Chapter Forty-Three
Victory
The first thing that Gohan noticed, was something very wet and slimy swiping across the side of his face. The second thing, was that something incredibly heavy was resting on his chest, though he couldn't tell if that was the cause of the rest of his body aching considerably. The teenager grumbled as more wetness hit his cheek, forcing him to creak open his eyelids only to be greeted by a large pair of pale green eyes.
"Icarus!" Gohan cried, shock and relief flooding him all at once. He shot up, ignoring his limbs groaning in protest and wrapping his arms over the dragon's enormous head, "Great Kami am I glad to see you boy, but what are you doing here?"
Icarus purred, soaking him again with his giant tongue. The halfling couldn't stop the laughter that escaped his chest, as a voice sounded from behind him.
"He's quite protective that dragon of yours, barely let anyone near you since you got here."
Gohan turned, smiling at his mentor who leaned against the wall opposite him, giving him an amused look.
It was then that Gohan realised just where he was. He blinked, noticing the stone marble floors and ceilings, with Mister Popo's beautiful plants and paintings adorning the walls. The teenager was currently lying in a four poster bed, his Gold Fighter costume torn horribly in several places, most of the bodice disintegrated, exposing his muscular chest and right shoulder. He reasoned that someone must have given him a senzu bean at some point, as he found all his battle wounds healed, his body more or less restored to full power.
"What happened Piccolo?" the teenager suddenly frowned, panic rising in his chest, "How did I get here?! Where's Buu?! Where's Dad? Where's 'Kuto?!"
"Take it easy Gohan," Piccolo soothed, starting up from his position and easing the halfling back onto the soft feather pillows, "Your father is with the Kai's tidying a few things up in Otherworld. As for Gokuto, he's outside with the other's, Goku brought you here via instant transmission after you passed out. It took both Dende and a few senzu beans to heal you up. I suppose defeating Majin Buu took a lot out of you, didn't it?"
The teenager couldn't help but smile, scratching Icarus behind the horns and causing him to purr.
"You did good kid," said Piccolo, his lips quirking into a prideful smile.
Gohan beamed back, relived that it was finally over. He couldn't wait to see everyone again, though there was a certain little saiyan he wanted to see more than anyone else.
"Piccolo, can you get Gokuto?" he asked hopefully, his heart aching.
His mentor smirked, "I think its too late for that, he's already sensed you're awake."
BOOM!
The bedroom door suddenly burst off his hinges, the wood splintering all over the marble titles. Icarus abruptly lifted his head up from Gohan's stomach in defence, yet he settled quickly, his tail beginning to wag furiously as a black blur fired itself through the air and latched itself to Gohan's chest.
"DADDY!"
"Bloody hell 'Kuto!" The teenager laughed, still not quite used to his son's new found strength.
What he did against Majin Buu was nothing short of incredible, and now he could finally all let it sink in. Gohan coughed, as duck feather's exploded from the pillows around them form the force, though the little saiyan didn't seem to notice, his emerald eyes sparkling brightly as he gave him the widest grin he could muster.
"You did it Daddy! You did it!" Gokuto cried, "You beats the monster! You beated him up rweally rweally bad!"
The sound of the commotion must have notified the Z-gang to Gohan's state of alertness, as at once, his bedroom was filled with the beaming faces of his friends and family. Hands clapped him on the back and fingers ruffled his hair, the sound of laughter ringing in the air as the young saiyan was embraced numerous times over.
Goten, Trunks, Bulla and Marron cheered loudly as they bounced about his bed in celebration.
"Yeah! Not even Majin Buu can defeat The Gold Fighter!"
"My big brother is the bestest in the whole wide universe!"
"Gohan! Gohan!"
"Get off of the bed this instant!" His mother scolded, though she failed to hide the enormous smile from gracing her features, "Goodness gracious, he'll need another senzu bean at this rate! Goten, you should know better, your brother needs to rest!"
"Sorry Mum," Goten pouted, sitting down next to the teen and snuggling into the covers obediently.
Gohan grinned at his little brother, ruffling his messy spikes in comfort, "Don't worry Mum, I'm fine!"
"You are not fine Son Gohan," she huffed, glaring playfully at him, "You may have saved the universe but it does not give you the excuse of defying your mother, now you will stay in that bed until you are fully healed. Do I make myself clear?"
"Crystal," he smiled, as the room erupted with laughter.
