The ship's conference room gleamed. Holographic displays showed detailed schematics of Traden Prime's defensive systems while data scrolled across multiple screens.
Vegito stood at the head of the table, his presence filling the space as he outlined the mission parameters.
"The outpost's main vulnerability is in its orbital defense grid," he explained, manipulating the hologram to highlight a network of satellites.
"The tech is advanced - salvaged from Frieza's forces - but the local engineers don't have the expertise to properly integrate and maintain it."
Chima studied the display with analytical precision, her mind processing the information with remarkable speed. "I see the issue," she noted, reaching forward to adjust the hologram.
"They've tried to merge incompatible systems here and here. The power distribution is completely unbalanced."
Vegito nodded, impressed by her immediate grasp of the problem. "Exactly. Without proper calibration, the entire network could fail during an actual attack - or worse, misidentify friendly vessels as hostile."
"A significant security risk for a developing empire," Chima agreed, pulling up additional data on her tablet.
"Especially considering Traden Prime's strategic location near the former Cold Empire border."
They continued reviewing the technical aspects of the mission, their conversation flowing with natural ease.
The initial awkwardness that had marked their departure from Earth had faded, replaced by professional rapport that felt increasingly comfortable.
As they worked, Vegito found himself noticing small details about Chima - the precise way she organized information, how she unconsciously tucked her hair behind her ear when concentrating deeply, the elegant efficiency of her movements.
These observations registered in his mind without conscious effort, as natural as assessing an opponent's fighting style.
Except she wasn't an opponent.
"Your empire's expansion has been remarkably efficient," Chima commented, reviewing territorial maps.
"Seventeen former Frieza outposts brought under Paradis control in just three months, with minimal resistance. Impressive."
"Most welcomed the change," Vegito replied, his deep voice carrying a note of satisfaction. "Frieza's empire was built on fear. When offered protection without tyranny, most planets quickly aligned with Paradis."
"A testament to effective leadership," Chima observed with a small smile. "Though I imagine your power level made negotiations somewhat... expedited."
A hint of amusement crossed Vegito's face. "Being who I am does tend to streamline diplomatic discussions."
"I bet," Chima chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Nothing says 'sign here' quite like being able to destroy a solar system with your pinky finger."
Vegito's composed expression cracked into a genuine smile. "I've never actually tried using just my pinky. Perhaps I should add that to my training regimen."
Their shared laughter created a moment of connection beyond their professional exchange, eyes meeting across the table.
Chima broke the contact first, returning her attention to the displays. "The educational systems I've developed should integrate well with your governance model.
Knowledge distribution is critical for long-term stability - people need to understand not just how to operate technology, but why the systems work as they do."
"My thoughts exactly," Vegito agreed. "Dependency breeds vulnerability. True security comes from self-sufficiency."
"A surprisingly philosophical perspective for a warrior emperor," Chima noted, studying him with renewed interest.
Vegito's expression remained composed, though his tail shifted slightly against his waist. "I'm more than just muscle and energy blasts," he replied with subtle irony.
This drew a genuine laugh from Chima - a melodious sound that lit up her face. "As am I more than just brains and beauty," she acknowledged.
"Though sometimes people see only what they expect to see."
"That's putting it mildly," Vegito agreed. "I doubt the universe was prepared for either of us."
"Poor universe," Chima replied with mock sympathy. "Just when it thought it had seen everything."
The moment stretched between them, comfortable.
"We should arrive at Traden Prime in approximately fourteen hours," Vegito said finally, closing the holographic display with a gesture.
"I suggest we both rest before arrival. The local officials will expect a formal reception."
"Of course," Chima agreed, gathering her materials with efficient movements.
"Though I admit I'm curious - what exactly does an imperial reception entail in the Paradis Empire? Should I prepare for elaborate ceremonies?"
"Nothing excessive," Vegito assured her. "I've discouraged the more... grandiose traditions Frieza's forces implemented. Simple formality is sufficient."
"No gold-plated space thrones or interpretive dances celebrating your magnificence?" she teased. "How disappointing."
"I did keep the mandatory prostration and ritual chanting," Vegito deadpanned. "One must maintain some standards."
Chima's eyes widened momentarily before she caught the subtle twitch at the corner of his mouth. "You almost had me there," she admitted, shaking her head with a smile.
