The Horse with No Name

Chapter Twenty-Six

Brawn Will Never Weigh so Mach as Brain

Goku is sitting in his clean nice-smelling house alone, with no TV blaring or phone notifications pinging every thirty seconds. It's so quiet, so much so that he can hear the birds singing outside.

Goku never thought he'd resent hearing the birds.

There's a long, defeated sigh as he collapses against the dining table. While he was supposed to buy more groceries this afternoon, the urge to dig out a box of those supplement drinks Bulma had sent him is all the more tempting. What's the point in getting so much food for one person? Neither Gohan nor Goten have come by in days.

Chi-Chi dropped by the day before only very briefly to talk. He'd offered her tea like a good host is supposed to (she'd told him that) but she'd declined, quick to turn the conversation unnecessarily dark.

"You need to help Gohan," she'd said. "I don't think he's… well."

"Eh, he's fine? Has he been moody at Fire Mountain?"

There'd been the outburst at Capsule Corporation the other day but Goku understands Gohan's frustration. Vegeta has been nothing but rude. Perhaps Goku should have realized that before pressuring him about performing the ritual.

"Gohan hasn't been moody. He's been… sick. His body… I…" She'd coughed, looking close to tears.

"Oh, that. Right."

"You said you were going to ask your kai friend."

"I did." Goku had tried to give her his best reassuring smile because the news hadn't been bad. "Shin said he spoke to Whis, the angel who gave Gohan the body in the first place. And this Whis guy said not to worry about it. He said nature will take its course and the soul will be okay or somethin'. So I don't think we have to worry too much. Gohan's strong. He'll push through this and adjust if Whis is—"

"He's not well."

"But Shin said—"

"I'm his mother! I know when there's something wrong with my baby!"

Goku had known it was a bad idea before even opening his mouth. "Don't you think you could be overreacting… just a lil' bit? I mean, I trust the kais. Shin would be more worried if Whis gave him reason to be – and he's the one who brought Gohan home. His word has gotta' mean something, Chi."

The expression had been venomous enough to kill. "Look at him, Goku. Even Gohan knows something isn't right."

"What do you mean?"

"He's talking funny, or rather, not at all – not about his future, his friends. He…" She'd audibly swallowed. "It's like he knows he's going to leave again."

"I won't let that happen."

"Like the first time?" Petite hands had flown up to signal the instant regret. His face must have been a picture because his heart had ached, and no sooner had she said the words she'd wanted to take them back. "I – I'm sorry, Goku. I didn't mean… I…"

Goku won't lie. It'd hurt. "Yeah… I… know I could have protected him better. That's why… I'm accepting help on this. Shin and Whis really helped when I wasn't strong enough… y'know?"

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean—"

"No, I get it—"

"I'm sor—"

"I know it was my fau—"

"Goku Son, shut up and accept my apology! You… You gave your all to get him home and you succeeded, so don't act like you haven't been trying everything you could – like you haven't been pushing for his return since he'd died." Her hand had touched his with renewed tenderness. "You're the reason he's back. You made it happen and I'll always appreciate that, Goku. Always. Don't let anyone take that away from you, me included – I'm sorry, I really didn't mean to say that. I'm just… scared." She'd pulled away and something inside him had wrenched. "So… I need you to listen to me on this one. Hear me out."

He hadn't liked where she was going.

A deep breath had been taken and she'd threaded his fingers with her own in a fierce grip. "If Gohan had killed himself in the past then there must have been a reason – no, don't look at me like that – there must have been a reason he had never told us. And again now… he's closing himself up. Don't think I don't know what a fake smile looks like on that boy's face. I raised him."

"He didn't kill himself."

"If he did—"

"He didn't."

She'd nearly hit him. "If he did it's because he couldn't come to us. He must have been hurting about something, something even he couldn't tell you. So listen…" The grip had loosened. "You need to make sure he knows he can talk to you, Goku. You've always been his… favourite."

The Capsule Corporation incident had been and still is fresh in his mind. "Not after the other day."

"That's a load of tosh." She'd clicked her tongue. "Gohan loves you. He idolizes you. If there's someone he'll open up to it'll be you."

She'd not stayed long after that, leaving him to chew on his words. Gohan hadn't killed himself. It's impossible; absolutely so. Goku will always have faith in his boy even when he doesn't have faith in himself, especially over this.

"Wait, so if I did kill myself then… then I should be ashamed?"

"But you didn't."

"But if I did?"

"But you didn't."

"And how do you know that, Dad? What… What makes you think that's the truth? How do you know?"

Goku breathes out again, melting into the wood.

"I just do," he mutters.

Killing oneself is incomprehensible. Goku can kind of understand Vegeta's fury at the idea. It goes against his very nature – their very nature as saiyans perhaps. Whilst he'd sacrificed himself on multiple occasions, clocking out when the going gets tough doesn't sit right with him – and it shouldn't and wouldn't sit right with Gohan either. He was raised better than that. Both Goku and Chi-Chi taught him to cherish life, to love those around him – and Gohan does just that. He's a kind and good person; a person who values the opportunity of happiness that living can grant him.

When he'd been younger, he'd loved helping people, and animals and children. He'd loved his family and Goku had always thought he'd been the most special person in the world. Gohan had been the easy one to raise. Battling self-doubt within Gohan had been so simple because Goku could so easily see the wealth of brilliance within him even when his son couldn't.

Goten has been the challenge. He is laboured with equal self-doubt but whereas Gohan saw it is a challenge, Goten only sees the mountain he's given up climbing before starting. He's dismissive and uninterested in fighting despite having the gift. There'd been such a dazzle to him – he'd been the youngest ever super saiyan, he'd loved training, he'd been so relaxed and similar to Goku when he'd been a kid; where has all that gone?

Now both of his boys don't want to train. They've lost their zest, their desire to grow stronger with their dad.

It makes Goku sad.

It makes him really sad, actually.

Heartbreakingly so, Gohan had looked like he'd hated him the other day. And even worse, he's not been to the family house since the incident.

Goku's been… admittedly lonely. He's not used to if after all these weeks of having the family back around. So, one evening, he'd spontaneously teleported to Fire Mountain only to be disappointed when Chi-Chi had told him that both of the boys are out. One had been at Bulma's and the other at Videl's.

And whilst Goku could teleport to both places, he doesn't. The last time he'd used Instant Transmission to see Goten he'd ended up in a bathroom as Goten showered behind an unfortunately thinly-veiled curtain; not that this'd bothered Goku. But apparently it'd bothered a strangely modest Goten. The visit hadn't been… well received.

He'd also used it to find Gohan some years ago when he'd been dating Videl. It'd been equally if not more dreadful; the two fell out of the tree from the shock and Gohan hadn't spoken to him for an entire day.

"You can't just pop wherever you please, Dad!" Gohan had yelled after jumping up from the tree base. His face had been flushed pink. "Give me some warning!"

In spite of this, Goku finds himself smiling at the memory.

So, Instant Transmission is out of the question if only because he doesn't want to annoy either of his boys more than he already has.

Just as he's about to succumb to the dreary acceptance of a dull afternoon, Goku feels Piccolo's energy approach. It's a rarity to feel him this close to the house these days, or to feel him at all. The guy has been suppressing his energy because he's a coward and doesn't want Gohan finding him – not that Gohan's even mentioned wanting to see him, not for weeks now. Piccolo might as well not bother hiding at all. That bridge is burnt.

Goku opens his door and comes face to face with his friend.

"Well, this is surprising," he says as way of greeting.

Piccolo doesn't flinch, landing a few feet away. "Don't fear. It's not a social visit. The Supreme Kai asked a favour of me."

"A favour?"

"That's right. I'm on babysitting duty," he says unkindly, "I thought I'd forewarn you that he's going to be coming by soon to take us off-planet. He needs your help with something."

