Yo!
Next chapter here.
Sorry for the delay but I experienced a very bad case of writer's block; only after beginning a new story, I managed to get the spunk back.
In case you want to check it, the new story is Naruto: Shinobi of the Empiricism - a pure Naruto world story.
Guest review: Yeah, it will be a GohanxLime pairing. Now, what I generally do is plan in advance about the entire story so that I have a general outline of the story. But in the Gohan and Lime story, I can't seem to grasp the climax. So, give me some time to iron out that.
Naruto527 - Actually, I mentioned it in the end in the story that for the sake of it, I joined the wheels of the train so that picking up the engine won't work at all.
Further, separating it would have required force and again, I mentioned that the trains have compromised strength for speed; a slight turbulence can lead to a disaster.
Lastly, Piccolo's reason is clear in the fourteenth chapter. He thought Gohan would be able to handle the thing; you know, learning from experience sort of thing.
Also, if you want to beta the story, you are welcome.
Anyway, to the next chap.
The surroundings became clear, her vision coming to halt from the previous blurry, and Videl looked quizzically at the boy responsible. "Why have we stopped?"
Gohan did not reply, just continued to gaze forward. The blue-eyed girl, atop the nimbus cloud, followed his gaze after a bout of silence and quickly caught up.
The scenery was breathtaking.
The sky was adored by fluffy white clouds at several places, sunlight, filtering from them, vividly visible as golden straight rays, and mountains, with snow covered tops, were proudly standing, hiding the horizon. Small fluffs of snow were spread on the ground, adding to the beauty.
"It's… just… wow!", Erasa exclaimed from her position in Gohan's arms, before slightly shifting for a better look.
The demi-Saiyan slightly chuckled. "Yeah. It's always like this", Out of boredom or if he wanted to or simply because he could, whenever he had flown around the world, the rank of his favourite stop had always gone to the threshold of North Country.
Though, every place, on this beautiful planet, had its own elegance and charm, but something about simplicity and nature always allured his senses; it was soothing.
Whereas Mount Paozu was mostly green and held a temperate climate, this place teetered towards cold. Nevertheless, one could always witness a wonderful mix of snow, slight greenery, mountains and rivers.
All in all, it was perfect.
Holding his gaze for another moment, Gohan looked at Videl only to see her equally mesmerized. "I take it's your first time here, Videl?"
Interrupted, Videl, shifting her gaze from the vista before her, nodded. "Dad alone used to visit this country; He and emperor Chiaotzu were on strictly professional terms."
Ah. Well, Chiaotzu, being one of them, was on their side. "Alright", The dark-haired male voiced his understanding before looking forward. "I can sense Tien; he's near the base of mountains, around ten or so minutes from here if we fly at an easy pace."
The girls inclining their heads in accord, the airborne demi-Saiyan, slightly shifting the blonde girl, resumed his flight, nimbus on his tail.
Atop the golden cloud, Videl let her thoughts direct at the airborne blue-gi clad boy before her.
Time and again, the boy had proved to be a kind and helpful companion, even taking them to the Capsule Corporation - a feat, even her father had been unable to manage. And today, he had agreed to accompany her on her itinerary to Tien's dojo.
I can't thank him enough. With my jet still under repair, if he hadn't agreed, I would have to postpone the plans. Just the mere thought paved a feeling of grimace on her face. Still, watching him squirm on the phone, while asking Chichi, was funny.
Yet, the point still remained. The super studious Gohan had called his mom, endured her nagging and agreed to miss the school, just to help her.
Truly, the son of Goku had become an important part of their group. Now, if only Sharpner didn't have that boxing class today. . .
"Thank you, Gohan", She muttered, looking at his back, only to blink in surprise when the boy slightly glanced over his shoulder and smiled back.
The blue-eyed girl could only shake her head. One can never win him in politeness and manners.
The rest of the trip passed in fair silence.
As they landed, Videl glanced at her watch. Exactly ten minutes. Then, she jumped off the nimbus, patting the fluffy thing twice, the cloud cutely shrinking for a bit, seemingly in acceptance, drawing out her amusement.
"Here we are", Gohan officially announced, taking in the dojo of the Neo Crane school. It was pure traditional architecture; made mostly of wood, a tiled curved roof, and the whole structure devoid of anything aesthetic, simply personified Tien.
