Author's Note: Greetings all!

Got a pleasant treat for you today as it's one of those rare occasions where my time management skills didn't completely fail me, so this chapter is longer than usual.

Welcome to the final chapter before the invasion and possibly the most important chapter I've written this far. Besides tying up all the loose ends before things get crazy, we'll be diving into uncharted waters today. A good chunk of this chapter will tackle an element that isn't really touched on in the canon. If you have questions about how things work, I recommend rereading some of the previous stories or messaging me with your concerns.

Also, I think this is a good opportunity to share some of my writing processes and how things will move forward. Until now, I've been following the rules of the canon closely as I think the subtle changes at the start that create bigger alternations are compelling.

We are now at that point where I will diverge from the canon a lot more! Somehow, I've written two of these things and stuff is getting very real, very fast! So, if there is an element to this story you notice differs from the canon, please believe that I have a reason for it that will be explained and that it serves to tell a new story. Or fanfic some might call it.

Thank you all for keeping up with me through the… years? (oh god time is slipping by) writing and sharing this story with you all continues to be one of the best parts of my month and in a way we are just getting started.

So, happy holidays to those who celebrate, and please, enjoy.

Days left: 2

A rather slow one, it seems. The old tailor yawned, showing his teeth to his empty store. Not a single customer had walked into his store today. The emptiness allowed the tailor's mind to wander, yet eventually, even that got tiresome. Got half a mind to close early, get a jump on cooking up the chicken. Paired with some rice it could-

The tailor's dinner plans were put on hold as the bell he had attached to the door of his store jingled out loudly, announcing a potential customer. The old man picked himself up from his slump and stood at attention, putting on his best face.

"Welcome!" the old man said with a practiced smile.

The visitor was a tall man wearing a well-kept suit and dark shades shielding his eyes. He hurried past the shelves of beautiful material and well-made displays of clothing up to the front where the old man stood. "Good day."

"And the same to you," the tailor replied. "Is there anything, in particular, you are looking for?"

"Yes, in fact, I've been looking for you."

"Sorry to disappoint son, but I'm not for sale," the tailor laughed and showed off an aged wedding band. "The misses bought me years ago."

The well-dressed man chuckled and reached into his suit to pull out a picture, which he shared with the tailor. It was a closeup of Yamcha's uniform as he was leaving the stadium, but only the shirt and the turtle symbol were visible. "From what I've been able to gather, you've done work on martial artist uniforms in the past. Particularly one of this design."

"Y-yes, I recognize this. I sent it out for delivery just a few days ago, in fact. How did you find me?"

"I'm very thorough. So, you're the one who made this?"

"What? Oh no, I replicated the design from an example a customer provided. I made the uniform in a much smaller size, one for a child."

"A-a child? A kid was wearing this?"

"I didn't see them. According to them, it was a surprise for his grandson, for his birthday."

"Who were they? Tell me everything you know."

The tailor's eyes narrowed slightly. "Sorry, son, can't divulge any personal information about a customer. Don't want to cause any trouble here, but if you are interested in buying som-"

"I work for the King."

Smoothly pulling out a badge, the man flashed the King's colors and symbols, which left the tailor stunned. "W-who are you?"

"Agent Z," the agent said, returning his badge to its proper place in his pocket.

"That's your name? That can't be real."

"It's all I can give you. Now please, what can you tell me about the person with that gi?"

The tailor sighed and took another look at the photo of the turtle symbol once again before handing it back to the well-dressed man.

"He was a big burly fellow. Said his grandson's birthday was coming up, and he wanted to surprise him with a uniform just like his father wears. Apparently, his son-in-law has been gone for a bit and something to remind the kid of his old man would make the day special."

"An absent father? Did he have a name? What about the kids?"

"Don't know the father or kid's name, but the burly fellow called himself the Ox-King. Guess you aren't the only one out there with an interesting name."

"What about an address? Where was the uniform delivered?"

"I have the address," the tailor said slowly. "Though I'm still not sure if I should give it to you. Your badge doesn't look fake, but why are you so interested in this customer?"

"I can't share that," Z said quickly. "But please understand that this is an important matter that needs to be handled delicately. The King himself has put me in charge of a task that must be completed as quickly as possible, and I intend to do that. The last piece I need is that address."

The old man paused as he studied Z looking for something else to fuel his doubt. He found none.

"Forgive me, son," He sighed again. "Things have been tense here in East City for a while now. The miracle has affected just about everyone. Nobody knows what to believe or trust. Even the King doesn't seem to have a handle on things. No offense."

"None taken. I can imagine things are very difficult here."

"Yes… they are."

Reaching under the table, he stood behind the tailor lifted and dropped an enormous book, and flipped through it.

"439 East district," the tailor said after a moment. "I was told there was some confusion about the delivery, but that's where the burly fellow got his uniform."

"439 East district Understood," Z said with a nod. "Thank you."

"You're welcome, son. Anything else I can do you for?"

"That will be all from me."

"Alright then, but before you go, can I ask if you would do an old tailor a favor?"

"Of course."

"When you see the King, maybe you can pass along my thanks to the hero. The store may have taken a hit, but that's better than being dead," the old man laughed. "At least that's what the misses tells me."

"… I'll see what I can do," Z nodded once before he stepped out and away, with a destination in mind.

This… this can't be happening!

Frieza's jaw trembled as his body shook, his breath coming out staggered and weak. He leaned against the rock formation he was using as cover while growling through the pain. His enhanced muscles ached as 100% percent of his power was being used just to help him stand. Wiping away some blood that had seeped into his eyes, the tyrant's temper flared again.

I am… I am Lord Frieza, the strongest in the universe! I shouldn't be pushed to this extent! I shouldn't be-

The mountain that the monster hid behind was ripped apart as Tien, Yamcha, and Yajirobi smashed through. Bits of rock and dirt from Namek exploded out tossing Frieza backward. The three martial artists' auras burned crimson, parting and evaporating the dust from the mountain almost instantly.

This fight had taken its toll on the three men as well. Gashes and burns marked them, and their breathing was uneven, despite that their stares found the cornered alien. Eyes gleaming with a fire that sent a shiver through Frieza. They were pushing themselves further than usual. The kaio-ken technique straining their bodies beyond their limits, but they fought on.