Goku leans against the doorframe, contemplative. "Did he say that?"

"Yes."

"What else did he say?"

"Well, next, we discussed the weather and gabbed as we braided each other's hair..." He stares. "Tch, nothing else otherwise I would have sooner said."

"Heh, hair. Keep dreaming."

"Are you going to let me in or not?"

"I don't know. I'm still shocked you managed to find yourself here. How long has it been since you were last at the house?" He cranes his neck. "Been avoiding this place, huh?"

"I've been around more than you think."

"Not in the way that counts."

"Stop being stubborn, Son, and let me in. It's raining."

Eventually, Goku stands aside and gives space for Piccolo to duck under the doorframe. The namekian's cape slaps him in the face by unlikely way of an accident.

"Wow. It's not a sty," Piccolo comments when he moves to the living room. His wrinkled face eases in obvious approval. "Did you hire another servant to clean?"

"Eh? Oh, a cleaner? No. Gohan helped."

"Yes, he's never been a disgusting pig like you."

Goku sits on his sofa as Piccolo lords over it like an angry green shadow, scowling out of the window until the offending birds flutter away. He's in a particularly foul mood as per his recent branding. It's been the case the last few times Goku has seen him. Whether or not the guy admits it, obviously the sting of Gohan's return has been felt; he doesn't know why the Piccolo doesn't just get off his high horse and speak to Gohan. It's so very clearly eating the namekian up.

"You've upset him, y'know," Goku says, hoping for a reaction. "He misses you."

Piccolo doesn't even blink. "I'm not here to talk about that."

"You're being a jerk."

"I don't care what you think of me."

"What about what Gohan thinks?"

"I don't care about that either."

"Liar." Goku's lip pulls. "It's all over your face how much you want to just give him a big cuddle."

Piccolo reacts this time, physically so. He flails forward with a purpling face. "Y-You idiot! I'm here because the Supreme Kai thinks you're a massive fool who cannot be trusted to go somewhere important alone. I don't want some heartfelt reunion with your son!"

Gohan aside, Goku's curiousity has been piqued. Where are they going? Why would Goku need Piccolo to (as it was put) babysit him?

"We goin' to the kai realm?"

"No. It's a place called Geo; a planet far away from here."

"Oh. Another planet. That sounds fun."

There's some serious eyeballing. "Fun… Not quite. It's a prestigious place so we can't afford funny business, Goku. I'm under the impression that the Supreme Kai is worried that you're going to screw it up by saying something stupid that could either endanger yourself or the Earth."

Ouch. That's… admittedly fair; he knows he can rub people the wrong way; especially these hoity-toity types like Beerus, but still...

"I won't say anything I shouldn't. Jeez." He scratches the good spot behind his neck. "Beerus thinks I'm okay enough to be in charge here or whatever."

"Use your brain. The people you're dealing with don't deal in straightforward actions. If you think this protector role is anything other than a stunt to keep you under wraps then you're sorely mistaken. Your childlike mind is often commended but it won't do you any favours with the grand scale of this. You'll be taken advantage of."

"I am not childlike."

Piccolo finally teases a smirk. It's refreshing to see after all of their fighting. "Brain damaged then, however you want to call it."

"Oh, yeah? Then a brain damaged person was chosen over you as the Protector of Earth. What does that say about you?"

"That I don't have the ridiculous monster-like strength of a brute like you, and that the system is what it is."

Goku laughs at the exact moment Shin turns up at his door, Kibito in tow.

"You're in good spirits," he says when greeted. "Has Piccolo told you the plan?"

He hadn't but it turns out that it's all very simple.

Excitingly, the kais have managed to apprehend someone they think to be the leader of the Zealites. The problem is that nobody has actually seen or heard them before so there is no way to confirm whether or not they have the right guy. Well, nobody has come close to seeing this individual… except Goku.

Goku had very briefly heard the man speak the day Gohan had been revived, right after Beerus turned up. He remembers little in the way of physical attributes because there hadn't been much on display; the Zealite get-up is dark and smoggy. There'd be no way anyone could get a great read on their opponent in something like that.

But Goku can recall some small details. Hopefully it'll be enough.

Shin gives some strict rules to both him and Piccolo before Kibito whisks them away to this mysterious planet.

"Do not talk to anyone," Shin orders, stern. "Not unless you're spoken to first. If it's in a language you don't know then you can ask me or Kibito but please do not ask anyone to speak the common tongue. Doing so can be seen as an insult to higher beings."

"Common tongue?"

"The language we are speaking now."

"Oh."

"You must also stay as close to me as possible. If you wander off and bump into the wrong person then there might be quite the price to pay. Mortals are strictly regulated in the area we're going to. If you want to look around in the public zone after then that's fine; just be patient. Don't prematurely meander." Behind, Kibito coughs as input. "Ah yes, additionally, do not maintain eye contact for extended periods of time with any devout beings we may cross. Arrogance doesn't befit the mortal who dares look into eyes of gold, after all."

Goku finds it a little funny. "Heh, they'll kill us for looking too long?"

"Some things are worse than death, Goku."

Really; what kind of people is he going to come across? Who the heck would be angry by someone staring a moment too long? What kind of people are these – what was it Shin had called them? – higher beings, these devout folk?

"Are we going to run into any gods?"

"You sound hopeful," Shin notes, amused, "Alas, for our luck, I hope not. I doubt any gods will be there. They typically turn up for meetings and mandatory summons. At best, we may see Lord Beerus and Whis."

When they arrive, Goku finds himself so dazzled with the foreign surroundings that he immediately forgets about who he may or may not see. Kibito has teleported them into the middle of a hectic city centre, one bustling with a variety of characters moving along straw-coloured bricked streets. Golden buildings climb what feels like miles into the sky, adorned with stone and shiny metal that makes them almost too much to look at. The blue sky contrasting the brazen royal gold only emphasizes the older builds, the cracks in the walls, the fenced off ruins; everything that signifies a place rich in culture.

Where there is old, there's new. And where there are humble churches and chapels, there are grand cathedrals of modern design. Goku has never set foot in a cathedral before but he knows that they are never as fantastical as these back home.

Outside one, devout individuals in robes stand before intimidating brass doors, dipping heads whenever people pass through. Some throw undisclosed matter into the wind.

"Don't touch it," Shin warns as they walk by, "It burns on contact. The Holy Men use it to singe the unsolicited negative spirits that linger."

"Like ghosts?"

"Energies. Geo is very old and has seen a lot of… bloodshed in its history. Negativity attracts negativity and so the caretakers often cleanse the older streets."

Yes, Goku can feel the weight of the aura here, the age; the unquestioned divinity. It's like transforming into a super saiyan god but… more, as if this is where that energy comes from.

Goku has only achieved the transformation three times following the first time. Goten had watched once but Gohan has seen every time. He's actually pretty taken with it – really, Goku knows Gohan's more interested than he lets on; why does he try to hide it? Gohan would make an incredible super saiyan god. It would be awesome to see.

Coming here only reignites that excitement. The flurry of various flavoured energies has Goku sniffing at the air like a dog. It feels so wild here. There must be so many strong fighters.

"Calm down," Piccolo says, "You're so obvious."

"Don't pretend like you're not excited too – Oh, do you smell that? Woah, look at those pies—"

Shin tugs at his arm, guiding him away from the food stall. "Goku, you can explore after."

"Uwah, but—"

"This way now..."

Kibito raises his nose high. "Those pastries aren't as good as the ones on the south side anyway."

Goku pouts the rest of the way. He wishes Gohan and Goten could see this, Chi-Chi too. She'd love it. She's into her history and could get pretty pictures whilst he and the boys could eat everything in sight. This fantasy gives him the energy to move along and eventually they cross a huge courtyard, passing tourists huddled around statues and eating food not permitted to Goku. He's only slightly jealous by this point. Upon reaching the other end, an impressive building with a looming tower awaits them. It's here that a feathered creature in a gown greets them and attempts conversation.

