Chapter Text
“Hrrrrgh-DYAH!”
“HAAAAAAAGH!”
THOOM!
Shockwaves flew across the God of Destruction’s planet as two Blue Super Saiyans clashed fists and forearms in one of their infamously intense training sessions. After moments of exchanging blows, the duo once again clashed their arms together, struggling to overtake their opponent.
“What’s wrong Kakarot, no Ultra Instinct today!?” taunted Vegeta.
“Heh, I could ask the same of you and your Darkened Super Saiyan Blue, now could I?”
“HRAAAAAAAGH!” With a fierce yell, Vegeta’s energy exploded, blowing Goku back, as his cyan hair became a much darker shade of blue. “That’s Evolved Super Saiyan Blue to you.”
“Heh. Well, I may not have Ultra Instinct under control yet, but I can certainly match that; KAIOKEN!” Goku was bathed in a harsh crimson aura as his energy collided with Vegeta’s. In midair, the two took their respective stances, prepared to resume their battle when suddenly…
“…Huh?”
Goku dropped his stance and lowered his energy before turning his attention skyward.
“What’s the holdup Kakarot?”
“I can sense Gohan’s energy,” Goku replied.
“Gohan?”
“Yeah…Krillin’s too actually. If they’re both together like that, then I think they may be signaling me for something.”
“And for what reason would be so important for them to do that?” asked Vegeta.
Goku put a hand to his chin in thought. After a moment of silence, his face lit up before being tinted a violet shade. “Hey uh Vegeta, you wouldn’t happen to have a calendar on ya, would you?”
“A calendar? What for?”
“Just…call it a guess.”
“Fine,” Vegeta sighed. Zipping over to a nearby table, he grabbed his cell phone and read aloud. “On Earth it would be around February 12th.”
“GYAAAAAAGH!”
“What now!?”
Powering out of Super Saiyan Blue, Goku landed and put two fingers to his forehead. “Vegeta quick, grab my shoulder!”
Landing and crossing his arms, Vegeta asked “What? Why?”
“If they’re calling us for why I THINK they’re calling us, then this involves you too!”
“What the HELL are you talking about!?” Vegeta boomed.
“It’s almost Valentine’s Day and neither of us have anything for our wives!”
Vegeta’s face stiffened before he too powered down to base. His hands tightening with irritation, Vegeta lightly swore before approaching Goku and placing a hand on his shoulder. In a flash, the Saiyan Duo disappeared. As soon as the two vanished, their angelic master strolled in, eyes gleaming.
“Yoohoo, Goku, Vegeta? It’s gotten rather quiet out here. Have you decided to take a break?” When Whis received no response, he took a quick second to realize that their energies were no longer on the planet. Taking a peek in his staff, he could see that his students were now back on Earth accompanied by Goku’s elder son and the small Earthling fighter.
“Hmph…the least they could’ve done was say goodbye,” Whis pouted. “Oh well. I’ll forgive them this once since they were kind enough to leave their lunches for us. Oh Lord Beerus!” Whis called retreating to their home.
[On Earth]
Gohan and Krillin could be seen in a vast rocky area, both of their auras flared to life. Finally, Goku and Vegeta appeared before them.
“Dad, finally! And Vegeta?”
“Glad you guys…could…make it…!” Krillin greeted before falling back on the ground.
“We should be thanking you for the reminder. If you guys hadn’t have sent out that signal, we’d both be in trouble this year.”
“Hmph…I still don’t see why we have to subject ourselves to this ridiculous affair,” Vegeta protested. “I fail to see the significance of showing affection on one particular day versus any other.”
“Then why’d you come with me?” Goku teased.
Vegeta growled before responding. “You said it yourself Kakarot, there’d be consequences if I didn’t. I just don’t understand what makes this day so special.”
Gohan chuckled. “If you’re really curious, I could probably give you a quick ‘Toriyoogal’ search, but let’s focus on why we’re here.”
“Wait…!” interjected a still panting Krillin. “Gimme a sec to recuperate. Gohan and I have been flexing our power for quite a bit, and it took Goku a while to finally notice us.”
“Hehe, sorry about that….”
[Moments later]
The quartet reassembled at the mouth of a small waterfall in the forest, seated on the surrounding rocks.
“Okay, so what’s our status so far?” Goku began.
“Well…Gohan and I already have our gifts set,” Krillin replied.
“I still need to make a few last-minute touches on mine, but the bulk of it’s already done,” Gohan reaffirmed.
“Believe it or not, I actually have an idea for Chi-Chi’s gift myself. Just don’t know if I’ll be able to get it done in two days.”
“Wait, really?” asked an astounded Krillin. “What is it?”
