Alright guys… need to explain a few things here. First off, most of this opening section and a small portion of the fic were written a VERY long time ago. If this seems out of place… this is why. I'm keeping it in mainly due to not wanting to re-write EVERYTHING from scratch… that's kinda why it's been sitting on her for so long anyways. I just picked up where I left off after find inspiration from TFS's recent episode. Check it out; it's hilarious and spot on!

That being said, I want to be clear on something: I will not be doing Yo! Son Goku and Friends Returns. I know I said I will, but this isn't the case anyone. With the advent of Resurrection of F and the now expanded 40+ episode of Dragon Ball Super out… things have changed drastically. However, while I won't be doing Super, as when I originally started this with the first Gohan's Redemption (Yep, changed the title if you guys never noticed!), was before Yo! Son Goku and Battle of Gods ever came out. I think GT was just recently finished if I recall correctly. The furthest point in time I made Gohan, Piccolo, and Hercule travel back from was probably some time before the World Tournament and the introduction to Uub. This was the intention that it was peaceful all ten of those years that had passed.

With the advent of Super, as well as two more movies… I have decided to take a different route. Sometime in the future (wow, I really have more ideas than I originally thought), I eventually plan on tackling the movies. Because they are alternate universes, or non-canon, I will be handling them as separate chapters. No Dead Zone here, because there's really no point and his return was all filler. So, starting with World's Strongest (which will take even less time to read than even TFS's version), followed by Tree of Might. Please understand that things have changed for me over the years and until DBS has an English Dub, I won't be watching it and staying away from videos mentioning Super if I can help it. I already know a few things, so please, don't mention Super. I don't want to remove comments if I can help it! Please respect this decision!

Until then, here's your long overdue final chapter!


Okay guys. It's finally happened. What I was waiting for to post this chapter up is the following:

Having over 15 thousand hits on my original story of 'Gohan's Redemption.'

Considering how popular it was, I wanted to wait and make it a special occasion. Also, I recently checked and in one year since my last update, so many people have read this it actually brings happy tears to my eyes. The fact that since I published my sequel up, only 22 hundred hits are on it. That brings sad tears to my eyes. WHY IS THIS SUCH A FAILURE OF A SEQUEL!

Dx: Don't blame me, I'm not even in this world.

RDF1: Really. GET OUT OF HERE!

RDF1 boots DragonX away AGAIN!

RDF1: Really getting tired of him interrupting over something like this.

Whatever, no OCs to hinder us now…

PyroDragoon: Really?

RDF1: Why do I even bother?

Disclaimer: Don't own DB/Z/GT. Don't own anything except the plot. Don't own anything from the abridged version either.

Alright, before we begin the actual chapter, I have something to add.

RDF1: Abridged Popo, why don't you tell us what happened after you made your toast?

Abridged Popo: I buttered it, nothing more (beep).

RDF1: Funny, I remember something about…

Abridged Popo: THAT never happened!

RDF1: Oh yes it did. I'm gonna show you the seen the scene those at TeamFourStar won't show you because of they're love for Popo.

Here it is!

(Scene Begin)

Goku arrived on the lookout after returning from Otherworld and his training with King Kai.

"Hey! Mr. Popo!" said Goku, "I need your carpet to get to my friends fast!"

"Making toast!" said Popo, waiting for the toaster to be done.

"Aw, fine," said Goku, heading outside, "NIMBUS!"

His trusty cloud arrived and they headed of to the battlefield as fast as they could. A few seconds later, the toaster was done.

"Buttering toast!" said Popo, getting out the butter and buttered his toast.

"Buttered Toast!?" shouted a voice that was seemingly from nowhere.

Literally ten yards from Popo, a hole appeared out of thin air and Ed from Ed, Edd, and Eddy, ran through it and bowled over Popo to get to the Buttered Toast.

"Wow," said Edd, as he poked his head through the hole, "Ed can smell Buttered Toast through dimensions. Hopefully no one ELSE is making Buttered Toast right now.

(Dimension Change)

"Ah, Buttered Toast, a good breakfast for any OC to have in the morning," said DragonX, as he placed his Buttered Toast

"Buttered Toast!?" shouted Ed, tearing another hole in Dimensions to get to the Buttered Toast, knocking over DragonX in the process.

"Why me?" wondered DragonX from his position on the floor while Ed chomped on the Buttered Toast.

Suddenly, as Ed was finished, he sniffed the air again, and ran to the door, only to tear another hole in dimensions for the next batch of Buttered Toast.

(Scene end)

Now do you see why? Popo had to return to his lamp for the next day to recover from Ed bowling into him. That's why Goku was so late.

Abridged Popo: I hate you, (beep).

RDF1: Take it to a higher authority and I'll still beat you. Because this is Fanfiction, and YOU are the (bleep).

NOW, on to the fic!

(Chapter begin)

(Recap)

After the battle was over, Goku and Gohan landed next to Vegeta, Buu, Bee, and Hercule. Kibito Kai, Dende, and Elder Kai returned to the Planet, Bardock and Fasha having returned to Other World once Buu arrived there, and Dende set about healing them. Once they had recovered, Goku and Gohan used Instant Transmission to get them and their friends to the Lookout.


When they arrived back on Earth, Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan walked out first, not wanting to scare the others, minus Piccolo, about Buu. Bulma, Chi Chi, and Videl ran from the group to greet them, hugging them fiercely. They returned the hugs gently, so as to not snap them in half with their crazy, immense strength.