There's no understanding it. Piccolo tries not to look too lost but Goku refuses to hide his confusion.

Goku turns to Shin. "What's he sayin'?"

He doesn't reply, not to Goku at least. The language Shin uses sounds blocky and strange, especially after hearing him speak "Common" for so long. Both the Supreme Kai and this bird man speak for several minutes without so much a reference to either Goku or Piccolo.

Eventually, he stands by and lets them pass, bowing low.

Goku gives Shin an elbowing. "Heh, you're a hotshot here, huh?"

"Do not be so familiar with the Supreme Kai," Kibito snaps as a result, "Especially here. Do you want him to lose face?"

"I'm afraid Kibito is right, Goku. There is an expectation we follow protocols. Please refrain from standing too close to me for the present time. Should the wrong person see it then a misconstrued message could be relayed."

"Er, okay."

"And try to refer to me by title for the duration of our time here."

"I'll try."

"That's all I ask, Goku."

The inside of this place is really fancy. The floors are so shiny that Goku can see Piccolo's grumpy mug reflected at him, and their shoes squeak so much that he's tempted to fly – but apparently that's a big no-no in devout places like this. Kibito had made sure to drum that rule home. And oh boy, he'd been shocked. Why can't they fly?

According to Kibito it's because it's uncouth.

"Uncouth"… How is flying uncouth? It's as natural as breathing! These people sure are stuffy about the weirdest stuff.

Two (what must be) guards stand either side of another door about as large and grand as the first, staring at Goku and Piccolo with their beady bird eyes and making it clear how unwelcome they are.

"Talk about spitting feathers," Goku mumbles.

Piccolo doesn't say anything, instead mirroring the irritation of the guards as they walk through into a foyer of some kind. Unnecessary water fountains of great size stand in opposition, spewing water forth over the pathway they walk. Despite this, the spittle doesn't sprinkle down. An invisible barrier has it trickle down over the sides and in doing so, provides a curtain along their walkway.

With each tap of his boot, Goku starts to feel more and more out of place. Everything is so ornate. Gold and white blend together in a elaborate manner, swirling together in the fixtures, the waterfall-like curtains and the furnishings made of materials similar to wood and metal; all that amongst the rest. It manages to impress even him, a person with no care about such things.

Several kais come and go, greeting Shin with polite bows. One engages him in conversation that has their group waiting around like useless tagalongs. Kibito gives Goku a warning glance when he becomes tempted to peek his head around a door.

"Oh no," Shin soon whispers.

Goku wonders what the problem is when they come to the end of a very long hallway. This one isn't as extravagant as the others. It's dim with no real furniture except for a sad aging lamp. The only point of interest is a gangly man leaning against the wall, his pointed face strained into an expression most unpleasant. His robes look oddly out of place against the kais' usual attire however, as though, like Goku and Piccolo, he does not belong here.

The man looks over, his bored air rapidly shifting upon seeing Kibito and Shin approaching. He greets quickly in the usual foreign language.

"Cross," Shin reaches, oddly strained. "Am I to understand your lord is within the holding cell? Is he with the captured Zealite… right now?"

The Cross guy looks confused. "We speaks in the Common Tongue?" he asks in a thickened accent, before turning to Goku with thinly veiled dislike. "And you brings mortal here?"

"This is Goku Son of Earth and this is Piccolo of both Namek and Earth," the kai introduces. Goku waves but the man still looks like he'd just smelled something unholy. "The council asked for Goku to confirm the identity of the prisoner inside."

"Mortals, Supreme Kai? You brings them… here?"

Shin nods and Goku sees sweat prickling at his forehead.

Cross switches his attention between Goku, Piccolo, Shin and the door. He looks like he'd rather be swallowed whole than let them pass through it, but regardless he bows a head, gesturing onwards to their final door. "If you be sure," he finally says, "But my lord shall not like."

In the light of this new chamber Goku can see that there are two figures. One is on the floor, arms tied to the pillar supporting his weight as he lumbers forward, head lowered, matted hair masking his identity as another individual lords above him.

This person is a god. That is Goku's first thought.

Whilst Goku isn't academically bright and can sometimes come across a bit dense, he does pride himself on his ability to read people despite what others say. Upon meeting Beerus, Goku hadn't been too nervous. It'd only been after watching Beerus' incredible display of raw power did he truly understand what the being was capable of, but his gut had still been right.

Beerus isn't a terrible person. He'd spared the Earth. Gohan hadn't looked as sure when Goku told him of his general like for the god. Piccolo, too, had been dubious, but Goku is sure when it comes to his gut on people.

And my gut is telling me one thing about this person…

Gold eyes – such bright things – flare in his direction.

This guy is dangerous.

Shin breathes shakily next to him. "Lord Quell," he attempts cordially, "Please forgive my use of the Common Tongue for I know you do not like—"

Lord Quell interrupts him, sharply at that, and not in Common Tongue. The captured is left alone on the floor as the god strides forward, a sheet of blonde following in his wake.

Unlike Beerus, this god looks human. His skin is similar to Goku's, if not a little paler like Gohan's, and his features all look so normal. There are no kitty-cat ears, no antennae like King Kai has; nothing. Well, almost nothing. Those eyes, however, they're anything but normal and Goku is transfixed. Shin's earlier advice about not staring goes right out the window.

It's a hue of gold he's never quite seen before. It's jarring to take in, like looking into the sun for too long.

Only when Piccolo nudges him does Goku break his glance.

"Bow," Kibito harshly whispers from their side, lowering himself to his knees. Piccolo follows suit without question, Goku joins after another less-subtle nudge.

Shin and Quell talk, going on for so long that Goku finds it a bit ridiculous to stay on the floor for an age. Yet, the moment he attempts to stand a new sensation rocks him.

It's as if all the air has been sucked out of his lungs, the ki around presses down; crippling his legs, his body – his everything! When he goes to breathe he finds it nearly impossible. Piccolo beside him makes a gagging noise whilst Kibito collapses to the floor completely.

The pressure descends so much that even Goku can't hold himself up.

"Worms stay on the floor," says the voice above, velvety. There's no distinguishable accent; it's smooth like butter and dripping in condescension. "You shall rise when I permit it."

"My a-apologies, my lord," Kibito splutters.

Goku manages to raise his head, wincing but determined.

"Honestly, Supreme Kai, you should train your dogs before you bring them into the public," Quell continues, those impossibly deep eyes squinting in displeasure. "Do you have no shame? I thought you kais practiced etiquette to an acceptable standard."

Shin is struggling as well. "P-Please, Lord Quell… Your pressure…"

"Mm?"

"Please… lift… your pressure."

"Oh, I had not noticed. How careless of me."

And then that heavy fog rises. Goku feels like the weight of the world just left him. But just as Goku goes to take that much needed breath, cadaver-cold fingertips grapple at his chin and lift him up high.

Shin attempts to help at least. "Lord Quell!"

Lord Quell's grasp cuts deeper as his fingernails threaten to pierce skin. He rotates the chin as to get a good look at Goku, those eyes as evaluating as they are heavy with molten energy. The god stares hard and for quite a while, his expression the picture of utter concentration – and of an odd concoction of curiousity and loathing.

Goku tries not to react because the earlier pressure had felt horrible, that and because he wouldn't even know how to react. This is all pretty strange even for him.

"Lord Quell? Goku is—"

"Tch, I see little resemblance..."

And then Goku is dropped unceremoniously to the ground.

Quell returns to a respectable distance, nose high. "This mortal does not look very bright," he says as if Goku isn't there, but pointedly so in Common Tongue for him to hear it. "Are you really going to place such value on his word? I do not think someone of such low intelligence should be so recognized amongst you kais. Are you really setting your standards this low?"

