.

Chapter 27:

MEETING A FRIEND

Previously on Consumed by the past:

Kyuuri has managed to learn a very versatile and powerful technique from H'Tap. It has taken her months and months to finally master it, so a lot of time was waisted because of that. Due to that, she wasn't able to focus on training her body in the physical sense and that is causing her worries, since Gohan was most probably doing intense training and gaining even more strength and power. Determined to defeat Endou and Gohan, Kyuuri left H'Tap, but vowing to keep her promise to him - to defeat Endou before she can cause even more death and destruction.

As the demon fighter, now equipped with the ultimate portal conjuring knowledge, stepped out from the portal, she was thankful. It was the "Demon" realm, or more accurately, proximity of their hidden fortress - the very place where it all started with Endou, Shingo and Gohan. But this time, something was different; there were Kaioshin Council's servants all over the place.

"Tsch, the whole area is crawling with the Council's lackeys. Seems like Kibito wasn't such a worthless member at all. On the contrary, I have to give him credit for following me here after my battle with Gohan. Seems like their whole expedition is here, looking for clues and information regarding Endou and Shingo."

She looked to a specific direction: "I hope you have done your part Koshi. If you screwed up, all was for nothing."

With that said, she opened another portal which led to an undisclosed location in the same realm which the Kaioshins, hopefully, would never find. Kyuuri was constantly on guard, not to be seen by anyone or anything. Moments after entering the entrance, she exited on the other side, taking her time to survey the area; not with eyes or ears, but Ki detection. That's right, during all those months/years with H'Tap, she managed to learn this little trick that Gohan and others use. As she couldn't feel any unusual energies, she proceeded to a designated location, where, supposedly, she was to meet Koshi. Just after a few steps, there was a strange sound coming not far from her. It was strange since she couldn't feel any energies in the immediate area.

"Where the hell have you been?! I have been waiting here for, what is seemed, an eternity," a voice said right next to Kyuuri.

"It is nice to see you too, Koshi," she replied and added: "It seems that your suppression field is doing its job."

Koshi de-cloaked himself, becoming visible: "Of course it is. I was always able to stay hidden from the Kaioshins, especially now that they are infesting this realm, although far away from here. Oh, and by the way, thank you for letting them know where we are. What were you thinking, letting Kibito come here, exposing our forever-hidden hideout."

"Koshi, it has been a very long, difficult, annoying, exhausting time since we last saw each other."

He took a good look at her: "I would say, yes. You look like you have been through Hell and back… and to Hell again and back. And where is Endou and Shingo? We were supposed to meet months ago, once all of you have obliterated Gohan and his friends and made the needed wishes on Namek."

"Tsch, to put it simply, the last thing I remember was being left for dead on that wretched Namekian planet by Endou. Then I was alive again when I was quickly told to thank Gohan for that before being teleported somewhere where I spent a very long time."

"Are you saying that master Endou and Shingo abandoned us?!" Koshi was deeply shocked.

"Not abandoned, but used. Oh, and Shingo was vaporized by Endou once she sucked all of his powers."

"Wha- what are you saying?!"

It's a long, tiresome story, friend; one I will explain in detail once we properly hide from the Kaioshins. Long story short, Endou doesn't need us anymore since she possesses all of Shingo's knowledge and power, thanks to those Dragon Balls. She double-crossed Shingo and wished that all his power and knowledge is transferred to her. After that, she just incinerated him like a wooden doll."

Koshi just stood there, like he had seen a ghost. Everything that Kyuuri just told him seemed like an alternate reality or, ironically, another dimension. Once he managed to pull himself together, kind of, he was able to talk more: "But.. but if all that is true, how did you get here then? Where is Endou now? I have so many questions that urgently need answers."

"Not now Koshi, we are too exposed out here. By the way, did you relocate all of the resources from the fortress?"

"How can you be so calm about this is?" he wanted to know.

"Listen, I have been through so much, I can't even begin to explain. I will tell you everything once we are safely hidden. So, I am gonna ask you gain, did you relocate everything from the fortress?"

"Yes… of course, I was lucky to have done it before those meddling Kaioshins overran the fortress. I managed to destroy everything non-essential, so they won't find anything useful at all. On top of that, I left them a few surprises, which will lead them off tracks, wasting even more time trying to find us."

