eyebrow. He chuckles at her pensive stare into nothing and wraps his tail around her waist to pull her closer to his back.

’Must be something horrible you wish for me to do’ he moves his hair over his shoulder to expose his back.

’I think you’d enjoy it actually’ she starts to scratch his back, ‘the only issue is seeing how much self control you’d have to not do something drastic’

’Drastic meaning killing’ he hums.

’…yes’ she scratches the thick fur along his back.

’Hmm, now I'm interested’ he purrs, ‘what does my Provider require of me?’

’I need you to break the machines’ she states.

‘You brought up something drastic and me controlling myself. You wouldn't have mentioned it if you also wanted me to cause bodily harm’

’Why do you have to be homicidal and smart?’

He chuckles, ‘flattery will get you nowhere. You wish for me to harm those men? Because they hurt your feelings?’

’Because breaking their machine will teach them nothing’ she scoffs.

’I knew you had a more violent side of you’ his tail tip teasing the underside of her shirt. 

‘I didn't like how they treated you guys. Will you do it or not?’ 

‘What do I get in return?’

Nakala stands and faces him, ‘I know you wanted alone time with me last time and I'm willing to give you just that’

‘And what’s stopping the others from interrupting us?’

Why do you have to word it like that???? ‘Because we’re going to a different place in mind’ she doesnt like the glint in his eye and adds, ‘we’re keeping it professional. Thats it’

’If you say so’ he stands and stretches, ‘are we going now? I’m eager to show those fools not to disrespect my Provider again’ 

‘Sure. But remember, don't kill them or the deal is off’

’Oh, I wouldn’t dare mess up this opportunity’ he hums, practically dragging her out of the enclosure and to Medical.

All eyes are on them as they enter and Stanson looks past her at Raditz, ‘another big one I see! Where’s the others?’

’Turns out they didn't want to do the experiment anymore and I'm not going to push it’

’So you only got one that isn’t a coward?’ Stanson shakes his head, ‘man do  have your subjects wrong’ he looks at Raditz, ‘but at least we can hang out with this one’

’You aren't hanging out, you're doing your job’ she can feel her irritation coming back. 

‘Yeah, yeah’ Stanson waves it away, placing his hand onto Raditz’s shoulder and immediately regretting it as the Saiyan grips his hand and crushes it without a care in the world. He leaves Stanson to kneel in pain and makes direct eye contact as he holds grips the handle of the machine and pulls it down further than intended. The screen lights up and reads: MAX once more before he pulls it down even past that, breaking it off and throwing it forcefully at Stanson himself. He purposefully misses by a hair, stopping Stanson in his tracks to get back up. Raditz saunters up to the other machine and grabs both bars and pulls it towards him to topple it to the floor and kicking it screeching to pin Stanson’s staff member to the corner of the room by his legs. He cries out in pain and that makes the Saiyan growl in satisfaction as his eyes land on the last of the machines. Any staff trying to stop his tirade were swiftly left with broken limbs and tossed away by the pieces of the machine Raditz uses to toss and launch at them in non-lethal areas. Nakala tenses when he grabs the last of the staff with his tail and throws him to the ground with a sickening crunch. After a beat, she breathes a sigh of relief when she sees the man breathing, albeit very shallowly. Before she makes her way to the door to inform Rhodes to inform employee medical she meets Stanson’s pained gaze.

Fear and anger is mixed within him as he spits, ‘you did this! I can’t believe you got your subject on us just to keep them to yourself!’

Nakala looks at him indifferently, ‘did you think I was lying when I told you to stop touching them? Consequences have actions, and I hope you learn that very soon’ she chooses to leave the door open as she nods to Rhodes to make the call as Raditz saunters up to Stanson once more, a growling grin on his face.

A quick glance from her reminds him of their deal and he grabs Stanson by his throat to lift him high above the ground.

’Raditz’ she warns as Stanson starts choking and kicking futilely.

The Saiyan glances at her then back at Stanson, grimacing as the man soiled himself and drops him in disgust. He meets up with Nakala in the doorway of Medical and murmurs, ‘everyone is alive’

’You did good’ she tensely praises moving him out of the way as employee medical shuffles in to remove Stanson and his staff to the infirmary. 

She quickly takes him out of the room and to Rhodes who looks on curiously.

‘They’re not being wheeled off with white sheets covering them so it looks like the plan worked?’

’It did. Did you come up with a way to figure out their strength?’

’Only thing I can come up with is either sparring or an arm wrestling tournament but that doesn't really tell us anything’ Rhodes shrugs.

’We can only do what we can’ Nakala sighs, ‘I’ll let them know to get ready for a sparring match’

’You’d be wasting your breath’ Raditz folds his arms, ‘we already know who’s stronger in order already but we aren't going to deny a chance to fight with an audience’ 

‘I’m not gonna say no to watching a fight’ Rhodes grabs a tablet and follows Raditz and Nakala into the enclosure. 

She ventures in and finds the others to bring to a wide enough clearing and calls out to Rhodes to sit onto a fallen tree to record her findings. Gogeta rolls his shoulder in preparation as Nakala explains what they’ll be doing and blinks in surprise when she says something to Rhodes and takes Raditz away from the group. They're stopped by him popping up in front of them and putting his hands on his hips.

’Where are you two going? Is he not sparring with us?’ 

‘Out of the enclosure. You already know your levels of strength and I already let Rhodes know where he stands’ she explains but he doesn't look convinced.

’Okay but,’ Gogeta grumbles, ‘why?’

’I’m rewarding him for doing something for me’ she says simply, missing the spark of jealousy that came and went in the red head’s eyes. 

It isn't missed by Raditz who smirks and walks Nakala around Gogeta, ‘we cant be late for our “session” Provider, and I refuse to have your time taken up even more by our troop leader’ he leads her out, thoroughly enjoying the searing glare along the fur of his back. 

‘And where is this area we’re going to be alone in?’

’Stop wording it like that’ Nakala grumbles, typing into her phone and later leading Raditz down a couple hallways. 

Raditz reads “The Sanctuary” on a door as they enter and is hit with a wave of serenity. He shakes it off with a wary shudder of fur and watches as Nakala talks to a man with a calm demeanor, pocketing a few items that the man gives her and following close behind her as she leads him into their own enclosure.

’If anything is harmed in here, the deal is off’ she turns to look at him sternly.

Raditz rolls his eyes, ‘nothing in here is worth my time’

’Good’ Nakala moves to a side door within, surprising him as he's hit with a wave of comforting air and a massive field of flowers.

’This is…unexpected’ Raditz observes as the flowers seem to shift and wave to avoid their footsteps.

‘They’re a special type of subject I helped take care of when it was just a small patch’ Nakala muses, taking a gentle seat within the flowers that form a woven cushion. 

She reaches into her pocket to pull out a brush and gestures for him to lay in front of her as a few flowers shift and start to tie together. Raditz hums and drops low to face Nakala, finally giving in and laying onto his stomach between her thighs. Nakala fights to roll her eyes and starts brushing his hair.

’Not the alone time I imagined, but its a start I suppose’ 

‘I don’t even think I want to know what you were imagining’ Nakala moves between brushing his hair to the fur along his arms wrapped around her waist.

’It’s eerily close to this’ he hums, body relaxing to her ministrations, ‘I can’t wait to get back and bask in everyone’s jealousy that I got to spend time with you like this’

 ’Look, I'm happy that everyone likes me and accepted me as Provider but I don’t think they’d be jealous’ 

Raditz lifts his head to give her a look of disbelief, ‘…you truly have no idea how they feel, do you?’

‘They like me?’ Nakala states, confused by his chuckling into her stomach. 

‘Oh, they like you more than you know’ he nuzzles her stomach.

’Do I want to know what you mean?’ She warily asks, earning his smirking gaze.

’Would you like to know?’ He smooths his hands from her waist to her thighs.

’Let’s say I believe you and my curiosity is peaked, what would you tell me?’ She narrows her eyes.

Raditz rests his head onto her thigh and growls, ‘that if it weren’t for these damn instinctual laws my species has to biologically follow, I’d have fucked you the day I saw you’

Nakala damn near chokes at the admission but the Saiyan continues, ‘it’s a damn shame that I have to wait for Gogeta to finally pick a time to mate with you to have a chance’

That makes her shake her head in disbelief and Raditz snickers at her visible denial.

’Okay you feeling this way about me isn't new, you don't exactly hide it’

’And I won’t’ he admits.

’But Gogeta? I don’t think he likes me in that way’

That time he was hunting you says differently, her traitorous mind sasses. 

‘That burning feeling along my back when we left the territory says otherwise. I’m sure by the time we get back, Gogeta will scent you intensively. Who knows, hopefully he might even mark you’

’You hope he marks me for what?’

’It gets him one step closer to mating you and all of us having a chance as well’

’…Okay clearly this has something to do with your species. Spill’ 

Raditz groans and rolls over, ‘naturally a female within the troop gets first dibs by the troop leader regardless of her affections for the others. It’s the troop leader staking his claim and authority’

’Would he do so by force?’ She asks in concern, breathing out in relief when he rolls his eyes.

’No. If the female of the troop rejects the troop leader then she goes unmated. You’re a special case though, you’re a Provider. You have a higher say in who you mate with but thats only after mating with the troop leader’

’So if I were a normal female with no title…’ she leads.

’Then you would be a well taken care of female expected to be a glorified incubator’ he chuckles.

’….did you have a female become part of the troop before to know all this or-‘

’Thats just the position we’d put you in if you had just been an ordinary female. It’s an instinctual response. Now as Provider, you practically get your pick of the litter so to speak’ he waves lazily, ‘as soon as you’ve mated with Gogeta then you can pick whoever you want to satisfy your desires’ 

‘That’s not what I'm here for’ Nakala shakes the warmth from her face, ‘thats unprofessional’

’Yes, well your professionalism is driving all of us crazy’

That sparks doubt, ‘not everyone’ 

The amused gaze from the Saiyan on her lap makes her regret her statement, ‘…not everyone…right?’

’Ooh, I’d be lying if I said yes’ he purrs.

’I don't believe you’

’Name anyone from the troop’ he goads with a shrug.

Curiosity piqued, she narrows her eyes, giving a thoughtful brush to his hair. Do I want to open this can of worms? It could change the way I see them if I do. It could be that he's lying but, if anyone would know it would be him. Shes broken out of her train of thought when Raditz smacks her thigh gently.

’It isn't something to overthink. Regardless of if you know this or not, the desires are still the same’ 

‘You keep saying desires’ she points out.

’Because they are. You can’t be dense enough to not notice the way Gogeta behaves around you’

‘How would I know it’s not just how he usually is?’

That makes the saiyan laugh, ‘if you think he’s rubbing cheeks with us, scenting us and caring about how we feel after we die is how he usually acts then you’re denser than I thought!’

‘Giving affection can also be something friends do too!’

‘Don’t let him hear you call him that!’ He cackles, ‘friends!’ He shields his eyes, ‘he’d just about mate you in front of all of us to prove that’s not the case!’

His laughter dies down when he sees her face and turns to rest his head on her lap once more, ‘I’ll make this easy on you to figure out. Has he ever been close to you physically? Too much in your personal space?’

‘Yes?’

‘Have you been smelling more of his scent whenever you’re near him?’

‘Now that you mention it, I have’

‘Has he taken you anywhere isolated from the others?’

‘He has’

That piques Raditz’s interest, causing him to perk up and look at her, ‘this was during the hunt’ he concludes.

‘That’s besides the point’

‘It’s precisely the point!’ He grins, ‘when we smelled him on you with hints of arousal from the two of you we were sure it would’ve happened by now. Let me guess, you two were interrupted?’

Her silence was all he needed before he mockingly clicks his tongue and shakes his head, ‘my poor provider. So lost when it comes to matters of the Saiyan heart’

‘It can’t be that deep’ she worries, trying her best to cool her rapidly warming face.

‘Is there anything else he does that you’ve begun to question?’ He eagerly gazes at her.

’Well not question but I did notice that theres times where his fur ripples and haven't figured out what that means’

Raditz hums, ‘I haven't seen any one of us do that since our troop was formed so congrats on finding out something new about us. I look forward to seeing how you get mine to do that as well’

’You can’t do that on your own?’

’If I could, I'm sure I would've done it sooner to have more moments of affection with you’ 

‘Gogeta seemed embarrassed by it’

’Maybe because he’s too proud to admit that you’ve got him looking like a lovesick fool’

’Let’s say I'm starting to believe you, that only rules Gogeta out. That doesn't account for the others, like what if I said Vegito-‘

’After you had brought everyone together and allowed us to live in your territory, Vegito quite literally established that he will be the next one to mate with you after Gogeta. He has never been that clingy, hell, he’d most likely kick anyone away had they gotten too close for comfort for too long yet here he is draping himself all over you and let you put a collar on him’ 

‘Is it that unlike him? He could just be like that with any female’

Raditz raises his eyebrows ‘He has openly told everyone what he plans to do to you had you given him a chance. It riles up Gogeta and its quite entertaining, and it only happens when he talks about you and only you. Never has he even brought up your assistant or any of your subordinates’

’And is it infatuation or is it lust?’

’Both. And thats the fun part’ 

‘Fun for you I guess’

’No?’ He tilts his head, ‘you don't have any attraction to the second strongest?’

Nakala’s silence tells him everything he wants to hear and his tail waves teasingly.

He leans into her space and rests his chin onto his hand, ‘he's attracted to you, you know. I’d say about the same as Gogeta’

’Oh and not you?’ She tries to deflect.

’No. I’d be fine with just a quick fuck, but not them. They’d be devastated’ he chuckles at how she blanches at his words, ‘see, I'm complacent with a fling from our provider and then being cordial afterwards but them?’ he shakes his head, ‘out of the question. Most likely the same with the others as well’

’Surely not Gohan’ 

His laugh startles her, ‘oh I'm sure he’d be a wreck if you left him high and dry! He values your touch and would be weak if you took the lead’

’He’s too sweet for that’ Nakala shakes her head and Raditz looks at her, amused.

’Be a little more affectionate towards him and he will kill for you’ he hums.

’I’m affectionate towards Broly and he hasn't shown any signs of that’ she argues.

’He moans your name in his sleep’

That makes her exhale in surprise and hide her face in her hands, ‘no…’

’Aww, does that ruin your image of him?’ He laughs, ‘I’ve caught him one night you know, laying his head in a spot you’ve sat in the nest, touching himself with his tail and moaning your name in his sleep’ 

‘Cumber?’ She hopes to find some way to change the subject. This is wrong and unprofessional but I have to find out. There has to be at least someone from the troop that doesn't feel that way about me. Professionalism was the angel on her shoulder trying to piece together a way to rationalize and handle it as a researcher but Curiosity was a little devil on her shoulder wanting to know the other things the troop gets into while she isnt there and their true feelings for her. She won’t admit it, but shes grateful that Raditz is closer to her face and not noticing the tenseness of her thighs. 

‘He huffed your lab coat after you left from receiving our collars’

’That means he likes my smell’ she rationalizes.

’Enough to need to wash his pants before entering the nest’ Raditz smirks. 

Nakala shakes her head, ‘…Trunks?‘

’Why do you think I laughed when I walked past him after he had been scented?’

’Because you enjoy others‘ misery?’

’Very much so’ he hums then grins, ‘but it was that and much more. Were you aware that you had made him aroused during that time?’

’No!?’

That makes the Saiyan cackle, ‘thats even better! Here I thought you did it on purpose!’

’I thought I had hurt him because I tugged on a few knots in his hair!’

’So he enjoys pain?’ His eyes flash in discovery, ‘hmm could be from the object of his desire. None of us ever got a scent of arousal when we’d beat on him’ he grins sinisterly, ‘you're a researcher, what would you deduce?’ 

That doing this with you was a huge mistake but I cant go back now. She narrows her eyes.

’Goku then’ 

That makes Raditz pause and think about it.

’He’s either hiding it or he’s unaware of his true feelings’

’Or there isn't any’

He side eyes her, ‘unlikely. You remember how we first met?’

’You thought I had a thing with your brother’

’I thought you two had fucked not had a “thing” there was a scent of arousal from him that lingered when you met me after’ he scoffs.

’How could I have done that if I hadn’t with Gogeta?’ she challenges.

’Precisely why I was upset. I’m thinking on why you would prefer him over someone who clearly shows off his strength by killing those who challenged them? What kind of female doesn't fawn over that? Then I saw Gogeta and was confused as to how he let a female he clearly had scented just fuck someone weaker than him? It wasn't until later on that I realized that it wasn't the case’

Something he said catches her attention, ‘how do you know he's your brother if you aren't aware of where you come from?’

’We were found together and raised by the same village and they called us that. I’ve been around Goku longer and so I considered him a brother first before accepting the rest of the troop as such as well. But Provider you're missing a troop member’ he smirks.

’You’ve made your intentions known already’

’I haven't gone in detail now that I have you to myself’ he purrs.

’Nope’ she struggles out of his hold to stand, ‘we’re out of time. We’re heading back’

’Was it something I said?’ He chuckles, sitting up and stretching.

He watches as she starts to walk towards the entrance and swiftly grabs the offered tied together object from the living field of flowers before following close behind. After dropping off the borrowed brush and stepping out of The Sanctuary, Raditz decides to tease her once more.

Leaning in he purrs, ‘you think I cant smell you Nakala?’

Thoroughly enjoying how tense she gets in her urgency to ignore him, he practically drapes himself over her to whisper in her ear, ‘its very enticing. Did knowing how we want you carnally arouse you that much? Would you want us all at once or one at a time?‘

The South Wing soon comes into view and Nakala focuses on that and not how warm her face is getting as Raditz continues to take pleasure in tormenting her.

’It’d be hard for me to be gentle Nakala. You're soft, pliable, I’d leave bruises, I’d have you wanting more’

Nakala turns and is taken aback by the sudden weight he places onto her head. A quick reach up and her fingers feel the soft velvet of flower petals. They curl gently around her fingers but are pulled away by Raditz looking down at her. 

‘I assume this was part of my reward but I’d prefer something more satisfying. It’d have been an enjoyable end to the day if you’d have allowed me to taste you’

Nakala makes a face as they finally make it to the South Wing doors, ‘…Why are you like this?’ 

‘Because the sooner you mate with Gogeta the sooner I get to have you. I’m doing my part in trying to accelerate the process. Call it community service,’ he shrugs then leans down to whisper, ‘Now here is the part where you thank me’

’Thank you?’ She jumps as the doors fly open and a blur of bright red lifts her and pins her to the wall behind her.

Nakala makes a sound of confusion and squirms to address Gogeta’s behavior but locks eyes with Raditz looking smugly at her predicament in the doorway.

”You’re welcome” he mouths as the doors close behind him, leaving the two alone in the hallway.

Before she can question the barely restrained squeeze to her hips, she’s overwhelmed by the smell of cinnamon. Her face warms when the information Raditz told her comes rushing back to her mind and she tries to get out of his hold when he starts to nuzzle into the side of her neck.

’Gogeta-‘

’Soon Nakala, very very soon’ he growls into her ear, ‘I’m keeping it together because you're not my species and don't know about what you’re doing to me but you're making this very hard’

Chapter Text

‘…Are you okay?’ Rhodes peers at a dazed Nakala, ‘you’ve been kinda off since coming back from talking to Gogeta yesterday’ 

‘Oh? Had a falling out with your favorite subject?’ Smith rests her head on her hand teasingly.

’It definitely wasn't that’ Nakala mumbles, feeling her face warm and not from the tea she was drinking. 

Ever since yesterday shes been on edge and not in the way she expected from working in a building with very dangerous beings. Her mind drifts back to yesterday, grateful that her associates’ attention isn’t on her as her face continues to warm up.

Nakala tries to look Gogeta in the eye, ‘are you mad that I left somewhere with Raditz?’

’No’ he growls, holding her tighter, wrapping his tail around her thigh.

’Doesn't look that way’ Nakala mumbles trying to shift and get down but his hold doesn't falter. In fact, he seems to press even further between her thighs, drowning her in warmth both inside and outside. 

’He doesn't have what I have’ Gogeta growls into her ear, ‘I know you’d choose me over him’ he pulls back to look over her flustered state and smirks, ‘if you wanted me to hurry up you could just say so. I’m tired of dragging it out but Gohan told me to be patient around you’ 

‘…patient about what?’ Nakala breathes.

Gogeta furrows his brows and slowly grinds his clothed erection against her covered core making her gasp, ‘you’re smart Nakala’ he continues teasingly, agonizingly slow, enjoying the soft, barely there pants she lets out, ‘it’s one of the many things I like about you’

‘Could be because of proximity’ instant regret floods her as Gogeta stops all movement. It’s something that weighs on her mind but she never thought it’d slip out that quickly.

Guilt is painted onto her face and she looks away from the red head ‘…Gogeta I-mnf!’

She’s quickly silenced by the Saiyan’s growl as he forcefully locks his lips to hers, practically stealing her breath away. He pulls away slightly to lick a stripe across her bottom lip and growls, ‘you think you’re the only female I’ve met since I’ve been alive?’ He kisses her again to stop her protests, ‘I’ve met you a little longer than I have Steph and your interns and you don't see me scenting them’ a kiss to her cheek ‘letting them touch me’ a kiss to her jaw ‘making them part of the troop’ a kiss to her neck ‘letting them sit in the nest’ he mouths at the juncture of her shoulder then looks at her, reveling in how hot and bothered shes getting ‘do I?’

’Mmn’ 

‘”Mmn” isn't an answer Nakala‘ he lifts her head so she looks him in the eye, ‘do you think I chose you just because you were close?’

’…no’ she mumbles, letting him wrap her arms around his neck to continue to rake his tongue and teeth against her shoulder. His hands keep themselves busy by groping her thighs and hips. Purrs rack through her body whenever she inadvertently squirms against his lower half.