Goku goes to defend himself instinctively, barely stopping in time when Piccolo sends him meaningful side-eye.

"Lord Beerus recognizes him too," Shin says, urgent. "The gods' interest have been reiterated by—"

"That glutinous fool does not speak for us all."

"But wait, Lord Quell. Even Lord Haed has—"

"Haed? What about Haed?" That awful pressure threatens on the horizon. "Is he involved?"

"He's aware of the situation and he'd even been the one to suggest the use of Goku Son."

"Mm…" Quell surveys the situation and clicks his tongue, eying Shin with disgruntled approval. "Well now, aren't you a smart little kai? I did not take you for a player of the game…" His hand waves, flippant. "Fine, have your saiyan do its duty so we can conclude its uselessness, before continuing with my direction."

"Of course, Lord Quell."

Quell turns back to him. "You, mortal, get up, or are you just going to lounge about all day?" Goku does get up, slowly. His knees are still wobbly from whatever technique had been used; he's dizzy. "By all means, do test my patience with your leisurely pace."

"What was that?" Goku manages, straightening up.

"Mmm?"

"Your… that power."

"Oh, that. No, I suppose you didn't enjoy the experience, did you? My energy has a natural pressure that can render those around incapable of doing much of anything, you see." There's a chilly smile. "It does have a limitation on its effectiveness however; typically, with other divine beings as they have a lesser reaction. So despite your newly acquired godly transformation, I doubt you truly understand what it means to be divine."

"Oh, uh… You know about that?"

"With how Beerus talks about you I feel the entire council would know, kai or otherwise. Quite maddening, really."

Jeez, what's this guy's problem?

He scratches at the back of his head. "I'm… uh, sorry?"

Quell's eyes thin but he doesn't comment on anything else.

"Goku, maybe you should do as asked," Piccolo mutters from behind. "And don't say anything stupid."

He looks between his friend and the god, nodding. Right. He's best just getting this over and done with and getting out of here. Goku has a feeling if they outstay their welcome then Quell might try that pressure technique again.

So, tepidly, Goku approaches the hunched over man on the floor. His breath is laboured and there's a string of drool salivating from his mouth, touching marble beneath.

How is Goku supposed to see without looking at the guy's face?

"Er, hi there." He coughs. "Could you just—" There's no movement so he leans lower to inspect the face. "Er… Can I just, yeah, er—"

"Lift his head!" Piccolo snaps, "Damn it, Goku!"

"Right…" He swallows. "Oh, sorry 'bout this."

Goku feels bad but he pulls the man by his hair for a better look. The guy is clearly exhausted; perspiration dotting along his hairline, skin pale beneath Goku's hands. It's like touching a dead body.

Eventually, dilated pupils turn to acknowledge him; at least Goku believes them to be pupils because both eyeballs are dyed entirely black. Only two small pinpricks are slightly darker. The man's hair matches, barely a few shades lighter than his skin.

"Hello," Goku says awkwardly when the prisoner stares a little longer than anticipated.

"…"

"Err, my name is G—"

A wad of spit lands on his cheek.

"I will not say anything," the captured rasps nasally.

Goku releases the man and wipes the trail from his cheek, standing with lips strained.

Well, that's that.

"Not him."

Shin is immediately dejected. "What? Are you sure, Goku?"

The Zealite from back on Earth had a distinct deep sound to him, one so much so that Goku had known him to be the leader by his tone – by the way he commanded his colleague – by his authorial shout.

"Sorry, Sh— I mean, Supreme Kai. I'm pretty sure you've got the wrong guy."

"Oh, how unfortunate." Shin cups his own cheek, shaking his head. "After all this time, I thought we might actually have a lead on this."

"So do we release him now?" Goku looks over the man, frowning. "He doesn't look too great."

"Oh, er… Well… No… Um."

"That's not how it works," Kibito supplies, "The captured will have to be destroyed, of course. He has witnessed too much, heard too much."

"What?" They can't just kill him because he's not the right guy! "We can work somethin' out! Maybe he'll help if we just give him the chance."

"You're being naïve," Shin returns quietly.

"He's a person!"

Piccolo steps forward. "Goku, calm down."

But he won't. "Just give him a chan—"

Quell strides forward and takes the prisoner by the crop of his hair, pulling a lot more harshly than Goku had. There's a yelp.

"Such simplicity…" Quell comments over the whimpering. He gives a firmer tug, turning to Goku and giving a full display of the man. "I wager that you are a soft-hearted man, Go-ku Son, so much so that you must value life and the pretty joys your vapid mortality brings you. You'll beg for this cretin's being despite not knowing of the horrors he may have committed against the kai or the gods yet… you dare stand with us as a chosen protector? How ridiculous you are. Does your weakness for mercy blind you? Does it limit your usefulness to our cause?"

"I-I… I don't understand. How is mercy a weakness?"

There's a moment of consideration. It surprises Goku, and even the others when Quell actually sighs. "I see… You are the problem, as suspected. Tch…" There's a resigned final breath. "Never mind, it doesn't matter now."

Just what is this guy saying?

Silently, they watch the god's fingers journey through the greasy, tangled mess. "Naturally, you must detest seeing a loss of life so needlessly, do you not? Does it hurt your fragile mortal heart?"

Something clicks in Goku's head, but he's too slow. "No, wait!"

Quell releases the hair – just to take hold of the head, twisting it until a crack is heard.

The Zealite slumps, head disjointed, dead.

"You killed him…"

Piccolo moves to take a hold of Goku's shoulder. It stills him but it doesn't matter because his body has turned to stone. Quell had been… so fast.

"Oh, where are my manners?" The god then stands, twirling sleek hair and smiling icily. "Thank you for your help today, mortal. Without you this result would not have been possible."

Goku gapes at the body.

Without me…?

Piccolo's earlier words resonate. 'The people you're dealing with don't deal in straightforward actions,' he'd said, 'You'll be taken advantage of.'

His fists clench. Did Goku really just cause this man's death?

When he angles himself back to face Quell, he finds the man already gone.

Goku had looked forward to exploring Geo and its wonders but now it's been poisoned.

He sits atop a step in a popular square watching the festivities around him, unable to find joy. Even as the music plays and the laughter of children can be heard, Goku feels empty. Kibito, Shin and Piccolo are talking in the distance but Goku makes no effort to join them; the conversation looks serious and he doesn't feel up to chatting with any of them.

It's clear they all disagree with Goku's sentiments. Why should he feel bad about wanting to spare enemies – people who could become something more? Piccolo had obviously felt as much which is ironic considering that he and Goku had been enemies at one point. If Goku hadn't believed in second chances then Vegeta wouldn't be here either – what's their answer to that?

Goku knows what Vegeta would say. He'd tell him that he's stupid and that the prisoner had needed to be killed; basically what that Quell guy had said in no uncertain terms.

Quell of Revelation…

That's what Shin had called him. He's a god, like Beerus… except like Beerus, Quell had been…

"Darker?" he asks himself, unable to pin the feeling. "Stronger?"

Not someone to cross, he thinks. There's a boundary he can push with Beerus that he knows he would not be able to push with Quell. Are they even going to be able to work together?

He breathes out and massages his temples. No, it's not like they'd be working together. Goku would be working for him.

Just what has he gotten himself into? Gohan might have been right – he shouldn't be involved with all this god stuff. He's in over his head for sure on this one.

Quell had released the hair – just to take hold of the head, twisting it until a crack is heard.

Worse yet, Goku can still hear the sound, over and over again.

Crack, crack, crack…

"Thank you for your help today, mortal. Without you this result would not have been possible."

Fists clench as he rises up from the step. A nearby child drops her pastry in surprise.