"Do you DARE go off and do that again!" demanded Videl.

"I don't think that'll stop him, Videl," said Chi Chi, smirking.

"As much as it pains us, we let it happen," agreed Bulma, "Our mates love fighting more than anything, even food if it was serious."

Everyone chuckled at that point. Hercule came out with Bee and Buu behind him and Videl ran to hug him.

"You big oaf. Another victory for the 'World Champ', right?" said Videl, a smirk on her face.

"Don't you know it?" replied Hercule.

Goku explained to the others what happened to Buu over the last week.

"Well," said Bulma, "Hopefully six months will go by in a snap."

"Let's head home," said Krillin.

Everyone took his or her separate ways home, readying for some relaxation.


Over the next few months, Gold Fighter and Videl saved Satan City from would-be thugs and small-time criminals. Gohan had indeed talked to Videl and they were now officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Goku and Vegeta enjoyed time with their family, particularly their sons (Goku more with Goten because he and Gohan had already worked things out), and Chi Chi and Bulma were helping each other whenever Goten and Trunks were at each other houses. Good Buu moved in with Hercule, after assuring his staff what had happened, and they made sure Bee was safe so Buu could keep his cool. Piccolo continued to live on the Lookout, meditating in peace. Soon six months had passed and Goku wished the people's memories of Buu away. He was glad that he could see the Eternal Dragon, something he had missed in other world.

A few weeks later found Buu strolling down the street to get some ice cream. Upon finishing it, he was coerced into shopping with Bulma, as Vegeta and Trunks went to visit Goku and Goten for the boys to continue their training under Fusion. This landed them both in a Jewelry store that robbers attempted to steal from, only to be stopped by Buu. Gohan and Videl were outside, chuckling at what had happened along with Bulma.


That night, the Briefs and the Satans were over at the Son residence for a get together. Goku was enjoying a bath with Goten and Trunks. Things got heated up when Goku decided to duck their heads under water. They got out and fused into Gotenks, but it didn't help as everyone heard the commotion and Chi Chi raced after them to give them their proper punishment.

(Recap End)

After a few months of relative peace, Gohan felt a tingling in the back of his head. If what Mirai told him about his sword after the battle with Bojack was true, then Trunks was getting close to the age where he received his sword, Tapion's sword. However, it was on a routine call when he felt it: A dark energy that faded as soon as it entered his senses.

'You feel that,' thought Gohan.

'Yep,' replied Gohan2, 'Can't think of a name, but the energy is definitely familiar.'

(AN1)


When they got to school, it was already halfway into their Literature Class period.

"Sorry we're late," said Gohan, "A jerk was speeding on our way in."

Ever since the tournament, everyone knew Gohan was the Gold Fighter and had to head out with Videl whenever a call was sent. Unfortunately, there stay in school was becoming erratic at best. Sometimes up to three calls a day came in, and they had to skip out on some important lessons. If it weren't for the fact that Gohan was beyond intelligent, even without time travelling, and Videl was used to this lifestyle and studied extra hard whenever she could, they're grades probably wouldn't still be all A's. Today was one such day, as they got another call less than an hour after their previous one. This time, it was a suicide jumper.

Gohan and Videl flew out to the Tower where the jumper was.

"Gotta say, Videl," said Gohan, as they were flying, "Ever miss those days before we met and all you had to worry about was normal teenager stuff?"

"What, and be boring?" quipped his girlfriend, "When you're Father's World Champ, and brags, you toss out 'normal' within a few weeks of it happening."

As they approached the tower, the now identified Alien was screaming his head off, saying he was gonna jump.

"Sad thing is," added Videl, "The only thing I actually miss about those days was the fact that I was unaware of other species out there in the galaxy."

"Excuse me sir," said Gohan, "You can stop with the production number. We're here now."

"Production!?" exclaimed the alien, "If I say I'm gonna jump, then I'M GONNA JUMP!"

"Kinda missing out on the times, old timer," said Videl, "Extra Terrestrials… not a common topic here."

"Now, if you'll kindly grab my hand…" started Gohan.

"OH, FOR THE LOVE OF…!" interrupted the Alien, as he jumped off the bridge.

"Ya'know, we TECHNICALLY don't have to save him… right?" queried Videl, only for Gohan to grab the geezer and fly off to another part of the city, leaving Videl to follow behind.


After things had calmed down, the alien suddenly asked a random question.

"Have you ever heard of Tapion the Brave?" asked the old alien.

"Can't say that I have," lied Gohan, though no one noticed, while Videl was off to the side, looking a bit miffed.

(AN2)

"My word! It was only one thousand years ago! What kind of history does this planet teach anyways?" questioned the geezer.

"It's own," informed Videl, none to politely either.

"To be fair," added Gohan, "Earth has lost communications with the rest of the Galaxy, let alone the other galaxies for several hundred years. In fact, outside of like three people, none of us can really contact anyone outside our planet."

"My goodness!" exclaimed the Alien, "Tapion saved the planet Conos of the South Galaxy! He did it all by himself as well!"

"Interesting. I'd like to meet him. Maybe we could exchange notes?" wondered Gohan.

"Take a Rain Check, Gohan. We've got to get back to class," interrupted Videl.

"Hold on," said Gohan, narrowing his eyes, "The way you talk is like you were there."

"I'm pretty sure I wasn't, but the story has been passed down through the generations of my planet," responded the old man, "Unfortunately, while Conos was spared, the evil wasn't destroyed, and is now making it's way toward Earth."

