The Kakarrotto Saga

Chapter 13: A Question of Destination! Do we go Home or what?

By Claudius

I don't own the copyright to Dragon Ball, Tenchi Muyo, or the New Mutants.

As the heat and excitement over Magma's breakdown and Kami-Sama's message settledj, Dani felt the need to check over some business. Main in her concern was Illyana. "Where the heck were you?" She called the new leader in a tone that suggested her own recent resignation as team leader had never happened.

"None of your business," Illyana answered defensively.

Dani took that reply to mean that something happened. However, curiosity was ignored. "Well, whatever it was," she stated. "It was important that you be here as leader,"

"Maybe I don't want to be one!" Illyana flashed her dark eyes. As resolute Dani could be, it did not protect her from feeling fear. Something was troubling Illyana, but a wish to pry further was not her business anymore. "Just to let you know, we got the Dragon Balls back."

The words flashed like an alarm inside Illyana's brain. A mood swing came. If certain things had to work her way, she had to act now. Suddenly, she grabbed the mantle of her new responsibility. "Get the team together. I want to hold a secret meeting. No Betsy, no Gohan, and definitely no Carrot Guy."

Orders, labeled Dani. Normally, she was not the one to take them. "Yessir," she said without conviction. But she would do it.

The message of Kami-Sama gave a clear description of his motive. The Dragon Ball that Illyana damaged had now been restored. Since the wish that Shenlong granted Kakarrotto was rendered incomplete by Illyana's intervention, the wish was null and void. The Dragon Balls can be used again within such a short distance of time.

Magneto accepted this with thanks. Earlier he had made his description of this Namekian as a shriveled Piccolo. And yet, there was a compassionate personality in this being. Almost like Xavier. So, Magneto thought, did that make himself Piccolo? Before an analysis to this perceived parallel was continued further, it was interrupted by Chichi's loud response to the news. "This calls for a celebration!" she rubbed her hands.

There resulted some pleasing reactions to this. Magneto wasn't one of them. "I don't think…"

"C'mon! It'll be on me," Chichi gave her best persuasion, by a kind face. Ya saved my family. The least I could do t' make it up t' ya is do this." Then she tried her other, less flattering face of persuasion. "I won't take no for an answer!"

The matter was now settled, in Chichi's favor.

Ten minutes ended with every New Mutant suddenly missing from the area. That was according to Gohan's view. In melancholy feeling, he searched for the team, wanting to share in their company before they left.

Before they left. Gohan was confused at the inevitable event. The New Mutants would return to their Earth, as he and Kuririn had promised. Their return would obviously mean happiness to the group, after all the problems they suffered.

But was that what Gohan really wanted right now? He was happy for them, but not for himself. There would be no personal joy over it. This lack bugged him. Why couldn't he feel great about their departure? Was it the fact that he would miss them? Yes he would. The reason exemplified a situation that brewed in him for years, ready to burst forth now into true knowledge. Gohan knew he was a lonely child. Not in the way he was in the wilderness, with no one to depend on but himself. It was a different loneliness, a child's without peers. None of the friends he knew, Kuririn, Yamucha, Piccolo, were his age. They were all grown ups, thinking in grown-up ways that Gohan knew little about. The only adult that could speak to his level was Goku, and that was no longer possible.

(Yes, Gohan made a nod of self-improvement. He was instinctively saying Goku now. Not father, dad, daddy, papa. None of those names worked anymore).

Thus the New Mutants were like a breath of fresh air. He and they were alike in many ways: The awareness of having parent problems, of being outcasts, and potential self-villainy. All these parts that Gohan knew of himself, were also the New Mutants' problem too. The difference was that team was so confident about overcoming these problems. If only he was as strong, Gohan thought.

And they would be gone. Gohan would be alone again, with no Goku to fall back to. What to do? Maybe he could go with the team, away from loneliness, away from Goku. That sounded like a good idea, and Gohan could please his mother by keeping his studies at their school while having some fun with his friends.

But the determination for this plan was stopped by a looming fact. What about the Androids that would threaten Earth? Their expected arrival was almost within a year now. If he went with the Mutants and their world, how was he so sure he could come back to help stop the future threat on his own world? Gohan sadly settled on the lack of a choice. His Earth had to be spared the future that was ahead.

At any rate, one factor he had to commit strongly to was his new relationship with Goku. It was a situation that wasn't happy, but resolved. He didn't have to look onto his own issues for support. The New Mutants also suffered greatly because of the Saiya-jin. It was Goku's fault Dani quit as leader. Goku's fault that Doug, Amara, and Warlock were so sad. Making things worse was the fact that Goku didn't remember anything of his past. Except for the lost eye, all he got was a slap on the wrist! Gohan knew his father couldn't get away with it. For the Mutants, and for himself, Gohan had to make sure some justice prevailed. Having Goku's own son hate him would do that, the boy knew, or at least, he thought that would work. And maybe it wouldn't. Goku didn't appear all that shaken in having one eye left. Chances are he didn't care about his son's dislike either. Goku will maybe forget about it once something exciting came up.

And Gohan felt sadder.

In a forest, the New Mutants faced each other in a circle. The meeting was secret. This was Illyana's choice. She would see what the team thought about her plans before Magneto knew about it (providing she would tell him). Every member was present, although some wished not. Sam's body filled with apprehension being so near to Amara's presence. It didn't help him that she replied to his presence with forced ignorance. His behavior was nothing the chief leader should be acting like!

Sam had a better kindred feeling with the other members of his gender, their own feelings equal or worse than his own. Doug had his own fears, trying to avoid eye-contact with Warlock. His success was mixed, what with the alien's constant movement from spot to spot. It would make Doug's chances even worse if he knew Warlock's intentions. The techno-being wanted to his attention, to restore what he/she/it called 'their unity of friendship.' Meanwhile, Tenchi had his problems, partially with Illyana. Her new role didn't help matters.

Giving no attention to that situation (or putting it to the back of her mind as best she could), Illyana got to business to what was her first task as leader. First on her list of priorities was Warlock's report that Rahne was hanging around with Goku. The wolf-girl was not ashamed of anything possibly wrong with it. Rather, in her green eyes, their new deputy leader was the guilty one. "Tis an awful thing ye did, forcin' the issue on Gohan, wit' his father around t' see 'n hear."

"Really?" Illyana mimicked Rahne's accent, squirting sarcasm like acid. "An' what about the crap Carrot Guy threw on us? Just forgive an' forget?"

"No," Roberto puckered that answer. "It's about time Gohan saw the light."

"But for such a bad father," said Sam. "He did look hurt."

"If the swine has no understanding of his deeds," remarked Roberto. "Then waking up to reality is the best thing for him. Wished I was there to help add the salt."

"But that's just it," Sam attempted to give understanding. "Goku don't remember nothin' of bein' Carrot Guy. Ah don't think its good to condemn him now. It's like we should blame Shan for all the stuff she pulled when Farouk had her. Not t' mention what he did t' us."

Despite Sam's effort of vindicating her past role, Shan shuddered over it.

"But we were all in the same situation, remember?" Roberto contradicted the reasoning with his own viewpoint. "Whatever our bodies did under Farouk's control, our minds and hearts had nothing to do with it. We wouldn't have done those things without that bloated slime's influence. Me, Shan, none of us. But Carrot Guy and Goku are one and the same. He is guilty."

"But Carrot Guy's done wit'," said Rahne.

"How do we know that? For how long will he remain Goku? What if he gets another mental breakdown and becomes Carrot Guy again? Will you be so tolerant then? You tell me!"