That guy is a total jerk! He'd had it out for Goku from the start for sure, regardless of the crime of being a mortal. He'd not gone after Piccolo like he did Goku. What the heck did Goku ever do to him?

The only consolation is that the Zealite would have likely been killed whether or not Goku had been involved.

What a terrible way to make myself feel better…

Goku turns to see Piccolo looking as strained as Goku feels.

The others are still talking, not even sparing him a glance, and so he decides to take a walk. Staying here in this square and looking at the building where they just came from is just making him all the more frustrated.

Goku doesn't get a pastry like he'd planned. For the first time in a long while, his appetite is shot. He instead traverses the beige streets, walking along cobblestones and aimlessly meandering between stalls and shops, staring vacantly at trinkets.

Several groups of tourists pass him, giggling, taking photographs, talking in loud, boisterous parties, and unaware of the life that had just been taken within the walls of the building they're so excited about visiting.

Goku eventually pauses at a shop window, looking past his reflection as to stare at the jewels resting beyond the glass. There's one studded necklace with a lone golden jewel sitting centre of the piece.

"Eyes of the gods," Shin had told him once they'd left, "I find them unnerving to look into too. Do not let it bother you too much, Goku."

It's the same shade of gold.

Goku feels discomfort simmer in his chest.

"Does your weakness for mercy blind you?"

It'd been said to sting. Still, it bothers him. Is he really so misplaced here? Maybe Quell is right. If the act of mercy has no place here then neither does Goku. He has Gohan back; does he really need to involve himself further?

His forehead touches the window.

Should I just leave? Do I—

"You have good taste," speaks the person next to him.

Goku turns to him, blinking, surprised with the company. It's a kai.

"The necklace comes from Planet Yorth-on-Tyde. The jewel within is said to be older than at least half of the serving kais on Geo."

"Oh, er, really?"

The kai nods. "I am no collector but I recognize history when it sits so humbly before me. I wonder if the keeper knows what they are selling. The golden hue of the gem is made to replicate the exact colouring of—"

Oh, he knows this one. "—The eyes of the gods."

There's a smile. "Why, that's right." With a click of the fingers, the kai considers him. "Oh, let me hazard a guess at something. I suppose you must be one Goku Son of Earth; the saiyan who was requested to certify the identity of the Zealite being kept prisoner. Am I correct?"

"Yeah, that's right."

"It's a pleasure; I'm one of the kais serving on the council so I am very aware of the current situation. To run into you in such a place, what are the chances? You must have just come from the meeting with Lord Quell and the prisoner." The kai waves a hand. "How unfortunate it is that we hadn't captured the Zealite leader after all, but even more unfortunate is that he had been slayed. I'm sure we could have extracted useful information out of him, but we all know Lord Quell's quick ire well."

"The Zealite had been a person," Goku bites out. "It's not always about getting information."

The kai's smile widens. "A tender-hearted saiyan is a rare sight indeed. Yes, I'd heard that you hadn't been best pleased with Lord Quell's decision."

"You… heard that, huh?"

"Of course. Ears are everywhere. You must be more careful about your countenance of disapproval here, Goku Son. One does not so openly oppose one another or there will be chaos, and a mortal should not challenge a god. I feel that much is elementary knowledge."

"I didn't challenge him."

"That's because you would not be able to hold a candle to his power."

"I fought Beerus."

"No, Lord Beerus toyed with you and as a result, you are his plaything." The kai folds his arms. "If you want it, my advice is for you to take advantage of that. He is rather invested in your power, you see, much like a curious child would become enticed with watching his pet jump through a hoop. A mortal as strong as you is a rare thing so, before Lord Beerus grows tired with you, you should see what you can get out of the arrangement."

"Like… what? Have him train me?"

"If possible. To have a god on one's side is a beneficial thing after all."

Goku scratches at his neck. He doesn't know. He's tempted to take Gohan's advice and step away from all this stuff… Whilst the idea of becoming even stronger is appealing, stepping into politics and dealing with people like Quell is off-putting.

"I dunno'… I'll think about it."

"As is wise of you. Lord Beerus is one of the more cooperative gods out of the collection so he would be a fine ally for you and your planet."

"You think?"

"Better than Lord Quell, surely," the kai jokes, "His distaste for the mortal condition is renowned. I cannot imagine he treated you with kindness today."

"No." Goku sighs, "He didn't. I think he's got a grudge against me or something."

"Do not take it too personally, Goku Son, Lord Quell's grudge goes far beyond you. He has hated the kai for millennia, as have many of the gods most unfortunately." There's a suave wafting of the hand once more. "Still, I would wager that Lord Quell's dislike runs much deeper and hotter, if only for the believed incompetence of the kai during his time of need."

"Did something happen?"

"I am afraid so, many years ago. Something most dreadful transpired to someone he cared about. You see, the Gods of Revelation run in packs of four, and apparently, upon losing a number, an utmost painful reaction wrings throughout the body and mind; it's a torture rich in infamy. The mourning can last for eons."

Goku remembers the conversation back at Capsule Corporation. "He lost a brother, right?"

"Lord Famis' death changed Lord Quell for the worse."

"And that's why he's so angry – because the kais didn't stop Famis' death?"

The kai hums and leans down to admire the necklace further. He touches the window with delicacy. "Yes, in part… Though, his anger is misplaced but not in the way you imagine."

"Eh? I'm… sorry, I don't understand."

"Do not judge Lord Quell so harshly for his demeanour. His frustration with the kais is legendary, but his anger at the Zealites transcends even that for he believes them to be the culprits of his sorrow." The kai turns back to Goku, eyes flaring. "But what would happen if I told you that it is the kais he should feel such rage at, that the Zealites had never been involved in Lord Famis' death after all?"

Goku stares, lost.

"Naturally, the Zealites had been blamed because of their activity at the time – most convenient for the kais – but it had most certainly not been them. Poor Lord Quell is being deceived. So, let us look upon him with a fledgling of understanding, shall we?"

"Wait." His hands rise. "Are you telling me that the kais—?"

"You deserve the truth if you are going to be pulled into all of this. Lord Quell remains ignorant to the truth but if he were to find out then… well, a lot would change, wouldn't it? He would have no grudge against the Zealities. Would he still assist? Doubtful considering… Still, I tell you this for you not to judge the God of Revelation too harshly, for the kais had much the hand in warping his—"

"Hang on, you mean, wait… No… the kais killed…" Goku stops, trying to think this through, "Shin would never…"

"Ask him if you do not believe me."

"The kais are good people. They wouldn't just murder a god – they're all about protecting and serving them; Shin even said that! The kais… They… Why would they?"

"Very naïve of you, Goku Son…" The kai sighs and straightens himself out. He languidly moves towards the bustle of neighbouring groups of people. "Well, I must be off now. It really has been enlightening talking to you this afternoon. I'm sure we will meet again at some point or another."

"Wait, what… You're going, after telling me all that?"

The kai turns his head as he walks onwards. "With such unwavering faith in the kais it does not matter what I do or do not say, does it? Follow blindly if you must but prepare yourself well for the cliffs you shall navigate." There's a final smile. "Be well."

And then he disappears into the crowds, all before Goku can even ask him his name.

For a long time, Goku stares at the golden necklace, watching the jewel dazzle many passer-by tourists. The gold winks at him, taunting. And it's not for another twenty minutes or so that Piccolo and others find him still stood in that same spot.

The namekian berates him about wandering off after what just happened back in that big building. Shin, meanwhile, walks the kinder route and offers him two steaming hot pastries, smile and all. Goku takes them but doesn't eat, thanking the kai blandly and feeling increasingly worse for not being able to put his own frustration and questions into words.

They don't hang around Geo for much longer. Goku's attitude might have been something to do with that considering the egg shells everyone is walking on around him. So Kibito takes them home and back to Goku's house, where it is now draped in the ominous glow of twilight.

