WhIP

by footfungus

nederlands verhalen over mijn otp

220. Chapter 220

Inner Darkness

Enickma (MaskofN)

Summary:

Set during the Buu saga. Son Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan are fighting their way through Babidi's spaceship, ready to stop the wizard and prevent Majin Buu's revival! But when Babidi takes control of Gohan, what does this mean for our heroes...? An AU that delves into Gohans darker, more Saiyan nature.

Chapter 1: Unexpected Enemy...! Who Will Babidi Choose!?

Chapter Text

In the control room of his spaceship, Babidi tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for Dabura to return from his self-interrupted battle. He gazed into his magical orb, looking intently at the three Saiyan warriors and the Kaioshin, who were transported to the third level of the spaceship. Babidi growled angrily as he stared at the Kaioshin.

You murdered my father,he thought venomously,I will pay you back a million fold!

Behind him, the dark wizard heard the sound of feet hitting the ground, signaling that Dabura had returned. Babidi turned his scaly head toward his servant. "So, Dabura…this news you bring. I trust it was worth halting your fight for?"

"Yes, Master Babidi," said Dabura with a confident smirk.

"And I trust you weren't looking for an excuse to avoid a humiliating defeat at the hands of your opponent?"

Dabura chuckled. "Not in the slightest. That boy was no match for me."

"Good. Now, the news. Carry on."

"You will be pleased to know that one of the fighters named Vegeta has a heart that is filled with rage and pride. He can easily be turned against his allies. I am confident that turning him over to our side will be child's play," explained Dabura, his smirk widening. "He will be vital to helping us revive Majin Buu."

"Ah, wonderful!" cheered Babidi, his skepticism with Dabura gone. "Yes, brilliant! We wouldn't even have to bother killing the others – he could do that for us! Bravo, Dabura!" The wizard began hopping on his tiny feet, dancing with sadistic glee. Dabura's chest swelled, proud of himself for helping his master.

"Now, to look into the heart of this 'Vegeta'…"

Babidi peered into his magical orb, stretching his senses beyond what he was used to. He searched the hearts of the three Saiyan warriors – Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan. He grinned sickeningly. Babidi sensed a great evil lying in Vegeta's heart. Oh, it was so easy! He could penetrate his mind, prey on that swollen pride of his, and then he would be one step closer to reviving Majin B –

What's this?

Babidi sensed another darkness within the group. But this one felt different. It felt…subdued, somehow. Like a lion trapped in a cage clawing for some way out. The dark wizard inclined his senses toward this darkness, his eyes leading him to…

What!?

Odd- how could an innocent looking creature likethathave such a dark aura surrounding him? And what's more, how come his mind felt so scattered, so restless, when he appeared to be so calm on the outside? By all appearances he was perfectly stable.

"But appearances can be deceiving" Babidi thought out loud with an even wider smirk. Oh, Vegeta would be the easier target, but this fellow, whoever he was, gave Babidi the impression that it was worth the effort to reap the fruits of a more loyal servant. After all, if what Dabura said was true, then Vegeta probably wouldn't be on his side for long anyway if he was so full of pride. In fact, Babidi sensed an interesting vibe coming from the Saiyan prince - like he waswelcominghim to take control just for his own selfish needs. Babidi's smirk grew wider, if possible. "No one affected by my spells ever enjoys it. Poor fool, thinking he would actuallybenefitfrom becoming a servant for the Great Wizard Babidi!"

"M-Master?" Dabura stammered, confused. "What are you talking about? I don't understand."

"I'm talking about my new prize Dabura. I sense that we will have ourselves a new recruit very, very soon."

Dabura nodded. "Yes, Vegeta will prove a most worthy follower."

Babidi turned his head, his smirk never leaving his face. "Who said anything about Vegeta?"

"You all must be careful! I think - no, Iknowthat Babidi is planning to take control of one of you three here! Dabura backed out of the fight because he sensed evil among us and-"

The Saiyan trio listened to the Kaioshin go off with worry; interestingly enough, they themselves were devoid of worry. Vegeta certainly seemed to be as he scoffed at Kaioshin's rambling. Whatever high ranking Shin had amongst the Kai's apparently wasn't enough for him to let go of his ludicrous anxiety. One would think that a being powerful enough to make Piccolo taste fear would be immune to fear himself.

Gohan hung his head in shame, mulling over Vegeta's words in his head as he pondered how he had "slacked off" on his training.Maybe he's right.Gohan thought.Maybe I should have trained, it would've at least given me an advantage in that battle... but then, how could I have known this would happen? Everything was just so peaceful before this whole Babidi incident occurred, it just popped out of nowhere...

While Gohan was thinking to himself, Vegeta continued to get an earful from the Kaioshin. "You must listen to me! I truly believe that Babidi will prey on the evil that lies within you - with a past like yours, you are certainly the most likely candidate!"

The self-proclaimed prince huffed.He should know I take orders from no one, especially not some failed excuse for a god!Besides,he concealed a smirk,he isn't preying on me if I welcome him in.

Goku meanwhile was pondering what Vegeta said to Gohan as well and after some thought decided to give his two cents to his son. He put his arm around the eldest Son boy and Gohan looked up at him in surprise. "Hey, don't worry about what Vegeta said. He's just being his stubborn old self as usual. I think you did a good job against Dabura, even if you didn't win." He smiled and Gohan couldn't help but return the smile back.

"Thanks, Dad." Gohan felt his heart lighten at his father's words. His father may be naïve at times, but even then he made it obvious that he genuinely loved his family. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of shame at the praise he didn't feel entitled to receive, but he shook it off. Nothing was going to stop him from enjoying today with his dad - magicians and demons be damned. "I just wish I could have beat Dabura. Maybe Piccolo and Krillin would come back to life..."

"Son, don't worry about it," Goku said with a firm tone in his voice. "You did the best you could. Ipromiseyou we will beat these bastards and get Piccolo and Krillin back. There's no point in feeling a hint of regret". After a couple moments, Gohan silently nodded in agreement.

Goku walked over to the Kaioshin who was still ranting about how they should all beware of Babidi's magic and how he was more than likely planning to take control of Vegeta (who was still receiving the full brunt of the Kaioshin's speech). Frankly, it was getting annoying. "I think you need to lighten up, Kaioshin. All that worryin' won't get us anywhere". Goku spoke in his most relaxed tone, hoping it was contagious.

Vegeta this time let himself grin. "Oh? I wouldn't be so sure of that now, Kakarot..."

Goku turned his head at Vegeta, looking confused. "Huh? Why?"

The prince laughed. "Never mind. You'll know in due time." He gazed out the window, pretending to be interested in what was going on outside of it.

Goku couldn't help but wonder what he meant, but he let it go for the time being. "Anyway Kaioshin, howdja like to spar with me some time after we deal with Babidi?"

Gohan shook his head. It was so typical of his father. Two things just never left his mind: food and fighting. The only difference was that Goku would risk the fate of the Earth for the latter.

That's when it happened.

Suddenly, the half-Saiyan could feel some sort of headache bugging him. Where it came from he did not know... "Hey Dad? Vegeta?" The Saiyans turned their heads, one looking curious and the other annoyed. "Does it feel a little...warm in here to you guys? I'm sweating a lot more than I did when we first got in."

"I have no idea what you're talking about, why should a little heat bother us anyway?" Vegeta scoffed. For some strange reason Gohan was angered. Not at what Vegeta said, but just at Vegeta in general. He thought about how the Saiyan prince berated him for not being prepared for battle.Where does that obnoxiousness come from?! Hethought harshly.How dare that fool talk to me like- oh Kami what am I thinking!?He snapped himself out of his thoughts. Since when was he so quick to anger?

"Hey, Gohan?" His father's voice snapped him back to reality. "Is everything okay? You look like you have a serious headache going on there."

"Huh?" Gohan said, somewhat shocked - was it that obvious? "Y-yeah, I think I'm alright, I'm just a little- Agh!" He clutched his head again in obvious pain, the headache becoming stronger by the minute. He let loose a scream of agony and collapsed to his knees.

"Gohan!" yelled Goku, suddenly panicking. He ran to his sons side and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Gohan, what is going on!?"

"What the hell is wrong with that boy!?" Vegeta yelled over Gohan's screaming. He had to admit; the sight was enough to unnerve even him.

"Gohan! Fight it! I know Babidi's power is strong, but you must fight it!" Kaioshin's voice echoed throughout the room. Goku and Vegeta looked at him, confused at first, but then put two and two together. The fear that surged through Goku was venomous, as was the surprise and envy that Vegeta felt about being upstaged by the son of his archrival...

"GOHAN!" Goku yelled, "Don't give in! I know you're stronger than this! If you can beat Cell, you can beat this too!"

If you can beat Cell...

Cell...

Those were the last words Gohan heard before he was apparently yanked out of the real world. He gazed all around him; gone was the interior of Babidi's spaceship. In its stead was a completely dark purple void - he wasn't even standing on solid ground anymore. Rather he was filled with the feeling of being in a fume cloud, the sort of which you encounter in a very dark place like a cave. It was eerie, and yet... strangely peaceful.

"My boy!"

Gohan turned around and what met his sight was enough to creep him out, as well as amuse him. There was Babidi, staring at him. Strange, spying on his person from a cliff had a much different effect than directly standing face to face with him.

"YOU!" He hollered. "Alright, this is the end of the road, wizard!" Gohan took his best fighting stance.

"Is it, now? And let me guess, you're doing this for the good of humanity?"

"Of course I am!"

The wizard grinned broadly. Now was his chance. "But that's the thing... you were taught at a young age that you were half Saiyan and half human, is that right?"

The boy's eyes narrowed. "What are you getting at?"

And suddenly, the whole atmosphere began to swirl before the boy's eyes. The eerie peace was gone, now replaced with a cyclone of purple. Babidi had disappeared - but his voice did not.

"What I'm getting at", came his now booming voice among the winds, "is that you have something hidden within you that I would love to see for myself! Something you've been keeping concealed all your life...Saiyan."

Gohan's eyes widened in horror. "No...please don't!" He yelled, fearful of what he knew was going to happen next "Don't do it!"

The wizard snorted, "Sorry child, you don't have a choice. Now..."

"Paparapapa!"

"NO!" Gohan awoke with a start. Goku, Vegeta and Kaioshin were all watching him intently - apparently the strain on his mind had knocked him unconscious. He was twitching terribly, and the Kaioshin could only stand there in shock; he had never in his life seen someone so affected by Babidi's magic.

"Gohan, are you okay!?" Goku held his sons twitching body in his arms as tightly as he could.

Gohan inhaled sharply. Goku let out a sigh he didn't know he was holding. "D-D-Dad... tell me..."

"What, son? Tell you what?"

"I'm human...aren't I...?"

"What!?"

Gohan let loose another scream as a golden aura surrounded him. The force knocked Goku flat on his back and Gohan slowly got up on his hands and knees, taking in deep breaths and sweating bullets. He began to stand while rubbing his forehead as if he had a major headache. When he removed his hand everyone in the room gasped. For on his head, marked in black, was an all too familiarM.

Gohan was breathing heavily, eyes half-closed as if he was waking from a deep sleep. No one dared to say anything; all that needed to be said was written on their faces. Kaioshin looked mortified, Vegeta infuriated, and then finally Goku as if he was willing himself to wake from a nightmare.

Silence enveloped the whole room; the tension was enough to make one feel asthmatic.

At long last, Gohan spoke up:

"You all seem very surprised, why?" When no one answered, he continued, "It doesn't matter. I've been awakened, my eyes opening up for the first time." Gohans face twisted into a grin that was very much unlike him, not that anything about him was really like him anymore. "Yes, take a deep breath, all three of you. Breathe and cherish every moment you have on this planet of yours, for you and everyone of it will feel the force of my full Saiyan power!"

Full Saiyan Power?

Those last three words stuck in everyone's heads, all of them unable to process what Gohan had just said; even the Kaioshin, who did not know Gohan on the same level that Goku and Vegeta did, knew just from the little that he had seen of him that bragging about Saiyan might was not in his character. He shuddered,What sort of twisted magic does Babidi wield to turn such a gentle boy into a warrior of destruction?,he thought.

Goku, meanwhile, was still hoping that this was all a bad dream that happened to look more realistic than usual. He got up from the floor and stood still as a rock, a look of perpetual shock plastered on his face. After a few deep breaths and begrudgingly accepting that this was reality, he spoke up. "What are you talking about, son? Since when did you care about Saiyan power?

Gohan's reaction was unexpected; he looked at Goku mildly surprised, as if truly noticing him for the first time, and then for a split second averted eye contact, almost as if he was...scared. He quickly regained composure, however, and answered his father's question with another, somewhat forced grin on his face. "It doesn't concern you what I care about. All that matters is that I've been awakened, and I have great plans for this world that Majin Buu will help me accomplish."

"Stop it, young man!" yelled Kaioshin, as if a teacher talking to a disruptive student, "You know this isn't what you want, its Babidi speaking, not you! I don't know what he did to you to make you talk like that, but surely you know that he can't be trusted!"

"Quiet, fool." Vegeta muttered, to Kaioshin's surprise. "I don't know what's gotten into the boy's head either, but talking won't get him back. Just let him and Kakarot settle their own family affairs." Not that he cared much about getting Gohan back, but he had enough of the Kaioshin's ranting for an eternity.

Goku and Gohan stood facing each other, the tension rising in the air with each passing second. It was funny, Goku vividly remembered facing enemies like this the exact same way he was facing Gohan now- opposing them with a stoic glare on his face while they had a smug grin on theirs. He saw it with Frieza, Cell, and lesser villains like Recoome and Nappa. But never in his wildest dreams did he ever imagine he would be in a situation like that with his own son...

He shook his head.I can't get distracted now,Goku thought. After a few deep breaths he reluctantly took a fighting stance, his son watching on eagerly as he took one of his own. Neither of them took into account the closed space inside Babidi's ship as they prepared for their unexpected conflict.

The wizard himself, meanwhile, had different ideas. "Oh, this is just glorious! But like the last battle, I think this one calls for a little scenery change. Would help decrease damage done to my ship - and increase the carnage!" His face twisted into a grin as he cackled into his magic ball, preparing to cast a spell that would teleport our heroes to a more suitable fighting environment.

"Paparapapa!"

"MISTER SATAN! MISTER SATAN! MISTER SATAN!" A gullible crowd cheered as their hero basked in glory he didn't deserve. Mr. Satan gave his signature laugh as he inwardly recuperated from the "fight" between him and Android 18, knowing full well she was watching him intently from backstage.

Phew...that was a close one! Hope she can wait long enough for the zeni...

Lost in his thoughts, the champ was snapped out of them by The Announcers booming voice.

"Mr. Satan sir! If you don't mind my asking, how did your punch result in a delayed reaction?" He held up his microphone intently, waiting for our hero's response.

"Huh?!" Mr. Satan did a double take, not expecting anyone to have paid that much attention to the fight. His mind whirring, he quickly thought up what he hoped was a decent answer. "Uhhh...well it's funny you should ask, it's a new technique I learned! See, when I focus my energy enough in my Megaton Punch, it can do twice as much damage with only a slight delay! Ahahahaha!"

"What an amazing technique! What have you named it, sir?"

Mr. Satan paused, mind whirring ferociously once more. "It's...my Megaton Punch 2.0!" He gave a wide grin and raised two peace signs, as if he just came up with the most clever name for a martial arts technique in the world. The crowd was none the wiser, and continued chanting for their hero.

"MISTER SATAN! MISTER SATAN! MISTER SATAN!"

Meanwhile somewhere high up in the stands, a far more intelligent group were rolling their eyes. "Honestly, if Goku and Gohan wouldn't let him take all the credit, I'd give him the only attention he really does deserve!" said Chi Chi as she whipped out her frying pan threateningly, everyone else- Yamcha, Roshi, Bulma, Oolong and Ox King - giving her a bit of space for safety. "Oooooh, if only I were the one fighting him-"

"Don't worry, Chi Chi, Eighteen isn't gonna let him get off that easy. I just know she has something planned for him after the match." Yamcha was right, but he didn't truly know it; he had enough experience with Goku's wife to know that her temper was more than anyone could bear, champion or not.Anything to calm her down,he thought.

Bulma put a hand on Chi Chi's shoulder, smiling. "He's right. It's not like Mr Satan's hurting us by being such a ham. I think it's better for someone to get all that paparazzi while we just sit back, I know I have enough trouble with them as it is." She ended with a small chuckle as Chi Chi, miraculously, calmed down and lowered her pan.

Everyone let out a sigh of relief, thankful that the fiery storm known as Son Goku's wife had been tamed. That is, until everyone's favorite turtle hermit had to interject.

"Heh, I can see you beating him up in a match easy! Just shed a few layers of clothes her and there, help lighten the weight..."

BAM!

The frying pan hit its target head on as Master Roshi humorously flew from one end of the bleachers to the next, leaving a huge gaping hole on the opposing side. Chi-Chi huffed and crossed her arms, an annoyed look on her face.

"Honestly, that old lecher...wait," her attention was refocused to the stage, where three familiar figures stood, "is that Goku, Vegeta and Gohan? Back already?"

"Huh?" said Yamcha, peering at the stage, "Hey, that is them! Figured it'd take them longer...but where are Piccolo and Krillin?"

"I don't know, but I'm just glad they got their job done before another bad guy had to ruin everything." Bulma commented, relieved. "Hey, maybe now our husbands can do their rematch and we'll see whose man is superior!" She added half-jokingly, looking at Chi-Chi, whose attention was focused solely on the ring. Ox King was just as invested in the tournament ring as well, he couldn't keep his eyes off of it.

"Huh?" Chi-Chi blinked, concentration apparently broken. "Oh, um, yeah, I suppose so..." She gazed back toward the ring, and Bulma couldn't help but frown at her friends unexpected change of tone. Walking over and putting a hand on her shoulder, she asked, "Everything alright?"

Chi-Chi remained silent, as did the whole group, noticing the sudden change of atmosphere from lighthearted to tense. Finally, refusing to break her gaze from the four men onstage- and especially her son- she spoke up. "No. It's not. I don't know how, or why, but...everything is not alright."

Ox King grasped Chi-Chi's shoulders, gently pushing Bulmas hand away. He knew when his daughter needed his comforting presence.

The Saiyan trio looked around in confusion for a little while, registering their surroundings. Then, recognizing the tournament grounds, they retook their fighting stances, each ready to strike their opponent should he make one wrong move. Mr. Satan and The Announcer, meanwhile, were staring at the newly arrived fighters in open-mouthed shock.

"Um...well, ladies and gentlemen, it appears that the previous contestants have unexpectedly returned! Do you think they should be allowed to continue in the matches, Mr Satan?" He inquired of the champ, and Hercule could only mutter a "yeah...sure..." before fainting at the sight of the fighters from the Cell Games appearing yet again out of nowhere.

Onstage, however, a much grimmer mood was settling.

"Well? Either of you gonna start or what?" said Gohan.

Goku was the first to step up, tightening the belt around his gi. "I don't know what that bastard did to you, but you don't understand what you're doing. If you go through with this fight, millions of innocent people could die."

Gohans eyes flashed red. "Nobody knows that better than me."

"Wait a minute!" The Announcer exclaimed, climbing up on the stage. "This isn't how the match ups turned out! Goku was scheduled to fight Vegeta before you guys left."

"Quit your blabbering! If Kakarot and his boy want to fight, then fight they will." Vegeta rebutted, drawing shocked glances from everyone present - even Gohan. The prospect of Vegeta willingly laying down the chance for a rematch with Goku of all people was bizarre to say the very least.

Not that Vegeta cared either way who won or lost - from his perspective, this fight was crucial in determining which Saiyan he should defeat to become the strongest. If Gohan beat his father, Vegeta could skip Kakarot and defeat his son, assured of his victory over both of them.

"Stop it, all of you! This is madness!" The Kaioshins voice interrupted the groups confusion, "We must not fight amongst ourselves. If we are to defeat Babidi and prevent the return of Majin Buu, we must work together as a team! All these distractions are meaningless. Do you not realize the terror that Buu will create if he is set free?" He hoped that this time his words would break through, but they fell on deaf ears - except for one.

"I realize exactly the terror Buu will create," said Gohan. "Now if you'll excuse me, my 'father' and I have a little score to settle." He took a fighting stance, beckoning for Goku to attack, but his father just stood there in shock.

"Gohan...what happened to you?"

His son grinned, and his eyes flashed red once again as he answered, "Somethingspectacular."

For a while they each stared at each other, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. Sensing it, they drew a breath, prepared to leap forward and-

Nearly lost their balance when Kaioshin stood abruptly in the middle of them.

"I will not allow this fight to go on. We are here for one thing, and that is to stop Majin Buu. Every second we waste brings this entire universe closer to complete destruction, and your family feud is not helping. Either we move on, or I stand here forever." He was resolute in his insistence of standing between the father and son duo, as his posture and expression showed no signs of bluffing or apprehension.

Goku redirected his glare toward the Kaioshin, brow furrowing as if going through some sort of internal struggle. Vegeta merely watched the trio, arms crossed and a bored look on his face. The Announcer, who had been watching the events unfold on his stage (or at least what he considered his stage), felt at the same time scared and slightly embarrassed that he had no words of value to contribute to either side that would end the conflict, but he continued silently observing as he could not resist witnessing a potential fight on Tournament grounds.

Gokus brow slowly started to unfurrow, and he looked as if he had just made an important decision. "Fine. Have it your way. But don't blame me for doing the right thing." He slowly raised his right hand, forming a ki blast with it. At this, everyone onstage was shocked, even Vegeta. Charging it, his gaze remained steady as he watched for the Kaioshin to react to his threat. Kaioshins expression changed from steely to shocked in a matter of moments, and became even more shocked to learn via mind scan that Goku wasn't bluffing. His gaze remaining fixed on the ki blast, he opened up his mouth in protest-

Only for Gohan to strike his neck with the side of his hand, knocking Kaioshin unconscious. Catching Goku and Vegeta's surprised glances, he raised an eyebrow.

"What are you looking at? He was annoying."

Meanwhile, on the bleachers, confusion was reigning amidst the Z teams families. "What's going on? Why did Gohan hurt that man?" asked Chi Chi frantically, to no one in particular. Ever since the Saiyans had returned onstage, questions were reigning in everyone's head, not the least of which was Gohans strange behavior.

"I'm…I'm sure there's some explanation!" insisted Ox King, desperate to calm his daughter.

"Maybe he was a bad guy? Goku was about to blast him anyway..." Yamcha suggested, hoping to inspire some optimism. Bulma nodded.

"I'm sure that's it. He didn't look like a nice guy when we first saw him, I bet he was gonna kill everyone in the tournament before Gohan dealt with him!" She smiled, spreading the positive vibes to everyone else on the bleachers - except Chi Chi.

Though Chi-Chi wanted to believe it was all true (and it sounded reasonable enough) there was still that gnawing feeling in her gut she couldn't ignore, a feeling that something was amiss on the stage. "I hope so, but...I still don't know."

Chapter 2: Nightmare At The Tournament! I Want Revenge, 'Father'!

Chapter Text

"Gohan!" Goku exclaimed, shocked. "What the hell did you do that for!?"

Gohan nonchalantly kicked the Kaioshin's unconscious body off of the ring.

"I told you, he was annoying. What more do you need?" said Gohan as he casually dusted off his gloves. "Now that that's out of the way - it's time for you to pay for your crimes! For you and this entire world to witness my Saiyan might!" He shot an accusing finger at Goku.

"You hypocrite!" shouted Vegeta. "Who do you think you are, talking about Saiyan might? A true Saiyan would never strike another in the back the way you did."

Turning his gaze toward Vegeta, Gohan laughed. "I don't think you're one to talk, Vegeta. You were never one for honoring the Saiyan name. Tell me, are your ears still wet from when Frieza made you cry?"

"What did you say!?" growled Vegeta as he raised his fists, "You're going to pay for your insolence! Kakarot, move aside so I can pummel your brat!"

Vegeta took a fighting stance - but Goku raised an arm in front of him.

"Vegeta," he muttered simply. "Back off."

The Saiyan prince was stunned. Vegeta had never heard Goku- Kakarot speak with such a graveness in his tone, not even when dealing with other opponents. Looking to Gohan and Kakarot, Vegeta sensed an awkwardness on the stage, and leapt off to the ground below.

Watching the events unfold from there, he opted to wait patiently for the family drama to end.

And for my fight to begin, Vegeta thought maliciously.

Meanwhile, the father and son duo stared at each other onstage, sizing each other up. Gohan took a fighting stance, motioning for his father to do the same.

"Let's settle this, Goku. Man to man, Saiyan to Saiyan. It's about time we finally got to our fight, don't you think?"

Goku looked around him, taking in his surroundings for the first time since he had gotten back to the tournament. "Not here, son. There are too many innocent people that could get caught in the crossfire, so let's take this someplace else. Oh, and Gohan?" He redirected his gaze toward his son, glaring at him reprovingly. "If we are going to fight…you will call me 'father.'"

Gohan's eyes widened in rage, his teeth gritting as his energy level rose. "You dare tell me to call you that!?" he shouted, "All the damage you've done to your own family, and you stand there and still expect me to call you father!? For that alone, you should be dead!"

"Damage…?" Goku said confusedly. Brushing it off, he continued. "Don't talk to me like that. Whatever Babidi has been telling you about me, it's a lie. I'll always be your father and you know that."

"Babidi has opened up my eyes! He's shown me what the answer was all along, it was right in front of me, I just couldn't grasp it. But you wouldn't get it. You never got anything." The more Gohan spoke, the more feral his appearance got. At this point, he was spitting on the ground, his hair disheveled and his eyes flashing red off and on.

Goku, unnerved by this, kept a calm expression nonetheless. Seeing no point in arguing, he conceded. "Fine. Have it your way. Show me what you got and let's get this over with. But we're not going to fight here, it'll have to be where people will stay out of the way."

"Oh, you want people out of the way?" Gohan grinned, raising his right hand toward the bleachers. "Well, let me assure you…you'll get your wish."

"Gohan?" Goku blinked, confused. "Gohan, what are you…?" His son had just fired up a ball of ki in his right hand, allowing it to expand with every passing second. Looking toward the ki ball and the audience, Goku put two and two together.

"Gohan, no!"

"Hey, is that Gohan on stage?"

Sharpener had just snagged a pair of binoculars from his bespectacled, scrawny friend who was looking a little miffed at having it taken from him. Focusing the lenses, Sharpeners attention shifted to the younger Saiyan on the stage. "Wonder what's up with him? He looks pretty intense."

"Intense? Let me see!" Erasa, who was sitting right next to him, reached for the binoculars. Before Sharpener could protest, she had just focused their vision toward Gohan, marveling at his physique. "Oooooh, he looks intensely cuter if you ask me! Wonder where he got the hair dye, though?"

The jock sighed. "I mean his expression looks more intense. Like, he looks real angry or something. Just thought that was weird. I mean he was in that goofy Saiyaman outfit before and now he looks pissed."

"Expression?" Zooming in on Gohan's face, Erasa did find something off. "Hey, you're right! He looks…dark. Wait, what's that thing on his forehead?"

"What thing?"

"The inky tattoo he's got. It's…its an M! Here, see for yourself!" She handed the binoculars toward Sharpener. Taking them, he did indeed see a suspicious looking M on his classmates' forehead, apparently written in cursive.

"Huh, weird. Wonder what that could stand for? 'Macho'"?

"Maybe 'Marvelous?' Like his face!" joked Erasa.

Sharpner scoffed. "I severely doubt he's that much of a narcissist."

Erasa grinned. "Yeah, like some people I know…"

Looking away from the stage, the blonde boy gave his friend a perplexed look. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Oh, nothing." Erasa said coyly. Frowning, Sharpener decided to drop the subject as he looked back into the binoculars. The friend who he stole the binoculars from, meanwhile, was about to take them back when Sharpener noticed something else off about Gohans appearance.

"Hey, what's that shiny ball he's got in his right hand?"

Above the blonde duo, another group of people were observing the events onstage, a look of worry crossing each of their faces- but none quite so worrisome as a certain brunette.

"What…what is he doing…?" Chi Chi muttered, her voice breaking, looking at the ball of ki in Gohan's hands. Behind her, Ox Kings eyes widened, hands trembling as he tried for some explanation for his grandsons strange behavior.

"Uhhh…" said Yamcha,"…maybe he's just showing off?" But he knew- and so did the rest of the Z Fighters- that Gohan was never one for showing off, nor did he have a reason to be facing Goku in the tournament finals when Goku was scheduled to fight Vegeta. Who, they had noticed, decided to get off the stage for some reason.

Bulma looked at her friend, frowning. "There's no reason to be nervous. Really, there's not." She didn't have an excuse like her ex-boyfriend, but at least she could provide some comfort in the soothing tone of her voice. Turning her frown to a smile, she hoped the effect would rub off on Chi Chi.

"I…I guess so…" Chi-Chis tone showed that she was caught in the middle of disbelief and relief, and looking at Bulma for the first time, the gleam in her blue-haired companions eyes convinced her of the latter. "Yeah, you're right. No reason to be worried."

"Yeah!" exclaimed Yamcha. "That's the spirit."

The atmosphere lightened considerably amongst the Z team, all of them- even Oolong and Puar- smiling at the change of tone in Chi Chi's demeanor. Everything was alright, they thought, everything was fine, everything was just perfect, everything-

"Watch out!"

Master Roshi's warning cut through the lightened atmosphere like a knife through butter, alarming everyone present of a large light of energy headed their way.

Two golden blurs of light zoomed through a vast wasteland, making their way through the skies at record breaking speeds. One of them, his ki slightly higher than his companions, led the way toward what he hoped was a new adversary of theirs.

"So what do you think this Buu monster Videl told us about is like?" asked Goten, trailing behind his partner.

"I dunno, Goten," replied Trunks. "I just hoped our Dads have survived them."

"What!? They won't!?" said Goten, stopping in midair. Trunks rolled his eyes.

"Calm down. I was just saying it was a possibility. But Gohan and my Dad are- wait what was that!?" he said suddenly, shocked, sensing something in the distance that caused him to stop in midair along with Goten.

"What's what?" asked the younger Saiyan, looking blankly to where Trunks was staring at wide-eyed.

"That power…I just sensed this weird surge of power from the tournament. I dunno who it could be though, I mean Gohan and our dads aren't there so who else could give off that kinda energy?" He shivered a little, and the warm weather made it clear that it wasn't from cold. "I…I think we should go back, Goten. I dunno why, I just have this feeling…"

"No!" Goten pouted, "I wanna go see our dads make spaghetti outta Majin Buu!"

Trunks's breath hitched, still unnerved by the energy he had sensed. It was unlike anything he had ever sensed before, and yet at the same time it was…so familiar…

"Goten, I really think we should head back to the tournament. You just gotta trust me." Not waiting for a reply, Trunks flew back to the tournament grounds. Goten blinked, confused, and then with a shrug of his shoulders decided to follow his Saiyan comrade.

Meanwhile, in the depths of the Earth, a much more menacing duo was observing the carnage via a magical crystal ball. Babidi's laugh pierced through the confines of the ship, sharp enough for anyone who would be present to have been given a headache by it. All that is, except Dabura, who by now had gotten used to it, and was observing the situation with far less amusement.

"Oh this is just fabulous! You see, Dabura!? Just look at the chaos! Look at what our new ally can do!" Babidis grin grew wider and wider as he was absorbed in the images of death his ball emitted. "With Gohans power, we are unstoppable!"

Dabura kept his arms folded, his expression skeptical. "With the utmost respect, Master Babidi, I have my…doubts about your decision to choose this young boy. I believe it would have been more beneficial to us had you controlled Vegeta rather than Gohan." Recalling his battle with Gohan, he added, "I did not sense any darkness within him as I did Vegeta. I could tell he was far too soft. The damage he is causing right now could be childs play next to what Vegeta could have done."

Turning toward his demon underling, Babidi scoffed. "You simply don't know, do you, Dabura? Looks can always be deceiving. Why, if there's one thing I've learned in all my years of practicing mind control, its that the best help- or harm!- often comes in the most unexpected places!" He turned back toward his crystal ball. "Besides, with the kind of magic I've used on him, you can rest assured he is not the same pathetic weakling you faced in your last battle."

In spite of himself, Dabura raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And if you don't mind my asking, what kind of magic have you used to ensure his loyalty?" He was trying his best to hide his skepticism, but his Master's vagueness and smugness was making it quite difficult.

Babidi's grin turned into a reminiscent smile, a gleam sparkling in his eye. "Something I haven't used since my father roamed the galaxy…"

Smoke was clearing on the tournament grounds, the thick aroma clouding the eyes and mouths of those who stood in its path. The only ones immune to it were a select few standing on the tournament grounds- Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, and a particularly plucky Announcer.

"Stop it! This is madness!" The Announcer shouted, making his voice known through the mire of smoke. "I hereby declare this match cancelled! Son Goku is the winner by default!" His voice however remained ignored, and the two Saiyans standing atop the stage were too busy focusing on each other to pay attention.

"Well? Aren't you going to attack? I should think I've given you sufficient reason to do so now." Gohan's light chuckle broke through the silence, and Goku was snapped out of his state of shock. He had been having enough of that feeling for one day.

"Go…Gohan…" was all he could say as his breath came out in labored gasps- and not because of the smoke surrounding him. Finally, gaining back his resolve, his expression hardened and his gaze grew cold. "You'll pay for what you did! No matter what, I won't let you get away with this!" He didn't know what possessed him to talk to his own son like this, all he knew was that he was full of rage at…everything. The destruction around him, the fact that his peaceful day at the tournament was interrupted, and that Babidi had taken advantage of his own son…

"That's enough talk," said Gohan. "Now, its time for our fight to begin. As per your request however, we'll be fighting somewhere else. Master Babidi! Take us to a less crowded space so we can begin our battle!"

Snapped out of his reminiscing, Babidi considered where his apprentice and his "father" should be sent to next. A light bulb went on in his mind, and he telepathically relayed his idea to Gohan, feeling absolutely giddy with sadistic joy.

I have a very special place in mind for you to begin, and I think you'll enjoy it as much as I will…

There was a tense silence after Gohan called for his master. Apparently getting a response, he grinned. "Well I hope you're ready for our battle Goku, because where we're about to end up will be a real blast from the past!" He raised his arms. "Cast your spell, Master Babidi!"

Goku remained silent, still seething with rage. Feeling an apparent gust of wind, he realized that with the blink of an eye him and Gohan had been magically whisked away from the tournament. He looked around and saw a vast expanse of desert all around him, the occasional plateau blocking his vision.

This place,he thought ominously,It looks so familiar…

Snapping himself out of his thoughts, Goku spoke up. "You still haven't told me, Gohan- why are you doing all this? What convinced you to switch sides and join Babidi's team?" His sons eyes flashed red yet again, and for a second he regained a portion of his feral appearance.

"Do you think it's by coincidence that we're here?" Gohan gestured toward the area around him. "In a desert - the same desert from seven years ago?"

Seven years ago?Goku thought.What is he-

And then it hit him.

This was the same desert from seven years ago…where the Cell Games occurred.

Where Goku had fought the bio android he couldn't defeat.

Where the Z Fighters had been tortured by Cell's demonic little children.

Where Gohan had achieved the legendary form of Super Saiyan 2, becoming a hero and a monster at the same time.

And where Goku had sacrificed himself, resulting in his current state of death.

"Gohan," he said slowly, "you…you can't mean…"

"Oh yes." Eyes flashing red- and staying that way for a little longer- Gohan grinned again, relishing in his father's apparent epiphany. "This was where it all happened, Goku. This is where it began, where seven years of loneliness and hardship commenced. Because of you!" His grin turned into a scowl, and his energy level rose along with his rage, emitting a stronger aura of ki.

Goku backed off, finding it hard to keep his emotions under control now that he was aware of how his son had been drawn to the dark side. Trying to find some humor in the situation, Goku joked with himself that it was bad enough that his own wife instilled such fear in him- now his son too? In spite of the situation, he chuckled. But the humor was very short lived.

"I know it must have been hard for you, believe me," said Goku, taking a defensive stance. "But I did what I had to do, it was the only way I could make sure the world was safe, make sure that you were safe, Gohan…"

"Liar!" His son's accusation was all he heard before Goku was hit with a barrage of punches, aimed precisely at his face. Glad he took a defensive stance, Goku instinctively parried as much of them as he could, barely managing to dodge the other ones. Gohan was pushing him backwards and if he didn't gain the upper hand soon, he knew he'd be in trouble.

After an intense flurry of punches from Gohan, Goku managed to capture both his fists within the palms of his own, staring at his son dead in the eye as he looked into an endless abyss of rage and hate.

Just like when he fought Cell…he shook his head from the memory. "Please, you've got to listen to me. You've never been upset about this until Babidi told you to be, you're not in your right mind!"

"All Babidi did was open up the depths of my Saiyan power," growled Gohan, looking feral once more, his hair disheveled and his teeth (fangs?) bared, "Believe me, this is something I should've done a long time ago. You opened up the door to this, and he just walked right in. Now die!" He aimed a kick at his father's torso, but Goku managed to catch it with his right hand before it got anywhere. Only when Gohan's fist connected with his cheek did he realize his mistake.

Dammit… He was sent hurling through several plateaus, but managed to catch himself in midair and correct his stance mid-flight. Seeing his son off in the distance, he saw him charge a familiar looking ki blast.

"Ka…Me…Ha…Me…HAGH!" Gohan didn't have time to finish the word as his father aimed a kick of his own at his sons torso, causing the Saiyan half breed to hurtle toward the ground. Unlike Goku, he did not catch himself midair, and had to wait a few moments to get back up. Goku hovered down toward where his son was picking himself up and clutching his gut, a disappointed look on his face.

"Gohan, you know better than that." he chided, "You should've charged the Kamehameha the instant you saw my guard was down. Waiting that long gave me time to stop it."

Gohan coughed up blood. "Who the hell are you to lecture me like that!?" He shouted, "This isn't the Hyperbolic Time Chamber where you can boss me around, Goku! This is a real battle!" Not waiting for a response, he charged once again toward his father.

Aiming another kick at Goku's torso, his father this time wasn't quick enough to defend as his stomach got hit with a mighty force. His son elbowed him to the ground, but Goku luckily got out of the way before Gohan could create further damage by aiming a punch directly toward his head. He found his way back in the air again, and it wasn't long before his son joined him.

Staring at each other for a few seconds, they quickly locked fists with each other once again, this time it was Goku's fists in Gohan's palms. They struggled for a few moments to get the upper hand, aiming their knees at each other with enough force to make what looked like lightning crackle from their legs.

Deciding he had had enough of this, Gohan drew his head back, ramming his forehead into Goku's. The Saiyan father's vision was blurred, but nonetheless still managed to dodge an oncoming punch from his son. Aiming his own, the battle between father and son quickly devolved into a psychotic flurry of punches and kicks that to an oncoming passerby would seem like a miniature tornado in the sky.

As the fight passed on, Goku was able to pick up on how familiar Gohan's fighting pattern was from when he was nine. All at once, he was in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber again, training his boy for the day he would eventually face Cell and then save the world as his father had done multiple times before. Thinking how much Gohan had pushed himself, Goku couldn't help a glimmer of pride shine through his terror as he blocked attack after attack from his wayward son.

If only I could fight him now as I did then.he thought,As my son…and not as a ruthless Saiyan…

Lost in his reminiscing, Goku didn't notice a fist charged against him, hitting him in the neck and sending him plummeting toward yet another plateau, making a human shaped hole in it. Gasping for breath, he noticed Gohan had hovered at the ground level he was at, a smug grin plastered on his face.

He raised two fingers and aimed them at his father. One by one spurts of yellow, ring-shaped ki shot out, locking Goku's arms, then his legs, and then finally his neck so that he was completely immobilized.

"Well, well, it looks like the 'invincible' Son Goku isn't so invincible after all." He jabbed a pointer finger at his father's gut, causing Goku to gag and spit some saliva and blood out. Gohan looked at his father in the eyes, his gaze so intense that Goku could practically feel his eyes burn.

"You could never understand," he began, "you could never understand the absolute pain you brought upon us with your decision. You could never understand…and you never cared."

"Go…Gohan…"

"Shut up!" His son aimed another finger at his stomach, silencing his father with pain. "You could never understand! You didn't understand when I had to tell Mom that you died, how I felt being the man of the house at age eleven, how I had to stay awake all those nights hearing her cry from the end of the hallway, knowing that she had to bear child without you…." His voice trailed off, and if Goku didn't know better he could've sworn he heard Gohan hold back a sob.

"You could never understand…never…how she woke up the next morning, making breakfast, smiling, looking at me with those eyes, talking to me about my new baby brother or sister to keep me happy. I knew it was because she knew I felt responsible for your death…but you could never understand that, could you,Son Goku!?"

Goku remained silent, having no other choice since his gut pain kept him from voicing any opinion. Had he not been incapacitated, he would've had more of an emotional response, but in his current state his feelings were as numb as his body.

"Oh, but that's not the worst of it," Gohan's eyes flared red again, glaring suddenly, "No, I could handle all that. I could even handle that ridiculous excuse you threw at me- the one about "keeping the world safe-" when it was painfully obvious you just wanted to have fun in Other World. But you know what I couldn't stand?" At this, he leaned in more closely to his father's ear, so that every word would be magnified.

"That you would come back seven years later for one day –one day- not to spend time with the family you abandoned, but towatch - a damn - tournament!?"

He emphasized his last three words with punches to his fathers stomach. Goku's eyes widened in pain, and he made several grunts before hanging limply from the rings that were holding him, passed out.

Gohan raised two fingers, allowing the ki rings to retreat from where they came. He caught Goku's body by the midriff and prepared to fly.

"You don't get to experience the full extent of my wrath yet. But soon you will…you and this entire world…" Gohan ascended to the blue skies, making his way to a place where he could continue his father's torture.

Goten tried in vain to catch up to his Saiyan comrade, Trunks going ahead of him at blinding speeds.

"Hey Trunks! Can we slow down please?" he screamed.

Trunks turned around, facing Goten with a confused look. "'Slow down?' If we don't hurry soon, whatever's gotten at the tournament could kill everyone! Heck, it could even be Majin Buu!"

"I know, but…" a pink blush spead across the younger Saiyan's face. "I have to go to the bathroom!"

Trunks nearly face palmed. "We need to make sure everyone in the tournament is alright! Darn it, can't you just hold it in a little longer!?"

"No I can't! I haven't gone since before I fought Ekosa this morning, its gonna come out!"

"I swear you're such a baby sometimes," said Trunks, trying to find a way out of this predicament. Seeing none, he decided, "Look, we're almost back at the tournament. If we fly fast enough, we should get there in a few minutes."

"I can't wait a few minutes! I have to go no-" Trunks didn't bother to respond, having sped off toward his destination expecting Goten to follow him. Which he did.

As he once again tried in vain to keep up with his friend, Goten forgot about the need to go to the bathroom for a minute, considering what would be at the tournament that would have Trunks acting like this.Whatever it is, its gotta be pretty bad!was his last thought on the matter before increasing speed hopefully to a bathroom.

"Oh yes, oh yes! What a glorious display of torture! Keep it up, Gohan, put your father through hell!" Babidi was hopping around and waving his arms dramatically, practically dancing to every punch and kick he witnessed his apprentice inflict upon Son Goku. "I love seeing such an innocent soul brought to the dark side! Its like showing an uncut slasher movie to a little girl with no concept of death or the afterlife…"

Dabura remained silent, still skeptical of their choice in allies.If it were Vegeta, perhaps we could make twice as much progress.He thought.Plus, how do we know someone like Gohan will remain loyal? Even with the Master Babidi's magic, its hard to convince someone so pure of heart to join our side…

Dabura was mulling over these thoughts in his head as something caught his eye. Majin Buu's energy meter…

"It's over half full!" He said out loud, surprised.

"What?" said Babidi, turning his head. "Oh yes, didn't you know? With the power I've drawn out of Gohan, and all the damage he's created, Majin Buu is over halfway there to being revived at full power!"

Dabura stood there in shock, unable to comprehend how a young teenage boy could accomplish what his master and himself have been trying for years, decades, hell, even centuries. Could he have made a mistake in considering Vegeta…?

His expression turned from shocked to satisfied, and he grinned. "Well, well, it seems as if my suspicions were unfounded. Master Babidi, once again you've proven yourself worthy of the title, 'Great Wizard.'"

Babidi snickered. "But of course! You flatter me, Dabura. It is as I said, the best help comes in the most unexpected places!" Turning back toward the orb, he changed the scenery to a familiar looking tournament grounds, covered in smoke and fire, the screams of anguished and perhaps dying people reaching his ears. "Oh, what glorious music! I haven't heard such despair in a long time!"

Witnessing the anguish himself, Dabura had to admit it was impressive how Gohan had in a single stroke wiped out so much human life. And after he had beaten the boy in a pathetic excuse for a fight. "I could get used to this." He said, chuckling.

The scene at the tournament was absolute pandemonium. Panic was ensuing as any remaining survivors made haste to return to their families. Tearful embrace after tearful embrace met each other, and patrons were either relieved or horrified to learn of their loved ones' fate.

But while at least some could say that they reunited with their families, none could comprehend the anguish felt by one woman, one who believed her son suffered a fate worse than death…

"Why…why…my baby!" Chi Chi let out a shriek as her body shook with terror, fear and sadness gripping her like a cold, dead hand on her heart. Ox King did his best to console his daughter, holding her small frame close to his gigantic one, but Chi-Chi barely noticed let alone responded to her fathers kindness.

Roshi, Bulma, Yamcha, Oolong, Puar and the others simply stood back, feeling awkward and guilty that they couldn't do much to comfort a woman who had just witnessed her own son commit mass murderer. A few moments passed, and then Yamcha cleared his throat.

"Well…hey, I'm really sorry that…" He didn't know what else to say. What was there to say?Hey, I'm really sorry your son just killed all those people, but everything will be alright!

"We need to find the Dragon Balls," interrupted Bulma, "We need to wish those people back to life before anything else happens. Then we can figure things out from there."

Roshi nodded. "We need to get the balls posthaste! Get the ship started, I'll make sure everyone else makes it there safely." Bulma nodded back, making a quick run to her airship before anything else crossed her mind.

Ox King carried Chi-Chi- who was now completely unconscious- with him as everyone made their way to the ship. Roshi looked back at Yamcha and the others with a raised eyebrow. "Well? Aren't you gonna join us? Those Dragon Balls won't hunt themselves, ya know." There was an unusual edge to his tone that made the remaining Z fighters immediately snap to it and follow him. Before exiting the stadium, Yamcha looked back on the chaos that had ensued, everyone searching frantically for their loved ones.

He had never had a close relationship with Gohan- certainly not on the level that Goku, Chi Chi or Piccolo had- but he knew that it wasn't in the boys nature to kill, not unless he had some outside influence…

Hang on, Gohan,he thought,You'll get out of this soon. I promise.

While the Z fighters made their exit, a certain blonde duo were late to making theirs.

"What the hell just happened!?" Sharpener shouted, "did Gohan just do what I think he just did!?"

Him and Erasa had been one of the few remaining members who had not left their seats in the bleachers when Gohan had launched his attack. Less due to bravery though, and more to complete shock at the events that had just transpired. But while Sharpener had remained standing still, Erasa had been sitting down the entire time, shaking as she had struggled to comprehend what her eyes had told her.

"He seemed like such a nice guy…" she muttered. "Cute too…" she added, blushing somewhat.

Sharpener grabbed her wrist, snapping her out of her thoughts. "Come on, Erasa- we need to find Videl and get outta here!" Charging toward the crowd, he led his female companion to where he hoped Videl would be- in the hospital room where she had been left after her fights with Spopovitch.

Running and pulling Erasa toward where Videl had been left, he bumped into a passerby, causing him and Erasa to trip and fall. "Sorry about tha- what!?

The passerby turned out to be none other than Videl Satan, who had a relieved look on her face after seeing her old high school friends in front of her. "Sharpener! Erasa! I'm so glad I found you guys, it's gotten crazier than it's ever been in a tournament before."

"But…how…?" Sharpener stuttered, unsure of how Videl could go from beaten to a bloody pulp to perfectly fine in less than an hour. Putting it aside, he stated, "Whatever. We gotta get outta here before we get run over! Do you know if there are any air taxis left we can get a lift on?"

Videl shook her head. "I saw the last one leave a few minutes ago. Unless you know how to build a ship, we're pretty much screwed. But anyway, what the hell happened? Everyone's gone crazy all of a sudden."

Sharpener and Erasa looked at each other and gulped. They had seen the way Videl and Gohan had been looking at each other in class lately, and it was no secret to either of them that they had feelings for each other; because of this, it was extremely difficult to break the news that their best friends boyfriend (sort of) had just become a killer who for some reason could wipe out hundreds of innocent people in the blink of an eye.

"Oh, look!" Erasa said suddenly. "A ship! Maybe we can hitch a ride on there!" She pointed a well-manicured finger toward a yellow airship with the Capsule Corp logo on it.

Videl looked uneasy. "Are you sure they'll let us?" Then, deciding it was worth a shot, she shrugged. "Well, it doesn't hurt to ask, I guess." She ran toward the ship through the frenzied crowd, knocking a few people on their backs along the way.

Sharpener breathed a sigh of relief - he knew Erasa had intentionally changed the subject to avoid talking about Gohan. Looking at Erasa, he said, "You know we'll have to tell her soon, right? Who's gonna break the news?"

She shook her head. "Don't worry about it. For now, we just need to get off this island." Following Videl's lead, she ran toward the airship and Sharpener, still uneasy, followed her.

Chapter 3: Escape From The Tournament! Come Back To Us, Gohan...

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

Meanwhile, another blonde duo was making their escape from the tournament - specifically, an android mother and her daughter.

"Mommy? What's going on?" asked Marron, her innocent blue eyes twinkling. Eighteen looked at her daughter, affection filling her as she carried Marron gently in her right arm. She was flying above all the wreckage, and despite her tendency to be emotionally distant, she felt nauseated at the crime that had just been committed. Unlike her Z Fighter comrades though, she remained blissfully ignorant as to who committed it, having been watching her daughter carefully at the tournament entrance when the people had been killed.

Wonder if Seventeen is watching…

"Nothing much, sweetheart. Just another day in the life."

Flying just outside the stadium, Eighteen descended outside the tournament gates, the masses of huddled people reuniting with loved ones thankfully making way for her. Finding Bulma's ship, she made her way toward the Z Fighters crowded around it, glad to see some familiar faces among the wreckage.

"So, what'd I miss?" Eighteen asked casually, holding her baby by the hip. Noticing an odd silence with the group, she was about to ask what was wrong when something- or someone- caught her eye.

Son Chi Chi.

"Is she alright?" Eighteen asked, noticing that Chi-Chi was unconscious and held gently by her father, the Ox King. The silence and hesitation of her friends (even Roshi, who was usually quick to assure everyone things were alright) concerned Eighteen, and she gently laid Marron down. Eighteen walked slowly toward the Ox King, checking Chi-Chis body for bruises or injuries of any sort. Noticing none, she checked for a ki signal- and was relieved to find one faint enough to indicate the brunette had survived whatever she endured. Smiling, she turned back toward the group.

None of whom looked nearly as relieved as she was.

"So…what happened? Who did this to the tournament? Has he - or she - gotten away?" Questions poured out the androids mouth like water from a fountain, all of which were answered by Master Roshi.

"It's a long story," he answered simply. Gesturing toward the people around him, he added, "Bulma, Yamcha, get the ship ready. We've got a lot of travelling to do, and even more explaining." He gestured toward his old student, the Ox King. "Get her on the ship, she can rest there." Ox King nodded and walked in the airship along with Bulma and Yamcha, struggling somewhat to fit himself given his massive size.

Gathering everyone else with them- Marron jumping on happily by herself, still oblivious to the situation- the Z Fighters prepared for their long journey to find the Dragon Balls and erase the crimes the son of their dearly beloved friend committed.

"Wait!" A trio of voices all said at once.

Turning toward the voices, the Z Fighters found a group of high schoolers running toward the ship, one of them they recognized as Videl Satan, and the other two they assumed were her friends.

"So, I know this is kinda out of the blue, but do you have any room on that ship for three more?" asked Videl, huffing for breath.

"Sure, kid! No problem," answered Bulma. Maybe it was having more female company on the ship, or maybe she just naturally favored Videl because she was Gohan's friend, but she wasn't averse in the slightest to having her and her friends on her airship.

"Thanks!" Videl hastily made her way on the ship, eager to get away from the crowds. Sharpener and Erasa followed her, Erasa thanking Bulma and Sharpener nodding and smiling at her.

Master Roshi chuckled, not averse himself to having more company. "Well, I guess that's all then. Ox King, set Chi Chi down on a cot, and then we can go ahead and-"

"Wait!" Another voice said - this time, a familiar one.

Turing his head, Roshi saw Trunks standing at the ships entrance, huffing and puffing like he just ran a marathon. "I…am so glad…I got back…what…what's going on…?"

"Trunks! My baby boy, are you alright?" Rushing over to her son, Bulma pulled him in a tight hug.

Trunks blushed profusely. "Mom, not right now! Can't this wait!?"

Roshi smiled at the display of motherly affection. Having been a boy once, he knew what it was like to get embarrassed by an overly emotional mother. Given the recent circumstances though, he felt it was appropriate for Bulma to become so endearing toward her son.

"Wait!" Yet another voice said- this time, Goten, having just finished his bathroom break. Landing on the ground, he ran up the ship, not even bothering to introduce himself. Roshi walked into the ship after him. Bulma, finally exhausting herself of her motherly energy, let go of Trunks and walked with him up the ship so that everyone was present and accounted for.

Once they were onboard, Roshi sat himself down, taking a few deep breaths to help process the events that had occurred that day.I never thought that any child of yours could go wrong, Goku,he thought,Apparently…I'm not as wise as they say I am.

"Wait what!?" Eighteen sputtered in complete disbelief, unable to process what she had just been told. "It was Gohan who killed all those people!?"

She had just been told everything by Master Roshi, who had described it to her in as much detail as he could muster- while being sure to do so in a volume that wouldn't wake up Chi-Chi. Leaning back on the seat he was occupying, Roshi let out a heavy sigh, his usual lightheartedness completely gone from him.

"I'm afraid so," he said, "None of us could believe it ourselves even when we saw it, and as you can see…" he gazed toward Chi Chi's unconscious body, his frown deepening behind his thick, gray moustache. "Some of us…took it more harshly than others…"

"No!" Goten, who had been sitting silently behind Trunks the entire time Roshi was telling the story, stood up in defiance. "There's no way that could be true! Gohan's not a bad person, he's not!" He waved around his fists dramatically, and it was a miracle he didn't wake his mother up with his tantrum. Trunks stood up next to him and grabbed him by the shoulders, trying to calm him down.

"Goten, relax!" It was no use; the younger Saiyan kept flailing his arms, refusing to restrain himself.

"No! Its not true! It can't be true!" Tears started to form in his eyes, "It isn't, it just isn't! My big brother is not a bad person, it can't be, it can't-"

"Goten," Ox King stood up from where he was sitting by Chi-Chi, gazing at his grandson with a solemn look on his face. "Be quiet."

Suddenly, the Saiyan relented. Goten stood still for a moment, staring at his grandfather, and Trunks felt comfortable enough to let him go. As he stared, the tears flowed freely from his face, and Ox King pulled him into a hug.

"It's not true…it's not true…"

"Shhh…." Ox King held his grandson closely to him, rubbing his back gently. "Everything will be alright. Just don't worry about it. There's nothing you could've done." Goten clung tightly to the old man.

Trunks sat back down. Never one for emotional situations, he turned toward the teenage trio who had made their way on board, and tried to make conversation with them. "So…you're Videl, right?" He said, pointing toward the brunette girl sitting in the middle of her friends. Not getting an answer, he repeated himself. "Yo. You're Videl, right?"

"Huh?" The girl in question looked up in surprise, having just registered the question asked to her. "Oh…yeah, I'm Videl." She looked away, staring off into space. Trunks blinked, wondering why she wouldn't give a bigger answer than that. From what he had seen of her, Videl was quite talkative.

"Um, are you okay?"

He didn't get any answer this time.

Trunks scratched his head, confused. Sharpener and Erasa looked at each other, then to Trunks. Sharpener smiled, and placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Don't take it personally, kid. Let's just say Videl's not in the mood to talk right now."

"Uhhh…okay," said Trunks, and the subject was dropped.

Goten had cried himself to sleep. Ox King carried him gently to where his mother was resting, placing Goten on the cot by her side as if he had fallen asleep next to her. Smiling, Ox King patted his grandson and his daughter on the head gently, taking off his large coat to tuck them both safely in the cot.

Roshi turned to Eighteen. "Heh…crazy day, isn't it?"

"Definitely…" Gazing toward Chi Chi, Eighteen frowned in an unusual display of sympathy. She had never been too close to the Son family - she had preferred to live a quiet life with Krillin and Marron after what Doctor Gero had put her through - but being a mother had softened her heart in ways that made her able to comprehend how close a maternal bond could be, and how devastating it could be to have it broken…

If anything like this happened to Marron…Eighteen shuddered at the thought. Trying to rid her mind of the image of her grown daughter committing acts of violence, she changed the subject.

"So, how do we know where to find the Dragon Balls? They could be anywhere, you know. It's not like those things grow on trees."

"My Dragon radar! We'll find them all in no time." Bulma's chipper voice called from the cockpit. "I already have the first one in my sights - on an island, straight ahead!"

Eighteen smiled, reassured. "That's good to know. It must have been quite the adventure trying to gather them all up before that was invented."

Yamcha, who was sitting in the passengers seat, laughed. "Oh, believe me, it was anyway!" Remembering the times he had spent with Bulma in their journeys as teenagers, he added, "It was definitely an adventure working together with her to find them. That's for sure."

"Hey, you were no picnic yourself!" said Bulma in a mockingly annoyed voice. "Especially when you wouldn't shave. That was a nightmare! And don't get me started on when you'd freeze at the sight of every girl…"

Bulma and Yamcha laughed as they recalled old memories of their Dragon Ball hunting adventures. Leaning back in his chair, Yamcha looked at Bulma - who was still focused on her piloting - with a reminiscent gleam in his eye. He had always enjoyed just the feeling of spending time with her (more so after he had gotten over his irrational fear of girls), and although their break up at the time was…difficult…for them both, Yamcha was at least glad that they were able to remain good friends despite their differences. And deep down, he was certain that she felt the same way too.

Kinda makes me wonder what would happen if she didn't stick with…The desert bandit shook the thought from his head, gazing outside the window toward the vast expanse of ocean. It truly baffled him how Bulma could settle down with Vegeta of all people. Almost ten years after the fact, it still didn't cease to amaze Yamcha.

Shrugging his shoulders, he half-grinned at his reflection in the window. Then, speaking in a tone so low only he could hear it, he muttered to himself, "That's life."

"We're almost there!" Bulma's announcement cut through everyone's thoughts. "That island up ahead - that's where the first Dragon Ball is located! We'll be reviving those people from the tournament in no time. "

Everyone smiled, relieved- even Eighteen, who wasn't one to usually smile. Roshi for the first time felt like things were looking up that day.

Let's just hope it gets better from here.

Meanwhile, amidst the confusion at the stadium, a certain Saiyan prince was growing more impatient by the minute. Vegeta had just witnessed Kakarot and his son get whisked away by Babidi's magic, but unfortunately for Vegeta he wasn't taken with them. Wherever they were, he couldn't tell who would win the fight and thus who would have the honor of battling him.

It's maddening…!Vegeta thought to himself, standing there with gritted teeth and a clenched fist. Then, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed for the first time since standing offstage the Kaioshins unconscious body. Vegeta had been so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't even remember the Kai was knocked out by Gohan.

Climbing back onstage, Vegeta lifted the Kai's body with his right arm, hoisting him over his shoulder. Leaping off the stage, he looked around, wondering where he could keep the Kaioshins body until he woke up.

"Hey, mister!" A voice cried out from beside him; the blonde Announcer. "I know you already have someone else to deal with, but could you give me a hand with Mr. Satan here? He's a big one, he won't even budge!" The Announcer had been trying for a while to lift Mr. Satan's unconscious body off the ground, but the wrestling champions bulky frame made that damn near impossible.

Vegeta scoffed. Seeing no reason not to, he walked over to where Mr Satan was laying, and lifted him up over his other shoulder with ease. The Announcer stood there, stunned for a moment, but then smiled in gratitude; after witnessing the amazing feats of past contestants (especially Son Goku) he was quite used to inhuman strength by now.

"Great, wonderful! Now, we can put these two in the rest area until the situation calms down." Looking around toward the nearly destroyed stadium, he sighed deeply. "I haven't seen carnage like this in my entire life working here- not even when Ma Junior destroyed the tournament! And to think that Goku's son caused this, of all people…" He gave a worried frown. "I hope he gets out of this alright."

"It doesn't matter. Let's just get these two away from here," said Vegeta, never one for idle chit chat (except on the battlefield.) He walked toward the rest area with the Announcer. When he got there he laid the Supreme Kai and Mr. Satan in cots opposite to each other.

"So…did you want to keep your place in the tournament for when this is all over? I have the spot still lined up for you and Goku, and it would be a pleasure to host your fight." The Announcer said eagerly. Vegeta looked at him, baffled. How could anyone be so passionate about announcing a tournament fight that they'd look forward to the next one after a situation like this? Even the Saiyan Prince, being the blood knight that he was, couldn't comprehend that.

"I…sure, why not," said Vegeta. The Announcer had a gleeful look on his face.

"Wonderful! But in the meantime, we'd better get outta here. This isn't exactly the safest place to be right now. Do you have any transportation out of here?"

"My wife does," said Vegeta, who still had his next fight with Kakarot- or his son- on his mind. "Her ship is more than able to take us both to safety. We should be out in no time." He tried to sense Bulma's ki to determine where she was- and then he stopped, wide-eyed. "You have GOT to be kidding me!"

The Announcer looked at him inquisitively. "What's wrong, man?"

"Bulma already left!" Vegeta shouted. "She already left and she's taken all her friends with her- but not me!" Not that the Saiyan prince minded being left without a ship - he could fly of course - but the idea of his wife just up and leaving him like that without letting him know did put a bruise on Vegeta's pride. "Never mind- I can get a read on where they're headed, I'll take us both to them. You'll be safe there."

"Oh, you can fly?" The Announcer asked casually. "Alright, then- let's make like a tree and leave!" He was about to make his way toward the exit door when he was knocked on his stomach by the force of Vegeta blowing a hole through the ceiling.

"The wreckage from that matches the rest of the tournament anyway," said Vegeta, casual himself. "It's time for us to go." Walking toward the Announcer, he helped him get on his feet, and (as emasculating as it felt) allowed him to grab hold of Vegeta's neck as tightly as he could.

"Are you sure you can do thi- WHOAAAAAA!" The blonde man screamed as he was taken into ungodly heights, his arms carefully secure around his newfound Saiyan comrade. Vegeta kept his gaze steadily on where he knew his wife and the rest of the Z Fighters were- at an island somewhere off in the distance.

"I gotta say, I feel a lot more confident with you around!" The blonde announcer said, "Thank you for your help!"

"You're welcome." Vegeta said carelessly. Truth be told, it made little difference to him whether the man lived or died - but someone had to announce his eventual victory, and his newfound title as the strongest Saiyan alive. Besides, there was no reason not to help him…not yet, anyway…

Vegeta grinned, thinking of the glory he would bask in when he would defeat either Kakarot or Gohan. It was going to be grand.

Kakarot, you and your son had best be on guard,he thought smugly as he sped toward the island.For soon I will live up to my title as the Prince of all Saiyans!

"Betcha can't catch me, Mom!"

Goten laughed as he ascended above the trees of Mount Paozu, flying around in circles. "Wheeee! A birdie! A birdie! Goten is a birdie!"

Chi-Chi fell to her knees, sweat pouring down her face. She had been chasing Goten all throughout the forest in an outside game of tag, and unfortunately the youngest Son boy had easily outrun his mother. As he always did. Chi-Chi was dressed in her bright yellow cheongsam she always wore nowadays, and the dress was starting to make her heat up. Thankfully the Son matriarch had decided to forgo the sleeves and wear her hair down so it wasn't too uncomfortable for her.

"Goten…that's enough!" Chi-Chi said, trying to sound as commanding as possible when all she wanted to do was collapse. "Get down from there right now!"

"But Mom, it's fun up here!" Goten cheered as he flew past some bird nests, "Look, you can even see some baby birds hatching! Come on, Mom! See if you can tag me from up here!"

Chi-Chi took in a deep breath as she slowly stood up. "Goten, sweetie, you know I can't fly! If we're gonna play tag, you have to get down here so I have some small chance of catching you!"

"Oh, right!" Goten descended to the forest ground where his mother was standing, "Heh, sorry Mom! I keep forgetting you can't fly."

"It's okay, Goten," said Chi-Chi, "Because….tag! You're it!"

"HEY!"

Chi-Chi took advantage of Gotens brief distraction to touch him gently on his forehead. The Son matriarch then ran like hell through the forests of Mount Paozu, laughing and looking over her shoulder at her youngest son. Goten was running a good distance behind his mother and could barely keep up since he was out of his Super Saiyan form, but with a determined look on his face, he powered on.

"I'm gonna get you for that, Mom!"

"I'd like to see you try!"

While Chi-Chi and Goten were outside playing their fun game of tag, Gohan was inside the living room, poring over notes for his midterm exams for Orange Star high. He had just gotten through a particularly difficult algebra problem and was now focused on molecular biology, his face scrunched up in concentration. He took a deep breath, summoning every ounce of his mental strength to remember everything he had written down.

"Let's see…so what I have to remember about the mitochondria for the exam is…"

"You can't catch me, Goten!"

Gohan was distracted from his studying by the sound of his mother and little brother playing outside. Setting down his notes, the teenaged Saiyan hybrid chuckled softly.

"Will those two ever rest…?"

The wind swept through the tresses of Gohans black hair as he flew through the skies with Goku's unconscious body by his midriff. The Majin Saiyan had left the desert wasteland of the former Cell Games arena by now and was flying over a vast expanse of ocean, the sound of seagulls and the gentle spray of the ocean washing over him.

Gohan had to admit, as much as he was looking forward to Majin Buus revival, he would miss things like this after the Earth was destroyed.

But then the memories of his teenage life washed over him, and his eyes flashed red as he growled, tightening his grip on Goku's body.

Goten,he thought scornfully,Chi-Chi always spoiled you rotten, didn't she? Soon both of you will suffer, along with Goku…

Truth be told, Gohan was beginning to wonder why he didn't just kill Goku back at the desert. Initially he thought it enjoyable to prolong his "fathers" suffering, but after having difficulty finding a suitable island for miles and miles of endless ocean, Gohan was thinking it was less practical now. He frowned as he stopped in midair, searching the area for any signs of land.

"Let's see…" he said, "Wait…there!"

Gohan grinned sickeningly as he saw a small island out of the corner of his eye. He quickly descended to the shore, throwing Goku's body carelessly on the sand. Although his father was unconscious Gohan hoped that even in his dreams Goku could feel the pain of grains of sand colliding with the cuts and bruises on his skin.

Gohan chuckled darkly. "How fitting. You were born as an outcast in the wilderness…and now you will die as an outcast in the wilderness." He charged a fistful of lethal ki, and aimed it at Goku. "Tell that old geezer you named me after that I said hi."

As the fistful of ki grew in Gohans hand, he noticed with a thrill Goku's halo that was still resting on his head. "Ah, that's right…you won't be able to tell him anything, will you, Goku? Since you're already dead, a second death will annihilate you forever…heh…"

The ki in Gohans palm grew larger and larger, as did the boys satisfaction. "Finally, after years of waiting, my revenge will be complete…" He was about to launch the ki blast and end his fathers life forever, when –

Gohan!

A familiar, shrill voice echoed through the Saiyan hybrids mind. Taken aback, Gohan looked around and, realizing who was speaking to him, answered, "What is it, Master Babidi?"

Gohan, come quick! The pain you caused your idiot of a father was more than enough to revive Majin Buu. He will be hatching any minute now, and I don't want you to miss it!

Gohan frowned as he looked at his father, who was still on his stomach unconscious. Should he annihilate Goku here and now? Or wait until Buu is hatched and perhaps give his father an even more gruesome fate? The Saiyan hybrid's brow furrowed.

What in the galaxies are you waiting for!? Get over here right now! Majin Buu's meter is almost full and you have not a moment to lose!

"Yes, Master," said Gohan obediently. Well, that was that. He would have to wait to enact his revenge against Goku. Looking at the full blooded Saiyan he once called father, Gohan scowled as he ascended to the skies.

Gohan spared one last look at Goku as he muttered, "You got off easy this time. But soon Majin Buu will be revived – and when he is, him and I will work together to kill you along with this entire world!"

Gohan sped toward Babidis spaceship, grinning as he imagined the terror that Majin Buu would create.

I'm looking forward to this.

"Hey, Bulma?

The bluenette genius looked up from the magazine she was reading, smiling at the five year old Son boy. "What is it, Gohan?"

Gohan looked down at the cold tile floor of the Namekian spaceship he, Bulma and Krillin were flying in. Bulma frowned when she saw Gohans downcast expression. Taking a chance, she leaned down from the chair she was sitting in, getting on her knees to place a comforting hand on Gohans shoulder.

"You okay, kid?"

Gohan blushed, slowly looking up to meet Bulmas blue eyes with his dark brown ones. He looked so sweet and innocent, Bulma thought as she unconsciously held Gohan closer to her, so that they were almost hugging.

"I…"

Tears started to form in Gohans face. "I'm scared. I'm scared of Vegeta, of Namek, of everything. I'm worried about what will happen if we don't bring everyone back and…I miss my mommy and daddy."

"Aw, Gohan," said Bulma, pulling him in for a hug. She was dressed in a gray shirt and sweatpants, and Gohan relaxed as he felt the warm fabric on his skin. "I'm sorry you have to go through this. No kid your age should have to. But honestly, I feel ya. I miss your dad too. I mean," she quickly added, "not the same way you do, or could, but you know….you know what I mean."

Gohan nodded. Bulma gulped. Dang it girl, she thought, try to say something comforting! But the truth was she never had any experience with children. Bulma never so much as even babysat one. What could she say to such a scared little boy to make him feel better?

"Bulma?" asked Gohan, looking up, "Can you…tell me about my daddy? What was he like when you guys were kids?"

Bulma smiled. There it was.

She sat down beside Gohan and recounted every story she possibly could of Goku, starting from when they first met in Grandpa Gohans hut, to when she witnessed Gokus fight against Piccolo in the World Tournament. Bulma felt a wave of relief wash over her as Gohans fear turned to excitement, his eyes widening and smiling as the bluenette told him stories of his father that Gohan had never heard before.

"Wow!" said Gohan, "Daddy destroyed an entire army!? Mommy never told me that!"

Bulma chuckled. "That doesn't surprise me." She leaned into Gohans ear, "Hey listen…keep this between us, okay? Technically I'm not supposed to tell you this, but I figured you could use it. What do you say, Gohan? Keep this our little secret?"

Gohan nodded vigorously. "Yeah!" He extended his right hand. "I pinky promise you!"

Bulma smiled warmly, her heart melting at Gohans innocence. She extended her right hand and clasped Gohans pinky finger in hers. "You got it, buddy. Pinky promise!"

"Thanks, Bulma!" cheered Gohan. He laughed and gave the Capsule Corp heiress a big hug, which she reciprocated.

Bulma chuckled to herself. Well girl, she thought, looks like you're not as bad with kids as you thought.

"Hey, Bulma?" asked Yamcha from the passenger seat. "You okay?"

Bulma had just landed the Capsule Corp airship onto the island that the radar had detected the Dragon Ball on. The rest of the Z Fighters were all outside the ship by now – except for Goten, Chi-Chi and Ox King. Bulma was staring blankly outside the windshield, at the vast expanse of forest when Yamcha's words snapped her out of her reverie.

"Huh? Oh yeah, I'm…I'm fine."

Yamcha sighed. He slowly reached his hand to Bulmas over the steering wheel, grasping it gently.

"It's okay. I miss him too."

Tears formed in Bulmas face and she suddenly broke down crying. Yamcha's grip on Bulmas hand tightened. Ox King, who was still watching over his daughter and grandson, looked over to Bulma and Yamcha. Yamcha gave him a look that said, "I got this."

"Y-Yamcha, I…" Bulma sniffed, "I never thought that…thatGohanof all people would…would do this. What happened to him…?"

"I don't know," said Yamcha, "But whatever it is, we're gonna undo it. We'll get the Dragon Balls and all the people he killed will be – "

"HOW IS THAT GOING TO BRING HIM BACK!?"

Bulma's shouting shook the entire airship, and Ox King panicked, looking to Chi-Chi and Goten to make sure they were still asleep. Miraculously, they were. Ox King breathed a sigh of relief.

"How is bringing those people he killed back to life gonna stop him from killing anyone else!?" shouted Bulma. "He's not…Gohan isn't…"

Yamcha leaned back in his seat, taken aback at Bulmas outburst. He had seen Bulma angry before but never like this. Then again, he never saw Bulma after she lost a friend to complete overwhelming insanity.

After a few tense moments of Bulma breathing heavily, the desert bandit spoke up. "Bulma…it's okay. We'll bring him back. I promise." He didn't know where he got this confidence from, but he sure wasn't going to let it slip past him.

Bulma's breathing relaxed as she looked at her former boyfriend with red, puffy eyes. "Promise?"

Yamcha smiled. "Promise."

Bulma leaned forward and wrapped Yamcha in a hug, which he reciprocated. Looking down at her hand, a determined look crossed the bluenettes face.

We'll get you back, Gohan…I pinky promise it!

Notes:

Hello, my friends! First, I want to say thanks so much for reading and (hopefully) enjoying my story! Second, I just want to say that I thoroughly enjoyed writing that last part with Bulma reminiscing about Gohan. I thought it was appropriate to see how Bulma would process this given how distraught she was over Vegeta turning Majin in canon. Of course she's not as distraught as Chi-Chi, but considering how far back Bulma and Gohan go, I think its safe to say she'd be more than a little shaken up at this. Anywho. Yeah. Let me know your thoughts in the reviews!

Chapter 4: REVIVAL OF MAJIN BUU

Chapter Text

"You are…quite sure this will work?" An old, bearded man questioned, lying down on an operating table of his own design. Floating above this worried looking man were two stout creatures, one wearing a look of glee on his face, the other a look of confusion. "This is my last hope, to ensure my people are avenged in full. Are you certain…?"

"Of course I am." The chubbier, less wrinkled individual replied. He had a green, frog-like appearance, wearing a black cap with an M on it, an orange robe, and a dark blue outfit with a yellow piece. "You really shouldn't question my methods, you know. You're desperately in need of my help, and beggars can't be choosers."

Outside, the old man and two aliens could hear the sounds of war echoing through the roof of the emergency bunker they were located in. Gunshots, animal-like roars, and screaming were among the many horrific noises heard by the three individuals underneath. Bibidi raised a finger above toward the outside world, and smiled wryly. "Do you hear that? It sounds to me like we should get this done quickly. Soon this entire planet will be turned to rubble."

The old man gulped nervously, but nodded. Attached to him were multiple wires hooking him up to a strange looking machine, a cylindrical object with a glass exterior on the upper half showing all the intricate workings of the abnormally large hard drive. On the top was a golden half-dome, making the entire device look oddly like an oversized mushroom. "Yes, let's get this over with- Bibidi, was it? Please, do your work quickly so I can die in peace."

"That's the spirit!" Bibidi grinned. Raising his hands, he chanted the one magical word that would change the poor old man for all eternity-

"Paparapapa!"

A strange, sickly purple glow emanated from Bibidi's hands, seeping its way onto the old man, who gasped in shock. Suddenly, his eyes went wide open, and his entire body shook violently as foam began forming at his mouth. He was screaming in every tone possible, and his appearance was growing more and more feral by the second, eyes bulging and body writhing in apparent pain. While all this was going on, Bibidi was smirking and Babidi, who had never witnessed this magic before, was gazing on in morbid curiosity.

Finally, the shaking stopped, and the old man lied down stock still, apparently dead. However, after mere seconds, that same sickly purple aura travelled from the old man's body onto the wires attached to him, and then onto the odd looking supercomputer. Before Babidi and Bibidi's attentive eyes, a voice emanated from the computer, just like the old man's, but guttural and laced with rage.

"Heh heh heh…one day.." The voice said, sounding as if it could be coming from anywhere in the room. "One day…I'll have my revenge… my revenge… on the filthy Saiyans!"

Bibidi's smirk grew wider, and Babidi's look of curiosity changed to one of astonishment. "Just as planned. See, Dr. Raichi? I told you you could trust me."

"Bibidi…it seems...I have you to thank…" The low, guttural voice said, "Thanks to you…I will live on…to avenge the Tuffle race…through my ghost…" The ground beneath them shook, and a green fire lit up from beneath the machine, as if it was a rocket preparing for launch. "And Hatchiyak…my creation…will live through the grudge held by all Tuffles…slaughtered on this night….!" The machine hovered for a few seconds, and in the blink of an eye it launched straight through the roof of the bunker, blasting off into space. It went completely unnoticed by the Saiyans, who were in their Great Ape forms and were preoccupied with causing as much destruction and mayhem as possible on Planet Plant.

As the dust was clearing from the launch, Bibidi was snickering to himself, proud of his latest feat. Babidi on the other hand, was confused. "Father…what kind of spell was that?"

When he was done snickering, Bibidi answered, "It's something I taught myself after observing how hard decent help is to find these days." His chest swelled in pride. Babidi blinked.

"Hard to find? What do you mean?"

"Truly evil men and women," Bibidi continued, "are becoming a rare commodity nowadays. Apart from mongrels like the Saiyans- whose pride makes them nearly impossible to control anyway-being good is dangerously popular in this day and age. That means that less and less people are going to fall prey to my magic…or so it would seem," He let out another snicker, "if you refuse to look a little harder. With people like Raichi- a "good" person- I can, with extra effort, make him ten times the destroyer than even his enemies!" His snicker evolved into a deep, hearty laugh that boomed throughout the bunker. Bibidi hovered above the hole the machine had made through the ceiling, and his son followed him. Together, they launched hastily toward the confines of their space ship, eager to not get caught in the crossfire of the Saiyans rampage.

Babidi grinned as he was digesting all that his father told him. Tempting evil people onto their side was one thing, but tempting good people to the dark side seemed all the more delicious. "Could you teach me this brand of magic, father? I would love to use a spell like that one day."

"Of course, Babidi." Bibidi replied. They made it into the control room, where Majin Buu's cocoon once lay. It was cracked open, signifying that the monster had been awakened eons ago. "Buu may be formidable, but even I cannot guarantee that his usefulness will last. You never know when a stronger foe may appear, and he's unpredictable, hence why I keep him hidden from you until you're ready. So it helps to know how to draw anyone toward your cause." Turning toward his son, he put a hand on his shoulder as he said, "Remember, my boy- if you've learned anything from me, always remember that the best help comes in the most unexpected places."

Babidi nodded. "I will, father. I will remember that to my dying day."

The scaly eyed wizard observed Majin Buu's pulsating cocoon with a reminiscent gleam in his eye as he finished his story. "That old fool Raichi seemed like such a goody-two shoes, but my father sensed potential within him. Potential to be a force for evil." Babidi grinned sickeningly. "Truth be told, I never thought I'd ever come across a really 'good' person whose darkness I'd have to coax out. Evil men just seemed to come naturally to me. Evil men like you, Dabura." He looked back at the demon king, who was standing with his arms crossed, taking in everything his master was telling him.

"I see. So that is how you convinced the boy to join us- through this magic of your father's." Dabura said with an impassive expression.

Babidi nodded. "It was a secret kept between my father and I. No one knew of this magic- not even the nosy Kaioshin or any of his pathetic friends that Buu disposed of. And speaking of Buu…" He turned his attention back toward the cocoon, which was pulsating more rapidly, and letting off a pink steam. "It looks like our friend is about to finally awaken from his long sleep! Oh, what a glorious day!"

Dabura and Babidi watched as Buu's cocoon let out more and more steam by the second, signifying that the beast inside was about to be set free. It enveloped most of the area to the point where it was like a fog, and as the steam grew, so did Babidi's excitement. Inside the large cocoon, a dark orange glow was flickering as something that sounded like a heartbeat could be heard from it. The glow pulsed faster and faster…

"We did it! We did it, Dabura! Majin Buu is finally going to hatch! Oh, I only wish Gohan had made it in time to see this!" Babidi danced around madly.

"All our hard work shall finally pay off," said Dabura with a satisfied tone. He turned his head toward the plateaus in the distance, and grinned when he saw the forms of Piccolo and Krillin, still turned to stone.Pity that you fools won't be able to witness the chaos for yourselves.

Babidi walked closer to the cocoon's energy meter. His eyes grew wide as he saw that the meter was 98% full, the black arrow edging closer and closer to theMthat signified full power. "I can't believe it…this much energy!? Gohan, you mad man! What power do you have hidden within you?"

Finally, the cocoon split in half, emanating smoke from the inside. Babidi's dancing grew, if possible, even more crazy as he watched the sight before him with glee. "We…we did it!" He screeched. "He's…he's really…alive!"

"Our time has come!" Dabura shouted triumphantly. The two halves of the cocoon fell onto the ground, letting out the remainder of the smoke within, and as the smoke dissipated, it revealed the sight of…

…nothing.

Babidi and Dabura's looks of triumph turned to shock as they each muttered, "It's empty."

There was an uncomfortable pause, Babidi sweating in shock and disbelief, and Dabura standing stock still, unable to say anything. "But…but how…?" The wizard questioned. "I did…I did everything…followed every step…recited every spell…hurt so many people…how…why…?" He was at a loss for words.

Dabura, finding his own words, spoke up. "Master…if I may be so bold, perhaps I could explain the problem?" Babidi nodded his head and Dabura continued. "As much as I have warmed up to Gohan, I fear that choosing him was the one mistake you have made in all of this. The boy is, in his heart of hearts - at least from what I sensed of him - a disgustingly pure individual. Perhaps the destruction he caused to fuel Majin Buu's revival was not sufficient because of this. If we had chosen Vegeta, with his evil inclinations, we would have been more successful in reviving Buu."

Babidi shot an accusing look at his servant. "Are you suggesting thatI. Of all people.Picked the wrong servant to put under my control!? Were you not listening to everything I said about my father, Dabura!? Choosing Gohan was a genius move, there's no way that it could've stopped Majin Buu from being revived!" Babidi looked at the empty cocoon, and let out a half-crazed chuckle. "No…no, he's still in there, waiting to unleash destruction! Come on out, Buu! Come on out and say hello to your Master!"

"M-master Babidi…" Dabura stammered, not quite sure how to react to Babidi's behavior. "With the utmost respect, even without Buu we can still conquer the galaxy. Our plan need not be hindered without him."

Suddenly, the alien wizard broke down in tears, hanging his head low and letting out weak, pitiful sobs. "Oh, it's no use! Don't you understand? Thereisno plan without Buu!" Babidi broke down in more sobbing, and collapsed to his tiny knees in defeat at the apparent failure of reviving his father's creation. Dabura sighed. It was difficult seeing the great wizard Babidi brought to tears in defeat, but apart from what Dabura had just said, there wasn't much more he could do for him.

I do hope he gets over this,he thought- and then something caught his eye. "Master! Look!" He pointed a finger toward the sky, at what could only be described as an abnormally shaped, abnormally large pink cloud. Babidi stopped sobbing a minute so he could look up to where Dabura was pointing at and when he did, blinked curiously.

"What…what do you suppose that could be?" asked Babidi, wiping his face dry from tears with his orange robe.