"For a second, I was picturing myself having to lead a chorus of 'All Hail Emperor Vegito' while waving ceremonial banners."
"Now there's an image," he replied, his eyes crinkling with amusement as they walked toward the door.
As they prepared to leave the conference room, a sudden alarm blared through the ship's communication system. Red warning lights flashed across the control panels.
Vegito was instantly alert, moving toward the command center with fluid speed. "Proximity alert," he explained tersely as Chima followed. "Something's approaching the ship."
In the command center, the main viewscreen displayed a small vessel rapidly gaining on their position. Its design was unfamiliar - sleek and predatory, with weapons arrays clearly visible along its hull.
"Pirates," Vegito assessed immediately, his warrior's instincts identifying the threat.
"This region has been plagued by remnants of Frieza's more rebellious forces. They prey on transport vessels."
"They're either very brave or very foolish to attack an imperial ship," Chima observed, taking the co-pilot's seat without hesitation.
"Likely unaware of who's aboard," Vegito replied, his fingers dancing across the controls as he assessed their options.
"The ship's imperial markings are subtle by design. We prefer not to advertise my movements unnecessarily."
The pirate vessel fired a warning shot across their bow - a clear demand to stop and prepare for boarding.
"Shall I open a communication channel?" Chima asked, already accessing the relevant systems.
Vegito considered for a moment. "Yes. Let's see what they want before deciding how to proceed."
The viewscreen flickered, revealing a reptilian humanoid with mottled green scales and predatory yellow eyes. The creature wore modified Frieza Force armor, its insignia defaced with crude markings.
"Imperial vessel," the pirate commander hissed, forked tongue flicking between sharp teeth. "Power down your engines and prepare to be boarded. Your cargo now belongs to the Free Corsairs."
Vegito's expression remained impassive, though a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes. "I'm afraid that won't be possible," he replied calmly.
"This vessel is under my personal protection. I suggest you withdraw immediately."
The pirate commander laughed, a harsh sound like grinding metal. "Your 'protection' means nothing out here, imperial dog. We are twenty elite warriors. Your small transport crew is no match-"
"There is no crew," Vegito interrupted, his voice taking on an edge of authority that seemed to resonate through the communication channel.
"Just myself and my associate. And I am Vegito, Emperor of Paradis."
The pirate's yellow eyes widened in sudden recognition and fear. "The... the one who... who-"
"The one who defeated Majin Buu and dismantled Frieza's empire," Vegito confirmed, his tone conversational despite the underlying steel. "The same."
Panic visibly spread across the pirate's reptilian features. "A... a thousand pardons, Lord Emperor! We had no idea - this was a terrible misunderstanding!"
"Indeed it was," Vegito agreed. "One you can rectify by departing immediately and spreading word that imperial vessels are not to be molested. Consider this your only warning.
For I now know who you are and what you look like, and believe me, there is not a single rock in Creation you can hide yourself from me. "
The pirate stiffened, his fear palpable from his expression - near on falling to tears, "Of course! Immediately! We-"
Vegito cut the transmission with a casual gesture. "They'll be gone within moments," he predicted, leaning back in his chair.
True to his assessment, the pirate vessel quickly reversed course, accelerating away from them at maximum speed.
"That was rather anticlimactic," Chima observed, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Your reputation clearly precedes you."
"An advantage of being who I am, what I have done and the rumours I made spread," Vegito acknowledged. "It prevents unnecessary conflicts."
"I think you missed your calling as an actor," Chima said, eyes sparkling with mischief. "That 'I am Vegito' delivery was positively theatrical. I half expected dramatic background music."
Vegito raised an eyebrow, but the corner of his mouth twitched upward. "Would you have preferred I added a cape flourish?"
"Absolutely," she nodded solemnly. "Every proper emperor needs dramatic cape work. It's in the handbook."
"I must have missed that chapter," he replied dryly, though his eyes were warm with amusement.
"Though I notice you were prepared to engage if needed," Chima added more seriously, gesturing to the subtle combat stance he had unconsciously adopted - balanced and ready despite his casual demeanor.
"Always," Vegito confirmed simply.
Chima studied him with thoughtful eyes. "You know, for someone of your power level, you show remarkable restraint.