"You have never visited either?", Erasa asked, looking up at the expression on the tall boy's face. So, he too likes simplicity. Videl and him would have been great together; who knows if and when Bardock will return her feelings?
"Nah. Never needed to. Tien's the one who comes around", Replying, the demi-Saiyan began ambling towards the entrance, letting the newest student of Crane school, take the lead.
"Oh", The busty blonde also fell in line, taking slightly bigger steps to keep up with the tall boy.
The entrance was a huge wooden door, open at that moment, guarded by a single man, ostensibly a monk. Upon reaching, Videl bowed in respect, not sure that a handshake let alone a hug would be welcome.
The bald man replying in kind, the blue-eyed girl slightly cleared her throat. "I am-"
"Videl Satan. Master Tien has been expecting you and your friends."
Her mouth stayed parted but only for a bit, mind connecting the dots. Ki Sensing, of course. Releasing a breath, she nodded. "Thank you", before walking inside, her companions following her.
"To the left."
"Thanks again", Videl called out over her shoulder, to the monk.
"Phew, here I thought they might not allow me", Erasa slightly chuckled, relief clear from her face. She had specifically applied for a leave for this occasion after all.
Even her parents' quite vocal expression of their displeasure over the phone couldn't deter her. They totally shift into something else when it comes to study. But nothing could have stopped her from this vacation; they were already rare.
"Then, I wouldn't have gone either", Videl simply shrugged, smiling at the astonished look that appeared on the blonde's face. "You're my friend, and here, my responsibility too."
"Thanks, V", The genuine gratitude was palpable from the usually bubbly girl.
The dark haired girl nodded, still smiling. "Besides, Tien isn't like that, right Gohan?", Before she took a left as suggested by the guard.
"Yeah. He may seem like a sophisticated person but isn't. He values camaraderie."
No later, the trio was standing before a desk behind which another white gi clad bald man was sitting. Atop the desk a register was placed, and the man was gazing at them, quite alert and without a sign of boredom, a far cry from receptionists in almost every other place.
"State your names, city and purpose of visit."
From the sentry's immediate recognition of her, Videl knew this was just a formality. "Videl Satan, Orange star city. Here for training purposes", The man noted down everything, expression unchanging even a bit. I wonder how he would've reacted an year ago?
Next to follow was Erasa; even her cheerful voice, usually able to draw people towards her, not even managing a sliver of change in the man's expression.
"Gohan. Son Gohan, sir", The son of Goku, being next, stated before bowing a bit only to blink when the man stood up from his seat, an expression of wonder forming on his face. Uh…
"It's an honor to meet you, Gohan-san", The man returned the bow. "I am Shinji. I have heard a lot about your family. Master Tien speaks very highly of your father… and of course you."
Ah. So that's what it is. Gohan sighed mentally, a bit relieved. For a moment, the older man's abrupt actions had instigated worry in him. But I don't think Tien would have told his students about Saiyans.
Outwards, he nodded. "Thank you", His hand, inadvertently, reaching to rub the back of his head. "So… I live in-"
"Mount Paozu", Shinji interrupted the teenager, dipping his head a bit for the interference. "We know, Gohan-san. You're welcome anytime. It would always be an honor."
"Uh… thanks, I guess."
Witnessing from beside him and mildly amused at the dark-haired boy's antics, who was clearly not used to such attention, Videl couldn't help but think of her past. She had never behaved like the son of Goku. Can't say, I didn't enjoy people fussing over me.
Still, it's time they get the deserved limelight. Placing the thoughts in the back of her mind, the blue-eyed girl again took the lead as Gohan finished with the receptionist.
"Wow. You're popular", Then Erasa gained a mischievous smirk. Clearing her throat a bit, she raised her fist to her mouth. "Sir, Son Gohan sir!", The mimicry attempt was a failure but the intentions were conveyed.
Videl chuckled a bit, Erasa joining her, and the demi-Saiyan could only rub his head.
Some strides later, the trio took a right on the tiled corridor, and walked into an open area filled with similar white gi clad individuals, most of them bald and men, only a couple of them with hair, and a quick count revealed three women.
"It's huge", The bubbly blonde exclaimed. The open area was almost a third of their school ground. Training mats were systematically placed, with walk able areas in between. But why are they empty?
"Look", Videl's call drawing her attention, she gazed towards the other side of the open space, absently noting Gohan already looking in the direction, and her eyes slightly widened in surprise.