’I almost did it that time you were being punished’ he noses her head to the side to expose more of her throat, ‘i wanted to. You’re very fun to tease. The only thing that stopped me was Gohan telling me that you’d reject me if I made you do it when you didn't want to’ he litters her neck in more kisses, ‘so I'm asking you now,’ he hums and grinds against her harder, ‘if I were to ask you to mate with me, would you?’

Nakala lets out a pleasured sigh, ‘I-I can’t’

‘You can’t or you won’t?’

’Gogeta’ she places her hands on his chest to stop his dizzying movements, which he relents albeit reluctantly, ‘I could get in trouble for doing something like that’ 

‘Eh, how much trouble could you possibly get into?’ He tries to move to kiss her again but she dodges it and ignores his annoyed huff.

’I could get fired’ she leads, ‘and never be able to see you again. I don't want that’

’You’d miss me?’ He smirks, enjoying her scoff.

’Of course I would’

’Then what makes you think I wouldn't break out and come find you? The others would come with me too’

’That’s just going to cause more problems!’

’Yeah! Thats the point!’ He grins, ‘if this place gets rid of you then we’d give em a reason to want you back before we go get you ourself. You're part of our troop now Nakala, theres no getting out of that’ 

He observes her silent overthinking and squeezes her thighs to get her attention. She blinks up at him and when he says nothing she hums quietly.

’Can you put me down now?’ She squirms under his gaze.

’You didn't answer my question Nakala’ he smirks and nuzzles her cheek.

’What question?’ She tries to maneuver out of his flurry of kisses to her face, gasping slightly when he pulls her close to let out a sultry growl in her ear.

’Would you mate with me?’ Before she can answer he gives her a burning stare, ‘and this is without consequence on both sides. If you had the opportunity and there was no way you could get in trouble, would you do it?’

Nakala tries her damnedest to avoid his gaze but azure pins hers firmly in place, demanding an answer. And a straight one at that. He watches as she thinks it over, taking slow but deep breaths in of her scent. His fur nearly flutters when she deflates and she closes her eyes.

’I would’

She tenses when his mouth returns onto hers but slowly relaxes into the kiss, tangling her fingers in his hair before pulling away and turning to keep him from chasing her lips once more, ‘but not out here’ 

A breathy moan escapes her as Gogeta grips her backside and grinds himself harder against her, prompting Nakala to tug his hair in retaliation, ‘we’re not doing this in the hallway Gogeta!’ Slightly embarrassed at the way her panties are practically soaked from his ministrations. She’s sure he can smell her at this point. He can.

When he turns to walk into the South Wing she stops him once more, ‘or right now!’

A frustrated grumble leaves the Saiyan and he moves her body against him effortlessly a few more times before leaving a small nip to her ruffled but exposed shoulder, ‘when then? You’re driving me crazy’

‘When I find out that I won’t be fired for it okay? But it won’t be today’ she breathes, logic at war with her arousal. 

That makes the red head pout and reluctantly slides her down his body and onto her feet. He sticks close by as her legs wobble slightly and her body still tingles from the ordeal. She leads him into the South Wing and to his enclosure where he gives her one last scorching kiss in secret before leaving her to fan her heated face, go home and out of her what has to be ruined underwear.

’Hello? Earth to Nakala, do you copy?’ Hughes chuckles, ‘can’t have you distracted when you have your incident meeting with the Director’ 

‘Another one?’ Cohen side eyes her as she hides her face in her hands on the table, ‘how many is that so far?’

’Two’ they hear her mumble.

’And I couldn’t be more proud!’ Smith grins, ‘I wish I was a fly on the wall yesterday to watch what happened!’

’Huh?’ Cohen looks at her then blinks in bafflement at Nakala, ‘wait…did you, you actually had the machines broken too!?’

’Her subject broke the machines and the machine operators’ Smith smiles, ‘I heard they all went to an off base hospital instead of wanting to stay in the infirmary!’

Nakala peeks over at Rhodes, ‘when did you tell them about yesterday?’

‘When you were spaced out’ she smirks, ‘must’ve been some daydream. Was it about a certain redhead we work with?’

Nakala feels her face warm once more and stands, ‘I think its about time we head out’ she distracts, waving hurriedly to her colleagues and scurrying away with Rhodes in tow.

’Something happened out in the hallway, didn't it Nakala?’ Rhodes teasingly asks.

’Nothing that needs your levels of storytelling Steph’ Nakala side eyes her associate, opening the doors and stepping in.

Rhodes gasps playfully, ‘I’ll have you know that my stories leave everyone at the edge of their seat and wanting more!’

’Albeit with various degrees of accuracy’ Nakala sasses.

She chuckles when Rhodes sticks her tongue at her as they log in. Theres a direct message from the Director themself addressed to her under the message of an incident meeting. Nakala sighs as quietly as she can, it was better to get it over with now than later. Might give her some time to think about how to address the situation with Gogeta when she comes back. She blinks when she continues reading the message and rereads it a second time…the Director wants her to bring Raditz??? Do they expect her to plead his case? Rhodes peers over her computer to assess the confusion on Nakala’s face.

’Whats up?’

’They want me to bring Raditz with me for the meeting’

’…oh. You think they found out about our plan?’ 

‘Could be’ Nakala shrugs, ‘won’t know until we get there’

She walks towards the enclosure and as soon as she steps in her body tingles at the possibility of running into a certain redhead. The breakfast carts are in view and she throws a welcome wave at Broly, Vegito, and Gohan before heading to the newly upgraded nest. The rest of the troop are sprawled out and lying comfortably in the shade and sunshine. Watching them makes her slightly envious that she can’t do the same and a voice startles her out of her temptations. 

‘Are you going to join us Provider?’ Raditz opens an eye to look at her with a smirk.

Nakala huffs, ‘as much as I would love to’ earning the hopeful gaze of the few, ‘I have to work. Where’s Gogeta?’

’Busy’ Cumber grumbles.

’Okay…’ she blinks then looks at Raditz, ‘you ready to go?’

’Another secluded place?’ Raditz purrs.

’No, I have to have an incident meeting with my boss and they wanted you to come with me to see if you need to be put on a watchlist’ she explains.

’Watchlist?’ Trunks looks at him and Nakala waves for him to drop the subject.

‘It’s not important. We have to go so we can get it out of the way’

’Will you be in trouble from my actions?’ Raditz moves to stand and stretch.

’Are you asking that as if you care?’ she side eyes him as he follows her out of the enclosure.

’Of course I care. I can’t fuck you if you no longer work here’ he hums, ignoring the shocked look she throws at him as they step out of the South wing, ‘but I suppose the staff here can’t stop me from breaking out to find where you reside’

’You can’t do that sort of thing since Gogeta and I haven’t done anything’ she points out.

’Cant do that yet’ he corrects, ‘whatever you two have done in that hallway must’ve kick-started his behavior. Hes determined now’

’Determined to do what? Is that why I haven’t seen him yet today?’

’Aw, my little provider~’ he chuckles and pinches her cheek roughly, earning a slap to his hand to release her cheek, ‘he’s making a den’

Her face warms as he continues, ‘he’s making it comfy for you too, seems like yesterday really riled him up. Did you tell him what he wanted to hear? Did you finally tell him yes?’

’I think I did’ she flails at Raditz’s happily surprised face, ‘but I told him to wait’ earning his exasperated groan in response.

’You told him to wait!? Are you serious!?’ 

‘I wasn’t going to let him try to do anything in the hallway!’ She defends, ‘theres camera’s out here!’

’So he’s building a den to make things more secluded…intimate’ he hums then folds his arms, ‘I suppose I can’t find any fault with that’

’And we can rule out if he’s in heat and not in his right mind?’ She fishes.

She isn't so lucky as the larger Saiyan rolls his eyes and scoffs, ‘we don't have such baseless urges, he's working on this den because he feels something for you, as I’ve said’ 

He noticed the grimace on her face and he leans closer to scrutinize her.

’What?’ She leans away from him.

’You’re aware of how all of the troop feels regarding you’ he begins.

’Where are you going with this?’

’How do you feel about us? Are we just subjects to you?’

’You never were’ she looks at him, brows furrowed, ‘I like you all. Even you, who gets on my nerves’

That earns a smile out of him that quickly turns lascivious, ‘enough to fuck m-‘

’We’re here!’ She covers his mouth and looks at him sternly, ‘best behavior, my job could be on the line’

Golden orange eyes gleam, ‘do I get a reward for it?’

’You got a reward last time, this is the consequences of our actions and we can hope that it isn't severe, so let me do the talking alright?’

When he winks in agreement, she instinctively gives him a quick peck on his forehead in thanks. Her eyes widen when she hears a familiar flutter and the slight ripple of his fur. Theres a long pause and she points at him.

’We’re gonna put a pin in that‘

Their moment is broken by a serious toned voice, ‘you may enter’

Raditz watches as Nakala’s face relaxes to something serious and professional as she opens the Directors door. The Director sits at their desk and gestures to the seat across from them. Their quick once over at the Saiyan isn't lost on him as he stands next to Nakala having a seat.

’Thank you for coming. I assume you know why I called you?’

’The incident regarding yesterday’s events’ Nakala nods.

’And how would you recount that event?’ the Director raised an eyebrow.

’My subjects were being harassed by Stanson and his team and one of my subjects retaliated’ she gestures to Raditz standing behind her.

’This being the one who has caused multiple deaths before being reunited with their troop?’

’The very one. It’s safe to say that with the reunification with his troop, his violent tendencies have lessened’

’Any proof to that claim?’ the Director raises a brow.

Nakala doesn't flinch, ‘the past couple of days, my wing’s enclosure door has been wide open and the main area of the wing is accessible to my subjects’ she gestures to Raditz, ‘if he was as violent as he was before being reunited I would be filing more and more incident reports and the clean up crew would be called constantly. Yet everyone is fine in my wing’

The Director hums, ‘Stanson said that you orchestrated the attack and wants to press charges’

’I don't see why when there’s video and eye witness evidence that supports that he harassed my subjects verbally and physically’

’Theres also the issue with the machines, each one costs upwards to $50,000 each and you did sign the clause that any damage done will result in steep penalty’

’It was my understanding that the machines that were ordered were up to date and they were not. In fact, they were the very reason why the tests submitted to you were inconclusive’

’Inconclusive? You only submitted the results from four subjects, from my knowledge you have 7’

’I do, but I had my own suspicions about them and made my own experiment. All four subjects gave the same results as you are aware’

’I am informed’

’What the report missed was that I had selected the last three by what was told of me by the troop themself. From the information that was told to me days prior, their troop has a loosely strength based hierarchy thats established through sparring. It was already established that Gogeta is the strongest so I chose one of the middle strongest then one of the weakest members to confirm that the machines aren't going to give viable results’ 

‘From what was recorded it wasn't’

’No, it wasn't. My team and I tried our best to determine their strength but can only record the order in which who is strongest to weakest. Their true strength is still unknown’

Theres a long silence and the Director leans back to regard Nakala. A small smirk graces their face and they hum, ‘seems I chose well with having you as research head’

’…thank you?’ Nakala blinks.

’You're welcome. Now’ they stand and Nakala does the same, ‘you may return to your wing. The report matches the evidence’

Raditz moves to leave but pauses and turns when he sees Nakala not behind him. 

‘Am I to be penalized for the machines?’ Nakala tensely asks but its waved away by the Director passively.

’The clause stated that any damage to up to date machines will face a penalty. It applies to machines updated and improved within the last two to three years. Those machines haven't been updated for the last seven’

Nakala nods and looks at the Director.

’If you have any issues with any experiments that could end in inconclusive results, then leave an email to me so that this’ they gesture to the reports on their desk and to Nakala and themself, ‘won’t have to happen again’

’I understand’ Nakala nods and follows Raditz out into the hallway.

He watches as she visibly deflates against the wall, not realizing how close he gets to her face. She jumps at the closeness and damn near hits her head against the wall, glaring at his smirk.

’You’re more noble than I gave you credit for’

’All I did was tell them what happened’ she moves him out of her personal space, ‘just with less detail’

’Yes, but you could have easily blamed me yet you didn't. You were prepared to face the consequences of my actions’

’What good would throwing you under the bus have done? All of you are my responsibility. Plus I told you to do it and you listened so’ she shrugs.

Raditz hums in thought and Nakala side eyes him, ‘so…can we talk about your fur for a second?’

’You ask as if I know what caused it’ he grumbles.

’…can I try something?’ She blinks, ‘for experimental purposes’

Raditz looks at her then grins, ‘but what will our troop leader say?’

’Nothing because your fur didn't ripple because of something sexual’ she points at him and smiles mischievously.

That makes him blink in surprise then look away, ‘how very observant of you’

’Thank you’ she smiles, ‘so can I try to do it again? I think I have an idea’

’Do as you wish’ he grumbles quietly.

He leans down hesitantly when she reaches for his face, tail tip curiously swaying. Nakala gently caresses his cheeks and his brows furrow, the base of his spine tingles. She makes her way to his ears and opts to massage them, too busy with watching the confused look on his face to notice the fur on his back flickering. His actions make her look into his eyes and see that they're distant. 

Her voice snaps him out of his still visage, ‘are you fighting it?’

His conflicted blink at her softens her gaze warmly, ‘you know, now that I think about it, ever since you’ve been here its been nothing but violence with you’

’I like the violence’ he mumbles quietly.

’You ever let yourself be soft? Even once?’

His eyes close and he pulls one of her wrists away from his face to nuzzle into her palm, ‘not allowed to be’

’You can with me’ she smiles sweetly, ‘it can even be the next time when we’re alone so you can keep up this bad boy image’

She feels his chuckle against her palm, ‘nothing about me is soft, softness is a weakness’ 

‘You said I'm soft’ she points out.

’You’re also weak’ he side eyes her.

’I got someone like you to do what I say’ she says softly.

’Fair point’ he smiles and closes his eyes again.

Theres a stillness in the hallway that Nakala feels she can’t break with any raise in her voice so she opts to stay silent instead. Gently moving out of his grip to go back to massaging his ears, she sees him visibly relax now and she hears something familiar. She holds back an excited bounce when his fur starts to ripple hesitantly, then steadily as she continues. After a beat his eyes blink open and he tenses once more, the ripples stop and he stands abruptly. Nakala brings her hands back and tries to keep up with Raditz as he steadily heads back to the South Wing. One would think that the walk back would feel awkward but it leaves Nakala internally beaming that her hunch was correct. She sneakily glances at Raditz and wonders about his straightforward gaze, his expression unreadable. Before she can open the doors she hears Raditz mumble something.

’Huh?’ She looks at him and jumps when he quickly grabs her cheeks with one hand.

‘I said’ he leans close so that his lips are a hair's breadth away from hers, ‘that you make it very difficult not to challenge Gogeta’s authority’ 

He leaves Nakala and opens the South Wing door, holding it open so she can walk through but not looking at her. When she steps fully in, he steps into the enclosure without looking back. Nakala takes a seat at her desk and smacks at her cheeks to clear her mind. 

‘We in the clear?’ Rhodes looks over at her anxiously.

’…yeah, for the most part’ Nakala stand and sighs, ‘I’m gonna suggest we don't do something like that again’

’In our defense’ Rhodes shrugs, ‘they did start it’

’Yes and because we are the adults we’re supposed to be above this’

’They're adults too’ Rhodes playfully pouts.

She watches as Nakala silently gets her thoughts in order and tilts her head, ‘you okay?’

’Yes? No? It’s complicated,’ Nakala shakes her head.

’It has something to do with the hallway, doesn't it?’ 

’Why are you so hung up on what happened in the hallway?’

’Because all Raditz said was not to interrupt unless I want to see a show but kept me from going to look’

She notices the embarrassed look away from Nakala and squeals in excitement. Nakala flails to try to shush her to not get the attention of the other interns and researchers.

’Stop! Dont jump to conclusions!’

’How can I not!?’ Rhodes bounces.

’Because I don't even know what it means yet, or if thats just another thing that gets me in trouble!’

’Huh? Why would you get in trouble?’

Nakala looks around and leans closer to Rhodes to whisper, ‘because something did happen but I'm not sure how to go about it. This is new to me and I don't want to mess everything up. Once I get it figured out, I will tell you everything but first I need you to be in charge for a minute’

’Of course. Where are you going?’

‘To talk to the other research heads about it. I need expert advice’

’Hey, I give good advice!’

’And I will ask it after I'm done talking to them’ Nakala types onto her phone, ‘you're closer and are tolerated enough by the troop. I need an unbiased source’

’Geez you're talking like Gogeta asked you to marry him’ she rolls her eyes.

Nakala blinks at her and quickly makes her way to the door, fully ignoring Rhodes’ loud gasp and yelling at her to hurry and get back. 

It’s quiet when Nakala walks to a specific room deep within the facility. Her mind is plagued with thoughts and slowly creeping anxiety. She pushes open the doors and lets out a deep sigh in the somewhat empty employee lounge room.

’Wow, must be some heavy problems weighing down on you’ an amused voice breaks her out of her thoughts.

’The text didn't seem too serious, but your face says otherwise’ Hughes gestures for the empty seat near himself and Smith.

‘I don't know how serious it is yet’ Nakala takes a seat, ‘and I'm not sure how to proceed further’

‘Full disclosure. No jokes. What is wrong?’ Smith throws her a leveled stare.

’…I'm conflicted’ she admits.

’Was it from something Rhodes said this morning?’ Hughes asks.

’Yeah’

’So something did happen with your subject’ Smith concludes.

Nakala nods and tells them what happened that day and what Raditz had told her in a more appropriate safe for work way. She’s surprised that the two look surprised but not shocked or angry at the knowledge she received. Smith is completely unphased and reclines in her chair.

’Oh, thats it?’ Smith gives her a reassuring smile.

’That isn't too bad, but I do see where your issue stems from’ Hughes rubs his chin in thought, ‘what makes you conflicted about it?’

’I don't want to misconstrue their feelings and further a bond that could potentially keep me from seeing them again because I got fired’ she explains.

’You won’t be fired for that,’ Smith waves dismissively, ‘There’s been others who’ve done worse to their subjects and for worse reasons. The good thing is that according to your subject, they all feel something for you, especially the redhead. So I say go with it. It’s a whole different protocol when it’s your subject that wants you instead of the other way around’ 

Nakala looks over at Hughes, her more logical friend for a more logical point of view and he smirks.

’In any other case I’d tell you not to listen to her but she does have a point. The company would much rather keep you if that meant your subject could be further complacent to stay here, the odds of being fired is extremely low now if you decide to accept his advances. From what you said, he's already better than a lot of the subjects that I or Smith have ever had when it comes to consent on the subject’s end’ Hughes offers.

Nakala blinks, her worries slowly ebbing away at the advice. But something more pops up into her mind, ‘…I feel like there are stories from before I worked here that made you say that last part’

Smith blinks at her in realization then chuckles, ‘I forgot that for how long every lead researcher has worked here, you're practically still a newbie. I’ve learned about things and seen things I shouldn’t against my will that would make our conversation seem like a walk in the park. It’s why I said you’re worried about nothing‘

’What have you seen?’ Already regretting asking when Smith narrows her eyes and leans forward.

’A lot? Too much? I’ve seen researchers and interns falling for my subject’s charms and getting killed for it. Other times they have eggs laid into them and they’ve made it out alive but that was after we had to extract them out of the recipient. Theres a number of things that could be described as horrific thats happened in my wing at first but now that we’ve worked out some kinks its now a well oiled machine. It’s all about knowing your subjects. You're in a good spot because by your account, they only seem to like you, that lessens the chance of any potential outliers taking advantage of them to do any damage to themself, others or your subjects’

She snaps at Nakala and points at her, ‘and don't think you're taking advantage of them either. From what you told us, he clearly thought it over, was of sound mind, and approached you first. Hell, the fact that he even took the advice of one of his weaker troop members for your comfort should prove that. He even asked if you wanted to mate with him’

’It’s not professional’ Nakala huffs.

’Fuck professionalism’ Smith shrugs, ‘this place is to keep them safe from the public and the public safe from them, if they form an attachment while having to stay here then thats doing a service to the company to keep them happy’

’It would make things complicated if he didn't feel anything for you and just used you for his pleasure but from what I heard, he cares about you’ Hughes chuckles, ‘even enough to break out and find you if you left. They stay if you stay, so even the company would want to keep you if you appease them’ 

‘This company favors their subjects more than the employees’ Nakala shakes her head.

’Oh they don't even care if anyone dies. You know how many interns I’ve lost to my bugs?’ Smith looks at her, ‘all that was called was a clean up crew and therapy paid for whoever witnessed it. Theres a reason why they hire those who have no family left or no one to care if they mysteriously went missing or passed from “unknown” causes’

’As long as the subject doesn't attempt to leave by choice if they can, they're complacent. See, you have a more complex type of subject than Smith and myself. Insects aren't exactly the emotional type and my birds however,’ he groans, ‘are overly sensitive, emotional, and hormonal. Feelings are often misunderstood in my wing and lead to many heartbreaks and deaths so we have to be as careful as possible to engage in any activity with them. It took a while to have safety precaution evaluations to keep things from getting out of hand but the damage was done. We lost a lot of females because of our male and colorful haired female interns and researchers not understanding that they were being courted and couldn’t reciprocate. They were either dating or were married and couldn't give them what they wanted. They fell into depression almost instantly and it led to them dying’ 

‘Good thing that you have males to deal with’ Smith winks at Nakala, making her face warm.

’That’s true. Have they ever brought up breeding in your conversations? Or wanting you to produce their children?’ Hughes blinks.

’No, they only talked about mating and thats it’ Nakala realizes.

