Well, It's mid-January and I finally uploaded something. Happy New Year! I finally got the first chapter out of a Dragon Ball idea I have been stewing on for years. I hope this first chapter isn't a total mess, but I kept going over it to make sure. I wanted to do my own take on Gohan's story after Cell and him coming into his own. None of just making him "Ultimate Chad Gohan" or Goku 2.0. I wanted to do something true to who he is while fleshing out some aspects of his character and bringing some things from other Media.
Plus, this represents a sort of changing of the guard, slowly progressing the characters into new stages of life and creating and maintaining something Gohan didn't really get until he was a teenager in the Buu saga: his own sort of supporting cast/ friend group outside his father's
I will be doing that here, as well as...sort of revamping and remixing some characters from the movies. One will practically be an OC at this point, so sorry if it's kind of bad. Let's just say a villain group from the movies will serve more parallels to the cast than they did in the films. Anyway, Sorry if this first chapter is rushed. I will try to be more consistent with pacing in the future. This is my love letter to Dragon Ball and I hope you enjoy it. This series has been important to me for so long, warts and all, and I want to showcase why. I just hope I can do it justice.
On another note, I already began work on my MHA stuff again and will be getting back into my original thing, Shanty. Stay tuned, babes. 3
—-
Peace had been restored to the world. It had been several weeks since the Cell games and the death of the titular Cell. Gohan had settled in the best he could. And yet, he still found himself lost in thought.
The world moved on, as it always did, and he would do his best to do the same. And yet something didn't feel right, Nobody really acknowledged Goku or his sacrifice outside his friends and family, and while that was just fine, Gohan wanted to honor his father, in life and in death so a decision was made, one in which the young half-saiyan was resolute. This was something that had to be done. He had hoped that with his father's death and subsequent decision to have that stick, that there would be some semblance of peace. And yet there was some unrest in the boy's soul.
Nevertheless, he had hoped his mother would approve of this decision. She was still early into her pregnancy but would need his help later on. As big as grandpa ox was, he was getting on in the years and wasn't as limber as he used to be.
"We never really had one. I guess because of the dragonballs, it never really seemed necessary...but Mom… can we have a funeral for dad?"
Chichi paused. She was relieved in a way that this wasn't him going off to train in the mountains punching boulders and not making anything of himself. Ox King's riches weren't going to last forever, especially after he retired and left his kingdom behind for a more quiet life with his daughter and her family.
And yet, she almost wished he was out training, if it meant Goku would come back with that infuriating smile and carefree attitude, bringing her baby boy along on life threatening battles that had long since transcended the mere partial arts she had trained in. She had worried herself sick over the possibility of her firstborn never making it home one day. Or worse, Goku carrying his broken and lifeless body back to Mt. Paozu. If that had happened, she had told herself, she would kill Goku herself.
And yet, it was he who had died. It wasn't the first time. His past had caught up with him the first time. But this? Him finally seeing the sense in his countless battles, only to decide without her that he won't be coming back? It stung. As much as the death of Gohan or Goku had scared her, in a way, the dragonballs had desensitized her to it. It would be 12 months and a trip around the world and things would be back to normal. He would come in asking for help cooking a gigantic fish he caught while he took Gohan halfway across the globe.
This was it though. She took a long hard look at Gohan, the wrinkles and veins in her face relaxing. God, she was 30 something and she felt 50.
"Oh Gohan...Gohan…" She felt herself fall apart in her 11 year old son's arms. Gohan couldn't stand to see her like this: pregnant with his baby brother and shattered by the loss of someone she had known since she was his age. All those times he had popped in and out of her life on his mystic adventures and here it was at the end.
Gohan lifted his mother carefully and placed her on her bed to rest.
"Gohan...I want you to go play...Studies can wait for once."
"Oh…Ok, mom. Is there any time I should come back?" the boy blinked.
"Any time before dinner. Don't let it get too cold, or else." the woman put on a front, shaking her fist. Gohan just laughed nervously and flew off, leaving his mother to sigh and drift into thought.
X
As her son flew away like a bird, she thought of how fragile and fleeting life really was. She wanted her son to have a respectable job and a better life, but in this moment, she wanted something more: She wanted, just once, for her little boy to be just that.
"What are you doing below the lookout, Gohan?"
"Oh, I Dende. I am trying to get the power pole. It belonged to my dad. Just gathering it up."
"May I ask why?"