Illyana and Warlock sat by Roberto, giving their unwelcome glares to the opposition. "Looks like you and furball are in the minority, Sam," Illyana was smug. "Anyway, that's not the real business here. Here's the important stuff." She stood up to the center of the group. "As you all know, my last two attempts at porting us back to Limbo got us nowhere. This, and other…things, have clued me in that this is because something is happening there. Something terrible." Illyana looked pale as she tiptoed to the ambiguous nature of this 'terrible something.' "Now, I know all of you would rather die than go to Limbo. But it's still my responsibility, and I've gotta fix whatever's happened there. So rather than get back to Earth, I wish that we use the Dragon Balls to take us to Limbo. Now who is with me?"

The mutants' attention on this new question led to pauses of concentration for some. Not that Illyana was surprised. She didn't want to go back to that dimension either. However, none of her teammates had her responsibility. If they went with this lack, then so be it. Illyana was going to Limbo with or without them.

"Count me out," Roberto grimly rejected his assistance. "This is your business Illyana, not mine. Being leader doesn't change it." The fear in his eyes gave motive for his refusal.

Illyana was unsurprised. She expected this from Roberto. She turned to other sources she had better support from. "Amara?"

But the Roman gave no approval or refusal, remaining silent with clenched hands covering part of her face.

Scratch that, Illyana made a mental correction. "Doug?"

"Well," Doug moaned. "I'll save you the trouble of including me. I'm not going either. You all know the good reason for it!"

Grow up Doug! Illyana threw her mental note at the kid. No one except Roberto would give him any reason why he couldn't help out, no matter how weak his powers were. The kid needed a massive dose of self-esteem. Wasn't going to happen now at any rate. Still, this could decide Warlock's choice. "Locke?"

"SELF-choice-CONTRADICTION-to-SELFSOULDOUGFRIEND-in-SUGGESTED-situation. SELF-has-MANY-selfsoulfriends-TO-help."

The feeling of betrayal fell on Doug, despite his present reservations.

But Illyana was pleased. "Glad to have you aboard."

All eyes fell on Tenchi. He stared back at all those who supported Illyana's plan. He felt ill by their wish to join them. He wanted to move away.

"I…I can't," Tenchi's voice was a type of calm that could lead to panic. "I can't do this anymore. I've seen friends almost get killed. I almost killed somebody. I don't want to blame you guys for this, but..." Tenchi stopped his words. He turned away.

"No surprise there," Illyana sneered at Tenchi's refusal.

This snared an alarming feeling in Dani's head. Better to cut the heat before it explodes. "Now, ya know I would originally say 'Hell No' on this," Dani's own response was mixed. "But I'm not leader anymore. It's your responsibility for our welfare, so what I'm sayin' is, count me in."

Illyana shook her friend's hand. "The team supreme!"

"I'll follow," Rahne hid her dislike for their leader over loyalty to her old one.

The expressions Amara gave to the ground threw suggestion that she was in her own world, but her words showed otherwise. "I shall help."

Illyana nodded.

"Hold on, Illyana," Sam seriously cut the positive feeling. "Ah'm now chief, an' if this was a tied vote, ah would naturally turn ya down, Illyana. But the majority is on y'r side."

Roberto moaned to his reluctant attraction. "I will not abandon you to possible death again, hombres. Count me in. I hope I don't regret it."

"You have me as well," entered a voice, then the body, of Psylocke, cool and supportive.

"Can'tcha keep your mind to yourself?" quipped Illyana, but her face changed from disapproval to acceptance. "Welcome to the group." Her presence then moved to Shan. "So what about you? With us or against us?"

"My priorities are with my brother and sister," Shan's words predicted her choice. Illyana stopped facing her, only to hear her continuing her words. "But if it wasn't for you Illyana, or all of you," she gazed around her teammates, "I would not be here in true possession of my body."

Illyana's lips began to crack a smile.

Suddenly, Shan's face fell. "But we have to consider Luna as well. If we all go to Limbo first, it means taking her with us. The stake on our lives may be great in Limbo, but at least we can defend ourselves. Luna can't. Despite what I owe you Illyana, I cannot endanger the child."

Despite her character, it was impossible for Illyana to be nonchalant to this factor. Perhaps it was because she had given all her ignorance to the matter before Shan mentioned its importance. What a swell leader she was proving to be! Nevertheless, she had to look out for the bigger picture for her team. That also meant- demon shards!- actually telling Magneto about her plans.

"You all must share my views on this matter." Shan's eyes swerved to all in the circle. She was proven right.

"Wait, I'll go!" Cried another disembodied voice, younger and equally recognizable. Gohan interrupted this meeting he was no member to. "You all helped me. I wanna help in return."

These were what the surrounding faces gave to Gohan. Uncertainty. Disdain. Sharp refusal. Kind refusal. The boy got the clue that acceptance would not be in the immediate future (especially from Tenchi). The plea was another hit to his nerves."Sorry, Gohan, but the cards are stacked outta your favor," Illyana attempted her best understanding face in her new role. She only succeeded in showing smug bitchiness instead. "I doubt you'd be a burden to us. It's what might happen to you afterwards that's the problem."

Sam offered to help Illyana's case, lest Gohan feel like he was being lied to (and with Illyana's expressions, that was what the conclusion was heading to). "Gohan, ya know we got here by accident. Ya know we need the Dragon Balls t' get us back home. If ya come with us, how are ya gonna get back here?"

"And don't you have that upcoming battle you hope to fight?" Shan reminded reluctantly. She hated to think Gohan had this crushing responsibility to face the terrible future of his world.

"What upcoming battle?" asked Illyana.

"Gohan told us that his Earth would be plagued by androids," Rahne explained. "It be 'n a year from now."

Sweat dropped down Tenchi's forehead and back; for all his effort, the order inside him was unraveling.

"Why don't we stay here then?" said Roberto. "We can help Gohan."

And then the team received someone snapping. "So we can get ourselves killed?" Tenchi's voice sounded his lack of control, sounding fierce and loud for all to hear. He then threw a cold look at Dani. "Well, Dani?" his mad anger called him to demand. "Are any of us in danger now for helping Illyana? You've known her longer than me, so you know what she's capable of."

That declaration caught everyone. Evidently the unit called Ten-yana was undergoing some deep, deep problems.

Dani did not answer. Tenchi refused to wait for a reply, snapping another cruel sentence. "How do we know you're not hiding something from us too? We might be walking to our deaths, but you're afraid to say it. Say something!"

Dani stood up. This may have been Illyana's responsibility, but Tenchi pushed the situation to her. She would be damned if she let herself get talked to this way. "No I don't see any of us ready t' die yet!" Her strength fought against Tenchi's fierce attack. "An' if I did, I'd do my best to make sure it didn't happen."

"Like you did Gohan?"

Dani paused. Tenchi had gotten her with that!

"That wasn't her fault, Tenchi!" Gohan for the first time spoke against someone he thought a kindred spirit. "And I'm alive thanks to all of you."

"Stupid kid!" shouted Tenchi. "Didn't nearly dying teach you anything? This isn't some make-believe game. Nothing is going to protect you! You can die!"

Rather than shout back, Gohan's voice was softer. "I know," he firmly spoke, speaking an acknowledgment he kept secret. "The adventure we had now isn't like the ones I had before. I saw friends die back then."

Tenchi suddenly lost his new knack for rude responding. Guilt splattered its unbearable essence upon him.

"And I might die in the future," Gohan stared at Tenchi with fearful eyes. "I was told that the Androids will kill all of my friends, and me too." Gohan ignored the gasps from Shan and Rahne. "And there won't be any Dragon Balls in the future. I might die and stay dead."