Gohan laughed along with them, that is, until he noticed Videl and her father standing a ways off, both looking a little apprehensive. The teenager stopped short, his throat running dry as he caught her beautiful sapphire eyes with his. Her clothes were still torn, and she looked as though she had been through an awful lot before getting a senzu bean. He was about to call her over, or in fact will his legs to move so that he could run over and kiss her absolutely senseless when a smooth calming voice spoke over the commotion -
"I believe congratulations are in order Gohan," The Supreme Kai smiled widely, causing everyone to stop in their cheer.
His father, Kibito and the Old Kai accompanied him, all grinning at him madly.
"I must say young one, it was a fascinating feat to behold," he continued, "We could feel the battle across the dimensions from all the way here on Earth. I wouldn't put it past the entire universe to have felt it in fact."
"Really?" The teenager blinked.
"Oh yes," The Kai chuckled lightly, "I believe several of the warriors of The Grand Kai's planet wanted the autograph of the Slayer of Majin Buu, not to mention the various inhabitants of planets that were able to watch the fight via crystal ball. I believe your Gold Fighter alias has caused quite the stir across the galaxies."
Gohan couldn't help but blush, as the Z-gang snorted with laughter.
"So where are the warriors now?" the young saiyan asked, "Didn't Dad bring them to Earth?"
"Ah, yes of course, you wouldn't know as you have been unconscious for several hours," Shin explained brightly, "It has taken a while, but the heavens have finally been restored, as I have been able to recreate them. The warriors and my fellow Kai's have returned to their homes, Snake-Way is restored and King Yemma is back at his rightful place at the check in station thanks to your dragonballs here on Earth. Unfortunately Gohan, as I'm sure you are aware, even though we asked Shenron to restore all the lives that Majin Buu had taken, he could not bring back the souls lost in Otherworld."
"I understand," said Gohan, his eyes averting to his hands.
"Though I'm sure you will somewhat pleased to know that the majority of Earth's population made it back, as they had passed through the check in station before Buu had the chance to destroy them."
The teenager didn't reply, forcing the Kai to continue, "Do not blame yourself Gohan, you achieved something incredible today, something that no one in the entire history of the universe has managed to do before. You should be very proud of yourself."
"That reminds me," Vegeta's voice suddenly cut through the tension, "How was it that Gohan was able to manipulate the spirit bomb? Like Kakarot said, only a person pure of heart is able to fire it. I thought you made it clear that the boy was not pure anymore."
Shin smiled knowingly, as Goku practically beamed next to him, "An excellent question Vegeta, for which I can provide a very simple answer. You see Gohan, as you quite rightly put to Majin Buu, the overwhelming love you have for your family and friends overcame the regret and anguish in your heart. You are, although a little rough around the edges, as pure as the day you were born."
Gohan smiled, though a little embarrassed as everyone turned to look at him with amused and happy grins, "Wow really? Well that's good to know, I suppose."
"And as for the extraordinary power you wield Gohan," the deity continued, "Do not concern yourself with how or why it came to be. Those best suited to power are those who have never sought it after all, and in the end, Majin Buu was no match for you."
"Thank you, Supreme Kai," he said wholeheartedly.
"You're most welcome," he replied, "though that is not what I am here to discuss with you, I believe that there are other matters to address before you all celebrate your victory."
"Oh?" the young saiyan quirked, "Like what?"
"I believe that you still have two more wishes left to make on the Namekian dragonballs, as we have managed to repair the damage caused by Buu with Shenron," he informed him, "Dende is on Namek once more awaiting our command, though Goku and I have discussed the matter of the Earthling's, and have come to an agreement that it is within their best interests to wipe the memory of Majin Buu and what happened at the tournament from their minds. The only ones that will know what truly happened on Earth today are standing here before you."
The teen bit his lip in thought, "Yeah, I suppose that makes sense, I think the world has only just got used to having a superhero, I don't think they're ready for us to explain the rest just yet."
"A wise choice," The Supreme Kai smiled, "But there is no guarantee that the Earthling's will not remember your transformation during your match against Kibito, meaning your secret identity may still be exposed to the public."
"I just beat Majin Buu the Destroyer didn't I? I think I can handle a few rabid fangirls," he smirked.
His mother and Bulma scoffed.
"As you wish Gohan," The Kai chuckled, casting his gaze up towards the ceiling, "Dende? Did you hear that?"
"Loud and clear Sir!" Dende's elated voice chimed from above, "Porunga do your thing!"
A thunderous growl echoed around them, as Porunga granted their wish. All at once, the teenager felt a sudden calm over the Earth, peace had finally returned to their humble planet.
"Gohan," The Supreme Kai said with a knowing smile, "There is just one more wish, and I think that, as our saviour, it should be yours and yours alone. As a thank you for what you've done, we are indebted to you after all."
