Good day to everyone. Got another chapter for you all! This is the last filler chapter before the invasion. So hope you enjoy!
The training is nearing completion! With very little time left, what final preparations will our warriors put themselves through to be ready for the fight of their lives? Find out on Dragon Ball: BtG
Age: October 762
Location: Otherworld
Floating high in the otherworldly skies, a figure was in a sitting position, eyes closed. Meditating to find his center. All sound was washed away from his being. He was far stronger then he was when he first arrived, and the technique that he had discussed with King Kai had been attempted 4 different times so far. Each time however, it ripped his muscles apart and he had to let King Kai heal the excessive damage.
'This technique. It's not the end all be all. Dammit what am I still missing? If I could just figure it out...'
Shepard stood in the air, breathing evenly. Going through his motions, he began to increase his power.
"Ahhhhhhh...AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" A fiery red tint took hold as he charged his attack.
Down on the surface of the planet, Goku and Yamcha were sparring. A light spar with no Kaioken, to see where each other stood. The Desert Bandit charged the saiyan, slamming his forearm against his opponents. They held there for a few seconds, before pushing away and charging each other. They battled across the small planet before Goku found an opening. Kicking Yamcha in the stomach and pushing him back, Goku used an afterimage to get behind Yamcha and slam both hands into him, rocketing Yamcha away. The Desert Bandit, to his credit, had gotten smarter over the course of the last 9 months. Firing a weak yellow blast ahead of him, it halted much of his momentum. Lightly tapping the ground, Yamcha landed, still looking towards his fellow Turtle student. "Damn it! You're just too strong! KAIOKEN TIMES 2!" The red aura blended seamlessly into his being. He rocketed back towards Goku, feinting a forward charge, but before Goku was ready, Yamcha used his enhanced speed to get behind Goku and hit him with an elbow to the back, sending the saiyan away, before phasing in front of where Goku would be and sending him upwards with a strong right kick.
Flying up several hundred feet, Goku righted himself just in time to dodge Yamcha's kick. He then went to punch Yamcha in the stomach, but the Bandit caught it. "Yeah this is more like it!" Pulling Goku towards him, he threw the saiyan over his shoulder, but the saiyan countered, holding onto Yamcha's Gi and bringing him in, kneeing Yamcha in the stomach, making him hack up spit. He smiled through it however, grabbing Goku's Gi in return and forcefully bringing the saiyan towards the ground. The Bandit let go at the last moment, sending Goku into the planet and throwing up an avalanche of rock.
"Hmph, why don't those two just put on some kid's gloves and hit each other with slaps instead? YOU'RE BOTH SOFT!" A voice yelled from the ground.
"OH YEAH? BRING IT HEDGIE!" Yamcha yelled from the air. He was feeling pumped! His confidence in his own strength had greatly increased. But not only that, his skill had improved drastically. Having sparred with the 3 saiyans many times had given him tremendous willpower. He had begun to respect their tenacity. Their adaptability. He knew he couldn't match those qualities, but he would not give up! So he called out the long haired saiyan, who cracked his neck and laughed. "Hm hm hm hm hm. So foolish human. I don't think you recognize even after all this time just who you're dealing with. Allow me to show you once again." Raditz took a deep breath. Closing his eyes. Ready to rise to the human's challenge, his brother came out of the crater, landing a dozen feet away. He scratched the back of his head smiling. "Man Yamcha you sure have improved! He he he he are you sure about this Raditz?
"You dare think I can't beat him Kakarot? He hasn't won yet. Nor will he ever. Now back away!" Raditz gritted his teeth, ready to call on a high level of Kaioken, but before he could, he was interrupted once again. All 3 warriors looked straight up, a massive surge of power, beyond any they had felt before, had exploded in their senses. Yamcha flew down to the ground, eyes wide. "Not again! Is he serious?" He asked.
"I dunno. I really don't know what he's trying to achieve. He's already destroyed his body by forcing it before." Goku was amazed, but concerned for his friend. Shepard had been trying a new technique for the last couple of months. The results had not been pretty. Every time he performed it, his body was absolutely destroyed. King Kai had told him on numerous occasions that it couldn't be done. At least not at the level of power that Shepard was currently at. But he kept trying anyway.
"It's stupid if you ask me. I hope he destroys his body and finally just dies." Raditz was harsh, but even he deep down had slight concern for his fellow saiyan. They may have killed each other, but it was a fight that they both needed. They had fought quite a number of times on this small planet, their victories and defeats couldn't be counted. They had become rivals.
They did not stop looking up as King Kai and Bubbles had walked over, looking up as well. The deity pointed his whiskers up, closing his eyes behind his glasses. "Hmmmmm. I dunno. I think he might finally pull it off."
"You really think so King Kai?" Yamcha asked. King Kai smiled slightly, in awe of his student. He knew things that would, or could happen in the future thanks to the older version of the saiyan that was causing the entire sky of Otherworld to change color. The color soon disappeared, a roar of pain, of fury, culminated in a massive beam shooting forth. It roared outwards away from the small planet, causing it to quake under its intense power. The beam flew far out, causing the 3 warriors to look onwards in shock. The explosion, even miles away could be heard.
"Holy!"
"Shit!"
The turtle students could not believe what they had witnessed. Raditz himself couldn't keep his jaw closed. He had seen mouth beams from fellow Oozaru's in his childhood, but whatever that blast was would've most likely annihilated him, even if he was in the Great Ape form. "I...I can't..Im...Imp..IMPOSSIBLE!"
They continued to look upwards as they saw a dot slowly getting bigger. Shepard was not falling at a very high rate of speed. It looked to be controlled, which was good, but they could see he was having difficulties maintaining his descent properly. King Kai himself telekinetically slowed Shepard's descent if only slightly, but he still hit the ground hard. Shepard's hands and knees were in a lot of pain when he hit the ground, but it paled in comparison to the strain of his muscles feeling like they wanted to explode out of his skin. If he had a heartbeat, it would've been going well beyond the norm. Thankful that he had this Otherworldly body, the strain was slightly tempered by the sound of his heavy breathing, sweat pouring off of him. The heat coming off of his body eliciting smoke to rise from it. His Gi was hot to the touch, his skin still having a red tinge to it.
"See now that's what you get for tearing your body apart, AGAIN hahahahahahaha." Raditz laughed at the downed saiyan, who still hadn't looked up yet.