Gohan rolled his eyes.

"And be met with at least half-a-dozen warriors all equal or outright stronger than him," said Gohan, "Believe me, I'm right up there at the top."

"Strength will never prevail against THIS evil. Only Tapion has the means to defeat this evil!"

"And where exactly IS this Tapion?" asked Videl, more than a little skeptic.

"Would you believe, right here?" replied the old man as he pulled out a music box.

"Okay, you have Tapion, but why haven't you released him already?" asked Gohan, playing along.

(AN3)

"That is the very question I've been asking ever since I found this box after searching for thirty years," said the Alien, before bringing the box up to Gohan's vision level, "Try for yourself, if you really ARE the strongest on Earth."

Gohan took hold of the box and looked at it from every angle.

"I'm not just strong, but I'm also a genius, to most people that is," informed Gohan.

"Of course, don't forget Humble," smirked Videl.

"My point is," said Gohan, rolling his eyes, "Just looking at this, I can tell there's some form of sealing array on this thing."

"You can now understand my dilemma," smiled the old man.

"Good thing for you, we have something that can work beyond the normal means," added Gohan.

"Well, there goes school," sighed Videl, actually wanting a day with LESS action in it for once.

"You mean it! You'll be able to summon the mighty Shenron and have him break the seal?" exclaimed.

Gohan's eyes widened, but only for a second.

'Well, crap. That's not suspicious at all, is it?' asked Gohan2, if a bit sarcastically.


Despite part of him not wanting to do it, Gohan agreed if only because he knew Tapion deserved to have peace. After having Bulma scanned it, it confirmed Gohan's early observation: the seal was strength-proof.

"Well, there is one way for sure," said Goku.

So, with that, Bulma used her Dragon Radar and gave coordinates for the current location of each of the Dragonballs to the gathered group so they could gather them before the day was up.


A few hours later, and Shenron appeared.

"I AM THE ETERNAL DRAGON, SHENRON," spoke the Dragon, "SPEAK YOUR WISH, FOR I WILL GRANT IT IF IT IS WITHIN MY POWER."

"Oh mighty Shenron," spoke the alien, "I only wish is for the release of the Noble Tapion from his imprisonment."

'Oh great,' thought Gohan, eyes rolling, 'and since Shenron doesn't really know about the big bug, he can't prevent the wish since it doesn't have any exclusions.'

'Hey, we are asking for it, remember,' reminded Gohan2.

'Yeah, but sometimes, the hoopla is more headache than it's worth.'

"I SEE," spoke Shenron, examining the device, as Bulma and Gohan did before, "THAT IS WITHIN MY POWER. YOUR WISH IS GRANTED!"

Shenron's eyes glowed, and a flash over the surface of the box glowed, as the seals were rendered inert. With his job done, Shenron left, at least for another six or so months.

After a few minutes of quite, the box started to open, playing a beautiful melody for everyone to hear. Such energy had been unleashed from the box that, without the seals, exploded. After the flash and substance died down, Tapion finished his song on his Ocarina and landed.

(AN4)

The old man attempted to approach Tapion, only for him to draw his sword.

"Stay back!" warned Tapion.

"Awesome!" said Trunks, he really liked that sword for some reason.

"Was it you that freed me?" asked Tapion.

"You're most welcome," replied the alien, as if it was a casual conversation, "After a millennium inside that box, it must feel good to stretch the legs."

"You OLD FOOL!" countered Tapion, clearly upset, "SEND ME BACK!"

"I'm afraid that's impossible," said the alien, "You're confinement is no more. It was destroyed as you were released."

"Greetings," intervened Goku, not wanting any bloodshed, "My name is Goku. You must be Tapion. It wasn't easy getting you out of that box there."

"Do you have ANY idea what you have done?" asked Tapion, turning around, "Well do you? I don't know if I can stop him this time."

"What do you mean?" asked Goku.

Tapion didn't answer as he walked off, jumping off the balcony.

"I want to be JUST like him!" proclaimed Trunks.

"Trunks! No fanboying," said Bulma, "We just met him. We don't even know him."

"TAPION!" called out Trunks, ignoring his mother, something that he normally doesn't do. He just had a gut feeling about this, "Wait up!"

"Wait for me!" added Goten, going after him.

"TRUNKS!" called out Bulma.

"Let him go, Bulma," said Gohan, resting his hand on her shoulder, "You know how strong he is, and he has Goten with him."

"I can't help but worry," replied Bulma.


"Are you sure we should be doing this?" asked Goten.

Goten and Trunks followed Tapion to a long abandoned plant from before Capsule Corp started booming with clean, efficient energy sources.

(AN5)

"Hello! He's the 'Hero!' Why would he be dangerous if he's the hero?" countered Trunks.

Goten managed to level a stare at him.

"Are you REALLY asking that!?" asked Goten, "Everyone from Krillin, even Yamcha, all the way to our fathers are dangerous, and ALL of us are heroes!" said Goten incredulously, "You don't need to be evil to be dangerous!"

"That's besides the point," replied Trunks, trying to deflect.

"Speaking of 'besides the point', shouldn't you knock?" asked Goten, considering Trunks just opened the hatch into the room where Tapion had stopped for the time being.

"Okay," sighed Trunks, "KNOCK, KNOCK!"

(AN6)

Trunks was greeted with a Tapion who looked INCREDIBLY angry, or in pain. Either way, Trunks figured quickly he jumped the gun.