The teenager blinked in surprise, before he bit his lip in thought, what could he wish for?
His friends were all looking at him in anticipation. Gohan's onyx eyes scanned them, until he met a pair of turquoise eyes that had once again become deadened. Lime was stood next to her grandfather, confusion gracing her pretty features as she stared blankly at the scene in front of her.
He frowned deeply, he had wondered why his best friend hadn't come to greet him of all people. Still, The Supreme Kai had said he had been out cold for a few hours, maybe the affects of the Kai's sacred realm had finally worn off?
Sadness pooled within him once more, an idea forming in his mind. He didn't think he was being selfish. He had moved on, but she couldn't. Lime was stuck in an empty void, unable to live her life like him now that Buu was gone. And then there was Gokuto, his little boy needed his mother. How would he even begin to explain to him that Lime couldn't talk to him again?
He sighed, clutching Gokuto a little more tightly to him, it was definitely worth a shot, "Dende, can you ask Porunga if he can heal Lime?"
"I can try Gohan…" the young Namekian said in understanding, the occupants of the temple waiting with baited breath, "Porunga, please heal the injuries of Lime Lao, so that she can live a full and happy life!"
Silence, as the dragon pondered.
"That is far beyond my power. The one named Lime Lao has been crippled by natural causes. She chose her son's life over that of her own, her sacrifice resulted in a fatal accident that cannot be undone. Choose another wish."
Gohan's heart sank, as his mother placed a hand on his shoulder.
"You tried your best sweetheart," she said sadly, giving his shoulder a squeeze.
"Gohan, do you have another wish?" The Kai asked tentatively.
The teenager shook his head, he couldn't think of anything else off the top of his head.
"Well then, there's only one thing for it."
Gohan cocked his head in confusion as his father spoke, smiling at them all like a madman.
"Hey Dende!" Goku shouted to the skies, "Ask Porunga to bring me back to life!"
The teenager gaped, as everyone around him gasped, tears in their eyes. Piccolo and Vegeta exchanged a worried glance as his mother began to sob, grasping onto Goten as the boy beamed from ear to ear. Dende squeaked in delight as the eternal dragon growled in affirmation. A sudden glow surrounded his father, his skin darkening ever so slightly as the light began to fade, his halo disappearing completely from the top of his hair.
Gohan gingerly stood, placing a confused looking Gokuto amongst the pillows and clambering out of bed as the Z-gang ran to embrace his father.
"Wow you lot, did you cry this much when I died?!" Goku chortled, as Krillin allowed the happy tears to spill from his eyes.
"Hey, Dad?" said Gohan, drawing the beaming man's attention.
"Yes son?"
THWACK!
"GOHAN!" His mother shrieked, as his father was knocked flying through the bedroom wall.
The entire gang were reeling from shock as the saiyan warrior hit the adjacent wall of the corridor, leaving a sizeable path of destruction in his wake.
Huh, Vegeta was right. That did make him feel better.
Goku stared at him in alarm, clutching his reddening jaw as the teenager approached him, towering above the man before his onyx eyes softened. Slowly, Gohan held out a hand for him to take, his lips quirking into a small smile.
His father, a little hesitant at first, smiled back, taking Gohan's outstretched palm and allowing the young saiyan to help him back to his feet. The Z-gang had spilled out into the corridor, their eyes fixated on the scene as suddenly, the teenager engulfed his father in an enormous hug.
Still a little startled, Goku chuckled nervously, before wrapping his strong arms around the halfling, resting his chin on his head as he held him tightly to him.
"Never fucking die on me again," said Gohan, closing his eyes tightly shut as he held on to the man for dear life.
Goku smiled, "I promise."
"Well that was a little intense," Krillin coughed loudly through the stunned silence, causing the pair to cease in their embrace, "Are you two alright?"
"Give me a second," the teenager quipped, fishing out a spare cigarette hidden in his bodice before lighting it and taking a long…long… drag.
"Oh nicotine how I have missed you," Gohan breathed, the wisps of smoke filtering into the air.
The others exchanged an odd look.
"Well then, I suppose we should be going," Mister Lao finally spoke, "Lime is looking a little tired."
"Of course," Chi-Chi nodded in understanding, "It's been a long day for you both, I'll get Gohan to bring the baby by tomorrow so she can see him."
"There's no rush," the old man smiled in kind, "I think Gohan of all people deserves a rest."
"We should go too," Mister Satan said boldly, clearing his throat, "I don't want to intrude."
"You're not intruding," smiled Bulma, "We're all going to have something to eat soon before we get the party started, why don't you join us?"
