Chapter 57: The Enemy of My Enemy
Hinata glanced at Goku, her lavender eyes soft but curious. "So, what's the plan? Where are we heading?"
Goku's expression, typically bright and carefree, was uncharacteristically serious. "There's someone I need to find. Someone I think you might not want to meet again."
Hinata's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean by that?"
Goku hesitated for a moment, as if weighing his words carefully. "I've been sensing a familiar presence," he admitted. "If he is who I think he is… then I'd rather handle this alone. It's serious business, Hinata. This guy could be dangerous."
Hinata's skepticism deepened, there was no mistaking the gravity in Goku's voice. "Who is it, Goku-kun? You know I can handle myself. If it's that serious, why wouldn't you want me to come?"
Goku chuckled lightly, scratching the back of his head in his usual manner. "It's not that I don't think you can handle it—hell, you're the strongest person on Earth, right?"
Hinata smiled at the compliment but shook her head modestly. "Third strongest, Goku-kun. You and Mr. Popo are ahead of me. No need to puff me up, I'm proud of where I stand." There was a teasing lilt to her voice, but her eyes remained focused on him. "If you really believe in me, then you'll let me come with you. Whoever this man is, we'll face him together."
Goku looked thoughtful, his gaze drifting to the horizon. He placed his hands under his chin, mimicking the posture of deep contemplation. "Hmm… you've got a point there. You could probably kick his ass if it came down to it." His voice was lighthearted, but there was a serious undertone as he continued. "There is this thing of... I need a new training partner, and as amazing as you are, there's always something… extra between us, y'know?"
Hinata giggled, understanding the subtle complexity of their relationship. "I suppose facing this guy could be good for me too if that's where your logic lies."
Goku nodded, the intensity in his gaze softening. "Alright fine, you win. You can come with me." He flashed a grin at her, one that was contagious.
Hinata's smile widened. "I knew you'd see it my way. You're too easy sometimes."
Goku shrugged playfully, as if conceding the point. "Yeah, yeah. But before we head off, there's someone else I need to check on."
Hinata raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Who?"
Goku's expression grew warm, a fondness coloring his tone. "My older sister," he replied simply.
Hinata's eyes widened in surprise. "You have a sister? You never mentioned that before. Another Saiyan?"
Goku burst out laughing, shaking his head. "No, no. I mean Yugao. She's an Anbu who watched over me when I was just a kid. She was my jonin sensei on Team Four, but more than that… she's my nee-chan in all but blood. The most precious person in Konoha, in my totally biased opinion."
Hinata crossed her arms, feigning annoyance. "Most precious person in Konoha, huh? And what about me?"
Goku grinned, eyes twinkling with mischief. "You're not of Konoha anymore, remember? You're of Kami now." He pointed at the kanji on the front and back of her outfit, symbolizing her connection to Kami's teachings.
Hinata played along, her tone mock-serious. "Oh, right. I'm a woman of Kami now. I forgot." She glanced down at Akamaru in her arms, who barked in agreement, clearly enjoying the playful banter between them.
The trio continued flying, the camaraderie between Goku and Hinata evident in every exchange. They might have been rivals, but their bond went far beyond that—a complex weave of friendship, respect, and a much deeper love.
Goku soared through the sky, a focused expression on his face. His senses were sharp, attuned to the distinct energy signatures of those he cared about. It wasn't long before he found what he was looking for: a familiar energy—strong, steady, comforting. But there was something else too, something smaller, softer, intertwined with that energy.
What did that mean?
The realization hit him with the force of a falling tree: Yugao was pregnant.
He slowed his pace, allowing Hinata and Akamaru to take the lead as they headed toward the Hyuga compound. He, on the other hand, veered off toward a different destination: Sasuke's abode. As he landed gently at the doorstep, Goku hesitated for a brief moment before knocking. The wooden door creaked open to reveal Haku, her face lighting up with surprise before it melted into a warm, welcoming smile.
"Goku-san, it's been a while," Haku said softly, stepping aside to allow him in.
Goku returned the smile, stepping into the cozy, dimly lit home. His eyes quickly scanned the room, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. Sasuke sat by the window, a rare expression of calm on his face as he watched the world outside. In the corner of the room, a baby girl—no more than a year old—slept soundly in a crib. And there, seated on the sofa, was Yugao. But Goku's eyes were immediately drawn to the pronounced bump of her belly.
She was definitely pregnant, and the realization hit him harder now that he was standing before her.
Yugao looked up and her eyes widened as they met Goku's. She hadn't seen him in so long, and the changes in him were striking. He was taller, more mature, and exuded an aura of strength that was almost overwhelming. But before she could say anything, Goku was already crossing the room, pulling her into a long, heartfelt embrace.
"Nee-chan," he murmured, his voice soft and filled with warmth. "It's so good to see you."
