Hey everyone! I hope you have all been well. This is a lighter chapter in comparison to the previous ones. I had it completed a little while back and was set to release it ironically a few days ago. But after the sudden, shocking news, I felt the need to give myself a few extra days to gather my thoughts.
We tune into what is happening with our heroes today. What's this? Tien is not coming back? That can't be right, or can it? And what of our Saiyan Princess and our Saiyans on Planet Yardrat? Find out that and more on this chapter of Dragon Ball: BtG!
Review(s)
AlphaShenron: Thank you for your review! I'm glad you liked that little twist with Goku and Kakarot last chapter. You just may see that fight play out in the future (thumbs up!) And if I'm being honest, Cold at his full power in this story would likely be in the realm of a SSJ2 Gohan, probably a bit stronger than him. He would annihilate Perfect Cell. Super Perfect Cell would last a short while longer unless he can regenerate and get a massive Zenkai boost. But yeah I'm pretty confident that would be where Cold's prime full strength would lie. If you believe differently, then please by all means, do tell. I look forward to hearing about it. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
This chapter is dedicated to Akira Toriyama
Age: April 22, 764
Location: Earth, Capsule Corp
Everyone was gathered around. It had been 130 days since the Namekian Dragon Balls had been used, and it was time they were used again.
"I hope your time here has been good for you, yes?" Doctor Brief asked the tall namekian elder next to him.
"Indeed it has been. Interestingly, my…relative lived here for so long. But, it is time we find a planet of our own to call home once again."
"You'll contact King Kai once you've arrived, yeah? I would hate to lose contact with you guys." Yamcha asked.
"Of course. You have our assurance. After everything you've done for us, the least we can do is work together again in the future in the event another catastrophe occurs." Sopran replied.
"Good. I am ready to be free of Guru's influence." Piccolo said with a slight snarl, but his protege could tell there was no malice behind it.
"Won't you lose a lot of your power, Mister Piccolo?" Gohan asked him, but Piccolo shook his head.
"I don't believe so. I've grown into this power far more without his influence as of late. I believe the only thing I'll lose is the memories that came with him. At least some of them. He helped me to understand our history more. I won't forget that. But it is time that Guru be free." Piccolo explained.
All the Namekians had reunited outside of Capsule Corp, the 7 massive dragon balls all gathered around.
"It has been quite an eye-opening experience learning of our history and our people, Moori. It is sad to see you leave." Kami said, making the trip down to ground level to see off his people. He took a look down at Dende, his supposed future replacement. Smiling wistfully at the memories of his youth, he was quite surprised at the small Namekian's knowledge. He had spoken to Moori about the possibility of being replaced by Dende at a future date, assuming an Earthling wasn't ready to take on the role of Guardian. Moori had all but guaranteed that Dende would be perfect for the job when it was time.
"Wait up!" A shout from the air called attention to everyone on the ground. 2 people landed. Everyone recognized the small monk in orange, but most looked confused at who the other person was, for he also wore Turtle attire.
"Yo Krillin! Take on a new student?" Yamcha playfully asked before Piccolo looked at him in surprise.
"Hmph, I know that face better than anyone." Piccolo didn't need to guess. His father's memories flowed easily to him.
"Yeah, who's the cutie Krillin?" Bulma asked with curiosity.
"Uhh heh heh heh heh..." The man scratched his head for a moment, putting on his familiar glasses and flashing a peace sign.
"Wait... Krillin?" Yamcha stared dumbly.
"Uhh guys, this uhh, it's…Master Roshi. Heh heh heh." Krillin said through gritted teeth.
"MASTER ROSHI?" Several people yelled. Yamcha ran up to his young Master, looking him up and down.
"Bu-But how? I mean, of course, you adopt my hairstyle cuz it gets on with all the ladies heh heh heh-"
"SHUT IT JERK!" Bulma yelled, sidling up to Master Roshi and playfully running a finger along his pectoral. His cheeks went red before one of his nostrils started bleeding, reaching down and touching her butt.
"EEP!" She screeched out before turning and trying to bash his head in, but he phased away, appearing next to Yamcha.
"She sure is wild! If I didn't know her so well, I might've got caught." Master Roshi placed an arm around the shocked Bandit.
"D-Dude...How did you get so fast?" Yamcha barely saw him move.
"No no no no kiddo, the real question is what's going on with you and that lady Saiyan friend of yours...catch my drift heh heh heh.." Master Roshi wagged his eyebrows behind his glasses.
"She's well… she's back at the house. Probably training in the Gravity Room like she always does. There's nothing special between us, really." Yamcha nervously scratched his head.
"Uh-huh. I know my students, kid." Master Roshi deadpanned.
"Ha! I'll have you know I haven't made one pass on her."
"Oh shut it Yamcha I know you've practically gotten in her pants already." Bulma snidely remarked.
"She uhh, doesn't really wear…pants? She stays in the battle armor. She feels more protected that way." Yamcha said, looking down sadly for a moment before brightening back up again. Bulma apologized with her eyes, feeling sorry for snapping at the Bandit. She still harbored long past feelings and she would admit to herself that it was hard for her to see Yamcha with anyone else, but she had made a choice like he did and would stick with it.
"Are you finished?" Piccolo sternly asked, getting impatient.
"Mom said she didn't want me out long," Gohan said.
Sopran smiled, feeling the time was near.