Standing atop the mats, joined for more space, was Tien, as she had seen on tv. Clad in brown garbs, eyes closed, arms clasped behind his back, the Neo Crane school master was an image of serenity and discipline.
And, surrounding him from three sides, leaving their side open, were, apparently, his students. And, even a child could tell what was happening or going to happen.
A spar between the master and his students.
"Yes!", Videl exclaimed, pumping her fist. This was what she had wanted to see, had imagined almost every day how her master would fight and win a battle. Losing was never a question. "What are we waiting for?! Let's move closer!"
Her excitement being contagious, Gohan and Erasa shared a grin before following the newest Crane school student. No later, they were standing on a slightly raised pedestal, able to get a clear view of the fight.
A moment passed.
Then, Tien, eyes still closed, turned around, coming face to face with his students and bowed a bit, the others around him following.
As if that was the cue, a gong was heard.
Immediately, five students - two from Tien's front, two from left, and one from right jumped forward. The three-eyed man, eyes still closed, nimbly took a step backward, before hitting, with his palm, the wrist of the one from right ahead of taking hold of it.
Then, using the student's momentum, Tien pushed him forward to the left, the airborne body acting as a shield against the two from front, before it collided with one from the left, taking both of them down.
Then, the master slightly tilted anti-clockwise, catching the wrist of the other from the left and, again using the student's momentum, flung him towards the one from the front, only for the latter to duck and come at him with a palm strike.
The Crane school master turned ninety degrees clockwise, dodging the palm before impacting a knee to the gut of the student. Not stopping, he whirled around, again clockwise, performing a successful back kick to the remaining student from the front.
The whole ordeal just took only a couple of seconds.
"Unbelievable!", The word was just a whisper but full of so much intensity, the blue eyes of the girl shining with awe and wonder.
Seeing Videl, a bit too involved in the fight, Erasa decided to voice her confusion to the dark-haired teenager beside her. "Gohan, why aren't they attacking at the same time?"
Gazing for another moment at the battle, the demi-Saiyan shifted his vision to the blonde. "Because quantity is not always an assurance of success."
"Five, at most six, were perfect to stage the attack; anymore, and it would have been a mess of bodies. They would have to look for their partners too."
"Oh", Erasa nodded, looking back at the spar. I will tell him later that he should consider opening his own dojo.
"As expected from someone of your caliber."
Heeding to the words, the trio turned around to face another bald man, white mustache and slightly loose skin indicating his age, clad in black gi, arms clasped behind his back, smiling at them. "I am Haru from the elder council of Crane school."
Though surprised, Gohan and Videl immediately bowed, Erasa following a bit later. Then, the demi-Saiyan voiced his confusion. "I was unaware of the presence of an elder council."
"It was recently instigated; more and more people are coming forward to learn the martial arts of old schools. Krillin is also considering it."
They're really making progress. Gohan mused to himself. Just some months ago, these schools were ridiculed beyond measure; to think, so much could change in such a short time, was simply astonishing. But it's about time these schools get the rightfully deserved respect.
"Moving on, don't let this old man ruin your time", Smiling, Haru motioned towards the spar about to start again. The trio again bowed a bit before resuming their observation.
The bout of inaction ending, Tien, taking the lead by going offensive, dashed towards the group of fighters, ducking, swaying and occasionally jumping over their attacks, most of the time using their own momentum against themselves.
His palms were almost a blur, body twisted and twirled in the same place, as he fended off his opponents. Timely placed kicks and occasional grapples were just too perfect.
In no time, the only person standing was Tien himself, eyes still closed. Then, he opened them and looked at the trio for a bit before gazing at his almost prone students. "You've improved; keep it up."
Suddenly, he blurred and appeared before the three.
Erasa and Videl recoiled a bit in surprise while Gohan only smiled. "Hello, Tien-san."
His words breaking them out of stupor, Videl bowed for a bit. "Hello master", Erasa, after bowing, nodded a bit, unsure of what to say.
"Gohan! It's good to see you. You too, Videl", The Crane master then looked at the blonde girl. "You must be Erasa."
"Hai", The blonde replied a bit formally. I don't need Ki to tell that he's the real deal. Comparing to him, Mr. Satan seemed so normal. The bald man seemed to radiate an aura of power that commanded respect.
Tien nodded before looking at his student. "Alright, you ready, Videl?"