"Clouds. Wait, no…it's some kind of smoke. I can't feel anything from it but emptiness." Suddenly, the cloud began swirling from within, molding itself into different shapes and sizes. Dabura gasped. "Master, it's…it's taking form!"

"Really?" Babidi watched on, transfixed by the sight above him. And then his heart leapt- the clouds, the shapes, could they be transforming into…?

"I'm beginning to detect energy!" Dabura shouted as the cloud began shifting. Slowly, it began forming what looked like a stubby pair of arms and legs, then a head, then a rotund stomach. In the blink of an eye, it became a fully formed, sentient being and the energy Dabura sensed skyrocketed to heights the demon king had never felt in all his centuries of living.

This being, whoever he was, had a very bizarre appearance. He had a very portly figure, and was as pink as the cloud he had formed from and with an antennae hanging from his head. He had a perpetual smile on his face as well as two perpetually squinted eyes, and his clothing consisted of yellow gloves and boots, a black vest with a purple cape, and whitegipants (that looked like a large diaper given how huge the creature was) with a belt that had Babidi's signatureMon the belt buckle.

After what seemed like an eternity of silence, the creature inhaled sharply, and then shouted at the top of his lungs-

"BUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!"

With that, it crashed to the ground below, creating a miniature earthquake with its landing. Dabura and Babidi, after recovering their balance, gazed in wonder at the sight before them. After a while, Dabura turned toward Babidi, whispering, "Master…is this the great Majin Buu?"

"I wish I knew…" Babidi whispered back. "The only people who have seen Majin Buu are my father and that damned Kaioshin…neither of whom are here…" Placing a finger on his chin, he examined the pink creature before him with a thoughtful expression on his face. Could this truly be Majin Buu? Could this giant, childlike being be the monster that Babidi's father Bibidi used to spread chaos throughout the entire universe?

There was only one way to find out.

"Majin Buu!" Babidi shouted toward the creature, who was stretching his limbs and humming merrily to himself. "You…youareMajin Buu, correct?"

The creature stopped and looked at the miniature mage, and pointed to himself. "Buu!" He exclaimed. "Me Buu! Me Buu! Me Buu!" He began chanting those two words repeatedly, and even started dancing around to go with it. Babidi smiled- not a sinister grin or smirk, but a wide, genuine smile that he hadn't worn in ages.

"You really are Majin Buu! Oh, happy day!" Babidi stretched out his arms. "Come to me, Buu! Come and greet your new master!"

"M-master Babidi…?" Dabura stammered, "Are you certain that this istheMajin Buu? The very same one your father created?"

"Of course he is!" Babidi replied. "Did you not hear him? This is the real Majin Buu, without a shadow of a doubt!"

Dabura was registering the odd sight before him, of a giant pink child dancing around humming to himself, and was having a very difficult time believing that this truly was the beast of destruction that his master was so obsessed with reviving. Dabura could feel a headache coming on, and pinching the bridge of his nose, he muttered, "I must be dreaming."

Babidi, on the other hand, couldn't be happier. He walked over to Buu with a big smile on his face, sweating with anticipation and cackling. Pointing a finger to himself, he cried, "Look at my face, Buu! I'm the son of Bibidi, your creator. You can call me The Great Wizard Babidi! Or just Great Wizard, or Master - since that's what I am to you now!"

Buu, however, was off in his own little world. He was looking away from Babidi and tapping his large foot, still humming to himself. Then, in a rare moment of situational awareness, Buu opened his squinted eyes just ever so slightly to get a good look at the "Great Wizard"- and in another rare moment, he frowned. Babidi was taken aback at this, and raised his hands in defense. "See, if it weren't for me, you would still be trapped inside that cocoon forever!" But Buu was still frowning. His stare at the scaly mage lasted for a good few minutes and Babidi laughed nervously, wondering what was going on in the giant pink djinn's head.

Then, crossing his arms, Majin Buu turned his back on his "master."

If Babidi was taken aback before, it was nothing compared to how he felt now. "Hey! Turn around Buu! You should know better than to turn your back on your Master!" He shook his fists angrily. "At least give me a proper greeting! Turn around! I command you!" The pink djinn buried his face in his hands and started groaning, as if in pain. Babidi started to sweat nervously. "What's the matter, Buu?"

Buu's head swiveled around revealing a goofy expression, his tongue sticking out mockingly. Babidi's eyes grew wide as saucers as he was knocked on his back by surprise. As he struggled to get back up, taking deep breaths, Buu roared with laughter at his own antics.

Dabura stepped toward his master, scowling at Buu as he did so. "He is a mere buffoon."

Babidi finally managed to stand back up, and then gave a scowl of his own. "What nerve he has too…"

"His revival has clearly been incomplete." The demon king cast a wary look at Babidi as he continued, "Master, perhaps this is a result of…"

"I know what you're about to say, Dabura. And no, it isn't." The mage responded irritably, having had quite enough of his servants disagreeing with him for one day, "Gohan's 'purity', so called, was nothing more than a thin layer of goodness to hide the true evil underneath. There is no possible way choosing him over Vegeta to accelerate Buu's growth could have had this kind of effect."

Dabura narrowed his eyes, unsure of what to make of his master's denial. He looked back at Buu with disgust. "Well, whatever the cause, he is not what he was meant to be. This deformed version of Majin Buu is nothing but an idiot and a waste, and it is best we do not bother with him." Buu twitched, gazing at Dabura with immense distaste, and the demon smirked. "Do my words hurt you? Let them. In your current state, you are of no use to us. Now run along - or should I turn you into stone?"

Buu raised his fists toward his chest, as if preparing for a boxing match. Then, as if he wasn't making himself look childish enough, he began hopping around Dabura with his fists stretched out, yelling "Pow! Pow! Pow!" repeatedly. All of this, of course, did nothing to the demon king except amuse him. "A pity," said Dabura, "this blob isn't even smart enough to start a fight, much less win one."

Buu suddenly stopped, looking at his opponent face to face, his fists still outstretched. Dabura stood there calmly, waiting for the next move to be made. The pink djinn appeared to be sizing up his adversary, looking at Dabura up and down, and then grinned evilly. The next second, he aimed his fist dead center toward his opponent's face.

"Wha-!?" Before he could even finish his exclamation, Dabura was knocked back by the force of Buu's punch, only barely able to stand back up. Groaning in pain, Dabura clutched his face, which was now covered in purple blood. He aimlessly jabbed at Majin Buu with his free arm, but to no effect as he could not see, and before he knew it he was sent careening toward one of the plateaus in the distance thanks to a large foot kicking him from behind.

Babidi gasped in disbelief at the sight before him - his most valuable henchman taken down from this overgrown child's attack! But his disbelief soon turned to wonder. "Buu, that was…that was fantastic!" Babidi marveled, "He didn't even see your attack coming! I think you may have killed him! Oh, you're every bit I imagined you to be, every gorgeous bit!" Buu giggled and clapped his hands, proud of himself for his destructive feat.

But moments later he felt something mysteriously prickly pierce his stomach. Buu looked down; it was a spear! He gazed at it in confusion, as did Babidi- until the wizard noticed a battle-worn Dabura standing off in the distance, his clothing damaged and covered in dirt and trickles of blood. "Dabura!" Babidi shouted angrily. "What do you think you're doing!? Majin Buu is finally revived, and this is how you treat him!?"

"Babidi…" Dabura walked slowly over toward his master, trying to reason with him. "Please, don't be foolish…this monster is far too powerful to be kept under your control for long. I sensed…a great amount of power within him, but it was like a well…a well that would never run dry… if he…if he is allowed to keep reaching into this power…it will only be a matter of time…before he turns on you…"

Babidi growled with indignation- first, at not being addressed as "Master Babidi" by one of his servants, and second by having Dabura once again taking issue with which minions he should keep on his side.First Gohan, now Buu!He thought angrily.When will this idiot learn that I'm in charge!?

"Make the best decision of your life and help me crush him while we can!" Dabura implored. Babidi almost laughed at that statement.

"Have you gone completely insane!? Majin Buu is my lifelong ambition! Why, compared to him, you are but a speck of dust in the wind, a small cog in the machine of my glorious plan to conquer this entire universe!" The mage ranted.

Dabura was taken aback, shocked at how his own master was describing him. "Master Babidi…" he said, almost mournfully.

"And you hurt him!" Babidi continued, tears of rage forming in his abnormally large eyes, "You hurt my father's creation! You hurt Majin Buu!"

But Buu didn't seem to be hurt in the slightest. On the contrary, he simply looked at the spear that was stuck in his belly with curiosity, as if it was an intriguing exhibit at a museum instead of a weapon that had just been used to kill him. Then, with a shrug of his shoulders, he casually pulled it out of his stomach and discarded it like a used toothpick.

"Huh-!?" This caught both Dabura and Babidi by surprise, and they saw to their astonishment that the hole the spear had left in Buu's midriff wasn't bleeding, nor did it show any signs of damaged organs, nor did it show…anything.

"Buu! Oh thank badness you're alright! You weren't hurt too badly, were you?" screeched Babidi. And then he saw another astonishing sight- the hole in Buu's stomach was filling up! He could regenerate! The wizard stared in awe and wonder.

Dabura, on the other hand, stared in stunned disbelief. "What…what is this thing!?"

Buu faced his creator's son and his opponent for a while, a glazed smile spread across his face. Then, opening his eyes threateningly, he leered at Dabura. "Me eat you up!" He yelled. "Me eat you up! Me eat you up!"

"W-what…?" was all the demon king could respond with.

The pink djinn started tap dancing, and then skipped toward Dabura while laughing insanely. "Me eat you up! Me eat you up! Me eat you up!" He chanted between laughs.

Damn it, what kind of creature is this…?Dabura thought to himself. In his home world, he was hailed as the most powerful fighter in existence, revered by those even outside the realm he ruled. He was revered by everyone, and inferior to no one, so naturally he never had a reason to taste even the smallest glimmer of fear.

But now…if the strange, twisting sensation in the pit of his stomach was any indication, as well as the fact that it increased with every step Majin Buu took toward him…

…Dabura, at long last, knew what it was like to be afraid.

"No…no!" He took a stance, preparing to launch an attack on Buu. "I willnotbe defeated by the likes of you! I have never been beaten before - and I will not be beaten by anyone, for the rest of my days!" With that, Dabura charged toward the monstrosity marching toward him, catching Buu off guard with a flurry of punches aimed toward his face and stomach. Buu was unable to retaliate, and so was pushed back by Dabura's assault, caught completely off guard.

Then, with a final, powerful jab to his stomach, the king of demons sent Majin Buu flying off into the skies, a yelp all the creature could let out before being hurtled into the heavens. But Dabura wasn't done there.

He took off toward Buu, flying toward the sky at blinding speeds. As soon as he saw Buu, he sped up and prepared his right leg for a roundhouse kick- which he promptly used to send the pink menace falling pathetically back to the Earth, crashing into a plateau.

Dabura took a few deep breaths, descending next to his master, who was trembling with horror.

"No…no…Majin Buu!" cried Babidi. "You can't be dead, not now!"

Dabura, however, was darkly satisfied with his accomplishments. He smirked. "Good riddance."

But his satisfaction was short-lived. For from the smoke caused by the impact, Majin Buu emerged, looking far less childlike than usual. Chest heaving, eyes white with rage, and steam blowing out of his nostrils, he glared at Dabura with a look of pure loathing.

"W-what!?" Dabura exclaimed, shocked. "How…how could he have survived that!?"

Buu marched slowly toward the demon king, and as he did his antenna gave off a strange, white glow. Stopping in his tracks, he grinned, although this time it was far less childlike and far more demonic. "You hurt Buu…now Buu hurt you!" His antenna aimed at Dabura, and as it did he was lifted off of the ground, completely immobilized. "Buu turn you into a cookie!"

As he floated in the air, petrified both by Buu's magic and complete, unadulterated fear, Dabura could only watch helplessly as the giant djinn prepared his magic, ready to turn him into a baked treat. His life flashed before his eyes- his beginnings as a warrior in the realm he lived in, ascending as a ruler, his servitude with Babidi and, finally, this.

"Now! You turn into a cookie now!" Dabura closed his eyes as Buu's antenna glowed red with his transforming magic.This is it,he thought.This is the end. I have truly met my match.

As he kept his eyes shut, Dabura took in his last breath, ready to be eaten alive by Majin Buu…

…when he heard the distinct noise of a powerful kick, as well as the djinn's startled yelp, as if he was caught off guard by an attack.

"Huh…!?" Dabura opened his eyes, and found to his surprise that he was able to move again. He looked around him, not seeing Majin Buu, but instead, standing in his place-

"Gohan!?"

Dabura descended toward the ground, keeping a careful eye on the boy he soundly defeated and saw, for once, why Babidi had decided to take him as an apprentice. Gone was the soft, innocent aura that disgusted Dabura so much. The boy- no, theman-standing before him had the aura of a toughened warrior with a lust for vengeance.

Gohan's black bodysuit was torn and tattered, and stained with blood, no doubt from his previous fight with his father. His hair - which was blonde, thanks to the Super Saiyan transformation - looked messy and somewhat untamed, and his boots were soiled with dirt and specks of sand. He was breathing heavily, clearly still exerted from his last fight, but with a determined expression nonetheless. Slowly, his head turned, and his bright green eyes met Dabura's yellow ones. They both stood staring at each other for a few moments, remembering their last battle together.

They nodded at each other.

Charging both of their palms with intense, lethal ki, the Saiyan and the demon shot twin energy blasts toward Majin Buu, hoping to vanquish the pink abomination once and for all.

Chapter 5: Hunt For The Dragon Balls! Who Is This Strange Creature!?

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

He had seen a lot in his life, both as a king and a servant. He had seen the dead brought back to life— sometimes in unsightly ways. He had seen mighty rulers fall like helpless children, and their thrones given to peasants. He had seen those with the kindest hearts turned to darkness, and those with the darkest hearts turned to light.

But never,everin his life as either a king or a servant of Babidi's, did Dabura ever think he would find himself fighting on the same side as a former enemy.

The demon king shot ki blast after ki blast toward the large crater that Majin Buu landed on, and Gohan did the same, both firing with great intensity. As they continued their barrage on the monstrous djinn, neither paid attention to their master, who was observing their attacks with shock and frustration.

"What…what do they think they'redoing!?"screeched Babidi to himself, veins pulsing in his forehead. "Have all my servants turned against me? Can ANYONE be trusted to obey a helpless evil wizard these days?" He took a few deep breaths, contemplating how best he could punish Dabura and Gohan when they were done with their pointless assault on Majin Buu. Then, a thought entered Babidis mind, and a wicked grin spread across his face. "Perhaps I won't need to do the punishing…after all, Buu can regenerate with ease. He can take care of those two rebellious ingrates far better than I can. When they're done with their little playfight, they'll be turned into bits of candy, and gobbled up!" He cackled.

Meanwhile, Dabura and Gohan were relentless in their attacks on Majin Buu. Taking in a deep breath, Dabura's chest swelled as he prepared to exhale and, aiming it toward where he hoped Buu was lying, breathed out an immense, powerful stream of fire. Gohan stopped shooting ki blasts as he observed Dabura's attack. He recognized it: Evil Flame, the same technique Dabura used in Gohans battle with him on Babidi's ship.

It's a powerful move…Gohan considered, remembering how he only narrowly dodged it in his fight with Dabura.It should be enough to wipe out this thing.

The Evil Flame attack hit the crater dead on and, from both fighters' perspectives up in the air, appeared to have demolished whatever remained of the pink menace. All that remained was a large, charred spit of ground, smoke rising out of it, and Majin Buu apparently disintegrated.

"Good riddance," spat Gohan

"It's not over." Dabura corrected, looking apprehensively toward the crater he had burned. "That technique only stalled him. It's going to take more than that to defeat this monster completely."

Gohan cast Dabura a confused look. "What are you talking abo-" He was interrupted by the sight of what looked like a million small blobs of pink gelatin crawling out of the crater, and then joining together in unison. To his shock, he witnessed the monster revive itself effortlessly, reshaping its body, limbs, head and even clothes as if they had never been damaged. It reared its head back in a roaring fit of obnoxious, childish laughter, apparently finding the whole situation amusing.

Hastily, Gohan and Dabura flew down to the ground, where they could see Majin Buu at eye level. He was distracted with his ridiculous laughing fit too much to even notice that his opponents were standing merely a few meters in front of him, giving them some time to think about their next move.

So it can heal itself…?Gohan thought, shocked.How are we going to get rid of this thing…?

Meanwhile, as Gohan struggled to find a way to defeat the childlike behemoth in front of him, Dabura looked to his side, sizing up his new partner. The boy was a pushover during the fight he had with him, to the point where not even the so-called "Super Saiyan" form was enough to match Dabura's strength. However, the Majin power up clearly gave Gohan a powerful edge in battle, if the fact that he had garnered so much energy for Buu's cocoon from his fight with Goku was any indication.

Looking to Gohan, and then toward Buu, Dabura thought of whatever methods he could use to destroy Majin Buu once and for all, keeping the monsters regenerative abilities in mind…

And then it hit him.

Of course…why didn't I think of this before?Rearing his head toward Gohan, Dabura shouted, "Boy! I need you to distract this idiot while I try and get a good aim at him from the sky. Don't you dare let him hit you with the beam from his antennae!"

Gohan nodded, so desperate to destroy the pink djinn that he wasn't willing to argue with any plans Dabura had. Re-focusing his attention toward the pink, laughing djinn, Gohan flared up his ki as a yellow aura surrounded his body, and with a mighty shout, his hair stood up and began to turn blonde…

"HYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!" Gohans shout attracted the attention of Majin Buu, who stopped laughing and gazed curiously in the direction of the war cry his opponent was giving him. It was a fascinating sight for Buu: A bright, yellow aura with lightning crackling all around, surrounding a boy with shining golden hair and sharp, emerald green eyes. Buu found the sight rather amusing and, clapping his hands fervently, cheered for the display.

"Ooooooh! Pretty colors! Hehehe!" The maniacal child squealed. Gohan suppressed a shudder at the beasts' unsettling behavior and charged straight for it, catching it off guard and landing a punch squarely on Buu's jaw.

"Oof!" He was sent careening a good few feet, a comical, fist shaped hole on his face. Grunting in pain and anger, Buu quickly reformed his face back to its normal, pudgy self, his look of amusement giving way to rage. Pointing a stubby, accusing finger at Gohan, he shouted, "You! Me kill you now! Me eat you up!"

Gohan prepared himself, taking a defensive stance as Buu charged up energy of his own. Looking upward, he saw that Dabura was floating above the clouds, his head drawn back, almost as if he was about to—

So THAT's his plan.Thought Gohan, recognizing another one of Dabura's moves.He wants to spit at this thing and turn it to stone…good call.

Buu had flown toward Gohan at lightning quick speeds, giving the Saiyan hybrid barely enough time to refocus and defend himself. He parried its punch narrowly, and soon found himself blocking a barrage of punches from its fat, gloved hands, waiting patiently for his demon comrade to fulfill his part of the plan.

From the skies, Dabura observed Gohan and Buu fight, knowing that despite the Majin power up that the boy could only last so long.This is it…he thought, filling his mouth to the brim with saliva, and aiming it directly toward that disgusting moron known as Majin Buu,It's now or never…

Making sure his aim was precise, and not missing the sight of Buu's large, pink body as opposed to Gohan's slender one, he reared his head back, ready to spit, when—

"Stop!"

Bulma traversed the unknown jungle with fierce determination, leading the way, and holding the Dragon Radar firmly in her hand. If the radar was any indication, they only had a mile at most to walk before they eventually found the Dragon Ball. That thought was all that was keeping her sane as she trudged through the cruel, humid jungle, and if the groans from her comrades were any indication, it was what kept them sane too.

The jungle they were in was a hot, humid spit of land that tested the Z Fighters patience. The muck beneath their feet stuck to their shoes messily, making squishing noises with every step they took. The sweat forming on their foreheads didn't help matters either, given the air's unbearable humidity, although thankfully the trees hanging above them stopped the sun from providing any additional heat. The jungles vegetation was rich and wild, with plants of all shapes, colors and sizes meeting them at every turn, some more unnervingly misshapen than the last. Nevertheless, they trudged on, each of them eager to make one step closer to reviving the people killed at the tournament that day.

Yamcha, Roshi, and Eighteen (still holding Marron, who was clinging especially tightly to her mother now) had joined Bulma in the jungle, Trunks deciding to leave early on so he could fly with Puar and Oolong, and the other three deciding to stick with Bulma for protection.

"Perfect…" Bulma groaned, struggling to get her feet out of the muck. "These shoes were on sale too…"

"Hey, it's not like I'm having a picnic here, either." Eighteen replied sardonically behind her. "These shoes were a wedding gift. If I knew this is what we'd be doing today I would've worn my old pair of boots."

"Heh, you women and your shoes…" said Roshi, kicking off a stream of muck after wrestling his right foot from the ground. "What is it with girls and clothes anyway? Just buy a new pair if one gets dirty."

"I dunno, what is it with guys and dirty magazines?" Eighteen replied irritably. Having lived with the turtle hermit for much of her married life, she didn't think Roshi was one to talk when it came to strange things about the opposite sex. "Why do you need a collection of them underneath your bed?"

"I'm a connoisseur when it comes to hot babes!" Roshi responded, with his trademark lecherous laugh. "Can't be satisfied with only one type!"

"Ugh, men…" Eighteen muttered. Master Roshi could really get on her nerves sometimes.

"Mommy?" Marron peered curiously over her mother's shoulder. "Should we clean Master Roshi's dirty magazines when we get home?"

A warm smile spread across the android mother's face. "Maybe later, sugar." She had told Marron that the "dirty magazines" that belonged to Roshi were really just magazines that got caught in the mud and needed to be washed, in an effort to shelter her from "the talk" at too tender an age. Krillin thought this was sweet and let Eighteen do it, and even Roshi had to admit it was cute.

Looking behind her, Bulma couldn't help but chuckle at the Z Fighters behavior. While it was true that these were super humans that fought for the safety of their planet, it was nice to have moments like these that reminded her that at the end of the day, they were still regular people just like the people they protected.

Suddenly, she heard her Dragon Radar beep. Digging it out of her pocket, she saw that they were now within the vicinity of the first Dragon Ball.

"We're almost there! I think the ball's over toward that lake!" Yamcha pointed forward, and for once during the entire time she had walked Bulma was happy with the scenery. To call what she saw a sight for sore eyes would be an understatement.

The harsh, humid and strangely vegetated jungle had come to an end. Instead, Bulma found herself walking into a lush, mountainous area with lake full of sparkling water. She, along with Eighteen, Roshi and Yamcha stood in awe at the beautiful sight before them, the sun now shining more brightly without the trees concealing it, not that anyone minded that. There was a soft breeze blowing that created light ripples in the lake and cooled all of them off, especially Marron, who sighed happily at the feeling of cool air rushing over her small body.

Bulma stood there smiling, enjoying the cool breeze and the scenery, when something hit her…

"Hey," she pulled out the Dragon Radar, noting with careful attention where the blip was. "According to the radar…the Dragon Ball…" She looked directly in front of her, and her heart sank. "Is…underneath the lake…"

"WHAT!?" All three Z Fighters yelled simultaneously, barely avoiding face faulting.

"Well, what do we do now!?" Eighteen questioned, setting Marron down.

"Well one of us will have to swim down there to get it." Bulma replied, an irritated look forming on her lovely face. "So, who's gonna go?"

There was a collective silence among the group, each Z Fighter silently arguing with the other over who would be the one to get wet. "Erm…" Roshi spoke up at last, "Well, y'see…I would love to, except…" He put his hands to his mouth, making very obviously fake coughing noises. "I'm too sick! I just got a very, uhm, bad cold."

"Hmph." Bulma glared down at the old hermit. "Okay, what about you, Yamcha?"

"What, me!?" Yamcha replied, shocked. "I can't get this suit wet! It's new!"

"Well, just swim in your underwear!"

"See, that's the thing," Yamcha looked down from Bulma's gaze, tapping his pointer fingers together awkwardly. "I'm…not wearing any…heh…"

"Ugh! Men." Bulma scoffed. "Is there anyone here who doesn't have an excuse!?"

"Well I don't, but I just don't feel like getting wet," said Eighteen bluntly.

"Well, at least you're honest…" Bulma admitted. "It figures. We gotta Dragon Ball to catch, and you all are wasting your times because you don't feel like swimming to get it!" The Z Fighters recoiled at her anger—even Eighteen stood back a little—and then Yamcha pointed something out.

"I mean," he said, finally meeting Bulma's gaze. "Why don't you try swimming down to get it? It doesn't look that deep anyway, and if no one else is gonna do it, you might as well."

"M-me?" Bulma stammered, her angry visage breaking. "I…uh…" she looked around awkwardly toward her Z Fighter comrades, all of whom were gazing at her intently, waiting for an answer—even Marron looked mildly curious. "Um…well that's, uh...well you see, Yamcha…I can't because…I'm allergic!" She blurted out, quickly realizing how stupid that sounded. Yamcha eyed her quizzically.

"Allergic to what? Water?"

"No. I mean…yeah?" Bulma found herself unable to look directly into Yamcha's eyes. "I mean, no and yeah? I mean, not drinking water, but uhhh, seawater!" She smiled nervously, sweat forming on her forehead, and not because of the heat. "You see, if I swim in seawater for too long, I get a really bad allergic reaction."

"What kind of 'allergic' reaction'?" Yamcha asked skeptically, folding his arms. Roshi held back a chuckle, and even Eighteen looked somewhat amused.

"A…a really bad one!" Bulma responded lamely. "I mean like, stomach pain, and a really bad headache, and…and…big ugly boils appearing all over my skin! And they hurt like hell." Bulma kept her nervous smile, but on the inside she was beating herself up for the pathetic excuses she was forcing herself to make.

"Uh huh." Yamcha replied simply. "Well, this isn't sea water. It's just a big, freshwater lake by the mountains, you'll be fine."

"Yeah, well, you can't take any chances! Hehehe…" Bulma scratched the back of her head, reminding herself irresistibly of Goku. "Not with an allergic reaction like that! No siree!"

Yamcha rolled his eyes.And she's talking to US about making excuses…he sighed. "Women…okay, fine. I'll go get it myself."

"Aw thanks, Yamcha! You're a life saver!" Bulma practically squealed in relief. Yamcha looked toward the lake and, with a slight gulp, took off his yellow jacket and shorts, leaving him in an undershirt and boxer shorts ("I knew he was lying about not wearing any underwear." Bulma whispered to Eighteen.) Taking a deep breath, he took a diving stance, ready to jump in, when—

SPLASH!

"Whoa!" He was knocked off his balance by two large objects dropping into the lake, and Bulma, Roshi and Eighteen ran forward to see what it was that made the splash. "What the hell were those things!?"

"They looked like a couple of fish!" Roshi yelled, looking down into the lake. "But where did they come from!?"

"It looks like they came from the sky!" Eighteen exclaimed, in a rare display of surprise. "But how…?"

"Wait a minute…" Bulma pondered, looking up at the sky. "Yamcha, did you see what color those fish were?"

"Huh?" replied Yamcha, "No, I could barely make out that they were fish. Why?"

Bulma placed a finger to her chin.

"Because if I saw right, they were pink and blue…"

"Gah…what a hassle!"

Sharpener cut through vines endlessly with his pocket knife as he, Erasa and Videl traversed the unknown jungle of the island they had landed on. The teenage trio had decided to go their separate way from the rest of the Z Fighters, and while Sharpener told Bulma it was because they could more easily find the Dragon Ball that way (not that he really had any clear idea of what it was), inreality it was because they needed privacy after the events of the tournament.

Sharpener led the way, scouting the area for signs of any wildlife that could kill them. Behind him, Erasa and Videl huddled closely together. Normally Videl would be just as, if not more ready to fight than Sharpener, but for obvious reasons she didn't feel ready to fight now.

"Sharp, are you…sure we shouldn't have stayed with the others?" asked Erasa as she looked around her apprehensively. "I mean, who knows what's living in this jungle?"

"Aw relax, everything's fine!" said Sharpener as he hacked through another set of vines. He wiped sweat off his brow. "You got me, remember?"

Videl rolled her eyes. "That's what worries me the most," she said under her breath.

"You girls are in good hands!" said Sharpener as they continued their walk, "Who knows, we could even find the Dragon Ball before Bulma and the others do! With me by your side, you never know what could happen to us."

Yeah, like losing our lives…thought Videl.

"I mean," said Erasa as she carefully avoided tripping over a fallen branch, "That might work for a tournament, but this is a jungle on a deserted island. What makes you so sure?"

"Babe, come on. When have I ever led you girls astray?"

"Well, there was that one time with the hamsters in biology class and the can of spaghetti sauce…"

"That doesn't count!" interrupted Sharpener, blushing profusely. "I was going through a phase!"

Sharpener mumbled something about "never live it down" under his breath as he continued to lead the way through the jungle with his female classmates trailing behind him. Erasa and Videl were keeping a steady pace, walking side by side.

Although the air was humid it was more bearable thanks to the teenagers attire for the hike. It turned out Bulma had an entire wardrobe full of clothes in her airship which, being the rich corporation heiress that she was, didn't come as any surprise to her teenage guests. Sharpener was dressed in a pair of baggy, airy camo pants and black hiking boots, as well as his usual black tank top. Erasa was wearing a similar pair of boots, with gray hiking shorts and a green tank top that matched the color of her usual tube top. Videl was the only one dressed in her usual attire of a white t shirt and black spandex leggings.

Erasa and Videl trailed behind Sharpener, both of them grateful that they sprayed insect repellent on themselves as they saw countless mosquitoes passing by them. Although neither of them were in their element in an exotic jungle, Erasa tried to make the most of it by observing the wildlife around her.

"Ooooh, Videl, look!" said Erasa, smiling as she pointed to a bright, blue bird perched on a large tree branch. "What a beautiful bird! I wonder what species it is? I bet well see a lot of cool looking animals on this island!"

"Uh huh, yeah." Said Videl as she looked down at her feet, trudging along. "Sure."

Videls unusually quiet demeanor did not go unnoticed by her blonde friend. Erasa frowned as she and Videl continued walking, Sharpener now out of earshot. Nudging her friends shoulder gently with her own, Erasa smiled as Videl's eyes met hers for the first time that hike.

"So…anything you wanna talk about?"

Videl scoffed as she broke her friends gaze, looking around and pretending to be interested in the wildlife she hadn't noticed until five seconds ago. "No. I'm fine."

Erasa sighed. "Hey, it's okay. I'm upset about Gohan, too."

Videl sighed deeply. Well, there's no way around it now, she thought. Looking up ahead, she saw that Sharpener was standing a good enough distance for her to talk privately with Erasa. Videl turned to her blonde friend as they continued traversing through the unknown jungle.

"I just don't get it. How could he…do that? That's not the Gohan I know."

Erasa nodded as Videl's brow furrowed. Taking a deep breath, the brunette martial artist continued,

"The Gohan I know would never hurt anyone. Not unless he had to. He was so…he was so kind to me. And to everyone that knew him. He trained me, he introduced me to his family, he fought crime in that goofy Saiyaman outfit…" (Erasa chuckled lightly), "…he just would never hurt anyone. I don't get it. What happened to him?"

Erasa nodded, listening to every word her best friend was telling her as they continued their journey through the jungle. Sharpener was ahead of them, so focused on cutting vines that he couldn't have heard his friends conversation even if he was in earshot. Videl wiped sweat off her brow.

"I don't get it, either. Honestly, I'm just as confused as you are," said Erasa. She didn't know what else to say to her friend – Videl was parroting everything she was thinking.

Videl and Erasa kept walking through the forest, wiping sweat off their brows and taking occasional swigs from the water canteens they took with them. They were catching up to Sharpener so that he was now in earshot of them.

"Whatcha girls talking about?" he asked as he hacked through another vine.

"Nothing," they both replied in unison.

"So it was about Gohan," said Sharpener casually. "Yeah, I don't know either. The dudes gone nuts."

"Sharpener!" snapped Erasa. Videl shot him a dirty look, but stayed silent. Sharpener shrugged as he led the girls through the winding paths. They were starting to get out of the forest area and the sunlight was peeking through more, causing the teenage trio to squint their eyes.

Once they adjusted to the light, Sharpener continued, "Hey, don't point fingers at me. I'm just stating the obvious."

"Gohan would never do that! He's not evil!" Erasa insisted as she caught up to Sharpener, so that they were both at eye level.

"We were at the same tournament today, right?" said Sharpener, "You saw it as much as I did. The dude straight up killed a bunch of people. Seems pretty evil to me."

"He wasn't himself!" Erasa insisted, glaring at her jock friend. "You know Gohan as much as I do!"

"You're right. I do know him as much as you do," replied Sharpener. Him and the girls had by now gotten to a stream, where they decided to take a break from the hike and sit down. "Which is to say, not much at all. Certainly not enough to know if he'd be capable of killing someone."

Erasa was about to reply when Videl cut her off.

"I know him!" she said, "I know him better than either of you do. We spent a whole month together training for the tournament!"

Sharpener and Erasa looked at their friend in disbelief. Videl averted their gaze and felt her cheeks turn red.Damn it, I swore I wasn't gonna tell anyone about that…

"You…you spent time with Gohan? Alone?" asked Erasa, her eyes widening. "Oooooh, Videl…what did you two do?"

"It wasn't like that!" Videl insisted as her cheeks turned even redder, "It's just…I spent a lot of time with him, we trained, we got to know each other, and…and I know Gohan's not like that. He's not the monster we saw at the tournament. I know he isn't!"

Videl's shouts were starting to echo throughout the forest, and branches could even be heard shaking as Sharpener and Erasa stared at their friend in wonder. Videl glared at both of them. Sharpener sighed and, leaning back against a tree stump, muttered, "Videl…"

"Sharpener," interrupted Videl, "I know what you're thinking, and no. It isn't like that."

"Isn't like what?"

"Isn't like I'm defending Gohan just because I caught feelings for him," said Videl, her glare growing more intense. "That is what you were going to say, right?"

"…"

"So you admit you caught feelings for him?" asked Erasa with a wide, Cheshire cat grin. Sharpener and Videl ignored her.

"I know him, Sharpener. I wouldn't say this about anybody. Believe me, I know plenty of people who I wouldn't defend if they killed someone. But Gohan…he's different. I've been around him. I've seen how good of a person he is and how much he cares for people. I've…" Videl looked down, "I've honestly never met someone as kind as he is. And I don't think I ever will again."

Erasa's grin disappeared as her and Sharpener finished listening to Videl's explanation of her faith in Gohan. Sharpener's expression was impassive as the trio sat down in silence, contemplating what was said. A light breeze swept through the forest, blowing through the teenagers' hair and cooling them off. In the distance, one could hear the sounds of wild animals.

Finally, Sharpener stood up.

"We better get back to the ship. We haven't found a dragon ball yet and the others might be waiting for us."

Erasa nodded as she stood up with Sharpener, looking down at her friend to see if Videl would do the same. Hesitantly, Erasa extended a hand to Videl, which she slowly took. Erasa helped Videl to her feet and saw that a few stray tears had fallen off the brunette martial artists' cheeks. Sharpener had thankfully walked a few feet of distance from them so he was out of earshot of the girls.

Erasa walked side by side with Videl as Sharpener led them through the forest back to Bulma's airship. Sparing one last look at her friend, she whispered,

"I believe in him too, Videl. And…and I know you're right."

For a short, brief moment, Erasa saw Videl's lips tugging at her face, almost as if she was about to smile.

"Stop! Stop this, I say!" Babidi's shrill voice echoed throughout the valley, causing Gohan, Dabura and even Majin Buu to pause their fight and turn their gazes toward his direction. Dabura descended from the sky, standing a few meters away from Gohan and Buu, both of whom stopped mid-battle when they heard Babidi's voice. Buu comedically fell to the ground, Gohan losing his balance somewhat but quickly regaining his footing.

The old wizard floated toward his wayward minions, fuming with anger and veins throbbing in his temple. Majin Buu had taken far too long to punish Dabura and Gohan, in his opinion, and he didn't want to risk the chance that his precious djinn would get defeated by two disobedient servants. Not that he felt Dabura or Gohan stood much chance, even together, but after awakening Buu from countless years of sleep, even the slightest chance was too much for him to bear.

"You!" Babidi screamed, pointing an accusing finger at Gohan. "And you!" He pointed at Dabura. "And even you!" He pointed at Buu. "You…all three of you…what do you think you'redoing!?"

"I'm deeply sorry, Master Babidi." Gohan was the first to apologize. Powering down from his Super Saiyan form, he kneeled in front of the mage, his head respectfully bowed low. "Dabura and I tried our best to destroy this monster, but it appears to be very powerful—"

"You fool!" shouted Babidi, causing Gohan's head to jerk up in surprise. "This "monster" you tried to destroy is none other than the great Majin Buu!"

Gohan blinked confusedly, trying to register exactly what it was Babidi had said. Finally, he spoke up. "I beg your forgiveness, Master Babidi, but it sounded for a moment as if you suggested this…" He looked over toward the pink djinn, watching as it skipped merrily throughout the valley, humming to itself as if the battle it previously fought hadn't occurred. "…thingis the instrument of destruction you planned to revive, Majin Buu."

"Itis,you imbecile!" Babidi insisted, spit flying out of his mouth because of how frustrated he was. "Get it through your thick skull,this is Majin Buu!"He pointed toward Buu, who was now lying down on the ground, sipping a cup of orange juice and reading a comic book.

Needless to say, Gohan was baffled. "But…then…" he looked at Dabura, who had his arms crossed and a steely expression on his face. "If he's not an enemy, why did he try to kill Dabura?"

Babidi took in a deep breath, calming down for the first time in the conversation.Thisone would require some more thought. "I…yes, well…" He looked at Dabura, whose expression remained steely as ever. "You see…Buu is…not quite the monster that I thought he'd turn out to be…"

I have no doubt,Gohan couldn't help thinking.

"For whatever reason, his personality is quite different from what I had envisioned." Babidi continued. "But regardless, thisisMajin Buu, and hewillhelp us in our goal of conquering this pathetic universe." He ended on a note of finality, looking quite smug.

Gohan sat there awkwardly in his kneeling position, still confused, looking from Babidi to Buu (who was laughing at what was apparently a very funny part of his comic book) and then back to Dabura, who nodded at him, confirming that everything Babidi said was indeed true.

This is getting really weird…

"C'mon, Oolong! We gotta get that Dragon Ball!"

Two streaks of blue and pink sped within the blue confines of the lake, the blue streak keeping a steady lead over the pink one. Puar and Oolong had spent most of their time on the island as falcons, scouring the area for any sign of the Dragon Ball, followed by Trunks,b who had chosen to fly with them. Passing by the lake, they overheard the Z Fighters discussing their predicament over how to retrieve the ball from its watery confines, and wasted no time transforming into fish to retrieve it.

Or more accurately, Puar wasted no time, whereas Oolong reluctantly followed suit.

"I still don't see why we couldn't just leave this part to the others to figure out!" The pig-turned-salmon complained, barely able to keep up with Puar. "I'm sure someone coulda just dived in and gotten the Dragon Ball!"

"But we're the only ones who could transform into fish and breathe underwater!" The cat-turned-bluefish shot back. She swam as fast as she could, and suddenly she spotted a glimmer of yellow light out of the corner of her scale-covered eye. "There it is! That must be the Dragon Ball! Follow me Oolong!" She sped at even greater speeds if possible, leaving Oolong in a trail of bubbles.

"Hey, wait for me!" Oolong yelled, boosting his speeds to keep up with his former transformation school classmate. He found it difficult however as Puar's bubble trail left much of his vision blurred, to his frustration, but he eventually caught up to her—and the Dragon Ball as well.

The familiar, one-starred Dragon Ball glowed brightly, shining brilliantly in the blue depths of the lake it was settled in. Puar looked overjoyed to see it and even Oolong smiled slightly at the sight before him, glad that they had one of seven dragon balls in their midst.

"Yay, we found it!" Puar squealed. "Now we can get this back to Yamcha and the others, and find the second Dragon Ball!"

"Hold on a minute, Puar," corrected Oolong, "We may have found the ball, but that still leaves the question—how the hell are we gonna get it outta the water? Fish don't have arms, you know."

"Oh…uhhh…." Puar's look of joy turned to one of confusion, scratching her head with her fin. "Hmmm…wait!" A light bulb went off in her head as she snapped the nonexistent fingers on her fin, her face brightening up again. "I got it!"

She closed her eyes tightly, and suddenly disappeared in a puff of blue smoke. The smoke left a cloud that lingered in water for a little while, and Oolong eyed it curiously, wondering kind of transformation Puar had in mind. Suddenly, a tentacle reached from the confines of the cloud, wrapping the Dragon Ball around it.

"Gah!" Oolong reacted. As the cloud disappeared, he saw Puar's newly transformed state: an octopus.

"I got it!" Puar cheered (it was odd hearing her usual high pitched voice coming from such a large creature.) "Now I can finally get the Dragon Ball to Yamcha and the others, and we'll be on our way!" And with that, she blasted off in a trail of ink, heading toward the surface of the lake.

After registering what it was he just saw, Oolong snickered, and followed his former transformation classmate. "Heh…I gotta admit, that was pretty clever…"

Bulma, Yamcha, Roshi and Eighteen were standing silently by the lake, pondering what the two strange creatures were that dropped into it. Suddenly, a splash of water rose from the lakes watery confines, carrying with it a large octopus that was dropping itself ashore.

"What the—?"

"—hell is—"

"—THAT!?"

The Z Fighters shocked reactions were all that could be heard before they got splashed in a sudden torrent of water, brought upon them by whatever it was that jumped out the lake.

"WHY YOU…!" Bulma screamed, her usually pretty face and hair completely soaked, "THESE WERE MY BEST DRESS AND SHOES, YOU—"

"Hey, wait a minute, Bulma!" Yamcha shouted over her, not giving mind to his own soaked state. "Look! It's the Dragon Ball!"

"The…Dragon Ball…?" Bulma's angry demeanor disappeared when she saw the familiar round, orange-starred ball. It changed into horror though, when she saw the creature handling it. "EEK! It's a giant, slimy octopus!" She pointed toward the octopus, running as far away as she could from it. As she did though, it suddenly disappeared into a puff of blue smoke, leaving—

"Puar!" Yamcha exclaimed joyfully, rushing over to his former servant to give her a big, wet hug. Puar smiled. "I can't believe you did it! You got the first Dragon Ball!"

"Aw, it was nothing, Yamcha!" Puar replied bashfully, feeling herself go red from underneath her fur. "It was a cinch, really."

"Maybe for you, but not for me, sister." A grumpy voice replied. Yamcha and Puar looked to their left to see Oolong, transformed back into his normal pig state, wringing his clothes dry with a somewhat sour look on his face. "I still don't see why we couldn't have just let them get the Dragon Ball by themselves…"

"Stop being so selfish, Oolong!" said Puar, irritated. "You should be more willing to help out!"

Bulma stepped up to the Dragon Ball and picked it up. "Well, for whatever effort each of you put in, it was enough. You should be proud of yourselves." She smiled brightly at Puar and Oolong, feeling a little gratitude for having the pig around for the first time in her life. "That's one Dragon Ball down, and six more to go!"

"We'd better get to the next one fast." Eighteen said seriously. "If we don't act soon…more people could get killed." She paused before that last part of her sentence, and although she didn't say it, everyone could sense that she had tried her best to leave Gohan's name out of it.

Roshi nodded solemnly. "Eighteen is right. We shouldn't waste too much time here." Bulma and Yamcha nodded along with him, and after everyone had enough time to dry up, they made their way back toward the shores of the island, and into the airship. When they entered, they found Goten and Chi Chi still asleep, snoring as if they had been working for ages. No one dared to try and wake them up; after what had occurred that day, the less time the Son family spent awake, the better, they figured. Videl they noticed however was doing a little better, having had enough time to talk things over with her friends; she was smiling for the first time since she had heard the news of Gohans turn to evil, and even expressed how happy she was that the first Dragon Ball had been retrieved (despite not really knowing what it was.) Sharpener and Erasa looked relieved to see their old friend in better spirits, and hoped that as the day went on, they would improve from here. As the Capsule Corp airship lifted up into the sky, preparing to launch towards its next destination, the Z Fighters felt as if their moods lifted along with it.

Of course, it wasn't until they had blasted their way well out of the island that a question started to form on their minds…

Where's Trunks?

"Zzzzz…huh?" A purple-haired Saiyan hybrid awoke from his mid-air slumber, finding himself floating above a large island with a mountain at the center of it.

Trunks Briefs had decided to follow Puar and Oolong in their quest to hunt for the Dragon Ball, preferring the sky to the harsh, humid climate of the jungle. He followed the two falcons for about ten minutes before he suffered from immense boredom and dozed off, slipping into sleep for Kami knows how long before he eventually woke up.

"Whoa…" Trunks observed his surroundings, the peaceful blue sky he was floating in, and wondered where his two comrades had gone. "What happened to Puar and Oolong? They were just here…"

He defied gravity for a few more moments before he heard the unmistakable sound of an engine whirring, and turning around, saw his mother's airship lifting itself into the sky along with him, leveled with his gaze.

"Hey, they're back in the ship!" Trunks exclaimed happily, grinning from ear to ear. "That means they got the Dragon Ball!"

Suddenly, the ship fired its engines, heading toward its next destination, to wherever the second Dragon Ball was.

"Gah!" Trunks reacted in surprise. "I…I better go…"

And without a second thought, the purple haired youth flew toward the ship, eager to get back on track with the Z Fighters hunt for the Dragon Balls.

"Well, then…" Gohan stated, standing up from his kneeling position. "As…unusualas this creature looks for a beast of destruction…" He glanced over toward Majin Buu, who had finished reading his comic book and was now lying on his back whistling 'Tiptoe through the Tulips' to himself, "…and as bad of a first impression as I got from it…" His gaze shifted back to Dabura, who still looked understandably irked at the whole situation, "…I suppose I shouldn't judge based off of appearance, or first impressions."

Gohan looked down at Babidi, and bowed his head in respect. "Please forgive me, Master. I did not intend to upset you by attacking Majin Buu. Now that I know that this is him, I won't lay so much as a finger on your father's creation."

Babidi felt a smirk spread across his scale-covered face. "You are forgiven for this one, Gohan. Neither you nor Dabura did any lasting damage to Majin Buu, and it's clear to me that you are sincere in your apology. However…" his smirk grew more sinister. "Should you eventhinkof harming my precious Majin Buu again, you can rest assured, next time I will not be so generous!"

"I…I understand, Master Babidi." Gohan stammered, still having trouble processing that his master was so protective of a fat, pink genie that seemed to prefer whistling and reading comic books to committing acts of destruction.

It was a confusion, of course, that Dabura could well comprehend. Actually, he had more of a right to be confused than Gohan did—having been subjected to near death by Majin Buu just a few moments ago. As Dabura observed the playful djinn continue whistling to himself, his lips curled scornfully.

It wasn't just that the monster had almost killed him—Dabura was more than able to recover from a situation wherein he almost got killed—but it was that Babidi, whom he had served so faithfully for so many years, willingly let it happen because Dabura (in his master's words) was now "nothing."

Majin Buu is my life-long ambition, and now that he is here you are nothing!

Dabura shuddered as those words rang in his mind, Babidi's voice seeming to echo like an ominous dirge in his head. Of course he wanted to say it was all in the heat of the moment; now that Buu had been revived, Babidi wasn't thinking clearly and thus, wasn't being sincere in his dismissal of Dabura's importance.

It seemed reasonable enough for him, now that Babidi seemed to calm down after everything that had happened, that his master would never think of him in such a light. But Dabura couldn't push away that one nagging, irksome voice in his head, the voice telling him that despite however he might reason his way out of it, that Babidi was being sincere in his outburst...

"Alright now, listen up!" Babidi's shrill voice cut through Dabura's thoughts, forcing his inner reverie to a stop. Gohan straightened his back, listening attentively.

Clearing his throat, Babidi raised his voice to the level that gave a small creature like him authority over two much taller ones. "Now that I have finally revived Majin Buu, it is time for us to begin the destruction of this pathetic universe, once and for all! But first..." He looked over Dabura and Gohan, their face showing signs of weariness and clothes showing signs of battle damage. "...I think I should give you both a little refresher before we begin our journey!"

Babidi stretched out his hands, and a dark red glow emanated from his tiny fingers. The red glow appeared over Gohan and Dabura for a few seconds, until they both felt a warm, healing energy engulf both of them. To both of their satisfaction, they felt their ki levels rising back to normal, as well as their wounds and clothing damage magically repaired.

Gohan smirked appreciatively, pumping his fists. "Fantastic! Now I can fight at full potential again."

Dabura for his part remained quiet, although a small smile did appear on his face as he examined his newly healed body.

Babidi folded his arms behind his back. "Now then...seeing as all that's cleared up..."

He reared his scaly head toward where Buu was lying. "MAJIN BUU!" he hollered, Dabura and Gohan taking a step back due to the sheer intensity of Babidi's voice. Buu looked up in slight confusion but, apparently getting the message, stood up and lumbered toward the old wizard, his cape swinging lifelessly behind him as he did.

Buu looked down in curiosity at Babidi, who grinned widely. Dabura and Gohan kept their guards up, ready in case the pink djinn felt like continuing their battle.

"Majin Buu..." Babidi began, as if he were an adoring parent talking to their child. "It is time for this whole world to witness your amazing power! We shall begin by hunting for a small town, then after that we'll continue torturing this world slowly, and then, after there's nothing left of Earth to destroy, we shall move on to other planets! How does that sound!?"

"De...stroy?" Buu repeated, raising a stubby finger to his chin.

"Yes...destroy." Babidi said through slightly gritted teeth. Surely Buu could at least understand the meaning of the word?

"De...stroy." Buu had a look of vague contemplation on his face - or at least about as contemplative as an overgrown child could be. "De...stroy...destroy...destroy..."

After a few minutes of thinking, Buu asked, "Why Buu want to destroy?"

"Well..." said Babidi, clearly taken aback at the question. "You see, Buu...it was what my father Bibidi created you for!" He blinked. "Don't you remember?"

"Bi..bidi?" Buu repeated. "Bibidi...Babidi...Buu?"

Gohan and Dabura stared in complete disbelief, not knowing whether to find the situation amusing or pathetic. Considering that this confused djinn was the same monster who was trying to kill both of them moments earlier, this was a very strange sight to behold.

"Now look, Buu..." Babidi said, getting more desperate by the minute. "You were created to destroy! It was the very reason my father made you! And now that you're free, you must destroy this entire universe to exact revenge on the Kaioshin who sealed you in that cocoon! Do you understand!?"

"Destroy...destroy...destroy..." Buu just blankly repeated the word while Babidi was ranting, apparently not taking the words in. Then the djinn snapped his fingers, a wide grin spreading across his childlike face. "Oooooh! Buu understand now! Buu turn everyone into candy!"

Babidi nearly face faulted at that. "C-candy...?" he muttered, standing himself up. "Well...alright, then...if that gets the job done."

Not feeling like arguing the point further and glad that he at least got somewhere with Majin Buu, Babidi floated onto the genie's back, grabbing two fistfuls of Buu's purple cape. "Now that we have that all sorted out..." said Babidi, "It's time for the entire world to feel the wrath of Majin Buu! Now, after all I've waited for - its time for us to begin our quest for destruction!"

The wizard turned his scaly head toward Gohan and Dabura. "Both of you can decide for yourselves whether you want to join us or stay behind." Turning around, he whipped the back of Buu's cape like the reins of a horse. "Buu! Come on now! It's time for us to find our first victims in this pathetic world!"

Majin Buu obediently prepared for flight, and launched himself into the sky at great speeds. At a moment's glance he was gone, carrying the son of Bibidi with him in his beginning journey of destruction.

When the dust had settled and Gohan and Dabura were left alone with each other, the Saiyan hybrid turned toward the demon king, getting a close look at him for the first time that day. The fact that they had been fighting each other mere hours ago wasn't lost on either of them; however, neither was the fact that even earlier, they were fighting as a team.

For awhile, they just stood there, there clothes fluttering somewhat in the desert wind. Then, as if on cue, Dabura broke the silence.

"Well, well," he said, his expression impassive and his tone even. "It seems I have you to thank."

"Yes." Gohan replied curtly.

"There's no denying that you've changed from the soft young lad I fought in Babidi's ship." Dabura continued, "Indeed, before Babidi chose you, you were merely a pushover. Now, however...you've changed. Not just in terms of strength. You've become more ruthless. And you proved it in our battle with Majin Buu." A small smile began to form on his lips. "Now I understand why he chose you and not that Vegeta as our next ally. You really do have potential."

Dabura extended his hand to the young Saiyan. "You have proven yourself worthy, Son Gohan. For that, and for saving my life, you have my respect."

Slowly, hesitantly, Gohan grasped Daburas hand with his own, meeting it in a firm handshake.

"You're welcome." Gohan said, smiling slightly as he let go. "I couldn't just sit back and watch you get killed. I'm going to be honest, though, I didn't know what to think when I found out that was Majin Buu. I mean...he certainly wasn't what I expected."

"Yes. Well..." Dabura's smile faded, his expression becoming more serious. "He certainly wasn't what I expected either. I imagine something must have happened in the revival process that changed his personality. But I don't suppose it matters now. He'll be useful in fulfilling his purpose of destroying this universe."

"Even if that means turning people into candy?" asked Gohan, half-sarcastic.

"I...suppose so." Dabura shook his head, still unable to believe that Buu had actually said that. Remembering his battle with the pink djinn and how outmatched he was, the demon suppressed a shudder. He would have been turned into a snack for Majin Buu had Gohan not intervened...

Pushing those thoughts away, Dabura turned back to his adolescent ally. "Anyway, that's enough talk. I take it you are interested in joining Majin Buu? No doubt you'll want to partake in the destruction alongside him. That Saiyan blood of yours, and all."

Gohan's face broke out into a wide, nasty grin. "Definitely. I won't let Buu have all the fun - I want to give this world a taste of my true Saiyan power!"

Dabura grinned back, once again appreciating Gohan's newfound ruthlessness.Babidi did a number on you, didn't he, boy?

"But before we leave..." Gohan continued, his grin disappearing. "I need to ask a favor of you."

"A favor?" Dabura asked incredulously.

Gohan nodded. Turning around, he pointed to two figures standing at a distance on a plateau right by Babidi's spaceship - two figures who looked oddly gray. Dabura squinted his eyes a little and then, getting a better view, recognized the two figures as the men he turned to stone prior to Gohan, Goku, Vegeta and the Kaioshin entering Babidi's spaceship.

"Those two...Piccolo and...Krillin, was it?" Dabura asked.

"Yes." Gohan lowered his hand. "I want you to turn them back to their original forms. If you could..."

"Certainly." Dabura said - he had noticed a slightly urgent tone in the Saiyan's voice. "It will take a little while to take effect, but I can undo the spell. I must ask, however - why do you wish for them to turn back? Why bother, if this entire world is going to be destroyed anyway?"

"Because," Gohan answered, "as much as I can't wait for this pathetic planet to die off, the very least I can do is grant Piccolo and Krillin the honor of being conscious to witness it."

"I see."

Dabura flew a good few miles into the sky, getting a good lock onto the unmoving forms of Piccolo and Krillin. The two's difference in height made it slightly difficult, but he could manage. Rearing his head backwards, Dabura launched a stream of mystical saliva towards the two frozen warriors, careful to aim it towards the targets skin, so that it would de-stone their whole bodies, and not just an article of their clothing.

A drop of spit landed neatly on Piccolo's arm, as well as Krillin's forehead, and while the effects weren't instantaneous, a slight tremor around their bodies told Gohan that in a little while, they would return to normal. He smiled, satisfied.

"Thanks, Dabura." He said to his demon comrade.

"You're very welcome." Dabura replied, smiling back. He looked toward the sky. "Now that that's all over...shall we join Babidi and Buu?"

Gohan's nasty grin returned to him, and for a second his eyes flashed red.

"Yes."

Not wasting another moment, the Majin duo launched into the skies, eager to witness the destructive powers of Buu. Gohan led the way, his enhanced ki sensing able to detect where the pink djinn and Babidi were located, and Dabura followed behind, each of them looking forward to partaking in the carnage.

But as the two sped towards Majin Buu, Dabura couldn't help the nagging thoughts that continued to fester inside of his mind. Now that he wasn't conversing with Gohan, it was harder to push them back - the memory of how Babidi had treated him when Buu had first hatched.

Now that he is here, you are nothing!

Dabura winced as Babidi's harsh outburst rang through his mind. Of course it was logical to conclude that his master wasn't thinking straight, given how obsessed he was with Buu's revival and how overjoyed he was when it had been complete. But more than just words, what really spoke to him was how when Buu had been trying to kill him...all Babidi did was just sit there and watch it unfold...

Dabura frowned deeply as he tried to process the implications of that. Was it all in the heat of the moment? Surely Babidi would not be so quick to dispose of a loyal servant of his had it been under any other circumstance. Surely it was only that one instance of irrationality.

But even then...could such indifference towards a faithful servant be forgiven under any circumstance? Indeed, if Babidi was so willing to watch Dabura die, what circumstancecouldjustify that, regardless of how emotional the wizard was in that moment?

Dabura could only vaguely register the wind whipping through his body as he continued to keep up with Gohan's pace. Whatever thoughts were plaguing him certainly were not plaguing the young lad in front of him; all Gohan could think of was the prospect of destruction.

But Dabura had a lot more than destruction on his mind. For the first time in many, many years, he was beginning to question where his loyalty lay.

Whatever his conclusions would eventually turn out to be, Dabura was sure of one thing: It may take a while for him to willingly refer to Babidi as "master" again.

"Uh, Vegeta, my man?" asked the Tournament Announcer as he climbed off the Saiyans back. His feet hit the sandy ground beneath him. Vegeta had just taken them to a desert in the middle of nowhere, and the Announcer gulped, unsure of his decision to join the Saiyan prince. "You…you sure we should be here?"

Vegeta stared into the distance, his expression stone cold. Without turning to the Announcer, he replied, "Stay quiet. We have some dragon balls to hunt."

Notes:

Hey there! So you may have noticed this chapter is waaaaaay longer than the previous chapters for this story have been. That's because since Majin Buu is revived, there's gonna be a lot more to cover. I hope to keep future chapters consistently long as the story goes on, so enjoy!

Chapter 6: The Destruction Begins! Encounter With An Old Friend!

Summary:

A/N: The picture for this chapter was drawn by the wonderful and talented rutisfree on Twitter. Thank you so much for the awesome commission!

Chapter Text

Vegeta and the Tournament Announcer journeyed through the dry, arid desert they landed in. The Announcer walked slightly hunched over, looking nervously left and right while Vegeta walked as casually as if he were in his own home. The sun beat mercilessly down on the two men as they traveled through the desert, although the lack of humidity made it more bearable.

Shuffling through his pockets, the announcers brow furrowed as he trailed behind Vegeta. "Damn, do I still have…? Oh, here it is!"

The announcer smiled as he pulled out a tiny capsule. He tossed it to the ground and it exploded in a puff of smoke, revealing a sleek, white motorbike. "I knew this would come in handy someday!" Turning to Vegeta, who was still walking ahead of him, the Announcer shouted, "Yo, Vegeta! Wanna ride on my motorbike instead? It's much smoother sailing than walking through this dump!"

To his surprise, Vegeta scoffed. "Are you joking?" asked the Saiyan prince, without looking back at the announcer, "This is nothing to me. I've trained in gravity and temperatures a hundred times more difficult than this. Keep your bike to yourself."

The Announcer blinked from underneath his sunglasses, but then shrugged. "Okay, suit yourself, man." He hopped onto the bike and revved it up, driving it at a slow enough pace so that he was now side by side with Vegeta.

For a while, the two continued their journey through the desert in complete silence, not so much as talking or even looking at each other. The Announcer wanted to strike up a conversation, but didn't know what to say – and Vegeta didn't seem to him a person that was easy to talk to. Vegeta, meanwhile, kept his gaze steadily in front of him, apparently determined to hunt down the Dragon Ball no matter how hot or empty the desert seemed.

After much silence, a thought occurred to the Announcer. He spoke up. "Hey, Vegeta?" Vegeta gave a small grunt, acknowledging that he heard the Announcer. "Um, if you don't mind me asking, how do you know a Dragon Ball is even around here?"

"Dragon Radar," replied Vegeta instantly. "My wife made a copy for me and the rest of her family. She actually gave one to me as a Christmas gift," he added, and if the Announcer didn't know better, he could have sworn he heard Vegeta chuckle softly. "Odd choice of a gift…anyway, that's what I was looking at on our way here."

"Oh," replied the Announcer. "I thought that was a weirdly shaped phone! Heh heh heh…"

Vegeta acknowledged the Announcers terrible joke with another noncommittal grunt.

As the two continued their journeying, the winds began to pick up. Dust started flying left and right throughout the desert, and it got to the point where Vegeta and the Announcer could barely see each other! Dust began blowing into their faces, and they had to stop as the winds grew stronger and stronger.

"Hey!" cried the Announcer. "What…what is this…!?"

He fell off his motor bike, and he could feel Vegeta fall to his knees beside him. The two were coughing madly, and the Announcer could hear Vegeta sputter, "What the hell!?" as the dust storm showed no sign of letting up. The Announcer felt his eyes water as dust began to fly all over his face and creep underneath his sunglasses.

Is…is this it!? Am I going to meet my end in some random desert!?

Suddenly, the storm settled.

Dust stopped flying everywhere and whatever grains of sand were caught up in the wind had mercifully fallen back to the ground. Vegeta and the Announcer rubbed their eyes, and slowly stood back up. When their sight returned to them, the Announcer saw a strange, shiny object in the distance…a strange, shiny object that looked rather orange…

"The Dragon Ball!" he exclaimed, pointing to the glowing orb in the distance. "There it is! We found it!"

The Announcer was about to run to the Dragon Ball when Vegeta stopped him by pulling him back by his shirt collar. Before the Announcer could ask why, he felt a the ground shake underneath his feet. The ground became rocked with sudden tremors, and to the Announcers horror, the dust storms started to pick up again. Vegeta, however, remained totally calm.

"Hey! What's going on!? Wha – "

Suddenly, the Dragon Ball was swallowed into a large hole in the ground as a large, monstrous creature emerged from the ground. Vegeta and the Announcer watched as a large, pitch black crab towered over the both of them, its eyes narrowed and pinching its claws menacingly. The creature was large – almost as large as one of the mountains on the outskirts of the desert.

The Announcer screamed in horror and started babbling as he crawled on all fours behind Vegeta. "Vegeta…! Giant crab! Eat us! What are we going to…!?"

"Quiet, fool," replied Vegeta calmly. He stood still, gazing the monster dead in the eye. "I'll show this beast something toreallybe afraid of. Now stay out of my way."

The Announcer gulped, his heart still pounding madly. Vegeta took a few steps toward the monster, smirking as he moved closer. The crab made a loud, growling noise that created a small earthquake, but Vegeta continued to stand still.

"What areyouon about, you pathetic sea creature!?" taunted Vegeta, "Be prepared – this desert will be your grave!"

The giant, black crab roared and lunged its right claw at Vegeta, ready to tear the Saiyan prince in half. The Announcer's eyes turned wide as saucers as he shouted, "Vegeta…get out of there…!" But Vegeta stood still, completely unfazed by the monsters attack. The claw was wide open, ready to rip the Saiyan apart, when –

CRACK!

In the blink of an eye, Vegeta caught the claw in two hands – and ripped the entire arm off of the crab! The monster shrieked in pain as it stepped back and started flailing madly. The crabs erratic movements, caused by the loud screaming noises it was making, made the desert earthquakes even more unstable than before!

The poor Announcer was shaking, and not entirely from fear. He couldn't even stand up because of the monsters movement. "Hey, we…we gotta get out of here…!"

Unbeknownst to him, Vegeta had taken to the skies, watching as the gigantic crustacean creature flailed madly. He couldn't help but chuckle. Maybe it was the Saiyan in him, but Vegeta couldn't resist an opportunity to watch his opponents suffer, knowing that he had them beaten. After a few moments, he locked onto the crabs belly, his eyes narrowing as his ki levels began to rise.

"If I hit you with an energy blast, it could destroy the Dragon Ball, too," observed Vegeta. "So instead – I'll take a more hands on approach!"

Vegeta launched himself toward the giant crab, flying directly into the beasts stomach. The impact he created was so magnificent that in an instant, the monster exploded into dust, leaving nothing but a few drops of blood as the earthquakes suddenly stopped. The Announcer, still on all fours, coughed as he was surrounded by a huge dust cloud.

Oh, thank Kami. The quakes have stopped!

As the dust clouds settled, Vegeta could be seen holding the five-starred Dragon Ball. He was clean except for a few drops of blood – most of the blood he was covered in after entering the crabs stomach disappeared quickly due to how fast he was flying. Vegeta walked toward the Announcer and picked him up harshly by his shirt collar.

"It's time for us to move on."

"But…my motorbike…!"

Vegeta ignored him as he roughly hoisted the Announcer on his back, stuffing the Dragon Ball in his pocket as he flew off toward wherever his Dragon Radar said the next ball would be.

As he soared throughout the skies with his uninvited blonde companion, Vegeta smirked inwardly as thoughts of his next battle entered his mind.

Prepare yourself, Kakarot and Gohan. Once this detour is over, you will both see that I am the mightiest of the Saiyans!

The World Martial Arts Tournament grounds were a much different sight from what they were earlier that afternoon. What was once a bustling arena full of fans and fighters from across the globe was now an abandoned ghost town with policemen monitoring the whole area. Even the proctors were nowhere to be seen.

Gohans attack had left an abnormally large hole in the center of the bleachers, causing everyone who wasn't dead to evacuate the premises. Yellow "Do not cross" tape was spread all over the exterior of the tournament grounds, and cops were lined up to prevent any intruders from getting in. At the front entrance of the Tournament, a well-dressed man with large eyeglasses stood in front of a camera with a microphone in his hand.

"This is Jimmy Firecracker of ZTV, reporting to you live from the World Martial Arts Tournament! An unexpected attack from a contestant in the tournament has resulted in the games being cancelled until further notice. Witnesses say that…"

While all this was going on, Mr. Satan and the Kaioshin slept peacefully in the tournaments resting quarters. The quarters were surrounded from the outside by four policemen who were chatting amongst themselves.

"Whaddya think happened here…?"

"How should I know? One minute the tourneys fine, the next all these people are dead…"

"Well, we gotta find out who did this and bring him to justice."

"I'll feel a lot more confident when Mr. Satan wakes up…"

"By the way, who d'you think that purple guy is in the cot next to him?"

Mr. Satan and the Kaioshin snored in their cots. Meanwhile, the ones responsible for the destruction were flying freely throughout the skies, hunting for their next victim…

Babidi, Majin Buu, Dabura and Gohan were soaring through the cloudy skies, Babidi at the front while Gohan and Dabura trailed behind him. The scaly mage held portions of Majin Buus cape in his tiny fists, as if he were riding a horse.

"There you go, Buu! I can see a city up ahead! Soon, your terror will be known throughout the Earth!" cackled Babidi as they sped closer and closer to their first target.

Dabura and Gohan, meanwhile, were flying side by side, totally silent as they followed Majin Buu. Gohan was grinning widely, excited at the prospect of witnessing – and causing – more destruction. But Dabura's expression was solemn as he stared at Babidi and thought of the way his master almost betrayed him to Majin Buu.

After all these years, my master…were you going to leave me to die?

Finally, Majin Buu landed on a cliff overlooking the large city they were closing in on. Babidi hopped off the giant djinns back, walking close to the edge of the cliff. The mage practically squealed with glee as he observed the bustling, lively city in the distance.

"Oh, happy day! Look at all those people about to be destroyed! I can't think of a better target for you after all these years, Majin Buu. Think of all the destruction you can cause with a big city like this!" Babidi pointed toward the city, looking at Majin Buu. The pink djinn merely nodded. "Fabulous! Now, let's see what you can do, my loyal servant!"

But Majin Buu just stood there, a vacant smile plastered on his face. Aside from his brief nod, it was almost as if he did not hear the wizards voice at all. Babidi stopped cackling and looked confusedly at Majin Buu as the djinn just stared ahead to the city.

"M-Majin Buu…?" asked Babidi.

Buu inhaled deeply through his nostrils, and his smile widened. "Oooooh….cake! Buu smell cake! Buu want to eat cake! Hee hee hee!" He flew off to where his nostrils led him, no doubt to the nearest bakery.

Babidi's eyes grew wide as saucers as Buu flew off into the distance. "W-what!? No! No, Buu, come back! You're supposed to destroy these people, not eat their baked delicacies!"

Babidi hastily flew off the cliff, chasing after Majin Buu. Gohan and Dabura were left standing there, dumbfounded at what was happening. Even after witnessing Buu's childlike innocence earlier that day it was still incredibly bizarre to witness.

"Are we…surethat's Majin Buu…?" whispered Gohan.

"I don't know what to be sure of anymore." replied Dabura. "Anyway, it will take Babidi a while to get that thing under control. In the meantime, we can scout the city and cause some destruction of our own."

"What?" asked Gohan. "But…we have to stay by Master Babidis side."

"What will he need us for?" asked Dabura, a little irritably. "He has Majin Buu now."And now we're nothing to him,he added bitterly in his mind.

"I still think we should stick with him," insisted Gohan. "You never know what Master Babidi may need our help with. We must stay by his side."

Fiercely loyal, aren't you, boy? I can see why Babidi chose you…

"Fine," was Dabura's curt response.

Gohan ascended and began flying toward his master, Dabura following right behind him.

"If you don't pay for the cakes your friend ate, and the windows,andthe doors he destroyed, it comes out of my paycheck! So you're not leaving until you flash the cash, mister!" A stubborn, young brunette lady talked down to Babidi with her foot pressed on his cape.

"Young lady, apparently you don't know who you're disrespecting!"

Majin Buu had walked into the first cake shop he had come across (quite literally, as he walked through the front entrance, smashing the doors), and had eaten almost all the pastries in sight. The fat, pink djinn had outrun Babidi long enough to feast on dozens and dozens of cakes – even the cakes that were being produced on the conveyor belt in the back of the store!

Buu's arrival had caused much distress for the employees at the bakery – especially the two young women who had to greet him. By the time Babidi had caught up with him, Buu was on his way out to find even more sweets to devour. Babidi was about to chase after him when an employee from the store stepped on his cape, halting him.

"I don't care who I'm disrespecting. You need to pay up or I'll call the police!" demanded the young lady.

Majin Buu, who was standing right outside the front entrance, looked inside the broken doors confusedly. Why was Babidi talking to these strange women inside the shop? Why did they seem so angry with him? Buu's childish mind couldn't comprehend it.

"Fine!" said Babidi, "Call the police, and I'll destroy them – just like I'll destroy you if you don't let me go this instant!"

"Why, you…!"

"That's enough," said an adolescent male voice from the entrance.

Babidi and the two female employees turned to the (smashed) front doors to see a young man wearing a black spandex suit with matching hair and a neatly writtenMon his forehead, standing next to a tall, demonic looking figure. The sight of the two intruders made the young women step back in fear, freeing Babidi from their grip.

The wizard grinned maliciously.Oh, this will be quite the show…!

Gohan casually walked into the bakery, Dabura following him. The two looked around and observed the wreckage, Gohan enjoying the smell of baked goods filling his nostrils. It was a familiar scent. One he would smell quite often when he was a young boy and –

"What doyoutwo want?"

The stubborn brunette put her hands on her hips as she glared at Gohan and Dabura. Majin Buu was standing outside, still curiously observing his team mates. Babidi, meanwhile, was barely containing himself with excitement.

"You were bothering my master," said Gohan.

"Iwas bothering him!?" shouted the brunette, "He'sthe one who let that fat weirdo in here and ruined the shop! Are you out of your damn mind!?"

"If I were you, madam," said Dabura calmly, "I'd take a more cordial tone with this young man. He is…not to be provoked."

Gohan's eyes flashed red. The brunette females blonde coworker yelped and hid behind the counter, but her friend did not flinch. In fact, Dabura's words seemed to strengthen her resolve.

"I'm not scared of you."

Gohan smiled as he raised an open palm to the brunette. "Then you will die with honor, which is more than can be said for most."

Before the girl could respond, a white, blinding flash of energy shot from Gohans palm, engulfing her in its heat and incinerating her. When the flash was gone, nothing remained of the brunette girl…nothing. Only ashes were left.

Babidi snickered. "That's my boy."

"What!? No!" The blonde coworker jumped from behind the counter. "Laura….Laura! No!"

She ran in tears from the bakery, sobbing hysterically and barely avoiding Majin Buus chubby form. Babidi watched in sheer delight as the poor blonde girl's cries of grief could be heard almost a mile away from where she was running.

"Quite generous of you to keep that one alive," commented Dabura as he watched the blonde girl flee.

"Keep her alive?" repeated Gohan, chuckling. "I was just saving her for you."

"Ahhhh," Dabura grinned. "That's even more generous."

Dabura disappeared and instantly materialized in front of the blonde girl, stopping her in her tracks as she ran through the streets. The poor lass looked up to Dabura, her tearstained face marred with horror at the sight of the demonic figure smiling down at her. Behind him, cars could be heard crashing as onlookers observed the scene with great fear.

"I see you're distressed over your friends untimely demise," chuckled Dabura. "Not to worry – I shall reunite you with her!"

Rearing back his head, Dabura spat a wave of intense fire from his mouth that engulfed the poor girl before she could even scream. Countless bystanders watched as she was fried to a crips, and just like with her friend, nothing was left but ashes. Panic gripped the citizens as they all stared at Dabura and trembled with fear, the demon looking around them and grinning at their crushing anxiety.

It's been a long time since I've been this feared…

"RUN!"

The bystanders ran as fast as they could from Dabura, tripping and practically running over each other. Babidi and Gohan had now exited the bakery, Majin Buu standing by them as the pink djinn observed the citizens panicked behavior with curiosity.

"Yes, that was fabulous! You see, Majin Buu!?" cried Babidi, tugging at Buu's purple cape in an attempt to get his attention, "Did you see what Gohan and Dabura did to those ruffians? That's exactly what I wantyouto do! I wantyouto do to as many people as you can what they did to those girls!"

Majin Buu looked down at his master, his face scrunched, as if in concentration. Then, apparently, a lightbulb went off in his head. As panicked citizens ran all around him, Majin Buu smiled.

"Okay! Buu do that! Buu do what Gohan and Dabura do!"

Facing the crowd, Majin Buu breathed in deeply a group of people running by were about to hit him head on. Buus pink antennae glowed and a stream of pink energy shot from it, enveloping the oncoming citizens in its glow. The citizens screamed as everyone on the ground watched in horror. Soon, one by one, the people in Majin Buus energy glow were transformed into candy!

Buu opened his mouth wide and sucked the candy into his mouth like a vacuum. Babidi, Gohan, and Dabura watched in shock at the unusual way Majin Buu had killed his victims.

"I…suppose that'soneway to get the job done," admitted Babidi. "Alright – now that the chaos is in full swing, all three of you, do your part to destroy this city! I don't want a single one left here alive."

Gohan, Dabura and even Majin Buu nodded. They all left the bakery to wreak havoc in other parts of the city – but before Gohan left, he fished for something in his pocket. Pulling out a donut, he licked his lips and devoured it whole.

This city may have been the first to perish,he thought,but at least they had some decent pastries…

Bulma looked at her Dragon Radar, paying careful attention to the yellow blip that signified the third Dragon Ball's location. They had already obtained the first two dragon balls, one from an island and another from a mountainous area; just another thirty minutes of flight and the three-starred ball would be in their grasp in no time. Bulma smiled, looking at Yamcha, who was piloting the ship this time, while she sat on the passengers side.

The bluenette genius leaned back in her seat, stuffing her radar in her pocket and putting her hands behind her head. She stared at Yamcha for a little while, and just like on their last trip in the airship, she found herself reminiscing of old days when she would hunt Dragon Balls with Yamcha Goku, Puar and Oolong. Bulma was a spoiled teenager at the time, not wanting anything more or less than the perfect boyfriend, and Yamcha wanted to use his wish on the Dragon Balls to overcome his fear of girls. Eventually, they both got what they wanted. But not through the Dragon Balls—she got her perfect boyfriend, and Yamcha overcame his fear of girls, when the two started dating each other.

Bulma took in a deep breath as the years of her younger life flashed before her mind. Things were so much simpler back then, she thought, when Goku was just a kid and her and Yamcha were teenagers. Now they were all grown up, Bulma married with a child, and Goku married with two boys of his own.

One of them being evil now...Bulma pushed that thought out of her mind. She wasn't about to let that fact, terrible as it was, ruin her good mood now. For one selfish moment she counted herself blessed that it wasn't Vegeta who killed all those people in the tournament, but she was quick to block that thought out as well.

Looking back, she smiled as she watched the Z Fighters interact with each other. Trunks was sitting lazily on the chair behind the pilots with Sharpener and Erasa, chatting away with them about Gohan's "dorky" Saiyaman outfit, Videl, Puar and Oolong were resting back in their seats with a contented smile, Eighteen was playing patty-cake with Marron in her lap, and Roshi was ogling over his secret stash of dirty magazines he always kept handy (while of course giving Marron and Trunks a wide enough berth.) But Bulma's smile faded a little when she saw Goten and Chi Chi still fast asleep in the cot in the back, still showing no signs of waking up. Not that anyone was in a rush to wake them up, however, after the day they'd had. Ox King was still sitting beside them, almost as if he were guarding his daughter and grandson.

Suddenly, the Dragon Radar beeped noisily in Bulmas hand, and looking down she saw how close they were to Dragon Ball number three. "We're almost there, guys! The Dragon Ball is just over there." She pointed toward a large, forest area, trees covering much of the bottom.

The Z Fighters cheered and Yamcha, as carefully as he could, landed them in an open area of the forest with little trees surrounding it. He pushed the button to open the entry ramp and one by one, the Z Fighters exited, first Bulma, followed by Yamcha, Roshi, Eighteen, Marron and also Sharpener, Erasa and Videl who decided to join the team this time around. Puar and Oolong decided to stay back (much to Oolong's relief.), and Trunks decided to stay with them, preferring to relax while the adults did the Dragon Ball hunting. Ox King also stayed back to keep watch over Chi-Chi and Goten.

Bulma surveyed the forest around her, pondering their next course of action. She looked at her radar. "Okay...so according to the blip here, the Dragon Ball is right over there, less than a mile away!" She pointed toward a pathway stretching out into the forest, as if the way to the Dragon Ball had been outlined for them.

Bulma led the way as the Z Fighters followed, and despite the urgent need to collect the Dragon Balls, everyone couldn't help but admire the beautiful scenery of the forest around them. The sunlight shone brilliantly through the trees hanging overhead, and one could hear the sound of birds chirping as they flew above them in a cloudless sky.

Erasa in particular was enjoying the walk. She looked around her with a soft smile, taking in a deep, relaxing breath as she walked beside her high school comrades. "Sharpener, Videl, look...it's beautiful..." she said dreamily.

"Yeah, it really is," Sharpener admitted, smiling himself. "I guess this day isn't turning out to be so bad after all."

"No, I guess not." Videl replied from beside him. She was keeping a steady pace with Sharpener and Erasa and for the first time that day ever since the tournament, had a cheerful look on her face. This only added to the pleasant atmosphere as the teenage trio and the rest of the Z Fighters continued their stroll throughout the forest.

Finally, after a very long (but hardly tiring) walk, they reached what appeared to be the end of their path. Bulma gave a shout for joy as her radar beeped crazily, signaling that the ball was close enough to be in their grasp. "There it is!" She shouted, "It's right here!"

She pointed a well-manicured finger toward the three-starred Dragon Ball which, as odd as it seemed, was lying still in a bed of grass, almost as if waiting for someone to pick it up. Bulma walked slowly up to the Dragon Ball, kneeling down and extending her hand to pick it up, when—

ZOOM!

...a sudden flash of light took the ball right out of her grasp before she could even lift it, much to her shock. "Huh!? Wha—" She looked above her—when the repulsive sight of an anthropomorphic, growling fox clutching the ball met her sight.

Bulma screamed, landing on her backside and giving the fox a wide berth, as did the rest of the Z Fighters instinctively, Yamcha and Roshi preparing defensive stances, Sharpener, Videl and Erasa hiding behind the group and Eighteen holding Marron more protectively around her arm while shooting the fox a death glare.

"Mommy look, it's a doggy!" squealed Marron innocently. "Can I pet it, Mommy?"

"No!" Eighteen replied, unusually stern, which confused Marron.

Bulma couldn't even move any farther away; she was paralyzed with fear at the sight of the animal before her. Anthropomorphic animals weren't an unusual sight, but the fox in front of Bulma showed all the signs of a beast ready to kill. Teeth bared, it held the Dragon Ball protectively to its chest, eyes squinted as if it viewed Bulma and the rest of the Z Fighters as intruders. It wore no shoes and was dressed in a pair of torn overalls, scratches covering it, and what looked like a dirty, white undershirt underneath. It's claws were sharpened, ready for battle, and as it stood over the cowering form of Bulma Briefs it only uttered a single sentence:

"You're not welcome."It said, it's voice deep, feral and dripping with menace.

"I..." Bulma tried to speak, but no words could come out.

"Hey now, you back off and leave her alone!" Roshi shouted, glaring at the fox from underneath his glasses. "If you just give us that Dragon Ball and let us go, we won't fight you!"

"This Ball does not belong to you."The fox replied, it's voice more calm but still menacing,"It belongs to us. It is our savior..."

"Savior...?" said Yamcha quizzically.

"Yes!"Another feral voice chimed in, followed by another anthropomorphic fox emerging from the bushes. He looked identical to the fox beside him; the only difference was that he had a pilots mask and goggles. Bulma and the Z Fighters watched in confusion as even more strange faces appeared out of the bushes: A girl with black hair tied into a bun who wore a red Chinese dress (not unlike Chi Chi's), a tall, brown-haired young man with a stained, blue t-shirt and ripped jeans, a girl with purple hair, a yellow blouse and red skirt, and a short boy with an outfit not unlike that of a mailman's, with a blue buttoned shirt and matching blue pants, as well as a cap with the same color.

Finally—and this was the most confusing sight of all—after everyone else revealed themselves, another young man emerged from the bushes, the tallest of his comrades, and the Z Fighters could tell by the way he carried himself that he was the leader of the gang. He had long, flowing brown hair that was specked with what appeared to be dirt—in fact, his entire body appeared to be specked with dirt—and he wore a stained, white sleeveless shirt on top of dark cargo pants and brown boots. He had a fairly muscular frame and a determined look on his face, an intimidating one at that—not that it mattered, given the immense power held by even the weakest of the Z Fighters who were present.

Finally, after a long, uncomfortable silence, Bulma stood up and, directing her confused gaze at the young leader, questioned, "Who...the hell...are you!?"

The leader looked at Bulma, his expression impassive, and then, finally, replied, "I am Pigero. And this is my family."

North City was in total chaos as fires raged left and right, the people running for their lives from the menaces that were destroying their home. The casualties were growing exponentially as Majin Buu, Dabura, and Gohan flew throughout the city, destroying anything - and anyone - in their path.

Majin Buu was flying through the west district of the city, licking his lips as he watched the terrified citizens flee for their lives. His antenna glowed and Buu shot forth a bright pink energy that engulfed every person he could see. The poor people barely had time to scream as they were turned into pieces of candy one by one, and when they were all transformed, Buu opened up his mouth and sucked in all the pieces of candy like a vacuum cleaner.

Dabura was gliding through the east district of North City, his cape spread wide as he hopped gracefully from one building to another. He had set almost the entire area on fire and could hear the horrified screams of his victims as countless innocent people burned to death. Dabura smiled, breathing in through his nostrils the familiar scent of fire...and death.