"Well...since my dad decided to stay dead, and he has done so much… I thought about holding a funeral. It makes sense to have all his effects so I can leave them at the grave site."
"That;s very beautiful. I am still getting used to Earth, but I find your funeral proceedings interesting. They aren't all that different from those on Namek." the world's guardian said solemnly, remembering the pain he felt watching his people's slaughter at the hands of the Freeza force.
"I also want to know if there is a way to determine which dragon ball is which when they turn to stone?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Well they turn to stone for a year after use, right? I feel like the 4 star dragon ball belongs with my dad. It was important to him, according to stories I heard. He gave it to me when I was younger, but I feel it would be a good way to honor him. "
"It sounds like he bestowed it to you. Are you sure? Plus, the dragon radar won't be of any assistance to you right now and hiding a dragonball in his grave could lead to it being destroyed. If you are sure of this, however, I could point you in the right direction. It won't be as precise though."
"I would appreciate that, Dende. Thank you. I will do my best to search. Also, it might have been gifted to me and I would feel bad about giving it back, but it's what I want to do with it."
"I see. Well, if that's what you want, it will still remain stone for another year, but I can locate and identify it for you. I did make the modifications to the dragon balls after all."
"Thank you. I'm off to look for it, but I'll be back to hang out. I have to go invite people to the funeral as well. I got a list of people my dad knew and I am hoping to get as many as possible."
"I see. Well, I wish you luck, Gohan! If you ever need anything else, feel free to visit." the young guardian smiled, hugging his friend. Gohan nodded and flew off while Piccolo watched from a distance. He wanted to offer words of encouragement but could only observe, pondering how his pupil had grown so much.
"That boy of yours will make us both proud." the Namekian muttered under his breath, hoping his old rival and friend could hear him, wherever he was now.
X
A small but moderately extravagant castle came into view, surrounded by swampland. There seemed to be a few people nearby , going about their daily lives on the outskirts.
"Who dares trespass on the property of the great and powerful, not to mention Handsome, Emperor Pilaf!" a shrill voice shouted from the balcony.
"Oh…um, Gohan. My father knew you when he was about my age."
"I don't know anybody's father. You must be confused. Mai, Shu, get this strange peasant off the palace grounds bef-…wait…you look familiar… Mai, do you know this brat?"
"He looks kind of like that one kid from back in the day. "
"Yeah, Goku."
"That's right. You knew my dad. I'm his son."
"Wait…HE HAD A KID!?" The three shouted in unison, panicking and running towards the door. They had to have one of those old robots around somewhere. Things had not been quite as lively since King Piccolo and they had to do odd jobs and skim a little off the top to buy the swamp land they wanted.
They still didn't have enough, but that Cell guy sure cleared the area, and the guy who owned the palace never returned, so they moved right in.
"It's ok, I won't fight. To be honest, I heard you knew my dad… so I came to invite you to his funeral."
The three huddled together at a distance to discuss their options.
"That spiky haired nuisance is finally gone! We're free…Why does it feel so empty."
"SIr, we haven't fought him in years. In fact, we kind of managed to move on." Mai chimed in, kneeling down to the level of her two comrades.
"That's right. Where has he even been? I should be happy but it makes me feel like an afterthought. I'm trying to be an impressive and imposing emperor."
Pilaf walked over to the boy, who towered over him. Curse these youths and their infernal "growth spurts".
"We'll think about it, Gofun." Pilaf bowed. Now please, get off my property. I am a very busy man, and so are my subordinates."
Mai chimed in with a raised hand. "We're not men, sir. I'm a woman and Shu is a dog."
"Exactly, sir. I suppose that makes you the odd man out."
"Quiet, you two peabrains! I'm trying to make our guest feel welcome so he leaves!"
"Actually, your majesty, my name is Gohan."
"I don't care…wait, did you call me Majesty?" Pilaf blinked in surprise. He was mostly just an odd nuisance best left to his own devices, according to a public opinion poll of his "subjects" so it was a refreshing change of pace to be sure.
"I mean, you're an emperor, right?
Pilaf turned away to try to seem imposing but was crying with his back turned. Nobody had ever called him that before, except maybe Mai and Shu, but even then. Perhaps this kid wasn't all bad.
"Very well, kid. We might consider dropping by. It has been ages…It almost makes me…nostalgic….WHY DID HE HAVE TO DIE BEFORE WE COULD KILL HIM!" the little man wailed in sorrow as his comrades joined him in solidarity. Not wanting to impose, Gohan left silently and moved on to his next locale.
