" Trunks left the hideout, and went back to the islands where they found the shedded skin. an eerie vibe washed over his spine but kept moving.
He moved the leafs away from the exotic plants. And there it was in plain sight.
Trunks looked at Cells shedded skin and not too far away something covered in moss was standing there.
Carefully Trunks came closer. He recognised the shape of the obscured object, "wait.. this can't be" Trunks said and dusted some dirt off and could read the words Hope! On it.
It's the time machine, but how? There was only resourced to build one.. or could it be that traveling to the past created a paradox where Cell stole the time machine?
That's what he was after, Cell wanted the time machine to breed hell on a populated Earth.
Trunks took some steps back, he felt awful that no matter what Cell has still managed to come here.
But why? Why did it come here? Trunks wondered.
Trunks let the machine inside its capsule, maybe it can be repaired to see what happened and from what time it traveled all the way to here.
Something didn't feel right, and felt awful about the idea that Cell managed to kill him in order to get the machine, there is no other way. Or hopefully his counterpart was still in the Hyperbolic timechamber.
He then took a flight, hoping to find more clues but then he picked up a strange Ki, Trunks was confused, it was a ki of multiple villains and.. his ki too.
But then it hit him, "Cell" Trunks narrowed his eyes in anger and followed it.
He promised Goku he won't fight Cell alone but right now he's the only one available who can stop him before he has the chance of becoming stronger.
In the desert he saw the silhouette of a bug like creature. Standing tall on the ground on some kind of stage.
"Son of a bitch" Trunks said as he observed Cell standing in the distance.
He landed close to Cell, "You" Trunks spoke, Cell was a lot different than the creature he faced. This one has more humanlike features.
"Trunks.. "
"Ah youre still alive in this Universe" Cell mocked.
Trunks narrowed his eyes in response, that comment didnt frighten him,
Hes way stronger now and Cell won't stand a chance,
"I came from a future where you androids terrorised the planet, but no more,"
"No matter how powerful you are,
"I won't let this Earth to be destroyed by assholes like you" Trunks said furious.
"You are not going to stop me!" Trunks Said unleashing a feriociois aura.
Cell wasn't impressed, according to his data on Trunks he's bluffing.
Trunkses eyes lit up with green rage and charged forward to attack
Cells smirk slightly faded when Trunks landed a fist against his jaw Cell attacked with his tail but Trunks grabbed it swinging him into the air and followed.
"Burn in hell!" Trunks shouted and fired a huge finishing buster on its way. It hit Cell and when the smoke cleared Trunks witnessed Cell regenerating right away.
"Shit" Trunks braced himself ready to continue,
"You have changed, Why won't you become part of me?
Part of perfection"
"Enough you freak!" Trunks beamed letting his muscles grow much bigger, but little did Trunks know his speed has decreased tremendously.
When Trunks charged Cell dodged him with ease, and received a counter attack sending him flying.
Trunks made a backflip to land on his feet just in time and Cell was already in front of him.
It was hard to keep up, they clashed hands and Trunks responded with a headbutt, And powered up even more he became bulky, he's much stronger than Cell now,
Trunks tried again to fire a buster canon but Cell won the beam struggle injuring Trunks. He didn't understand how could he lose to Cell again?
Why is his power failing him?
Cell mushy footsteps was heard coming closer.
Trunks tried to hit him but Cell already grabbed his arm before he could fire and dislocated his shoulder.
Trunks gritted his teeth as he breathed for air, "N..No." Trunks breathed.. this can't be the end..he regretted ignoring Gokus order but it's a lesson he learned too late.
"Tired?" That's too bad our fight has just begun" Cell smiled observing him like a spider watching his prey stuck in his web.
"Before I end you, there is one thing I need to know"
"How did you become so powerful in such a short while?"
"I'm not answering that," Trunks said spiteful.
"If you had more time would you have gotten stronger?" Cell asked. But Trunks remained quiet.
"Tell me," Cell ordered.
"Probably, Goku is still alive and he'll.."Before Trunks could say anything Cell came towards him within a second.
Holding an injured Trunks by his collar. raising a hand to give Trunks the final blow.
"Do it, Do whatever you like..You'll dig your grave even faster Goku is still going to kill you" Trunks said.
"Really,?" Cell chuckled.
"Well I'll tell him you've send him your regards" Cell said but Trunks has to fear, he just accepted death,
But then Trunks got kicked out of Cells deathgrip sending Trunks flying and fell on the ground.
When Trunks was pulled at a safe distance Vegeta aimed his final flash attack at Cell.
"So you must be Cell" Vegeta mentioned, his eyes darted towards Trunks direction who laid outcold and then focused on Cell.
"Vegeta..You're a lot different than the data that has been stored by my creator" Cell said,
"But It don't matter you're still not strong enough to defeat me"
"He's right" Vegeta thought, this creature is even stronger than my new form. Dreadful because of his inability to get rid of this create made him hate Kakarot even more.
Soon he will be saving the day like he always does,in order to stand a chance he needs to push harder.
"I honestly don't care what you have in plan for this dirtball
"I still going to fight you, and If you do have my cells then you know that a Saiyan becomes stronger after every struggle" Vegeta mentioned.