"Of course", The blue-eyed girl replied, excitement lacing her tone.
"Follow me, then."
No later, they were sitting on training mats. Birds chirping filled the clearing, a slight breeze flowed carrying the aroma of water from the nearby Koi-pond.
"Now, Videl, you have accessed your Ki but only in response to a risky situation. To be able to access it per your will, you need to go through proper procedure."
The blue-eyed girl nodded, listening attentively to her master. Finally!
"The process may appear quite simple but is an arduous one", Tien smiled slightly. "Nevertheless, I have faith in you."
Videl also beamed at the token of trust. "I will not let you down."
"I know", The master replied. "Now, to access your Ki, the first and foremost step is to clear your mind of every thought, not by stopping them but allowing them."
"Just like meditation?"
"Not quite. In meditation, you focus on your breath to calm yourself. Here, you'll have to focus inside. As your thoughts decrease, you'll begin to experience bouts of emptiness between them."
"And once your mind is cleared, you'll only see darkness or emptiness; don't be afraid of it rather embrace it. Consider it like an ocean and dive deeper. At one point, you'll see a light; that's your Ki."
'Try this first' was left unsaid. Nodding, Videl closed her eyes and dropped the mental restraints, thoughts and desires immediately flooding her mind. What the?! For some moments, it was like a dam had broken. I think all of this?
Some minutes passed before her thoughts started making some sense. A lot were of her mother
"C'mon Viddy, don't you wanna go to the park?"
"C'ming mommy!"
A smile bloomed on the girl's face, recalling the particular memory from when she was five or six.
"Today, I made your favorite dish."
"Yayy! Pudding!"
"And, when do I get my chance?"
"At night", A smirk supported her words.
She grimaced a bit. Her seven year old had not even cared for the words, been too busy in her favorite dish.
Years later, and till now, the conversation always made her cringe. No way, she was gonna talk like that in front of her own children if she ever had any. Still, those were times when we used to be a family.
"You need to curb this, Mark. We don't get enough time for the family."
"C'mon, can't you see, I do this for us, for Videl."
Her expression turned neutral, the conversation resurfacing memories of her father's shenanigans after Cell's defeat.
Life wasn't the same afterwards. She clearly remembered her father coming late at night, immediately going to sleep and, from her mother's arguments, wake up way after she left for school.
"What the hell, Mark?!"
"Uh… I-I can explain?"
"Leave it."
A thirteen year old Videl, standing at the door, could only look in stupor; her father surrounded by some weird ladies and her mother going upstairs before coming back with a suitcase.
"Listen dear… "
With a gasp, her eyes snapped open, and she saw Tien giving her a sad yet knowing smile.
"That was… "
"More intense than ever?", The Crane school master supplied.
"Yeah… it's never like this… as if I am living that again… "
"Because other times, you have a lot of thoughts running around, even subconsciously, but now, your focus is specialized and concentrated on that particular memory."
"Oh", Videl muttered, slightly unnerved after so vividly facing the memory. It was painful, to say the least.
"It's alright, we can continue some other time."
"No, no", The brunette quickly replied, shaking her head for further emphasis. "I want to do it now. I can't run from my past."
Tien looked at her for a bit before nodding. "Good luck, then."
The girl again closed her eyes before delving into her thoughts.
"So", Erasa drawled a bit, gazing, out of the corner of her right eye, at the tall boy beside her. "How does this work?" Videl had been going at the thing for more than an hour.
Gohan only tilted his head in confusion. "What?"
"The thought rush, I mean. Like thoughts come and go, or you gotta sort through them on your own?"
Ah. Taking a moment to organise the answer, the demi-Saiyan tried to reply. "Uh… it's more of a memory thing actually. You know, sometimes a particular event or even a dream affects you so deeply that it ends up taking a permanent spot in your memory."
"And more often than not, it's a painful memory, or something you want to but can't achieve. As a result, they become a sort of limit or barrier over your actual potential."
"Until you deal with them, you can't access your Ki", Satisfied with his own answer, Gohan mentally sighed. This teaching thing is difficult.
"Then it must be a one time thing. These painful events, as you say, come with life; you can't just delete them", The blonde slightly grinned in amusement.
"Of course not. That's what meditation and other things are for. Further, you learn quickly that only when you are focused, you possess a better Ki control thus able to fight properly."
