CHAPTER FIVE
The Legend Awakens
Goku, now in his Super Saiyan form, unleashed an overwhelming assault on Frieza. Every attempt Frieza made to fight back was thwarted with almost casual ease, and every punch and kick Goku landed sent tremors through the ground, each impact leaving visible dents and cracks on Frieza's armored body. The once-feared tyrant staggered with each blow, his confidence shattered as Goku pressed on, relentless.
Frieza, breathless and bruised, eventually descended to the ground, staring in horror at the warrior who had completely turned the tables on him. Backing away slowly, Frieza muttered, his voice tinged with fear and disbelief, "Impossible… It can't be… the legend can't be real…"
The other Z Fighters watched, equally awed and relieved, while Vegeta struggled to stay on one knee, clutching his injured ribs. His eyes were locked on Goku, a mixture of frustration and envy flickering within them. He sneered, muttering to himself, "That low-class Saiyan… achieving the form that was supposed to be my birthright…"
Zukanna, standing nearby, let out a weary sigh as she overheard him. She realized that Vegeta's bitterness and pride had been twisted by years of conditioning and false promises, remnants of their father's harsh influence and indoctrination that had convinced him of his superior right to power. She felt a mix of pity and sadness, seeing just how deeply his father's brainwashing had corrupted her brother's sense of identity and purpose.
Goku, still aglow with golden energy, approached Frieza with calm determination, his voice firm. "This ends now, Frieza." The Z Fighters braced themselves, sensing that the fight's outcome was inevitable, as the legendary Super Saiyan prepared to end Frieza's reign of terror once and for all.
As the sky turned black again, Gohan's lifeless form suddenly stirred. His body, once broken and mangled, began to heal in an instant, and with a sharp gasp, he sat up, wide-eyed, breathing heavily. Not far from him, Dende also awoke, looking around in confusion and relief. Without hesitation, Dende scrambled over to Zukanna, who had collapsed from exhaustion, and placed his hands on her, sending a warm, healing energy through her body.
Zukanna felt her injuries melt away as her strength returned, stronger than ever. As she rose to her feet and flexed her arms, she felt an immense surge of power flow through her, a result of yet another near-death experience. Her energy had soared to new heights—now, in her Wrathful Saiyan form, her power eclipsed even that of Frieza's maximum.
Meanwhile, Goku had cornered Frieza, whose desperate final attempts had backfired. The tyrant's attempt to use a Destructo Disc had ended in disaster, the blade-like energy slicing through his own body, leaving him half-severed on the ground. Frieza, who had once ruled the universe with an iron fist, was now reduced to a barely-moving figure, gasping, struggling, and beaten.
Driven by the weight of his grief and fury, Goku approached him one last time, looking down with a solemn yet unyielding gaze. Gathering a final surge of his Super Saiyan power, he aimed a close-range Kamehameha directly at Frieza. With a blinding flash, the energy engulfed the tyrant, disintegrating him completely, erasing Frieza from existence.
As Goku landed and powered down, his expression softened, yet it held an unmistakable intensity of grief, a lingering sadness over the battles lost and won. But the instant he spotted Gohan running toward him, the sorrow in his eyes melted into pure relief and joy. Goku fell to his knees, wrapping his arms around his son, his eyes wet with tears as he whispered, "I'm so sorry, Gohan. I should have been there to protect you."
Gohan shook his head, his voice steady but touched with awe. "It's okay, Dad. You… you avenged me." The two embraced tightly, finally free from the weight of Frieza's wrath.
Nearby, Zukanna approached Vegeta, who stood with his fists clenched, his face twisted in frustration. His gaze was fixed on Goku and Gohan, his pride wounded as he muttered under his breath, "It was supposed to be me… the Super Saiyan… that was my birthright."
Zukanna's voice was calm but firm as she addressed him, "Vegeta, the Super Saiyan isn't some birthright. It's a power earned, achieved by only the mightiest Saiyans—through strength, resilience, and heart."
Vegeta's eyes hardened, though her words had struck a nerve. "Fine, Zukanna. But mark my words: I will surpass Kakarot. I'll push beyond this, beyond anything he's achieved."
Zukanna nodded with a mixture of understanding and caution. She knew her brother's resolve, and though they fought on the same side today, she couldn't help but feel the intensity of his ambition.
As the dust settled, Goku turned to embrace his fellow Z Fighters, each of them congratulating him on the hard-fought victory. Then he approached Zukanna, extending a hand. She took it with a firm grip, and they shared a mutual respect forged in the fires of battle.
"Zukanna, you're welcome to come back to Earth with us," Goku offered, a warm smile on his face. She nodded, though a glimmer of resolve showed in her eyes. "Thank you, Goku. I'd like that. But first, there's something I need to take care of here. If all goes well, I might return with a few others—some of our kin."