Ah, such sweet nostalgia…

Daburas cape fluttered in the wind as smoke rose from the buildings he had set on fire. Beneath him, he could see a group of survivors barely escape a burning building. There were four of them, Dabura noticed - four men, three of whom were helping their comrade escape the wreckage. Their friend apparently had his leg severely damaged.

As he observed the four men try to make their escape, a wicked grin crossed Daburas face. Breathing in deeply, he swooped down toward the four men, and before any of them could notice, Dabura spat four streams of saliva on all of them - and instantly, they all turned to stone.

Dabura landed neatly in front of the new statues he had made. He chuckled darkly. "Quite the monument, if I say so myself."

Meanwhile, Gohan was wreaking havoc on the south district of North City. He was transformed in his Super Saiyan form despite not needing the power boost, just loving the rush of energy he got from it. He was flying crazily throughout the city, firing ki blast after ki blast to everything and everyone he came across.

The sounds of the anguished screams of the people below him filled Gohans heart with grim satisfaction. He grinned widely as he fired a ki blast at a nearby skyscraper, causing it to fall down and take countless people with it.

"STAND DOWN!"

Gohan turned his head and saw five police helicopters racing toward him, each with their weapons deployed and ready to fire. Gohan's smile disappeared as he powered down from his Super Saiyan form, and the helicopters flew closer to him.

"THIS IS THE POLICE!" a loud voice shouted from one of the copters, "YOU ARE UNDER ARREST! STAND DOWN OR WE WILL OPEN FIRE!"

Gohan simply floated there as all five helicopters surrounded him. He nonchalantly raised his right arm, firing a stray ki blast at a nearby shopping mall that decimated the entire building. The explosion could be heard from miles away and the light from the ki blast briefly illuminated Gohans face, showing him looking bored.

"OPEN FIRE!"

The helicopters opened fire on Gohan in unison, barraging him with bullets. The force of the helicopters assault soon became explosive, and for good measure, they deployed heat seeking missiles. The attacks hit Gohan head on and left a huge cloud of dust in his wake.

"We did it!" cheered one pilot form the helicopters. "We killed hi - "

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAAAA!"

The policemen barely had time to register what they heard before they were engulfed in a blinding flash of light blue energy and were disintegrated along with their helicopters. Gohans Kamehameha wave left nothing of the policemen in its wake, and the teenaged Saiyan floated nonchalantly a few feet away from where they attacked him.

"Hmmph. I didn't even need to turn Super Saiyan for that," muttered Gohan, "It would be nice to have a challenge…"

While all this was going on, Babidi stood atop a giant skyscrape in the northern district of North City, observing the chaos with immense glee. He snickered to himself as he watched Gohan, Dabura, and Majin Buu lay waste to the city. A part of him wanted to join in and cause some destruction of his own - but Babidi was more than content to watch his minions do all the work for him. Besides, he needed a break.

"All the efforts to revive Majin Buu...my lifelong ambition...and now this!" cackled Babidi as he raised up his arms to the sky, "Oh, father, if only you could see me now! I've revived Majin Buu - and now our plan will be fulfilled!"

As Babidi laughed madly and his henchmen continued their relentless assault on North City, the wizard wondered to himself if he should dispose of Gohan and Dabura now that Buu was with him. Raising a finger to his chin, he considered doing to them what he did to Spopovich and Yamu…

"I do love using that technique," Babidi thought out loud, "But...I suppose I can keep them for a little while longer. Theydidhelp Buu learn how to destroy."

"P-pigero...?" Bulma stammered.

"Hey now! You better give us that Dragon Ball this instant! I don't think you understand, but the world is at stake here!" insisted Roshi.

The two foxes growled in Roshi's direction, and the rest of the teenagers from the strange gang cast him a venomous glare. "Youdon't understand, you stupid old man!" The girl in the red dress snapped. "This Dragon Ball means more to us than you could ever know!"

"Hey, I don't know if you heard that 'stupid old man' right, but he said theworldis at stake here!" Yamcha spoke up, getting legitimately angry for the first time in the situation. "And last I checked, the world included you too! So either you give it to us, or you let yourselves get killed by a monster that wants to destroy the whole Earth!"

"Liar!" The fox with the pilots mask snarled. "You want to take our savior away from us for your own selfish goals! You couldn't care less about the Earth."

Yamcha, Roshi and the rest of the Z Fighters were livid. Here they were, tasking themselves with collecting the seven Dragon Balls to save people killed by their best friend's son, trying to undo a terrible deed —and the only thing standing in their way was a bunch of delusional teenagers who believed the third Dragon Ball to be some kind of "savior." Yamcha was about to give Pigero and his friends a taste of the Wolf Fang Fist, when—

"Why do you call it your 'Savior?'"

Yamcha, Roshi, Bulma, Eighteen and the rest of the Z Team turned around to see Videl's curious face staring directly at Pigero, the question she asked not lined with the slightest trace of fear. "What did that Dragon Ball do for you guys that made you look to it as your Savior?"

There was a tense silence that followed her question, the Z Fighters looking back at Pigero's gang waiting for a response, while Sharpener and Erasa looked at Videl in complete shock, not expecting their friend to speak up during the ordeal. To everyone's surprise, she walked up toward the dirt-covered teenage leader, the sound of her footsteps amplified by the fact that everyone around her was completely mute.

When she stood a mere few steps in front of the rugged young man, Videl noted that he was several inches taller than her—not that she let that scare her. She tried her best to look as calm and collected as she could, and apparently it worked, because Pigero looked more than a little taken aback at the girls courage.

Finally, after a long moment of silence, Pigero spoke up. "This Dragon Ball saved me and my friends from a life of torment. Without it, we wouldn't be here today, standing before you as free men and women...er, and foxes, too." He added, hearing the two foxes in question giving a grunt of disapproval at his choice of words. "It's a story that goes back seven years ago, when we were still kids and fending for ourselves."

Videl nodded, silently urging Pigero to continue. She had to admit, she was already interested in whatever story was about to unfold. "For most of our lives," Pigero went on, "We were living in an old, abandoned house by a beach. We were orphaned at a young age because of a tidal wave that wiped out most of our city's population, and I taught my friends how to survive and take care of themselves without any parents. But a lot of times, there were these social workers who would come to our house and try and take us into an orphanage, and every time they came we would fight them and send them back to their boss. It wasn't until we had an unexpected visitor that I..." At this point in his story, Pigero's voice began to shake, and his whole body visibly trembled for a moment. "I...began to have second thoughts about the whole thing. I began thinking that I wasn't good enough for the kids. That I couldn't provide for them, that they deserved better, and that's...when I made the biggest mistake of my life."

Pigero's voice had dropped at this point, and he averted his gaze from Videl for a few seconds. Then, in a hushed voice just barely above a whisper he added, "I let them get captured..."

The purple haired girl walked up to him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder and frowning at his remorse. "Don't feel bad, Pigero. There's no way you could have known. It wasn't your fault—"

"Yes it was, Ena!" Pigero snapped, causing Ena and Videl to do a double take. "It was all my fault, I let you down, I...you almost died because of me!" He began sobbing fervently, and fell on his knees while Videl, Ena, and the rest of Pigero's friends looked at him with looks of sympathy.

The Z Fighters, on the other hand, were having a hard time figuring out just what in the world was going on. Having not heard a bit of Pigero's story, his sudden outburst of tears when he had previously appeared to be speaking calmly seemed much more odd to them than it did to Videl.

"Umm...Master Roshi? What do you think is up with that kid?" Yamcha asked the old hermit beside him, somewhat rhetorically.

"Heck if I know." Roshi admitted, rubbing his eyes through his sunglasses and frowning. "Youngsters these days. Always getting emotional over something."

"Well, if you ask me, I think we should just plow right through them and get the Dragon Ball." Eighteen said casually, while Marron clung tightly to her mother's shoulder, asleep by now. "It won't be hard. I can sense these weirdos power levels and they're all pushovers; if we knock them out and take the Dragon Ball, we can get going in no time."

"No..." Bulma interjected, her eyes still focused on the exchange between Pigero and Videl, and taking in every detail of what she could see. "I don't want to hurt them. We can't just knock them unconscious and then run when they're in this vulnerable state. They need a listening ear."

Eighteen looked surprised at Bulma's stance—she had expected the Capsule Corp heiress to side with her on this—but shrugged it off, and the Z team watched the rest of the exchange unfold.

Meanwhile, Pigero was standing up from his outburst, wiping tears from his eyes. Looking back at Videl, he steadied himself, and continued his story. "I...I let them get captured by the social workers because I thought they deserved better than what I could give them. I was wrong...deadwrong." He shuddered. "I just kind of rode off to wherever I felt like after that. I was a free spirit, or so I thought. But one day, I got curious and decided to check on the kids, to see how they were doing. I knew where the social workers that had often come to get us came from, and so I began to drive there, to where the orphanage was. Only..." He gazed around toward his comrades, looking at how each of them had grown, but also how their uncouth appearances had signified unspeakable pain. "It wasn't an orphanage...not at all. It was a facility. Run by a madman who stole children at a young age, children who had unusual survival skills, and he planned to operate on them to fit them in his own disgusting image."

"I remember driving up to a building, expecting to see an orphanage headed by loving people who cared about the children they watched over. What I saw instead was a large, intimidating, factory-esque building with kids pouring into it, being prodded inside by these workers, these insane men and women who treated them like cattle. The minute I pulled up to that building and saw everything going on, I felt shock, and..." He looked around at his comrades, and as he did, Pigero felt something rather like a cold hand pulling at his heart. All these faces, faces he knew for years, faces that he wanted toprotect...until that one day...

Pigero gulped, but looked back at Videl and continued his story. "I knew right there that I had made the worst mistake of my life. For all these years I've been taking care of the orphans, kids who needed me, neededsomeoneto provide for them. And then, one day I just decide to end it all and figured they were better off in the hands of strangers than in my hands..." He sulked a little, and behind him, Ena cast him a look of sorrow.

"Y'know, Pigero, Ena's right." The young lad in the mailman costume spoke up. "It's not like we hold what happened against ya or anything. I mean, it was years ago."

"Yeah! Listen to Hacchi, Pig." One of the foxes piped up. "After all, you've been with us for all these years after the incident! We've forgiven you, and you really need to forgive yourself, too."

Pigero couldn't help but smile at his comrades encouraging words. "Thanks, Hacchi. You too, Jinku." He said simply.

Videl, for her part, was having some trouble wrapping her head around all of this.Okay, so...this guy's name is Pigero, his friends are orphans he took care of, he let them get captured one day, then they escaped this facility...

"But what does any of that have to do with the dragon ball?" Videl inquired. "I mean, how does that ball factor into any of this? Why do you call it your 'Savior?'"

Pigero blinked and then, having his attention reverted to the topic at hand, resumed his story. "Right. Well anyway, when I saw what the facility did with these kids and the terrible conditions my friends were living in, I ran inside and demanded to speak with the man in charge. One of the workers said he was at the top of the building, so I ran up there, and when I got to his office, I grabbed the bastard by the neck and demanded that he let my friends go. He agreed—after some resistance—and ordered my friends to be set free so I'd get off his neck."

"But what does that have to do with the dragon...?"

"I'm getting to that." Pigero cut off Videl, not unkindly, but with a hint of impatience. "I got all of us in the car and drove away, but as we got on the main road, we noticed that there were the familiar white vans that the 'social workers' drove in whenever they would try and capture us, and they were driving behind us. Apparently the old man in charge thought he'd give us a false sense of security, making us think he'd let us go, before dragging us all back to that hellish facility. That, or he had a quick change of heart. Anyway, the chase continued for hours, and it must have been damn near midnight before the car ran out of gas and we all had to run as fast as we could into this dense forest in the hopes of outrunning the thugs that were on our tails. And this is where the Dragon Ball comes into play..." Pigero gazed at the three-starred ball with a solemn reverence, as if the object were a saint. "We were running into the forest, but the workers were gaining on us. At some point, Hacchi tripped and fell, and we ran back to help him. Well, at that point the workers had caught up to us, and were about to take us in, because we had exhausted all our energy and weren't able to fight back. As we were helping Hacchi, they were towering over us, aiming their tasers and ready to knock us out ...when a giant rock landed on one of the guys heads and crushed him to death."

"I...wha?" Videl wasn't sure she heard right. "How in...?"

"The guy's co workers freaked out and ran away, and since then, no one's ever bothered us. About a year later, the rock changed into what we now see as the three-starred Dragon Ball. Were it not for that ball, we would have been dragged by madmen into a hellish prison the rest of our lives...that is what the ball means to us. That is why it's our Savior." Pigero finished his story.

Videl just stood there stock still, digesting the entirety of what she had just been told, honestly having trouble determining if she was dreaming or not. The whole story was...well, it wasn'tcrazyper se (being a crime fighting vigilante, she had come across her fair share of depraved criminals who weren't above torturing children) but still, there was something about a group of outcast teenagers living out in the woods and worshipping a magical orb as their savior because it crushed the head of one of their enemies that just didn't sit right with her.

She looked around at the group of orphans, at the two foxes with tattered, worn out clothes, the young man in the dirty mail man outfit, the young lady in the Chinese red dress and the girl in the yellow blouse called Ena, the other young lad with the blue shirt and finally, at Pigero, in all his unkempt, untamed glory, having just finished his gruesome tale.

"How long ago was this?"

"Seven years ago." Was Pigero's curt reply.

"What!?" Videl exclaimed—at this point, she found it very difficult to hold back her frustration. "Seven years ago!? You mean you've been guarding this dragon ball for seven years just because it happened to land on some guys head who was about to drag you all into a prison!?"

"Of course." Pigero replied, still curt, and unabashed by Videl's outburst. "We're forever grateful to it for saving our lives."

"But...but..." Videl struggled to find the words she wanted to say. As sudden as a rushing river, questions poured our of her mouth. "But why? Why even bother? Why not just hand it over and be done with it? Why do you need to hold onto it!?"

"We owe our lives to this ball." Pigero said, his tone unchanging. "I don't see what's so hard to grasp about that."

"'What's so hard to grasp about it!?'" Videl repeated, quickly losing her temper. "What's hard to grasp about it is that you're literally refusing to give us an object that'll save the entire world because it happened to drop on some guys head seven freaking years ago! Are you people insane!?"

She was flailing her arms around at this point, and her temper as well as her raised voice were noticed by the Z Fighters standing a few feet behind her.

"Uhhhh..." Yamcha stammered, looking back at Sharpener and Erasa, who both shrugged.

"I'd say she's got a few screws loose." said Roshi sagely.

Videl was seething at this point, breathing in an abnormally deep fashion as she glared at Pigero and his gang of orphans. On a normal day, she likely would have felt for the unfortunate teenagers standing in front of her—now, however, whatever empathy she might have had was wholeheartedly eclipsed by frustration given the situation she was in.

"Look..." The boy with the dirty blue shirt walked up to Videl, a look of understanding on his face that made the crimefighting vigilante even more incensed. "I know this might piss you off a little, and I get it, but if you were in our shoes, you wouldn't want to give the ball up so easily either."

"Don't bother, Rom." The girl with the red dress said haughtily. "This chick wouldn't understand our situation if it hit her upside the head." She glared at Videl. "But what shewillunderstand is that there is absolutely nothing she or anyone else can say that will make us give this ball up!"

"YOU ARE ALL INSANE!" Videl screamed, finally losing what little patience she had left. That had done it—the girl's words were what broke the dam that held back Videl's fury. With nothing left to hold back her rage, she continued, "YOU'VE BEEN KEEPING THIS DRAGON BALL FOR SEVEN YEARS, AND NOW THAT SOMEONE ELSE NEEDS IT YOU WON'T GIVE IT BACK BECAUSE IT LANDED ON SOME GUYS HEAD!? ARE YOU PEOPLE SERIOUS!?"

She huffed for a few moments, sweat pouring down her face as numerous as rain drops. Then, not letting her gaze leave the foolish teenagers, she continued, "Here we are...trying to bring innocent people brought back to life, and you're standing in the way because of some stupid coincidence that caused you to call that ball your 'savior'. Meanwhile there were people out there who have just been killed, and people who willcontinueto be killed by Majin Buu...and...Gohan..."

Her voice shook slightly at the end of her rant as the memories of Son Gohan flashed before her mind, memories of a shy, innocent classmate with a dorky superhero persona, and as these memories flashed, one by one they became more painful with the knowledge that this innocent boy was now a beast of destruction...

Videl felt herself choke as her knees went weak, and her infuriated expression turned to one of intense sadness. Suddenly, the reality of the whole situation, of why they were collecting Dragon Balls, and why the world needed saving in the first place, came crashing down on her as what she had been told about the murderers at the tournament came flooding back to her mind, flooding as fast as the tears pouring down her face...

Pigero and his gang stood in silence at the end of Videl's unexpected outburst, each one of them looking surprise, but Chico—the girl with the red dress—looking especially concerned. Kneeling down to Videls sobbing form, she placed a hand on her shoulder. "I'm...sorry. I shouldn't have talked to you like that, that was stupid of me—"

"Gohan?" Pigero repeated, interrupting Chico. "

"Y-yes..." Videl muttered, wiping her eyes with the sleeve of her white shirt. "Why...?"

Pigero kneeled down with Chico to see Videl face-to-face, his intrigued expression meeting her tearstained one. "This guy, Gohan...his last name wouldn't happen to be 'Son', would it?"

"Yeah, it is..." Videl answered, confused. "Do you know him...?"

"I sure do." Pigero replied, looking very sober.

Videl's heart skipped a beat.So he knows Gohan...she thought. Inwardly, she couldn't help but chuckle.You really know how to make friends, don't you, big guy?

"But what's this about him killing people?" Pigero interjected, interrupting Videl's thoughts. "You said that if we didn't give you the Dragon Ball, he would kill more people along with someone named...Majin Buu, was it?" His tone took on a more urgent edge as he prodded Videl even further. "Why is he going around killing people? What happened to him?"

"I..." For a moment, Videl struggled to find the words to answer Pigero's question. Then, as if purely on instinct, the story of what had happened that day flowed out of her mouth like water from a faucet. She told him everything that Sharpener and Erasa had told her; what had happened at the tournament, how Gohan had been involved, and his turn to evil and how it involved Majin Buu and Babidi. By the end of her story, Pigero had a look of horror on his face and Chico, who had been struggling to follow along, looked perplexed.

"So he's gone off the deep end..." Pigero muttered, his hands balled into fists. "I can't believe it. He was such a nice kid when I met him..."

"Um, Pigero?" Chico chimed in. "Who exactly are we talking about? I'm kinda lost."

Pigero turned to face Chico. "Remember that kid you and Rom found on the beach about eight years ago? The one with the sword?"

Chico thought for a minute. "Hmmm...wait a minute!" Her face lit up, and she snapped her fingers. "Yeah, Gohan! I remember him! He was such a nice kid...but..." Her face suddenly grew pale. "He...he's evil now? That nice kid?"

"Yup." Pigero nodded. He looked at Videl. "So, that's why you're collecting the Dragon Balls? To undo the damage that Gohan's done?"

"Yes." Videl answered curtly. If she was being honest with herself, she didn't feel like talking much after replaying the day's events in her mind and telling about it to people she had just met.

"I see," said Pigero. He stood up and walked toward Jinku, who was still clutching the three-starred ball in his paws. Extending his hand, he silently commanded the fox to give him the ball, which he did. Then, to the astonishment of everyone present—especially the Z Fighters, who were watching the scene unfold from a safe enough distance—Pigero walked over to Videl and handed her the Dragon Ball. "Here. Take it."

"I—wha—"? Videl was at a loss for words at Pigero's unexpected act of generosity.

His comrades, however, were very quick to voice their opinion. "Pigero, what the hell!?" exclaimed Jinku, his eyes the size of dinner plates. "You're just giving it to her!? Why!?"

Apparently everyone else in Pigero's gang shared their fellow fox's sentiment—everyone in the group, save Ena, were giving him looks of either shock, outrage, or both. Ena, however, had a look on her face akin to relief—it was almost as if she had been waiting for Pigero to commit an act such as this for a long time. And Pigero, for his part, didn't seem in the least conflicted or hesitant in performing this (for him at least) monumental act of sacrifice.

"I knew Gohan well in the short time he spent with us." Pigero said to Videl. "He was a good kid, full of energy and with great potential, greater than I thought possible for myself. We had a lot of fun together, me and him, and the rest of the orphans, having fun like kids should, even robbing a few bazaars along the way." He chuckled at that last part. "But, now that I hear about him being a threat to the entire world, killing innocent people at a tournament..." He looked down at the Dragon Ball he had just given to Videl, which was still resting in her open palms.

"I've always hoped that Gohan and I would meet again someday. I saw in him a fine young man in the making, ready to make a positive impact on the lives of everyone around him—a greater impact than I myself could ever hope to make. I wanted to see him again one day, to see the man he had grown to be. But now that he's gone down the deep end, I can never allow myself to see him again in that state of being. Hopefully, this one act will help undo the damage that he's done, so that when this is over and he gets back his sanity, I won't see him ridden with guilt. This ball has been the savior of myself and my friends...and now, it's time for it to become the savior of those killed by a confused young man whose been driven to evil."

Pigero ended his short speech by giving one last sweeping glance around his comrades, eyeing each of them intently, as if daring them to challenge his perspective. When none of them did—Ena looking especially happy after hearing his speech—Pigero turned back to Videl, and slowly but surely, a smile formed on his face for the first time in what felt like a long time.

"You're free to go, now. That ball is yours."

Videl stood up, stuffing the Dragon Ball in her pocket. Then, meeting Pigero eye to eye, she flashed him a smile in return. "Thank you. I'll remember this."

"So will I."

Pigero turned abruptly on his heel, marching into the shadowy, dense forest with an authority that only years of caring for kids could give a man. Videl watched as his outline grew fainter and fainter, and then, finally, seemed to outright disappear amidst the trees and leaves, headed back to wherever his home lay.

The orphans, meanwhile, were sitting in an awkward silence as they observed what had just happened. None of them, having seen Pigero's convictions and quite assured of his resoluteness in what he had just done, felt as though they should make any effort to reclaim the Dragon Ball from Videl. But there were some rather mournful looks among them—especially among the two foxes, Jinku and Yordon, who had been the first to snatch back the ball from the Z Fighters grasps. Ena was the only one who looked genuinely pleased with what had happened and, after flashing Videl a grateful smile, mouthed the words, "Thank you," and followed her leader back into the forest.

Chico, Rom, and Hacchi were the next to follow, and then Jinku and Yordon, each of them casting Videl a somewhat uncertain look before they left—not that she cared. They had the Dragon Ball now. They were all set.

Videl was so overcome with joy at having made just one small step in undoing the damage Gohan had done that she barely registered the fact that there were people behind her. Almost unconsciously, she walked back to the Z Fighters, pulling the ball out of her hand and giving it to Bulma, who was still laying down on the ground. The Capsule Corp heiress gave a squeal of joy, pulling the martial artist into a tight hug, and everyone present—especially Sharpener and Erasa—congratulated Videl on a job well done.

When all was said and done, they returned back to Bulma's airship, their hope renewed and ready to retrieve the fourth Dragon Ball. When they were all situated in the ship, Oolong, Puar and Trunks were waiting patiently for them, having pulled out comic books and portable game consoles to keep them occupied.

Yamcha flew the ship out of the forest, and while he and everyone else were chatting happily on the way to their next destination, Videl looked out the window, contemplating the untamed young man she had just met.

Pigero...you met Gohan yourself, face to face, when he was just a kid. And you want to see him again one day.She suppressed a pang of regret at having to deliver the news of Gohan's turn to the dark side to a former friend of his. As the airship continued its route, Videl's thoughts continued on theirs.

I hope you get to see him again, too. One day, when this is all over...I hope you can see what a great man he is.

The sun's rays seemed to beat ten times more brutally on the tiny island he was lying unconscious on, that damned beach where he had just been left beaten after a long and exhausting battle. The seagulls overhead flew over his worn and tattered body, not giving a second thought to his pathetic state. Slowly, his eyelids opened up, halfway, then shut again. He groaned as consciousness overtook him, feeling all the cuts and bruises he had sustained during his previous fight, not at all helped by the fact that he was lying stomach first upon grains of rough, coarse sand.

"Gah...dammit..." Goku muttered, blinking rapidly. He could feel the pain racking his body more intensely now that he had woken up, but he powered through it. He had been through more pain than this.

Senzu...he thought, his mind in a haze. He felt around the area where he was lying, and to his relief found the last remaining Senzu bean in his left hand lying just a few inches from him. Relieved, he quickly bit into it, swallowing it whole and then waiting for its healing energies to take place.

Within seconds, all of Goku's cuts and bruises were mended, and he was able to stand up properly again, full of renewed energy and without the slightest bruise or drop of blood exiting his body. His clothes were still tattered, but that didn't matter to him. He could ask Dende or Piccolo to magically mend them anyway.

Goku surveyed the island around him, finding the beach he was on quite relaxing even given the situation he had just gotten himself out of. There were several palm trees planted around the beach, leaves swaying in the wind. Apart from the palm trees, the sand - uncomfortable as it was to lie on - was a pure shade of white, contrasting neatly with the blue ocean that bordered it. The ocean waves weren't anything big or spectacular, meaning that they made little noise. That, combined with the bright blue, cloudless sky, made for a very peaceful atmosphere indeed.

The Saiyan warrior breathed in deeply, letting the fresh air fill his lungs.

"This has been areallylong day..."

Goku slumped down on the ground, gulping in deep breaths, sitting half-Indian position with one arm on his knee. It was a long day, indeed...and that was putting it lightly. What with being brought back to life for a full day, having witnessed how much his family and friends have grown over the years, and then having his firstborn son become evil and try to kill him...calling it a really long day was being tame.

Goku closed his eyes, almost hoping the entire day's events would be erased when he re-opened them. As he sat there, memories from year ago - what now felt like a lifetime ago - flashed before his mind, memories of happier and simpler times when the boy he called his son didn't view him as an enemy.

Gohan had just been born, and he, Chi Chi and the Ox King were wondering what to name their new baby...

Goku felt a hard lump rise to his throat...

Now his boy was four years old and he, Goku, had just saved him from his own uncle Raditz...

Slowly, he could feel his eyes moistening, every memory bringing him closer to the brink...

Now he was in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, training Gohan, amazed and proud of the progress his son had made…

He couldn't take it anymore.

Goku let out a scream to the heavens that shook the entire vicinity, scaring the birds away and causing the palm trees and the waves of the ocean to recede from the terrible, sorrowful noise. Whether he would be heard, he didn't know. Nor did he care. Nor, really, did he have any reasontocare.

His son had just been taken away from him.

Tears fell down his cheeks quickly, like a rushing waterfall. His son, his pride as a father, as a man, his beloved child, had went from an innocent, well-meaning kid to a violent and confused psychopath who wanted to kill him because of some dark magic by an evil wizard named Babidi.

Finally, the screaming stopped. Goku hung his head low, eyes closed tight, giving out low sobs as his body shook in a fit of intense misery. As the situation sank more and more deeply into his head, the misery gave rise to anger, and the anger gave rise to hatred, hatred directed at that filthy wizard Babidi...

"You...bastard..." Goku growled, sounding barely human, his fists clenching the sand. "You...for what you did to my son...I'll make you wish you were dead..."

He knelt down in his four-legged position thinking of ways to make Babidi worse than dead, all the while only vaguely conscious of the one thing that might get in his way: namely, the familiar halo resting on his spiky head. The reminder that his remaining moments on Earth were limited.

"Dammit..." Goku stood up, looking resentfully toward the circle of light resting atop his head. "I don't have much time left on Earth before I have to go back to Other World. But I can't leave the planet now, with Gohan on the loose and the others..." He shuddered. "The others maybe in danger of coming across him..."

He pondered his next course of action, careful to think about what he should do next given the dire circumstances. Then, an idea forming in his head, Goku placed two fingers on his forehead, locking onto the energy of his next desired location. Without another moment's hesitation, he disappeared in a flash, heading toward the planet that would help bring him one step closer to getting his wayward son back.

Chapter 7: Is There Hope For You, Gohan!? Son Goku Must Be Revived!

Summary:

The Z Fighters prepare to reunite with each other, after a very long and horrific day.

Chapter Text

The atmosphere on New Namek was abuzz with groans of labor and intense satisfaction as the Namekians worked their hearts out collecting big buckets of water for the seasonal harvest festival that was going to occur on the end of the month. On the planet's capital village, there was a sense of lightheartedness and cheer that seemed to permeate the entire area as the inhabitants grabbed big bucketfuls of sweet, bright-green liquid out of the sparkling lakes and collected it onto an enormous clay basin at the village's center. Those who weren't working were chatting happily with their green-tinged friends, talking about anything from the weather to the upcoming festivities to just how grateful they were to no longer be living under the threat of the galactic tyrant Frieza.

Moori, the Grand Elder, stood at the center of the village with pride as he observed the hard work his people were going through, a wide smile stretched across his wrinkled, green face. His antenna twitched as he sensed a minor disturbance in the area, and turning around, looked to his surprise to see-

"Goku!"

At Moori's exclamation, nearly every Namekian in the village stopped in their tracks and looked over to where their elder was shouting at. Sure enough, to their amazement, standing a few meters away from the Grand Elder stood none other than Son Goku, his clothes tattered but his expression warm and friendly as usual. Goku grinned broadly, and Moori reciprocated, glad to see the savior of the Namekian people who had soundly defeated Frieza in battle.

"Long time, no see!" said Moori, extending his arms and meeting Goku's grip in a friendly handshake. "How have you been, lad? What in the galaxies brings you here?"

Goku's expression darkened somewhat. Looking around him, he wondered if he should talk to Moori privately about the reasons why he decided to show up. Then, realizing he couldn't waste any more time, told Moori the full story of everything that had transpired on Earth ever since he had been brought back to life by Fortuneteller Baba's. As his story progressed, Moori's kind expression slowly turned to one of terror, his smile disappearing and his face growing a noticeably paler shade of green. The other Namekians too, looked at each other with expressions of shock and apprehension, letting the weight of Goku's story settle in.

"Oh...my..." Moori said, in a voice barely above a whisper, raising one hand to his face. "So you're saying that that boy of yours...Gohan, is..."

"Evil now." Goku finished for him, his face contorting in a small grimace. "Yes. And I need you to bring me back to life with the Namekian Dragon Balls, because there's no way I'm letting myself go back to Other World before I find some way to bring my son back to his senses." He looked at Moori intensely. "Will you please help me?"

"Absolutely!" Moori said in an instant. He turned toward the Namekian villagers, and raised his voice to an authoritative level. "Alright now, listen everyone! You heard Goku, he needs to be brought back to life posthaste! Gather the Dragon Balls so that we can summon Porunga, we have not a moment to lose!"

Immediately, the Namekians who were capable of flight took off without a moment's hesitation, eager to gather the dragon balls. The rest of the Namekians who weren't capable of flight quickly cleared the area and went back into their huts, anticipating the arrival of the seven large balls as well as the even larger dragon that was about to be summoned by them.

Goku looked at Moori with an expression of utmost gratitude. "Thanks, Moori. You don't know how much I appreciate this."

"No worries at all, Goku." Moori replied. "But tell me - does Dende know about what happened? I remember him and your son were very close years ago after what happened on the first Namek."

Goku turned away from Moori's gaze. "I don't know. But...right now, I don't care. I just want to get my son back to the way he was before."

Moori nodded in understanding as the two waited for the Namekian Dragon Balls to be gathered again.

A light breeze swept throughout the Lookout, causing the palm trees lining the entrance to the temple to sway somewhat. Apart from that, there was dead silence, the only sounds being the footsteps of one black genie walking behind a tall, green teenage alien who was observing everything that was going on Earth from thousands of miles above.

Dende's grip on his staff grew slippery with sweat as he felt the weight of the calamity going on in the planet beneath him. He breathed in labored gasps, kneeling down and supporting himself with his right arm.

"Mr. Popo..." He said, his words barely above a whisper, "do you...sense it too...?"

"Yes, Dende." Mr Popo replied solemnly. "I'm afraid I do."

Those were the only words that needed to be exchanged between them. The only words that, indeed, could have been shared without saying one other that was ringing very clearly in both of their minds:

Gohan.

North City was damn near burnt to a crisp. The tall buildings that once towered over the large metropolis had by now collapsed, the streets were empty except for trash blowing everywhere and the occasional animal running across, and the survivors of the attack (if any) were by now in hiding or already evacuated.

It was a scene, thought Gohan as he landed deftly on the ruins of the town square, that screamed one word:

Justice.

Gohan had powered down from his Super Saiyan form, his spiky hair back to its original black color. He walked through the North City town square, breathing in deeply. Gohan could smell burning sulfur as the fires continued to rage on, some of them close enough to provide him warmth.

Gohan yawned and stretched his arms. He felt his stomach grumble. He looked around to see if there were any abandoned grocery stores or restaurants he could raid, but before he could see any, Gohan heard another person land behind him.

"I see you've been keeping yourself busy," said Dabura, smiling as he observed the chaotic wreck that was once North City. "It's a shame that you killed so many people, though. I was hoping to hear more screams."

"You'll hear plenty of that later," said Gohan as he continued walking. He had his back to Dabura the whole time, and the demon king followed him. The pair walked in silence for a few moments, and then Gohan stopped, his head turning to the right.

Licking his lips, he pointed to a small building sandwiched between two apartment complexes, both shattered. Chairs and tables were lined right outside of it.The outdoor seating arrangements would have made for a nice afternoon meal,thought Gohan.

"I've found a place for lunch," he told Dabura, "I can smell the food from out here."

Gohan walked up to the entrance and kicked the door open, Dabura following behind him. Gohan looked around. The place was completely empty...except for one sole survivor.

A dark haired, tall, burly chef stood in the center of the restaurant, wielding a butchers knife and pointing it at Gohan. His eyes were red and puffy, doubtless from being surrounded by smoke, but his gaze was steady and resolved as he stared at his two intruders.

"STOP!" He cried. "Both of you - don't come any closer! I know it was you who did this to my city, and I'm not afraid to use this knife to - "

BLAST!

Gohan shot a bright stream of yellow ki from his palms and the chef was incinerated to ashes, leaving him and Dabura alone in the restaurant. The Saiyan hybrid casually walked to a booth and picked up a menu.

"Well, I hope the food is good, because the customer service is awful," he deadpanned, and Dabura chuckled. The demon king went back to the kitchen to fetch whatever food he could discover - truth be told, he was just as hungry as Gohan. Maybe it was getting over the shock of almost being killed by Majin Buu, but Dabura had just realized how little he had eaten that day.

"Grab me a dozen steaks!" shouted Gohan from the dining room. "And make them rare. We Saiyans like our meat bloody."

"Got quite the appetite, don't you?" whispered Dabura. He grabbed a couple dozen raw steaks for himself and Gohan, using a small portion of flame from his mouth to heat each one up. Normally he'd hate doing something for someone else (unless it was Babidi) but Gohan had saved his life and it was the least Dabura could do to repay him.

Besides,he thought as his flame cooked up the meat,with powers like mine, this is almost too easy.

Dabura grabbed a tray that was left on the kitchen floor (along with a dozen other dishes and pieces of silverware) and placed the steaks on them, taking them to Gohan. The two sat down and began their meal. While Dabura ate his steaks with a fork and knife he nicked from the kitchen, Gohan practically ate his steaks whole, ripping into them with his fangs as the juice from the meat dripped down his chin.

Dabura chuckled at his partners uncouth table manners. "Quite the appetite you have, don't you, boy?"

"It's a Saiyan thing," muttered Gohan as he bit into his second steak, "And don't call me 'boy.'"

"Sure, whatever you say...boy," Dabura smugly added while Gohan glared at him. Gohan looked like he was about to reply back, but his stomach grumbled, and he dropped the thought as he devoured a third steak.

Dabura glanced outside, to the ruined city that he and Gohan had helped destroy. The flames had died down by now, showing the wreckage of the town more clearly. Nearly every building was either collapsed or totalled, leaving rubble in its wake, and no survivors in sight. Dabura's brow furrowed as he wondered where Babidi and Buu were.

"Where do we go next?" muttered Gohan in between bites of food.

"Who knows?" replied Dabura. Turning back to Gohan, he asked, "What's it to you, anyway? Why are you so interested in helping us destroy the world?"

Gohan finished chewing the meat off his steak before spitting out the bone. Wiping his mouth, he answered, "I want Son Goku dead."

Dabura raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Then why not just hunt him down, instead of helping us destroy everything?"

Gohan breathed in deeply. Now that he was finished with his steaks, he felt more focused to carry a conversation. He was about to reply when he heard a distinct shouting from the entrance of the restaurant.

"GOHAN! DABURA! COME OUT QUICK!"

Gohan and Dabura sprang up, running outside the building to see Babidi and Majin Buu waiting outside for them. Babidi had his usual smirk on his scaly face while Majin Buu looked blissfully ignorant of everything around him, as usual. Babidi walked up to his servants, rubbing his hands together excitedly.

"Majin Buu has just eliminated all the survivors in this wretched city!" he cheered, "And with the efficiency he showed in his assault, there's no way anyone could have called for help! No one in the media will be alerted of North City's destruction until its too late!"

Gohan grinned widely. "That is excellent news, Master! Our first city, destroyed."

Dabura nodded in agreement. "A job well done, by all of us!"

Babidi scowled at them. "Allof you?' I'll have you know that if it weren't for Majin Buu, none of this would be possible! Maybe if you fools weren't so focused on raiding a restaurant you might have contributed more."

"Master Babidi!" said Gohan, "I'm terribly sorry...I didn't...we didn't mean to…"

"Never mind," interrupted Babidi. "We have far more destruction to unleash upon this world. And Majin Buu is just waiting for the chance to make it happen!"

Babidi hopped on Buu's back, the pink djinn obediently stepping down to let him on. Without another word, Babidi whipped the reins of Buu's purple cape, and the two went flying. Gohan immediately flew after them, Dabura waiting a few moments but following soon after.

But as the demon king flew in pursuit of Gohan, Babidi and Buu, he couldn't help but scowl as he saw Babidi flying in front of him.

I'm really starting to get tired of you…

Meanwhile, on the plateau where Piccolo and Krillin had been turned to stone, Dabura's second string of saliva was beginning to take effect. The statues which had been lifeless mere hours ago had now started to noticeably shake, and piece by piece the stone that covered the two fighters' bodies started to crack, until it shattered completely. Soon Piccolo and Krillin were back to their true forms, alive and well once again.

But despite being able to move freely, their looks of abject horror did not disappear. For while they were statues, they were still conscious, and able to witness everything that had just occurred...

"P-P-piccolo..." Krillin stammered, his throat dry and eyes wide as dinner plates. He turned toward his Namekian comrade. "D-did you see...what I saw...?"

"Yes." Piccolo replied. His voice was more even, but somehow that made the pain in his tone all the more apparent. "Yes, I did."

"B-but..." Krillin continued stammering, breathing shallowly. "H-how...w-why...G-Gohan..."

"I don't know." Piccolo answered grimly.

A silence fell upon the two Z Fighters as they each tried to digest everything they had just seen and heard while they were stone. The events flashed in each of their minds: Babidi summoning Buu, Buu about to kill Dabura, Dabura being saved by Gohan, them fighting Buu together, Babidi interrupting and finally, Babidi and Buu launching into the sky heading toward their first targets and Gohan and Dabura's conversation, followed by them joining the fray...

"The way Gohan looked..." Piccolo said, in a voice barely above a whisper, as the events played in his mind like a movie reel. "He looked...more animal. Primal. It's like his Saiyan side has become more pronounced..."

"But...but how?" Krillin asked, confused. "How can a nice, innocent kid like Gohan become evil? What happened to him?"

"He had a blackMon his forehead, same as Dabura." Piccolo growled, balling his hands into fists. "Babidi must have cast some sort of spell on him that allowed his evil side to get drawn out."

"But Gohan doesn't have an evil side!" Krillin insisted. "He's pure of heart! There's no way he would turn against us like this and decide to...to..." His expression grew paler as the weight of what he was about to say settled in his mind. "...destroy...the world..."

Piccolo grimaced. He didn't like hearing it, any more than Krillin liked saying it.

"We are all capable of good and evil." He said solemnly. "Everyone has it in them to be the best or worst individual they can possibly be. With Gohan...I fear that I may have seen this side in him before. Against Raditz, Frieza, Garlic Junior, and especially with Cell..." His grimace deepened as he remembered Gohan's Super Saiyan 2 transformation, and the rage and bloodlust that resulted from it. "He was willing to let Cell live just so he could torture him. He even disobeyed his father's orders to kill Cell, and that resulted in Goku dying. I could see an animal in him then...and I fear that that's what Babidi preyed on."

Another silence fell between Piccolo and Krillin, Piccolo having finished giving his thoughts and Krillin standing there trying to make sense of it all. After a few moments, Krillin fell to his knees in defeat, still unable to process everything.

"I still don't get it..." Krillin muttered in a voice that only Piccolo, with his enhanced Namekian hearing, would be able to hear, "He was just so...pure. He was a good kid, always studied hard, and was nice to everyone. I just can't believe he's out to destroy the world..."

Piccolo lowered his head, the desert wind causing his cape to flow behind him. He remembered training Gohan years ago in the fight against the Saiyans, at a time when he was just a soft hearted little boy and Piccolo a cruel monster with a thirst for revenge. He suppressed a shudder at the thought that now their roles were reversed;hewas the one with the softer heart, andGohanthe monster with a thirst for revenge.

"I don't get it either." He admitted. "But it's not too late. We should regroup with the others."

Piccolo closed his eyes, stretching hiskisenses to detect the energies of Goku, Vegeta, and the rest of the Z team. He frowned. He couldn't detect Goku'ski,but he could faintly make out Vegeta'skisignature (as well as another, far weaker one) flying at great speeds towards an unknown destination.

"Alright, I got a lock on Vegeta's energy reading." Piccolo clarified. "Him and someone else he's decided to drag with him are headed towards a mountainous area not far from here. But I can't make out Goku's energy..."

"You think he's alright?" Krillin asked, concerned.

"I don't know." Piccolo replied, never one to sparse words. He couldn't guarantee Goku's safety. He couldn't guarantee anything at this point. "All I know for sure is that we can't be wasting any time."

Clenching his fists together, he gazed at the sky, and for a moment appreciated the fact that he was able to witness it while able to move once again. Then his face took on a supremely intense look, and Piccolo leaped upwards, not even giving Krillin a moments notice.

Krillin gulped, but followed suit, hoping to keep up with Piccolo's speed. He wasn't even bothered by the fact that the Namekian didn't let him know when he was going to take flight, or where exactly the remaining Z Fighters were located; all he cared about was seeing his friends again. As he flew behind Piccolo towards wherever it was they were headed, his heart grew lighter at the thought that he was going to see his wife and daughter again.

After what he had gone through today, he definitely needed that.

The Son House.

It was a quaint, charming little home located in a forest on the foot of Mount Paozu. The house overlooked a steep hill with a path that led down to a beautiful valley, with mountains in the backdrop and wildlife such as deers and birds basking in the splendor of it all. Its placement was such that no one would ever have stumbled upon it by accident; as such, this gave the owners of the house much needed privacy for whenever they wanted time to themselves.

And given the family that lived in it, it was quite fitting that this was the location of the four-starred Dragon Ball.

Yamcha landed the Capsule Corp airship neatly in front of the house, careful not to land too abruptly lest he cause a tremor that would shake the foundations of the building. He unbuckled his seat belt, and deployed the ramp that allowed the Z team to exit out of the ship. This time, it was a fairly light group, consisting of Yamcha, Bulma, Videl and Trunks. Eighteen had opted to stay in the ship and keep an eye on Marron, Sharpener and Erasa decided to sit back and relax, as did Roshi, Puar and Oolong and Chi Chi and Goten were still fast asleep, their slumber completely undisturbed by the crew.

And given the events of the day, none of the Z Fighters felt like changing that.

Yamcha led the Briefs mother and son duo, as well as the teenage martial artist at the front entrance of the Son household. Without turning the knob to the front door, he kicked it open, sending it flying into the living room and knocking a few pieces of furniture down.

Bulma looked at her ex with an arched eyebrow. "Yamcha... was thatreallynecessary?"

"Yes." Yamcha replied, unable to contain a half-smirk as he walked casually into the home of his best friend.

Bulma sighed, but followed him in, the Dragon radar clutched in her right hand. Trunks followed her, smiling broadly at the display of destructive power. Videl stayed behind for a few moments, blinking rapidly, still not used to seeing such amazing feats on such a regular basis. Granted as a crime fighting martial artist, she had to knock down her fair share of doors from time to time, but seeing it done so casually was...well, it wasn't quite normal, that much she could say.

Not that anything about today could be classified as 'normal'.She thought, with a slight roll of her eyes.

She looked at the lush forest around her, and remembered with a pang how she had been at this exact same house just a few weeks ago, meeting Gohan's brother and mother for the first time. It was a comically bizarre event for the both of them, what with Chi Chi treating Videl rather nastily until she found out Videl was rich, and then asking Gohan when he was going to marry her. Videl remembered with a chuckle how Gohan spat out his rice at the mere suggestion, and his embarrassed outburst that followed.

He was such a dork,she thought affectionately.

Not wasting any more time, and perhaps against her better judgment, Videl stepped inside of the Son household. She smiled at the pleasant scenery; Gohan's house had a very "homely" feel to it, with a tidy kitchen area right as she walked in, the dishes all put away in open cabinets and the floors swept and cleaned to near perfection. At the center of the kitchen area was a table set for three, no doubt for Chi Chi, Gohan, and Goten.

Videl's smile faded as she thought that the third chair could very well been meant for Gohan's father before his tragic death, and the eventual birth of his youngest son, Goten. She hadn't known much of Goku - indeed, aside from the brief glimpses of him she got at the tournament, all she did know was from studying the records of previous Tenkaichi Budokais - but the knowledge that he had been brought back to life only to witness his eldest son turn to evil made her feel very deeply for the full-blooded Saiyan.

Sighing, Videl exited the kitchen and went into the living room. It was more or less the average living room, with neatly kept furniture (minus the furniture that was knocked down by the door), a coffee table at the center, and a television set against the wall. Brushing past the coffee table, Videl's eyes caught onto what looked like a large book at the center of it, with a black cover that didn't reveal any title.

Her curiosity getting the better of her, Videl sat down by the sofa facing the coffee table and picked up the book, tentatively turning the cover. She gasped lightly; it was a photo album, a collection of pictures taken of the Son family over the years. The first picture that caught Videl's eye was of a spiky haired man in an orange gi, a woman next to him wearing a purple dress and her hair tied in a bun, and a baby lying in a cradle asleep. Videl smiled; it was probably against her better judgment to be pouring through another family's photo album, but she was never one to care as much as most people about intruding on the personal lives of others.

Besides,she thought,Gohan is just too damn cute as a baby.

Turning the photo album page after page, she watched as the lives of the Son family slowly progressed. She found photos of the Son family at amusement parks, hiking on the mountain trail, and just relaxing at home, celebrating events like Gohan's birthday and Goku and Chi Chi's wedding anniversary. While her shame in looking through the lives of others was minimal (as she showed when tediously researching Gohan's life in trying to figure out if he was the Great Saiyaman), Videl couldn't help but blush a little as she looked through some of the pictures of Goku and Chi Chi; namely, their wedding and the honeymoon that transpired afterwards. She found pictures of Goku in a tuxedo (looking comedically uncomfortable) and Chi Chi in a wedding dress (looking absolutely overjoyed), as well as the couple's honeymoon on an island, with several photos showing them kissing, and sometimes handling each other in ways that suggested they were looking forward to when the photographer would leave them alone.

Videl gulped. Suddenly feeling rather warm, she closed the book, and laid it down on the coffee table. Upstairs, she could hear what sounded like Bulma and Yamcha rummaging through drawers and closets, no doubt searching for the Dragon Ball, as well as Trunks occasionally trying to give helpful advice such as Yamcha kicking the house upside down so the Dragon Ball would fall out (advice which was spurred quickly by Bulma).

Taking in another deep breath, Videl stood up from her comfortable position on the sofa. Lost in a myriad of thoughts, she dragged her feet aimlessly throughout the house, back in the kitchen, then the living room, then finally into a bathroom, where she looked at her reflection in a mirror and found that she was terribly pale.

Not that that surprised her.

Perusing through the photo album had given Videl a lot to think about, both about Gohan, and herself. Her relationship with Gohan was never ideal - at least, considering that he had stolen her fame as Satan City's number one crime fighting vigilante. Driven by pride, she had stalked the Saiyan teenager for days on end, tirelessly watching his every move to prove that he was the Great Saiyaman and when she did, extorted Gohan to help train her to fight in the tournament, or else have his secret identity revealed.

Not exactly your typical high school love affair.

As Videl stared back at her pale reflection in the mirror, she remembered how her whole dynamic with Gohan had slowly changed after he had agreed to train her. When she had cut her hair and allowed him to teach her ki manipulation and flight basics, she found herself becoming more relaxed in her teacher's presence. And the more relaxed she felt, strangely enough, the less she felt as if her training was the result of extortion and more just a genuinely friendly interaction with someone who cared enough to teach her great things.

Before long, Gohan didn't seem burdened at all with the task of teaching her. And she didn't bring up his Great Saiyaman identity to try and convince him to either.

Videl rubbed her temples as the memories came rolling back in her head.I need some fresh air,she thought.

She walked out of the bathroom and the front door to the Son house (or where the front door would have been had Yamcha not kicked it down) and out in the forest, where she breathed in the welcome scent of fresh air. A small smile tugged at her lips; sometimes all the thinking in the world couldn't beat a moment spent outside.

Videl walked for a few minutes on the front lawn, enjoying the breeze that blew pleasantly through the valley. She crossed by a well that stood to the left of a house, and then to her fascination found a small hut right across from the well. It was a Chinese style hut with two large double doors and a kanji symbol written on both of them. Videl looked toward the hut and then back to the Son house, wondering what purpose Gohan's family could have with the tinier building.

Videl wondered for a minute if she should allow herself in, but then, remembering how she had just poured through the Son family's photo album, figured that a little more intrusion wouldn't cause any serious harm. So with a deep breath, the teenage martial artist pushed open the double doors, walking inside the hut without a further moment's hesitation.

The vigilante's first thought after looking at the interior of the hut was that it was the most Oriental setting she had ever seen. It was only a little larger than the average bedroom, and was probably used for such a purpose, if the futon on the right corner of the hut was any indication. To the left corner, there were some brooms and jars, as well as a large, Chinese style window that matched the setting of the hut. Near the back wall, there was a small, red table with a pillow on either side of it, and next to the table, a blue dressing drawer with a pillow on top of it, a pillow containing an orange orb that...had four mysterious red dots on it...

"The fourth dragon ball!" Videl thought out loud, surprise marking her face. She ran up to the four starred ball, scooping it into her hands to make sure it was what she thought it was. Sure enough, a closer look at the small object in her palms confirmed that it was indeed the ball she and the Z Fighters were looking for.

Not wasting another moment, Videl ran out of the hut and back into the Son household, sprinting through the kitchen and up the stairs into the hallways where she could hear the sounds of Yamcha and Bulma still rigorously searching through every nook and cranny of the bedrooms in the house. Finding the door where their rummaging could be heard through, she hastily swung it open, to the comedic sight of Yamcha emptying the contents of what appeared to be Goku's dresser drawers, Bulma hunched down underneath a king sized bed, and Trunks staring at both of them with a blank expression. Videl would have laughed had the situation not been more serious.

"Everyone, I found the dragon ball!" She exclaimed to the frantic Z Fighters, holding the ball up for them to see.

Their reactions were instantaneous. Bulma hit her head underneath the mattress in her haste to get out of it, Yamcha looked up from the drawers he was digging through with a look of surprise and relief, and Trunks just casually glanced over his shoulder, nonchalant about the whole thing.

"You got the dragon ball!?" Bulma shouted in disbelief after she got out of the bed. Sure enough, the sight of the familiar four starred orb in Videl's hand confirmed it. "That's...that's incredible! But where...?"

"In that small hut next to the house." Videl replied. "It was on a pillow on one of the drawers."

Bulma looked absolutely overjoyed. "YES! Now we have only three more balls left to collect!" She took the ball from Videl's palm and stuffed it in her pocket, giving the teenage girl a big hug, which she reciprocated, if not somewhat awkwardly.

"That's really neat that you found the dragon ball, Videl." Yamcha said, smiling. "But how come we didn't find it there with the radar?"

"Probably because the houses are so close together that the radar couldn't pick up on it precisely. Oh, I'm so glad you found it, Videl! We were all so worried!" Bulma tightened her grip on Videl, the teenager's face turning a shade of red at the display of affection.

"No...problem..." she huffed.

"Anyway, now that we've got the dragon ball, it's time for us to head on outta here." said Yamcha. Everyone nodded (Trunks especially eager to leave) and the group of four left the Son house and went on the front lawn where the Capsule Corp airship was parked.

Bulma gave her arms a good stretch, smiling as she looked over the pleasant sunny landscape that was Mount Paozu. If finding the fourth dragon ball wasn't enough to put her in a good mood, the beautiful day certainly was.

Behind her, Trunks tugged at the hem of her dress. "Hey, Mom? Are the other dragon balls close to here? I'm getting kinda bored of all this hunting."

"Hey, be patient!" Yamcha chided.

"It's okay." Bulma smiled. She pulled out the dragon radar, and turned on the switch. When she saw the readings, she gasped. "Oh, my God!"

"What is it?" Videl asked, concerned. "Don't tell me the rest of the balls are on the other side of the world...?"

"No...it says they're right here!"

"WHAT!?" was everyone's shocked response. Yamcha, Videl and Trunks looked this way and that throughout the entire forest to see if the three remaining Dragon Balls were anywhere in sight - but to no avail.

"Umm, Mom, are yousurethat the radar says that...?"

"Yes!" Bulma shouted, a little hysterically. "It says that there are three dragon balls right here in the front yard! But...how?"

"Maybe it's a glitch in the radar?" Yamcha suggested, scratching his head.

"I doubt it...I've had this radar for years, and it's never had a problem like that before." Bulma suddenly looked worried. "But...if thereisa problem with it...then we'll never be able to get the dragon balls and revive all those people..."

Bulma choked on her words, the prospect of what that meant slowly falling upon her. Videl and Yamcha looked at each other with grim expressions as that same prospect fell upon them as well, and even Trunks looked genuinely concerned. All their efforts, all their travelling to collect the dragon balls, everything leading up to this moment...it was all for nothing. The people at the tournament would remain dead, their families would be struck with grief, and Gohan would never have the title of a murderer erased from him...

"Pick yourselves up." A gruff, cocky voice said from behind the four Z Fighters. "Reviving those killed at the tournament will be done sooner than you think."

Bulma, Trunks, Yamcha and Videl all spun around, the sight of two men meeting their eyes; one of them the announcer from the tournament, on all fours and kissing the ground beneath him, and the other one, who had the remaining three dragon balls huddled together at his feet, and with a proud smirk on his face -

"Vegeta!"

A few hours passed before the Namekians who had flown off returned with the seven large dragon balls, ready to help fulfill Goku's wish. They gathered together and placed the seven balls at the center of the village, looking around to make sure the other Namekians were safely tucked inside their huts. When they saw that the coast was clear, they stretched out their arms and aimed their open palms toward the balls, as if about to fire a ki blast. Then, in unison, they chanted the password that would unleash the dragon balls power -

"Takkaraput pop porunga pupiritt paro!"

Moori and Goku watched intently as the skies on Namek darkened from their bright green color to a near pitch black, clouds swirling and thunder roaring as it signified the coming of the ancient dragon. Suddenly, swirling out of the balls in a brilliant display of orange light, the form of Porunga appeared in all its glory to the Saiyan and Namekian, his gigantic form towering over the large expanse of the planet and looking down on Son Goku and the Grand Elder.

"State your wish." Porunga bellowed. "Ask of any three wishes you desire, and I shall grant them."

Moori stepped up, clearing his throat. "Eternal Dragon! For my first wish, I humbly ask that you would bring this man," he gestured toward Goku, "back to life again!"

Porunga's red eyes glowed brightly, and as they did, the halo on Goku's head disappeared. "Your wish has been granted."

"Wonderful!" Moori shouted, turning to Goku, who smiled perhaps his first genuine smile that entire day. "Now that you're revived, you have all the time in the world to bring your son back!"

"Yeah..." Goku looked over himself up and down, the fact that he was brought back to life after seven years slowly sinking in his mind. "Hopefully after all this is over, I can enjoy life in the mortal world again."

Then, as suddenly as his halo disappeared, an idea popped into Goku's head. "Wait a minute!" He shouted, catching Moori off guard. "Porunga! We still have two wishes, right?"

"That is correct, yes." Porunga replied from the heavens.

"In that case..." Goku bit his lower lip. He didn't want to get his hopes up, but still, if this worked, if Porunga could make this happen... "My son Gohan has been affected by some weird magic that's caused him to become evil. He's been turned into a psychopath by a wizard named 'Babidi.' I'm trying to find a way to get him to snap out of it, but he won't listen to me. My second wish is that you undo the spell that's caused my son to become evil!"

Moori gasped. "Why didn't I think of that? Great idea, Goku!"

Once again, Porunga's eyes glowed bright red. There was a thick silence that hung in the air for a few moments, both Goku and Moori waiting apprehensively for the dragons answer, when -

"I am sorry." Porunga said at last, his deep voice laced with a tinge of regret. "I have searched the mind of this child of yours, but whatever magic has affected him is far beyond my power. I regret to tell you that this wish cannot be fulfilled."

"Damn it!" Goku swore loudly. He was braced for the answer, but it came as a blow nonetheless. "In that case...I don't have any wishes. How about you, Moori?"

"I...no, I can't say as I have anything else." Moori replied, somewhat lamely. Truth be told, he felt a little awkward summoning Porunga only for him to grant one wish. "All the Namekians are doing fine, and the Earth's Dragon Balls will be able to revive scores of people who have been killed, unlike Porunga, who can only revive one person at a time."

He looked up toward the great dragon, and raising his voice, shouted, "Your work here is done, Porunga! All the necessary wishes have been fulfilled. We thank you for your service to us!"

"Very well." Porunga said. "I shall depart."

With that, Porunga disappeared in a blaze of light, carrying the seven dragon balls with him as they disappeared to the farthest corners of Planet Namek. The clouds and thunder disappeared as well, in its place the bright green sky returning.

Moori looked sympathetically at Goku. "I'm sorry about that. I wish he would have been able to break the spell that is holding your son captive..."

"Don't worry about it." Goku said, somewhat curtly. "I'm brought back to life now, and I have all the time I need to set things straight." He placed two fingers to his forehead and closed his eyes, searching for the ki of the remaining Z Fighters. "Let's see...Piccolo and Krillin are together, headed towards...Bulma and the others! And Vegeta's with them!"

Without another word, Goku disappeared in a flash of light, leaving Moori taken aback at his unexpected departure. Adjusting his robe, he looked around at the villagers who had just exited their homes and witnessed the stunning display.

Clearing his throat, he gestured toward his people -

"Right, now - back to work, everyone! It's time to prepare for the festival."

Meanwhile, in Other World, one old fortuneteller was not a happy camper.

"I can't believe he did this!" Screeched Baba as she witnessed the events play on the flat screen television of King Yenma's office. She was seated on his mahogany desk and had just watched Goku bring himself back to life with the help of Porunga. "I specifically gave Goku only 24 hours on Earth before he returned to Other World! Has he gone absolutely barking mad!?"

King Yenma remained silent, twirling his pen beneath his red fingers.

Baba continued her rant. "Why, of all the nerve...and I thought he was at least somewhat trustworthy after all the time I got to spend with him these past seven years! I witnessed him fight Pikkon and the others at the Tournament, saw how honest he was...he wouldn't cheat another warrior, but he would cheat death itself! The outrage!"

She was waving her small fists dramatically, her face becoming red with anger. Fuming, she turned toward Yenma. "We ought to bring him back immediately! I'll go down there myself and yank him back up here with my hands tied behind my back if I need to!"

Yenma continued twirling his pen, and then, without even looking up, answered -

"No."

"I...what!?" Baba yelled, taken aback, unable to believe what she had heard. "Do you realize what you're saying? Goku just cheated his way out of our agreement, and you're saying we shouldn't bring him back!? Do you realize what you are -"

"I know what I'm saying, Baba." KIng Yenma replied, and although his tone was even, there was a certain commanding edge to it that compelled Baba to remain silent. "I've seen everything that's happened ever since Goku arrived on Earth. Just trust me on this one - I'm letting this slide for a good reason. Capiche?"

Baba blinked. "Good...reason?" She repeated. Whatever good reason Goku could have for lying about returning to Other World in a days time, she did not know. Nor did she have any reason to - the recording that she was viewing had the voices muted, so that all she could see was Goku making a wish to Porunga, and the halo disappearing from his head. But Yenma, having watched the recording since Goku's arrival on Earth, knew the situation with Gohan. And being a father himself, he could empathize with Goku's desires to bring his son back.

"Just trust me on this one, Baba." Yenma said. "I'm letting him go. He's fine."

Baba blinked again, and then, throwing her arms in the air in defeat, turned back to the video recording to see if anything else was about to happen.

What in the hell is this universe coming to...?

Chapter 8: Gather The Dragon Balls! Where Are You, Goten!?

Notes:

This chapters artwork was done by my good friend Visonedwheel on twitter. Thanks for the art, bro!

Chapter Text

"Vegeta!" Bulma cried out in joy as she ran up and embraced her husband, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in the crook of his neck. Vegeta grabbed her by the waist and pulled her closer to him, smiling.

"Dad!" Trunks shouted, running up to his father and giving him a hug that could only reach to his knee. "You're back!"

Videl and even Yamcha smiled, grateful to see that at least one other fellow Z Fighter was alright—especially since Vegeta had just obtained the rest of the Dragon Balls for them.

"But, how?" asked Bulma, letting go of Vegeta's neck. "How did you find the rest of the dragon balls without the radar?"

Vegeta smirked. "It's me, remember?"

"It was amazing!" The blonde announcer blurted out, still on all fours, before Bulma could playfully chastise her husband for boasting. "We traversed such unknown territory, braved such treacherous landscape, fought such strong opponents that—"

"Ifought strong opponents." Vegeta corrected, frowning. "Youjust sat back and watched me do all the work."

"Well, regardless, it was exhilarating! The most exhilarating experience of my life!"

Bulma smiled at the announcer's enthusiasm. "Did you have to deal with him for the entire trip?"

"Hmph. Unfortunately. Hewasentertaining, though. I suppose." Vegeta admitted. "Regardless, we need to wish those people back to life now. We don't have much time to lose."

Without any more hesitation, the group set up the seven dragon balls in front of the Son household, preparing to summon Shenron and undo the damage Gohan caused at the 24th World Martial Arts Tournament. By this time, Eighteen, Roshi, Sharpener and Erasa had gotten out of the airship, having just heard of Vegeta's arrival and that the dragon balls had been collected.

"Hey, everybody!" A loud, familiar voice called from the heavens as the Z Fighters were getting ready to make their wish to the dragon. They all looked up and saw, to their pleasant surprise, Krillin and Piccolo descending onto the front lawn, having caught them just in time to witness Shenron about to get summoned.

"You guys are back!" Bulma shouted, relieved to see more familiar faces—after everything that happened that day, more friends were certainly welcome. "Thank goodness!"

The rest of the team cheerfully greeted Krillin and Piccolo, especially Marron, who squealed and ran up to her father to give him a big hug. Eighteen smiled at the gesture, relieved to see her husband back. Yamcha and Roshi joined in to greet Krillin as well, thankful that he was alright, and Sharpener and Erasa curiously made their way up to Piccolo, who smiled, indicating that he was safe to approach.

"You..." Sharpener asked, "Who...I mean, what...are you, even? You look nothing like everyone else..."

Piccolo chuckled. "I'm just another alien, kid. Nothing special about me."

Sharpener looked at Erasa, who shrugged. As far as she was concerned, this day was weird enough to the point where she could believe anything.

After the Z team were done welcoming back Krillin and Piccolo, Bulma prepared to summon Shenron and wish back the people killed at the tournament. Stretching out her hands, she chanted the words that would bring forth the eternal dragon:

"Shenron, by your name I summon you! Come forth!"

The sunny, peaceful atmosphere of Mt. Paozu disappeared as the heavens darkened and the only light from the skies was the thunder crackling as the unmistakable form of the eternal dragon descended from the clouds, his long, scaly body bathed in a yellow aura. It was a surreal sight for everyone involved, even those who had been used to this; the time went from day to night in the span of seconds, with only Shenron providing any light at all.

"W-wow..." Videl stared wide eyed at the dragon. "Is this real? Am I dreaming?"

"You're choosingnowto ask if you're dreaming or not?" Sharpener asked with his hands behind his head. "With everything that happened today, this is what's weird to you?"

"No, it's just...I've heard legends of the eternal dragon, but...I never thought I'd see him..." Videl trailed off, continuing to stare in awe at Shenron's intimidating form.

"STATE YOUR WISHES!"Shenron commanded, in his deep, booming voice."I WILL GRANT ANY THREE WISHES THAT YOU REQUEST."

"Alright!" Bulma shouted. "Shenron, we wish for...ummm..."

She placed a finger to her chin, contemplating. Turning to Vegeta, she asked, "How should we word it? So that the wrong people don't get brought back to life?"

"What!?" Vegeta responded incredulously. "You mean you didn't even think about that before!?"

"Just wish for all the people killed today to be brought back to life, except for the evil ones." Piccolo interjected. "The only dead people I can think of right now who we wouldn't want back are Spopovich and Yamu, but there may have been other evil people caught in the crossfire at the tournament."

"Right!" Bulma turned back to the dragon. "Shenron – I wish for every single person killed at the 24th World Martial Arts tournament today to be brought back to life—except for the really bad ones!"

Shenron's eyes glowed a bright red, and in an instant, he stated, "YOUR WISH HAS BEEN FULFILLED."

"Yay!" Bulma shouted, and the Z Fighters cheered along with her, glad that the horrors of the massacre that occurred earlier that day had been undone.

"YOU MAY REQUEST TWO MORE WISHES,"Shenron bellowed, "AND I SHALL GRANT THEM!"

"Oh! Hmmm..." Bulma looked around, gesturing to everyone if they could think of any other wishes to ask.

"Well, couldn't we wish that Majin Buu never existed?" Trunks asked.

"Yeah!" said Yamcha. "We could do that, and then it would be like none of this ever happened at all!"

There was a murmur of agreement among the Z Fighters, and Bulma was about to make that request, but Shenron replied,

"THAT WISH IS FAR BEYOND MY POWER. I DO NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO MANIPULATE SPACE AND TIME, OR TO ERASE ANY ENTITY FROM REALITY ITSELF. I AM SORRY, BUT YOU WILL HAVE TO MAKE ANOTHER WISH."

There was a collective groan of disappointment among the Z team. Seeing this, Shenron was about to depart, when—

"Hey, guys! I'm back!"

Somewhere, in the distant desert where Babidi's spaceship lay, a familiar pink-skinned deity awakened from an unwelcome slumber. Kibito shot up from the ground he was laying on, and his surroundings told him that he hadn't

"Gah!" He exclaimed in surprise. "What...what happened...?"

He looked around, and slowly but surely the events of that day resurfaced in his mind.

"Wait! Now I remember...I was with lord Kaioshin and several others, and...Dabura!" He gasped. "Dabura found us out and annihilated me with a ki blast...but," he looked at his hands, "how did I come back to life...?"

The wind swayed Kibito's silver hair back and forth for a little while as he pondered the possibilities of his revival, until finally he decided it didn't matter.

"I must find lord Kaioshin...I need to make sure he's alright."

Without another word, Kibito lifted himself up towards the sky, and flew to where his senses told him the Kaioshin would be.

"GOKU!"

If the Z Fighters were happy to see Piccolo and Krillin, it was nothing compared to what they felt seeing Son Goku in front of them. The Saiyan warrior grinned broadly as the Z team ran up to him and greeted him, Krillin even hugging him. Goku reciprocated the affection and looked around to the group of smiling faces around him, noting that Vegeta, the blonde announcer from the tournament and three teenagers who looked like they were Gohan's age were the only ones keeping aloof from the crowd.

"Goku, you're back!" Krillin shouted for joy, still clinging to his best friend. "Oh man, after everything that's happened today, you have no idea how happy I am to see you!"

Goku ruffled Krillins hair, his grin becoming more affectionate. "I'm happy to see you too, Krillin. It's been one hell of a day for all of us."

After greetings were exchanged, Goku filled everyone in on the situation, telling them what had happened since Gohan became Majin. It was a difficult task for him to relive what had happened on Babidi's spaceship – but the Z Fighters needed to know, if only so that they wouldn't be caught off guard by whatever else Gohan might do. Everyone was overwhelmed to hear the details of the story, especially Trunks and the announcer, but Piccolo and Krillin looked at each other somberly, having witnessed first-hand just what Babidi's spell did to Gohan's character.

Meanwhile, a drop of sweat formed on a certain dragon's head, having grown impatient.

"UHHH...EXCUSE ME, PLEASE,"his deep, booming voice interrupted, catching the attention of the Z Fighters, "BUT YOU STILL HAVE TWO WISHES. IF YOU REFUSE TO WISH FOR ANYTHING, THEN I WILL LEAVE WITH THE BALLS. YOU MAY SUMMON ME AFTER FOUR MONTHS."

"Oh! Uhh..." Yamcha stammered, "Well, what do you think, Goku? We tried wishing that Majin Buu never existed, but apparently Shenron can't control space or time."

Goku pondered for a few moments, and then walked up to Shenron, apparently with a wish in mind.

"Eternal dragon..." he began, unusually reverent, "...I ask that you please restore my son to the way he was before. He's been under the control of an evil wizard named Babidi, and now he's going out destroying people left and right. If you can..."

Shenron's eyes flashed for a couple of seconds, and then...

"I AM SORRY,"he replied sincerely, "BUT YOUR SON IS UNDER THE CONTROL OF A MAGIC THAT IS FAR BEYOND MY POWER. IF YOU HAVE ANY OTHER WISHES, PLEASE STATE THEM."

"Damn it..." Goku swore under his breath. He thought perhaps that Shenron had more power in this area than Porunga – after all, he was able to resurrect scores of people, as opposed to just one. But it seems he was mistaken. "Alright...then that'll be it. Thanks, Shenron."

"I BID YOU FAREWELL."

And with that, Shenron disappeared, taking the seven dragon balls with him to be awakened four months later. Goku sighed deeply; like Porunga, he had been bracing himself for disappointment, but it came as a blow nonetheless.

He turned around, getting a good look at all the Z Fighters set against the background of his home. Doing a mental head count, he checked to see how many fighters were able to contribute to the battle against Buu and Gohan.

Let's see...thought Gokut,Piccolo and Vegeta are obvious choices...Eighteen might be able to help out too...I don't think Roshi, Krillin or Yamcha could fight well enough...Trunks can go Super Saiyan too, so that could be useful...

He crossed out Marron, Bulma, Videl, Sharpener, Erasa and the Announcer (who by now had gotten up from his hands and knees) as possible fighters, and then noticed something...

"Uh, guys...?" asked Goku, looking around, "Have you seen Chi-Chi or Goten? They were at the tournament with you, right...?"

The Z Fighters looked at each other nervously, averting Goku's gaze and mumbling things to themselves. The Announcer and Vegeta were the only ones who were just as oblivious as Goku – they simply shrugged their shoulders.

"Guys," Goku said in a slightly louder and more serious tone, "Chi-Chi and Gotenwerewith you, right? If they died at the tournament, you can tell me, they'd be revived by now..."

Everyone except Vegeta and the Announcer were still avoiding Goku's gaze when Bulma, taking a deep breath, walked up to him, placing a hand on her friend's shoulder. "Goku...they're alright. They're resting in my airship. It's just...they're really shaken up about this and I...don't know if it's good to wake them up now..."

Goku's expression remained calm, and he nodded. Bulma felt the tensions ease in his shoulders – evidently he was just relieved they were alright and with them. He was about to respond when a faint, familiar voice echoed in a tone just barely loud enough for him and anyone else in the vicinity to hear...

"Goku?"

Son Goku's calm expression instantly turned to one of shock as he and everyone else present turned their ears to the source of the voice, their eyes resting on –

"Chi-Chi!"

Goku and some of the Z Fighters exclaimed the name of the Son wife as she stood at the door of the Capsule Corp airship, her arm resting on the front of ship's hull.

It was no exaggeration to say that Chi-Chi looked as though she had suffered a thousand years worth of pain after the events of that day. Her usually beautiful, youthful face was horribly pale, bags under her eyes despite all the sleep she had gotten, and trembling horribly as though bitterly cold. But her expression – the horrid sadness in her face and eyes, haunted by grief – made it clear to anyone watching that she was barely staying herself.

Without any hesitation, Goku ran up to his wife, not even caring that anyone was watching as he held her tightly in his arms, stroking her back gently and kissing her head, and started trembling along with her. He clung to his wife as though she were a lifeline – which at this point, she may as well have been.

The Z team remained silent for the most part, some looking away at the overt display of affection.

"That woman..." Sharpener muttered, looking to Videl, "...she's Gohan's mother, right?"

Videl nodded, remembering vividly the less-than-friendly interactions she had with Chi-Chi when Gohan was training her to fly.

Tears were falling thick and fast down Goku's orange gi as he held his wife closely to himself. She was shaking horribly, clinging to her husband possibly more tightly than he was to her.

"Goku...it's not true...tell me it's not true..."

Goku winced at Chi-Chi's tone; her voice was cracking with every syllable she said. He reassuringly patted her back, whispering, "It's okay, Chi-Chi. Don't worry, everything will be alright."

"But, Gohan...what he did at the tournament...oh, Goku, what's happened to him?"

Goku shuddered as he remembered Gohan's complete indifference to wiping out all those people, but consoled himself with the knowledge that they were now alive. "I don't know, Chi-Chi. He's been possessed by an evil wizard named Babidi. I don't know how it works, but...we'll get him back. I promise."

Chi-Chi continued crying into her husbands arms, although her subsided at Goku's soothing words.

Piccolo frowned. With his enhanced Namekian hearing, he was able to listen in on every word of Goku and Chi-Chi's conversation, and the sheer brokenness in both of their voices told him that the coming battle was going to be a hard fought one.

"Mommy?" Marron asked, innocently tugging at her mother's pant leg, "Why does Mrs Chi-Chi look so sad?"

Eighteen kneeled down to her daughter's level, ruffling her hair a bit and smiling, "Don't worry, sugar. She's just a little upset right now, but she'll be alright."

Marron smiled back, reassured at her mother's words. Krillin smiled back at his wife, proud of her for keeping her cool in such a tense moment.

"Yeah, she'll be alright," he repeated, "but it's real sweet of ya to think about her, Marron."

"I sure hope so..." Erasa whispered, looking back at Videl, who still wasn't saying anything.

They all hoped so.

"Now what do you supposethatwas?"

Babidi, Buu, Dabura and Gohan floated motionless in the sky as they stopped on their way to destroy another city located a few hundred miles from North City. Babidi was, as usual, flying on top of Buu, holding the djinn's purple cape in his hands like a horses reins. Dabura and Gohan were flying side by side behind them.

"Strange..." Babidi muttered, "The whole sky just turned black, and then back to normal! Buu, doyouhave any idea what that could have been?"

Buu shook his fat pink head from underneath Babidi, just as confused as he was. Dabura looked confused as well – but Gohan did not.

"Iknow what that was, Master Babidi," he said, scowling, "It was my father and his friends. They used the dragon balls just now to summon Shenron – doubtless to resurrect those people I killed at the tournament this morning."

"Really, now?" Babidi replied, "And what makes you so sure it was your father that did that?"

"They have this...radar," Gohan answered, "That allows them to detect where all seven dragon balls are located. No one else on the planet has that kind of technology, and the balls are scattered at very distinct places throughout the Earth. There's no way anyone else could have summoned the dragon."

"Hmph," Babidi scoffed, "Well, it doesn't matter. They revived a few people, so what? They'll just get destroyed a second time."

"Yes..." Gohan replied, gazing up into the skies, "...but there's something else, too. My father'skisignal disappeared today off of the Earth for some reason. But now it's back, and it's stronger..."

"What's your point?" asked Dabura

"My point is that he was only running on borrowed time in our last battle. He was literally a dead man walking, and was supposed to be transported back to Other World in a few hours' time. Now, I believe, he's surpassed those hours." Gohan's scowl deepened. "He's used the dragon balls to bring himself back to life. Iknowit."

Dabura looked shocked, and even Buu looked mildly surprised. He may have been clueless when it came to matters not relating to candy, but even he felt the gravity of the situation. Babidi, however, smirked widely.

"Really, now? Well, if your pathetic welp of a father wants to make himself mortal again, by all means! We can destroy him, too."

"Yes..." said Gohan, grinning, "And I think we'll have the opportunity soon..."

"So what do we do, now?"

The Z Fighters were having a rather intense discussion as to their next course of action while Goku was still busy comforting his wife. The Announcer was the one to pop the question, which sent everyone in a flurry of debates and ideas that involved them taking the next move to safety.

And hopefully, the safety of the world.

"We can't just stand around here!" The Announcer exclaimed, "We need to go someplace safer!"

"Relax, young'un, we'll be fine!" Roshi replied irritably, "We have Goku, Piccolo and Vegeta with us, they won't let us down."

"But the bad guys have Gohan," Eighteen said, frowning, "and we don't know how powerful this 'Buu' thing is. We can't get cocky."

"We've faced tough villains before," said Roshi, "we can do it again."

"Yeah..." said Yamcha, placing a finger to his chin, "but have we ever faced anything like Buu?"

The group continued discussing among themselves, while in the meantime Sharpener, Erasa and Videl kept aloof, unable to contribute anything to the conversation. Trunks and Marron were just sitting down watching the debate unfold. Piccolo however, decided to take control of the conversation.

"Alright everyone, calm down!" Piccolo's voice boomed loudly enough for some of the trees in the area to drop their leaves, and for everyone to direct their attention to him. "We won't solve anything by just standing around and talking. This is Goku's battle – he's going to come through eventually."

Vegeta scoffed. "Oh, really now? And I suppose he's going to save the day by just standing there and coddling his wife?"

"Vegeta!" Bulma scolded, "Show some decency! Goku and Chi-Chi have been through a lot today."

Piccolo looked at Goku, and frowned. While Vegeta's interjection was rude, he had a point – Goku had just been standing there with his wife for a good five minutes while everyone else was wondering what on Earth they should do. Not the most productive way of saving the world.

Piccolo walked over to Goku, who by now had let go of Chi-Chi and was just talking to her about how everything would be okay, and placed a hand on his shoulder. Goku looked up, and Piccolo couldn't help wincing slightly at how unusually somber the Saiyan man's face looked.

"I don't mean to interrupt, but we can't waste time. Do you have any idea of how we can defeat Majin Buu?" Piccolo asked, careful to leave Gohan's name out.

"Yeah, actually," Goku replied, much to Piccolo's relief, "but I want to tell everyone when we get to a safer place. Its too dangerous to stay on Mount Paozu."

"Where else should we go?" asked Piccolo.

Goku looked from Chi-Chi, to Piccolo, to the Z Fighters (who had resumed talking among themselves over what to do), when suddenly a third voice chimed in,

Hey guys!

Goku did a double-take, looking left and right for the source of the voice. Piccolo and Chi-Chi looked at him confused, but then-

It's me, Dende!The familiar teenage Namekians voice said in Goku's head,Come to the Lookout and bring everyone with you. Mr Popo and I have seen everything that's happened on Earth, we know the whole situation with Gohan and Majin Buu.

"Dende!" Goku said cheerfully, smiling. "That's a great idea! Okay, I'll bring everyone with me to the Lookout."

Got it!

The connection got cut off, and then Goku turned back to his wife. "Wake up Goten," he told her, "we're headed to Dende's Lookout. We'll be safer there and I'll explain my plan to everyone when we arrive."

Chi-Chi nodded and was about to run into the Capsule Corp airship, when the door to the ship slammed open, revealing Ox King.

"GOKU! CHI-CHI! Goten's gone! I can't find him anywhere!"

"WHAT!?" shouted Chi-Chi hysterically, "But...he was sleeping in the ship, wasn't he!?"

"Yes, he was," answered Ox King, "But I turned around and he just up and disappeared! I don't know where he went!"

"Oh no, oh no, oh no…" Chi-Chi shook terribly, but Goku placed a hand on her shoulder.

"It's okay, Chi. I sense his ki signal. Goten's alright, and he'll be fine."

"Really?" Chi-Chi's eyes lit up. "Oh, thank heaven! I can't handle losing another son today...but how do you know he'll be alright?"

"I just know. Trust me," said Goku, with a calming smile. He looked back and nodded at Piccolo, who nodded back. They both sensed where Goten was headed.

And if they had any desire to stop him - they somehow couldn't bring themselves to.

Dammit...

Kibito swore mentally as he continued flying for what felt like hours in a vain attempt to find the Kaioshin. Wherever he was, Kaioshins energy levels were extremely low, to the point where Kibito's ability to sense it left him travelling in a slew of different areas.

But I have to keep trying,he thought to himself.I'll find you, my lord...I'll find you soon.

Babidi, Majin Buu, Dabura and Gohan were situated on the outskirts of a large, bustling city not unlike North City. The gang observed the area from a birds eye view in the sky, Babidi rubbing his hands together, Dabura with his arms crossed, Gohan with a malicious gleam in his eye, and Buu with a drooling mouth that justhadto be filled with more candy.

Babidi snickered as he watched the hustle and bustle of everyday city life play out before him. So many people, so many happy conversations, so much work being done...a normal day in the life. Babidis heart thumped with excitement at the thought of these poor humans normal lives being turned upside down.

Provided they would evenhavelives at all after this day.

"Look at all those poor, innocent souls…" said Babidi, his snickering growing louder, "Another huge city for the taking! More lives ready to be destroyed, I can't wait!"

"Yay!" cheered Buu, "Buu get more candy! Buu get more candy!"

"Let there be carnage, Master Babidi!" shouted Gohan, grinning as he pumped his fists, "The more destruction, the better!"

Dabura nodded, but said nothing.

Babidi closed his eyes and breathed in deeply through his nostrils "Oh, I can practically smell the fragrance of burning sulfur and rotted flesh already! This one will be another fantastic show, I can tell!"

"Indeed it will, my lord!" cheered Gohan. Dabura remained silent, but a small smile crept to his face as he witnessed Gohans eagerness.

"I see you truly are a Saiyan," said Dabura with an unusual tone of admiration.

Gohan looked back at him and grinned. "You know it."

"GOHAN!"

The Majin gang looked up in surprise at the young voice that had called out Gohans anime - even Buu looked mildly surprised. Gohan squinted his eyes as he saw a bright light speeding towards him, and he could make out a wild mane of spiky black hair as it got closer and closer. His eyes widened in shock. The person flying toward them stopped in mid air, revealing -

"Goten!?"

Gohan shouted his younger brother's name as Son Goten stopped his flight in front of the Majin gang, glaring daggers at all of them and looking very unlike his usual self. Goten was dressed in his usual orange gi and blue undershirt, his black hair spiking every direction, looking just like his father. But his usual happy, smiling face was replaced by a look of fierce determination, his small chest heaving as he took in deep breaths, his eyes locked on Gohans. Gotens fists were balled at his sides, and his ki levels were rising rapidly.

Gohans expression changed from shocked to impassive as he crossed his arms, looking his younger brother up and down. Beside him, Babidi was sweating bullets as his gaze darted from Gohan to Goten rapidly. Majin Buu simply looked confused and Dabura was half smirking.