Yugao melted into the embrace, holding him tightly. "Goku... You've grown so much. I can hardly believe it. You've become so strong." She pulled back slightly to look at him, her eyes filled with a mix of pride and something else—something heavier. "And here I am, looking like I've seen better days."
Goku chuckled, but his eyes were serious as he took in her appearance. "You're not just tired, Yugao-neechan. There's something more... I can feel it in your energy. There's... another energy inside you."
Yugao stiffened slightly, her grip on Goku tightening as tears welled up in her eyes. She had been trying so hard to stay strong, to keep her emotions in check, but his bluntness had struck a chord deep within her. "I'm... pregnant, Goku. It's... It's Itachi's child."
The room seemed to grow still, the air heavy with the weight of her words. Goku's eyes narrowed, a mixture of emotions flashing across his face. Itachi… Sasuke's older brother, the man who had been killed by Raditz before he could reach the battlefield.
Damnit.
Goku took a deep breath. "Nee-chan, I wish I could have been there for him... I really do. Itachi was fighting with everything he had, and I... he was killed before I could get there." He paused, searching for the right words. "I should have pushed harder, found a way to stop what happened. I just... I never wanted to fail anyone, especially not someone like him."
Before Goku could proceed, Yugao's voice cracked with emotion. "You said... before you could get there. What do you mean, Goku? Are you saying you could have saved him, but you were just late?"
Goku's fists clenched at his sides, his expression pained. "I… I wanted to help, but…" He hesitated, the memory of Mr. Popo's interference fresh in his mind. "A genie named Mr. Popo stopped me and Hinata from getting involved. He said it wasn't our fight."
Yugao's eyes widened in disbelief, her tears spilling over as she pulled away from him. "Otouto, I… I love you, but how can you say that? Itachi is… was… so much to me. And you were just going to let him die?"
Goku shook his head vehemently. "It wasn't like that, nee-chan. I wanted to help, but Mr. Popo—he's stronger than both me and Hinata combined. He said we had to stay out of it."
- Flashback no Jutsu -
Goku's fists were clenched, the veins in his arms bulging with the strain of holding back his urge to act. He could sense the chaos, the screams of his comrades, and the cruel laughter of the invader. Every fiber of his being screamed at him to move, to intervene, to save his friends. But something held him back—no, someone.
Mr. Popo, the enigmatic and terrifying caretaker of the Lookout, stood with an air of casual dominance, his jet-black eyes reflecting nothing but the abyss. He hadn't even moved, yet the tension in the air was suffocating.
Goku, hovering on the edge of restraint, finally broke the silence. "Popo, let us go! They need us! I can't just stand here and do nothing while my friends are out there fighting for their lives!"
Mr. Popo didn't even blink. His voice was as cold and unyielding as the void. "No."
Goku's frustration erupted, his aura flaring with bluish white energy as he struggled to contain his fury. "Why the hell not? We can save them! I can save them! This isn't just a fight, it's a slaughter! We're supposed to protect this world!"
Hinata, standing beside Goku, added her voice to the plea. "Mr. Popo, please… if we can help them, we must. It's our duty."
Mr. Popo's expression remained unreadable, his voice devoid of any emotion. "Duty? Your duty is to remember the pecking order." He stepped forward, and the sheer weight of his presence caused the air around them to warp, distorting the very fabric of reality. "I am the ruler of this planet. Not Kami, not Goku, and certainly not you, little girl."
Akamaru growled low in his throat, sensing the tension and ready to pounce, but Hinata gently placed a hand on his head, calming him.
Goku, undeterred by the overwhelming pressure, met Mr. Popo's gaze with defiance. "I don't care about your pecking order, Popo! This isn't about that! It's about doing what's right!"
Mr. Popo's smile was a thin, cruel line. "You think you know what's right, maggot? You think you can protect everyone? Let me enlighten you, Son Goku. If you go down there now, without understanding the true depth of this evil, you'll only be sealing your fate and dooming this world to something far worse."
Goku's energy flared brighter, the air crackling with tension. "What are you talking about? What could be worse than letting my friends die?"
Mr. Popo's smile widened, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Without this evil, the story would only get far more evil down the line. The plot needs these deaths to get interesting... to preserve the balance. No amount of training would prepare you for what would come if you interfered now. Even you, the mighty Son Goku, will fall."
Goku's resolve wavered for a moment, but then his eyes hardened. "I don't believe in sacrificing people just to make the story 'interesting,' Popo! This isn't a game!"
Hinata stepped closer, her voice gentle but firm. "Goku's right. We can't just stand by and watch. We've trained so hard to protect those we care about. Please, Mr. Popo, let us go."
Mr. Popo sighed, as if dealing with petulant children. "You think you're ready? Fine." He suddenly moved, faster than their eyes could follow, and in the blink of an eye, both Goku and Hinata were on their knees, crushed by the overwhelming force of his aura. "But let me remind you of something, children. I am Mr. Popo. There is no one above me on this planet. Not Kami, not you, not anyone. I am the pecking order."