"Takkara-Puto Popporunga Pupiritto-Paro!" He held his hands out towards the Dragon Balls, looking in awe as the sky darkened, a light piercing the sky, coalescing into the massive form of Porunga.
"Amazing." That was all Piccolo said. Guru had created Porunga so very long ago, but it was still quite a sight to behold.
"You have collected all seven Dragon Balls, and now, as it is written, think wisely and I will grant you three wishes within my power."
"Well guys, I say we wish Tien back. Chiaotzu is still with him in Otherworld." Krillin suggested. They had all agreed that the three-eyed warrior had earned that right.
"Wait guys, stop."
"Huh… Tien?" Yamcha, as well as the others, looked upward in the sky.
"Yes, it's me. It's…it's been quite a while guys. I wish I had better news for you, but I must ask that you not wish me back at this current time."
"What?" Yamcha nearly choked, caught off guard.
"Wh-Why Tien? We've been waiting to bring you back buddy." Krillin said, worry etched on his face.
"King Kai has been keeping an eye on things with Earth. He interrupted my training to let me know you guys may bring me back. I…I came across someone very important to me up here. I've learned quite a lot about myself, but not enough to warrant returning just yet. I plan on taking a trip through Otherworld itself and maybe picking up a technique or two if I can. But right now, all I ask is that you please look after Chiaotzu. He will be coming back and will need Kami to get to Earth. That will save a wish for you guys. We have spoken and he understands I need to be away for right now… Alright King Kai I'm sorry. King Kai is getting impatient here. I'll contact you when I am ready to return. See you later, guys."
Everyone was dumbfounded. Tien was going to stay dead? Who could he have met that was more important to him than even Chiaotzu?
"If that is his desire, so be it. I must make my wish now." Piccolo looked up into the sky, eyes piercing Porunga's.
He spoke in Namekian. Seconds later, Porunga's eyes glowed.
"That wish is well within my power." Porunga's eyes glowed once again as Piccolo's body started to glow. He had gotten so used to having Guru's presence within him that he gasped when he felt a heaviness leave his body, making him feel…emptier.
All of the namekians, aside from Piccolo gasped as a towering presence filled the air between them. A familiar energy rang in all of their minds as the presence took form, becoming solid.
"It is done. State your next wish." Porunga's voice echoed from above as Guru took a breath, the first in quite a while.
"What…COUGH COUGH… a beautiful planet this is." Guru said before many of his children surrounded him, tears in their eyes. The joy the elder felt radiating off of them gave him the willpower to hang on for just a few more minutes.
"I don't know what the next wish should be. Anybody?" Krillin looked around. He wanted to bring Tien back, as did Yamcha.
"I know what you're thinking fellas. But we must respect his request." Master Roshi stated, the youthful voice still unfamiliar to most.
"Yeah, you're right. Well, I guess it's up to the Namekians guys. Can you think of anything Sopran?" Yamcha asked.
The Namekian in question was near his father, being the next to last to see him before he fused with Piccolo.
"Hmm, perhaps I do. A new planet. One as close to Namek as possible. One that will not be found by such evildoers ever again."
"A wise wish, my son. You will make COUGH COUGH COUGH… A great…COUGH COUGH… Elder." Guru was weak. He could feel himself slowly fading.
Sopran spoke the wish to the Namekian dragon. Porunga's eyes glowed for several seconds, making some nervous.
"Hmmmmmmm…….your desired planet is not easy to find….but…it is done."
"Yay, Dende! Cargo! You'll be able to go to a new home!" Gohan was excited for the pair. He didn't notice the slight sadness in both of the small Namekian children.
"But that means."
"We may never see you again!"
"Oh, I don't believe that children."
Kami spoke up, making the two look up.
"I have a feeling that you will see more of each other in the future. I thank you for assisting me with remaking and strengthening my own Dragon Balls, young ones."
"What about the Saiyans? Can't we wish them back here now?" Krillin asked.
"If what King Kai said was true a month ago, then we should let them stay on the planet they're on. They'll make it back." Master Roshi said with a thumbs up.
King Kai had informed the group just over a month ago that Shepard had indeed made it off of Namek and regrouped with the others, heavily injured but alive, but there was still no mention of King Cold…
"ELDER!" One of the Namekian children yelled out in shock as Guru's body started to become transparent. Many of the children started to cry out as Guru coughed uncontrollably for several moments.
"It is his time," Kami spoke, walking past many of the elders and children. Looking up at Guru, he gave a wistful smile.
"Thank you for helping Piccolo…Uncle." Kami spoke quietly, seeing tears drop from the massive elder's eyes.
"Katas would be proud, child. You both will COUGH COUGH... Will make quite the powerful warrior again someday." Guru looked out amongst all of his children. Each sad face, each tear that dropped ached him to see, but he could no longer hold on. He strengthened his body with his ebbing energy slowly leaving him.
"Guru! We still need you!" One of the tearful Namekians said.
"You have all grown so strong… and through such great adversity. I am needed no longer. Someday, when it is your time as well, we will see each other once again. Look in your hearts. In your brothers' eyes. Know that I exist in every one of you and that I am always in each of your hearts. Until we meet again, my beautiful children."
Guru smiled upon each and all of his children. Everyone that he had personally birthed. Every single one was unique in some way. All looked upon him with saddened eyes. However, he feared not for them any longer.
"You will do well, Sopran. Moori. My eldest. You will lead the Namekians into the next great adventure."