’Well thats great then yeah? You don't want children and we have the technology to make sure you aren't pregnant so’ Smith nudges her playfully, ‘have fun girl! Join the club!’ 

‘Club!?’ Nakala blanches, ‘theres a club!?’

’It isn't called that per se’ Smith waves, ‘it’s what we call it when its done as a game. It isn't encouraged but when it happens it’s not something that someone should be embarrassed about. My team certainly don't judge, we’re all freaks. As long as both parties consent, are fully matured adults, and completely sentient and are able to communicate, then its fair game in my wing’

Nakala blinks in surprise then asks, ‘…have you ever done anything with your subjects?’

’Oh yeah, I'm a favorite with the mantid females and male spiders’ she smirks.

’How are you still alive?’ Hughes shakes his head.

’You want me to go in detail?’

‘No’ Nakala and Hughes say for various reasons.

’You're both no fun’ Smith gets up after her phone pings, ‘and thats my cue to go’ she looks over at Nakala and grins, ‘let me know when it happens so we can throw you a party!’

’No!’ Nakala calls back, watching her friend laugh and leave the room to head back to her wing.

’I’m sure I smell enough like a female to most likely get molested by the birds so I'm going to go change before I head back’ Hughes stands as well, offering Nakala a reassuring hand on her shoulder, the most he can offer, ‘It’s better to think on it for a day to weigh the pros and cons’

Nakala nods and starts to walk out of the room with Hughes. Before they part ways, she calls out to him.

’Have you ever…joined the club?’

Hughes chuckles, ‘no. My swing doesn't move in any direction’

As soon as the South wing doors open, Nakala is greeted by Rhodes grabbing her and dragging her to her desk chair.

‘I need to know what happened. Every time I tried to focus on anything else, one of the guys comes in looking for you and where you went and it sent me right back to thinking about it before you left’

’What were they looking for me for?’ Nakala tilts her head, laughing when Rhodes throws her a wide eyed glare.

‘I have to do my job first before I gossip, Rhodes’ she scolds playfully.

’It wasn't anything serious, they just wanted to see you since the only one to see you today was Raditz and we both know he probably bragged about it to the others’

’Right. I’ll go see them later’ Nakala sighs, knowing what the intense stare Rhodes burns into her face means. 

She looks around to make sure no one is close enough to hear them before telling her what happened in the hallway as well as everything from yesterday and what Smith and Hughes had told her. Nakala watches Rhodes facial expressions the entire time and when she finishes she sees her associate and friend take a deep breath. Already knowing what comes next, she quickly grabs her lab coat from the back of her chair and shoves it into Rhodes face as she lets out the most excited scream.

’Omg!’ She looks at Nakala after taking a breath, ‘he likes you!’

’I know’ Nakala slips on her coat.

’They all like you!’

’I know!’

’You told him yes?’

’I think I did but not without finding out if I would be fired or not’

’And now you found out that you're not gonna be fired so’ Rhodes grins.

‘I’m not doing that now!’

’Good, do you know how awkward letting the Director know that they should expect sample cups that also contain our research head’s fluids would be? I wouldn't even know where to start with wording that’ 

‘Can you not!?’

’No! I’m excited for you! Lets be real here you don't really have an active love life outside of work’

’I agree. But its not like I’ve been waiting to do that with them’ she gestures to the enclosure door.

’Doesn't mean it won’t be fun! Do you still have doubts?’

’A little’ Nakala admits, ‘now it’s more so about how the others would feel about it’

’I say ask them’ Rhodes shrugs, ‘they're smart, I don't think it would escalate to anything crazy. When you left with Raditz yesterday the only one that seemed to be bothered by it was Gogeta when they were all sparring but now we know why’ 

‘Right. I doubt they’d get into an actual fight given I’ve spent time with them before and they’d never gotten hostile towards each other’ Nakala thinks out loud.

’Possessive?’ Rhodes tilts her head.

’Not really. If it were the case then they would've fought to keep me in the nest or the enclosure but I’m able to leave whenever I want. I even left earlier and all they did was wait for me, in an extreme case they’d break out just to find me’

’True. Could it be because you're in a higher position? They did call you a provider’

’That could be it’ Nakala nods, ’but as far as setting a boundary and figuring out what “mating” means in their sense, I’ll head in there to ask them’

’Don't be so nervous about it’ Rhodes laughs, ‘I don't think they’d hurt you’

’I’m not nervous, I’m embarrassed’ Nakala gets up and rubs her temples, ‘this is a lot all in one day and this is definitely not how I expected working here to go’

’Well it did say to expect the unexpected in simpler terms when we signed the contracts’ Rhodes shrugs.

She watches as Nakala groans slightly and spots a large body walking out of the enclosure. Passive red eyes look over to where Nakala’s desk is located and it brightens when he spots Nakala herself. He walks over and towers over her, silently assessing her wellbeing. Nakala turns when Rhodes’ gaze travels up from her face to something significantly taller than them both and blinks when she sees Cumber standing there quietly. 

‘…hi Cumber’ she smiles.

All she gets is a growling grunt and he leans down closer to her, ‘you weren’t here earlier’

’Had to handle a couple things’ Nakala explains, fighting to shrink under his scrutinizing gaze, ‘is there a reason why everyone was looking for me?’

’Your scent is fading in the nest’ he gently ushers her into his arms to carry her inside but chooses instead to move her to stand.

Nakala glances back at Rhodes who throws her a thumbs up before going into the enclosure. She notices how close Cumber is to her side as they head to the nest and looks up at him, trying to lighten the mood.

’Did you miss me when I was gone?’

He doesn't answer right away, only looking straight ahead, but she can see the slight red tinge to his ears that answers her question. He catches her smile and lets out a chuff that only she hears before the nest comes into view. A majority of members are lazing in the nest passively rubbing their stomachs in content. A few notice her and her confused look around the area.

‘Where’s Gogeta?’ she gets everyone’s attention as she steps out of her shoes and carefully walks into the nest.

Vegito grins and pulls her close to him, ‘I can pretend to be Gogeta if you miss him that much’

’He’s still in the enclosure, you can probably go and see him’ Gohan reassures. 

‘I would suggest that you don't’ Raditz hums, ‘unless you don't wish to walk for the rest of the day’

Vegito nods in agreement but Gohan and Trunks throws Raditz a mortified look and he shrugs, ‘we all know what scent he’s giving off in that den that he's working on. It’s why we’re not allowed near it’

’Yes we know but she doesn't!’ Gohan says through clenched teeth.

All he gets in response from Raditz is another nonchalant shrug, ‘I told her enough’ he throws a wink her way.

Vegito laughs, ‘if she knows enough then she should know that only lasting a day is pitiful’ he leans over to purr in her ear, ‘I’d last longer~’

He catches her shudder and fights the urge to drag her back as she crawls over to Broly on the other side of the nest. 

She points at Vegito, ‘I came for answers and to re-scent the nest, not flirting’ 

‘What questions do you have?’ Trunks tilts his head, at her other side.

Nakala nestles between the two and takes a self soothing inhale. Mentally preparing herself. 

‘Can you explain what mating means with your species and why Gogeta is making a den?’

Theres a silence in the air that nobody is willing to break. Trunks is slightly tense under her questioning gaze and Broly just simply stares at her, just as lost.

Movement draws her to Vegito’s serious face as he asks, ‘are you asking because you want to move forward with what it means?’

’That depends on how honest you are with your answer’ she replies just as seriously.

’We wouldn't dare lie to our Provider’ Raditz hums. 

‘If I were to say yes to your question’ Nakala meets the steely teal of Vegito’s eyes, ‘what would you tell me?’

His gaze softens when he smiles, ‘Gogeta’s making a den to mate with you Sweet Nakala, he seems to get the impression that you said yes to him. From what we smelled when he walked past to find a den, that seemed to be the case’

Her face warms as he continues, ‘the scent he's giving off is a clear warning to us to be respected as he gets the den ready for you’

’Is he in there just waiting for me? Is he refusing to get out? Is he eating at least?’

’He's eating, don't worry’ Vegito reassures, ‘Gogeta is probably expecting you to go see him but I wouldn't be surprised if he came and got you himself. Are you prepared for what is going to happen next and after that? Because if you're not, then its better to let him and us know now’

’…I think I have my answer. Tell me what mating means to you all. Am I expected to bear offspring? What can I expect so that nothing is misunderstood’

’Mating is exactly what you think it is Sweet,’ Vegito purrs, ‘no, you aren't obligated to bear any of our children because you have plenty of time to decide that for yourself given our long life. Talk to whoever you choose to mate with if something makes you uncomfortable and nothing will be misunderstood. You're our provider, you have a say in the troop and that applies here but you should know that not all of us mate the same’ he winks.

Nakala’s face warms significantly and she shakes her head to chase it away. Calm down heart, we need to get as much info as possible. Do not remember what Raditz said at the Sanctuary while being around all of them. 

‘Will there be in-fighting if I choose to mate with others besides Gogeta?’

’Doubtful. Though, you might get a lot of us wanting to be next. At most we’d try to seduce you’ Raditz grins.

’And even then, we’d have no right to fight for your affections if you didn't want us in the first place’ Vegito adds then smirks and raises an eyebrow, ‘…and you do want us, right?’

She tenses when she feels every eye on her and stands quickly. The eyes follow.

‘I am not going to answer that while everyone is here. I’ll leave that to everyone to figure out in time, now,’ she strips out of her lab coat and hands it to Vegito who fights the urge to bury his nose in the collar, ‘give this to Gogeta please’

When Vegito takes her coat and thumbs the fabric, she steps out of the nest and slips back on her shoes. She gives everyone an awkward wave goodnight before leaving the enclosure and Vegito stands to make his way to where he knows Gogeta is located. They hear the enclosure door close for the night and Vegito watches as everyone hunkers down to sleep. Broly and Trunks sneakily sharing the space where Nakala had been and Goku plopping into the spot where she had been earlier. Vegito pouts at his spot being taken and remedies that by taking a deep inhale of her scent on her coat. He takes his time heading to the deepest part of the enclosure and stands a distance away from a snug looking cave. Theres a faint glowing from the inside and Vegito hums mischievously. 

‘She left something for you’ he calls, ‘it smells like her’

He fights a laugh at the bedraggled figure shuffling out of the cave. The red head looks tired as he grabs Nakala’s coat. As he smells it, he purrs deeply.

’She was looking for you too’ Vegito smirks, ‘she was worried that you haven't been eating and we told her you have. Good thing she didn't ask if you’ve slept, I don't think I could tell her that you haven't been since you started all this’ he gestures to the cave as Gogeta appears to not hear him.

’She had questions on what mating and a den was’ that gets Gogeta’s attention, ‘she even told me to give that to you’ he points to the coat he was smelling. 

Vegito chuckles and flicks his shoulder, ‘you’d better clean yourself up before she comes back tomorrow, I doubt she’d want to see you like this’ 

Gogeta hums, watching his troop member head back to the nest. He pauses in his step before going back into the cave. A chuckle leaves him as he turns and heads towards the lake, hanging her lab coat carefully on a nearby branch so it doesn't fall and looking around where they keep the large bottles of non-scented soap the interns replace whenever he and his troop decide to bathe. After half an hour his fur is silken smooth and soft. He's thankful that his clothes still carry his scent as he slips them on. Gogeta heads back to the den after grabbing Nakala’s coat and settling into the plush leaves. He's lulled to sleep curled around her coat, relaxed enough to finally fall asleep.

Chapter Text

‘Nakala, I mean this in the nicest way possible as your friend’ Rhodes presses her palms together as she regards her friend, ‘you look like shit’

Nakala blearily looks over at her friend as they take a seat to wait for the other researchers to get to work, ‘huh?’

’You look like you haven't slept. Have you slept? What happened?’ Rhodes pokes her cheek in an attempt to wake her up further.

Nakala grumbles and avoids her probing fingers sloppily, ‘couldn’t sleep, too many thoughts’

She doesn't like the silence on her friends’ end and if she were a little more awake she’d see the mischievous grin that graced Rhodes’ features.

‘Dreaming about a redhead?’

’I’m too tired for this today Steph please’ Nakala whines, resting her head onto the table.

Even in her sleepy state she’d rather fall into the deepest pit in the world than confirm Rhodes’ suspicions. Of course, Rhodes was correct about her guess but if Nakala even told her about the multiple dreams she did have about Gogeta and later the troop members, she’d spontaneously combust. She blames her introverted lifestyle and lack of wanting to interact with less interesting people outside of work for why she’s in this position. 

‘Am I going to be carrying out the experiments for today?’ Rhodes rests her head on her hand, playing with her friends hair.

’Mmno’ Nakala hums, eyes closed, ‘I think I got it’

’Yeah? What are we testing today?’

’Bite strength’ she mumbles, completely missing how Smith and Cohen already took their seat with them.

’Why didn't you just call out for the day if you're this tired?’ Cohen questions, clearly worried for her wellbeing.

’I know why’ Smith grins evilly and leans over to whisper in Nakala’s ear, ‘just couldn't wait for Gogeta to blow your back out huh?’

’Aah!?’ Nakala springs up quickly covering her ear.

Her glare is weak when she meets Smith’s but cant find it in herself to argue with that fact. 

‘Oh look she’s up’ Rhodes chuckles.

’What did you say to her?’ Cohen looks at Smith who waves passively, ‘nothing she hasn't thought about herself. Just reminding her of what’s to come’

’Thats not cryptic at all’ Hughes voices as he also takes a seat next to Cohen and Rhodes.

’Not at all’ Smith looks over at Rhodes, ‘Steph, sweetheart, precious cutie pie’

’Thats me’ Rhodes sing songs.

’If any of the sentient beings that live here showed any interest in you, would you have a fling with them?’ Smith smirks.

‘I haven't thought about it but, I guess I’d try it’ Rhodes admits. 

‘I knew you were just like me’ Smith smiles, ‘which kind?’

’Well I usually have a thing for pretty boys so I’d probably see what the birds think of me’ Rhodes admits.

‘They’d have you too’ Hughes chuckles, ‘all of them’

Smith looks to gauge Nakala’s expression on it but the woman in question is damn near unconscious on the table. She huffs and looks at Cohen to ask him the same thing but he beats her to it.

’I’ve had interactions with all types of bugs, birds, and monkeys. I want no part’ he holds up his hands with a laugh. 

‘You gotta live a little’ Smth stands as the announcement is made for an all clear.

The group stands and all of them look at the still sleeping Nakala.

Hughes shakes her awake gently, ‘get some tests done then you can sleep on the job’

Nakala grumbles as she yawns and stands, stretching. She trudges along with Rhodes to the South Wing and Rhodes looks at her in slight worry.

’If you want, I can handle the testing while you sleep Nakala’

’I’ll wake up eventually Rhodes, I promise’ Nakala hums. 

They enter through the South Wing doors and Rhodes guides the sleepy Nakala to her chair. 

‘I’ll go get the bite testers, okay? Try to think about something to keep you up’ Rhodes winks.

Nakala nods and shakes her head to fight sleep. When she starts to nod off again her mind starts to wander into another dream. 

She’s at her desk, fully awake and typing away at her keyboard. The words are incomprehensible on her screen but it has her full attention. Her chair moves back slightly seemingly on its own and when she scoots back, her legs brush against something solid. Large hands hold her from moving back to see who she bumped into and freezes when the hands smooth over her thighs to pull her closer to a warm body under her desk. 

‘What-who-???’ She reaches under the desk to at least feel who it could be but all she gets is a nip to her palm.

She’s rewarded with a familiar chuckle that she feels against her inner thighs. 

‘You think I can get away with a taste before Gogeta finds out?’ 

‘Vegito?’ She tries to lean to scold him but is held firmly put, his fingers dig gently into her hips. 

They tease the waistband of her pants and he purrs, ‘you two are taking too long. He won’t notice, I promise’ 

Nakala tenses and looks around at the oddly empty room, no researchers and no interns. Not even Rhodes was around. A tug on her pants draws her attention back to the burning teal stare from the Saiyan dangerously close to her crotch. Her words leave her just as quickly as he slides her pants down her legs, leaving them at her ankles to bury his face in her mound. Her fingers bury themselves in his hair but he doesn't budge, letting out a deep purr.

’Sweet,’ he confirms, ‘but does the scent match the taste?’ He hooks his arms under her legs to lift her closer to his mouth.

’Vegito’ Nakala breathes, hands and body trembling as he licks a slow teasing stripe over her panty covered core to her clit. 

Her thighs close softly against his head but he's unfazed by the squeeze. Relishing in the pressure, he continues. Her hands now affectionate instead of fighting him as they seem to pull him closer. Nakala’s eyes flutter closed in internal defeat. Choosing instead to give in to the pleasure before her. She whimpers when the low timber of Vegito’s voice softly calls to her, feeling the vibration straight to her core.

’Nakala~’ he calls again, husky and full of desire.

’Vegito’ she sighs, rubbing her thighs together.

’Yes, Sweet Nakala?’ An amused voice jolts her out of her dream. 

Shocked eyes meet jovial teal as the subject of her dream is crouched next to her knees. Vegito smirks up at her from where he rests his head on his arms on her thighs. He tilts his head in mild confusion at her mortified expression.

‘What’s that look for Sweet? Are we not experimenting today?’

’…no…no we are’ Nakala rubs her face frantically, hoping to god that Vegito didn't see anything while she was dreaming.

He won’t admit it to her given how embarrassed she looks but he actually came by minutes before. He had passed by Rhodes who explained what experiment was being done today when he spotted Nakala sleeping at her desk. At first, he thought she was having an exciting dream given her shifting movements but when he approached her, he caught the smell of something very enticing. It practically lured him in and when he made his way to her side quietly, the sighs and whimpers confirmed his suspicions. An excited smile painted his face when he lowered himself near her legs and hums. I wonder who it is you're dreaming about Sweet. As if on cue, she had whimpered his name and damn if that wasn't music to his ears. He decided to grant her mercy because of the look on her face upon waking up and feigns ignorance. Mentally storing it in his mind for when hes alone.

‘We’re doing bite testing today’ she yawns, stretching as the situation had mostly woken her up. 

‘Sounds fun’ he hums, smiling when Rhodes comes to view with a rod like device and a small bagful of items.

’Oh, you're awake! Good morning!’ Rhodes chuckles and places the items next to Nakala.

She hands her the rod and Nakala examines it before turning it on, watching as the numbers flash and testing the pressure by squeezing it with her hand. It flashes a number and she shows it to Vegito.

’You bite here as hard as you can and I’ll write down the number’ she explains.

Nakala looks over at Rhodes who blinks at her, ‘can you hand me the tape measure? I’m going to measure their canines as well’

’I thought you were too tired for more testing?’

’I am but I might as well get it out of the way’ Nakala yawns.

Vegito’s tail waves lazily as he watches Rhodes step away for a second before focusing on Nakala pulling a protective cover over the tip of the rod.

’You wanna go get the others? It’d be easier to have everyone group up here than one by one’

’You gonna go back to sleep if I leave you here?’ He raises a teasing eyebrow at her. 

‘Not if you hurry up’ she chuckles, gently pushing him away from her with her foot.

He grabs it firmly and squeezes her calf before standing and heading back to the enclosure. Nakala pulls up a document with a list of the troops names to document her measurements. By the time Rhodes makes it back to her with the measuring tape, the troop all shuffle out of the enclosure doors. They spot Nakala in her chair waiting for them and she furrows her brows. Gogeta wasn't with them. Gohan notices her confusion and rubs the back of his neck awkwardly.

’He’s still in the den’ he explains quietly.

’Still waiting for you’ Raditz purrs. 

‘I’ll get the measurements from him later’ Nakala mumbles, too tired to shake off the warmth from her face.

Vegito squeezes the covered rod tip and leans in so only she can hear.

’Not as soft as your thighs but one can imagine right?’

Nakala presses her thighs together and moves them away from him, making him giggle. 

‘Just for that you’re going last’ she weakly glares at him.

Nakala points to Gohan and gestures for him to come closer. He blinks curiously and steps up to her, sitting in front of her with an amused smile. 

She gestures for him to open his mouth and he does so, patiently keeping them open for her to measure his canines. When she leans over to type the measurements she makes sure the rod is still turned on and explains to Gohan how it works.

‘Be sure not to break it Gohan’ Rhodes teases when Nakala places it gently into his mouth.

’He won’t break it’ Nakala smiles, ‘Gohan’s a good boy’

Her words makes the Saiyan tense and bite down hard onto the testing rod, fur rippling quickly. His face is bright red in embarrassment when the ripples stop, avoiding everyone’s surprised gaze on him.

‘Praise!?’ Rhodes, Raditz and Nakala exclaim at the same time, making him flinch. 

Vegito bursts into laughter as Gohan ducks his head down to hide his blush. He avoids the happily surprised grin at him from Rhodes and Raditz when Nakala types the results in her computer. Deciding to spare him from any more teasing she gently holds Gohan’s head to look at her.

In her semi tired state she smiles, ‘Don't worry Gohan, you're my good boy’ and kisses his forehead, completely missing how his fur flutters again.

’Can-can I go now?’ He mumbles, hiding his face.

’You can’ she hums, ‘thats all I need from you today. Thank you Gohan’ she hums.

Vegito and Raditz exchange knowing glances when Gohan rushes past them back to the enclosure. Nakala is oblivious to the interaction as she changes out the covering. Cumber watches her closely as he sits in Gohan’s spot. Despite sitting down, he still towers over her. In her half asleep state, her eyes focus on his pronounced chest. He could smother me in that chest and I’d thank him for it, Nakala furrows her brows at the stray thought. Shes jolted from her thoughts at the sound of Cumber putting his muzzle onto her desk. He sits back and opens his mouth wide for her to measure his massive canines. She holds the tape to keep note of the measurement and in a more awake state she’d be amazed but all her mind wandered to when she types in the length was, his tongue is wide…can he use it to-

‘Bite here please’ Nakala huffs, internally chastising herself. So instead of trying to sleep, you think of this? She scolds herself. 