"Filth!" the tyrant roared as the humans rushed him. "You will all die by my hand!"

None of the three fighters paid any attention to the taunt while moving quickly to seal off every avenue of escape. Frieza lunged for Tien, hoping to tear out one of his three eyes. With practiced precision, Tien parried the lunge and responded by throwing a heavy punch into the tyrant's stomach that shook the ground underneath.

The alien heaved, blood staining the blue grass as he clutched his stomach, allowing Yamcha's kick to smash into his unprotected face. With a full spin strengthening the attack, it threw the tyrant an island away; the water rippling under Frieza as he flew. Crashing and skidding into the dirt reinforced the absolute disdain Frieza held for these humans. His hatred only grew as he watched the fat one heave a boulder out of the ground with ease. The rock was bigger than Yajirobi, yet that didn't stop him from hurling it as if it was weightless.

"Enough!" the monster howled, launching upward into the green sky above, avoiding the boulder as it crunched into the island below. "ENOUGH!" Throwing up both hands and generated a dark orb filled with malice as Frieza laughed. "I will bury you in the ashes of this planet!"

The orb pulsed as the tyrant pushed out more and more energy, determined to wipe out Namek with one breath. Only to miss a thrown disc of ki moving faster than a lightning bolt split into two and sever both his arms.

"W-wha-"

Frieza stared at the stumps by his side, his limbs falling into the ocean underneath. The pain was enough for him to scream, but a stream of electricity left over from the disc cutting into him paralyzed him into silence.

I…I CAN'T…MOVE

Lighting coursed through him, unable to break free, hanging in the air in his weakened state. A firm hand grabbed the tyrant's throat and ripped him out of the sky, smashing into solid ground. The impact from the fall created a small crater, breaking the monster's spine. As the dust settled, Frieza was given one moment to get a clear view of his attacker, Vegeta, the prince of all saiyans.

"V-Veg-" was all that Frieza could cough out before the prince added his right hand to his grip around the tyrant's neck. A loud crunch rang out and Frieza saw no more.

"Alright, that was good," Krillin said, wiping away some of the collected sweat and blood from his head. "Everyone okay?"

The monk's question was answered with a wave of gasps and groans from the group. Tien, Yamcha, and Yajirobi slowly picking themselves up from the scattered and scorched remains of the battlefield, of Namek. It was another day of training in the Pendulum Room, and this was not their first victory.

"Am I okay if I wish I was dead?" Yajirobi asked, breathing in deeply and spitting out a wad of blood that had built up in his mouth.

"Hey," Yamcha said lightly, knocking the wide warrior on the head while doing his best just to stand upright. "Don't joke about that."

"He has a point," Tien said, dusting off his shoulders and wincing from the strain his body was under. "Your training is far more intense than King Kai's."

"It has to be. We have no more time," Krillin said, making sure that Vegeta wasn't close by before continuing. "Though in the spirit of compromise we'll take the next one without any weighted clothing."

"You serious?" Yajirobi asked with wide eyes. "Finally!"

"Why now?" Tien asked with a raised eyebrow. "We've been wearing them for days now."

"At this point, we may have gotten too used to them. We should start getting used to fighting without the added weight. Don't want to get thrown off by our own strength during the fight."

"Make it a heck of a lot easier to keep up with Vegeta, that's for sure," Yamcha grinned. "Speaking of which, where is he?"

"Perhaps he's planning on killing us now while our bodies are still in the Pendulum room," Tien said plainly.

"Now why would you say that?" Yamcha said with a shiver. "What if he really does?"

"Maybe we're already dead and we won't realize it until we try to wake up," Yajirobi said as he stretched out some sore muscles.

"… what is wrong with you two?"

Krillin chuckled before turning in the direction he had last seen the prince. "Vegeta! We're going to go again!"

When the monk didn't get an immediate reply, he sighed and made his way toward the crater where the fight had ended. Looking down, Krillin quickly found the prince still standing at its center. Yet the saiyan made no move or sign that he had heard the human. Jumping from the edge, Krillin slid his way down toward the saiyan hovering over the remains of Frieza, or what was left of him.

"Did you hear me?" The monk asked, walking up to the prince who had his back turned. "We're going again. We still have some time before we meet with the others at capsule corp."

Vegeta didn't answer or turn immediately. Instead, the saiyan let a moment pass before he spoke slowly. "You missed."

"Did I?"

"Your part in the plan was to dispose of Frieza if he decided to destroy the planet. You should have cut him in half or removed his head. Why did you go for his arms?"

"Things don't always go according to plan."

"Don't play dumb human," Vegeta snapped. "You left it to me on purpose, didn't you?"

"… you always wanted to kill him, didn't you? Thought I would give you the chance."

Before the human could continue, the prince turned and faced him, his anger rolling off in waves.

"I spent years dreaming of the day I would destroy him, but his death was robbed from me. Do not think this illusion is the same. Ending his bloodline will have to suffice but you do me no favors by playing around."

Vegeta spat on the ground as he walked past the monk. "Stick to your own plan next time."

Krillin sighed while rubbing his forehead. That's what I get for trying to play nice, I guess. He's working with the others as well as I would expect but it's still not cohesive enough. The lack of trust could hurt us in the fight.

Walking out of the crater towards the others. There was a clear distance between the three humans and the saiyan prince, which brought out another sigh. Krillin watched as each of them flickered out of the illusion back into the Pendulum Room.

Why did you invite him to Earth Goku? What did you see in him that I can't?

"Mrs. Bulma!"

Bulma Briefs looked up from her work in time to see Gohan dashing toward her with Piccolo following closely behind. The two of them were the first to arrive at capsule corp.

"Hey there, kid," Bulma grinned as the young half-saiyan rushed up to her. "Been a bit."

Despite the cool temperament she was trying to exude, the blue-haired genius was surprised by the tight hug she got from the boy.

"I missed you," Gohan said, squeezing harder.

"… me too, Gohan," Bulma said, squeezing the half-saiyan back. "I'm sorry I haven't visited, and that I couldn't make it to your birthday."