"Soon we'll fight, but first I want to find Goku before I waste my time on you" Cell mentioned.
"Why?.. Why did you came here?" Vegeta snapped.
"To do what my creator designed me for, to Kill Goku. You see I came from a timeline where he passed away," I had to find him so.. I stole the time machine..disposing of anyone who got in my way" Cell slithered.
Vegeta didn't want to stall anything any longer.
"The only one who gets to kill Kakarot is me," Vegeta powered up.
"As you wish, You saiyan species never back down from a fight, I can't help but admire that" Cell said.
Vegeta just smiled,
This is going to be one hell of a warm up.
-/-
Back in the timechamber Gohan observed Goku in the distance, he told him to stay back Incase it gets intense, he charged up, his muscles were bloating and Gohan watched on in awe, He's much stronger than Cell could ever be, Gohan never felt so sure.
Gohan hurried towards him, that was amazing.
" Dad you will be able to defeat Cell with such an enormous power like that" Gohan cheered.
"No..the Cell in my timeline will still have the upper hand" Goku Said serious.
"These large muscles will only slow me down" Goku Said.
"And with a faster creature I'll be good as dead" Goku Said disappointed.
Gohan wondered what he could do to make a change, If his father can't stop cell then he will have to force his father over the edge, there is no use going easy on him just because he wasn't transformed yet.
-/-
Cell defeated Vegeta as well, his pride is what had the most damage, He could have surpassed Cell in Strength but didn't want to make the same Mistake as Trunks did.
"I'm impressed I wonder what you are capable of when you have more time," It's a shame to killing you off now" Cell said.
"How about we do this again soon?,"
"What?" Vegeta mentioned.
"Let's play a game, you bring me the strongest fighters this planet has to offer, atleast you can die knowing that you gave everything you got" Cell smirked.
"Until then Vegeta" Cell mentioned and left him there.
"Hurry up!" Trunks could hear Vegeta speaking to him,
The pain in his body started to fade and his limbs became functional. Trunks opened his eyes and watched Vegeta closing a sensu bean bag.
"You? what happened? Where is Cell?" Trunks asked wary.
"He left.. you are such a disgrace boy, You couldn't even lay a hand on him" Vegeta snapped.
"You watched from a far getting my ass handed to me...were you eating popcorn too?" Trunks said very annoyed.
"Don't know you won't be able to defeat anyone moving around that slow? Those bulky muscles will slow you down and tires you much sooner than any power up"
"I thought you were smarter than that" Vegeta said.
"But How was I supposed to know? You never said a word to me, you never helped me with anything" Trunks snapped back.
"I did whatever I could to defeat Cell, but your obsession is more important to you than innocent lives, so don't you dare lecture me!" Trunks become fed up with this.
"Maybe you would have stand a chance if you finished the Year during our training. " Vegeta said.
"But you rather have your little feelings guarded than deal with pain and hardship alone... You're not a warrior nor a saiyan.. just a pampered baby" Vegeta mentioned disapppinted.
That did sting, he left the chance go by to fully master his power, he made a huge error,.
Trunks turned around to fly away,
"Oh and Cell will leave us alone for 10 days, to be able to fight us at the peak of our power before he destroys the Earth"
"So you better not make these kind of misktakes again" Vegeta warned.
Trunks bit his tongue in shame, not only has he ignored Goku's orders again but he also did very poorly against Cell, but he had learned a lot from this fight. Hopefully he can enter the Chamber with Goku to finish that year.
If it weren't for Vegeta he would have died, so maybe he's not a heartless prick after all.
-/-
Gohan got slammed to the wall, Goku noticed Gohan wasn't moving and checked up on him,
can't let you die father" Gohan muffed as his face still remained on the cold floor.
"Gohan?" Goku then stopped in his tracks when he felt his power rising much stronger than his future counterpart.
Electricity intensified and Gohan managed to get up, his eyes sparked maliciously.
"I'm not done yet" his hair raised as a golden aura inferno surrounded the atmosphere.
Gohan semi transformed but fell on his knees again,.
Goku carries an unconscious Gohan back to bed, he glanced over his shoulder to see if he's okay and continued walking. "You almost did it, Gohan was feverish without letting him know, and maybe he was seeing things, the pain of loss triggered that power within.
There is no other way,.
Goku was concerned about the future despite telling others not to worry, but now not so much, hopefully he will find a way to do it himself sparing Gohan all the trouble of going to the next level.
Goku got Gohan ready for bedrest, Gohan felt Goku placing a cold cloth on his forehead and brought him back to his senses.
"Dad" Gohan jolted up in bed, "I.. Don't know what happened I was seeing things"
Then he made eye contact.. "Dad you can't die, please don't do anything stupid" Gohan was being delirious.
"calm down, I'm here now" Goku said fatherly.
"I'll check up on you later but now it's time to rest." Goku said. he remained by Gohans bedside until he went quiet.
The chamber was consumed with fire licking the whole area, They have reached summer, but the worst was yet to come, Winter will be the final stage, with other words the chamber saves the best for last.
Gohan had a hard time keeping up, there were days where Goku trained alone because Gohan laid putcold again.