COUGH COUGH COUGH COUGH COUGH
Guru leaned forward, clearly trying to breathe his last but coming short.
A hand reached out to help center him and keep him from falling too far forward. Many of the Namekians gasped as Piccolo kept his hand on Guru.
"You don't have to suffer anymore. They will make it. We will make it. For leaving those memories of our people with me, I thank you. Rest now." Piccolo released Guru, who slightly nodded his head with a withered smile.
"Farewell, my children. Thank you for fighting for them, son of Katas." Guru's body slowly stilled, as the last bit of energy that kept him living sapped away. Guru's body slowly disappeared, leaving nothing behind. Many of the Namekians wept for their father, now gone from their minds. Gohan consoled Dende and Cargo as Kami himself shed a tear.
"You will not be forgotten, Guru," Kami said as Piccolo bowed his head in silence.
Sopran held his tears in, trying to stay strong for his younger brothers. Everyone grieved for several moments, forgetting about the giant dragon in the sky.
"I grow tireless in waiting. State your final wish so that I may return to my slumber!" Porunga's voice trembled the land below him, making everyone cease their sadness.
"When we make it to this new planet, we will contact the one you know as King Kai. We shall not forget what you did for us." Sopran said.
"Just have King Kai tell me the coordinates. I'll figure it all out." Bulma gave a thumbs-up and a wink. Despite her sadness at Guru's passing, she was happy that the Namekians would have a continued, hopefully peaceful existence.
"We will miss you guys. It was really nice meeting you." Krillin said. Gohan himself started to cry again, but Piccolo sensed it.
"Dry your tears, boy. Everything will be alright." Piccolo winked at Gohan, which made the boy feel better.
"Right!" Gohan nodded his head, looking toward the future.
Sopran smiled before looking up at Porunga and stating his last wish in Namekian.
"An easy enough wish!" Porunga's eyes glowed as suddenly, many Namekians started vanishing.
"I made the wish so you and Kami will stay on Earth. If there is ever a need for our help, Piccolo, do not hesitate to come home and seek it." Sopran stated.
"Take care of yourself, Sopran. The same offer extends from us to you as well." Kami bowed to Sopran and Sopran did the same in return.
"Bye Gohan!"
"Bye Krillin!"
"See you later guys," Krillin said to both Dende and Cargo, giving a thumbs up as Gohan waved. They disappeared with a *pop*.
"Your wishes have been granted. Until next time!" Porunga gave a salute before he turned into bright light, minimizing himself as the 7 Dragon balls lifted. He became one with them as they lifted further into the air, soon disappearing into the atmosphere and space thereafter.
"So I guess their Dragon balls go wherever they go?" Yamcha asked no one in particular.
"No, just where Sopran went. If he went to a different planet than the others, they would follow." Kami answered.
"So what do we do now?" Krillin asked.
"We train. Get in some gravity training, monk. Cold is still alive somewhere and we have to be prepared." Piccolo readjusted his cape, ready to head back off toward Mount Paozu. Gohan, also sporting his teacher's cape and garb looked at Krillin and waved.
"You gonna stop by sometime Krillin?"
"You know it, buddy!" Krillin gave a thumbs-up.
Yamcha watched them take off, now eager to get back home to his training.
"Yamcha? Catch!"
Bulma threw a capsule toward Yamcha, who caught it with a raised eyebrow.
"There's a device you can plug into your Gravity Room. It'll update the system and allow you guys to train up to 300 Times Earth's gravity. There are also some more custom armor for Sarada and some Saiyan meals that Tights gave me to give to her. You should be good to go." Bulma gave a thumbs up to Yamcha.
"Wow… Heck yeah! I know Sarada will appreciate that. Thanks, Bulma. Uhh, Master Roshi, what are you and Krillin gonna do now?"
The young man looked down at his student before chuckling.
"Got some of my own training to do. If my island was bigger I could sure use one of those Gravity Rooms. This planet is so light compared to King Kai's, I have to find a bypass." the now young Master said.
"I don't know about you guys, but I'm ready to get back to it!" Krillin said, pumped up.
"Now now son. We just got done with training for the day, so we will rest, meditate on our mistakes, and do better the next time. See you soon, Yamcha." Master Roshi waved before floating in the air and taking off.
"Is, uh… everything alright with you and Sarada bro?" Krillin asked.
Yamcha nervously laughed, scratching his head.
"Yeah, it's fine dude! She's making great progress. I just hope she doesn't blow up my house like she almost did last week heh heh heh… Let's meet up in a month or so, have a good spar, ya know? I'm itching for a good fight man." Yamcha said excitedly. The pair of Turtle warriors bumped fists before they lifted into the air, taking off in different directions…
An hour later, Yamcha was casually flying back. It was late afternoon now, the Bandit not really in much of a hurry as he passed through a cloud. However as he passed over the start of his desert, he felt something…odd.
"W-Why does it feel like she's not training?" Yamcha was shocked! Within minutes of setting up the Gravity Chamber at his house a few months ago, now an extension, Sarada had made her way quickly inside, stretching under 10 Times Earth's gravity. She never took any days off, usually training for anywhere from 14-16 hours a day. Yamcha tried telling her to let up a bit but she would hear none of it, often scoffing at him and his supposed lack of work ethic.