That makes sense. "Thanks, Gohan", Smiling a bit at him, Erasa directed her whole attention at the pig-tailed girl, and blinked before smirking after a bit. "When you say dreams or things you can't have, they mean all sorts of things?"
Unsure of why she was asking, Gohan shrugged. "Yeah."
Explains why she is blushing like a tomato. The busty blonde giggled, ignoring the augmented confusion of the boy beside her.
"Ahh! Y-yeah… ri-right ther-ahhh!"
The golden-haired wonder looked up, eyes narrowed and intense, from between her legs. "But earlier you were saying this is not an appropriate thing? Huh?"
Still panting, eyes full of lust, body craving for more, Videl could only wheeze out. "I-I didn't… kn-know it would be this good. How do y-you even know this? You sure you're a vi-virgin?"
"One word: Internet", Replying, Bardock again dived into dangerous territories.
"Aahhh!"
From the heat in her cheeks as well as other places, she was sure her face was beet red. Tien sitting before her didn't help either.
Neither did Erasa watching from the sidelines.
At least Gohan was dumb when it came to thongs… things like this.
Damn it! Why didn't I agree to Tien's proposal of continuing it some other day? Still, she wasn't expecting this to be a part of the 'face-your-thoughts' process.
"Let's move onto the main thing."
"Y-yeah! And, I hate to say this but… p-please be gentle… "
Oh God! She knew what was coming next, having had the same dream several times.
"You can do it, V!"
Why Erasa?! Why?
"Ahem. That'll be enough for today."
Tien's words leaving no qualms, Videl slowly opened her eyes, took a peek at the reddish hue on the man's cheeks, and immediately averted her eyes. Crap! This is gonna be weird…
"I agree. After three hours, I am sure both of you need some rest."
Still not looking at the master, the blue-eyed girl glared at the approaching smirking blonde, knowing well which both she was talking about.
"Uh… ?", Gohan muttered, confused at the girls' words and actions. Even after all this time, I can't get them.
"Not a word, Gohan!", The words came out as a shout, though, she immediately felt a bit bad seeing the slightly dejected look that appeared on the boy's face. "Uh… sorry, but this is between us", She again directed a glare at the amused blonde.
"Oh", The demi-Saiyan could only rub the back of his head, still confused.
"Anyway", Tien decided to steer the conversation to something more productive. "You have made a lot of progress today, and I am sure you can work out the rest, even in your own time."
Oh no! He must be offended. Videl parted her mouth to speak, eyes reflecting desperation.
"I am not prohibiting you from here, if that's what you are thinking", Tien calmly voiced, the girl relaxing immediately. "Your thoughts are natural for your age. It's just that you don't need to travel this far for something you can do at your home also."
Phew! The pig-tailed girl almost slumped in relief. She was getting used to the mannerisms of this school, and despite Tien's words, still wasn't sure such passionate thoughts were not frowned upon.
"So, the remaining process is that when you find your Ki, just embrace it and think about gathering it in your palms; it will immediately manifest provided you don't lose focus."
For demonstration, Tien brought his palms close and immediately a yellow ball of energy flickered into existence, illuminating the vicinity.
Videl, and even Erasa, was immediately drawn towards it like a moth to a flame. The warmth was irresistible and her finger lifted on her own, the sensation of touching it driving her actions.
Only for the ball to vanish.
"Until you are able to control your Ki, even touching someone else's Ki can prove to be harmful. Though, this ball of energy wasn't, but consider it as a lesson."
The blue-eyed girl nodded in understanding.
"Alright, it's lunch time", Tien announced suddenly before taking in the three of them. "I would like you three to join me for the same."
On cue, a stomach rumbled, sounding more like a lion roaring.
"I don't think one could ever get used to it", Erasa voiced, dazed at the son of Goku who was currently helping the attendants with the mountain of dishes he had consumed.
"You don't", Tien replied with a chuckle. "The five of them, including Goku, are a unique bunch."
"Five?" Having met Gohan's family, Videl knew of him, his brother and their father's eating habits. But who were the other two?
"Oh! You didn't meet Trunks' father yesterday; I forgot", Tien purposely omitted Vegeta's name. There might be a reason why Bulma had sent the Prince on a space tour sometime earlier before Gohan and his friends visited Cc.