Well, this should be interesting…

"Gohan!" shouted Goten, tears streaming down his face, "Why did you do it!? Why did you hurt all those people at the tournament!? What did they do to you!?"

"Shut up, you brat!" screeched Babidi. "He isn't your brother anymore! He's my servant. Now, Majin Buu, turn this little pipsqueak into candy so we can move on from - '

"No," interrupted Gohan, raising an arm in front of Babidi and Buu, "There is no need to waste Buu's energy, Master Babidi. I'll handle Goten myself. You three can work on destroying the city."

Babidi gazed down at the city beneath them, the countless people appearing like ants to his bulging eyes. He grinned sickeningly. "Yes, you're quite right, Gohan - Majin Buu has better things to deal with than this small fry! Come on, Buu, let's terrorize this city and get you some more treats!"

Babidi and Buu flew down to the city, Buu licking his lips and Babidi cackling. Dabura, who was completely ignored, grunted slightly and joined them. Before he descended to the city, he spared one last glance at Gohan. Gohan looked back and jerked his head slightly, indicating to be left alone.

Gohan and Goten were now floating across from each other, each one staring the other dead in the eye. Gohans expression was impassive, Gotens angry, the boys face still stained with his tears.

Gohan narrowed his eyes. "You…"

Goten screamed as he was suddenly engulfed in an aura of intense, yellow ki. Electricity sparked throughout his body as his black hair began to stand up, and turn blonde. His onyx eyes turned teal, and his screams grew louder and began to dissipate the clouds surrounding the sky.

Gohan barely had time to react before Goten charged at him, throwing a flurry of punches and kicks as he flew all over his older brother. Gohans head was spinning, but he was able to parry most of the strikes. However, Goten saw an opening, and aimed a roundhouse kick right at Gohans ribcage.

"Gah!" Gohan reeled back, coughing and massaging his left rib as Goten reappeared right in front of him, looking more determined than Gohan had ever seen him. "You…!"

"Why did you do it!? Why did you kill all those people!?" Goten repeated his question.

Gohan looked up at Goten and his eyes flashed red briefly.

"You wouldn't understand.You never could."

Goten screamed as tears ran more quickly down his face. He stretched back his arms, blue light emanating from his palms. Gohans eyes widened as he recognized the technique his brother was using. Thinking quickly, he powered up to Super Saiyan Two, and stretched back his arms to prepare his counterattack.

Gotens energy ball grew bigger and bigger as he stared directly into the face of his older brother.

Gohan…

He never thought it would be like this. In all the years him and Gohan trained together, Goten...was never prepared to face him on the battlefield in this form...the form of a monster…

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

"MASENKO HAAAAAAA!"

Yellow and blue ki blasts collided with each other, creating an enormous sonic boom that could be heard all throughout the world. From the city's point of view (or at least, the point of view for people who hadn't been destroyed yet) it looked like a spectacular light show. Goten gritted his teeth in frustration, sweat pouring down his neck as he pumped as much energy as he could into the blast. Gohan, meanwhile, was taking deep, concentrated breaths, his dark eyes meeting Goten's.

As the Son brothers looked at each other, they were reminded in some perverse way of their training sessions on Mount Paozu. Memories flashed through their minds of all the techniques Gohan would teach Goten, and how Goten surprised his older brother with his show of strength - and even turning Super Saiyan.

Gotens eyes grew misty.Gohan...you were so different back then…

Soon, Gohans Masenko Ha overpowered Gotens Kamehameha wave. The elder Son boy watched in grim satisfaction as his yellow energy blast engulfed his brothers blue wave, the blast hurling through the skies at lightning speed. Gohan dusted himself off, wiped some blood off his chin, and looked around him, unsmiling.

"Don't try to hide."

Goten slammed his elbow into his brothers torso, arriving seemingly out of nowhere. Gohan was caught off guard by the attack and nearly hurled, his eyes widening and spit falling from his mouth as he took the force of his brothers attack. Soon Goten was punching his brothers stomach repeatedly,

Gohans heads was spinning.Since when was he so fast…?

Thinking fast, Gohan grabbed Goten by his sides and hoisted him up so they were at eye level, almost like a toddler. Goten struggled to break free of his brothers grip, but to no avail. Soon Gotens struggles subsided, and he glared at Gohan with a fury that looked so unlike him.

"Why are you helping Babidi and Majin Buu!?"

"Babidi opened my eyes," replied Gohan, eerily calm, "He showed me what you and everyone else have been denying for years. Goten - our 'father' is a liar and doesn't care about us. Can't you see that? He abandoned us."

"That's not true!" shouted Goten, tears falling down his face as he tried to break free again. Soon it was becoming too much for Gohan, and with a quick but sharp flex of his small arms Goten broke free from his brothers grip. He was breathing heavily, his tiny hands balled into fists. "You loved Dad! You always said he was a great man and how he loved you, me and Mom!"

"Mom…."Gohan venomously spat out the word like it was a curse. "Chi-Chi always did shelter you, didn't she? Of course she'd take his side. Of course youallwould. Meanwhile, I was the only one who saw Goku for what he was - a two-faced liar!"

"SHUT UP!"

Gotens power exploded and he began flying at Gohan in every direction he could. Gohan could barely keep up with him, his younger brother flying seemingly everywhere to land a hit on him. Goten threw punches, kicks, jabs, everything he could in a flurry of rage, his eyes dead set on his target.

"You are not my brother!" He shouted in between attacks, "Gohan would never say that about Dad! He loves Dad! You are not my brother!Give him back!"

"On the contrary, Goten," said Gohan as he parried another punch from Goten, "What you're seeing now is more your brother than what you saw before. I'm not hiding anything. It feels good to be this honest, actually, you should give it a try sometime," he added with a humorless grin.

Goten ignored his brothers comments and aimed a punches squarely at his jaw, causing the older Saiyan to reel back. Goten disappeared and reappeared behind his brothers back, clenching his fists and raising them, intending to knock Gohan to the ground. Gohan was quick, however, and swung around to deliver a roundhouse kick to Gotens side, causing the younger Saiyan to fly back a few good feet. Goten growled as he massaged his side, but didn't relent.

Goten charged a Kamehameha wave into his palms, but Gohan crossed his arms and smirked. "The Kamehameha again? Come on, you can do better than that, can't you?"

Goten again ignored his brothers comments. Blue energy pooling into his palms, he shouted, "KA...ME...HA...ME….HAAAAAAA!"

The blue wave of energy launched from Gotens palms, but Gohan simply floated there, smirking and intending to take the attack head on.There's not nearly enough ki in that attack to hurt me.

But while Gohan was floating, Goten was thinking something far different than what he was letting on. The younger Saiyan disappeared and reappeared behind his brothers back, silently charging another Kamehameha wave as the first one launched toward his brother. Gohan was completely oblivious, caught in his desire to show Goten how outmatched he was.

As the first blast launched toward Gohan, Goten shouted another "KAMEHAMEHA!" and Gohan barely had time to so much as turn his head around before he was assaulted by not one, buttwoKamehameha waves. Gohan screamed loudly as the two blue energy blasts collided into him, feeling an intense heat as his clothing began to tear. Goten watched the whole thing with a grimace on his face, feeling sick to his stomach.

I'm sorry Gohan, but...I can't let you get away with this!

Meanwhile, in the city beneath them, Babidi, Dabura and Buu were enjoying the mass amount of destruction they were creating. Dabura had burned nearly every building to a crisp, Majin Buu was turning everyone into candy, and Babidi, when he wasn't zapping people with a death spell that caused them to explode, observed the whole situation with a sick smile on his face.

But at the sound of Gohans pained cries, all three of them looked up and saw a blinding flash of blue light, no doubt an attack that Gohan was caught in. Daburas eyes widened, and he prepared to take flight, but Babidi stopped him.

"Dabura! What do you think you're doing!?"

"I-I only wanted to help Gohan, Master Babidi!" said Dabura, biting back a hint of disgust at calling him 'Master'. "He is clearly in danger…!"

"Leave him to his fate," said Babidi dismissively. "I already have Majin Buu, and that's enough help for me. Besides, if Gohan does die, we can control that younger brother of his - he must be stronger!"

As Babidi cackled at his idea, Majin Buu stared at the sky where Gohans cries grew fainter and fainter. Finally the blue energy faded, and Buu blinked, confused. "Go...han? Where are you, Gohan?"

Dabura growled under his breath as he wondered the same thing.Please don't be dead…

Up in the sky, the atmosphere was eerily silent as the wind whipped through Gotens hair, which was still blonde due to his Super Saiyan form. The smoke from his attack hadn't faded out yet, although his brothers screams had subsided. Finally, the smoke cleared, revealing Gohan.

Gohan was breathing heavily, his clothing torn badly, and his body covered in scrapes and bruises. There was surprisingly little blood on him except around his face, which he quickly wiped off. Like Goten, he was still in Super Saiyan form, so his upright hair was blonde.

Goten shuddered as he got a clearler look at the blackMon Gohans forehead. He didn't like it...at all. In fact, it had become his least favorite symbol in existence thanks to what it did to Gohan.

"You…" said Gohan, catching his breath, "You're more clever than I thought. Two Kamehamehas instead of one...that was an impressive attack. I'll give you that much."

Goten remained silent, glaring at his brother.

"But…" added Gohan, smirking, "You could have poured enough energy into that attack to kill me. And yet...here I am. Alive. And still with enough strength to continue fighting. You've been holding back, haven't you?"

"I…" said Goten, his lip trembling. For one faint second, he felt like the vulnerable child he really was. But then Gohans eyes flashed red, and Gotens attention snapped back, ready for battle.

"It will be your last mistake!"

Gohan charged at his younger brother, his arm stretched back and ready to strike. Goten quickly evaded the attack, and soon was on the defensive as Gohan lunged at him, striking every direction he could and showing little restraint. Goten growled and, thinking quickly, aimed a kick at Gohans torso.

Gohan caught it and Goten yelped as his brother swung and threw him to the ground, Goten falling at dangerously high speeds to an open valley below. He quickly caught himself however, and charged green ki in his palms as Gohan charged toward him with a look of pure vengeance. Goten threw ki blast after ki blast at his older brother, hoping to at least slow him down, but to no avail.

The blasts did little more than annoy Gohan as he charged toward Goten, his fist pulled back. He punched Goten in the torso and the two were sent careening into a valley, and when they collided, it shook the entire area. The Son brothers made a large, dome structured hole in a grassy part of the valley besides a stream, scaring the animals around it.

Gohan stood up. Goten was incapacitated, knocked completely unconscious by the force of his brothers attack. His arms and legs were spread out over the dirt, and soon his blonde hair fell into the familiar black locks of his base form. Goten was now powered down from Super Saiyan. Gohan grabbed his brother by the collar of his shirt and lifted his sleeping body off the ground, so that their faces were close enough for Gohan to breathe on him.

"You…" Gohans eyes flashed red, "You always were naive, weren't you,brother?But it doesn't matter. Soon the truth will be revealed and you will face justice, just like Goku, Chi-Chi...and everyone else on this miserable planet…"

Gotens chest was slowly rising and falling, his brothers words falling on deaf ears. Gohan stretched back his free arm as the other held Goten close to him, opening up his palm as lethal energy was building up into it...

And suddenly, he stopped, his eyes widening.

"Hey. since Moms not here, is it okay if I become like you now?"

Gohan and Goten had just finished their training session in the forests by their house, and Gohan was transformed into his Super Saiyan form. Gohan looked at his brother skeptically, his eyebrow raised.

"Huh? What're you talking about, bro?"

Goten smiled. "Well, your hair is all yellow and stuff, and I wanna be like that too! But Mom doesn't want to see me do it."

"Heh, maybe when you're a little older, Goten," said Gohan, laughing, "You see, being a Super Saiyan takes years of hard work and - WHAT!?"

Gohan was interrupted by the incredible sight of his brother surrounded by a strong yellow ki. Gotens face was scrunched in intense concentration, sweat pouring down his face as his ki levels grew higher and higher. To Gohans amazement, Gotens black hair (which looked so much like his fathers) began to stand up, and turn a familiar shade of blonde…

"No," said Gohan breathlessly, "No way!"

Gotens eyes soon turned teal, and with one final release of intense energy, his transformation into Super Saiyan was complete. Once it was over, Goten looked up to his brother, grinning widely.

"Whaddya think, big brother?"

"Goten, this is incredible!" said Gohan, "Usually it takes a lot of time and effort to become Super Saiyan, but you're a natural at it! Wanna be my sparring partner?"

Gotens grin widened. "Yeah!"

"GAH!"

Gohan dropped Goten as he clutched his forehead, a raging pain surging through his body. TheMon his forehead was throbbing with pain and he fell to his knees, screaming loudly. His little brother, miraculously, wasn't woken up by the sound of his brothers pained cries.

What's...happening?Thought Gohan as the memories flooded back,These memories...these emotions...what is happening!?

"GOHAN!"

Instantly, the pain stopped as Gohan heard the shrill, commanding voice of his master. Looking up, he saw Babidi, Majin Buu and Dabura descending to the valley below, Babidi looking irate, Buu looking oblivious and Dabura looking relieved.

"What do you think you're doing!?" screeched Babidi when they were at ground level. "You had your pathetic ingrate of a brother in your hands, ready to deliver the kill - and you dropped him!?"

"Master Babidi!" Gohan instantly fell on one knee, bowing his head in respect. "My sincere apologies. I was just...I felt a sharp pain that caused me to - "

"You will feel a lot more pain if you don't kill your brother this instant!" demanded Babidi. "Do it - now!"

"I…" Gohan hesitated for a second, but stood up, and obediently turned around to deliver the finishing blow to Goten.

But to his surprise, and everyone else's - Goten had disappeared.

Kibito stood silently over the slumbering form of his master, who he had just found in the resting quarters of the World Martial Arts Tournament. It took him a long time to find Kaioshin, especially with his weakkisignature, but at long last, he found him, lying on a cot parallel to Mr. Satan.

Kibito placed a hand on Kaioshin's form and gently shook it.

"Lord Kaioshin...it's time to wake up."

Chapter 9: A Worldwide Broadcast! Majin Gohan vs. Son Goku, Round 2!

Chapter Text

"Zzrgh...wha...?"

The Kaioshin stirred slightly, groggily opening up his eyes as his blurred vision slowly came into focus. He recognized Kibito's form, and when he did, he instantly sat up.

"Kibito!" He shouted in astonishment. "You're here! But I thought Dabura killed you?"

"He did, my lord," Kibito replied, smiling despite the awful memory, "but it seems that somehow I have been brought back to life."

"Wonderful!" Kaioshin got up from the cot he was lying in, "I can't tell you how grateful I am to see you, truly. Today has been an absolute nightmare."

"Yes, I know," Kibito replied, nodding solemnly, "I saw everything from Other World. But I didn't know Babidi had Gohan working for him now..."

"Indeed he has," said Kaioshin, frowning, "it's unfortunate that such a kind yet powerful young man has been turned to the dark side. But we can't waste any time – we must prepare for the battle ahead."

"Right you are, my lord." Kibito turned around, facing Mr. Satan's slumbering form, "But what about this one? What do we do with him?"

"Bring him with us."

"Where?"

Kaioshin inhaled deeply. "To the Sacred World of the Kais."

"What!?" Kibito exclaimed in shock, "But my lord! No mortal has ever set foot on the Sacred World before!"

"We can't just leave him here, Kibito," Kaioshin replied calmly, although there was a slight strain to his tone, "There's no telling what will happen to him if we do. He won't be of any bother to us. He will only be a spectator while we train with the only weapon that can help us defeat Majin Buu and Gohan."

"'Weapon?'" Kibito repeated, a look of dawning comprehension on his face, "My lord...you don't mean...?"

"I do. Kibito, it's time for us to draw forth the Z sword."

Goku had teleported himself and the rest of the Z Fighters to Dendes Lookout via Instant Transmission. Although they had all noticed Goten was missing, no one dared say a word about it. Dende and Mr. Popo greeted the team with big smiles, relieved to see some familiar faces after a long and dreary day.

"Goku!" said Dende, grabbing the Saiyans hands, "Man, am I glad to finally see you!"

Mr. Popo nodded, smiling. "Yes, we are very fortunate to have you here."

Goku smiled back, somewhat half heartedly. "Glad to be here, Dende."

While Dende and Mr. Popo we're busy greeting (and in some cases, introducing themselves to) everyone who had arrived at the Lookout, Goku stepped toward the edge of the building. The voices of Dende and his friends grew fainter the further he got away from them, and he looked up at the sky, wind whipping through his hair as his smile disappeared.

He felt a light, delicate hand on his shoulder and turned around to see Chi-Chi facing him, looking up to his face forlornly. "Goku...please tell me that Goten isn't…"

"He's fine," replied Goku instantly. He felt a weight lift off his heart. He couldn't be sure about one son, but the other one…"I sense his energy. He got into a fight with Gohan, but he got out alright. In fact, I sense him headed toward us."

Chi-Chi let out a deep exhale, her shoulders relaxing. A few tears fell down her face, but Goku could tell they were tears of relief, not sadness. "Good. I've already lost one child, I don't need to lose another." She looked up at Goku. "You still have Gohan on your mind, then?"

Who else?thought Goku. "Yeah…."

Before Chi-Chi could respond, she heard the sound of tiny feet landing on the floor of the Lookout. Turning around, she gasped as she saw Goten, the boy looking weary and battered from his last battle.

"GOTEN!"

Chi-Chi shrieked as she ran toward her youngest son, Goku following close behind her. Ox King emerged from the crowd to see Goten as well, his large body shaking the ground slightly with every step he took. The rest of the Z Fighters stayed behind and were either talking amongst themselves or looking anywhere other than the Son family. All except for Trunks, who stared at Goten in open-mouthed awe.

Whoa, he looks pretty beat up. How did he survive…!?

"Goten!" cried Chi-Chi as she embraced her youngest child, tears falling down her face. "Goten, you're here, you're alright! Your father told me you were alright, but I...I don't know what I'd do if...oh, Goten!"

"Mom," came Gotens' muffled voice from under Chi-Chi's neck, "It's okay, Mom, I'm fine, really..."

Goku and the Ox King laughed at Gotens embarrassment. Goku grinned broadly, ruffling his son's hair as Chi Chi continued to cling to Goten. "We're happy to see ya, son! But how did you survive!?"

When Chi-Chi finally released her grip from Goten, he looked up to his father and, beaming, replied, "I pretended to be beaten! Gohan had me knocked out, but I woke up. I pretended to still be asleep when he was about to hurt me, but then he dropped me and I flew away!"

"Dropped you?" repeated Goku, looking at Chi-Chi, "Why'd he drop you?"

Goten shrugged. "I dunno. He was about to hit me again when he just dropped me and then Babidi showed up and he forgot to. All I heard him say was something about 'memories' and stuff."

Goku's breath hitched in his throat. Looking at Ox King and Chi-Chi, their expressions told him they were thinking the same thing he was.Memories...could the old Gohan still be in there…?

"We're so proud of ya, Goten!" said Ox King, giving Goten a hug. "You had us worried, though. Don't go runnin' off like that again!"

"Yes, please, don't," insisted Chi-Chi, frowning. "I'm already worried about your brother, I don't need to worry about you, too!"

Goten nodded obediently. "Okay, Mom! No problem."

The Son family rejoined the group, and everyone was happy to see Goten back. Trunks ran up to him and eagerly asked what happened in his fight with Gohan, and Goten recounted every detail to his best friend.

"Whoa, no way!" said Trunks, his eyes shining with awe, "You hit Gohan withtwoKamehamehas!? That is so cool!"

"Heh, yup!" said Goten, his chest swelling with pride, "It was intense, but...kinda fun, too!"

"Tell me more!" said Trunks.

"Okay, I think that's enough," said Bulma, although she was smiling, "Trunks, let's give Goten some time to rest, okay? He's been through a lot."

"What are you worried about?" interjected Vegeta, smirking, "Trunks is excited over a battle, like any Saiyan. Let him hear Gotens story. Maybe he could learn something - and beat Goten in another tournament!"

Vegeta roared with laughter. Bulma glared at him, but Trunks and even Goten laughed along with Vegeta. Bulma sighed deeply, and gave Goku and Chi-Chi a look that said, "I give up."

Piccolo, observing the whole scene, chuckled to himself.I don't think I'll ever understand Saiyans.

"You moron! You imbecile!How could you have let him escape!?"

Gohan cringed at his masters harsh words, taking a step back closer to the crater his younger brother had made. Babidi's teeth were bared as a vein popped in his forehead. Dabura was observing the scene with an impassive expression, his arms crossed. Buu, meanwhile, was staring at some mountains off in the distance, an oblivious smile spread across his face.

"You had him! He was right there! You were going to deliver the kill! But then you let him go and now that little runt has escaped!What in the galaxies were you thinking!?" shrieked Babidi as he waved around his arms.

"M-Master…" stammered Gohan.

"Enough!" shouted Babidi. "No servant of mine has ever failed me this badly in my life! Where is your ruthlessness, you fool!?"

"I…"

"Master Babidi," interjected Dabura, "With all due respect, Gohan was clearly caught off guard by something. He was shouting and clutching his head when we arrived, and then that brother of his happened to escape. Perhaps Goten had some secret technique he was unaware of."

Babidi turned around, glaring at Dabura. "Making excuses for a failed apprentice? I expected better of you, Dabura…"

For a split second, Dabura's right hand clenched into a fist, but before Babidi could notice, Gohan shouted, "I will make it up to you, my lord!"

"Oh?" asked Babidi skeptically, turning back to face Gohan, "'Make it up to me', eh? How?"

"I...I will kill Son Goku!" said Gohan, "This time, for certain! And with his death, there will be nothing standing in the way of us destroying the world!"

"Hmmmm," Babidi tapped his chin thoughtfully. He looked at Majin Buu, who was still staring at the lake and mountains off in the distance, humming to himself. Truth be told, Babidi was considering killing Gohan and Dabura, and leaving Buu to do all the work. What was it worth having a servant who couldn't so much as kill his own brother?

Then again,thought Babidi,Majin Buu doesn't seem very easy to control. Gohan, at least, knows how to more clearly follow orders.

After a few minutes, Babidi nodded. "Alright, fine. I will let this one go - butonlyif you successfully kill Goku. Do you understand?"

"Yes, my master," said Gohan, bowing his head respectfully.

"Speaking of which…" Babidi grinned wickedly, "If weareto have him come to you, we ought to send Son Goku a little greeting! Give him a reason to come searching for us. But first, I think we need to head somewhere a little more populated..."

Gohan grinned in excitement as his eyes flashed red briefly.

After Goten had arrived and the Z Fighters were finished with their greetings, Goku did a head count of everyone at the Lookout to make sure they had everyone they needed. Everyone who was at the tournament was present at the Lookout, which was good,

"Alright..." He said, "Bulma, where are your parents?"

"Still on Earth," the bluenette genius replied, frowning, "They insisted on staying home to take care of their pets. They said if theydodie, we can bring them back to life with the Dragon Balls."

"I wish I knew where Tien and Chaotzu were," Krillin said, holding Marron by his side. "I would have told them to come up here."

"Alright," said Goku, "but anyway, we have everyone else here who needs to be here. So that settles that."

"Goku?" asked Piccolo, "What about that plan you said you had?"

"Oh! Right..." Goku half-smiled, slightly embarrassed. "So, when I was in Other World, the Metamorans taught me this technique – "

"Calling all Earthlings! Can you hear me? Testing, testing, 1,2,3!"

Cutting through Goku's words like the sharpest knife in the world was the high, piercingly shrill voice of Babidi, and they were heard by not only him but everyone present on the Lookout.

"It's Babidi!" exclaimed Vegeta.

"That'sBabidi!?" said Bulma incredulously, "For such a powerful wizard, he sounds like a whiny two year old!"

Meanwhile, people everywhere on Earth were panicking at the sudden voice appearing in their heads, some thinking it was another person close by them, others thinking it was a television or radio and others worried they might have gone insane.

"If you're hoping to find the source of my voice by looking around, don't bother! I'm using my special magic to make my special announcement directly to you. But anyway, allow me to introduce myself—I am the Great Wizard Babidi, son of the Great Wizard Bibidi! And I'm here with my loyal servants, Majin Buu, Dabura, and Gohan!

"Gohan..." repeated Goku, gritting his teeth, "You havenoright to call him your servant..."

"Now, if you find it hard to remember our names, don't worry – soon we'll be the only individuals on the face of the planet you will be able to think of! Now onto my announcement – but ah, silly me. What's an announcement without a visual aid? Close your eyes and see for yourselves the ones who will conquer this world!"

Everyone on the Lookout – as well as a good amount of people below on the Earth – followed the order, closing their eyes. As they did, the darkness before them swirled into a myriad of colors until they revealed the forms of a short, scaly wizard, a tall demon-looking character, a fat, pink djinn, and Gohan, all standing against the backdrop of what the Z Fighters recognized as East City.

"Gohan!" Goku shouted. "No...

"My son!" Chi-Chi shrieked, "My darling boy!"

The Z team watched in horrid apprehension as Babidi continued his message.

"Now allow us to introduce ourselves...the handsome devil providing this announcement is none other than I, the Great Wizard Babidi! This gentleman standing to my right is Son Gohan, a new recruit of ours. Standing next to him is the demon king Dabura, and behind me is none other than Majin Buu! But enough of the formalities, on with the announcement – well, to tell you the truth, it isn't so much MY announcement as it is Gohan's. You see, he has a very important message that he INSISTED on broadcasting to the world. So without further ado...Gohan, take the stage!"

"Thank you, Master Babidi."

"Oh, no..." Krillin bemoaned, "Gohan...what are you doing?"

"Has he gone insane!?" Vegeta shouted.

"My announcement is for all remaining citizens of Earth, who have survived our attacks thus far. To all criminals who at this point continue to thrive in whatever cities you steal in – have your fun. Enjoy it while it lasts. To all those living much better lives without much corruption – you will be rewarded for your goodness eventually. And to Son Goku...I have already won."

"What!?" Videl screamed, "What on Earth is he talking about!?"

"He's delusional," said Piccolo bluntly.

"I sensed your ki when you arrived back on Earth after our last battle, and I noticed it was far above that when I last beat you. I also noticed the Earths dragon balls were summoned, and I still sense your energy now, so I kindly assume you brought yourself back to life?"

Goku growled. Well, Gohan was half right – Goku did in fact bring himself back to life, but with the Namekian Dragon Balls, not the Earths.

"I challenge you to another fight, Goku! And this time, I won't let you leave alive. Without that precious halo of yours, you can't avoid your inevitable death at my hands! Oh, and in case you were thinking of backing out...the longer you wait to face me, the more snacks we feed Majin Buu."

For a moment everyone was confused as to what "snacks" Gohan was referring to, but through Babidi's vision-sharing magic, they were able to see the horrific meaning behind those words. For as soon as Gohan finished his sentence, the Z Fighters watched in horror as Buu's antennae lit up, and he zapped all of East City in an ominous pink glow.

Earth's greatest defenders could only watch in terror as countless human bodies floated in the air, screaming for help, but receiving none. And then, one by one, they all turned into bite-sized pieces of candy, all sucked in and swallowed into Majin Buu's mouth. The crazed djinn devoured his meal with a look of sadistic glee on his face, and then clapped madly.

"Hee hee hee! Buu happy! Buu like candy!"

"NO!" Goku shouted with enough force to send a gust of wind in everyone's direction – not that they noticed given the shock of what they just saw. Goku was shaking with a vehement rage, both at Babidi, and at the insane Majin Buu...

Gohan's message continued.

"You have ten minutes until we feed Buu his next meal. Once you join us, we'll pause our conquest so you and I can resume our fight. Take heed, however...Buu has a rather big appetite, you see."

Everyone shuddered with the complete apathy that Gohan just allowed countless people to be eaten with. There was no doubt that this Gohan was a far cry from the one they had come to know and love.

"Finally – to the rest of the world at large – you owe me a debt. And you will pay for it in your own blood. Gohan out."

"Well, you heard it here, folks! A special announcement from my latest recruit, Son Gohan! Stay tuned next time for more chaos and destruction!"

Babidi ended his magical transmission, and the Z team were able to open their eyes again.

"This is...horrible..." Dende shuddered, gripping his staff, which was difficult given that his palms were covered in sweat. He had faced a lot of evil in his years as Earth's Guardian...but never in his life did he ever think he would see something as twisted as his old friend, kind and innocent Gohan, turned to the side of evil.

Goku, meanwhile, was trembling with barely contained rage. "That bastard!" He shouted, "How could he do such a thing!?"

No one knew whether he was referring to Gohan or Babidi – nor did they wish to ask.

Without another word, Goku turned Super Saiyan, and began floating up into the air when Piccolo abruptly grabbed hold of his leg.

"Goku, wait!" The Namekian insisted, "What about the plan you were talking about? What was it the Metamorans taught you that could help us defeat Majin Buu?"

"We don't have time for that, Piccolo!" Goku shouted back, exasperated, "Weren't you listening!? If I don't make it there in ten minutes, more people are going to die!"

Piccolo grimaced. While he thought ruefully to himself that it shouldn't even takefiveminutes to explain a battle technique, he knew from the look in Goku's eyes that Babidi's vision had affected him the most out of everyone on the Lookout – and possibly in the world.

So with some reluctance, he let go of Goku's leg, allowing the Super Saiyan to fly into the Earth's atmosphere below, searching for his son.

The Namekian turned back around to the worried expressions of the Z Fighters, who were still recuperating from the traumatic vision they had just seen of Gohan and his new "team." Even the blonde Announcer looked visibly shaken, despite not knowing anything about Gohan beyond a few minutes worth of glances at the Tournament earlier that day.

Piccolo balled his hands into fists as rage pumped into him like venom at the thought of that bastard Babidi. The Kami in him was urging him to remain calm, think over the situation carefully and lead the others as best as he could through it.

But the Piccolo in him – theKingPiccolo in him – wanted nothing more or less than to rip Babidi to shreds, slowly and painfully, as the wizard begged for mercy, and received none.

He growled. Looking back at the Z Fighters, Piccolo gestured toward Dende.

"Get everyone into the living quarters of the Lookout. We're going to need a lot of rest."

Gohan stood on the edge of a plateau overlooking Break Wasteland, with Babidi, Dabura, and Buu standing a few feet behind him. He inhaled sharply.

The memories that the teenaged Saiyan held here were...unpleasant,to say the least. It was many years ago when he trained with Piccolo to fight Vegeta and his then-henchman Nappa, but as the memories flashed in his mind it felt like yesterday.

The fear and loneliness he felt for six months when Piccolo left him to fend for himself...the intense training he went through when Piccolodidcome back...not to mention the brutality of the fight with the Saiyans themselves...

Gohan gritted his teeth as he observed the otherwise peaceful landscape before him, the sun shining through the light-blue skies on the grassy plains below, and the birds chirping in the distance.

I'm going to enjoy it when this place is destroyed,he thought.

"Whereisthat bone-headed father of yours?", said Babidi impatiently. "We haven't got all day, you know. Majin Buu is getting eager to destroy more."

The pink djinn in question clapped his hands eagerly. "Yes! Buu want more candy!"

"We'll resume the destruction soon, Master," Gohan replied calmly. "Don't worry, I can sense Goku's energy levels. He's coming. And when he arrives, I'll make him pay dearly."

Babidi smirked sadistically. "I have no doubt, my apprentice. I have no doubt."

Dabura just stood there silently, arms crossed and a stone look on his face. While he enjoyed wreaking havoc on the world just as much as his companions, he still hadn't forgotten Babidi allowing Majin Buu to potentially kill him earlier that day.

He frowned. Babidi apparently couldn't sense it – doubtless he was too overjoyed at having finally revived Buu to care about the innermost thoughts of his other henchman – but Dabura had been seething at the memory of what Babidi had said to him then...

"Majin Buu is my lifelong ambition! Why, compared to him, you are but a speck of dust in the wind, a small cog in the machine of my glorious plan to conquer this entire universe!"

A speck of dust...

Dabura scowled as those words echoed in his mind, Babidi's shrill voice practically piercing in his head. He had tried in vain to convince himself that it was just a moment of irrationality on his master's part, but he couldn't ignore the fact that Babidi had definitely allowed Majin Buu to outrightkillhim, and were it not for Gohan's intervention Buu would have succeeded.

'Speck of dust', am I...?thought Dabura scornfully, eyeing Babidi with malice,We'll see...

"He's coming!" Gohan shouted triumphantly, catching the attention of his three companions.

Sure enough, high in the skies, a small, faint but noticeable dot was flying rapidly toward the ground. It began to grow bigger and bigger, and all four of the Majin team could sense immense power emanating from it, until it finally descended on a plateau opposite of where Gohan was standing, revealing –

"Son Goku."

The air was thick with tension as Goku and Gohan stared each other down, father and son looking at each other with impassive expressions. Dabura, Babidi and Buu meanwhile, looked on with great interest, getting their first good look at Gohan's father for the first time.

"Oh, this isfantastic!" Babidi cheered from behind Gohan, "It was fun seeing you two fight from the magical orb in my spaceship...but now I get to see it up close and in-person! What a splendid match this will turn out to be!"

"Oooh, fight!" Majin Buu clapped eagerly, "Buu love to watch fight!"

Dabura didn't say anything

Gohan at last broke the silence, grinning smugly. "So you've made it, Goku. And while I'm glad to see you have arrived, I assure you we won't be fighting a third time."

"What did you mean in that transmission, Gohan?" Goku asked, completely ignoring his son's comment, "You said the world owed you a debt, and that it'll pay in blood. What were you talking about?"

The half-Saiyan's eyes narrowed. "The answers, were I to provide them, would befarbeyond your level of comprehension."

"Tell me,damn it!" Goku shouted, raising his fists. "Why are you doing this? What's the point? If you're angry at me, why are you taking it out on the entire world?"

Gohan leapt toward his father with his right leg stretched back, swinging it forward in a midair roundhouse kick just a second too slow for Goku not to notice. Goku blocked it with his left forearm, protecting himself with ease.

"You didn't answer my question."

Goku punched Gohan's midriff, sending the Saiyan hybrid flying into the air. After quickly transforming into Super Saiyan, Goku flew up with him, reaching high above the clouds where he saw his son had transformed as well.

Gohan was breathing heavily, still recovering slightly from the blow. But in another few moments he charged back toward his father, throwing punches like crazy, almost like a cat clawing for its prey. Goku swiftly dodged each of his sons blows with relative ease, until he grabbed one of Gohan's fists in his hand and used it to throw his son to the ground.

"Gah!" Gohan shouted as he was caught off guard by his father's maneuver. He caught himself midair, however, and straightened himself up to get a good aim at his father, who had a calm, impassive look on his face.

"Alright..." Gohan growled, his tone low and threatening, "Let's see how you take this..."

He raised his hands above his head, open-palmed, and Goku's eyes widened as he knew what was about to happen...

"Masenko HA!"

A familiar blast of yellowkishot forth from Gohan's palms, blinding Goku, who could only defend himself by stretching his arms forward and blocking as much of the blast as he could. It wasn't easy – the energy Gohan put into his attack was far higher than usual, and Goku could barely keep it from reaching beyond his hands.

Damn it..., thought Goku,His power as a Majin is unreal...

When it subsided, Goku only had a moments notice before Gohan struck at him again, and the father and son duo began throwing punch after punch and kick after kick as they flew across the skies at unbelievably high speeds.

Meanwhile, on the ground level, Babidi, Buu and Dabura were observing the fight with great interest – or at least, whatever theycouldobserve of it.

"My word..." Babidi mused, his large eyes going every which way. "They really are faster than what my magical orb would have me believe. At the rate they're going they could create a sonic boom!"

"Indeed..." Dabura muttered. It was a fascinating battle, to say the least, from what he could see of it. The intensity with which Gohan and his father fought each other was the likes of which he had never witnessed himself, not even in his own duel with Gohan.

"Buu can see everything!" Majin Buu cheered, pumping his fists in the air. "Buu think watching fight is fun!"

"Eh?" Babidi inquired, turning toward the pink djinn, "Buu...can you actuallykeep upwith the speed of this fight?"

Buu nodded. "Buu like to watch Gohan fight mean man!"

Babidi and Dabura stared at Buu in shock, dumbfounded at the djinn's ability to keep up with speeds they could only barely perceive.

He can watch the fight with complete ease...Dabura thought uncomfortably, gritting his teeth,Just how strong is this creature...?

Gohan and Goku continued their fight, their movements becoming quicker and more intense. Their clothing was battle damaged with rips and tears, and electricity was starting to crackle throughout both of their bodies.

"Damn you!" Gohan shouted, throwing another flurry of punches toward his father that were deftly avoided. He threw what felt like his thousandth punch, and for one fraction of a second he thought he got a hi –

Only for Goku's form to completely disappear.

"Wha-!?"

Gohan didn't have time to register what happened as he felt a huge blow to his back send him hurling to the ground, Goku having reappeared right behind him to deliver a roundhouse kick. This time Gohan didn't catch himself and was sent hurling down to the wasteland at record speeds, leaving a huge cloud of dust in his wake.

Goku didn't wait for Gohan to reappear, knowing that he'd recover quickly from that blow. He pulled his arms back, focusing as muchkias he could into his palms, and with a sharp inhale and sweat pouring down his face, shouted,

"KA...ME...HA...MEEE...HAAAAAAAAA!"

A burst of blue energy shot forth from his hands, and was heading for the bottom, when –

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAAAAA!"

Gohan shot back a Kamehameha wave of his own, meeting Goku's just before he was about to get hit. The two blue streams fought for victory over the other, and as they did, the entire landscape shook with the awesome power of the Kamehamehas. The ground was quaking madly, the trees were falling down, and the birds and animals were scurrying all over the place trying to seek refuge.

"Grrr...!" Goku fought hard to keep his Kamehameha dominant over Gohan's. Every muscle in his body felt on fire as he pumped more and more energy into his blast, only barely able to keep it even with his son's.

Despite the situation, Goku couldn't help but grin nostalgically as he remembered the last battle he had in Break Wasteland years ago when he fought Vegeta for the first time. It was an intense battle against his Kamehameha and Vegeta's Gallick Gun, not unlike the battle he was having right now – only he was the one on the ground, and Vegeta was the one in the sky.

And Gohan was still on my side...

Shaking that thought out of his head, Goku continued his attack, determined to win this fight – and with any luck, his son back.

The half-Saiyan in question was struggling to hold his own in the Kamehameha battle, sweat mixed with the dirt from his rough landing on the ground making his vision impaired. But Gohan continued to fight, pouring as much strength as he could into his blast.

"Grr...! Damn it all to hell!"

Gohan threw all caution to the wind as he charged up his whole body with a burst ofkiand, ignoring every part of himself that was telling him not to go through with this insane plan, ceased his Kamehameha wave – and flew right into Goku's!

Gohan charged into the blue wave of energy, finding it surprisingly less painful than he thought, and when he made it to the end and was floating face to face with Goku, the latter's panicked expression made it more than worth it.

"We're playing thismyway now." The Saiyan hybrid said, smiling crazily.

Gohan raised his hands above his head, and to Goku's horror a familiar yellow energy started collecting in his palms.

"MASENKO HAAAAAAAAA!"

The surge of unbelievably powerful energy hit Goku like a ton of bricks, and he screamed in pain. He was pushed to the ground below by thekiwave, and it knocked him into a plateau that almost caused him to pass out. Needless to say, the attack was enough for him to revert from his Super Saiyan form to his base form.

Gohan flew down to where his father's nearly unconscious form lay, proud of himself for having thought of his little maneuver so quickly.The fool never could have seen that coming,he thought to himself.

Goku gasped for air, but he nonetheless managed to stand up on his feet, albeit with much effort. He was breathing heavily, his face and clothes covered with dirt and blood, and that, combined with the fact that Gohan's attack caused him to drop from his Super Saiyan form, caused the teenage warrior to laugh scornfully.

"Ha! Well,thisis something you don't see every day," he mocked, "The great Son Goku – reduced to a powerless cripples by his own son!"

Goku didn't answer, grabbing his left arm as he continued to gasp for air, his heart rate slowing down steadily. He kept his gaze fixed on Gohan, and the latter reciprocated his gaze with a smug grin.

"What's wrong, Goku? No witty comeback? No joke?" Gohan chuckled darkly. "You do realize, don't you, that even if youwereto defeat me – not that you have any chance of that, especially now – Majin Buu will just continue to destroy the world until there's nothing left? Come now. I knew you were dense, but surely eventhatmust have occurred to you."

Goku remained silent.

Meanwhile, from the higher position of the plateau he was on, Babidi was observing the fight with intense joy.

"Oh, yes! Wonderful! Splendid! Look, Dabura, Buu! Look at the beating that young lad gave his oaf of a father – isn't this just delightful!?" The old wizard cackled madly as he jumped up and down with excitement, and Majin Buu just giggled and clapped his pudgy pink hands, enjoying the show.

Dabura, however, was observing the fight with a much more somber expression, looking carefully at Gohan and Goku.

Something isn't quite right...he thought.

Gohan continued to mock his father. "I'll take your silence as surrender on your part." He told him. "But before I kill you –slowly– I have to ask, do you have any last words?"

Goku finally spoke up. "I do, actually," he said, his tone surprisingly calm, "What did you mean when you said the world owed you a debt? You didn't answer me last time I asked, but I figured since I'm about to die, maybe you'll feel like answering now."

Gohan frowned. He didn't feel like letting his so-called "father" know of such things – he much preferred to leave Goku confused.But he's about to die anyway,the Saiyan hybrid thought,so why not?

"Very well, then," Gohan conceded, "I'll tell you what I meant. But pay attention, I don't feel like repeating myself."

Goku nodded, and Gohan continued.

"Ever since I was young," he began, "I just wanted to lead a normal life. I had high aspirations for myself, wanting to become a great scholar, maybe even settle down with a family of my own. You remember that, don't you? My head was always in the books, and for all the hard work I put into my studies I thought I owed myself an easy life."

Goku hung onto every word his son was telling him.What is he getting at...?

"But then," Gohan continued, and he bared his teeth as his eyes shone that familiar tinge of red Goku had come to hate so much, "this world had other ideas."

Babidi, Dabura and Buu were paying close attention to the conversation as well, their enhanced hearing allowing them to catch onto what Gohan was saying.

"Oh, wow..." mused Babidi with great interest, "It seems my magic was able to dig deeper into Gohan's anger than I thought..."

"Yes, this is incredibly fascinating," said Dabura, agreeing with his master for the first time in a while, "Is what we're seeing now the true Gohan...?"

"It all started when I was four years old," Gohan continued, his frown deepening as the memories came flooding back. "When Raditz arrived...and I had my first taste of the hell this world would put me through. Kidnapped, isolated from my family, and then left alone withPiccoloof all people to train for months..."

"Gohan..." Goku interjected, his voice cracking with emotion, "Gohan, please..."

"When I attacked Raditz in my rage, I wasn't just angry at him." said Gohan, ignoring his father, "I was angry at you. At Piccolo. At the world. Ateverything.That was my first taste of rage – a rage that I would carry with me, and try to suppress as time went on – but to no avail. And, as I now understand, for the better."

Goku started to feel sweat droplets pour from his face – and not from the heat.

"But that wasn't the end of it. Then the Saiyans came – Vegeta and Nappa. Then Frieza, the Androids...and thenCell,"he emphasized Cell's name with great disgust, "had to come in and remind me of how much the universe hated me. I tried to deny it, but my hopes of living a normal life, after being beaten to near death by enemy after enemy, and watching those I considered my friends suffer in front of me, were dashed. This world instead decided to give me a life of pain and hardship."

Gohan growled in a low tone as his eyes flashed their familiar dark shade of red. "Thatis what I mean when I say this world owes me a debt. This world owes me its very life. I worked so hard to save it – and for what? So I could be denied the happiness I saw countless others enjoy!? I fought for peace - but received none in return. For that, this world will be destroyed, and when it will be, all souls will be judged in Other World – where the wheat is separated from the tare, and the sheep from the goats. Then true justice will commence."

Justice?Dabura thought, listening intently to Gohan's words,Interesting. So he thinks he is bringing some sort of balance to the universe...

"So...that is it." Gohan concluded. He raised an open palm, and akiball emerged from it. "And I hope that satisfied your question, because I've had enough of waiting. I'm going to kill you, Goku – and this time you don't have your precious little halo to protect you!"

Gohan pumped more energy into hiskiball so it grew to the size of a bowling ball, and was about to throw it at Goku, ending his life, when –

He was caught off guard by the sound of Goku's laughter.

"Huh!?" said Gohan, doing a double take that caused hiskiball to evaporate. "What are you laughing at?What's so funny!?"

"Gohan...I just managed to kill two birds with one stone!"

"What are you talking about!?"

"Heh, well to start with," Goku said, his tone surprisingly chipper, "I just found out more about how Babidi got to you, and with any luck that should help me get you back – "

"That won't happen!"

"And second," Goku continued as if he didn't hear Gohan, "I managed to try out a technique that these people called Metamorans taught me in other world."

"Technique? What technique!? Explain yourself, now!" Gohan shouted, getting more agitated by the second.

"Y'see, up until this point, whenever my energy levels would rise, they could make me more detectable by surrounding enemies," Goku let go of his left arm, showing that he recovered from his injuries, "But these Metamorans taught me, among some other cool things, how to raise my power level in a way that no one can detect!"

"Impossible!" shouted Gohan in utter disbelief, "No one can do that! You're bluffing..."

"'Fraid not, son," Goku said, grinning from ear to ear, "Here, just check my power levels now. I'll make it easy for ya this time."

Gohan tuned his senses so he could get a read on Goku's power level, and when he did, his jaw practically fell to the ground in complete shock. The power he sensed from his father was unlike anything he had sensed from Goku before, a power that could surpass even his own...

"No..." Gohan trembled, barely able to stand up from the weight of the power he was sensing, "H-how long have you been...?"

"Since the beginning of the battle," Goku replied, grinning ever more widely, "I didn't have the chance to use this in our last fight, so I figured I'd get as much of a head start as I could on this one."

From the plateau he was standing on, Babidi was seething with anger.

"That little rat!" He screamed, "He's cheating! Why, if this were onmyterritory, such underhanded tactics would never be allowed, no sir!"

Majin Buu had stopped clapping and now looked awfully confused, while Dabura had a look of dawning comprehension on his face.

I see...so THAT'S why he was trying to get Gohan to talk about his motives. This Goku...he might be smarter than he lets on,the demon king thought to himself.

"You've forgotten one thing..." said Gohan, with a small ray of hope, "The strongest you've gotten so far is Super Saiyan Two – and eventhatpower I've now surpassed!"

Goku chuckled. "Sorry son, but what I found makes Super Saiyan Two look like child's play."

A huge, blinding flash of yellow light suddenly engulfed Goku, temporarily blinding Gohan and even Babidi, Buu and Dabura as gusts of strong wind emanated from Goku's body. Goku screamed into the heavens as his muscles – and hair – grew with every passing second, and to Gohan's horror, the power he sensed from his father was now definitely surpassing his own.

When the wind and light had settled, Gohan could do nothing more than stare in complete shock and awe at the newfound Super Saiyan form his father had attained.

Son Goku was standing before his offspring with the most intimidating form either of them had ever seen. Goku's muscles were slightly larger than before, but that was the least noticeable change to his appearance. For now his hair had grown into an unbelievably long, blonde mane that reached to his lower back, giving him a look vaguely reminiscent of a lion. A single bang of blonde hair hung to the left of Gou's forehead, and on top of that, the electricity sparking throughout his form was unlike anything he had when in Super Saiyan Two.

"Gotta say, Gohan, I have you to thank for getting me this far," Goku said at last, his voice having dropped at least two octaves, "After all, if it wasn't for the extra time you gave me, I wouldn't have been able to transform nearly as quickly as I did just now."

"W-what...how...?"

"I promise to get you back, son..." Goku said as he took a fighting stance, "But I can't promise that it won't hurt!"

Gohan barely had time to defend himself as Goku leapt toward him, and the second round of their fight began.

Meanwhile, in a far, distant planet of the galaxy, the Northern Kai was standing outside his house as his face scrunched in concentration. He heard the sound of Gregory and Bubbles playing games behind him, but he could barely notice. His antenna twitched.

"Goku…" said King Kai, a slow, proud smile spreading across his face, "...you have truly outdone yourself."

Chapter 10: A Powerful Ally Appears! Memories Of A Happier Time...

Chapter Text

The Sacred World of the Kais was a lush, green planet, full of vegetation and mostly land except for a few rivers of water. In the center of one of the rivers was a mountain, and on the top of that mountain lay an old, dusty sword. None of the planets inhabitants bothered to touch this sword for centuries, for when they did, they all failed miserably to draw it, gaining nothing but a nice exercise of their arms.

Kaioshin walked up to the Z sword, resting his hand gently on the hilt, contemplating his next move. If he could draw forth the Z sword, with all its incredible power, it would be a huge game changer in the fight against Majin Buu and Gohan.

But, if he couldn't...

"Master..." said Kibito from behind Kaioshin, "Surely there must be some other way, if...if this does not work..."

"It will work, Kibito," replied Kaioshin, his usually calm voice tinged with irritation, "At least, it has to..."

By the river where the mountain stood, and underneath a tree, Mr. Satan continued to rest peacefully, snoring occasionally but otherwise silent. It was for the better; if and when he would wake up, he would have a lot of questions on his mind that neither Kaioshin nor Kibito felt like answering at the moment.

With a sharp intake of breath, Kaioshin tightened his grip on the Z swords hilt and, summoning all his strength, pulled on it. The ground beneath him shook, and his body emitted a strong aura of ki that caused Kibito to take a step back.

Incredible...Kibito thought,I've never seen lord Kaioshin display such magnificent power! Could he be able to draw forth the Z sword this time...?

He could only hope.

It was a cool, brisk fall morning on Mount Paozu. The leaves were changing into their amber color, the sun was shining brightly in a nearly cloudless sky, and the animals were out and about - with no mosquitoes to be found.

Gohan smiled as he walked through the paths of the forest by his home. It was truly a beautiful day - his favorite time and season of the year. Breathing in deeply, he stretched his arms and yawned. Back at his house, his mother was no doubt sleeping, or cooking, blissfully ignorant of where her son was headed.

And on occasions like this, Gohan preferred it that way.

As he continued his walk through the forest, the leaves occasionally falling on his face, Gohan noticed the trees start to disappear as he walked into the lake area of Mount Paozu. Sitting by the lake just on the shore, her bare feet in the water, was an old friend of his.

Ever since the Cell Games, Gohan and Lime had been keeping in touch with each other. Gohan would sometimes visit Chazke Village to see her and her grandfather, Mr. Lao, at his shop. Lime, for her part, would meet Gohan at an isolated section of the forest by his house. Although she had mentioned that she wanted to meet his family one day, Gohan insisted that she wouldn't, at least now. The last thing he wanted was Chi-Chi thinking he was going out on dates and asking when he would get married and start a family.

Gohan took off his shoes to join her in the water. Lime smiled at him. She was dressed in her usual yellow shirt with red overalls, although she had gotten a slightly bigger size from the one she wore back when they first met before the cell games. Gohan, for his part, was dressed in a white buttoned shirt and black pants, the same style of clothing he wore when he first met Lime.

"You're late," said Lime cheekily, sticking her tongue out.

Gohan laughed. "Yeah, by a minute, I'm sure!"

Lime playfully slapped his arm. "Gohan, you bum. You were supposed to be here at 9, it's 9:30 now. It's not nice to keep a girl waiting, ya know." She leaned back on the sandy shores of the lake, staring up at the skies.

"But you're here, right?" replied Gohan, leaning on the ground with her.

"Yeah, but what if I decided to leave?"

"You'd never do that!"

"Well, I might have!"

"Would not!"

The two continued to bicker with each other, their voices rising but grinning and laughing nonetheless. Behind them, shuffling through the bushes could be heard as deer walked throughout the forests, and birds could be heard flying through trees. Gohan looked back and smiled contentedly. Being raised in the mountains gave him a deep appreciation for nature.

"How're things at home?" asked Lime, "You said you had a little brother now...how is he?"

"He's fine," answered Gohan quickly, wincing and hoping Lime wouldn't notice it.

She did. Frowning, Lime sat back up, a concerned look on her face. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing. Nothing's wrong," insisted Gohan. He looked across the lake, avoiding Lime's gaze. His tone had dropped and octave and his expression blanked.

"Gohan," said Lime sternly as she got on all fours to peer closer at him, "Are you still going to play tough, after all you've been through? Please, tell me what's wrong."

Suddenly, Gohan's head jerked to his left and he glared at Lime. The intensity of his glare startled Lime, and she recoiled back. Gohans expression softened. "I'm...I'm sorry, Lime. It's just…"

"Just what?" whispered Lime

Gohan breathed in deeply. "I miss my dad."

Lime blinked. For a while, she and Gohan said nothing as small waves pushed gently onto the lakes shore, the sound of the animals dying down and the sun's rays peeking through the trees.

Before Lime could respond, Gohan continued. "The baby's name is Goten. He looks just like Dad. Every time I see him I see…" he shuddered. Lime's brow furrowed, and she placed a hand gently on Gohans arm. He continued. "How could I have been so stupid!? I...I let him die…"

"Gohan," interjected Lime, "No. We've been through this, it wasn't your fault. It was Cell's fault, he - "

"But I didn't kill Cell," replied Gohan, "I could have, but I wanted to torture him. If it wasn't for me, Dad wouldn't have…"

"Stop it!" shouted Lime, so loudly that some birds in the distance flew away, "Gohan, you have got to stop beating yourself up over this. I know it hurts. And I...well, I can't imagine how it feels." She raised her hand to Gohans chin and tilted his head toward her, so she could look him in the eye. "But I know the kind of person you are. And I'm sure that your father doesn't blame you for what happened - and neither should you."

Gohan trembled. He looked down to the sand, averting Lime's gaze. "I...I know, Lime. I just...sometimes I feel like I messed up so bad. That if I had done things better, it wouldn't have been this way." He raised his hands slightly to his face. "And what does it say about me that I tortured Cell instead of killing him?"

Lime grimaced. "Gohan, no. Don't think of yourself like that, please. I've known you long enough to know the person you are."

"Yeah, well, feel free to tell me who that is, because I sure don't know," Gohan's shoulders dropped.

Lime frowned - but then an idea hit her. Smirking, she grabbed Gohans shoulder and gently turned him toward her. Gohan flinched somewhat in surprise, but didn't resist. Slowly, their faces drew close together - until Lime reached up and kissed Gohan.

Gohans eyes widened in surprise, but he did not pull back. He closed his eyes and reached toward the back of Lime's head, pulling her in gently to deepen the kiss. The two separated, Lime smiling and Gohan blushing.

"You're the kinda person I feel safe kissing," said Lime, with a half-smirk. "Is that enough of an answer for you?"

Gohan chuckled. "Yeah...I guess it is."

Lime laughed.

The two spent the rest of the day with each other, staying at the lake for the rest of the morning, and then going to West City's annual twilight festival in the afternoon. Although Gohan later had a lot of explaining to do for Chi-Chi that night ("Were you tryin' to avoid helping me with Goten!?" she said), the rest of the day was much needed for him as he found himself forgetting about his burden of guilt and shame.

CLANK!

A warm bowl of oatmeal could be heard clattering on the floor, spilling the milky contents along with it. Otherwise, Mr. Lao's store in Chazke village was silent, the only person their being himself and his granddaughter.

Lime sunk to her knees. She could feel tears start to well up in her eyes as the memory of the vision she had just experienced haunted her.

Gohan...no...it can't be you…

"Lime?" an old, grave voice said from upstairs. Lime looked up to see her grandfather, dressed in a white collared shirt and dark pants. His face looked solemn and his eyes sunken. "You...did you see that too…?"

Lime responded with the faintest hint of a nod. Mr. Lao stepped downstairs and before he knew it his granddaughter was clinging to him, bawling her eyes out at what she had just witnessed. Lao held on firmly to Lime, looking over at the entrance of the store to make sure no one could hear them.

"G-Grandpa…"

"Shhh," said Mr. Lao, "It's okay. Everything will be alright. He will be fine…"

Lime's sobs died down as Mr. Lao felt an intense burst of hatred towards the wizard that turned Gohan into the monster he now was.

Elsewhere, in a forest not too far from Chazke Village, a certain cyborg mercenary was also recovering from the vision he had just witnessed. Mercenary Tao felt sweat pour down his face (or what was left of it, anyway) as he sat down on a tree stump.

"Gohan…" whispered Tao. "I remember you. That brat who ruined my operations all those years ago...the son of Goku…"

Tao shuddered. For as ruthless a killer as he once was, even he had to admit it was...jarringto see such an innocent soul so corrupted with hatred. He actually chuckled the more he thought about it.

"Not too fond of your father anymore, eh? Well, join the club."

Everyone had made their way into the living quarters of the Lookout, and were finished recuperating from the intense vision Babidi had "shared" with them. It was easier knowing that at least Goku was doing something about it.

The living quarters of the lookout, which were located a few stories beneath the surface, was basically one giant rec room. Large and spacious, with two windows to let plenty of light in, there was a refrigerator with snacks along with a large television and ping pong table, as well as card games and board games for guests to play in. The walls were painted a pleasant shade of yellow and the floor was made of a shining ceramic tile that Dende had bought from a little shop in East City.

The comfortable atmosphere helped everyone to relax – even Videl and Chi-Chi were in noticeably better spirits. Sharpener, being the competitive jock that he was, couldn't resist challenging anyone to a game, even if it didn't involve physical exercise. In this case, he was getting rather excited about beating Master Roshi in a game of poker.

"Aww, yeah!" The blonde jock shouted triumphantly as he smacked all five of his cards down on the short table they were playing on. "Flush, old timer! Let's see how you can beatthat!"

Under his sunglasses and the cards he was holding, it was impossible to tell Roshi's expression, until he laid down his cards on the table to reveal –

"Afull house!?"Sharpener gawked in disbelief. "You gotta be kidding!"

"Hehehe...sorry, young man! Today isn't your lucky day."

Meanwhile, Oolong and Puar were watching tv shows together, flipping channels to see if anything good was on, Eighteen and Krillin were playing patty cake with Marron, Trunks and Goten were arm wrestling, and the Announcer was lounging on the sofa with Bulma and Chi-Chi, reminiscing about old times at the Tournament.

"Yes, I remember the pure catastrophe that was the last tournament – the entire grounds destroyed! For the longest time I wondered if we would ever have a tournament again..."

Piccolo, who was standing a good distance away but could hear the conversation, cringed in slight embarrassment.

"...but regardless, it was a riveting experience! Of course, it wouldn't have been nearly as exciting without Goku in the fights. And..."

He looked around him to make sure no one else was listening in, and leaned in toward Bulma and Chi-Chi, whispering, "...I'm a hundred percent confident that it wasn't Mr. Satan who killed Cell all those years ago. It was Goku! I just know it."

Bulma and Chi-Chi smiled at each other. The Announcer was technically wrong (since it was Gohan who killed Cell), but they appreciated being able to talk to at least one person who didn't idolize Mr. Satan.

"Hey, by the way..." asked Chi-Chi, remembering something she'd been wondering for a long time, "What's your name? I don't think you've ever said it."

"Oh, it's Michael! Well Mike, really. Mike Fone. Mike R. Fone."

"Mike R. Fone?" said Bulma, chuckling.

"Heh...well, yes. I suppose it was fate that I should become a tournament announcer."

The trio laughed, and Piccolo, who was standing by Dende and Mr. Popo, couldn't help but smile too as he listened in on the conversation.

"It looks like everyone's doing better now," Dende commented, looking around, "I'm glad that we're all calmed down at least."

"Indeed," agreed Mr. Popo.

Piccolo nodded. Then, noticing something, added, "Hey, wait a minute...where's Vegeta?"

"Huh?"

Dende and Mr. Popo looked around, trying to search for the Saiyan Prince, but in vain.

"I...I don't know..." Dende stammered, "I mean, he tends to go off on his own a lot, doesn't he?"

Piccolo grimaced.Yes, but given the circumstances I'd hate to think why he'd want to do that now…

It was incredible how, in the span of five minutes, the entire fight between Goku and Gohan had changed. Goku had gone from being a cornered foe on the verge of defeat, to the one cornering his opponent as he charged toward Gohan with the newfound strength that Super Saiyan Three could provide.

Father and son fought intensely throughout the Break Wasteland, Gohan just barely able to defend himself from the barrage of punches Goku was throwing at him. Eventually, he slipped and Goku's fist headed straight for his stomach, knocking Gohan into a nearby plateau.

"Grrrr...!"

The Saiyan hybrid stood up and dusted himself off. Sweat was pouring violently down his face, and specks of dirt had gotten into his suit, but compared to what he was truly angry about, this was nothing.

"Damn him...! How did he become so strong!?"

Gohan didn't have time to launch himself back into battle before Goku seemed to materialize right in front of him, grabbing Gohan by the neck and holding him up so they were at eye level.

"W-what...let me go...!"

"Gohan," Goku said seriously, "Webothknow you can't win this fight. I don't want you to get hurt anymore, and you've already exhausted most of your energy. Just stop this, son. Stop this and we can save the world together from Majin Buu."

"Never!"Gohan snarled, his eyes flashing red, "I'll never join you! And you lost the right to call me your son years ago – I am not your son!"

If Goku was hurt in any way by Gohan's words, he didn't show it. He seemed to almost unconsciously let Gohan go, and the latter wasted no time in attacking his father with all thekiblasts he could. The blasts created a cloud of dust, and when the dust settled, Goku's form was still standing, unhurt.

Gohan roared with anger, throwing a punch at the Super Saiyan Three – only for Goku to appear right next to him and catch the punch by Gohan's elbow.

"What!?" Gohan shouted in disbelief, "How...!?"

He roared in pain as Goku twisted his arm, dislocating his shoulder. Gohan dropped to his knees, and the pain was enough to make him drop from his Super Saiyan form back to Base.

"I-impossible..."

Gohan looked up and saw, to his surprise, that Goku was actually smirking.

"Y'know, Gohan...maybe you're right. Maybe you aren't my son," he said, "After all...no son of mine would put up such a lame fight."

"What!?" Gohan screamed, "Are you...patronizing me!?"

"Call it whatever you want," Goku replied, and Gohan was shocked to hear his tone so cold, "But consider this your last chance to forfeit the fight. Like I said, you know as much as I do that I'm stronger. So either I'll save the world with you by my side, or with you unconscious. I'd rather have the first choice, so pick wisely."

Gohan slowly and steadily got himself up from his kneeling position, cradling his now dislocated shoulder with his free arm. His breathing slowly became less labored, and his gaze remained fixed on his 'father' – who he looked at with an expression of pure loathing. Goku, for his part, remained unfazed, having gotten accustomed to this side of Gohan by now.

Accustomed...but hopefully he wouldn't have to be for too much longer.

Suddenly, Gohan gave a deafening shout that shook the entire area around him, causing a miniature earthquake that nearly crumbled the ground beneath him. To Goku's surprise, he managed to turn back into his Super Saiyan Two form, and when he did, he looked more determined than ever.

"I don't care what fancy new form you've come up with!" Gohan screamed, "Iwillhave my revenge – Iwilldefeat you!"

He charged at Goku and the father and son duo continued their intense battle, flying to great heights and throwing punches, kicks and the occasional ki blast at each other. While Goku still maintained the upper hand, Gohan was showing a great deal of resilience. The intensity of their battle was creating strong gusts of wind blowing this way and that, causing many animals in the wasteland to flee, throwing rocks and pebbles everywhere, and even uprooting some trees.

Meanwhile, from the plateau they were standing on, Babidi, Buu and Dabura continued to watch the fight with great interest.

"Unbelievable..." said Babidi, "Even though his father has some new trick up his sleeve, Gohan is still giving it everything he's got! Oh, the mayhem this is causing is just splendid!"

"Yaaaay!" Buu cheered, pumping his fists in the air, "Buu want Gohan to win! Buu like when Gohan win!"

"Gohan's perseverance is to be commended," Dabura thought out loud, "but will it be enough...?"

Goku and Gohan continued their intense battle in a series of scuffles that flew all throughout the entire wasteland, at some points getting near to Babidi, Buu and Dabura. As they fought, Gohan's fighting style and appearance became more rough and disheveled, spit flying from his face as he began to claw at Goku like a rabid animal.

Goku winced at the way his son was fighting. As with their previous fight, he couldn't help but feel as though Gohan had become more savage than man, and he hated every second he saw of it.

Finally, when Gohan threw what felt like his hundredth punch, Goku grabbed it by the wrist and squeezed it with all the energy he could muster, causing Gohan to recoil and cry in pain.

"It's over, Gohan," Goku said coldly, "I have this fight in the bag. The truth is, I've actually been holding back a lot of my power against you. And I think deep down, you know this."

Gohan growled as sweat poured down his face. As much as he hated to admit it, Goku was right – Gohan's Super Saiyan Two form had now dropped to a regular Super Saiyan, and at the rate he was going he'd drop back to his base form soon enough.

"I've given you all the chances in the world. Now it's over, Gohan."

"Gah...damn you...!"

Goku pulled his free fist back, ready to knock his son unconscious to stop his rampage of destruction.

"I'm sorry, son..."

He threw his fist squarely toward Gohan's gut, ready to knock him out cold...

...when a pair of pudgy pink arms underhooked him by the shoulders, catching him completely off guard and causing him to let go of Gohan.

"Huh!?" Goku cried, "What the..!?"

King Kai's antennae twitched as he sensed the change in the pace of the battle. His apprentice had gotten the upper hand, then unexpectedly lost it. He could barely hear Gregory and Bubbles playing behind him.

"Goku, no!" he shouted, "You can't lose now! Not after wishing my planet back…"

"Gah!"

Goku struggled mightily to free himself from Majin Buu's grip, but to no avail. Despite his childish appearance, the pink djinn had tremendous strength and was apparently using every ounce of it to keep Goku locked into place. What's worse was that he could even feel his skin seeping into the gelatinous surface of Buu's body, as if the monster was absorbing him.

"Let me go!" Goku shouted in frustration, "Let me go, now!"

Babidi and Dabura had joined the fray as well, observing the fight from a much closer plateau so that they were within sight of Gohan and the others. Now that Buu had decided to join, there was no point in keeping a big distance.

"Hehehe..." Babidi snickered, "That Saiyan oaf doesn't stand a chance now. No one can surpass the power of Majin Buu!"

"Yes, Master," agreed Dabura, smirking, "Gohan will not be hindered by his father's tricks now."

Gohan was slowly processing everything he was seeing, his mind still reeling from the fact that Goku had almost knocked him unconscious. But when the truth of the matter sunk in, he began laughing maniacally.

"Hahaha! Well, well! Nowthatis what I call teamwork! Good work, Buu! Now Goku's pesky transformation can't save him!"

"Yay!" Buu cheered, "Mean man no more hurt Gohan! Buu no like when Gohan hurt! Can Buu turn mean man into candy?"

"No, Buu..." Gohan said, grinning maliciously, "You can have all the candy you want, later. But the honor of killing Son Goku belongs to me."

Gohan stretched his arms back, a blue energy slowly building up in his palms. Goku's eyes widened in horror, knowing exactly what his fallen son had in mind to finish him. He couldn't believe it; after all the years he'd spent training Gohan to be a fighter, protector and a man, to be a hero...he was going to be killed by the very technique he used to help his son defeat Cell.

"No..." said Goku in horror, struggling in vain to release himself from Buu's sticky body, "N-no!"

"Oh, yes..." Gohan said, his grin widening, "I can't think of a better technique to kill you with. This is the end, Goku! No more interruptions – this time, you're gone for good!"

Gohan stretched back his arms further as the familiar blue energy increased, and Goku closed his eyes, preparing for the worst. Buu was giggling crazily, and Babidi and Dabura were watching with great interest.

"Ka..."

I can't believe it,thought Goku,this is the end!

"Me..."

I'm sorry, Chi-Chi, Goten...and Gohan...

"Ha..."

I couldn't get him back...

"Me...!"

Goku's eyes remained shut when he heard the unmistakable sound of his son's startled gasp, and a body falling to the ground. Opening his eyes, he saw...

"Vegeta!?"

King Kai breathed a sigh of relief, wiping sweat off his blue face. Behind him, Gregory and Bubbles were watching the kai intently, both eager to hear how the fight on Earth was gong on.

"Vegeta," smiled King Kai, "You did it!"

"Vegeta!" Goku shouted. "What are you doing here!? You were supposed to stay with the others!"

The Saiyan prince ignored Goku, and descended to where Gohan was, the teenaged hybrid in question wiping dust off his face, breathing heavily, and looking nothing short of royally pissed off.

"YOU!" he shouted, pointing at Vegeta, "You...what the hell do you think you're doing!?"

"Saving Kakarot's life," Vegeta replied casually, smirking, "There's no way I'm going to let anyone kill him before I defeat him in battle. Especially not you."

"Why, you...!"

"Gohan!"

Vegeta and Gohan looked up to see Dabura descending down to the wasteland grounds, having witnessed what happened.

"Are you alright?" Dabura asked, "That attack looked like it hit you pretty badly."

"I'm fine, thanks," Gohan replied, calming down somewhat.

Vegeta scowled at the demon king.So, Kakarot's brat formed an alliance with one of Babidi's minions, huh?

"You won't be for long!" Vegeta shouted, catching the attention of Gohan and Dabura, "Before the day is over, believe me – you will know the wrath of the Prince of All Saiyans!"

Gohan dusted himself off some more, and glared at Vegeta.

"You can't defeat me," he said, powering up, "no matter what you try, I'll never lose to you."

"Fool!" Vegeta boasted, "I am the great prince of Planet Vegeta! The last of a warrior race! The likes of you cannot compare to the strength that comes with my pureblooded heritage! When my father, King Vegeta, anointed me at my coronation, the entire Saiyan population watched with bated breath as they witnessed the coming of their new – "

("Erm, Gohan?" Dabura whispered, "Does healwaysgo on tangents like these before a fight?"

"It's a pride thing," Gohan replied casually, "Usually goes ten minutes, tops."

"I see. Hope he doesn't faint from all that shouting.")

"...andthatis why I, as the Saiyan prince, must defeat you and Kakarot and reclaim my title as the strongest Saiyan alive!"

Gohan and Dabura stood there, bored while Vegeta caught his breath from the long speech he gave. Gohan took a few steps toward his Saiyan foe, powering up for battle.

"Well, I hope you enjoyed giving that little speech of yours, Vegeta," he said, smirking as he went from his Base form to Super Saiyan Two, "because it will be your last!"

Vegetasmirkedback. "Only because after today, I won't have to remind people of who I really am!"

Vegeta and Gohan charged at each other, bodies flaring with ki and limbs moving faster than any eye could see. Dabura squinted to see if he could make out what was going on. He could only faintly; he saw the occasional swipe or kick in either Gohan or Vegeta's direction. They appeared to be evenly matched.

"Come on, Gohan..." he whispered, "Fight..."

The dueling Saiyan pair moved to a more remote location in the wasteland, but were only dimly aware of it as the intensity of their battle continued. Gohan kneed Vegeta in the stomach, causing the latter to gag, but Vegeta retaliated by grabbing hold of Gohan's knee and slamming Gohan to the ground with it.

The Saiyan hybrid got up quickly and didn't have time to dust himself off before Vegeta charged at him again, this time with a fist full of ki. Gohan deftly dodged Vegeta's ki blast by backflipping to his left, and then launching his feet toward Vegeta's torso, knocking the latter into a nearby plateau.

Gohan dusted himself off while Vegeta coughed and got himself up from the rubble, wiping blood off the side of his lip. He glared at the Saiyan teenager in front of him.

"Well, well..." Vegeta said, half condescending, half impressed, "It seems you reallyhavegotten stronger since Babidi took control of you."

"The Majin spell does give one a significant boost in power," Gohan replied casually, "but more than that – it gives you clarity. Clarity to see your situation. Clarity to see the world around you."

Vegeta roared in anger and his body sparked with electricity as he charged at Gohan with his fists ready to pummel. Gohan quickly caught Vegeta's fists in his hands, increasing his own ki as well.

"'Clarity', huh?" Vegeta sneered, "Would that have something to do with the 'debt' you think the world owes you, you entitled brat?"

"Look who's talking," Gohan replied with a calm smirk, "Tell me, Vegeta – does it still hurt that Babidi chosemeto serve him, and not you?"

"Wha – OOF!"

Vegeta's shock knocked him off guard, allowing Gohan to elbow jab him in the back and knock him down to the ground. Although he enjoyed seeing the arrogant "prince" in such a helpless position, he allowed Vegeta to get up.

"You..." Vegeta growled, "How do you know about that!?"

"Come on, do you really think Babidi isn't a skilled enough magician to sense such strong desires? Or discreet enough not to tell me about what he saw in you?" Gohan asked rhetorically. "He told me everything. And to tell you the truth, Vegeta, it's really disappointing. Beneath all the bravado and strong showmanship, you're nothing but a sad old man trying to feel special about himself."

"Don't you...daretalk down to me like that...!"

"Oh, really?" Gohan grabbed Vegeta by the neck of his suit, glaring at him with pure loathing. "You don't like being talked down to, eh? Well if you ask me, I'd say its about time you gotta taste of your own medicine."

Gohan pulled back his fist, charging it with blue energy as he aimed it for Vegeta's throat. The Saiyan prince kicked it out of the way however, causing both it and Gohan to get knocked down to the ground. Vegeta raised an open palm toward the half-Saiyan lad, matching Gohan's glare with one of his own.

"I won't be defeated by the likes of you," he said coldly, as blue energy emitted from his palm. Gohan's eyes widened – he saw this technique before. "Now feast your eyes on my BIG BANG ATTACK!"

A large blue rush of energy engulfed both Gohan and most of the area around him, leveling the ground a good few feet and causing a massive earthquake that Vegeta was sure must have reached tens of miles. When the attack dissipated, Gohan was nowhere to be seen.

Vegeta chuckled in dark satisfaction. "It seems that even Babidi's magic couldn't make up for your sad lack of training," he said, thinking out loud, "but that was a nice warm up before my actual fight with Kakarot."

He floated toward the cloudless skies above, thinking of what he could tell Kakarot and the others when he returned to Dende's Lookout. The truth was that Vegeta cared far less about redeeming Gohan than the others did; it didn't matter much to him whether the teenaged Saiyan lived or died. But he couldn't give that impression to anyone else.

Perhaps I could tell them I had no choice,he thought as wind blew in his spiky hair,That Kakarot's brat was going to kill me and it was only in self-defense...

SLAM!

Vegeta was interrupted from his thoughts by a kick striking him in the back and sending him hurling down the ionosphere and into the rocky atmosphere of Break Wasteland. But he managed to regain control of his flight and, turning his head from the ground to the skies, saw none other than Dabura floating above him, arms crossed and eyes full of malice.

"You...!"

"I remember you from the spaceship," Dabura said, more to himself than anyone, "you were the one called...Vegeta, correct?"

He descended slightly so that he was at eye level with Vegeta, who was positively infuriated at having his flight so rudely interrupted.

"Not that it's any of your business, but yes," he said through gritted teeth, "and I don't have time for you. I've got more important things to do."

"As do I," said Dabura, his fists engulfing in flame, "And you are getting in the way of it!"

The demon threw back his arms and roared with rage as fire emitted from his hands and even his mouth. Vegeta could only barely dodge as the flames attacked, and charged at Dabura with a fist full of ki.

"BIG BANG ATTACK!"

Dabura deftly dodged the large energy sphere, which wasn't difficult since it wasn't too big and Vegeta didn't have enough time to charge. Turning around, he drew out his spear and flung it toward Vegeta, the latter catching it in his hands and breaking it in half.

Dabura growled. "So you're a good catch...no matter. I have far more tricks up my sleeve."

"I don't have time for this!" Vegeta shouted, "I've already dealt with Kakarot's brat, I can't be bothered with meddlesome trash like you!"

"You reallyarean arrogant one, aren't you?" said Dabura coldly, "But that was no 'brat' you destroyed – that was a fine young warrior named Son Gohan. You don't deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as him."

"Oh, really? Funny, you seem more fond of him now than when you humiliated him in battle at the spaceship."

"Things change."

"Fine! I'll ground you into dust like I did Gohan!"

A bright yellow aura surrounded Vegeta as he prepared for his next attack, electricity crackling around his form as Dabura couldn't help but stare in wonder. He had seen Vegeta's strength in his fight with Pui Pui, but this was on a whole different level. The air around him seemed to grow heavier as Vegeta's shouts grew louder and louder, and the energy levels the prince was emitting was through the roof.

Dabura observed his surroundings.Damn it...the electricity he's emitting is showing up everywhere. What is he doing...?

"FINAL FLASH!"

Dabura didn't even have time to react as an intense, blinding light shone before him, engulfing both him and what felt like the whole world in its fearsome glow. He shut his eyes as he could feel intense heat pouring from where Vegeta was floating, and the demon feared that this might be his last battle yet. Already his skin felt as though it was going to be peeled off at any second now...was this where Dabura would face his ultimate defeat...?

His power is incredible...

And then, to Dabura's surprise, the attack stopped. Apparently Vegeta's Final Flash ran out of energy, for now the Saiyan prince was just floating with his arms hanging limply by his sides, sweating profusely and gasping for breath. But that wasn't the most surprising thing Dabura saw.

For floating right in front of him, arms outstretched and having no doubt taken the brunt of the Final Flash attack...was a revived Son Gohan.

"Gohan!" Dabura shouted, "But I thought...?"

"I've been through worse, Dabura. Far worse."

Dabura chuckled. "Well, that's the second time you saved my life. It appears I am deeply indebted to you."

"Don't mention it," said Gohan, although he was smiling.

Vegeta couldn't believe what he was seeing. Just several hours ago Dabura was thrashing Gohan in battle on Babidi's spaceship, embarrassing the kid, but here they were talking as though they were old friends! He growled in anger.

"Traitor!" He yelled, "I will annihilate both you and the demon in the same blow!"

He stretched out his arms and ki and electricity sparked throughout his body. Gohan and Dabura braced themselves, knowing that Vegeta was preparing another Final Flash. Neither of them could attack him, since the energy Vegeta was emitting was so powerful it could harm you if you got too close.

Gohan had to admit, Vegeta was persistent. Even though the Saiyan "prince" was an arrogant pain in the tail, he always had a persevering spirit that no doubt helped him in battle. It was one of the few admirable traits, in Gohan's opinion, that Vegeta possessed.

Now, though, that same spirit was threatening to kill both him and Dabura, and put an end to his plans to collect his "debt" from the world and enact true justice. And he couldn't have any of that.

Gohan stretched back his hands, preparing a Kamehameha wave, when...

"Vegeta!"

Son Goku's voice halted both Vegeta's Final Flash and Gohan's Kamehameha, and the fighting trio looked up to see Goku floating above them, but outside of his Super Saiyan 3 form and back to his Base. Apparently he had managed to break free from Majin Buu's grip.

Goku floated toward Vegeta, and the Saiyan prince powered down to his Base form, albeit somewhat reluctantly. "What is it, Kakarot? I was in the middle of –"

"I know," Goku interrupted, "And I don't care. It's time for us to regroup and get back to the Lookout. I made a mistake in leaving too soon."

Vegeta glared at Goku, but didn't fight back. Gohan stared intensely at his father, and through all the negative emotions that seeing Goku brought into him, he found himself wondering at Goku's change in demeanor. He seemed far more serious and no-nonsense than usual.

Dabura, too, noticed a change.He seems less carefree now, more intuitive...

Goku spared a quick glance at his son before flying high to Dende's Lookout, Vegeta following behind him. Internally however, the Saiyan prince was mulling over how best to train for the upcoming battles...

I WILL prove myself,he thought,One way or another...

Meanwhile Gohan and Dabura were still standing idly by, plotting their next course of action.

"Shall we follow them to this Lookout of theirs?" asked Dabura, "They've left themselves wide open for an attack."

"No," Gohan answered, "We'll defeat them when the time comes. And anyway, my strength is too low now and there are too many powerful warriors at the Lookout. We'll have to fight again some other time."

"So, what do we do now?"

"Simple. We're going to regroup with Babidi and Buu, and then..."

"And then?"

Gohan grinned devilishly. "We're going to train for the grand battle ahead."

Pigero looked at the world from the wooden balcony of the treehouse he lived in, breathing in deeply, trying to process the message he had just heard. Somehow, he couldn't believe it even after he saw it - but it was true. Everything that girl had said about Gohan being evil, it was all true. Butwasit really Gohan? It looked so unlike him, and even after all this time, Pigero thought he would have recognized his old friend..

"Pigero?"

The young man looked around to see Ena standing at the entrance of the balcony, her face showing concern. "Are you okay?"

Pigero smiled, "Yeah. I'm good."

Ena frowned. "That wasn't very convincing."

The young man swore under his breath. Damn her – why must she be able to read him like that? "Okay...so I'm not all that good. I'm still shaken up from Gohan's little message. Happy?"

"I am now that you're being honest," Ena said, walking up to him and smiling, "But there's no point in worrying. It'll only make things worse. Come on in – we're about to have dinner."

Pigero sighed deeply as Ena retreated back into the house, and eventually followed her in. She was right, he had to admit – therewasno point in worrying. It didn't add a single day to one's life, but at the same time, it was unnerving to hear an old friend from the past talk in such a threatening way, both to the world and his own father.

As he sat himself down at the long, mahogany table where meat stew was being served to him and his friends courtesy of Chico's wonderful cooking, Pigero couldn't help but think that maybe, just maybe, he could let himself worry just an ounce more than he ought.

Kaioshin and Kibito stared in wonder, hardly able to believe what they were seeing. After countless centuries of countless attempts by countless people, here they were...

...with the Z sword finally drawn from its ancient pedestal.

Kaioshin lifted up the sword so the blade was pointing up to the heavens, getting a good feel for the hilt and weight of the weapon. He smiled broadly.

"I can't believe it, Kibito!" He shouted, "We did it! After all this time, we have finally drawn forth the Z sword!"

Kibito smiled himself. "Yes indeed, Master. I can't believe it, but its true...we can finally start using the Z sword's power again."

Kaioshin gently laid the sword down on the rocky terrain of the mountain it was pulled from, and then gave his assistant a serious but hopeful look.

"This is it, Kibito. Our training begins. And with our strength and determination...I have no doubt that we will win this battle."

Chapter 11: Goten and Trunks Must Fuse! You Have Failed Me, Gohan!

Chapter Text

"Zrrgh...uh...huh...?"

Mr. Satan awoke from his slumber, blinking rapidly as he stood up from what he felt was a very grassy field. He got up and looked around; he wasn't sure where he was, but it was a very nice place to wake up in. A lush valley with tall grass, trees and some rivers as well, and a gentle breeze flowing through the field. He turned behind him and saw that he had been laying against a massive tree trunk the whole time.

"Waidaminute..." he said to himself, holding a beefy finger to his chin, "Wasn't I at the tournament last I was awake...?"

Mr. Satan's memory was cut short by the sound of fighting, and he looked toward the open valley to see, to his surprise, a short purple man and a taller red skinned man fighting each other, with what looked like a very shiny sword.

"Hey, that's the guy from the tournament! Shin, was it...?"

The martial arts champion ran toward the fray, not even caring that he could be putting himself in danger, just wanting answers. The two fighters stopped mid-battle, surprised to see their human tagalong awake.

"You!" Kaioshin shouted. "I thought you'd never wake up..."

"Yes, and if you don't mind, we are in the middle of some very important business," said Kibito irritably, "It is no exaggeration to say the fate of the universe rests on our shoulders."

"Aw, well, I'm sorry fellas," Mr. Satan apologized, "but I just woke up and I remember some crazy stuff happening at the tournament! Where am I?"

The purple and red-skinned man looked at each other pensively, and the shorter man nodded, clearly signaling that it was okay to give Mr. Satan the whole story. He sat down cross-legged on the grass, as did Kibito, and he motioned for the afroed martial artist to do the same.