"Gohan…" Tenchi mournfully spoke the boy's name at this courageous behavior.

"But I don't wanna die. I'm not going to. I hope to get strong enough to save my friends and myself from the future."

As the eyes of Tenchi failed him, the eyes of Roberto found settlement with the boy. Here was a kid, with every potential for innocence, speaking about death like an adult. Truly a horrible thing. Then again, were the New Mutants any different? "Don't bother, Gohan." Roberto glared his eyes on the disapprover. "You're speaking to a coward."

This gave Tenchi a better target to throw his anger at. "So," Tenchi readily slapped his palms. "I always knew you wanted to lay fists at me."

But Roberto stayed perfectly still, not making any movements of retribution that was his natural behavior. But his human form turned black with an aura of molecular sunspots.

Sam gave a great sigh. Why did he even bother playing referee? Because he had to, that's why. "Both o' ya quit. Ah order it!"

"Stop it!" Gohan gave his appalled cry to this scene. Two of his friends were going to kill each other!

The boy's voice affected Tenchi, if not his rage. "I'm sorry for the insult Roberto," Tenchi's crushed face gave no sign of apology. "But that doesn't change the fact that we have no right to help this Earth."

"So you want to run away?"

"This isn't our responsibility anymore. We stopped Kakarrotto, and some of us got hurt by it! Saving this world in the future isn't our job."

"And so Limbo isn't?" Roberto became the vernacular acrobat.

"I…" Tenchi couldn't find the answer. A bad thing in his case, since all his frustration was leveled on this present encounter. Words didn't work, so how about violence? Reflexively he charged his Tenchi-Ken and pointed it at Roberto, but he dropped its blade on the rock he was sitting on, slicing it in half. Everyone's stares remained upon him. Tenchi had to get away from them. So he did.

Gohan called out. Dani stopped him from doing anything more. "Let 'im settle this on his own."

"I'll talk to him." Roberto maturely made his offer.

Like his son and Psylocke, Goku couldn't resist eavesdropping on the Mutants and their plans. Hearing their refusal to forgive him hurt a bit. Even more so, these kids had a real good point. Goku had no idea about turning into Carrot Guy. How could he promise it wouldn't happen again?

But the real hit was what Tenchi said to Gohan: Didn't nearly dying teach you anything? What the hell did he mean by that? Anxiously, Goku's mind lurked to a possible answer. He shrugged it as quickly as an arachnophobic would shrug a spider. Maybe Tenchi meant a threatening atmosphere where Gohan almost got hurt, not something like getting injured.

In a different thought, Goku looked at Illyana, shivering at the sight. How could the group stand her? Didn't they know how evil she was?

Putting his issues aside, Goku knew the kids had a problem. Gohan's wish to help proved the seriousness of the situation. Goku though he might help. But the experiences he had with Roberto, Warlock, and Illyana showed that he would only get a second serving of their hatred of him. His help would end up being ignored or rejected.

Ironically, it was the source of future rejection that Goku had to face. And the biggest source, the person who hurt him the most, was heading his way. His son was now separated from the group, looking glum in his walk. Now he was passing Goku's indiscreet side. Goku took the step of revealed appearance. Here goes nothing. "Gohan?"

A pause interrupted Gohan's walk. But the boy's view remained to what was before him, not the man behind him. Still, the situation was now Goku's. Now was the time to talk! But no words came out. The silence was incredible, with the father trying his best to fight it. So what if this was the first time he talked to his son in a while? He always knew what to say to his boy before. Why was he having trouble now?

To Goku's regret, his hesitance to speak had passed Gohan's patience. He began walking again.

Now did Goku find some words! "Now wait here, son!" He swiftly cried, grabbing Gohan's shoulder. There was resistance in Gohan's movement, but his father's grip was unyielding. So the boy stopped for the second time.

"Now, I know some bad stuff happened t' ya an' y'r friends," Goku took advantage of his chance this time, "an' that I was the cause o' it." Serious tones were being made from the father, which was a rare thing to Gohan. It had nothing of the boyish friendliness Goku usually toned to his son, though it was a far cry from the angry voice he gave Gohan when he first became a Super Saiya-jin. "I'm very sorry for what happened t' y'all. I wanna make that clear, son."

Gohan's head remained unturned to his father, who saw nothing but his son's long black, pig-tailed hair. Seeing no progress, or a rejection for that matter, Goku continued on. "I really…can't stand it if ya're against me. No matter whatever I did t' ya, can ya forgive me?"

No instant answer. Before words came from his mouth, Gohan started moving again. Then he replied. "Let go of me." His words were cold, but his shrug of freedom was colder. His heartfelt apology rejected, Goku studied the unknown problem hovering before him, one that his powers couldn't solve. He grabbed the kid by the arm. "Please Gohan, are ya hearin' me?"

"I don't care, Da-" Gohan's angry response was cut short by his mistake. "Goku, let me go!"

The unknown flooded into Goku with surprise aim. Gohan's new word for him had brought it through. It was as if a new level in this relationship had come. A dark and hostile level that a fighter like Goku found no ways to counter. Shaken by this new evidence of hatred, Goku's hand grew feeble enough for Gohan to break free. He was now in the air, becoming smaller to his father's view.

"I won't stop!" Goku cried to the top of his voice. "One day I'll get ya t' call me father again!" He repeated the words "One day," two more times, each with a lesser audible tone. That was a wish that had to come true. But it was something no one could grant but his son.

At a creek, Tenchi leaned forward on a tree, burying his face in arms and oak. He concentrated on recriminations upon himself, repeating them like a psychiatrist.

You weren't going to trample on Gohan, Tenchi.

You weren't going to freak out on him, Tenchi.

So Tenchi, the boy needled himself mercilessly, why did you do exactly the opposite? What meaning of weren't you didn't understand?

His ears picked up footsteps, and a call of his name. It was a masculine voice, which ruled out any of the girls. It was human, which excluded Warlock. Tenchi knew who it was, and it wasn't someone he liked.

"I'm not in the mood for your insults, Roberto," Tenchi kept his face buried.

"Well, forgive me, prince," Roberto's voice threw its smug venom. "But right now you deserve more than my taunts."

Tenchi balanced himself free of the tree, but he kept a hand upon his face. "Leave me alone."

"No," snapped Roberto.

Defenses down, Tenchi despaired. "I thought I could handle this," said his tired voice, near a point of hyperventilating. "After all, I'm living with aliens from outer space. Hanging around with you guys seemed like more of the usual. But it's very different. I see people hating me for the reason of existing. Friends almost getting killed. People…hurting me."

Roberto's eyes turned to a strange glance at his teammate.

Tenchi's voice descended to a pitiful squeak. "It's not like home, but now I think it can happen there too. I saw a future of my friends getting killed, but I was able to stop that. That's how I met you all."

Roberto disguised the blow that Tenchi unknowingly threw on him. That adventure was something to curse at; Tenchi had the chance to save his loved ones from death. He could do nothing for Julianna.

"But knowing something like that might happen to them. To Washu, Mihoshi, Sasami…" Each name Tenchi spoke hurt him more. He couldn't continue the roll call. "This time I won't have Warlock or time travel to save them." Tenchi shivered greatly. "It might have been better…if I never went to that cave..."

Roberto continued the words. "To live comfortably? To be free of the responsibility the day Ryoko and the aliens came?"

Tenchi's response was slow, but to his point. "Yes."

"Wishing for a second chance is not going to happen. We're stuck where we are. You made a choice, and must live with it." Tenchi didn't appear pleased at this realistic advice, so Roberto attempted something softer. "Besides, was your choices really all that horrible?"