X
After dropping by Master Roshi's place to drop off invitations, Gohan decided to track down Tien and Yamcha. He was hoping to speak to Krillin as well but he and 18 were on a date apparently. He managed to find a small house that the former Martial Arts champion had made for himself. The owner came out as soon as he sensed someone else and greeted the boy.
"Oh. Gohan. I didn't expect to see you so soon. I was just about to go training. What brings you here?"
Gohan landed and waved. "I was about to invite you to my father's funeral. I was organizing one and I wanted to gather everyone who had ties to my dad. I already visited Korin's Tower and Master Roshi's. I even tracked down someone named Emperor Pilaf? He seemed odd but harmless."
Tien sat down on a nearby bench after doing some cool down stretches.. "I never encountered him myself, but I heard your father had fought him and his lackeys a few times. They even got wrapped up with King Piccolo back in the day. Still, it seems appropriate. You can probably hold an entire table filled with guests who fought Goku. I would be sitting there myself."
A blue-haired woman walked out, holding a tray filled with protein rich food and fresh water. She looked over at Gohan and smiled.
"Oh, hello. You must be Gohan. I have heard about you. I lost touch with everyone but it's nice to finally get to meet Goku's son. "
"Thanks, miss. I have heard about you before. You were friends with my dad. What are you doing here?"
"Well I lived with Tien for a while but things took a turn. We lost touch after he died. We ended up reuniting while he was training near Polisas city."
"Please. Sit a while. To be honest I was hoping to spar with you some time, but that can wait. I think you had enough of a fight against Cell. I doubt I could keep up, even with my training." Tien smiled, taking a bowl of Chashu Ramen and giving thanks before politely eating it.
"Miss Launch. Would you like to come to the Funeral?"
"I doubt you could keep me away. I…" the woman paused. "I knew Goku since he was a little over your age. I helped Master Roshi watch over him and Krillin while they trained. It's still hard to believe he could get so powerful since then but even harder to know that he's dead for good…"
The woman sniffled , looking like she was about to sob. Instead, she sneezed and in an instant, a woman with wild yellow hair and green eyes took her place. Gohan was almost convinced she went Super Saiyan. He was about to laugh at the idea until the women violently punched the table.
"That….That idiot…I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye. He was…my friend and he died. ALways having to be the hero. DAMMIT!"
TIen tried to console her, knowing full well how she could be.
Gohan had heard she could change personalities and haircolor when she sneezed, and that her blonde side was very brash. He didn't prepare for her to be so emotional.
"I know we hadn't talked in ages. Always having to fight cyborgs or aliens or whatever…but I never got to say goodbye."
Gohan gently touched Launch's hand and smiled sheepishly. "I mean, I thought this would be a good way for everyone to say goodbye to him, everyone who knew him well. I'm sure he would be honored by your presence."
"That's pretty fancy talk. You sure yer his kid?" Launch wiped the tears from her eyes and smiled sadly.
"Yeah. He was more of a warrior." Gohan spoke, looking thoughtfully into his food. He was told he had his father's appetite but right now, he was taking it slow. "But you were his friend so you should be there. I think he would have liked that."
"That sounds more like something Golu would say. Tien and I will be there, right, triclops?"
Tien smiled gently. He had taken harder punches, so he felt no need to brush it. Besides, she would just give him 'two for flinching'.
Chiaotzu came out, alongside Yamcha, who was just toweling off after what looked like a heavy workout session. The small telekinetic man took a seat next to his longtime friend and started eating.
"Well look who dropped by. Hey there, Champ. Come to visit your pal, Yamcha?" the man grinned, gaining a playful jab in the gut from Launch.
"Nobody comes to visit you, dude." Launch chuckled. Gohan was worried at first, but Yamcha seemed in good spirits about it.
"Harsh, but not the worst beatdown I've taken…" The scar-faced former-bandit laughed before looking at Gohan with a sullen yet compassionate expression. "I overheard your plan, Gohan. It's not something I really considered. I think we all started to take death for granted a little. It always feels like Goku will come back to us eventually. Nothing could keep that guy down. Looks like he made up his mind though and even if it's a solid decision, it's hard not to miss the guy."
Chiaotsu spoke up as well. "Other than Launch and yourself, all three of us have died. It still feels weird saying that but it's a weird world. Do you have a venue?"