Cumber’s eyebrows furrow at her inner turmoil and leans ominously over her to check her over but she avoids his gaze, face warming. The beep from the rod draws her attention to it and she attempts to pull it out but he keeps a firm grip on it, only releasing it when she looks up at him. He chuffs at her before slipping on his muzzle and walking away. Trunks replaces him and looks her over as well.

’You look off Nakala. Are you okay?’

’Just sleepy’ she waves it away, gesturing for him to open his mouth.

’We’ve asked her about what kept her up last night but she won’t budge’ Rhodes rests her head on her hand, smirking when the troop’s gaze fall on Nakala with various emotions.

’New male?’ Raditz tilts his head, curiously.

Before Nakala can retort, Goku hops up to smell around her, ‘doesn't smell like it’ 

‘Nightmare?’ Trunks peers up at her worriedly and she sighs as she changes the rod tip once more.

’No and no. Why can’t it just be that I didn't sleep comfortably in my own bed last night?’ She rolls her eyes as Trunks bites the pressure reader. 

‘Why don't you sleep in the nest with us?’ Broly inquires.

‘That’s sweet of you to say but I don't think I can. Once it hits a certain time within the facility, we’re essentially locked in here til morning,’

’What’s so wrong with a sleepover?’ Vegito winks at her, ‘I’m pretty sure we can keep our hands to ourself’

’Speak for yourself’ Raditz chuckles. 

‘I don't bring pajamas to my job’ Nakala tries to argue.

’You did bring a blanket though’ Rhodes points out, pointedly ignoring the flat stare from Nakala as the rod beeps and she records it.

’Maybe you just need a body to sleep next to’ Goku tries to help, ‘it could be that you don't feel safe, sleeping with all of us could help that!’

’I’ve been sleeping by myself for years now, so I doubt that thats it’ she deduces.

Trunks sticks around to help with the problem, lingering around their desk as Raditz slides over. He stands onto his knees to move into her personal space, planting his arms on either side of her thighs. A knowing smirk graces his face as he opens his mouth, tongue lolling out and stretching to show its length. Oh, that’d reach deep, she grips the measuring tape tight as she takes in the number. Hes unaware of how tense her thighs get at her mind and a certain Saiyan riling her up. 

As she turns to record the number, she freezes when he leans in to whisper in her ear, ‘it must’ve been some dream to keep you awake Provider. You have the power to get the real thing, all you have to do is ask’

A self satisfied grin grows onto his face when she pushes him to sit back to let her breathe. Her breath hitches when he winks at her and licks the rod with the flat of his tongue. Before he bites down on the pressure reader, he barks out a laugh when she reflectively baps him with the rod in her silent way of scolding him. Raditz maintains amused eye contact with her until it beeps and chuckles when she damn near yanks it out of his mouth to record her findings. She makes sure he isn't close to her again before waiting for the next Saiyan to record. As he stands and saunters out of the room, Nakala turns to see a thoroughly entertained Rhodes.

”They are so down bad for you” she mouths excitedly.

”Don't encourage them” Nakala shakes her head.

Theres a gentle tap onto her knee and she makes eye contact with the soft gaze of Broly. He opens his mouth halfway and she gently pries it open wider to collect the measurements. Once she switches the replacement piece on the rod and he bites down, she blinks in confusion. The rod beeps and she looks at the number in disapproval.

’Are you holding back?’ she mumbles.

He doesn't answer her and she smoothes her hand over the scar on his jaw. She fixes him a weakly stern stare as she gently pries his mouth wider.

’Open’

Broly blinks in surprise and opens his mouth, he closes his eyes when she places the pressure reader in his mouth.

’Bite’

He bites down weakly again and Nakala gives him a weak pinch to his cheek to get his attention. There’s a warmth in the pit of his stomach when he sees the annoyed but patient look on her face.

’Harder, Broly’

He whimpers slightly and does as he's told, putting just enough pressure as he can for the rod to beep.

He’s so obedient, her inner voice purrs, I wonder what else I can get him to do to make that sound again, Nakala blinks hard to not dive further into that thought.

‘Thank you baby boy’ she smiles when he gently headbutts her before heading back into the enclosure. 

Nakala side eyes an eager looking Goku and gestures for him to come closer. He does so excitedly, licking his fangs before opening them proudly for her to measure. He likes to bite, her traitorous mind shudders, would he leave marks where I want them most? Would he be gentle? She shakes her head roughly, gaining the attention of the small group.

‘Only two more to go’ Rhodes reassures, ‘then you can sleep the whole day away’

‘Looks like some battle you’re dealing with’ Trunks jokes.

If only you knew, she inwardly groans, typing in the measurements. She’s grateful that her reflexes thankfully haven’t betrayed her when she quickly moves the rod from Goku who tries to bite the end of it. 

She blinks in bewilderment at his whine, ‘aw, I’ll try not to bite too hard Nakala. Please’

‘I have to put on the protective cover first!’ She exclaims, clumsily slipping on said cover and mentally fighting her mind whining to let him beg more. 

She presents it to him and sighs, ‘here, hard as you can’ watching as his tail waves happily and biting the pressure reader with an excited growl. 

Would he growl like that if he bit me? The beep of the machine silences her mind for her and she tugs the rod from his mouth. Rhodes giggles when he refuses to let go. 

‘Goku, let go of the pressure reader’ Nakala furrows her brows. 

‘Mut mih cn guh highr (but I can go higher)’ he grumbles, not budging.

‘It’s not a competition!’ She protests, giving it a stronger tug. Make him beg for it again. 

It’s when he refuses to let go that Vegito steps in, grabbing Goku’s ear roughly. Goku releases the rod with a short yell and rubs his ear after Vegito lets it go. Nakala types in the number presented and blinks. Thats a lot of bite force…and he's known to bite others!? She turns to look at him and he isn't phased in the slightest, even looking at her determinedly. 

‘Yes Goku, you got the highest bite force pressure so far’ she guesses thats what he wanted to hear.

She was correct in her assumption as he stands up proudly and with a pep in his step, walks into the enclosure. Pressure onto her thighs draws her attention to an amused Vegito. 

‘Is it finally my turn?’ He smirks.

’Are you ready to behave?’ She raises an eyebrow, poking his forehead.

’Always’ he winks, opening his mouth wide.

Nakala tries her best to be professional to get the measurements of his canines but the teasing licks to her fingers are not helping. 

‘This is not you behaving’ she grumbles, turning to type her results.

’Can you blame me?’ He grins, watching her change the protective cover, ‘you're very fun to tease’

’Its fun for you’ she grumbles tiredly, ‘not my hormones’

Vegito huffs in amusement through his nose as he bites the pressure reader. When it beeps and she records it, he stays where he is. Nakala hums in confusion and he shrugs.

‘What are you going to do about Gogeta?’

’Not sure yet. I’m planning on getting the measurements after a nap when I'm more awake but-‘ she feels her face warm and Vegito chuckles.

’You think he’s going to give you more than results’

I hope so, Nakala chases the thought away, I'm too tired for this.

‘I don't want to delay the research with any distractions’ she mumbles.

‘A nap would probably do you some good’ Rhodes pipes in, ‘want me to set a timer in a couple hours?’

’That sounds great’ Nakala sighs, opening a drawer near her desk to pull out a plush throw blanket.

Trunks and Vegito exchange confused glances as they watch her settle into her chair in an attempt to get comfortable. She feels a pressure holding down the chair and opens a sleepy eye at Vegito who looks down at her from his standing position.

’I’m gonna help you out Sweets’ he lowers his voice so only she can hear him.

She tenses when his tone is eerily reminiscent to how he sounded in her dream and she mumbles out a weak, ‘with what?’

’Your situation. I’ll make sure you get your results from Gogeta and no one bothers you while you're asleep’

’But’ she narrows her eyes.

Vegito’s eyes practically glow with intent as he leans closer to her, amused when she covers her mouth with her blanket as he purrs, ‘I want my turn after Gogeta mates with you. I’ve already heard you call my name in your dreams, now I want to hear you call my name for real’

The whine Nakala makes causes him to chuckle, ‘does that sound like a deal Sweet Nakala?’

A deal!? Her mind yells excitedly, its a damn promise! Results be damned!

She groans in frustration, letting out a quiet response that Vegito has to lean obnoxiously closer to her face.

’Didn't catch that Sweets’

’Fine! Okay!’ She answers in exasperation, jolting in surprise when he pecks her forehead affectionately.

’Looking forward to it!’ He grins and stands abruptly, taking the rod and protective cover waving at Trunks to follow him back to the enclosure.

Rhodes looks over at Nakala who buries her burning face into her throw blanket and shuffles to get comfortable in her chair. She’s slowly lulled into slumber by the quiet clicking of Rhodes’ keyboard as she finishes the report.

Trunks and Vegito make their way to the enclosure where the others are relaxing in the comfy weather. 

‘Our Provider isn't with you’ Raditz looks at the two.

‘She’s stubborn’ Vegito shakes his head, ‘she might need a push to come sleep here. Any place might be better than that chair’

’Shes sleeping in a chair?’ Gohan blinks in confusion.

’It’d be better to sleep in here with us’ Goku scratches his ear.

He looks over at Broly, ‘Broly, you should ask her to sleep here!’

’Me?’ Broly tilts his head, he's still dealing with how she talked to him earlier, hearing her talk to him like that again would definitely cause him to act on his urges, and he doesn’t want to scare her ‘I’m not sure’

‘I doubt she’d tell you no, Baby Boy’ Vegito mocks, purposefully ignoring the growl Broly lets out. It peters out to a reluctant grumble and Cumber growls in annoyance. Everyone is surprised when he gets up to head out of the enclosure.

’Well that might be one problem down’ Vegito turns back to the rest of the troop after watching Cumber leave, ‘now who’s going to our troop leader to help out our provider?’

’I’d only end up challenging him’ Raditz shrugs.

’I’ll do it!’ Goku reaches for the rod, ‘I wanna see if Gogeta will beat my score!’

’All the more reason why you shouldn’t do it’ Vegito holds it away from him.

Gohan sighs and stands, ‘I don't pose a threat to his status, I’ll do it’

Vegito is all too happy to give him the instrument, settling in the nest as Gohan walks further into the territory. 

Nakala shuffles fitfully in her chair before huffing in tired frustration. A deep grumble near her makes her look up. She meets the flat stare of Cumber and she offers him a tired smile.

’Hi Cumber’

’I’m here for my favor’ he narrows his eyes.

’Now?’ Nakala furrows her brows, ‘not when I'm more awake?’

’No’ he scoops her out of her chair and carries her into the enclosure.

She confusedly meets the eyes of her interns and researchers but they know theres no danger here, milling about their own work. Nakala has a hunch as to where shes going and it’s confirmed when Cumber steps into the nest and lowers her into it, blanket and all. She tries to sit up but is gently held down by his tail.

’Stay. Sleep’ he folds his arms.

’Was this your favor?’

His silence is his answer and she huffs, too tired to protest anymore. She doesn't want to admit it but the upgraded nest really was comfortable. I need a pillow, she mentally grumbles. Lifting her head to see what she can lay her head on, she opts instead to bunch up her blanket to use that. She ignores the growl Cumber lets out and doesn't put together the large shape that brushes against her side. Nakala lifts a tired eye at who it is, meeting the happy teal stare of Vegito leaning on his side to regard her. His tail circles her ankle teasingly and she sighs as she settles further in the nest.

’You said you’d make sure nobody will bother me when I'm asleep’ She closes her eyes.

’I am. I just didn't say where’ he chuckles, tucking himself against her side, making sure not to wrap himself around her like he wants to.

Letting out a deep yawn, she finally lets sleep claim her. 

Gohan steps out of the enclosure to inform Rhodes of Gogeta’s measurements and pauses. Nakala isnt in her chair like he last saw her. Did she move? Did she go home? Rhodes looks up from her computer when Gohan comes closer to her.

’Did Nakala go home for the day?’ He points to her now empty chair.

’No’ Rhodes shakes her head, ‘Cumber brought her into the enclosure, she’s with you guys’

’Oh’ He blinks, ‘well, I hope they're letting her get the rest she needs’

’I hope so too’ Rhodes finishes up the report, ‘what brings you out here?’

’I got the measurements from Gogeta to finish the research’ he rubs the back of his neck.

’Thanks Gohan!’ Rhodes gestures for him to type in his findings, grateful that she didn't have to wait for Nakala to wake up to get the numbers.

As soon as he’s done, he carefully approaches the nest. He lets out an amused chuckle at the sight before him. Nakala, deeply asleep, resting her head on Goku’s back while Raditz buries his face in her balled up blanket on her other side. When Gohan gets close enough to step into the nest, Goku waves him over.

’Wanna switch places with me? I don't want to wake her up but I wanna spar with Cumber’ he whispers.

‘Uh…sure?’ He carefully crawls over to pry her off of him and closer to his side.

Goku hops up quickly, stretching his muscles and thanking him before trotting off a good distance away where he knows Cumber likes to spar. Gohan makes sure Nakala is still asleep and is about to scold Broly for being careful but its quieted when he rests his head onto her stomach, purring softly when she subconsciously pets him. Everyone’s shifts change throughout the day to make sure she’s comfortable and she ends up being the little spoon to a happy looking Vegito. Gohan watches as the tip of Vegito’s tail thumps against the nest in content. He looks up into the sky and starts to worry, its sunset and she looks so peaceful. The sound of the food carts is heard a distance away and he stands to head to Rhodes’ desk. He notices that she’s not at her desk and he doesn't worry for long before the South Wing doors open and she walks in. She blinks at him when she spots him at her desk.

’Did something happen? Is she still asleep?’

’No and Yes. I’m worried that it’s almost time for you guys to leave and she’s not going to sleep well when she gets back home‘ he voices his concerns.

Rhodes hums and later shrugs, ‘I don't see anything wrong with her sleeping over for the night. I agree that she needs the sleep, and honestly? I think shes in a very safe place, as long as she has her phone in case of any emergencies’

Gohan nods, carefully taking Nakala’s phone with him when he heads back in. The nest was mostly empty save for Vegito and Nakala, but now poor Trunks is held hostage in her arms and legs as she cuddles him. He meets the new hostage’s eyes and he chuckles quietly.

‘We already ate, we’re fine’ he lifts his arm.

’Was anything saved for her?’ Gohan whispers.

’We’re not going to starve her Gohan’ Vegito grumbles into her hair, eyes furrowed.

Gohan nods quietly and makes his way to eat something himself.

The moon is creeping over the horizon when the troop is gathered around Nakala, keeping her warm in the cooling night. Everyone is fast asleep when soft footsteps approach the plush nest. Cool blue eyes regard how well she fits in the nest and leans closer to her body. He disregards the grunts and growls for the others being moved out of his way as he carefully gathers the sleepy bundle in his arms. His fur flutters when she snuggles further into him, wrapping her arms around his neck and sighing. Heavily curtained lichen blocks the entrance to the now cozy looking den he carries her into. Soft sand lines the floor and leads to a leaf filled nest full of mossy padding. He places her gently onto it, stripping off his vest to drape over her to keep her warm. A soft purr rumbles out of him as he curls around her, tail wrapping around her leg.

The warm smell of cinnamon greets her nose as Nakala stretches. Her brows furrow slightly when her movement is limited and she rubs her eyes open. She blinks at the soft blue glow in the familiar looking room. Glittering stars in the tall sunroof makes her blink again, and a soft purr draws her attention to her side. She finds the source of the cinnamon smell with Gogeta resting on his side close to her. His expression is soft, relaxed, unbothered. Nakala quietly shifts to move his hair from his face and freezes when he smirks. Before she can pull her hand away, he chuckles and opens his eyes.

’Why’d you stop?’ He shuffles closer, ‘I haven't seen you in a while, and I did all this, I deserve to be pet’

Nakala chuckles and reaches over to run her fingers through his hair.

’Did you know that I kind of wanted to do this to you when we first met?’ She murmurs.

’Why didn't you?’ He chuckles, ‘I would've let you too’

’I was locked in a room with a being reported to be dangerous , and you think I was just going to pet you!?’

’Yeah if you asked!’

’You're ridiculous’ she laughs, moving to sit up but pauses when she can only get so far. 

She looks at what she thought was her blanket and realizes its Gogeta’s vest. He chuckles out a ‘sorry you looked cold’ and lifts one of the padding, tossing it off of her for her to sit up. She looks around the area and notices that its dark, not just in the dimly lit den but outside as well. 

‘It’s night time? I slept the whole day!?’

’Have you?’ Gogeta looks up at the sunroof passively, ‘you look like you slept good’

He watches as she looks around in confusion then flops back with a frustrated sigh.

‘What’s wrong?’ He drawls, poking her cheek.

’I can’t go home’ she frowns.

’Why can’t you?’

’Once this facility reaches a certain time it prevents anyone and anything from leaving and entering for security reasons. So until morning, I wont be able to go home’ she closes her eyes in defeat.

The snicker that she hears from Gogeta makes her look at him unamused at his grin.

His tone is playful when he says, ‘this is just like how we met!’ He laughs.

’Yeah all I’ll need now is some food then it really will be’ she laughs along with him.

Almost on cue, her stomach growls and he laughs harder. Nakala rubs her stomach and grumbles. He watches her start to get up and swiftly lays her back down. Her face warms when he leans in close to her. 

‘Like how we first met’ he quickly pecks her lips before taking off out of the den.

She blinks in surprise and the reality of the situation finally hits her. I’m in the den Gogeta made…for me…to mate with him. Nakala rubs her face roughly and decides instead to take in the den itself. Her hands feel where she sits and notices how its vastly different from the nest in the enclosure, its softer, more comfortable, cozy. She can see that the lining of the floor itself is made of fine sand and the fact that she can see around the den in the middle of the night surprises her as well. Small, hand sized orbs are littered around the ceiling of the den, and the walls. She stands to observe one along the wall nearest to her and bravely touches it as it hovers. It feels cold to the touch and reminds her of those lamps with electricity that reacts to your fingers. Its light bathes the den in a soft blue that reminds her of his eyes.

’If you were any stronger, it’d blow up this whole place’ a voice startles her.

She looks at Gogeta carrying some food and water in bewilderment, ‘explode!?’ Theres a lot of these things in here!

He casually walks over to her and replaces the orb with the food he brought, placing it back where she found it.

’Where did you even find something like that?’ She looks at what he brought and chuckles inwardly at the sandwich in her hands.

’I made it’ that makes her choke slightly.

When she hums in confusion he steps up to her and holds his palms together. Nakala feels a shift in pressure and light bursts from between his closed hands as he slowly pulls them apart. A bright light makes her squint slightly but it dims when the ring around the orb is formed and he tosses it in his hand as if its weightless. 

‘You never cease to amaze me’ she sighs with a smile.

She hears fluttering and looks over at Gogeta who watches her warmly.

’You're not stopping it this time’ she lightly teases.

‘No’ he steps closer to her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

He nuzzles into her neck, and purrs, ‘its just us this time’

She takes in the scent he gives off and hums, ‘I still don't know what causes it’

’It’s more like a feeling’ he purrs, ‘a good one’ 

He litters a few kisses to her jaw and before he can travel lower, another growl is heard from her stomach. Gogeta mentally shakes himself, determined not to rush things and moves them both to sit on the natural bed. 

Nakala scolds her body on its wants and eats her food in flustered silence. Her heart pounds steadily at the intimate setting and quietly wonders why he isn't pressuring her to mate with him. It’s a comfortable silence and she appreciates how safe she feels around him but she’d be remiss if she didn't compare him with nature and those of her own species.

’…Gogeta’

’Hm?’

’What’s stopping you from taking what you want?’

‘Restraint?’ He tilts his head, ‘you haven't allowed for me to mate with you’

’I gave you my consent a couple days ago’

’That was a couple days ago, your mind could’ve changed up until now’ he raises his eyebrows, ‘what did you find out when I last saw you? Are you gonna be in trouble if we mate?’

’Well, long story short no’ she explains.

’But you're still worried’ he points out.

‘It feels like some weird power dynamic’ she huffs, ‘I can leave and live my life outside of this place but you can’t’

Gogeta blinks at her and chuckles. He pulls her closer to straddle his lap, nuzzling the side of her neck. She can feel his smile against her skin.

’What makes you think we can’t leave?’ 

Nakala leans back to look at him and he sweetly kisses her. 

‘You never tried to leave’

’Why would we?’ He kisses her again, ‘we now have a territory’ he kisses her jaw, ‘a nest’ a kiss to her neck ‘food comes to us’ he nips the skin only to soothe it over with his tongue, ‘and our provider is someone we care for’ he moves back to look her in the eye, ‘that I care for’ 

That makes her heart flutter, and before she can say anything he grins, ‘plus if I wanted to see you outside of this place I would, nobody could stop me’

’Except me’ she raises a brow and he bumps his nose with hers.

’Except you’ he agrees.

Nakala sighs and drapes her arms over his shoulders, ‘I guess I don't have anything else to worry about huh?’

’Nope’ Gogeta leans to nips at her ear to growl, ‘but you do have something to ask me’ 

It takes Nakala a second to process what he said since his hands travel from her hips to her skin under her shirt. 

‘Ah’ she sighs and smiles, taking his head gently in her hands, ‘Gogeta’

‘Yes?’ He purrs, hands smoothing up to cup her bra.

’Will you mate with me?’ She tries her best to sound seductive, murmuring the question against his lips.