Mister Satan blinked, before giving them an enormous smile, "You're all very kind, but no doubt the press will want to interrogate me regarding the outcome of the tournament."
"Then I'll take you all back then," his father offered, "Can't keep your adoring fans waiting now can we Champ?"
The hulk of a man blushed to the roots of his hair, "Oh er, thank you Goku. Are you ready to go Videl? Videl? VI-DEL?"
The Satan girl jumped, tearing her eyes away from Gohan, "Oh yeah, yeah I'm ready, sorry Dad."
"Let's go then," smiled Goku, "Hold on to Lime tight Mister Lao."
And with a sudden whoosh, all five of them disappeared.
His father returned some minutes later alone, still with a beaming smile and an empty stomach. Mister Popo, his mother and Launch soon cooked up a storm, laying on a magnificent feast for the gang. Bulma had even gotten Goku to fetch her Capsule Corp.'s largest speaker system, so that music pumped heavily over The Lookout.
Gohan couldn't fathom just how Piccolo had allowed it, though he presumed that due to the circumstances, he had let it slide just this once.
The victory party was in full swing, beer flowed freely from the barrels that Korin and Yajirobe had provided, and even the Kai's and Dende permitted themselves to have a small tipple. Gohan had finally managed to convince his mother that he wasn't about to keel over so that he could join in on the festivities, but he didn't really feel like getting drunk along with the rest of them. Gokuto had fallen to sleep not long after he had eaten his body weight in cake, and Gohan had put him to bed in one of the chambers along with the rest of the kids.
Now the teenager had broken away from the group, sitting on the edge of The Lookout with his feet dangling over the edge. He lazily smoked another cigarette, watching the stars slowly come out as the sky steadily darkened.
It was unbelievably peaceful, he thought, as he caught the first sign of starlight winking at him in the distance. The sounds of the raucous Z-gang echoed over the marble tiles, along with the steady beat of music. Though Gohan paid them no mind, and he was thankful that none of them had come out of the temple to look for him, he supposed they realised he needed a bit of time to mull everything over.
Something sharp suddenly poked him in the chest as he leaned forwards, causing him to frown. His eyes widened, as he plucked the offending object from his bodice, having not even realised that the weight of the Z-Sword had been hidden in his torn costume all that time - then again, he was still so exhausted he hadn't even bothered to get changed.
He twirled the blade around in his palms, brushing the broken jagged edge carefully with his fingertips. He briefly wondered if he should tell The Supreme Kai that he still had it, Kibito would no doubt be furious that a mortal such as he was harbouring a powerful weapon of the Gods.
Then again, he mused, he did use it to finally defeat Buu. Nah, Shin wouldn't mind if he kept it has some sort of souvenir. Who knows? It might prove handy at some point in the future.
He sighed, as the cool night air suddenly brushed through his platinum blonde hair.
He couldn't believe that they were finally safe, finally rid of the monster that had terrorised them over the past twenty-four hours. It had been a long day, so much had happened it was almost inconceivable to think that he had been killed, lost his son, found him, destroyed the most terrifying monster in the universe's existence and come back to life all in the matter of a day.
His mind was positively whirring. His father was back in his life, for good this time. His son was safe, and the Z-Fighters were happy and alive.
So what was irking him so much?
Was it Lime? Devastated was a far cry from how he felt about her injuries and how she couldn't be healed from them. It was like he had gone back in time when he had seen her on the Kai's planet. She, along with Videl had helped him find Gokuto, and it was heartwarming to see Gokuto interact with her and she with him.
Lime had been right all along about his power, love was the key to it. She seemed to know him better than most. She was still his best friend, seizing life by the horns in that passionate carefree manner that he knew and loved. She had always wanted him to be as reckless as her, throwing caution to the wind as it were. But he was never quite as brave, never quite as bold, and he had faced off against the most terrifying enemies in the universe!
He snorted in amusement, he couldn't believe she had actually snogged that old codger.
He had thought he had come to terms with her situation long ago, yet the only thing he could do was cling to the hope that she would regain part of her memories once again.
"You're really thick, you know that right?"
The teenager jumped, as his best friend's voice suddenly echoed around in his mind.
"Lime?" he gasped, unsure if he was going completely mental.
"Do me a favour and stop pining over me for Kami's sake, Videl will never go out with you if you don't buck your ideas up!"
"Is this really happening?" Gohan gaped, looking around him, this had to be some sort of trick.
"Of course it's not stupid, I can't talk remember? Let's just call it your conscience!" She said with an air of amusement, "Well, either that or some of the Kai's weird ass magical planet juice is still having an effect."