"I think it should be at the Cell Games Arena…what's left of it. It's the last place we saw dad and it feels right. I considered Mt Paozu but I think it would be hard seeing it everyday and not missing him. I already got help from Dende in securing the power pole and he is even doing his best to point out where the four star ball is."
"The Dragonballs? We just used them though. Aren't they stone?"
Yamcha smiled knowingly, then looked down at his hands. "I get it. It was his prized possession. It mattered so much to him that he passed it on to you, and now you want to keep it with him, right?"
"That's correct." Gohan finished "I know it's mine now, but we have used the Dragon balls so many times that that kind of became irrelevant. Someone will probably even seek them out one day, but…" Gohan stopped.
Yamcha touched the boy's shoulder and looked at him in the eye. "It's ok. I getcha. It's how it started and how it ends. At least for now. In any case, I'll be there." the dark-haired man grinned.
"We will all be there. A proper goodbye until we see him again." Tien chimed in, with Launch wrapping her arms around both men.
"Yeah. Just none of you bozos go dying on a girl again. My heart can't take it anymore." the blonde lady joked.
"Going soft on me?" Tien grinned, causing Launch to blush and pull away, punching him in the shoulder.
"Bite your tongue, baldy. I'm gonna take a shower." She got up in a huff to hide how flustered she was but couldn't help but exchange a smile with Tien as Yamcha averted his eyes and chuckled into his cup of tea. "Oh by the way. It was nice meeting ya, squirt. I'll see ya at the funeral."
Gohan smiled and bowed before saying his goodbyes and flying off towards his last destination.
X
Gohan took a detour to look for the missing Dragon ball. He had searched the area Dende had given him. He felt the midday sun hitting him but he had dealt with worse. It felt grueling, but there was still time, though not a lot.
He could hear nearby birds chirping, see a lizard hanging out on a nearby rock. It was a peaceful area, serene. Gohan felt relaxed in this moment, at least on the surface. He wanted to do this just right. Taking a deep breath, the boy drank in the nature that he had defended in Android 16's honor. He recalled his training in the wilderness before the Saiyan attack. It felt almost right, the calmness of everything, even in a seemingly inhospitable place. EVerything that managed to survive here was still so lively, filled with spirit, and that kept the half-Saiyan going until he found a familiar stone orb, one that would gain its even more familiar luster within a year's time. Taking the ball and stowing it in a satchel he had brought, the boy knew what he needed next: someone familiar to his family.
"Come flying nimbus!"
Sure enough, the trusty yellow cloud came from the horizon. Gohan may have been able to fly but with all the work he was putting in, he could do with a rest. Besides, Nimbus would have a new home. After securing the ball, Gohan made a beeline for the gravesite and started setting it took him about an hour to reach the grave site. Jumping off Nimbus, the boy got to work in setting up the grave site. There may not have been physical remains, but there were still memories, heavy and sad yet full of love and adventure. While there, he heard a voice.
"I heard I would find you here, Gohan." a voice rang out, instantly boy looked behind him to see Krillin, alone this time."
"Yep. Been busy all day. Where's 18?" the boy asked. His friend rubbed the back of his head and blushed.
"Oh, you know. She's visiting her brother. Things are going well though. Man, she's some woman," He said wistfully before noticing something was off with his best friend's son. "ANyway, what's up?"
Gohan sat down on a nearby rock, holding the Dragonball, caked in dirt and sweat after looking for hours. He took out the object he had been searching for and held it aloft. It might have been a dull stone ball at the moment, but it almost seemed lustrous for a split second when the sun hit it. "I'm surprised it took me so quickly without the Dragon Radar, but I found the Dragon Ball thanks to Dende."
"I see. A little soon to use the dragonballs. Did you have another wish in mind?"
Gohan palmed the smoothe stone orb thoughtfully, not looking up at his friend. "I mean, I wouldn't mind friends my own age. Sorry," the boy joked gently.
Krillin threw his hands up in faux-dismay. "Whoah, buddy. Harsh. I see how it is. Defeat Cell and now you're Mr. Big, huh?" the short man ruffled Gohan's hair and laughed before becoming solemn. "I feel you. You kind of ended up inheriting a lot from your dad, but I can't blame you for wanting your own life. You're not Goku, and you shouldn't have to be."
"I know…Krillin? I miss him." Gohan could feel himself shaking. It was all starting to come out and he felt his strength waning and it was all starting to fall apart.