"So, Trunks and his father too have a black hole for stomach", The blonde girl's tone was laced with amusement. Then, she suddenly blinked. "Wait. How do you even know… never mind", Ki sensing, Erasa.
The Crane school master chuckled. "Our group's Ki is like a beacon; it's hard to ignore them." I also need to caution Gohan; if he didn't tell his friends about him, they may end up finding on their own on learning the usage of Ki.
The girls nodded before silence descended on the table.
Some moments passed.
Footsteps approaching the table drew the attention of everyone, as a female student, obvious from her white gi, halted at the table, attention focused at the master.
"What is it, Kiera?"
The girl took a breath. "Umm… all of us have a request master", Upon receiving a nod, she continued. "We would like to witness a spar between you and Gohan-san."
Tien raised an eyebrow. A spar, huh?
Videl's eyes widened for a bit before an excited grin made its way on her face.
Erasa only rolled her eyes. Here we go again.
The master closed his eyes for some seconds before opening them and turning to look at the demi-Saiyan coming to stop near the table. "What do you say, Gohan, about a spar between us?"
A spar? Though surprised at the sudden asking, Gohan couldn't help but contemplate. Everyone always speaks very highly of Tien-san… I don't think I have ever been in a spar with him… hmmm… "Sure, I would be honored."
"Yes!", Videl whispered but was clearly heard.
"Well then, follow me."
Both the martial artists stood atop the makeshift stage, the crane school master standing still, eyes closed while the son of Goku stretched his legs.
A couple of moments passed.
Haru, the elder, walked in between the duo. "Both fighters ready?", Two nods were his answer before both of them settled in their stances.
Tien, in his crane style stance, raised an eyebrow at the demi-Saiyan who had decided to settle in Turtle style stance, before slightly smiling. "Your resemblance to Goku, and this stance, sure is nostalgic."
The son of Goku only grinned. "Let's give them a good show."
"We will", Tien replied. "But before that, some rules need to be set; I am sure you understand."
"Of course," Gohan replied while mentally chastising himself. Way to go idiot. You totally forgot about the others.
"First is speed; let's keep the pace normal for others to watch", Gohan immediately nodded. "Secondly, flight is permitted, even attacks augmented by Ki, but not actual Ki blasts. You agree?"
The demi-Saiyan contemplated for a bit at the last term. No Ki blasts… though I can understand but it will ruin the fun... "Or we can limit the use to a single Ki blast; how we use it and when, depends on us?"
Hmmm… The crane school master nodded after a bit. "Alright but just a single Ki blast."
Gohan simply nodded.
"Alright", Haru's voice reverberated in the clearing. "Hajime!"
Immediately, both the fighters flew towards each other, the punch of the son of Goku meeting the palm of the crane school master.
A small yet visible shockwave of air followed, picking up dust along its path, and was felt by everybody.
Erasa yelped and quickly hid behind a pillar while Videl stood confidently, though crossing her arms in front, as the shockwave collided with her, pushing her backwards a foot or two.
"Whoa!", This was the power she wanted to achieve. Her motivation soaring like never before, the blue-eyed girl hit her palm with her fist, a wild grin paving its way on her face. One day…
The impact pushed back the fighters a bit. Taking advantage of the distance between them, Gohan brought his left leg in an arc towards the face of the three-eyed man who blocked the hit using his forearm.
Not the one to back down, Tien aimed an open hand strike, with his other arm, towards the teenager who swatted it with his own hand while lowering his leg. Not relenting, the crane school master brought up his knee, aiming it towards the boy's midriff.
But Gohan responded in kind. The force again separated them a bit.
Smirking, both the fighters again flew towards each other. Punches and kicks were exchanged in a flurry, the duo gaining altitude, none of the fighters able to get one up on each other, all the while slight shock waves continued to emerge and spread throughout the clearing.
Gohan blocked Tien's punch with his forearm. The latter, by opening his fist, tried to get hold of the limb only for the demi-Saiyan to quickly lower it while using his other hand to upper cut the bald man who dodged it by pushing his upper body backwards.
Not halting, Tien simply went with the motion, body going parallel to the ground, while bringing both of his legs upwards towards the son of Goku.
Gohan managed to dodge the successive kicks in the nick of time only for the three-eyed man to fold his legs and launch a double kick.
The demi-Saiyan's eyes slightly widened and he hastily put up a guard by bringing his own knees up to chest level.
The force behind the kick still managed to push him back.