Goku can finally breathe freely. It's nice to be back, mosquitoes and all.

It's relieving. There's no pressure, no kais… except for Shin, of course.

"Thank you for today, Goku," he says, "I know it's not the outcome you wanted but you need to understand that how we operate has to be quick and absolute. I know this may hurt you but I agree with Lord Quell about killing the prisoner, however cruel it may seem. One misstep and the plan can be thrown."

Goku nods non-committedly. "I know that much… It's just the…" How does he put this? "It's the lack of responsibility for life. That Zealite had been a person, not just a pawn."

"A dangerous pawn quite possibly."

"And who are we to judge that?"

"Us?" Shin smiles darkly. "We as in you and I? Nobodies. The gods, however, have more leeway with such decisions. They have every right as is their legacy."

"I warned you about playing with fire. I told you not to act recklessly or speak rudely," Piccolo says unhelpfully. "We need to be cautious when dealing with the gods. One wrong choice of words could spell the end for the Earth."

"And one set of right words delivered Gohan to you," Shin adds, countering that, "It's a balance. I will help you along the way and guide you and Earth to safety in the best way I can. There are some things and people we just cannot challenge. Someone like Lord Quell is such a person."

Goku leans against the brickwork of his house, staring over the glittery horizon, over the red of the hills and looking far beyond. "He's so strong," he says lowly, "I felt… his energy… It…"

He shudders. The well had ran deep and dark.

"That's right. Lord Quell is never to be crossed."

That's ironic…

What that other kai had said to him earlier, back at the shop, has been eating him up. Could it really be true? Would that make Shin complicit in murder? How can he expect Goku to work alongside the kais and the gods when he doesn't even know what he's getting himself into? One wrong step really could mean the end for everyone.

Well, here Goku goes. For ease of thought, he'll just get this over with.

There's a dry swallowing of saliva before he levels a look at his friend. "So… tell me this, why… why did the kais kill Famis, Shin, if Quell is not to be crossed?" he tests, hoping for it not to be true.

For all Goku could know, this mystery person could be lying. But by how pale Shin grows Goku knows it not to be the case.

"Where did you hear such a thing?" Kibito suddenly snarls. His pink face burns pinker. "What hogwash is this?"

Even Piccolo is perturbed. "Goku, what are you talking about?"

Goku says nothing else, watching as Shin transforms into a deer before the headlights.

"Where did you hear this?" Shin finally asks, sounding weak.

"Is it true?"

The Supreme Kai has little to say in response, frowning as the evening shade journeys across his cheekbones. A chill follows as the sun finally rests its bright romantic glow.

Goku isn't cold however. "Is it?" he asks again, "You're involving Earth in this when you aren't even telling me the full story here. How is that fair?"

"I did not involve Earth," Shin defends. "The Zealites chose this."

"Did they also choose not to relay the bigger picture? I thought the kais wanted to help people, not go around killing people and gods despite preaching to others to be good."

"Goku, it's more complicated than that."

"Wait. Is this true, Supreme Kai?" Kibito gawks. "Tell me this is not the case."

Shin lowers his head and manages to at least look somewhat ashamed. "I apologize, my friend, but as you know, I often do not have the authority to disclose delicate information even to you. In fact, I… up until recently; I had been none the wiser myself."

"So it's true," Goku summarizes.

It's not just him as Piccolo is equally unhappy about the situation. It dawns upon him the severity of what Goku's come to realize himself. "Supreme Kai, that god is dangerous… You ask us to ally with you on this Zealite situation because of what has happened on Earth, but if Lord Quell finds out then… then Earth will be on the chopping block. We'll be no safer against him than against Lord Beerus!"

"Lord Beerus will protect Earth," Shin counters, "I assure you, if only to spite Lord Quell. I am no fool. I have Earth's protection at the forefront of my mind so please do not underestimate me. There are more players than you both realize."

"Players?" Goku parrots, disgusted. "This is our lives! This isn't some game to us. You killed that guy's brother and—"

"I do not mean it like that! There are others involved—"

"Like Lord Haed?" drills Piccolo. "Dropping his name straightened Lord Quell out. Don't think I didn't notice, Supreme Kai."

"You tell us to respect the gods but the kais are just doing as they please—"

"No, it's—"

Piccolo isn't done. "Lord Quell has two other brothers. Will there be an army against us next? More gods? How much higher does this go? The only person who could quite possibly hold his own is Goku. The rest of us will be history."

"We need to do another Super Saiyan God ceremony," Goku realizes. "We need to do it soon. We should prepare."

"Right. I'll speak to Dende about using the Room of Spirit and Time."

"That's a good idea. I'll—"

Shin, in a rare display of anger, raises his voice. "Just listen a moment, will you?" They turn to him, watching alongside a struck Kibito. "This happened years ago, long before any of us – yes, including me – became involved. By chance I came across this information only a few months prior to today, and was equally as shocked… Though, the more I learned about the situation the more I understood the reasoning behind it."

Goku raises his chin. "I'm listening, Shin."

"Lord Famis had been a dangerous individual. I have said before but he had been a talent magic-user, and had been the creator of many wonderful and powerful spells, crafts and otherwise. However, he had also been equally as curious as he was brilliant. Other things he had created had been dangerous. For one, I am sure you will remember well, Majin magic is a malevolent power, only used by the darkest of us."

"And he created it?" Piccolo asks.

"Yes. Before Bibidi or Buu or any of the wicked creatures spewing the darkness it'd been Famis to wield it. The kais… became nervous."

"And so they killed him," Goku bluntly finishes.

"Yes." Shin closes his eyes. "His death came as no surprise as, even from a child, Lord Famis had been the victim of assassination attempts. Before adulthood, he'd been blinded in his left eye by a poison left for him. The Gods of Revelation are a bigger threat than most, you see. They have many who want to take that power for themselves, or corrupt… or simply, they just want to see it, along with the gods, perish."

"But you said that there is a cycle of gods," Piccolo speaks, "So even if this cycle dies, another is born?"

"Yes. A tactic used in defeating or controlling them is to reduce the number as low as possible. With only one brother, there is little chance for Revelation to be achieved. For this reason, it is suspected that Lord Quell does not allow Lord Rixas or Lord Mori to reveal their identities, not even to the kais."

"That's understandable seeing as you guys polished one of them off already."

"Again, Goku, you're being naïve." Shin switches from exasperation to deliberation. "Imagine a world where Lord Famis had lived and brought on a Revelation so dark with his Majin might that there would have been no coming back. Life itself would have been devastated. So, the kais had to step in and did what they had to preserve order. Honestly, you must stop thinking in shades of black and white."

"Yes," Kibito agrees, "That must be it. Well said, Supreme Kai."

Goku turns to Piccolo, unsure. Bountiful concern is returned but not commented upon.

"For now, gentlemen, let us call this a night. I will be in contact with you should we hear any news about the Zealites or anything that concerns Earth. Try not to worry too much on today's events."

How can Shin say that? Of course they are going to worry. The grand scale of this is far greater than any of them could have expected; with people like Quell and Beerus lurking in the shadows and unknown of the situation they're dimly walking into. Super Saiyan God or not, Goku knows he hasn't the power to protect the Earth alone if it should come to it.

Piccolo stays for a short while after Shin and Kibito leave. They touch upon the topics learned today; talking endlessly about the possibilities of what could go wrong and how they could defend against any and all attacks.

"The Zealites, Quell, Beerus, other gods…" Goku had listed possible causes for concern, "…The kais?"

"It shouldn't come to that." Even Piccolo hadn't sounded sure.

"There are no dragon balls."

"I know."

He'd sighed, pressing his face into his hands, chest depleted. For a while, the two had sat in a weighted silence. Not even Piccolo had enjoyed it.