"You know what, you're right. Let's come back later!" said Trunks, in a bit of a hurry.

Both were quick to head back to CC.


Meanwhile, nearly every one of the core Z-Fighters had gathered for a get together. Of course, with at least four attendees with Saiyan blood, and appetites, there was PLENTY of food to go around. There happened to be SO much food, Goten and Trunks agreed that they should at least share a bit with Tapion. So… grabbing a few kabobs, they headed back out to the factory, taking the open front door this time.

Tapion, as antsy as ever, nearly drew his sword on the kids before he realized who they were. He fully sheathed his sword again and sat down, knowing they didn't truly mean any harm.

"Tapion, I brought you some food," explained Trunks, "It's no use trying to fight on an empty stomach. Trust me, we've got a few people who's experienced that first hand!"

Trunks got a good look at him with the moonlight behind them. He couldn't explain it, but he felt some kind of connection with Tapion. It felt like he knew him, or was very familiar with him.

"Well, if you need anything, Goten and I will be right outside."


Elsewhere, in the city, a very large creature was making it's way through town, not really caring what got destroyed in the process. Gohan and Videl arrived not too long afterwards.

"Gohan, what… is that?" asked Videl, as she suddenly saw what it looked like.

"If it was Earth based, I'd say Kaiju," said Gohan.

"But this isn't Gojira or ANY of the monsters from his island!" countered Videl.

"I said 'if it was Earth based,' but it's not. It's definitely not from Earth," corrected Gohan.

"I get that, but does this mean it's the same thing that attacked Conos?"

"One way to find out!" said Gohan, charging up after taking off his sunglasses.

Gohan attempted to attack it, but it disappeared. Luckily, though his many years of training, he was able to avoid the counter blow.

"Okay, what was that?" asked Videl, as she flew back to avoid the collateral damage.

(AN7)

"Apparently it can shift dimensions to avoid attacks. Let's see if it likes Ki blasts!" said Gohan, firing a volley.

Everyone connected, but didn't do much damage, considering he was holding back, he wasn't expecting much.

"Well, he can't dodge energy that easily," concluded Gohan.

Suddenly, they heard music, and the beast disappeared into smoke. Gohan could faintly make out Tapion's figure for a few seconds before he left.

"Gohan! Up here!" said Videl, getting his attention.

Up on the roofs, the old alien man from before was jumping from rooftop to rooftop, in a sneaking manner, or so he thought.

"Well, if nothing else, we know one thing," said Gohan as the night was done, "That monster will be back."


Meanwhile, Trunks had made another run from CC and brought some drinks for overnight. Tapion tried to ignore him, but couldn't help but feel a little bit thankful someone was being genuinely kind.

"I brought some drinks this time. In case you get thirsty," informed Trunks, before noticing the uneaten food he left earlier.

"Leave me alone," said Tapion rudely, trying to get him away.

"I grew up around people with attitudes worse than that on a good day," countered Trunks, "The moody façade won't work on me."

"I SAID GET OUT!" roared Tapion.

"Fine," sighed Trunks, "but know that if you need help. I'll still be there!"

With that, Trunks walked out, a little miffed at his rebuffed attempts.

Not long after Trunks left, Tapion, tired as he was, fell asleep, inadvertently losing focus on his own bodily seal. This allowed the upper half of the beast to show up. Luckily, Tapion wasn't asleep for long, and was able to avoid getting hit.

"This isn't good," muttered Tapion, as he continued to dodge the attacks while looking for his ocarina, which had fallen off. Finally spotting it, he managed to grab it before jumping back and hitting the wall. Maintaining his bearings, he brought the ocarina up to his lips, "Time to say goodnight, Hirudegarn."

He started his song and the beast couldn't handle it, returning to the seal Tapion worked so hard to keep him within.


The next morning, Trunks returned yet again, this time with some sandwiches and juice.

"Morning!" said Trunks, in a cheerful mood this morning, "Whoa, talk about disaster zone. Let me guess: uncontrolled release of energy? Don't answer that!"

At Tapion's glare, he set aside the tray.

"I brought some breakfast for you. Made it myself! Mom would be proud. Anyways, don't let your angst keep you from eating!"

With that, Trunks left again. Tapion… felt conflicted. He didn't understand how someone could be so honestly kind. He hadn't seen such innocence since… his own little brother.


"Thanks for letting me help, Bulma," said Videl, as she and Bulma were washing dishes.

"Well, considering the increase in dishes since Tapion's arrival, I'm not about to say no to some help," replied Bulma.

"Trunks has a good heart. It's kinda ironic, given his father," chuckled Videl.

"Vegeta has his quirks, true…" smiled Bulma, "But he's really come a long way since he first came to Earth."

"So, why the interest in Tapion?"

"Honestly, Trunks sees him as an older brother. At least, that's my guess. Despite the closeness Gohan has with Trunks, given Mirai; the bond they share isn't the same as Gohan has with Goten. Trunks can't help but feel a bit jealous, especially since he and Goten have such a strong friendship themselves."

"Well, they are literally two halves of a whole Gotenks!" quipped Videl.

"True. But in a way, it kind of makes it worse. Trunks confided in me that when he and Goten are Gotenks, they can see each other memories and have literally shared their lives with each other. There's a bond of trust between them, and yet… one having a sibling while the other doesn't, can get a bit frustrating. Trunks wouldn't dare tell this to Goten, and Goten wouldn't want Trunks to feel so alone."