You could have destroyed their vessel with a single energy blast, yet you chose words instead."
"Destruction is easy," Vegito replied, his gaze meeting hers. "Creation - building something lasting - that's the true challenge. Something I believe we both understand."
The moment between them deepened, recognition of their shared perspective creating a connection that transcended their professional collaboration.
"Yes," Chima agreed softly. "We do."
His eyes held hers a beat longer than necessary, something unspoken passing between them that made her heart beat just a little faster.
Hours later, as the ship continued its journey through hyperspace, Vegito stood alone in the training chamber.
The space was designed to withstand extraordinary power levels, reinforced with materials Bulma had developed specifically for Saiyan training needs.
He moved through a complex series of forms, his body flowing from stance to stance with perfect precision.
Each movement generated controlled energy that rippled through the chamber without causing damage - a testament to his mastery over his immense power.
His mind, however, was not fully focused on his training. Thoughts of Chima kept intruding - her insightful comments during their mission review, the graceful efficiency of her movements, the way her eyes lit up when she laughed at his unexpected dry jokes...
"Distractions are unacceptable," he muttered to himself, increasing the intensity of his training sequence.
His movements became faster, more powerful, golden energy beginning to flicker around his form as he approached Super Saiyan transformation.
"Is this a private session, or might I observe?"
Vegito turned to find Chima standing in the doorway, now dressed in comfortable training attire.
She had changed from her formal travel suit into something more practical - a fitted blue gi that looked both functional and flattering.
"You're welcome to join," Vegito replied, powering down the golden energy that had begun to manifest. "Though my training regimen is... intense."
"I may not have your strength," Chima acknowledged with a confident smile, "but I do possess considerable knowledge of martial arts and efficient movement.
I can hold my own in appropriate contexts."
"So you're saying I should go easy on you?" Vegito asked, the teasing note in his voice surprising even himself.
"I'm saying if you accidentally vaporize me, you'll have to explain to Bulma and Chi-Chi why I'm now cosmic dust," she retorted with a grin. "Not a conversation I'd want to have."
"Fair point," he conceded. "Perhaps a light sparring session? I can adjust my power level accordingly."
"I'd appreciate that," Chima agreed, moving to the center of the chamber with graceful confidence. "Being reduced to atoms would put a damper on our diplomatic mission."
She settled into a perfect fighting stance - her balance was flawless, her guard properly positioned.
Vegito mirrored her stance, suppressing his power to a level appropriate for human sparring. "Ready when you are."
What followed surprised him.
Chima moved with extraordinary precision, her attacks flowing in combinations that displayed perfect technical understanding.
While lacking his speed and strength, her movements were so efficiently executed that she made maximum use of her human capabilities.
Vegito blocked and countered with careful restraint, gradually increasing the challenge as he assessed her skill level. He found himself genuinely impressed - she fought with a style that was uniquely her own.
"Your form is excellent," he noted as they exchanged a rapid series of strikes and blocks. "Perfect balance between traditional technique and innovative adaptation."
"The benefit of extensive knowledge," Chima replied, executing a flawless spinning kick that Vegito easily avoided but nonetheless appreciated for its technical perfection.
"Though I admit, sparring with you is rather intimidating, even at reduced power."
"You hide it well," Vegito observed, genuine respect in his tone.
"I'm actually terrified," she admitted with a breathless laugh as she narrowly avoided his carefully controlled counter. "I'm just faking confidence really well."
"It's working," he assured her, finding her candor unexpectedly charming.
After several minutes, they ended the session by mutual agreement.
Chima was breathing harder but showed no signs of fatigue or strain - her conditioning was clearly excellent for a human.
"Thank you for accommodating my limitations," she said as they toweled off. "It's refreshing to practice with someone who understands proper control."
"Your skill deserves respect," Vegito replied simply. "You've clearly developed your own style that maximizes your strengths."
"Just as you have," Chima noted perceptively. "You fight like no one else I've ever seen."
Her observation was accurate - and more insightful than most would recognize. Vegito had indeed consciously worked to develop his own distinctive combat style.
"Few notice that distinction," he acknowledged, feeling a strange warmth at being so thoroughly understood.
"Few pay attention to the right details," Chima replied with a knowing smile. "Most people see only what they expect to see."