"I know, Gohan. I do too. He was my best friend…He brought me back twice from the grave and…even if he made up his mind, it feels kind of unfair I can't repay him back for both times. He did so much for me and I will always be grateful. I'm in no rush to die again any time soon… but I hope I get to see him again. Just one more time."
The wind blew as the two sat silently, the birds flying above, going on about their days. Life went on, even as tragedy occured. Krillin Got up and helped Gohan up as well.
"Hey. I know it feels rough. It's hard to move on, especially when before it felt like just a small roadblock. Sometimes, things feel real and harsh but strength isn't just about fighting tough guys or making big beams. It's about facing the things that bring us pain and sorrow. Sometimes it's an army or an android, sometimes it's grief."
"What if I'm not strong enough?" Gohan's tears fell as he tried in vain to wipe them away.
"You killed Cell, buddy. No stronger than that. But for real, Just know you're not alone. You're strong not just because of your Saiyan heritage or your emotions. You're strong because you have people who care about you. I know I'm not a kid like you and I hope you can find your own friends outside your dad's…but know we've got you, kid."
Gohan smiled and chuckled. "Thanks Krillin. That means a lot. I should go though. Gotta head to Bulma's before heading back home for dinner."
"You better hurry then. The sun is gonna go down. Here. Hand me the power pole. I'll set it up. "
Gohan waved his arms casually. N-no. It;s fine. I can do it."
Raising an eyebrow Krillin smiled. "Oh, I know, but if you're late for dinner, Chichi will blow a gasket. That woman could keep up with Goku back in the day, at least for a little bit before he actually tried. Don't underestimate her. Besides, It's the least I can do."
Gohan handed off the effects, including his father's old Gi and jumped on the Nimbus.
"Krillin…thank you." Gohan beamed before heading off towards West City. The bald monk waved back and looked to the chosen spot, gripping the power pole in his hands. It felt unwieldy in his hands, like it wasn't made for him. However, he gripped it with the utmost respect after placing the box with the gi in the ground and kicking the dirt back on top of it. In an instant, he thrust the pole into the ground and tied rope around the ball so that it would dangle from the pole.
"Welp…I'll see you in a few days buddy… and hopefully one day in the future. Goodbye for now."
X
It was time for the last stop: Capsule Corp. Gohan was ready to deliver one last envelope. He could have given one to Bulma's parents or to Vegeta, but one would be enough. Besides, he was out of parchment and he figured Vegeta would probably show up anyway. SUre enough, at the front gate, the young boy came across the Prince.
"What are you doing here, boy." a voice spoke out. Gohan looked at Vegeta. The once proud Saiyan Prince had become directionless in the face of Goku's death and Gohan couldn't help but sympathize.
"My father has died before, but with him staying dead, I thought I would prepare a funeral for him."
The Prince scoffed. "Pure blooded Saiyans had no need of trivialities. We didn't need a gathering to honor the fallen. To die in battle against a worthy opponent was honor enough."
"My dad felt otherwise. I remember when you died on Namek and he buried you before fighting Freeza."
"He might have been a sentimental clown, but do not expect the same of any other pure blooded saiyan." Vegeta stared off into the distance, as if lost in thought. Gohan wondered if there was buried anguish in the prideful man's chest, with him being truly the last of the full blooded saiyans. There were two half saiyans on Earth, soon to be three, but he alone would fully carry the bloodline and heritage of his planet. In a way, Gohan found it tragic. He hesitated to reach out, not knowing quite what to say. Finally, he took a deep breath and spoke.
"My mom will kill me, but if you want to still test your might…I can visit."
Vegeta didn't even turn his head. "You're not a warrior. You may be the strongest person on this planet now, but don't patronize me, boy… I will keep it in mind. I will never fight again… but I can indulge you at least once." With that, the man continued to stare off into the distance as Gohan left to go find Bulma. He finally headed towards the training chamber Capsule Corp had set up for him.
X
Entering the building and walking past the main lab and the atrium, Gohan found a map and studied it for a moment. He had been here several times but he knew there had been recent renovations. Sure enough, the boy found Bulma holding Trunks in one arm while soldering something with the other. Normally that would be worrying, but Bulma was confident enough in her hand steadiness.
"Oh hey, Gohan. Come here to see Trunks?"