"I see…"

"Part of me wonders what Gohan thinks of this."

"Huh?"

"Gohan's gone through so much in his young life. Learning that he helped raised not only Goten in this life, but Trunks in another… Do you think Gohan might be jealous?"

Videl's eyes widened. She never really thought about it like that. Gohan never seemed to be the jealous type. He always went with the flow, never really challenging anything going against his gut feeling.

(AN8)


That evening Trunks brought Tapion another meal. Tapion himself was playing his song again, to pass the time and ensure his seal remained strong. Tapion felt danger and went to warn Trunks, but the Alien from earlier moved too fast and knocked the Ocarina out of his hands and past Trunks. As Trunks went to get it, the alien spoke.

"Give me that flute!" demanded the old man, as he charged again.

But Trunks wasn't having any of it. He felt a dangerous aura around the geezer this time, and his time training with both his father and Gohan was too much to ignore this threat.

"I don't think so," said Trunks, bringing up his hand instantly and firing off a Ki blast, forcing the old man to jump over Trunks as to not get injured, or killed, from it.

Upon landing, the old man knocked over a lamp, and started a fire.

"Trunks, here!" called out Tapion, his hand out ready to retrieve the Ocarina.

"Sure thing!" replied Trunks, and got ready to toss the Ocarina back.

"WAIT!" cried out the old man, "Hear me out! Tapion is NO HERO! In fact, it was HE who attacked the city!"

This was enough to catch Trunks off his guard. He turned to Tapion for an explanation.

"No Trunks," replied Tapion, "He's lying."

"Once you hand him the flute, he'll not only destroy this planet, but the entire universe as well! Give it to me, I'll save you."

"To be fair, you were the one who wanted Tapion released in the first place!" countered Trunks, much to Tapion's surprise, he didn't expect Trunks to make up his mind already, since he's still young and impressionable, even by the wrong people.

(AN9)

"To be fair…" agreed the old man, despite lying through his teeth, "I believed he was a hero, until I saw the attack in the city myself!"

Trunks looked between Tapion, who was reserved and trusted in Trunks to make the decision on his own, then back to the elder alien that looked a bit to gleeful, and in the wrong way.

"If Tapion REALLY wanted to destroy the City, and had the power to do," smirked Trunks, before tossing the Ocarina to Tapion, "He'd already done, despite the half-dozen powerful warriors who wouldn't keep themselves from stopping him!"

The old man hastily decided to retreat, the odds NOT in his favor.

As Trunks turned to leave, he looked at Tapion, only to receive the same look as before. Frowning, he turned to leave before Tapion called out to him.

"Trunks," said Tapion, finally smiling, "I'm hungry. Would you care to join me?"

Trunks couldn't believe his ears. All his effort, and it wasn't going to waste!


Gohan stretched. It had been a long day… studying, spending time with Goten while their father was out fishing, preparing for College; it was a fun day to be sure. Videl had volunteered to stay at Capsule Corp to be on standby in case that creature showed up again. Finally getting a bit of time to himself, he started to reflect what had happened over the past few days…

Tapion was here. From what he remembered in the last timeline, as well as what Mirai told him, Tapion gave Trunks his sword after defeating Hirudegarn. Part of him couldn't believe he alone could defeat such a creature by himself, and may have suspected getting help from the evil cyborgs 17 and 18, but he had his doubts even then. Thinking more on Hirudegarn, he remained focused, but couldn't get a hit on his lower half, yet Ki Blasts were able to affect him. He remembered the creature's unique ability to dodge focused attacks. He then realized how he defeated Hirudegarn as JUST a regular Super Saiyan: emotions. Since he didn't master the Super Saiyan form in Mirai's timeline, his overflowing emotions in that state, combined with the profound pain of losing so many people close to him, was enough to defeat Hirudegarn on his own. It scared him to think he could reach a level of emotion like that. Sure, he was very emotional as a child, but he still had everyone here to help keep it in check. His rage, was over them getting hurt, not killed.

Heading inside for the night, he hoped that they could pull it off again.

(AN10)


Bulma was out in the halls walking late, still a few things on her mind, when she saw Tapion leave Trunks's room and called out to him.

"Tapion," said Bulma quietly, enough for him to hear, but Trunks could still sleep, "You don't have to leave. It's not like we don't have room. Not to mention Trunks is happier that you're here. You wouldn't want to take that away, would you?"

"If only I could," said Tapion, "but… circumstances need me to stay secluded if I can help it."

"What do you mean?"

"While I was with Trunks, he told me of your Capsules, and how useful they are. I don't know how aware of this concept you are, but this method of sealing has been used for many thousands of years."

"You wouldn't know this, but when I was about Gohan's age, the older brother to Trunks's best Friend Goten, there was alien known as King Piccolo. A few hundred years ago he too was sealed into a container: the Mah Foo Bah. Eventually it broke and he got free, but thanks to someone I consider a brother, Goku, who looks a lot like Goten, he was defeated for good. Let me guess, that incident in the city has something to do with this, right?"

"Yes, but it's complicated."

"Care to sit down and talk about it? I have time."

"I don't know. Despite what that man said, I am dangerous to be around."

"I'm married to one of the most dangerous men on Earth, and you look like angel compared to him. I think I can risk it."

(AN11)

So, Bulma made up some Coffee, and listened as Tapion shared his tale. Of the Kashfar, Hirudegarn, and the Wizard that Tapion and his younger brother, Minotia helped in defeating and sealing away. Then being separated from his brother as they were both sent to the opposite ends of the universe, to keep Hirudegarn from ever getting back together.