"That's not very nice Raditz! I think he did great buuuuut he probably overdid it a bit."
"A bit Goku? Really? Look at him man he's torched" Yamcha looked at the downed form of Shepard, a bit conflicted. But after a couple of moments, he walked over to Shepard, bending at the knees. "Uhhh, hey bud, I..I think you might've overwhelmed yourself there huh?" The look that the Bandit received was one he would not soon forget, and he was the only one who saw it, but for only a minute fraction of a second, he saw something other then the saiyan he had been training with. The feeling that Yamcha had got in this moment was one of smallness, of insignificance. Shepard's eyes had changed color. Yamcha couldn't make out the fleeting color, but before he could zero in on this feeling, it was gone.
"You're tellin me." Was all Shepard said, before he finally stood, albeit shakily on his own 2 feet. Closing his eyes and taking a few deep breathes, he lifted his head and cracked his neck, stretched out his shoulders and shook his arms loose. "Yeah that was intense. And for once I didn't blow my muscles apart. I think I can finally do it now." Shepard said, giving a thumbs up and wink to Yamcha.
"Is that so? There's no way you could pull that off in a fast paced fight for your life."
"I hate to agree, but Raditz is right. It doesn't really have any value in a straight up fight. It took you even longer to charge that then Piccolo did with his Special Beam thingy." Goku pointed out. Shepard hated to also agree. But Raditz did have a valid point. But what they didn't know was that he wasn't planning on having to use it unless he had no choice.
"What are ya gonna call it man?" Yamcha asked. The question made Shepard inhale, blowing the breath out hard. Looking down at the ground, he wondered if he should call it what it was rightfully called, or change it up, make it his own. What it was sounded a lot cooler originally.
"Well, I think I'm going to keep it original. But I'm not telling yet. I don't know if I'll even be able to pull it off with a living body. My heart would probably give out." Shepard was wise to be careful about this technique. He got extremely lucky with it this time, seeing there was only maybe a 5-10 percent chance of pulling it off successfully. He played with the odds and came out winning, for now.
"Anyway, I need to eat. Got anything cooking back there King Kai?" Shepard asked. He understood now how Goku's love of eating could translate over to the Otherworld now. Even Raditz's stomach still grumbled for food. Yamcha, with all the training he had done, had joined the Saiyan's in some of their epic feasts. He may not have been one like them, but he had certainly earned Shepard's respect, and Raditz had came around. The 4 had each come here with a goal in mind, and they had fulfilled it. More so then ever now, Shepard was happy with the outcome. There were certain things that were already going to happen in the near future. They still weren't as strong as Vegeta without the Kaioken, and Shepard was sure that the Prince would be stronger then he was in the tv show, with whatever meddling his older counterpart had done. It was an unknown variable that still didn't sit well with the young human turned saiyan, but with their prolonged training on this planet, channeling higher levels of the Kaioken, even Goku recently completing his training with the Spirit Bomb. Shepard felt like the odds were in their favor.
"Yeah maybe, come on. Saiyans! Always eating me out of a home and making me have to continue cooking all the time." King Kai's continued grumbling echoed as he walked towards his house, readying their food.
"So Shepard, do you really think that this training will be enough to overcome Vegeta?" Raditz asked, long ago giving up the title out of sheer disrespect for how he was treated in his final day of life.
"Sure. But I have a few things on the Lookout I need to retrieve just to be sure. And...and my Hammer. Oh I miss the BanHammer. I can't wait to have her in my hands again." The way Shepard was rubbing his hands and smiling, a twinkle in his eye as he was thinking about his treasured weapon just didn't sit right with Raditz, who instead looked over to his younger brother.
"Kakarot, there is something you need to be aware of when it comes to Vegeta."
"Hm? What's that?"
"We may have closed the gap, but it still doesn't change the fact that Vegeta has...well.. to put it simply. He has an ace up his sleeve so to speak."
"Yeah! He can force the Great Ape transformation. How much of a chunk of his energy will it cost him though?" Shepard was curious to find out the answer. Sources in his world had always been askew when it came to these kind of questions.
"Roughly? 10 percent, maybe more if he has lost enough energy before he does it." Shepard put a hand to his chin in thought.
"It's not that much of a big deal. We can take him." Goku said, confident in his newfound strength and ability.
"Yeah Goku's right. That Vegeta dude won't know what hit em." Yamcha said, fisting his palm and cockily grinning.
"It's not so black and white guys. Vegeta is a wildcard. Always has been. Nappa won't be too much of a problem. We need to be on point when it comes to the Prince."
As they talked further, King Kai brought out a helping of food, more then enough to feed the warriors.
"Each of you are more then capable of dealing with the weaker saiyan. Vegeta... well Vegeta is a menace. You 4 better be careful." King Kai said, punctuating their suggestions. He barely got out of the way in time when the 4 warriors attacked the food...
Age: October 14, 762
Location: Capsule Corp
"DODON RAY!" The yellow beam sliced through the air, only to be batted away. Gohan had taken to gravity training with fervor. He flew low across the Gravity Room ground, striking at his opponent. But before he could get within 5 feet, he was held in place, unmoving in the air.
"You've gotten quite good Gohan." Chiaotzu said, opening his eyes and quickly smiling before holding his hand out, sending the little boy to the other side of the Katchin structure. Gohan was not willing to give up just yet, breaking through the Crane student's mental hold, he quickly flew back again. "AHHHHHHHH!"
On the far side of the Gravity Room, near the controls, were Tien and Piccolo. Since coming to Capsule Corp, the namekian had been granted access to the room as he had requested. He was impressed with the structure. It was incredibly solid. Punching it in a couple of places, he was pleasantly surprised that the material did not so much as even give. Deeming it worthy of his time, Piccolo had immediately tasked Gohan with Gravity Training. And they had gotten a solid head start, a full 2 weeks to use the coveted Room ahead of the Earthlings that trained with Kami.
The pair were meditating, looking to draw out more power. The reading of the controls now set at 5x, they were pushed down to within an inch off of the ground. Deciding to push his luck, Piccolo had mentally nudged Tien.
"3 eyes? Shinhan?"
"I can hear you fine, Piccolo. I am concentrating. What is it you want?"
"There is something I want to try. I didn't want to do it with the boy. Considering what could happen in one's mind."
"I see. You wish to do image training. But why with me?"
"Look, you're simply the closest in power to me besides Gohan. Unless you don't think you can even stand a chance against me."