"Actually, I came to see you. I wanted to give you this." the half-Saiyan handed his family friend the sealed envelope gently, a contrast to the power he had inside him, yet true to his spirit.
Bulma took the letter and opened it, reading it carefully. She nearly dropped it, having felt the realization of it hit. She trusted Goku and if he thought this was best, she couldn't fault him. How many times has trouble reared its ugly head looking for him? And yet he was one of her oldest friends. To think they had traveled all over the Earth looking for the Dragonballs, all those years ago. Before the Earth was under threat every other year, it was all about the magic and the mystery. She felt nostalgic, like a record playing an old Boogie woogie song back to her, or some kind of romantic dream.
"So will you be there? It would mean a lot."
"Kiddo, I was there at the beginning, you better believe I'll be there at the end." the scientist winked. Gohan nodded graciously and flew off.
"Sorry. I had a lot of spots to hit and I told my mom I would be home for dinner."
"Hey, no worries, Gohan. You better hurry though. Mt. Paozu is a bit of a ways off. Tell your mom I said hi!"
"I've got it. Thanks, and I will! See ya! Come, flying Nimbus!" Gohan shouted as he ran through the halls, into the outdoors and jumped on the yellow cloud. Bulma sighed and looked at her infant son in her arms. She wanted a cigarette badly, but not right now. Not with her baby boy in her arms. SHe felt a tear stream down her cheek and tried to shake it off.
"Like father, like son, huh Goku?"
X
Gohan had returned home, having just realized how late in the day it was. And yet he still managed to get home just in time, thanks to some help from nimbus. X
"Mom… I think I need some time…"
"For what, Gohan?"
"To think about what I want to study. You give me all these books because you want me to be a scholar…but what's my focus?"
"Chichi paused, because she wasn't sure. She wanted to just tell him to focus up and think about that later, but that was just t: he was studying without a specific focus. She wanted to think about his future.
"And also… I might still train."
"Absolutely not!"The widowed mother slammed her hands on the counter, exasperated. SHe was tired and grieving the loss of her husband and didn't want anything to take her son away from her too.
Gohan would normally try to tow the line with his mom, especially when his dad wasn't home. However, things were different now. "Who's going to protect you and … I have to protect you. I'm not a warrior like dad… I don't want to fight tougher opponents… but I don't want to lose anyone else. Even with dragon balls…sorry mom." Gohan looked down, biting his tongue. He wanted to believe the world would be at peace now, but he couldn't know for sure. What if there was someone out there who didn't know Goku was dead? Sure, there were other warriors who could take those threats on, but what if it was another Cell or Frieza, or something worse, even.
"Just…go to bed, Gohan. We can talk more about your studies tomorrow."
Gohan tried to speak up but decided to hold his tongue and head to bed. He could figure this out later. Leaving his mother behind, he didn't notice how tired she was herself.
Chichi slumped into her chair, exhausted. She needed something from the fridge as she was having cravings out of nowhere. Getting up to go to the fridge, she saw it was fully stocked still. She looked at the plentiful food and cried, being once again reminded that he was gone.
She patted her stomach and looked at it wearily. She smiled weakly at the thought of her unborn child and decided to wait before going to bed.
X
"Gohan laid in bed, thinking about everything: His mom and his new sibling. He knew his mom wanted him to be a scholar. To be honest, he was sure he wanted to be one too. However. It was such a broad term. What did he want to study? He always liked animals and nature. His mind rushed back to the words of 16 before his destruction at the hands of Cell. "Protect the animals…protect nature and this world that I loved."
It still haunted him. He barely knew the android, nor did he get the chance. However, the fact that he was fighting on their side and to protect everyone else,at the cost of his life, hit Gohan on several levels. He was a machine, one programmed to carry out his father's will: to be a gun with which to murder his own dad. There were days he felt not very different from that. He was a secret weapon ever since he unleashed his emotions on his "uncle", ever since he was kidnapped by his father's former arch enemy (one of them at least), and was then trained to fight even stronger opponents, more and more.
He saw the value in protecting others but martial arts was not for him what it was for Goku. He never got the chance to have carefree fun with friends his age, or to improve in ways important to him. So why did he still want to train? Out of obligation?
Cell's onslaught still gave him flashbacks. Gohan wondered whether or not some traumas snowballed or if they were merely replaced by others. Perhaps he should focus on psychology, he laughed solemnly to himself.