Gohan grew frustrated with himself but also his father, he feels like he's holding back because he's not a Supersaiyan yet.
"I'm not a weakling" Gohan snapped when Goku offered his hand to help him up.
Without assistance Gohan stood up himself.
"You can't treat me like a child anymore!" Gohan roared and assaulted his fathers face with punches.
"You don't want me to get hurt,but in reality you just don't want me to grow up!" Gohan said frustrated.
"Well I got news for you Father! I won't stop until you put up a good fight!" Gohan said and blasted a masenko towards Gokus chest, It hit him and Goku crashed to the ground.
Gohan freaked out and rushed towards him, "Dad I'm sorry!"
a large part of Gokus saiyan Armour fell apart including the blue fabric, revealing his injured skin "Dad"
Gokus eyes opened and Gohan could see a green iris spark ferociously.
Goku roared and let the super saiyan Aura spread through the atmosphere like a hurricane, Gohan flew inches away due to the impact of its power.
"That's the spirit" Gohan said But was low-key terrified. Knowing that he will get more than he has bargained for.
Gohan eyes grew big in shock when Goku cupped his hands charging for a super Kamehameha.
"Dad!" Gohan beamed shocked and reached his hands towards the sky to try and deflect it.
It was tough, Gohan felt his feet slipping, "No!..I can't!" Gohan cried and in a brief moment he was his short life pass before his eyes, His friends always had to help him..His Father always had to save him for starting fights he can't finish.
"He's the son of the most powerful warrior but haven't defeated one villain..but this time it will be different.
His pupils decreased feeling a burning fire that consumed his whole body and lost all control of his senses.
Goku moved out of the way as the Kamehameha got deflected and when Goku came closer behind the fog a golden light illuminated the area.
Gohans hair turned back to normal and collapsed like a sack of potatoes.
"Gohan?"
He heard his fathers voice far away but it became louder, warm hands held him up and knew everything is all right.
"You did it kiddo, I'm proud of you" Goku smiled and lifted him from the ground. .
Gohans vision blurred and only felt his father carrying him away from the blank atmosphere
Gohan didn't respond anymore and carefully he was brought to his own bed leaving his clothing on a chair, Then Goku proceeded to treat the bleeding gash and burn wounds.
with a tug Goku made the crack in his armour bigger letting it break to pieces.
Doing the same with the blue fabric.
The wound was alot bigger than he thought and had large bruise close to the injury.
He sat down in front of a candle and placed a needle in the fire.
The tip was held near his wounds mentally preparing himself to get literally stitched up.
"Here goes" Goku Said with reluctance.
"Aaarg"
-/-
When Goku was done getting stitched up he was ready to train alone.
Goku breathed out he channeled his supersaiyan strength, sweat trickled down vaporising as it felt on the hot ground.
He visiualised his fight against Cell as he trained by himself he could see it vividly, cupping his hands for a kamehameha attack infront of Cell while in Reality the wave disappeared into the nothingness of the time chamber.
He tried to turn into a Supersaiyan 2 himself during his solo sesion but no prevail.
Goku needed someone to push his limits, and regretted his decision to bring Gohan along, hes still no match for Goku's power and should have trained with Trunks first.
Goku ceased his aura letting his muscles go back to their natural size.
He moved around the corner of the bathroom but froze when he heard a faint voice calling out to him.
"Dad"
"yes? Goku responded.
it was quiet for a moment, Gohan didnt respond and Goku went to see whats up.
"Dad!" Gohan cried distraught.
"Gohan I'm here." Goku said.
Gohan was rocking slightly his sleep like hes having a nightmare, Goku shook him until he stopped moving.
"Gohan you are having a nightmare, just calm down I'm here"
Gohan heard his fathers voice more clear with each word and could escape
the horrid scenario.
Gohan was met with his fathers large eyes staring back caring and watchful.
"Hey Dad" Gohan smiled but tired. He lifted his head up from the pillow when he saw stitches across the chest area.
"I'm sorry.." Gohan said with a sigh moving his gaze towards the left corner of the ceiling a bit regretful.
"I'll be alright," Goku Said cupping his face turning it back to meet his gaze.
"You did great, You're finally a Supersaiyan and I couldn't be more proud" Goku Said almost going soppy.
Gohan didnt seem very happy, "Dad I hurt you" Gohan said.
"I got carried away" Gohan said sitting up and reached a hand towards it,
"I promise you im fine" Goku said assured,
"Come on, " Goku said and brought Gohan closer.
Gohan smiled and wrapped himself around Goku's back as they hugged.
Enjoying his fathers warm frame against his skin.
"You're feverish aswell" Gohan said wanting to let his father rest.
"No, Gohan you rest I'll continiue," Goku Said.
"Resting is just as important as training" Gohan added.
"We won't be able to help eachother our if we don't take our health seriously" Gohan said.
Goku smiled a bit reminiscing and cooperated.
"You know I used to tell you that all the time" Goku Said, happy But also saddened.
He looked over his shoulder a moment when Gohan came behind him to slide the blue tunic down to his waist and Goku removed the rest himself for an optimal bedrest.
"I'd love to see how I was though, In your timeline" Gohan said.