Goku struggled to rise, the weight of Mr. Popo's presence bearing down on him like a mountain. "Popo… damn it… why?"
Mr. Popo's eyes gleamed with a dark amusement. "Because you're not ready. Not yet. The story needs you to learn the value of loss. It's a hard lesson, but a necessary one. Only through the ashes of defeat can you find the strength to overcome the real threats that lie ahead. If you go now, you'll save them, but you'll doom everyone else later. And then even you, Son Goku, will fall."
Hinata gritted her teeth, her Tenseigan activated as she tried to resist, but even she was helpless under the immense pressure. "This… this isn't fair!"
Mr. Popo's gaze softened, just slightly. "No, it's not. But fairness is a luxury you don't have the right to demand, not in this world. Now stay put and watch. Learn from this, because when the time comes, you'll need every bit of strength and wisdom you can muster."
As they lay there, pinned by an invisible force, minutes felt like hours, and every second that passed was a knife twisting in their hearts. They could feel the life forces of their comrades winking out, one by one, like dying stars.
Then, after what felt like an eternity, the intense energy that had flared with Lee's final sacrifice began to wane. Mr. Popo's presence, which had been crushing them, suddenly lifted. He looked down at them, his tone almost casual. "Now, you may go."
Goku's eyes shot open, and with a burst of energy, he leapt to his feet. "Finally!" he roared, his voice echoing with a mixture of rage and determination. Without another word, he turned to Hinata, who was just beginning to rise. "I'll be back soon," he said, his voice filled with resolve.
Before she could protest or even offer to join him, Goku took off like a bolt of lightning, leaving a streak of almost pure white, tinged with a hint of blue, cutting through the sky.
Hinata, still reeling from the intense pressure she had endured, watched him go. "Be safe, Goku-kun," she whispered, her hands clenching into fists.
Mr. Popo watched them with an inscrutable expression, his eyes narrowing slightly. "You're not ready yet, Goku," he murmured to himself. "But soon… soon you will be."
- Present no Jutsu -
Yugao's disbelief was evident. "A genie? Stopping you, Goku? I find that hard to believe."
Goku nodded, his expression serious. "Yeah, I get it. But this genie—Mr. Popo—he's not like anything I've ever seen before. He's… different. Strong. Scary strong. He'll probably end up training Naruto and Sasuke soon enough."
The room fell into a heavy silence, the only sound the soft breathing of the sleeping Sarada in her crib. Haku moved to Yugao's side, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. "Yugao-san, Goku-san did what he could. None of us could have predicted what would happen."
Sasuke, who had been silent up until this point, finally spoke up, his voice low and measured. "It's not Goku's fault. Raditz was a monster. We couldn't have known how strong he was until it was too late."
Yugao wiped her eyes, trying to regain control of her emotions. "I know… I know you're right. It's just… It's so hard to accept. First Hayate, and now Itachi… I don't know how much more I can take."
Goku stepped forward, his voice filled with determination. "Nee-chan, I promise you this: I will make things right. When the time comes, I'll use the Dragon Balls to bring Itachi back, along with everyone else who's been lost. I swear it."
Yugao's eyes softened, a faint smile playing on her lips despite it all. "Thank you, otouto. I believe in you. I've always believed in you."
As the conversation continued, the atmosphere slowly began to lighten. Goku, sensing the need for a change in mood, started telling stories of his adventures on Kami's Lookout, regaling them with tales of his intense training and the strange antics of Mr. Popo. Even Sasuke cracked a small smile at some of the more outrageous details.
Eventually, the conversation turned to lighter topics, and the tension that had hung over the room began to dissipate. The warmth of the tea, the comfort of the company, and the shared memories of loved ones helped to heal some of the pain that had been brought to the surface.
As the night wore on, Goku was eager and ready to continue his journey. "I'll be back soon, nee-chan. And when I am, we'll make everything right."
Yugao smiled, her heart feeling a little lighter. "Be careful, Goku. You're stronger now, but don't lose that heart of yours."
Goku grinned, giving her a thumbs-up. "You got it!"
Before Goku could leave, a knock came at the door. Haku, ever graceful, moved to answer it. As the door creaked open, she was met with the sight of Naruto, Ino, and a round, somewhat disheveled man wielding a sword. Goku's face lit up when he saw Yajirobe, his usual carefree demeanor returning. "Yajirobe! How did you get to Konoha before I did?"
Yajirobe, looking up with an exasperated expression, grunted, "Mr. Popo is a terrifying entity. I blame him—and the plot—for making me get here this fast. Seriously, it's not natural."
Everyone burst into laughter, the tension in the room easing just a bit. Yajirobe then looked around the room, his eyes landing on Sasuke. "I'm here to collect you. You're next on the list."
Haku's eyebrows knit together in confusion. "List? List for what?"
Yajirobe sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "The list to train on Kami's Lookout. You know, get strong enough to be this timeline's version of the Z-Fighters."