"Lime!" the halfling cried, unable to decide whether he was elated or angry, "You nearly gave me a heart attack!"
"I know! I can talk to you through your miiiiiiind, well at least for a bit longer anyway. Spooky."
"How did you manage to do that?" he asked, surprised.
"Dunno, I was just lying here in bed when I had this sudden image of you looking all glum pop up in my mind," she explained nonchalantly, "So I decided to have a poke about in your head… you are fucked up my friend."
Gohan sighed, "You're telling me."
"So?" She asked haughtily, "What the bloody hell are you waiting for?"
"What do you mean?" he frowned.
"Great Kami do I have to spell it out for you?! V.I.D.E.L. The sexual tension between you two on that planet was almost too much to bare! Are you going to get the girl or what?"
"But Lime, its complicated-"
"It's only complicated because you're making it so," The red head tutted, "I saw the look on her face when her dad made her leave earlier, she wanted you to talk to her, to pick her up and snog her face off in a swirl of romance! Ugh, boys are so dense."
"I don't know-"
"What the hell are you scared of?" She fumed, and Gohan could almost imagine her rolling her eyes at him, "Look, if this has anything to do with me, then you should stop beating yourself up right this instant! I'm fine Gohan, really. When are you going to stop feeling sorry for what happened between us? Think of Gokuto, without everything, we wouldn't have him now would we eh?"
"I know, you're right," he sighed heavily, still battling his feelings.
"And besides, I don't know why you're acting so worried," Lime scoffed, "You said it yourself, you beat Majin Buu. I'm sure you can handle a girl."
Gohan paused in thought.
"It's how every good superhero story goes," she reasoned, her whimsical tone echoing around him, "You've already defeated the monster, I think you know what the next step is."
And then she was gone. Whatever effect the Kai's sacred realm had on her mind had finally been severed, and Gohan was sat on the cool marble titles, alone again.
Slowly the teenager allowed a smile to play on his lips, his veins beginning to pump with adrenaline with the echo of his best friend's voice ringing in his ears.
Lime was right, he knew what he had to do.
He was going to get the girl.
"Mum!" Gohan yelled suddenly, tucking the Z-Sword into his bodice and jumping to his feet.
Skidding into the temple, he realised that his sudden shout had caused the entire gang to look towards him in alarm. Conversations had halted, and not a soul was dancing to the music. Krillin and Yamcha eyed him from where they were clutching their beakers of beer, Piccolo, Vegeta and his father abruptly got to their feet, ready to take on any attacker.
"Gohan, what's wrong?" Piccolo said lowly, realising that there was no immediate danger.
Gohan ignored him, looking towards his mother who was sat at one of the tables, "Can you keep an eye on Gokuto for a bit?"
Chi-Chi blinked, as Eighteen and Bulma exchanged a confused look behind her, "Well of course, but where on Earth-?
The teenager grinned wickedly, pressing the button on his wrist watch so that his torn and tattered costume was replaced with a brand new one. A new black and sliver cape fluttered down to his feet as his shiny visor slipped over his eyes.
He would have to thank Bulma later for her genius, who knew that a back up outfit would come in handy one day?
His white aura erupted around him, his dyed golden hair waving in the breeze that suddenly engulfed the room. The gang had to shield their eyes from the ripple of raw power that emitted from the halfling that swept over them.
"There's something I need to do," he stated, still grinning as he sped from the room, sprinting back to the edge of The Lookout and kicked off, diving with rapid speeds to the Earth below.
Gohan ignored the aghast calls of the Z-gang above, a sonic boom echoing over the vast landscape as he sped away from Korin's Tower.
It didn't take him long to reach Satan City due to his incredible power boost, and soon enough he caught sight of the tall stone structure of Satan Mansion. Light shone from Videl's bedroom window and pooled out over the balcony where he landed, his boots touching the stone platform with a soft tap.
Drawing in a deep breath, the teenager rapped his gloved knuckles on the window pane, careful not to wake her father, though he could feel Mister Satan's Ki pulsating away at the other side of the building.
Gohan didn't have to wait long, as he was suddenly greeted by Videl's fierce sapphire eyes as she drew back the curtains. Her mouth hung open in shock before a deep frown appeared upon her features as she clasped sight of his outfit. Slowly, she opened the window and stepped outside in nothing but her cotton pyjamas, her hair loose around her shoulders. She had obviously taken a shower, her soft ivory skin now free of any dirt and battle filth.
"What on earth are you doing here?" she asked, her eyes darting about his frame.
"I never did get the chance to give you an apology," said Gohan with a small smile, gesturing to himself, "I owe you one."