"I don't have a picture of your alternate self unfortunately, but I can maybe tell you about our time together and the things I taught him"
"If you want to that is" Goku Said With a swift toss of his clothing towards the chair. Goku always noticed slight discouragement when Trunks hints that he rather have his better version here to save this timeline.
"Yeah I want to know all about it" Gohan said happy while leaning against Gokus lap with his elbows looking up at his father attentively.
"You are a great warrior, Strong, like eating Training should happen daily in his book, and very resilient, Mainly because you embraced his Saiyan herritage and always wanted take the tough road to achieve something.
And that was before the androids attack, I always knew that he will follow my footsteps one day, No matter what your mother did, Your will could never be broken.
It was grounded like a mountain, the more you tell him he couldnt do something the more resistance he showed.
"I miss him dearly, But I'm also happy to be with you." Goku mentions.
Gohan still had his hands resting on Gokus lap, he clutched his hands in response.
Gohan smiled a bit saddened, "I'm happy that there is indeed a better version of me somewhere, If there are multiple universes I'm sure those counterparts are way better than I am"
"Hey look at me," Goku Said. "There is only one Gohan, and that's you"
"You will always become the person you destined to be, and I'll be proud of you" Goku Said smiling.
"Thank you, But I want to earn it.. when I feel better I want to train harder,
"You already did. You're already a Supersaiyan, youre working tremendously hard, You got the mindset I always wanted to see" Goku said.
"I hope when it's over you'll continue training no matter what" Goku said.
"Yes, Father"
"Great, now lets get something to eat" Goku Said happy, Gohan smiled, he couldn't say no to that, it's so strange that the food refills itself. If only there was something like at home"
-/-
It was silent in the chamber, the fire has calmed down now that it's nighttime.
Goku was resting on his side, they worked hard and couldn't continiue, as hard as it was, resting is just as important as training. The covers were to his waist and felt it slip down.
Goku turned a bit seeing Gohan climb on the mantras.
"What?" Goku asked sleepily,
"I can't sleep, had a nightmare" Gohan said wishing he didn't have to wake his Father up.
Goku was on his back still, eying Gohan a bit alarmed,
careful not to hurt his injured arm more Goku pribes himself up and made room for Gohan to lay down.
"Come here" Goku offered his shoulder to sleep on,and that's what Gohan did. He felt his father hold onto him around the waist as he continued resting.
Gohan changed from his spot preferring laying closer to him so that he can take a moment to sleep close to his heart.
Goku caressed his spikes and thought about Trunks for a moment, he does miss him,wishing they had more time to talk about things that recently happened,but atleast they reconcile.
-/-
morning came and the atmosphere started to change again, Goku's head throbbed looking outside into the nothingness.
he tensed and checked behind him if Gohan was still there and Thankfully he was,
He's so used to Trunks that he almost forgets that Gohan is very obedient while Trunks has difficulty listening, but Goku can be like that too. Both just want this to be over.
Rested asured Goku glanced over Gohan who was still out cold.
"Gohan wake up," Goku Said and hoisted him out of bed. Gohan said nothing but held on when Goku carried him.
Just laying like that against his shoulder feeling his fathers warm skin and the brief movement of his steps made him feel content.
He placed Gohan down when they reached to the bathroom door, "Let's have a cold shower" Goku offered.
"What? No!" Gohan protested and Goku smiled amused seeing Gohan snap back to reality.
"Hehe," Goku promised him that the water is warm And Gohan skipped after his father.
The steam increased and they lowered themselves into the bathtub.
Gohan splashed and rubbed water into his own face,the water was perfect.
After chatting about how they are going to beat cell Goku playfully squirted water in Gohans face, A flashback briefly passed before Gohan's eyes, they used to engage in a water splash war all the time.
Gohan threw water back at him, he truly missed this. It's so strange that simple moments makes him happiest the fullest, just being with his father. He's the type of person who doesn't burden you to entertain him, your positive presence is all he cares about,
"Oh Dad, I just can't live without you" Gohan thought, "You're my best friend in the world," You make mom so happy, you make your friend feel safe and you make me feel wanted, eventhough im weird,"
Goku was the first one to climb out, drying himself off and folded a Towel around Gohans waist, "Come on let's rest a little before we resume our training" Goku mentioned.
Gohan came closer while Goku watched over him,
Then he closed his eyes himself as peace was present in his soul, Gohans cheek was pressed against his father, nothing feels better than being loved by a strict but doting Dad.
Being strict doesn't mean you are vile, it means you don't want your kids dreams to be destroyed by laziness. But there also should be room for playing, And Goku does that often, responsibility and fun are both essential to enjoy life but also to build a secure future.
-/-
Goku was already awake but remained where he was since it's still early.
He looked to the side when Gohan crawled over him, landing on his feet towards the chair where their saiyan attire laid piled up.
"Morning" Goku smiled, "Where are you going?"
"Train, I'll stay where you can see me," Gohan said letting his dad know it's okay to sleep while he's by himself.
"It's still early" Goku Said as his body ached.
"I know," Gohan smiled making his way to the blank space. He laid foot on the white abyss of the endless space.