"And what of your brother?" asked Bulma.

"If what Videl saw in the city was any indication, then my brother is dead. Likely has been for some time."

"I'm so sorry," said Bulma, emphatically, having shared a few loses in her time as well, despite Dragonballs being able to revive them.

"In all honesty, if something such as reincarnation does exist, I believe the spirit of Minotia lives on in Trunks. Whenever I look at him, I can't help but be reminded of him."

"As a mother, I like to think the best of Trunks," confessed Bulma, with a smile, "But, if your younger brother was as optimistic as you said, personally, it feels like Goten would be more like your brother than Trunks. But, that's because I've known Goten so long. He and Trunks, though one year apart, sometimes act like twins. They can be such a handful at times, but they bring happiness into our lives."

"Yes, Trunks does. It's been a comfort though these sleepless days."

"Sleepless?"

"The Seal is strongest when I'm awake, and playing the song as well. Should I ever fall asleep… the seal weakens, and the old man can release Hirudegarn all too easily."

"If that's the case, I should probably start on building you a new music box."

"But, it was specially designed. The seals on it…"

"Have been scanned and can be recreated," cut off Bulma, "And the material for the box itself? It may take several hours, but this isn't my first time replicating and recreating materials not from Earth. I got some quality experience just seven years ago."

"Thank you! This means a lot to me!"

"Spend some more time with Trunks, and I'll call it even. Videl has Bee over here as well. I'm sure you can find some fun things to do."

"Deal," smiled Tapion…, which in all honesty was a win-win for him. Trunks had grown on him.


By the next afternoon, Bulma had already finished it, and Trunks allowed Tapion to get some rest, especially after several days of not getting any. However, late afternoon, the lower half was released again, and it stirred the upper half as well. Tapion managed to contain it, but since the lower half was so close, it was too much for Bulma's container. Trunks had contacted Goten upon hearing the explosion and the entire Son family fighters showed up a few minutes later via instant transmission. After they examined the wreckage, Tapion showed up, looking worse for wear.

"Tapion!" called out Trunks with concern.

"Trunks," replied Tapion, clearly in pain, "Stay back. I can't hold onto him much longer."

Unfortunately, things only got worse when the lower half showed up RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM! The pressure became too much and Tapion couldn't hold onto the upper half again, the seal breaking off as it escaped, and Hirudegarn became whole again.

Fortunately, this stopped the pressure on Tapion, allowing him to play the Ocarina once more. Unfortunately, Hirudegarn wasn't having it, and attacked, scattering them and stopping the Ocarina.

Gohan looked at the wreckage. While nothing they couldn't rebuild… if they couldn't stop Hirudegarn, then this would be everywhere.

"Goten, follow my lead!" called out Goku, flying up to attack it.

"WAIT! DAD DON'T!" cried out Gohan, only for it to be too late.

Goku's attack didn't connect as Hirudegarn turned into smoke to avoid it and reformed above father and son both, sending Goku to the ground.

Meanwhile, Trunks got Tapion a safe distance from Hirudegarn.

"Tapion," said Trunks, "We'll hold it off. If you can stop it, great; if not… we'll find a way."

"But Trunks!" cried out Tapion.

Trunks only stopped for a brief moment, "Tapion. You've been out of the loop for a thousand years. This isn't my first fight against someone ridiculously stronger than me. I have Goten, Gohan, and Goku as well. We… can… handle… this!"

Trunks flew off without another word, hoping to help the Son family.

"Dad, you might not want to be so reserved with your attacks," said Gohan.

"Why?" asked Goku.

"Focusing on the fight at hand only gives him the ability to avoid heavy damage," replied Gohan.

"Then I guess we need to take it up a notch," finished Goku, going Super Saiyan.

Gohan and Goten joined him as they tried again. Unfortunately, the emotions that normally came with the Super Saiyan transformations have been well dialed back since SSJ2 and SSJ3 was now available, prompting a mastery of the Super Saiyan level one, even if subconsciously. This resulted in Goku being knocked away by a mildly serious blow.

"Goten, stay back. I don't want to hit you in the crossfire," said Gohan, bringing up some emotion as he charged again.

Hirudegarn was even faster as a complete being vs. his two halves, so even with SOME emotion, Gohan still couldn't touch him. It was only when Gohan got grabbed, that he managed feel contact.

'Okay, Mystic Power, read his aura so he can't dodge again!' thought Gohan, powering down and letting his mystic energy read Hirudegarn's energy and form.

It didn't take long, but a Ki blast forced Hirudegarn to let him go.

"HEY! YOU OVERGROWN SKULL FACE!" called out Vegeta of all people, "I was enjoying my first day off in over a month. And what do I get…? My home being attacked! That really pisses me off!"

Vegeta then turned Super Saiyan and charged at it. With such raw emotion, Vegeta managed to get a blow or two in, before Hirudegarn managed to adapt and avoid more hits. His counter attack got Vegeta to back off for a few seconds.

"THAT'S IT!" yelled a thoroughly pissed Vegeta, charging up another Ki blast.

Launching it, Hirudegarn didn't expect the increase in emotion and couldn't dodge the hit. He did manage to recover enough to get behind Vegeta and knock him into a nearby building.