What she didn't realize was that Yamcha himself also trained every day, but had learned in Otherworld to focus on what truly mattered in his quest to perfection. There was just no such thing as perfection, and to believe that meant that you also believed you were at the absolute pinnacle of power. Which he knew was far from the case, especially for his sake. The Super Saiyan transformation terrified him, a lot. Seeing Goku's different colored, hate-filled eyes piercing through his body, into his soul? The nightmares still hadn't gone away.
Yamcha did train in the Gravity Room, but he enjoyed being outside. He had gained much insight into his insignificance since Namek.
Flying a bit faster, Yamcha could make out the Saiyaness' energy.
"Not good!" Yamcha nearly shouted as he turned up his speed.
He made it minutes later, floating down to the ground.
"Yeah her energy is definitely in the Gravity Room, but then why would she…?" Yamcha ran toward the entrance, grabbing the handle and throwing back the first door. Sarada's energy was stronger, but not enough to handle the stresses inside. He opened the next door and about gasped.
The gravity had shut off, but Yamcha could see the 110X on the digital display before it went back to 0. Laying face down was the Saiyan Princess. The Bandit could tell she was in horrible shape.
"Crap! Sarada? Dammit!" Yamcha ran towards the unconscious woman, touching her shoulder. It was hot to the touch, clearly from exerting likely all of her energy.
"Hardheaded Saiyans… dammit alright. Let's get you into the house. Come on." Yamcha didn't think she would wake suddenly, so he took a chance. Her current armor was shredded, so he put both hands on her waist, walked backward, and lifted her up. She was dead weight, but so frail. He turned her around, lifting the small Saiyan over his shoulder. The last time he did this, he could swear she felt heavier…
"Oh no! What happened Yamcha?" Puar nearly fainted at seeing the Bandit with the woman over his shoulder.
"She overdid it again. Can you grab one of the blankets buddy?" Yamcha asked. He walked over to the couch, placing the Saiyan woman down gently. He walked over to his kitchen, grabbed a washcloth, and got it wet in the sink.
"Why do you do this to yourself Sarada?" He walked back over, grabbing one of his chairs from the kitchen. He put it in front of the couch, sitting down in front of the unconscious woman. He began to wipe the woman's dirty face off. She had refused to shower for the first few weeks, trying to use the excuse that Cooler never let her be fully clean anyway so why bother, but the Bandit would have none of it, having to put aside any sort of carnal desire at forcing her to the bathroom where he turned the water steaming hot and held her under it. She was violent at first, clawing at Yamcha and nearly destroying the house with a stray blast. The Bandit was thankful that he only had to repair his bathroom ceiling…
He would cut her a break tonight. He reminded himself that he was essentially dealing with a former slave. The thought of it made Yamcha buzz with anger.
'How could you do this to her, Cooler? What kind of sick bastard are you? Dammit! If I could wish you back with the Dragon Balls and kill you myself I would!'
Puar came out, a big blanket in hand.
"Will she be ok Yamcha?" The shapeshifter asked.
"Thanks Puar. Yeah, she should be fine. In the morning, I think I'm gonna take a trip out to Master Roshi's. Maybe he can give me some insight on how to handle this. Cooler messed her up. Badly. I don't know when Vegeta will get back, but man I hope it's soon." He never thought he would look forward to the Saiyan Prince coming to Earth, again.
"Let's see what's in this capsule, Puar. Bulma gave it to me before I headed back." He got up from the chair and walked over to the table, his friend floating and following.
"She said she had some kind of upgrade for the Gravity Room. But with the way Sarada trains, she might kill herself if I install it now. I better wait." Yamcha popped the capsule, tossing it on the table. After the poof of smoke went away, Yamcha and Puar took a look.
"What are those?" The shapeshifter asked, pointing at the dozen or so box-like items.
"Hmm, let's see. Oh yeah, these are those 'Saiyan Meals' as Bulma called it. Whaddya say, buddy?"
"I wonder what makes them so special," Puar answered.
"Beats me. I know when I was in Otherworld, they were a lifesaver for King Kai. Saiyans are pigs even in death! Heh heh heh. Self-heated automatic meals for the hungry Saiyan! Just shake, open, and eat after a couple of minutes... I'm worried about her, Puar." Yamcha picked up the small device, no more than 3 inches long, looking at it closely.
"I'll update the Gravity Room when I get back. I think I better go now actually. Master Roshi and Krillin should still be up by the time I get there." Yamcha re-tied his sash.
"See you soon buddy."
"Later Yamcha!" The shapeshifter waved as Yamcha ran outside and took off into the sky!...
"HAAA!" Krillin moved forward, extending his hand, only to come up empty as the young Master Roshi evaded.
After arriving back, Krillin wanted to show Master Roshi his new level of power, making the young Master smile in acceptance. They were currently in front of Master Roshi's house, sitting down across from each other, lost in the mental battle...
The landscape blitzed by as the pair darted back and forth, clashing inside the mental area that Krillin had created. Master Roshi himself was very impressed with his student's strength but felt that Krillin had lost of bit of his edge.
BAAAM
Krillin's fist was caught in Master Roshi's palm as the Master grabbed Krillin with his other hand, flipping him over and away. Krillin landed feet first on the ground, shooting back up where the pair clashed. Roshi moved his head to the side, feeling the wind blowback from Krillin's fist. Krillin attempted a slashing kick across the Master's midsection but Roshi evaded it.
