Strength of Family
Chapter 2 is up! Sorry about the long delay. With everything going on, it's hard to write.
Thanks for all the reviews guys! Keep them coming! Please?
Now we get to see how Goku, Gohan and Goten handle things without Chichi. You'll just have to read to fine out. Hehehe.
This chapter is shorter then that last. Some maybe long while others are short. Just how the brains works I guess.
Don't forget to read Strength of Family: A Christmas Wish. A Christmas story that takes place further down the road. I suggest read it after this. There are some spoilers that are mention and one deals with this chapter.
So enjoy and don't forget to review!!!!!!!!
Oh, yeah, almost forgot. I DON'T OWN DBZ!!!!!!!!!!
Chapter 2 Moving On
The evening air had turned chilly. A small wake was being held at the Son house. It was Bulma's idea. Almost everyone at the funeral was there. The Z gang became worried after Goku's collapsed at the cemetery. None have ever seen him cry before. They wanted to help as must as possible.
Once they arrived back at the house, Goku dried the tears so no one else would see them. He had tried to put on his usually grin, but he couldn't do it. He didn't feel like smiling. It was okay for Gohan to show tears. He had lost a parent.
During the first hour, Goku was holding Goten, afraid if he let go, something would happen to his son. Bulma practically had to pry Goten from his arms. The baby was starting to fuss and wanted food. The Z gang kept an eye on Goku. Vetega warned them about the shock and depression the younger Saiyan was in. The Saiyan prince wasn't sure what Goku would do. He already collapsed.
"Mr. Son."
Goku turned to the sound of his name. Standing behind him was Gohan's teacher and principle. The two have been every supportive ever since word of Chichi's illness was released. Mrs. Yuska had told Goku that Gohan could stay home as long as he is needed. And that she would be happy to tutor him if necessary.
"Thank you for coming." said Goku.
"Chichi is going to be missed. The PTA won't be the same without her. She was so looking forward to Christmas." Mrs. Yuska stated.
"I know. She had some wonderful ideas for the kids. Her favorite was the play." exclaimed Goku.
"The school board, the faculty and the staff wants to do something to honor Chichi. Even though being sick, she still helped out. She was strong, thoughtful, caring woman. And the PTA would like to offer her position to you, Goku. If you want it."
Goku was taken aback. He had thought they would replace Chichi. He was grateful. He'll take over something that was special to Chichi. "Thank you. I accept."
The principle, Mr. Cambs, smiled. "Great. We'll talk later. Goku, if you need anything, just ask. I know how it feels to lose a loved one. I lost my wife and daughter to cancer, early in our marriage. So if you want someone to talk to, feel free to call me."
"Thank you."
Mrs. Yuska and Mr. Cambs walked away. Goku just stood there, thinking. He was honored to take over Chichi's position. He had gone to some of the PTA meetings. So he has a fare idea what to do. He was going to miss his wife very much. He doesn't know what to do without her.
A baby's cry jolted him out of his thoughts. He turned to see where the crying was coming from. Goten. Goten was crying and fussing. Gohan was having trouble holding him. Goku walked over to his sons. By now, everyone was watching.
"He was fine and then all of a sudden," Gohan explained as he handed his father the baby.
Goten quieted down once he was in Goku's arms. "He missed his daddy, that's all." Before he finished the sentence, Goten was fast asleep.
"I think Goten sense something is wrong." Yamcha said stepping up to Gohan.
"And he doesn't know what's going on." Tien added. "How are you holding up?"
"Okay." Answered the demi-Saiyan.
"You'll heal in time. The pain will be there. But it won't be this bad." Stated the bald headed man.
"I know. I'm just worried about dad is all."
"Your dad will be fine. Before you know it, he'll be laughing and smiling." Added Yamcha.
"Don't' forget, you have us for support and to lean on during the bad times." Videl stated.
Gohan gave a weak smile at his girlfriend. Just a few feet away, Vegeta was listening to their conversation. He wasn't paying attention to what Hercule was saying. The Saiyan prince, too, was worried about Goku. Losing a loved one was hard for a Saiyan. Especially when there is a bond present. He hopes the other Saiyan can get through his grief. If not, he and Bulma would most likely be taking in two brothers. And no doubts Gohan would be unable to handle losing his dad right now. That's why Vegeta, Saiyan prince, was going to make sure Goku heals and not go insane or dies.
After tucking his youngest son in his crib, Goku stood there, watching him sleep. Tears threaten to escape at the thought that Goten would never get to meet his mother nor taste her wonderful cooking, comfort him when he's upset or scared or be hit over the head with the frying pan. Chichi was going to miss out on their youngest son's life. And Gohan's life as well.
There was so much more to say and do. He was planning on surprising Chichi with teaching her how to fly. But then they learned about Goten. Goku put off the flight training until after Goten was born and then after the cancer was gone. But when he learned Chichi was going to die, his plans crashed down around him. It was hard to wake up in the mornings, knowing Chichi could die at any moment. The Sons spend every minute of the day as if it was their last. Chichi had put on a brave face. Only Goku, the Ox King and Gohan saw the tears.
Goku and Chichi had decided to wait until the cancer was gone before trying to have more kids. They so much wanted a little girl. But their dreams of a big family were gone.
Leaning down, Goku kissed Goten lightly on the forehead. Quietly, he left the room. Sure it was going to be hard raising a baby alone. But he's been taking care of Goten since he was born. Since Chichi couldn't help, it was up to Goku. The only difference this time is that no one will be there to help if he ran into trouble. When Gohan was born, he didn't know how to take care of a baby, much less hold one. But Chichi taught him everything he would need to know.