"Perfect," smiled Kyuuri and looked at Koshi: "In any case, we need to press on, with or without Endou. I have learned a very nifty technique in my absence, so don't get too comfortable here, since we will be relocating somewhere far, far away. This location is still too close for comfort when all those attendants and soon-to-be Kaioshin wandering around."

Koshi nodded and both went ahead to their new, but temporary, concealed hideout, where they will be able to discuss everything that had happened, until time is right to leave once again to a more secure location.

. . . . .

On the other hand, very, veeeeeeery far away, on a planet where deities reside, the Kaioshin Council was still fully occupied with finding Endou, Kyuuri and Koshi. They have made some progress since Kibito found the "Demon" realm, but, as Koshi mentioned previously, they have found almost no evidence where Endou's squad (or ex squad) might have gone or what exactly have they been doing in that fortress.

"This is not going as planned, Kibito," said the East Kaioshin, while on his way to the Council's chamber.

"Agreed. We really haven't found much in that fortress and its surroundings. We can confirm that Endou has been using it as her headquarters, but for what exactly, we are not sure yet," Kibito answered in a concerning voice.

"I am starting to wonder if we will ever truly know. We have spent quite some time there, investigating, taking samples and evidence, but haven't learned much from it. I have to admit, they really thought of everything. In all my time as a Kaioshin, I have never met such a stealthy and cunning adversary."

"I believe, sooner or later, we will obtain some useful information. We can at least confirm that Gohan was there, based on the blood samples and torn clothing. I reckon he and Kyuuri had some battles between them. Furthermore, there have been confirmation about traces of a strange substance, which later turned out to have same characteristics as Gohan's Ki. Based on that, we assume it was there where Endou infused him with all that dark energy. Very much concerning, indeed."

"I agree, but none the less, no matter what we find, it doesn't tell us where Endou's lackey have gone. We don't even know where Endou is, after she had teleported from Namek. I am starting to get crazy from all of this, Kibito."

"Do not worry master, I have strong faith in our investigation. We have always defeated evil, and this time it will be no different."

"Wish I would feel the same," the Kaioshin answered back.

As they entered the Council's chambers, other Kaioshins* had already assembled there and taken their respective seats. It seems there is a gathering, or some kind of meeting, in order to discuss the current and future plans regarding Endou. When everyone had assembled, their discussion began by firstly summarizing what had been done until now, pointing out some potential leads and discoveries. After that, the discussion was open for any further ideas and suggestions how to proceed onwards and to discuss any other open topics or concerns… the usual.

"This is going nowhere… we are just going round in circles," one of them said.

"Agreed. We have yielded very few results from the investigation of Endou's realm. I have to admit, I never expected progress to be so slow," answered another.

"We are slipping, if you ask me," the third one added.

"Watch your words!" replied the second one, slamming his fist on his desk, and continuing: "Those are serious accusations against the Council."

"Kaioshins, please, we are not here to fight among ourselves," East Kaioshin interrupted them all and got out of his chair: "Let us focus on the task at hand – finding and stopping Endou."

A short period of silence took over the chamber – it seems everybody involved had calmed down a bit, but it didn't last long.

"We all know that, but if you ask me, Endou should have been captured a long time ago, along with her followers. At least we don't have to worry about Shingo anymore. Maybe we should be thankful."

"Ugh, you are such a downer North, but I agree," answered South Kaioshin and started walking around: "we won't have problems with Shingo, but we WILL or DO have them with Endou now, especially since she can teleport almost anywhere, which means all 4 quadrants are in danger, including the Otherworld and everything in between."

"Agreed," confirmed East Kaioshin and raised his voice, "I believe we must prioritize this matter, whether we like it or not. Endou must be stopped at all costs and brought to justice."

"Indeed we do, but I have a question for you East – why is that hybrid-Saiyan boy roaming free? He should be punished for helping Endou free Shingo, not to mention he killed all those Wanasans in the process."

"We have already discussed this and I stand by my decision to let him help us. And he isn't just roaming free, he has been recruited as our asset. If he doesn't obey our will, he WILL be punished severely," he answered in a serious tone.

"Finally, somebody with a spine," South Kaioshin congratulated him, "and not just that. The fact that some of these mortals possess so much power is very worrying. It rivals even ours."

"I'm afraid that is not exactly true, my lord," Kibito jumped in. "Please forgive me for interrupting, but I feel this needs to be clarified properly. Gohan's power doesn't rival yours yet, but I believe it is only a matter of time. I, myself, had seen his power and he already surpasses me, not by much, but he does none the less."