Videl folded her arms across her chest, an amused smile tugging at her lips, "Yes, I suppose you do."
Throwing caution to the wind, the young saiyan drew in a sharp intake of breath, "Look Videl, I'm really sorry alright? For leaving you that night, for lying to you at the tournament, dragging you into all this mess and just- just everything."
Videl stared at him, but said nothing, her expression suddenly becoming stoic.
"I am sorry," Gohan continued, his voice lowering, "I just never expected things to turn out this way, I honestly didn't know how I felt about you after that night. I was a coward, I couldn't bring myself to tell you the truth about me, and what with the tournament and Buu. I never expected - You make me feel - just today has made me realise - how stupid I've been. I'm an idiot. And Videl, I need to tell you that I think I - no I know I -"
He was rambling, embarrassingly so, his arms flailing everywhere as he struggled to look her in the eye. He shook himself mentally, before uttering the words he had wanted to say ever since he had first seen her again at the tournament, "I bloody love you Videl, alright?!"
Silence greeted him, and Gohan was about to bottle it and head back to The Lookout with his tail in between his legs when -
"I love you too."
Gohan's eyes snapped towards her, not quite certain if he had heard her correctly. Yet Videl was indeed moving closer towards him, smiling, her eyes shining with emotion.
"Y-You do?" he asked numbly, causing the girl to roll her eyes.
"Of course I do, you prat," she laughed, "There's not many boys I'd fight evil ancient alien monsters with you know."
His heart practically soared, as she threw her arms around his neck. The soft cotton of her pyjama's brushed against his tight bodice, and Gohan couldn't keep his eyes off her.
The young saiyan chuckled lightly, encircling her waist with his arms, his stomach performing somersaults, "You did hit him pretty hard when I first came back to Earth to fight him, had it been anyone else, I'm sure you would have rearranged his face with that kick."
"You're full of it," Videl scoffed, "I was no match for Majin Buu."
Gohan shrugged, smirking at her, "Maybe not, but it was still remarkably sexy."
He was rewarded with a sharp smack on the chest, though the girl was still grinning in amusement, "You pig."
The teenager smiled, nuzzling her nose with his, "You're really something else, you know that?"
"As are you," she replied, arching an eyebrow, "All that stuff that The Supreme Kai was saying. Saiyan's, aliens, magical monsters, legendary swords… It's absolutely crazy. A year ago I never would have believed it, but you changed that and I saw it all with my own eyes. Though it still feels like a dream, you saved the world Gohan, no - the universe."
Gohan smiled cockily, "It's what I do."
Videl sighed, resting her head on his chest, "I still can't believe my dad lied to everyone. To me. It's like there's a whole other world out there that I knew nothing about."
"Hey," the young saiyan spoke tenderly, lifting her chin with his finger so that she was staring up at him, "Don't be too hard on your dad. He's not that bad of a bloke really. I know he was your hero, but so was mine. Not all hero's are perfect."
Her lips quirked upwards, "You'd know all about that, wouldn't you Gold Fighter?"
He smiled back, relishing in the way his strong arms encompassed her.
"So," said Gohan finally, "Are you certain you're ready to get into this mess? It gets pretty weird."
Videl scoffed, "I've been in this mess longer than you think, my whole life got weird the second you landed in my city."
"Sorry about that," he laughed.
"Oh hush," she scolded, her sapphire eyes sparkling, "Now, how's about you hurry up and take off that silly mask so I can see you."
With a wicked grin, Gohan pressed the button on the side of his head piece, his onyx eyes connecting with hers as the visor disappeared. His black and silver cape picked up in the gentle breeze that suddenly encompass them, though the Satan girl didn't shiver in the cool wind, Gohan's muscular arms providing all the warmth she needed.
Videl Satan stared at him, a triumphant smile spreading across her lips, "Gotcha."
At her words, the young saiyan leaned forwards, dipping his head low and capturing her lips with his.
The last remains of Jupiter flew across the atmosphere, creating a barrage of shooting stars overhead. The Kai's must have forgotten about recreating that planet somehow, but it wasn't as though there was any life on it. Though, despite this, the two teenagers didn't break apart to look up, as in that moment, nothing else mattered in this crazy, ridiculous world they lived in but each other.
Many wishes had been granted and fulfilled that day, but not just those created by the Eternal Dragon's. The world would rest easy tonight, and celebrate Mister Satan's victory over the World Tournament as they were meant to. The excitement over the revelation of The Gold Fighter's true identity would soon be stifled by Mister Satan's close links with the paparazzi, which Gohan and his family would be truly grateful for.