"Hmmm... I know what you're trying to do. I will accept, just this once. Only because I too need to see where I stand against a worthy opponent."
"Good answer, because I would've just beaten you out here until you accepted."
"Shut up and name the terms."
"When I win, you have to spar with me outside without using your Four Witches Technique."
"Fine. If I win, you have to spar me, one on one, outside with no headwear or cape."
"Uhh, are you dumb? If you can't beat me with the weights on, what chance do you think you'll have with them off?"
"I can't keep accepting limitations Piccolo. Sparring with you in this room has been rewarding, but I need to know where I truly stand. You were right before. You're the strongest one here, aside from maybe Goku's son, but you also have the experience necessary to make me push, and even break my limits. Shepard told me as much. That I can't keep accepting my current strength, that I must always seek greater power. That a mountain should only just be another peak to a higher mountain. I know Yamcha, Goku and Shepard are training in the Otherworld, and I will not stand to be inferior to them. So, is it a deal or not?"
Piccolo thought on this for a few moments. But something did pique his curiosity, enough to hold off on the offer.
"You said Shepard trained with you before. Where the hell were you when we were getting our asses kicked?"
"Shepard... he told me a few things, things he made me swear to secrecy. The simple answer? He begged Chiaotzu and I not to get involved. That he would handle the situation. I honored his request. I felt Yamcha die, I felt Goku die, I felt the massive surge of power from what I now know was Gohan. And then... and then I felt Shepard and that menace both perish. To be fair, Shepard had exceeded me in strength by the time he left. I doubt I would've been able to make much of a difference in the fight."
"Hmph, I see. I accept your request. I promise it won't be easy for you."
Tien felt the malicious grin in Piccolo's thoughts, but he wouldn't wilt, not now.
"You make the space Piccolo, since you offered the image training."
While the others were training inside the Kachi Katchin Gravity Room, Krillin was taking a small break, having made himself a small meal after finishing an intense 4 hour workout inside only a short while ago. Sitting at the kitchen table with him, Chi Chi was eating lunch while both Brief Sisters were laughing it up about something in their magazines. Tight's now 2 month old baby Axel was giggling, highly entertained with the toys in his small, saiyan proof built playpen. However, Krillin wasn't paying too much attention, lost in his thoughts. The day Goku died, Krillin was devastated. Even the thought of his best friend being injured the way he was earlier that day on Master Roshi's island still left him queasy sometimes. Everyday since, he had been devoting himself to his training, taking the occasional day to himself every so often to recuperate. The image of Shepard and Raditz lying dead, one charred beyond recognition from the waist up, the other with a fist sized hole in his stomach, was enough to nearly make the monk mentally break. It was enough death for him to last a lifetime, but he also knew that compared to what was surely coming, he would need to be at his best. He had taken to meditation, having learnt a different form of it from Tien while they were on the Lookout.
"Krillin."
Learning meditation was the best thing possible for him, especially from a different point of view. If he had not donned the orange uniform that he wore proudly today, Krillin could very well have seen himself as a potential Crane. The philosophy had similar points, at least in its infant meanings compared to the Turtle. It was everything else where things drastically altered, and where Krillin could see why he would not opt to ever train under Crane style Martial Arts. Tien himself had admitted that there were faults to the Crane school of thought, and he surely hoped to open his own dojo, and follow his own philosophy of the Crane.
"Krillin?"
'H-how could Shepard tell me that? I've been doing all I can but I just can't break through! How could I ever hope to be stronger then a Saiyan. Even Gohan is stronger then I am now. Why do I bother?"
"KRILLIN?"
"W-wha-?"
Chi Chi realized that Krillin's food was getting cold, and therefore kept calling out to the Monk.
"Is everything alright?" Concerned, Chi Chi put her bowl down, reaching out and putting a hand on top of Krillin's. The two had become good friends throughout their time on the Lookout, the mother having left an impression on everyone after she left. Upon coming to Capsule Corp, they were reunited and had taken to training together in the Gravity Room. Chi Chi had been patient, letting Krillin get accustomed to the heavier gravity before they began sparring.
"Well, it's just... I dunno. I just feel like.. do you ever feel like you just want to quit? Everyday I keep breaking my body down in so many different ways. I just.."
"I do. Believe me Krillin. I didn't even want to fight anymore. And then Piccolo came to my house, and he told me about what happened. Part of me just wanted to stay in the house. Knowing Gohan would be alright was ok. At least, a part of me did. But the other part? I was angry Krillin. I wanted to rip Piccolo's ears off, I wanted to use the dragon balls to bring back that Raditz guy and kill him again. I was so angry. But knowing Gohan was safe out in those mountains, even after not having him for months, and that he was caught up and ahead in his studies even after all the training. Fighting Piccolo, seeing baby Axel over there. Well I guess my anger has mostly evaporated, but I can't quit now Krillin. We can't quit. I won't deny it, I'll give everything I have in this fight if it means Gohan gets to live. But after? I'm not sure yet. But right now? Absolutely not."
The look on the woman's face before she went back to her food left no room of doubt in Krillin. "Ya know Krillin, you could always look after my cute little baby nephew if you want to sit this out." Bulma said from across the table.
"Oh don't do that to him Sis. Kami you're as bad as Daddy sometimes." Getting up from the table, Tights walked over to the playpen, looking over at her son. "Oh you're so cute aren't you. Yes you are, oh yes yes yes you are. Are you hungry?"
Listening to the baby coo in seemed excitement, Krillin chuckled, before gaining resolve. "No. Chi Chi's right. I can't quit now. Not when the Earth is at stake. I'll do everything I can to defend it, even if it means giving my life, again." Bulma smiled sadly, before nodding. "I know. You guys are giving everything you can for this fight. Oh wait a sec, I can check your power if you want?"
"Huh? You can?" Krillin was speechless. "Yup! Here goes!" Reaching into her pocket, Bulma pulled out the Scouter she had discovered near the remnants of the battlefield.
"Took me a little while to figure out, but I know I can check it without anyone seeing anything. Let's see here." Putting it over her eye, she clicked a button on the side and looked over at Krillin. It beeped out for a few seconds before it settled on a number that made Bulma's eyes widen.
"3,411."
Hearing the number made Krillin pause. Thinking on it for a few moments, he looked at Bulma with an odd expression. "That can't be it. I think I'm holding back a little bit."