She gets the reaction she’s looking for when his fur ripples a few times before he growls out an elated, ‘thought you’d never ask’

The kiss started gentle at first, sure and testing. Her lips are soft, tantalizing, causing the red head to sink his fangs into the bottom as gently as he could to get his message across. Nakala responds immediately with a gasp, mouth opening just enough for him to tilt his head and swipe his tongue against hers. His groan is felt through her body and she reflexively grinds against his lower half. Her hands reach up smoothly to gently scratch the soft hairs on the back of his neck as she deepens the kiss, leaning further into his hands that tentatively squeeze her bra covered breasts. Gogeta tests their firmness then growls when there’s too much in his way. 

When Nakala pulls away for much needed air, he swiftly lifts her shirt over her head before she can react. She’s too dizzy from the kiss to stop him from easily snapping the front of her bra and too slow to stop him from latching onto one of her breasts, flinging the destroyed bra somewhere behind him. The warmth from his mouth and slickness of his tongue shoots arousal straight from her spine to her core. His hand very quickly replaces his mouth when he switches to her other breast, giving her nipple a firm but teasing bite. He grins when her hands fly to his hair tightly, the sharp moan she lets out being music to his ears. His arm wraps around her waist firmly to assist her in her grinding, hips lifting to have her feel just how aroused she’s making him. Judging by the strong, sweet and mouth watering scent her lower half is giving off, she’s just as into it. It makes his mind hazy. Guess she isn’t the only one getting swept away in pleasure.

Something soft brushes against her thigh momentarily and distracts Nakala from the number Gogeta is doing to her body: his tail. It waves and shudders with every thrust of her hips, giving her an idea. You’re not the only one who can tease, Grabbing it gently and stroking it. He releases her breast with a soft pop and graces her with a guttural moan. The sound alone makes her want to hear it again and she tries her luck a second time. Another stroke and Nakala yelps in surprise when shes pushed onto her back, soft moss cushioning her fall. She stares up at a heavily panting Gogeta, looking more feral than she’s used to, towering over her. 

‘We haven’t even gotten to the fun part yet Nakala, let’s not rush this’ he slips his tail from her grip and smoothes his hands up her thighs where they rest on his hips. 

Her gaze follows his hands to her waistband and she lifts her hips to help him slide them off effortlessly. When he tosses her pants to some place he couldn’t be bothered to look, she glances down at the prominent shape tenting his baggy pants. If I thought it felt big before, she mentally gasps, that definitely confirms it. A large hand grips the clothed erection to get her attention and her gaze snaps up to his amused expression. He doesn’t need to ask if she likes what she sees, her scent spiking and thighs squeezing his hips tells him all he needs to know. But damn if he doesn’t love the silent ego boost. His mouth waters when he looks down at the darkened spot on her panties, finding the source of the intoxicating smell. 

‘Gogeta~’ Nakala shudders when he firmly runs his finger along her clothed slit. 

He leans over to kiss her exposed stomach, and hums. She feels the low timbre of his voice through her entire body, making her buck up against him in reflex. 

‘Gogeta please’ she breathlessly whines when he holds her hips down. He doesn’t want her to rile him up before the main event. 

‘Please?’ He purrs teasingly, large hands reaching under her and her panties to grip her backside, moving her covered core closer to his mouth ‘you want me to stop? I’ve been wanting to do this with you for a while’

‘I-I want you to stop teasing’ she pleads, wiggling her hips to further entice him.

‘Ohh,’ he drawls, slipping her underwear down and following its path with open mouth kisses, ‘I’m glad’ he slides the last shred of her clothing down her legs and tossing it behind him ‘I thought you were going to stop me from enjoying dessert’ his cock throbs painfully at the sight of how wet she is. 

‘Why would I-ahh~!’ Nakala moans in surprise when he ducks down to lick a slow stripe up her slit, growling deep at the taste.

Her hands quickly grip onto the wild strands as he licks into her, hips bucking at every enthusiastic swipe to savor her juices. He wraps an arm around her thigh to keep her open for his tongue to delve deep, keeping her hips still to set the pace he wants. Her loud moans and breathy sighs of his name echo along the dens walls makes the angry twitching of his cock throb harder. His other hand moves to grip his clothed shaft, groaning against her core at the pressure. Soon the confined feeling in his pants gets too frustrating for him, quickly untying his belt and-with the help of his tail-slipping his pants off to free his dripping cock. He pumps himself a few times before sliding his tongue further up, parting her folds with the flat of his tongue. He feels something bump against his tongue and after a particularly strong tug from Nakala, he latches onto it, sucking and laving his tongue over it. He’s instantly rewarded with a loud melodic cry of his name and doubles his efforts. 

‘Ahh~ Gogeta~’ she whimpers, prompting the Saiyan in question to hum curiously, enjoying the gasp she lets out at the vibration against her clit. 

He looks up at her and marvels at the bedraggled state he’s put her in. Nakala meets his gaze and holds up a trembling hand.

‘F-fingers’ she pants.

He blinks, giving his shaft another pump before pulling away and prodding her leaking hole. His eyebrows raise in confirmation and she nods, head flying back against the soft bedding when he inserts one inside of her. His purrs rack through her body when he feels how warm and wet she is inside. He adds another finger to explore her opening and finds a different textured spot when he curls his fingers. His head is nearly smothered when she cries out, but his tail wraps around her thigh to hold her open. A loud moan from her has his pace quicken, excitedly chasing the feeling he knows shes close to from the tenseness in her thighs to the sultry moans to the tight grip of his hair, trying to pull him impossibly deeper. An idea crosses his mind and he curls his fingers, rubbing against that spot once more. Hes immediately rewarded with a keen of his name and tight clenching around his fingers. Gogeta pulls away from her clit with a lingering lick to kiss at her thighs, he feels the slick fluids trail down his hand and slowly pulls his fingers away. Nakala shudders at the loss and pants for much needed air. She feels the affectionate kisses stop and chances a peek at the Saiyan between her legs. He looks at the mess she made of his fingers before looking her in the eye, giving her a mischievous smirk before licking her juices from his fingers and palm. 

‘And I thought you tasted good earlier’ he hums, enjoying the slightly embarrassed look she tries to hide from him. 

He ducks down once more to taste more from the source and gets a yelp from Nakala who futilely tries to hold his head back. A few licks is all he gets before giving in  to her silent demand. Looking almost affronted by her stopping him from his feast, he regards her avoiding his gaze. He shifts, sliding his body against hers to look closer at her. 

‘Your face is a mess’ she quietly mumbles.

’Courtesy of my provider’ he chuckles, wiping away the shine to the lower part of his face and rubbing it along his chest.

He catches Nakala staring in confusion at his actions and gestures to himself.

’So the others can smell’

‘Wha-Why would you want them to smell that!?’

’So that they know who had you first’ he grins, ‘and got you to smell this good’ his tail waves proudly, ‘its my duty as troop leader’

’And…was that all we had to do?’ she asks quietly, silently asking for more.

Gogeta’s eyes glow knowingly and kisses her deeply, ‘nope, theres more’ he grinds his erection along her slick folds and she exhales in surprise, ‘unless you want to stop?’

’No, I don't’ she breathes, ‘but you don't want me to-?’ She reaches for his cock to stroke him.

He allows her to pump him a few times, licking his fangs and sighing at her touch. Nakala blinks at the state she puts him in, pulling away a little to gather her own slickness before going back to jerk him off. His full body shudder and jerk of his hips is all she needs to give herself a mental pat on the back. She uses the closing of his eyes to gauge what shes going to soon have inside her and her thighs clench subconsciously. Of course he’d be above average in that area, he's literally perfect, she mentally whines. A large hand stops her ministrations and she looks up at a blushing and panting Gogeta. Oh, I could get used to that sight. He winks at her playfully and removes her hand from his cock, kissing her palm before settling over her once more and nosing against her neck.

’As much as I’d have loved for you to keep going, I was serious in what I said about not wanting to rush’ he mouths against her skin. 

He gently reaches around her hips to pull her fully against him, his tip rubs against her clit as he moves his hips lazily.

He feels her moan on her skin and purrs, ‘anything you need from me before we get started Nakala?’

She huffs in appreciation and turns to kiss his ear affectionately, ‘go easy on me’ 

She feels the amused rumble from his stomach and he lifts his head to look at her, giving her a genuine smile.

‘For you? I’ll do my best’ he pulls back a little to line himself up.

He buries his face into her neck, ears pricked for any sounds of discomfort as he holds her before slowly pushing himself inside, inch by dizzying inch. Nakala feels the fur ripple along her fingers when she dug them into his back, panting at the stretch. He stays eerily still when his hips meet hers, patiently waiting for her to adjust, no matter how hard he wants to move and fuck her into the bedding. 

‘Gogeta’ Nakala purrs, moving her hips slightly, making him grip her hips tighter, ‘move…please’

He pulls out slightly only to move back in, then again a little more. His pace is slow, he makes her feel every inch of him while he revels in her tightness around him. He licks a long stripe along her neck and is rewarded with a whine of his name. She squirms under him, his speed driving her crazy.

’Faster’ she breathes, moving her hips to meet his.

He chuckles, nipping under her jaw and soothing it with his tongue, ‘you said go easy’ he adjusts to grind deeper into her.

’Not what I-mhn-meant’ she clenches her thighs around his waist to quicken his lazy and albeit teasing pace. 

Her fingers score down his back to where the base of his tail is, her own way of persuading him being to scratch at the hairs there. She rewards his grunt and sharp thrust with her own surprised and pleasured yelp.

’Nakala’ he growls deeply, full of lust, ‘are you sure you want to do that?’ starting to speed up his thrusts.

If it gets you to move faster then yes, she mentally chides, giving him a teasing nip to his ear.

She fully expects him to pull his tail away from her but it automatically seeks out her hand. It smoothly feels around her hand for her to grab it, tempting her. Nakala takes the bait and grabs his tail. She gets no warning when strong hands grip her thighs to wrap tighter around his waist as he starts to fuck into her steadily. The sudden change in speed causes her to grip his tail harder making him redouble his efforts. He's open mouthed panting against her neck, fangs threatening to pierce her neck as he sucks a mark into her skin. Strong and steady slaps resonate around the den, leaving nothing to the imagination as to what is going on. Her moans and cries have him torn between making them louder for the rest of the troop to hear or wanting them all to himself. He releases his hold on her neck to kiss her instead, choosing to be greedy. Nakala meets his enthusiasm happily, hand moving to his hair once more while the other strokes his tail. Gogeta growls against her lips in protest when her hand leaves his hair, he feels it move between them to where they're joined. Nakala can feel her climax approaching, quickly reaching to rub her clit but whines loudly when Gogeta pulls it away. Her whine is quickly overshadowed by a loud moan when he replaces her hand with his. Whatever she touched made her tighten harder around him and he wants to be the one to make her clench for him. He pulls away from her lips and mouths at her neck again, his fangs slightly dig into her skin, careful not to draw blood. A rough thrust and pinch to her clit is all it takes for her to shake and shudder in ecstasy. Her sudden tight grip to his tail and to his cock causes him to climax as well. She doesn't hear him growl out her name as his fur ripples steadily, hips still moving to prolong the shared feeling. Nakala squirms slightly as she feels their combined fluids start to trail down her backside. Gogeta doesnt pull out, he doesnt even move. His panting breaths are felt on her tingling skin and after a beat of catching his own breath, he looks at her to assess if she's okay. He chuckles at the state he put her in, hair messed up and all over, sweaty yet satisfied, scent mixed and making his heart swell. The sound he makes causes Nakala to open her eyes at him, just now realizing she had them closed. She meets his smug gaze and notices that he's still inside her. 

‘Gogeta-‘ she's quieted by a flurry of affectionate kisses, a shift from him making her moan once more as he's still hard????

He pulls away to grin at her. Heart, stomach and core fluttering when he leans in close to her lips, ‘I’ve been waiting for this for a while Nakala, did you think I was done?’

Chapter Text

The sun barely makes it over the horizon as the soft vibration of a phone goes mostly ignored in the comfort of the den. It’s light draws the attention of an exhausted body and a trembling hand slowly makes its way to answer it. It’s overshadowed by a larger one interlocking its fingers with it and pulling it back to its owner and not releasing it. The hand is affectionately kissed as its owner huffs in tired amusement.

’Gogeta~’ Nakala breathily sighs, shuddering violently as his furred arm holds her hips up as he fucks her gently from behind, ‘I have to answer the phone’

She feels lazy kisses trail up her bare back to the back of her neck. His hips slow but don’t stop as he holds her close, resting his chin onto her shoulder.

’Mmn, why?’ He purrs, trying to distract her from the constant buzzing with licks and bites to her neck.

’It might be Steph’ Nakala tilts her head for him to have easier access, ‘making sure I’m still alive’

The amused huff of his breath is felt on her sticky skin, ‘do you feel alive?’

‘I feel great’ she hums, but five rounds throughout the night is enough to drain a person. I don't even know what time it is.

’But she needs to know that I'm okay’ Nakala cards her fingers through his hair affectionately.

He lets out an obnoxious sigh and carefully turns her over to look at him. His eyes drift to her phone lighting up once more and he swipes it to look it over. He hands it to Nakala who moves to answer it, letting out a surprised gasp when he leans back and keeps her straddling him. She accidentally ends up answering the call and flatly glares at him to not try anything funny when she lets out a hoarse but coherent, ‘hey’

’She lives!’ She hears Rhodes exclaim happily. 

There's sighs of relief and whooping in the background of the call. Nakala rolls her eyes at the realization that she must be on speaker and with an audience and tenses when Gogeta under her shifts. Her eyes dart down to him as he feigns ignorance with his hands behind his head, his tail lazily wrapping around her waist.

’Yeah, yeah. I'm fine’ her gasp is quiet as his tail moves her against him, he’s unfazed by the stern slap to his chest from her and continues to pretend it isn't him.

’So how was it? Was it great? Did you have fun? Have you bonded closer with your boy?’ Smith bombards her with eager questions.

Gogeta pretends not to hear but the teasing caresses from his tail says otherwise as he's also eager to know how she feels about their mating.

’I’m not kissing and telling’ Nakala stubbornly tries to stop her teasing before it starts and Gogeta’s slowly building thrusts.

’Boo’ she hears Smith walking away from the phone.

’Do you need any medical assistance?’ Nakala smiles at Hughes’ comforting tone and hums.

’I need a shower if anything’ she huffs.

’Don't worry, I got all the essentials and a change of clothes’ Rhodes dutifully reports.

’You're here?’ Nakala shifts to get up but is held firmly down by the Saiyan still inside her. A pleasured chill runs down her spine.

’Not yet but I’ll drop off your stuff in the enclosure so you can freshen up’

’Thank you Steph’ Nakala sighs, shuddering as the red head starts to get impatient.

Once she hangs up her phone, it's taken from her by a thick tail and flung behind her as hands grip her hips and start to move her more intently. Her hands fly straight to Gogeta’s pecs as he moves her at a steady pace to ride him.

’Impatient’ she sighs, too weak to really stop him and enjoying the ride as best she can. 

‘You took too long’ he chuckles, ‘didn't want you to forget I was here’ he emphasizes with a playful thrust.

As if I could, she pants, giving in to his lead. She feels herself getting close and smiles when he sits up and holds her close. He swallows her moan when she shudders in climax and stands to press her limp, satisfied body along the smooth sanded wall to quickly chase his own peak. Nakala affectionately pets him as his fur flutters and weakly smiles when the flurry of kisses follows soon after.

The slight sticking of skin brings her back to the issue at hand when he pulls back to kiss her lips.

Nakala hums and pulls away, turning slightly so that he can't interrupt and distract her with another kiss, ‘I need to wash up’ 

Amused azure eyes look down at her, ‘you gonna walk?’

’You’ve made that impossible to even try it’ she wraps her arms around his neck and decides to indulge in abusing her authority.

’Troop leader’ she states, grateful that Gogeta doesn't take her tone seriously.

’Yes, Provider?’ He hums in amusement.

’Because of you, I’m a mess’

’We both are’ he agrees

’i think a bath is in order. For both of us’

’I agree’ he carefully pulls out of her, restraining himself from the pleased sigh she lets out and carrying her properly.

Nakala tries not to notice the fluids leaking out of her from their tryst and is glad that she can wash the sweat, fluids, and stuck moss off of her body. She can only imagine what she looks like as they make it to the lake. Gogeta carefully steps into the water, fully enjoying the way she clings to him for warmth against the cool water. He affectionately tries to wash her back and shoulders with just the water and she chuckles.

’That isn't enough for me to get clean but A for effort’ she smiles.

’I’m not using the shampoo we have’ he hums matter of factly.

‘Why not? It’s unscented’ 

‘I like the way we smell’

It dawns on her the hidden meaning in his tone and adjusts in his hold.

‘I can still leave if I want, right?’ She questions cautiously, earning his obnoxious sigh and dramatic deflation.

‘I mean yeah, you could…’ he nuzzles against her temple, ‘but I’m not even close to being done mating with you’

‘Does it take more than one day?’ She’s genuinely intrigued but her interest leaves once she sees him thinking on it. That can’t be good.

‘I might need one more day’ he kisses her cheek affectionately, ‘…or two’ another kiss, ‘or five’

‘Alright, that’s enough’ Nakala squirms out of his playful hold and leans onto the lake bank, ‘can you grab my stuff  Steph left for me so I can wash up please?’

She watches as his pout quickly vanishes and he easily hops out of the lake. 

‘That didn’t take much convincing’ her voice stops him in his tracks and he grins down at her.

‘If I get things to make you smell like only you, then I get to reapply my own scent later’ he winks, fully enjoying how she hides her face in embarrassment.

She’s left with the soft footsteps casually retreating before she settles in the water.

Nakala rests her head onto her folded arms and lets herself relax. She tries not to let her face warm at her mind's descriptive retelling of the night. She nuzzles into her arm to chase the thoughts away, and doesn't notice a sneaking body slinking into the lake after spotting her. Dark hair and mischievous teal eyes slowly make their way to her exposed back and shoulders, all while she's completely unaware. Nakala jumps a little in surprise when something large, warm and wet drapes itself against her back. Large hands wrap around her stomach lovingly and purrs when her fingers reach back to pet them. Something cold brushes the side of her hand as the hands start to wander over her chest and sides. Her brows furrow at how suspiciously quiet Gogeta is being and hums.

’Where did you leave the stuff from Steph?’ 

‘In my hands?’ a voice snickers above her.

Nakala’s eyes fly open to see Gogeta triumphantly carrying her toiletries in his hands. He balances them easily with his hand and tail and she blinks when she notices the body still behind her, who isn't the Saiyan in front of her. An amused snicker next to her ear holds her closer to their body.

’Vegito!?’ She tenses and tries to turn to look at him but he nuzzles the side of her neck so that she can't.

’Surprise’ he purrs, ‘I saw you across the lake and couldn’t help myself’ 

He looks at the marks on her shoulder and neck and smirks. The smell of the two of them is still strong and confirms his suspicions.

’Did you have a fun night with our troop leader?’ He tauntingly looks up at Gogeta who sets Nakala’s things down on the ground near her before slipping in beside them, ‘was he able to satisfy you?’

Nakala can practically feel the static between the two and pinches Vegito’s cheek as punishment.

’Stop’ she huffs and untangles from his hold to grab her things and look through them.

’Still not an answer’ he slides up to her, practically moving her to be squished between them when she grabs her body wash and loofah glove.

‘I’m not going to have you two fight in the lake or anywhere around me, but if you must know’ she raises her eyebrows but not giving any of them attention, ‘I had a great night with our troop leader. It was very romantic and he did an amazing job’ 

She inwardly cringes at the professional tone but it was needed to not put a dent in his ego in front of his troop member. A side glance at his silent beaming in pride already tells her that it wouldn’t have been bruised in the slightest, completely unaware that it was thinly veiled by perfectly hidden nervousness. He won’t admit it but deep down he was hoping that she didn’t hate their mating and trying to keep only himself happy. He’d be glad to try it again if need be. Gogeta jolts a little at something touching his arm and the smell of something soft hits his nose. He instantly recognizes the smell and purrs as Nakala rubs her body wash along his arm, making it soapy. She avoids his gaze as she works on his other arm. Nakala avoids the silent taunt-off between the two and blinks when Gogeta leans to murmur into her ear.

‘I thought you said you wanted to wash yourself?’

‘I am. After I’m done with you, I’m going to use the showers in the building for staff,’ she explains.

‘Why not here?’ 

‘I’m not really a bathing in open water kind of person’ she chuckles.

She knows that there’s under water filters built in to keep the lake clean, but nothing beats a hot shower after something like last night.

‘Are you gonna need help with that Sweet?’ Vegito drapes himself along her back, ‘I’ll consider my help as part of our deal’

Nakala looks up at Gogeta who has his eyebrow raised in mild curiosity. 

‘Would that be okay?’ She quietly asks him.

‘Are you afraid I’ll be upset?’ He smirks.

‘Yeah’ she stops her gentle scrubbing and moves to his chest, making him close his eyes and purr.

‘You shouldn’t be’ Vegito chuckles, ‘you have a say over his anyway’

‘But if you’re worried I’ll be upset, then you can do something for me when you do have time alone’ Gogeta grins, opening an eye to peer at her.

Nakala doesn’t like the mischievous grin he throws at her.

‘Moan my name instead of his’

He laughs when Nakala groans and pushes away from them both, ignoring the play arguments from the two and unaware of more bodies getting into the water. She’s halfway out of the water when she hears a familiar voice.

‘Now that is a sight I can get used to’ making Nakala jump and lower herself chin deep into the water. 