"Okay, this is getting annoying," said Vegeta, getting up, only to notice a flamethrower coming right at him. Noticing the civilians, and how Bulma would never forgive him after that Majin stunt, summoned his energy into a large barrier, effectively protecting the innocent people. It did spend a lot of his energy though, and he had to take a knee while he recovered his focus.

"Vegeta!"

"Kakarot! Behind you!" called out Vegeta, only for Hirudegarn to pin Goku between his hands.

"GOKU!/DADDY!" called out Trunks/Goten.

'If this goes on too much longer,' thought Goten, 'Hirudegarn's gonna kill all these people.'

'I think it's time HE joins the battle,' replied Trunks.

Trunks and Goten nodded to each other, forgetting their own selves, and focusing on the singular entity between them. Getting into position, yet never trying it mid-air, they were able to fuse into Gotenks, immediately going SSJ3.

"No one hurts Goku and Vegeta without paying for it," said Gotenks, in a more serious tone than he ever took before.

"Let me join you," said Gohan, combing his powers again at SSJ3 as well.

Gohan got Hirudegarn's attention, allowing Gotenks to let loose an energy barrage, dealing a good amount of damage, considering Gotenks was feeling anger from both Goten and Trunks over both Goku and Vegeta.

The attack did SEVERE damage this time, practically knocking Hirudegarn unconscious.

"Wait… something's not right here," said Gohan, "This seemed WAY too easy."

"Gotenks!" said Goku, "Don't just float there! FINISH IT!"

"Right!" said Gotenks, getting a bit of distance and firing off one more charged Ki blast.

While it connected, when the smoke cleared, Hirudegarn managed to transform into its second state, something it had never been able to reach before.

"Is it just me, or did that beast just molt?" asked Gohan.

"Oh great," said Goku, "Now it can fly… also, it's peeved as well."

Hirudegarn, in its anger, attacked Gotenks and knocked him back. He landed so hard, the fusion fell apart and Goten and Trunks were left reeling from the pain transferred by Gotenks.

By this point, Vegeta managed to get his bearings and rejoin the group.

"Let's end this… NOW!" said Vegeta, before going SSJ3 himself.

Gohan and Vegeta, using both the raw emotion from SSJ3 and their own anger at Hirudegarn for hurting Goten and Trunks, attacked Hirudegarn. Hirudegarn, despite his new form, couldn't keep up and Gohan and Vegeta took turns wailing on it or blasting it. Hirudegarn roared in pain as it increased it's own power again and shot fire at them both, forcing them back.

Goku then rose back up into the air, turning SSJ2 in the process, feeling the increase in emotional level as well from seeing his friends hurt.

"You HAVE a weakness! EVERYTHING DOES!" declared Goku, charging in again.

Unfortunately, having battle THREE SSJ3s helped him more than compensate for Goku's current mindset, allowing him to defeat Goku with ease.

"This can't be it!" said Gohan, "If I could defeat him on my own in Mirai's timeline, why can't we defeat him now?"

"Karma, probably," replied Vegeta, as they struggled to get up, having lost their SSJ3 forms, "Since you were the only fighter left, it was probably easier… all things considered."

"Well, my emotional state probably helped," chuckled Gohan, "Mirai Gohan had lost so many people he cared about. I guess seeing someone like Hirudegarn was enough to send him into a frenzy of emotions. Too bad… we could sure use that right now…"

Suddenly, they heard a now very familiar tune.

"Wait… isn't that…?" asked Vegeta.

"Tapion," finished Gohan, before recognition crossed his face, "The song. Music is FULL of emotion. So much emotion that not even Hirudegarn can handle it."

Tapion kept playing, as his mind went back… back to the memories that led him here. The pain, the suffering… all at the hands of the monstrosity in front of him. He was going to end it. No matter what!

Hirudegarn, despite his second state, couldn't handle the music and was sealed inside of Tapion entirely. Upon doing so, Tapion suddenly felt the pressure again, and fell to the ground. Tapion knew it was only temporary… but even though the seal prevented him from taking his own life, he knew someone else could.

Trunks, having recovered listening to the song, made his way to Tapion. As soon as he was close enough, Tapion took out his sword to give to him.

"Trunks," said Tapion, "I can only hold onto Hirudegarn for so long, especially in his current state. Kill me know and this will ALL be over! You can protect your world. Just kill me to do it!"

"The cost would still be too great," said Trunks.

"My life or your entire world! I think the choice would be obvious!"

"But…" teared up Trunks, "It's not fair! We were just starting to become friends."

"You remind me so much of my brother, Minotia," replied Tapion, "I know it's unfair to ask this of you… but if you don't kill me, Hirudegarn will get free. None of you could handle it, and after this it'll be harder than ever to stop."

"Tapion…"

"I have lived over a thousand years. Grant this millennium-old fighter his rest."

That did it, Trunks took up his sword, ready to strike… but everything that had happened in the past few days caught up to him.

He tossed the sword aside.

"No. I know you disagree, but to sacrifice one life… that isn't how the Z-Fighters do it. We WILL find a way to stop Hirudegarn… no matter what!" declared Trunks.

Tapion couldn't hold onto Hirudegarn and the seal was once against broken, but the echoes this time destroyed the Ocarina, leaving them without a way to contain it again. The alien from before had attempted to stop Trunks, but got stepped on by Hirudegarn as he reformed again.

Gohan, having managed to recover faster than Vegeta, given his Mystic powers, landed nearby.

"What Trunks says is true. We Z-Fighters don't give up! Not that easily!"