He'd scoffed. "Tch… Sounds like you're giving up, Son."

An awkward pause had lingered, enough for Goku to understand the teasing.

"Oh yeah, Piccolo, is that right?" He'd returned the expression, donning a brave mask. "You should have seen your face when I brought up Famis. I thought you were gonna' cry."

"Well, I thought you looked like an old man, all white and shaking."

"What a pair we are."

"Don't lump me in with you."

Goku had laughed, and then sprawled across his sofa, rebutting something unwitty and then likely falling asleep moments following, just like the old man Piccolo made him out to be.

He doesn't dream, which Goku takes as a mercy. There is little in the way of good thoughts in his head, only anxious wasps buzzing around, vibrating within his skull and overwhelming him with responsibilities he knows that he's put on himself.

When he wakes, the darkness has come in full force, eclipsing his living room in hues of blues and blacks except for the glow of red in the corner. There's a clock, a digital one that lives near the TV that reads that it's quarter to midnight.

Goku groans. He's not going to sleep for ages now. His sleeping pattern is definitely going to take this hit.

As he sits up, he's surprised to find the curtains have been drawn and a blanket has been placed neatly over him. His shoes are off and by the door, too. Unless Piccolo is secretly a domestic fairy Goku doubts very much that this is his work.

He gets up and flicks on the lights, looking to see if his caretaker is still around. At first he thinks it's Chi-Chi. She's considerate like that. But then, he senses someone upstairs in one of the bedrooms, and sure enough, once Goku's up the stairs he spots the dim light creak from under Gohan's bedroom door.

Goku remembers to knock this time, lightly.

Instead of calling him in, the door opens and Gohan emerges. He leans against the frame, blocking entry.

"I should have said I was coming," his son says, sounding weary. He's reserved and unsmiling; an obvious distance has been created.

The last time Goku had seen Gohan was at Capsule Corporation where Gohan had fumed at him. It appears the anger is still there, Goku feels the bite of his words. He can't help but wonder why Gohan would come here if he's still so angry at Goku. If anything, that's counterproductive. Did something happen at Fire Mountain?

Still, Gohan had been kind enough to sort Goku out when he'd arrived because as usual, Gohan is caring and selfless despite his own feelings.

"I'm glad you're here," Goku says honestly, "I'm really happy to see you."

Gohan doesn't react. His eye line jilts. "I'm kind of tired so if you don't mind I'd like to—"

The door is caught. "Um, want a hot chocolate?"

"I really am tired, Dad."

"Please… just one… a small one for your old man?"

Gohan halts, fighting an inner battle of his own. The door wobbles. He clearly wants to say no.

When a soft, slow nod allows Goku to breathe again he grins, smiling for what must be the first time since before going to Geo.

Gohan potters down the stairs slowly and sits at the kitchen table, saying nothing as Goku prepares their drinks. They've both always liked their hot chocolates sweet so Goku makes sure to stir in a good lump of sugar in each cup. He'd once tried it with brandy and found the taste pleasant. The bottle had been a gift from a joiner in the village over after Goku delivered some wood to him. Despite not liking alcohol, Goku never minded the brandy too much. If he'd had any left he would have added it to the hot chocolate, too.

The brandy is instead replaced with animal-shaped marshmallows Goku had bought last week. When the cup is presented before Gohan, he looks up with the expression of someone trying not to smile.

"I'm not a kid," he mutters.

Goku takes a seat opposite, bringing his own mug to his mouth. "You could be a million and you'd still be my kid."

"A million, yeah?"

"Even older," Goku jokes.

Gohan snorts and sips at the chocolate. "It's… sweet," he says with reluctance, curling his fingers around the warmth, "Thank you."

"I used to make it a lot when we trained for the Cell Games, do you remember?"

"Yeah."

"That was a long time ago, huh?" Goku nips at his own chocolate, enjoying the richness. He's not a good cook by any means but he can make a quality hot chocolate. "I've needed this," he admits, "Looks like you have as well."

Goku doesn't mean it rudely but, man, Gohan isn't looking at all well. He is pale (more so than normal) with plunging bags under his eyes; the skin is thin as though he's about to turn into a ghost – maybe Chi-Chi is right and Goku does need to reach out to Whis and Beerus again; Gohan isn't improving much at all. It's a wonder there hasn't been another nosebleed yet.

"You've not been well, have you, kiddo?"

"I'm fine… And don't call me 'kiddo'. I'm not a kid."

"Gohan, you're not fine—"

"Seriously, you have to trust me, I'm fine."

Goku promises to reach out to Whis in the morning. For now, he'll try to keep it light. "You're so stubborn; definitely your mum's kid, that's for sure, heh. Don't tell her I said that."

There's not even a smile cracked. If anything, Gohan harbours an even greater distance, his brows knitted tightly as he thinks over his next words.

Goku waits.

"…Dad," Gohan says weightily, as though the name has been anchoring his tongue for some time. "I have something I need to say."

"Er… Oh, yeah?"

Gohan audibly swallows. The mug is placed on the table and so diplomatically, he tells it as it is; "I'm going to be honest now. I apologize in advance but it needs to be said… Please forgive my abrupt rudeness because I'm not going to pull punches on this anymore." He sighs. "Dad, I don't think you've been a good enough father to Goten."

Goku's heart sinks and his own cup nearly tumbles free. "What?"

"Since I've been dead, Goten has had a lacking parental figure to support him. I've said as much to Mum tonight… that's why I'm here. I… I did hurt her and I think the space will do her good. Honestly, I was pretty kind to her about it because I know she always tries to do what's best for him but you… I think you've been really selfish when it comes to Goten."

Whaaaat?

"Woah, woah, woah! Where's this coming from?"

"I told Mum that she needs to accept Goten's path because that's his own to walk. The same can be said to you; Goten does not like fighting. He's not an academic nor is he a fighter and his worth should not be determined by either of those things. I'm not saying that you do that, but I certainly am saying that he feels that you're doing that." Gohan scrapes his chair back, leaning against it and then the table, drained, "Goten really needs you. He really, really needs you. He's going to need you."

"And I'm there for him. He knows that."

"He doesn't. Dad, he thinks you play favourites."

"Eh?"

Gohan rolls his lips, thinking. "You can't tell me anything about him, can you? I'd be surprised if you can recall his birthday, which is just sad. I know things weren't always great when I was growing up but I never once questioned whether or not you cared about me. I just knew. Goten… well, he doesn't."

The insinuation is understood; it knocks Goku. "I love you both the same," he cements, "You are both my kids."

Gohan scoffs, shaking his head. "Then why do you treat me so much better?"

"Gohan… I don't…"

"At least Mum acknowledged the failures. I think she'll work at them, I hope so…" His son suddenly looks so much older than his years. The way he holds himself makes Goku feel like the scolded child. "Dad, you need to step up. So, I'm sorry if I come across above my station but… I'm going to give you some simple instructions to do better. First, you need stop pressing him to fight. It's not happening. Accept it."

"But—"

"Second, do things he – not you – enjoys. That'll be how you win him over."

"G—"

"Third, make a goddamn effort to learn about him; his grades, his friends, girlfriends, likes, dislikes; whatever. You're his dad. You're supposed to know these things." Gohan breathes out, laboured, "I really need you to try. I can't fix this for you."

"Gohan, I—"

Outside, a nearby owl hoots, landing opposite the window on one of the branches. Both turn to quietly watch it patter around, glance into the house and then leave, fluttering on the wind. The silence between them remains, enough that this gives plenty of time for the shame to creep up on Goku.

What a mess.

Has this been eating up at Gohan all this time?

God, I really am failing at everything today, huh?

Goku sinks into his hands. He's tired, too. Everything has been… so much today.

"Dad…"

"I'm sorry. This isn't your job yet…"

"Goten's my little brother."