She turns nervously to see the rest of the troop in various states of undress also dipping into the lake to join the trio. Nakala weakly glares at Raditz’ amused stare as he approaches and tries to move closer to Vegito to block his advancement. He’s stopped instantly when Cumber reaches to grab his tail and yank him back with an annoyed but stern growl. Goku uses the arguing between them to cheekily swim up to Nakala while she's distracted by Gohan walking over by the shore, fully clothed.

’I’ll go and wash both of your clothes’ he blushes heavily, avoiding looking at her, ‘I’m sure you’d want them cleaned up’

’She did make a mess-‘ Gogeta is instantly splashed by an embarrassed Nakala.

Her only regret is that Vegito was also splashed in the process. He’s too busy laughing at Gogeta to care and Nakala looks back at Gohan.

’You can just fold them up and give them to Rhodes, she’ll handle it. Can you put my phone on my desk too?’

’Of course’ he nods then tries to hide his point at Gogeta, ‘just yours or…?’

Nakala looks over at Gogeta shaking his head vigorously to clear the access water from his face and hair, uncaring on it soaking Vegito, Broly, and Trunks in the process and playfully rolls her eyes, ‘I guess you can bring his to her as too, since I’m being nice’ 

At his nod, he quickly makes his way to the den. Nakala sighs and thinks on a new way to get out of the water without any of the others seeing her bare body. She’s startled when she turns and is face to face with a grinning Goku.

‘Didn’t notice me again, did ya?’ 

‘You’re going to have a permanent bell attached to you if you keep that up’ she scolds, holding her pounding heart. 

Something about him makes her squint and her hands immediately fly towards his face in worry.

‘Is that blood on your face???’ She pulls him closer to examine the dried blood that cakes part of his forehead and hair.

‘Oh yeah’ Goku scratches his cheek passively, ‘I was sparring with Cumber and Broly yesterday and I accidentally got thrown into a bunch of rocks’

‘Those rocks are sanded to prevent injuries how did you-‘

‘…I threw him into it’ Broly admits quietly.

‘But that doesn’t explain-‘

‘I broke the rocks!’ Goku grins proudly.

‘With your body!? Do you have any more injuries???’

Goku hums then turns to show her his back, ‘I think I felt something on my back after that happened if you wanna check’

All sense of decorum are thrown out of the window as Nakala urgently feels along his furred spine for any pain, dislocation, or breaks. He doesn’t give any reaction to her touches but his fur twitches slightly along his shoulder blade that she focuses on. Why does their fur have to be red of all things, she inwardly complains and finds what was the cause of the twitching. She lets out a hiss of empathy at the deep slash covered in fur. It’s healing, albeit slowly but it still needs to be dressed. She tries her best to wash away the excess blood from his back and soon after finds the cut on his head to wash that too. 

‘You’re coming with me to Medical to get patched up. You’re not fighting me on this’ she pokes his cheek sternly.

She visually checks over everyone to make sure they all are okay before sighing.

‘Alright, I’m going to go shower’ before looking around for a more secluded spot to get out.

Goku is unfazed as he easily hops out as well as Vegito who waits for her. They’re confused by her shy modesty. A tall shadow looms over her and she peers up at Cumber who swiftly scoops her up and gets out of the water himself. Nakala blanches in embarrassment and looks up to tell him not to look but his gaze is elsewhere, granting her the privacy she wanted. Shes soon hit in the face with a towel and quickly covers herself once he puts her down. She doesn’t need to guess who threw her towel at her, pointing to Vegito and then her toiletries. 

‘Since you threw that at me, you’re carrying that, Providers orders’

‘As you wish’ he sighs playfully, making a show out of picking up her things. 

Making their way out of the enclosure, they’re met up with Gohan near the door and Rhodes on the other side eager to get information out of Nakala. There’s no hiding the excited grin on her face as she practically pulls Nakala out to hound her. 

‘I need details! How it started, how it was, if you had a great time’

‘Not kissing and telling’ Nakala stubbornly shakes her head.

‘Fine’ Rhodes notices Gohan with what looks to be Nakala’s and Gogeta’s clothes and smirks, ‘I’m sure you wouldn’t mind if I asked the red head himself then right?’

‘Not if you want to get demoted to intern’ Nakala sticks out her tongue.

‘I’d tell you about my flings!’ Rhodes argues.

‘I wouldn't ask!’ Nakala snaps back playfully, ‘I would only ask if you had a good time then help you if you needed anything. Like a good friend’ 

‘Hey I’m a good friend! Just a nosey one!’ Rhodes takes her phone from Gohan who looks embarrassed.

She side eyes her friend dripping wet in a towel and smirks, ‘judging by the marks on your neck and shoulder and how fine you are, I have just enough info to tell the others’

‘Not the others!’ Nakala pleads.

‘Okay, only Smith, she’s the one who wanted to know the most’

‘She’s the worst one to tell!’ Nakala groans, watching as Rhodes practically skips away with Gohan to clean their clothes.

‘This all could’ve been avoided had you given the deets, Nakala!’ She sing songs before laughing evilly out of the door.

Nakala deflates in defeat and leads Goku and Vegito into Medical where she’s met with questioning unbiased stares. She points to Goku on her way to the showers, Vegito happily in tow.

‘He has a deep cut along his hairline and right shoulder blade’ she speaks in a professional tone, surprising the Saiyans.

‘And the other one?’ 

‘He’s my assistant while I’m using the showers’ she explains before opening another door that leads to the showers for the entire facility.

Thankfully it’s a short distance away from all wings to have access and just individualized for everyone to have privacy. Grateful that Rhodes also put her key card inside her bag of toiletries, she has Vegito place her things onto the small bench. He watches as she sets the temperature water from behind the curtain and smirks when he hears her ask for her body wash. A strong smell of eucalyptus mixes with the steam of warm water that comfortingly hits her body. Nakala jumps when a furred arm brushes her side holding her body wash and turns slightly to see Vegito’s grinning face, unbothered by the spray of water. 

‘Why are you in here?’ She tries to lightly cover her chest with her hand and bottle.

’To assist you in your shower’ he says cheekily, gently freeing her hands from her chest, ‘you said you wanted to be clean right?’

’Yeah’

’So I'm here to clean you. You washed Gogeta’

’Yeah but-‘

’You must be sore,’ he purrs, massaging her hips soothingly, ‘wouldn't you like some help?’

Nakala shudders when his hands start to wander past her hips. Her body wash slips quickly out of her hands when a large hand slides under her breast. It’s quickly caught by Vegito’s tail and he chuckles. His other hand trails softly but firmly up her thigh and he nuzzles the side of her neck.

’Sweet?’ He kisses her jaw.

’Yes?’ She sighs, practically melting in his scent and gentle massaging.

‘Are you allowing me to continue?’ 

‘Don't you have a deal to cash in?’ She lightly jokes.

It isn't until his massaging stops and he turns her to look her in the eye that she realizes that he is serious about her consent. She blinks up at him and remedies it by holding his face in her hands.

’It isn' t just about the deal’ he pouts, looking away from her. 

He blinks in surprise when Nakala kisses him softly, fur fluttering. His eyes are solely on hers when she gives him a warm smile. 

‘I understand,’ she backs up against the far shower wall to guide him out of the water showering his hair and face, ‘I’m allowing you to continue’ 

The surprise is evident on her face when he quickly drops down onto his knees with an anticipatory lick to his lips. He swiftly lifts her leg to drape over his shoulder and smirks at her bewildered surprise. 

‘Did you think that I wouldn't want to do this after smelling you in your chair yesterday?’

’I-I just wasn't expecting it…’she trails off. Especially since this is close to what I dreamed about. 

He mouths at the softness of her inner thigh and purrs, ‘would you tell me what you dreamed about to make you smell that good Sweet?’

Nakala whines when he pulls her hips closer to his face, ‘absolutely not’

’I’ll make it part of our deal’ he nuzzles her mound affectionately.

’You doing this is already part of the deal’ she shudders when he breathes deeply against her skin. 

‘Aww, not even a hint?’ He peers up at her.

’If I tell you, I’m calling out to Gogeta instead’ she chuckles, ignoring the slightly jealous squeeze to her thigh. 

‘Well, we can't have that’ he huffs against her exposed core, already feeling his cock stiffen.

He licks a slow stripe up her center, grinning to himself when a trembling hand weaves through his hair in the process. Nakala’s head thumps softly against the wall, moving her hips along with his eager licks and slurps. Vegito purrs at her enthusiasm, her whimpers and moans making his tail quiver. It’s close to what he wants to hear. His ego demanding to hear her call his name in that tone. He removes his tongue from the depths of her insides and focuses on her clit. He’s determined to hear his name from her mouth, curiously wanting to push it further. Nakala gasps loudly when long fingers slowly enter her. The heat and steam of the shower does nothing to the chill tingling down her spine at his ministrations. She peers down at his focused and determined expression and tugs his hair for his attention. Heady teal eyes slowly blink into focus and look up at her. He doesn’t stop his touches, too caught up in her lustful gaze on him to really hear what she's saying to him. He only wants to hear one thing and the fact that she can't read his mind to give him what he wants makes him growl deeply. It only warrants a loud cry and tight tug of his hair as she comes to a shuddering climax. She feels Vegito pause before slowly kissing his way up her body, carefully sliding his fingers out of her. She's confused at his pout and yelps in surprise when he hoists her up to wrap her legs around his waist.

’Are you upset?’ She sees him avoiding her gaze. Did he not enjoy it? Does he want to do something else? 

Her overthinking is quickly shoved away by something thick and long between her folds, twitching eagerly. A dramatic sigh from the dark haired Saiyan quickly diverts her attention back to him. 

‘Yes, I am’ he lifts his head and closes his eyes.

’Oh?,’ she blinks and Vegito opens an eye to peer down at her. 

He has to stop himself from breaking his act due to the lack of disappointment on Nakala’s face. She looks amused by his display and he glares at her as she cups his face once more and coos.

’And what bothers you my handsome kitty cat?’ Smoothing her thumbs along his jaw and smiling when he visibly melts against her touch.

She chuckles when he shakes off her hands to grab some semblance of control and moves his body closer to hers. He smushes her gently against the tiled walls and hums, teasingly moving his hips to grind against her.

He ignores her barely contained pants, ‘I ask for one simple thing from you and you didn't even give it to me despite my efforts’

’What-ah~are you asking f-for?’ she grips his shoulders, but he doesn't budge as he mouths at her neck, lightly scraping his fangs against the skin there.

‘Not much’ he licks the soft skin of her throat, ‘something simple’ he sucks a mark onto her neck, ‘something easy’ 

He trails kisses up her jaw to her lips and she feels his smile, ‘say my name Sweet Nakala’

’!?’ She's kissed before she can respond.

’That didn't sound like my name’ he pulls away and grins, his tip teasingly rubbing against her center.

’Vegito’ she murmurs, shifting impatiently.

’Hmm, not loud enough’ he eases in a little more. Not enough.

’Vegito~’ Nakala whines breathily, earning a few more inches.

His shallow thrusts don't quite scratch the itch inside her and she tugs his hair in irritation.

’Vegito!’ Her growl against his lips gains the rest of his length, practically punching the air from her lungs from the force of his hips. 

‘Much better!’ He pulls away slowly, fur fluttering when he sinks right back in with a purr, ‘So much better~’

He tilts her head to the side to suck more marks along her neck as he sets a steady pace. Large exploring hands can't seem to find a place to placate him enough. The softness of her thighs don't compare to her hips, or her breasts or her backside and he regrets not being born with more hands for this very purpose. His tail assists in practically tying her ankles together to keep her in the position he has her in. The skin of his stomach twitches when her hand trails down between the two of them. He jolts in pleasured surprise when she tightens suddenly around him and his climax follows quickly after. Heavy pants batter her neck and a sharp pain on her ear makes her flinch and side eye him.

’How sneaky of you Sweet’

Her furrowed brows are all she can give him as she catches her breath.

’Touching that spot to speed things up’

’…I was close’ Nakala murmurs, trying to ignore the fluids creeping down her backside. 

‘Still’ he sets her down gently, untangling his tail from her ankles, ‘I’d have liked to last a little longer’ he snickers at her shudder when he pulls out none too gracefully.

’How long?’ Nakala lightly jokes, ‘all day?’

Vegito perks up excitedly, ‘yeah? you’d let me?’

’Absolutely not’ she shakes her head, looking around for her loofah and body wash.

She blinks in surprise when her loofah is taken from her, as well as her body wash. Vegito plainly lathers the loofah with body wash and side eyes a stupefied looking Nakala. He pulls her close to him by his tail and starts to wash her.

‘What’s that look for Sweets?’

’I can wash myself Vegito’ she attempts to take it from him but he swiftly moves it out of her way to continue diligently scrubbing her clean. 

‘I’m aware’ he soaps up her arm, ‘but I did say that I would assist you and I am’

’Fine’ she relents, secretly enjoying being pampered.

Her mind starts to drift on what she's going to do the rest of the day. It isn't until Vegito leans down to catch her attention that she focuses on him once more.

’Already thinking about another round?’ He grins, laughing at her covering her body in shock.

’No! I was thinking on what experiment needs to be done today’

’You're thinking of working?’ He pouts, ‘no day off?’

’I’m already here’ she turns him to wash him, ‘I might as well’

’You care about this job too much’ 

‘It was because of this job that I met you and the others’ she raises her eyebrows at him when he turns his head to look at her.

’Fair enough. But you could always just stay with us you know’

’As much as I like you guys, I also like my bed’ she turns him to face her and scrubs his chest.

’Hey, thats a good idea actually’ he takes her wrists in his hands and steps them both into the spray of warm water, ‘we can just live with you’

’Out of the question’ she shakes her head, ‘my house isn't nearly big enough to house all of you guys’ 

Especially big guys like Broly and Cumber. Just feeding them alone would empty out my entire fridge.

’You never know’ he tries to argue, but is stopped by a worried look from Nakala.

’You don't like it here? Do you want me to change the territory?’

Vegito blinks and shakes his head to ease her worry, ‘I love the territory, I like that you're our provider. I wasn't saying that to make you upset’

He moves to hug her warmly, ‘I’m saying that for all our bravado and us being okay with you leaving everyday, we actually would like if you were around us more. It was nice that you slept over with us’

Deciding to placate him, she rubs her cheek against his pec, ‘I’ll see what I can do about weekly sleepovers’

Vegito purrs and kisses her forehead, reluctant to let her go when she moves to turn off the water. He watches as she steps out past him to grab a towel and dry off. Nakala sighs loudly when he snatches it from her and towels her dry himself.

’…you looked cute all cuddled up with us’ he purrs, giving her a once over to see if shes dry.

’Cuddled up?’ She reaches for her lotion to moisturize, rolling her eyes as he playfully glares at her, stopping her in her tracks. 

‘Mhm, you held a couple of us hostage while you slept. It was adorable’ he quickly dries off and lotions her body.

When she sits and looks at him incredulously, he tilts his head.

’You were supposed to help me in the shower’

‘I’m aware’ he smiles, opting to massage the lotion along her body, ‘this is just for me’

He laughs when she kicks him away to finish for herself. She fishes around her bag and is grateful for a change in clothes. Once she's fully clothed she looks at the dilemma that is the still naked Saiyan standing next to her. Nakala gets an idea and calls out to Vegito. As soon as he turns to answer, he's hit in the face with her towel. He startles and slowly slides the towel off of his face to glare flatly at her. 

‘Gotta cover up since your clothes are by the lake’ she chuckles, gathering up her things and starting to head out. 

Vegito clumsily ties the towel around him and trails after her.

It isn't until they enter Medical that Nakala spots Goku still being looked over by her team. He's patched up and she comes to a realization. Goku is happy to see her as she approaches, headbutting her shoulder and side eyeing Vegito cheekily when he smells his scent on her. Vegito smiles proudly as Nakala talks to the nearest medic.

’…have we done blood samples yet?’

’Not that I know of’ they check over some files within their arm banded tablet to confirm.

’Best to get that out of the way then’, she looks at the two Saiyans having a conversation in their language.

She waves to get their attention and they blink at her.

’I’ll grab your clothes, you two stay here while I get the others’

’Ooh, another experiment?’ Goku perks up, ‘can I go first?’

’Sure since you asked’ Nakala shrugs.

She nods to the rest of her team to get the blood drawing utensils ready before stepping out. 

‘And how was your shower?’ a familiar voice startles her, making her turn and back into the enclosure doorway to face Rhodes. Gohan, holding Gogeta’s clothes, silently wishes he weren’t standing nearby to hear them. The twitch in his nose confirms Rhodes suspicions but he’s not going to lend his voice to this conversation.

’…fine?’ Nakala backs away from Rhodes’ accusatory stare.

’Just fine?’ She grins conspiratorially ‘nothing funny happened in the showers?’

Nakala narrows her eyes at her tone, feeling the softness of the fabric ‘what hypothesis do you have to ask that question?’

Rhodes reflects her expression, this time with a Cheshire grin, ‘theres a mark on your neck that wasn't there when I saw you earlier’

Nakala feels her face warm but stands firm, ‘the heat could’ve spread already there marks’

’Sure. But last I remember you don't have a body wash or lotion that smells like cocoa butter and eucalyptus. Also, there's a certain Saiyan that we know that emits that smell’

’You forget that smells can cling to a person's body more effectively under steam and since he opted to be my assistant, he could’ve easily released his scent for aromatherapy’

There's a long stare off between the two before Rhodes wiggles her eyebrows, ‘mhm. Smell isn't the only thing that clung to your body huh?’

Nakala glares and points at her before entering the enclosure, ‘your theory is inconclusive and lacks evidence’ Gohan quietly slips inside before he could be questioned as well.

’I’m gonna go ask Vegito’ Rhodes struts off to Medical, ‘I’m sure I can get my “evidence” from the other participating party’

’He’s taken a vow of silence!’ Nakala calls, earning a loud laugh from Rhodes. 

‘Ha! Thats a lie!’

Nakala groans, already fearing the experience Vegito is going to boast to her and trudges towards the nest where she knows at least a few of the others will be. Thankfully she sees a couple lounging bodies sitting inside and joins them in the nest. 

‘Hi Nakala’ Broly smiles at her, purring loudly when she hugs him close to her chest.

Trunks and Gogeta smile at the interaction while Gohan looks around.

‘Where’s Vegito and Goku?’ He tosses Gogeta his clothes.

’In Medical still’ she explains, looking around to see if she spots the others.

‘Were Goku’s injuries serious?’ Gohan looks at her in worry.

’Did you leave Vegito lifeless on the floor?’ Gogeta chuckles.

’No and no’ Nakala explains, looking away from Gogeta getting dressed, ignoring his mumble of her already seeing him naked before, ‘theres an experiment that needs to be done’

She feels someone looming over her and leans away from Gogeta’s stern stare.

’Why are you working instead of relaxing?’

’Because I'm already here and I have to get something done before I go home?’ She explains

’We already got something done-‘ she covers his mouth.

’Something work related’ she states.

’What did you have in mind?’ Trunks speaks up.

‘I realized that you’ve all been here this long and we haven't even done any blood testing’ she feels Gogeta flinch against her fingers and looks at him to explain, ‘in any case that any of you have blood types similar to ours and would need a blood transfusion in case of an emergency. Not that I think that anything could hurt you…besides yourselves, I just think it wouldn't hurt to have all bases covered’

’That’s true’ Trunks nods in thought, completely missing the apprehensive stare Gogeta throws at him, ‘its better to be safe than sorry’

’I have to grab Vegito’s clothes, can you grab the others and bring them to Medical? I’ll be there shortly’

’Sure’ Trunks steps out of the nest, turning to look at Gogeta who stays by Nakala’s side as Broly waits for him as well. 

‘You coming?’

’…gotta carry Vegito’s clothes’ Gogeta hides his nervousness with a small chuckle, ‘she can‘t carry em’

Nakala side eyes him as she walks away to the lake. She can feel his presence near her and mentally prepares for any unexpected touching now that they are alone. When Vegito’s clothes are hanging up to dry-Gohan most likely washing them-she sneakily looks him over. She expects to see him trying to seduce her but his expression makes her pause. He looks…nervous. To anyone else he’d look nonchalant but she can see his nervous tail and muscle twitches. Gogeta flinches slightly when Nakala calls his name as he grabs Vegito’s dry clothes from the branch. He looks at her over his shoulder.

’Are you okay?’

His tail flicks, ‘…never better’ he says through clenched teeth.

‘You’re lying’ she states, ‘are you in pain?’

I don't want to be, he blinks at her, ‘nope’ 

The look on her face screams that she doesn’t believe him and she puts her hands in her pockets, ‘is this something that you’ll tell me later or I’ll find it out as the day goes on?’

’You're smart, you’ll probably figure it out’ he slings Vegito’s clothes over his shoulder before holding her close, ‘but do me a favor, when you find out what it is, don't tell anyone else got it?’

’Got a reputation to uphold, troop leader?’ She chuckles.

’Absolutely’ he trails behind her to head to Medical.

Nakala imagined various different scenarios when she walked into Medical, but when she walked into the room, she never could have expected to see Goku sitting in a chair, fur fluffed out, and tail gripping the base of the chair for dear life. The chair rattles as it's shaking violently and she realizes that Goku is the one who is shaking the chair. Gohan and Trunks try to calm him down but the others don't even seem phased by the display. Is he reacting to something? Did he eat something? Is his body going through something? The rest of the troop’s lack of action calms her somewhat and before she can approach him, one of her staff blocks her way.

’We…have a small problem’

’Is it the cause of him shaking in the chair?’