"It's okay!" The boy said, dropping the hug. "The cake you sent was delicious!"

"Good," Bulma said, her grin widening. "Got the best chefs in the world to put that together. Glad I got my money's worth. Nice uniform, by the way! Almost thought Goku was a kid again for a second there."

"That'd be silly!" Gohan laughed.

Bulma smiled and looked at the awkward namekian standing to the side. The blue-haired genius couldn't help but chuckle a little. "You going to stand all the way over there the whole time?"

"Perhaps," Piccolo scoffed.

"Suit yourself, but I'm not repeating myself if you miss something,"

"I take it the others have yet to arrive?"

"They'll be here soon; I'd imagine we will hear them coming."

"Then care to explain why we are even gathering here in the first place?"

"Got something for all of you, should help in the fight."

"Your time would be better spent making sure this barrier I've heard about is in working order," Piccolo said, crossing his arms. "We don't want a repeat of Namek."

"That's surprising. I didn't think you knew about SPHERE."

"Krillin explained it once," the namekian said, ignoring the shock on Bulma's face as he said the monk's name. "The idea is sound, but that won't matter if it's not useable when it's needed."

"Then you have nothing to worry about," Bulma said, walking over to the table in the center of the room and preparing for the others' arrival. "SPHERE has been online for the past two days."

Piccolo blinked away his surprise but before he could ask for more information, a series of taps coming from the hallway cut him off.

"Finally," The genius sighed. "There they are."

The door opened to reveal Yamcha, Yajirobi, Tien, Krillin, with Vegeta in the back.

"Hey, sorry we're late," Krillin apologized as the group walked in.

"Figured you would be," Bulma said as she walked up to Tien and lightly thumped him on the chest with the back of her hand. "Welcome back."

"Thanks for having me," Tien said with a smile.

"Could have said hi the last time you were here."

"Launch made it seem like you were busy, didn't want to disturb."

"Fair enough," Bulma said with another sigh. "Let's get star-"

"You."

The blue-haired genius was cut off as Vegeta marched towards Gohan. Seeing the prince come toward him, the young boy ducked behind Piccolo.

"What do you want, saiyan?" The namekian said, blocking Vegeta's path.

"The child, he's capable of transforming into a super saiyan," the prince said through gritted teeth. "I must see it for myself."

"You'll get your chance, Vegeta," Krillin said with a firm tone to diffuse the situation. "But right now, we're here for what Bulma has to say. Got it?"

Vegeta looked at the monk with a clear hatred but pulled back all the same.

"Everyone get that out of their system?" Bulma asked quickly. "Good, now then.'

With one movement, the blue-haired genius punched in a few commands on the keyboard attached to the table. The surface slid open, and a small table rose out, displaying seven small earbuds.

"These are… communicators? Like the ones you made on Namek?" Krillin said, picking one up and turning it over in his hand.

"Good eye," Bulma said with a nod. "I've improved the design, so not only will we be able to communicate while you're fighting, but I'll be also able to monitor your location and vitals while you're out there. I'll also be able to hear what you hear, so no need to report back."

"And what purpose will this serve?" Vegeta asked with a raised eyebrow. "It's bad enough I've got one human voice in my head while I fight. Two will be more distracting than anything else."

"You never stop, do you?" Bulma sighed. "Look, Krillin will be the one telling you what to do in the moment, but I'll have a clearer picture of your surroundings. This isn't like Namek where we could fight anywhere. You have to keep this fight contained in the North Mountains otherwise people are going to get hurt."

"She's right," Krillin said, cutting in. "If we can end this fight quickly as we planned, then there's no problem, but we have to assume things will go wrong. The more in control of the situation we can be, the better the outcome."

Vegeta snorted but said nothing more.

"There's one more thing about these communicators you should know," Bulma said while reaching into her pocket and pulling out a senzu bean. "I've mostly distilled the essence of the senzu beans. Turned it into a liquid and made it compatible with the communicators."

"… what does that mean?" Yajirobi asked in complete confusion.

"It means that as long as you're wearing these communicators, you don't have to carry around a bag of beans. The healing properties of the senzu beans still hold even if it's a liquid. I've made enough that each communicator holds one dose that can bring you back from the brink."

"Wait, is that why you had me bring all those senzus from Korins?" Yajirobi asked. "So, you could make a machine that squirts bean juice into our ears?"

"Is it effective?" Tien asked, ignoring Yajirobi's outburst. "I thought you had to ingest the senzus for it to work."

"Actually no, I've tested it extensively and as long as the senzu enters a body, it doesn't matter how. Can't say it will be pleasant, but the process is quick and won't distract or harm you. More importantly, it's a lot more efficient than the alternative."

I'll bet. Krillin thought to himself, remembering how he lost the senzu bean when he was fighting Vegeta on Earth.

"Well, I think this is great!" Yamcha said with a grin. "That's one less thing to worry about, but how does it work?"

"They're voice-activated," Bulma said, putting the senzu bean back in her pocket. "Registered to our voices so no one else can use them. As soon as you put them in your ears, press into them and say the keyword. Then it'll give you a shot of healing."

"And the keyword is?" asked Krillin.

"Senzu."

"Makes sense."

"If you're finished," Piccolo said, stepping forward. "Before the others arrived, you said that you have SPHERE already online?"

"What? Is that true Bulma?" Krillin asked in surprise.

"Yeah, it is," Bulma said, typing in a few more key commands and putting up the familiar projection of Earth. Once again it was encircled by a thin outline, but this time a number 100% flashing below it.

"So, this is the barrier I've heard so much about," Tien said, looking at the projection. "I'm surprised it's already operational."

"How did you do that with no one noticing?" Yamcha asked. "That amount of ki should have been visible to everyone. At the very least, we should have been able to sense it turning on, right?"

"One, I can color the ki anyway I want from here, so no one saw the sky being covered and two I stagnated the process. It took about 44 hours to envelop the planet."

"Ah, so we didn't notice because you were moving the energy slowly," Krillin said with interest.

"Yeah, I didn't want to rush it and have something fail midway through," Bulma said, looking over the projection again. "Happy to report that we are running at maximum power with no problems."