Walking down the stairs, Goku could hear the people talking. He didn't really want to face those people. Why did you have to have all those people over, Bulma? He wondered from time to time. He didn't like the idea when Bulma first mentioned it. He kept saying no. It was Vegeta who told Goku there will be a get-together and if he didn't like it, tough.
Standing on the bottom of the stairs, Goku looked around the room. There were people there that he haven't seen in years. He noticed that Vegeta and Piccolo were watching him and he know why.
"When a Saiyan loses their mate, the surviving member will go into shock and depression. The survivor would sometimes go insane and eventually kill him or herself. Or just commit suicide so they could be with their mate." Vegeta had explained
All his friends and family were worried about him. That is why he was never alone too often. They didn't want him doing something stupid.
He couldn't stand any more people telling him how sorry they were and such. He couldn't take it anymore. He had to get out of there and be alone for awhile. Masking his ki, Goku quietly snuck out the front door. The Saiyan was hoping no one had seen. He was wrong. Hercule had seen him leave and wondered where he went to. After a few minutes, when Goku haven't returned, the man decided to go check on him.
The sun had gone down sometime ago and the evening air got colder. It didn't matter to Goku. He couldn't feel it anyhow. His body was still numb and cold. He didn't want to be doing this. He and Chichi would be snuggled together, watching a movie. Goten would be sound asleep in his crib and Gohan would either be in his room talking to Videl or on a date. Instead, they were mourning her death. Life wasn't fair. Gohan was right when he had said it wasn't fair. They have saved the planet and the universe how many times? And this is their reward? Taking Chichi away from them?
What does he want? Goku asked himself.
He felt Hercule approaching. He didn't want to talk to anyone right now.
"Goku, everything alright?" Hercule asked as he approached the tree Goku was leaning on.
"I just want to be alone for a few minutes." Goku answered in an emotionless voice.
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah."
"Okay. Is there anything I can do?" asked the World Champ.
"No."
"Well, if you need something, just ask."
"I will."
Hercule turned and started walking away. He knew what Goku was going through, the pain and lose. He had lost his wife several years ago. As he was walking back to the house, he saw Vegeta heading towards him. He guest the Saiyan prince was looking for Goku. As they were passing each other, Hercule grabbed his arm, stopping him.
"Leave him be. He wants to be alone." stated Hercule.
"He needs to snap out of this." Vegeta hissed.
"Vegeta, he just buried his wife today."
"He can also kill himself."
Understanding where Vegeta was going, Hercule let go. Without a word, the human walked away. Turning, Vegeta continue walking. He crossed his arms as he got closer.
"What the hell are you doing, Kakarot?"
"Leave me be, Vegeta." Goku stated when the Saiyan prince stopped in front of him.
"Why should I?" There was no answer. "Everyone is starting to wonder where you're at. Gohan's looking for you."
"I needed to get out of there. I couldn't stand being in there any longer. It feels like everyone is rubbing it in that Chichi is gone. And it's making it worse. This feeling is getting stronger. I feel like. . . giving up."
Giving Up? He was afraid of this. Goku was starting to get the thoughts of committing suicide. Not a good sign at all. Vegeta had to do something quick. Growing, the Saiyan prince punched Goku in the stomach.
Doubling over in pain, Goku looked up at his friend. "What the hell was that for?'
"Trying to knock some sense into you. Yes, you're hurting and you're in shock and depressed. But you have a responsibility to your boys. Gohan and Goten needs you more now then ever. And I don't think Gohan would handle losing you as well. And I don't want to see that boy in that kind of misery.
"Since when did you start to care about Gohan?"
"Ever since Namek. How, I don't know, but that boy found his way into my heart. Not to many people can do that. Bulma and Trunks are the others that fit in that category. I will not let you kill yourself. You kill yourself, the boys have no one. And I be damned if I take Gohan and Goten in because you were depressed and wanted to be with your mate. Sure if you die in battle or killed another way, then I'll take them in. Do you understand?" Vegeta argued.
Goku just started up at Vegeta, still hunched over. What the other man was saying, was finally getting through his head. It only took for someone to knock some sense into him. If Goku killed himself now, Gohan would not handle it well. And Goku didn't want to put his son through that. The boy had just lost one parent. He doesn't need to lose another.
"How can I make this feeling go away?" Goku asked.
"It's going to be hard. But you can do it. Get up everyday and keep going. Move on. That's the only solution." Vegeta answered. "It's not going to be easy."
"Is this something that I have to do on my own?"
"No. You have the boys, me, Bulma, and all the others. We're here for you and the boys."
"Thank you, Vetega. You're a good friend."
Goku stood back up. "I always thought Chichi would be there. I miss her terribly."
"Everyone will. You're son's looking for you." Together, the two Saiyans headed back to the house. When they walked in, Goku saw a sight that he, just ten minutes ago, would have left behind. His son hurried over to him. There is no way he could leave his boys.
"Dad, where were you?" asked the son.
"Outside. Is everything okay?"
"People were asking for you. And I didn't know how to answer them." explained Gohan.
"I'm here now." Goku laid a hand on his shoulder. "Everything's going to be okay."
"Goku."
Goku turned to his father-in-law. Standing beside the large man was one of the villagers. The man was like the major of the village. He was second in charge after the Ox King. There was something about the man Goku never liked.
"Goku, I'm terribly sorry. When we heard about Chichi's death, the whole village. . . all we could think about was you and the boys. She was a sweet person. We ant to do something to honor her. We're holding a memorial service tomorrow. We would like you and the boys to come. If you don't want to, we'll understand." the man, Horoski, said.