“I’ll let you know later if you wanna lend me a hand.”
“Hehe, I just might since I’ve GOT to know what you’re planning. It’s not like you to be so punctual Goku.”
Gohan chuckled. “Believe me Krillin. You haven’t seen Mom on those moments where Dad HAS forgotten a special occasion.”
“Think I’ve seen a few moments, but I can imagine how it’d help Goku wanna prepare better for these moments.”
Goku chuckled before glancing over to Vegeta who was hovering just above. “So I guess that leaves JUST you Vegeta.”
“Unless you already have an idea, on what I should do for Bulma, don’t bother me. I’m trying to think.” Vegeta snapped.
The three all looked downwards, each of them also pondering Vegeta’s dilemma.
“Ehhh…I do think Vegeta’s got it the worst of us though. I mean, what do you get the richest person in the world that she can’t get herself?” Krillin asked.
Vegeta grunted before Goku interjected. “Maybe try making her something?”
“Like what?”
“I dunno? Something to eat?”
“Stop thinking with your stomach fool!”
“Actually, making food for Bulma isn’t a half bad idea,” Gohan chimed in.
“Yeah! I mean, we can all expect chocolate that day so returning the favor might be all you need to make it through this year,” added Krillin. ‘Well, Gohan and I are definitely getting chocolate. You two on the other hand…it’s up in the air.’
“You’re saying I should try and make her chocolate?” Vegeta asked in irritated disbelief.
“Nah. Probably shouldn’t risk you burning the kitchen down,” taunted Krillin.
“Hrrgh!”
“Dyeeep-!”
“Maybe just make her something with chocolate in it?” suggested Gohan.
“Like what?”
“Well…what goes great with chocolate?” asked Krillin.
“What doesn’t go great with chocolate?” replied Goku.
“Dad…there are a LOT of answers to that question.”
“Which question?”
“Both actually.”
“ENOUGH!” exclaimed Vegeta. “Since you three have proven to be useless, I’m leaving. Trunks will probably be my best bet.” In a burst of wind, Vegeta blasted away from the waterfall, leaving the trio to their own.
“I actually have to head to West City myself,” announced Gohan. “Bulma’s helping me finish up my gift, and we’re supposed to be going parts shopping.” Floating away with a wave, Gohan too blasted off leaving the former Kame Students alone.
“So Goku, what were you thinking about getting Chi-Chi again?”
[Later]
Vegeta arrived at Capsule Corp, ignoring the greetings of the employees until he entered the living room to find his son, rocking his sister’s cradle with his foot while reading a book. “Trunks.”
“Hey Dad,” he greeted. “I thought I felt your and Goku’s energies after Gohan and Krillin went all full power for no reason, but I didn’t think you’d be back home so soon. If you’re looking for Mom, she’s out right now. Buying parts for some invention or something.”
“Trunks…” Vegeta started. “I require your aid.”
“Huh?”
[One explanation later]
Trunks paced back and forth, racking his brain for an answer. After moments of low humming and awkward silences, Trunks finally gave a negatory nod. “Well if you’re planning to give Mom something with chocolate, I know just the thing!” Trunks beamed.
[Meanwhile]
At a familiar home at Mt. Paouzu, a young boy glanced concernedly at his mother who was pacing back and forth around their kitchen.
“Mom are you okay?”
“I’m fine sweety. I’m just wondering what’s taking your father so long. You did say you felt his energy, right?”
“Uh-huh,” Goten nodded. “I could feel Gohan’s energy getting bigger too and them POOF, Dad and Mr. Vegeta showed up.”
“Gohan’s?”
“Yeah. I think Bro may have been trying to call them or something,” Goten pondered.
“Well…at least he’s back on Earth,” Chi-Chi sighed. “Still…I should probably call Gohan at least and see what’s up.”
Before Chi-Chi could pick up the phone, the machine sprang to life ringing and startling the frantic housewife. Taking a second to compose herself, Chi-Chi let out a sharp exhale before answering.
‘Geeze the timing…’ “Hello?”
“Hey Chi-Chi. It’s me Trunks!”
“Trunks? Well I’m sorry, but if you want to talk to Goten you’ll have to call back…”
“Actually…I don’t need to speak to Goten…at least not exclusively,” Trunks cut her off. “You may be able to help me too.”
Chi-Chi raised an eyebrow in both confusion and intrigue. “Help you with what?”
“Long story short, I was wondering if you guys had any strawberries on your farm,” Trunks asked.
“Strawberries? For what?”
“Don’t tell this to Goku, but I’m helping my Dad make a gift for my Mom. I know how much she loves strawberries, so I figured that’d be a good place to start. I know we could’ve just bought some, but the fruits you guys grow taste WAY better.”