He looked back at where his father is sleeping, Goku just laid his head back on the pillow peacefully, a light smile still present on his snoozing features,he usually remains awake to make sure Gohan won't go any further but after a few days he's convinced that Gohan responsible beyond his years.
"He looks so peaceful just like when he passed away. " Gohans mouth parted slightly in shock as tears builds up in realisation
"Dad..."
he then turned around no wanting to waste energy on painful memories, His father passed away a long time ago, and all he can do now is to reach that Supersaiyan 2 level.
To keep his alternate counterpart from dying including all of his friends,
-/-
Gohan and Goku were almost ready to leave the time chamber.
"Love you dad" Gohan said and crawled under his arm for a close cuddle.
"Love you more" Goku Said.
"You seem a bit different, what's up?" Goku then asked.
"I still find it hard that when my world is safe that you have to leave" Gohan mentioned, even If there is a way to bring my own back"
"You're different than him, much stronger in character,.. a disciplinarian but also an adorable dad" Gohan mentioned.
"Well always be together right?" Gohan asked. "You and me protecting this Earth" that's something I've always wanted"
"I will.." Goku Said. "In here" and touched Gohans heart.
"Gohan.. one day you will have to move on without me, I don't have eternal life and I don't want to live forever, One day I want it all to be over and pass the torch to you" Goku mentioned.
He noticed Gohan growing distraught on the brink of tears.
"Oh Gohan," Goku Said bringing him on top of his knees, letting him sit while pushing his head against his shoulder.
"It's hard for me too" Goku mentioned as a tear traveled down. "But I promise, we will meet again when your time has come"
"One day you will have to prepare your children for your own death too" So that they can live independently but with your teaching as their guide in life" Goku Said tightening his hold. "And they will do it for their own, it's a part of life but that doesn't mean we can't be together in a different way"
"I will always be with you, no matter what" Goku Said
Gohan dried his face looking up, "I understand now" and managed to smile.
His dad cried too, it's the first time they cried together, Gohan always used to be the one to cry and he remained cheerful but comforting. But right now, Gohan has seen a different side.
"I love you," Gohan said wiping his fathers face comforting.
"I love you more"
Instead of training right away, they continued remaining in their presence, not wanting to let go of eachother for a moment.
-/-
Trunks looked up from where he was when he sensed Goku's Ki nearing. He stared at the door and the door handle moved,
And when Goku came out the first one waiting was Trunks.
Gohan smiled rushing towards Trunks he bended down on one knee reaching out as Gohan glomped him.
It has been a long year for them.
Goku smiled watching Trunks stand up and walked towards him to embrace as well.
"I'm glad you are okay, " Goku Said after Trunks pulled away. It's good to see Trunks in one piece.
"Yeah.. well things got a lot worse" Trunks admitted
"Everything turned into a hot mess" Trunks said. "But it wasn't my fault this time"
"When I was looking for clues how Cell stole the time machine he came looking for you" Trunks mentioned.
"He came all the way here to Kill you Goku-san" Trunks said wary. "And he's stronger than all of us"
Goku remained calm, he wasn't concerned at all,
"Trunks can I speak to you for a moment in private?" Goku asked.
"Yes," Trunks said, assuming he might get scolded for trying to fight Cell.
"Calm down I'm not going to scold you" Goku smiled a bit when Trunks hovered after him with a long face.
"I know it looks hopeless, but there is a way to beat Cell"
"Gohan hasn't reached Supersaiyan 2 yet but I can tell we are getting close"
" at the hyperbolic timechamber he almost transformed."
And just one little push and it's done"
"What do you mean?" Trunks asked fearing what might come next.
"Gohan transformed when he thought you died at the hands of Android 18" maybe If I fight cell first and beats me until the brink of death, that will be enough to..."
"What? No!" Trunks said not wanting to agree with this.
"This is absolutely insane!"
"Trunks.. Gohan is our only hope against Cell" I'm willing to sacrifice myself to secure this Earth"
"What about your friends?.. what about me? You're just going to expect that I'm just going to sit around and watch you getting tortured?"
"And here you are accusing me that I'm reckless countless of times!"
"I didn't try everything I could to guard you so that you could kill yourself! This is not what he planned!" "You're being unfair, we don't even know if it's going to work!" Trunks cried out.
Goku Said nothing, he just let him rant until he calmed down.
"Goku-san" Trunks said ashamed.
"It wasn't my intention to snap" Trunks said.
"I..just got scared, I'm worried about you, but I expressed it the wrong way" Trunks said.
"I don't want to lose you like Gohan, I don't want to see you die, When this is all over I want you and me to go back home, rebuild and be on each others side when there will be new dangers" Trunks said.
"Just.. promise me you won't do anything dumb" You're the only one I got" Trunks said heartfelt.
"That's not true, you have friends here" And I will rebuild our world alongside of of you..but you will have to defend the Earth without me one day.." Goku Said serious.
"I already had this chat with Gohan and as hard as It was, he understands that I won't be around forever nor do I want to do this forever"
"You're also a son of mine so I think it's only fair to have one with you too" Goku mentioned a bit saddened but proud.
Trunks tears up biting his lip slightly and nodded.
This will be the hardest battle ever, but right now he wants to enjoy every moment before the Cell games, atleast if everything fails, their spirits will live on in the afterlife.