"It is quite a long story," Kaioshin began, "and it has to do with an evil wizard named Babidi..."

Goku and Vegeta ascended higher and higher until Dende's Lookout was in sight, both remaining silent. They had powered down to their Base forms by now, and although their mouths were quiet, their minds were whirring from the events of the previous battle.

Goku, for his part, was feeling a horrible mixture of satisfaction and misery at finding out Gohan's true motives for helping Babidi and Buu destroy the Earth.He thinks he's doing the right thing,Goku thought,He really believes that the universe deserves destruction. It's horrible, but...maybe there's still a glimmer of the old Gohan left in him...

Vegeta meanwhile, was still seething that his fight had been interrupted by Kakarot.He really is too soft for his own good. Can't he see the son he once knew is dead now? There's no point in protecting him anymore. Besides...I still need to prove myself the strongest.

The Saiyan duo had now descended onto the tiled surface of the Lookout, still not saying a word to each other, Goku's back turned to Vegeta. The other Z Fighters were still in the living quarters of the Lookout – Goku and Vegeta could sense their ki signals a few stories below. With no one else to talk to, and the breeze gently swaying the trees lined up toward the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, the atmosphere was peaceful, but subtly tense.

Vegeta walked up to Kakarot, smirking. "Well, Kakarot. It looks like you should have just shown us that technique taught to you by the Metamor-"

SLAM!

Vegeta was knocked on his side to the ground as Goku's fist slammed hard against his cheek. The Saiyan prince wasn't expecting the blow so it affected him even more than usual, his face badly bruised and even a couple teeth flying out of his mouth. Before he could react, Goku grabbed Vegeta by the neck of his bodysuit, glaring at him with the intensity of a thousand Super Saiyans.

"K-Kakarot...!" Vegeta sputtered, "What the hell are you-?"

"Gohan," Goku said, without preamble, "I heard your conversation with him, after I broke free from Majin Buu."

He tightened his grip on Vegeta's neck, and Vegeta gagged from the pressure. Goku remained indifferent. "So youwantedBabidi to possess you all this time, didn't you? You didn't care about protecting the world or getting Gohan back – everything was just some game to you. You wanted to prove yourself stronger, even if it meant betraying me, even if it meant betraying the world."

"Gah...I...I didn't mean to..."

"Wrong answer."

Goku threw Vegeta's body to the ground, and slammed his foot against his back, cracking many of the prince's bones in the process. Vegeta could only gasp and quake with fear, unable to believe thatKakarotof all people was capable of such harshness.

"I'm trying to get my son back, Vegeta!" Goku yelled, his hair standing upright as he clearly was on the edge of becoming Super Saiyan, "and all you can think about is your stupid, pathetic pride...you could havekilledhim..."

"Goku!"

The Earth-raised Saiyan turned his head to see Piccolo, Dende, Mr. Popo and the rest of the Z Team – including Gohan's high school friends – running up the stairs of the Lookout. Doubtless Piccolo and Dende had heard the confrontation thanks to their advanced Namekian hearing.

"Goku, what in thehellis going on!?" Piccolo demanded. "We are trying to save the world – the last thing we need is another one of you and Vegeta's little arguments getting in the way!"

Goku's hair turned back to its normal spiky position and his gaze became less intense. Vegeta had gotten on his hands and knees, and Bulma and Trunks ran up to him.

"Vegeta!" Bulma cried, placing a soft hand on her husbands back, "Are you alright?"

"Here, let me help." said Dende, walking up to Vegeta's hunched form. He stretched out his hands and a wave of warm blue energy emitted from his palms, and within seconds Vegeta was healed. The Saiyan prince stood up, healed – but by no means happy.

"Kakarot!" He shouted, pointing an accusing finger toward Goku. "What was that all about!? Are you trying to get me off of your side!?"

"Yeah, Goku," Bulma glared, "that was pretty nasty of you! What if Dende and Piccolo weren't hear and Vegeta couldn't have been healed?"

It would serve him right,thought Goku bitterly, but he kept silent.

Trunks backed away, not wanting to get involved in the drama. Finally, Piccolo spoke up.

"That's enough bickering!" He shouted, gathering the attention of everyone present. "We have work to do if we're ever going to save this planet. Goku, before you ran off to fight Gohan, you told us about a technique the Metamorans taught you that would help. What is it? How does it work?"

Goku breathed in deeply. "Yeah. It's called the Fusion technique. Basically, two warriors of a similar height fuse together, becoming one person. Their personality gets mixed, but their power doubles, and all the techniques that bother persons have learned in their lifetimes are remembered."

"That sounds awesome!" Yamcha cheered, "I mean, you're already powerful as it is, Goku, but you could really pack a punch with the strength of someone else added to you!"

"It does sound pretty nifty," said Krillin, looking around his companions, "but how many of us here are the same height? Do we have a lot of options with that technique?"

"Well, now that ya mention it...we do have an option. A pretty good one, actually," said Goku, smiling genuinely for the first time that day. "Goten? Trunks? Meet me in the back of the Lookout, it's time to start your training."

"Goten!?"

"Trunks!?"

All of the Z Fighters – especially Vegeta, Bulma and Chi-Chi – were shocked to hear Goku suggest the youngest members of the group (besides Marron) participate in the fight against Buu with a technique they had just heard of. The reactions from the boys mothers weren't pleased, to say the least.

"Goku, what is wrong with you!?" Chi-Chi shouted, "Do you want us to loseanotherson too!?"

Bulma agreed. "What do you think you're doing dragging the kids into this mess!?"

Eighteen, while she remained silent, agreed with them – she'd hate to think of Marron getting involved in a life-or-death struggle to save the world. She held her daughter closer to her chest.

Goten and Trunks, for their part, seemed absolutely elated at the idea of fighting as a fused warrior. They practically jumped for joy.

"HORRAY!" shouted Goten, "You and I can fuse together and kick Majin Buu's butt!"

"Yeah, it's gonna be awesome!" Trunks grinned.

Vegeta didn't have anything to say on the matter; on one hand, he liked the idea of his son being involved in the heat of a real battle at such a young age. On the other hand, the thought of Kakarot training his son when he had just beaten Vegeta to a near pulp wasn't the most welcome idea to him.

Whatever. If it helps us get this mess over with...

"If I may interject..." said Mr. Popo, speaking up for the first time, "I do not think now is the time for conflict. As Goku has already said, the technique only works with two people of a similar height, and Goten and Trunks have the most similar height with each other compared to everyone else. It seems we don't have much of a choice.

Chi-Chi and Bulma looked at each other, worried, but eventually saw the logic behind Popo's explanation. So with a relieved Goku, an indifferent Vegeta, two reluctant mothers and an entire Z team that was still processing what was going on, Goten and Trunks began their training.

"What do you mean, 'grand battle'?"

Dabura and Gohan were flying as fast as they could toward where they both sensed Babidi and Buu were, both grateful to be alive after the close shave with Vegeta's Final Flash. The cool breeze made the flight more enjoyable for them.

"I mean that I want to fight Goku and the others at their absolute best – while we're at our best, too," Gohan explained, "I want them to know that even at their most powerful, they were still no match for me."

"Don't you think it would be smarter to just hunt them down at this 'Lookout' they speak of, and then kill them?" asked Dabura, and he couldn't hide a note of irritation in his voice. Gohan's recklessness reminded him of Babidi's initial unwillingness to kill Majin Buu.

"I told you, there's too many of them for me to fight as it is right now," Gohan replied, "Besides...once my latent power is unleashed, there won't be any hope for them. It won't matterwherewe fight."

"Really? And what kind of power is this?"

"You'll see," said Gohan, smirking.

After a few more minutes Gohan and Dabura found Babidi and Buu standing by the now crumbled plateau they had been standing on for most of the fight with Goku and Vegeta. They descended and greeted the wizard and djinn.

"Master Babidi" began Gohan, "Goku and Vegeta have retreated, however, I have a plan to - "

"SILENCE!" roared Babidi.

Gohan and Dabura did a double take; even Buu looked mildly surprised. Babidi had a vein throbbing in his head, and he was seething. Dabura instinctively took a defensive stance as Gohan was trying to process his master's anger.

"M-Master Babidi…?"

"Silence, you fool!" spat Babidi, "You have failed me for the last time! You said you would kill Son Goku for certain after you failed in the battle against that insolent brother of yours! And you failed again!You failed again!"

Babidi's face was turning an ugly shade of purple, his arms waving madly as his cape blew behind his back. Gohans mind was whirring, trying to come up with something,anythingto save face. "Master Babidi...I...I'm sorry. I'll kill him next time. I have a plan…"

"There will be no next time!" screeched Babidi. "I killed Yamu and Spopovich even when they succeeded in their mission! But you I have allowed to live despite multiple failures! I have had enough of you!" Turning to Majin Buu, he commanded, "Buu - destroy Gohan! Turn him into candy and eat him,now!"

"What!?" shouted Gohan, "No!"

Majin Buu blinked, looking from Babidi to Gohan. He wasn't smiling or doing anything, he just stood there as if he did not hear Babidi's command. Dabura, meanwhile, kept his stance, and his eyes narrowed as he noticed Buu's hesitation.

Babidi grew impatient. "Buu you imbecile! What are you waiting for!? I gave you a clear order! Kill Gohan, now!"

Buu blinked slowly. Gohan's heart was beating madly in his chest as he could barely process what was going on. He stood stock still, nost saying anything, but looking to Majin Buu and giving him a pleading expression to be spared.

Finally, Buu spoke up. "You want Buu to turn...Gohan to candy?"

"Yes!" shouted Babidi, exasperated, "Do it! Any day now would be nice!"

"But…" Buu turned from Gohan to Babiidi, and Gohan released a breath he didn't notice he was holding. "But Gohan is Buu's friend. Buu no want to eat Buu's friends."

"What!? What are you babbling about!? I don't care if he was your friend, I am your master and I am giving you a direct order! By every fiber of your being, I command you to kill Gohan,now!"

Gohan spoke up. "Buu, no! Don't do it!"

"Well, Master," said Dabura smoothly from behind Gohan. "It seems that makestwoservants of yours that you failed to kill now."

"Huh? What?" Gohan turned around to face Dabura. "What are you talking about?"

Dabura looked at Gohan with an odd expression on his face that could have been mistaken for compassion. "I was in this same position when Buu was first hatched. Buu was hungry and wanted to turn me into a cookie, and Babidi let him. I warned him that Buu could be a danger, but he didn't care. He told me that since Majin Buu was revived, to him I was 'nothing.'"

"What!?" shouted Gohan, "But...but I thought it was an accident…"

Gohan couldn't believe what he was hearing. He knew that Babidi could be disposable of his henchmen, but Dabura stood by his side for centuries, and was among his top fighters. Even with the addition of Majin Buu, Gohan couldn't imagine Babidi so lightly letting Dabura die.

"It doesn't matter anymore!" screeched Babidi, "Now you are both going to die and you can complain about me all you want in hell! Majin Buu, I command - ACK!"

Babidi's rant was interrupted by Buu's fat, gloved hand reaching for his throat. The wizards eyes bulged as he felt all the breath he had choked out of him. Dabura watched with great interest as Babidi desperately tried to plea with Majin Buu.

"Buu...I...what are you...?!"

"Buu no want to hurt friends! And Buu no like how Babidi treat Buu's friends!" said the pink djinn, "Buu think that instead of Gohan and Dabura dying...that Babidi should die!"

Majin Buu lifted up Babidi's frail body, and the wizard struggled in vain to break free. Buu reared back his free hand, balling it into a pink, meaty fist, about to punch Babidi's head off, when -

"MAJIN BUU, NO!"

Babidi, Buu and Dabura turned towards Gohan, all looking equally surprised and Babidi relieved. Majin Buu's grip on Babidi slackened, and the scaly mage could speak again. "Yes, that's it, Gohan! Good servant! Yes, you know I wasn'tseriousabout Buu killing you, was I?"

Gohan wordlessly stepped towards Babidi so he could look him in the eye. He did not turn to Majin Buu as he said,

"I'll do it."

"What!? No! Gohan, please! You must realize, I didn't mean any of - "

"SILENCE!"" shouted Gohan. His voice was so loud that Buu almost let go of Babidi from the sheer force of it. Gohan grabbed Babidi's neck and yanked him from Buu's grip, so he could be the one to choke the wizard to near death.

"N-no! Stop! You don't know what you're doing! If you destroy me, Majin Buu could turn against you... and there'll be no one left to stop him, I'm the only one that can do that!"

"That won't happen even if you're dead, so it doesn't matter anymore!" Gohan shouted, his left palm glaring with ki. "You...I thought you were my master, but you're just as bad as Goku, as all the others! You never cared for me, or Dabura. You only saw us as pawns, our lives as disposable...and now, 'Master',youwill be the one disposed of!"

The last thing Babidi saw as yellow ki engulfed him was Gohan's pair of shining red eyes.

"FU...SION...HA!"

Goten and Trunks tried for what felt like the millionth time to replicate the Fusion Dance Goku had taught them about. It was an incredibly silly dance, even for them, and they felt like the sooner they could get it over with, the better. Unfortunately the moves were so precise and their forms so small that every attempt ended in failure.

The Saiyan pair collapsed onto their knees, sweating and breathing rapidly. They never thought they would be worn out over some dance moves.

"Guys, come one!" came Goku's urging voice, "You gotta step it up! The fate of the universe depends on it."

Piccolo, who was standing right behind Goku, made a soft nose of dissent. "I'm not the best trainer around, Goku, but I think what you're doing is hurting more than its helping. You've been on edge this entire time, and I think that's getting to them."

Goku gritted his teeth. He had to admit, Piccolo had a point – after hours of training the boys still couldn't get the dance right, but Goku knew them well enough to know they would normally not have a problem with it.

"I tell you what," suggested Piccolo, "letmetake it from here. Go to one of the resting quarters and get some sleep. Kami knows you need it after what you've been through today."

Goten and Trunks perked up at this suggestion – they apparently felt the same way about Goku's training that Piccolo did. Goku nodded.

"Alright, sounds good to me," he said, and then, turning to the boys, "I'm sorry if I was too harsh on you guys. I know you'll do fine, and I promise you we'll get out of this soon."

"It's okay," said Trunks.

"Yeah, it's okay, Daddy!" said Goten, smiling brightly. "We're gonna beat Majin Buu when we do the Fusion dance right!"

Goku grinned. It made him feel so much better to see his son exude such youthful energy. When this whole mess was over, he thought he should take Goten out for some quality father-son bonding.

Goku retreated into the nearest resting quarter he could find, the eyes of the Z Fighters – Vegeta in particular – following him closely as he left. When he left, everyone was now paying attention to see how Piccolo would train the boys.

Bulma and Chi-Chi looked at each other, concerned. Both of them were already worried about their sons safety, and having Piccolo of all people train them didn't help much. But they looked on, still hopeful that Goten and Trunks would accomplish the Fusion Dance.

Vegeta, for his part, scoffed at the lack of progress his son was making.If this keeps up, I'll have to jump in and train them myself...and all for some stupid dance...!

"Alright, boys," said Piccolo assertively, catching the attention of Goten, Trunks and the observing Z Fighters, "since your energy levels are pretty low from practicing so much, you need to power up and even them out again. I need you both to go Super Saiyan."

Goten and Trunks nodded, and immediately powered up to their Super Saiyan forms. The light show was spectacular, and the energy was incredible to everyone watching, especially considering how young the boys were, but since they already went Super Saiyan earlier that day it didn't elicit any surprised reactions from the human crowd.

"Ah," said Sharpener, pointing at Goten, "The little squirts persistent. Just like his big bro..."

"Is thisreallythe time to be talking about that?" asked Erasa irritably as Videl shot him a nasty look.

Sharpener shrugged. "I'm just sayin'..."

"Good work!" said Piccolo, his cape blowing from the amount of energy Goten and Trunks were emitting, "Now power down enough to where we can try the fusion dance."

Goten and Trunks powered down to their base forms, but their ki levels were still even so that they could potentially fuse. Piccolo smiled, impressed.

"That's perfect, your power levels are exactly the same. Now...begin!"

The Saiyan boys started the Fusion Dance, taking three steps opposite each other, and then going back, making sure that their fingers were going to meet in perfect synchronization.

"FU...SION...HA!"

Suddenly, an intense, blinding flash of white light enveloped the whole lookout, causing everyone to avert their eyes. They could hardly believe it, but it appeared that Goten and Trunks were finally about to fuse. The light grew stronger and stronger until it finally died down, and when everyone could finally see again, what they saw shocked them.

"WHAT!?" exclaimed Krillin.

"Huh?" said Yamcha, "but how...?"

Even the normally stoic Eighteen looked shocked, and Marron, who was standing behind her, just blinked in confusion.

"No...way..." said Sharpener, his jaw wide open. Erasa and Videl stood beside him in similarly openmouthed shock.

"I..." said Roshi, "I don't think this was what Goku had in mind..."

Bulma and Chi-Chi fainted from shock, and Vegeta could only facepalm.

Goten and Trunks fused, alright...into a morbidly obese child. The bizarre fusion of the Saiyan boys looked to his left and right, not saying anything, except for the occasional grunt. Surprisingly enough his clothes still fit on him, but perhaps the clothes size also expanded due to the Fusion technique. He blinked stupidly, looking at Piccolo as if waiting for another instruction.

"Oh...I get it!" said Krillin, "So just like Majin Buu, his large body can store enough energy to help him fight! He may look soft, but I guarantee ya, he's no pushover!"

"Aw, yeah!" said Yamcha, "That makes sense!"

"That's not the case, you morons," said Vegeta bluntly, "Look."

The fused Saiyan had now dropped to his knees, gasping for air, after just taking a few steps forward. It was clear that whatever advantages his fat stature had, stored energy wasn't one of them.

Krillin gulped. "I...well, okay then. Scratch that..."

Piccolo pinched the bridge of his nose. "This is gonna be a long one..."

Goten and Trunks defused after thirty minutes, and Piccolo immediately got them back to work on the dance. The boys were persistent, if not clumsy – they missed the point where their fingers touched a few more times but after a while got it right again. Once again a flash of white light, and Piccolo and the Z Fighters looked on with fresh hope that it would work this time...

...but this time the result was that the boys were too skinny!

"Aw, come on!" Sharpener exclaimed, "Can't you guys make up your freaking minds here!?"

"This...is so bizarre..." said Videl, and Erasa nodded with her.

"Oh no!" cried Chi-Chi, "He must be starving!"

"His ribs are showing!" said Bulma, "Piccolo, what do we do?"

"We wait thirty minutes, and then do the fusion again."

"Okay," said Chi-Chi, "but those boys need to be fed!"

"It won't be necessary," said Piccolo curtly, "they'll survive long enough for thirty minutes –"

"THEY ARE GOING TO BE FED!" shouted Bulma and Chi-Chi in unison.

And so, after a hearty, home cooked meal consisting of rice, beans and meat stew courtesy of Chi-Chi and Mr. Popo for remembering where the ingredients were stored on the Lookout, Goten and Trunks skinny fusion separated. This time, as the Z Fighters gathered around to see them fuse again, it was less because they were hopeful it would work and more out of morbid curiosity over what bizarre fusion would happen this time.

"Ten bucks says they gain an extra eye," said Sharpener to Erasa, grinning.

"Come on, Sharp, cut 'em some slack," Erasa replied, though half-smiling.

Piccolo could hear the disgruntled conversation of everyone behind him, but ignored it. This time, he thought, they would get it right. Third time's a charm, after all.

"Alright boys, you ready?" he asked. Not that he'd take no for an answer.

But the Saiyan pair looked at each other seriously, nodded, and then performed the dance. It looked less silly now that they'd done it so many times before, but when they merged, the bright light that shone was more intense than before, blinding everyone – except Piccolo, who apparently could see the results clearly.

"Yes, that's it! You're doing great, stick with it!"

Everyone held their breath. It couldn't be...could this work...?

When the light had stopped shining and everyone could see again, they saw to their surprise, relief and joy that it did indeed. Standing before them was the Goten and Trunks fusion that was undoubtedly supposed to happen, for the boy looked neither fat nor skinny, but lean, muscular, and with a dead serious expression on his face. He wore a yellow and blue vest with white gi pants and a green belt, but most distinctive about him was his mixture of black and purple hair, and how it stood up like Vegeta's.

"Wow, do you feel that?" asked Roshi, "What power! He's the one alright, there's no doubt about it."

"Looks like you owe me ten bucks, Sharpener," joked Erasa, but Sharpener was too busy admiring the boys fusion.

"Whoa!" He exclaimed, "That guy looks like he means some business. This is a huge win for us, I can tell."

"He's kinda cute," said Videl.

"I think he favors Trunks a bit more," commented Bulma, "Chi-Chi, what do you think?"

"The nose, yes. The eyes...no," replied Chi-Chi.

"It doesn't matter what he looks like," Vegeta interjected, "But I must say...the hair definitely favors me."

When everyone was done commenting on the appearance of this new fusion, Piccolo issued his next instructions. "Alright, we'll try this again in thirty minutes, only this time, you'll merge as Super Saiyans."

But to his shock, Gotenks wagged a finger in disagreement, grinning. "Uh uh. We're not gonna wait to turn into Super Saiyans. We won'tneedto. We're gonna whoop Gohan, Buu and Babidi now."

"What!?" shouted Piccolo, "No way! You're not strong enough to handle them on your own, and even then, we need to work as a team! You can't go running off by yourself."

But Gotenks ignored him, stretching his arms casually while Piccolo was talking. "Don't worry, we'll be fine. We're more than able to take out Buu, and after him, Gohan won't be much of a challenge."

Gotenks ascended into the air, much to Piccolo's protests. "Stop! You're acting like a damn fool. You don't know what you're getting into!"

"Oh, dear," said Mr. Popo, "I'm afraid he's not very cooperative..."

Gotenks looked all around him, apparently sensing Buu's energy signals. "Oh, good! He's pretty close. Thirty minutes is plenty of time."

He was about to fly off toward Babidi's spaceship...

SLAM!

When he was knocked to the ground!

"Ow!" Gotenks shouted, rubbing his now bruised forehead. He looked up to see none other than Vegeta standing over him, arms crossed and looking very pissed off.

"What was that for!?"

"You know what it was for!" yelled Vegeta, chastising his son (or half of him, anyway), "Stop acting like such a brat! I don't need to see it."

"Vegeta!" cried Bulma. She ran to her husband. "Vegeta, you didn't have to do - "

"Quiet!" spat Vegeta, shocking everyone - even Piccolo. "I've had enough of these ridiculous games. I'm going to the other side of the lookout to train by myself. Maybe when I come back my son will be more well behaved."

"Aw, c'mon, Dad!" Gotenks whined, "I was only –"

"I don't care!" Vegeta interrupted, "You are going to wait thirty minutes, and then turn into Super Saiyans. Andthenyour training will begin. If you fight, you'll fight at your absolute best."

Piccolo was dumbfounded.Vegeta...I never thought YOU of all people would come through for us like this...

"Hey, don't you think that was a bit harsh?" asked Videl, walking up to Vegeta despite Erasa and Sharpener urging her not to, "He's just a kid."

"He'smykid," Vegeta retorted, "Or at least a part of him. And no son of mine will disrespect my name like that."

And so, Gotenks reluctantly obeyed Vegeta's commands. The thirty minutes that passed were long and somewhat awkward for everyone involved, but it was for the best, for now the fusion technique would pay off in full and the Z Fighters could confidently say they had a chance against Babidi and his minions.

"Well, he may have been mean, but I'm glad Vegeta stopped the boys from doing something stupid," said Chi-Chi to Bulma, "Didn't think he'd come through for us like that."

Bulma peered over the other end of the Lookout, where Vegeta had gone to train by himself. "Yeah..I guess so."

Chi-Chi raised an eyebrow. "You okay?"

Bulma sighed. "I don't know. But I have to talk to him."

She walked to the other side of Dende's Lookout without a single glance back at the others.

Vegeta was enjoying the solitude of exercising on a more quiet part of Dende's Lookout very, very much. He was doing a series of one armed, two fingered push ups, like he would normally do in the Gravity Room at Capsule Corp. Grunting and sweating bullets, Vegeta thought ruefully to himself that the Gravity Room provided a much better challenge.

"Five hundred and ninety-nine...Six hundred!" Vegeta gasped and fell on his knees. His blue bodysuit was sticking to him like a second skin, and his body was trembling. He looked over to the entrance to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, and for a second considered going in by himself and training for a year to prepare for his fight with Kakarot.

No,thought Vegeta,I can't face him like that. I will defeat Kakarot without any advantages - proving once and for all that I am his superior!

The Saiyan Prince stood up, wiping sweat off his forehead with his elbow. He approached the small kitchenette to the left of the Time Chamber and instantly turned on the sink, lowering his head and gulping down as much water as he could. Vegeta had to admit, for however much he complained about life on Earth, the luxury of having clean water to drink from at the turn of a handle was something he could very easily get used to.

The Saiyan was so busy lapping up as much water as he could like a thirsty dog that he did not notice a familiar ki signal behind him. After finally drinking enough, Vegeta turned around and saw his wife standing with her arms crossed and a strange, scrutinizing look on her face. Vegeta turned off the faucet and faced Bulma.

"What do you want?" he asked bluntly.

"We need to talk," said Bulma evenly.

Vegeta inwardly sighed. He had heard that before. "What is it?" he asked, trying and failing to sound like he cared at least a little. Bulma took a few steps closer to Vegeta and his posture stiffened; usually when they had these discussions she kept a greater distance. Bulma looked into her husbands eyes, her deep cerulean orbs penetrating his dark onyx ones.

"If this is about what I said to Goten and Trunks, don't worry. I'm sure they're over it by now."

"It's not that," replied Bulma instantly.

"Then what is it?" said Vegeta impatiently.

"What Goku said earlier," she began, "About you and how you treated this...this whole thing." Her eyes narrowed. "Vegeta...is it true? Did you really want Babidi to possess you?"

Vegeta said nothing. His eye contact with Bulma faltered, and he stared at the ground for a few seconds. Bulma took a step back and rubbed her arm. Then, looking back to her husband, she asked,

"You tried to kill him, didn't you?"

Vegeta remained silent.

"Answer me!"Bulma shouted, startling Vegeta. Her blue eyes were full of rage and venom, and she was breathing heavily. "First you try to get on the side of that...thingBabidi. You put the whole world in danger. But then you go off and try to kill Gohan, my friend's son,myfriend, just to prove that you're better in some stupid strength match!?"

Vegeta averted Bulma's gaze. "I did what I had to do. It was necessary…"

"Goku didn't fight to kill!" screeched Bulma. Her voice was so strong it caused the leaves in some of the palm trees to sway. "He wouldn't have done that - and neither should you! And Babidi...Babidi...Vegeta, how could you want to join that creep? Can't you see how evil he is!? What about Trunks!? What aboutme!?"

Vegeta balled his hands into fists.I do not need this right now…

"I just...wanted the power boost," he said, trying to keep his tone even, "But I was never going to submit myself to Babidi.Never.No matter what I was about to give him, I was never going to give up my pride."

"You idiot! Don't you get it!? It's not about your pride! It's aboutus!It's about you, me, Trunks, my family,ourfamily! I know you're a Saiyan, and I know warrior's pride and all that is a big part of your culture, but…" Bulma's voice faltered. Her lips quivered. "I thought that...over the years, you might have grown to love me. To love what we had. I even wanted more children with you, I thought we could be one big happy family."

Vegeta grimaced. Bulma had often spoken of wanting more siblings for Trunks. Although Vegeta liked the idea of more Saiyan hybrids to train with, the thought of raising a baby again was something even he was afraid of. "You and Trunks...have been good to me. And I will always be grateful for that. You and him gave me new reason to fight, to grow stronger - "

"Andthat'syour problem!" interrupted Bulma. Her hair was frazzled and she looked quite mad. "You see everything as a power grab! You always go on about getting stronger, defeating Goku and blah blah blah and its just...I'm sick of it! I'm sick of feeling like a means to an end! I'm sick of you treating your own family that way! When you're not in the Gravity Room - which is damn near every day - you just can't stop talking about how much stronger you're getting, if you ever talk at all!"

Bulma's face was bright red and she took big, gulping breaths, glaring at Vegeta. Vegeta felt a drop of sweat run down his neck. His expression was impassive.

"But you know what?" Bulma continued, "I'm glad Babidi didn't choose you. Not just because of what you would do, but because you never deserved that power at all. What you deserve is to set your priorities straight. Not to set your heart on some meaningless quest for power - "

That was it.

That was the straw that broke the camel's back.

"Meaningless,huh!?" Vegeta snarled. "WHAT DO YOU KNOW OF MEANINGLESS!? Spend most of your life ruled by another, watchyourrace dwindle to a handful...and then tell me what has more meaning than your own strength! I have in me the blood of a Saiyan Prince! I have in me something that you'll never understand -pride!"

For a while, there was nothing but tense silence between the Saiyan and human couple. Vegeta and Bulma were staring at each other, Vegeta seething, Bulma in shock. Then, slowly, she regained her bearings. She silently made her way to the stairwell towards the living quarters of the Lookout, but before she stepped down, she spared one last glance towards her husband.

"I'm sorry you feel that way," said Bulma calmly, "I'm sorry you lost your family. I thought Trunks and I could be a family to you, but I guess I was wrong."

Vegeta winced.

Bulma chuckled hollowly. "You know, it's funny. Babidi may have only controlled one Saiyan...but somehow, he destroyed our family just as much as he destroyed Goku's. He reallyisone hell of a wizard."

Bulma left, and Vegeta stood there, gobsmacked. His mind was whirring, trying to process what had just happened. He had been training, just training like usual and then...that. His wife shows up to chew him out for stuff that Kakarot had beaten him up for mere minutes earlier.

Vegeta shook his head.I've got to get back to work. Anything to take my mind off of that.

As Vegeta resumed his training regimen, he took one last glance at the entrance to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber and thought that it looked very, very appealing.

"...and that, my friend, is how you ended up here."

Mr. Satan was speechless. Kaioshin had just filled him in on everything that happened at the tournament, including Gohan's turn to darkness and the history and revival of Majin Buu. He may have been a martial arts champion, but for a normal Earthlings mind, this was a lot for him to digest.

"You're kidding me..." he said, and then he remembered something, "Videl! My daughter! She was in love with that Gohan kid...is she alright? She wasn't taken by him, was she?"

"Your daughter is safe with Goku and the others at Dende's Lookout," said Kibito quickly, "Do not fear, she is well. For now."

"Phew..." Mr. Satan breathed a sigh of relief. "Well, that's good...but I gotta see her! I need to be with her in case something happens."

"Mr. Satan, with all due respect, you wouldn't last longer in a fight with Majin Buu than a twig would," said Kaioshin, as politely as possible, "It makes no difference to her safety whether you are present or not."

Mr. Satan looked forlornly to the ground. Well, he had to admit, Shin had a point. Still, if he were to die, at least he would die with Videl rather than without her.

"I don't care. I just want to be with her right now."

Kaioshin and Kibito looked at each other, then back to Mr. Satan.

"I don't suppose it would hurt," said Kibito, "After all, Lord Kaioshin and I have been training with immense duress while you were asleep. And no doubt we could continue any necessary training at the Lookout."

"Kibito's right," agreed Kaioshin, "Very well, Mr. Satan, we shall transport you to your daughter and the others. But please remember to stay out of our way, as there will likely be much training involved for the battles ahead."

"Got it!" Mr. Satan said.

Kaioshin and Kibito laid hands on Mr. Satan, and with a flash, they each teleported to Dende's Lookout where they hoped the Z Fighters had a plan to help them in the coming battle.

Chapter 12: Another Worldwide Broadcast! Videl's Courageous Idea!

Chapter Text

The thirty minutes spent waiting for Gotenks to defuse was long and somewhat awkward, but now that the boys had gotten the fusion technique to work, everyone was more confident. Son Goku had woken up from his nap, and when he did, Piccolo had filled him in on all the details.

"Hmm, I see. So the boys fusion turned out to be pretty reckless, huh?"

Piccolo nodded. "He was about to run off and fight Buu on his own, but Vegeta stopped him."

"Heh, oh really? Vegeta stopped him, huh?" Goku chuckled, casting a glance toward the Saiyan prince, who was still training on the other side of the Lookout, "I guess he can be pretty helpful sometimes."

"My thoughts exactly," said Piccolo, with a rare smile. "He's probably learned from when he got cocky fighting Cell.."

While this was going on, Yamcha and Sharpener were in the middle of a training session. They had just finished a very lively conversation about martial arts techniques, and when Yamcha had told Sharpener about the Wolf Fang Fist, the boy's interest was piqued, and he wanted Yamcha to teach him how to do it. And so the two men were facing each other at a far corner of the lookout, Yamcha teaching Sharpener the beginning stance. Videl, Erasa, Oolong, Puar and Mike Fone were watching intently.

"Okay, so..." Sharpener stretched back his right hand, raising his left, "...the stance starts out like this, right?"

"Yeah! Well, except you switch the right hand and left hand. And also take a step back with your left foot," said Yamcha matter-of-factly.

Sharpener grumbled.Boxing is so much easier than this,he thought. But he followed Yamcha's directions, and the older man smiled approvingly.

"You got it, my man! That stance is perfect."

"Okay, now what?"

Yamcha grinned widely, as if he'd been waiting for Sharpener to ask. "Now you just run toward me as fast as you can and let your instincts take over!"

"Uhh, really?" asked Sharpener, confused, "How does that even work?"

"Just trust me, Sharpener," said Yamcha, "Focus on me and let your instincts do the rest of the work! You'll get the hang of it in no time."

Sharpener took a deep breath, and focused his gaze entirely on Yamcha. He released tension in his shoulders, and summoned as much of his energy as he could to make this work. The five onlookers watched with bated breath as the blonde jock prepared to execute his first Wolf Fang Fist.

"Man, he looks pretty intense..." commented Oolong.

"The Wolf Fang Gist is quite an intense move," replied Mike, who had seen Yamcha perform the move a couple times as a tournament announcer, "But with the right focus, anyone can do it."

"Come on, Sharpener, you can do this," whispered Videl.

Well...here it goes.

Sharpener ran so fast it seemed he appeared in front of Yamcha in an instant. The bandit barely had time to react before Sharpener clawed at his face with great speed and intensity, Yamcha managing to block the strikes with the palms of his hand. The blonde jock kept pushing Yamcha to step backwards, and Videl and the others watched with awe at Sharpener's impressive fighting skills.

Suddenly, he stopped in his tracks and fell to his knees, clutching his stomach in apparent pain.

"Sharpener!" Yamcha shouted as everyone gathered around him, concerned, "What's going on? Are you okay?"

"Yeah...I...I just..."

"You just what!?"

"I just have to use the bathroom."

Everyone fell down in comedic frustration, and Mr. Popo kindly led Sharpener to the nearest restroom.

After that training mishap, Gotenks defused into Goten and Trunks, and Piccolo wasted no time in telling them to fuse as Super Saiyans. Goku and the rest of the Z Fighters watched as the boys transformed into their Super Saiyan forms, Trunks having to power down some since his energy was higher than Goten's. Soon they were even, and ready to fuse.

"That's great, boys!" Goku said proudly, "Now fuse together and show me your power as Super Saiyans!"

Goten and Trunks did the fusion dance, and then after a blinding flash of white light and a near explosive display of power, the Z Fighters saw standing before them Gotenks as he was before – except that now his tall hair was shiningly blonde and electricity was crackling throughout his body.

"Whoa, that's...that's incredible," said Piccolo in awe, "They were strong before, but now that they're fused as Super Saiyans, their power level is unbeatable!"

"Aw, yeah!" Goku cheered, "At this rate, we'll defeat Majin Buu in no time!"

The newly fused Gotenks pumped his fists in excitement, grinning from ear to ear, clearly liking his new power boost. Finally, he spoke up.

"This is awesome!" He shouted, "Man, I thought I was strong before, but now I'm unstoppable! Majin Buu's gonna get turned into spaghetti when I'm done with him."

"Don't run off anywhere!" Piccolo warned sternly, "We need you to stick around so we can start training and get your power under control." Gotenks pouted impatiently, but didn't resist this time.

The next ten minutes were spent figuring out who would train with who, at what time, and whether or not the Hyperbolic Time Chamber would be used. Dende had stocked the Chamber with enough food and other necessities for four people to train instead of just two, and this helped the process of figuring out how many fighters would go in.

"Sounds great!" said Goku, "Okay, so...who should we take with us?"

"One thing's for certain, both you and Gotenks should be training with each other," said Piccolo, "So that leaves three out already. A fourth fighter is optional."

They were about to consider who the fourth fighter could be, when all of a sudden –

"VIDEL! MY BABY GIRL!"

The wind blew away the dust that remained from Babidis body. Gohan stood there frozen in place, looking at his open palm as if he was still holding his former master in it. Dabura watched with bated breath, and Buu's usually happy smile was gone, as they both watched intently, waiting to see what Gohan would do next.

Gohan gasped and his body shook violently. He dropped to his knees and clutched his head, grunting in apparent pain. Dabura shifted, but before he could do anything Gohan stood up, and walked to the nearby river where he could see his reflection.

The blackMon his forehead was gone.

Gohan rubbed his forehead, as though he could feel the absence of the Majin mark. Turning to Dabura, he saw that his demon companion's mark was also gone. Dabura took a defensive stance, looking at Gohan with his piercing yellow eyes narrowed. Buu took a stance as well, although clearly unsure why he should have been doing it.

Gohan chuckled. "Relax. Just because Babidi's dead, doesn't mean we're enemies now."

Dabura kept his stance, but his eyes widened slightly. "You're…notwho you were before he cast his spell on you, then?"

Gohan shook his head. "Babidi was a manipulative fool who used us. But the Majin spell opened my eyes…and I want justice. I want revenge."

Dabura's stance relaxed, and so did Buu's. He stood up and smiled. "So, I take it this 'grand battle' you speak of is still on the table?"

"Oh, yes,"replied Gohan.

Dabura looked around at the empty valley they were standing in. He frowned. "Well, we're going to need a place to stay and train. We can't live here."

Gohan frowned, his eyes furrowed in concentration. Where COULD they stay…?

"Buu know!"

Gohan and Dabura turned around, facing Buu. The pink djinn had a smile on his face as if he had solved an incredibly difficult problem.

"Buu make house for Buu, Gohan and Dabura! Then we can train and fight bad guys when Gohan wants to!"

Gohan raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Buu…you can make a house for us?'

Buu nodded vigorously. "Yes! Buu make big house. Then Buu, Gohan and Dabura can stay in house and train and have fun parties!"

Gohan and Dabura looked at each other. While they weren't sure about the 'fun parties' bit, they definitely could use a place to stay and train. With Babidi gone, there was no way they could find their way back to his ship, and that left them with very little options.

But then, were they sure they could trust Majin Buu? Not that he wasn't loyal - but did he know what he was doing? The only thing Buu seemed to be good at was acting like a child and turning everything he saw into candy. Now he was going to make them a house?

"We don't have much of a choice," said Dabura, as if he could sense what Gohan was thinking, "If nothing else, this can be an opportunity for Majin Buu to prove his usefulness to us."

Gohans' brow furrowed. He looked back at Buu, who was eagerly awaiting an answer. Then, with a small shrug of his shoulders, he conceded. "Alright. Suit yourself. Buu, if you're able to make us a place to stay, go for it."

"Yaaaaaaay!" cheered Buu. "Buu make big house! Follow Buu, and Buu will show you!"

And with that, the giant pink genie flew off into the skies. Gohan and Dabura quickly followed, making sure to keep a lock on Buu's ki signature so they wouldn't lose him. They were trailing behind him quite a bit, but could easily keep up.

Well,thought Gohan as he flew beside Dabura,Here goes nothing…

"Sweetheart!" Mr. Satan cried as he crushed Videl in a bear hug, "I'm so glad you're alright!"

Kaioshin, Kibito and Mr. Satan had teleported from the Sacred World of the Kais to Dende's Lookout, much to everyone's surprise, and to say that Mr. Satan was relieved to see his daughter would be the understatement of the century. Kaioshin and Kibito couldn't even greet Goku and Piccolo before the afro haired martial artist rushed toward Videl.

"Mmph...Dad...I..."

Videl tried to speak, but her father was holding onto her so tight she couldn't get any words out. Sharpener and Erasa backed away, wanting to give their friend some privacy. Finally, after five minutes of Mr. Satan crying his eyes out and Videl gasping for air, he let go.

"I was so worried about you...I thought you could have died at the tournament!"

"Well...I'm okay, Dad," replied Videl, smiling a little, "And I was worried about you too. I'm glad you're alright."

And she meant it. Her father may have been a doofus and a hassle to deal with sometimes, but Videl still loved him very much, and seeing him alright made her situation a little better.

"Well, I'm glad you two are reunited, Videl," said Chi-Chi, "It helps to have a parent with you at a time like this."

"It sure does," Videl agreed.

Meanwhile, Kaioshin and Goku were filling each other in on everything that had happened while they were gone. Goku had told Kaioshin about the battles he had faced with Gohan and the Fusion dance he had taught Goten and Trunks, and Shin was very impressed. He in turn told Goku everything he knew about the Z Sword, and the training he went through with it.

"Wow, that's great!" said Goku, "So we're all staying busy and seeing how we can help out. That's good to know."

"Yes, but I'm afraid we still have much to accomplish," said Kaioshin grimly, "Buu is continuing his rampage on Earth and we haven't a moment to lose. We must defeat him as soon as possible."

"We have the Hyperbolic Time Chamber," said Piccolo, "It allows up to four people to train for a year inside while only a day passes out here. It should give us the edge we need to defeat Majin Buu."

"That's excellent!" said Kaioshin, "With that amount of time, we'll certainly be able to keep up. Babidi and Buu won't know what hit them."

Buu had taken Gohan and Dabura to a big, open field on the outskirts of a small village. It was a pleasant place, Gohan thought somewhat ruefully as he felt the breeze blow through his face. It reminded him of Mount Paozu in a lot of ways.

Not all of them pleasant.

Dabura was sitting cross legged, levitating and meditating. Gohan could feel the demons ki rising with every deep breath he took. Majin Buu, meanwhile, was busying himself preparing the house, laughing gleefully.

It turned out that Buus methods for building a house involved the exact same ingredients for his candy: people. Buu had zapped the entire village beside the valley and the inhabitants screams of terror could be heard from miles away as they were lifted off the ground. Soon their screams were silenced and they were turned into gray clay that Buu used to build the house.

Dabura had shuddered at the sight of it. "I don't think I'll ever get used to that," he whispered to Gohan. Not that he cared for the villagers, but seeing Buus magic on anyone gave Dabura unpleasant memories of when it happened to him.

Gohan sat down on the grassy field, frowning as Buu continued working on the house. It had been hours since they had gotten here. And while Buu was having a good time building their new home, Gohan wanted to be more proactive.

This is taking forever,he thought, tapping his finger impatiently against his crossed arm.

Dabura finished his meditation, and his body lowered so he was sitting cross-legged on the ground beside Gohan. He slowly opened his eyes. "Quite a hard worker, isn't he?"

"And a slow one," replied Gohan. "We've been sitting here for hours."

Gohan sighed and laid his head back on the grass. The sky was a cloudless, light blue, and he could feel the warmth of the sun's rays on his face. Under different circumstances - and if he wasn't hellbent on destroying the Earth - Gohan might have enjoyed the weather.

He frowned. "I'm still not sure how I'll broadcast the news of our battle to the rest of the world. With Babidi gone, I can't put a vision in anyone's minds."

"Oh?" asked Dabura. "Isthatwhy you haven't done it already? Because you think only Babidi can use that spell?"

"Yes…" said Gohan slowly. He sat up. "Are you telling me you can do it, too?"

Dabura chuckled. "After centuries of serving Babidi, a spell like that is child's play."

Gohan instantly stood up to full height, a satisfied smirk on his face. Dabura stood up with him, and his hands glowed with red ki as he prepared the spell that would broadcast Gohans message throughout the entire world.

Majin Buu was as busy as ever preparing the house, so he didn't hear a thing as Dabura chanted,

"Paparapapa!"

Greetings, people of Earth. It's me, Son Gohan, here with another message.

Everyone on Dende's Lookout – and on Earth as well – were shocked and horrified to hear Gohans voice ringing through their heads once more. After the last transmission, they all had enough of seeing Gohans darker side for a lifetime.

"Huh?" said Mr. Satan, looking around, confused, "W-who said that...?"

"It was Gohani," answered Sharpener, his voice laced with contempt, "Just in case you were wondering what he sounded like as a psychopath."

"Please be the last transmission…" Erasa groaned.

Cold sweat poured down Videls face.

I know it's been quite a while since you've heard from me and my team, but I assure you, the wait was worth it! I have another announcement to share. Heed my words, and I promise you won't regret it

Everyone on the Lookout awaited Gohans announcement with bated breath. None of them – especially Chi-Chi, Goku and Goten – were looking forward to what he was about to say, but they had no choice but to endure it.

Don't worry, this isn't another threat. This is an invitation. You see, in the next ten days, my friends and I will be training for a grand battle that will take place in Break Wasteland. All are welcome to come – and witness the end of your world.

"Ten days!?" Vegeta shouted as Bulma held onto her husband's arm for support, "What in the hell can he accomplish in that time!?"

"Babidi's got a lot of tricks up his sleeve," said Videl ruefully.

Justice will be served. Warriors will clash in battle, fighting for the life of the world. Unlike the Cell Games, however, this won't be an organized tournament. No, this will be a free for all battle – myself, Buu, and Dabura against Son Goku and the Z Fighters, for the fate of the Earth!

Everyone shuddered at Gohan's words. His sheer cruelty was enough to unnerve even the most toughened warriors on Dende's Lookout. No one said anything, the most that could be heard when Gohan wasn't speaking were the gentle breezes of wind swaying eerily among the trees.

But in case you're thinking the Hyperbolic Time Chamber will save you – don't get so cocky. The strength and power lying dormant within me is enough to defeat you if you spent a hundred years in that room!

"He's bluffing," insisted Piccolo, although sweat was dripping down his face, "Two years of training is sure to give us the advantage in battle!"

"I certainly hope so," said Kaioshin.

Mike Fone was fidgeting his tie nervously and, without anything meaningful to add to the conversation, muttered, "This has been the longest work day of my life..."

In ten days' time, Goku, you will meet me at Break Wasteland at sunset. Feel free to bring Vegeta, Piccolo and everyone else with you – it won't matter. None of them will help. I WILL defeat you. And, when I end your life, rendering this world defenseless and allowing Majin Buu to have his fun – Earth will know the suffering it has caused me to endure all these years. Gohan out.

When Gohan's tirade ended, everyone looked stressed and worn out. It wasn't easy being faced with Gohan's dark side, and the message he gave was the most chilling speech the Z Fighters had ever heard from him. No one had closed their eyes the entire time, for none of them could bear to look at the monster Gohan had become.

"Gohan...why? What happened to you...," Dende whispered, horrified. He may have been the Guardian of the Earth, but even he felt powerless watching a close friend turn to evil. Did the former Guardian ever experience anything like this? Only Piccolo would know that.

The Namekian in question was eyeing Goku warily, thinking of what he did thelasttime Gohan broadcasted a worldwide message. Goku shook his head, as if reading Piccolo's thoughts. "Don't worry. I won't run off to fight him again. Not this time."

Gotenks, meanwhile, was shaking with rage. "That big jerk!" He shouted, "Who does he think he is, threatening us like that!? The real Gohan would never do that! We oughta give him a piece of our minds!"

Gotenks marched angrily away from the adults, and there was a collective protest of people begging him not to go off and fight. When he passed Vegeta however, all it took was one patronizing glare from the Saiyan prince and Gotenks immediately stopped. Hanging his head in shame, he walked back to Goku and Piccolo, sitting down cross-legged.

"We must begin our training," urged Kibito, "We have not a moment to lose."

The Z Fighters organized into two groups – one who would train in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, and another who would train on the Lookout. Goku decided to bring Vegeta with him to train with Goten and Trunks, who by now had defused from Gotenks. After them, it was agreed that Kaioshin and Kibito would train in the Chamber to further perfect their skills with the Z sword.

"And what about you, Piccolo?" asked Shin, smiling toward the Namekian, "Would you care to join us?"

"What?", replied Piccolo, caught off guard by the suggestion, "I don't think I'd be much help..."

"I think you would," said Kaioshin, "I sensed your power at the Tournament and while it was much lower than mine, there is still potential within you. And we're going to need all the help we can get to defeat Gohan and Majin Buu."

Piccolo considered training with Kaioshin, and after a moment he decided it was a good idea. Eighteen volunteered to be the fourth fighter to train in the Chamber, and after everything was settled Goku, Vegeta, Goten and Trunks said their goodbyes to their families.

For Chi-Chi and Bulma, it was of course much less sad since from their perspective their husband and son would only be gone for 24 hours, but it was profoundly heartfelt for everyone involved. Goten and Trunks gave their mothers the biggest hugs they had ever given them in their life, and then it was Goku and Vegeta's turn to say their goodbyes.

Goku didn't hesitate to kiss Chi-Chi full on the lips in front of everyone (most of whom averted their eyes anyway for privacy's sake), and it was the longest kiss he had given her in a while. When he withdrew his lips from her, he saw that there were tears rolling down her cheeks, but she was smiling.

"Goku..." whispered Chi-Chi, "...I love you."

"I love you too, Chi," replied Goku, "Things will be better. I promise."

Vegeta looked back at Bulma, and she returned the gaze. Their eyes met in a very tense moment, each remembering their last conversation.

Vegeta nodded. And Bulma nodded back.

And with that, Goku, Vegeta, Goten and Trunks entered the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. Their year-long training session had begun.

Gohan and Videl moved swiftly through the open field in front of the Son house, their limbs striking each other at lightning speed. Their bodies covered in sweat, Gohan was on the defensive as Videl launched punch after punch, with the occasional jab and kick, in his direction. Gohan was dressed in his purple gi with no undershirt, and Videl in her usual white shirt over black leggings. She had cut her hair, to Gohan's surprise, and it was clearly easier for her to see without her pigtails.

Gohan grunted as he blocked another jab to his chest. He narrowed his eyes. Videl was improving…slowly but surely.

"Not bad," he complimented, "You almost hit a pressure point. If you were just a couple seconds faster I would have been immobilized."

Videl smirked. "Flattery won't get you anywhere, big guy."

She aimed another jab at his torso but Gohan caught it earlier this time. Before Videl could react, Gohan had grabbed her wrist, and threw her body over his back and onto the ground. He was so quick that Videl barely processed what happened before Gohan got her into side control position, keeping her from moving.

"Looks like it just did," said Gohan, frowning. "You let my compliments get to your head. You got cocky. If you stayed focused on the fight and ignored me, you wouldn't be in this position right now."

Videl grunted as she moved her whole body, struggling to break free from Gohan's grasp. "Get off of me, you jerk!" She yelled, kicking her legs in the air. "You can't handle me like this!"

"Yeah, well, the people you'll fight at the tournament aren't gonna think like that," replied Gohan. But he let go of Videl, and the two stood up, Videl gasping for breath. She wiped sweat off her forehead with her elbow.

"That was a dirty trick to play," she said venomously.

"Hey, you should've kept your guard up," said Gohan, shrugging. Videl glared at him, but dropped the subject.

"Gohan! Videl! Lunch is ready!" came Chi-Chi's voice through the kitchen window. Gohan's ears perked up, and his stomach grumbled. Videl couldn't help but giggle. Gohan had the biggest appetite of anyone she knew in school, and it sometimes made her wonder how he stayed in such good shape.

"Coming, Mom!"

Gohan and Videl enjoyed lunch on the outside picnic table with Chi-Chi and Goten, who had been spending most of his afternoon flying around the forest to find birds. Chi-Chi had made pork ramen with home cooked rice, and Gohan and Goten dug in.

"Gohan! Goten!" said Chi-Chi sternly, "For heavens sake, don't chew with your mouth wide open! Especially in front of a guest."

"It's okay, Chi-Chi, I don't mind," said Videl, chuckling, "I'm used to it."

Chi-Chi sighed deeply. "I suppose it's better you get used to it sooner than later…"

In the living quarters underneath the Lookout, Videl laid her head on the couch, staring up at the ceiling. She was all alone - even her father wasn't there. Whether because he couldn't find her or because he sensed she needed some privacy Videl didn't know. Nor did she care.

Her stomach twisted as memories flooded to her mind. Memories of a happier time…and a happier Gohan. She remembered with some regret how their relationship started out, with her blackmailing him into training her to fly or else revealing his identity as the Great Saiyaman. Videl couldn't help but chuckle at the memory of that costume.

That was still the most ridiculous outfit I'd ever seen…

Her memories trailed from that, to her growing more fond of Gohan the more they trained, and then finally to the last time she saw him as the person he once was. When Videl was beaten to near death by Spopovich, and the doctors thought it would take days for her to recover, only for Gohan to arrive and heal her with a bean.

Videl remembered what she said to Gohan that afternoon;

"This is really cheesy, but…I've learned to expect miraculous things from you."

Videl stood up and walked to a window, showing the world thousands of miles beneath her. Her stomach twisted in knots as she thought of Gohan, down there, somewhere...wanting to destroy everything he held dear.

Tears welled up in Videls face, and she felt a hard lump rise to her throat. Her heart sank as she thought of the horrible message Gohan had broadcast. He was truly hellbent on destroying everything. Would he have to die for the world to be saved…?

"No…no!"

Videl angrily kicked the wall, leaving a knee-shaped hole in it. She breathed heavily and stormed back to the couch, falling back on it.

She gritted her teeth.

"Gohan…we'll get you back. I know you're still in there. Somehow, someway…you're coming back."

Everyone on Dende's Lookout had begun training since the Saiyans entered the Time Chamber. Kaioshin and Kibito were practicing new techniques with the Z Sword, Piccolo was meditating, and Yamcha and Krillin were sparring on the farther end of the Lookout where no one could get caught in the crossfire. It was very reminiscent of when everyone was training for the arrival of the Saiyans years ago - in fact, Piccolo could access more memories of that time since he had fused with Kami.

These warriors,said Kami's voice in Piccolo's head,So strong now…and to think some of them once trained under me…

Piccolo smiled. "I guess you can come through every once in a while," he thought out loud.

Mr. Satan, meanwhile, was pacing across the Lookout, fidgeting his hands in his pockets nervously. He saw Sharpener and Erasa out of the corner of his eye, and walked over to them. "Hey, have you guys seen Videl anywhere?"

"She's taking a nap somewhere inside the Lookout," replied Sharpener. He knew specifically where 'inside the lookout' - but for her privacy he wasn't going to tell that to Mr. Satan. Erasa nodded along with him.

"Okay," replied Mr. Satan. He walked away and continued pacing, his thoughts whirring. Suddenly, he heard the noise of a door closing behind him, and saw Videl walk onto the lookout, looking weary.

"Videl!" said Mr. Satan. But his daughter ignored him, and walked over to the Kaioshin and Kibito, who paused their training session when they saw Videl approaching. They stopped at a rather comical point - Kaioshin was stuck in midair, about to strike Kibito with the Z sword, and Kibito was stuck in a defensive stance.

Kibito growled under his breath, annoyed.First Mr. Satan and now his daughter. What is it with this family and interrupting our training?

Kaioshin descended on the tiled floor of the Lookout, and smiled at Videl. "Hello there, Videl. Do you need anything?"

Videl wondered for a moment how the Kaioshin knew her name, but shrugged it off. She had certainly seen stranger things today. "You can do magic, right? Like Babidi? I need your help."

"Watch your mouth," warned Kibito, "You are talking to your universe's Kaioshin. He is not anyone's servant, nor is he to be compared to someone like Babidi -"

"That's quite enough, Kibito," interrupted Kaioshin, with a quelling look at his servant. Kibito instantly bowed his head and desisted. Kaioshin turned back to Videl. "That depends on what you need help with. What is your request?"

Videl breathed in deeply. She closed her eyes as the weight of what she was about to request fell upon her. A part of her wanted to say, "Never mind," and forget the whole thing. But no - she couldn't back down. Not now. She knew what she wanted. And if this worked…

"I want to talk to Gohan."

"WHAT!?" Kibito's eyes widened in shock. His exclamation was so loud that it caused Krillin and Yamcha to stop their sparring mid-attack and Piccolo (who was still meditating) to scowl. "Young lady, you don't know what you are asking! Gohan cannot be reasoned with in his current state. His soul is completely enslaved to Babidi's magic!"

He turned to his master. "Lord Kaioshin, please tell me you will not comply with this insane request!"

Kaioshin's eyes narrowed, and he placed a finger to his chin, thinking. Videl and Kibito waited with bated breath for Kaioshin's response, but the god remained silent, his expression not betraying any indication whether or not he would agree.

"Videl," he said slowly, after an agonizingly slow few minutes, "Come with me. I think we should discuss this in private."

Kaioshin walked to a more isolated corner of the Lookout, and VIdel followed him, leaving Kibito by himself, frowning. "That girl…"

By the time Kaioshin and Videl were by themselves, the spiky-haired deity looked Videl in the eyes, his expression somber. "Videl, it is just as Kibito said. You do not know what you are asking of me. Gohan has been brainwashed by a dark magic that has completely altered his personality. I am sorry, but if you think you can get through to him, you are sadly mistaken."

Videl's eyes lit up. "So youcanlet me talk to him!"

"What!?" said Kaioshin, taken aback, "Y-Yes, I can, but did you listen to what I just - "

"I heard you," said VIdel stubbornly, "And I don't care. Ihaveto try. It's just…" She bit her lower lip, "I haven't talked to him since he's gone crazy. And maybe if he listened to me, maybe…just maybe he can be brought back."

"My dear, with all due respect, it would take a miracle for that to happen."

Videl's eyes shone with determination. "That's fine. I've learned to expect miraculous things when it comes to Gohan."

Kaioshin stood there, amazed. He had never seen such courage before - nor such hope for someone who was turned to evil. In his thousands of years as the supreme overseer of the universe, Kaioshin couldn't remember anyone insisting on a request like this one.

So, at long last, he relented.

"Okay. I'll open a communication line between Gohan's mind and yours. Just close your eyes, and be patient…"

Kaioshin's right hand glowed with blue energy, and Videl closed her eyes, smiling. Kaioshin placed his hand on her forehead and soon Videl felt like she was being lifted out of the world…

Majin Buu had finally finished working on the house. It was a very unconventional design - if anyone could see it from afar it might have looked like three giant, blue slugs placed on top of each other. The windows were small except for two abnormally large, circular windows facing the front and left of the house, and the interior contained a kitchen, a living room, three bathrooms and three bedrooms.

Buu, Gohan and Dabura were seated at the kitchen table as Buu looked through the pantry. "Hmm…what Buu make for dinner tonight? Candy, or cake, or pie…? Maybe Buu go to local town and turn people into ice cream!"

"I guess that means we'll have to search for dinner on our own tonight," whispered Dabura to Gohan. "Honestly, with how many sweets he eats, I'm surprised he's lived for all these centuries."

"Mystery for the ages," replied Gohan, deadpan, "But the house is pretty neat."

Suddenly, Gohan felt a strange, prickling sensation inside his head. Clutching his forehead, he rubbed it gently. Dabura noticed and his eyes narrowed.

"Gohan? Are you alright?"

"Y-Yeah, I'm fine. I just…I need some fresh air, that's all."

Without another word, Gohan went outside the house, leaving Dabura alone with Buu. The demon shrugged his shoulders and got back to pretending to pay attention to Majin Buu's dinner suggestions.

Outside, the prickling sensation was getting worse for Gohan. The half-Saiyan let out a yelp as he fell to his knees, and suddenly, he felt as if he was lifted from the ground, out of the Earth. The colors around him started to drain, and for a horrible second Gohan thought he was about to die. But then, the colors rearranged themselves, and he was in what could only be described as some strange, ethereal dimension…

"Gohan?"

A familiar female voice echoed throughout the valley Gohan was in. His eyes widened and his heart thumped madly as he looked all around him. All he could see was light, and a fog. There was nothing but a vast expanse of whiteness all around him.

Gohan felt his throat go dry. "Am…am I dead?"

"No, you're not," the female voice replied. Gohan turned towards the direction of that female voice, and saw…

"Videl!"

The daughter of Mr. Satan stood before Gohan, wearing an expression that showed relief, intrigue and caution all at once. Videl was dressed in a blue FIGHT shirt with an orange long-sleeved shirt underneath, white pants, and her usual fighting shoes. Gohan felt slightly underdressed in just black spandex and white boots, but he shoved that feeling aside.

"What are you…what the hell is going on!?" shouted Gohan.

Videl took a few steps closer to Gohan, keeping her eyes on him the whole time. Gohan stepped back, and his eyes narrowed.

"I just want to talk. About you, about everything that's happened. I haven't spoken with you since…this whole thing started,' said Videl. She paused, and drew a deep breath. "Why are you doing this? Why cause so much pain?"

Gohan scoffed. "I already answered that question for Goku. I don't feel like repeating myself. If you're really so curious, you can ask him."

"Mmmhmmm."

Videl sat down, cross-legged. Gohan felt awkward standing while she was sitting, so he joined her. The two sat down, facing each other. Gohan folded his hands together, avoiding Videl's gaze.

"You sounded really angry in that transmission."

"I was."

"Why?"

"I told you. I won't answer. You can ask Goku."

Videl cocked her head to the side, trying to catch Gohan's gaze, but to no avail. She could hear Gohan's breathing becoming heavier, and Videl leaned back somewhat. She looked down to her hands, but somehow, miraculously, she found the courage to speak up.

"I've been thinking about you a lot," she said, "About us, about the times we had together. Before the tournament. Before…this."

Gohan gave a noncommittal grunt, but didn't respond.

"I remember how you taught me to fly and how we would spar together to train for the tournament. I wouldn't have told you this then, but you were a really great teacher. You taught me more than techniques, you taught me how to be more confident in myself. In fact, the more I was around you, the more confident I felt. About fighting, and just…about everything," Videl smiled reminiscently.

Gohan turned to face her. His brow was furrowed. "What…what are you getting at?"

"Huh?" asked Videl, "Nothing. I'm just remembering what it was like back then." Videl sighed, and continued, "It was just a few months ago we met, but it feels like it's been forever. Meeting you, and then - "

She paused. Videl was about to say, 'your parents and Goten', but her gut told her it was a bad idea.

She continued. "And then learning everything you taught me. Then at the tournament when Spopovich almost beat me to death, you were there, and you gave me that bean that healed me."

Gohan nodded, his shoulders dropping. Videl felt a thrill of hope surge through her. Could this be it? Could Gohan be saved?

Taking a chance, Videl reached over to Gohans hand and held it in hers. Gohan winced, but didn't resist. The two locked eyes as Videl said,

"It's just like what I said before…I've come to expect miraculous things from you, Gohan."

Gohan's eyes widened, as if remembering something he had forgotten a long time ago. Videl's heart started to pound. This was it, she got through to him, at long last…

"You blackmailed me."

"Huh?" Videl instantly drew back her hand. "W-What…?"

"When I was the Great Saiyaman," said Gohan, glaring at Videl. "When I actually cared about protecting this pathetic world. You blackmailed me. You used me. Threatened to reveal my identity to everyone if I didn't teach you."

Gohan grabbed Videl by the collar of her shirt and yanked her to his face, so she could feel his hot breath. "And now…now you want to pretend like we were friends…?"

"G-Gohan!" gasped Videl. "I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't have done that! I'm sorry…"

"No, you're not."

Gohan stood up and his grip on Videl tightened, as he bared his teeth like fangs. "You're not sorry. But soon, you will be. Soon you will know regret, as I once did. You…Goku…and this entire world."

Before Videl could respond, she was yanked back into the real world.

"WHAT!?"

Videl gasped, her face pouring with sweat as she struggled to catch her breath. Beside her, Kaioshin was looking concerned, but none of the other Z Fighters - even Kibito - had heard Videl's outburst or even noticed that she had been gone.

"I pulled you out of that transmission before Gohan could do anything," said Kaioshin, "I am sorry, Videl. I thought things were going more smoothly than expected…"

Videl stood up, and wiped sweat off her forehead with her elbow. She shook her head. "Don't be. I know there's hope now. Iknowwe can get him back."

"What!?" cried Kaioshin, "I'm sorry, but have you lost your mind!? He could have killed you if I didn't pull you out of there in time!"

"I know," Videl nodded, "But his face…could you see him?"

Kaioshin shook his head. "I could only hear it. I can't see the faces of anyone who I place in these mental connections. But why?"

Videl looked Kaioshin in the eye, and her gaze was so intense that if she weren't staring in the face of a god it would have been intimidating.

"Because the blackMon his forehead is gone."

"What!?" shouted Kaioshin. "Impossible! That means he has broken free from Babidi's control. But how? No one haseverbeen able to accomplish that."

Videl smiled. "Like I said - Gohan and miracles go hand in hand."

"Clearly," breathed Kaioshin. His heart skipped a beat as he marveled at what Videl had told him. "Amazing…for one possessed of such dark magic to overcome it by sheer will…Gohan, you are truly impressive."

Gohan trembled as he stood back up, shaking his head from the vision that he had witnessed.What the hell was that!?

Looking back, he saw Dabura and Buu were still in the kitchen. Apparently neither of them had heard his outburst before he was dragged away into…wherever it was that he spoke with Videl. Relieved, he stepped back into the house, hoping to forget about what transpired.

Maybe some training will get my mind off of this…

"No...itcan'tbe..."

Tien sank to his knees on the floor of his home, which he had been living in with Launch for over a decade now. He – as well as everyone on Earth – had just heard Gohan's message, and although it primarily concerned Goku and the other Z Fighters, it didn't impact Tien any less.

"Gohan, what's happened to you...?"

"Tien?"

The three-eyed warrior looked up to see Launch by the stairwell – at least, see what he could of her, since it was night time by now and the living room was very dimly lit. He sighed deeply, and stood up, mentally chastising himself for looking weak in front of her.

"I heard the message," said Launch, "And I heard you scream. Are you okay?"

"No," Tien hesitantly replied, "But I will be."

He fastened his belt. Currently he was dressed in his green gi pants and red belt, although he wasn't wearing the usual green sash across his chest and torso.

"Chiaotzu and I are going to begin training tomorrow."

"What!?" Launch replied indignantly, "Are you crazy!? He'll fry you! You won't stand a chance against Gohan."

"That doesn't mean I can't contribute somehow. I can't just sit back and watch my friends this battle without me. And Gohan...he's my friend. I can't see him like this."

From the shadows it looked as though Launch was about to say something, but thought better of it, and remained silent. Now curious as to which Launch was talking to him, Tien reached for a switch and turned on the light in the living room.

It was the blonde Launch. She was dressed in a blue bathrobe and her hair was sticking out in several directions. In spite of this, she looked more serious and caring than at any other point in her life Tien had seen her. She slowly walked up to Tien, and the man tensed somewhat as she approached him.

"It's just..." she began, her usually tough voice marred with fear, "I know you got a lot of fight in you. I know you can't turn this down. But...think about me, at least. Where will I be if you die?"

Tien wrapped his arms around Launch's waist, pulling her in for a hug. "I won't die, Launch. And even if I do, I can come back with the dragon ba –"

"Shut up!" Launch shouted, tears streaming down her face as Tien anxiously looked around to see if she woke up Chiaotzu, "Every time you talk about death, it's just, dragon ball this, and dragon ball that! Look, Iknowwe got the dragon balls, but – did you ever think it just sucked to know you were dead!? When the Saiyans came, and they killed you, I...I..."

But she broke down and wasn't able to finish her sentence, clinging to Tien as if he were her lifeline. Tien rubbed her back comfortingly, unable to think of what to say. It was true – even with the dragon balls, death was still a horrible thing. He remembered feeling horrible having left Launch by herself while he trained with King Kai during the Freeza debacle. Even when he came back the state of his house told him that Launch didn't take kindly to his going away.

But, he couldn't just sit back and do nothing. There was too much at stake – and besides, if he was going to die, he may as well die a hero rather than a coward.

"It's okay, Launch," he soothed her, holding onto her as tightly as she clung to him, "Everything will be okay. I promise."

Chapter 13: The Training Begins! Wake Up, Vegeta!

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

"Hiyyyya!" Krillin shouted as he delivered a roundhouse kick to Yamcha's torso. The latter blocked it with his forearm but was knocked back a few feet. Krillin jumped back and charged toward his old friend again, and the two moved quickly in a flurry of punches, kicks and swipes.

Krillin and Yamcha had been training intensely ever since Goku had entered the Hyperbolic Time Chamber with Vegeta, Goten and Trunks. Krillin was dressed in his usual red shirt and sweatpants and Yamcha was dressed in the same yellow suit as before, except that he had taken his jacket off and was now training in his undershirt.

"Wow..." said Erasa, fanning herself, "I gotta admit...that Yamcha guy's kinda hot."

"He's old enough to be your father," said Videl, disgruntled.

"What's wrong with that?" replied Erasa cheekily.

Sharpener, meanwhile, was trying his best to keep up with the fighting pair, especially Yamcha, who he'd come to look up to. "Man, that guy's reflexes are incredible...how am I gonna measure up to that?"

"Don't worry about it, son," said Mr. Satan, patting Sharpener on the back, "It's all just a showy light trick, anyway. If you wanna see real stamina, check me out at the gym when this is all over!"

"Uhhh...right," said Sharpener awkwardly. Was Mr. Satan still going on about everything being some trick, even after all that had happened today? There was just no convincing that man...

Krillin and Yamcha were standing a few feet in front of each other, their clothes somewhat tattered and sweating profusely. Krillin then raised his right arm, grabbing Yamcha's attention. He knew what this was...

"Chew on this!" Krillin shouted as a glowing disk of energy appeared above his palm. It grew larger and larger, but everyone who sensed ki could tell it wasn't lethal. "Destructo Disk!"

The disk flew toward Yamcha, who dodged it with a backflip and launched himself toward Krillin. His foot landed on the former monk's torso, and Krillin fell back, his wind knocked out of him. After a few deep breaths, he got up and flashed Yamcha a half-grin.

"Heh...not bad, Yamcha," he said, "One day you might give me a run for my money!"

"Oh, like I'm not already?" chuckled the bandit, and everyone laughed with him.

Mike Fone, meanwhile, was talking with Dende, curious to learn more about the Namekian's responsibilities of the Guardian of the Earth. He had learned somewhat about the previous Guardian – Kami – after he had arrived at the World Martial Arts Tournament years ago in the fight against Piccolo, but his knowledge was slim.

"So, let me get this straight..." said Mike inquisitively, "Your job as Guardian of the Earth is to oversee everything on the planet?"

"In a nutshell, yes," replied Dende. Mr. Popo nodded.

"The Guardians of the Earth all have the distinct responsibility of protecting the denizens of the planet. Without them, this world would be nothing," he said matter-of-factly.

"I see...well, where's the previous Guardian, Kami? I haven't seen him since what happened at the last tournament," said Mike, looking around.

Dende and Mr. Popo shared a slightly nervous look, and then looked at Piccolo. Dende chuckled. "It's kind of a long story..."

Dabura inhaled sharply through his nostrils, clearing his mind as he sat cross-legged in deep meditation. He was outside of Majin Buu's house, and it was a clear, sunny day. A purple aura was covering Dabura's body, showing that he was in deep concentration, slowly breathing in and out, his mind and body completely relaxed...

SLAM!

...when he blocked a punch to his face from Gohan with the palm of his left hand.

"Ah..." The Saiyan said, grinning, "Nice reflexes. Especially for mid-meditation"

"I have good training under my belt," the demon replied, grinning back.

Dabura and Gohan began an intense sparring session involving mostly hand to hand combat, with each of them flying crazily fast throughout the area trying to land a punch or kick on their opponent. Dabura's aura had turned from a calm purple to a fiery red, and Gohan's aura was a pure golden. As the battle grew more and more fierce, their auras shone brighter, Gohan's bright yellow colliding with Dabura's dark red.

They powered up their ki levels to maximum, and as they did, the atmosphere of the field became chaotic. The grassy fields below cratered, leaving large, gaping holes, and the winds began to pick up and blow at hundreds of miles an hour. Finally, Gohan and Dabura collided again, bursting with energy, and if one didn't know better it would have looked like they intended to kill each other.

Gohan's eyes flashed red as he launched towards Dabura, the latter pulling out his spear to strike Gohan with – but then the boy disappeared!

"What...?" Dabura blinked in confusion, but he looked to his left and saw Gohan materialize right in front of him. His eyes widened.

"Think fast!" Gohan yelled as he slammed his foot in Dabura's torso, knocking the demon king down to the cratered ground. But Dabura wasted no time in getting back in the fray, as he quickly flew out of the hole and ascended so he was at eye level with his opponent.

"Don't get too cocky, Gohan," he admonished, half-smiling, "You may have caught me off guard, but it won't happen again."

"It won't need to," said Gohan, smiling back, "I'll beat you with or without you having your guard up!"

"Oh, is that a fact?" asked Dabura, chuckling, "Well, you really should have thought of that in our last battle."

Dabura's red aura of ki shone more strongly as shards of rocks appeared at his side, shards that were swirling around him and collected from the rocky grounds underneath. Suddenly, the rocky shards flew toward Gohan like a thousand tiny knives, and the Saiyan teenager could barely avoid most of them as he scrambled left and right through the air.

"Gah!"

Gohan wiped his cheek – a particularly sharp rock shard had cut across his face, causing him to bleed. He looked up and saw Dabura grinning smugly.

"Well, well, Gohan. It appears as if we are even."

"Not for long!"

Gohan stretched back his arms, and a familiar blue light emerged from his palms. Dabura immediately recognized the technique, and he began to fill his mouth with fire in preparation for a counter attack.

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAA!"

Gohan's Kamehameha wave met Dabura's evil flame, and the competing attacks lit up the whole area in an impressive array of blue and orange. The two fighters were evenly matched for the most part, however Gohan had the advantage that his Kamehameha wasn't dependent on how much breath he could exhale, so before long he began to catch up.

Dabura was engulfed in the Kamehameha's blue wave of energy, and felt his entire body be pushed across the fields by the sheer power of the wave. It was so intense that Dabura was slammed through the top level of Majin Buu's house - while the djinn was taking a bath.

"Hey!" shouted Buu, covering himself with the sudsy water. "Buu need privacy, please!"

Dabura finally stopped the Kamehameha wave, outside of the house and several miles from where Gohan was floating. The demon looked at his body and saw that his Saiyan opponent had done a lot of damage to him. Dabura's clothes were torn up, and he was covered in purple blood. Thankfully, Majin Buu could heal him later, but for now it hurt like crazy.

And I couldn't be more impressed,thought Dabura smirking.

Gohan flew over to him, looking Dabura over to see how much damage he caused. His brow furrowed. "You okay?"

"Not particularly," replied Dabura casually, "But I will be. Nothing I haven't dealt with before."

Gohan breathed a sigh of relief. "Good. I was worried -"

SLAM!

Dabura rammed his fist into Gohans cheek, causing the teenage Saiyan to reel back and cough up blood. Gohan regained his bearings midair and stopped, looking at Dabura with a mix of anger and amazement.

Dabura smirked. "This is no game we're training for, Gohan. And the less you see it as one, the better."

Gohan wiped blood off his cheek with his sleeve. Slowly, his anger dissipated, and he felt a rush of excitement that every Saiyan felt when in battle.

Gohan smirked back. "If you insist. But the more you train with me, the more you'll regret those words."

Gohan and Dabura flared up their ki auras and collided with each other again, fighting as though their lives depended on it. Their muscles burning, Gohan and Dabura relentlessly attacked each other, determined to gain the upper hand against the Z Fighters in the battle to come.

Meanwhile, Majin Buu had dried himself off from his bath, and was pouting as he looked over the Dabura shaped holes in the bathroom walls.

"Maybe Buu should have built house near hardware store…"

Goku, Goten, Vegeta and Trunks were fighting in the seemingly endless abyss of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. It took a while for the boys to get used to the strange atmosphere of the Chamber, but once they did, they were more than ready to begin their training. Goku and Goten paired up to spar with each other, as did Vegeta and Trunks.

All four Saiyan warriors were powered up to Super Saiyans, clashing fiercely as the intense lights of their ki would have blinded any passerby in the real world. Both pairs of Saiyans were locked in ferocious battle, but Vegeta and Trunks were far more ferocious than Goku and Goten, electricity crackling madly around them as they fought in a painful array of punches, kicks and ki blasts.

"OUCH!" Trunks cried as he grabbed his rib, which was drawing some blood. "Hey come on, Dad! That's not fair..."

"Life isn't fair!"

Vegeta kneed Trunks in the stomach, knocking him out as he fell to the ground on his face. Goku saw it, and immediately powered down, Goten joining his side as he checked to make sure Trunks was alright.

"Trunks..." whispered Goku. Grasping the boys forehead with an open palm, Goku read Trunks' thoughts and emotions. "He's alright. Shaken, but alright."

Goku glared at Vegeta. "Was that really necessary?"

"Yes," replied Vegeta casually, "This isn't a game, Kakarot. You can't be too hard on the boys."

Goku grimaced, but didn't feel like arguing with Vegeta. He picked up Trunks' unconscious form. "Well anyway, they need to be in top form. If the boys are this powerful apart, they'll be even more powerful when fused together. I'll give Trunks a Senzu when he wakes up, and then he can fuse with Goten."

Vegeta nodded silently.

"Is Trunks gonna be alright, Daddy?" asked Goten, concerned, as Goku laid Trunks gently down on one of the Chamber's beds.

"He will, son, don't worry," said Goku, smiling. He didn't like that Goten had to watch his best friend get treated the way he did by Vegeta, but at least he had Senzu beans for when Trunks would eventually wake up.

Vegeta meanwhile was training by himself, practicing basic punches and kicks, and then powering up to Super Saiyan and launching ki blasts to test his power. Goku looked at the Saiyan prince intently. Vegeta's thirst for battle was strong...so strong that it nearly cost him the life of the whole world when he let Cell transform. Goku thought by now that having a family would have helped temper that, but as the earlier fight with Vegeta and Gohan showed, that was far from the case.

Goku sat down in a chair beside the bed where Trunks was sleeping peacefully, and Goten jumped on his lap. Goku smiled; he really liked the little squirt. It was a shame their first time meeting had to be on a day like this.

"Heya, son," said Goku affectionately, ruffling the boy's hair, "Let's relax for a bit before Trunks wakes up. We have a whole year ahead of us to train, anyway."

"Alright!" Goten cheered – although softly enough not to wake up his purple haired friend, "Daddy, can you tell me what Other World is like? I wanna know!"

"Sure!" said Goku happily, "Hmm, where to start? Well first off, it's real cloudy. Like you're living in the sky – which is what it is, I guess? Anyway, you get to fight and train with all kinds of different people. I got to train in the Grand Kai's tournament, against really cool fighters named Pikkon and Olibu!"

Goten clung to every word his father told him with great fascination, enjoying the storytelling he never got as a kid. All his life he had wondered what his father's time in Other World was like, the adventures he was having...but he never thought he'd ever get his dad to tell him about it!

"That's awesome, Dad!" said Goten as Goku continued his stories, "So like, can we go to Other World one day and train with those guys together?"

"I don't think so, son," said Goku, smiling at Goten's innocence, "Ya see, Other World is a place where we're only supposed to go to if we die. It's not your time to die, yet – and apparently, its not mine either," he added, chuckling.

"Oh..." said Goten, disappointed, "Well, when we get there, we're gonna play and fight all the time!"

Goku laughed, patting his son on the back. "We sure will, son. We sure will."

While Goku and Goten were enjoying some much needed father-son bonding, Vegeta was off by himself in a lonely corner of the chamber channeling his ki to see how high he could get his power level. He was powered up to Super Saiyan Two, and a flaming aura of yellow ki was spiraling all around his body. His clothes were starting to get badly damaged and sweat was pouring profusely down his face – but all he could focus on was the mocking image of the warrior standing before him.

Gohan.

A mirage of that infernal teenager was appearing and disappearing before Vegeta's eyes, mocking him, tempting him.

"Is that the best you can do? I expected more from the Prince of all Saiyans..."

"SHUT UP, YOU BRAT!"

Vegeta charged up an intense blue light of energy into his fists, releasing it into the endless abyss of the Chamber.

"GALLICK GUN!"

The stream of destruction burst into an endless sky of white, but the image of Gohan vanished, and Vegeta collapsed onto the floor. He was breathing very heavily, but despite the energy he spent, he was smiling proudly at how far he'd gotten.

"Gohan...you may be stronger now. But soon...soon you will pay..."

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAA!"

Majin Buu dodged a blue wave of energy from Gohan, giggling childishly. The two had been training in the open fields outside the house for about an hour now, Dabura was inside the house meditating, having trained enough for the day.

"Ha Ha!" gloated Buu, sticking out his tongue, "Gohan no hurt Buu! Gohan no hurt Buu!"

Gohan growled. "We'll just see about that," he muttered.

"Alright, fine! Let's see how well you handle this!"

Suddenly, clones of Gohan appeared out of thin air, encompassing Majin Buu, much to the djinn's confusion. Buu's eyes widened as he observed the copies of Gohan around him, and he pointed stupidly to each one as if trying to count.

"This is a technique my old master taught me many years ago," said the real Gohan at the center of the group, "I doubt I'll have to use it fighting Goku, but it doesn't hurt to try it out. Now..."

All of the Gohan's stretched back their arms as they set their gaze on Buu, who was still confused.

"Ka...me...ha...me...HAAAAAAA!"

Over a dozen Kamehameha waves hit Majin Buu, causing a massive explosion that left a crater in the place where the djinn was standing. In that crate Majin Buu laid down with half of his body blown to smithereens. However, soon enough the pink, gelatinous bits that made up his body returned to their owner, and Buu stood up, fully regenerated.

The fat, pink monster stood up and grinned childishly again, pointing at Gohan. "Hahahaha! Gohan no hurt Buu! Gohan no hurt - OUCH!"

Buu was kicked in the back by one of the Gohan clones, and flew face first into the ground, his pink mouth filling up with dirt. Buu stood up and spat the dirt out, fuming. "No fair! Gohan can't hurt Buu with clone. No fair!"

The Gohan clones disappeared, and the real Gohan descended to the ground, dusting off the sleeves of his black spandex suit. He smirked at Majin Buu. "The enemy won't care about playing fair, Buu. And neither should we."

Buu's face turned bright red as he stomped his feet angrily. The ground beneath him began to quake, and Gohan instantly took a defensive stance. He felt Buu's power level rising with every stomp of the djinn's foot.

That's it, Buu…don't hold back. Fight like you mean it…

"FINE! If Gohan no play fair, then Buu no play fair, either!"

Majin Buu's pink antennae glowed with yellow energy, and aimed at Gohan. The Saiyan's expression remained calm as Buu prepared to fire at him, and the antenna shot forth ki blast after ki blast at the Saiyan teenager. Gohan deflected every energy blast that Buu shot at him, parrying them with a sweeping motion of his arms.

When Buu was finished firing, Gohan laughed derisively. "Is that all you got, Buu? Come on. You're not gonna beat anyone with lame attacks like that."

Gohan continued to laugh, but Buu smirked, seeing an opportunity. He leapt towards Gohan and punched him in the gut, causing the Saiyan to recoil in shock. Before Gohan could react, Majin Buu assaulted him with a flurry of punches and kicks, only a few of which Gohan could deflect.

"Ugh..! What the…?"

"Buu wanted to distract Gohan!" gloated Buu, "If Buu use weak attack to make Gohan cocky, then Buu have better chance of hitting Gohan!"

In between the djinn's attacks, Gohan stared in wonder at Buu's unusual display of cunning.