There it was again - that sense of shared understanding that no one else could truly comprehend.
The recognition created a momentary connection between them that transcended words.
"Would you care to join me for dinner?" Vegito asked suddenly, the invitation emerging before he had fully considered it.
"The ship's galley is well-stocked, and after training, proper nutrition is important."
"Are you offering to cook for me, Emperor?" Chima asked, her tone lightly teasing but her eyes warm with genuine interest.
"I am," he confirmed, surprising himself with how much he wanted her to accept. "Though I should warn you, my culinary skills are still developing."
"I'd like that," Chima agreed with a warm smile. "Though I should shower and change first. Shall we meet in the dining area in thirty minutes?"
"Perfect," Vegito nodded, already mentally reviewing the ship's food supplies and considering what might be appropriate to prepare.
As they parted ways, Vegito found himself experiencing an unfamiliar sensation - anticipation that had nothing to do with combat or imperial matters.
It was... pleasant, if somewhat disconcerting for someone accustomed to absolute self-control.
Perhaps this journey would provide opportunities for growth beyond mere power advancement - development in areas he had previously considered secondary to his primary purpose as a warrior and emperor.
The thought was both intriguing and slightly unsettling.
But then, growth always required stepping beyond comfortable boundaries.
Later, as they shared a meal Vegito had prepared with surprising skill, their conversation flowed naturally between professional topics and more personal observations.
"Very philosophical," Chima teased gently. "Though I suspect there's something more personal behind it - perhaps memories of watching Chi-Chi prepare meals for Goku, or Bulma's mother cooking for Vegeta?"
Vegito considered this, realizing she was partially correct. "Perhaps. Though I've found cooking provides an unexpected benefit - it requires focus on the present moment, a form of meditation that clears the mind."
"Balance between body and mind," Chima nodded appreciatively. "Something we both seem to value."
"Plus," he added with unexpected candor, "it's nice to create something that doesn't involve punching or energy blasts for a change."
Chima laughed, the sound warming something in his chest. "I completely understand. After a day of complex calculations and strategic planning, I find myself drawn to simple, tangible activities.
Sometimes I bake bread just to feel the dough in my hands."
"Creation in its most basic form," Vegito observed. "From raw ingredients to something nourishing."
"Exactly," she agreed, her eyes lighting up at his understanding.
"Though I once got so lost in thought during kneading that I accidentally made enough bread to feed the entire Capsule Corp staff for a week."
"What did you do with it all?" he asked, genuinely curious.
"Bulma suggested we donate it to a local shelter," Chima replied with a soft smile. "It actually led to a regular program where I bake for them twice a month now."
Vegito found himself captivated by this glimpse of her life beyond their professional interactions - the compassion that informed her actions even in small ways.
It added another layer to his growing appreciation of who she was.
"We arrive at Traden Prime tomorrow," Vegito said after a comfortable silence. "Are you prepared for your first experience of the Paradis Empire beyond theoretical knowledge?"
"Absolutely," Chima replied with confident enthusiasm. "Though I admit I'm curious - how do your subjects typically react to you? Do they see you primarily as a warrior, an emperor, or something else entirely?"
Vegito considered the question thoughtfully. "It varies. Some see only the power and respond with fear or awe.
Others recognize the vision behind the empire and respond to that. The most valuable administrators see both aspects and understand how they complement each other."
"And which perspective do you prefer?" Chima asked, her gaze perceptive.
"I don't seek personal validation," Vegito replied automatically, then paused, recognizing the deflection in his own response. After a moment, he continued more honestly.
"But those who understand that power without purpose is meaningless - they're the ones I value most."
Chima smiled, clearly appreciating his candor. "The perfect fusion of strength and vision - much like the being himself."
"You give me too much credit," he said quietly, feeling strangely vulnerable under her perceptive gaze.
"I don't think I do," she replied softly. "I see you, Vegito. Not just the power or the title, but you."
Something in her words touched him deeply - a recognition he hadn't realized he'd been seeking.
For a moment, his carefully maintained composure faltered, revealing a glimpse of genuine emotion.
"Thank you," he said simply, the words carrying more weight than their simplicity suggested.