Ino looked intrigued. "Z-Fighters? What does that mean?"
Goku scratched his head, thinking. "Probably a team designated to defend Earth from guys who can blow it up."
Sasuke's expression darkened. "My priority is here, with my family. I'm not leaving them behind."
Naruto and Ino exchanged glances. Unlike Sasuke, they didn't have the same ties binding them to Konoha. Yajirobe shuddered slightly, remembering the tales of Mr. Popo. "You might not have a choice, kid."
Sasuke's eyes turned cold, a familiar darkness settling over him. "Whoever this Mr. Popo is, he can try to take me. I'll see for myself if he's as powerful as everyone says."
Haku, always the calming presence, placed a hand on Sasuke's arm. "You should go."
Sasuke looked at her, surprised. "Why? My training here—with you, Naruto, and Kakashi—it's been more than enough."
Haku's gaze softened. "It's not. Raditz proved that. Our raw power isn't enough. You need to get stronger—for our family. If you stay here, you'll only be holding yourself back."
Naruto nodded in agreement. "She's right, teme. We barely scratched Raditz without pulling out some cheap shots. We need more power, more training."
Sasuke's resolve wavered for a moment, but he looked into Haku's eyes and saw the determination there. "Are you sure?"
Haku smiled gently. "I'm sure. Do this for us, Sasuke-kun."
Ino couldn't help but marvel at the scene before her. Sasuke, the cold, detached avenger, had truly built a family—a functional, loving family. And Haku… Haku was everything Sasuke needed. The perfect yin to his yang. Ino smirked, her competitive nature flaring.
"Damn, Sasuke. You really did it. You've got the perfect life here. Almost makes me jealous."
Sasuke's gaze softened as he looked at Haku and Sarada. "Yeah… I guess I do."
Ino, never one to back down, added playfully, "Haku might be more beautiful than me, but I'd still kick her ass in a fight. So I'm still the top bitch in this village—well, after Hinata, maybe."
Haku chuckled softly, her hand resting on Sasuke's. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you, Ino."
Sasuke's question was straightforward but laced with concern. "But who will protect Haku and Sarada while I'm gone?"
Yugao spoke up, her tone resolute. "Goku's back, and that's all we need."
Ino scoffed playfully. "Relying on Goku is like believing aliens don't exist. Oh wait, they do—" She jabbed a thumb at Goku. "—and I'm looking at one right now."
Despite the banter, she couldn't help but add with a wink, "But I still love you more than anyone else, Goku-kun."
Naruto crossed his arms, smirking. "Not for long. I'm coming for that number one spot, whether it's morally correct or not."
Ino relished the challenge. "We'll see, Goldie. Goku's a hard act to follow."
Goku, taking in the light-hearted teasing, reassured Sasuke with a firm nod. "I'll be here, for real this time. Mr. Popo says I'm beyond his training, so I'm stuck here on the surface. I'll make sure everyone's ready."
Yugao smiled softly, the roles seemingly reversed now. "Looks like the student is officially the teacher."
Everyone laughed at the irony, the heavy mood lightening for just a moment.
As the laughter died down, Sasuke turned to his family. He knelt by Sarada's crib, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I'll be back soon," he whispered, his voice filled with love.
He stood, turning to Haku, who met him with a warm smile. "When this is over, we're getting married. No more delays."
Haku's eyes sparkled with joy, and she embraced him tightly. "I'll hold you to that, Sasuke-kun."
Their kiss was long and unashamed, filled with all the love and passion they had for each other. When they finally pulled away, Sasuke turned to Naruto, Ino, and Yajirobe. "Let's go."
Before leaving, he looked back at Goku, his eyes hardening with resolve. "Protect them, Goku. With your life."
Goku grinned, giving him a thumbs up. "You got it."
As Hinata stepped into the familiar yet somehow distant surroundings of the Hyuga compound, she felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her. Akamaru padded quietly by her side, his large form a comforting presence as always. The compound, with its traditional architecture and serene gardens, had been a place of both solace and pressure for her growing up. But now, after nearly two years away, everything felt slightly different.
Perhaps because she was different.
Hanabi was the first to greet her, and Hinata's heart swelled at the sight of her younger sister. Hanabi had grown, both in height and demeanor, now standing as a confident young girl of eleven. She looked up at Hinata with wide, curious eyes, immediately noticing the changes in her older sister.
"Hinata-neesan!" Hanabi exclaimed, her voice a mix of joy and awe. "You look… different."
Hinata smiled softly, her hand reaching out to gently ruffle Hanabi's hair. "It's been a long time, Hanabi. You've grown so much."
Hanabi grinned, her confidence shining through. "And so have you! You look strong, nee-san. Really strong."
Akamaru barked softly in agreement, his massive frame now towering over the once-small pup Hanabi remembered. She giggled and reached out to pet him, marveling at how much the dog had grown as well.