He's…not as dumb as he let's on…

Gohan and Buu sparred for another hour or so, until Buu had all but incapacitated Gohan. The Saiyan teenager laid on the ground, sweating, and defeated, but with a confident smirk on his face.

With Majin Buu on our side, we'll be unstoppable!

Tien soared through the skies as he made his way toward Dende's Lookout, Chiaotzu following him close behind. He was dressed in his usual attire of green gi pants and sash around his torso, green wristbands as well as a red belt around his waist. It was perfect for flying, and even better for training. Despite the situation, he couldn't help smiling.

It'll be nice to see the others again, it's been so long...

"Look, Tien! We're here!"

The Lookout came into view, and Tien and Chiaotzu descended onto the clear, tiled floor of the building. Tien's smile broadened as he saw his friends faces for the first time in years (noting with some amusement that Krillin finally decided to grow some hair) and the Z Fighters reactions were shocked at first, but quickly turned to joy.

"Tien!" Krillin shouted, running up to his old friend and hugging him by the waist, "Oh man, am I glad to see you! I was wondering if you survived Buu's attacks on Earth."

"Yeah man, I was worried for a second," said Yamcha, giving Tien a fist bump.

"Well, I'm alright. For now, anyway."

Tien looked back to the rest of the group and noticed some more faces – Piccolo, Dende, Mr. Popo, Mr. Satan, Chi Chi, Bulma, Android Eighteen and her child, the Tournament announcer, a purple kaioshin, his red-skinned companion and several teenagers he didn't recognize. Friends of Gohan, probably.

"We should start training right away!" Chiaotzu insisted, "We don't have a moment to lose!"

"Definitely," agreed Tien, "Hey, where's Goku? And Vegeta? We could use their help, too."

"They're in the Time Chamber," answered Piccolo, walking up to Tien, "They'll be out by midday tomorrow.."

Tien silently cheered – he had forgotten all about the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. That meant that Goku and Vegeta would have gotten a full year's worth of training by tomorrow! And with how powerful they were before, this could only bode well for the coming battle.

But we can't get cocky,he thought.

"Alright, like Chiaotzu said, we should start training in groups," said Piccolo commandingly, "This time, I'll join. Krillin and Yamcha, pair up and continue what you were doing before. Tien and Chiaotzu, I'll train with you two on the other side of the Lookout We need all hands on deck right now."

"Wait!" A female voice cried behind Piccolo. Turning around, he saw – to his surprise – Chi Chi standing behind him. Her hands were clenched into fists, and a fire shone in her eyes. "I'm…I'm fightin', too!"

There was a shocked, collective gasp around the Lookout, some voices being raised in protest. The Ox King was the only one who didn't look shocked - evidently Chi-Chi had told him beforehand about her intentions to join the fray.

"Chi Chi, are you serious!?" shouted Bulma, "This is your son we're talking about!"

"Yes...are you sure you want to be involved in fighting him?" asked Mike.

Chi Chi looked back at them. "I'm positive."

Piccolo blinked, processing what Chi Chi was saying. He hadn't seen her fight ever since the , but he was well aware of her history as a warrior princess that made her formidable in the World Martial Arts Tournament. Then, slowly, a pleased smile spread across his face.

"You're in," he said, "You'll train with me while Tien and Chiaotzu train with each other."

Many months passed in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber as the Saiyans trained for the battle that would decide the fate of the Earth. Goku, Vegeta, Trunks, and Goten spent most of the days either sparring or eating, and they found themselves doing less of the latter and more of the former as time went on. Sometimes, sparring was all they could do to not be driven crazy by the endless, white abyss of the Time Chamber.

Vegeta cackled as he dodged another punch from Kakarot. "Is that the best you can do, clown!? At this rate, you're begging for your world to be destroyed!"

Goku and Vegeta were sparring throughout the chamber while Goten and Trunks were taking a nap. The adult Super Saiyans soared throughout the empty void, electricity crackling through their bodies. Goku was on the defensive, while Vegeta was on offensive, and the Saiyan Prince's limbs flew madly as he tried to get a hit on his opponent.

"Don't patronize me, Kakarot!" shouted Vegeta, as Goku deflected another punch, "I know you can do better than that!"

Goku remained silent as he stayed on the defensive. Vegeta aimed a kick at Goku's torso, but Goku disappeared, and Vegeta hit an afterimage. Before he knew it, The Saiyan Prince felt Goku's elbow strike his back, and he gagged as spit flew from his mouth. Vegeta reeled forward but caught himself in midair and spun around, his nostrils flaring.

"You got lucky!"

Vegeta stretched back his arms as his hands glowed with a familiar, purple energy. Goku's eyes widened as he instantly recognized the technique his opponent was about to use. He stretched his arms back as well, and Goku's hands glowed with blue energy as his eyes locked with Vegeta's. The two Saiyans glared at each other, Vegeta's teeth bared with fierce determination.

"GALLICK GUN!"

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAA!"

Purple and blue waves of energy collided with each other as Goku and Vegeta felt their bodies burning with the ki they were pouring into their attacks. Their screams could be heard from miles away (thankfully, Goten and Trunks were heavy sleepers), and every muscle in their bodies felt as if they were on fire.

Vegeta narrowed his eyes. He could feel his Gallick Gun start to overcome the Kamehameha wave. A thrill of hope surged through him.Could this be it…? Could I finally have bested Kakarot!?

The Gallick Gun soared through the white expanse of the Chamber, and Goku's Kamehameha wave was nowhere to be found. Vegeta gasped. "Yes…yes! This is it! Kakarot, I have defeated you!"

Vegeta pumped his fists in the air, cheering. His elation was short lived, however, as his eye caught Goku floating in the distance, powered down from Super Saiyan.

Vegeta's eye twitched. "What…?"

Goku descended to the tiled floor of the Chamber, and walked over to the entrance where Goten and Trunks were sleeping. His footsteps could be heard echoing throughout the chamber, and the noise maddened Vegeta. The Saiyan Prince powered down and descended to the ground, running up to Goku.

"Hey…hey! Kakarot! What the hell are you doing!? We haven't finished our fight!"

Goku continued walking, as if he hadn't heard Vegeta. Vegeta growled and his hands balled into fists. "KAKAROT! I know you hear me, fool! Answer me!"

Goku stopped. For a few heart stopping seconds, he stood still, not showing the slightest sign of movement. Then with a deep, audible breath, Goku turned around, facing Vegeta with a passive expression. Vegeta stood up straight, trying to look dignified, and not quite as angry as he did before.

"It's done," said Goku simply.

"What!?" shouted Vegeta. "What do you mean, 'done'!?"

"The fact is, I don't see the point in training with you anymore," replied Goku, "You haven't learned your lesson. You're still obsessed with defeating me and proving yourself superior, more than you are about saving the planet - saving your own family."

Vegeta spat at the ground. "I don't have time for your ridiculous sentiments, Kakarot. You know, as much as I do, that we have it in our blood as Saiyans to want to prove ourselves superior. You cannot change that - anymore than you can change the sun from rising and setting."

Goku looked towards the nook to the left of the Chamber's entrance, where Goten and Trunks were sleeping soundly. "I know, Vegeta. I love to fight, too - it's in my blood just as much as it's in yours. But I have something else, too."

"Oh, yeah?" snorted Vegeta, "What's that?"

"A reason to fight," said Goku, "A reason that's not just about me."

Vegeta was about to respond when Bulma's words flashed through his mind. Words that had been haunting him since the moment it left her lips:

I'm sick of feeling like a means to an end!

Vegeta clutched his stomach as a nauseous feeling swept over him. Memories flashed in his mind of his life with Bulma and Trunks - from the wedding, to Trunks' first day in school, to the trips they would occasionally take…when he wasn't training, that is, which was a lot…

"There was a time when I was just like you, Vegeta," continued Goku, "I didn't see a reason to fight except for myself. In fact, I carried it with me for a long time. It's why I let you live when Krillin was about to kill you, all those years ago. Because I valued a good fight over the safety of the Earth. But…I have another reason to fight, too. I love this planet. I love my family. And I love Gohan."

Goku raised his fist and clenched it in front of his chest, as a tear slid down his face. "And now…I don't have any bigger reason to fight, than for him. But I know you've felt this way before, Vegeta. Remember when Cell killed Trunks - the other Trunks, from the future?"

Vegeta gasped as the memory played in front of him. Cell had somehow survived being blown up, and his first act was to kill the Trunks from the future. Vegeta remembered the rage he felt when he witnessed his son die in front of him…a rage that was unlike any he felt before.

A rage that compelled him to fight for someone else.

He remembered the power he felt as he tried to kill Cell - but more than that, he remembered how little he cared about the power. All Vegeta cared about, in that moment, was avenging his son.

"I…remember, Kakarot," replied Vegeta, avoiding Goku's gaze. "What's…what's your point?"

"You know what my point is," said Goku, "You have it in you to care about people other than yourself, Vegeta. Maybe it's time you showed it."

Goku turned around and walked to Goten and Trunks' room, doubtless to wake them up for another training session. When Goku was out of eyesight, Vegeta's knees wobbled, and he fell to the ground, breathing heavily.

Kakarot…

Vegeta's mind flashed back to when he married Bulma, how they kissed for the first time…he remembered his lips tingling from the pressure of hers, and how for an odd moment, it seemed like they were the only two people in the world. Vegeta remembered a strange lightness he felt that day, a feeling that told him everything was going to be alright. He recognized it now.

Happiness.

After the wedding, the closest Vegeta ever got to feeling that way again was when he broke a new limit to his strength, training in the gravity room. And even that was all centered around him. In fact, his whole idea of having a family was centered around him - he saw how Kakarot had achieved strength through his family, so Vegeta sought to duplicate that.

And along the way, perhaps he did get another reason to fight. A reason he didn't see clearly until now. Vegeta had retrieved the Dragon Balls to revive the people Gohan killed at the tournament - something he knew Bulma cared about. And although the reason was to get it over with and prove himself the strongest between Kakarot and his son, Vegeta had to admit…it did feel good to see Bulma happy.

Vegeta shook his head.What has gotten into me…?

In the distance, he saw Kakarot leaving the room with Goten and Trunks, the two boys stretching their limbs and ready to train again. Vegeta stood up.

"Trunks!" He called to his son, grabbing his attention. "Come here - leave Kakarot and his son for now. I need to speak with you."

Trunks blinked, confused, but he left Goku and Goten and headed towards his father. Goten peered curiously, but Goku told him not to worry about it and they would train by themselves for now. He shot Vegeta a knowing smile before flying off with his son.

When Vegeta and Trunks were left alone, Trunks spoke up. "Dad…? What is it? What's going on?"

Vegeta kneeled down so he could look his son in the eye. He looked more serious than Trunks had ever seen him. "Trunks...we are about to face the greatest battle of our lives. I don't know what will happen, or if we'll make it out of this."

"Um…okay?" replied Trunks, fidgeting his hands.

Vegeta stood up, his gaze never leaving his child. For a while, he just stood there, not saying anything. Vegeta never thought that in his life that he would have a conversation like this with Trunks, nor did he think that it would be under such circumstances

But it was now or never.

"Trunks…I've never hugged you before, have I? Not since you were a baby."

Vegeta grasped the back of Trunks' head with his left arm, and pulled the lavender haired boy in for his first true hug. Trunks blinked, and his cheeks turned pink. "Dad… c'mon, this is embarrassing…"

"No one can see us," replied Vegeta, "Kakarot and Goten are many miles away, training."

"O-okay…"

Trunks hugged his father back, grabbing his dad by the waist. It was awkward at first, but a slow, glad smile spread across Trunks' face, and Vegeta felt his son's shoulders drop.

"I love you, son."

"I love you too, Dad."

Vegeta finally let go, and smirked as he heard the sounds of Kakarot and Goten clashing in the distance. He gestured towards the fight. "Want to join?"

Trunks pumped his fists in the air. "Aw, yeah! You bet!"

Vegeta chuckled as he and Trunks flew towards Kakarot and Goten, ready to resume their training.

Gohan peered into the skies as the sun set in the horizon. It was evening time, and Dabura and Majin Buu had fallen asleep after a day of rigorous training. Gohans' muscles still felt sore after everything that his allies put him through, but right now, he was barely noticing it.

Gohan's eyes narrowed as the hairs on the back of his head stood up.

I sense something. A presence I haven't felt since…

Gohan launched upwards, flying towards the familiar ki signal.

SLAM!

K'CHEW!

BZZZZ!

Sparks flew as Goku and Vegeta fought Gotenks relentlessly in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. The large, spacious atmosphere was to their advantage, for they were moving at very high speeds and were battling very intensely indeed. Goku and Vegeta were powered up to Super Saiyan 2, as was Gotenks, but the cocky young Saiyan was proving to be too much even for his fathers.

"Alright, you chumps!" Gotenks jeered, sticking out his tongue, "Let's see how you handle this! Super Ghost Kamikaze Attack!"

Goku and Vegeta watched in awe as Gotenks spat out ten ghosts of himself, all with the same face and taunting expression he had, and they all charged toward their opponents. The two Saiyan men took a defensive stance, ready for their attack – but then the ghosts flew right past them, and onto the ground!

"Hey, uhhh...what's this right here?"

"I dunno, but it looks tasty!"

Goku and Vegeta looked at each other, completely dumbstruck.

"Uhh, hey guys?" asked Goku, "We're kinda in the middle of a fight here, so could you get back to that later?"

He descended to the ghosts, now curious to see what they were looking at. But when he peered over their heads, he didn't see anything!

"Huh? What're you guys looking –"

KA-BLAMSKI!

It was a trap! The ghosts joined hands together when Goku got close to them, and knocked him out cold in one giant explosion!

"Kakarot!" Vegeta shouted, but before he could get down, the remaining five ghosts surrounded him and exploded too, knocking him out cold alongside his partner!

"Hehehe...pretty sweet technique, right?" Gotenks gloated as he descended to Goku and Vegeta, noting with some smugness that they were both powered down to their base forms. "It took me a while to name it, but after a while I thought that –"

SLAM!

Gotenks was knocked flat on his back by Goku's knee hitting him in the gut, the adult Saiyan keeping him subdued by pressing his knee against the boy's belly.

"Heh...not bad, Gotenks. But you shouldn't have let your guard down."

"Whatever! You just got lucky," said Gotenks, standing up and dusting himself off. Goku glared at the fused Saiyan warrior.

"We can't afford to get cocky now," he admonished, "The fate of the world depends on our performance. You shouldn't count a mistake on your part as the opponent 'getting lucky.'"

"Hmmph," Gotenks crossed his arms, irritated, but he didn't talk back to Goku. Well, that was better than giving him attitude, at least.

"Uggh..." Vegeta slowly got up, rubbing his head. He was covered in soot, as was Kakarot. "What the hell was that!?"

"Gotenks's Super Ghost Kamikaze Attack," said Goku matter-of-factly, "It's an impressive move, hopefully he can use it in battle."

"And preferably not against us..." Vegeta muttered.

After Gotenks defused, the four Saiyans went back to their usual routine of having father-son sparring sessions until the boys could fuse again, sometimes mixing and matching so that Goten and Trunks could fight Vegeta and Goku, respectively. It was a good idea given the difference in Goku and Vegeta's fighting styles (Goku more relaxed and Vegeta more aggressive) and after six five-minute increments of this, the boys fused again.

"Fu...sioooon...HA!"

Gotenks fought Vegeta and Goku again, this time showing a wider variety of his attacks, such as the Rapid Missile Fire, Big Tree Cannon, and (his favorite) the Galactic Donut.

"Hrrrg...!" Vegeta grunted, trying to free himself from the glowing halo that was constricting his torso. Goku was having the same problem.

"Erg, dammit! How do we break free from these things...?"

"You can't!" gloated Gotenks, "That's the whole point, duh. My Galactic Donut attack is unbeatable!"

"I wouldn't be so sure of that, son," said Goku, smiling, "I've fought my way out of tougher traps than this."

"Oh, yeah? Then why can't you get out of this one?"

"Well, it's funny you should ask..."

Goku's body flared up in yellow ki, his hair extending and his eyebrows vanishing. Gotenks and Vegeta stared in awe; Goku was emitting more energy than they'd ever sensed from him, and his transformation was unlike anything they'd ever seen. Goku's hair grew longer and longer until it was a large, blonde mane reaching all the way down his back, and he broke the Galactic Donuts easily.

"Good move, Gotenks..." said Goku, his voice several octaves lower than usual, "That was the first thing you've done this year that's forced me into my Super Saiyan Three form. You're getting stronger."

So this is what it looks like up close, thought Vegeta, who was still struggling to break free,I have to admit, Kakarot, that's quite impressive.

"Uhh...thanks?" said Gotenks, shaking, "Um, can we stop the training session now...?"

"Heh. No way," said Goku, "You're about to know what it's like to face a real battle!"

Goku charged at Gotenks, throwing punches and jabs like crazy while the fused warrior could do little more than dodge. Gotenks tried in vain to counterattack but Goku was just too fast, and the boy gulped as he realized he was about to face his match.

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAA!"

Goku fired a Kamehameha wave toward Gotenks, frying the poor boy and covering him in soot, which he quickly shook off. But not before Goku punched him squarely in the gut, knocking him out cold on the white floor below!

"Oof..." Gotenks collapsed, powering down to his base form. The energy halos constricting Vegeta's torso disappeared, and the Saiyan prince descended down to where Goku and Gotenks lay.

"Not bad, Kakarot..." he said, as Goku powered down to base form, "That new Super Saiyan form of yours could give us the edge we need against Gohan and Majin Buu."

Goku gave Vegeta a sideways glance and smiled. Their last conversation had clearly resonated with him.

"Thanks, Vegeta. We'll see."

After the boys defused, Goku looked at the large clock above the entrance to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber and saw with great surprise that it was almost time for them to leave. In fact, their training time would expire within three hours. Did a whole year go by that fast? It seemed like only yesterday they were all training together...and yet, they've made such tremendous progress.

Gotenks defused, and Goku looked seriously at Vegeta. They both nodded. Soon they'd be giving the remaining time in the Chamber to Kaioshin and Kibito, and hopefully the pair of deities would train hard enough to be vital additions to the Z Fighters. Piccolo and Eighteen could help.

There was too much at stake for it not to happen.

Goku smiled at Goten and Trunks, who both looked worn out, and walked up to the boys. "Y'both did really good. I'm proud of you two," he said, ruffling their hair.

Vegeta stood there, but flashed his son a proud smile.

You've become so strong, Trunks…

In a small village on the outskirts of West City, a man was painting in his hut. He was a tall, slender man with an afro and a thin mustache, and he wore a purple and white tangzhuang with matching pants. His hair was dark brown, although it was graying in some areas.

"And now for the finishing touch…" he said, brushing his painting with a satisfied smile. "Voila! Mount Everest is now complete."

The man carefully lifted the painting off the stand and set it right by his other paintings, in his old, dusty art studio. He observed each of his paintings with great pride, his chest swelling.

"Wonderful! That's five portraits in two months. A new record for me! Why, I almost don't miss when I was - "

"A tutor?"

Mr. Shu looked back and gasped. To his shock, a tall, teenage boy was standing right by the entrance of his house, his arms crossed and glaring daggers. Shu stumbled backwards and fell on his rump, pointing accusingly at his mysterious intruder.

"You!" he shouted, "What in the - who do you think you are, breaking into an old man's house!?"

Gohan did not answer. He walked towards Mr. Shu, his steps echoing through the house. The closer he got, the more Shu felt his heart pounding. Sweat poured down the old man's neck as Gohan stared him down.

"You owe me a debt."

Mr. Shu's eyes widened. He recognized that voice. From the worldwide broadcast earlier that day…

"G-Gohan…?"

Gohan grabbed Shu by the throat and yanked him up so they were both at eye level. His hot breath poured onto the old tutors body, making him seem like an animal. Shu trembled as Gohan looked him dead in the eye.

"In the flesh."

Shu tried to speak, but Gohans grip on his neck was too tight. When he finally got enough air to speak, he pleaded, "Don't kill me…"

Gohan smirked as his eyes flashed red. He raised his free hand, aiming it at Mr. Shu's chest. "I won't…"

"... I'll make you wish you were dead."

Somewhere, in a field many miles from the village, a farmer could hear an old man's agonized shrieks as he tended to his crops.

Notes:

Hey, guys! I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I loved writing this, especially Vegeta's development.

Personally, as much as I loved the scene in canon where he hugs Trunks for the first time, I always thought it could have been better. I didn't like that it happened in front of Goten, rather than it being private, and Vegeta knocking Trunks out cold afterwards was kind of off-putting to me. I get that it made sense in context, but still, it was satisfying to write a version of that scene where it happens differently.

What did you guys think of this chapter? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Chapter 14: Mystery of the Z Sword! Gohans Saiyan Nature!

Chapter Text

Piccolo, Chi Chi, Tien, Chiaotzu, Yamcha and Krillin trained relentlessly on Dende's Lookout for what felt like all night and all the next morning, with Eighteen joining in a few times to spar with her husband. The Z Fighters were all making steady progress, as much as they could in mere hours, and as the training went on they found themselves being pushed to new limits.

"Hiiiiiiya!" Chi Chi shouted as she slammed her knee into Piccolo's torso, causing the Namekian to recoil.. It didn't do any major damage, but given the difference in their power levels Piccolo was impressed.

"Come on, is that all you got!?" Chi Chi yelled as she leapt forward to land a bunch of jabs on the tall, green alien. Piccolo dodged each of them easily, and punched the young woman in the gut, causing her to fall on her knees.

"Oof...not bad..." said Chi-Chi, taking a few deep breaths.

"Not bad yourself," said Piccolo, smiling genuinely, "I have to say, for an Earthling, you put up a damn good fight."

Meanwhile, Tien, Krillin, Yamcha and Chiatzu were in a four-way duel, attacking each other as fast as they could without damaging anything on the lookout. Tien shot a small Tri Beam toward Yamcha, who dodged, and countered with a Wolf Fang Fist attack. He almost made it to Tien – until he was knocked off guard by Chiaotzu's Dodon Ray!

"Gah!" The bandit yelled as he was rolled over on his side. Tien grinned.

"Nice work, Chiaotzu!"

"No problem, Tien!"

Krillin took advantage of Chiaotzu's brief distraction to lunge at him and attack, and the two were caught in a midair scuffle, swiping and kicking at each other with great ferocity. As they fought, Krillin was reminded years ago of when he first fought Chiaotzu at the World Martial Arts Tournament..

How times had changed...

After everyone was done training, the Z team all waited outside the front entrance of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, waiting with bated breath for the return of Goku, Vegeta, Goten and Trunks. Bulma and Chi Chi were especially eager to see their sons again, keenly aware of the fact that from the boys' perspectives they haven't seen their mothers in a whole year.

"The door is opening!" Dende announced, pointing a green finger toward the Chamber's entrance, "They're coming out!"

The door swung wide open, and the four Saiyans stepped out of the Chamber and into the real world again, clothes battered and torn somewhat. Their faces looked clean except for a scratch here and there, thanks to Mr. Popo placing first aid kits in the Chamber's closet, but what caught everyone's attention – at least, everyone who could sense ki – was the profound leap in their power levels.

"Whoa..." said Dende, amazed, "Piccolo...you sense this too, right?"

"Yes, I can sense it, but I don't believe it!" said Piccolo, dumbstruck.

"How am I going to compete with that...?" Eighteen, who was just as surprised, asked rhetorically.

"Hey, everyone!" greeted Goku, smiling cheerfully at all his friends. Seeing Chi Chi, he ran over to her and kissed her full on the lips, glad to finally see his wife after so long. Vegeta grunted, and walked over to Bulma, who simply smiled at him. Goten and Trunks walked up to each of their mothers to give them a big hug.

"Hey, Goku," said Tien, walking up to greet his old friend, Chiaotzu floating by his side, "Long time no see, huh?"

"Yeah!" said Goku, giving his old friend a hug, which Tien reciprocated, "Man, I haven't seen ya in forever! How's Launch doing?"

"She's fine," said Tien, "A little upset that we left, but fine."

"Yeah, speaking of that..." Goku looked to Chiaotzu, who smiled at him, and then he looked back to Tien, "Are you sure you guys want in on this fight? Gohan and Majin Buu are really strong, and I don't want you to get hurt if you don't have to."

"We'll be fine, Goku," insisted Tien.. "Chiaotzu and I will contribute somehow." Besides, it's been too long since I've been in on the action.

Goku smiled broadly. He had his concerns, but he knew he could trust his friends' judgments.

"Alright, now it's our turn!"

Everyone turned to the Chamber's entrance to see Kaioshin and Kibito standing in front of it, Kaioshin holding the Z sword in his right hand. Kaioshin observed the Z Fighters with a keen eye, and sighed slightly, knowing he wouldn't see them again for a year. Piccolo walked up to the Chamber, gesturing to Eighteen to follow him. Eighteen, however, was busy saying her final goodbyes to her husband and daughter.

"G'bye, babe," said Krillin as he kissed his wife.

"Bye, sweetheart," replied Eighteen with a soft smile. "You sure you can take care of Marron for a whole year while I'm gone?"

"It'll only be a day for us, Lazuli," chuckled Krillin, "Remember? That's how the time chamber works."

"Oh…right. Heh."

"Hey!" Piccolo's voice barked from beside the Time Chamber, "Finish up your goodbyes. We don't have a single moment to lose."

Eighteen nodded at her Namekian ally and gave her husband and daughter one last kiss goodbye, running up to the chamber doors. She spared one last glance at Krillin and Marron and smiled sadly.

A whole year…I'll miss you two.

"It's been a pleasure training with you all, really," said Kaioshin, smiling to the Z Fighters, "You people are slowly becoming my favorite people in the universe. Rest assured, Kibito and I will be training hard day in and day out to help you protect the Earth and defeat Majin Buu...and bring Gohan back," he added, somewhat somberly.

"My master and I shall not disappoint you," promised Kibito, "When we emerge from this Chamber, we will have perfected the Z Sword to the highest degree."

Kaioshin nodded.

"There is more than enough food stored for you in the pantry section, as well as first aid kits in the closet right next to it if you need it," said Mr. Popo. "Thankfully, since our Saiyan friends haven't overstepped their time, the supplies will last long enough."

Kaioshin, Kibito, Piccolo and Eighteen said their final goodbyes to the Z Fighters and then entered into the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, where they would emerge the next day, with a years' worth of training under their belt.

And with that, the Z Fighters began their training again, this time with four experienced Saiyans to assist them in their preparation for the upcoming grand battle.

If there was one thing Gohan appreciated about flying - even in his current mental state - it was how it helped him reflect on the events of his day. Or entire night, in his case.

The memory of torturing his old tutor Mr. Shu filled Gohans heart with joy. It was a feeling he felt so distant from in the many years since the Cell Games. As the wind whipped through Gohans jet black hair, he felt his hands relax from the fists they were tightened up in. He remembered how when he was a boy, Shu tortured him by whipping him senseless, for days on end. It wasn't until Chi-Chi found out that she finally kicked him out of the house, forever.

Gohan's hand tightened back into a fist.

Chi-Chi…

That infernal woman. Always holding him back. Always keeping him from reaching his full potential. Was there any good inside his family? Any good inside the world? It didn't matter anymore. Soon justice would be achieved. Soon -

And then another memory hit Gohan.

He stopped midair, shaking his head violently as another memory of Chi-Chi flashed across his mind. How she cried all night when Goku died…all the nights she cried…and how all Gohan wanted to do, was be there for her, comfort her…

And then more memories flooded back. Not just of Chi-Chi. Of Goku, of Goten, of Krillin, Bulma, Roshi, Erasa, Sharpener, Videl…

"Gah!"

Gohan clutched his head, cursing as he willed the memories to go away. Thankfully, he had returned home now, and the pain was subsiding. He descended by the front entrance of Buu's gray house, and took a few deep breaths, sitting himself down on a large stone.

"Busy as ever, I see," a sarcastic voice called in front of Gohan.

Gohan looked up to see Dabura, arms crossed and a half-smirk on his face, waiting for him by the front door. "It's almost noon. Majin Buu and I have been training since dawn. Have you found something more productive to occupy your time?"

"Don't be ridiculous," spat Gohan, "Nothing matters to me more than this battle."

"You have a funny way of showing that," replied Dabura, with a sardonic chuckle.

Gohan growled and stood up from the stone. He pointed an accusing finger at Dabura as the hairs on his head stood up. "Don't patronize me!"

Dabura was about to respond when his eyes widened, and he did a double take. His mouth hung open at an apparently shocking sight, and he pointed around Gohan's midriff. "Wait! What…?"

Gohan blinked. "W-What are you staring at…?"

But he looked down and saw exactly what surprised Dabura so much. Gohan gasped. Waving around his backside, as casually as it used to when he was a little boy…was Gohan's tail.

"No way!" shouted Gohan. "I thought - this was removed years ago! But why is it here now…!?"

Gohan stared mesmerized at his long lost tail as it waved around his backside, barely feeling its presence. Dabura walked closer to Gohan, inspecting the tail, as if it was something to be studied. He leaned down and raised an eyebrow, raising a finger to his chin.

"These tails…they're a Saiyan trait. But you had it removed years ago - Babidi's magic must have brought it back somehow," he theorized.

"But how!?" said Gohan, "It definitely wasn't there before! In fact, I don't think it was there until -"

"Last night," finished Dabura. "When Babidi cast the Majin spell, it awakened your latent Saiyan power. Perhaps the more you tap into that power, the more it brings out traits like this. Traits that mark you as more Saiyan than human."

Gohan's mind whirred as he considered the possibility. It seemed so logical, but why now, of all times? Why would such an event happen now? What could Gohan have done that would make this -

His jaw dropped.

"Of course…last night, when I was torturing him…"

Dabura looked up. "Oh? Torturing who?"

"I felt such rage, such power," continued Gohan, ignoring Dabura, "I felt like there was an endless pool of fury I was tapping into. Every scream, every drop of blood - it pushed me further towards the edge. That must be why my tail has grown back."

"Erm…yes, perhaps," said Dabura awkwardly. He stood up and walked back inside the house. "Well, I'm going back inside to meditate. If you have any other questions about Babidi's magic and its odd side effects, let me know. I'm something of an expert in that area."

Gohan nodded, but barely registered Dabura's words as the tall demon went back inside the house. Gohan sat cross-legged down on the ground, stroking his furry appendage and wondering what other latent Saiyan traits were lurking inside of him.

"Watch your back, Master!"

Kaioshin narrowly dodged a blue shockwave from Kibito, turning to his side as the intense ray of energy evaded him. He pulled out his Z sword as they both hovered in midair, staring intensely at each other. They had been training for four months in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, and were getting used to fighting in the vast white spaces of the empty room.

"Kibito. I have told you a million times not to warn me of an attack before you launch it."

Kibito gulped nervously. "I'm...sorry, Master. It is my duty to look after your well-being. I find it difficult to set that aside."

"I understand, old friend," said Kaioshin, as he pulled the Z Sword out of its protective sheathe, "Perhaps I can remedy that."

Kaioahin leapt forward without any more warning, giving Kibito no time to react as he sliced through the red-skinned deity's clothes with the sword. Kibito flew back and, to his surprise, saw that his master had drawn blood.

"Master!" Kibito shouted, "How could you – "

"This isn't a game, Kibito," said Kaioshin seriously, "This is the fate of the universe at stake. We must train to the best of our ability, and if that means getting hurt along the way, so be it."

Kibito growled. This was the first time in their months of training that one of them had drawn blood – he supposed it was too long, but still, it stung him to know that the Kaioshin had done that. But as his Master rightly said, it was necessary.

And two could play at that game.

"I expect nothing less than – HRRGH!"

Kaioshin was interrupted by Kibito's large fist hammering his gut, causing Shin to gag and his grip on the sword to loosen – but not (thankfully) enough for him to drop it. Kaioshin reeled back, tightening his grip on the Z sword, and glared intensely at his assistant as the latter charged his fists with shining red ki.

Kaioshin and Kibito dueled with all their hearts in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, and from that moment on, they sensed their energies grow exponentially more than before. They launched energy blast after energy blast at each other, Kaioshin wielding the Z Sword with all his might, and Kibito perfecting his martial arts and energy attacks. As the months dragged on, the pair noticed each other's appearance becoming more rough, haggard, disheveled – and determined.

They were in this to win.

And it showed.

"Take that!"

Chi-Chi lunged toward Roshi, shooting jab after jab at the mustached martial artist. The feisty brunette had foregone her usual attire of a Chinese-style dress in favor of a purple sports bra and white gi pants to help her move faster. Roshi easily dodged and blocked her attacks, but he noted with great interest that Chi-Chi was very strong.

"Heh, you're not bad," he admitted, grinning as Chi-Chi continued her onslaught. Normally Roshi would have made a sly, flirty comment towards the woman, but in the thick of battle, it was easier for him to concentrate. As Chi-Chi fought relentlessly, the old master couldn't help but think that she would be of use in the coming battle.

She hasn't lost a bit of that fiery spirit since the Tournament, all those years ago…

Meanwhile, Yamcha, Tien and Krillin were sparring in a three-way battle, flying at great speeds above the Lookout. Tien was handling Krillin and Yamcha pretty well with his Multi-Form technique. The bald monk and desert bandit were scuffling with two separate clones of Tien, while the real Tien floated a few feet away from them, observing the fights with Chiaotzu by his side.

"Umm, Tien?" asked Chiaotzu, "Aren't you gonna join in?"

"I need to make sure my clones can fight as well as I can," Tien answered.

Yamcha and Krillin were starting to overpower the Tien clones, and before long they both vanished into thin air, leaving them with only the real deal to train with. Although the two were sweaty and breathing heavily, Tien sensed they still had a lot of energy left in them. He smirked, flexing his muscles and gesturing to Chiaotzu to get out of the way.

The triclops barely had time to defend himself before Krillin and Yamcha came charging at him, both punching and striking at him with great speed. But Tien was able to dodge fast enough to avoid most of their attacks, aside from one or two which didn't hurt him that much. Krillin and Yamcha backed off for a moment, trying to catch their breaths – when Tien had an idea.

Raising his hands to either side of his face, he shouted,

"SOLAR FLARE!"

"Oh, shi –"

Yamcha barely had time to react before a great flash of light blinded him and Krillin. Tien took advantage of the opportunity to punch each of them in the gut, not too harshly but strong enough so that they fell to the ground in defeat. Tien descended to where they were, and he couldn't help a smug grin when he looked at Yamcha.

"Heh...it seems you haven't forgotten how to speak pain, my friend."

"Hey!" said Yamcha as he and Krillin got up from the ground. But he couldn't help smiling reminiscently at Tien's reference to their first battle.

Goku, Vegeta, Goten and Trunks were watching everything from the sidelines, deciding to rest from their yearlong training in the chamber and just watch how the others fought. Goku watched with love and admiration as his wife continued her training with Roshi, loving how determined she was. It was a welcome change from her sadness when this ordeal began.

"Yeah! Go, Mommy!" Goten cheered, pumping his fists in the air as Chi-Chi landed kick after kick against Roshis torso, "She's gonna be the strongest mom in the world!"

"Heh, I hope so, son. Your Mom's got a lotta energy. If she keeps this up, she might be saving the world before I do!" Goku chuckled, admiring the way his wife fought – as well as the sight of Chi-Chi sweating in a sports bra.

Vegeta scoffed at Goku's optimism. He knew he was joking, but still...

The Saiyan Prince walked to a more isolated corner of the Lookout, by the entrance to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. He sat down against the wall and observed the Z Fighters training, his brow furrowed, contemplating if this would be enough.

If this does not work…

Vegeta glanced over to Bulma and Trunks, who were watching the training alongside Goku. Bulma was recounting stories of her adventures with Goku, Yamcha, Krillin and the others to Trunks, and the lavender haired youth was soaking up every detail. Vegeta couldn't help but chuckle. His wife always had a fun story to share with their son. Better stories than he had…

Vegeta and Bulma's eyes locked briefly, and for a moment he felt everything go silent as all he could focus on was her.

Then, Vegeta tore his gaze away and looked back to the training Z Fighters.

Kaioshin leapt fiercely toward Kibito, holding the Z Sword tightly in his hand. He hacked and slashed at his assistant, holding back only enough energy to make sure Kibito would survive any wounds. He was done playing. He COULDN'T be playing. There was too much at stake.

Kibito punched Kaioshin squarely in the gut, causing the purple-skinned deity to cough up some blood and fall to his knees. He struggled a little to get up – but Kibito backhanded him across the face before he could!

"K-kibito..."

"It is as you said, Master," Kibito said as he wiped some blood off his lip, "The fate of the universe is at stake. You specifically requested I not hold back."

Kaioshin got up on his feet, massaging his side. Blood was dripping down on the floor, but he was able to stop the flow, and he smirked cockily at his assistant.

"You're right, Kibito. And there's no way I'm holding back now."

Kibito smiled, impressed by his master's resilience. He balled his hands into fists, and orbs of red ki surrounded them. "Then, lord Kaioshin...let me see what you've got!"

Kaioshin took a fighting stance, holding the Z sword in his hands as firmly as he could. Him and Kibito raised their power levels as high as they could, and their ki auras flared, causing color to flash throughout the endless white space of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber.

The pair of deities leapt toward each other, and if anyone could have seen their dueling, it would have looked like two miniature storms of red and purple fighting to the death. Kaioshin and Kibito fought relentlessly, neither side showing weakness or giving up. Kibito threw punch after punch toward his master with fists full of ki, and Kaioshin dodged each of them, striking at Kibito with the Z sword.

The duo continued their fight, their power growing higher and higher, until...

"Well, hello there!"

"Huh!?"

"What!?"

Kaioshin and Kibito fell humorously to the ground, distracted by a third voice that greeted them from...they didn't know where. Kibito got up first, looking all around him to see where the voice came from.

"Master...did you hear someone else?"

"I did, Kibito..." Kaioshin got up and looked around him, "But we were the only ones who entered into the Chamber...who else could it be?"

"Why me, of course!"

The pair of deities looked down and saw, to their amazement, that the Z Sword was glowing and pulsing with a strong white aura. It was surreal to watch; it was almost as if the sword itself was a beating heart. But what exactly could this mean...? Kaioshin scratched his head.

"M-master...?" Kibito stuttered, "You...are seeing this too, correct?"

"I am, Kibito," said Kaioshin, "I see it, but I can hardly believe it."

"Well, you better believe it now, or you're going to think you're crazy these next few months!" said the voice inside the Z Sword, chuckling.

"Who...who are you!?" asked Kaioshin.

"Why, funny you should ask, m'boy! I'm an older Kaioshin – fifteen generations older than you, to be precise!"

"WHAT!?" exclaimed Kibito, "F-fifteen generations!?"

"Yes siree! I was Kaioshin back when the galaxies were much more peaceful. But then some nasty guy comes around – almost as nasty as Majin Buu. And he seals me inside of this Sword. But I'm glad to be out and about, at least somewhat, so I can talk to you both! It seems with how hard you've been training with the Z Sword, I've been able to harness the energy to communicate from in here."

Kaioshin and Kibito looked at each other, completely dumbfounded. This was by no means the least crazy thing they've seen – especially given the events of the last few days – but it was strange enough that they had to pinch themselves to see if the environment of the Time Chamber wasn't causing them to hallucinate.

"Erm…" said Kibito, "With all due respect, Mister..."

"Just Kai, my boy. Call me the Elder Kai."

"Yes," continued Kibito, "With all due respect, Elder Kai...we were in the middle of training, and you interrupted us..."

"Oh, then don't mind me! I was just too excited not to speak up. But, if you must continue, feel free to ask me for help! A seasoned Kai such as myself might be able to offer help on the battlefield."

Kibito looked at Kaioshin expectantly, and the purple deity shrugged. "We have nothing to lose, Kibito. Why not?" He turned to the sword. "Alright, I'm interested in having you join us in battle. If you see us err in any way, feel free to correct us."

"Whoopee!"

And so, for the last three months of Kaioshin and Kibito's training, the spirit of the Elder Kai guided them in their battles. He provided many helpful tips and insights into how he trained in his younger years, and the younger pair appreciated his help immensely. There was no doubt that their surprise guest would prove valuable in the fight with Gohan and Majin Buu.

Gohan sat down on the nearest and shortest plateau by Majin Buu's house, observing everything around him. This was his favorite part of the Earth, he thought. No buildings. No people. Hardly any animals. Just a nice, quiet spot of the planet where he could relax and forget about life. He always enjoyed that – it was a love he discovered while training with Piccolo. In the rare moments where he had some peace to himself, Gohan would often sit down on a mountaintop and just enjoy nature. He stroked his tail, which was draped over the edge of the plateau.

"Don't get too used to the view," a gruff voice said behind him, "It'll all be gone soon."

Gohan gasped and turned around, Dabura standing behind him.

"What do you want?" asked Gohan, a little annoyed.

"The same thing as you. I simply wanted some peace and quiet after training all day," replied Dabura, sitting down next to Gohan.

"If you wanted that, why join me over here instead of going off by yourself?"

"You're not too loud of a person," chuckled Dabura.

"Har-dee-har," said Gohan sarcastically.

The two sat in silence for a while, observing the sunset and the occasional bird that would fly over it. The skies were getting progressively darker, but still light enough to plainly see all the land before them.

"You know, Gohan," said Dabura, "I have to say, out of all the young fighters I've come across, you truly are the most unique. All this time I've never seen such a change in any of the men Babidi's recruited, from a pure hearted, innocent boy to a beast of destruction."

Gohan shuddered at those words – but why? It wasn't like Dabura was wrong...

"I have to know...what changed? What exactly did Babidi bring to your mind that convinced you to join us?"

Gohan's expression darkened as he looked forlornly at the setting sun. The eerily calm atmosphere, combined with the occasional gusts of wind that would blow throughout the valley, gave him the perfect setting to answer such a question.

"He showed me just how badly this world screwed me over," said Gohan bitterly, "Ever since I was young...I've been surrounded by death and destruction. From my uncle...to the Saiyans...to Frieza, and then Cell...and to top it all off, my own father."

Gohan inhaled sharply as Dabura listened intently to his story.

"My father, if he even deserves to be called that, left me with nothing from the start," Gohan continued, "He kept leaving us again, and again...until finally he left me and my mother with nothing for seven years. He was killed by Cell, and stayed dead, claiming it was the best way to keep the Earth safe. But I knew better. He was just being selfish. For years I spent countless nights awake, wondering, hoping he would come back. But no...he left me and my mother while she was pregnant with my little brother. I'm sure he had a good laugh about it while fighting strong opponents in Other World."

The Saiyan hybrid spat bitterly on the ground as he wrapped up his list of grievances against his father and the world. Dabura remained silent, his expression impassive.

"I see...and you think that destroying the world is the best way to enact justice against it?"

"Yes," answered Gohan, "When this world gets destroyed, everyone will be judged by King Yenma in Other World. That's where the true justice will commence, where sheep and goats get separated, where tares get cast away from wheat. Then and only then will true justice be served."

"Ahhh...," said Dabura, smirking, "So the end goal is still a noble one. I see Babidi couldn't get rid of the old you completely."

Gohan averted Dabura's gaze.

"So, what about you?" he asked, trying to steer the subject away from himself. "You're a demon, right? But how does that work? I mean, I thought demons were spirits, not physical beings who can fight."

"Yes, well...they aren't," said Dabura with a deep sigh, grabbing Gohan's attention, "You see, I'm...not really a demon."

"Huh? Then what are you?"

Dabura looked up toward the skies, a reminiscent gleam in his eye. "I am part of a long extinct alien race called the Supaish. We were a warrior race known for our demonic appearance and our fire-based techniques in battle, so many confused us for demons when facing us. I was the king of their home planet until one day, a neighboring planet invaded us, and I had to flee for my life."

Dabura hung his head low, clearly not enjoying the memories he was reliving. Gohan gulped, regretting that he had asked. He decided to change the subject somewhat.

"But...I thought you lived for centuries? How's that possible?"

"The Supaish are known for their very long lifespans," said Dabura immediately – he'd obviously been asked this question many times before, "Which is another reason we got confused for demons. People thought our nigh immortality made us that way."

"Oh..."

Gohan thought about it, and couldn't help chuckling. Dabura looked at him, confused.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing, it's just...a demon king who turns out not to be a demon, but an alien. Just sounds like someone I know, that's all."

Dabura blinked, but then chuckled himself. "You've seen a lot in your lifetime, haven't you?"

"Yeah, I sure have," said Gohan, smiling for the first time that day.

Piccolo and Eighteen sparred ferociously on the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, their yells and grunts echoing through the chambers neverending, white expanse. Piccolo had removed his cape and turban and was clad in his purple gi, while Eighteen was dressed in a pink tracksuit she packed with her. Their eyes were narrowed and their attacks were precise and focused, looking carefully for any weak spot in their opponent.

Piccolo aimed a hook squarely at Eighteens jaw, which she dodged. It turned out to be a feint, however, and Piccolo threw a punch in the androids gut while she was distracted. Eighteen recoiled back as spit flew from her mouth, catching her breath.

Piccolo launched himself at Eighteen and she barely had time to respond before she took a defensive position, blocking the Namekians attacks with her arms.

"Hey, no fair…! I wasn't ready!" said Eighteen in between attacks.

"The enemy won't care about that when you're on the battlefield!" replied Piccolo, as he threw a kick at Eighteens torso.

The blonde android did a backflip and landed a few feet away from her opponent. She dusted off her suit and took a fighting stance. Breathing deeply, Eighteen gathered as much ki as she could, hoping that her efforts would make her a match against Piccolo.

Damn it, he's gotten so much stronger these past seven years. Can I keep up…?

Piccolo disappeared and Eighteen gasped as she sensed his ki behind her. Thinking quickly, she reeled back and landed a kick on his torso, which Piccolo didn't have time to block. He gagged and got sent careening back a few feet, but he quickly recovered, massaging his side.

"Not bad," admitted Piccolo.

A look of surprise crossed Eighteens face at the unusual compliment from the Namekian. She smiled. "Not bad yourself. But I can tell you've been holding back. If you really want to give me a challenge, why don't you show me the power you used against my brother all those years ago?"

Piccolo looked all around him, as if searching for someone. Eighteen knew what he was doing - making sure Kaioshin and Kibito weren't in the way. The two deities had found their own space in the chamber to train, but occasionally they ran into the Namekians and Android duo. And when that happened...well, Kaioshin and Kibito got quite irate, to say the least.

Finally, Piccolo responded, smirking. "If you insist."

Piccolo launched a barrage of yellow ki blasts all over the place, and Eighteen dodged each and every one of them. Piccolo didn't relent, however - he kept blasting faster and faster the more Eighteen dodged. Yet for all his efforts, not a single blast hit the Android.

In fact, Eighteen found it remarkably easy to evade his attacks. "Are you even aiming at me!?" she shouted. "Quit playing around and show me what you got!"

Finally, Piccolo stopped his attacks, Eighteen floating in midair, completely unharmed. Piccolo's smirk grew wider. Eighteen gritted her teeth in frustration.What the hell kind of game is he playing…?

"You're finished, Eighteen!" shouted Piccolo.

"What!? What are you - "

And then it hit her.

This attack...she had seen this before. When Piccolo fought 17.

Looking around, Eighteens eyes widened as she saw countless yellow orbs surrounding her, practically lighting up the entire chamber. Everywhere she turned, the blonde android was surrounded by them. Her heart raced as she lost track of how many ki balls there were.

"You should have interrupted me while I was attacking!" instructed Piccolo from underneath her. "Now you're surrounded! HELLZONE GRENADE!"

The orbs exploded simultaneously around Eighteen, and Piccolo watched impassively as smoke surrounded the Android. The cloud of thick, gray smoke dissolved, and the blonde android descended to the ground, her body covered in dust and her tracksuit torn.

Eighteen collapsed on her knees, gasping for breath. Piccolo casually walked up to her, extending his hand to help her up. "I think that's enough for today," he said.

"Yeah, I...I think so, too."

Piccolo and Eighteen retreated to the dining area of the Chamber, where they raided the fridge for food and water bottles (only water bottles, in Piccolos case) and sat down at a table where they relaxed from their rigorous training session that day.

"I've got to step up my game…" said Eighteen, after gulping down a full water bottle, "Seventeen could take that attack no problem…"

"I wasn't nearly as strong back then," replied Piccolo, pouring his water into a bowl. "Besides, you're still conscious. That's an achievement."

"Hopefully an achievement I can pull off at Break Wasteland," replied Eighteen sardonically.

Piccolo raised the bowl to his lips, the waters cool taste refreshing him. He never understood how humans could drink from a plastic container, but then again,he never understood why humans needed to live off anything other than water.

Lowering the bowl, he wiped his lips. "Hope is not the goal. We will defeat Majin Buu and Gohan at Break Wasteland. Come hell or high water."

Eighteen picked at her sushi in a bento box from the fridge. "Right…"

Piccolo cocked an eyebrow. "Do you have any objections?"

"No, it's just…" Eighteen sighed. "I don't know. About Gohan, about us. About this whole situation. The kid's gone off the deep end. How do we know we can bring him back?"

Piccolo looked forlornly down to his empty water bowl. He remembered the times he shared with Gohan, to his early days training the boy to watching him grow up with his younger brother Goten. Piccolos grip on his bowl tightened, causing it to crack.

"We'll just have to wait and see."

Goku leaned back on the tiled floor of the Lookout, gazing up at the darkening sky with his hands behind his back. The others had retired to the resting quarters now that the day was over, and Goku took the time to relax by himself. It was much needed.

He frowned as he pictured Gohans once smiling face in the clouds.My son, he thought to himself.

"Hey…" a shy, quiet voice said beside him.

Goku sat up, startled. He saw Videl standing next to him, her hands behind her back, looking nervous. Goku patted the floor, motioning for Videl to sit next to him.

When she did, he asked, "You're that girl he was with, right? Videl…"

Videl nodded, her cheeks turning pink. Goku smiled. "Man, I remember when you were gettin' beat up at that tournament. Gohan was so mad, I had to stop him from jumping in and killing Spopovich!"

Videl chuckled. "Yeah...that was crazy…"

"So, what's up?"

Videl sighed deeply. "I need to tell you something about Gohan. I found this out the other day. I talked with that purple guy...Shin, was it? He did some kind of telepathy thing, and I was able to talk to Gohan."

Goku's smile disappeared, and Videl could almost hear his heart pounding. The only sound that could be heard was the palm trees that lined the temple swaying in the wind. "You...you talked to Gohan?" asked Goku at last.

Videl nodded. "I...I did, yeah."

Goku blinked. In a voice barely above a whisper, he asked, "What happened?"

"I was getting through to him at first," Videl continued, "But he went crazy towards the end and Shin had to stop the connection. He was...about to hurt me."

Goku's shoulders dropped. Well, so much for that glimmer of hope. Knowing how much Gohan apparently cared for Videl, he thought that if anyone could get through to him, she could. "I'm sorry that happened to you, Videl."

"But there's something else, too," added Videl, with a sharp intake of breath, "That black M on Gohans forehead...it's gone. Babidi isn't controlling him anymore."

"WHAT!?"

Goku fell on his back, his eyes and mouth wide open in shock. Scrambling back up, his mind was whirring from the revelation. Gohan wasn't under Babidis control anymore...he has broken free…

"But he's still evil," Goku finished the thought out loud.

"There's still hope for him," Videl insisted. "I know there is. I was getting through to him, more than I thought I could. And if I can...so can you."

Goku smiled again, resting a hand on Videls shoulder. "Your devotion to him is really admirable. What you did was brave, and I needed to hear this. Thank you, Videl."

Videl smiled back. "Of course."

Goku chuckled. "So...y'two getting married after all this?"

"WHAT!?"

Goku laughed as Videl blushed profusely. The sun had now completely set, so it was lucky for Videl that Goku didn't see just how red her face had turned.

Videl went back to the resting quarters to go to sleep, but Goku stayed up all night outside the Lookout, gazing up at the starry skies with a renewed sense of hope. Seeing how confident Videl was in turning Gohan back to the light lifted a huge burden off Goku's mind...maybe even more so than the news that he had broken free from Babidis magic.

A look of fierce determination crossed Goku's face.

Don't worry, Gohan...Daddy's coming soon.

BUUUUUUUU!"

Outside the confines of the gray, clay house they called home, Gohan, Dabura and Majin Buu were training relentlessly. Buu and Gohan were currently battling one on one, Dabura observing and intervening occasionally to provide more challenge to both fighters. Buu was flailing around as much of his pudgy body as he could, throwing punch after punch to Gohan while whistling merrily to himself.

"Hrrrgh..." Gohan grunted in disappointment. "You need to move faster, Buu! You'll never defeat the Z Fighters with that kind of speed."

Buu paused in midair, a smile glazed across his face. Gohan wondered for a second if the pink djinn had even registered what he said, but a sinister glare told him the message was received.

"Buu punch faster!"

The djinn launched a barrage of much quicker attacks on the Saiyan teenager, and Gohan deftly dodged all of them, albeit impressed with Buu's performance. Buu was quicker learner than he let up sometimes. Dabura watched with great interest as he floated on the sidelines, observing how more ferociously Buu was fighting.

"He seems to be taking this more seriously..."

Gohan kneed Buu in his fat pink gut, causing the djinn to recoil a few feet away. Steam huffed out of Buu's nostrils, and his beady eyes narrowed into slits. Gohan couldn't help but gulp slightly.

I hope he remembers this is only a training session...

"BUUU!"

A light green wave of energy shot from Buu's palms, heading toward Gohan at what would be lightning speed for normal humans.

But Gohan was able to react quickly enough; he stretched back his arms, and blue ki glowed in them. Aiming it squarely at Buu's attack, he shouted, "KAMEHAMEHA!"

Competing waves of blue and green energy collided with each other, causing a miniature shockwave that caused the clouds in the sky to pull back, and the ground underneath to shake and crumble. Dabura flew back so as not to be affected, impressed with the display of power.

Sweat poured down Gohan's neck as he pumped more energy into his Kamehameha wave, but he was grinning, enjoying every moment of it. The endorphin rush he received from a good training was something he'd always appreciate, and Buu was proving to be more than a worthy adversary. Electricity sparked throughout his body as he ascended from a regular Super Saiyan into Super Saiyan 2, upping the ante a little.

Majin Buu, for his part, was showing impressive determination in battle, his normally childish face scrunched in concentration. He was using an unusually strong attack that he thought would work, and it appeared for a moment that it would – until Gohan's energy spiked upward and engulfed his attack!

"Oh...oh no!"

The djinn was swallowed up in Gohan's Kamehameha wave as his green energy wave all but evaporated, and Gohan let his arms rest at his side, satisfied with his impressive attack. Once the dust settled from the attack, however, Majin Buu was floating unharmed, smiling broadly. Gohan, Buu and Dabura descended to the ground as yet another training round was complete, making it four total that day.

"Buu like to train!" Majin Buu cheered, pumping his fists in the air, "When Earth get destroyed, Buu train more to destroy more planets!"

Dabura chuckled darkly at that statement but Gohan, who was still catching his breath, hung his head low. Buu's stomach growled, and the djinn frowned.

"Buu want candy!" he pouted, "Buu go look for cities so he can turn people into candy!"

And with that, the fat pink genie flew off, looking forward to his next meal. Gohan and Dabura stayed by the house, grateful not to have to deal with Majin Buu for the time being. Gohan sat down on a nearby rock while Dabura gave him an appraising look.

"Both yourself and Majin Buu are making tremendous progress," said the Supaish. "At this rate, nothing can stop us from achieving our goal."

"We still can't let up," said Gohan, taking a swig of a canteen of water he had strapped around his waist, "Goku and the others are going to be training like hell. We can't risk staying behind them."

Dabura sighed. He was afraid of hearing that. Gohan's caution was understandable, but after training four sessions in a single day, the alien warlord hoped that the Saiyan teenager would let up a bit. "Regardless, I think it's appropriate for us to get some rest. I'll be in my room meditating."

Dabura retreated back inside the house, leaving Gohan to gaze at the setting sun by himself.

He leaned back on the rock he was sitting on, enjoying the gentle breeze swaying through the valley. The training he had done with Buu and Dabura had scared most of the animals away, so everything was pleasantly quiet, and he could enjoy the sunset in peace. A small, reminiscent smile tugged at Gohan's face as he watched the skies darken and the sun slowly set; it reminded him of simpler times, when he could enjoy nature and reflect on the events of his day. In this case, he could reflect on a lot of things, including...including...

A cold chill ran up Gohan's spine as he suddenly found himself gasping for breath, and he fell on all fours to the cold ground below, shuddering rather violently – and not from the cold. He couldn't believe it, even several days after having done it, he could hardly register what had happened –

I...I killed him, I killed Mast – I killed Babidi...

Sweat poured down his face as Gohan breathed in labored gasps. His Master – or who he thought was his Master – was dead because of him. Babidi, the wizard responsible for Gohan's inner awakening, was dead because of him. He couldn't believe it...

Gohan balled his hands into fists so tight that blood started to drip down them. He looked at his palms, and suddenly his vision became dizzy. He felt as if he were about to faint, and he very well could have – were it not for a sudden leaping feeling in his stomach that seemed to awaken his senses.

A feeling of freedom.

He was liberated from his shackles. He was free from Babidi's control. And he was going to take advantage of this by proving himself to be the strongest Saiyan alive – and the bane of the entire universe.

Gohan's eyes widened, and he looked toward the heavens, shouting,

"Son Gohan...Dabura...Majin Buu...this trinity of warriors will be the punishment to the world! People of Earth! Enjoy the last week of your pitiful mortal lives. Soon I will collect my debt, and starting with Son Goku, I will be avenged! And then you will all be rectified, corrected – after you have experienced the pain you caused me!"

In the dark confines of the meditation room, Dabura levitated cross-legged. Engulfed in a white sphere of energy, his ki steadily increasing by the second. His face was scrunched in concentration.

All remaining Babidi soldiers, I have a message for you…

Chapter 15: The Calm Before The Storm.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

Dende stood on the edge of the Lookout, observing the world beneath him with a deep frown. It was no exaggeration to say that everything was going to hell – cities were being terrorized (if they weren't already emptied by Buu), anarchy was ruling in the streets, and fear was the strongest emotion to be sensed throughout the planet. The Guardian heaved a deep sigh.

He was aware that the previous Guardian had faced something similar when Cell was on the loose – terror gripping the planet, and people disappearing left and right. Dende supposed that he should be thankful that at least now, the threat was identified early on, whereas with Cell, they had no idea what they were dealing with when people started disappearing.

An ironic chuckle escaped his lips. "Heh. Look on the bright side, I guess..."

"Dende?"

The teenaged Namekian turned around and saw Goku walking up to him, hands behind his head and smiling broadly. Goku stood next to Dende, and the Namekian felt his shoulders ease a little.

"Are you alright? You seemed kinda zoned out," the Saiyan asked.

Dende blinked. Was Goku aware of what was going on?

"I...well, honestly, no, not really. We're one week away from fighting Majin Buu and Gohan, and the world...everyone's so afraid. People are going crazy."

Goku's smile disappeared. He put a hand on Dende's shoulder, and the Namekian looked up toward Goku's onyx eyes. The Saiyan's face shone with a rare solemnity – a sort of fatherly expression an older man would wear when he's about to give important advice.

"I know it's difficult right now, Dende," said Goku, his voice lowered to almost a whisper, "But you shouldn't feel responsible for what's going on. There's only so much one person like you can do, and it's not your fault all those people are dying."

"I'm the Guardian of the Earth!" shouted Dende, and Goku stepped back at his unexpected outburst. Tears started falling down Dende's cheeks. "I...I'm supposed to be protecting these people. I'm supposed to keep them safe, but...they're all dying, and...I can't do anything about it."

Dende fell to his knees, tears falling fast down his green face. Goku frowned, and knelt down beside him. Thankfully, enough space separated them from the group so that their conversation remained private. Goku gently patted Dende on the back, and he couldn't help but be reminded of similar experiences he had with Gohan when he was younger.

"Dende, listen to me," he said soothingly, "Even as Guardian, you can only do so much. This whole Buu situation hit us outta nowhere, and we're all still learning how to handle it."

"I know, but...it's my responsibility," said Dende, sniffling, "People are dying, and I can't do anything about it..."

"Dende," said Goku more sternly, catching the Namekians' attention, "Listen to me. You shouldn't be hanging your head like this. We're going to beat Majin Buu. We're going to get Gohan back. And we're going to revive everyone with the Dragon Balls."

Dende stared into Goku's onyx eyes, noting the patient sternness with which the Saiyan spoke. He looked back at the Lookout toward the rest of the Z Fighters and noticed for the first time how relaxed they all were.

Mr. Satan and Mike Fone were arm wrestling, Sharpener, Erasa and Videl were chatting about high school things, and Krillin soaked up family time with his child while Bulma was recounting old stories to Trunks. Chi-Chi played lovingly with her youngest child while Tien, Yamcha and Chiaotzu were training some light hand to hand combat. The only ones who didn't seem to be enjoying themselves were Piccolo and Vegeta – and really, given those two, it wasn't anything to worry about.

Dende looked back to Goku, and for the first time that entire day – in a few days, really – smiled.

"Thanks, Goku. I guess I just needed some perspective," he said. But then his smile dropped a little, "I guess what's been really getting to me is what's happened to Gohan..."

"It's been getting to all of us, Dende," said Goku, "Trust me, I know more than anyone how terrible it feels. But, everything will be okay. There's no use worrying about it."

Goku raised a hand to Dende's shoulder, giving it a gently affirming squeeze.

"It's times like these when being together is important, Dende. We've been training hard, and our strength has been increasing to where we can fight back. But we also must realize how much we need each other. And if we get that right...I know we will win in the end."

Dende nodded, his spirits lifted. Goku smiled back, and then he did something he'd never done before. He gave Dende a hug.

"You're a great Guardian and friend, Dende. Don't ever forget that."

"Pardon me?"

The sentimental moment was interrupted by Mr. Popo, who had arrived to deliver news to the Guardian of the Earth. Goku let go of Dende, and they both stood up, awaiting the genies' news.

"What is it, Mr. Popo?" asked Dende, hoping the black genie didn't see his embarrassing outburst.

"Kaioshin, Kibito, Piccolo and Eighteen will be leaving the Time Chamber in fifteen minutes," said Mr. Popo evenly, "I suggest we all wait outside to greet them."

Soon all the Z Fighters were gathered outside the entrance of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their friends. There was an excited murmur going around the group as many speculated what the four fighters would look like, what their power levels would be, what if any new techniques they might have learned...

"Oh man, I'll bet they're super strong by now!" cheered Yamcha, "They could probably make mincemeat out of Buu after training for a year."

"Hey now, don't get too cocky," admonished Roshi, clicking his staff, "It'll take more than those four to help us win the battle."

"If you ask me, I think we've got more than enough power collectively by now," said Videl, looking at the fighters around her, "But, I guess I'm not one to comment..."

Vegeta stared impatiently at the door to the Time Chamber, his arms crossed and a few beads of sweat dripping down his head. When he had fought in Babidi's spaceship alongside the Kaioshin, Vegeta thought the deity to be too cowardly to be of any use. Now, after a whole year of training with three other warriors - and with a mysterious weapon called the 'Z Sword' - could the purple deity actually be of use to them?

Don't you dare disappoint us.

"Look!" shouted Mike, pointing toward the entrance, "The door is opening!"

The Z Fighters watched with bated breath as the door to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber opened and the four warriors it housed exited, carrying with them a tremendous aura of strength and authority they didn't have before. The first thing everyone noticed was that their expressions were far more intense looking than before they entered, and the second was that their clothes were sewn together, showing that it had suffered damage while inside the Chamber.

Eighteen ran over to her husband and daughter, giving them all a big, grateful hug. Piccolo passed by Goku and nodded briefly, walking over to a more secluded area of the Lookout, doubtless to meditate.

Kaioshin walked up to Goku, Kibito following close behind him, and he stood in front of all the Z Fighters. He cleared his throat.

"My friends...the time has come. What Kibito and I have perfected with the Z Sword, we know will be of great value on the battlefield. I was unsure if we could win before; but now, I know we will. Nothing can stop us from reigning victorious. For eons, I've waited to pay back Majin Buu for killing the rest of the Kaioshin family, and now that time has come. I've tapped into the power this sword contains – and it will be the salvation of the entire universe!"

Satan City was, at this point, a hollow shell of its former self. Buildings tumbled, fires ablaze left and right, and the survivors (if there were any) completely evacuated, no one would have guessed from looking at it that it was the same Satan City from just two weeks ago. What was once a sprawling metropolitan area became a wasteland of near extinction.

Son Gohan was walking through this wasteland, dressed out of the white tunic he'd been wearing the past several days and into more casual attire of jeans and a blue hoodie that he swiped from an abandoned clothing store. His tail, which he'd gotten used to having by now, was wrapped securely around his waist underneath his clothes. As he walked down the empty streets and kicked aside the occasional can, Gohans mind wandered into directions it hadn't wandered in a while.

Gohan wasn't sure why he decided to come back to this city. He was angry with it, and the people who (formerly) lived in it – just like he was angry at the rest of the world. But after training with Dabura and Majin Buu that day, something inside of him urged him to come back. But he couldn't for the life of him figure out what it was.

He passed by a totaled pizza shop...

"Dude! Check THIS out!"

Sharpener grinned widely as he stuffed three slices of pizza into his mouth, one pepperoni, one mushroom and one sausage. He munched on it loudly as his mouth tried to contain it all, and after swallowing he drank the rest of his cola, practically pouring it down his throat. Gohan watched in awe, while Videl and Erasa watched with...something quite different.

"Ugh. Sharpener...was that REALLY necessary?" asked Videl, facepalming.

"Hey, you were the one who doubted my ability to eat three slices at once," chuckled Sharpener. "Gohan! Let me see what you can do."

"Sharp, you don't need to pressure him into – "

Before Erasa could finish, Gohan had stacked five pizza slices onto his plate from the four large pizzas they had ordered. The other three teenagers had their eyes glued on him as he stuffed all five slices into his mouth, chewing happily. He swallowed and leaned back, grinning.

"What...you took me for some kinda pushover?"

Gohan continued walking throughout Satan City with an impassive expression as he tried and failed to suppress the memories of his former life. He walked through building after building, and every step seemed to bring another memory that nagged at the back of his mind.

He then passed a bank...

"Freeze, vile thief! The Great Saiyaman is here to stop your reign of crime!"

Two masked robbers barely drew their guns before a colorfully costumed teenager punched their lights out, knocking them on their backs to the ground. Police were just arriving on the scene, and were placing the crooks under arrest. One officer walked up to this self-identified 'Great Saiyaman' to shake his hand.

"So you're the Great Saibaman – "

"Saiyaman," corrected Gohan with a smile.

"Right, Saiyaman that I've been hearing so much about, huh? Well, Videl's been good to us, but I gotta say, having another crime fighter in town never hurt," said the cop.

"All in a days' work, officer! Now, if you'll excuse me...duty calls!"

And with that, Gohan whooshed into the skies, eager to get to his first period biology class on time...

Gohan shook his head as he continued his walk throughout Satan City. The memories kept getting stronger and stronger, so...why was he still walking? Why not just fly away and be rid of them? It was the most sensible thing to do.

But he continued to walk. He didn't know why. Maybe it was an odd sense of nostalgia. Whatever the reason, Gohan's feet took him to what seemed like every square inch of Satan City before he stopped at an old park, once a thriving place where families would spend their quality time, now just a dead husk of an even bigger ghost town.

Gohan sat down on a bench that faced a fountain that, surprisingly, was still flowing with water. He watched it with a great deal of interest...

Gohan had his face buried into his hands as he tried to forget everything that had happened that afternoon. He liked this park – it was a peaceful area, a good part of the city where he could decompress and relax after a rough day. And boy, did he need it now...

"Hey..."

Gohan looked up and saw Videl standing there. He sighed; not exactly the person he felt like talking to right now. The brunette crimefighter sat down next to Gohan, who averted his gaze.

"So...yeah. The guy you decked at gym's in stable condition at the hospital. Just...thought I'd let you know," said Videl, stretching her arms back and observing the fountain as if it was the most interesting thing in the world.

"Thanks for telling me," said Gohan, who still had his face buried in his hands.

During that afternoon's gym class, Gohan was paired with an unusually arrogant classmate named Spike. Spike was taunting him the whole time, which normally wouldn't get on Gohan's nerves too much – except when he brought up his dead father. He had heard of Son Goku and his death and mocked Gohan for living as the son of a "late, has-been hillbilly," to which Gohan nonverbally responded by punching him square in the gut and causing him to fly across the gym, creating a massive dent in the wall.

"I mean, if you ask me, he deserved it," said Videl nonchalantly.

This caused Gohan to look up, and to Videl's surprise...he had been crying.

"And what about me? What do I deserve, huh?" said Gohan as tears fell down his slightly reddened eyes, "I just exposed myself...in case you can't tell by now, I'm not like other guys."

Videl trembled a little at seeing Gohan in such a vulnerable condition. She hesitantly reached a hand toward his shoulder and squeezed it gently – and to her surprise, he seemed to relax.

"No, of course not. But who wants to be like other guys? You're better than most guys, anyway," said Videl.

"No...you don't understand," said Gohan as he looked toward the fountain, "I mean...I'm different."

Videl raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

Gohan sighed. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you..."

"Gohan."

Videl locked hands with him and their eyes met once more. Videl's blue eyes met Gohan's onyx ones, and for once in the time she'd known him, she felt as if they were connecting as human beings. Gohan blushed a little.

"Listen to me, okay? We're ALL different, in some way or another. We all have skeletons in the closet. And I don't know what yours are, but...honestly, as cheesy as this might sound, I'd take whatever skeletons you've got over the flesh and blood all the other guys have any day."

Gohan felt his shoulders relax, and all thoughts of his Saiyan ancestry and everything about himself he was trying to hide vanished. All he saw were the warmth of Videl's bright, blue eyes, eyes that were usually looking at him with sternness and incredulity, trying to expose him as the Great Saiyaman.

But this time...

"Videl...I..."

"Gohan."

The Saiyan teenager was woken out of his reverie by none other than the Kaioshin, who was standing right next to the bench...the exact same spot where she stood...

Gohan shook his head. "What do you want?" he asked, glaring daggers at the purple-skinned kai.

"To see if it isn't too late for you. I know what happened - I know that you killed Babidi. Your last conversation with Videl, which I arranged, confirmed that. There's no other way you could have broken from the Majin spell. Dabura was too loyal, and Buu was too innocent to do that," the Kaioshin replied evenly.

"What's your point?" grunted Gohan.

"My point is that there is still good in you. You are one of the few people Babidi has enslaved with a will strong enough to resist their master. And I know that if you can do that...you can see the light, and join us against this fight with Majin Buu."

Gohan spat on the ground. "Ha! You think I'm just going to turn around and join you guys? No way. I'm owed a debt by this world – and I will have it!"

Gohan's eyes flashed red briefly.

Kaioshin eyed him intently, his expression calm. "I knew from the very first moment we met, Gohan, that you were destined for great things. There is still good in you, even now. And I know right now that your heart is very heavy...but if you would just turn back, I promise you, you will experience healing."

"Healing!?" cried Gohan, standing up, "Try living your whole life full of suppressed rage, watching your family die in front of you, to be denied the peaceful life you want to live that everyone else can...and then come back to me and talk about healing! No, what I need to see is justice, justice for all the ways this world has wronged me, justice for all the pain I've experienced! If I'm going to suffer, so will everyone else!"

Gohan breathed heavily, glaring at the Kaioshin. The deity simply looked at him, unfazed.

"Gohan, you speak of justice. You speak of being owed a debt. But let me ask...what is justice to you? How do you define it?"

"What...?" Gohan took a step back. He wasn't expecting a question like that. But for some reason, he felt compelled to respond. "Justice...to me, is getting paid back what you gave to someone else. Good or bad. Everyone gets exactly what they deserve. That's what justice is. That's what's coming to this world."

"I see..." mused Kaioshin. He gestured toward the emptiness of the park, and by extension the whole city. "And what makes you think that every soul here got what they deserved when Majin Buu turned them into candy and ate them? Did they bring upon you pain and suffering?"

"Shut up!" shouted Gohan, "Just shut up, and leave me alone! Buu, Dabura and I will kill you and the rest of the world next week."

"Very well, Gohan," replied Kaioshin curtly. "I will leave you alone. It is clear that nothing I am saying to you can break through the fog that covers your mind. However..."

A small smile tugged on his lips.

"...I now know for a fact that there is still hope for you."

"Oh, yeah?" scoffed Gohan, "How's that?"

"Because..." replied Kaioshin as he ascended to the skies, "...you didn't try to kill me this entire conversation."

Kaioshin flew back to Dende's Lookout as Son Gohan screamed to the heavens.

Goku was running through countless dark alleyways, his face sweaty and his orange gi sticking to him like a second skin. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a familiar silhouette sprint into a corner. Goku made a sharp turn and headed into the corner, where he saw his son, wide eyed and looking frantic. Gohan was backed up against a wall, and Goku noted with a sick feeling in his stomach that his son was wearing the same gi he was.

"Gohan, stop!" pleaded Goku. "I'm trying to help you!"

Gohan fell to his knees, crying. Goku walked up to him, stretching out an arm to lay a hand on his son's shoulder, but Gohan recoiled. He looked up and glared at Goku.

"You...you should have been there for me! But you weren't!" he shouted. His hair turned gold, his eyes shone red, and a black M appeared on his forehead. "NOW look at me!"

"But I'm here, son!" shouted Goku. "I'm here and I'm not leaving! Please, I just want to help you…"

"Liar!"

Gohans left palm filled with ki, and he shot a hole through the brick wall he was cornered into. He ran and Goku sprinted to catch up to him, but soon Gohan was too far away.

Soon, Gohan ran at the edge of a cliff that he slipped and fell off of, screaming as he was falling down. Goku watched in horror as his son was sent hurling to his death.

"WHY COULDN'T YOU SAVE ME!?"

Goku ran at the edge of a cliff and saw, to his shock, Gohan standing at the bottom.

But another Gohan.

GRANDPA Gohan.

Grandpa Gohan looked up at Goku with sad, soulful eyes.

"Why couldn't you save me, son…?"

"GAH!"

Goku woke up in a cold sweat, his heart racing. He was trembling and gasping for air, but was relieved nonetheless.

It was just a dream, thank Kami…

He hopped out of the bed and slipped on his blue shoes, careful not to wake up Chi Chi. In fact, Goku was surprised she hadn't woken up after his outburst. He tiptoed out of their room and onto the edge of the Lookout, desperately needing some fresh air. He didn't even slip on a shirt, he just desperately needed to go outside.

Goku's heart rate returned to normal almost the instant he stepped outside. Maybe it was because he was raised in the jungle, but outside was where he felt the most at peace. Wiping the remaining sweat off his forehead, he sat cross legged underneath a palm tree and meditated.

Goku frowned, remembering his nightmare…

My son…

"Goku?'

Goku's eyes shot wide open as he heard a familiar voice. Looking to his left, he saw Chi-Chi sitting cross legged next to him, her hair down and in a pink cheongsam. Her eyes shone with worry.

Trying to ease her mind, Goku chuckled. "Helluva few days, huh?"

"Goku, don't give me that," Chi-Chi chided, "I heard you scream."

Goku's smile disappeared.Should've known that would wake her up.

Chi Chi sighed and laid her head on Goku's shoulder, staring up at the dark skies. Morning was about to break through, and the couple could see the sun rising on the horizon. Under different circumstances, Goku and Chi Chi would be amazed at such a beautiful sight.

But now…

"I can't believe it, Goku," said Chi-Chi. "Our baby...I keep wondering how I missed it. All these years and I've failed him so miserably. I'm sorry, Goku. I am so sorry."

Goku looked at Chi-Chi, horrified.She's blaming herself!?Goku pulled her chin up so he could look her in the eyes. "Chi-Chi. No. This isn't your fault. The Gohan we're seeing right now, isn't the real him. He's been used. Please, get any guilt out of your head right now."

Goku felt Chi-Chis shoulders relax at his comforting words, but that didn't stop her from crying. Goku held his wife tenderly as she cried softly into his chest.

When her tears slowed, he pulled her face back up to look at him. "You know we're gonna get him back, right?"

Chi-Chi nodded less confidently than Goku would've liked - but nodded nonetheless.

Goku gazed back up at the skies, holding his wife close to him. Together, they would succeed. Together, they would bring back Gohan. Together…

"You still think about him, don't you?" asked Chi-Chi.

"Huh?" replied Goku, staring down at her, incredulous. "Of course I do, Chi. I think about Gohan every day -"

"Not Gohan," interrupted Chi-Chi. "Well, not that Gohan. I mean Grandpa Gohan. I heard you whisper his name in your sleep."

Goku felt like the breath got knocked out of him. Chi-Chi could even hear him whisper? He could get nothing past this woman.

Goku hung his head low. "Yeah, I...I do. A lot, actually. Ever since this whole thing happened, I've been thinking about him more."

Goku stared down at his lap. "I keep thinking, if he's watching me. What does he think now? Of the kind of father I've been, the kind of man I've been...and it was because of me that he died…"

"Goku."

Chi-Chi cupped her husband's cheeks into her hands, looking at him with her beautiful, brown eyes that Goku loved so much. "Listen to me. That wasn't your fault. You didn't know any better. And I promise you, that if Grandpa Gohan were alive today, he would say the same thing."

Goku's shoulders relaxed at his wife's soothing words. A tear fell down his cheek, and she wiped it off for him. "I am sure your grandpa wouldn't - doesn't blame you for what happened. And he wouldn't blame you for our son, either."

Goku held Chi Chi's small frame in an all-encompassing hug. "Thanks, Chi. I needed to hear that. More than you think."

He looked up to the rising sun, and smiled. "When all this is over, we're going on a trip. You, me, Gohan and Goten. I loved spending time with the little squirt in the time chamber and I'd love to spend more time with all of us together."

Chi-Chi giggled. "You got it, mister. We'll make it happen."

Goku and Chi Chi relaxed against the palm tree, the leaves swaying in the morning wind. As the sun rose to signify daybreak, one thought was echoing in both of their minds…

We need to get our son back.

Gohan stormed through the entrance to Majin Buu's house. His face was red and his teeth were gritted; it didn't take a genius to figure out that he was not to be crossed at the moment. Dabura was meditating in midair when Gohan's entrance startled him, and the boy slammed his fist against the wall.

"Damn you, Kaioshin!"

Daburas feet landed softly on the ground, observing his friend's behavior calmly. Gohan was powered down to his base form so thankfully his fist didn't cause too big a hole. He waited for a few minutes before Gohan stopped breathing so heavily.

"I was wondering when you'd be back. Majin Buu and I have been training all afternoon," said Dabura calmly.

"I...I just..."

Gohan shook his head. "I had a...bad run-in with the Kaioshin."

Dabura nodded, getting the message that Gohan didn't want to discuss the events of his day any further. Hoping to put him in a better mood, he replied, "I made some arrangements for our battle with the Z Fighters that you might be interested in."

Gohan turned his attention to Dabura and his eyebrows lifted, curious. "What sort of arrangements?"

Dabura grinned. "Reinforcements."

It was a bright afternoon on the Lookout, and everyone was enjoying themselves.

Mike Fone watched as Goku's wife walked away to tend to their youngest son, and he decided to approach the fighter. He never had this much interaction with Son Goku outside of the ring, but given the circumstances, he thought he'd chat.

"Hey man, you doing okay?" Mike asked, startling the Saiyan from his thoughts. "Well, I guess that's a stupid question. I just meant to say, is there anything I can do to help?"

"Oh," Goku chuckled seeing the emcee. "Hey Mike. I don't think so, bud. But thanks for asking. I'm just ready to get my kid back."

Mike nodded, feeling bad for Goku. He never had a kid himself, but he couldn't imagine how hard it must have been to be in Goku's shoes right now. "You know, it's funny to me that you even have kids. It seems like yesterday that you were that little runt plowing through adults in the tournament," he said reminiscently.

Goku laughed thinking about his fights in the martial arts tournaments. "Time really has flown by. And if I'm honest, I didn't think I'd have kids. I didn't know a thing about this kinda life," he said, looking over his shoulder at his wife holding their youngest.

"I'll never forget that fight," Mike said, seeing Goku's eyes fixed on his family. "Boy, was she mad at you. If she coulda knocked you out with her temper alone, you wouldn't have stood a chance."

"You're definitely right about that," Goku heartily agreed. "For the first year of our marriage it amazed me how someone so small could be so loud and opinionated. But looking back, I really don't think I could've been that easy to live with. She's a trooper."

Chi-Chi looked up at Mike and Goku laughing when she felt eyes on her, giving him a puzzled look.

Goku just smiled and shook his head to say, "It's nothing."

She playfully frowned, knowing they're talking about her, probably about their fight at the twenty-third tournament, but then turned her attention back to her son.

"She gave her all in that fight. Still the only marriage proposal I've had in the ring," Mike laughed. "You've come a long way, Goku. And so has everyone else. It shocks me that you're so tight with Piccolo and Tien. When I saw you all arrive together at the tournament it floored me. Tien? I mean I guess that's somewhat believable. He didn't want you dead. But Piccolo? Last time I saw him he wanted nothing more than to kill you."

Goku nodded, thinking back on his past. "You know, Tien ended up being one of the best friends a guy could have. And Piccolo... he's the reason I still have a family. He's sacrificed himself for my son and for me on more than one occasion. He's nothing like his father."

"Why don't you tell me about it?" Mike suggested with a plan in mind.

"Well, it all started when a brother I didn't know I had showed up on Earth when Gohan was only four years old..."

Goku then gave the emcee a detailed account of his life since his long-lost Saiyan brother arrived on his home planet to the moment that led Goku to fighting for his son.

Enthralled by the warrior's story, Mike soaked up every word. He knew Goku was extraordinary, but not human? That did explain a lot now that he looks back on it.

"You've lived an incredible life, Goku. And it sounds like you have a knack for turning enemies into friends." He placed a comforting hand on Goku's arm. "I know this isn't your son. You'll get him back. He's still in there. If you could turn King Piccolo's son into a person that laid down his life for the boy, then this definitely isn't over."

Goku gave a small grin. "That's the thing. Piccolo's change had nothing to do with me."

He peered off into the sky as if hoping his son would hear him say, "It was all Gohan."

Vegeta stared down at the world from the edge of the Lookout, a frown plastered on his face. Evening had arrived and the sun was setting on the horizon, giving the world a deceptively peaceful look. Vegeta almost felt like laughing imagining how many frightened earthlings we're probably scrambling for some solution to Gohans free for all, earth shattering battle next week.

Almost, that is.

The Saiyan Prince's frown deepened. Fishing in the pocket of his blue bodysuit, Vegeta took out a dyno cap. He was about to toss and open it, when -

"Hey."

Vegeta froze.

Bulma stepped beside him, a small, subtle smile on her face. Stretching her arms casually, she whistled as she looked at the view of the world from the lookout.

"Nice scenery, huh?" she said lightly.

"Yes," Vegeta replied curtly, not looking back to his wife.

Bulmas smile disappeared. She folded her hands behind her back and lowered her head, sighing deeply.

"I know he didn't mean much to you, Vegeta. But to me, he was like family. And seeing him like this…"

"I know," replied Vegeta, in a maddeningly calm voice. "I've always known how much he meant to you."

Bulmas right hand clenched into a fist. "Then why did you do it? Why did you try to kill him!?"

For the first time, Vegeta turned to face his wife. Bulma shifted, taken aback for multiple reasons. One that he was even looking her in the eye, and two that she saw something in those eyes that she never saw before. Something human. Something resembling…

...regret?

"Because I was blind," said Vegeta simply. "Blinded by my hubris, blinded by my lust for power. Years ago, when Trunks - the one from the future - died in front of me, I was consumed by a rage I'd never felt before. A rage that gave me a desire to fight for someone else. When Cell died, and I settled down with you and Trunks in Capsule Corp...I never felt that again. It became a distant memory to me, a dream, a mad fantasy."