"Not in front of the baby Krillin." Tights said, picking up the baby boy from the playpen and going to the kitchen to prepare Axel's bottle.
"Well alright he he he. I better get back in there. Thanks." Giving a thumbs up and heading back towards the Gravity Room, Krillin walked with a whistle, and a purpose.
"I think we can do it girls. We have to." Was all Chi Chi said before she excused herself from the table and followed the monk back...
It was the middle of the night, high in the clouds upon a massive podium that overlooked the world, a being could be seen near the edge, eyes closed.
"Aghh!"
"Kami!" Mr Popo was at the deity's side instantly.
"I-I-I'm alright Mr. Popo." Kami looked into the sky. Slowly but surely trembling. Holding onto his walking stick with shaking hands, the elder namekian's eyes looked back down towards the ground. Shaking his head, he looked at his old friend. "The saiyans. They are only days away. The warriors down below, they are not ready. The Room is prepared yes?"
"Of course, as you had requested Kami." Mr. Popo implored.
"Excellent Mr. Popo. Retrieve all of the fighters. Even Piccolo and the young child, Gohan I believe. And his mother. I will no longer stand by and allow inaction on my part to be the reason we fail. For too long I have stood by and watched. I may be forced in that position for now, but I need to take the risk that the Room of Spirit and Time will not mentally break any of our individuals. Please Mr. Popo, move with haste."
Location: Master Roshi's Island
The next morning
The old hermit was snoring, laying back in his chair. His tv long forgotten, the dirty magazine on his face long since drooled on. It was another day for Master Roshi. Turtle was outside enjoying the scenery. Oolong was in town, so Master Roshi had his house to himself for the first time in a long while. With Krillin having been gone for months, the hermit was bored with not much to do. He and the others had gathered the dragon balls a long while ago to be prepared for Goku, Shepard and Yamcha's return. But for now, all he could do was sleep. The ache he had felt in his old bones were from centuries of calamity. From the death of his master, Mutaito from long past, to the fight against Piccolo, to the deaths of his students, and Tien and Chiaotzu.
'It all comes down to me. I failed my students. I could have stopped Raditz. Somehow I know one of my many techniques could have stopped him. I think it is about time I come out of retirement. This fight coming up with these saiyans. Boy. This is gonna be one heck of a fight. Even now I can sense a terrifying presence heading towards this planet.'
Master Roshi was sleeping, but his mind was very active. Krillin, Tien an the others had moved over to Capsule Corp where he could sense their rising strength. As he continued to think on it, a presence practically exploded into his mind, one he had not heard from in quite a while.
"HEY MASTER ROSHI!"
"AGHH!" Master Roshi was snapped out of his sleepy state. Looking around, he knew he heard the voice.
"H-Huh? G..Goku is that you?"
"Yup! I'm speaking to you from Otherworld. Look I really need you to do me a favor. The Saiyans are gonna be there in a matter of days! We need you to make the wish right now! But there's also something else I need from you."
"O-of course Goku! What else do you want?" Master Roshi was curious, as much as terrified! It wasn't often that Goku was so...nervous. He could sense that his student was hesitant.
"Well... I sort of need you to...wish Raditz back as well."
"WHAT? Boy why would I do that?"
"Hey Master Roshi, it's Shepard. This was my doing. The long haired bastard has come around. He's on our side now. You could say that Goku, Yamcha an I convinced him it was in his best interest to come to our side. Go ahead and make the wish, you can trust us. We have all gotten incredibly strong, far stronger then when we left. We can take the saiyans."
"We sure can Master. Please?" Master Roshi heard Goku's last plea. Putting a hand to his chin, he thought about it for a moment. If Raditz truly was on their side, it would make for much better odds against the incoming threat. But even still, the aged Master had learned once or twice that betrayal often came in the form of a knife in the back as opposed to a punch from the front, so he was weary, but would accept that Goku and Shepard were at least on par with Raditz, in case there ever was a betrayal.
"Well alright, I'll call Bulma and let her know. You better be right about this boys."
"Even Yamcha and Raditz get along for the most part now Master. Believe it. We're ready to kick some ass. So hook us up!"
Scoffing at Shepard's request, Master Roshi got up and grabbed his phone.
"I sure hope so son. I really do."
Capsule Corp
"MASENKO!"
"KAMEHAMEHAAA!"
"TRI-BEAM!"
Three simultaneous explosions occurred in the center, followed by the 3 warriors who fired them. A clash begun between Krillin, Piccolo and Tien, all under 5x gravity. Krillin slid under Piccolo's legs, barely avoiding the hand grabbing for him. Piccolo turned quickly, catching the jumping monk with a solid palm to the chest. Dodging just enough, he dodged Tien's kick that was aimed for his back, turning his head, Piccolo smirked at the former assassin, who smirked in kind, before he came up with the other foot, catching the namekian in the back of the head, forcing Piccolo to release Tien.
"Got something for ya buddy!" Piccolo turned as fast as he could, but he could not stop Krillin's blue energy balls that flew at him. A small explosion echoed throughout the Gravity Room. Meanwhile, Tien fired a Dodon Ray at Krillin. Dodging away from it, the two phased in quickly to attack each other. They phased in and out of multiple places, often clashing in some form or another.
"YAHHHH!" Krillin lashed out with a kick, making Tien block with his arm. Pushing back, Krillin got into the Kamehameha position, but Tien would not let him. Flying in fast, Tien prepared to backhand Krillin, but the monk smirked, throwing his arms out, firing a mass of yellow energy balls at the Crane, who could only be forced back by the multitude of mini explosions. He hit the opposite wall with a loud CLANG.
"Whew. Man Tien you sure are tough. Now where's-"
"Behind you."
"Wha-"
Piccolo had used his speed, getting behind the monk, pushing him forward with a yellow energy blast. He slid across the ground, skidding close to where Tien had landed, still on his knees recovering from Krillin's new attack.
"Oww! Piccolo sure hits like a truck huh? He he he." Krillin was rubbing his back. Getting up slowly, the gravity was taking its toll on both of the warriors.
"You-you've certainly gotten stronger Krillin. That technique of yours. I was sure you were going to use the Kamehameha."
"Uhh...uhhh.. yeah.. Yeah I realized the Kamehameha wave was just too slow to charge properly sometimes. So I needed something a little quicker. It was the best I could come up with."
"Are you two done talking? I didn't hear a bell!" Piccolo's voice echoed across the Gravity Room.