Hiashi Hyuga, the patriarch of the family, stood quietly behind them, his expression unreadable. He hadn't changed much—his stern demeanor and imposing presence were the same as ever. Yet, as Hinata turned to face him, she could sense a shift in his aura, a subtle acknowledgement of the person she had become.
"Father," Hinata greeted, bowing respectfully.
Hiashi nodded, his eyes briefly scanning her form, noting the changes in her stance, the quiet strength that now radiated from her. "Hinata, you've returned."
"Hai," she replied, straightening up. "There's much to discuss."
They moved inside, to a quiet room where the family could speak privately. Hinata began recounting her journey, detailing the events of her time away—her training with Goku, the trials on Kami's Lookout, and the harrowing experiences that had shaped her into who she was now.
As she spoke, Hanabi's eyes widened at the mention of Mr. Popo and the rigorous training. "Wait, you died?" Hanabi blurted out, her shock evident. "Since when did that happen?"
Hinata chuckled softly at her sister's incredulity. "It's a long story, Hanabi. But yes, I did. It was during the battle with Piccolo Daimao."
Hiashi's gaze sharpened at this revelation. "You faced death… and returned stronger." There was no question in his tone, only a statement of fact.
"Yes, Father. It was part of the journey. But it wasn't just about surviving—it was about growing, about pushing beyond what I thought was possible."
Hanabi's admiration was clear in her eyes, but she couldn't help but ask, "What was it like, Hinata-neesan? Facing something like that?"
Hinata paused, considering her answer. "Terrifying. But it was also… enlightening. I realized how much I still had to learn, how much more I could become. It wasn't just about physical strength—it was about understanding myself, my limits, and how to break past them."
Hiashi remained silent for a moment, absorbing her words. When he finally spoke, his tone was measured. "You have walked a path few could endure, Hinata. You have become stronger, not just in body, but in spirit."
Hinata nodded, feeling the weight of his words. It wasn't often that Hiashi offered such praise, and she took it to heart.
Hanabi, ever curious, leaned forward. "Tell me more, nee-san. What else happened?"
Hinata smiled at her sister's eagerness and continued her story.
"Stepping onto Kami's Lookout," she began, her voice steady, "was like entering another world. The serene atmosphere contrasted sharply with the intense training that awaited us. I knew this place would change me, but I wasn't prepared for just how much."
As she spoke, the memories of her time on the Lookout flooded back. "Goku and I had been close—closer than anyone else in my life—but the events that would unfold up there would test our bond much more than expected."
Hinata's voice took on a more serious tone. "Mr. Popo was… terrifying. His power was overwhelming, and his methods were brutal. He wasn't like Kami, who was wise and gentle. Mr. Popo was the enforcer, the one who made sure we either grew stronger or died trying. I hated him for it, but I also knew that his harsh methods were what we needed."
Hanabi listened, wide-eyed, while Hiashi's expression remained stoic, though his eyes betrayed a deep interest.
"The training was relentless," Hinata continued. "Day after day, Goku and I pushed ourselves to the brink. I focused on mastering my chakra, trying to control it with the same ease that Goku controlled his ki. It was a struggle—chakra and ki, though similar, required different mindsets, different flows. Goku made it look effortless, but I had to work hard to keep up."
She paused, her thoughts drifting back to the Pendulum Room. "But it wasn't just the physical training that wore me down. Mr. Popo had a way of getting inside our heads, using the Pendulum Room to make us face our worst fears and memories. It was in that room where I came face to face with Piccolo Daimao—the one who had killed me. Even though I knew it wasn't real, the fear was. But I wasn't that same girl anymore. I fought back, determined to overcome the past."
Hanabi's voice was barely a whisper. "How did you do it, Hinata-neesan? How did you face him again?"
Hinata's eyes softened as she looked at her sister. "I remembered why I was there. I wasn't just fighting for myself—I was fighting for all of you, for everyone I cared about. That gave me the strength to push past the fear."
Hiashi nodded approvingly. "You have become more than I ever could have imagined."
"Months passed, and the training didn't let up," Hinata continued. "Our dynamic—Goku's and mine—shifted from being boyfriend and girlfriend to something more ruthless. We became bitter rivals, each driven by our desire to be the best. It was intense, and somewhere along the way, we… grew apart."
She hesitated, the memory still raw. "We broke up. The intensity of our training and the isolation drove a wedge between us. But in some twisted way, it felt necessary. We couldn't afford distractions, and becoming rivals seemed like the only way forward."
Hiashi raised an eyebrow, but didn't comment, while Hanabi looked saddened by this revelation.
"But then, one day, it happened," Hinata said, her tone shifting as she recalled the moment. "Kami had been guiding me, helping me explore my chakra potential. And then, after what felt like an eternity of struggle and frustration, the Tenseigan awakened within me."
Hiashi's eyes widened slightly, a display of surprise. "The Tenseigan?"