"Thank you Kibito for the insight," thanked the East Kaioshin, "but, as you are very well aware, there is quite a difference between us and you, the Attendants, even though you act as a bodyguards."

"I understand my lord, please, forgive me," Kibito started apologizing.

"Now, now, no use for that North. I think Kibito is right about that, and, regarding the difference between us and the Attendants, we all know it is not THAT much, that is why they are our bodyguards. And I also know, that you are not of the strongest Kaioshins, so please don't act so tough," West Kaioshin spoke for the first time during this session. "And if we are done arguing like children, let's continue with some proper ideas and plans," she added.

Although the meeting had a rough start, they eventually managed to stop complaining about one another, and got down to business. It took quite a while for the discussion to end, but eventually, it was over. East Kaioshin and Kibito were the last ones to leave, both having mixed feelings about all that was said.

"I am not sure Kibito," East Kaioshin started when exiting the chamber, "I feel we haven't accomplished much. So much talking, yet not much agreed and said."

"I am not able to offer any guidance here, master, but I believe it is still better to say a lot of things, than none at all. Kaioshins might have different opinions, but in the end, we always make the right decision and move forward. This time it will be no different, I am sure of it."

"I hope so, Kibito. I really hope so. Just thinking about the fact that a mortal is needed to help us find Endou kind of sickens me."

"Why so, master?"

"I am not sure. Whenever he is around, I have a feeling that he is laughing on the inside, mocking us how weak we are. He doesn't have the proper respect for us… he is not intimidated by us or our power because of that. And the same goes for his father, and Vegeta. These Saiyans seem to have no proper respect for us at all."

"May I be honest, master?" Kibito asked and coughed.

"By all means, my friend."

"I believe we have neglected the lower realm a bit. We have been preoccupied with other important matters, making us forget how some races and civilizations are or were developing. Naturally we are supposed to look over this quadrant, making sure it prospers in any way possible, but it seems there are anomalies happening."

"I must admit, Kibito, you seem to be on top of things more than I am currently. But I agree with your thinking. Seems like the remaining Saiyans have somehow quickened their evolutionary process, which is something rare, but not impossible. We have witnessed this at other races as well, so that is not something out of the ordinary…"

"Except a Saiyan-Human hybrid," Kibito raised his voice, "this has never happened before and it seems the combination of both genes is extremely potent. Also, Gohan is not the only one on planet Earth… there are two more, both infants."

"So you have been observing that planet a bit, haven't you?"

"Indeed. Information is needed and progress must be monitored, so we are not caught off guard… again. Currently, the situation is under our control. Goku cannot leave the Otherworld and Gohan is our asset. Infants on Earth pose no threat, but that still leaves Vegeta."

"Interesting… how about Piccolo? I know he isn't a Saiyan, but he is still very strong."

"Not to worry master. Based on my observations, I believe he poses no threat to us because of two reasons. First, his power and strength is currently lower than the Saiyans' and second, he is very well aware who we are and won't question or doubt our intentions. Since he had fused with the previous guardian of Earth, he obtained all that knowledge and information about us."

"Of course," Kaioshin smiled and clenched his fist, "so the only wildcards here are Gohan and Vegeta. The boy is the least predictable… his rage outburst can be extremely dangerous. But on the other hand, the guilt, which derives from freeing Shingo and obliterating the Wanasan complex, is leverage for us. He is determined to correct his mistakes, so he will help us, especially if he wants his father to ever return to Earth. But Vegeta… I am not sure what to say about him. He can transform into Super Saiyan 2, like Gohan, so that is problematic for us and can lead to defiance as well. But in any case, we don't have to worry too much about him, for now."

"I concur with that assumption as well. It seems that Vegeta is more concerned about himself than anything else, but on the other hand, he did exhibit some signs of a relationship with the boy, so I believe there might be some sort of a bond between them."

They continued walking and reached the Gardens of eternity, one of the most beautiful and peaceful parts of their planet, ideal for meditation and being alone with one's thoughts. Both waved each other goodbye, like knowing exactly what each other is going to do. Kibito continued his way to somewhere else, while the East Kaioshin sat down, crossed his legs and started meditating. It has been quite a rough time for him, being in the center of the Shingo and Gohan fiasco. Some Kaioshins have expressed their concerns for him letting Gohan go unpunished and, in the end, actually recruiting him to do the Council's bidding. In any case, it was his decision to make, since he governs this part of the Universe and thus Milky Way galaxy, along with Earth, being under his jurisdiction. It didn't take too long for his moment of solitude to be broken by an attendant.