"What of Cooler?" Vegeta asked, crossing his arms. "Will your barrier be able to hold against him and Cold?"

"The best answer that I can give you is that it should," the genius sighed. "I sensed Frieza's power on Namek so I know what he's capable of. That was the minimum I was going for while designing SPHERE. Our max is greater than that, but I was only expecting Cold and an army to show up."

"So, it's a gamble right out the gate," Krillin said, his voice heavy. "But worrying about it will not do us any good. This will be the last time we're all together before the fight, so let's go over the plan."

The others nodded as the projection above the table shifted from Earth to an overview of the North Mountains.

"We'll be spending the next two days in the North Mountains to get a better sense of the surroundings and where to best conceal ourselves. When Cold arrives, he'll no doubt attack first but with just his ships. According to Vegeta, he hates putting in any effort so SPHERE can take that hit."

"And if it can't?" Tien asked, cutting in smoothly.

"The barrier will mitigate some of the assault. From there, we'll have to engage in the upper atmosphere where we can still breathe and defend what we can," Krillin said without pause. "That will make everything a lot more difficult."

"It'll hold," Bulma said, her voice full of confidence.

"After the attack, Bulma will hack into the flagship where Cold should be. With enough prodding, she'll bring Cold to us in the mountains where we will wait," Krillin said before turning to Tien. "Then it'll be on you."

The three-eyed warrior nodded and reached into his pocket. He pulled out two identical bottles, each labeled with a seal written in marker.

"During my training with King Kai, I refined the evil containment wave and gained the ability to perform it twice."

"We will remain hidden for as long as possible, then jump Cooler and the soldiers first," Krillin added. "With any luck, we'll get him down quickly then move on to restrain, capture, or kill Cold."

"As I thought," Vegeta growled. "You don't have any actual intention of fighting at all."

"Not if we can avoid it," Krillin snapped. "If everything goes according to plan, we can end this conflict in two moves. Everything else we've done is in preparation in case that doesn't happen."

The monk scanned the group for any comments or questions when it did not get a response. He turned toward Gohan with a smile.

"How did your training go Gohan?"

"… I can fight, for a bit."

Krillin nodded and looked at Piccolo for more. The namekian sighed but returned the human's stare. "He can retain the transformation for a minute and a half."

"That's it?!" Vegeta shouted. "That's nothing!"

"A minute is a lifetime in a battle like this," Krillin said quickly. "And Gohan is giving us more than that. If the containment wave fails, we'll be forced to fight. A super saiyan, even for just a minute, could be enough to give us an edge."

The monk noticed that the half-saiyan was withering a bit, so he placed a hand on his shoulder. "We'll be counting on you, okay Gohan?"

"Yes Mr. Krillin," the half-saiyan said with a nod.

"So, the legendary super saiyan is going to patiently wait for his turn?" The prince spat. "Ridiculous."

"What? Plan not good enough for the prince?" Bulma said, narrowing her eyes.

"This need for a plan at all is an embarrassment," Vegeta scoffed, picking up a communicator for himself. "This entire operation is a crutch. True warriors do not need schemes like this."

"Sorry to disappoint but we need these to level the playing field," Tien said, stepping in. "It's time you stop looking down on the tools we need to survive. We're fighting for the sake of the planet, not your pride."

"There is only a 'we' for now, human," Vegeta snapped. "I'll play your games to wipe out what remains of Frieza's stain, but don't forget that once this battle is over, I will settle things with your 'leader' without these devices!"

Ugh. Krillin thought to himself while rubbing his forehead. He's more stubborn than Piccolo. We won't be able to win if we can't trust each other on some level. Looking over our shoulder while we fight is just going to get us killed. Goku what am I supposed to d-

"Foods here!"

The group looked up as a door opened and a large buffet was wheeled out pushed by a blue-haired Launch with a wide smile on her face.

"Sorry for the wait!" Launch said, wiping away some sweat from the exertion.

The table the former bandit had just pushed through was full to burst with a vast variety of fresh meals each expertly made. The entire feast held enough food to fill up several families, as it was even larger than the spread at Gohan's party.

"What… what's all this?" Yajirobi asked, some drool already dripping away.

"It's the food I promised you. Figured we could all make do with one last celebration before the fight anyway," Krillin said, hoping Launch's timing was at least a little better. "I asked Bulma to help me out so you could get your meal before the fight."

"I thought you were going to treat us?" The samurai said, not breaking eye contact with the buffet.

"With what money?" the monk said plainly.

"Look, you can take the food or leave it," Bulma said, a little annoyed. "Plenty of other people will-"

"WE'LL TAKE IT!" Yajirobi said, nearly yanking Vegeta's arm out of its socket as he pulled the prince over to the table.

"What are you doing, human?"

"This is it princy, this is what we've been training for!"

"What are you talking about, oaf?"

"This, this is food! Prepared food that is going to change your life!"

Vegeta rolled his eyes. "I've had Earth food, fat man. The meals on your lookout are fine enough. Better than some of your animals."

"What?! Nonononono, even Krillin doesn't eat that," Yajirobi said quickly as if saiyan's words stung him. "You do not know what food is."

Reaching over to one of the many set turkeys, Yajirobi grabbed a wing and tore it off. The bone was easily removed as if it was butter while the various sauces dribbled over his hand.

"Eat," Yajirobi commanded, offering the wing to the prince who only raised an eyebrow in response.

"Why would I-"

"Eat and I'll stop bothering you."

Vegeta paused, this deal suddenly sounding very aggregable. "Fine," he said, taking the meat from the samurai and lifting it closer to him to inspect. The smell is… appealing.

Eager to get away from Yajirobi, the saiyan took a swift bite out of the turkey and chewed thoroughly.

"There, are you satsif-"

He nearly doubled over.

The flavor of the turkey completely enveloped his sense of taste, elevating it to a level it had never experienced before. The sauce, the texture, the pure sensation of eating a bird that had been prepared to perfection utterly disarmed the prince.

"… well?" Yajirobi asked, a large smirk donning his face.