"Come on, son! I thought you were stronger than this!" Master Roshi playfully cheered, making the monk chuckle in return.
Master Roshi looked on as Krillin clenched his fists. Red began to overtake his milky white aura.
"KAIOKEN TIMES 2!" He shouted, charging forward. Master Roshi reached out, momentarily caught off guard as Krillin afterimaged.
"GOT YOU!" Krillin lashed out with a kick from behind, but his Master avoided it just barely, ducking below.
"Darn it!" Krillin trailed after the fleeting Roshi, trying to land something significant, but was still being evaded. He threw an elbow back, which was caught by both of Master Roshi's hands.
"Even with the Kaioken, you are still far too tense. Loosen up some Krillin. Have you been resting enough?" Krillin snarled at the backhanded question, releasing himself and charging energy in his hands.
"HAAA! Krillin fired a half dozen balls of energy toward his Master, who looked on as the blasts came up short of him, launching high into the air before roaring down in a maelstrom. Master Roshi danced through them in the air, watching as one flew by him in slow motion, another just missing his back by inches. He danced around another before putting his hands together.
"TRY THIS ONE!" Master Roshi yelled, hitting the last 3 with a Kiai, pushing them toward Krillin.
"CRAP!" Krillin dodged the first one before he batted away the other 2. They came together moments later in a clash, Krillin's red aura pumping furiously. He had mastered this stage of Kaioken on the way back to Earth from Namek but Roshi insisted on further training under it to be able to handle the stress better. He was having good results but he still knew he wasn't anywhere close to Yamcha. They caught themselves in a tangle of limbs as Master Roshi maneuvered Krillin's hands, grabbing Krillin's arm and swinging.
Launching the monk far away, Master Roshi shook his head. Roshi himself had been training just about every day, finding himself shocked at just how little he had pushed his limits. His students were still stronger than him, but he had one thing in abundance for an advantage.
Experience.
Krillin flipped himself back upright, just missing hitting the imaginary grounds by mere feet.
"Dang it! I just can't...hit him. I'm stronger than he is and I'm still missing him!"
"That's because you're far too tense, son." Master Roshi said from behind, chuckling as the monk turned quickly in a surprise shout, fumbling with his defense.
"Namek really got to you boys, didn't it? I saw just about everything when I was in Otherworld. I should've been there with ya." The young master said, sobering up.
"I failed you as a Master." Krillin came up short, not able to find the words to retort.
"Now now that doesn't mean I regret living the life of an old hermit, but it does mean I slacked in my training, and therefore, yours. Master Mutaito would sure be disappointed in me. Goku, Yamcha, and yourself, have all shown me that."
"That's...not true Master Roshi! I've become so much more of a martial artist because of you. And I'm glad you're fighting again, but I thought you would've enjoyed being retired." Krillin pointed out.
"Hahahahaha of course I enjoyed being retired, but the fighter in me, the warrior in me, needs to fight again. With this new generation coming around, I couldn't let myself grow stagnant. It'll be an honor to continue your training, in all aspects." Master Roshi stopped speaking before looking off in the distance past the monk.
"I think we're about to have company Krillin. Sense him?"
Krillin did as his Master asked, feeling the area outside of their minds.
"I wonder what Yamcha's doing here," Krillin said to himself, but Master Roshi heard him.
"Let's stop for now and find out what's going on. Good job today Krillin, but remember to ease your movements. In the heat of a battle, time sometimes seems to stop. What you do in that moment defines you and your character. And always remember to eat, study, and rest plenty!" Master Roshi punctuated before Krillin nodded, both closing their eyes and leaving the landscape...
Yamcha landed as Krillin and Master Roshi came to in the outside world.
"Hey guys! Was hoping I would get here before it got too dark." The late afternoon sky was slowly falling away to the darkness of night.
"We were just getting in a good battle before turning in for the night," Krillin said.
"I can feel your concern Yamcha. What has you so bothered?" The Hermit asked. It was jarring for the Bandit to look at Master Roshi and see him so young, but he was pressed.
"I just… can I talk to you alone?" The Hermit thought about it for a second.
"Krillin, I have the stuff on the counter in the kitchen. You wanna prepare dinner while I handle this?"
"Uh, sure Master Roshi. Everything ok bro?" Krillin asked Yamcha in concern.
"Yeah yeah, it's not that big of an issue, just one I need to deal with sooner rather than later. We sparring soon bro?"
"You know it heh heh heh. I'm gonna catch up Yamcha, just you wait."
Yamcha smiled for a second before looking at his Master, all joking aside.
He started floating in the air, followed by Master Roshi. After a few minutes of flying slowly away from the Island, Yamcha couldn't help himself any longer.
"So uh… Sarada's been a handful to deal with lately. All she wants to do is train. Every single day."
"Training is probably her therapy, son," Roshi suggested.
"Yeah but… well she also rarely eats. Her power has stagnated quite a bit. She keeps upping the gravity in the Gravity Room and she's not able to handle it. How can I get her to eat more so she doesn't keep hurting herself like this?"
Master Roshi and Yamcha stopped in mid-air, the master letting out a breath.
"Everyone handles traumatic experiences differently Yamcha. Slavery under someone like Cooler or Frieza was more than likely horrifying. We will never know and shouldn't ask. Time can heal a lot, but from the way those Saiyans eat, you're going to have to gamble." Master Roshi gave his student a sad, but genuine smile.