His mind then drifted to Mr. Satan, the man who took credit for the Earth's salvation. To be honest, Gohan held no ill will. He wasn't sure how he would deal with the fame and accolades. Sure, he liked it from his family and friends, but on a global scale? He wasn't sure how he could ever deal with that, especially if that brought about others looking for a piece of him. He knew he would have to hold back and it wasn't exactly a life he was prepared for.
He then thought about how easily people tended to forget about past incursions that he had faced on the front line or heard about from others in his family's circle. Ki control and special techniques were things people could do, even without Saiyan or Namekian biology, and there were all sorts of people on the planet. If pulling busses could impress people, he could only imagine what they would think if they could fly or create energy.
Gohan wasn't confident in his ability to teach though, not just yet. He was sure he would be lecturing and instructing eventually and that would be an interesting way of helping people. However, would he just get laughed off as a trickster or a liar? The young man had a feeling. Man… Could he even call himself a boy anymore. After having taken a life? Sure his father had done so several times while being called a kid back in his day, and Cell needed to be put down. However, Gohan was saddled with a lot of questions, and they were keeping him up. He wondered if he could sneak up to the lookout just to think , but he didn't want to worry his mother any further. He laid in bed and let his weary mind rest. He had a big day looming and he would need all his strength for both him and his family.
X
Time had passed and the day arrived, with everyone fathering at the site of Goku's final battle. Gohan briefly considered holding it at Mt. Paozu. That's where this all began. However, this seemed like a larger venue to hold everyone whose lives had been touched by his father. Everyone he had expected had shown up. Krillin brought 18 while Tien, Yamcha, Launch, and Chiaotzu showed up as a group, followed by Yajirobe. Bulma walked alongside Chichi while holding Trunks, with Vegeta and Piccolo nearby as well.
Soon, more people showed up, including a green-skinned android, a red-haired woman, and several other folks. Gohan could even see a caravan in the distance belonging to the King of Earth himself. It was funny how the world at large could forget about Goku, but those he had encountered would never forget him.
"My my. What a touching display. I seem to have misplaced my invitation. Good thing the little blue troll squealed so easily." a smarmy voice called out, bringing proceedings to a screeching halt. Tien felt his fists tense up as Yamcha and Launch tried to calm him down. Chiaotzu tried as well but felt himself trying to hold back a desire for payback alongside his own fears.
"What are you doing here, Tao!?" Tien growled tensely. Gohan watched the whole thing go down. He could have stepped in but Chichi held him back. AT first he thought she was being overly protective, but then he looked in her eyes.
"We should let Tien handle this, sweetie. He can handle himself." the woman stated calmly, remembering their last match from before Gohan was even conceived.
"So Goku is dead. It's a shame I wasn't the one to do it. Unfortunate. I suppose that just leaves me with my worthless traitor of a former pupil."
"Leave here, Tao. We all remember how things went last time."
"I assure you, Tien, my abilities are far greater now. I have honed my skills in order to shake the embarrassment of my past defeats. If only the old man's little science fair project from the future hadn't made things more difficult for me."
"Old man? You mean Dr. Gero?" Bulma piped up, slowly piecing things together. Android 8 shifted uncomfortably at that name, preferring to think of himself as the child of Dr. Frappe.
The mechanical mercenary sneered as he looked everyone over. He was clearly outmatched, but it hadn't been the first time. He had stewed on his humiliation for years and now, he would at least make sure to get a few barbs in while he calculated his revenge. "Of course, Did you fools ever wonder who put me back together again? He just so happened to give me some upgrades before his unfortunate accident."
"Why would he help you? You weren't exactly successful."
Launch chimed in, this time having to be held back by Tien.
"Control your woman, Shinhan. I can't be held responsible for what happens next. As for her question… I suppose we both had similar tastes in vengeance and the good doctor needed an insurance policy. Far be it from me to look a gift horse in the mouth. Now if you'll excuse me. Unlike half you fools, I have a job, and it pays quite well."
"Why are you even here, coward? To gloat?" Tien was really getting fed up. He shouldn't have let this man get to him. He had made his peace years ago at the 23rd Martial arts tournament. And yet his appearance during a time of mourning opened up old wounds.
"Now now. Didn't anyone teach you any manners? I am merely here to pay my disrespects." the old killer remarked snidely, the corner of his mouth twitching with smug contempt. Tao walked over to a nearby tree and sixed it up, delivering two swift kicks to the top and bottom. Once he had a satisfactory log, he picked it up and was about to throw it.