"Yeah yeah gimme a minute will ya." Krillin said.
"Piccolo I think we need to take a small break." Tien stood, beginning to walk to the controls.
"WE DON'T HAVE TIME FOR A BREAK! Look, the Saiyans could be here tomorrow for all we know. We need to keep training as hard as possible!"
"We get it Piccolo. Sheesh!" Krillin got up slowly, knees giving away a bit. "We've been at it for 6 hours straight. We need a small rest. Give us 15 minutes or so alright?"
However, the controls to the room shut down the gravity before Tien could reach the buttons himself...
Minutes ago
"Gohan are you almost finished with your lessons for the morning?"
"Yes Mommy, just 2 more pages and I will be all set."
"That's good. You've done so well with your studies son. And you've gotten so strong! I'm so proud of you." Chi Chi rubbed her son's head. His long hair flowing down near his butt.
"Saaay. You think you could let me give you a haircut?" Chi Chi walked to a nearby table, pulling out a small leather bag, her haircut kit at the ready.
"Uhhh. Well. Alright Mommy." The little boy got out of his chair, walking over to the open area in the living room of capsule corp. The young mother pulled out a plastic bag, placing it on the ground. She then pulled up a chair, which her son took a seat in.
"Hahahahaha really Tights? Now I know he didn't just put it on 10x gravity?"
"Scanned his palm on the scanner on the console, typed in 10, and splat 3 seconds later. I love Shepard but he can be a real idiot when it comes to trying stuff out. Besides-oh hey guys!" Tights said, seeing Chi Chi and Gohan in the living area.
"Getting all set for a chop up kid?" Bulma asked, chuckling at the little boy.
"Well, it was Mommy's idea." Gohan bashfully said, looking down and blushing.
"Don't be bashful Gohan. Kami knows this mound of hair needs to go. It's crazy how your father can walk around with it. I don't need you doing it too." She turned on the clippers, starting at the base of the boy's hair.
"Don't give him one of those Stooge cuts Chi." Bulma said, walking by the pair as she headed towards the kitchen.
"How I cut my son's hair is none of your concern." The young mother said, a smile on her lips as she continued. "Besides, where's your son Tights?"
"He's with our parents. Told them to take a little vacation away from Capsule Corp. Ax is in good hands." Tights gave a thumbs up.
RIIIIIIIING
RIIIIIIIIIIIING
Bulma's cell phone rung. Chi Chi and Tights both looked at her, the little boy in the chair oblivious to the stare down. It rung two more times before she picked up.
"Hello? Hey Roshi, what's going on? Uh huh. WHAT??? T-that's too soon. It can't be!" Bulma had gone pale. "Yes... yes we have the dragon balls. We've been waiting to wish the guys back. Wait..."
"Chi Chi, finish Gohan's hair. Tights, shut down the Gravity Room. The Saiyans will be here in only a few days." Bulma put her mouth back to the receiver. "Roshi? Yes we're doing what we need to do. W-who else? WHAT? WHY THAT SON OF A BITCH? No..no he killed Yamcha. That bastard deserves-...fine. But you better tell Goku that if he even thinks about turning on us, I'm going to RIP HIS HAIR OUT!" Bulma hung up the phone, blowing out a frustrated breath.
"Ok...ok well..the saiyans. It's time."
"That's too early Bulma! Damn." Chi Chi was shaking with the clippers in her hands.
"Mom? It's gonna be alright. We can do this!" Chi Chi looked at her son, the confidence coming off of the boy in waves. She smiled sadly. "I hope you're right son."
Tights slammed her hand on the button, shutting off the gravity in the adjoining room.
"Guys! It's time! The Saiyans will be here within a couple days!
She didn't wait for them to respond. Turning around, she held up short near the door, where Chiaotzu had been meditating, waiting for the others to get out. The little Crane stood up, looking at Tights. "Do you know when they will be here Ms. Brief?"
"Just call me Tights Chiaotzu, and I'm not exactly sure. Bulma just got off the phone with Master Roshi. It was just then that the door opened, where the 3 ragged warriors exited.
"We need to find an open area somewhere and prepare for them." Piccolo said upon exiting.
"They're too early guys. What the heck are we gonna do?" Krillin was internally panicking. He didn't feel ready!
"It doesn't matter at this point Krillin. We've done all that we can." Tien was outwardly focused, but internally, he was just as concerned as his friend.
"Do you think we can win Tien?" Chiaotzu asked.
"We have another day or two to prepare Chiaotzu. We shouldn't spend it just sitting around, we'll think of something."
The 4 warriors walked back to the living area, following Tights.
"Heeey nice cut kid!" Krillin said as he saw Gohan in the chair. His hair was short and spiky (think Bojack movie style) with 3 points of hair pointing to the right.
"Thank you Mr. Krillin. I really like it!" Gohan said, looking in the small mirror Chi Chi had in her bag. Giving the mirror back to his Mom, he jumped out of the chair. "I'm ready to kick some butt!" Krillin and the others couldn't help but laugh quietly at Gohan's innocent exuberance, with the exception of his master.
"Boy! This isn't some sparring contest. We are fighting for the very lives of everyone on this planet. Remember that, and you'll do fine. You have made me proud as a mentor, I expect you NOT to disappoint me!"
"PICCOLO! Was that really necessary?" The mother chided the namekian, not pleased in the slightest at his attitude.
"He's right Mom. I-I'm sorry Mister Piccolo." Holding his head down in shame, Gohan was surprised when his head was palmed.
"It's ok to have that excitement for battle Gohan. But you must also know what is at stake. The lives of everyone on this planet rests, on ALL of our shoulders. We all need to carry that weight and hope the others will get here in time."
"That's what Bulma is setting out to do now. In fact she should be..." Right when Chi Chi was saying this, the others all noticed that it had gotten dark outside. They all ran over to the door, heading out to see that Bulma was looking up in the sky.
"You have awakened me from my slumber! I will grant any one wish that is within my power!"
"SHENRON, PLEASE REVIVE THE WARRIORS KNOWN AS GOKU, YAMCHA, SHEPARD...AND RADITZ!"
The others were about to protest before they were interrupted.
"Such a wish is well within my power!...It is done! Farewell!"
"BULMA WHAT THE HELL?" Piccolo all but roared out.
"Give me a break Piccolo, Goku asked for Raditz to be brought back. So it must mean we have another ally somehow."
"This Raditz fellow sure seems like a lot of trouble."