Goku looked down at Gohan. "We'll be there." he said, not looking up from his son.
Horoski glanced down at the boy. He felt sorry for him. "How are you holding up, Gohan? Helping your dad out?"
"Yes, sir." Gohan answered.
Horoski bent down in front of him. "You're a brave boy. You make your dad very proud of you." He stood up to face Goku. "Again, I'm sorry. I must be going. There's a lot that still needs to be done for tomorrow. I'll see you then." Shaking hands with Goku and quickly saying good-bye with the Ox King, and left.
Slowly, the guests started to leave. All that remained was the Z gang. They helped clean up and to straighten up. Goten had awakened and was demanding food. Launch, who had somehow switched to the quite, nice Launch, was going to go get him when Goku stopped her. He would get his son. He can't relay on someone else being around all the time.
"Videl, it's getting late. We should be going." Hercule told his daughter, waking her.
It was going on twelve-eighteen and the gang was still there. Two hours ago, Gohan, Videl and Tention had gone to Gohan's room. The three friends just sat there, talking. But they fell asleep only an hour later. Gohan had his arms wrapped around his girlfriend. The two were snuggled together. Tention was sleeping in the same spot where he sat on the floor.
Goku, Hercule and Tien had gone to check up on their kids. When they walked into the room, they couldn't but smile at the sight before them. All three gave each other knowing looks when they saw the position Gohan and Videl were in. The parents hated to wake them. Especially Gohan.
"Tention, wake up. It's time to leave." Tien said.
"Sugar plum, get up."
A moan came from the three kids. Slowly, they opened their eyes. As one, they sat up, blinking at their fathers.
"It's time to go." Tien said.
"But I don't want to go." Tention whined.
"You can talk to Gohan and Videl tomorrow. It's time for Gohan to go to bed anyway. Just like you and Videl." started Tien.
"You heard him, sweetie." Hercule said, helping his daughter to stand.
"I'll call when I get home tomorrow." Gohan told his friends.
Tention hugged Gohan good-bye. Videl kissed her boyfriend before leaving the room. After they left, Gohan just sat there on his bed, staring off into space.
In the living room, the Z gang was gathering their coats to leave. Vegeta had an annoying look on his face. But when he glanced down at the sleeping form of his son in his arms, the annoying look vanished and a small smile appeared.
"Now, Goku, call us if you need anything." Krillin stated, giving his best friend a hug.
"I will."
"You sure you don't want someone to stay?" asked Yamcha.
"I'm sure. Thank you for everything. I wasn't sure if I could have made it through this." Goku announced.
"Just remember what I told you, Kakarot." Vegeta exclaimed.
"I will."
The gang said their good-byes. The only one left was the Ox King. It took some persuasion to get the large man to leave. Once he left, Goku made Gohan go to bed. The demi-Saiyan didn't want to but as he walked, his eyes wanted to close. Since there was nothing else that needed to be straightened or cleaned, Goku headed off to bed.
It was sometime around two in the morning that a light rain began. The rain made small thud sounds when it hit the window. There was no moonlight because of the rain clouds. Goku laid awake, hands behind his head, staring up at the shadows on the ceiling. He couldn't sleep. Too much was running through his head. Everything Vegeta had told him about killing himself, wouldn't stop repeating itself over and over again. The Saiyan prince was right. He couldn't leave his boys, no matter how much it hurts. And he didn't want Gohan to go through hell if he died. The only person he would have left was Goten. But Vegeta assured him he would pull through.
Goku wasn't looking forward towards tomorrow. The villagers were holding a memorial for Chichi. Sure Goku and Gohan could have said no. But they thought it would be appropriate. But there was a nagging feeling about all this. Goku had the suspicion that Horoski wasn't saying everything. That was a worry for another day.
Chichi was so forward looking towards seeing her sons grow up. She wanted so much for Gohan to graduate from school, become a scholar, settle down with Videl and have lots of children. As for Goten, she wanted the same thing. Get good grade, a good job and have a family. Chichi already started planning Gohan and Videl's wedding. It was going to be held at the Ox King's castle so the whole village could attend. The color scheme was peach with peach roses, outside with an orchestra playing. She even started working on a baby blanket for them. But now she won't get to finish it.
Goku.King Kai's voice suddenly echoed through the Saiyan's head.
Yes, King Kai?
I was able to pull some strings to let Chichi keep her body and was able to bring her to my planet. She'll be fine. I'll keep an eye on her until you come over.replied King Kai.
Thank you.stated Goku.
She's right here. Do you want to speak to her?
Goku was quite. He knew what would happen if he spoke to Chichi. He doesn't think he could stand it. No. I don't think I could stand it. Tell her I love her very much and will miss her.
She loves you, too and will miss you and the boys.said the Kai.
The link was terminated and the room became quite again. Gohan's question kept running in his mind. Why did this have to happen? Goku was wondering the same thing himself.
His mind wondered back to the day he arrived home from Yardrat. He was so excited to see Gohan. On the way home, Gohan told him what happened while he was away. Goku was so proud of his wife for what she did to the tutor. When he arrived home, Chichi burst out into tears of joy. He was happy to be home. He missed his family very much.
A baby's cry interrupted his memories. It took a few seconds for his brain to register where the cry was coming from. Goten. His youngest son needed him. Slowly, Goku sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed. He looked over at the emptied said of the bed. Sighing, he got up.
When he walked into Goten's room, he found Gohan standing be the crib, holding a crying Goten.
"What are you doing up?" Goku asked.
"Couldn't sleep. I heard him crying." answered the boy.