The ex-fighter’s face beamed with a prideful glow. “Well thank you, but don’t think flattery will get you anywhere with me kid.”
“What? It’s true.”
Chi-Chi giggled before asking, “Although why don’t you want me to tell Goku?”
“Ehhh…you know how my Dad gets, he probably won’t want Goku to know what we’re doing, especially since we’re using fruit that he grew.”
“That is true,” she sighed. “Well since it’s for Bulma, then I guess it’s fine, but one of you will have to come here and do the picking yourselves, got it.”
“No problem! And thanks!”
Once Chi-Chi hung up the phone, a curious Goten asked, “Who was that?”
“It was Trunks. He says he’s coming over because he needs something from our garden.”
“Really?”
Chi-Chi nodded before her thoughts trailed off. ‘I can’t believe that Vegeta is actually doing something for the holiday…. Geeze Goku, where are you!?’
[Somewhere above the forest]
“DAAAACHOO!”
“Excuse you, Goku!” said a snide Krillin.
“Sorry…think that might be Chi-Chi wondering where I am.”
“…That’s an oddly specific assumption, but a logical one.”
The two best friends zoomed over the wooded mountain region, the Saiyan carrying a large tree over his head. Finally, the duo descended in a large wide-open area. “Ah, this looks like a good spot.”
“For what?”
Goku chuckled before answering. “Remember our training back with Master Roshi?” Krillin’s face turned to confusion while Goku explained his plan.
[A few minutes later]
“Okay, I see where you’re coming from Goku, but do you really think we’ll be able to build this thing in just a couple of days?”
“Maybe, if we just pull an all-nighter or something. Besides, it shouldn’t be too hard since we’ve done construction with Master Roshi before and I actually learned a thing or two about building from King Kai.”
“I’m not saying it’s impossible…but still, we’re gonna need a couple of tools, a bit more materials than JUST wood, and an empty capsule to get it back to your place once we’re done.”
“Oh no problem. I’ll just ask Bulma if I can borrow em’ from her.” Goku placed to fingers to his forehead.
“Wait Goku, didn’t Gohan say that he…!?”
FSSSH!
“Aaaaaaand…he’s gone.” Krillin sighed before glancing at the giant tree. “Oh well. Might as well get a head start. Especially since I can’t head back home yet either.” Raising his palm skyward, a circular shaped construct of light formed above the short officer’s hand.
[In West City]
An instantly recognizable blue-haired woman could be seen strolling out of an electronic parts shop, accompanied by a spectacled young man with spiky black hair.
“Well, this should be the last of it Gohan. Just need to install this chip and you’ll be good to go.”
“Thanks Bulma. I really appreciate it.”
“What kind of friend would I be if I couldn’t help my favorite scholar make a Valentine’s Day gift for his wife?” Bulma giggled.
“Does that mean you can help me out too?”
“GYAAAAGH!”
The pair shrieked as Goku spontaneously appeared before them. “Dad!?”
“Yo.”
“Dammit Goku! You’ve GOT to stop doing that!” Bulma chided.
“Sorry, but I just wanted to know if I could borrow a few tools and a capsule,” asked Goku.
“For what?”
“Wait…does this have anything to do with what you’re planning for Mom?” asked Gohan.
Goku cheekily wriggled his eyebrows. “Maaaybe…”
“Oh wow…you’re actually making a gift for Chi-Chi?”
“Yeah…though I don’t know if it’ll get done in just a couple of days. Still, I gotta do something.”
Bulma grinned. “Well, you’re in luck. We’re about to head back to my place now. I can get you what you need in no time.”
“Awesome! Thanks Bulma!”
The trio then proceeded on their way. During their stroll, Bulma asked, “Hey Goku, if you’re back on Earth…is Vegeta…?”
“Yeah. He said he should be at Capsule Corp already,” Goku replied.
An eager grin found itself on Bulma’s face, anticipation flooding her mind. Unbeknownst to the trio however, the subject of their conversation was currently heading opposite their direction, accompanied by his young son.
[]
“Okay, so I’ll head to Goten’s place to grab the berries, but we still need the chocolate,” Trunks stated.
“Remind me again, what you intend to do with that chocolate once we get it?” Vegeta snapped.
“Easy, we’re gonna melt it and dip the berries in it.”
Vegeta’s expression turned to one of surprised intrigue. “Fruit covered in chocolate?”
“Yeah, it’s the best…Sometimes at least cause not every fruit goes great with chocolate. I’m surprised you never tried it before. I’m sure Mom’s had a few at some of her big meetings before.”
Vegeta remained silent and stone faced as the two finally came across a fancy looking shop. Breaking his silence, Vegeta once again asked, “Now how much do you think we’ll need?”