"Yeah what gives Bulma? He killed Yamcha!" Krillin pointed out.
"I KNOW THAT KRILLIN! Goku asked if we could do it. I hate Raditz for what he did, but if Yamcha and the others are with him, then he shouldn't be much of a problem."
"Quit trying to rationalize Goku! He's an idiot for Kami's sake!"
"HEY!" 2 simultaneous yells caused Piccolo to shut up and look down at the mother and son.
"What? It's true! The only reason Goku would have him revived is for the chance to fight him under his own power!"
"Unless...what if Goku was able to convince Raditz to join our side? What if he's been training with the others this whole time?" Everyone looked at Tien.
"I'm not sure. Maybe." Krillin was skeptical.
"We don't have time for that now. We need to find an open area and prepare. We'll deal with Raditz when he gets here." It was just then that a wind picked up around everyone.
"Kami wishes to help." Everyone put their hands down from the wind, seeing Mr. Popo on his carpet hovering above them.
"Genie! Quit toying with us. We know Kami is a being of inaction, so get lost!" Piccolo saw red as the Genie dropped down to the ground, eyeing him as he did.
"That was true, until now. He has decided it is in the Earth's best interest to help you all get as strong as possible. The Saiyans will be here in only a matter of days."
"Mr. Popo, Kami did not really help us that much. He helped Chiaotzu, but that's because of his telekinesis. We did the majority of the work." Tien pointed out.
"That is true Tien Shinhan. However, there is more then just the Pendulum Room that can be used for training. If you will all come with me please, we can get started as soon as possible."
"What about Gohan?" Chi Chi asked.
"Kami insisted that both of you also come to the Lookout." The mother and son looked at each other, each conveying their thoughts with their looks.
"If that old man is pulling our strings, I will hang him up by his dusty cape. If any of you wanna back out of this, now's the time to do it."
"But Piccolo, Kami said it could help us. Why would we back out from that?"
"Because monk, Kami doesn't do things in half measures when he finally commits. I should know, considering we are linked together." After Piccolo's statement, there was silence until Chi Chi spoke up.
"As long as it's not going to hurt my boy, then I'll let it go."
"I better head back to the Islands, pick up a few more senzu's for you guys." Tights said, popping her sky car out of her capsule. "See y'all soon!" She said as she jumped in and took off quickly. The 6 warriors all together began to float off of the ground.
"I shall meet you at the Lookout soon." Mr. Popo said before disappearing before everyone's eyes.
"What I'd give to have one of those." Krillin couldn't help but open his mouth.
"Why Mr. Krillin?"
"Kid, just call me Krillin. We're practically buds now hehehehe man Mr. Popo has all the nice toys don't he?"
"Can it monk. Let's go!" Piccolo was done with small talk.
"I don't know about you guys, but Piccolo sure seems uptight about all this." Chiaotzu said.
"We'll figure it out when we get there. Come on Gohan." Chi Chi took off after the namekian, followed by her son.
"If you ask me Chiaotzu, I think Piccolo needs to lighten up. I'm sure glad he's on our side." Krillin said as the Cranes and Turtle took off after the rest...
"I have done as you've asked Kami. The warriors should be all on their way shortly."
"Excellent Mr. Popo. Please my friend, prepare a meal for our guests."
30 minutes later, the warriors were coming up over the edge of the Lookout, all in varying degrees of contempt, curiosity, and childish wonder, in Gohan's eyes.
"It's soooo huge!" The innocent boy said, mouth open in wonder. They landed silently, each looking in various directions until Piccolo began walking towards the main hub. The others followed, some struggling to keep pace with the namekian's long, angry strides. For several minutes all the group did was follow Piccolo, as he continued pacing towards a designated area only he seemed to know about.
"M-mister Piccolo will you slow down?" Before Gohan's question could be answered, Piccolo ignored him, rounding a corner and coming to a halt.
"There you are! You better have a good explanation for interrupting our training old man." Piccolo snarled.
"As always Piccolo, it is good to see you. Although I always do say your patience certainly isn't one of your virtues. Must be a by product of your father."
Piccolo began to growl before Chi Chi stepped in between the pair. "Kami, it's good to see you again, but we're all curious about what's going on." It was at this point that Kami turned around to greet the warriors.
"He looks like you Mister Piccolo? Is he your uncle?" Gohan innocently asked, making the young namekian fall on his face. Quickly rising back up, Piccolo closed his eyes and took a breath, trying to calm his nerves.
"No. He's not."
"Don't lie Piccolo. We may not be of an uncle/nephew relationship, but we are certainly connected."
"Skip the damn history lesson, we have matters that we need to discuss, such as why you've interrupted our training. I know not even you are that dumb in preventing us from stopping the saiyans."
"Ahh yes. Of course. Always to the point. Before that however, Gohan, if you would please step forward young man." The little boy did as he was asked, looking up at the equally giant older green being before him.
"I-it's nice to meet you sir." Gohan bowed his head in respect. It made Kami's heart warm to see.
"Hmm. A well mannered young man such as yourself will be a glorious sight to behold in the years that come. You look so much like your father. Your mother has certainly taught you excellent manners. If I may ask, what do you wish to be when you get older?"
"Well... sir I'd like to be a scholar when I grow up. But everyone says that I'll be stronger then my daddy."
"Ahh. I see. Hear it from me first Gohan. With your potential, you can be whatever you want to be. A scholar, or a warrior. It matters not. What does matter is that you love what you do. When you find that love, it will offer you great reward." Getting down to a knee, the old being grunted as he did. The years had not been kind to Kami, but he was not a complainer. "Has Piccolo treated you well Gohan?" A beaming smile threatened to rip Gohan's face in half. "Yes sir! He's really nice, even when he is grumpy sometimes. I've learned so much from him!" Kami's smile became as wide as Gohan's at that statement. "That is great to hear young man. I can't help but notice that Kanji you wear." Pointing at the symbol emblazoned on the little boy's gi, Gohan smiled as he looked down.
"Mister Piccolo said it means balance."
"Yes of course. In time you will find what that balance is, as we all must." Standing back up and looking at his other half, Kami could detect far less evil intent from Piccolo then he did 2 years prior. 'There's almost no trace of the evil that once ruled his heart and actions. Perhaps we will be ready for our own 'balance' in just a few short years!'
"Kami, we appreciate you taking the time to try to help us once again. But I must ask, what is it we're here for?"