Goku took Goten from him. He walked around the room, bouncing the baby to calm him. Gohan watched his father. The young man was amazed at how much his father had changed since fighting Cell. It was like a totally different person now. He knew his mom taught Goku what he'll need to know to raise the boys. It took only ten minutes for Goten to calm down.
"I don't think he's hungry or wet." stated Gohan.
"I think he just had a nightmare."
"Must have been when Vegeta held him." the son joked.
"That's not nice."
"Trunks use to cry when he held him or looked at him."
"That's true." Goku looked down at his son to see two, charcoal, black eyes staring up at him. "You're okay now." Goten smiled. "Why don't you go back to bed, Gohan."
"Can't sleep."
Goku walked out of the room and back to his. Gohan followed. The two sat on the bed, Goku still holding Goten.
"I still can't believe mom's gone. I always thought she would be around." said Gohan, sadly.
"I know. I wish now I would have staid home more often. Trained not so much." replied Goku.
"Mom knew we had to train for the Androids and Cell. Hell, she even started training again, just in case."
"She did? When?"
"When ever you and Piccolo were off training and I was doing schoolwork. I would hear her outside. A couple of times, we trained together. She wanted to surprise you." answered the boy.
"Your mom was always full of surprised. On our one year anniversary, she gave me a small box. Inside was the four star Dragonball. I was thrilled. She found grandpa's Dragonball. She didn't say where she found it. She then had another surprise for me. She handed me a card. Inside it read Happy Anniversary, Daddy. That's how I learned about you. She had me really worried too."
"How so?"
"Couple of days before, your mom was sick. I finally got her to the doctors. Doctor Chew ran some tests. We had to wait for the results. The day before, the doctor called. Your mom wouldn't tell me the results. The only thing she said was that she was heading out. All that day and the following day, I was going crazy. I didn't know if she was going to be fine or worse.
"I learned a year ago that Yamcha found the Dragonball and gave it to Chichi. He knew it was grandpa's and thought I would like it back. I was out fishing when he came. Your mother never told me."
"I've always wondered why mom never liked everyone."
"A bad influence. You forget she didn't want us to fight. But she finally realized that fighting was in our blood. Everything changed when we found out about you. We use to train together all the time. Your life changes when you have a kid. Remember that. If you and Videl decides to have sex, use protection."
"Dad!" Gohan rolled his eyes. "We're only twelve."
"That doesn't matter, son. I heard it on a program on TV, that kids are having sex at a younger age now. It said there are some who are eleven years old and having sex. A girl in West Virginia, gotten pregnant when she was ten. Your mom and I got married when we were sixteen. It would have been earlier if she had her way."
"That doesn't mean we're going to go right out and have sex."
"Gohan, I don't want to see you and Videl do something you'll regret later. Do you want to become a father while still in school? And have to drop out to support you, Videl and a baby?"
"No."
"Be careful then. I have a feeling we'll be having this conversation again. But promise me one thing, before you do have sex, come to me. There's some things you'll have to know."
"You mean the birds and the bees talk? Dad, I already know about that stuff. Mom made me learn it. I know everything about sex and babies." stated the demi-Saiyan.
"Not about mating."
"Mating?"
"Yes, mating. Saiyans are different when it comes to sex and marriage. Vegeta explained everything to me. We'll talk about that when you're older." the father answered.
"Why not now?"
"It'll just get you confused. Trust me, we'll talk about it later, when you're older."
Goku noticed that Goten had fallen asleep. He laid the child down on the bed beside his pillow. The father told his oldest to watch the baby while he go and grab the baby blanket. Gohan laid down on his side, beside the child. He watched his baby brother sleep. There was so much he wanted to do and teach him. Gohan's eyelids started to feel heavy. He struggled to keep them open. Goku came back in, carrying the blanket to fine both boys sleeping. He couldn't help but smile at the sight. Covering Goten, He gave each boy a kiss on the forehead before claming into bed. Shortly, Goku, himself, fell into a restless sleep.
The morning sun filtered into the room. A group of birds were chirping outside. The smell of bacon filled Gohan's nostrils. His eyelids snapped opened. The first thought that sprung to mind was his mom was cooking. But it sadly dawned on him that she's dead. Sighing, he got up and headed down stairs.
Over the past fourteen months, Goku's culinary skills improved drastically. He went from burning the food to almost making the food tastes like Chichi's. He knew his dad learned a lot to be able to support his family. Gohan watched as his mom showed him how to handle the checkbook and the bills. His dad had changed so much since then.
The sight he saw when he walked into the kitchen, made the young man chuckled. Goku stood at the counter, mixing up some pancakes. Beside him, on the counter, in his bouncing seat, Goten laughed and played with his fingers and Goku making funny faces at him.
Goku sensed that his oldest was in the room. He turned just enough to smile at him. "'Morning."
"'Morning, dad. What go Goten so excited?" Gohan asked, walking over to his baby brother.
"He found his fingers. He thinks they're hilarious." Goku replied as he poured pancake batter into the skillet.
"What is so funny about fingers?"
"To a five month old, who knows. You were the same when you were that age."
"I was?"
"Yeah. Your fingers fascinated you for, I guess a month. Then you discovered your tail. Every time you pulled it, you would scream bloody murder. One night, your grandpa came over wondering what we were doing to you to make you scream like that." Goku laughed at the memory.
"What was I doing?" asked the son.
"Your tail was wrapped around the bars of the crib and every time you moved, it hurt."
"Poor grandpa."
"I forget how we got you to stop." Goku put a finger to his chin and thought about the memory.