Chima reached across the table, her hand briefly touching his - a gesture so unexpected that he found himself momentarily frozen.
The contact lasted only seconds, but it left a pleasant lingering warmth, that he almost had to force himself not to reach back.
"We should probably review the diplomatic protocols for tomorrow," she suggested, smoothly transitioning back to professional matters, though her eyes held a new warmth.
"Of course," Vegito agreed, grateful for her understanding of his need to regain equilibrium.
"Though I should warn you, the First Minister has a tendency toward extremely lengthy welcoming speeches."
"Worse than Hercule's victory celebrations?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Much worse," he confirmed with mock solemnity. "Bring emergency rations. We could be standing on that platform for hours."
"I'll pack some of Chi-Chi's energy bars," she promised with a laugh. "The ones that taste like cardboard but could sustain a Saiyan through three days of combat."
"A wise precaution," he nodded, enjoying the easy banter that had developed between them.
As they continued their meal, Vegito found himself more relaxed than he could remember being since his new life.
With Chima, he didn't need to be only the Ultimate Warrior or the Emperor of Paradis, or the fusion of Goku and Vegeta - he could simply be Vegito. Himself.
It was, he realized, a gift he hadn't known he needed.
"To Traden Prime," Chima proposed, raising her glass in a small toast. "And new discoveries."
"To new discoveries," Vegito echoed, touching his glass to hers, his eyes conveying more than his words.
The journey to Traden Prime continued through the night cycle, the ship's systems maintaining perfect course while its two passengers prepared for their arrival.
Each found their thoughts repeatedly turning to the other, despite attempts to focus on the mission ahead.
Morning found them on the bridge as the ship emerged from hyperspace, revealing their destination.
Traden Prime hung in the viewport - a world of deep blues and vibrant greens, with sprawling cities visible even from orbit.
The planet had once been a significant outpost in Frieza's empire, its strategic location making it valuable for controlling surrounding systems.
Now it served as a cornerstone of the fledgling Paradis Empire, its resources directed toward protection rather than exploitation.
"It's beautiful," Chima observed, studying the planet with genuine appreciation. "The atmospheric composition creates that distinctive blue hue - higher oxygen content than Earth, if I'm not mistaken."
"Correct," Vegito confirmed, impressed by her immediate scientific assessment. "The gravity is slightly higher as well - 1.3 times Earth normal.
Comfortable for Saiyans, though some humans find it challenging initially."
"I'll manage," Chima assured him confidently.
"Just stay close to me if you start feeling the effects," Vegito said, a protective note entering his voice that surprised them both.
"Why, Emperor," Chima replied with a teasing smile that didn't quite hide the genuine emotion in her eyes, "one might almost think you're concerned for my welfare."
"The success of the mission depends on your full capabilities," he stated formally, though the slight color rising to his cheeks betrayed him.
"Of course," she agreed, her smile softening. "Purely professional concern."
"Entirely," he confirmed, though neither of them believed it anymore.
As their ship descended toward the capital city, orbital defense platforms tracked their approach.
Unlike their encounter with the pirates, these systems immediately recognized the imperial vessel, green confirmation lights blinking across the command console.
"The defense grid is at least partially functional," Vegito noted with approval. "Though the integration issues remain."
"Something we'll address during our stay," Chima agreed, already analyzing the technical data flowing across her screen.
The ship settled onto a landing platform adjacent to a massive structure that combined elements of Frieza's architectural style with newer, less oppressive modifications.
Imperial guards in the distinctive blue and gold of Paradis formed an honor guard, standing at attention as the ship's ramp extended.
"Ready to make your first official appearance as an imperial advisor?" Vegito asked, adjusting his formal armor.
Chima smoothed her elegant blue diplomatic attire, her posture perfect and confident. "Absolutely." She paused, then added with a mischievous smile, "Should I practice my 'All Hail Emperor Vegito' chant one more time?"
"Save it for the formal banquet," he replied with a straight face, though his eyes danced with amusement. "Along with the interpretive dance."
They looked at each other for a moment with mock seriousness, silently until they both burst into laughter.
-----------------------------------
(Author note: Hello everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the chapter!
Do tell me how you found it.
I'm trying to make things feel natural, so do tell me if that is working or not.
So yeah, i hope to see you all later,
Bye!)