"But is it worth all this pain?"

Roberto couldn't answer his own view. "That's something you must consider for yourself."

The lack of aid did not move Tenchi's despair. So much for that help! But he wished answers from Roberto anyway. "What…what was dealing with the Beyonder like?"

Roberto paused. Where did he learn that? "I wouldn't know. I never fought him."

Tenchi threw his eyes in surprise.

"Yes," Roberto felt it time to recriminate himself. "I was not there when my friends were killed by the Beyonder. Me, the one who feared him the most, was spared while Sam, Rahne, Dani, and the others were destroyed. Why did I deserve a reprieve! It seems running away from problems fulfills no one. It only makes things worse. And do not remind me about my refusal before! If my friends aid Illyana, I will give my assistance to her as well."

Tenchi noted Roberto separating his mention of 'his friends' and 'Illyana.' Did he think the same way now? Nevertheless the former category had nothing to do with demon souls. He also remembered one boy who was the exact opposite of a monster. "Gohan must hate me."

"Probably," Roberto nodded. "But your actions are nowhere near what his father has done. I suggest you do something to keep it from going that way."

"I'm stumped. Any idea?"

"Well, prince. Maybe you should take advantage of your title."

The words were swallowed by Tenchi's mind, which fed on it richly. He knew what do to.

Goku didn't bother to fly back to the house. He walked with thoughts. Big to his attention was Gohan's refusal to call him by any father name. When the boy was making his first words, Goku found the new title strange but comforting. It was a name to be proud about. The loss was another blow. But this was a setback. No matter what, he will succeed to get his son back.

His footed movements contrasted with the flying approach of Yamucha and Pu'al. From his limited-but-still-sharp vision, Goku saw a grim resolve on the ex-bandit's face, and his ignorance to anyone below him showed that he wasn't expecting to see anyone.

Finally, Goku abandon the ground for the air. "Where ya headin'?" was Goku's first question once he caught up with the guy.

"Outta here!" Yamucha answered with unease of his experiences. He had undergone one major headache, with continuing painful side effects. Every thought was a new shock on his brain. "I've had both my heart and mind broken by women. Don't wanna find out what's gonna be broken next."

"Your heart?" Goku hit the first part of that sentence with interest. "Oh, you and Buruma had another fight?"

"The last," Yamucha's voice showed pain. "We're through. She's pregnant and not by me."

At that, Goku instantly remembered Trunks. Come to think of it, this would be about the right time for Buruma to start getting pregnant with him. Poor Yamucha. "Who'd a thought Vejita an' Buruma would…"

"Don't remind me!" Yamucha's growl stopped Goku from concluding the sentence. But his anger didn't hinder his intelligence. As sensitive his mind was now, Yamucha could still realize the strange evidence of Goku's knowledge. "Waitaminute, how d'ya know it was Vejita?"

Goku paused. He had to keep his promise to Trunks about not telling anyone about his parents. "Well, who else would it be? Tenshinhan has Runch. I have Chichi. An' ya don't have a problem with Kuririn."

Yamucha was satisfied by his explanation. The only satisfaction he could feel right now. "Guess we're in the same boat."

"Huh?"

"Eh, nothing," Yamucha covered his mistake. "Just watch out for anyone trying to steal your girl." Quickly did he and Pu'al depart, ruminating about his friend. Poor guy, Yamucha found a hole in his self-pity to sympathize with Goku. There was someone else with potential heartbreak. He hoped Goku was able to weather his own problems a lot better.

"So that's the cliffnotes version, teach," Illyana spoke seriously to Magneto in the living room. "Limbo's my responsibility. Whether you like it or not, I'm going there." The stern talk then melted. "But as deputy leader, I can't jeopardize the team. Once we return to Earth, I will have to find a way to Limbo alone."

Magneto met Illyana's seriousness with his own, his dark eyes bearing some understanding, though unyielding to any change of her decision. "I know this must be difficult for you. I appreciate your respect for your current responsibility."

"Sure," Illyana moaned that answer. Stupid responsibility. "If you excuse me…" She left the room.

The headmaster felt appeased that his students were able to realize the danger of such an endeavor. But it also brought some guilt; he shouldn't have had Psylocke use Gohan as a spyhole to learn the situation, considering the resolution. It was a wrong move, but something necessary. Did Charles ever do the same?

Magneto's own thinking on the matter did not go as easily as his student. Illyana's suggestion that Limbo may be the cause of their travels was a workable theory. The threat she suggested was also serious enough not to ignore. But he couldn't just travel to Limbo with everyone. He couldn't endanger Luna or Doug. But how was he certain they could get to Limbo after returning home? Would he be denying Illyana her wishes? But what of the other wishes her team shared?

This was a clash of responsibilities to what was more important. Magneto noted this conflict before. The world of Gunsmoke was approaching genocide, but his students' safety mattered more. The choice to leave still haunted him. It motivated his decision to help this world. He tried to stop Kakarrotto without any huge cost to his students. But his students overruled and avoided his protection, placing themselves within harm's way. The New Mutants had become a worse annoyance than the X-Men. At least the X-Men, at one point, were his enemy. The New Mutants were his children. They were supposed to be. No, it was truly his fault. He blinded himself with his authority, entrusting the New Mutants to understand the dangers. They did not.

Nevertheless, it was their disobedience that won the day. Kakarrotto had returned to his seemingly normal state. No one was dead. Magneto should be proud of them. But he could not forget their costly mistakes, or his own to them. His record as a father-figure had not improved. Perhaps Luna had good reason not to like him.

His soliloquy was interrupted by the overseeing Chichi. "If ya ask me, sir," she spoke with a proud respect. "It's the right thing she's doin'. An' ya should stay wit' y'r decision."

"If only my students felt the same," Magneto sipped his tea, secretly including himself in that category of doubt.

"I've had the same problems with Gohan. Whenever there's a battle, he has t' go there. Kids shouldn't be riskin' life an' limb gettin' their lives in danger an' all."

"But they are unlike many 'kids,'" Magneto casually corrected her. "They are born mutants, with dangerous powers. Your son is no different."

Hearing those first words, Chichi knew Magneto was going to head to that point about Gohan. Not that it protected the nerve it pulled. "An' I wish he stayed clear from it."

"There is no choice in his situation," Magneto responded strongly. "Either he embrace his abilities sooner and learn to control them, or deny it and let those powers condemn him."

Chichi felt bruised by the question, and the truth it portrayed. Oh, for normalcy! No saving-the-world nonsense! "Do ya ever wish ya were normal?"

Magneto gave little doubt in his decision. "This is normal to me." His eyes stabbed their glare upon Chichi and her unwise answer. "I am proud of what I am. Your son should feel the same about himself as well."

"But that ain't the traits of a scholar."

"Nor are my magnetic powers the characteristic of a school headmaster. But I am one. So you're son shall be a half-Saiya-jin scholar."

Chichi was grudging. Better that Gohan didn't hear any of that! "Feh, I never expected any o' this when I married Goku," she moaned. "I dreamt of a happy family. So what went wrong?"

"You will bear it. You have already borne much than some…people I knew."

"I wish Gohan wasn't…"

And then Chichi found a new face from Magneto, one that copied Piccolo in grim vengeance. "Don't think of that!" Magneto cruelly made every word clear. "Don't ever act upon that! You are the only parent Gohan has that has never let him down. The one who accepts him for what he is. If you think he's a monster, then you are no different than your husband."

Chichi for the first time matched angry words with Magneto. "Why ya…I'm proud o' my son! I care 'bout what he's doin', not what he is. How dare ya think o' me as some horrible mother!"