Bulmas breath hitched in her throat.

"Until," Vegeta finished, "I spent that year in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber."

Bulma stayed silent, but nodded, motioning for Vegeta to continue.

"There I grew closer to Trunks, and learned valuable lessons. From him, and, as much as I hate to say it...from Kakarot."

"W-What…?"

Bulma heard it, but she couldn't believe it. Vegeta, learning something from Goku…?

"He told me how much his family meant to him, as more than a means to an end. I thought of how strong he had become and for the first time, noticed how little it meant to him. Except...as a means of protecting those he cared about."

Vegeta looked down, and if Bulma didn't know any better, she'd say she saw a tear falling down his face.

"Bulma...I am sorry. For everything."

Tears welled in Bulmas eyes. "Oh, Vegeta…"

"There's one more thing."

Vegeta held up the dyno cap that was still nestled under his fingers, and tossed it to the ground. A small POOF of colorful smoke appeared, then dissipated, showing a small, silver ring on the floor.

Vegeta knelt down and picked it up. Taking off his glove, he slid it on his ring finger.

"I...haven't worn this since our wedding day. But from now on, I want to."

Bulma stood stock still, staring at Vegeta with a completely blank face. Vegeta shifted uncomfortably, and looked down at his feet.

"I...I don't...I mean, I understand if...I suppose what I'm trying to say is…"

Bulma smiled. Wrapping her arms around Vegeta neck, she gave him a deep kiss. A kiss they hadn't shared since as long as she could remember.

She pulled away.

"I know. And I love you, too."

Bulma buried her face in the crook of Vegeta's neck, and he held her close to him, massaging her back. The two were completely alone on the lookout as the sun set on the horizon, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Bulma looked at her pinky finger, and a brief, bittersweet memory crossed her mind:

I pinky promise, Bulma!

She felt a fire rise inside of her heart.

Vegeta's seen the light. Gohan...now it's your turn.

Night time fell across the Lookout, and eventually everyone went to sleep. The Z Fighters were all worn out from another day of training and catching up with each other, and with next week in mind, none of them wanted to fall behind on getting rest. However, there was one who wouldn't stay asleep...

Videl walked outside the resting quarters to the near edge of the Lookout, dressed in her pajamas. As a child she would always go outside and stargaze in her backyard when going through tough times, and these...definitely counted as tough times. She sat down beneath a large palm tree, the tiled floor feeling a little cold beneath her.

She leaned back against the tree, looking up to the heavens. A particularly bright star caught her eye, and the more she looked at it, the more emotional she felt. The events of the past few days rested heavily on her mind, and she breathed in deeply.

"Gohan..."

"Videl...I..."

Videl put a finger to Gohan's lips, silencing him. "It's okay, Gohan. It's okay."

Gohan and Videl looked deeper into each other's eyes, the sound of the fountain's rushing water filling their ears. And then, Videl did something that Gohan never thought she would do. She kissed him on the cheek.

"You're one heck of a mystery, sky guy," said Videl, smirking and playfully punching him on the arm, "And honestly? I'm okay with that."

Gohan chuckled, and his shoulders dropped a little. Videl smiled.

"So, does this mean I'm not on your hit list anymore?" asked Gohan half-jokingly. "That you're gonna stop following me around all the time?"

Videl laughed. "Sure, as long as you don't steal my crimefighting gig, 'Great Saiyaman.'"

The teenage pair laughed as their worries subsided into a distant memory, and spent the rest of the day walking around town, going out to eat, and just enjoying life. They later received news that the boy Gohan injured was making a swift recovery, much to their relief.

Videl looked down, her shoulders slumped. That fond memory was mere months ago but it felt like forever. The Gohan she knew was a sweet, well-meaning young man who loved people and just wanted to live a normal life, not...not this...

The martial artist shuddered as she remembered Gohan killing all those people at the tournament. He looked just like the Golden Warrior persona he had adopted in his first days of school, but his eyes were full of cold hatred and malice. He killed all those people without second thought, and the fact that they were revived later didn't make the event any less traumatic.

Then Videl remembered the last conversation they had, and her stomach twisted in knots. She remembered how they were just talking, Videl bringing up memories of happier times, until Gohan...snapped.

Tears fell down her face as she remembered the look of pure hatred on Gohans face. Hatred that a part of her felt wasn't entirely unjustified…

Videl wished, more than anything, that she could take back blackmailing Gohan. Her heart sank as a horrible possibility crossed her mind. Could that have been a reason that he turned to the dark side? Would things have turned out differently for Gohan if Videl never mistreated him…?

No, she thought, wiping tears from her eyes,I can't think like that. Not now.

But the tears continued to fall, and Videl fell on her knees, wailing.

"Gohan, I'm sorry!" she cried. "I'm so sorry! Please...forgive me…"

Her gaze turned back toward the stars and somehow, in spite of everything, Videl felt a great thrill of hope rush through her. A hope that helped alleviate the regret she was experiencing.

"Gohan...please come back to me soon."

Son Gohan sat cross-legged on a plateau by the house, eyes closed and breathing in deeply, dressed out of his street clothes and into a white tunic. Meditation was something he had come to appreciate, especially given the weight of what would happen in the coming days. As he breathed in and breathed out, he was filled with hope at the thought of the destruction of the world...destruction that would bring forth a new creation...

He opened his eyes. Something tugged at his heart. What it was, he didn't know. He looked up toward the night skies and felt a strange urge to stargaze. He saw one shining more brightly than all the rest, and he was oddly attracted to it.

"Videl..."

Why or how the star made him think of her, he didn't know. But he felt something, a strange, reminiscent feeling welling up inside of him, reminding him of all the times they had spent together, from their first meeting in high school, to them training together...

A single tear fell off of Gohan's face, and he brushed it off with his thumb. He looked down at it in wonder...why was he feeling this way? Did killing Babidi make him feel more attachment to his former life? Or was it something else...how he felt for Videl all along...?

Gohan shook his head. No, he was being foolish. Overthinking, as per usual. But he couldn't deny how he felt, and for whatever reason, all he felt like was holding Videl in his arms and...

"Damn it..."

He sighed deeply. Well, this meditation session was going wonderfully. He leaned back toward the plateau and closed his eyes, content to sleep outside and forget about everything nagging at his mind. But as he did, he could hear the unmistakable voice of the Kaioshin, haunting him in his sleep...

"I know that there is still hope for you, Gohan..."

Notes:

Alright, ladies and gentlemen! We are one - count it - ONE chapter away from the GRAND FINALE! :D I am so excited to share what I have written for the final battle. What I have is huge, so huge that it had to be split into two chapters, each 10K words long! I'm moving this weekend so it may take some time, but I'm pumped to get those chapters out there!

I want to thank all you guys for sticking with me this long. I love getting your nice reviews and seeing how much y'all appreciate this story of mine. This chapter was fun to write. Lots of romance; GoChi, HanVi, Vegebul, you name it lol. Now that we're on the cusp of the final chapters I hope you appreciated this one!

Chapter 16: Sins Of The Son, Part 1.

Notes:

A/N: This chapters art was drawn by the wonderfully talented tossuart! Give her a follow on Twitter and Instagram! She's a great artist and an even better person :)

Chapter Text

Nightbefore the final battle...

Endless crowds of people were gathered around the vast expanse of Break Wasteland, talking, murmuring and occasionally, panicking. Tents were gathered all throughout the wasteland as people from all over the world anxiously awaited the long anticipated, climactic battle between the Z Fighters and the Majin Team. For the older generation, it held even greater significance knowing who was fighting who.

"I tells ya, I knew Goku was a fighter, but damn, I never thoughts he'd be fighting his own son like this!" An old, portly, balding man said as he stuffed a cigar in his mouth.

His colleague, a tall, skinny old man with a mustache, nodded. "I remember taking my family to see him at the tourney many years ago, when he fought Piccolo. Such a brave, talented young man...and now he's battling his own child." The man shuddered as he thought of his family, who was now resting inside a tent behind him. "If that was my boy acting like that..."

While the adults were busy fretting, younger people were killing time by having fun in the wasteland's more open areas, playing catch, running around and play wrestling with each other. On one of the nearby plateaus a lone young man with long hair stood silently, watching the skies above him, as if hoping for something to fall out of it.

"Gohan..."

"Hey, Pigero?"

The young man turned around to see his humanoid fox friend, eyeing him nervously.

"You, uh...you're not gonna stand there all night, are ya?"

Pigero ignored him and turned around.

"Hey, wha – c'mon, man, don't ignore me like that!" The fox jumped up on the plateau and grabbed him by the shoulder. "C'mon, Pig..."

SLAP!

"OUCH!"

The fox massaged his right cheek where Pigero slapped him, fuming. "Hey, what was that for!?"

"Leave mealone,Jinku!" said Pigero harshly. "Can't you see I want to be by myself!?"

"But...they're having a dance! And Ena's waiting for you to join her! She even brought her nice blue dress, just for you." Jinku frowned. "Look, I know you're upset about Gohan, trust me, we all are. But why do you gotta beat yourself up like this?"

Pigero sighed deeply. "I'm sorry, Jinku. I shouldn't be this upset with you. It's just..."

"Just what?"

"Sometimes I wonder...if I took him under my wing...maybe he wouldn't have turned out like this?" Pigero looked somberly toward the ground, where children played carelessly as their parents kept close watch over them. "I made a terrible mistake when I let you and the others get captured by those psychopaths. What if I made another mistake with him? And it means the end of the world...?"

"Hey now, stop that!" Jinku admonished sternly. "You may have made mistakes, but it's not like you coulda stopped this from happening. Hey, what if you took him in and we all turned evil instead? You never know..."

Pigero kicked some stray rocks off the plateau. "I know, Jinku. I just...I miss Gohan. A lot. I hate this. I hate whoever did this to him."

Jinku's ears drooped hearing his long time guardian – and best friend – talk so sadly. Well, he couldn't say he blamed him. Gohan held a special place in all of their hearts, and they often spoke of wanting to see him again. Seeing him turn to evil and wish death on the entire world was no easy thing to work through.

The teenage fox patted Pigero on the back. "Just hang in there, man. We'll worry about that tomorrow. I know it sounds bad now, but...everything will be okay. Trust me."

"How do you know?"

"I just know," said Jinku, smiling. "Gohan's a good guy, deep down. He'll turn around. Just wait."

Pigero was skeptical, but somehow the tension in his shoulders released hearing his friend talk so optimistically like that. He looked behind the plateau and saw so many people dancing happily in the forest area, performers blaring their music in the background. How could they be so carefree, with the potential end of the world at hand? Could it be that after surviving the Cell Games, knowing that Goku was still on their side, they felt more optimistic?

Whatever the reason, Pigero couldn't help but smile at the happy display. And out of the corner of his eye, he saw what was unmistakably Ena, in a familiar blue dress, ready to dance. Their eyes locked, and Pigero actually blushed.

It didn't escape Jinku's notice. "Heh...I see you, lover boy. Come on. Go get her!"

Pigero nodded, sweating nervously. He hopped down the plateau and, taking Ena's arm in his, led her to the makeshift dance floor where they could forget about their world-ending problems for just one night.

Meanwhile, by a river near the wasteland, an old man sat with his granddaughter as they both contemplated the events of the next evening. They had their shoes and socks off and were soaking their feet in the river to cool off, and the older man looked nervously at his grandchild as she gazed up at the full moon.

"I know you're upset about this, Lime," said Mr. Lao, wrapping an arm around her, "but there's no use in worrying over this now. The past cannot be changed."

Lime grimaced as she tugged at the right strand of her overalls. "I know, grandpa. But I just don't get it. How could he turn evil like this? He was so kind before."

"Mankind is naturally complex. We can't assume one person is wholly good or wholly evil all the time," said Mr. Lao sagely.

"I know," said Lime, "But...I just can't believe he's doing this." Her eyes started to water as she stared at her reflection in the river. "I want him back..."

"Oh, to be young and in love."

Mr. Lao stood up instantly at the high-pitched, sneering voice interrupting the conversation, and his granddaughter gave a startled yelp, getting behind him. Lao took a defensive stance when he saw who it was – there was no mistaking that face. Or what was left of a face behind all that metal, anyway...

"No way!"

"What'shedoing here!?"

"Is that...?"

Mercenary Tao smirked as he passed some terrified onlookers. It was only natural. Even when the world was potentially ending, he still managed to strike fear into the hearts of the average citizen. He approached Mr. Lao, his ribboned pony tail swaying gently behind his back.

"You!" snarled Lao, "What do you want with us!? If you mean any harm to us, you'll live to regret it!" He stretched his arms in front of Lime, prepared for the worst. Lime trembled, remembering how the mercenary almost killed her grandfather seven years ago. He was almost eighty by now...should he really still be fighting?

Tao merely snickered. "That's precious, my friend. But I didn't come here to fight you."

"Then what do you want?" asked Lao, glaring. Some onlookers had gathered and were watching with bated breath, anticipating who would throw the first punch. A nervous drop of sweat fell down Mr. Lao's forehead.

This time, Tao's smirk had very little humor in it. "These are truly unprecedented times. And I'm here to make you an offer."

"What kind of offer?" asked Mr. Lao, his eyes narrowing as Lime clutched tightly to his shoulder. A collective murmur was heard around the crowd.

Tao's smirk disappeared as he took a deep breath. "I wish to fight with you. You and I are strong fighters on our own, but together, we could be formidable."

Mr. Lao was so surprised he actually dropped his defensive stance, and the people watching gave noises of either shock or incredulity. The famed, ruthless Mercenary Tao...offering to assist someone in battle? And with someone he appeared to have a bad history with?

"Grandpa, don't listen to him!" cried Lime, "He's lying. He has to be! He almost killed you, for heaven's sake!"

Mr. Lao kept his gaze steady on Tao as he mulled over the offer in his head. Lime was right, Tao did almost kill him – and that was during a time not too different from this, when the whole world was anxious over its fate during the Cell Games. So what was it about this time that made Tao want to help?

"Why now?" he asked, his tone a little less hostile than before, "What makes you want to help now, when years ago you tried to kill me? This isn't much different from the Cell Games. And you were a monster back then. What changed?"

"The opponent." Tao replied instantly, "The opponent is what changed. Cell was just some freak accident made in a lab. Gohan is the son of my old enemy, and while it pleases me that Goku is experiencing such trauma, I can't say I'm any more fond of his brat. Fighting against him and his lackeys is more than worth a partnership. Besides," he added with a casual flick of his ponytail, "I've grown to appreciate my little life on Earth since I've retired from being a mercenary."

"Retired!?" A young man said from the crowd of onlookers, "He's not a mercenary anymore?"

The crowd began chattering amongst themselves in hushed, anxious voices. Now that they thought of it, no one had seen Tao in action ever since the Cell Games. Perhaps he really was telling the truth.

"How do I know you won't betray me?" asked Lao, crossing his arms.

"Well, that's the rub, isn't it? You don't know. I can tell you all day that I won't, but it still won't be enough. But look at it this way, Lao – do you think you'll be in any less danger fighting Goku's spawn with me, than without me?" asked Tao, his smirk returning.

Lime clung more tightly to the fabric of her grandfather's gi. Indignation flared inside of her at the mercenary's words, and before she could stop herself, she lashed out, "Leave us alone, you creep! You almost killed my grandpa and you're coming back asking for help? Like hell he's gonna help you! He –"

"Lime," said Mr. Lao with a quelling look to his granddaughter, "Be quiet."

Lime took a step back. She was stunned, as were the onlookers, but she didn't resist. Mr. Lao stepped out of the river and, to everyone's shock – and Lime's dismay – he reached out a hand toward the cyborg hitman.

"Deal."

Morning of the final battle...

Son Gohan sat cross-legged on the sandy ground beneath him, breathing in and out, in and out, steadying his thoughts and heartbeat. This was it. As the sun rose on the horizon, bathing Gohan in its warming glow, he felt the weight of the final battle pressing on his heart. Eyes closed, small droplets of sweat started to pour down his forehead...

Gohans thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a door opening and closing behind him. He turned around and saw Majin Buu walking toward him, and the djinn sat down next to Gohan. Normally the half-Saiyan would prefer to be left alone, but for some reason he felt rather pleased to have some company right now.

"Hey, Buu. What's up?"

"Buu finish sleeping and now Buu want to talk to Gohan today!"

Gohan chuckled. He had gotten used to Majin Buu's innocence by now. In fact, he had come to grow fond of it. "Great. So, what do you want to talk about?"

Buu placed a pudgy finger to his chin, thinking. "Hmmm...Buu don't know! What do you want to talk about?"

"Ummm..." Gohan leaned back on the ground, thinking. That was a good question. Considering what was going to happen later that evening, what was theretotalk about? There was only one thing really pressing on his mind.

But eventually, Majin Buu and Gohan made pretty easy conversation. They talked about a lot of things; favorite foods, places they liked going to, hobbies, and even their childhoods (or Gohan's childhood anyway, Majin Buu couldn't remember much from his previous life). They talked for a couple of hours and eventually Gohan found himself entertaining Majin Buu with embarrassing stories from his high school!

"...so then, it turned out to be the teddy bear underwear!" Gohan laughed as Buu fell on the ground clutching his fat stomach. Tears started falling down Gohan's face as he remembered that embarrassing moment from his high school days. Perhaps it was Buu's innocence, but Gohan felt really comfortable sharing such awkward memories with the djinn. It just felt safe.

As the Saiyan's laughing subsided, he looked at Buu giggling and rolling on the ground. And then, looking toward the rising sun, he felt the weight of the night's events press down on him again...

His smile disappeared.

There could be no distractions.

Goku will pay.

Earth will pay.

And then justice will be achieved.

Goku stood on the edge of the Lookout as the sun slowly crept up, signifying the beginning of a new day. He clutched his stomach. This was it. Tonight, the fate of the world would be determined. And for the first time in his many world-saving adventures...Goku wished he didn't have to.

For obvious reasons.

The rest of the Z Fighters were gathered behind him, waiting for Goku to speak up. He turned around and tightened the blue belt of his gi, looking carefully at everyone. Everyone who could fight was present and accounted for – even Oolong and Puar were there, although what purpose they could serve was anybodys guess. Goku sensed the ki signals of the fighters and found that they were very strong, particularly Kaioshin and Kibito. For a second he thought he sensed another energy coming from Shin's sword, but he pushed it off as a misreading.

"Well...this is it, everyone," he began gravely, "Tonight we fight Majin Buu, and...Gohan." His tone dropped two octaves at the mention of Gohan's name.

A soft murmur ran through the crowd. Goten tugged at the hem of his mother's skirt, looking up at her anxiously. Chi-Chi pulled him closer to her side, rubbing his back comfortingly.

"It's not overselling it to say that the fate of the universe rests on our shoulders. The last time something like this happened was the Cell Games, and that was a tournament. But this is different – this is war. And we're gonna need all hands on deck for this."

The Z Fighters were murmuring a bit more loudly with each other, but Tien's affirming nod gave Goku confidence to continue.

"We're going all out. Gohan, Dabura and Majin Buu are incredibly powerful forces to be reckoned with. But with all our strength combined, I'm confident that we can defeat them and save the world again. But we need to form a game plan." Goku looked over the Z Fighters. "Vegeta and Piccolo, you guys are teaming up with me to fight Gohan. Kaioshin and Kibito, you two can take on Majin Buu and Dabura. Everyone else can either stay at the Lookout or show up to assist any one of us in battle if we need it."

"Uhh, Goku, my man?" asked Mike, raising his hand shyly, as if he were a kid in grade school.

Goku smiled at him. "What's up?"

"I...I know this is kinda weird to ask, but...would you mind if I announced the fights?"

The reaction from this unusual question was very mixed. Piccolo, Vegeta, and Eighteen looked at Mike incredulously and even a little disgusted, Chi-Chi and Bulma were giggling to themselves and Videl, Erasa and Sharpener just stood in slack-jawed awe that the blonde Announcer would even think of asking such a question. Everyone else just face palmed.

Goku, however, beamed brightly at the request, and even chuckled. "Sure thing, Mike. This is your time to shine just as much as it is all of ours."

Mike bowed his head slightly in respect. "Thank you so much, Goku! This'll be just like old times. Well not exactly, but...you know. Heh."

"Right." Goku nodded as he turned his attention back to the group at large. "This is it, guys. We're all in this together. We're going to save the world, and get Gohan back!"

Piccolo frowned. "But how do we know wecanget Gohan back? He killed Babidi and broke free of the Majin spell – but even now, he's still evil."

"What!?" fumed Chi-Chi as a vein throbbed in her forehead, "Are you sayin' you're not gonna help us get Gohan back!? Because getting him back better damn well be the first thing on your mind!"

"I'm not saying that," replied Piccolo calmly. Having known Chi-Chi for years, he was used to her temper by now. "But what I'm saying is that we shouldn't rule out the possibility that the Gohan we know might be gone. And if that's the case, I think you know what we should do about that."

Goku's eyes narrowed. "Piccolo...don't even go there..."

"Yes, Piccolo," said Kaioshin, looking a little concerned, "You really shouldn't. I spoke with Gohan last week and I sensed there was still hope for him. He wasn't nearly as violent and there was much conflict within him over this decision. We don't need to –"

"You're missing the point," interrupted Piccolo as his frown deepened. "I'm not saying there isn't any hope. I'm saying that that's just what it is – hope. It might not be true. Gohan might not be redeemable. And if that's the case...the only recourse is that he must die."

"NO!" Chi-Chi screamed at the top of her lungs. She lunged toward Piccolo, but Tien held her back as spit flew from her face, one arm around her waist and another gently gripping her bicep. The triclops gave Goku a nervous look, unsure if he would allow this handling of his wife, but Goku gave a tiny, reluctant nod that told Tien it was okay. At least for now. "It's not true! Hewillcome back. He will! You are not going to kill my son!"

Piccolo took a step back, grimacing. He couldn't blame Chi-Chi for feeling this way about her son; after all, if he wanted Gohan back, how much more would his mother? But he hated that there would be any confusion among the Z Fighters as to their methods. They all had to be on the same page. The universe depended on it.

"Just calm down, everyone!" Goku commanded, "We need to keep a clear head! We're going to win this, and when we do, we'll get Gohan back. Just watch."

"Kakarot..." said Vegeta slowly.

Goku glared at him. "Not. Now."

"Kakarot, you know that Piccolo's right," said Vegeta firmly, glaring back, "We can't go into this without realizing the stakes. If Gohan can't be reasoned with, it's not like we can keep him alive."

"If it were Trunks instead of Gohan, wouldn't you want to keep him alive!?" yelled Goku.

There was a collective gasp around the Z Fighters at that unexpected remark. Goku balled his hands into fists, and a nervous drop of sweat fell down Vegeta's face as he looked at Bulma, who was hugging Trunks tightly. He gulped. As much as he hated to admit it, Kakarot had a point. Piccolo may not understand fully since he wasn't a father, but Vegeta...

"We're going to do our best to bring him back," said Vegeta, "But we can't afford any mistakes!"

Goku nodded.

As evening fell and everyone did their last minute training exercises and at their supper, Goku and the team paid Dende and Mr. Popo farewell. Goku placed two fingers on his forehead, transporting everyone else on the Lookout to Break Wasteland.

It was time for the battle to begin.

Majin Buu hummed quietly to himself as he did some stretching – well, as much stretching as his very pudgy body would allow. He tried in vain to touch his toes, and when that failed, he simply twirled his arms by his side like giant, pink propellers. Eventually he tired himself out and sighed. "When does Buu get to fight strong bad guys?"

"Be patient, Buu," replied Gohan, as he looked up to the skies, "They'll be here soon."

Gohan, Dabura and Majin Buu had arrived to Break Wasteland and were anticipating the Z Fighters' arrival any minute now. It was evening time, and the daylight was running out – if they didn't get here soon, the whole Earth would be destroyed. The trio was standing in an open field, with few trees and many mountains. The sky was a bright shade of orange showing that the sun was about to set. If the circumstances were different, Gohan might have appreciated the scenery.

"Gohan..." said Dabura, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder, "I sense there are many people gathered here. Well, not 'here', per se, but in the mountaintops, hiding from us. Look carefully..." He pointed to a large mountain to Gohan's north, and the Saiyan narrowed his eyes.

Sure enough, he could vaguely make out a large group of people gathered at the top. How many he couldn't tell – possibly fifteen or twenty. And predictably, their power levels were so low that Gohan would have as much trouble killing them as he would crushing an ant. But he sensed there were more, too...much more, in fact. Many people were gathered all over the mountaintops, observing the Majin trio in hushed silence.

"Don't worry about it," said Gohan as he casually brushed Dabura's hand off his shoulder, "They're nothing compared with us. Soon they'll be destroyed along with the rest of the world. Let them watch."

From the mountaintops, Mercenary Tao adjusted his mechanical eyes as Mr. Lao, Lime and other onlookers huddled anxiously behind him. Pigero and his gang were also present, having chosen the cave on the side of the mountain to hide with Lao and Tao.

"Well?" asked Mr. Lao, arms crossed sternly, "Is it really him?"

Tao nodded. "He's grown quite a bit, but my sensors indicate the DNA samples are identical to the Gohan we came across during the Cell Games. There's no question. This is the same boy."

Mr. Lao nodded as Lime hung her head in sorrow.So he really is a bad guy now...

Meanwhile, back on the mainlands, Buu was getting impatient.

"Buu want to fightnow!Buu don't want to wait anymore!" The djinn whined as he stomped his large feet.

"Calm down, Majin Buu!" Dabura chided, "They'll be here soon. Just wait and be quiet!"

"Dammit..." Gohan muttered, "When are they going to – "

"GOHAN!"

The hairs on the back of Gohan's neck stood up as he heard the unmistakable voice of Son Goku ringing through his ears.

They were here.

He turned around and suppressed the urge to vomit at the sight of his 'father', but was also vaguely interested in how many people came with him. Chi Chi, Piccolo and Vegeta were no surprise, but Kaioshin, Kibito, Tien, Krillin, Yamcha, even the blonde announcer, and... Videl.

Gohan felt his stomach tie in knots.

"So, Son Goku..." he greeted, hiding his discomfort with a smirk, "...you've come to witness the end of your world."

Goku glared at his son. Beside him, Chi-Chi shuddered and clung to the fabric of her husband's gi.Oh, Gohan...

Seeing and hearing him in real life was far different from merely seeing a vision of him or hearing his voice in her head via Babidi's magic. Gohan's facial expressions, his tone, the way his face twisted into that horrible smirk – this wasn't him. This wasn't the sweet little boy she raised with Goku. Chi-Chi bit her lip.

Please come home, my baby...

"Stop posturing, you brat," said Vegeta, "There's three of you, and about a dozen of us. You think you can defeat us? You and what army?"

Gohan's smirk broadened. "Well, it's funny you should mention that..."

He snapped his fingers. As if on cue, hundreds upon hundreds of gray, alien soldiers appeared seemingly out of nowhere; on the plateaus, in the caves and over the mountaintops that surrounded the wasteland. Goku and the team looked on in horror as what seemed like countless soldiers surrounded them, all with their guns aimed at the fighters and sinister grins plastered on their faces. They appeared to be the same race as Pui Pui, but much smaller and from what Goku could sense, much weaker.

Krillin gave Vegeta a sideways glance. "Yahadto ask, didn't you...?"

"I'm sorry to disappoint," chuckled Gohan, "but we've prepared for this battle quite well."

"There's so many of them!" yelled the Kaioshin as more soldiers began to show up. Kibito stood in front of him, glaring at every single grunt that had their weapons pointed. Army or not, there was no way he was going to let his master get taken down. Especially not with their little friend stuck in the Z Sword...

"Don't make another move!" Mr. Satan stood in front of Videl, Erasa, and Sharpener, his arms spread wide in a defensive stance as several aliens advanced on him. "You want them, you'll have to get through me!"

"Dad! What're you doing!?" shouted Videl, "They'll fry you!"

"Yo, Goten!" said Trunks, jabbing his partner lightly on the side, "Y'think we should fuse for this?"

"Ummm..." Goten cocked his head to the side, sensing the power levels of the soldiers surrounding him. "I dunno, Trunks. They seem kinda...weak."

"Alright, listen!" Goku's voice boomed as the aliens continued to surround him. "Vegeta, Piccolo and I will take on Gohan. Shin, take on Buu. Kibito, you take Dabura. Everyone else stay here and fight these bastards!"

"B-but Goku!" cried Mike, "What about me!? And my announcement!?"

"I...fine, Mike. We'll take you with us to announce the battle. Everyone else stay here! Got it!?" With that, Goku left with Vegeta, Piccolo, and Mike (who Goku was carrying on his back) as Gohan led them to the destination of their final battle.

Dabura scanned Kibito up and down as the deity looked back at him with pure loathing. He grinned. He remembered this creature; the Kaioshin's dimwitted servant who he killed. Dabura wondered vaguely how Kibito had managed to come back to life, but he shrugged it off. He was no stranger to seeing death cheated.

Kibito advanced toward Dabura with fists full of purple ki, slamming them together as he glared at the Supaish. He took a fighting stance. "You'll pay dearly!"

Dabura took a defensive stance. "How many times do I have to kill you?"

Kaioshin shuddered as he looked at the abomination known as Majin Buu stretching and dancing happily, amidst all the chaos going on. He felt his stomach twist as he remembered why Buu looked this way: because he absorbed the Dai Kaioshin. Such a horrible memory – all that joy and innocence, wasted on a monster of pure destruction.

The purple skinned deity grasped the Z Sword around his hip firmly as he advanced toward Majin Buu. Buu stopped dancing when he noticed Kaioshin and stared at him, confused. With every step Shin took, his anger and determination to make Buu pay grew stronger and stronger. The Z Sword pulsed with immense energy as the voice of the Elder Kai emanated from it.

"This is it, Shin, m'boy...it all ends here..."

"Majin Buu," said Kaioshin as he pulled the sword out of its hilt, "Today I avenge my master, and take your life!"

Meanwhile, the rest of the Z Fighters took defensive stances as the Babidi soldiers surrounded them, their guns pointed directly at everyone's chests. Tien's three eyes narrowed as he observed all the soldiers.They're not attacking yet...they're not even coming closer. Do they know they're outmatched? Are they just trying to scare us?Chiatozu was floating behind Tien's back, his little white finger charged with a Dodon Ray he was ready to shoot at any one of the soldiers.

Yamcha buried his feet deeper into the ground, growling at the aliens.Wait til they get a taste of the Wolf Fang Fist...!

A lone soldier approached the Z fighters, standing straight and looking very official. He was the tallest soldier with an oval shaped head. He caught the attention of the team by clearing his throat. "Excuse me, my Earthling friends...but I am Captain Gallius. Leader of the Babidi Force – or the Gohan Force now, I should say," he chuckled, "Lord Gohan wanted me to offer you one last chance at peace. You see, the ultimate goal here isn't destruction, but new creation. So, if you surrender now, we shall make this peaceful. We shall not attack."

There was a collective sound of incredulity among the team. Surrender? Now? When they were training so hard to fight to save the world? What were these soldiers thinking? What wasGohanthinking?

Videl raised a hand to her heart as she considered the implications of this. Gohan was offering a chance of peace, of surrender...granted, he did so under the conditions that they would let him win, but it was still an offer to spare their lives, at least for now. She was suddenly filled with great hope. Could he be breaking free from the evil that's plagued him...?

"You're crazy!" barked Yamcha, "We're not gonna surrender! We either take you out, or die trying!"

Usually when Yamcha spoke for the other fighters he got nasty looks from everyone, but this time they all agreed. Gallius smirked.

"Fine then, have it your way. But don't say we didn't warn you," he raised a hand to signal to his men, "Attack!"

The soldiers raised their guns and aimed them squarely at the Z Fighters chests – and in what seemed like an instant, they were all decimated. A flurry of ki blasts and limbs flying every direction, and every soldier in the vicinity was either lying dead on the sandy ground, or incinerated to bits.

Trunks and Goten high fived each other. "Aw, yeah! These losers don't know who they're dealing with."

"It's not over, boys," said Chi-Chi as she peered into the distance, "There's more coming."

The Z Fighters could see a cloud of dust as more troopers were flying towards them in the not too far distance, guns drawn and expressions furious. Thinking quickly, Tien ascended into the air, raising his hands to either side of his face. "Watch out, guys...SOLAR FLARE!"

The team all closed their eyes as bright light flashed from Tien's face, blinding the soldiers who were advancing on them. Tien flew down and dusted himself off. "Well, that was easy enough."

"But there are still plenty of soldiers all around us," said Krillin as he heard the sounds of lasers and fighting in the mountains, "We gotta help the civilians out! They might not be ready for this."

The Z Fighters agreed to split up into groups, and hunt down whatever Babidi soldiers remained so they could save the human onlookers – and hopefully, the rest of the world as well.

This was war.

Mike Fone raised a sweaty hand to his face, coughing. This was unlike any fight he had ever announced in his life. Well, there was the fight between Goku and Piccolo...but even that was at least held at the tournament. This was held at a mountaintop in a distant wasteland. But, Mike was no stranger to announcing fights that determined the end of the world. And he wasn't going to stop now.

As he looked left and right to Gohan, Goku, Piccolo and Vegeta, Mike couldn't help but think wryly to himself that this was the most exciting fight he would announce in years. He let a small grin tug at his face. Stretching out his arms, Mike shouted an announcement for the world to hear, even though very few people in it could.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Presenting, the fight of the century! World-famous martial artist Son Goku, Demon King Piccolo, Saiyan Warrior Vegeta, versus the eldest child of Goku, Son Gohan! A fight to the death, to determine the fate of the entire universe! Who will prevail!?"

Mike took a deep breath and Gohan grimaced a little at the tournament announcers flamboyant style.Is he on something...?

"Goku..." Piccolo whispered, a purple blush spreading across his face, "Did wereallyneed to bring him here?"

Goku shrugged. "I promised him he could announce."

Vegeta muttered something about crazy Earthlings as Mike continued.

"I have seen many intense battles in my lifetime – most of them courtesy of Son Goku – but never would I imagine I'd announce him fighting his own son! This promises to be a match for the history books!" Mike looked to Gohan and Goku as he drew a deep breath. "Without further ado...begin!" He ran as fast as he could off the mountains and into a distant cave, eager to avoid the carnage.

Gohan ascended into the air, wind and dust whipping all over him. He stretched out his arms as electric ki coursed through his body. Goku, Piccolo and Vegeta took their fighting stances.

"Now...the worlds punishment begins."

Goku lunged toward his son, followed by Vegeta and Piccolo rushing at either side of Gohan. They attacked him with everything they could, limbs flying left and right as they aimed for the Saiyan hybrid, who was dodging them deftly. Gohan moved erratically throughout the valley as he levitated amidst what was like a miniature tornado of dust and wind.

They were fighting on a relatively even surface of a nearby mountain, so there was little collateral damage. Goku looked left and right to make sure no onlookers were getting hurt and, seeing that none were in the way, he continued his assault with Piccolo and Vegeta. But their attacks were still in vain; Gohan dodged all of them.

"Damn it...!" Piccolo snarled. "He's too fast...!"

"Fight like a true Saiyan, you coward!" Vegeta goaded, "Don't run away from our attacks, face us head on!"

Gohan smirked and the rocks in the tornado surrounding him swirled into three separate columns that launched toward his opponents.

"Take this!"

Goku, Piccolo and Vegeta found themselves being chased by shards of rocks that looked very painful at the rate they were flying, but they charged up ki blasts and shot them toward the rocks and that took care of that problem.

Goku's head was spinning, and he felt a strange glimmer of hope. Gohan was clearly holding back. Was he just toying with them? Or was this a sign that he was coming to his senses?

Gohan stopped his tornado techniques and descended to the ground, taking a fighting stance with his arms wide at his side. "Hope you enjoyed the show. Now the real battle begins."

Damn it...he was just toying after all.

Goku shoved those thoughts aside as he summoned every bit of strength he had as a Super Saiyan 3 to pummel him into oblivion. He lunged at Gohan and the two were caught in an epic scuffle, limbs flying left and right as their bodies glowed with intense yellow ki. It was quite a sight for Piccolo and Vegeta to see Goku's long mane of blonde hair flailing wildly as he fought Gohan.

Unbelievable...this is the power of Super Saiyan Three?thought Vegeta.

Piccolo was observing the fight carefully. Goku and Gohan's powers far surpassed his own, but he had learned to keep close watch on fights even when his opponents outmatched him. He turned to his Saiyan partner. "Vegeta, listen up! This is our chance. While Gohan is distracted we can attack from above!"

"What!?" shouted Vegeta, "If our attack catches Kakarot's brat off guard, he could die from it!" Not that he cared much at this point about sparing Gohan's life, but Vegeta wasn't in the mood to get on Kakarot's bad side by now.

Piccolo gritted his teeth. He looked at the fight between Goku and Gohan, and he could get a better focus on their battle now, particularly their faces. Gohan...his student. His old apprentice. In some ways, the son he never had. What was once a sweet, innocent kid turned into a beast of destruction with such hateful, loathing eyes...

Piccolo clenched his fists at his side. "I know."

Vegeta looked at the Namekian quizzically, but he nodded. He may have had Piccolo outmatched in strength, but by no means in wisdom. He was sometimes the sole voice of reason in the entire Z team, and when the world's life was at stake, that's what they needed more than anything.

The two fighters floated above the mountainous terrain of the wasteland, eyeing Goku and Gohan's fight. The two were evenly matched, and it didn't seem to change anytime soon. Piccolo's eyes narrowed in on Gohan. This was it. This could be their only shot. Gohan was a smart kid; if this attack failed, they might not have another chance...

"Alright, I've got a lock on him. I'll use my Special Beam Cannon and you use your Big Bang attack. Let me know when you've got your lock."

Vegeta nodded, and quickly replied, "I've got a lock on him."

A nervous drop of sweat fell down Piccolo's as he raised both hands to his forehead. He pushed whatever empathy he had for the boy out of his mind as he focused on the battle. He felt a heavy weight in his soul...and he knew it was the spirits of the other two Namekians stirring within him. The ones who had more compassion than he did.

"Nail...Kami...forgive me."

Bright, orange ki sparked at the pointer and middle fingers of Piccolos arms. Vegeta stretched out his right hand with the palm wide open, glaring at Gohan.

"SPECIAL BEAM CANNON!"

"BIG BANG ATTACK!"

Gohan was locked in intense battle with Goku when he saw a mixture of bright orange and blue out of the corner of his eye; in his brief distraction, he stopped his onslaught of attacks and barely had time to register what was going on before he was hit with the combined strength of Piccolo and Vegeta's assault.

"What...!?"

Gohan was engulfed in the waves of ki and hurled toward the ground, his body rolling over and his pure white gi collecting a lot of dust. The blasts were enough to knock him out of Super Saiyan to his base form and he laid unconscious on the ground, a miniature crater surrounding his body. Gohan was alive, but barely; his body was covered in blood and scratches, and his gi top was ripped off, leaving him in only the white pants.

Piccolo looked at Vegeta, and they both nodded. This was their chance. They flew down to Gohan's side where Piccolo underhooked the boy's arms by his back, and Vegeta concentrated a fist full of yellow ki, ready to aim it at Gohan.

"Sorry, kid," Piccolo apologized as he held his pupil's unconscious body in his arms, "But you brought this upon yourself."

Vegeta grinned as his ki blast grew larger. He launched it at Gohan, aiming squarely at his chest. The ki blast made a small explosion that rocked the area, but when the smokescreen faded away, it revealed –

"KAKAROT!"

"GOKU!"

Son Goku stood in between Vegeta's blast and Gohan, his arms spread wide and still in all his Super Saiyan 3 glory. Vegeta gritted his teeth in frustration. "Damn it, Kakarot! You couldn't have chosen a worse time to let your emotions get in the way of a fight!"

"We are not killing him, Vegeta!" Goku insisted, "We'll get him back. I know we will. But he's unconscious. He can't hurt us anymore."

"You fool!" shouted Vegeta. "Showing mercy has always been a weakness of yours! When will you learn!? It's either his life, or the worlds life!"

Goku was about to respond when he felt a sharp kick to his neck, sending him reeling to the other side of the mountain into a crater. Gohan had just woken up and easily broke free from Piccolo's grasp, landing on his feet and taking a fighting stance. He smirked at Piccolo and Vegeta.

"Well, you were right about his problem with showing mercy," he said as he wiped a trail of blood off his cheek, "but don't expect him to catch on anytime soon."

"Dammit...!"

Vegeta and Piccolo lunged at Gohan and he jumped backwards, avoiding their strikes as he cartwheeled back. The sandy ground beneath his feet made for a slightly rough landing, but the boy's smirk didn't leave his face as the Saiyan and Namekian warriors continued their assault on him at either side.

"Your efforts are meaningless." said Gohan as he dodged his opponents strikes, "Soon Majin Buu and I will destroy everything. And when we do, all souls will be gathered into Other World and will be judged – and then you will know that I was right all along!"

"Do youever shut up!?" Vegeta shouted as he clenched his fists and threw a punch toward Gohan. But all he attacked was an afterimage as the boy disappeared from his eyes. Gohan reappeared right behind Piccolo, trying to knock him off guard with a roundhouse kick, but all he got was an afterimage instead – and soon the whole field was full of afterimages of the other fighters as they attacked each other in record breaking speeds!

Goku stood up from the crater he was knocked into, massaging his neck. He winced as he felt a sharp pain on the side of his head. Miraculously, he was still in his Super Saiyan 3 form, although there wasn't nearly as much energy sparking through his body by now. "Gah...damn it." Goku looked up and could make out Gohan fighting with Vegeta and Piccolo as they flew at insane speeds throughout the heavens. He had never seen Gohan fight so ferociously before...and against his better judgment, Goku grinned.

"Not bad, Gohan...even now, I see you truly are my son..."

Kibito and Dabura fought each other as the sounds of war could be heard all around them. The remaining Babidi soldiers were fighting and shooting like crazy as the humans who at first were mere onlookers became soldiers, and fought back. The sound of gunfire and even the smell of blood trailed in Kibito and Dabura's direction, but they stood their ground unfazed, Kibito flaring up his ki fists as Dabura dodged them deftly.

"Takethis!"

Kibito shouted as white ki enveloped his body, and soon his fists were engulfed in a purple aura that was darker than before. Dabura stood on the ground in wonder as Kibito prepared his attack.Well, well. He isn't such a pushover after all...

"GAAAAAAAAHHHH!"

Two streams of ki shot from Kibito's fists, both aimed at Dabura. The Supaish kind grinned and did a backflip, deftly dodging the attacks as they raced toward a plateau in the distance. When Dabura got back on his feet, he taunted, "Your attacks were just cheap theatrics. Is that the best you can do!?"

But Kibito grinned, surprising Dabura.

"What!? What's so funn – AGH!"

Dabura felt the ki blasts hit him on his back and the ki engulfed him, and he cried in agony as the heat and energy overwhelmed his body. The resulting blast left a huge smokescreen, and Kibito crossed his arms patiently as he waited for the smoke to clear up.

When it did, he saw an empty crater but Dabura was nowhere to be seen. Kibito narrowed his eyes and looked around him. Could that blast have killed the demon...?

"FOOL!"

Kibito looked up and saw Dabura floating above him, his clothing badly damaged and purple blood dripping from his body. But he was grinning, as if in complete control. Kibito gasped. "How could you survive that!?"

Dabura merely laughed and then spat a wave of fire out of his mouth. Kibito dodged and ascended to the skies where he could see his opponent at eye level. Dabura was breathing heavily, but he showed no signs of giving up. "Well, Dabura, I must say your persistence is something I have not seen in a long time. Had you not killed me, I may be inclined to commend you for that."

Dabura snickered. "Your commendation is the last thing I desire, you scum. And that's rich coming from you, considering how easily I took your life. It seems to me that you better watch your mouth." He wiped blood off his chin, "How about this? If you surrender now, you can wait until the world is destroyed to die. That way it will be quick and painless. But refuse, and I will be sure to make your next death the most painful out of everyone who's going to die in this battle."

"You do not scare me, you depraved demon!" Kibito growled as his ki began to rise and his fists started to glow again, "Wewillsave the world – and you cannot stop us!"

Kibito charged toward Dabura as the two fighters raced across the wasteland, their limbs flying and each equally determined to kill each other.

Kaioshin screamed as he leapt toward Majin Buu with the Z Sword, the blade glowing with white energy as it swung toward the pink abomination. Buu giggled and easily evaded the attack, sticking out his tongue toward the purple deity.

Shin and Buu were dueling in the same ground that the Z Fighters teleported in, and the battle between the humans and soldiers raged behind them as they continued their assault on each other. Kaioshin growled in frustration as Majin Buu danced and laughed at his failed attempts to slice him.

"Ha ha ha! You no hurt Buuuu! You no hurt Buuuu!" The djinn taunted in a ridiculous, sing song voice.

"Damn it all!" Kaioshin yelled as he gripped the sword tightly. "He's too quick!"

Majin Buu shook his fat hips, and did a cocky little dance. He was obviously very proud of himself for evading the Kaioshin's attacks, and this made the purple deity even more frustrated. Damn it all...he could see Dai Kaioshin's carefree attitude in the way Majin Buu carried himself. Shin's heart sank as he remembered all the times his master would play games with the other Kaioshins, and now that fun demeanor was wasted on this...this monster...

Kaioshin couldn't take it anymore. "MAJIN BUU!"

Buu stopped dancing and looked at his opponent, confused. He looked around as if expecting the Kaioshin to be talking to someone else. "Majin...Buu...?" He repeated stupidly.

"You listen to me!" Kaioshin gritted his teeth as his grip on the sword tightened even further. "You took my master away from me! And now you mock me with a pathetic rendition of his joyful attitude as you avoid your rightful punishment...but not anymore! Now you suffer! Now youpay!"

Kaioshin leapt toward a very confused Buu, taking out his sword for yet another attempt to slice the monster into oblivion, when...

"Wait!"

He stopped abruptly, floating mere inches from Buu as he face faulted and landed comedically on the ground. Kaioshin stood up, annoyed. "What...what is it, Elder Kai?" He said, trying to hide his irritation with his ancestor.

"You are clearly very angry, my boy. Very distressed over what Majin Buu did to the Dai Kaioshin. And I am, too. Dai Kaioshin did not deserve to go the way he did."

Shin looked at the Z Sword in confusion as Majin Buu stood there, completely oblivious to everything going on. "Yes...what's your point?"

"My point is that your anger is clouding your judgment. Think about it. Buu absorbed Dai Kaioshin, which means he must have Dai Kaioshin's innocence within him. And if he does, perhaps there is another way we could win this fight. One that does not involve killing him."

"What!?" Kaioshin recoiled in horror, "Are you out of your mind!? How can I allow Majin Buu to live when he is going to destroy this entire universe!?"

"That's the thing, lad. Does he really want to? I don't believe that he's ever lived a life without Bibidi or Babidi telling him what to do. What if all it took was one simple conversation to change his mind? He's clearly not fully aware of what's going on. And the Dai Kaioshin's innocence has affected his personality. So...why not try?"

Kaioshin stared at Majin Buu. The pink djinn had by now forgotten about his fight and was instead laying on his back, reading a comic book he had apparently carried with him...for some reason. Kaioshin shook his head.

"Elder Kai...no. I can't. He's caused so much evil and suffering. He must die."

"Suit yourself. But the way things are going, it doesn't look like he'll be beaten anytime soon. And you're running on borrowed time. It's just one conversation, my boy. It won't take that long."

The white glow from the Z Sword disappeared, showing that the spirit of the Elder Kai had left the conversation. The situation was in Kaioshin's hands now. Shin stared at the beast known as Majin Buu as Buu hummed merrily to himself, flipping the pages of his comic book and laughing at the occasional panel. It was so bizarre...before Buu absorbed Dai Kaioshin, he was the most cruel and sadistic monster Kaioshin had ever seen. But now he was, well, still cruel, but not in the same way. As much as Kaioshin hated to admit it, Elder Kai was right – Buu really wasn't aware of what he was doing.

He sighed. "I'm going to regret this..."

Kaioshin took a few tentative steps toward Majin Buu, but Buu was still lost in his book. Seeing that he wasn't going to stop reading anytime soon, Shin cleared his throat. "Erm...excuse me, Majin Buu?"

Buu looked up, frowning, clearly annoyed that he was interrupted from his reading. But he stood up on his pudgy legs, and didn't attack, signaling to the Kaioshin that he was safe to continue.

"May I ask you a...personal question?" said Kaioshin nervously.I can't believe I'm doing this.

Buu nodded, and actually smiled. Apparently all thoughts of their battle were now forgotten. Kaioshin breathed a sigh of relief. "Alright. Well, anyway...why do you kill people? And destroy entire planets?"

"Buu was told to!" The djinn instantly replied.

"I see...by Bibidi, right? And Babidi? And now Gohan?"

Majin Buu nodded. "Bibidi, Babidi and Gohan tell Buu to destroy. So, Buu destroy!"

"Well, you know, you don't have to listen to them," said Kaioshin plainly. He was breathing shallowly and although his sword was now in its hilt, he gripped it tightly. He was prepared for this conversation to take a very violent direction.

"But Buu don't know what else to do!" Buu frowned.

"There are lots of things you can do," said Kaioshin, and he actually forced a smile, "You can talk to people, make friends, read a book...really, you can do anything that doesn't involve destruction."

Buu's frown deepened. Kaioshin pulled his sword out slightly from its hilt, his smile disappearing as he prepared for battle again. Buu raised a pudgy finger to his chin as he appeared in deep thought. Well, deep thought for him, anyway.

"Killing people a bad thing?"

Kaioshin let out a relieved gasp. "Yes...yes, Majin Buu. Killing people is a very bad thing."

Majin Buu's face broke out into a wide smile. "Then...no more! Buu kill people no more!"

Kaioshin was overwhelmed with so much relief that he collapsed to the ground on his knees, sweat pouring down his face as he felt like laughing and crying at the same time. He had done it. He had convinced Majin Buu to stop killing people. He could barely believe it.

The Z Sword glowed from its hilt as a faint chuckle could be heard from it."Good job, my boy. Good job."

Mike ran into Mr. Satan when he ran down the mountain, and the two of them were now running all throughout the wasteland. Mr. Satan had managed to knock out the soldiers that surrounded Videl, Erasa and Sharpener but after that battle got so intense that he couldn't keep up with anything, and he ran for cover. Videl had insisted he run and leave the fight to the Z team, but Mr. Satan still felt a twinge of guilt for leaving his daughter like that.

The Announcer and his afro haired martial artist companion were jumping from rock to rock, taking cover as the war became more violent. The sounds of laser shots, ki blasts and the occasional gutted soldier filled their ears and they huddled closely behind a particularly big rock, hoping to avoid the worst of the carnage.

"Aw, sonuva...!" Mr. Satan yelled as a laser shot whizzed past them, hitting a plateau, "It's gettin' crazy out there! I hope Videl's alright..."

"Yeah man, not gonna lie, this is the craziest battle I've ever seen," Mike frowned. It was true; he had seen a lot of crazy battles in his life. But this was something else. Even the Cell Games weren't this violent...or were they? The only ones who could answer that right now were fighting like crazy in the sky.

"I was hopin' I'd get to try my new carpet diving attack technique on these thugs! I guess not," Mr. Satan huffed. "Ah well. We should be safe down here."

Mike nodded and they both sat cross-legged on the ground, leaning their backs against the boulder. The announcer and martial artist took a few deep breaths, processing what was going on. And then Mr. Satan remembered something.

"Hey uh, Mike? Mind if I ask you somethin'?"

"Huh? Oh yeah sure, dude!" Mike answered with a smile.

"So, um, why aren't you more scared? I mean, you wanted to announce the fight between Goku and his son so badly that you looked more upset about that than the fact that the world is...well, gonna go to hell any minute soon," Mr. Satan gulped.

"Hey man, don't sweat it!" Mike laughed, "If I know Goku, I know he'll pull through! After all, this is the same guy who beat Cell when everyone thought it was the end of the world." Catching himself, he added, "Oh hey, sorry man. I know people look up to you as the Earth's savior, but...I always knew Goku beat Cell. Heh. No offense."

"Uhhhh, none taken," replied Mr. Satan awkwardly. "But, about Goku killin' Cell...I think there's something I oughta tell you..."

"Chew on THIS!"

Krillin glared at five soldiers flying toward him with guns drawn, as sweat poured down his bald head. Raising his right hand, he opened his palm as he felt electric energy crackle above it. Soon a large disk emerged.

"DESTRUCTO DISK!"

The former monk launched the disk into the skies and the soldiers had no time to react as it sliced right through them, their body parts falling to the ground as their multicolored blood spilled onto the dusty earth below. Krillin grinned, dusting off his hands. "Well, that was easy."

"Don't get cocky, babe!"

Krillin turned to see his wife fighting a horde of soldiers who were all ganging up on her, some bigger than she was. Eighteen easily outclassed all of them but she was sweating bullets and Krillin could tell she was running out of stamina. He ran right in the middle of the action and landed right behind his wife so they were fighting back to back.

"Lazuli, sugar, you remember that move we've been working on...?"

Eighteen smirked broadly. "Oh hellyesI do."

Krillin grinned as he raised his open palm and charged another Destructo Disk. The soldiers looked in shock and awe as the disk grew larger and larger – and then Eighteen leapt right on top of it! The blonde android smirked as her husband launched the disk, and she navigated it through the entire area so that all the soldiers would be cut in half.

Alright, just think of it like a surf board...

Eighteen gritted her teeth as she remembered training this move with Krillin on Kame Island. Her memory served her well, as she hit every soldier with precise accuracy.

"Hey!"

"What the...!?"

"My leg!"

Eighteen dodged laser blast after laser blast as she swerved the disk through every soldier in the area, slicing them. Once the last soldier was killed, she hopped off the disk and landed neatly in front of her husband, a big, unusually cheesy grin spread across her face.

Krillin chuckled. "You're the coolest, sweetheart."

"I know," replied Eighteen.

Yamcha ran toward a group of alien soldiers, dodging every one of their blasts as he bared his teeth like an animal. There were six, no, seven altogether – and they were all trying to kill him. He should have been afraid. It was only natural. But...he wasn't.

"WOLF FANG FIST!"

Cries of shock filled the valley as Yamcha hacked and slashed his way through the soldiers. Some he knocked out cold, others he killed with a swift punch to the brain. It was brutal, but after his many years of being a bandit, it was something he was used to.

Yamcha stood in the center of his defeated enemies, flexing his muscles. He grinned.

"Yep. I still got it."

"DODON RAY!"

Chiaotzu launched a series of rays at the soldiers on the ground as he and Tien flew throughout the valley, Chiaotzu riding on Tien's shoulder. They were killing a great number of soldiers, but as Tien grimly noted, there were still so many of them. Not only soldiers, but regular humans fighting in the valley too – some of which, the triclops thought with a shudder, may have already been revived with the dragon balls once.

Will we be able to bring them back again...?

"Tien, look out!"

Tien barely looked up before he felt what must have been a dozen soldiers dogpiling him in midair. "Gah! Wha...!?" A very large soldier had his arms and legs wrapped around Tien's back so he couldn't move, while smaller soldiers had his sides trapped and there was even one on his front. Tien gasped for breath as the Majin soldiers tightened their grip on him.

"Ha!" The large soldier gloated, "Not so tough now, huh, punk!? We're gonna crush you!"

"NO!" Chiaotzu shouted. He wanted to help his three-eyed comrade, but how? He couldn't launch another dodon ray without damaging Tien.

The fighter in question felt his entire body constrict as the last vestiges of breath exited his lungs, and he began to tremble. This was it...he was going to die on the battlefield. And all because of a moments distraction...

"Hey, fatass!"

"Huh?" The large grunt that was on Tien's back looked up to see a strange looking kid floating above him with a cocky grin. The kid was dressed in white gi pants and a black vest, with spiky hair that was both black and purple. The soldier was caught off guard by the boy's appearance and loosened his grip somewhat, allowing Tien to breathe.

The kid gestured to himself with his thumb. "Name's Gotenks. And that's pretty low, attacking someone from the back. I bet you're just too chickenshit to fight head on!"

"What!? Why you...!"

Against the pleas of his comrades, the fat soldier released his grip on Tien and faced Gotenks head on. Tien grinned as he felt the enormous weight of the soldier on his back lift, and with a mighty shout, released a strong wave of ki that knocked the lighter soldiers off of his body and falling to the ground below.

"Yay!" Chiaotzu cheered. Tien smiled and looked at Gotenks curiously.

Who's this guy? I don't remember him on our team...but he looks familiar...

"Listen, you little runt!" The fat soldier shouted as a vein popped in his forehead, "Name's Tezro, and no one talks down to me and lives to tell about it! I'm going to make you eat those words!"

"First time in your life someone ate more than you, huh?" scoffed Gotenks.

Tezro roared with rage and lunged toward Gotenks, drawing his blaster to shoot him, but the fused Saiyan filled his right palm with ki and launched it toward his opponent. Tezro gave one final, surprised shout before his whole body was incinerated into ashes.

Gotenks did a little victory dance and then flashed a peace sign to Tien and Chiaotzu. "Aw, yeah! No one can defeat the mighty Gotenks!"

"Oh really?" Tien grinned, "Well, I hope you prepared, buddy. There's plenty more where that came from. But where did you come from? I didn't see you on the team when we arrived."

"Oh! Well, I was with you! Or, maybe I was...hmmm..." Gotenks placed a finger to his chin, "Was I? Anyway, I'm Goten and Trunks' fusion, Gotenks!"

"Fusion?" Tien and Chiaotzu repeated in unison.

"Yeah! It's like, I'm Goten and Trunks, but not REALLY Goten and Trunks...kinda? I think? Anyway, yeah. That's me!" Gotenks pointed to himself as he grinned cheesily.

Tien chuckled and shook his head. So Goku and Vegeta's sons fused together to create one person...how that was possible, he had no idea. But, he had certainly seen stranger things in his life.

The sound of gunfire from the ground caught the triclops' attention. Tien looked at Gotenks seriously. "We can chat more about where you came from later. Right now we have a war to win. Let's team up. Deal?"

Gotenks pumped his fists in the air. "You bet!"

Tien and Chiaotzu eagerly flew down to the wasteland, Gotenks following behind them as they prepared to lay waste to the soldiers on the ground below.

"HRAAAAAAAARGH!"

Gohan let loose an overwhelming amount of ki from his body as he floated high above the skies. Piccolo and Vegeta were charging toward him, Vegeta powered up to Super Saiyan 2, but they were both knocked back by Gohan's energy wave. It didn't damage them, but it was enough to send them hurling a good few miles away from the Saiyan teenager.

Vegeta wiped sweat off his brow. "Damn, he's good...any ideas?"

"Yes," replied Piccolo seriously, "Stay alive."

Vegeta nodded grimly. In the distance, they could see Gohan flying toward them, sparkling with intense yellow ki and his eyes white with fury. Piccolo grimaced; something was off about the way Gohan was fighting now. He wasn't saying anything, just shouting and grunting. Almost as if he was becoming more animal than man...but what was the cause?

"GRAGH!" Gohan yelled as he aimed his fist at Piccolo's torso. The Namekian dodged and spun his body around so he could kick Gohan's side, and it caught the boy off guard long enough for Piccolo to charge another attack. Raising his palms above his head, he shouted,

"MASENKO HA!"

Gohan was pushed back by his old mentor's attack toward Vegeta. The Saiyan Prince grinned as he saw an opportunity to try one of his favorite attacks; he pushed his hands in front of him and charged his whole body with bright, purple ki.

"Take this, brat! GALICK GUN!"

Gohan shouted in agony as Vegeta's attack knocked him miles to the ground below, forming a crater in a nearby mountain. Piccolo and Vegeta shot ki blast after ki blast, hoping to ensure that Gohan wouldn't rise from a crater again. After exhausting most of their energy, they paused to catch their breath.

"His ki signal is weak, but he's still alive," said Piccolo.Thankfully,he couldn't help but add mentally.

"Where's Kakarot!?" asked Vegeta, looking around, "That fool can't be leaving us now!"

Piccolo narrowed his eyes, looking around for any sign of Goku. He then sensed Goku's energy somewhere on the ground...right where...

"He's down there!" Piccolo gasped in shock, "He's down there...with Gohan!"

When the dust settled from Piccolo and Vegeta's attack, sure enough, Goku could be seen wrestling with Gohan. He was still in Super Saiyan 3, and had Gohan's arms locked in an underhook. Gohan growled and wrestled like a caged animal to get out of his father's grip, but Goku did not relent. He wasn't about to let go of his son now.

Goku tightened his grip around Gohan's arms as spit flew out of Gohan's mouth. A chill ran down Goku's spine. Gohan was acting more feral now. He could tell. His Saiyan nature was becoming more apparent. Leaning into his ear, Goku whispered, "Son...stop this. Please..."

"GRAGHH!" Gohan wrestled with all his might to break free from his father's grip. But Goku was unrelenting, although he was starting to lose control. "No...I...Goku...hate...ARGH!"

"Gohan," whispered Goku, "Please...think about your mother. And Goten. Please..."

But Gohan didn't stop fighting. He kept shouting as spit flew from his mouth like a rabid animal. He continued his struggle to break free from Goku's grip but his father was dead set on keeping him there.

Suddenly, an idea struck Goku.

"Gohan...what about Videl? Think of Videl…"

To Goku's relief, his words started to reach Gohan. Gohan's muscles started to relax as he stopped wrestling, and the teenage Saiyan blinked, as though processing Goku's words in his head. Gohan soon stopped wrestling altogether, and Goku almost let him go. Almost.

Color returned to Gohan's eyes as he began to look around him. It seemed as though he was unaware of his father standing behind. Piccolo and Vegeta, who couldn't be seen from ground level, were eyeing the Saiyan pair warily, ready to strike if need be.

"Goku...whatever he's saying to Gohan, it seems to be calming him down..." said Piccolo, his voice tinged with cautious optimism.

Vegeta growled. "Kakarot, if this trick of yours does not work..."

Goku relaxed his grip on Gohan and the teenage Saiyan took a few steps, trembling. In the insanity of the moment, Goku was reminded inexplicably of Gohan's first steps as a baby, and how excited him and Chi-Chi were. This, of course, couldn't have been a more different scenario, with the sound of laser shots and rampaging humans in the background, and the fact that they were Super Saiyans fighting on a mountain.

"Videl.." muttered Gohan as he stumbled, "Videl...Videl...

Suddenly, Gohan's energy flared as he powered up to Super Saiyan 2. Goku took a defensive stance, ready for Gohan to attack him with all his might, when Gohan flew right past him, to a skirmish on another mountain. Veins were throbbing in his head as Goku looked back, utterly perplexed.

"Stop...what are you doing to my Videl!? Stop, you fools!"

"She's mine, boys!"

"I'll rip her head off!"

Videl was drenched in sweat, but barely noticed it as she fought soldier after soldier, incapacitating them one after the other. She was fast enough to disarm them - her criminal encounters in Satan City had taught her to always make that her first move - but at least a dozen soldiers were surrounding them, some of them small, some of them Videls size, and some of them the size of Spopovich.

Pushing aside the memory of the bald brute and the beating he gave her at the tournament, Videls limbs flew like crazy as she punched, kicked and jabbed her way through as many Babidi soldiers as she could. The soldiers were looking everywhere, unable to keep up with the martial artists speed, and one by one they all gagged and fell to the ground; even the bigger ones got knocked out with relative ease.

Videl fell to her knees, breathing heavily. She had long since lost track of her father; with as many enemies as there were surrounding them, it wasn't hard for that to happen. But a part of Videl felt relieved that he wasn't here...after all, if a soldier had shot a stray blast that hit him...

No. No time to think of that now…

"Well, lookie here!"

Videl looked up and saw, to her horror, a dozen other soldiers land on the ground in front of her, cracking their knuckles and smirking. Videl struggled to get up, but somehow managed, although she was trembling horribly. She glared at the soldiers with what she hoped was a convincingly fierce look.

"Ha! You're all wiped out," a tall, brutish soldier taunted. "We'll wipe you out no problem!"

Well. So much for the convincing part.

Videl barely kept her eyes open, her vision growing hazy as the soldiers surrounded her. Her muscles shaking, she dropped back on her knees, exhausted. The despair of the moment only faintly registered with her as she heard the soldiers footsteps getting closer.

Not now...please, not now. We've come too far to be beaten, to not save the world. To not save Gohan…

CRASH!

Videls eyes widened and her energy suddenly returned to her at the unexpected noise. Looking up, she saw to her simultaneous shock and relief the soldiers were all gone, in fact, all that was on the ground were ashes, and…

"G-Gohan!?"

Son Gohan was standing at the center of the destruction, his black bodysuit tainted with cuts, scratches and bruises. His eyes were weary, no doubt from his fight with Goku, but he looked perfectly lucid. And was it Videls optimistic imagination, or did Gohan seem...kinder looking than before…?

"Videl."

Gohan slowly approached the female martial artist, his steps echoing through the plateau they were standing on. Beneath them, the sounds of war cries, blaster shots and pained shrieks could be heard, but the two teenagers barely noticed.

Gohan laid a hand on Videls shoulder, and smiled. "It's over."

Videl blinked. "W-What…?"

"The battle is over," Gohan clarified, "I've won. Soon the world will be destroyed, then remade. And...I want you to be the first to witness it with me."

Videl felt her heart sink. So much for her optimistic imagination. "Gohan, I…"

"I couldn't let you die," interrupted Gohan, "I had to save you. I can take you somewhere safe, I can even take you to Other World without dying. Then we can both watch the world be judged together…"

"Gohan, no!"

Videl cried as she beat Gohans chest with her fists. It didn't hurt him of course, but Gohan took a step back, surprised. Videl leaned her head into his chest, sobbing quietly. Gohan instinctively wrapped his arms around her, rubbing her back gently.

"Gohan, please...please stop it. The killing, the destroying, everything, please. I just want you back…"

Gohans brow furrowed. "I'm sorry, but it has to be this way. It's the only way to bring justice for everyone. And I have to make Goku pay."

Goku.

Videl broke away from Gohans embrace, glaring at him intensely. Gohan faltered somewhat under her scrutinizing gaze but maintained eye contact.

"Gohan, listen to me. I know a thing or two about family issues." Videl sighed as she began her story. "When I was a little girl, just two years before the Cell Games, my mother abandoned us. To this day I still don't know why. All I know is that one day we were this picturesque family, and then the other day…we weren't."

Videl shuddered at the memory, and she looked down at her feet. Gohan took one step closer to her, but didn't lay a hand on the brunette as she continued.

"My father would go on date after date to ease the pain, while I'd be home in bed, staring at the ceiling and wondering when she would come back. We were both in denial. It took a full year for me to accept that my mother just wasn't coming back. Nor did she have any desire to."

Wind swept gently through the teenagers' hair, but they didn't feel a thing.

"I-I know how it feels, Gohan. To have your life turned upside down like that. There was a time where I was mad at the world too, I just wanted to see everyone as miserable as me. I understand, more than anyone, what's going on in your heart right now."

Videl stepped closer to Gohan and raised a delicate hand to his chest, looking him in the eye. Her expression softened.

"But this is not the answer. Violence, revenge, chaos...this won't make the pain better. Trust me, I know it won't. From personal experience." Her eyes glistened.

"Gohan...please don't make the same mistake I did. Please come back."

Gohans brow unfurrowed. His breathing became more shallow, and he looked all around him, as if truly noticing his surroundings for the first time. The battle beneath him, the soldiers and innocent civilians fighting for their lives, as well as the Z Fighters who could be heard fighting in the distance, all seemed to click in Gohans mind. His eyes widened and he gasped, as if the horror of the situation dawned upon him.

Videls breath hitched in her throat.Is this it, Gohan? Are you finally coming back to us?

It certainly seemed that way.

And then the moon shone down on him.

"GAH!"

Gohan clutched his head as he fell to his knees, shaking violently. Videls hope turned to horror as she watched her former friend writhe in apparent pain, spit flying out of his mouth.

She slowly walked up to him. "Gohan…? Are you oka-"

"NO!"

Gohan suddenly stood up and grabbed Videl by her blue FIGHT shirt, his eyes narrowed and his teeth bared. He looked ten times more feral than Videl had seen him just give seconds ago, and her heart pounded as she stared at Gohan in terror.

"You…" said Gohan, his voice two octaves deeper and dripping with hatred, "You blackmailed me...you hated me...just like Goku, Chi Chi, everyone, the world...you...will pay…"

He threw Videl to the ground and let loose an ear splitting shriek. Videl hastily stood up, ignoring the pain.

"Gohan! What's happening to you!?"

Gohan did not answer, as his eyes flashed red. Only this time, they stayed red.

"You are all going to suffer! You are all going to burn!You are all going to die!"

"Gohan, no!"

And then the most bizarre, horrible thing Videl had ever experienced happened. Gohan began to grow in size, his teeth turning to fangs, his red eyes showing nothing but pure rage. Brown fur began to grow all over his body...brown fur that slowly turned to gold…

Videl backed all the way up to the nearest stone, watching Gohans transformation in dumbstruck horror. Her knees were shaking, and she could barely breathe. For now, towering above her - towering above everything, it seemed - was a colossal, furious ape with shining red eyes and golden fur.

"Videl!"

Gotenks flew down and grabbed Videl by her waist, flying her to safety while the monster once known as Gohan roared and raged. Videl barely reacted, a tear falling down her face as she witnessed her former friend and teachers' hideous transformation.

"Gohan…"

Tien and Chiaotzu were flying with Gotenks, and soon they arrived at Goku's destination in a mountain on the northern region. No one said anything as Gotenks landed with Videl – everyone was fixated on Gohan's transformation. Chi Chi, who had joined up with her husband, was also present, staring at Gohans transformation with shock and horror.

"This power..." said Goku, "How long has Gohan had it?"

Piccolo and Vegeta descended on the mountain. "This rage has been dormant within him ever since he was a kid," said Piccolo, "And as time passed, it only grew...I fear that what you're seeing right now is the culmination of that rage. The manifestation of Gohan's anger."

"No way," said Vegeta, "There's no way Gohan could be that powerful!"

Gotenks, Tien and Chiaotzu stayed silent. Videls heart sank as Gohan grew bigger and bigger, and looked no longer human but apelike. The Oozaru transformation was in full effect, and soon the gigantic ape that was once Son Gohan roared loudly, his golden fur and red eyes shining brightly as he was bathed in the moons light.

"You guys," said Goku grimly, "The real fight has just begun."

Chapter 17: Sins Of The Son, Part 2.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

"WHAAAAAAAAT!?"

Mike Fone fell comedically on his rump, shocked at what Mr. Satan had just told him. "You're...you're telling me it wasGohanwho beat Cell, not Goku!?"

"Um, yeah..." Mr. Satan nodded sheepishly. "I mean, Goku was fighting him for a little while, but then Gohan took over cuz Goku gave up."

Mike's face went pale. "Well, that complicates things..."

The beast that was once Son Gohan roared with fury as it smashed every mountain it could, stomping on the ground and killing many soldiers and humans in its rampage. Reason had now abandoned this creature as it stomped throughout Break Wasteland, its only thought the destruction of every thing it saw. On the ground, the soldiers and humans had by now forgotten the war as they all fled to safety from this monster that seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

"What's going on!? What the hell is that!?"

"I don't know, and I'm not staying long enough to find out!"

Countless ran for their lives as Golden Great Ape Gohan beat its chest. The full moon bathed the ape in its heavenly glow, emphasizing its golden fur. It raised its arms high above its head and let loose another mighty roar.

Son Gohan's rage had been manifest before, through fights with Raditz, the Ginyu Force, Frieza, and most notably Cell. Each time, his rage grew more and more apparent until it turned into outright sadism against Cell – but even then, it was only a glimpse of the fury lying dormant within his heart. Fury that grew more and more as Gohan lived for seven years in a fatherless home...

Gohan's hands shook lightly on the kitchen table as he sat across from his mother. He had just returned home from school and was dressed in his uniform, and his mother's expression when she greeted him told him she heard everything.

"Gohan..." Chi-Chi began slowly, "The principal called me today. He told me about what happened in gym class."

Gohan stared at the table and said nothing.

"I know what that young boy, Spike, did was wrong," Chi-Chi continued, "but you can't let your anger get to you like this. Gohan, if you'd hit him with any more energy, he could have –"

"I know, Mom" interrupted Gohan. He tapped his right heel nervously as he looked at everything but his mother. "I know."

Chi-Chi sighed, her expression deeply concerned. Usually when Gohan got in trouble she was more vocally upset with him, but this time was different. "I know it hurts, Gohan. I know. Your father was a very good man and I love him so much. But...you have to be careful how angry you get. The principal tells me you had to take a drug test so they could make sure you weren't on steroids."

Gohan shuddered. Chi-Chi took a chair closer to him so that she was sitting right next to her boy. She gently patted Gohan's back as he trembled. "Think about what your father would do, Gohan..."

"Why isn't he here?"

The question took Chi-Chi by surprise. "What...?"

"Why isn't he here!?" asked Gohan, more angrily this time. "He hasn't contacted us from Other World, or...or anything! Why couldn't he just talk to us!?"

Chi-Chi lifted her hand from Gohan's back. "Gohan, I..."

"Why should I care about what he would do!?"

The golden Oozaru continued pounding its chest as the whole wasteland trembled at the sound of its roar. Its tail swung violently behind it, crushing mountains in its wake. The beast stomped its feet madly and created craters with it.

While all this destruction was going on, Goku, Chi-Chi, Videl,Piccolo, Vegeta, Tien and Goten and Trunks (who had defused from Gotenks by now) were watching from afar on a distant mountain. Goku's heart constricted as he saw the monster his son had become. "Gohan..."

"His power...it's enormous!" Piccolo shouted, "Gohan's strength before was tame compared to this!"

"There's no stopping him!" said Vegeta, "Kakarot, how does his power compare to yours as a Super Saiyan Three?"

Goku gritted his teeth as he continued staring at the monster. "I don't know." The honest answer was that he could sense Gohan's power far surpassed his own even now as a Super Saiyan Three. But he couldn't tell Vegeta that, or anyone. There was enough despair to go around already.

"Oh man, Gohan..." said Tien, as sweat poured down his neck, "I can't believe it. He was such a good kid..."

"Gohan..." Chiaotzu hung his head sadly.

"No way! No way no way no way no way!" Goten cried, "That's not my big brother! It isn't him! My big brother is not a giant monkey!"

"Goten..." Chi-Chi whispered. She leaned down to hug Goten and the boy cried into his mother's arms. Trunks frowned and looked away, giving his friend some privacy. "Shhh, it's okay. Everything will be okay..."

Videl, who had been standing still the whole time, shuddered involuntarily. Without another word, she ran down the hills, running as far away as she could from the behemoth that was once her friend. The Z Fighters barely noticed her leave.

Gohan continued to rampage and his roars became louder and louder.

Dende gripped his staff tightly, sweat pouring down his forehead. He breathed in heavy, labored gasps as he sensed the energy of his friend, Gohan – or what was once his friend, anyway.

"Such tremendous power, what the hell is going on...!?"

King Kai's antennae twitched as he sensed what was happening on Earth from Other World. His blue, cricket face wrinkled into a deep frown. Behind him, he heard the sounds of Olibu and Pikkon sparring outside the Other World Tournament grounds. The portly kai turned back and saw them, how carefree they looked, and his heart sank as he wondered how long that could last...

He shook his head.I shouldn't be so morbid. Goku will find a way. He always does.

King Kai shuddered as he sensed the energy of Son Gohan grow exponentially, and wished there was something he could do to help. But what could he do? There was no advice he could give Goku that the Saiyan didn't already know. He would just be an annoying voice echoing in his old students head.

So with a resigned sigh, he resolved to leave it all up to his pupil and trust that things would work out. And in spite of everything, a small, forlorn smile tugged at King Kai's face.

"Somehow, with Goku, it always does work out."

"Takethat!"

The forests outside Break Wasteland were filled with the sound of fighting and the occasional ki blasts as two aged – and unlikely – allies fought alongside each other. Mr. Lao and Mercenary Tao were battling the remnants of the Majin soldiers that had not witnessed Gohan's transformation and thus were not scared enough to quit fighting. They were each holding their own quite well, although Tao (Lao noted with distaste) was faring much better given his cybernetic enhancements.

Even Lime was joining the fray, fighting next to her grandfather, partly because she was younger and more able, and partly because she didn't trust Tao at all. The trio was surrounded by a group of ten soldiers, each leering at them, and with their guns pointed squarely at their chests.

"Give it up! You can't win!" taunted one short soldier, "There's ten of us, only three of you!"

Tao and Lao looked at each other and nodded. Lime got the signal and gave them some space. Before any of the soldiers could register what was going on, Lao took Tao's wrists in his hands. He spun the cyborg mercenary around the soldiers so he could knock them out with a swift kick to the head.

"What the - !?"

"Hey!"

"What's going...!?"

But the soldiers barely had time to react before they all fell to the ground, unconscious. Mercenary Tao set himself back on the ground and dusted his pink "Kill You" gi off. Lime looked at him apprehensively, and took a defensive stance, ready for Tao to turn on them. Mr. Lao smiled. "I never thought I'd be saying this to you, of all people, but...we make a good team."

"We have a common enemy," said Tao plainly, without looking at his partner. He gazed at his mechanical hand. "It's a shame that these miscreants haven't given me an opportunity to use my sword. It's been a while since I've spilled fresh blood."

Laos smile disappeared. He knew what Tao was talking about; the makeshift blade that would show out of his mechanical arm when in battle. He used it in their fight seven years ago and it still baffled Mr. Lao how anyone could have such an instrument of death built into their system.

"Give it a rest, you lunatic," spat Lime. "You're lucky we're letting you fight with us!"

Mr. Lao placed a hand on his granddaughters shoulder, squeezing it lightly. "Easy, Lime."

"Aww, lookie here boys! Fresh meat!"

The trio's attention was caught by the sound of a new, hostile voice echoing through the forest. Mr. Lao gasped as he saw what looked like a dozen soldiers charging toward them at once, each with their blasters raised and looking ready to kill.

Lao and Tao took their fighting stances and charged toward their attackers, Lime following close behind them. The aliens shot their blasters but the martial artists avoided every one of them, incapacitating as many soldiers as they could with swift blows to their gut and head. Tao was caught in a fight with one soldier when he had an idea. Grinning maliciously, he extended his blade from his right mechanical arm, and impaled the soldier he was fighting with it.

"Gah!" The soldier gagged. Blood dripped down his face and in a few seconds, his body hung limp, lifeless. Tao's grin widened as he retracted the blade, and the alien's dead body fell to the ground.

"Eat this!" Tao turned around and saw a laser blast coming his way, which he deftly dodged – and it aimed right toward Lao! Lao narrowly evaded the attack and the alien he was fighting got hit instead. He glared at the soldier who fired the blast and the soldier ran away in fear. When the area was cleared of soldiers, Lime stepped up to Tao, confronting him.

"You could have deflected the blast, but you let it get to my grandfather! He could have been killed!" she snarled, "I thought we had a deal!"

Tao smirked. "Old habits die hard."

"Lime..." said Mr. Lao, his voice barely above a whisper.

"NO, grandpa!" yelled Lime. "I don't care what excuse you have for him! Tao almost let youdie!Cant you see what a terrible person he is!?"

"Lime,"said Mr. Lao sternly, "Turn around. We have company."

Briefly distracted from her tirade, Lime turned around and saw a large group of very unusual looking people. They were all boys and girls her age, from what she could tell, and some of them weren't even human at all but humanoid foxes. There was a young man standing in the center of them who Lime took to be their leader, wearing a black tank top and worn camo pants, with a long man of brown hair flowing down his back.

"Hey, there," the young man smiled, reaching a hand toward Lime, "I'm Pigero. These are my friends. We escaped a skirmish over by the wasteland and took cover here. Are you guys doing alright?"

"Yeah," said Lime, hesitantly reaching for the boy's hand. She caught a whiff of his scent and suppressed the urge to gag.When was the last time this guy took a shower?"We're fine. We ran into some soldiers here but we took care of them."

"Yeah, I can see that," one of the foxes replied, chuckling. He looked around the area and saw the bodies of alien soldiers either dead or unconscious. "You guys must be really good."

"We have years of training on our side," replied Tao before Lime could answer. "And I don't think this is the right place for any of you to be in. You never know when other soldiers will show up."

Lime glared at the cyborg.He put Grandpa's life in danger, but NOW he's worried about the safety of others!? That dirty, lying hypocritical...

"We can handle ourselves," said Pigero, looking a little offended, "We've trained a lot, too. We just saw that it was safer here than over by the mountains."

"Well, you all are more than welcome to stay with us," said Mr. Lao, with a warm smile. He was clearly grateful to have more company outside of his granddaughter and Tao. "If you are capable of fighting alongside us, please do. We could always use the help."

"Thanks," Pigero smiled, "But I don't think we need to. I think those were the last soldiers you –"

"PIGERO!"

Ena's shrill voice broke through the conversation and everyone's attention was brought to the full moon – or rather, what the moon was shining on. Standing tall, in all his Great Ape glory, was a tremendous beast of destruction with golden fur and piercingly red eyes. The creature roared, and although it was standing a good distance from the forest, Pigero and the others could feel the ground shake beneath them.

"What...what is that thing!?" Rom shouted.

"A giant monkey...but someone gave it a paint job!" yelled Jinku.

Tao narrowed his mechanical eyes at the beast. He analyzed the DNA samples of the giant ape, and the sensors in his computerized brain cross-referenced the samples with every person in Tao's memory. When he found the match, he sighed deeply.

Mr. Lao turned toward his mercenary companion. "Tao...don't tell me..."

"Yes, I'm afraid," said Tao, unusually somber, "That giant beast...is Son Gohan."

Lime screamed and fainted as Pigero and his gang looked at Tao in complete shock.

Master Roshi ran like hell from the Golden Great Ape as rocks and trees fell down at every side of him, crushing soldiers and people in its wake. He was powered up to his more buff form which gave him better stamina, but he could feel it wearing out. His breath came in labored gasps as he tried to make it out of the wasteland alive.

"No...way..."

A large boulder fell in front of Roshi and he skidded to a halt.Damn it.He turned back and saw a group of soldiers charging toward him, and on pure instinct, he charged a Kamehameha wave. He didn't know if these soldiers meant to fight him or merely to escape. And at this point, he didn't care.

"KAMEHAMEHAAAAAAAA!"

The blue wave of energy burst from Roshi's palms and completely enveloped the soldiers, disintegrating them. The old man felt the ground shake beneath him and, thinking quickly, jumped as high as he could to reach the top of the boulder that blocked his path. Thankfully, he managed to get on top of it. The turtle hermit took off his sunglasses and squinted his eyes, making out several familiar figures in the distance.

Goku and the others! I gotta get to 'em!

Dodging another falling rock, Roshi ran toward the precipice where his former student was now standing.

Piccolo gritted his teeth as he felt the entire mountain shake with the power of the Gohan's Great Ape form. He looked around and saw the others were just as petrified as he was, and with good reason. This wasn't the first time Gohan had turned Oozaru, but this time was different. There was something far more intimidating about this new form, and it wasn't just the golden fur. From what Piccolo sensed, Gohan was stronger in this form than he had ever been in his life – in fact, he doubted that even Goku could defeat him as a Super Saiyan 3.

But we have to try...!

Piccolo looked at the full moon shining brightly, and then it hit him. The last time Gohan was in this form, the only way to get him out was to destroy the moon. Eventually the moon had to be brought back with the dragon balls due to the stability it brought to the Earth's atmosphere. But that could easily be arranged after the battle.

"Goku, listen!" Piccolo shouted to his Saiyan comrade, "We have to destroy the moon! You're the strongest one here, so distract Gohan while I aim for it!"