"Great! Gambling with a Saiyan? I'm better off getting trampled by a bunch of baseball fans." Yamcha shook his head, looking out across the water.
"I just have this feeling that Vegeta is going to come back and wipe us all out. And me? Kami…What do I even do? I can't take on a Super Saiyan!"
"Hey!" Master Roshi sharply rebuked, forcing Yamcha to snap his body around.
"The limits that we put on ourselves are only there to deter us from reaching for that next plateau. When you dissuade yourself, you also disrespect your discipline, and therefore yourself as well. Besides, I chose to gain my youth back so I could grow alongside you all once again. I…I'm sorry I wasn't there for you when Raditz came the first time. I narrowly avoided getting killed myself heh heh heh, bu-but I do mean it. If it were me Yamcha, just take it easy on the poor girl. As much as she wants to train, you have to make sure she eats. And maybe… point her in the right direction. You have the capability of being a really good teacher someday on your own. But you must not forget the way of the Turtle." Yamcha listened to his Master's speech, taking it in and realizing what he needed to do.
"Thank you, Master Roshi. And uh, when… when Gohan told me you had died I was so angry at that bastard. I wanted to just… I didn't remember my teachings until my last moments back then. But all is forgiven. And uhh, I would gladly like to continue learning from ya, even if you're pretty much my age now."
"I just hope Vegeta doesn't come back and wreck me hahahaha." Yamcha laughed nervously at the thought of the Prince coming back to destroy him.
"I have a feeling that Goku and the other 2 would be more than a match for that punk. Just… take it slow with the girl, okay?" Master Roshi gave an all-knowing look at the Bandit, who laughed even more.
"Oh Kami, hell no! She's insane. Master Roshi, I couldn't survive with that woman forever! I'll be glad when she's gone!"
"You say that now…" Master Roshi gave a bobble of his head, smirking.
"You won't be saying that in a couple of years! Just you wait!" Yamcha stuck his tongue out at Master Roshi before laughing it off, flying back and waving.
"Good luck, son." The master said to the Bandit before he too started flying back…
He felt her energy spiking once again as he was flying back.
'Is she seriously at it again? What is with her? It's ridiculous!'
Yamcha soared across the sky, gaining a bit of speed. It was nighttime now with only a half moon tonight, which the Bandit was relieved about. Landing on the ground outside the Gravity Room next to his home, he quickly made his way inside…
She had been doing her calisthenics at 115X gravity when the heavier gravity immediately shut off. Sarada felt out Yamcha's ki, still far higher than hers which angered her slightly, but there was also anger laced in his own, which froze her. The door shut, turning the gravity back on within 3 seconds, making the Saiyan Princess nearly fall to a knee. She barely managed through gritted teeth. Yamcha walked toward her, not feeling the gravity nearly as much as Sarada.
"Are you serious Sarada? You were just out not 4 hours ago! Did you eat anything? You still look pretty drained to me." Yamcha immediately realized his mistake when Sarada threw a punch, grinding her teeth together. The Bandit caught it, leering over the woman.
"What does it matter what I do, human? If I want to train, then I will train!" She mustered out. Yamcha pushed her back, forcing her to take several steps back so she didn't fall. He continued to push her back forcefully until her back hit the wall.
"If you wanna kill yourself so much, you won't do it here! I've let you do pretty much whatever you want for the last few months until…"
He had an epiphany, at that very moment as he stared into her violet-colored eyes, that she hadn't been raised like Vegeta. She didn't have the basic methods of taking care of ones self down. He was being far too harsh on her. He cursed, backing away.
"Look, I'm going to go eat. And so are you. You need to eat to sustain yourself properly Sarada. Your Saiyan metabolism is greater than mine. So you're losing energy on top of using whatever energy you do have by not eating. Training every single minute you're awake is not only bad for your body but for your mind. You'll get much greater results in your training once you learn to rest your body when you need to and eat when you have to." Just then, a loud noise erupted from Sarada. Yamcha looked down at her stomach, making the Saiyan woman blush as she couldn't hide her hunger any longer.
"Hmph…fine. Let us eat and we will continue after-"
"No, we're not. We're eating, and you're taking a day-long rest."
"I said-"
"I don't care. I'll shut off this damn Gravity Room if you don't listen." Yamcha didn't back down from the angering Saiyan princess.
"Y-You would dare keep me from my training?" Sarada nearly burst, growling at Yamcha. But the Bandit didn't waver, instead smirking.
"OK then, fine. Let's deal. I'll turn the gravity down to a manageable level, say…75 times Earth's gravity. You have 3 minutes to land a punch, kick, elbow, or knee on any exposed part of me. Succeed, then we eat and continue training. Fail, then you eat and rest your muscles and mind for the day and we'll continue the day after. Shake on it?" Yamcha held his hand out, smirking at the woman. Sarada's face scrunched in a snarl before she shook her head in frustration.
"Fine, Earthling. When I win, you will allow me my meals in here on top of what you proposed." She smirked at her quick wit but was stymied when the Bandit took her extended hand in agreement.
"Ha! Fat chance! You're not gonna win. I can probably beat you without throwing a punch ya know heh heh heh!" Sarada growled as Yamcha released her hand, walking over to the controls and turning down the gravity. He felt his muscles relieved slightly at the less resistant pressure, as did Sarada.
She didn't wait, immediately charging toward the Bandit with her hand out.