Vegeta paid no mind to the question and instead tore into the rest of the wing, consuming it in seconds. Once the food in his hands had been destroyed, Vegeta with a heavy realization. He had never eaten before; this was the first meal of his life.

"More," the prince breathed out, his eyes alive with desire.

Yajirobi patted the man on the back before reaching for the same turkey and ripping off its other wing.

"Welcome to Earth," the samurai said before taking a bite himself.

As the two descended upon the buffet, the rest of the group could only watch in horror as the food began to rapidly disappear into the stomachs of the saiyan and human. Their shock was broken by a strong chuckle from Tien.

"Pardon me," he laughed. "This just reminds me of when Goku would eat."

"You should have seen Gohan go after the food his mom made for his birthday," Yamcha said, ruffling Gohan's hair. "You got an appetite just like your dad, little man."

A small smile crept over Krillin as he thought back on treasured memories. Before a soft growl of another stomach caught his attention.

"It's alright Gohan," he said to the drooling boy. "We're done for now so you can eat."

The half-saiyan's face lit up with joy as he took a step toward the food. Only to pause and turn before he asked. "Did you want some Mr. Krillin?"

"No, I'm alright, thank you though."

Gohan nodded and then joined the others in discarding all table manners to consume more effectively. Krillin noticed that the fear the boy experienced upon seeing the prince at first had faded completely. Joining Vegeta at his side, Gohan seemed to have no trouble being next to the saiyan.

He's a lot like Goku when I think about it, Krillin thought as he observed the prince. Maybe that's why you wanted him here. A kindred spirit? Someone else who could fight and eat just as much as you? Or did you see some good in him, just like there is in Piccolo?

The monk continued to wonder as he watched Yajirobi, Vegeta, and Gohan eat as if their lives depended on it. A human, half-saiyan, and a saiyan eating side by side. Without knowing their history, one could imagine that they were close to friends.

Eventually, the dust settled, and the buffet lay in tatters. The three warriors wiped away the residue of their feast from their mouths, finally content.

"That was delicious!" Gohan chipped up with a smile.

"The pizza was probably my highlight," Yajirobi said with a stretch. "Well, princy, whatja think?"

Vegeta looked at the scattering of dishes left in his wake and mumbled something under his breath.

"What was that?"

"I said… it was… more than fine," he grumbled.

"Wow, high praise," Tien whistled.

"Quiet human!" Vegeta said with a glare, though it wasn't nearly as cutting with pizza sauce still smeared near his face.

"Sheesh, glad that's over," Bulma said, picking up one of the unused cloth napkins and tossing it to the prince. "Thanks for the delivery, Launch."

"Not a problem Ms. Briefs!" The blue-haired Launch piped up. "I'll clear these off for you right now."

"I can help if you need it."

Launch stiffened as Tien approached her slowly, stacking some of the scattered plates. The three-eyed man was cleaning as well as he could but cast a side glance at the Brief's bodyguard. "It's been some time."

"A-ah y-yes," Launch replied trying to suppress her nerves.

"I wanted to apologize for what I said-"

"Um, I just remembered!" The Brief's bodyguard said, taking a step away from the buffet. "Forgot to check with Julie today. Seems like I was mean to her the other day, so I need to go and say hi and be nice and okay, bye."

After stumbling over her words, Launch left the room in a dash, leaving Tien with a plate and a lot of confusion.

"Hey now," Yamcha said, slapping his friend on the back. "What did you say to her?"

"Nothing forward, I believe," Tien said, a little hurt. "I didn't want to offend."

"You didn't," Bulma replied with a little smile. "Her other half told her what you said last time you were here. She knows you're sorry you just caught her off guard a little."

"Why would I have caught her off guard?" Tien asked, his confusion deepening.

Bulma sighed and patted him on his shoulder. "You can talk to her again soon, gives you something to fight for, right?"

"… I suppose."

"You'll figure it out," the genius chuckled. "Okay, I'll be in contact with you all on the day, but the next time I see you guys in person is when this is all over…. so. I'm going to say this once."

Bulma leaned onto her table and took a deep breath before she continued.

"Be careful."

Until now, the woman had been speaking with a voice of authority, one of full confidence. Now everyone in the room heard the genius's voice crack just a little.

"I mean it, okay, I need you all to come home. You'll win. I know you will, but… that won't matter as much if not all of you…"

Bulma trailed off, unable to find the words she needed at the moment. She stayed quiet until she felt a friendly hand on her shoulder.

"We'll be okay Bulma," Yamcha said.

"Yeah," The genius nodded, overlapping Yamcha's hand with her own. "Yeah, I know."

Vegeta silently eyed the two curiously as he continued wiping his face free of pizza sauce.

"We should head off for the North Mountains," Krillin said, taking his communicator and fitting it in his ear. "Pack anything you need for the trip if you want. We'll be spending two days there. We'll re-convince in a couple of hours."

The others, including the prince, nodded. Each of them picked up a communicator and began to file out. Only Yamcha turned around when he realized the monk wasn't following. He turned back and locked eyes with Krillin, who only nodded in response. Trusting his leader, Yamcha nodded back and left with the others, leaving Bulma and Krillin alone in the room.

"Everything okay?" Krillin said as the door to the hallway closed.

"Yeah, why wouldn't they be?"

"You look exhausted."

"You sound like Launch," Bulma replied, massaging her eyes.

"Then you should listen to her, too. Get some rest."

"Not yet. I should go over SPHERE one more time."

"You said it was all set."

"It is, but I… I just need to make sure."

"It'll be fine, just get to bed," Krillin softly.

"No… no, not yet," Bulma said, returning to her desk. "I need to be sure."

Krillin looked at his friend sadly and joined her at her side. "You can't do everything Bulma."

"I can do this."

"Destroying yourself before the fight even starts won't help. Please, go to-"

"That's rich coming from you," the genius shot back. "Yamcha told me you collapsed on him due to whatever training you're doing on the lookout."

"That's-"

"Different? No, it's not Krillin and you know that!" Bulma shouted standing up and hitting her desk with her hand "We're all fighting for the same thing, right?! Well, this is how I fight!"