Gohan then let loose a cry not heard for seven years. Having not needed such raw emotion, Gohan kept it in check for seven long years, and now… It was time to let it loose, along with his tail, which had still been wrapped around him all this time. Turning SSJ3 again, he flew off, raw emotion driving him.

Hirudegarn couldn't comprehend the level of emotion before him and got blow after blow from Gohan, each strike full of emotion. Eventually driving him into the air, he focused his energy into his new attack.

"KAME-SENKO CANNON!" screamed Gohan, letting all his emotion into a single strike.

Hirudegarn couldn't move and took the hit. Unfortunately, he still survived.

"No way," gasped Gohan, genuinely surprised by this.

"So, that's your weakness," said Goku, flying up beside him, back into SSJ3 himself, "Gohan. Good work; let me finish it."

Gohan nodded. Goku got his attention, and avoided the first attack. This left Hirudegarn open to an emotional strike by Trunks, wielding his sword, who cleanly severed Hirudegarn's tail from his body.

"Trunks! Stay back," called out Goku, "He is mine to finish!"

Trunks couldn't argue. If Gohan was going to let Goku finish it, he had no say either.

"Let me see your full strength! HIT ME WITH EVERYTHING YOU GOT!" challenged Goku.

Hirudegarn did just that; however, blow after blow, Goku still stood tall, getting Hirudegarn even angrier. Feeling one last attack incoming, with no focus whatsoever from Hirudegarn, Goku made his move.

"EAT THIS!" called out Goku, "DRAGON FIST!"

Poring all his power and emotion into a single strike, the energy exploded from Goku's fist into the form of a Dragon, one that looked not unlike Shenron. Hirudegarn couldn't comprehend what was happening, and thus was unable avoid the attack. The Dragon pierced through Hirudegarn before binding him up. The energy then exploded, taking Hirudegarn with it into non-existence.

"He was right. They did find a way," said Tapion, amazed at the strength the Z-Fighters possessed.


The next day, Bulma, no longer having needing the sealing box, decided to bring out Mirai's Time Machine that Cell used. It was hard work, but over the seven years, she managed to get it back in working order, minus the time travel functions. After giving Tapion a rundown of the controls, Bulma got back onto solid ground. Then Tapion did something most didn't expect, except for one. He took off his sword, sheath and all, and gave it to Trunks.

"No way, for real!?" asked Trunks.

"Yep," said Tapion, "I don't know how, but something tells me this sword belongs to you."

'Really… destiny sure has some way of making sure Trunks has his sword,' thought Gohan in mirth.

'Destiny, smeshtiny, the sword is pretty cool,' added Gohan2.

"We'll have to train you in how to use it, Trunks," said Gohan.

"Thank you, for everything," said Tapion, "I can rest easy now, knowing that Hirudegarn is no more."

With that, Tapion left to search the universe for his next adventure.

"Hey, can I learn too, Gohan?" asked Goten.

"Dad?" asked Gohan.
"I don't see why not. Maybe if they both master it, Gotenks could wield it too!" suggested Goku.

The idea had merit, and Vegeta wasn't opposed to the idea. Things were definitely looking up. Until then, they could only prepare for what might come…

(Chapter End)

Well, that took longer than expected. I hope my beginning addition will make sense, and I don't have a few hundred fans flooding my account with reviews and PMs requesting my coverage of future DBZ series.

Author notes!

AN1: Getting to the tail end of when Gohan Time Traveled. Not much left, but given all the years, the memory isn't what it once was.

AN2: All Videl wanted to do was go to school and spend the afternoon with her Boyfriend... not this!

AN3: Just because you know the answer ahead of time, doesn't mean you give away what you know!

AN4: I know some people get Zelda vibes from Tapion... I agree, but I want to point out the song he plays is similar to that of Metroid's original theme.

AN5: Well, it certain LOOK like it was once nuclear, or something similar.

AN6: Certainly one way of announcing oneself...

AN7: I didn't like how she got caught up in debris field. That's just embarrassing, even for someone like Videl!

AN8: Sorry, for to explain how Videl never learned about Gohan's Time Traveling. This was a close, believable secondary alternative compared to her finding out. THAT wouldn't be a fun scene to write out!

AN9: To be fair, it IS true. Trunks isn't even Ten yet!

AN10: Wanted to add this scene in for some self reflection. Also a reminder that this overall fic is about Gohan!

AN11: It's true. Bulma deals with VEGETA on a daily basis. Tapion is practically nothing by comparison.

AN12: Reminder of how Goten and Trunks are mentally connected.

AN13: NEEERRRDDD! LOLZ!

AN14: Goku is SSJ2, note the hairstyle.

AN15: How is this not mentioned in the show...? Oh right, action fans!

AN16: Trunks was a BIT too hesitant on this one. The Trunks that grew up under Gohan's AND Vegeta's tutelage would be more decisive.

AN17: Ah yes, the tail. I knew this would have to be brought up. Gohan's Redemption begins and ends with his Tail. Having never been cut, Gohan's increase in strength has come from this, among a few other factors. Technically, his tail disappeared while he was 'Mystic' only, but it came back when he made both sides of his powers one!

Thank you for your patience! This has been a longer journey than most. I'm glad I was finally able to finish this! So… No OCs because of this Out of Time placement of a chapter. Until either Spyro or Digimon! (I am working on both chapters, but have hit a stalling point. With this out of the way, I should be able to get back to them soon!)

Later,

RDF1