"I'm your father, and Goten's too." He lifts his head. "This shouldn't have been placed on you, and as soon as you get back too… This pressure must have been so difficult for you, huh? I never wanted to hurt you, just so you know."

Goku's trying to understand so why does Gohan look so annoyed?

His son hits the table, threatening the hot chocolates. "It's not about me. It's about Goten. Think about him – think about what I'm telling you. Your son doesn't think you care about him. Doesn't that bother you?"

"But I do love Goten," Goku says. He's lost. He's so, so lost because Goten is the most important person to him in the world next to Gohan and Chi-Chi. "I love both of you. I don't get it!"

"Show it." Reading the blankness on Goku's face must be too much. Gohan snaps, eyes bright as he stands, "By the heavens, just do the things I said! Try!"

"R-Right, I will. Just calm down, you'll get a nosebleed or somethin'. Just… Yeah, have some hot chocolate."

He returns to his seat slowly. The irritation is simmering. "I'm sorry."

"It's fine. I'm sorry, too. And I'll, uh, I'll apologize to Goten when I see him. I'll try to do better, like you said."

Gohan nods, appeased, but he looks anything but happy about it. He's so clearly anxious; Gohan's always been a very open person since he was a little boy. Goku knows his kid.

"I'll try, okay?" Goku tells him. "You've gotta' give me a chance to try."

His son's eyes are still averted, burning holes into the kitchen floor. So it surprises him to no end at what Gohan says next, it's startling if only because Goku had come to expect the start of another disagreement."

"I love you, Dad," Gohan instead offers, "Just so you know. I always will."

"Oh, er, yeah. I love you too, bud."

Finally, there's a smile; soft and sweet, almost shy, and so very Gohan.

And bam, argument over. Good.

With that, Goku can aim for that sense of normality. All this had been getting too heavy.

And breathe…

He groans, stretching himself across the table like a cat, leaning with his head upturned as to stare at his stubborn first-born. "I've had a pretty messed up day," he then tells him, "I wasn't just being nice when I said I was happy to see you. The company is pretty good right about now."

"You looked conked out when I got here. Where did you go today? I felt yours and Piccolo's ki disappear after the Supreme Kai came by."

"Oh, we went to some planet called Geo. It's real far from here." Goku sits up properly and reaches for his blessed chocolate once more to drain it. "I think you would have liked it with that boffin brain of yours; lots of museums and old stuff there for you to gawk at."

"Did you like it?"

Goku shrugs, trying to not look too put out. "It's been a long day. I'm happy to be home."

"What happened?"

"Oh, er… Don't worry about it, bud."

But Gohan is determined. He finishes his own drink, leaving the marshmallows to ooze sadly whilst he sets himself with a far too serious look. The milky moustache is wiped away. "I was honest with you tonight. You owe me the same courtesy."

Goku laughs; it's a breathy sound. "I suppose I do, huh? Don't worry about it too much—"

"Don't you trust me? You've never talked down to me before – you'd always been honest in the past, Dad."

"I know, I know. It's just… a lot and I don't wanna' frighten you."

Gohan considers him. "God stuff?"

"Yeah. I… uh… met a new one today and he wasn't the easiest person to get along with." There's no response, pressuring Goku to continue and so he does, "I'd been called to see if the kais had captured the right guy, a Zealite – turns out they hadn't, go figure, but this other god had been there and—"

"Killed the Zealite?"

"Yeah…"

Gohan nods slowly, closing his eyes. "I see."

Is that it? 'I see'? Where is his disgust, the horror? Gohan hadn't even flinched.

"I'm not surprised," he elaborates, "Lord Beerus had shown similar signs of a disregard for life. I think, perhaps, many gods do."

"Yeah, Quell didn't care."

"…Quell?"

"That was the god's name. He's the God of Revelation or whatever, remember, from what Shin told us the other day?"

The tone shifts. Gohan almost sounds angry. "He's involved already?"

"Yeah and it didn't go well. Shin and Piccolo don't believe me but I think the guy has a personal vendetta or something against me." His son's gaze darkens at the very suggestion. "Don't worry about it! Really, it's fine. That's not what's bothering me."

Gohan relaxes. "Then what?"

After a time, Goku taps his fingers along the table. How does he say this? "I appreciate what the kais have done for us – and the Earth – over the last few years but… I can't help but wonder…"

"Wondering is good."

"Well, I'm just thinking about their motivations. While I trust Shin, and I really do, I just think about the people he works with and what they'd want with the Earth, and with me, y'know?"

Gohan's immediately excited, enough so that the smile that breaks out is wide. "Good! You're thinking; that's good."

"I feel like everyone has an agenda. Honestly, Gohan, I feel like I'm in over my head."

His son's hand reaches for his. "You don't need to do this, Dad."

"I feel like I'm already in too deep." His mouth runs dry. It's strange to be this upfront. "This is harder than just fighting. I don't think I'm cut out for this kind of political stuff. When that kai had told me about Quell's brother, I'd just… froze. I didn't believe it."

"…His brother?"

"That Famis guy."

The hand tightens around his own, squeezing. "What… did he say?"

Goku's unsure about relaying the conversation because he knows Shin would want it private. Still, what's the harm in telling Gohan? He wouldn't say anything to anyone. Gohan's not even involved, not really.

"Okay, right. This stays between us, okay? If Shin found out I told you then I don't think he'd ever trust me again." Gohan nods, his face impossibly ashen, and so Goku continues, lowly and with his head dipped; "He told me that Quell, this other god, his brother had been murdered. Everyone thinks it'd been the Zealites, even Quell, but actually…"

Gohan drops his hand. "It'd been the kais…" he whispers, horrified.

"Right." Grim, he continues, "Because of this, I don't know how much I can trust anybody really. Shin gave a really good reason to why they did it but, er, Gohan, are you listening?"

He's not.

His son is dazed, staring forward, seeing nothing.

"Er, Gohan?"

The only indication that time has moved on is the humble trail of blood leaking from his nose.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Real life did the readers a solid because I got a mean cold that gave me two days off work. Boredom brings upon writing so here we are.

Alternate chapter names: Goku's Day Out!, Goku's Bizarre Adventure, Goku's Fun-Filled Excursion

Give me a laugh track and this chapter is good to go! Instead of laughter, it's sobs. Lots of sobs. Half of them are by me because Goku is a pain the neck to write... and because I'm a total masochist the chapter is entirely his POV. Thanks once for to Kags for her beta work and for also helping polish the narrative of this story. She's been such a big hand in making this. She'll just receive a random message at three in the morning along the lines of "is this scene too explicit?" or "Is Quell too mean here?". I mean, she just encourages the evil, but also, she encourages the completion of chores… chores like writing the Goku segments. Sigh. She's literally always right, which goes to say that if we don't get a Goten section next chapter I think she'll pop. Pain...

Speaking of pain. I hate this site. I'm so sorry for not replying to PMs. There have been no alerts and my page doesn't even tell me if I have messages in my inbox. Only with replying to reviews did I see them… so, yup, grand.

On the other hand, the feedback on the last chapter had been ah-mazing. Wow. We hit 200! Thank you so, so much! I'm utterly doused in the fuzzies. The DBZ genre is dying a most painful death; I've been writing and reading this fandom since I was a whipper snapper and as such I've seen the decline. So to get the wonderful reviews I have, it means a lot. And thanks to guest reviews. I can't reply, like, but cheers!

This chapter was once again dialogue heavy. It hadn't been the plan but apparently this story has a mind of its own. Quell finally made a return! YES. And finally, Goku has met him. It probably went about as smooth as it could : ) It was also nice to have Piccolo in this chapter. Don't count our green boy out. Gohan was so minor this chapter but I hope the ending had left you hungry for his POV next chapter.

That's all for now. Thanks again and see you on the next update.