The monk remained silent as Bulma panted, trying to get a hold of herself, only to fail.

"So what if I work through a few weeks?! Without that, SPHERE wouldn't be here! You wouldn't have the communicators and then where would we be in two days?! Dead! We'd all be dead because I took a nap! Don't tell me to sleep when I can still help! I'm not done fighting Krillin! I can do it okay! I can… I…"

Bulma didn't notice she was crying until her legs had given out from under her. She slipped onto her knees, still trying to catch her breath. The outburst of emotion had used up the last of her strength as tears started rolling down her face. So caught up in herself, she didn't realize Krillin was close until he moved to hug her.

Staining his gi with snot and tears, Bulma slowly returned the gesture, digging into her friend's shoulder.

"… I can do more."

"I know," the little monk said, holding his friend tight. "I know."

Kami breathed in the night air of the lookout as he walked through its halls. His steps echoed through the space the same way they had throughout his time as Guardian. This time, a sense of unease followed him as he moved through his home. That feeling lingered with him even as he approached the door where his student trained, the door to the hyperbolic time chamber.

Pushing aside his doubts and the door, Kami walked into a room of pure white. Walking out into the center of the entrance, Kami glanced towards the beds and pantry, only to find them once again unused. Nodding to himself, he then looked over to the twin hourglasses slowly drizzling emerald sand.

Nearly four years this time. I should have returned sooner.

Casting his gaze outward, Kami searched for the man he had left here, only to find no sign of him at all. Sighing to himself, the namekian settled down on the time chamber steps and prepared himself to wait.

He was unsure of how much time had passed before he heard the weighted steps of his pupil. Rising back to his feet, Kami tracked the monk as he slowly came into view. With slow and measured steps, Krillin closed the distance between him and his teacher, stopping just as he reached the entrance's edge. Despite several cuts and tears, he still wore his gi with the turtle symbol proudly displayed.

"Hello, Kami. I didn't keep you waiting, did I?"

"Not at all, my student. Where did you go?"

"Just a walk."

"For four years I see."

"Lost track of time, speaking of which, we have enough of it for another try, don't we?"

"Yes, but do not rush this."

Krillin nodded and stepped past Kami into the entrance, towards a sink and mirror.

"Heh," Krillin chuckled heartily. "Still as handsome as ever."

Kami joined him at the mirror and placed a caring hand on the monk's shoulder. The two of them stared at Krillin's reflection and silently spoke the truth to themselves.

He had grown old.

He hadn't been shaving during his training, so hair had sprung up out of his head and with age it was laced with grey streaks. Wrinkles had washed over his face, surrounding his eyes and cheeks. A grey beard had also grown well, covering his mouth and hanging off his chin. Yet the monk's eyes went to his scar first. The cut he had gotten from Frieza. He traced it from beginning to end and saw that time had touched it, yet it remained.

"Would you mind shaving my head for me, Kami? All this hair is weighing me down."

"Of course, my student, the beard as well?"

"This magnificent thing? Not on your life," Krillin said as if it hurt him. "Though a trim would be welcome."

Kami chuckled and prepared a seat and cloth they used for this process. Krillin eased into the chair and before long Kami was cutting Krillin's hair with practiced precision.

"I don't suppose you found anything interesting on your walk?"

"Here? No, the void goes on forever, as far as I can tell. Without company, someone might lose their mind."

"I fear you are correct. Then how is life on the surface?"

"The others are doing the best they can. I can't push them any further now, we're out of time."

"I didn't ask how training is going," Kami said sternly. "I asked how life on the surface is."

Krillin chuckled. "Gohan's birthday was a few days ago. We had a nice feast. We got Vegeta to work with us, but you know about that. Yamcha lost his job as a baseball player. Tien came back, and we visited the memorial. Finally paid off my debt to Yajirobi, I guess. Promised him a meal when Vegeta first arrived. Vegeta liked it a lot more than I thought he would, but he is a saiyan so it shouldn't be that surprising."

"Did you partake?"

"I don't have to eat anymore Kami there's no need."

"You can still taste, there is joy in that."

"I suppose, though without eating Master Roshi has been enjoying the leftovers I bring back."

"Does your master know of your state?"

"… no. None of them do."

"There is danger in secrets, my student, you know this."

"You're right, but they would fuss over me and distract themselves."

"Perhaps, but I've observed humans that seem to enjoy being fussed over."

"We do, with the people closest to us. Though I'd certainly feel strange asking one of them to shave my head… maybe a pretty lady though."

Kami smiled. "I interrupted, how are the rest doing?"

"Well, Master Roshi is the same as ever, I saw Launch a few times she seems to enjoy her job as a bodyguard. Piccolo is playing nice with everyone else. Chichi is getting better at flying. Ox-King still loves giving out hugs, and Bulma."

Krillin grew quiet. "Bulma's tired."

"So are you," Kami replied.

"Yes, but I'm used to it. One good thing about this place is that I finally look how I feel! Haha!"

"Hold still."

"Sorry. We talked though, and I got her into bed in the end, but she could have easily gone back to work after I left. Not sure what else I can do."

"Win," Kami said forcefully. "Win and then come home."

"Heh, that simple huh," Krillin said with a smile. "Of course we will."

"Finished."

Krillin raised his head towards the mirror to see his perfectly shaved head once again gleaming out to the world while his unkempt beard had been expertly trimmed.

"As perfect as always, Kami. With your skills, you could have become a barber."

"I cannot, my student, my place is here."

"Yeah, I know Kami, it was a joke."

"Ah… that is a rather funny picture, I suppose."

Krillin sighed but discarded the cloth and got up from the chair. The old monk walked up to the door of the time chamber, breathed in slowly, then walked through.

Stepping back out onto the lookout, Krillin could feel the hardships of the chamber melt off of him. Taking in the night air of Earth, he let out a steady breath.

"It's an odd feeling," Krillin said as Kami joined him outside. "Returning to the place you never left. I was here training with the others just earlier today."

"But not all of you."

"No, though, that's the only reason I've gotten so far. Can't say I'm a fan of hiding this half of me while they are around though."

The two walked side by side until they reached the center of the lookout, where Mr. Popo was watering the trees. "Ah, Krillin welcome back."