They nod and have her follow them closer to the small table next to the chair and the Saiyan staring unblinking at the table. He isn't aware of anyone else’s presence as his gaze never leaves the medical equipment. Nakala follows his gaze and sees the syringes and vials on the tray. She pokes at the syringe and watches as he flinches away in the chair. …oh my god he’s scared of needles. This big strong Saiyan is scared of needles. It’d be cute to know that someone that strong is afraid of something but not to this degree. It’d be cruel of her to just try and force him to do something that could traumatize him. I'm more confused as to how this became a fear for him, she ponders. Trunks and Gohan step out of the way as Nakala gently holds Goku’s head to comfort him. She feels the tenseness in his jaw and rubs there to soothe him, a short while later he relaxes enough to look at her. 

‘It’s only a pinch Goku, you’ve dealt with worse’ she tries to reassure, ‘if you want to go last you can but we do need a blood sample’

His whine almost makes her reconsider but she stands firm. 

‘Nope, he‘s gotta go first’ Vegito slips on the last of his gloves, ‘its what he wanted’

Nakala glares at him when Goku tenses up once more and gets an idea.

’Can you grab some food for me?’ She looks at an intern who already understands her idea. He has to love food more than being afraid of needles right?

Her method of soothing keeps his gaze on her thankfully. He watches as she rolls her eyes when Raditz saunters up tauntingly.

’You spoil him’

’If any of you were scared of needles like he is, I’d comfort you like this too’ she explains, ‘if any of you were scared of anything, I’d comfort you’ 

That gets a couple purrs from a few of them and when the intern steps back in with a few treats, Goku is laser focused on the food. Nakala quickly looks over at the phlebotomist to set him up while he's distracted and they nod, hastily tying his arm and readying their tools. The intern carefully hands Goku the food one by one as they carefully try their best to draw blood from him. Nakala sighs internally when her ministrations and the interns’ offerings make him relax enough for the other staff member to feel for a vein and ready the syringe. No one notices how all of the troop members watch the process but Vegito and Gogeta focus on Goku in case something happens. Nakala is too busy making sure he isn’t paying attention to see the process but the sound of a snap turns her head before Goku can. Both herself and the phlebotomist blink in confused shock. The syringe was broken. The syringe is broken????? His skin appears to be unpenetrated and no blood is seen. They exchange glances to assess the situation but both can't come up with a solution. She hastily mouths for them to try with another syringe so she can watch herself and sure enough, it breaks once it touches his skin. It doesn't just break this time, it shatters. Nakala furrows her brows and folds her arms. Goku looks over at her when he eats the last of what was given to him and hums. He chances a peek over at the table and when he doesnt see any more syringes his body posture relaxes. 

‘Strange. I wasn't aware that their skin was that tough’ they gently pinch the bare skin on Goku’s hand. 

‘I wasn't either’ Nakala pinches his cheek and moves it around.

That earns a chuckle from him but it presents a new problem. Trunks and Gohan pick up on it as well.

’Is it because he could sense it?’ Her staff asks and Nakala shrugs.

’We can try on another troop member who isn't afraid and see’

She gestures to Gogeta, ‘lead by example troop leader’

He stares at her for a moment before stiffly replacing an eager to retreat Goku from the chair. Nakala notices that his gaze is primarily onto her as her staff readies another syringe and once they move to insert the needle, it happens again. 

‘Too tense’ they report and Nakala looks at Gogeta who looks away to feign ignorance. 

She leans in close to him to say quietly so that only he can hear her, ‘are you scared of needles too?’

’’M not scared…just, don’t like em is all’

’Fine’ she leans back and pulls him up and away from the chair.

She turns and points for Vegito to get in the chair and he walks up only to grab Trunks and place him into the chair to replace him. Nakala watches in disbelief as he squeezes himself between Cumber and an amused Raditz to avoid her unamused glare. 

Another sound of something small breaking draws her attention to her bewildered phlebotomist holding up another shattered syringe. 

‘Well that complicates things’ she sighs, judging by how lax Trunks is being, she doubts hes also afraid of needles like Goku and suspected Gogeta and Vegito, ‘how else are we going to draw any blood?’

’Injury’ Cumber answers plainly.

’We’d need a clean wound without any foreign particulants’ her staff explains. 

‘Is there a way we can only get a drop? At least to try to get blood type?’ 

It takes a moment of thought between Nakala, her staff member, Gohan and Trunks to figure out a way before Trunks snaps his fingers at an idea. They watch as he plucks a single strand of hair from his head. Only Nakala and her staff member feel the ionization emanating from him and the thick strand of hair stands bone straight. Once the feeling subsides, he pricks his finger with it. A second later a small bead of blood is seen and the phlebotomist quickly gathers it on a q-tip and bags it. 

‘That’s smart! Thank you Trunks!’ Nakala smiles. 

A few other interns and medics scurry around to gather q-tips and sample bags, ready to collect. Nakala looks over to where the group are gathered and comes up with a plan for the ones who are wary of needles. She just hopes they don't resent her for it. Cumber, Broly, Raditz and Gohan are called over away from the others. 

‘I have reason to believe that the ones who don't like needles will put up a fight so I’m going to need your help’

’Goku will be easy but Vegito and Gogeta will be hard to knock unconscious’ Raditz folds his arms.

’…thats not what I'm suggesting. It’s going to go fast’ she huddles them together to whisper to them, ‘I just need you three’ she gestures to Cumber, Broly and Raditz, ‘to hold them. While you’ she points to Gohan, ‘get their hair and prick them. I'll tell my staff to collect the samples and retreat in case of any lashing out’ 

‘Sounds like a plan’ Gohan stretches, ‘so who is grabbing who?’

’It has to be a surprise. On my signal’ she gestures clapping three times, ‘Raditz will grab Goku, Broly will grab Vegito and Cumber will grab Gogeta. Once the samples are collected, you can let them go but you have to keep them as still as possible’

At their collective and determined nods they head back to the group as Nakala gathers a few of her interns and relays the plan to them as well. Her interns flit about while collecting samples from Raditz, Broly, Cumber and Gohan. Nakala notices how Goku, Vegito and Gogeta either look away from or avoid the process to shuffle away. A pang of sympathy hits Nakala when she carefully walks up to Gogeta to pet his arm. He immediately relaxes when she touches him and is instantly confused when he, Vegito, and Goku are purposefully left out of sample collection. His gaze trails back to her and his confusion deepens when she looks at him sympathetically. 

‘Nakala-‘

’Don't hate me, you did this to yourself’

’Huh???’ He blinks when she claps quickly three times and thick arms hold his arms to his side tightly. 

He looks up to see Cumber glaring down at him and just limply dangles in his hold when he's lifted. Gogeta knows he can break out of his hold but wants to know what is going on first before he acts. He realizes that Vegito and Goku are grabbed the same way as himself and his quick eyes notice Gohan moving quickly to pluck Goku’s hair, charge it with energy, and prick him before Goku has a chance to react. When he does however, it's with a slightly panicked thrash to get Raditz to release him but he stands firm when the sample is collected. Before Raditz can release him from his hold, he's bitten on his arm from the Saiyan, making Raditz throw a punch at him with a loud growl in their language. Goku argues back at being hit and as they fight amongst themselves, making a mess, Gohan gets to work on Vegito. Thankfully he was too busy watching the fight break out to react to the prick to his finger. Once his sample is taken, he's quickly released and both Broly and himself rescue the medics and interns from the chaos by swiftly removing them from the room. The intern tasked with Gogeta’s sample was taken out as well, leaving the collecting to Nakala who is blocked from any collateral damage by Cumber’s large body. Gohan joins her side to grab a strand of Gogeta’s hair and is granted a small snarl.

’You didn't have to do all this you know, I would've done it myself’ Gogeta grumbles, wanting to rub his scalp from the small pain. 

‘False’ Cumber replies, ignoring the annoyed glare from Gogeta. 

He spots something flying towards them and quickly steps in to block them from being hit by the steel table that Raditz threw at Goku but ended up being dodged. A loud snarl echoes the room from the now peeved Saiyan and Gogeta shakes his head, amused. 

‘Now they’ve made him mad’ he grimaces slightly at the angry squeeze Cumber gives him subconsciously.

Gohan uses his slight discomfort to prick his finger and Nakala rushes to collect the sample. When she bags it, she watches the fight in worry.

’Are they going to be okay? Goku just got patched up’ she looks at Gogeta who is released by a seething Cumber stomping towards the dueling brothers.

Gogeta frowns at his finger before looking at her and shrugging, ‘they fight all the time, this isn't something serious’ he points to Cumber making his way to them, ‘plus I think Cumber’s got it covered’

They watch as Cumber practically grabs both of them by the scruff and drags them kicking, growling, and thrashing into the enclosure to continue their fighting. Nakala sighs at the mess they’ve made, waving at Trunks, Vegito and Broly to stop trying to clean it up as best they can.

‘It’s best to let the clean up crew fix what was broken, don't worry about it’ she gestures for them to leave the room as well. 

Nakala is the last to leave Medical and looks back to the mainly demolished room. What a mess, she shakes her head. She sees Vegito and Gogeta standing in the enclosure doorway, waiting for her and she smiles apologetically. 

‘I’m not coming in this time guys’

’Is it because of those two?’ Gogeta points behind him, ‘I’m sure we can keep them away from you to keep you safe’

’It’s not because of Goku and Raditz’ she flinches slightly when there's a booming yell from Cumber followed by a loud crash, ‘…and Cumber. I just have to go home, it's a requirement from the facility for researchers who have stayed for a day or more to be able to go home. To make sure they’re not being held hostage by their subjects and all that’ she waves passively. 

‘You’ll be back right? Later?’ Vegito tilts his head.

‘I’m not going to be allowed back in until tomorrow. Security measures’ she explains, trying not to chuckle at the collective pouts from the two. 

‘But I’m not even close to done mating with you’ Gogeta sighs obnoxiously.

’At least give me the rest of the day to recuperate!’ Her face warms, ‘…from both of you’ she ignores their amused grins.

She sighs and holds Gogeta’s head in her hands and gives him a soft affectionate kiss, ‘Be good. Make sure they don't destroy anything’ 

‘Fine’ he drawls with a dreamy smile.

‘Where’s my kiss?’ Vegito pouts, visibly upset that Gogeta is purring softly to himself in content.

Nakala quickly reaches for his face and gives him an obnoxious kiss to his cheek before quickly making her way to her main medical staff. She points at him with a smile.

’Weekly sleepovers. I won't forget!’ She hands the sample to one of them and apologizes to them about the destruction. 

‘Rhodes is in charge while I'm gone. The subject that facilitated the damage has a fear of needles’ she explains.

The phlebotomist and interns that were there as witnesses nods in understanding. They watch as she talks to Rhodes before gathering her things and typing in her computer before heading home. 

When Nakala makes it to the threshold of her home, she drops down less than gracefully onto her bed. The past two days catch up with her and she lets out her flustered emotions by screaming into her pillow and flailing. She sighs loudly, shielding her eyes with her arms. A small smile graces her face, What even is my life now?

Chapter Text

The steady pattering of rain is heard around the dome of the enclosure. It’s quiet in the South Wing, the sounds of soft shuffling and typing is heard as researchers and interns flit about. Nakala fills in a couple reports and emails before pausing in thought. She looks over at the mass of red hair against her hip and rests her head on her hand. She regards the Saiyan sitting on a pillow snoring lightly and sighs in amusement. Came over to meditate, my ass, she chuckles and shakes her head. She runs her fingers through his hair and his fur ripples smoothly just once before he shifts and rests his head on her thigh. That action makes her tilt her head. So far, I’ve only seen Gogeta, Vegito, Raditz and Gohan’s fur ripple, and I still don’t know what causes it. I’d ask Gogeta but I’m not sure he’d be able to tell me in depth about it. She hums before carefully standing, trying not to wake up Gogeta as she stretches lazily. 

‘Stretching your legs boss?’ Rhodes smiles from her chair.

’Yup’ a lazy glance at the open enclosure door has Rhodes follow her gaze.

’You have another experiment cooking?’

’No? But I do have something I want to figure out for myself’

’Have fun’ Rhodes waves, ‘for the both of us’

Before Nakala can enter the enclosure, she's stopped by Rhodes who points to Gogeta resting his head in his arms on Nakala’s seat as he continues to sleep. 

‘Gonna look for answers without his help this time. I’ll be fine’

When she nods, Nakala steps inside and fights a yawn when the intensity of the rain batters the roof intensifies. She blinks in surprise when she only sees Cumber in the nest relaxing. He looks so comfy, she carefully steps into the nest and sits next to him. As soon as her thigh brushes his side she’s met with a passive red stare. His eyes close once more and he scoops her to lay onto his chest and stomach. Nakala shifts to rest her chin on his chest to look at him and a heavy hand on her back stops her from moving. 

‘Where are the others?’

’Here’ he grunts.

He feels her deflate and sighs, ‘Around’ patting her back reassuringly.

Nakala huffs and rests her head on her folded arms, ‘I came in here for a reason you know. I can’t just stay in here all day doing nothing’

’Yes you can’ Cumber argues and Nakala chuckles.

’I can, but I’m trying to figure something out’ she smiles mischievously, ‘and since you’re here, you can be the next one I learn from’ 

That gets him to open an eye and peer up at her when she smiles down at him.

’Don’t worry, it won’t hurt’

’You can’t hurt me’ he moves to sit up and situate her onto his lap.

’Not the plan!’ She hops up to stand next to him. Now how do I go about this?

He folds his arms when she starts to circle him in thought. His tail twitches in annoyance and he stops her pacing with a raised arm. She blinks at him and he folds his arms.

’Speak’

’You want to hear my thoughts?’

’Yes’ Your pacing is tiring in silence, he refuses to tell her. 

Nakala tilts her head and hesitates a little before continuing to pace, now voicing her thoughts out loud.

’Well,’ she tries to figure out how to start, ‘Raditz told me that your fur ripples involuntarily and I got his to do that when I gave him genuine affection’ that makes Cumber’s eyebrow raise, ‘but when Vegito and myself were in the shower, his fur fluttered but didn’t ripple. Is it affection based? I give Broly affection all the time and yet his fur doesn’t do that’ she paces, Cumber’s gaze is lost on her, ‘With Gogeta, he said it was more of a feeling-a good one-but if its from him liking me, then would that mean that the others don’t? Not to mention Gohan had his fur ripple from verbal praise…’

Cumber watches as she rambles on and rolls his eyes. He stops her once more and presses her cheek to his pec to silence her thoughts. Too bad they’re all of his chest now.

’You think too much. It is not deep’

’This is extremely complex, Cumber’ she mumbles, struggling to get out of his hold, ‘this is something you all have no idea about and I want to know what it is. It’s clearly a mix of something emotional and biological!’

He grumbles and reluctantly lets her go, tail thumping in annoyance. 

‘It is simple’

’No it’s not!’

’Yes’

’Then what's yours?’ He pauses and she chances getting closer to him, ‘if it’s so simple, then what makes your fur ripple then?’

For the first time since she’s met him, this was the first time she ever saw uncertainty in his eyes. It’s gone in an instant.

’See!’ She points at him and he turns slightly away from her, embarrassed.

He feels her pet his arm and confusedly lifts it so she can wrap her arms around it. While he enjoys her petting, it gets her nowhere. Nakala deflates slightly when he pulls her off of him. 

‘I take it that affection won’t work on you?’ She huffs.

’No. And not if its forced’

’…but if it’s intentional’ she raises her eyebrows, teasingly.

Cumber side eyes her and flops to his side away from her, practically shooing her away with his tail. Nakala smiles and decides that she might have better luck with the others instead. She playfully leans over him to kiss his cheek affectionately.

’Thanks for listening to me anyway. I will be back to find out more about you’ 

She doesn’t see the amused thump of his tail and the chuff he lets out before going back to relaxing. 

Nakala steps in no particular direction to find anyone that she stumbles upon. She spots a flash of black hair between a few bushes and creeps to investigate. It’s Goku, sitting cross legged with his back facing her. Nakala gets a sneaky idea to enact revenge on all of the times he’s spooked her. She keeps her footsteps light and careful as she stalks him as quietly as she can. Goku doesn’t seem to notice her, tail tip twitching lazily behind him. Nakala doesn’t see it stop when she gets closer. She makes it a few steps behind him before her foot is snatched by his tail, making her jolt in surprise. His tail squeezes her ankle playfully and her eyes meet his when he leans back against her legs to look up at her.

‘Did you sense me coming?’ She pouts. 

‘Sure did!’ He grins, ‘I wanted to see how close you got’

‘Not close enough since you knew where I was’

‘You still did good though! You’d have caught me if I didn’t sense you’ he looks away, ‘and if your footsteps weren’t a little loud…’

He hears Nakala huff and looks back at her.

‘So you’re saying I’m a terrible hunter’ 

‘I’m just really good prey’ he grins. 

‘…let me try again. No sensing me this time!’

‘I can still smell and hear you’ he points out while she steps away from him.

‘No smelling or hearing either!’

‘What kind of prey can’t smell, hear or sense they’re being hunted?!’ He laughs.

‘The kind that look like you!’ She calls back in amusement, ‘just let me have this!’

Goku chuckles and makes a show of covering his ears as he turns his back to her. Nakala carefully steps out of her shoes and looks around for any obstacles in her way before stalking him once more. She makes it a few steps before he turns to look at her, making her freeze in place. A chuckle from herself almost blows her cover as Goku squints and looks around past her and pretends he didn’t see her once more. Oh so I just have to not move when he spots me, she laughs to herself, this is so childish. With Medical still being fixed up and all of her reports done, she figures she can at least have a little fun to pass the time. Subject, Researcher bonding time, she mentally rationalizes. 

She gets closer to him before he turns to pretend to look for her again. It’s only when she’s practically breathing into his hair is when she decides to strike, letting out a short “rahr!” before playfully pushing him to his side. 

‘That was better!’ Goku laughs, ‘totally got me there. But-‘ he folds his arms as he lays on his back, ‘the prey can still get away’

That makes Nakala straddle his chest, chuckling when he lets out a huff as she sits on him, ‘can you escape now?’

‘If I wanted’ he smirks, ‘but you don’t catch prey to sit on them’

Nakala picks up his meaning and laughs, ‘no, you catch prey to eat them!’ 

‘Exactly-Ah!’ He jolts when she bites his arm lightly.

He quickly moves his arm out of her mouth but that makes her bite his pec instead, causing a burst of his scent to reach her nose. His laugh shakes her as she playfully growls.

‘Stop moving while I eat you!’ She bites his cheek.

‘I’m prey, I have to fight back! What if I don't want to be eaten?!’

‘Then you wouldn’t have gotten caught’ Nakala says matter-of-factly before biting his shoulder. His body jolts then relaxes.

‘Do I taste good at least?’ She misses how breathy his tone had gotten when she moves further up to his neck to prepare for another bite.

‘You’re certainly a mouthful’ she jokes, sinking her teeth into the juncture of his neck. 

A lustful grunt graces her ears, followed by a steady fluttering sound. Nakala blinks in surprise and lifts her head to look at a heavily blushing Goku. He doesn’t try to hide his face as his fur ripples, the exact reaction she forgot she was looking for.

Something about his gaze makes her thighs involuntarily squeeze his sides and he whines, ‘why’d you stop? I liked that’

She has to look away from him as she wipes her mouth, ‘it might be best if we stop for now’ I don’t know if I’ll be able to stop myself if I keep going. 

The fluttering stops when he sits up and pouts. Despite his fearsome appearance, he does have cute tendencies, she muses as she carefully moves off of his lap. Not wanting to entice him further but feeling bad at leaving him, she holds his face as she stands over him.

‘You were worthy prey. Under different circumstances I would’ve liked to enjoy my feast but my hunt isn’t over’

‘Still hungry?’ He looks at her lips as she smiles.

‘Still hungry’ she confirms, aware that he’s trying to move closer to her face. 

‘Well…feel free to hunt me anytime’ he murmurs, silently begging for a kiss.

She grants it and is rewarded once more to the fluttering of fur. Nakala gives him a peck on his forehead for good measure, a type of reward for herself for self restraint and discovery. He’s content with the extra affection, fur fluffed out in happiness as he moves to sit in the same position where she saw him last. She makes a quick retreat to find another Saiyan, willing the fierce warmth in her face to dissipate before any of them sees her.

Nakala doesn’t get very far when she sees the shift of a large body stretched out on one of the heated rocks in the enclosure. There’s no mistaken the mass of hair draped over the muscular body of Raditz. I already got his fur to ripple before…but I wonder how he’ll react to me hunting him, she cautiously approaches him. His guard must be down, but not enough when she gets close enough to step onto the rock near his foot. 

Thinking she’ll at least get one of them off guard, it’s dashed immediately when she hears Raditz grumble, ‘What do you think you’re doing Provider?’

Slightly defeated she pounces anyway, landing onto his back. He lets out a small grunt and side eyes her when she looks over at him. 

‘I’m hunting. And I just caught very promising prey’ she playfully boasts.

‘Some hunter you are’ he says sarcastically, ‘hunting something larger than you’ 

‘I’m two for 6 so far’

‘Prey’s not hunted unless they’re dead’ he swats her behind with his tail, ‘and this one isn’t going without a fight’

Nakala grins down at him and moves to teasingly rub at his neck, close to his ears.

‘I believe I have the skills capable to have an advantage’

‘Oh?’ He hums before tensing when she strokes his ears at the same time.

He barks out a laugh, ‘clever, but that isn’t enough’

‘Are you sure~?’ She purrs in his ear, earning an eager smile from him, ‘feels to me like you’re holding it in. You’re so tense’

He fights a purr threatening to rush out of him but his pride won’t allow it. He nearly breaks when he feels her shift closer to his face.

‘Why are you fighting it Raditz?’ Nakala teases, her hands rubbing his ears with purpose, ‘it’s just us, you know you can relax around me’

‘Your actions are preventing me from doing so’ he argues lightly.