"Do you really believe in your son?"

Chichi gave no doubt in her stare. "Yes."

Magneto nodded. It made Chichi feel happy. "I admire your devotion," Magneto resembled a statue with his stiff profile and firm decision. "Thus you must understand my students take up my full priority. Anything else must be second."

And with that, so brief a moment, did Chichi feel her elevated heart fall. Now did the affections for Magneto become a hopeless wish! Was it always so? The doubts that had materialized after her confrontation with Kakarrotto had come full force, making it a true realization. And why shouldn't it? She and Magneto never were what was hoped. It was all a silly thought of her own mind, capable of existing in fantasy, but had as much chance of living in reality as a snowball in hell.

Magneto was now off limits, which meant there was now only one other guy open to her. One who still existed in her thoughts, no matter how much she wished to forget him. But did she want him? No answer could result from her question.

Suddenly came a pound from the window. Heading toward it, Chichi saw nothing.

In the air, Goku suddenly had bad thoughts. He imagined punching Magneto in the face. Why would he do that? Was Magneto some evil bad guy planning to take over the world? No.

Was he threatening Kuririn or Gohan? No.

Was he attracting Chichi?

Goku felt madder by the true answer to that final crime. In that moment, Magneto was in the same party as Freeza, General TaoPaiPai, and the demons Piccolo created. Someone who really deserved to be beaten senseless.

But rage gave way to rational thoughts. For all his limited intelligence, Goku can understand such things. Why should he be surprised? He already knew that Chichi was probably as mad at him as Gohan is.

Goku felt sadder. Guess he was in the same boat as Yamucha.

Although Chichi was all for doing the festivities on her own, her guests all volunteered to help out. That was more than Goku or any of his friends have ever done for her. She would miss the good manners of these kids. Most of them.

Doug and Tenchi volunteered for handling the dishes. A previous incident of this teamwork happened on Tenchi's first morning at the School for Gifted Youngsters. It developed their friendship. A repeat of camaraderie, unfortunately, was not seen here. Both spoke little, save for dry commands. Neither friend really felt willing to talk about anything.

Not that there was no attempt made. "I heard that you owned Carrot Guy."

Tenchi only hummed admittance. No word given, Doug felt no reason to try again.

This was unfortunate, considering there was a fruitful land of knowledge each person possessed. Tenchi could talk about Doug's behavior to Warlock. The alien didn't have a single piece of cruel intention in his/its entire body (or is that circuitry?). A whole lot different than Doug, the way he was acting now. Meanwhile, Doug in turn could have expanded to what he already knew about Tenchi's sudden aversion to Illyana. The catastrophes that happened in both relationships were accidents and nothing more. Both Tenchi and Doug knew this. They were not stupid. But they didn't want to take advantage of this fact because…well, because. That nonsensical reason was the foundation for both their present stance. Pain made some very good cement.

Nor did the two do much to break the overall silence between each other. They had no grudges to each other, not even imaginary ones. It was just that too much had happened yesterday for either of them to be tight right now. Hurt by other people, they had to look to their very selves for strength. So Doug would be without Warlock, and Tenchi would be without Illyana. They saw it as their best way of survival, fearful of using an alternative. Not even if their separations gave little comfort. They had made their choices, and hoped they would feel better about it soon.

Both their outside shoulders received a hand. "Hey, guys, time ya two lightened up a bit!"

Neither Tenchi nor Doug turned to the head of Sam between them. Not that they ignored him. "Congratulations on becoming the chief," said Doug. But that was it for the words. Sam felt the barrier and went to Roberto.

Kuririn was happy he got back in time. Getting the news that the New Mutants would be leaving sooner than expected had him hurrying to the nearest town. Illyana had the right idea about getting some pictures of this adventure, so he bought a new camera (the one Illyana bought- via his own money- was destroyed when she went nuts). However, his return to the party showed he had missed some things. Yamucha was gone, according to Goku. Learning that message, Kuririn found his friend's mood more problematic than his words about Yamucha. Goku was acting very somber, as if something tore a piece from his heart. This caused an urgent question. Was it the virus? "No," said Goku. But a real answer was unrevealed. Goku just headed for a wall.

Goku decided not to tell Kuririn his problem with Gohan. This was his own problem, and he had to solve it himself.

"Makin' any attempt?" Rahne posed a question on greeting Goku.

"Tryin'," Goku was forlorn.

Fortunately he received a smile. "Dinna give up," Rahne advised.

Goku responded to this affection with a smile of his own. Rahne liked it. "Tis' easy t' see where Gohan got his smile from." She then looked for that person, only to see Gohan frowning at her.

She crossed the floor to the boy. "Why're ye wit' such a sour face?" She smiled. "Are ye jealous?"

Gohan furiously shook his head.

Rahne's humor slowed to sincerity. "I know tha' yuir father's hurtin' by yuir words."

A small crack broke in Gohan's cold stance. No satisfaction came from his actions. "Well, I don't care." He hardened again.

Rahne could sense the lie in Gohan's refusal.

She saw Gohan turning to her, glaring angry eyes. "Are you on his side?"

"Gohan!" Rahne was staggered by his question.

Gohan went silent, ashamed.

"Gohan, I am yuir friend. I wish t' always be."

"But you're leaving," Gohan cried with moist eyes. He then controlled himself, continuing in a calmer tone. "I'll probably never see you or Tenchi or Roberto ever again."

Rahne was touched. The boy's words brought memories. Another goodbye. The Wolfen Prince she never saw again. Now Gohan had taken that place in her heart, for better and for worse. Och! It was so unfair!

Gohan said so. "It isn't fair! I never really had many friends. Kuririn will be leaving. I can't talk to Piccolo. There's…no one."

"I'm sure ye'll do okay. Ye're too much a likeable person na t' have any friends. Mebbe ye'll meet a girl." Rahne's words pinched Gohan's cheeks. Now the boy smiled, supporting his resemblance to his father.

Rahne greeted Warlock next, who gave her puzzling eyes. "QUERY:- rahnefriend- FAILURE- in- DISPLAYING- antipathy- TO- Self?"

"Whatever for?" But seeing Warlock spy forlornly at Doug gave her intelligence an answer. "'Course not, silly. Ye 're a true friend." She wound her arms lovingly around the techno-organism's arm. "Give Doug time. He shan't stay from such a lovable creature as ye."

Again Warlock's eyes blinked with confusion. "SELF- analysis- SHIFTING- degree- OF- mood- IN- rahnefriend."

Rahne fell into an epiphany with that analysis. When this journey began, she was depressed and anti-social. Now she was the one giving the consoling. The death of Larry Bodine, if not gone from her, was no longer an all-consuming burden. Guess there was too much sorrow from everyone else for her to be wretched.

Goku wasn't the only wallflower at the party. Amara was at a distance herself, imprisoned by remorse. Curse herself for such a novice. Her emotions caused some damage to the land, and the disaster that could have arisen if let be…

She should blame Sam for this, but he was innocent. Perhaps it was right that he refused her vulnerable state. Love was not her purpose, but selfish comfort, and it would have been a mistake if Sam accepted her. This caused the blame to be replaced by affection. She would never love Sam, but a noble friend he shall always be.

But these thoughts were only surface to her broken emotional state. As much as she could reason about Sam, she found no solace for her own problems. Everything was simpler back in Nova Roma. This outside world, and the worlds apart from it, were confusing and shattering to her beliefs. Perhaps it would be wise to return to that inner world.