"Oh, you're not just going to let me go? I thought I wasn't a threat to you. Make up your mind. It's embarrassing."
"Any more embarrassing than your defeat?" Chiaotzu shouted before Tien had a chance to react, simultaneously getting his old friend's back and getting a small bit of revenge for himself.
"Normally that would have infuriated me, but we will see who laughs last next time."
The cyborg mercenary stopped to look at a tall, muscular indigenous man, flanked by his son, who seemed to be pulling out a spear in self defense as he gritted his teeth. Tao's mustache twitched as he smirked.
"Ah, I remember you two. It seems I lost my touch or that those Dragon Balls really are worth it after all. I suppose I can always kill you later."
Looking away towards Vegeta, who was wearing his Badman shirt, Tao smirked again. "I see you and I have similar taste in clothing brands. Shame you keep such pathetic company."
"Hmmph. Speak for yourself. I can take your type apart like a blender." Vegeta blustered back. He was not in the mood for any of these fools.
Noting this, Tao stepped back, trying not to appear too intimidated. "I suppose you could. Too bad you won't. Kill you later."
After a moment's reprieve, everyone had calmed their nerves and the funeral carried on as normal. Gohan watched calmly as everyone paid their respects, with a few even delivering several heartfelt eulogies and stories of the past. Gohan drank it all in, thinking of the man his father was, while making peace with how the man didn't always make the best decisions. However, Goku still cared deeply for his friends and family and his sacrifice would not be in vain.
Every story painted a tapestry of memories, from being shot in the head to learning traffic laws and drinking dubiously sacred water all the way through to the present day. Gohan felt his eyes well up and a shock of electricity go through him as he felt the emotions in his chest. Chichi gripped his hand tightly as mother and son provided support for one another. It ended in a dazzling display of fireworks that Puar and Oolong had organized. The final display had spelled out "Until we meet again, Son Goku"
After it all wound down, the majority of people parted ways, while some met up at Mt. Paozu for dinner. Even the Pilaf Gang were invited, though they almost declined until food was mentioned. Gohan promised to meet up, keeping a close eye on the grave, marked by the powerpole, a lone stone ball, and the nearby nimbus, which dissipated into the ground, as if to rest with its former ally, if just for a little while.
"Goodbye for now…dad."
X
Miles away, beyond the mortal plain and moments after the explosion of King Kai's planet…
Dust settled after the death of the small planet that had housed King Kai and his friends, Bubbles and Gregory. The culprit's remains wriggled and convulsed before regenerating into a familiar form before screaming in victory. WHile the being known as Cell returned using the knowledge of Instant Transmission he had gained from Goku, a hatch opened up on an odd prison device.
From the cell stepped out a large, blue-skinned man with a mane of fiery red hair and pointy ears. He was soon joined by similarly skinned men. The air was warm still, lingering from the destruction of that which contained them.
"So...I am free. That short little troll of a Kai must have bit the dust, because the planet's gone."
"How long have we been locked away?" a tall man with bluish skin and a red beard/ mohawk combo limbered himself up. Another largish man stepped out, followed by a shorter man.
"Too long, but never you mind, Bido. I know where we are headed next." the Pirate smirked. "But first we need a vessel. What say we commandeer one. After that, I believe we have someone to pick up."
"What do you mean, Cap? This is all of us, especially after what happened with Zan-"
"Oh, don't worry, Bujin. She may have been a coward and a liability…but it always helps to have something else stored away…or rather someone. Let's just say I kept her close for more than her skills." the Galaxy soldier sneered, inviting some chuckles from his crewmen.
"Best not let her hear that, Cap'n." Bido smirked before getting shoved into Kogu, who promptly caught him.
"Like I'm scared of her. SHe knew she couldn't touch me unless I let her. Now let's head out, boys. I want to see what we're facing out there as soon as possible. Let's go retrieve that cargo of mine."
And like 4 comets, the blue men screamed through the sky towards freedom. They may not have known their bearings exactly but warriors of Hera always found their way to navigate a sea of blood.
Elsewhere, far across the universe, a base lay on a desolate world, its pristine architecture contrasting with the environment. Within its hallowed halls lay a wide array of ancient yet incredible technology, computer screens and storage pods from centuries past that would have been right at home among the most recent models, perhaps even surpassing some. Within the central room, a pod beeped calmly, registering the vitals of its occupant: the last surviving child of the Hera.