Goku's smile wavered slightly, sensing her intention. "More Saiyans? I just want to make sure…" "They'll be good, Goku," she assured him, her tone resolute. "I'll see to it myself." Turning to Gohan, she added, "Could you bring Bulma back here from the cave? We'll need her here for the next part." Gohan nodded and flew off, returning shortly with Bulma, who had been eagerly waiting for news.
Together, the group walked over to Porunga, the Namekian Dragon, who waited with a patient, otherworldly presence. Zukanna leaned down to Dende, her voice soft but clear, "Tell him to move Planet Namek to a safe, hidden location after one day."
Dende conveyed the wish, and Porunga's deep voice echoed through the sky as he granted it. The great dragon's light faded, and he vanished back into the Dragon Balls, which scattered across the planet.
The group then made their way to Guru's hut, not far from the battlefield. Entering, Zukanna approached the wise elder, who was seated calmly, awaiting them. She embraced him, recounting the fierce battle and the bravery of the warriors.
Guru, in turn, gestured to Piccolo, his serene gaze resting on the warrior. "Piccolo, please step forward." He paused, then continued, "I am nearing the end of my life, but I wish to ensure that my knowledge and power live on. I can unlock your potential, and if you agree, we may merge our spirits. This will allow you to carry my wisdom beyond my time."
Piccolo, though initially surprised, considered the offer and then nodded solemnly. Guru placed a hand upon him, and a warm energy filled the room as he unlocked Piccolo's potential. With a final, powerful surge of energy, Guru and Piccolo merged, ensuring that the elder's legacy would live on within him. The newly empowered Piccolo stood quietly, feeling both the weight and strength of Guru's legacy now pulsing through him.
As Zukanna and Dende waited outside Guru's hut, they noticed the other Namekians approaching, visibly curious and seeking answers. These were the Namekians who had been revived after the battle, now gathered to learn what had transpired and to hear from their elder. But instead of Guru, they found Zukanna and Dende standing at the entrance.
One of the elder Namekians stepped forward, looking between them both. "What has happened to Guru?" he asked, voice edged with concern.
Dende, glancing at Zukanna, gave a respectful nod, then spoke up. "Guru has merged with Piccolo to ensure that his wisdom and strength will live on, even beyond his passing." The Namekians murmured among themselves, clearly processing the news. Another Namekian stepped forward and looked to Zukanna. "Guardian, what should we do now?"
Zukanna, though surprised by the respectful title, straightened, meeting the gazes of the gathered Namekians. "Guru's guidance will live on in Piccolo. But for now, your people need to select a new elder to guide you. This planet is shifting to a safe, hidden location tomorrow, so as to keep you hidden and safe from external threats, so prepare yourselves. As for me…" She paused, her gaze lifting to the distant horizon. "I will be leaving to search for other Saiyan survivors. I must find them and, if I can, ensure that they, too, seek a new path, one of honor."
The Namekians listened intently, their expressions calm but grateful. "Thank you, Guardian Zukanna," they said in unison, a sense of trust resonating in their words. Zukanna gave a small nod of respect before turning away. The peace of Namek would soon be secure, and she knew her journey was only beginning. As they approached Goku's ship, Zukanna walked beside the Z Fighters, her gaze taking in each of them with a sense of quiet admiration and newfound friendship. Bulma approached her with a warm smile, handing her a small device. "These are the coordinates to Earth. I'd love for you to visit soon!"
The two women shared a sincere hug, and Zukanna nodded firmly. "I promise, as soon as I can. Take care, Bulma." Bulma joined the others inside, but Zukanna turned to find Vegeta standing back, arms crossed with his usual defiant stance. Before she could speak, he nodded, looking past her at the ship. "I'm going with Kakarot to Earth," he said, "to see how he's gotten so strong. I'll learn from him until I surpass him, mark my words."
Zukanna smiled, but her eyes held a seriousness he rarely saw. "Then promise me you won't cause trouble on Earth, Vegeta." He huffed but, after a long pause, grudgingly nodded. "Fine." Just as she turned to go, Vegeta muttered, "I... I know where father sent Tarble, well the sector of space, not the planet. I will give you the coordinates."
Zukanna's eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat as she looked back at him, hardly believing her ears. Without thinking, she threw her arms around Vegeta, surprising him with a tight embrace. He flinched but didn't pull away, though his scowl returned when she finally let go. "Thank you, Vegeta," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. At last, she stepped back as the group gathered by the ship's ramp. Goku, Piccolo, Gohan, Krillin, Vegeta, and Bulma all turned to wave, each with words of gratitude and promises to meet again. Zukanna stood tall, waving back as they disappeared into the ship, and watched as it took off, streaking across the Namekian sky before vanishing into the vastness of space, bound for Earth.