"Hai," Hinata confirmed. "My Byakugan transformed, and my vision became sharper, clearer, more powerful than I ever thought possible. But it wasn't just about seeing further—it was about understanding the world in a new way, about controlling gravity, manipulating energy, and creating chakra constructs that were as deadly as they were beautiful."
Hanabi stared at her sister in awe. "That's… incredible."
Hinata smiled gently. "It was. But learning to control it was another challenge. It was like learning to walk all over again. But Goku was there with me every step of the way, pushing me, challenging me. Even though we were rivals, there was still that bond between us."
Hiashi remained silent, his mind processing the revelation, while Hanabi burst with excitement. "You're amazing, Hinata-neesan!"
"But even with the Tenseigan, we couldn't let our guard down," Hinata continued. "Mr. Popo was always watching, always pushing us harder. And, especially by the time we left the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, the strain had more than taken its toll. Goku and I… we were no longer the same people who had arrived on The Lookout."
Her voice grew quieter as she recounted the final chapter of her story. "The tension between us reached a breaking point one night when we were sitting under the stars on Kami's Lookout. The frustration, the suppressed desires, and the bitterness of our rivalry had built up for months. We argued, harsh words were exchanged… but then, something changed."
Hiashi's expression remained unreadable, but Hanabi was hanging on every word.
"Kami sensed it too. He told us that we didn't have to keep holding back, that it was time to embrace who we really were. Goku and I made a covenant with Kami that day—to protect the Earth with everything we had. And then… Mr. Popo, in his usual mocking way, demanded that we solidify our bond with a kiss."
Hanabi's eyes widened in shock. "A kiss?"
Hinata nodded, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "It was supposed to be a simple act, but as soon as our lips met, everything else faded away. The kiss was intense, filled with all the emotions we had been suppressing. It was a moment that once again redefined our relationship."
Hiashi's gaze softened slightly. "You have become strong, Hinata. Not just in power, but in heart."
Hanabi's face was a mix of emotions—excitement, curiosity, and something close to awe. "So… what happens now, Hinata-neesan?"
Hinata smiled, her eyes filled with determination. "Now, we prepare for whatever comes next. Goku and I… we'll face it together. As rivals, partners, and everything else you could call us."
Hiashi's eyes, usually hard and calculating, softened as he evaluated his daughter. The changes in her were profound—both in the physical sense and in the aura of power that seemed to radiate from her. She was a far cry from the timid girl who once struggled to live up to the expectations placed upon her...
She was a warrior of the highest order.
"I would like to see these new powers of yours," he said, his voice laced with curiosity.
Hinata nodded, understanding the importance of the moment. "Of course, Tou-san."
They moved outside to the large training yard, a space that had seen countless Hyuga clan members hone their techniques over the years. Today, however, it would bear witness to something unprecedented.
Hinata took a deep breath and activated her Tenseigan. The transformation was immediate—her Byakugan shifted, the veins around her eyes dissipating as her irises glowed with an ethereal blue light. Her chakra flared up, a soft yet potent aura that surrounded her body. The air around her hummed with energy, causing the leaves of the nearby trees to rustle as if in response to her power.
Hiashi, Hanabi, and the other onlookers watched in awe as Hinata's chakra solidified into a tangible aura, the baby blue energy flowing around her like a gentle, yet unstoppable current. Slowly, she began to rise from the ground, her feet leaving the earth as she levitated effortlessly into the air. The sight was mesmerizing, a display of power and grace that captivated everyone present.
Just then, two figures descended from the sky, their entrance as dramatic as it was unexpected. Neji and Tenten, clad in their advanced iron-man armors, landed gracefully in the yard. The suits hissed and clicked as they deactivated, retracting into compact forms that left them in their regular shinobi attire. Neji, ever the formal one, immediately bowed before Hinata out of respect.
"Neji-niisan," Hinata said softly, a touch of sadness in her voice. "You don't have to do that. The branch member stigma—it's over. As far as I'm concerned, we're equals. If that means I have to leave the compound again to ensure it, then so be it."
Neji straightened, a small, appreciative smile on his face. "You've grown, Hinata-sama. The younger cousin I once knew has become someone truly remarkable."
Hinata returned the smile, her feet touching back down on the ground as she deactivated the Tenseigan. "I'm still the same person, Neji-niisan. Life just forced me to push beyond my own limits. How else was I going to keep up with someone like Son Goku?"
Tenten, who had been observing with a playful grin, stepped forward and nudged Neji with her elbow. "So, Hinata, think you can teach Neji to unlock his own Tenseigan? I'm getting tired of having to improve our suits and weapons just to give him a fighting chance against the top dogs."
Hinata's expression turned thoughtful. "I'm not sure, Tenten. The way I acquired the Tenseigan wasn't… natural. It required specific training and mystical methods from Mr. Popo. He might kick Neji off the Lookout before he could even step foot on it."