"Whoa whoa whoa!" Sarada missed with her swiping hand, growling as Yamcha jumped, backflipping away from her.
"I didn't even set the timer-YIKES!" Yamcha dodged a blast of energy from the woman before Sarada phased away, appearing above Yamcha.
"TAKE THIS!" She yelled as she rushed down with a leg extended, but Yamcha once again evaded, dodging as Sarada came to the ground, flying low and trying to sweep the Bandit. Yamcha jumped over it but Sarada had other plans, attempting a kiai from below. Yamcha used his energy, deflecting the weaker invisible wave with one of his own, which pushed Sarada back to the ground. She landed, barely getting away from one of Yamcha's claw swipes.
She retreated a few steps back, shock plastered on her face. She had been able to convince the Bandit to fight with her a couple of times, but he had never tried to attack her. Yamcha rose to his full height, not moving from where he had missed Sarada.
"What? You think I wouldn't fight back? Those days are over, Princess! You called out the Wolf, so the claws are out!" Sarada growled, rushing the Bandit. Her martial arts had improved with watching Yamcha train sometimes, but she had yearned to be better. Changing it up, she phased away from one of the Bandit's reachouts. Getting behind where she tried to double axe him in the head, but he moved his head to the side, planting a knee into the woman's stomach. Blood shot out of Sarada's mouth as she backed away holding her stomach.
"Oh! Shit, I'm sorry uhh…Huh…?"
Sarada started laughing as she continued to clutch her stomach, and not in a way the Bandit liked. She looked up, a blank look in her eyes. Yamcha knew what this meant.
"Son of a…"
"AAAAAHHHHHHH…!"…
"HAA!"
BOOOOM
Vegeta's fist was planted in Raditz's palm as he threw a return punch, which the Prince blocked.
"Let's say we turn this up a notch, Low Class heh heh heh!" Vegeta used his foot, pushing off of Raditz's leg and driving himself into the air.
"Bring it, VEGETA!" Raditz's golden aura was pumping furiously, watching Vegeta disappear before-
BOOM
The shorter Super Saiyan was testing Raditz's defenses, trying to find an opening on the bigger Saiyan that he could exploit.
He turned furiously, lashing out with the other leg, catching Raditz in the chest and driving him away. Raditz recovered very quickly, charging back in with a fist out, driving it into Vegeta's forearm as he blocked it. They began a vicious struggle in mid-air, each trying to push the other back. Vegeta reached out with his other arm, grabbing Raditz's arm and turning and throwing Raditz over his shoulder. The long-haired Super Saiyan recovered several feet from the ground, but the Prince flew in far too fast, driving a fist into Raditz's face, making him slam into the ground so hard that he bounced out of the crater he made, allowing Vegeta to plant a kick into his side, sending him hacking away.
Raditz coughed out a little bit of blood. 'Blast it! Vegeta definitely caught up with the Super Saiyan transformation!'
"I told you that I am stronger than you are now, fool! You didn't have a chance before, and you won't ever have it again!" Vegeta clenched his fist, smirking at the anger in Raditz's face. Raditz's anger morphed into a deadly smirk. Disappearing almost instantly.
"Hmph!" Vegeta threw a lazy arm up to block Raditz's kick that came in, except Raditz disappeared from in front of him.
"Wha-?"
BOOM
Vegeta was smashed in the side of the head, thrown wildly in a tumble.
"Fooled you, Vegeta!"
The Prince recovered in the air, shaking his head furiously. 'His technique has improved tremendously since he has been under my order! Did training with the other Low-Class clowns grant him this much ability? He was always lazy before! No skill, no technique. Hell, he didn't have power! What has changed?'
Vegeta thought no more of it, holding his hand out toward Raditz.
"A lucky shot doesn't make you better than me, fool! I will show you the extreme difference in class right now! BOW TO YOUR PRINCE!" Blue energy started forming in front of his hand, electricity surrounding the forming ball.
"Never this seen before," Raditz said to himself.
"BIG BANG ATTACK!" Vegeta yelled, sending the dense energy ball toward his foe. Raditz's teal eyes widened for a moment. 'He has always had the most destructive power... Too bad I'm no longer afraid of it!"
"HAAAAA! FINE THEN VEGETA!" Raditz coated his hand in golden energy, slamming his fist into the energy blast. It held on momentarily before Raditz overpowered it, punching it hard back toward the Prince!
"Hmph! Blasted fool!" Vegeta nearly yelled out, dodging away as he watched his attack soar into the sky, higher and higher before it exploded, coating the sky in heavy smoke as Vegeta and Raditz both rushed each other, slamming their forearms against each other.
"Can't say we ever had a battle quite like this before heh heh heh." Raditz started pushing Vegeta through the air before Vegeta let out of burst of his energy, forcing a stalemate. Out of nowhere, Vegeta changed tactics, rolling off of Raditz, making the long-haired Super Saiyan float forward still in momentum. Before he could turn around, Vegeta had already been winding up a massive kick, smashing Raditz in the side and making him spit out as he was forced away.
"HaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAA HAH HAH HAH HAH HAH HA HA HAH HAH HAH!" Vegeta started throwing a bunch of energy balls toward the now-recovering Raditz.
"Shit!" He called out, smashing away many of the energy balls. One traveled far below to a trio of warriors down below...
BOOM BOOM BOOM
One, followed by two more had made its way toward the sitting warriors, lost in a deep meditation.