But that didn't mean that the Earth would loose its protectors. Oh no, there were still those who would provide a vigil for the planet, who were prepared to step up to any threat that would dare to come their way. But peace was now upon them, in a way that felt unfamiliar to Gohan as he pulled Videl tighter against him, deepening the kiss.
Still, he supposed he would get used to it. After all, this was a pretty good start.
xxxx
"See, I told you he was fine," Krillin grinned wickedly, as they watched the scene from The Lookout.
"Phew," Goku sweated, wiping his brow with the back of his hand, "I nearly had a heart attack when he just flew off like that!"
"You'll get used to it," said Vegeta.
"I still can't believe he hit you Goku," Yamcha called, "What a punch!"
"Yeah," the saiyan chuckled nervously, absentmindedly rubbing his bruised jaw, "He caught me a little off guard."
"Off guard indeed," Vegeta scoffed, "If he hadn't had done it, I would have."
"Hey!"
"Oh I'm so glad my baby's finally happy!" Chi-Chi gushed, her onyx eyes sparkling as she surveyed the little scene below.
"Saving the universe and getting a girlfriend in the same day?" Bulma grinned, "What a guy."
"It's so romantic!" cried a blue haired Launch.
Piccolo couldn't help but smile as the gang continued to babble excitedly, he didn't blame them, he was immensely proud of the kid. It was good to see him truly happy again.
What a wild seven years.
Suddenly, his large ears twitched, sensing a presence hovering close to where the children were sleeping inside the temple. Checking that the Z-Fighter's were well and truly occupied, the strong Namekian made his way quietly inside, careful to lower his Ki as he approached one of the master bedrooms.
Opening the oak door carefully, he didn't see anything untoward. Bulla and Marron were sleeping peacefully, curled up underneath the cotton sheets. The boys were in the bed next to them, though Trunks and Goten were stuck out at odd angles, Goku's youngest son was splayed out like a starfish, his foot stuck in a snoring Trunks' mouth whilst he snoozed. Gokuto, lay in the middle of the two boys, his chest rising and falling in a peaceful motion, looking so much like a younger version of his father.
There was a small creak behind him, which caused Piccolo to rapidly spin on his heel.
"Supreme Kai?" he sighed in relief, catching sight of the purple-skinned deity, "What are you doing here? Forgive me, I thought you had already left with Kibito and the Grand Elder."
But the Kai didn't answer his question, instead, he stepped out into the twilight that streamed through the widow pane, a haunted look in his eyes.
"Piccolo, I have a matter to discuss with you that is of great importance and urgency."
Piccolo blinked, an uneasy feeling overcoming him. He hoped he wasn't going to reveal that Majin Buu had a twin brother or something.
"Please don't fret my friend," The Supreme Kai soothed, reading his thoughts, "I assure you that Gohan has destroyed all that was left of Majin Buu, you needn't worry about that."
The Namek sighed in relief, "Then what's this about?"
The Kai paused for a moment, "You know of the legend of the first super saiyan?"
"I was there when you told us of the story," Piccolo frowned, "Though Vegeta filled us in on the other minor details earlier."
"Ah, but I'm afraid that those details are not minor at all," Shin confessed, his eyes boring into his, "I was a little confused earlier, when my Elder urged me to tell the story of how the super saiyan came to be destroyed. I think he was hoping that someone would pick up on it, he is one who likes to relish in the drama after all. You remember me telling you that during the saiyan's transformation that he drew out Bibidi's magic powers? Good. Then I'm sure you remember that the super saiyan, in a much more primitive form that you know them today, became even more powerful from the evil magic that began to corse through his veins."
"Why are you telling me this?" asked Piccolo, confused.
"There are rumours," The Kai explained in a serious tone, "Rumours that I have refused to acknowledge for thousands of years."
"What rumours?" he asked again, starting to get a little irritated.
"There are rumours that somehow, after the super saiyan was destroyed by my fellow Gods, that his soul was held in a place similar to what you know as purgatory, waiting. Waiting for a time when a boy would be born of saiyan blood and another weaker species. The saiyan blood had to be so diluted that it would be enough to stifle the Majin magic within the soul," he continued, "His heart had to be pure in order to contain the evil within. Yet the saiyan race have not been as fruitful over the centuries, falling into the clutches of anger and rage after being victimised by tyranny. Such is the way of the universe, though there has been no knowledge of any saiyan hybrid being born beforehand, such a proud race as they were," the Kai sighed, "Which is why the super saiyan's soul has been trapped, until very recently."