"seeing you being born felt like I became a father for the second time" Goku thought and held a grief stricken Trunks by the shoulder.
-/-
The gang arrived at Mount Paozu, Gohan came up with the idea to fake plan a slumber party at Krillins house to cover up their training. She knows nothing about their plan to prepare for the Cell Games.
Goku didn't want to make lying into a habit and always taught Gohan to be truthful but there are lives at stake. Chi-Chi was never supportive of this but Goku doesn't want to leave Gohan out, he needs this to understand how important it is to take his place.
It was already late, and after a midnight shower Goku's senses calmed down,Gohan was jubilant when the water started to was nervous but hid his feelings as he played with Gohan in the water. Trunks just focused on the stars as he leaned against the edge of the tub.
"Gohan after this we'll hit the sack," Goku Said.
"I know, training" Gohan said resting his cheek against his shoulder.
"No I have something different in mind"
"Like?"
"Fun" like camping like we did when you were little"
"But what's more important? Training or camping!" Gohan lectured.
"You already know the answer to that" Goku Said.
"Camping, it's much better for you" Goku mentioned.
Gohan looked puzzled and his father explained that they will have a break from training for 2 days and will continue where they left off.
Gohan wasn't certain if it was a good idea but let it go from his mind. Maybe camping will make him think better.
-/-
Euphoric chirping of birds was heard through the window glass of Chi-Chi's bedroom, she had a hard time falling asleep the last few days, she didn't know where Goku went, but he promised he won't be gone long.
She turned on her back listening carefully to the sound of the forest, Chi-Chi felt happy for some reason and looked beside her, her face lit up seeing Goku laying next to her outcold.
his shoes and Gi shirts laid piled up on the ground but for once it didn't drive her irk,he's Always been a sloppy guy so that will never change.
"Hey" Chi-Chi whispered happy,and moved some bangs from his child like face.
and took a moment to admire his sleeping form,maybe CHi-Chi was imagining things but his body seems more broad, his plump muscles seems to have increased, its like looking at a sculpted artwork.
Chi-Chi didn't know what she had until Goku died from that terrible disease.
He couldn't speak anymore on his death bed,but when Chi-Chi said that she loved him,life gleemed in his sick eyes one last time,he squeezed her hand in acknowlegement and then he passed away quietly.
that's something she'll never forget,tears stinged in her eyes thinking back and managed to smile a bit sadly,
she paused caressing his scalp watching him breathe in and out.
Chi-Chi grabbed the bed sheet bringing it up higher to cover him up.
Chi-Chi Laid against his shoulder, Goku didn't respond when she placed her cold feet against him, poor thing must be exhausted.
Happy that he has returned home Chi-Chi took a moment to catch up on some rest, falling asleep within seconds.
-/-
Tired Goku watched himself in the mirror as he moved the toothbrush up and down, he didn't feel like getting up
"Hey" Goku smiled
"Hi" both of them said.
"I've made you breakfast," Chi-Chi said opening a lunchbox to keep the deliciousness warm," I wanted to wake you but you kept turning going back to sleep"
Goku clanged at the clock it was over 7 am, he never woke up that late. "Sorry" Goku smiled at her and came to her side.
"It's okay, you needed it" Chi-Chi spoke.
Where is Trunks?" Goku asked when the chair where he usually sits is empty.
"He left without a word again," Chi-Chi said, She wished Trunks would leave a note but he always comes back before breakfast or dinner so Chi-Chi just let it slide.
Goku didn't sense him anywhere near, he huffed wishing Trunks would knock it off, he never knows if he should worry about him or assume everything is fine since Trunks has the tendency to ignore everything you taught him. but atleast one of his sons let him know where he is at, It's better than nothing.
"Dearest dinner is almost ready" Chi-Chi said stepping a foot outside Goku and Gohan were sitting near the grass.
"Great" Goku Said. "Gohan get the bath ready so we can bathe before dinner" Goku Said and Gohan hurried to fetch water from the river.
Goku then took a flight up in the air moving towards the valley where hes in the centre of the atmosphere, then challenged his ki ability.
Goku is beginning to wonder where Trunks was, he couldn't sense him anywhere and he has been gone almost half a day. Trunks doesn't leave notes, he simply denied that idea as soon as he could think for himself, but he won't even give a heads up that he's going somewhere the next day. Goku always has the courtesy to let ppl know where to find him and Gohan hold that responsibility as well. Maybe he just have to accept it...
Goku opened his eyes when Trunkses Ki was present on the Earth and then it hit him, he must have been visiting the time chamber.
"I told him so many times to never enter the chamber alone," Goku Said out loud,
If he needs aid or gets lost in there then he'll be gone for eternally. It's like talking to a brick wall. Goku didn't face Trunks right away, he just waited until he decides to come back.
"Hey" Trunks greeted.
"Hi" Goku Said not very chipper.
"Oh Sorry I just took off.."
"It's not that, why did you enter the chamber alone?" Goku asked. "You could have been hurt with no one to aid you"
"I went back to finish the year in the time chamber. I only had a few months left in there" Trunks explained.
"I made the mistake in challenging Cell with a full power up, it slowed me down in the progress" Trunks said.