Neji, who had been silent for a moment, finally spoke. "I'm willing to put my life on the line for it, if there's even a chance." His voice carried a quiet determination. "I've been stuck on the sidelines for too long. Ever since the Chunin Exams, I've either lost or been… irrelevant. I want to be more like you, Hinata. I want to matter."
Tenten, sensing the sincerity in his words, softened her teasing demeanor. "Even if you manage to surpass your losing streak, Neji, you'll still lose to me. Because, let's face it, I'm Tetsu."
Neji rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a small smile. "Tetsu was defeated almost two years ago, Tenten. You're not invincible."
Tenten's playful demeanor faltered for a moment as she remembered that day. Her voice took on a more serious tone. "That's why I need you to get as strong as possible, Neji-kun. So that we can prevent anything like that from ever happening again."
Neji's gaze softened as he took her hand. "You're the reason I want to become stronger, Ten-chan. I love you, and I'll do anything to keep you safe."
Hanabi, who had been watching the exchange, suddenly blurted out, "When will it be my turn to find someone like that?"
The older shinobi exchanged amused glances. Hinata was the first to respond, her voice gentle. "It's not as simple or as beautiful as it might seem, Hanabi. Love… it's complicated. There were times when I wanted to kill Goku and kiss him at the same time."
Tenten and Neji both nodded in agreement. "It's true," the former added. "Love and relationships—they're messy, but that's what makes them worth it."
Hanabi blinked, clearly processing this new information, while Hiashi took the opportunity to step forward and address the group.
"You are all welcome to stay for dinner tonight," he announced. "To celebrate the constant progress and growth of this new generation."
The offer was met with nods and smiles all around. The atmosphere had lightened considerably, and as they made their way to the dining hall, the tension of the past few years seemed to melt away, if only for a moment.
The dinner that followed was nothing short of grandiose. The Hyuga chefs outdid themselves, preparing a feast that included the finest dishes the clan had to offer. The dining hall was filled with laughter, conversation, and a sense of camaraderie that had been sorely missed.
Hinata found herself seated between Hanabi and Neji, with Tenten across from her. Akamaru lay contentedly at her feet, occasionally lifting his head to sniff at the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air.
As the meal progressed, the conversation flowed naturally from one topic to another. They talked about their training, their experiences, and the challenges they had faced. Tenten recounted some of the more amusing moments with her armors, while Neji shared his thoughts on the evolving dynamics within the village.
The meal continued late into the evening, with the atmosphere growing more relaxed and joyful. For the first time in a long while, they were able to set aside their burdens and simply enjoy each other's company.
As the night wore on, and the last of the dishes were cleared away, Hinata found herself standing in the courtyard once more. The cool night air was refreshing, and she looked up at the stars, feeling a deep sense of peace.
Neji approached her, his expression thoughtful. "Hinata-sama, I meant what I said earlier. I want to be more like you."
Hinata turned to face him. "You've always been strong, Neji-niisan. You don't need to be like me at all—you just need to be the best version of yourself."
Neji smiled, a genuine, unguarded smile. "Arigato, Hinata-sama."
The night sky was clear, a canvas of stars stretched above the rocky terrain. The wind whispered through the jagged peaks, a lonely sound in the otherwise silent expanse. The moon cast its pale light on the ground below, revealing the silhouette of a lone figure perched atop a rocky outcrop, cross-legged and unmoving.
Piccolo Jr., the reincarnation of the Demon King, sat in deep meditation. His eyes were closed, but his senses were sharp, attuned to the world around him. His mind was focused on one thing: power. The power to surpass his father, to crush his enemies, and to claim the world as his own.
But tonight, his meditation was interrupted by the faint sound of boots clicking against the stone behind him. He didn't need to turn around to know who it was. That ki signature was unmistakable—Son Goku, the man who had killed his father.
Piccolo's eyes opened slowly, his expression unreadable as he stared out into the distance. "You've finally come, Goku."
Goku's voice was calm, almost casual as he responded. "I've been looking for you, Piccolo. Thought we should have a little chat."
Piccolo stood up, turning to face Goku. The Saiyan stood there with a relaxed posture, his arms crossed over his chest. Despite the calm demeanor, Piccolo could sense the overwhelming power radiating from him. It was far beyond anything he had ever encountered, and it made his blood boil with frustration.
"You're either very brave or very foolish to seek me out like this," Piccolo said, his voice low and menacing. "You do realize that one day, I will kill you."
Goku smiled, a hint of excitement in his eyes. "Maybe, but not today. I know you're strong, Piccolo. I can feel it. But you're not ready yet. That's why I'm here."
Piccolo raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "You're here to offer me advice? Don't make me laugh. I don't need your help."
"No, but you do need training," Goku replied, his tone serious now. "There's something coming, Piccolo. Something bigger than you or me. If you want a shot at killing me, you're going to need to get a lot stronger. I'm offering you that chance."