A high pitched laugh drew their attention to the other family member. Goten had stuck his fingers into his mouth and were sucking on them. Drool was running down from the corner of his mouth. Goten looked up at his father and gave a huge toothless grin. Goku smiled at his youngest son. Unbuckling the strap, the Saiyan father lifted the baby and held him. The chibi went back to drooling and sucking his fingers.
Together, all three finished fixing breakfast. While he ate, Goku held Goten on his lap. The baby kept trying to grab the food off the plate. And Goku kept pulling the tiny fingers away. After breakfast, the tiny family got changed and headed over to the Ox Kingdom.
The village was quite as the people were preparing for the memorial service. As the Sons drove through heading towards the castle, the villagers stopped what they were doing and silently bowed, showing their respects. As they drove up to the front entrance, they could see people coming and going. Standing on the steps was Horoski. The man saw the Son car pulling up and went to meet it.
"How are you doing this morning?" Horoksi asked Goku as the father took Goten out of his car seat.
"A little better. But it still hurts." Goku answered. "Where's the Ox King?"
"Inside, preparing his speech. I feel so sorry for him. First his wife dies of cancer and now Chichi. I pray to Kami that you or the boys don't ever get cancer. I don't think he would take it very well." the man stated.
"We're all he has left." the Saiyan added.
Horoski showed the family to the Ox King's study. The large man sat behind his desk, writing when the door opened. He smiled when he saw his son-in-law and his grandsons. Gohan hurried over to his grandfather and hugged him. The Ox King took Goten from his father.
"I'm glade you came early. There's something I need to ask you. Horoski, take Gohan and Goten. I need to speak to Goku alone." the Ox King said.
"Sure. Gohan, how would you like to see the new horse we just got?" Horoski asked him.
"Great. Grandpa told me about them."
"Great. Let's go."
Gohan took his little brother and the three left the room. The Ox King waited until the small group was out of earshot. Goku didn't know what the older man wanted. All he knew was the lager man didn't want Gohan or Horoski to hear.
"Goku, there's something I would like you to do."
"What is it?"
The Ox King opened a draw in the desk and pulled out a piece of paper. He then handed it to Goku. The Saiyan took it and read it. At first he didn't know what he was reading. Then it dawned on him.
"Your will."
"Yes. Originally, I had everything left to Chichi. But since she's gone, I want everything to go to Gohan"
Goku didn't know what to say. He was speechless. He never thought this was what the larger man wanted. Gohan would be set for life if the man ever dies. He already knows that Gohan wouldn't want to role the kingdom and probably hand the kingdom over to the villagers.
There was a knock at the door before it opened to reveal a short, bolding man in a suite. Goku recognized him. He was the Ox King's lawyer. Shortly after they learned about Gohan, the Ox King made Chichi and Goku make out a will. Chichi's father's lawyer helped them write up a will. The Ox King wanted the father to be the witness of the will. Once all the paperwork was finished, the Ox King and Goku went to fine the boys.
The two men found the young man in the stables. Gohan was sitting on top of a horse, holding a laughing Goten. Horoski stood next to the stable manager, talking to Gohan.
"Goten's happy about something." Goku commented as he stepped up to his son.
"I took him for a ride and he liked it." answered his son.
"He also likes Nimbus too." Goku took his youngest son so Gohan could claim down.
Horoski informed them that the funeral services would be starting soon. The group headed towards the meadows not far from the palace. In the middle of the meadows was a garden. The Ox King suggested having the service there. Chichi had loved the garden as she grew up. By the time the small group got there, the villagers were already there. Once the villagers saw Goku and Gohan, they went up to them. They kept asking if the now widow needed anything. Goku would smile and say thank you. But they'll be fine.
The service started with Horoski speaking. Almost every villager had gone up to speak. Goku didn't realize how much Chichi effected their lives. He knew after the Ox King changed ways, and became good, the villagers began to like him. How much, he wasn't sure.
The Ox King had trouble talking. The large man kept choking. He was crying. It was hard for him. First, his wife died of the disease and now his only daughter. All the Ox King had left was his grandsons and son-in-law. At least now when he dies, the kingdom would be in good hands.
Goku was made to speak. He didn't want to speak. He was afraid of braking down again. It was bad enough his son and the rest of the Z fighters saw. He didn't want the whole kingdom to see his weakness. It was hard at times to speak. He had to keep forcing the tears back. He prayed he would never have to do this again. It was one thing he hated the must.
Once the father was finished, it was Gohan's turn. As he talked, the young man started to cry. When he couldn't talk any longer, Goku gently took his son's shoulders and lead him back to his seat.
The service felt like it dragged on for hours. Relief came when the Ox King, Goku, Gohan and Goten went back to the palace. The two grown men talked while Gohan went off somewhere. Goku wasn't looking forward to the task of packing Chichi's things. To him, Chichi was never coming back.
It was late when the Son family arrived home. On the trip home, both boys fell asleep. As he drove, Goku wondered, not for the first time, how their lives were going to be. He knew he could help Gohan with school work. He never went to school. His grandpa thought him the basics. Then Bulma and Master Roshi taught him a little. He would be able to teach Goten something's. Goku already knew that Goten would be attending school because he wouldn't be able to teach his son himself.
When Goku pulled into the garage, he woke Gohan up. Groggily, the young man headed straight to bed. Goku carried the baby to bed. Both father and son knew starting tomorrow, was a start of a new life. But what they didn't know was all the hardships that was heading their way.
"Do you really think Goku could really do it?" Krillin asked from his seat on the floor.
"He has changed. We're seeing a different Goku. It seems like ever since Cell, he got. . . smarter and grew up. There's only one way to fine out." Master Roshi stated.
"He'll do fine. We need to give him a chance." the Saiyan prince stepped up to defend his friend.