"But no more, I feel that I'm fit enough to stand a chance" Trunks said but Goku cut him off.
"Youre not strong enough, If I can't defeat him yet then how can you?" Goku asked.
"I know you mean well but I can't let you, not yet" Goku said.
Trunks felt discouraged, but is still longing for that rematch,
"I'll stay put until Cells tournament begins but you wont stop me from fighting Cell again" Trunks said.
" I know, And I don't plan on stopping you" Goku Said,
"But please be careful" Goku Said.
"You too" Trunks said, they both have hearts of warriors and will go far to protect the planet.
Trunks longs to set his world free more than ever, He misses his own home, and the bond he shared with Future Gohan,
There is no room for anything else, it's freeing the future or death.
-/-
It was Gohan's birthday and Trunks celebrated his on the same day. Instead of just a party Goku took his friends camping under the watchful eyes of the bright stars, there was ballads played and food served near the fire,
Goku wanted everyone to forget about Cell and just cherish the moments there are left. It was wonderful having everyone together.
Gohan spoke with Dende, it was lots of fun showing him Earth, he also wanted to make Dende feel at home as much as he can. Being a hero is hectic but there is no such thing as being too busy to see others. If you really want it you will find the time.
Trunks came towards Goku when he was chattering with the others, reliving good memories, it was so strange half of his friends used to fight against him, now they are with him.
" Goku-san.. Thank you for doing this" Trunks mentioned.
"You're welcome, Is something the matter?". Goku asked.
"No.. but we only have ten days, I feel guilty not training" Trunks mentioned.
"I get it," Goku mentioned, but we already got stronger and at this moment we reached our peak" and more training won't get us stronger it will only tire us out"
"But there is a level beyond, I..I wished I could reach that" Trunks said.
"Only when we our lowest point" Goku Said. "I will sacrifice myself to let that happen to Gohan, otherwise this whole world would be lost" Goku Said.
"I don't agree with that strategy, You are just going to make things worse" Trunks said distraught.
"I don't see any way out, and this is my fault, I could have destroyed Gero preventing all of this" Goku said..
Trunks then realised that hes acting out selfguilt. "Goku-san I understand that you want to take the fall but you are our best chance against Cell."
"And you can't jeopardise our chance to win just to make up for what you did wrong,
All we can do now is learn from our mistakes, You know the horrible consiquences of letting villains go and the only way to redeem ourselves is to never make the same mistake again, " Trunks argued. He doesnt know what else he can do to make Goku listen to him, this nonsense has to stop.
"I don't know what to do anymore" Goku mentioned.
"You do, You can start by teaching me Instant transmission if anything happens that technique wont be lost, second we need to find a different way to reach it.
"I don't believe it only happens through pain of loss, everything can be achieved if you train hard." Trunks said.
"I guess you are right,
"Care to join me for another trip to King Kais planet Soon?"
"Ofcourse.. "
"It will only be for a few days"
"There is something I want you to learn while there is still time," Goku Said.
"Instant Transmission" Trunks smiled.
"Yes"
-/-
Chi-Chi made Gohan leave for grocaries to buy her some time to place more presents in his room, She also left a few for Trunks, Like a good book for college. She couldn't wait dropping him off to University, He was like a second son to her and wants him to have a flourishing career.
after she was done she focused her attention on Goku.
She wanted to go out for a flight, and told Goku where to go,
"Goku-sa remember this area?" Chi-Chi asked.
"No, what about it?" Goku asked curious.
It's was when I found out I wanted to marry you," Chi-Chi said, "I'm so happy you are still here"
Goku then remembered that they flied on cloud nimbus and was surprised that she still remembers,
"Same dear, I screwed up the timeline but you are worth it" Goku Said.
"When you felt for training I was a bit saddened, but why did you come back so soon?" Chi-Chi asked.
"What do you mean?" Goku wondered.
" When you say you're going to train you leave for weeks" Chi-Chi said.
"I told you I went to the Hyperbolic time chamber, When you spend a year in there only one day has passed on Earth" Goku mentioned.
"Oh sorry, I misunderstood you" But the reason I brought you here is become I want to redo my vows as a wife,"
"I love you Goku-sa, and I want you to be happy in our marriage" I've been waiting for your return because I know that even death won't keep up apart" Chi-Chi said.
"From now on I'll shower you with love, Will you accept me?" Chi-Chi asked holding both hands.
it made Goku's orbs gloom in the moonlight,but they didn't fall,
he was moved by her kind words but that wasn't the reason he's on the brink of tears,it was because he blamed himself for her pain,all the destruction,Gero plotting revenge against him and making everyone pay,
He has to make everything right again and for once he didn't care that he's burdened with saving the world again,that's the least he deserves,
"I never lost hope seeing you again ,I couldn't because I can't picture myself being with anyone's else,"
"You're the only one I want to come home to" Goku said.
She gave him a watery smile,but this time happy tears appeared,she came closer to his face but he wiped her eyes with his palms before he leaned in as well.
"Chi-Chi I cant stay in this world" Goku said.
"But.." Chi-Chi stuttered.
"No no wait hear me out first" Goku said preventing her from crying.