Passing Amara brought antsy feelings to Sam. Why did he have to break her feelings? Sure, he couldn't get romantic with her, but he could have been a little softer in the refusal. His eye then spotted Gohan. Now here was someone he might help. "Hey, Gohan?"

Gohan turned to the gangly and tall boy. Although he had spent little time with Sam, he felt comfortable with his presence as if he was some big brother.

"Gohan, might ah have a word with you?"

Gohan volunteered with reluctance. Seems like everyone wanted a word with him.

"Y' know, ah think o' ya as a li'l brother. Force a habit, seein' ah'm the oldest 'n my family. One day ya might be a big brother t' somebody, related or no."

Gohan gazed at Sam with interest.

"An' ah don't like what y're doin' now."

Suddenly Gohan dropped his head. He knew what Sam was getting at. He was not going to listen.

Seeing the boy about to leave, Sam intervened. "Now stop an' listen! I ain't gonna tell ya what t' do." He demanded Gohan the hearing of his words. "But ah c'n make ya reckon things a li'l better. Ah know what ye're goin' through. My pappy died a few years ago. He didn't leave me, my ma, or my family on purpose, but ah felt like he did. Ah had dreams t' go t' college. My pappy wanted me to go. But he died, an it was up t' me t' help momma support the family. No more dreams. Ah hated 'im then."

"So you're telling me to get over it?" Gohan had his most pragmatic face to this advice.

"Ah'm just sayin' tha' dumb things happen. It's no fair! But life does tha t' ya. T' me. Tenchi lost his momma when he was a kid. Rahne had no parents."

Gohan found knowledge from Sam's words. Still, he wanted to ignore him.

"Look, ah'm not expectin' ya t' instantly change y'r views. My words may have no effect whatsoever on ya. But ah thought ya should know that life's ain't simple. So don't use that as a reason t' fight it. Ya can't throw y'r pappy outta y'r life, an' think everythin's gonna be happy ever after. If somethin' happens, ya might regret it f'r the rest of y'r life."

"Not me," said Gohan. With that firm refusal, he marched away. He decided to forget what Sam said. He made strong mental notes about it. Too bad this kept him from paying attention to where he was going. He stumbled upon Tenchi. The two shared nervous reactions.

Tenchi's lips were reluctant with shame, but he spoke. "Gohan?"

An alarm buzzed in the boy's thoughts. Please, Tenchi, Gohan cried in his thoughts. Please don't say anything about my father!

But Tenchi had other words. "Um, about what I said…"

A breath of relief later, Gohan's response was a smile. "That's okay. We outsiders got to look together."

Tenchi feebly smiled.

Chichi had made an adequate party. True, the short hours only enabled her to make a cake. But the minimal number of food failed to wreck the best intentions.

Her achievement was complimented. "Gohan's mom is some hostess," said Shan to Dani.

Dani was more realistic. "She's probably happier t' see me off." The removal of her responsibilities had left Dani more sensitive to the problem Chichi had with her. She was some unlucky omen promising the death of her son. The removal of the outcome didn't change that. But Chichi had a good point. Tenchi also hit the right target. To Dani there would always be the possibility that her death images would appear at the most inopportune times, coming for both friend and stranger, to both innocent and creep. Come to think of it, did this power change her friends' view of her? Were they afraid to look at her, scared that any look she gave them meant danger?

"Penny f'r yuir thoughts?" asked a curious Rahne.

"You can just turn wolf an' read 'em." Dani was somber. She would prefer keeping quiet, but Rahne's sincere presence was a match for her resolute will. "Firetop, are you scared of me?"

Surprise caught Rahne, then realization. "Is this about the cruel words Tenchi said? O' course not, Dani. I know ye would tell me if something would happen t' me."

Dani did not reply, forcing a question to Rahne's resolved claim. "Ye would?" Next came surprise. "Ye wouldn't?"

"Yes I would!" Dani shouted an abrupt answer.

Bad move. Rahne was now staring at her. "Are ye?"

"No!" Dani interrupted, trying to nip this problem. "You're not gonna die!"

Rahne settled down a bit, but with some suspicion still in her eyes. "I trust ye Dani," her words were strained but determined. "Ye would na' keep such things 'way fr'm me."

"Nope," Dani did her most sincere reply. Guess Tenchi really had a point. She had been very discreet about her death-visions until the event happened. As leader, it was her belief that she could handle the situation when it came. But the record showed otherwise. Thus Dani found another foundation to her resignation. However, regret came in the form of Illyana and Sam. Probably in need of advice.

With Warlock, the three discussed the situation.

"So Magneto vetoed your plans?" said Sam.

Illyana's sour look spoke the truth.

"Y'know, disobeyin' our teach's wishes has gotten us trouble."

As much as she didn't want to admit it, there was point in Sam's words. "But it's usually been for a good reason, with nothing to screw us over." Illyana than called to Warlock. "Locke, can you retrace any of my dimensional gates from Limbo, and create a portal, like you did Lila's stargate and Carrot Guy?"

"NEGATIVE," Warlock's mouth sagged. "IMPOSSIBILITY-in-ENTRY-residue-DETECTION."

"So you can create the gates to any goings, but not our comings?" Illyana frowned. Her eyes fell on Dani.

"Hey, don't look at me," Dani calmly rejected. She walked away, thinking about her freedom, and how much her words were mouth only. For all her willingness to quit, Dani found that the worries remained. These worries marked the situation. Doug, Amara, and Tenchi were having mental breakdowns. Illyana might know this, for Doug and Amara at least. She might not be sensitive to Tenchi's feelings right now, considering the falling out they had. Talk about brief romances! This one lasted for, what, two days? Sam has probably gotten his work cut out for him.

Dani looked upon Goku. The guy looked like a wallflower, what with everyone isolating themselves from him. Only the occasional visits from Kuririn or Rahne kept Goku from looking completely abandoned. Good girl, carrot top! Still, the loneliness was apparent on Goku's face. Dani understood it too well. She wasn't much a girl for parties, either.

She saw Goku's gaze continually fall on his son. The boy was making an effort not to look at his father, and anytime he failed he got this uncomfortable expression. Evidently the old man learned where he and junior stood right now. Reconciliation wasn't going to be a smooth. The big guy deserved it. And yet, on looking at that sad puppy face he was carrying (compared to the violent angry rabid dog look he had as Carrot Guy), Dani couldn't help feeling sorry for the big lug.

Boy, her leader habits were hard to break! Dani now realized her actions. If she was this good when she was still leader, they wouldn't be in this mess!

"There's one thing missing from this party," Illyana marched to Warlock. "Some boogie time!"

"B-Boogie time?" Gohan repeated the phrase with no idea.

"Locke," cried Illyana, bearing no surrender. "Hit it!"

Interpreting those archaic words, Warlock had a recollection of what Illyanafriend meant. Selfsouldougfriend had self create record files on manipulated sound waves called 'music.' Quickly did the techno-being's torso change into something resembling a radio. Speakers also came from both sides of this simulation. Then the music began.

Hypnotized, Illyana's body flexed to the call of the music. The sound had taken control of her, throwing her body into a mode of dance. She was not the only one affected. Roberto joined in next, coming close to Illyana. Belly to belly, they thrust their dancing abilities together for compliment. Dani and Sam followed, only they did their dancing separately.

"Nice music," Betsy was being intoxicated by the beat.

"I'm one for the classics," Magneto did not appear pleased. As Professor of their school, he had appeared at such dance functions before. Still, at least they appeared to be having a good time this time around. No death-traumatized students, or potential suicides here.

Chichi had similar doubts. "They call that dancing?"