"I'm terribly sorry for disturbing, master, but I bear urgent news," she said, bowing deeply in front of the East Kaioshin.

"Hmmm, what is it? I just started meditating. You know how much I hate being interrupted," he replied with an annoying voice.

"Please forgive me, but the expedition team in the "Demon" realm believes it has located the whereabouts of Endou and her followers."

"WHAT?!" he yelled and jumped back on his feet: "Where are they?"

"South-west of the fortress, quite a long way, but evidence suggests they went that way to regroup or relocate."

"Perfect. Even if it is far-fetched or uncertain, we need to investigate every possible lead, no matter how insignificant. Tell them I will arrive with Kibito," the Kaioshin answered and started walking towards where Kibito went, but then turned around: "And with Gohan as well."

The attendant nodded and continued in the opposite way, in order to relay the message to the expedition team.

"Finally, we might have found you, Endou, Kyuuri and Koshi. I told you we would never stop searching for you," he was muttering to himself.

. . . . .

At the same time on Earth, autumn was over and winter was already in full swing. The landscape around Capsule Corp was covered with a thin layer of freshly fallen snow. Everybody was enjoying this time of the year, full of festivities and holiday spirit. The CC building was decorated, both outdoor and indoor, and a huge Christmas tree full of lights and decorations was put in the lobby, and a smaller one in the main living room, where usually everybody gathered. Surprisingly, Gohan was just in the middle of decorating the smaller tree, since this was something that he always enjoyed doing. Trunks and Goten were playing around with the decorations, and Bulma and Chichi were of course right next to the cute toddlers.

"Gohan, I think you missed the spot. Can you put some more lights on that side," Bulma said and pointed to the Christmas tree.

"Uh? Oh, sorry, totally missed that part," smiled Gohan and flew higher up with some extra lights. "How's that?" he asked.

"Perfect, just perfect. Now only the top remains. What should we put there to complete the tree?" Bulma added.

"I've been saving this one for this," replied the half-Saiyan and opened a small box, containing the last decoration. He took it out and flew back to the top of the tree and put it on. It was a replica of the four-star Dragon Ball.

"There, now it is finished," the boy smiled and flew back down.

"It's beautiful Gohan," Chichi was overwhelmed.

"I agree," smiled Bulma and saw Gohan's eyes sparkle a bit. "And I know why you picked the four-star one. It's the one Goku had when I met him, and then you had it on your hat when you were very young."

Gohan nodded and didn't say anything, except that his eyes contained more and more water.

"Ohhh sweetie, it reminds you of Goku and all previous Christmases," Chichi added.

"… Yes…. I miss him…," he said with a shaking voice.

"Awwww, I miss him too, dear. We all do," his mother replied with some tears in her eyes.

"Stop it you two, before I start crying as well," Bulma said, barely holding hear tears as well.

Gohan wiped his watery eyes and stepped closer to them, "He will return soon, I will make sure of it."

"Don't bother yourself too much, Gohan. We all miss him, but we know he will be back once the Kaioshin will allow it. And besides, knowing Goku, he is probably taking full advantage of being in the Otherworld to train and fight others," Chichi said while hugging her oldest son.

"I guess you're right mum, but still, I will do everything to bring him back."

"I know you will sweetie. After all, you are his son."

Everybody gathered about an hour later, including the Z-fighters and had a nice evening with dinner and lots of chatting and goofing around. It was one of those occasions where everybody would meet and have a nice time. Vegeta, of course, wasn't there, since he was busy training his Super Saiyan 2 transformation, which, so far, hasn't yielded big results. He still had difficulties controlling his emotions after some period of being transformed, but still much better than at the beginning. Gohan also faced the same difficulties, but on a much smaller scale – he could stay transformed for a longer time without his emotions and temper going wild and out of control. Seems like his half Saiyan and half Human heritage is having a beneficial effect on the Super Saiyan 2 symptoms. The time quickly went by and everyone had already mostly gone home, except for Krillin and Yamcha, who were still there. Gohan stepped outside on the terrace to get some fresh air. It was chilly, but not too cold, so he just had a sweater on. The stars were very bright since there were no clouds. His eyes got lost in them; like he was searching for something or somebody.