Pressing on, Tein, blasting forwards, straightened on closing the distance, while gliding his left leg towards the unguarded side of the demi-Saiyan.
...only for his leg to pass through, the body distorting out of existence.
Tien smiled. After-image… Interrupting his thoughts, he calmly raised his forearm, blocking the oncoming kick from the skies.
A small shockwave followed before Gohan purposely rebounded off, twisting mid-air and coming to halt in front of the older man.
Videl's jaw was on the floor, eyes bugging out of her head. The level of skill and the battle itself was just too intense.
Even after the whole Ki business went mainstream, she hadn't been able to put a finger on how flight and battles were possible at the same time.
But now, seeing the duo, gliding gracefully in the air and still able to fight like… no! even better than what was possible on the ground, she couldn't help but be envious.
Oh Kami! When will I be able to fight like that?!
Tien nodded in approval, the teenager beaming at the praise. "As expected. Your improvement is praiseworthy. Still, we can both do these for hours. Without our full power, this match can't be decided."
Gohan nodded in understanding. At their full power, he would simply wipe the floor with the older man, his raw power being dramatically greater. "Then, let's add another condition; the first to touch the ground loses. Agreed?"
Tien smirked. "Very well."
Both the fighters again blasted towards each other, aiming a punch. Though at the last moment, Tien opened his palm, a Ki ball flickering into existence.
Gohan's eyes widened. He's going to use it now?! Not wasting any moment, the demi-Saiyan crossed his arms, ducking his face into them, senses focused on the Ki ball as it neared…
Only for it to suddenly vanish and Tien to suddenly appear over his back.
Before Gohan could even think, a strike, apparently by elbow, impacted between his shoulder blades. The force flung him towards the ground below.
The demi-Saiyan desperately tried to adjust his Ki to stabilize himself but the process was proving to be quite arduous. Damn it! He just showed me the Ki blast as a distraction… and I directed all my focus onto it…
Piccolo-san was right; I need to work on my patience. Meanwhile, nothing, short of turning Super Saiyan, seemed to come in his mind to stabilize himself.
There seems no other way. Releasing a breath, the demi-Saiyan fired a Ki blast towards the ground below, thus using his only chance.
But detonated the Ki blast mid-air, it's concussive force slowing his momentum, Gohan halted a couple of feet above the ground, body almost parallel. Geez, Tien-san really put a lot in this punch.
In fact, while straightening, as he sensed, the older man seemed to be gathering himself. This is my chanc…
His eyes snapped to the ground, just in time to see a Ki ball, the size of a tennis ball, emerging from beneath the mats, tearing them apart.
And again before he could do anything, it reached close to him and exploded.
The explosion engulfed the demi-Saiyan, the shockwave throwing him towards the ground, a small cloud of dust rising from the point of impact.
Haru landed close to the prone body of the son of Goku, smiling a bit, before raising his hand. "Winner: Tien of the Crane school."
A moment passed.
Then, a round of applause arose in the entire clearing.
Videl was overjoyed.
The girl, on hearing the verdict, quickly dashed towards the makeshift stage. Shaking her head, Erasa followed. Only time she acts like this is during martial arts displays.
They reached just in time to see Tien helping Gohan to stand up, though it was clearly a formality.
"Aww, man! I lost!", The demi-Saiyan muttered, a pout on his face.
Tien chuckled. "You fought really well. I just happen to be more experienced. Besides we both know the reason for this outcome."
Sighing a bit, the demi-Saiyan nodded. At full power, the outcome had been different and easy. "But what was that attack from the ground?"
"I would also like to know about that," Videl requested, joining them. "Uh… if you don't mind, of course," She added after a bit.
"Of course not," Tien replied. "That's something I have been working on for the last couple of years; my own version of spirit bomb", A confident smile supported the words.
Spirit bomb? The pig-tailed girl thought in confusion, knowing very well not to interrupt. It seemed to be something huge, and from the way Gohan's face was looking now, she was sure of it. Now, I feel so small…
"Spirit bomb? But only dad knew about it. . . ", Confusion was apparent from the son of Goku's face.
"True, but I knew of the basics ever since Goku used the attack for the first time. I have been intrigued by the concept of using the energy from the surroundings but couldn't get the time due to one crisis after another."