"I believe so," a wicked taint fell on Betsy's smile. "I'm feeling rather in the mood to join." And she did. This beautiful lady of elegance, one who symbolized restraint and tact; she proved different. Doug found it hard not to ignore her appearance.

But all the human dancers were eclipsed. Warlock took over the dance, his/its elongated legs and arms waving into the air. This, added with the radio on his/its torso, made the techno-alien's participation really something.

Gohan had not seen much dancing like this in his life. It was fascinating. He was beginning to see Illyana in a different light. There was something in her body movements that made him feel strange.

"ojan?"

The entranced Gohan ignored that word of meaningless gibberish.

"Gohan!"

"Huh?" The boy reacted disoriented. He felt like he was under some kind of trance. But he answered the caller of his name. It was Rahne. A sudden spell of embarrassment came over him.

Rahne was twiddling her fingers nervously. This was not an easy thing for her to do. "Would ye dance wit' me? Would ye like to?"

Feeling not a little nervous, Gohan spoke honestly. "I don't really know how."

"Tis well," Rahne hid her own unbalanced nerves. "I'll teach ye a few steps." That was, if she knew any good ones.

Indeed, the grace of their steps contrasted (greatly) with their friends. Fortunately there were no foot-stepping-foot mistakes. The only contact they made was their arms locked together. Rahne made her steps, which Gohan duplicated with his own feet. Their nervousness did not hamper their enjoyment. Rather, it helped in bringing smiles of inadequate laughter.

"I'll miss you, Rahne," Gohan spoke with discretion, hiding his face while speaking in the lowest of slurs. It was no use; Rahne's human ears were no less sensitive to what was heard. "I'll miss ye too."

"Gohan and Rahne, sitting in a tree…" Dani recited in joke. Her words were stopped by a firm grip on her shoulder.

"Don't even think about it," the voice of Gohan's mother offered a chilled warning.

Dani would have faced off Chichi tooth and nail, but she let Gohan's mother have her way. She would be amazed to learn Chichi's lack of hostility to her best friend. In fact, her view of Rahne was of the highest regard. That girl would not lead her son astray. Even a personal moment like this dance did not rattler her, but was endearing. Also bittersweet, as it was proof that her son was growing up. It also cast a memory of the last time she danced. The tango she and Goku did at their wedding. Her dancing partner stood at the back, looking very lonely. It was obvious that none of the guests liked his presence.

Chichi decided to get his attention. It was an action that was strangely terrifying. It made her words very soft. "G-Goku…?" Then she stopped. She quickly forgot about her action, or denied them to an area that she wouldn't think about it. Lots of things to attend to…

Tenchi could not help keeping a sight on Illyana. Roberto was touching her. By the way of her expressions, it looked like her unhappiness about being dumped didn't last long. Oh, quit it, his mind screamed at himself. It was over and done. He made the right decision. He would feel easier now. He would forget those awful words she said, about him being an 'ice prince.'

After the dance came the cake. Everyone had a piece (including Warlock, who absorbed its energies, leaving his/her/its cake a solid block). Goku and Gohan sat at separate parts of the room. But without giving the other their perspective, their eating manners were done in a near-synchronized pace. And everyone noticed it.

"Boy, you two look alike." Kuririn was complimentary.

Goku's face opened in curious fascination. His son, however, shrugged from the compliment. "It's a lie," Gohan demanded.

"Kuririn, think before you talk," Roberto 's warning was strong.

"What did I say?" Kuririn looked at the uncomfortable and disapproving faces most of his teenage friends made over his remark.

Chichi was just as confused. But a mother like her was able to reach a possible conclusion. A distressing one.

Magneto was not lost to the familial estrangement either. He thought of his own children. Pietro, now a madman. Wanda, now impossibly pregnant with child. Anya, dead these many years. All his children were lost to him, by death or preferred rejection. This group may be added by his granddaughter, safe in Shan's arms. Being a father is never easy.

Such a crushing moment needed something better to end the party.At that moment, Roberto closed up to Tenchi, whispering to his ear. What went on was surely good to Tenchi, as he suddenly nodded. "Gohan!" He spoke firmly.

"Yeah?" Gohan all but jumped to Tenchi's question.

"Kneel," He came closer, taking out his Tenchi-Ken.

The command did not affect Gohan to obey it.

"It's okay," Tenchi was sincere. "Trust me. You can do it with one knee."

"Just do it, Gohan!" Roberto complained.

Uneasiness sliding away, Gohan did as he was told.

Tenchi stood before him. The Tenchi-ken now burned brightly in his hand. With this weapon he held to Gohan's left shoulder without making contact. "By the right given to me, as…Crown Prince of Jurai, I make you…thee…Gohan…a royal knight." He swerved the hilt to the boy's other shoulder. "You are now a kinsman to the House of Jurai."

His head lowered, Gohan lifted it in pride. His return to his feet saw himself being showered with applause.

"Tis' a great honor, Gohan," sparkled Rahne.

"HONOR- exemplified- GOHANFRIEND!" Warlock was equally happy.

"Congratulations," Kuririn joined in.

"Yeah," Goku spoke up. "Nice job!"

Illyana too had her remarks- to the father, that is. "Shaddup!"

Chichi's response was mixed. Better that it was some degree or diploma, she thought. Oh well.

Next Kuririn slipped out a camera. "How about some pictures!"

"Yeah!" screamed Gohan with delight. His happiness convinced the Mutants to do it. And Rahne had the idea of how they would pose. She whispered to Warlock and then Gohan. Soon, the two walked to an empty part of the field.

"GOHANFRIEND- ready?"

"Sure am," said Gohan. As he bowed his eyes below him, Warlock flattened and widened him/itself into a long platform.

"C'mon!" Rahne swung her arm for the team to follow. The willing teammates darted first, followed by the reluctant. Doug hesitated.

"C'mon, Doug!" cried his teammates.

Doug's face grew tense, but he made his steps. But the distance he shrank, the hesitance grew. He was about to turn back, when Roberto pulled him to the platform. Doug shrugged any connection, which almost led to a fight with his least favorite New Mutant. The team got all together to break it up. They received a great upset from the platform they stood on. Legs at each corner of Warlock elongated, towering higher than Gohan. The boy walked right under it. Then the legs shrank!

"Gohan!" Chichi allowed her maternal worry to overwhelm her knowledge of Gohan's abilities. Sure enough, the concern was proved unfounded; by sheer force of his strength, Gohan was keeping the platform above his back and head, lifting ten New Mutants in their laughter, grabbing each other in attempts to retain balance on the topsy-turvy platform.

"Take the picture Kuririn!" Gohan made a strained smile in his effort.

Sure enough, the monk aimed the device at this memorable scene of their visitors, one to remember in opposition to grim memories of yesterday. Indeed, the perpetrator of there problems failed to keep a straight face. He wanted to join the fun.

This was not ignored by Chichi. Goku was again his usual happy-go-lucky self. Didn't anything faze him? The more she realized, Chichi had little understanding of her husband. And she didn't know if she wanted to find out.

She considered this while getting the bowl where the six Dragon Balls had been kept in. It was time for farewell, she thought with sadness. She was going to miss Betsy. Except for Buruma, she hadn't really any woman friend she could speak to. Chichi looked to Shan, who was holding Luna comfortably. The baby was going to be missed as well. Chichi wondered if she could remedy this loss. The thought of a mini-Goku was an endearing thought, though quickly it was squelched from her mind.

These thoughts naturally led to Magneto. His loss was not going to impossible, though. Despite the abundance of everything that happened these two days, Chichi was able to come to a natural conclusion. Magneto was a sudden surprise to her present existence, his presence a change of pace. But it wasn't meant to be. He had his world to return to, she had hers to live in.