"The stars are very bright tonight," he said to himself.

"Indeed they are, but be sure to not look at the moon on the other side," a voice replied.

The boy turned his head and smiled widely, "Piccolo! I wasn't expecting you here."

The Namekian smiled back and landed next to the boy, "I don't like these huge gatherings and crowds. Makes me nervous and my ears hurt from all the screaming and other stuff."

"Oh yeah, your Namekian super hearing… I often forget about that. Must be really annoying sometimes."

"You have no idea. Especially when those two toddlers are screaming and crying… nightmare for my ears."

"Hahaha," Gohan started laughing hard. "How did you manage to survive when I was crying while you trained me after defeating Raditz?"

"Probably one of my most difficult trainings ever," the Namekian replied with a smile, but then his expression got serious: "I came here to give you a little heads up. The East Kaioshin will most probably come soon to talk to you. Kaio-sama had informed a few moments ago, and asked to deliver this message. He didn't want to interrupt you having a good time this evening."

"He is coming now? For what? Is dad coming back with him? Will he be able to finally come back?" the half Saiyan started asking questions.

"I don't know that, Gohan. Whatever it may be, it must be important for him to come to you. Might be connected to that Endou person."

"Endou…" the boy said and clenched his fist, "I swear Piccolo, when I find Endou, I won't let her escape again."

"And her sidekick Kyuuri? Will you help her escape, like you did before on Namek?"

"That was different. She didn't deserve to die like that. Endou just used her, like she used me… like she used everyone. And besides, I don't know what happened then. My mind just went blank and moments later, Kyuuri was teleported somewhere. I don't know where, I don't remember."

"Gohan… I have known you since you were 4 years old and I usually can sense when you are not telling me everything. Why and where did you send Kyuuri to?"

The boy was looking at the ground, not saying anything at all.

"Very well, then our conversation ends here. I'm off. Find me when you will be ready to talk," the Namekian said and jumped into the air.

"Wait," Gohan shouted and lifted his face, "Fine… I will tell you, but what I said about not knowing where she is, that is the truth."

"I'm listening," the Namekian replied and landed next to the boy.

"I wanted to fight her again, since she pushed me to my limits and beyond. I felt the adrenaline and excitement, kind of like when fighting Cell, but different. I wanted more, Piccolo, I still want more."

"Hmmm, it seems your Saiyan genes have really kicked in. Is sparring with Vegeta not enough?

"It is not the same since he is my friend and everything revolves around sparring. Dad also didn't get the excitement from sparring with me, or with anyone else for that matter. I did want to send Kyuuri back to the "Demon" realm to save her and, hopefully, eventually fight her again, but when I spoke the words, they didn't match what I wanted, so she was sent to somewhere else.

"Where to?" Piccolo wanted to know.

"I… I don't know. My Namekian vocabulary is very limited, but I believe to some planet. I swear, Piccolo."

The Namekian looked at the sky, inhaling deeply: "I had a feeling you might say something like that. Thinking back, whenever you were fighting her, you enjoyed it very much, despite being for life and death. But I still agree that teleporting her away was a bad idea."

"As do I," somebody said in close vicinity.

Both were shocked and turned their heads towards where the voice came from… It was the East Kaioshin, alone.

"And now I also know WHY you saved Kyuuri – because of your selfish reasons to fight her. I can't say I that am surprised or shocked, as such things are expected from you mortals."

Gohan immediately looked at Piccolo and asked him with an angry voice: "Was this all a part of a plan to get me talking?!"

Before he could reply, the Kaioshin already provided an answer:" He has nothing to do with this, Gohan. I wasn't planning on visiting you until tomorrow, but this couldn't wait.

We might have found Kyuuri, so you need to come with me and Kibito to the "Demon" realm."

"Right now?" But I wanted to spend this evening with my friends and family," the boy said.

"I am not interested in your mortal activities. As you know, you have made a vow to help the Council bring Kyuuri to justice."

"I need to change my clothes, unless you want me going like this," the half Saiyan answered and pointed to his sweater.

Kaioshin had enough of Gohan's arrogance and lies, "It would give me much please to punish you and throw you into a cell or dungeon, but, sadly, I still require your assistance. So yes, change your clothes. You've got a few of your Earth minutes."