Kami looked at the 3 eyed Crane. "A good question, Tien Shinhan. But first, I must ask. How has your training gone so far? With the gravity room that the Briefs have prepared along with the various tools here, I am sure that there is no need for the Pendulum Room, especially with you and Krillin."
"Well, we think we can handle the weaker saiyan, but we're still not sure yet. The stronger one..." Krillin left his statement open ended, clearly unconvinced of their strength.
"I've been strengthening my telekinetic powers as you requested Kami." Chiaotzu stated. Kami looked at the warriors, then to Mr. Popo, who he gave a slight nod to.
"Then it is time we try a new training method. With only a few short days until the saiyans arrive, time will not be on our side. At least, it wasn't before."
"Here we go." Piccolo grunted out. Kami ignored his sarcastic remark.
"Beyond this door here, lies another dimension. We call this place the Room of Spirit and Time. Another name we have used for it is the Hyperbolic Time Chamber."
"The Hyperbolic Time Chamber?"
"Room of Spirit and Time?"
"Yes Chiaotzu and Gohan. This is a room where time moves at a much faster rate inside then out. To put it simply, one year of training in this place is equivalent to a day on Earth."
"WHAT?" All 6 were stunned.
"Y-y-you mean-?"
"We could have-?"
"How could you keep this from us Kami?" Piccolo said this through angered breath, walking up to stand within an inch of his counterpart. "WE COULD'VE TRAINED IN THERE AND GOT MANY TIMES STRONGER AND YOU HELD OUT ON US?" Piccolo yelled in Kami's face. Kami did not move an inch. The others were also visibly upset by this, with the exception of Chi Chi and Gohan.
"Guys did you not hear him? He said that one year in there is a day out here!"
"Which has to mean that you would age much faster as well." Gohan pointed out.
"Is this true, Kami?" Tien said through gritted teeth.
"Unfortunately, yes. There are drawbacks to this place as well. Before our visitor came, we only allowed 2 people in the room at once. You could only enter twice in your lifetime for a maximum of one year each. Going in for 2 years straight would count as 2 times. Mr. Popo and I have eliminated those drawbacks, as well as the amount of people that can go in, but the problem lies in the aging process. If you go in for a full year, you come out a year older. No exceptions. The gravity also is different. For the first mile in circumference around the main hub, the gravity is 10 times that of Earth. However the further you go out, the higher the gravity increases. Also the temperature in this room greatly fluctuates, from beyond the coldest temperatures ever recorded on this planet, to the hottest. From -50 degrees to 150 degrees! The air also becomes thinner the further you go out."
Kami allowed the warriors to absorb this information. This was his last stand! He had sensed his possible/probable death in the coming days! His much younger counterpart must have also sensed it as well.
"Piccolo. Tien Shinhan. Chiaotzu. Krillin. Chi Chi. And Gohan. This Room nearly broke Goku. The mental stress it takes to even stay in this room for even a short time can be highly dangerous. Which is why I only recommend a fraction of a year. Goku spent 1 month in this place. And in that time, he grew in height, and nearly went mad because of the heavy atmosphere and the...scenery."
"1 month?"
"That's all?"
Kami nodded his head, expecting the gawking faces. "1 month... 2 hours outside. Rather all 6 of you go in at once, or you go in pairs or 3's it does not matter. My good friend Mr. Popo has made sure the rooms are plentiful with more then enough food to last a few years. Though I do recommend bringing more, for the young saiyan child that is." Everyone seemed to be game about this opportunity, with the exception of the boy's mother.
"T-this room nearly broke Goku? Gohan, I-I don't think I want you to go in there."
"But Mommy-"
"But nothing Gohan!"
"Let him go in." Chi Chi snapped her head up at Piccolo, who was looking at the big door in anticipation. "Are you kidding me Piccolo? Maybe you all want to go crazy, but I will not let my son go in there and potentially lose his mind. I forbid it!"
"Chi Chi, we're all here for Gohan. This isn't just about getting stronger ourselves."
"We'll look after him Chi Chi. Believe it!"
"B-but this is insane!"
"Mommy. I want to try. Please?"
"The boy is a lot stronger then you give him credit for woman. You do him a disservice by holding him back."
"A disservice? Because I'm concerned for his mental health more then his physical? I don't want my son to go in there and come out crazed just because some warriors say that he'll be ok! Is that how you men always do this?"
"Chi Chi, if I may?" She looked back at Kami, exacerbated.
"Gohan has been doing a lot of mediation with Piccolo. His mental health believe it or not, is probably the most sane out of all of you right now. He is likely to handle the stress better then you. Let go of your fear of hurting Gohan. He is in the best hands possible."
"My hands are the BEST HANDS possible!"
"Look. You, Piccolo, Kami and Gohan can argue about this, all you want. The simple fact is this: we are wasting time bickering out here. So I propose a solution. Myself, Chiaotzu and Krillin will go into the Room first. We will go in for a month, that's 2 hours as Kami said. So in 2 hours, your debate will hopefully be over and either you 3 will go in or just you and Piccolo." Tien had thought this through, and figured that the best way to get the most out of the training was to go in 2 groups of 3. That would provide a variety of potential sparring sessions, image training sessions, whatever they may decide to try.
"That's mostly fine with me. I'm not in the mood to argue with these 3. So I offer a counter solution. I'm going in with you. Because I can't stomach the thought of my student being babied by his mother."
"But mister Piccolo-"
"I don't wanna hear it boy! I trained you to man up! So you can either man up and face, and CONQUER those fears, and that anger, or, you can just sit out here with your Mommy."
"Piccolo that's cold."
"Shut it monk. Was I talking to you?"
"That's quite enough arguing out of the lot of you." Kami stepped in, having finally heard enough.
"The simple fact is this: Chi Chi cares enough for her son to question the methods that have been used to train him."
"Thank you!"
"But, Gohan is much stronger then his father was at his age. More so then you can imagine dear Chi Chi. I have watched over their training, and you can believe that Gohan has given just as much as he has gotten. He is a prodigy. Piccolo was right in a way. Doing the boy a disservice by preventing him from attaining what is rightfully his is more harmful then good. Stand with him, be there to tend to him. But when he is ready, get out of his way. He will soar far higher, if you let him become who he can truly become. Our...visitor had let me in on a secret. And I'm seeing it come to fruition as we speak."
Chi Chi was highly conflicted. But her thoughts were quickly washed away when she heard Gohan speak.