"Thank you, Mr. Popo. How are the trees today?"

"Growing well, they require little upkeep, but it is a habit of mine now. How was your time in the chamber?"

"Uneventful," the old monk said heartily. "Yet fruitful."

"Well, you have certainly kept things exciting here letting the saiyan join you. Had he harmed the trees in any way perhaps I would have thrown him in the chamber to join you."

"… I can't tell if you're joking."

"And you never will. Now I shall give you and Kami your space. Good luck with your attempt. I shall be nearby if you require assistance."

"Thank you, Mr. Popo," Kami said as he and Krillin continued to the lookout's edge.

There the old monk sat down and crossed his legs while both hands rested in his lap with their palms facing upward.

"Are you prepared?" Kami asked, standing above him.

"As I'll ever be," Krillin answered, closing his eyes.

Kami cast a hand just above the old monk's head, paused, and then passed on the weight of the world.

Thump

The planet's sound was the easiest to locate on the lookout. With Kami by his side, it was simple to find the sound of Earth. That did not mean this process was easy.

Even with his calm breathing, sweat pooled around him, matting his gi to his thin body. His form shuddered and his mind rippled as he listened to the planet's heartbeat, its sound. Its weight nearly flattened his compact frame. Despite this, he endured. Gritting his teeth, he reached out with his senses for more. The thunder of the waves and the howl of the air racked across him. He scanned the depths of the sea, diving deep into the dark while shooting upward, scraping the edge of the atmosphere. He reached for more and more energy, trying to amass the power needed for creation. Yet a new sound found him, a voice from a nearby city.

"Don't get me wrong, it's not bad, just confusing. Why only them? Why did they come back?"

The voice he did not recognize echoed in his head before being replaced by another.

"It's unnatural. It's just not normal."

Krillin could feel the fear in this voice, but the anger quickly deafened the sound in the next.

"They are freaks, that's what they are! East City freaks!"

His throat closed, the harsh emotion of the voice freezing him in place.

"Remove yourself."

He knew by Kami's tone this was not a command he could ignore, so he withered. Slowly returning to the lookout, he did not feel the consequences of overreaching until he broke the meditation and opened his eyes. He cried out as sharp pain ate at him from the inside out, the sounds still echoing through him.

"Peace my student," Kami said, pulling the weight of Earth away while his hands grabbed hold of Krillin's head and filled his mind with a gentle energy.

The old monk steadied himself the best he could as the current Guardian healed him. His words and power coursed through him and quieted the noise. Eventually, the namekian removed his hands and allowed Krillin to catch his breath.

"You went too far again," Kami continued, his voice measured but stern.

"Yes… I-" A coughing fit cut the monk off, which he muffled into his elbow. As he removed it, a small splotch of blood dyed his arm. "I got distracted," the monk said, wiping his mouth clean.

"I see," Kami sighed.

"I was close, though," the monk said, shaking his head. "Give me a moment and we can try again."

"Of course," Kami said firmly. "Where did you go this time?"

"The sky," Krillin said slowly. "And the sea."

"What do you think?"

"Vast, there is far more than I ever could have thought. Hard to get a handle on it."

"No doubt because you are rushing yourself, this is not something that can be done quickly. Go too far, too fast, and you will only harm yourself."

"You're right," Krillin sighed.

"I sense you have more to tell me."

"… I heard some voices in a city," the monk admitted, already aware of where the conversation was going to go. "It's not good Kami."

"That may be so, but as I have said, you must not let yourself become swept up in the world's politics. Remain focused on the threats this planet cannot handle."

"We could do something, couldn't we?"

"That would expose us, which would only invite attention to us and the others. Remember that I was the first to believe in the people when offering them the dragonballs. I believed the wish they could grant would inspire. Instead, they became a prize to be used only for personal gain. I cannot trust them with the power a wish can grant."

"That was a long time ago Kami."

"Yet so much has remained the same. You and the others are allowed here because, time and time again, you have proven that you would not misuse the power offered. Can you say the same for the rest of the planet?"

Krillin grew quiet, the words of the city still in his mind.

"I am not saying it should or could never be Krillin," Kami said softly. "It is just not the time, especially with the invaders so close."

"There's so much fear surrounding East City, I thought I was doing the right thing when I brought them back."

"Unfortunately, the right thing is rarely easy and never simple. Your choice has shaped the world in a new and unfamiliar way. Do you regret your decision?"

"…no."

"Perhaps the rest of the world will share that view one day, but it will have to be without your input," Kami said before his voice grew serious. "Your interactions with the King have already risked more than I would prefer."

"I didn't tell him about the dragonballs or the others," Krillin fired back. "He just wants what is best for the planet just like us."

"Earthlings are complex, as you know," the guardian said slowly. "What they say is not always what they feel. Your displays of power have no doubt intrigued him; possibly enough to do something drastic."

"What could he do?"

"I do not know, perhaps nothing, but the presence of power has a way of corrupting even those with good intentions."

The monk paused as he absorbed Kami's words.

"My advice is that you remain cautious," the namekian continued. "That is all."

Krillin sighed as he dragged a hand over his face, digging into his beard. "I'll do my best."

"I know you will. Shall we continue?"

"Yes."

The old monk returned to his steady breathing and closed his eyes once more. This time, instead of reaching for the planet's sound, he immersed himself in his own.

Tsuno had explained to form a dragonball there were three power sources needed, three sounds. The planet's, the dragon's, and the Guardian's. It had taken time, a lot of time, but Krillin had pinpointed and now understood the sound of his strength.

It was the ocean's tide.

Diving into himself, Krillin crafted a bright blue sky and a ground almost identical to the image he casts while training with Gohan. However, a key difference was the simple beach that Krillin sat on as Kami stood behind him. Remaining calm and clear, the monk took in a breath.

In.

Water approached the master and student, but only enough to lick the sand surrounding them.

Out.

Exhaling, the water receded, returning to the vast ocean surrounding him. The sound of the monk's breathing and the rolling tide were matched perfectly as the process continued again. Now in sync with his own heartbeat.

In.

Thump

Out.