Goku's son rushed inside to change as quickly as possible, but not for the Kaioshin's sake, but the fact the he might fight Kyuuri again. The adrenalin rush was real once again. In the meantime, Piccolo felt a bit uncomfortable since the deity of all deities was standing, and waiting, practically a few feet from him. It was actually a bit comedic; the god of creation is waiting for a 10-year-old boy to help him apprehend Kyuuri and Endou. But in Piccolo's mind, it was all deep respect, or more like awe – respect because of fear.

"If I may ask a question, Kaioshin-sama?" he finally managed to get the words out.

"Of course. You are the previous Guardian of this planet after all."

"If, and when, Endou and others are caught, what are your plans with the boy and his father?"

"A very good question, which I, currently, have no answer to. If he helps us catching them, it will count as a deduction to his penalty."

"Penalty? I thought if he assists you with this, he won't get punished and Goku would finally be able to be wished back to life."

"It is not that simple, Piccolo. You are very well aware of Gohan's transgressions which, by our law, should have been punished immediately, but I was able to convince the Council that he should be recruited as an extension of our forces, in order to capture Shingo's followers. You of all people should understand that actions have consequences, especially on this grand scale. Let us also not forget the fact that Goku's actions resulted in North Kaio's planet being obliterated by Cell, and killing Kaio in the process. That is another major transgression which also cannot be overlooked."

"I understand Kaioshin-sama, but Gohan has been through a lot and he is just a child wielding this enormous power. His heart is pure and noble and would never hurt innocent people," Piccolo tried explaining with a bit shaky voice.

"You people keep forgetting that it is not about who he would hurt or not. It is also not about the fact that he vaporized the whole Wanasan research complex with people in it. It is only about freeing Shingo on the planet KB-0807 which is under our protectorate and helping Endou doing it."

"But he was mind-controlled, he couldn't do anything about it."

"And yet he willingly went with her to the "Demon" realm, to get back the Dragon Ball, which resulted him getting mind-controlled and infused with that dark energy, of which traces can still be sensed from him until this very day. Please tell me Piccolo, how is that not the result of his own actions?"

The Namekian was very well aware that, what the Kaioshin is saying, is true. Gohan DID willingly go with Endou and Kyuuri to their realm. If that hadn't happened, he wouldn't have been mind-controlled, and none of this wouldn't have happened… probably. He remained silent, and a few drops of sweat slid down his face, signaling that he was either extremely worried or extremely nervous. The Kaioshins seem to practically have zero tolerance for anybody messing in their affairs. Punishment shall follow in one way or another, but what kind of punishment, only they know, and something that Gohan will have to experience as well. Speaking of the demi-Saiyan, he finally returned from inside the CC. It took him longer since he had to quickly explain everything to Chichi and Bulma, but managed to not let the Kaioshin wait for too long. He did notice that Piccolo's expression changed since he left.

"What's wrong Piccolo? You seem worried," he asked upon returning.

"It's nothing, Gohan. Don't let Kaioshin-sama waiting," the Namekian tried hiding his true state of mind.

"Let's go Gohan, time is being wasted," the East Kaioshin was already a bit of impatient.

The boy didn't say anything, since he was annoyed by the Kaioshin as well, who put his hand on Gohan's shoulder and teleported them away.

Piccolo was still standing there, alone with his thoughts, as usual. The Kaioshin's words reverberated through his mind like a needle piercing cloth. Kaioshin was right in his own way, but at the same time, Piccolo believed he was mistaken. What exactly the truth is, only Gohan knows, but one thing is certain – the Kaioshin Council needs him one way or another. This "forced" cooperation will either end up in success or in utter disaster, but the question is, for whom it will be a disaster.

. . . . .

East Kaioshin and Gohan re-appeared in the "Demon" realm, next to, what it looks like a foothold, a base of operations for the Council's expeditions in this realm. The half-Saiyan was shocked and excited at the same time to be here again. It was where all this journey with Endou and the Kaioshins began. It was here were Gohan was, most probably, marked for life with the tainted energy. One thing is for sure, if they find Kyuuri, or even Endou, Goku's son will make sure they pay for their crimes.

"Welcome master," Kibito greeted them and looked at the boy, "and you as well."

"Same, Kibito-sama," Gohan replied with, surprisingly, utmost respect.

"So, how are things looking like, Kibito?" Kaioshin was curious.