"I can do it Mommy. I have to prove that I can be strong enough to help Daddy when he comes back!"
"We got his back Chi Chi." Krillin winked, giving a thumbs up. The woman looked at each of the other warriors, all looking back at her with determination. She thought on it for a few moments, wiping a tear away.
"Gohan. Are you absolutely sure you want to do this?" If she was surprised by his fierce face, or the power that ebbed from the boys next words, she didn't show it.
"Yes. I do. I want to be strong like Daddy." The mother gave a small smile, seemingly giving up the argument. "Alright son. Then we'll do it."
"Hmph. Was wondering how long we would hear this crap. Get going you three. See you in 2 hours." Piccolo said, killing the joyful moment that the others were having.
"See you in a month, jerk." Chiaotzu said.
"You sure know how to kill the mood dude heheheheee." Krillin shook his head at the snarling namekian.
Mr. Popo opened the door, allowing the Cranes and the Turtle to see inside. Tien, Chiaotzu and Krillin made sure they had their senzu beans, and everything else they would need, which was little, and headed into the expanse...
"I don't know why but that last meal was so tasty!"
"Dude we are in agreement! That shit got straight cranked."
"What the hell is cranked?"
"Just ignore him. I usually do."
"Hm hm Hm hm alright alright quiet down."
The 4 warriors looked at their master, who had trained them for 9 long months. They had overcome many personal obstacles, as well as practical.
"Now that I have your attention hm hm hm I want to congratulate you 4 on your training. You have all surpassed your previous selves by leaps and bounds. Raditz, you have mastered your senses, and have grown several times stronger, in body as well as mind. There is no doubt that you have overcome many of your own handicaps in achieving this strength. And for that, I am granting you this uniform of my own custom make for you, attached with my symbol, a sign you have completed the training of an otherworldly being. Wear it proudly, or don't. It's your choice."
King Kai handed the uniform to the tallest saiyan there, who took it with a curious look.
"No armor?"
"No need. That Gi can deflect minor Ki blast attacks, and is stronger then normal clothing. Ya see?" Letting Raditz feel the uniform, he could understand what the Kai was trying to say.
"I think I understand. You believe that I have outgrown my armor?"
"In a way you have. Now if ya decide to find stronger material and design your own armor then more power to ya."
"I see."
"Now then, Yamcha." The Desert Bandit stood straight, looking down at his teacher. He never imagined he could get this strong!
SNAP
King Kai snapped his fingers, bathing Yamcha and even Goku in a blue light. When it disappeared, they both didn't look any different, but they felt something off with their Gis.
"Hm hm hm hm I have recreated your Gi, with my symbol on the front, and your Turtle symbol on the back. You've shown incredible strength since arriving here. And though you may still be the weakest amongst the 4 of you, you have also increased your overall strength the greatest. Refining and learning under a heavier gravity has taught you that your limits are only in your mind!"
Yamcha was stunned silent for a moment before he rebounded.
"Th-thank you King Kai. It has been an honor to learn from you. I hope this isn't the last time I get to train under you."
"Hm hm hm hm well it is. Until you die again that is hm hm hm hm."
"Dark dude, so so dark."
"As for you Goku. You have shown incredible promise in learning the Kaioken and Spirit Bomb. When I snapped my fingers a moment ago, I also did the same to your Gi. You have a lot of promise kid."
"Thanks King Kai, this is so awesome! And your such a great cook. Do you think you could write down those recipes for me please? I can't wait to have Chi Chi cook some of them for me!" Goku was incredibly happy with his success on King Kai's planet. He felt like there was no end to his energy! Like he could keep pushing until...until...
"Uhh, sure I guess I can do that."
"And you. You have come a long way Shepard. But I wouldn't get too comfortable just because you mastered...that. If you ever have to use it, make sure you point it in the right direction."
"Awe come on King Kai! You're killin me Smalls."
"Hm hm hm hm hm." King Kai snapped his fingers once again, encasing Shepard in a golden light. When the light disappeared, Shepard looked different. His red gi that he had worn in his fight against Raditz had been changed. Instead of the red and black combination he had, he now had an orange undershirt, a black gi with an orange sash, tied comfortably and hanging just above his knees. King Kai's kanji was in the front, right over where his heart was.
"This...this is incredible King Kai. Thank you."
"Uh hum. Since I am the first official teacher you have trained under, you will wear my symbol proudly. Show those saiyans, show Frieza and all others that you are a proud learner of the North Kai." Shepard smirked, nodding his head.
"With that meal out of the way, you should get going. If you leave now, you should make it just in time to thwart Vegeta and Nappa."
"Yeah you're right buddy. Thanks again. Yamcha let's roll. Goku and Raditz can leave shortly after. They have finishing touches on their training to complete."
"Why don't we just wait for them?" Yamcha asked, following Shepard as he walked towards the open area of the small planet, seeing the long trail that was Snake Way below them, ever reaching into the expanse.
"Because I'm not letting those arrogant, prideful little shit cans destroy innocent civilians for their amusement. And... Vegeta wants a piece of me, he is most certainly gonna get a few. So you and I take off first, make sure the others are going to be alright as far as dealing with Nappa. Goku and Raditz will follow a few hours after we leave. They'll be the backup, and they'll be fresh, so in case Vegeta gets any kind of upper hand on me, they'll be there to snuff him out." Yamcha nodded, though wondered at Shepard's logic. 4 fighters were better then 2, so why couldn't they at least wait and take off together?
"If you say so man. I still think it would be better to wait."
"If you wanna wait, then be my guest. I really can't. I gotta get there and keep them from killing innocent people." Shepard turned back towards King Kai and the brothers, waving.
"I'll see you guys on the other side. Don't be too far behind." Leaping off of the planet, encased in a white aura, Shepard took off. For a minute all he did was fly. 'My God. Snakeway seems so...short now.' Feeling someone to his right, he was happy that Yamcha caught up with him, both tearing their way through Otherworld to make it back Home.
"Personally I don't think it's a good idea, but we do need to get there. I've been waiting to test my training against someone who deserves it!" Yamcha was confident in his strength, far more then he was a year prior.
"That's the fucking spirit dude. Let's blitz!"
"KAIOKEN!" A pair of red auras streaked through the Otherworldly sky. They were not going to miss this!...
No power levels this time folks. Have a good day to you all. Next chapter is where the fun begins!