Now did that mean a return to the other man in her life?

Magneto took the bowl of Dragon Balls. "Thank you for your hospitality."

"No problem," said Chichi with a bittersweet smile.

And soon only she was left at Mount Paozu, waving goodbye to everyone as they took to the air.

Goku, Gohan, Kuririn, Magneto, Luna, Betsy, and the New Mutants reached Kami-sama's temple. The keeper awaited them all with a reverent gaze, his hand providing the restored Dragon Ball.

His appearance brought something for Sam to speak about. "Ah ain't seen Piccolo at all today."

"He and Kami-sama don't like each other," explained Kuririn. "Even though they're the same guy."

Magneto then remembered seeing Piccolo from afar on their journey here. That was enough for their farewell.

His students got more from their goodbyes. It wasn't a smooth one. The New Mutants and Gohan found their bond hard to separate. But all did their partings, in their own way.

"Thanks for saving my life Shan," Gohan greeted his savior.

"Au revoir, Gohan," said Shan.

Illyana frisked the boy's hair. "Y'know kid. If you were maybe six years older, I could fall for you. Take care."

For the first time before her presence, Gohan blushed. Kuririn, however, winced. Suddenly, the monk was surrounded by Tenchi, Warlock, Doug, and Illyana, each giving their goodbyes to him.

Illyana was different in her farewell to him. She planted a wet one upon his bald head. Kuririn took on a shade of red. "Can I kiss you back?"

"Don't push it, shorty," chilled Illyana, wiping her lips.

Meanwhile, Sam shook hands with Gohan, as did Roberto. He was not a kid to them, but a man who showed his worth.

Rahne hugged Gohan dramatically. "Be careful."

"Hope ya learned some things," Dani tiredly smiled. "Like thinkin' 'fore fightin'."

"I'll try." Gohan laughed. He then heard Tenchi crying his name. No shaking of hands or words were said, but the feelings were clear to each other.

Tenchi walked over to Goku. The elder began to feel some apprehension in expectation to what the New Mutants would say to him. Tenchi's somber look gave little to hope differently. Thus it came as a surprise to the Saiya-jin when Tenchi bowed. Goku remembered his grandfather acted that way, and taught him to do it as well, though he hadn't done it for awhile. He wasn't the only one with such a reaction. Gohan was shocked. How could such a great guy like Tenchi bow to his father? At first thinking about his father's importance to gain such respect, Gohan quickly turned to an idea more acceptable to his feelings. Tenchi was indeed a really great guy to act humble to people unworthy to kiss his hand.

"I ask forgiveness for what I did to your eye," Tenchi spoke with a bowed head. "In the fight that led to that blindness, I was full of rage and vengeance. Although the eye was an accident, I feel guilty for what I have done."

"That's okay, Tenchi," Goku grabbed the kid's shoulders, moving him back straight. "I still got one eye. I ain't gonna miss my lost one that much. You don't hafta feel guilty 'bout anything."

Tenchi nodded at the welcome acceptance.

Then Rahne patted Goku on the shoulder. "Remember."

"I will."

Kami-sama dropped the orb with the other six. A magical link was made. A ray of light erupted into the sky. The sky became uncharacteristically dark.

Thus the giant dragon Shenlong appeared. Only Illyana had witnessed such a massive appearance, so her teammates were met with an immense awe that even she felt despite her experience.

Magneto remained stoic. A god created? Divinity must surely have some humble beginnings!

Psylocke kept her thoughts away from this beast, lest an accidental rapport with such a divinity may destroy her sanity.

"Reflect upon your desires, mortals," said Shenlong. "For I can grant any wish…but only one."

"To the Limbo Dimension belonging to my student Illyana," Magneto spoke in ignorance to the burgeoning surprised faces. "I wish all in this circle to be teleported there, save for my granddaughter Luna...and my student Doug Ramsey."

Shock took over surprise to that word. "What are you saying?" Doug bellowed in emotional distress.

"It is granted," the Dragon had spoken.

"Are you kidding me? Stop it!" Doug screamed to the dragon, his words blending with the equal sounds of protest from his friends. But Shenlong remained defended against their pleas.

"Change the wish!" Tenchi cried to the dragon.

"Sir, how could ya do this?" Sam screamed at Magneto.

"The New Mutants are a team!" Dani broke from her passiveness.

Magneto suppressed all misgivings from his mind. The path had been set. Instead he waved a hand that transported Luna softly into Gohan's tender hands. "Thus I give you a great responsibility Son Goku, just as my predecessor gave me. Show that my choice proves wise." He spoke in threat rather than a blessing.

Meanwhile, Illyana was ready to conjure her Soulsword and break the molding of this wish before it solidified. "Thanks a lot, Illyana!" Tenchi broke into her eyes with angry words. Illyana was pummeled by this vocal blow. She became too shaken to make her damaging attack.

Betsy, Rahne, and Warlock grabbed at Doug in hopes that their contact might change the wish. Doug enthusiastically shared in the rapport of his human friends, even Warlock's touch. But the touch grew softer, almost untouchable, as if Doug was in contact with a phasing Kitty Pryde.

"No, come back!" Doug grappled against the growing intangibility. He saw Betsy in tears.

"Don't worry, Doug!" cried Roberto. "The New Mutants look after our own. As soon as we're able to, we'll be back for you!" But his uncharacteristic reply failed to give any hope to Doug. In a bright flash, his team was gone. He tried to stand. Legs failed him as he knelt hopelessly. "Don't leave me…"

Doug quickly replaced depression with anger, portrayed by his fist ramming the floor. "Dammit! I trusted you Magneto."

Comfort had to come from others. "He thought it the right thing," Goku did his best to soothe the kid's despair.

"Shut the fuck up, Carrot Guy." Doug growled in return. "He left me with the baby. Compared to the others, I'm nothing but a helpless infant!"

So the Mutants departed from this Earth, leaving no trace of their presence from that spot of their departure. However, they had left a lasting mark within the demi-Saiya-jin who saw them leave. It was a mark that brought sadness to the boy, but unlike the wounds from his father, it enriched him with good feelings. He would never forget the New Mutants.

Goku, heeding well Rahne's words to him, walked closer to his son with a grasping hand. "Gohan…"

Gohan walked away with Luna. "I better get Luna to mom."

"But wait…"

Gohan made every step with deaf ears, looking to Luna's cherubic face to overwhelm any need to know what his father wanted.

Gohan was now off the tower, leaving the two alumni of Kame-sen'nin with Kami-Sama and Doug.

Goku went silent at his failure.

"Don't worry, Goku," Kuririn slapped his friend's lower back. "Gohan'll come around."

Goku took this advice with struggled agreement.

To be continued

Annotations:

-Farouk possessed Karma and later possessed most of the New Mutants in NEW MUTANTS#32-34.

-Wolfsbane had a brief relationship with a Wolfen Prince in NEW MUTANTS SPECIAL EDITION & UNCANNY X-MEN ANNUAL 9.

-Julianna was Roberto's girlfriend. Killed in the NEW MUTANTS GRAPHIC NOVEL.

-The Beyonder killed all the New Mutants (save for Roberto) in NM#37.

-Pietro was undergoing a period of insanity at this point (caused by Maximus the Mad).

-Wanda would give birth to twins (created from her powers) in VISION & THE SCARLET WITCH#12 (Vol. 2).

With the new guests, the Son family tries to weather the conflicts in their home, little knowing of what is to come! The Kakarrotto Saga reaches its conclusion!