"Our expeditions report that, at least what they could deduct, Endou left fake clues and traces in the fortress to mask their trail."

"I wouldn't expect anything less from them, to be honest."

"Likewise, but even so, we managed to find the most plausible trail. We believe they might be hiding in that direction," and pointed his hand to some distant mountains. "It is quite far, but using flight shouldn't take that long."

Gohan shook his head slightly, which was, of course noticed by both deities.

"You have a problem with that plan, mortal?" Kibito raised his voice.

"As a matter of fact, I do," he remarked.

"What insolence…" Kibito replied with a louder voice but was interrupted.

"Calm down you two," the Kaioshin said and looked at the boy, "What's wrong with Kibito's plan?"

"If we fly, we are going to be detected. If anyone can do that from Endou's creeps, we will be spotted almost instantly."

"As far as we know, none of those criminals are capable of that," was Kibito's answer.

"He's right Kibito, we should be cautious and expect the unexpected. The best tactics would be to go on foot. I recommend an old fashion running. Something we almost never do anymore. It will take longer than flying, but considerable less time than walking. As long as we suppress our energy, they shouldn't be able to detect us while it is too late."

"And the boy? His tainted energy signature might give away our position."

"Don't worry about me, I can suppress my energy to practically zero. Have had lots of experience with this," the boy grinned.

"Then it is settled, we move out as soon as preparations are complete," Kaioshin wrapped up this little "meeting".

About an hour went by before the whole plan was formulated and agreed upon. Other expeditions were informed as well, so everybody knew exactly what will be going on. The trio finally departed and Kibito actually led the way, with Gohan and Kaioshin following closely. The terrain was very dynamic; jagged mountains, deep valleys and sheer cliffs sometimes as well, but nothing all three couldn't handle with ease. There was very little wild life, if any at all. Gohan wasn't even sure if sometimes he had seen something move or it was just his imagination. The vegetation was also very peculiar – strange plants and trees, sometimes meadows that were purple in color, weird looking energy orbs in multitude of colors which looked like fireflies, but actually weren't.

This place still looks so strange to me. It is almost like everything is waiting to attack or ambush you, even this, "purple" grass or whatever. I haven't seen any clear signs of animals of any sort. Even the most inhospitable places on Earth can't compare to this.

The trio have been running and jumping around for quite some time now, so they should be quite close to their objective. However, none of them could feel any foreign Ki signatures, which was a bit surprising, if not worrisome. They stopped and took cover behind some large rocks to remain hidden, yet still have the possibility to view the area below them.

"This seems strange. We have been traveling for a while, but I don't feel anything," said the East Kaioshin.

"Same here, master. We should be close enough to sense something. Our investigation did pick up traces of energy leading to this area. I am almost certain they are either hiding or waiting for us."

"Hard to believe, but be on your guard, both of you. Let's continue slowly and try to stay hidden from sight. We can't afford to get detected now that we're so close," the Kaioshin whispered back.

They continued by walking and scanning the area with all their senses. Gohan wasn't surprised at all to be honest. He was convinced that nobody is here since neither Endou nor Kyuuri are foolish enough to leave traces and clues. But even if, by any chance, Kibito is right, then they are most certainly waiting for them, because it is just too quiet. Just as he was hiding on a ledge, some rocks fell down from a higher position. Gohan quickly looked up and saw something – it was just weird looking bird-like animal searching for food.

Notes:

* in this story, all 4 "main" Kaioshins (East, West, North, South) are alive, and were not killed by Buu, like in the manga and series. That way, I believe they can be more involved in the story itself, rather than just having East Kaioshin and Kibito. There are others as well, but serving as attendants, bodyguards and so on.

I also don't want to follow the usual patterns of good vs bad guys. Kaioshins think they found Endou and Kyuuri, but won't know until they investigate the area. At the same time, I don't want to just give the bad guys an upper hand, by writing that they have felt Kaioshin's and Gohan's Ki from afar and are already prepared. Both sides are trying to remain hidden and undetected for as long as possible. And yes, I know that the Kaioshins supposedly have godly Ki, but as far as I checked, they also possess the "normal" one as well, so it is not pure godly Ki. In any case, I am going with that, othwerise nobody would be able to detect their Ki, and that would make things too easy =).

As always, if you like the chapter, please leave a comment/review and let me know. If you didn't like it, let me know anyway and why =).