‘Well, it’s because you’re not giving me what I want’ she says simply, ‘once you do that, I’ll be out of your hair’

Raditz lets out a breathy laugh before resting his forehead back onto his arms. Nakala feels his tenseness slowly retreating as he visibly deflates. A second later his fur starts to ripple lazily a few times before his long tail wraps around her to gently toss her off of him.

‘There. Now leave me before I act upon a different urge’

‘Would my prey consider itself caught?’ She moves around the rock to look at him.

‘Yes, yes’ he waves, ‘blood and viscera are everywhere, there has been no trace of life left’ 

She laughs and leans to where he points further into the enclosure, ‘your next prey can be found if you go straight from here. Show no mercy’

Her mischievous giggling is all he hears before going back to his resting. 

Following the directions Raditz gave her leads to spotting Vegito for a split second before he disappears. Gogeta is seen right after, in chase. Nakala pouts when she sees them spar around her, not getting close enough. They bounce from tree to tree, trading blow after blow and dodging kicks and punches. They seem to be theatric in their movements and she wonders why they haven’t really moved from their spot in her visible vicinity. Well I did come upon their sparring area so it’s only natural they’d stay right here. Before she can give up her chase and move to another Saiyan in the meantime, she’s stopped by something tugging on her lab coat.

‘Where do you think you’re going? I’m not done showing off,’ the voice chuckles.

She turns to see Gogeta smirking down at her. He pulls her just forcefully enough so she bumps into his chest.

‘I deserve some kind of attention since you left me at your chair to be in here…. Doing what exactly?’

‘Hunting’ Nakala states simply and he nods before furrowing his brows in confusion.

‘Hunting?’ Vegito lands next to them, ‘there’s nothing in this place except us Sweets’

‘I’m aware’ she smiles, making them both exchange a surprised glance.

‘…and what brought this on all of a sudden?’ Vegito saunters over to them.

‘Well I came in here to see what makes everyone’s fur move, but then Goku gave me a fun idea to help with my boredom’

‘And that’s hunting us for sport?’ Gogeta raises an eyebrow.

‘It’s not for sport, I eat what I catch’ she states proudly.

That gets their confused but amused chuckles.

‘And have you had any success so far?’

‘I have. Goku and Raditz have already been hunted and consumed’

Gogeta gently squishes her cheeks when he turns her head to look at him. 

‘And you’re hungry for more Saiyans? Your stomach must be bigger than ours’

Nakala playfully bites the space between his thumb and index finger with a growl, causing Gogeta to laugh and pull his hand away.

‘Seems she’s gotten a taste of another!’ Vegito laughs. 

‘I can give you a better taste’ Gogeta tilts her head to kiss her affectionately. 

She isn’t easily fooled, pulling away to bite his chin. He barks out a laugh.

‘This huntress isn’t easy to distract!’ He tries to pull away but she wraps her arms around his middle to keep him there. Gogeta dramatically steps back to lean against the nearest tree, making sure to keep her against his chest by his tail.

‘Well I guess this is it for being troop leader’ he sighs in playful defeat, wrapping his arms tight around Nakala so she can’t move, ‘save yourself Vegito, make sure you warn the others’

Nakala is none the wiser to the challenging stare Gogeta throws at Vegito. His eyes glow with his taunting glare over the shoulder he nuzzles teasingly, Leave us to have alone time. Had it been any other troop member, they would’ve backed off but Vegito is the second strongest out of both of them. He won’t back down so easily. Nakala feels a heavy weight against her back and arms around her waist.

‘Troop leader,’ he mockingly coos, choosing to take up her other shoulder to nuzzle in response, ‘you of all beings should know we don’t run away when it comes to potential threats’

He trails his tail along her thigh, ‘especially one this skilled. She’s already taken out Goku and Raditz, and they’re larger than herself. How will we make it out alive?’

‘She found them by themselves I bet’ Gogeta hums before nipping the skin under her jaw, ‘I wonder how she’ll do against both of us’

‘You think she tricked them to let their guard down?’ Vegito squeezes her hips before moving her backside to press against his front. 

She doesn’t see his sneaky grin when she grips his wrist with one of her hands. The other hand is too busy trying and failing to pry the red head away from her neck.

‘It’s working on me’ Gogeta pulls away slightly to kiss her again. 

Nakala feels herself getting dizzy with their onslaught of affection.

‘Wait-ah-this-this isn’t what I planned!’ She breathes as she tilts her head away from him, only to land herself to the waiting mouth of Vegito.

‘That’s too bad’ Gogeta mouths at her throat, ‘hunting is all about surprises and you seem to have bitten off more than you can chew’

‘Very greedy of you Sweets’ Vegito taunts, ‘every hunter’s gotta know when to give up the hunt’

‘Okay! Okay!’ She breathes, letting her head drop onto Vegito’s shoulder, unknowingly exposing more of her neck to both of them, ‘I yield’

She’s bombarded with both of their sinister laughs and hums as they refuse to release her from their double hold. I’ll just have to hunt them both separately, I got too cocky, she squirms. 

‘You might yield Sweets but have you learned your lesson?’

‘How do we know you aren’t going to prey on the others?’ Gogeta teases, ‘hunters are often chased or disposed of to prevent any more deaths’

Fighting both internal desires and external forces keeping her from moving is slowly draining her off her resolve. I have to think of a way to have the upper hand, she chances scratches along Vegito’s scalp and the nape of Gogeta’s neck but all it gives her are more teasing squeezes and body shaking purrs. Come on Nakala, think! You have to know something! Any more teasing and the game will be over! Can’t do any personal research if you’re a well fucked puddle on the enclosure floor!

As much as her body would love to have that, it isn’t what she set as her goal. Nakala sees the twitching of fur on Gogeta’s shoulder and it dawns on her that she does know something about him for an advantage. She freezes in realization, ignoring the teasing hums from the two. Gogeta doesn’t like the confident look in her eyes when she focuses on him. He jolts violently when her hands reach his sides. His eyes are wild when he figures out her plan, he quickly tries to stop her with his hands but freezes when her fingers dig into his sides. 

‘W-wait, Nakala-Provider-Huntress don’t’ 

‘See, this is where you’ve made a mistake troop leader Gogeta’ she grins at his weak apprehension, ‘you gave me too much time to think’

Vegito blinks in surprise when she starts to scratch and squeeze at his sides, causing the troop leader he once knew who took on foes three times his height, plead with someone weaker than him, and crumble to the floor in a fit of laughter.

‘Huh, you gotta teach me that move’ he mumbles, instantly regretting speaking up when she turns to him with the same glare.

‘You’re next’ she grins evilly.

Vegito is given no time to dash away before his tail wrapped around her thigh is grabbed, making him seize up. He full body shudders when she aggressively strokes his tail, hearing her ‘tsks’ a distance away when he tries to unwrap his tail to get away. Vegito inwardly curses his traitorous tail when it does finally unwrap from her thigh, only to curl around her menacing hand to continue her touches. A few scratches and strokes is all it takes for his own body to join Gogeta’s on the ground. Once they come to, they see Nakala standing triumphantly near their bodies.

‘Another successful hunt!’ She boasts, her stance keeping her from crumbling from their earlier actions.

‘Fine, fine’ Gogeta sits up, shaking the residual tickles away, ‘the huntress has won her prize’ he opens his arms to accept whatever she gives him. 

He laughs when she holds his head and bites his cheek, pulling away and declaring that he was worth the fight before doing the same to Vegito. They’re all smiles and waves when she leaves them and Vegito looks at Gogeta in mock accusation.

‘Would’ve been able to share her this time had you not gave in to weakness Gogeta’

That gets a laugh out of the red head who stands and rolls his shoulders, ‘last I checked, you gave in too’ he leans challengingly, ‘and all it took was her batting her eyelashes and stroking your tail’

Vegito stands as well, ‘as if you’d resist that look if she did the same to you’

‘Of course I could’ Gogeta boasts, ‘cause I’ve already seen it’

Vegito hums and gets into a fighting pose to continue their sparring, ‘first one to touch the ground gets to have her next?’

Gogeta grins and gets into his own pose, ‘you’re on’

Nakala happily steps away in triumph through the underbrush. She feels unstoppable in her pursuit of more Saiyans. Deciding to check around the lake she spots a flash of reddish purple along the grassy shoreline. She grins as she starts to stalk him, back being turned as he puts the last of his clothes on from what she assumed was a self caring bath. It’s only when she gets somewhat close to him that he turns and jumps slightly.

‘Hello Nakala’ he blinks, confused as to why she’s semi crouched and staring at him.

‘Hi Trunks’ she smiles, chuckling when he starts to step back as she advances.

‘….what-um-what are you doing?’ He shuffles away from her.

He knows that there’s not much she can do to hurt him but his confusion keeps her from getting closer to him.

‘I’m hunting’ she steps closer.

‘Hunting…me?’ He points to himself, baffled.

‘Mhm. I’ve already gotten four of the troop so far’

‘They let you hunt them!?’

‘And eat them,’ she confirms.

Nakala uses his visible confusion to get closer without him noticing. He’s too fast for her reaching hand, darting a short distance away from her.

‘Oh no you don’t’ he folds his arms, ‘you don’t get to do that and think I’m going to fall right into your arms’

‘Why not?’ She playfully pouts, ‘I’ll make it quick!’

‘What kind of prey would I be if I just let you eat me with no problem???’ He looks at her incredulously.

‘The sweet kind’ she laughs at his blush.

He coughs into his hand to get rid of it, tail lashing, ‘and if I run?’

‘I’ll catch you’ she states plainly, ‘if not now then later. Humans are pursuit predators Trunks, all I have to do is tire you out’

‘Saiyans are known for their high stamina’ he challenges, ‘and you don’t have all day’

Oh so it’s a battle of words? Nakala smirks, I can handle that. 

‘No, but I know where you sleep at night. As you know, I’m allowed weekly sleepovers in this very territory’

Trunks chuckles and decides to play along, ‘and who would allow a hunter into our territory? Especially one that eats Saiyans?’ 

‘I would say your troop leader’ Nakala feigns ignorance, ‘but he’s already been eaten’ she steps closer, he doesn’t move.

‘You’ve eaten our strongest?’ Trunks pretends to be surprised.

He wouldn’t be surprised at all if Nakala simply asked Gogeta to bare his neck to her and he did so readily. He’s lucky, Trunks muses, I’m almost tempted to see what she’d do to me. 

‘Your strongest,’ she answers, closer now, ‘second strongest’ she’s almost within grabbing distance, ‘fifth and sixth strongest as well’

He takes the time to dodge away from her hand, twirling her to face away from him.

‘So that just leaves, Cumber, Broly, Gohan and myself’

‘Nope. Just Cumber, Broly and Gohan’ she corrects, turning to attempt to pounce on him. He easily steps away. 

‘You don’t think I’m just gonna sit and let you eat me do you?’

She tries again to no avail, ‘not even if I ask?’

‘Afraid not’

Trunks chuckles as he steps around and away from her grabbing hands. It looks like some kind of dance the two are engaged in and while he’d love to just fall into her embrace, he doesn’t want this to end just yet. Too bad this is starting to frustrate Nakala in the process. This is getting me nowhere, he won’t let me near him enough to grab him… She blinks as her latest swipe proves unsuccessful and tries a new tactic. Once her hand breezes past another one of his dodges she winces in faux pain and holds her ankle. Trunks immediately perks up and sees her crouched and hissing in pain. He hastily ends the game and hurries over to her to assess her injury. Nakala grins internally at her plan working, play into your prey’s weaknesses.

‘Are you okay!?’ He crowds over her, ‘you have to watch where you step around here’ he moves to see her uninjured ankle and hums in confusion. 

He’s immediately embraced by her arms, nails digging firmly into his shoulder blades. Nakala grins at the way his face changes to worried shock, to realization, to annoyed acceptance.

‘Just walked right into that one, didn’t I?’

‘Yes my sweet prey’ she laughs and kisses his cheek, making him deflate in defeat. 

‘That’s cruel of you you know’ he points out, ‘knowing that I’d come over if you were hurt’

‘I know you care a lot about me and used it to my advantage. You should be proud’ she litters his face in kisses.

‘I’m more upset that I fell for it so easily’ he grumbles, relaxing quickly at her affection, ‘I’m supposed to be better than that’

‘Says who? I had to change up my strategy to get to you, and I had to abuse your caring for me. Sorry for that, I hope you trust me again in the future’

‘I’m smart enough to recognize a game Nakala’ he scoffs in amusement, ‘aren’t hunters supposed to be ruthless to prey anyway?’

‘You’re right!’ She chuckles, ‘just making sure there’s no boundaries crossed’ 

‘The prey is caught, why should you care how it feels?’

He jolts when he feels teeth sink into the space between his neck and shoulder.

‘Because the hunter finds them cute’ she bites his cheek as well, ignoring the rising blush creeping onto his face.

‘Wh-what made you do all this?’ He huffs as she moves to the other side of his neck playfully.

‘It started out as curiosity for how your fur ripples and now its a game’

Before she takes another bite she feels Trunks’ tail tap her to get her attention. She sees him full on blush and avoids her gaze.

When she hums in question he coughs a little, ‘can-uhh-you can bite me a little harder’

Nakala blinks at him and Raditz’s voice reminds her about their discovery, Trunks enjoys pain. Well he did kinda let me catch him easily. I think I can afford to reward him. She gives him a quick peck on his jaw before latching onto the side of his neck to bite him. A light fluttering sound graces her ears and she decides to push it further by scoring her nails down his back. She’s rewarded by a steadier ripple of fur and haggard breathing. He’s practically melted into her hands, almost preventing her from standing up. He fights a whine when she does manage to get out of his hold.

‘You’ve shown me another weakness prey’ she purrs, enjoying the hazy look he throws at her, ‘it’s going to be fun exploiting that’ 

Trunks watches her bound away with a pep in her step and breathily chuckles. 

‘They’ve created a monster’

She doesn’t make out very far when she spots Broly and Gohan in a small clearing. Gohan is excitedly telling something to Broly who tries his best to understand what Gohan is talking about, but opts to look around for something else to do. In his search, he spots Nakala creeping up on him. A curious smile and a tilt of his head is all she gets when she stalks closer. He’s unaware of the game she’s playing but the swish of his tail along the grass at least tells her he doesn’t hate what she’s doing. 

‘Nakala?’ Gohan spots her as well, ‘what are you doing?’

‘Hunting’ her eyes don’t leave Broly’s as she steps closer. 

‘Who? Broly?’ Gohan chuckles, ‘you sure he isn’t too big for you to hunt?’

‘Well I’ve already hunted the others’ she’s a few steps away. His tail bounces in excitement.

Gohan blinks, ‘…you’ve-you’ve hunted the others? Which others???’

‘Goku. Raditz. Gogeta. Vegito. Trunks,’ for every name she takes a step towards Broly and throws herself onto him, ‘and now Broly’

‘He didn’t even put up a fight’ Gohan shakes his head.

‘Well, the larger they are the less likely they’ll recognize a threat’ she states, hugging him close. He wraps his arms around her middle and purrs.

‘Everyone in here is larger than you Nakala’ Gohan points out.

‘Which is what made it so easy to hunt and eat them’ 

‘E-eat them!?’ Gohan balks. 

‘Yes’ she says simply, ‘hunters have to eat don’t they?’

‘Are you going to eat me Nakala?’ Broly rests his head on her chest and she feigns sympathy.

‘Yes my precious baby boy,’ she rubs her fingers through his hair, ‘but I’m afraid I’ll die if I do’

His worried look makes her giggle and holds his cheeks, ‘because you’re so sweet’ 

Gohan watches in bewilderment as he watches Broly-the Saiyan he’s watched fight his fellow troop members so fiercely-be reduced to a melted, fur fluttering mess on the floor. All from their provider drowning him in kisses, play bites and petting him all over. She’s almost as relentless as he is in fighting, not letting up the affection until the larger Saiyan has to physically hold her away from him to catch his breath. His fur still flutters when she’s placed onto the floor and sets her sights on Gohan.

He blinks in realization and damn near trips over his stack of borrowed books. 

‘Oohhh no. You’re not playing this game with me!’

‘Watch me’ she grins, crouching.

‘But! Aren’t you missing someone!? Why not Cumber instead?’

‘Well I already know where he is’ she rolls her eyes, ‘so now that just leaves you’

He looks over at Broly, who watches in amusement, ‘Uhh a little help here?’

As soon as he starts to get up, he’s pinned by Nakala turning quickly to stare and point at him, ‘eaten prey don’t move!’

He blinks plainly and lays back onto the floor, not one to disobey Providers orders. Gohan knows that she wouldn’t hurt him, but he does tense in apprehension at the fact that she knows his weakness already. And by the look on her face, she’s all too ready to exploit it. He audibly gulps, knees shaking.

’…can we work out some kind of deal?’

’There’s only one thing I'm looking for and I’m going to get it anyway’ she smirks.

’Whatever it is, I’ll gladly tell you!’ He bargains.

’…What makes everyone’s fur ripple, Gohan?’ 

His ears slowly turn red, ‘ah-that-thats due to a fluctuation in both emotion and attract-attraction’

’What kind of emotion?’ She continues her lazy pace towards him.

’K-kind of like’ he looks away embarrassed, ‘a mix between lust…and uhh love? There’s more to it but that’s the simplest way I can explain it’

When he doesn’t hear anything from Nakala he chances a glance back at her. He almost regrets it. Her grin is downright devious as she stands, her pace does not falter and he cowers against the nearest tree.

’I told you all that I know Nakala. That’s it’

’…Smart boy’

He tenses, eyes wide as he feels his blush creeping in.

’Cute boy’ she smiles, as she walks up to him, enjoying the embarrassed blush coming in.

’Sweet boy’ Gohan closes his eyes, he could just cover his ears to avoid any more of her praise but…he’d be lying if he said he didn’t love it.

His back is heavily pressed against the tree he leans on and he practically trembles when he feels her closing in on him. He must look a mess, red faced and body stiff like the tree he’s up against. Gohan is almost light headed at how long he’s held his breath when he feels her playfully lean against him, resting her chin on his chest to look up at him.

’You’re so tense Gohan. You can relax, I’ll eat you quickly so you don’t have to suffer anymore’

That gets him to let out an amused huff, ‘easier said than done Nakala’

’You’ll get there easily’ she smirks evilly, ‘because you’re a good boy~’

Her purr is what did it for him. His resolve breaks almost immediately and he bites his fist to gain some semblance of control. 

‘Stop fighting it Gohan and let me see’ Nakala pouts, opting to stroke the fur along his sides gently. 

She feels the twitching of his fur under her fingertips and looks over at Broly watching the rain patter on the dome. He looks like he’s about to take a nap and Nakala hugs Gohan close.

‘Broly isn’t watching, if that’s what you’re worried about’ she murmurs. 

Gohan peeks wearily between his fingers to the now sleeping Saiyan a distance away from them. He practically drapes himself over Nakala and purrs, finally letting his fur take over. Nakala laughs to herself, he’s so shy. I wonder why some of them are so adverse to letting others see them like this. 

‘You’re so cute Gohan’ her voice is muffled by his arms around her, ‘it’s a shame I have to eat you now’

All she gets is a confused chirp from him before she bites his pec. She remedies his shock with a quick kiss there and then doing the same to his jaw. The flurry of sensations is enough to confuse him to release her. He stands there, a confused, fluffed out mess staring at her retreating form heading towards the nest. Rustling nearby reveals Trunks looking just as disheveled as he is as he plops down next to Broly.

‘Looks like she got you too’ he huffs through a smile.

‘Yeah, both of us’ Gohan lands in a heap next to his books, trying to go back to focusing on the words on the page rather than the words Nakala purred into his ears.

The way to the nest was a lot easier than she expected. She had wondered if Cumber was awake and doing something else but the steady rainfall kept him asleep. Well, I don’t want to wake him with my shenanigans but I did tell him I’d be back. Was he waiting for me and fell asleep instead? She carefully steps back into the nest and crouches to his side. His eyebrows weren’t in their permanent scowl this time, looking almost peaceful as he slept. Nakala opts to sit and lean against his back, closing her eyes as well to listen to the rain. Her previous actions catch up to her immediately and her face warms significantly. When did I get so bold!?

She’s too busy spiraling to notice the massive shift between them. A weak growl and a large arm drags her into the heat under him. Cumber shifts so he isn’t crushing her, acting as a makeshift shelter from the rain that can’t reach them.

His scent is comforting but dull and Nakala looks at how tightly his tucked in shirt is. A lazy scratch to his stomach and irritated grumble from him prompts her to carefully loosen his shirt from the bottom to expose his stomach.

I’m just trying to help, please don’t wake up and yell at me, she mentally whines, lifting it to scratch where his fur is twitching in irritation. His relieved chuff blows against her hair as she continues. It’s only when his fur stops twitching that she stops scratching. She’s about to tuck his shirt back in but curiosity gets the better of her. How often would I get to do this? 

Soft fur slides easily through her fingers as she softly pets his stomach. She feels a few deep scars along the skin of his upper stomach and chest. His arms tighten around her as she blindly explores. A light scratch along his side makes his fur twitch and he leans into her hand. He damn near smushes her into the nest at her petting. Nakala feels him nuzzle into her hair and sigh. Seconds later she feels his fur move under her palms. A straining glance at the arms caging her in reveal the slow rippling of fur. It lasts however long she pets his stomach, chest and sides, only stopping when she does. Nakala feels as though she could do a victory dance at how successful she got at learning more about the troop. She’d get up and tell Rhodes but the arms keeping her in place say otherwise. 

Struggling to free herself would only exhaust her so she does the only thing she can do on this lazy rainy day. Nakala snuggles into the warmth of Cumber’s chest and joins him for a nap.