The Z gang was gathered at Capsule Corp. None of them have heard anything from Goku. And they were starting to worry. Two days ago, they knew of the memorial service held at the Ox King's castle. They all thought he would have called or something. They all were debating if the Saiyan hero was going to be able to handle raising two boys alone.
"Videl called me last night. She said they were getting adjusted. And everything was fine." Tien's son said.
"Did she say when she spoke to Gohan?" asked Yamcha.
"Yeah. She hanged up with him and called me."
"What I'm afraid is something will happen and Goku wouldn't know what to do." exclaimed Launch.
"He would ask for help." Vegeta added.
"Vegeta, are you sure Goku will be alright? With the shock and the depression?" his wife asked.
"Yes. The fact that Gohan would be devastated is helping. It'll take time. This isn't something that will be cured overnight."
"I've been keeping an eye on them. And there hasn't been a problem." Piccolo stated walking into the room.
"Then why do I got the feeling something bad is going to happen to them?" Bulma stated.
None said a word. They too, were getting that feeling.
The sun was shining in the mid-afternoon sky. A light breeze blow the fresh washed clothes, hanging on the clothes line. A new stack of fire wood sat beside the house. It was a peaceful afternoon.
Inside the house, was the same as outside. The house was spotless. Goten's toys were in the toy box. A baby asleep in his crib. A boy in the kitchen, making muffins. And a father, in his bedroom, packing.
It's been a week since Chichi's funeral. The Sons were copping and were adjusting. It was hard at times. Goku kept pushing off packing up Chichi's things. A job he didn't want. Gohan offered to make muffins. He didn't feel like studying or training. And Goten was taking his afternoon nap.
Chichi's clothes were folded neatly in a box on the bed. All her make up and stuff were already packed. Goku was putting her jewelry box in one of the boxes when he decided to take a look. There wasn't much in the jewelry box. Chichi hardly wore any jewelry. The necklace he bought her for their one year anniversary, she was buried in it.
A ring caught his attention. Lifting it out of the box, Goku smiled. It was Chichi's engagement ring. He had gotten her one when he came home from Yardrat. He thought she should have one. She never took it off. It wasn't until her death that she wore it. That night, the night she died, when she was alone with Goku, she took off the ring and gave it to her husband and asked him to do something.
"I want you to do something for me. When Gohan is sixteen, give this to him. I want him to give it to Videl when he finally asks her."
"I will. I promise."
Goku doesn't remember putting the ring in the jewelry box. Someone must have. Seeing a small velvet ring bag in the box, he slipped the ring inside. Walking over to his dresser, he laid the bag in one of his drawers for later. Sighing, he closed the jewelry box and placed it in one of the boxes. He couldn't bring himself to getting rid of anything that was Chichi's. So he was putting the boxes in the attic. With her things packed, Chichi was truly gone.
"Um. . . dad?"
The father turned to see his son, standing in the doorway. His son looked older then what he was. He was twelve but he looked sixteen and witnessed and fought as if he was in his thirties. He had no childhood and had to grow up too quickly for a boy his age. The lack of sleep was affecting the boy. Dark circles had formed under his eyes.
"What is it, son?"
"The last batch of muffins are in the oven. Do you want me to start on dinner? How about mac and cheese. And maybe some hot dogs?" Gohan asked.
"Mac and cheese and hot dogs sounds fine. Can you handle it? You never really cooked before."
"I watched mom before. I think I can handle it." the demi-Saiyan assured his father.
"Okay. If you need help, call."
Nodding, Gohan headed back down to the kitchen to start on dinner. The demi-Saiyan had never cooked before. He knew how to work the oven when he helped his mom bake stuff before. Goku went back to the packing. He tried not to think about all the memories that were attached to the items he was putting away. All the happy memories. And all the sad memories.
Goku had promised to never fall in love. He will not replace Chichi's love. They were mates. Husband and wife. By making this promise, he knew he would be lonely. And he understood too.
"Dad!"
The yelling of his son snapped Goku out of his thought. That's when he noticed Gohan's ki was raising.
"Dad!" A scream this time.
Dropping a small box of pictures, Goku ran down the stairs. When he rounded the bend into the kitchen, his heart leaped up into his throat. Gohan stood back away from the stove, holding a burn hand. Fire was reaching for the ceiling as it took over the top of the stove. Instincts took over. Goku ran over to the sick. Grabbing the large bowl that Gohan had used for the muffins, filled it with water. Several times it took Goku to put the fire out.
"What happen?" Goku nearly growled. Once the fire was out, he could clearly see that the stove was ruined and needed replaced.
"I was boiling some water. I turned my back to get the mac and cheese. Next thing I knew, there was a fire. I tried to put it out. I grabbed the pot to remove it. That's when I burned me hand. The handle was too hot." explained Gohan.
"No wonder it caught on fire. You had too much water in the pan and the burner was set on the wrong sitting." Goku shouted.
"I'm sorry, dad. I never cooked before."
"Then you shouldn't have tried! When you didn't know how, you should have came and got me! Damn it, Gohan!" Goku yelled.
The father started to inspect the stove. Gohan stood there, tears forming. His dad never yelled at him like that. He didn't know what got into him. He glanced down at his hand. The hand was starting to throb.
"Dad?"
"Not now, Gohan." Goku snapped.
"But, dad."
"Cann't you see I'm busy? I said not now!" Goku yelled, turning to face him. Goten's cries started to fill the house. Growling, Goku threw his hands up. "Now you see what you made me do? You're brother's up. Happy now?"