"I want to offer you a chance to come with me" Goku said.
"Whenever you are ready" Goku mentioned, "But I have to go back.. I have my own world to protect"
"And Gohan? I can't leave him behind" Chi-Chi mentioned.
"I'll wait for you, when Gohan grows up and has a family of his own might be the right time to join me" Goku Said.
"I understand," Chi-Chi said as her eyes watered, "Thank you for being truthful.. But do you really want to wait for me that long?"
"Yes, You've always waited for me to come home from training,You've been loyal to me even after death, I can do the same for you, besides Gohan also lives in my universe and would love to see you again" Goku Said.
"Where is he now?" Chi-Chi asked.
Goku frowned a bit, " He died.." Goku Said.
"But I'm going to Namek, to wish everyone back who perished" Goku mentioned but Chi-Chi remained distraught hearing that.
"But Where was you when that happened?" Chi-Chi asked displeased.
"I was on the brink of death from the heart virus, I gave most of the antidote to him and Trunks to save them.."
"I told Gohan not to face the monsters alone, and I was unable to stop him" I still have to live with that horror"
Goku Said and prepared himself for backslash from Chi-Chi.
"Don't blame yourself Goku-sa," I'm saddened to hear that he died in your world, but blaming yourself won't keep our children safer" Chi-Chi said.
"But please, don't let it happen to him here, Protect Gohan for me..You're the only one who can" Chi-Chi tears up.
"I can't"
"Only he can do it" Goku Said lifting her chin up.
"Gohan has the potential to become stronger than me and a worthier Protector of the Earth that I will ever be"
"In order to protect our children we need to teach them to protect themselves, something can happen to me and he'll be vulnerable to everything, unable to defend himself" Goku explained.
"It's hard seeing my kid facing danger, but it will be harder for me seeing the Earth being destroyed with everyone on it because I didn't allow him to grow as a warrior" Chi-Chi dried her face.
"I've been wanting to tell you something for a while, but I feared I might regret it" Chi-Chi.
"What do you mean?" Goku wondered.
"My blessing" once you give it you can't take it back" Chi-Chi said.
" I want to give you my blessing to train Gohan as best as you can"
"I'm ready to let you train him but I don't want him to be exposed to unnecessary danger"
"Never," Goku Said.
"If you let me train him It will never get that far"
"I need you to Trust me, I know what I'm doing" Goku Said holding her hands.
" I will never let Gohan fight if he's not ready"
And Chi-Chi was convinced, She could see that Gohan is always in good hands with his father.
"I trust you, with my life" Chi-Chi said.
"You sure?"
Chi-Chi nodded in response,
"At times I feel you doubt me all the time, like I'm not able to look after Gohan" Goku Said.
"I used to think that way in the past, but no more, after you died I've learned to appreciate you, I disregarded you through our whole marriage and I'm sorry"
"Can we start over?" Chi-Chi asked. "I don't want to explain every time that I'm a different woman ,"
"Just leave the old me in the past and focus on now"?
"Ofcourse, Thank you Chi-Chi it means a lot" Goku smiled. He felt thrilled that he finally got her blessing, he can train Gohan without batteling for her approval.
For once in a long time Goku smiled happily at her. This is all he needed to hear, and couldn't wait to tell Gohan the great news.
"I have to get going, I only have 10 days left before Um.. Gohan goes to school, he won't have much time to train, " Goku Said.
"Then go" Chi-Chi smiled, amused at his odd behaviour.
"Right" Goku Said But Chi-Chi held on to his arm and Goku lowered to the ground again allowing her to kiss him.
-/-
"I finally got everything mom wanted" Gohan said placing the grocery bill inside the bag as he left the shop. He was looking for a spot where he can't be seen flying home.
Goku teleported with instant transmission a few feet away.
"Dad!" Gohan said happy coming to his side.
Goku smiled in return, "I just spoke to your mother.."
"And?".. Gohan said. Hoping she's not reverting to her old ways.
"She gave me her blessing.. I'm allowed to train you, we no longer have to do any special training behind her back in the future" Goku Said.
"Really?" Gohan blinked, " So.. I can peruse my dream to become world strongest and go university.."
"Oh Dad that's great!" Gohan was thrilled to hear that.
"But I prefer you focus on your studies at the moment, I want you to be accepted at your new school" Goku Said.
"Uh Dad are you feeling okay?" Gohan asked. Since when did his dad care about studying?
"Yeah I am, I just want you to be in good hands with yourself when I'm gone" Goku mentioned.
"Dad.. I'll miss you, I understand you have to go back soon, but can we not speak about that? I just want to be with you while it lasts" Gohan hung his head a little.
"I know, and I won't mention this to you no more," Goku Said regretful while he lowered to Gohans level.
" I will leave a time machine behind for you, If you ever need my help the most, you can find me." Goku Said.
"I love you Gohan and I can't leave you behind completely" Goku Said.
Gohan places the groceries on the ground and clomped his father. "Neither can I" Gohan said as happy tears surfaced.
It felt great that they don't have to say Goodbye forever after all.
A/N: I wasn't in the mood to write fight scenes. I hope you still like the chapter.
Take care and say healthy.
Oh and Happy Goku day!
Light Gaia