But...
The BanHammer stood guard, erecting a multicolored shield, easily absorbing the energy...
Goku, Shepard, and Soba were sitting in a circle, their eyes closed as each was in a deep meditation. At least it appeared to be, but there was a reason why Shepard had set the BanHammer next to them...
"HAH!"
"YAH!"
Shepard and Goku's fists collided in the center, the 'planet' rumbling under the pressure.
Their hair was yellow, their eyes teal. Each staring the other down before going all out. Goku was enjoying this place that Shepard had set up. The air was cool, but not freezing. The blue sun above them gave off a different heat than Earth's Sun, but it didn't matter as Goku caught one of Shepard's punches, letting an elbow fly into Shepard's jaw, knocking him back. Goku phased above, kicking down, but Shepard afterimaged away, coming in with a kick of his own. Goku afterimaged away as well before appearing above Shepard, smashing him away with both fists together. Shepard recovered in the air, dodging up and back from Goku coming to take advantage.
"Darn it! I'll get you, Shep!"
"BRING IT!" Shepard flew down, meeting Goku in mid-air where they clashed. Shepard ducked under an elbow before grabbing Goku's other elbow. Shepard went to knee Goku in the back but he flipped over it before smashing Shepard's guard from the flipped kick.
Shepard recovered a few hundred feet away, eyeing his adversary in the air.
"Let's have some fun!" Shepard snapped his fingers, envisioning a more difficult battlefield. Stalactites and pillars started popping up in mid-air, floating as if untamed by gravity.
"What ya think Goku?" Shepard floated toward Goku who looked around for a few minutes, indifferent.
"Doesn't matter to me, let's continue the fight now! This warm-up is great!" Goku and Shepard came together, Goku grabbing Shepard's arm and tossing him over his shoulder. Shepard flipped away, landing feet first along one of the pillars, Goku on his heels. Goku threw a punch forward which Shepard batted away before he phased away from Goku's next attack.
"HA!" Shepard came down with force, his blue Ki blade ignited. He was shocked when Goku managed to block it between his hands. Goku struggled as Shepard pushed down, putting his other hand behind the bladed one and trying to cut Goku in two. The blade pushed further, getting to within an inch of Goku's struggling face.
"Didn't think y-you would use a weapon!"
"AHHHHHH! Didn't think you would care!"
Goku didn't. He needed this, far more than he would ever admit. The mental battle with Kakarot had been incredibly difficult, on his body and his mind. If Shepard had not come in and helped in those precious few moments…
As the blade was stalemated, Goku tried to end the stalemate with a knee to Shepard's stomach but he saw it coming, bringing his hand down to block it.
'I got em!'
Goku pushed his energy higher, yelling as he twisted his body, snapping the ki blade, turning and extending both feet into Shepard's stomach, sending blood shooting out as he was thrown away, slamming through several of the floating pillars…
Down below, a figure was watching. Soba had taken a keen interest in the Saiyan who had recovered from his… mental lapse. His energy was pure, even after such a malicious encounter. It was unbelievable to the Yardratian. But he continued to watch the fight, watching as the other Saiyan exploded out of the pillar he wound up stuck in.
"These Saiyans are incredible. They have already surpassed my strength. Yet they yearn for more. What drives them?" A golden explosion in the air made his eyes widen as several of the floating pillars had been destroyed by the colossal blast.
"I better get to my training." Soba said to himself, ready to leave.
"Not so fast." A voice from behind said, forcing the warrior to turn in surprise. He studied the man slowly, trying to sense out his energy. He was even more surprised a second later when the man snapped his fingers.
The area around them changed to a white void.
"Wh-What is this? Who are… Who are you?" Soba stepped back on fear when the man walked slowly toward him.
"You have nothing to worry about, Soba. I wish to teach you a technique or two, if you don't mind." The man said. Soba could sense the man's sincerity, but it was still jarring.
"I promise once we're done, you'll travel back to that space the Saiyans are fighting in."
"Hmmm… Very well. I accept this condition." Soba emptied his mind as the man started to explain what he was to learn…
So as I am sure you are all aware, our hero has now reached into the realm of the Heavens. If you are not aware, Akira Toriyama, a man responsible for, well, this and many thousands of fanfiction, rather we would admit it to ourselves or not, has passed away a few short days ago. I am sure, like I was, that many of you were shocked, saddened at the sudden news. All of us who have either grown up as a fan watching Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, or if you have read mangas and Shonen Jump, the artwork, the fighting, owe it to this man. Some of us grew up idolizing what Goku stood for, or Vegeta, or even Gohan or Piccolo. And to know that Goku will live on long past his creator? Akira left a legacy behind that each and every single one of us, whether we illustrate, draw, watch, critique, embrace, love, hate, should relish in what a legend this is. And I hope like many that Toyotaro and others treat the series with the respect that it has earned. For me personally, being a kid in the 90s and catching and episode of Frieza screaming the whole episode just to get to 100 percent full power or half an episode of Vegeta charging a Final Flash, those were the days. I can't say everyone's experiences would be the same, but mine was mostly positive. I will likely never stop loving the show.
That being said, I wanted to get this chapter out to you guys as soon as I could. These next couple of chapters are going to be going in a slightly different direction. As in everything seems to be pretty scattered with no real direction, but it'll come together. Until we meet again guys!
R.I.P(ower)!
Akira Toriyama- 1955-2024