"After Cell, as things settled down, I began working on it. It was difficult to distinguish and sense the energy around us but ultimately I was successful. It seems my third eye isn't just for show, rather it seems to be connected to my sensory abilities."
That makes sense. Gohan mused to himself in understanding. Everybody in their group had always been intrigued by the third eye of Tien. Not even the other species capable of speech had something like this.
"The eye helped me distinguish the energy of the very planet. Still, it took my years to make it work, and only just a year ago, I managed it."
"Amazing", Gohan murmured, surprise and awe filling his being. Everyone possesses a set of techniques of their own, and even then they continue to add to it. Makes me wonder… I should…
"Please show it again", Videl again requested, getting her chance to speak as silence prevailed among the group.
"Pay attention", Tien simply raised his palm, the eye on his forehead closing immediately. The trio turned their attention to the ground.
A moment passed.
Then, small lights began emerging from the very ground, coalescing into each other, slowly forming a ball the size of a tennis ball.
Suddenly, the ball pulsed before shooting towards the skies where it exploded into a brilliant shower of neon white light.
That's some serious power. Gohan mused to himself, eyes still fixed at the explosion spanning over half a mile.
Erasa couldn't help but hold her erratic heart. Just how strong these guys are?
"I'll be learning that?!", The girl was practically drooling at the prospect.
"That depends."
Her mind catching up to the moment, Videl tilted her head in confusion. "On what?"
"Videl, I have sixty five students in this dojo; everyone wants to learn my techniques but apart from a common attack that will be taught to everyone, my other techniques will go to the one who proves their worth."
"It may be you or somebody else", Tien concluded, looking at the pig-tailed girl who had gone into some sort of contemplation.
"Uh… why are you selective of these techniques? Won't it be better if more and more learn and continue your legacy?"
The crane school master gazed at the blonde girl for a moment before looking at Gohan. "Would you like to explain her the reason?"
The demi-Saiyan blinked once before inhaling heavily, cheeks bloating, as he organised his thoughts, before releasing the air and taking in the blonde's amused expression. "Uh… consider them like Capsule tech of Cc?"
Erasa raised an eyebrow at the weird analogy.
"I mean, if Mr. Briefs had decided to give everyone his prized inventions, Cc wouldn't be… Cc, right?"
Ah. Realisation dawning over her visage, the blonde girl nodded, more to herself.
"Further, many can learn martial arts and be proficient in it but only one can continue the legacy of the master. That one guy… or girl is the one in whom the master puts his entire trust."
"And one of the signs of that trust is that never teach the techniques, you learnt, to anyone without the master's prior permission. Like my dad didn't teach some of his strongest techniques even to me."
Just like a parent would prefer to teach his skills to his own child. Getting the gist of it, Erasa smiled cheerfully. "Thanks."
Tien nodded at his friend's son before looking at Videl, the girl still busy in her thoughts. "Don't be so hard on yourself, Videl. Consider it as a motivation, and the whole thing as a competition."
The newest crane school student nodded for the sake of appearance but couldn't get the thought out of her mind. Prove my worth, huh?
"Oi Zaldor, there are two other brats with the female; what to do with them?", Sor called out loud towards the cabin of the ship.
"Get 'em too. Our instructions are to fetch, if possible, any accomplice so as to give her some sort of comfort for the time being."
"Oh well", The taller man shrugged before pressing his palm on a yellow square of energy.
"That was good", Videl voiced, a satisfied look on her face. She couldn't wait to reach her home and practice the process. "I am so jealous of you, Gohan. You've been doing this for so long."
The demi-Saiyan awkwardly grinned, rubbing the back of his head. I am sure you don't even want to go there.
Erasa only rolled her eyes. "C'mon, drop it now, will ya?"
Videl whirled around to face the blonde, a mischievous smirk on her face. "I am-"
A white light washed onto the trio.
Not even a moment later, Tien appeared out of thin air, taking in the empty clearing. They just vanished! How?!
His Ki emerging around him, the three-eyed man blasted towards the skies, senses stretching to the very limits but unable to find anything.
Out of the corner of his right eye, he saw a flutter of a white cape. From his left, a series of sonic booms filled the skies before a heavy presence settled beside him.
Turning around to face the Namekian and the Prince of Saiyans, his eyes narrowed, Tien voiced. "We might be dealing with an unknown threat."
So, that's that.
Please Review.
Here the fight was more of a filler, and to show that experience can best strength.