Piccolo stared, following the deity's gaze to one of the beds behind him. He gasped, "Surely you don't mean-"
"One quarter saiyan, and three quarters human," The Supreme Kai said solemnly, "A remarkably rare combination. I had my suspicions from when I first saw the boy; the green eyes of the super saiyan, the magic of the Majin and the power of the Gods. Dominant blood of a human, with a trace of saiyan. Judging by the remarkable power his father wields, it is almost fitting that he could only be born to someone like Gohan - a powerful saiyan hybrid. At first, I had my suspicions that Gohan was the one that the super saiyan soul resided in, but alas his power is different, born from rage and grief, an enormous power in it's own right. That's right Piccolo, Son Gokuto is the reincarnation of the original super saiyan. I am sure of it."
"Shouldn't you be telling Gohan this of all people?" Piccolo started, astounded at the sudden revelation.
There was no way, no way the little boy could be blessed with such gastronomical power. Then again, Gokuto was certainly powerful, he always had been. But that's just because he had Gohan's blood, wasn't it?
Shin sighed once more, "I am sure you already know the answer to that Piccolo. I'm afraid that Gohan would not take the news lightly."
"But it's his son-!"
"We will tell him, in time," the Kai interrupted, "But for now there are more pressing issues to address. There is a chance that Gokuto will become far too powerful, even with his diluted blood. Majin magic is a very strange and mysterious thing, as you have witnessed, and the child is already showing signs of incredible power."
"Then we will train him," Piccolo stated boldly, "If he learns to control his power, then he'll be fine. There will be no need to worry."
He smiled sadly, "I thought you might say that. But I'm afraid that training is not going to be enough. The mixture of saiyan blood and Majin magic is too dangerous to comprehend, and very difficult to control, especially for a mere child. If Gokuto should indulge in a simple sparring match with his father without any restraint, he may accidentally blow up the Earth in the process."
The Namekian's eyes widened, as the Kai continued, "You must train him in a different way. Train his mind Piccolo, that is the only way he will be able to learn to stifle the evil magic that resides within him. It may seem controversial yes, but you must convince Goku and the others not to train with him."
"You've seen what Goku's like," Piccolo scoffed, "He's already been boasting to Vegeta about how strong his grandson is, I bet he's planning out a training schedule for him already."
"It is difficult," Supreme Kai admitted, "But necessary all the same. There is no telling how dangerous the boy could become. He has to learn control, before his powers control him."
"Is it really that serious?" Piccolo asked.
It just couldn't be possible, not little Gokuto. Piccolo loved the young boy nearly as much as he did Gohan, though he would never admit his affection to anyone but the teenager. He didn't want him to get hurt, and he couldn't even begin to fathom how much it would destroy Gohan if he were to ever find out.
The Kai stared, "I assure you, I would not be having this discussion with you if I didn't think it were. If Gokuto's powers were to flourish, there is a chance that his magic will come to light, owing to devastating consequences. Majin magic is seductive, as I'm sure you are more than aware of Piccolo. If the boy gives into these dark desires, he will become more powerful and terrifying than Buu himself, spelling the end of the universe as we know it."
Piccolo gritted his teeth, "and you expect me to just lie to Gohan like that?"
"To keep Gokuto and the universe safe yes. The child is still pure, his dreams tonight filled with his father and mother," The Supreme Kai informed him, "This secret must not get out, if there are rumours, there will be those searching to awaken his power, you saw how much interest Babidi and Ize had in the boy. We do not want another repeat of Buu. Please, do what you can Piccolo."
The Namekian sighed, his duty to protect the Earth overcoming his own emotions, a part of him that he was sure was from Kami's influence. Slowly, he nodded, causing the Kai to smile.
"Thank you, my friend," he said.
"It's not as though I have a choice," Piccolo replied gruffly.
The Supreme Kai nodded dutifully, the light of instantaneous movement engulfing his frame, "Remember Piccolo, whatever happens, the boy must not fight. If he does achieve a power of such magnitude then I'm afraid that Gohan is the only one that can stop him, and I am certain that he will not want to destroy his own son."
Then in a blinding flash, he was gone.
To all those who may be disappointed that it didnt turn out a Gohan/Lime fic - Im sorry! and well, this story didnt start as a happily ever after and I wasnt going to finish on a happily ever after. Who knows, if Lime had never had her accident then maybe she would have ended up with Gohan? But things happen for a reason as they say, and Gohan has grown to love Videl, although its clare to anyone that he still harbours feelings for Lime. She is the mother of Gokuto after all. For those rooting for a Gohan/Videl... yay! However, as you can see, I'm evil and just had to rip that little happily ever after away with the bombshell dropped by The Supreme Kai. Soz ;) Hope you all enjoyed this chapter!