Goku stormed off up the stairs. The tears fell freely. His dad was mad at him. All because he tried to fix dinner. But Goku said all right, after knowing he didn't know how to cook. He heard his dad coming back down the stairs, talking to Goten. He couldn't stand being in the house at the moment. Quickly, he left, leaving the front door wide open.
When Goku hit the bottom of the steps, he saw the door open, he got mad. "Damn it, Gohan." He exclaimed as he slammed the door shut.
Not far from the house, well on top of the domed shaped house, Gohan sat. Crying as he cradled his injured hand. Pain filled every inch of his body. The pain from his hand and the pain by his dad's yelling. He only wanted to help. Not was all. He'll been trying to help out as much as possible.
"No, Goten. You can't have it." Goku said as he pulled the knife out of his son's hand.
The Saiyan father was busy fixing sandwiches for him and Gohan. He hasn't realized that Gohan wasn't there. He was still mad about the stove. And hasn't stopped to think about yelling at his son. Goten was sitting in his bouncer chair. He loved it when he was in his chair. There were times he nearly bounced himself right off the counter.
"Gohan! Dinner's ready!"
There was no sound or sight of Gohan. That's when he realized what happened. "Oh, Gohan. I'm sorry." Guilt filled his heart and twisted his stomach. He had never yelled at him before. Not like that. And he hated he feeling. He wanted to be supportive and a friend. Someone Gohan can turn to when he was upset or wanted someone to talk to about anything. But after what happened earlier, he doubts that.
Picking Goten up, the father placed the baby into his playpen. He knew where Gohan was. His favorite spot: the top of the house. Lifting off the ground, he floated up to see his son sitting there, cradling his hand.
"Gohan?"
Gohan looked up at his father, dried tears on his cheeks. "I'm sorry, daddy. I was just trying to help."
"No, Gohan. I should be the one saying sorry. I shouldn't have never yelled at you. It wasn't your fault. You just wanted to help. And I appreciate everything you're doing. Can you forgive me?" Goku said as he settled down beside his son.
"You never yelled at me like that before."
"I know and I'm sorry. I'm just a little depressed. Packing your mom's things. That and seeing the stove, I just couldn't handle it."
"How bad is the stove?" asked Gohan.
"We need to buy a new one."
Goku wrapped an arm around his shoulders and gave a squeeze. "Your hand. Let me see it." The demi-Saiyan showed his dad his hand. "We need to get this cleaned. Come on."
"Dad?"
"Yeah?"
"I forgive you."
Goku smiled. As the two Saiyans floated back down to the ground. They entered the house to the sound of laughter. The father and son looked in the playpen to see Goten laughing and drooling while sucking on his toes. Goku and Gohan smiled down at the chibi.
"Have you hear from Gohan yet? Any idea when he's coming back?" Erasa asked her friend.
"I spoke to him last night. He should be back today." Videl answered.
"Maybe something happened." Sharpner added.
"Could be. I haven't see him much. I thought it be best to leave him alone. Give him and his dad some time to get adjusted." Videl said.
"We didn't want to disturb him. He took his mom's death pretty hard." Tidus chimed in.
"Okay, class. Lets start where we left off yesterday." Mrs. Yuska spoke up, getting the class's attention. "Can someone tell me about the Battle of Gettysburg?"
Before anyone could raise their hand, the door opened to revealed Gohan. The class and the teacher smiled at the demi-Saiyan.
"Sorry, I'm late, Mrs. Yuska. I had to help my dad with something this morning." Gohan explained as he have her a pass from the office.
"That's okay, Gohan. How are you and your dad doing?" she asked.
"Okay. We're getting adjusted. Still hurts though."
"It will. Loosing someone very close to you will take time. But you'll always remember the person. Now, why don't you take your seat."
"Okay."
As he took his set, Gohan smiled at his girlfriend. All his friends kept saying "welcome back". Mrs. Yuska continued talking about the Civil War. While her back was turned, Videl quickly passed a note to her boyfriend.
Is everything okay at home?
Quickly, Gohan scribbled his response and pass it back to her.
Yeah. Goten was throwing a fit and dad couldn't handle him and make breakfast. So I had to cook breakfast.
Videl stared at her boyfriend. She knew Gohan couldn't cook. He told her about the incident with the stove. What he didn't tell her was that Goku was teaching him how.
The rest of the morning, Videl didn't have the opportunity to ask how he suddenly knew how to cook. At lunch, the students were allowed to eat outside. Gohan and all his friends gathered under their usual spot under the large Oak tree by the building.
"When did you learn to cook?" Videl asked as they started to eat.
"Dad. After the fire, I asked him to teach me."
"Fire? What fire?" Terry asked.
"Last week, I caught the stove one fire when I tried to fix dinner." the demi-Saiyan answered. "We had to buy a new one and fix the wall and the ceiling."
"Everything okay then?" Rena asked.
"Yeah. It's hard sometime. Whenever I think my mom's going to walk into the room, she doesn't. Either there's nothing or its dad. I know dad missed her. You can tell at times. Poor Goten. He'll have to grow up without a mom."
"Sometimes parents do remarry. Maybe your dad will remarry." Tidus added.
"Dad remarry? I don't know. I over heard him talking to Bulma and Vegeta the other day. He said something about not wanting to love again. And Vegeta argued about it was the depression talking."
"Depression?" Sharpner gasped.
Gohan realized the mistake. He almost slipped up. "Yeah. When mom died, he fell into some kind of depression. He just needs to work through it."
"I never hear of that before." Rena exclaimed.
"Dad was the same way after my mom died." Videl lied. She knew Gohan slipped up and was trying to help cover it up.
"Everything's going to be okay. You'll see." Sharpner exclaimed, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder.