Goku nodded. "Sounds good, Piccolo." He charged up his ki so that he was back in fighting shape. "Let's go!"

Goku and Piccolo charged toward the Golden Great Ape, leaving Vegeta, Chi-Chi, Goten, Trunks, Tien and Chiaotzu on the mountain. Tien looked at Vegeta curiously. "Aren't you going to join the fray?" Vegeta was never one to pass up a fight, so this was a very odd sight for Tien.

"This is Kakarot's battle, not mine," said Vegeta, without looking at Tien, "Gohan has reached a point where now only his father can get to him. It's best if I stay out."

Tien eyed the Great Ape warily as it raged and roared to the heavens. "I don't think we'll have that choice soon..."

Goten hugged his mother by the waist, looking up to her with pleading eyes. "Daddy's gonna get Gohan back...right, Mommy?" he sniffed.

Chi-Chi smiled down at her son. "Of course, Goten. Don't worry. Daddy will get Gohan back, everything will be alright."I hope,she mentally added as she pulled Goten closer to her. Chi-Chi felt his shoulders relax and felt better knowing that at least he was being comforted by him.

Trunks shuddered as he heard Gohan roar.Mental note: never get on Gohan's bad side again...

Everyone was so focused on the battle between Goku and his son, that they barely registered that Master Roshi had made his way up to the mountain, and was now standing beside them. The turtle hermit took off his sunglasses as he marveled at his student's bravery in facing his own son like this. He took a deep breath, processing everything that was happening.

"Goku, m'lad...don't disappoint me."

Goku stared in the face of his son, the Golden Great Ape with piercing red eyes. He was levitating at the level of Gohan's face so he could feel the mist of his son's breath blowing through him, like a gentle breeze. Were it not under more dire circumstances, Goku would have found the breeze comforting.

Goku grimaced.This form...what the hell is it!? And how did Gohan get his tail back...?

Goku was no stranger to the Oozaru transformation; he had turned into one several times himself. But this new golden form, which could apparently be awakened by a Super Saiyan, was completely new to him. Sweat poured rapidly down Goku's face as he sensed Gohan's energy – it was far higher than his own, even as a Super Saiyan Three.

"But I have to try," thought Goku out loud. Stretching back his arms, he charged a Kamehameha wave. "Piccolo...don't take too long...KAMEHAMEHAAAAAAAAAAA!"

The golden beast roared with rage and sent his fist flying toward Goku's Kamehameha wave. The alien soldiers and humans beneath the mountains saw a spectacular lightshow of Gohan's yellow energy combining with Goku's blue energy. Gohan's punch and Goku's Kamehameha were fighting with equal force, but Goku soon felt his energy slipping.

Damn it...! Piccolo, you better be ready!

The Namekian in question was eyeing the fight between Goku and Gohan, making sure that Gohan was totally distracted by his fight. Piccolo turned toward the moon, and was reminded irresistibly of when he tried this same trick when Gohan turned Oozaru for the first time.

"I'll right you an apology later, kid," said Piccolo as he charged up a ki blast. He aimed it toward the moon, and in a matter of seconds the moon exploded. The surviving onlookers didn't register what Piccolo had done, as they were far too focused on Goku's fight with Gohan. Piccolo looked back and waited hopefully for Gohan to turn back to normal...

Come on! Any minute now.

"Gah!"

Goku's Kamehameha wave was completely overwhelmed by Gohan's punch, and the beast roared as he punched the miniscule figure of his father. Goku winced as he felt the force of his son's punch, Gohan was strong.

Reallystrong.

However, Goku managed to withstand the attack as he pushed back Gohan's large, brown fist with his hands. He pushed back hard enough for Gohan to take a step back, and the oversized, overpowered monkey roared. Only this time, it was a far stronger and louder roar than before. In fact, the roar was so powerful it created shockwaves that spread throughout the entire wasteland, causing earthquakes and tremors to erupt everywhere.

Goku screamed and covered his hands as Gohan's roars continued, and Piccolo had to fly a great distance away because of his sensitive Namekian hearing.

"No..." said Piccolo, horrified, "It didn't work! Even destroying the moon couldn't stop him!"

Vegeta and the others were clutching their ears and on their knees as Gohan's roars grew louder.

"Damn it, Gohan's going insane!" shouted Vegeta.

"You think!?" shouted Trunks.

Chi-Chi was shielding Goten's ears with her shawl she always kept with her, while she covered her own ears with her hands.

Gohan...is this how much rage you've kept inside of you, all these years...?

Gohan's intense roaring finally stopped and when it did, he beat his chest madly and stomped his feet. His tail also swung wildly and, were all the mountains not totaled at that point, Gohan would have destroyed what was left of the wasteland.

As Goku looked at the apelike face of his firstborn son, he was suddenly overwhelmed with emotion. Somehow the reality of who he was fighting, orwhathe was fighting, hit him like a ton of bricks. This insane, enraged monster was Gohan, the sweet little boy who just wanted to live a normal life and become a scholar.

Tears fell down Goku's cheeks. "Son...I'm sorry. I don't know if you can hear me, or if there's anything left of you in there...but I'm sorry. I am so sorry..."

Maybe it was Goku's imagination, but Gohan seemed to calm down after he said those words. He didn't know if it was Gohan's subconscious fighting back or if he was just desperate for hope, but either way, Goku wasn't going to go down without a fight. He wiped the tears off his face and clenched his fists at his side.

"I'm getting you back, Gohan. I put the world's life on it."

"No way!"

Kaioshin watched in horror as he witnessed Gohan's rampage throughout Break Wasteland. He knew this form: it was the Oozaru form, the form that every Saiyan took when he or she was under the light of the full moon. But this wasn't just any Oozaru form – it was the form of the Golden Great Ape.

Kaioshin had only heard of this form in legends, where a Super Saiyan could transform into an even more powerful beast. Such a form was supposed to contain power that rivaled even that of the gods; indeed, such a form wasn't supposed to be attainable at all. But here it was. And it was being used byGohanof all people...

"But how!?" screamed Kaioshin, "Gohan didn't have a tail! How could he have transformed into this form!?"

Majin Buu grinned widely, as if he found the answer to a tough test question. "Buu know! Gohan get back his tail, when Babidi cast spell on him!"

"What?" asked the Kaioshin. He had to admit, despite the gravity of the situation, he was quite curious. "But how?"

"Buu tell you! One day, Gohan fight mean man. Gohan get real angry, and then grow tail! Dabura says Gohan grew tail because of rage in his heart."

Kaioshin stood there, completely flummoxed. He looked at Gohan rampaging in all the terror that the Golden Great Ape form could give him. Majin Buu stood beside him, smiling after recounting his littlestory.

"Gohan...you truly are phenomenal."

Kibito watched in horror as he saw the Golden Great Ape wreaking havoc in the wasteland. His robe was torn and his body was covered in cuts and scratches, but he was too distracted by the chaos to notice or even care about his injuries. Beside him, Dabura laughed triumphantly.

"Wonderful!" He cheered, "Our time has come. Gohan has unleashed his true potential, and now the world will pay!"

"Shut up!" shouted Kibito. He charged his right fist with blue ki and threw it toward Dabura, but the Supaish king evaded it. Chuckling, Dabura threw back his head, ready to spit at the red-skinned deity.

"That cheap trick won't work on me!" Kibito retorted. But he soon found out that Dabura had no intention of turning him to stone. Rather, he was planning to fry Kibito to a crisp! Dabura used his Evil Flame attack to launch a scorching wave of fire from his mouth. Kibito countered by using magic materialization to create water out of thin air, matching Dabura's wave of flame with a wave of ice cold aqua.

"You fool!" taunted Dabura, "Do you not see that your efforts are in vain? Gohan will soon annihilate the entire world, at this point, he doesn't even need the help of Majin Buu!"

"We shall see about that!" shouted Kibito. The battle of fire and water between the two warriors soon turned to Dabura's favor as his fire overwhelmed Kibito's water. Chuckling smugly, Dabura thought he had won the battle and vanquished his foe – until Kibito appeared right behind him, grabbing the Supaish by the waist and crushing him with his large hands!

"Your arrogance will be your downfall," said Kibito as he crushed Dabura's ribs, "Now tell me, demon – how can we get Gohan out of this form!"

Dabura growled, partly at being called a demon, and partly at being told what to do. "You are the arrogant one if you think I will ever tell you!" he insisted, although the pain from Kibito's rib crushing was starting to wear on him. Kibito tightened his grip on Dabura's waist and he cried in pain.

"I shall only ask you one more time," said Kibito calmly, "How do we get Gohan out of this form?"

"I-I don't know! And if I did, I wouldn't tell you..."

"Liar!"

Daburas pained screamed grew louder and Kibito tightened his grip even more. Daburas head was swimming – this was the worst pain he had ever been through, and he had been through a lot of tough battles. He was secretly starting to regret killing the Kaioshin's silver-haired assistant, and if the pain he was going through wouldn't stop soon...

"Alright, fine!" said Dabura, hating himself for giving in, "It's the tail...go for the tail! I remember Babidi telling us, an Oozaru transformation can only be sustained as long as the Saiyan still has his tail."

"Thank you," said Kibito, instantly releasing his grip on Dabura. "You are free now. I shall attend to my master."

Kibito vanished, clearly to wherever the Kaioshin was. Dabura breathed heavily as he massaged his ribs, purple blood dripping down his mouth and his eyelids half-closed.Damn him,he thought.I liked him better when he was dead...but...

Dabura frowned. He looked over his body, sizing up his injuries and seeing if there was anything fatal. There wasn't. Although Kibito's rib-crushing was perhaps the most painful torture he had ever been through, even that would doubtless heal as time went on. Dabura looked at the starry heavens, and then to Gohan, still fighting his father.

He looked at his hands. "He...let me live..."

"Lord Kaioshin!"

Kibito materialized in front of his master, anxious to fill him in on what he had just discovered. Kaioshin gasped in surprise when his assistant appeared.

"Kibito! But I thought you were fighting Dabu -"

"No time to explain," interrupted Kibito, "I know how we can turn Gohan back from this monstrous form. You see, we need to find an opening and cut off his ta – Wait! What!?"

Kibito did a double take and took a defensive stance when he noticed Majin Buu standing right beside his master. He glared at the pink djinn and his fists glowed with purple ki, while Buu stood there smiling obliviously at his opponent. Kibito was about to lunge forward and attack when, to his shock, Kaioshin stood in front of him, blocking his path.

"Master!" exclaimed Kibito, "What are you doing!? We must destroy him!"

"No, Kibito!" said Kaioshin sternly, "Majin Buu is on our side now. I know its hard to believe, but I got through to him. I convinced him that killing is wrong."

"What!? Lord Kaioshin, with all due respect, Majin Buu has been a beast of destruction for millenia! How can we be sure that he has changed so quickly in a single night?"

"I'll tell you how, sonny!"replied the voice of Elder Kai from the Z sword, before Kaioshin could respond,"Your Kaioshin friend appealed to the Dai Kaioshin that was left inside of Majin Buu! You see, when Buu absorbed Dai Kaioshin, he absorbed all the innocence that was in him. That made him extremely gullible and prone to follow anyone's orders. But now that Babidi's gone, Buu has no reason to listen to him!"

The Z sword stopped glowing in Kaioshin's hilt, and Shin nodded. "It's true, Kibito. I had a hard time believing it myself, but with Elder Kai's help, I broke through. As you can see," he gestured to Majin Buu, who was rocking his heels back and forth and whistling merrily, "Majin Buu has no desire to kill anymore."

Kibito's head was spinning. It was so bizarre...Majin Buu, the terror that Kaioshin and himself worked so hard to stop reviving, was now on their side? But as he looked at Buu and how docile he seemed, and how serious his master and the Elder Kai were about it, Kibito felt he had no reason to fight. If his master could trust Majin Buu, so could he.

"...very well, then," he relented, and Kaioshin smiled, "however, onto the more pressing matter – Gohan's Oozaru form can be stopped if we find a way to cut off his tail."

Kaioshin nodded. "I see. It's good that we have a way to defeat him now, however," he felt a gust of wind as Gohan let loose another roar, "...getting close enough to cut off his tail may prove to be difficult."

Kaioshin and Kibito observed the Golden Great Ape battle with his father, noting how large the beast was and how its tail swung madly behind him. Kaioshin gripped the Z Sword nervously. Cut off Gohan's tail...it was dangerous, but not impossible. Could he do it without getting killed? And could the Z sword survive such a hit?

"Don't worry about me, lad,"said Elder Kai, as if reading his descendants thoughts,"I'll be fine. Just do what you can to stop this madness."

Kaioshin nodded. "We're going to need Goku and everyone else's help for this to work. Gohan is tremendously powerful in this form and won't be stopped easily. Kibito – let's go!"

Kaioshin and Kibito flew toward the heart of the wasteland, where the battle was at its worst.

Goku dodged his son's attacks as Gohan threw punch after punch toward his father. Piccolo had by now joined the fray, helping his Saiyan comrade however he could. The Namekian charged a Special Beam Cannon and blasted it at the Great Ape, but Gohan took it like it was nothing.

"Damn it..." said Piccolo, sweating nervously, "It didn't even scratch him!"

"Piccolo!" shouted Goku. "Do what you can to distract Gohan. I'll see if there's a way – AGH!"

Gohan took advantage of Goku's brief distraction to grab his father in his gigantic hands, pulling him closer so Goku was just a few inches away from his sons mouth. Goku struggled mightily to break free from Gohan's grasp, but to no avail. He looked up in horror at the Oozaru, and a cold chill went down his spine.

Gohan...

Goku had a very bad feeling that, even in his Great Ape form, Gohan still recognized him. The boy – ape – had his fangs bared at his father, and Goku could feel his sons hot breath blowing against him. Those piercing red eyes looks at him with purest loathing and a low, guttural growl escaped the ape's mouth. It was as though all the rage that Gohan had suppressed for years, maybe even since childhood, had now taken its form in this new Oozaru transformation.

And Goku was on the receiving end of it.

"Gohan..." he begged desperately, "Gohan...if you're in there...please..."

Gohan crushed his father in his large hands, and Goku let out a piercing scream. It was just like what Vegeta did in his Oozaru transformation all those years ago, but worse, far, far worse. Goku could feel his bones crack as Gohan squashed him like silly putty, and he quickly turned from Super Saiyan Three to his regular base form.

"GOKU!" shouted Piccolo. He rushed toward his friend to help, but was quickly knocked out of the way by Gohan's tail. Goku's screams grew louder as the crushing force of Gohans hands grew stronger.

Meanwhile, on the sidelines, Vegeta was gritting his teeth as he watched his old rival get crushed to bits. "Damn it...! No point in staying back now!"

Without another word, the Saiyan prince took to the skies to save Kakarot. Tien and Chiaotzu quickly followed behind him. Even Roshi powered up and joined them. Trunks looked at Goten, who was still crying softly and being held by his mother, and decided to stay with his best friend. He walked over to Goten and gave him an encouraging pat on the back.

"Hey, bro...don't worry. Everything'll be fine," Trunks tried to assure him, although he was doubting it himself. Goten looked up at his best friend, his eyes red and puffy.

"You...you mean that, Trunks?"

Trunks nodded. Chi-Chi smiled at the lavender haired boys attempt to cheer up her son. She definitely needed to see it at a crazy time like this. She kneeled down to Gotens level so she could look him in the eye. "He's right, honey. Gohan will be back. I know he will."

Goten smiled and gave his mother a hug. And maybe it was just the good feeling of the moment, but somehow, Chi-Chi was feeling more reassured herself.

"AGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!"

Goku screamed as Gohan's bone cracking became longer and more painful. His vision began to blur as the agony became too much for him, and to his horror, he could feel the life slowly drift out of his body. Gohan was snarling at him, pulling Goku close to his mouth as if to eat him. Maybe it was the delirium that came with being in so much pain, but Goku thought that Gohan just wanted him to see how angry he was before his father died.

I'm sorry, son...I couldn't save you...

"GALLICK GUN!"

Goku heard the voice of his Saiyan rival and then Gohan let him go. Goku's eyes were closed and he was barely conscious as he fell to the ground, but he felt a tug at the back of his gi. Someone had just saved him and was flying him to a hopefully safer location. Goku muttered a small, "thanks," to whoever saved him before losing all consciousness.

Meanwhile, Vegeta, Tien and Chiaotzu were facing the Golden Great Ape with Piccolo joining their side. The Ape growled furiously at his new opponents. Rearing back his head, he filled his mouth with an intense, bright energy that he aimed at Vegeta and his partners.

Vegeta and the others barely avoided the mouth energy wave, and to their amazement the wave lasted for miles as it shot into the skies – even reaching as far as outer space.

"Damn it all!" Vegeta shuddered as he sensed Gohan's enormous power level, "What even is this thing...!?"

"Vegeta, listen up!" commanded Piccolo, "We need all hands on deck for this! You distract Gohan, and I'll use telepathy to contact the others."

The Saiyan prince nodded. He pointed at the raging Oozaru before him, giving Gohan a mocking smirk. "Hey, ugly! You want a real fight? Then forget Kakarot and face me instead!"

Gohan stopped his roaring for a minute to look at Vegeta. He bared his fangs, and Vegeta's smirk grew wider. "Unless of course you're scared. Like you always are, you pathetic brat."

"RRAAAAAGHHHHH!"

Gohan let out another roar and swung his giant fist toward Vegeta. The full-blooded Saiyan easily dodged and Gohan swung his other fist, only to miss again. Gohan's growls grew louder as he became frustrated with each failed attack.

That's one thing about the Oozaru form that gives us some advantage,thought Vegeta as he dodged another punch,Their large bodies make them slower.

Tien was carefully floating out of Gohans sight as Vegeta continued his distraction. He had a plan, but he didn't want to waste his energy yet, until he was sure it would work. He looked at Piccolo and saw the Namekian was concentrating on sending his telepathic message to the other Z Fighters.

Listen up, everyone! We need all hands on deck. Gohan's new Oozaru form is too powerful for Goku, Vegeta or anyone else to handle on our own. Do what you can to hit him from every direction you can – on the ground, behind, or wherever. Attack with everything you've got!

The remaining Z Fighters gathered close enough to the fray to see Gohan. Krillin, Yamcha, Eighteen and Master Roshi (who had taken to the ground) were witnessing Gohan battling with Vegeta, Piccolo and Tien. They were all set on a large rock formation and were close enough to see Gohan's feet and torso as he mercilessly stomped through the wastelend.

"Whoa, man..." said Krillin in awe, "He's huge! I've seen Oozaru before but never this big."

"We've gotta step it up!" said Yamcha.

"But what can we do?" asked Roshi as he took off his sunglasses, "Gohan was already too strong for any of us to handle, even together. How can we help now?"

"It doesn't matter how strong you are if you're caught off guard," replied Eighteen, "Gohan won't see our attacks coming. At the very least, we'll be able to help Vegeta, Piccolo and the others stop him."

Krillin nodded. "Alright. Let's attack from the bottom! Gohan won't see our attacks coming."

Krillin charged a Destructo Disk, making it big enough for his wife to ride. Eighteen hopped on the disk, and gave her husband a smile and a quick nod, indicating she was ready. Krillin nodded back and launched the disk and his wife toward Gohan's right leg where she could do some damage.

Yamcha and Roshis jaws dropped. "No way...when did he learn that?" asked Yamcha.

"He said he was training with Eighteen to perform some special move, but I didn't know it was anything like that," said Roshi, "I didn't even know you could ride a Destructo Disk!"

Eighteen soared through the wasteland and got closer to Gohans gigantic, furry right leg. Thinking quickly, she moved the disk so it was soaring upwards and the disk was grazing the leg. It was shaving off Gohan's fur – and searing his skin!

Thinking quickly, Yamcha, Krillin and Tien joined the fray, running over to Gohans left leg to do as much damage as they could. Yamcha ran with lightning speed to Gohan's enormously furry shin as he bared his teeth.

"WOLF FANG FIST!"

He launched a barrage of punches to Gohan's leg, each blow stronger than the last. Master Roshi took a fighting stance at Gohans left leg and Krillin took one to his left, and they each stretched back their arms as familiar blue energy sparked in them.

"Ka...me...ha...me...HAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

The force of their combined Kamehamehawaves, combined with the damage Yamcha and Eighteen were already doing to Gohans legs, caused the golden Oozaru to stumble and fall on his hairy, yellow rear. Piccolo, Vegeta, Tien and Chiaotzu were very pleasantly surprised, having been busy fighting Gohan from the skies.

"Well, they actually did it," said Vegeta, sounding unusually impressed as he looked down toward his human teammates, "They proved themselves to be useful..."

"No time to relax!" yelled Piccolo, "He's getting back up – look!"

Sure enough, Gohan was slowly getting back on his hind legs, teeth bared and looking very, very pissed. He growled at Vegeta, Piccolo, and Tien, apparently blaming them for the damage done to his legs, unable as he was to see the other Z Fighters on ground level.

Piccolo stared down his foe. He had an idea. It was a dangerous one and perhaps could inflict fatal damage, but...

He sighed.Sorry, kid. I'll be sure to apologize in the next life.

Charging up his hands with bright yellow orbs of ki, Piccolo launched a barrage of blasts toward Gohan, who avoided the orbs with ease. Not that it took much effort since, to Vegeta and Tien's surprise and dismay, it didn't seem like Piccolo was even aiming for Gohan at all! But the Namekian fighter kept launching blast after blast toward his former apprentice even as they all missed by a longshot.

"What are you doing!?" shouted Vegeta, "You keep missing! Are you even trying to hit him!?"

"Hold on, Vegeta," said Tien, "Look!"

Vegeta looked and saw that all the orbs stood still around Gohans face. The oversized monkey looked at them in an almost innocent confusion, and Piccolo stretched out his right hand. His face scrunched in concentration as he moved his arms wildly. As Piccolo moved his arms, the orbs moved like crazy around Gohans face, confusing the large primate even more. Slowly, the orbs turned from yellow to a more menacing color of red.

"Don't blame me, Gohan. Blame Babidi for forcing me into this position!" Piccolo shouted to his pupil, "Now...HELLZONE GRENADE!"

The ki orbs all collided at Gohans face, overwhelming him with a massive explosion. More and more ki blasts hit Gohan head on, impressing Tien, while Vegeta floated still with his arms crossed. Piccolo...this had better work...

Piccolo held his breath for what felt like hours as the smokescreen from his attack slowly evaporated. To his horror, when the cloud resulting from the explosion cleared, he saw that Gohan had survived the attack – and was even more pissed off than before. Much of his fur was singed off leaving a light brown, balding face, fangs bared, and those eyes...those terribly piercing, deep red eyes...

"GRAAAAAAAAAAARGHHHHH!"

Gohan hollered mightily as his mouth began to fill up with fire. Staring down Piccolo, Vegeta, Tien and Chiaotzu, he made sure to lock onto all targets as he breathed out the flame from his mouth. Tien and Chiaotzu flew out of the way, as did Vegeta, who had to grab Piccolo by his purple gi and fly him out of the way. Piccolo was in such shock that for a moment he had to register what the hell was going on.

"G-Gohan..." he muttered.

The four warriors landed on a high mountain, while fiery breath continued to launch out of Gohans mouth. The heat he was exuding was warming all of them, and although it wasn't too hot, it would have burned them if they got just a few feet closer.

"Piccolo..." said Vegeta apprehensively, "Please tell me that wasn't your best move. Because from what I sensed, only my Final Flash is more powerful than that – and I don't have any time to gather energy for it."

Piccolo stood up and nodded grimly. "I'm afraid it was. Our attacks so far have done more to anger Gohan than hurt him. Unfortunately, our only hope left is...Goku." The Namekian looked down to see where his Saiyan comrade could be. "I can sense his energy, but its very faint. Gohans rib crushing did quite the number on him. If he doesn't get up soon..."

"Stay back!" yelled Tien. To Vegeta and Piccolo's surprise – and Chiaotzus protests – the tri-eyed warrior flew to Gohans face after the ape was done with his fire-breathing, so he could look at the beast dead in his red eyes.

Tien raised his hands to either side of his face, and Piccolo's eyes widened as he realized what the former Crane school student was doing.

"What is he...!?" said Vegeta.

"SOLAR FLARE!"

Suddenly, a bright, blinding light surrounded Tien and hit Gohan straight into his red, menacing eyes. Gohan roared and covered his eyes, stomping around madly. Tien quickly flew back to Piccolo and Vegeta, giving them a solemn nod.

"It wasn't much but that should buy you enough time, Vegeta. Charge the Final Flash before it's too late!"

Vegeta quickly nodded back. He ascended to Gohan's face where he could get a clear shot at the monkey's head. Summoning as much energy as he could, the Saiyan Prince stretched his arms to either side of his body, his power level rising quick and fast.

"Vegeta..." said Piccolo, "You better damn well pull through for us..."

"Come on..." said Tien, as Chiaotzu clung to his shoulder nervously.

Gohan...

Veins throbbed in Vegeta's forehead as he prepared for his attack. Gohan was still blinded by Tien's Solar Flare, and was stomping and waving his arms madly, but Vegeta could still get a good shot. He smirked as he remembered the last time he tried this technique against Dabura. It was a rushed attack, not nearly as strong as it was now.

This time, I'm going to kill you...

"FINAL FLASH!"

Gohan stood still at the sound of Vegeta's voice, and though his eyes were closed he could make out a bright burst of energy heading right at him. But he barely had time to notice, let alone dodge, when Vegeta's Final Flash hit him head on, creating a massive explosion. Vegeta waited with bated breath to see if the attack had any effect, when...

"NO!"

To his shock and dismay, when the smoke cleared, Gohan looked completely unharmed, minus the bald head left by Piccolo's hellzone grenade. This time, Gohans sight returned to him, and he growled menacingly at Vegeta. Piccolo and Tien hastily joined the fight, hoping to assist their Saiyan comrade in battle.

But was there anything they could do at this point...?

In a distant mountain, Dabura sat on a rock formation, observing the battle. His yellow eyes glowed with fascination at Gohans rage as a Golden Great Ape, and he smiled wickedly. This was turning out to be quite the show.

"Heh...wonderful, Gohan. I now realize why Babidi chose you. For years you've had this rage bottled up inside of you, like a beast; and now you've become the beast."

Dabura's smile broadened.

"Son Gohan...you truly are a Saiyan warrior."

"GOHAN!"

Lime screamed in despair as she fell to her knees, tears falling thick and fast down her pretty face. Her grandfather kneeled beside her and hugged her, hoping to provide some comfort. Lime's sobs grew louder, however, and she didn't show any signs of letting up.

"No...no...no!" She cried as her tears fell on her grandfather's gi, "That isn't him! The Gohan I knew was a good, kind person, not...not some monster!"

"Lime..." said Mr. Lao.

"I'm sorry, but you're quite wrong," said Tao matter-of-factly, smirking, "You see, my DNA sensors are very state of the art. He may look different from the Gohan you know, but make no mistake, that is definitely –"

BANG!

Jinku punched the cyborg mercenary from behind, giving Tao's metal head a good rattle as he fell to the ground in pain. The humanoid fox grabbed the assassin by his pink gi, glaring and growling menacingly as Tao shook with fear.

"SHE LOST HER FRIEND, YOU BASTARD! SHOW SOME RESPECT OR SHUT THE HELL UP!"

"Ah...I..." Tao chuckled nervously, "My sensors indicate your blood pressure is quite elevated...perhaps you wish to kill me...?"

"DID YOU NEED SOME FANCY GADGET TO FIGURETHATONE OUT!?" yelled Jinku as he shook the cyborg assassin by his gi.

"AndImight help him," said Mr. Lao, glaring at Tao. Now that there were no soldiers to fight, he felt much less obligated to be kind to the retired mercenary.

Lime, meanwhile, was barely registering what was going on as she clung more tightly to her grandfathers gi, while Lao continued to hug her. Her sobs grew more quiet and faint. Pigero looked up to the skies and over to the wasteland, where he could still see Gohan rampaging against opponents that were comparatively much smaller.

Ena held his hand and squeezed it gently. "He'll come back. I have no doubt he will."

Pigero nodded, squeezing her hand back.

"Gohan..." Lime mumbled. And then, in a voice so faint that no one, not even her grandfather, could hear it, she whispered,

"I love you..."

Sharpener, Erasa, and Videl stood inside of a cave as they could hear Gohans rampaging noises through the wasteland. The teenage trio had run as far as they could away from the carnage when they saw Gohans transformation into the Golden Great Ape. None of them know, nor did they care, how Gohan had achieved such a form. All they knew was that they saw him from a distance bathed in the light of the full moon, and next thing they know he was a gigantic primate.

"I can't believe this..." said Sharpener as he felt another tremor from Gohans stomping, "First he's the Golden Warrior, then the Great Saiyaman, then a psycho killer, and now a giant monkey. What's next? Gohan the Mutant Lizard Man?"

"This isn't funny, Sharpener," frowned Erasa, "Gohan's gone crazy. He isn't himself."

"Color me surprised," said Sharpener casually as he laid on his back. The cave had a smooth surface except for a few loose rocks, and Sharpener found he could relax pretty easily.

"Aren't you worried?" asked Erasa, "This isn't some game, you know. The whole world could die soon."

"Yeah, and guess what? Number one, we can't do anything about it. And number two, people who are much stronger than us are trying to save it."

Another roar could be heard from outside the cave, as well as ki blasts being shot. Erasa's frown deepened. Videl was sitting next to her, warming herself by the fire that Sharpener had made with some sticks he found in the cave. Erasa turned to her friend, giving her a small smile to cheer her up.

"Well, he's not wrong. There are plenty of strong guys trying to save the world. There's hope," Erasa encouraged her brunette friend. When Videl didn't respond, Erasa's smile disappeared.

Finally, Videl spoke up. "It isn't that," she whispered, "It's that...he's changed. He's not the Gohan I know. And I know he's still in there, somewhere. I just...it kills me to see him like this." Videls brow furrowed. "I almost got through to him. Twice. What if...what if it's too late now?"

Erasa rubbed her friends back comfortingly. Sharpener stood up, giving his friend a sympathetic look. "Hey, we'll get him back," he said, "Gohan just needs a good knocking down."

Erasa glared at Sharpener's harsh use of words but Videl smiled a bit. Something about having Sharpener of all people try to assure her was good for her. She pulled her legs closer to her, letting the fire warm her. Videl thought of all the memories she shared with Gohan and thought bittersweetly, that she would relive them all, even the annoying ones, if only to see the real him again.

As she watched the fires crackle and the flames leap, Videl whispered, in a voice so low no one could hear her,

"Gohan...I love you."

Kaioshin had taken Goku's unconscious body to a desert thousands of miles away from Break Wasteland. It was the safest location, and with the night sky, everything was cool and peaceful. Kibito and Majin Buu were with him, and although Kibito was still skeptical of having Buu around, he trusted his masters judgment.

Kaioshin gently placed Goku's body down on the sands. Turning to Kibito, he commanded, "Heal him."

Kibito looked at Goku's body, and his brow furrowed. Kaioshin raised an eyebrow.

"Did you not hear me the first time, Kibito? I specifically ordered you to heal him."

"Master..." said Kibito slowly, "Are you...sure you want Goku to return to the battle?"

"Why would I not want that, Kibito?" asked Kaioshin, a little impatiently. Why doesn't he just obey me?

"Please forgive me for any perceived impudence. It is just...we have seen how attached Goku is to his child. And understandably so. However, we have seen him attempt to save Gohan's life from the other warriors before, and if he tries to stop them, he may be more of a hindrance than a help," Kibito paused, thinking. "Perhaps we could wait until after the fight is over, when Gohan is dead, to heal Goku, and then explain the news to him?"

"No, Kibito," said Kaioshin sternly, "The others are strong, but their power is nothing compared to Goku's. With his strength combined with ours, we can face Gohan head on and overwhelm him. Goku is our key to victory."

"Master, with all due respect..."

And so Kaioshin and Kibito debated back and forth over whether or not to heal Goku, and as time dragged on they each became more irritated with each other. Or at least, Kaioshin was becoming more irritated with Kibito.

"Kibito, I am not going to argue this with you any further. You are to heal Goku, and that is final."

"Lord Kaioshin, you must consider the consequences if this goes wro – "

"Hey, guys!"

A bright, cheery voice caught the debating deities attention, and they both did a double take when they saw Son Goku standing up, looking as healthy as ever. Goku was in his base form and all his scratches and cuts were gone, and he gave Kaioshin and Kibito a jovial wave.

"You!" shouted Kibito, "But how...?"

"Buu do it!"

Majin Buu, who was standing next to Goku, pointed to himself. "Buu heal Goku for you!" the djinn gloated, "Buu see that Kaioshin want Goku healed, so Buu heal Goku!"

"Thanks, buddy!" said Goku, lightly punching Buu's shoulder, "I dunno how you stopped being evil, but I'm glad you're on our side now!"

"Ah...I...I see..." Kibito blushed. Well, this was just dandy. Majin Buu was more quick to follow Kaioshin's orders than his own assistant was.

"Yes, thank you, Majin Buu," said Kaioshin, smiling, "Your help is much appreciated. If only certain other people were as quick to obey me as you are," he added with a light snicker.

Kibito's blush darkened.

"Well, anyway..." said Goku, his expression growing solemn, "I can't just wait around here. I need to get back to Break Wasteland and face Gohan."

"Are you sure about that?" asked Kibito, "He almost killed you last time. How can you be sure you'll win now?"

"It's something called the Zenkai Boost," explained Goku, "When a Saiyan recovers from near fatal injuries, he becomes stronger. Much stronger, actually. Now that I'm healed, I know I can step back in the fight. Besides," he added somberly, "Even if I wasn't stronger, I can't refuse to face Gohan. I won't let him be left to darkness."

"Goku..." said Kaioshin slowly. "We know now that the Oozaru's weakness is in his tail. With the Z Sword, I can cut it off. If you find a way to stun or distract Gohan long enough, we can work to bring him back."

Goku nodded. He raised two fingers to his forehead, and got a lock onto Gohans ki signal. "That sounds like a plan, Shin. Meet me there. We're going to get Gohan back together."

Goku ITed to Break Wasteland, and soon Kaioshin, Kibito and Majin Buu joined him.

"There's no stopping him!"

Gohans stomps created tremors throughout the Earth and spit flew from his mouth as all he could think about was the destruction of his enemies. His red eyes scanned the skies to find Tien and, finding him, Gohan threw a surprisingly quick punch that sent the three-eyed warrior flying into the next region.

"Tien!" cried Chiaotzu, flying to his three-eyed comrade.

Piccolo grimaced. "Looks like Tiens down for the count...what do we do now?"

"I don't know..." replied Vegeta. "Kakarot, where the hell are you...!?"

Meanwhile on the ground, Krillin, Yamcha, Roshi and even Eighteen had long given up trying to damage Gohan anymore. Seeing the frenzied state he was in, they resorted to the last option they had left: fly away to a safer location.

"Oh man, he's moving too fast!" shouted Krillin as he floated beside his wife, "At this rate, he could destroy the world just from his anger alone!"

"Maybe that was the idea all along..." said Eighteen.

Roshi took off his sunglasses, his moustache dropping as he frowned. "I knew he was angry, but I didn't know it was this bad."

"Yeah, you think they know someone, and then they surprise you," said Yamcha.

Gohan's roaring became such that he created a miniature sonic boom with his voice alone. Spit flew from his mouth and up close, it almost looked like the beast had rabies. The Z Fighters could only look in horror at the monster of destruction that became of the innocent boy they thought they all knew and loved. Gohan bared his teeth, ready to maul his next victim.

"GOHAN!"

Maybe it was a glimmer of the real Gohan living inside of him, or maybe it was just that Goku's voice was so loud, but when he heard it, the Golden Great Ape stopped his rampage. Looking down, his red eyes glimmered with malice as he saw Son Goku standing beneath him. Gohan breathed threateningly down to his father, and Goku's hair whipped back as his sons misty breath hit him.

Goku had transformed back into Super Saiyan Three, and was facing his son as ready as ever to fight. He clenched his fist at his side.

This is it...it's now or never.

Goku charged his fists with bright, blue ki. Gohan wasn't attacking, perhaps curious as to what his father would do. Goku closed his eyes, channeling all the energy he could into this attack.

"Gohan...the last time I did this, my heart was full of anger and hate, much like yours. I know what its like to be on the edge of darkness. I know what it's like to go to the abyss."

The energy in Goku's hands grew larger and larger, until he was ready to release it. He opened his eyes.

"But I got myself out. And now...I will get you out, too!"

With a mighty shout, Goku released a Kamehameha wave and aimed it – at the ground! The full-blooded Saiyans hair whipped wildly past him as he flew, and the Z Fighters watched in awe at what he was doing.

"What the hell is Kakarot trying!?" asked Vegeta.

"I think I have an idea..." said Piccolo.

Veins throbbed in Goku's forehead as he got closer and closer to his son. Gohan roared and threw a punch to his father, and Goku let go of the Kamehameha wave he had charged. Gohan made a surprised noise. Goku stretched out his arm and balled it into a fist, ready to throw a punch himself.

"The power of our bond can't be broken by darkness. Gohan, it's time to come home!"

Goku and Gohan screamed wildly, and their fists collided. Despite the difference in size, Goku was putting up a surprisingly good fight. When his fist met Gohan's it created a massive shockwave that threw everyone on their back, and could be felt throughout the entire world. All throughout Earth, cities were shaken and roads were torn apart at the sheer magnitude of Gohan and Goku's battle.

"Grrr...!"

Goku's whole body was covered in sweat and blood just from the sheer effort he was putting into this punch. So far it was even, but he could feel his strength slipping. Then, he looked into Gohan's eyes. Those horrible, piercing red eyes that he'd come to hate so much. Those red eyes that Goku himself wore as an Oozaru...

And then it snapped.

The outline of the Oozaru form could be seen from Goku's body as he screamed again, and this time, to everyone's shock, overpowered Gohan. The Great Ape was briefly stunned and stepped back, massaging his hand, as it was actually bruised. He looked to his father and saw Goku moving at lightning speed toward his midriff, the shadow of an Oozaru still following him.

Goku's head was flooded with memories of a simpler time with his son. Times where they sparred with each other, played games, fished and just enjoyed life. As the memories became stronger, so did Goku's attack. Tears fell down his face, mixing with the sweat and blood that stuck to his gi.

His fist collided with Gohan's stomach, too fast for the Great Ape to retaliate. Gohan made a pained cry as he almost fell to the ground, but Goku quickly flew to his back so he could knock him on his stomach. Gohan stumbled and his tail fell limp, and he passed out on the ground, where there were thankfully no people or mountains left to crush.

Goku turned to the Kaioshin, who was observing the whole thing from afar with Kibito and Majin Buu. "Now, Shin! Now's your chance!"

Shin nodded and pulled out the Z Sword. With a hearty battle cry, he sliced Gohan's tail off with it, and slowly but surely, the golden fur began to disappear. The Z Fighters watched in awe and relief as Gohan reverted from the Golden Great Ape form to his normal form.

As Gohan's form shrunk to normal size, the Z Fighters descended to see him. Thinking quickly, Piccolo shot a clothes beam at Gohans naked body so that he was dressed in a gi identical to his fathers. Goku slowly approached Gohan, breathing shallowly as he laid a hand on his sons shoulder. He turned Gohan around so he was laying on his back.

Goku leaned down and held his son to his chest, waiting for any sign of him waking up. When Gohan did, he blinked, clearly registering his surroundings. When his vision came into focus, he saw his father, and let out a small sob.

"F-father..."

"It's okay, Gohan," said Goku, smiling, "It's okay."

"GOHAN!"

Everyone turned to see Chi-Chi running up to her boy, having been flown by Goten and Trunks when she saw Gohan change back. Tears were running down her face as she practically threw herself to her son, sobbing hysterically. Some of the Z Fighters looked away but Eighteen, being a mother herself, smiled at the ardent display of affection.

"Oh, Gohan!" Chi-Chi sobbed. "You're back! You're..."

Goku placed a finger to her mouth. "Shhh," he gently hushed.

Chi-Chi blinked and looked down, noticing for the first time how worn Gohan was. In fact, he seemed barely conscious, as if he was going to pass out at any minute.

In the distance, Mr. Satan, Mike, Videl, Erasa, and Sharpener made their way to the crowd. Soon they were joined by Lime, Mr. Lao, Pigero, his gang, and even Mercenary Tao. All eyes were on Gohan, and as the Saiyan hybrid looked up to his family and friends, he smiled.

"The rage...the nightmare...it's over."

With that, Son Gohan fell asleep in his father's arms, smiling and looking more peaceful than anyone had seen him in years.

Notes:

Alright, guys! This is it. The final battle is now complete! However, the story isn't over yet. There are still some loose ends that need to be tied up. So...stay tuned for the next chapter!

Chapter 18: Aftermath.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter fornotes.)

Chapter Text

Son Goku powered down from Super Saiyan Three to his regular base form, holding his sons body in his arms. The Z Fighters all gathered around him, looking intently at the face of the sleeping teenaged Saiyan. Chi-Chi, who was standing by Gokus' side, smiled as tears fell down her pretty face. She lightly caressed her sons cheek with her hand, and for the first time in what felt like an eternity, the Son matriarch felt the knots in her stomach untie.

"It's over…" she said, her voice shaky, "Goku, I can't believe it. It's finally over…"

"GOHAN!"

Everyone's attention was brought to Goten running toward his brother, bawling his eyes out. He walked up to Goku and jumped up and down, eager to hug the life out of his big brother.

"He's back! He's back he's back he's back he's back! Big brother! I missed you!"

Goten's eyes were red and puffy. Chi-Chi leaned down and gave her youngest son a hug, hushing him. "Shhh. Settle down, Goten. You'll get to hug Gohan all you want when he wakes up. Right now, he just needs his rest," she said, smiling warmly.

Gotens' shoulders relaxed and he nodded, clinging tightly to his mother.

Piccolo smiled. In his head he felt a telepathic voice trying to contact him.

Piccolo, what happened? Is Gohan…

Yes, Dende, replied Piccolo,It's over now. Gohan is back.

The last thing Piccolo heard inside his head was a sniffling sound and Dende's choked voice saying,Gohan…

Krillin sniffed as tears fell down his face. "I can't believe it…he's really back! Gohan's okay now!"

"Aw, yeah! You go, Gohan!" cheered Yamcha, pumping his fists. Master Roshi, who was standing next to the desert bandit, smiled.

"All's well that ends well."

"Are we sure he's a hundred percent back to normal, though?" asked Eighteen bluntly, "All that happened was that his tail got cut off."

Krillin nodded. "I'm sure he is." Although he had some hesitation, he didn't want to ruin the moment. Everyone was just glad the battle was over.

Bulma smiled and gave a thumbs up to Goku. Trunks was wiping tears from his face, and even Vegeta was slightly smiling beside his wife and son. Videl and Lime were crying quietly into their hands, Mike was giddy, Mr. Satan was passed out from the insanity of the evening, and Pigero and his crew were standing on a nearby plateau and observing everything from a distance.

Pigero smiled. With an aerial view he had a clear look at Gohans expression as the Saiyan teenager slept in his fathers arms. "He's starting to look like the kid we met all those years ago."

Ena grabbed Pigero's hand and lightly squeezed it. "We should visit him sometime in the future. It'd be nice to catch up."

Pigero nodded. "Yeah…yeah, we should."

Jinku, Rom and the rest of the gang cheered as they began thinking of when and how they could reconnect with their long-lost Saiyan friend. Meanwhile, on the ground, Goku was cradling Gohans body in his arms, reminding himself of all the times he'd handle his son as an infant. Back then, when he was new to parenting, he thought it was such a drag, especially since Gohan was crying half the time. Goku chuckled to himself as he considered that he'd never thought there'd come a day he'd appreciate it so much…and when his son was a teenager, no less…

"NO! N-NO WAY!"

Goku and everyone else's attention was immediately distracted from Gohan when they heard a familiar voice cry in distress. Goku turned around and saw Kaioshin and Kibito a few feet away, looking absolutely horrified. Behind them, Majin Buu was blinking confusedly, apparently wondering what the two deities were so upset about.

"Kaioshin?" asked Goku. "What's wrong…?"

"THE Z SWORD!" cried Kaioshin as he held up the hilt of the famed weapon, "That attack…it damaged it…!"

Kaioshin held up the Z Sword, revealing that the blade was cut in half. Kibito, who was standing beside his master, began babbling about "the power of the ancients" and "whoever wields the sword should be unstoppable" among a million other things. Kaioshin's eyes were wide as saucers as he held the blade closer to him.

"Kibito…tell me it's not true…"

"I'm afraid it is, my lord," replied Kibito, "The legendary Z Sword is now broken!"

"And it's all my fault!"

Kaioshin collapsed to his knees and began sobbing. Kibito kneeled down to his masters level and gently rubbed his back. Meanwhile, Majin Buu was stretching his arms and touching his toes, completely oblivious to the Kaioshin's distress.

"Master, you mustn't blame yourself. You fought valiantly, and the sword served us well…"

"Yeah, Shin!" said Goku, "Don't be so hard on yourself! I mean, we saved Gohan thanks to you. Give yourself some credit!"

"Yes, really, we can't thank you enough for what you did," said Chi-Chi, smiling warmly, "Please don't feel bad over this."

"You don't understand!" cried Shin, "The Z Sword is the most powerful weapon in the known universe! Warriors from all times and from all worlds have tried to draw it for themselves. For eons it has been kept preserved in the Sacred World of the Kais, and now…now its broken!"

Kaioshin fell on his hands and knees as Kibito tried whatever he could to comfort him. Goku frowned, and there was a hushed murmur among the Z Fighters as everyone had to adjust to this change in the atmosphere. What was a happy moment for everyone just a few minutes ago was now one of awkward sadness and tension.

"Don't cry, m'boy!"

The shrill, cheery voice of an old man captured everyone's attention – even Kaioshin stopped his sobbing long enough to look up and see who had spoken. The purple deity's breath hitched in his throat when he saw another, shorter Kaioshin who looked a lot like him standing on the other side of the valley…one who looked a lot older…

Kaioshin instantly stood up, wiping his tears from his face as his expression turned from sorrow to surprise. Not only his eyes but all eyes were on the older Kaioshin as the younger Shin sputtered, "Y-you…! You must be…!"

"Yes I am, sonny," chuckled the older deity, "I am the Elder Kai. And if you ask me, lad, you did the right thing. Being stuck inside that sword was a real pain in the divine derriere!"

Kibito hastily stood up and bowed his head. "My lord! We are honored to have you grace us with your presence. The noble – "

"No need for formalities, sonny," interrupted Elder Kai, "I'm just an overseer like yourself."

The Elder Kaioshin walked over to Son Goku and his family, and soon all eyes were on him as everyone beheld the new guest. Elder Kaioshins wrinkled face broke into a smile when he saw Goku and his son sleeping peacefully. Chi-Chi shifted uncomfortably and placed an arm protectively around Goten's shoulder; after the events of the past week, she didn't feel too thrilled seeing another stranger from outer space.

"Son Goku…" said the Elder Kai, "…you have fought the most difficult battle of your life, haven't you?"

"Huh?" asked Goku, confused, "Uh…yeah? Sure…"

Elder Kai chuckled at Goku's awkward response. The aged deity placed a hand on Gohans forehead, closing his eyes. Chi-Chi made a move to stop him, but Goku gave her a look that said, "It's okay." After a few minutes, Elder Kai opened his eyes, and hummed thoughtfully.

"Yes…I sense it now, very clearly. The rage that has plagued young Gohans mind is gone. Goku, you have eradicated the anger that was haunting him all these years." Elder Kai took his hand off of Gohans head and folded them behind his back.

"What!?" exclaimed Goku, "I…I did!?"

"Indeed, you did," affirmed Elder Kai, "All his life, young Gohan has carried a burden I have noticed often in Saiyan hybrids – that is, the burden of carrying a colossal power that comes with immense anger. Looking through the network of his memories, I see that it began when he was four, and kidnapped by your brother."

Goku's breath hitched in his throat as he remembered that moment. He was lying on the ground and about to be killed by Raditz, when Gohan came to his rescue. Goku's face paled as he remembered the anger and hate in Gohans eyes…and at such a tender age…

"As he grew up, the rage evolved," continued the Elder Kai, "Against the Saiyan Nappa, the Ginyu Force, Frieza and Cell…until finally, Gohan had to learn to contain it. And it worked, for seven years! But it was still present, lurking within him. And then Babidi draws it out, resulting in a beast of destruction that eventually became the Golden Great Ape that you fought, Goku!"

Goku looked at Chi-Chi, both of their eyes shining in understanding as the pieces of the story fit together. Goten blinked and looked up to his mother.

"Mom? Is that weird purple guy our friend?"

Goku, Chi-Chi and even the Elder Kai laughed at the boys innocence. "Yes, Goten. Yes he is," Chi-Chi assured him.

Goku turned back to Elder Kai. "So you're sayin' that…"

"The Oozaru form you fought, was the manifestation of all Gohans rage," said Elder Kai, "And now that that's been defeated, your boy is free from the demons that plagued him. Although it will take a while for him to fully recover, it is thanks to you that that is now possible."

Goku smiled contentedly. He shook his son lightly as he digested everything the Elder Kai was telling him. "We're gonna make it happen, Elder Kai. I promise, we will."

And so, after the long, most arduous battle that any of them had faced, the Z Fighters brought peace to the Earth once again. With the help of the Dragon Balls, Goku wished for all the innocent lives taken from the past week and a half to be revived, and everyone's memories erased, except for those who had fought with the Z Fighters.

Everyone's minds were full of memories of a peaceful 24th World Martial Arts Tournament where Son Goku made his triumphant return to fighting, and him and a fighter known as "Vegeta" fought an epic battle where Goku emerged triumphant. There were also memories shared of an innocent pink creature known as "Majin Buu", who fought in the tournament as well and had a very large appetite!

Where this Buu creature came from, no one knew, but apart from that no one remembered anything strange about the tournament this year.

Meanwhile, in the usually cozy confines of the Son household, Goku was sitting forlornly in Gohan's room. It had been a full 24 hours since the boy was brought back to his senses, and since then he hadn't woken up from his long, peaceful sleep. Goku frowned as he saw the steady rise and fall of his sons chest against the bright blue sheets of his bed.

He loved seeing Gohan sleep so peacefully, he really did. In fact, Goku thought the boy deserved it. But as he leaned back in the rocking chair beside Gohans bed, he couldn't stop thinking of when his son would wake up and he could just hug him and say how sorry he was for everything.

Goku heard the door behind him open. Looking up, he saw Chi-Chi standing with a tray of tea and cakes. She set it on Gohans desk which he usually used for homework, and stood by her husband as she looked wistfully at their sons sleeping form.

"Goku…"

"I know."

Goku stood up and wrapped an arm around Chi-Chi's waist, pulling her close to him. Chi-Chi began sobbing into his chest, moistening her husbands orange gi with her tears. For a while, Goku just held his wife close to him, stroking her back gently and touching her cheek with his in a way that said, "It's okay."

Chi-Chi pulled back from her husband. "Goku, what you said at the Lookout, about staying for good…you meant that, right…?"

"Yes," Goku replied instantly, "I am not leaving. Not now, not ever." He looked at Gohans sleeping form. "Especially not now."

Chi-Chi wiped her tears with her sleeve, and smiled. She knew her husband well enough to know he was being honest. She sat on the edge of Gohans bed, raising a hand to the boys forehead. "Temperatures fine. He's not sick, so that's good," Chi-Chi breathed a sigh of relief.

"Yep!" Goku nodded, smiling. "He's alright, Chi. Dende says he should be back up in a couple of days. He's just tired from…well, y'know."

Chi-Chi nodded, still looking at Gohan. Heaving a deep sigh, she turned to her husband and said, "I am so sorry, Goku."

"Huh!? Sorry? For what?"

"For failing as Gohans mother. All these years passed and I never realized how full of anger he was, at you, at the world," she trembled, "I saw him when he was angry and it was terrible, Goku. I just never knew how deep it went. If only I was a better mother, if I had done something different, maybe I…maybe he wouldn't have…"

"Chi-Chi, no!" Goku instantly sat down beside his wife. He raised a hand to her chin, tilting her head so he could look her in the eye. "Listen to me. This wasn't your fault. It was never your fault. No one could've seen this coming, and you're not a bad mother for preventing this. This was totally out of your control."

Goku looked at Gohan. "If anything, it's my fault. I never should've left for as long as I did. Gohan was angry with me for leaving, and honestly, I think he was right."

"Goku…"

"No, Chi-Chi," insisted Goku, "I know what you're about to say. And no, it wasn't justified. I made a mistake, and I never realized how bad it was until now."

Goku held Chi-Chis hands in his. "But now I'm back. I'm here. And I will stand by you, Gohan, and Goten until my dying breath."

"Oh, Goku!"

Chi-Chi threw her arms around Goku's neck and bawled her pretty eyes out. Goku held his wife by her waist and pulled her close to him. The husband and wife clung to each other as though for eternity, and there were so many silent "I love yous" spoken through their touch, that everything that needed to be said, was said without a single word spoken.

Sparing one last glance at his sleeping firstborn child, Goku thought to himself,

I'm here to stay.

Videl leaned back in her seat, her eyes barely open enough to make it look like she was paying attention. It was 1:30 pm, time for biology class in Orange Star High. And although Videl usually had a decent time concentrating in class, today was very difficult as she had a mere day and a half to process everything.

Gohan…

The brunette martial artist looked down at her notes, but it all seemed a jumbled mess to her. All she could think about was Gohan. Is he okay? What if he's in a coma and never wakes up? Should I check on him? Is he…

Videl felt a slight prick at her elbow, and saw a small piece of paper on her side of the desk. Looking to Erasa, she saw the blonde give her an expression that said, "Read it." Videl unfolded the piece of paper that Erasa sent her. It read:

"We're visiting him tomorrow night. Seven o'clock. All three of us. Don't worry."

Suddenly, Videl felt her body tingle with relief as she felt a ton lighter. Truthfully, she wanted to visit Gohan ever since Goku took him home from Break Wasteland, but she couldn't muster the courage to. With Sharpener and Videl by her side, it would make the visit far easier. So Videl tore a small slip of paper out of her notebook, hastily scribbled in it, and sent it to Erasa.

"Perfect. Count me in."

"One…two…three zeni is your change," Lime smiled as she handed the customer his groceries. The customer, a middle aged man with red hair, smiled back.

"Thanks, Lime! Dunno where my family and I would be without this shop of yours."

"Don't mention it," said Lime, blushing. The customer left the shop, leaving Lime alone with her thoughts as she stood behind the counter. She stepped outside to see if anyone else would be entering the shop. Seeing no one else, Lime stepped back inside and heaved a deep sigh.

Her stomach tied into knots as the thoughts she tried so hard to push away came back full force. It was a mere day and a half since the battle at Break Wasteland was finished, and Gohan had been brought back from his insane, destructive rampage. Lime bit her lip as she saw how different he looked after the battle…how happy and serene he looked, safe in his fathers arms. In that moment, she wanted nothing more than to hug him and kiss him, glad that she had her friend back.

"Lime."

With a startled gasp, Lime turned toward her grandfather, who was standing by the stairwell with a stern, yet compassionate look on his face.

"I know that boy is still on your mind. But, could you wait until after the shop is closed to let him distract you?"

"I'm sorry, grandpa, I just…"

Lime sighed deeply. "I miss him. The real him. And now that he's back, I can't stop thinking about him."

Mr. Lao's stern expression softened. He walked over to Lime and placed a hand on her shoulder, squeezing it gently. "Then perhaps we should pay him a visit. Tomorrow at seven. It will help put your mind at ease."

Lime instantly lit up. Her face broke out into a wide grin as she gave her grandfather a big hug. "Oh, grandpa! That would be wonderful! Thank you!"

Mr. Lao hugged his granddaughter back, glad to see Lime cheered up.

Tomorrow would be a very special day.

Dabura sat cross-legged in the valley of Break Wasteland, his meditative state allowing him to hover above the ground. He was sitting in front of a lake, and it was a bright, sunny day, the wind blowing gently through him as his cape fluttered in the wind.

His yellow eyes opened as the thought that troubled him the most crept into the surface of his mind.

Gohan.

Dabura frowned. "What a waste," he thought out loud. "You had such absolute power, and a thirst for vengeance. You could have executed true justice on this world, and you threw that chance away. And all because you had your tail chopped off."

Dabura's brow furrowed as he recalled the events of the other night. He had been watching from the skies as he floated above the Z Fighters, but he heard everything. Including what the Elder Kai said about Gohan, and his rage.

So. His rage has been eradicated now…

The Supaish king stopped levitating, and landed softly on the grassy plains beneath his feet. He walked rather aimlessly throughout the wasteland, frowning as he remembered how full of chaos and destruction it was just a little over a day ago. It was strange, Dabura thought as he walked long the valley, how he loved violence, considering what happened to his people. Why had he grown so accustomed to bloodshed? He did not know…

Passing by an unusually large oak tree, Dabura sat beneath it, his yellow eyes scanning his surroundings to see if there were any intruders. Finding none, he leaned back against the bark of the tree, rays of sunlight shining on him through the leaves. Returning to his thoughts, Dabura wondered if his love for violence was an aftereffect of the Majin spell. He couldn't remember the last time he enjoyed peace.

Did he ever enjoy peace?

As he saw a couple of deer wade through the rivers beside him, Dabura wondered if peace was ever in his vocabulary. All his life, even before he went Majin, he had been a warlord, destined for battle. Battle for his people, his family, and then Babidi and eventually Gohan. But now that he had no one else to fight for…

A slow, ironic smile spread across Dabura's face as he leaned back against the tree.

"Perhaps I could get used to this…"

Two full days have passed since the final battle. The Son family household was peacefully, but almost disturbingly, quiet as the eve of the second day approached. Chi-Chi was busy absently washing dishes in the kitchen, her brow furrowed as she found it unusually difficult to concentrate. Her, Goku and Goten had just finished a quiet dinner, missing a very familiar person at the table.

Goten, meanwhile, was in his room studying after training with his dad all day. He frowned as he racked his brains on a particularly hard math problem. At first Goten loved math, but then things got weird when they mixed letters with numbers. Why do they even do that? He thought, I thought math was just about numbers…

Goku was outside, doing stretches as the sun slowly set on Mount Paozu. Sweat was pouring down his neck and drenching his gi. He kept telling himself that he would come back inside in a few minutes but he knew that was just a lie. Closing his eyes, the Saiyan warrior went into a meditative state as he imagined an enemy standing before him. An enemy that closely resembled Babidi…

"HYAH!"

In an instant, Goku threw a dozen punches and kicks toward the air, his teeth gritted and his eyes burning with hate. From what the Kaioshin had told him, Gohan had killed Babidi. As satisfying news as that was, Goku couldn't help but wish that that honor was reserved for him as he imagined the cackling mage being pummeled to bits by his attacks.

"No…no!" The imaginary Babidi cried as Goku's fist hit his throat, causing his head to explode. Blood and bits of flesh were plastered everywhere, but somehow the wizard was still alive. Alive for Goku to torture even more…

"You…"

Babidi's body twitched on the ground. Goku grabbed it and began strangling it, feeling the heartbeat of the wizard slow until it ebbed away.

"Evil…"

Babidi's body gave a helpless, frightened squeaking noise before Goku tore him in half. Goku watched with great pleasure as Babidi's purple blood and internal organs fell to the ground.

"…Bastard!"

Finally, with a few quick ki blasts, Goku ended the mage's torture and incinerated him for good.

Goku ended his mental training session – or torture session, rather. He breathed deeply, his chest heaving as he tried to center himself and get his thoughts under control. It was satisfying…very satisfying to imagine slowly killing the twisted creature who robbed his son of his innocence. But Goku couldn't become so obsessed with that. Especially not when everything was undone.

Still…as the memory of that cackling mage broadcasting a worldwide message with Gohan rang through his head…Goku couldn't help but feel that maybe, if he carried a certain flicker of hatred with him the rest of his life, he could forgive himself for that.

The next evening, Videl, Erasa and Sharpener were on their way to Mount Paozu in a Capsule Corp airship. Bulma had agreed to let them borrow one (after a sly comment on how Videl was "eager to see her boyfriend") and Sharpener, who had just received his pilots license a couple months ago, was flying them to the Son household. Videl and Erasa were sitting in the backseat, Videl carrying a casserole she made for Gohan. It was very telling since she couldn't remember the last time she cooked for anyone, even herself.

"So…" asked Erasa, smiling to her friend, "How long do you think til he proposes?"

"W-what!?" Videl blushed profusely. Her grip almost slipped on the casserole but she caught it just in time. "Erasa, I – we're still in high school!"

"I'm just kidding," Erasa giggled, "But, I think you two would make a great couple! What do you think, Sharpener?"

"Sure, why not," said Sharpener, who was more focused on flying than his friends love life, "Just keep it down back there. I'm trying to concentrate and I need to make sure this gets back to Capsule Corp without a dent."

Soon the airship landed in front of the Son household, and the teenage trio descended, Videl trailing behind her two blonde friends. It was so bizarre – the last time she was here, Gohan was still evil and they were on a hunt for dragon balls. Videl had gotten a glimpse into his family life after seeing old pictures of the Sons, and as they approached the front door, the martial artist felt as though it was an eternity ago, even though it was just last week.

Man, what a crazy time…

"Hey!"

Sharpener was about to knock on the door when another female voice got the trios attention. Looking to their left, they saw a couple of people emerging from the forests. An old man with a moustache wearing a white shirt and black pants and a brown haired girl their age wearing red overalls and a yellow shirt. They recognized them from Break Wasteland, after the battle. But what were they doing here…?

To Videl's surprise, the girl was also carrying a container of food. She approached the front entrance. "Are you here to see Gohan? That's what we're here for, too," she said, smiling. "I'm Lime. This is my grandfather, Mr. Lao."

Mr. Lao nodded respectfully. "It is very nice to meet you three."

"R-right," said Sharpener, caught off guard by the unexpected visitors, "I'm Sharpener, these are my friends Erasa and Videl." Erasa smiled and waved at the new visitors, but Videl just blinked, totally stunned.

Where did she come from…?

Before Videl could ask any more questions, the front door opened, revealing a very surprised looking Chi-Chi. "Oh, my goodness! I remember you all – your friends of Gohan! What are you doing here?"

"Hello," said Sharpener, greeting the Son matriarch with a polite smile, "We wanted to check on him and brought him some food, if that was alright."

"Oh…" said Chi-Chi, biting her lip. "Well…come on in, then."

Sharpener, Erasa, Videl, Lime and Mr. Lao entered the Son residence, taking off their shoes and looking around the house. For Videl and her friends it wasn't anything new, however to Lime and Mr. Lao, who had lived in an old village their whole life, it was like an interesting museum exhibit.

"Grandpa…" asked Lime, pointing toward the TV in the living room, "What's that?"

"Nothing you need to know about," replied Mr. Lao hastily.

"Gohan's room is upstairs, just follow me," said Chi-Chi, leading the way upstairs without looking at her new guests. Everyone followed her upstairs until they stopped at one room at the left of the hall, and Chi-Chi turned around to face them.

"I should tell you that Gohan is sleeping."

"Oh," said Mr. Lao, "Well, that's quite alright. Perhaps we can come back another time…?"

"No, it's fine," said Chi-Chi with a strained smile, "Actually, I appreciate the company. But I'm telling you this because he probably won't wake up. He's…he's been asleep for two days."

Two days!?

The five visitors looked at each other, shocked and concerned. Gohan was asleep for two days? Videl and Lime clutched their containers of food, worried. Would they ever get to see Gohan awake again…?

Chi-Chi wordlessly opened the door and gestured for her visitors to enter. Sharpener went in first, followed by Erasa, Videl, Lime and Mr. Lao. When they entered the room everyone was amazed at how expansive it was. In all honesty, Gohans room looked more like a small library.

There were bookshelves lining the walls with books of every kind of subject, from history, to psychology, to theology, and botany. There was an old desk with a worn out chair in front of it, doubtless where Gohan spent most of his time studying. The desk, everyone curiously noted, had a tray of tea and cakes on it that looked like they were a day old.

In the center of the room was a large bed with Gohan sleeping soundly in it. A steady rise of the blue sheets told the visitors that he was still fast asleep. Videl and Lime gently placed their containers of food on his desk, their gaze meeting when they did. It was a tense moment.

"So…" asked Videl, "What did you make?"

"Octopus fried rice," replied Lime. "What about you?"

"Beef casserole. Old family recipe."

"Uh huh…"

Mr. Lao, Sharpener and Erasa left the room. The girls barely noticed as they stared down each other.

"I know you," said Lime, after a long silence, "I heard your name on the radio a lot. You fight crime with someone else named 'Great Saibaman' or something…"

Videl inwardly chuckled.Oh, if only you knew what I knew about the Great Saiyaman…

She crossed her arms. "Yeah, that's me. What's your story? How do you know Gohan?" Videls blue eyes gazed Lime up and down, sizing her up. Behind her, she heard Gohan snore loudly.

"For your information, I've known him since we were kids," answered Lime, glaring at Videl. "And what's it to you, anyway?"

"Nothing. I'm just curious."

"Like hell you are!"

Lime grabbed her container of rice and practically ran over to Gohan's bed, placing the container on his nightstand. She spread her arms protectively over Gohans sleeping form. "Gohan trusts me. We've been together for years and he's never hidden anything from me. I'm the one who should take care of him!"

Videl's eyes widened.'We've been together'…but that makes it sound like…

"So what? Are you his girlfriend!?" asked Videl angrily, as a vein popped in his forehead.

"None of your business!"

"LIKE HELL IT ISN"T!"

Videl and Lime stared each other down, breathing heavily and ready to tear each other apart. Their faces were beet red, and their fists were clenched at their sides as they growled at each other. They barely even registered the fact that Gohan was sleeping behind them.

"I'll have you know…" said Videl, "That he saved my life at the tournament against Spopovich!"

"I'll have you know that he saved my life against Mercenary Tao! And he did that seven years ago!"

"I'll have you know that he couldn't keep his eyes off me the moment we met!"

"I'll have you know that you're a stupid hussy!"

"I AM NOT A HUSSY!"

The girls were arguing back and forth as their faces turned fifty shades of red and steam was practically blowing out of their ears. Their heads grew comically big as they yelled at each other, and tremors could be heard from Gohans room as Videl and Lime continued their battle. Their fight could have rivaled Goku's fight with Gohans in terms of intensity.

Outside the room, Mr. Lao sighed as he pinched his nose, standing in the hallway. He turned to Chi-Chi, who was standing beside him along with Sharpener and Erasa. "I'm so sorry about this."

Chi-Chi giggled and shook her head. "Don't worry. I was young and in love, too."

Inside Gohans room, the two girls fight became explosive.

"HE LOVES ME MORE!"

"HE BARELY EVEN KNOWS YOU!"

"I'VE KNOWN HIM SINCE WE WERE KIDS!"

"HE TRAINED ME TO FIGHT!"

"DID HE TRAIN YOU NOT TO BE A HUSSY!?"

"WHY, YOU…!"

Videl grabbed Lime by her yellow shirt, ready to tear her apart, when –

"Lime? Videl?"

The girls feud was cut short by the sound of a familiar, soft voice. Videl instantly let go of Lime and they each turned their heads toward Gohans bed, their anger forgotten at what they saw.

Son Gohan was awake.

Gohan blinked a few times, wiping sleep off his eye. His eyes were half-open, and he looked pale after not being outside for two days. But his expression showed surprise at the sight of his two close female friends. His eyes shone with an innocence that no one had seen from him in far too long. When Gohan registered Lime and Videl's presence, his face broke into a slow, broad smile.

"You guys…you're…you're here…"

The two girls immediately forgot their argument and lunged toward Gohan, hugging the life out of him and kissing his face. The poor boy gasped for breath as Lime and Videl practically tackled him back to the mattress, but he was still smiling. As far as wake up calls went, this wasn't a bad one.

"Gohan!" cried Videl, "You're back!"

"Don't scare us like that again!" Lime demanded.

Gohan let out a faint chuckle as he slowly got out of bed, his eyesight adjusting to brightness he hadn't experienced in days. As the boy looked around his room, he heard the door creek open and a gasp as shattered glass hit the floor. Turning around, Gohan saw his mother with her hands over her mouth, and a broken tray of cookies on the floor.

"Gohan!"

Behind Chi-Chi, Mr. Lao, Sharpener and Erasa were smiling and cheering at seeing their best friend awake. Chi-Chi rushed toward her son and threw her arms around his frame, crying and hugging her son like her life depended on it. Gohan smiled and hugged her back. Lime and Videl joined in, and soon even Lao, Sharpener and Erasa joined as everyone piled into a big group hug.

"Heya!"

Son Goku's voice rang in from the doorway to Gohans room. He was floating outside the window and descended into the room, and everyone let go of Gohan so that the boy could see his father. Gohan took a few steps toward Goku, his smile disappearing as he got closer. Finally, when he could look his father in the eye, he broke down and cried into his fathers chest.

"Dad…father….I'm sorry. I'm so sorry…"

Goku held his son closet to him, rubbing his back comfortingly. By this point, everyone left the room except Chi-Chi, and Goten, who was napping until now, tiptoed into the room to get a better look at his big brother. Gohan was crying his eyes out.

"I've done so much evil, I've…I've hurt you so much…"

"It's okay, Gohan," Goku said soothingly, "It's okay. I forgive you." He lifted his sons chin up so he could look at Gohan in the eyes. "And I'm never leaving you again. Not now, not ever."

Gohan trembled and collapsed to the floor, bawling his eyes out. Chi-Chi and Goten ran over to him and Goku leaned down, and soon the entire family was hugging their eldest child to death. Goku and Chi Chi were hugging Gohan while Goten hopped on his big brothers back and hugged him from behind.

"Big brother! You're back! You're really back!"

As Gohan's crying started to subside and the group hug went on, the Saiyan hybrid remembered something about himself that he hadn't thought about in far too long:

He was very, very loved.

A few months later, Goku decided to take the family on vacation. Bulma was generous enough to pay for the expenses - it was a drop in the bucket for her, but meant a lot to the Son family. She even let them borrow a Capsule Corp airship for the trip.

Goku was humming to himself as he piloted the ship over the cloudy skies. Beside him, Chi-Chi was flipping through a magazine she borrowed from Bulma. Meanwhile in the back of the ship, Goten was playing on his portable game console while Gohan was staring absently out the window.

It was a beautiful sight. Gohan could see mountaintops and lakes streaming from them, and remembered how he would travel those mountains with his father as a kid. They'd go camping, fishing, hunting, and occasionally sparring...life was so much simpler back then. Until…

Gohan grimaced.

Until I found out I was a Saiyan.

Gohan folded his hands in his lap, contemplating the direction his life took ever since that fateful day, and particularly after what happened with Babidi. He felt a lump rise to throat as he recalled the events.

"Alright, everyone! We're here!"

Goku's cheery voice interrupted Gohans thoughts, and Goten hopped right out of his seat at the announcement. "Yippee! That ride was so boring!"

The Son family made their way inside the glorious, waterside resort on the edge of South City, having parked their airship in the nearest airship lot. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, flying vehicles were becoming a common enough site to warrant their own lots in public places. When the family stepped inside the building, their jaws dropped.

To put it simply, the resort was unlike anything the Son family had ever witnessed. A single chandelier illuminated the entire place, revealing marble floors, neatly decorated furniture and even a live band playing soft music in the background. Goku led his family toward the front desk where the lady at the counter gave them a warm smile.

"Welcome to South City's Palm Resort! Do you have a reservation with us?"

"Yep!" said Goku. "We're the Son family. And I got t'say, this is a really cool place!"

Chi-Chi winced at her husbands informal tone. But the front desk lady's smile widened at Goku's compliments. "Thank you! We try to do our best." She searched through her computer. "Let's see...ah, here it is! Yes, your room is going to be 401. Here's your key," she handed Goku their hotel room key, but he just stared at it.

"Um, key? That's not a key. Looks more like a card to me."

Chi-Chi buried her face in her hands, Gohan blushed, but Goten looked just as confused as his father. Apparently he thought it was a legitimate question too. The lady just laughed. "No, its a key card! You slide it in the door and then back out."

"Oh. Uh, okay," said Goku. He took the key card and, with one last smile at the lady, led his family to their room.

Goten was the first to rush in, and when he did he plopped onto the couch and fished the remote. "Alright! Let's see what cartoons are on!" He eagerly switched the channels, but Chi-Chi snagged the remote out of his hands and shut the tv off. Goten pouted. "Hey!"

"We're on vacation, young man!" she said sternly, "You watch plenty of television at home. It can wait!"

Goku chuckled. He missed seeing how much Chi-Chi cared for their kids' well being. It was one of the things he looked forward to seeing more of when he came back to life. He turned to Gohan, smiling. "How y'doing, son?"

Gohan smiled back. "Never better, Dad. Never better."

Son Gohan stood on the shoreline of the beach, wearing a tank top and swim trunks. It was dawn the next day, and the rest of his family were still sleeping in their hotel rooms. The waves crashed gently on the beach as the sun peeked over the horizon, signaling a new day.

The Saiyan hybrid was the only one present on the beach as he felt the waves crash against his feet. His eyes fell as he slowly shook his head. He sat down cross-legged on the sand.

What happened? Why did I…?

Gohans chest tightened. The memories came flooding back to him like a wave that made the waves on the beach look like nothing. The flashes of his fight with Goku, the cities he destroyed, and the twisted face of that wizard Babidi…

He looked at his hands, and clenched them. Gohan took in a deep breath as the memories became stronger and more vivid. Tears began to roll down his cheek. What had possessed him? How could he kill all of those innocent people? They were brought back to life, yes, but...but how could Gohan live with himself now?

He knew his father forgave him. He knew his family was just glad to have him back. But as Gohan looked around at the world he tried to destroy, he couldn't help a sinking feeling in his stomach at the realization that he had innocent blood on his hands. The regret he felt was palpable, and his eyes burned as a lump rose in Gohans throat…

"Hey."

Gohan gasped at the unexpected voice. He hastily got up and turned around, and saw a vaguely familiar looking young man around his age staring back at him, looking concerned. The young man had long brown hair and wore a gray tank top with camo pants, looking straight out of an action movie. Gohan thought he looked surreal against the peaceful background of the beach.

"H-hey," replied Gohan, his voice cracking, "Do I know you?"

"You do, actually," replied the young man with a smile, "It's me...Pigero."

"WHAT!?"

Gohan fell on his rump, his eyes wide as saucers. "Pigero!? From all those years ago!? No way!"

For the first time that morning, Gohan felt his heart lighten. He smiled broadly and gave Pigero a big hug, and the two boys laughed at the surprise reunion. Gohan stepped back and grinned. "Man, you've grown! Like a lot!"

"So have you!"

"What brings you out here, Pigero? This is crazy!" laughed Gohan.

"The gang and I hang around South City a lot," replied Pigero, "And I wanted to see you after…" He trailed off.

Gohans smile disappeared. "After...what?" he asked, although he feared he knew the answer.

Pigero looked down to the sand, his hair swaying as the ocean breeze blew through it. He looked at Gohan seriously. "I know what happened. We didn't have our memories erased. You didn't see us, but we were there, at Break Wasteland. We saw everything and fought the soldiers."

"Oh," replied Gohan awkwardly. He turned his back on Pigero and sat down in the sand, his head hung low. "I see."

Pigero fidgeted his hands nervously. This was not how he wanted his reunion with his old friend to go. Especially not after what Gohan had been through. Perhaps against his better judgment, he sat down beside Gohan, who thankfully didn't protest.

Pigero cleared his throat. "So...I'm glad you're back." Gohan stared vacantly at the rising sun, saying nothing. Pigero continued, "We were all worried about you. We heard your message to the world about the fight at the wasteland and - "

"You didn't need to."

"I - huh? What do you mean?"

"You didn't need to worry about me," replied Gohan, "It wouldn't have made a difference if I lived or not, as long as I was stopped. There was no way I could ever beat my father. And if I died, it would've been just."

"What!?" shouted Pigero, "Gohan, are you - do you know what you're saying!?"

"I know exactly what I'm saying," said Gohan bitterly, "I was a threat to this world. I hurt my family, my friends, and countless innocent people. I didn't deserve to live," he looked at his reflection in the ocean as the waves rolled in again. Gohans eyes looked heavy as he whispered, "I actually wish my father killed me…"

"LIAR!"

Pigero stood up, his voice echoing throughout the entire beach. Thankfully there were still no visitors to hear him, but if there were they'd be knocked back by the sheer force of his shout. Gohan, however, didn't react at all. He simply stared at his reflection in the ocean.

Pigero growled. "Gohan, look at yourself! You were once a brave fighter, the bravest boy I ever met - and now look at you! You're throwing a pity party over stuff you did when you weren't in control of your mind!? What the hell is wrong with you!?"

"You don't know the guilt I feel," said Gohan.

"GUILT!?"

Pigero grabbed Gohan by his tank top, surprising the Saiyan as he met his angry, black eyes face to face. Pigero was seething, and although Gohan knew he could easily incapacitate him in a fight, he shuddered at the angry vibe Pigero was giving off.

"Let me tell you something about guilt!" shouted Pigero, "Try taking care of orphans for damn near your whole life, then leaving them in the care of people you thought you could trust, only to find out…"

Pigero choked. "Only to find out that they were tortured for years while you were enjoying life thinking you did the right thing!"

His grip on Gohans top slackened, and the Saiyan fell on his rump, looking totally nonplussed. Pigero sniffed. "Maybe what I did wasn't as bad as you, Gohan. But at least you can say that you weren't in your right mind when you did the terrible things you did. You ruined zero lives before a crazy wizard messed with your head. I ruined five."

Pigero averted eye contact with Gohan. Breathing shakily, he sat down beside him as he faced the rising sun over the ocean. The entire beach was flooded with daylight by now, and there were several tourists setting up a spot with their families. No one noticed the two teenage boys sitting on the shore.

Gohan looked sadly at Pigero as the lone orphan hyperventilated, no doubt thinking about the terrible place his friends were left in. The Saiyan hybrid sighed. "I'm sorry, Pigero. I never knew…"

"Well, now you do," replied Pigero. Staring into the sunset with a vacant expression, he continued, "We both know what its like to experience guilt over situations where we thought we were doing the right thing. But I still have my will to live. I'm still going to fight to my dying breath to make things better for the people I love."

Pigero turned his head, his eyes glistening. "Gohan...are you prepared to do the same?"

Gohan felt a fire stir in him at those words. He raised his hand to his heart, clenching it into a fist. Turning to his long lost friend, he said seriously,

"Yes. I am. One hundred percent."

A slow, grateful smile tugged at Pigeros face. Gohan smiled too as he felt the dead weight of guilt evaporate in his heart for the first time. The ocean breeze swept gently through the boys hair, and the beach became more full of people as tourists and their families played happily on the sand.

"Then I think you should get back to the resort," said Pigero, standing up, "They've been waiting for you for a while, now."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"SURPRISE!"

Pigero led Gohan to the ballroom of the resort, where the Saiyan hybrid was met with the roaring sound of his family and friends cheering for him. Gohan's jaw dropped as he looked around and saw the richly decorated ballroom.

The room was full of Chinese lanterns on the tables and ceiling that bathed a soft glow over the atmosphere, as well as string lights that made the room even brighter. The tables had light blue tablecloths and the finest silverware put on them, and Gohan felt his stomach rumble at the delicious food coming from the buffet. To top it all off, a huge banner spread across the ceiling that read,

WELCOME BACK GOHAN!

The guests, who had paused for a brief second to welcome their guest of honor, continued flitting every way through the ballroom, eating, drinking and chatting merrily with each other. Gohan did a double take as he recognized some familiar faces: Pigero's gang all seated in one table, the Briefs family, Krillin and his family, Piccolo and Dende (who had bowls of water on their table), Mr. Satan and Videl, Lime and her grandfather...

As well as another interesting guest…

"Mercenary Tao?" thought Gohan out loud, pointing to a table in the far left corner of the room. "What's he doing here?"

Pigero shrugged. "Beats me. But he's not killing anyone, so I guess he's okay."

"Hey, Gohan!"

Goku walked up to his son and gave him a big bear hug. Gohan laughed and hugged his father back. Chi-Chi and Goten stood behind Goku and smiled.

"Whaddya think, son?" asked Goku as he pulled back. "I thought a surprise party would be a nice addition to the trip! Bulma even paid for everything."

"She better have," added Chi-Chi, "Kami knows we can't afford all this…"

"I love it, Dad! Thanks," grinned Gohan.

Goku beamed at his son, ruffling his hair. He turned to Pigero. "Thanks for your help, buddy. I appreciate it."

"No problem, Mr. Son. Anything to help Gohan out," replied Pigero.

"Hold on…" said Gohan, "You told him to talk to me?"

"Yup!" affirmed Goku. "Bulma invited Pigero and his friends and they told me all about how they knew you when you were a kid. I figured he'd be the best person to help you get inside - at least better than me!" he added, chuckling. Gohan laughed and playfully punched his father in the arm.

The rest of the party went very smoothly. Gohan sat down with Pigero and his gang, and eventually Videl and Lime sat down and joined him. The girls were getting along much better after their little fight at the Son house, each agreeing that it was best to put their quarrel behind them for Gohans sake. Gohan leaned back and listened as Rom excitedly recalled stories of their time together.

"...and then, when Gohan pretended to be sick, we stole all the fruit and ran from the cops!" Rom guffawed as he slammed his third mug of beer on the table. Gohan shifted uncomfortably as Lime and Videl laughed.

"We sure went on a lot of crazy adventures," said Hacchi reminiscently. "So, how do you girls know Gohan?"

"He saved my village when I was a kid," said Lime, smiling warmly at Gohan. "We were so afraid of Cell and Tao but he kept us safe."

"We go to school together," replied Videl. "And he helps me in my vigilante work sometimes."

"School, huh?" said Chico. "I wish we got that as teenagers. Our schools got washed up thanks to the tsunami that hit our island."

"Yeah, it was rough," said Pigero, his face tightening.You guys were being tortured by maniacs when you should've been going to high school…

Ena sensed her boyfriends discomfort and clasped her hand with Pigeros under the table. At her touch, Pigero relaxed, and lightly squeezed Ena's hand back as the two shared a knowing gaze.

Gohan was standing on the edge of the shore that night on the beach, only this time, he wasn't alone. He had his friends and family by his side, all watching the sunset with him, as the day slowly turned to night. The beach was surprisingly crowded for nighttime, everywhere families were having a blast spending time with their loved ones.

The Saiyan hybrid had one arm around Videl, the other around Lime as they stood side by side leaning against his shoulder and gazing at the setting sun. Goku had Chi-Chi on his back as though giving her a piggyback ride, Vegeta had his hand over Bulmas waist, Goten and Trunks were playfighting in the distance, Piccolo was meditating, and Pigero and the rest of the party guests - even Mercenary Tao - were enjoying the long awaited peaceful aftermath to the horribly long fought battle.

Gohan's heart swelled as he remembered everything that led him to this moment. The pain, the rage, the inner darkness...all of that was gone. Forever.

And there was no turning back.

"Gohan?" asked Goku.

"Yeah, Dad?"

"I know I messed up a lot, but...how good of a father d'you think I've been to you?"

Gohan looked at his father, his eyes shining with innocence that no one saw from him in years. He laughed heartily at that question.

"You've been the best, Dad. The best."

Notes:

Well...this is it!

After a long year of writing, publishing and editing, Inner Darkness is now complete. I started on April 13th, and I ended on April 13th. Quite poetic, I think.

That aside, I want to thank each and every one of you for supporting me on this journey! Reading your reviews and seeing how much you all love my story made my day more times than I can count. And I hope to entertain you with more stories in the future!

Dragon Ball Forever!