Piccolo clenched his fists, his pride warring with his desire for power. The idea of training with Goku, of accepting help from the man he hated more than anyone, was repulsive. But at the same time, he knew that Goku was right. He was outmatched, and if he wanted to stand a chance, he needed to close the gap.
"And what's in it for you?" Piccolo asked, his voice dripping with suspicion. "Why would you want to train your enemy?"
Goku shrugged, the carefree smile returning to his face. "Because it's fun. And because I want to fight you at your best. If you kill me, then I guess I deserve it. But until then, I wanna see how far you can go."
Piccolo stared at Goku, his mind racing.
This man was insane.
There was no other explanation.
To welcome someone who wanted to kill him into his life, to offer them the chance to grow stronger… it was madness.
But it was also intriguing.
"You're arrogant, Goku," Piccolo said, his tone cold. "That arrogance will be your demise."
"Maybe," Goku admitted, his eyes glinting. "But you'll have to prove it."
Piccolo's eyes narrowed as he gathered energy in his hand. "Let's see how you handle this, then!"
Without warning, the reincarnation unleashed a powerful ki blast, the energy lighting up the night sky as it hurtled toward Goku. The blast struck the ground with a deafening explosion, carving a massive trench into the rocky terrain.
Piccolo watched the smoke and debris settle, expecting to see Goku's body buried in the rubble.
But to his shock, there was nothing there.
"Looking for me?" a voice came from above.
Piccolo's eyes widened as he felt the weight of two boots pressing down on his turban. Goku stood on top of his head, perfectly balanced and completely unfazed.
Fury surged through him as he tried to move, but before he could react, he felt a sharp pain at the back of his neck. The world spun around him, and then everything went black.
When Piccolo awoke, the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden light over the desolate landscape. He groaned, sitting up and rubbing the back of his neck. His body ached from the previous night's encounter, and his pride was stinging even more.
As his vision cleared, he saw Goku a short distance away, moving through a series of katas with effortless grace. Each movement was fluid, precise, and powerful. Piccolo couldn't help but watch, analyzing every motion. The gap between them was wider than he had imagined. No wonder his father had fallen to this man.
Goku noticed Piccolo stirring and turned to face him, not missing a beat in his routine. "Morning, Piccolo. Sleep well?"
Piccolo scowled, still not fully recovered from the humiliation. "You think you're clever, don't you? But don't get comfortable. One day, I'll surpass you, and when I do—"
"You'll kill me. Yeah, I've heard it before," the Saiyan interrupted, his voice annoyingly cheerful. "But until then, we've got a lot of work to do. You said you wanted to kill me, right? Well, that's not going to happen if you stay where you are now."
Piccolo's jaw tightened, but he knew Goku was right. As much as he hated to admit it, he needed this training. Reluctantly, he stood up and dusted himself off. "Fine. I'll train with you. But make no mistake, Goku—your days are numbered."
Goku grinned, unfazed by the threat. "We'll see about that. But I should warn you, even if you manage to beat me, there's someone else you'll have to worry about."
Piccolo's eyes narrowed. "Who?"
"Hinata," Goku replied, his tone suddenly serious. "She's stronger than me in some ways. If you think you can kill her as easily as you did before, you're in for a rude awakening."
Piccolo smirked, remembering how his father had taken her life. "I've done it once. I can do it again."
Goku's expression darkened, and for a brief moment, his eyes flashed with a glimmer of gold. The air around them seemed to thicken with tension, and Piccolo felt an overwhelming pressure bearing down on him. It was as if the entire world was closing in, and Goku was at the center of it all.
"If you try to harm her or anyone else who's innocent, I'll make you wish you were never reincarnated," the Saiyan said, his voice low and dangerous.
Piccolo swallowed hard, beads of sweat forming on his brow. The power radiating from Goku was terrifying, far beyond anything he had ever encountered. It was as if he was facing a force of nature, something beyond human comprehension. He could feel his resolve wavering, his confidence shaken to its core.
Then, as quickly as it had appeared, the pressure vanished. Goku's eyes returned to their normal state, and his carefree smile reappeared as if nothing had happened. He extended a hand to Piccolo, offering to help him up.
"Come on, Piccolo. We've got a lot of training ahead of us."
Piccolo hesitated for a moment before begrudgingly accepting the hand. As he stood, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the back of his mind. This was not the Goku he had expected to face. The Saiyan was far more formidable than he had imagined, and the road ahead would be anything but easy.
But Piccolo was no stranger to challenges. He had been born for one purpose: to surpass his father and claim the world as his own. And if that meant training with the man who had killed him, then so be it. He would endure, he would grow stronger, and one day, he would prove that Goku's trust was his greatest mistake.
Today was the beginning of their brutal training sessions—a relentless battle of wills where Goku would try not to kill Piccolo with his overwhelming power, and Piccolo would do everything in his power to kill Goku and close the gap between them.
The enemy of my enemy.