Yeah. Everything will be okay. We usually do pull out of tough situations. Gohan thought.
Days turned into weeks. Weeks turned into months. The Son family learned to get through their pain. Goku's shock and depression lifted. He was proving himself to be a good father. Goten was growing up fast. He had started talking. His first word was 'food'. And he is learning to walk.
Gohan and Videl grew even closer. The demi-Saiyan was the top of his class. Sharpner and Terry would at times try to cheat off of him. And of course, Gohan doesn't allow it. But there were a few rare times that he did let them cheat.
A year has passed since Chichi's death. Life was going goof for Goku and the boys. When he wasn't doing homework, with or talking to Videl or training, Gohan would read to Goten or work with Goku. Goku wanted to learn so he could help him teach Goten. Videl has been staying over a lot. She spent most of her time there.
A lot had happened in that year. Krillin and Android Eighteen got married. Goku was the best man. The Saiyan was honored to do it. Gohan was one of the groomsmen. Videl was make a bridesmaid while Bulma served as the maid of honor. Goku was happy for his friend. Krillin finally found someone to love.
One day, while visiting, Goku told Vegeta and Bulma that he wished he had gone to school. He feels dumb around Gohan at times. He knew all kinds of information. And knew how to do stuff as well. When he tried to read Goten a story, he couldn't. He had trouble reading. Some of the words he didn't know. Gohan had to read the story. Bulma told Goku that he could still go to school. There was a program called G.E.D. It's just like high school. When he head of this, he liked the idea. His old friend told him that whenever he was series about it, let her know and she would get the information for him. Goku would seriously have to think about it.
The bell rung, ending school for the day. Grabbing their things, Gohan and Videl hurried out of the building. Videl had to hurry home because her father was having company over. Some relatives were visiting and Hercule was making her stay home. The girl didn't even like the relatives. Gohan whished he could be there for her. But he, Goku and Goten were heading to Capsule Corp for dinner.
The boyfriend and girlfriend walked hand and hand down the front steps. They noticed a white, four-door Ford Escort parked in front and leaning against the car was Goku.
"Hey, Goku." Videl waved as they approached the Saiyan hero.
"Hi, Videl." Goku waved back.
"I wish I was going with you. I hate the relatives who are visiting," the girl pouted as she crossed her arms.
"Look at it this way. You don't have to see them all the time. They only visit what, every two, three years?" Gohan exclaimed as he put his arm around her shoulders.
"That's true. Well, better get going before dad blows. He doesn't care for them that much anyway. He said if he has to be tortured, then so should I. I'll see you tomorrow, Gohan."
"I'll call ya later." Gohan said as he kissed her.
"Bye, Goku." Videl hurried off.
"I feel sorry for her. Relatives are such pains." Gohan exclaimed as he and his dad claimed into the car.
"Aren't you glade you don't have any?"
"Yeah. They're dead."
Goku laughed as he started the car. Gohan glanced back to see Goten pushing against his car set and an angry face. "What's wrong with Goten? He looks mad."
"He is. He's been too confined in his seat. You figure, it's at least a two hour drive here."
Thanks to Bulma, the family car goes a lot faster. A prototype car she has been working on. She gave one to Goku because of Gohan. The car is designed to go faster but still go the speed limit. Goku just loves the car. He could get the car to go close to two hundred miles an hour and still appear to be going forty-five. Even in a speed trap, the police radar would read the car going forty-five. Bulma also made the car more safer. If the car is hit or loose control, airbags are design to expand all around the inside of the car. Now, instead of taking five hours to get from home to school, it only takes two.
"We have to make a pit stop before heading to Bulma's." Goku announced.
"Pit stop? For what?"
"Bulma ordered some pastries from the bakery and asked if I could pick them up. Oh, good, a parking spot." Goku answered as he pulled into a parking spot that was just down from the bakery. "Wait here. I shouldn't be too long. Why don't you get Goten out of his seat until I get back."
"Okay."
As Goku headed to the bakery, Gohan unhooked his baby brother and lifted him out of the car. The chibi cried of joy and clapped his hand. Gohan couldn't help but laugh at him.
Several blocks away, a small group of men were fleeing the Satan City National Bank after robbing it. A car was waiting out front for the robbers. A police car spun around the corner. The robbers opened fired at the police. Any bystanders in the area run for cover.
Because of his Saiyan hearing, Gohan heard the gunshots. He prayed that the police would stop who ever was shooting, before they got them. Turning around, Gohan saw the car chase. As if in slow motion, the driver pointed his gun out of the window and started shooting. Fearing for Goten's safety, the demi-Saiyan turned so his body was in-between his brother and the bullets.
White hot, sheering pain ripped through Gohan. Unable to stop himself, he collapsed to his knees. The pain was unbearable. The last thing Gohan heard was Goten's screaming before the darkness over took him.
"This is a big order, sir. Mrs. Briefs must be holding a huge party," the sale clerk stated as Goku handed her the money.
"No party. Just dinner with the family. We like to eat a lot." Goku answered.
The sound of gunshots were heard as people started screaming. Goku's heart stopped. He wasn't sure if his boys were hurt. A woman ran into the bakery, yelling something about a boy being shot. Fearing the worst, Goku ran out of the shop. A small crowd was gathering around. He could hear Goten's screaming. Pushing his was through the crowd, he stopped dead. Laying on the ground, in a puddle of blood, was a body.
"GOHAN!
To Be Continued……..
Gohan's been shot!!!!! What will happen next? You'll just have to wait and see. The next chapter is when things start to happen for the Sons.
So until next time……
Don't forget to keep those reviews coming.
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