“I guess that depends on how many berries we get…though knowing how Goku grows stuff, it’ll probably be a lot.”
“Don’t try any games with me boy. Remember this is for your mother,” Vegeta said sternly.
“Well duh, it was my idea.”
“Grggh!”
Trunks quickly clasped his mouth shut before giving an apologetic chuckle. “Still, who says we can’t grab a few for ourselves. Besides, if we have some left over, I’m sure Lord Beerus and Whis wouldn’t mind trying some out.”
Vegeta’s scowl turned into an amused chuckle. “You’re a crafty brat Trunks…but you make a good point. Come on, let’s hurry and get this over with. Your mother should be heading home right about now.”
[At Capsule Corp.]
“I don’t believe this!”
The father son duo watched cautiously as Bulma fiddled with a small device over a workbench, irritation evident in her voice. “He comes back to Earth after 4 months and he doesn’t even bother coming home! What is it with you Saiyans!?”
“Should we tell her?” whispered Goku.
“Better not. Vegeta may be pretty mad if we spoil whatever surprise he’s got.”
“What are you two whispering about?”
“Just…exchanging notes!” Gohan stammered.
“Hmph…whatever.”
Seeing this as his cue to leave, Goku placed two fingers on his forehead. “Well, I’m gonna head back since I still got work to do. Thanks again for the equipment Bulma.” He thanked.
“No problem. You can keep the Capsule if you want, but I’m gonna need those tools back.”
“I gotcha. See ya later!”
As Goku vanished, Gohan peered over Bulma’s shoulder. “So…how much longer.”
“No time at all. It’s finished!” she gleefully announced.
“That’s great!”
Packing the device into a small box, Bulma handed it to Gohan. “Here you go. I’m sure Videl will love it.”
“Thanks Bulma. I can hardly wait to give it to her!”
“You’re gonna have to Gohan. Remember, it’s still two days away.”
“I know…I’m just looking forward to her reaction.”
Bulma giggled at Gohan’s nigh childlike excitement. ‘Videl really lucked out with Gohan, didn’t she? Meanwhile, my husband is off doing Zen-Oh knows what…wait…am I allowed to say that!?’
[Elsewhere, in the forests of Mt. Paouzu]
Goku and Krillin were surrounded by various planks of wood, graciously carved up courtesy of Krillin’s signature technique, bags of concrete and a wealth of hammers. “Well, we got all the supplies we need. Now we just have to put it all together.”
Goku nodded. “You sure you’re up for this Krillin? Won’t Eighteen wonder where you are?”
“Ehhh, it’ll be fine. I’ve actually uh…been coming home later these past few weeks or so…” he admitted.
“Really? Why?”
“Let’s just say…it’s part of MY plan for Eighteen’s gift.”
“If you say so,” Goku shrugged.
The two old friends quickly began their makeshift project, arming themselves with tools in hand. Early into their construction, Goku turned his attention skyward, noticing a familiar small figure zipping away from the mountain.
‘Hey is that…Trunks?’ he pondered. ‘Guess now we know where he disappeared to.’
“Goku, focus! We don’t have a lot of time for this!” snapped Krillin.
“R-right!”
[]
Though Goku’s assumption was correct, what remained a mystery to the busy Saiyan was the young half-breed’s purpose for being in the area. That reason manifested itself as a basketful of strawberries.
‘You know… now that I think about it, maybe I should take a few of our ingredients and make something for Mai!’
[Meanwhile, at Capsule Corp]
Shortly after Gohan left and Bulma resigned herself to a much needed shower, upon exiting the bathroom, the scent of scorching cocoa filled the air.
‘Is that…chocolate?’ Dashing to the kitchen, the most unexpected sight ever filled Bulma’s eyes as Vegeta was standing before the stove with a pot full of what appeared to be melted chocolate.
“What exactly…is going on here?” asked a dumbstruck Bulma.
“Don’t get any ideas, this is for Lord Beerus,” Vegeta said sternly.
“Lord Beerus?”
Vegeta nodded. “I don’t know when Whis intends to return to Earth, but when that time comes, I want to be prepared.”
Bulma put a hand to her forehead and sighed. “Of course. Still, it makes sense I guess.” Bulma stared intently at Vegeta who was glaring impatiently at the heated pot. “Need any help?”
“Trunks is helping me with this. He left moments ago to grab some extra ingredient. Your assistance won’t be necessary.”
Bulma’s expression turned sour before she crossed her arms. “Well fine, since I’m apparently so useless, next time you can stay on Beerus’ planet for all I care!”
As Bulma stormed off, Vegeta glanced at her retreating form with a knowing smirk. ‘Trunks, this plan of yours better work.’