Zukanna moved carefully through the halls of Frieza's massive spaceship, examining each room with a critical eye. The medical bay gleamed with high-tech rejuvenation chambers and advanced healing equipment, some of which reminded her of the technology back on Planet Vegeta, albeit with newer upgrades. The training room was spacious, filled with state-of-the-art equipment that had clearly seen a lot of use. Passing through the soldiers' quarters and mess hall, she noted the living conditions Frieza's minions endured, cramped and austere, far from luxurious.
She paused in the control room, observing the array of navigation panels and consoles that operated the ship. Then, as she passed by the detention center, she sensed a faint energy signature, low and hesitant but present. She stopped, her voice echoing through the empty hallways. "I know you're hiding. Come out. I won't ask again."
After a tense moment, a green-skinned alien in Frieza force blue armor stepped out, trembling under her gaze. He looked at her with wide, fearful eyes. "My… my name is Blueberry," he stammered, his voice shaky.
Zukanna folded her arms, sizing him up. "What were you planning on doing, Blueberry?"
The alien swallowed hard, managing to squeak out a response. "I… I was looking to escape. I didn't want to be part of this anymore. Please, I haven't harmed any Namekians, I swear!"
Zukanna studied him, her piercing gaze assessing his sincerity. After a moment, her stance softened just slightly. "If you're telling the truth, then you'll be of use to me. I need someone familiar with this ship's operations. How does working as my attendant sound?"
Blueberry's eyes widened with relief, and he nodded eagerly. "Y-yes, I'd be honored. Thank you!"
Zukanna motioned for Blueberry to follow her as they made their way to the training room. The air hummed with potential, and she could already envision the transformations that awaited them both. Upon entering, she noticed the advanced training equipment, including various combat simulators and a set of weights that would put his abilities to the test.
Spotting a scouter on a nearby table, Zukanna picked it up and slipped it on, feeling the familiar weight against her ear. The device powered on, and she glanced at the display. "Power level: 2000," she announced, looking at Blueberry with a mix of encouragement and determination.
"Two thousand?" he exclaimed; eyes wide with disbelief. "That's it?"
Zukanna smiled, a glint of ambition in her gaze. "Yes, but it's a starting point. Every warrior begins somewhere. From today onward, you will run the training simulation meant for elite soldiers each morning. It will push you to your limits and beyond. After that, I'll personally train you."
Blueberry blinked in shock, his mind racing at the prospect. "You… you'll train me? I mean, I thought you'd want nothing to do with me after everything."
She shook her head, her voice steady. "Everyone deserves a chance to grow. Besides, I need a capable ally by my side. You have potential, Blueberry. You just need to unlock it."
With a deep breath, Blueberry nodded, determination replacing his earlier fear. "I won't let you down, Zukanna. I'll work hard!"
"Good. I'll be expecting results," she said, her expression fierce yet encouraging. "Now, let's get started. Your journey to becoming stronger begins today."
As they prepared to engage in the training simulation, Zukanna felt a sense of hope and responsibility blossoming within her. Together, they would not only grow stronger but also reshape the legacy of the ship that had once been a tool of tyranny.
Zukanna and Blueberry returned to the control room, the dim lights flickering over the advanced console. She picked up a data pad and entered the coordinates for Earth, and handed him the data pad. "Store these coordinates in the ship's computer for later use. We'll need them when the time comes."
Blueberry nodded, quickly typing the information into the system. Once he finished, he turned to her, curiosity evident in his eyes. "What's your plan now, Zukanna?"
She took a moment, gathering her thoughts. "I need to build an army," she began, her voice steady. "An army that will help me search for any remaining Saiyans. We can't afford to be scattered any longer. We need to unite."
Blueberry's eyes widened. "That makes sense. But how do you plan to do that?"
"I've been thinking about Frieza's planet," she said, a fierce glint in her eyes. "With Frieza gone, there's a power vacuum. If I move quickly, no one will be strong enough to stop me from taking control of the Frieza Force."
Blueberry's brow furrowed. "But isn't that risky? Frieza had loyal followers, and they might not take kindly to a Saiyan claiming leadership."
Zukanna smiled confidently. "That's exactly why I need to establish my strength first. They'll either follow me out of fear or respect, and I can use the resources and soldiers to help find other Saiyans. It's a strategic move."
He nodded, absorbing her words. "You really think you can pull it off?"
"I don't just think it, I know it," she replied, determination coursing through her veins. "With the training I'm providing you and the power I possess now; I can reshape this force into something that benefits us and seeks out my people."
Blueberry grinned, inspired by her confidence. "Then let's get to work! What do you need me to do next?"
"Let's analyze the ship's resources and prepare for a journey to Frieza's planet. We need to gather information on the remaining forces and strategize our approach," Zukanna instructed, her mind racing with possibilities.
Hello people,
Chapter Five is done, if you like these kinds of stories, I can write more what if scenarios. Feel free to make requests in my inbox.
Please feel free to drop reviews or give suggestions as I feel they will help improve the quality of the story.
cheers,
maximuskahn1994