Thump

It was only when the pattern was set did Krillin nod while reaching out with his senses once more. As Kami helped him the monk went in search of the second sound. His efforts gave him the sound of the wind as it lightly grazed over a grand forest. He heard a rumble in the distance as a small-scale earthquake rattled some nearby mountains. A powerful storm rolled in over a tiny town, rain showered the small community. The light sound as the drops of water hit the roofs of many homes brought a smile to the monk's face.

"Piccolo came to the birthday party."

"That… is a little surprising," Kami said, blinking away his shock.

"He's changed a lot since fighting Goku in the world tournament," Krillin said, his concentration not breaking for a moment. "He also told me he would never join us on the lookout."

"You asked?"

"I did. I trust him. That might sound insane to you, but after everything, we went through on Namek. I consider him an alley and even a friend."

The present guardian went quiet as the tide that had matched with his student's breathing continued. There was a silent strength to it as it pushed and pulled. In and out.

"As I have said before, I will trust in your judgment."

Silence returned between the two as the monk continued his search while his guardian remained standing.

As Krillin's head filled with the sound of Earth and his own to Kami, the lookout was mute. He was here to oversee his student's progress and heal him when needed. A skill he picked up after Tsuno had given all that he had.

Deaf as he was, Kami noticed a twitch in his student as the tide within receded too swiftly to match with the old monk's breathing. Another twitch and the water went further back than usual. Krillin's focus was breaking. Once again Kami pulled back while placing his hands alongside the human's head.

"Remove yourself."

Krillin's eyes opened, and Kami was already soothing him with his energy. The guardian's ki helped mitigate the damage but not all of it. Gritting his teeth as his head pounded from the force of the planet, the monk lost control of his space. The blue water and sky Krillin surrounded himself in vanished as he returned to the lookout.

"Peace my student, you are safe."

As the moments ticked by, the monk's pain faded. "Thank you, Kami."

"There is no need for thanks, for all the hardship you have endured you deserve nothing less."

Krillin nodded and went quiet for a moment. "I still haven't made one."

"No, not yet."

The monk sighed and leaned onto his back, letting his legs hang off the edge and staring into the inky black of the sky. "Guru said this could take years, but I was hoping he would be wrong. If we lose any more people in the fight, we won't be able to bring them back."

"… that is correct."

"Shenron could only bring back those who died in the past year. Is that also true for a planet and its people? Or a human who died twice?"

"That will be up to your dragon."

"… this is a lot, Kami."

"It always was going to be."

"If I'm struggling with this, what is going to happen when you give me full ownership of the lookout? When you step down and fully name me Guardian?"

"You will do your best," Kami said without hesitation. "Which I know to be a far greater than you give yourself credit for."

"You have a lot of faith in me," Krillin laughed.

"After you restored my life, how could I not?"

The monk smiled. "What was it like when you were forming the dragonballs? Did your master help you?"

"No," Kami said, looking almost wistful. "After naming me, he passed on finally at the last of his strength. I crafted the dragonballs alone, and it was only through Namek's strength."

"What was your master like?"

Kami paused, deep in thought. "Remorseful."

"Really? Why?"

"Even after all this time, I still do not know. He was already fading when I first found him, almost like a whisper of a person. When I demanded the position of Guardian thinking, I was his better, he bested me with little effort. He could have killed me, yet he stayed his hand."

The Guardian closed his eyes, allowing himself to remember.

"Perhaps he saw something in me, something I could not. He offered me sanctuary and even the power I sought if I could purge the evil in my heart. After losing my memories of Namek and desperate for a place to belong, I obliged."

"That evil in your heart, it became King Piccolo."

"It did," Kami said, opening his eyes and looking at his student. "But not immediately. After the split, my master named me Guardian, trained me the best he could, and then vanished."

"Vanished?"

"It is the best word I can think to use. He was an ancient being, far older than I, even now. When he encountered me, I believe he had no intention of giving me the power of the Guardian, but simply realized with the time he had left. There was no one else who could do it. Once he had, there was nothing left to give."

"That's… sad."

"It is the way of things. Unlike us, my relationship with my master was not kind. There was a reluctance to it as if he dared not train me at all. It was only after he faded did King Piccolo raze the Earth and I newly named, could do nothing to stop him. Yet the world was saved, by your master's master."

"Master Mutaito."

"The same, yet years of fighting against the terror I unleashed left the planet in a state of chaos. To give the people hope, did I form the dragonballs and scatter them across the Earth."

"So, you made the dragonballs, all on your own?"

"Yes, however, as I've said, I believed them to be my own original creation."

Krillin paused before speaking again. "Did you train in the chamber as well?"

"For a brief period," the namekian admitted. "Enough to learn its dangers. For a long time, the chamber's limit was only two years for an individual."

"Only two years?" Krillin said with surprise. "Doesn't seem like enough."

"For anyone else, it would be. Yet with Tsuno's sacrifice strengthening me and the lookout itself recognizing you as my pupil, it seems those same rules don't apply to you."

"You said I was in there for four years this time. How long does that bring us to?"

"… Thirty-two years."

"Then I'm sixty. Thought I'd be older," Krillin said, his eyes growing a touch wider. "If I rejoin with myself, will I still be young like I am down there?"

"I… do not know."

"… I'm scared to try."

"Do you regret this choice?" Kami asked. "If you had stayed whole, this might not have been a risk."

"The only reason I could return to the time chamber was because I was also with them down there. Do I regret it? No."

Sitting up and resting on his hands, the old monk looked over the Earth, still covered in night. Slowly, he reached over to his heart and felt the two different beats. His own, and his dragons.

"I'd do it again, in a heartbeat."

As the old monk spoke a memory, one he held dear, returned to him.

"You have not finished growing Krillin of Earth," He could hear Guru say. "I believe you have just begun."

"Alright, let's try again. Let me take it slower this time."

"Understood."

Crossing his legs again and slowing his breathing, Krillin cast himself into his mind and created the blue sky and sea. He shuffled in the sand, making himself comfortable before synching his breath with the tide.

In.

Thump

Out.

Thump

He stayed like this, gathering his courage before he breathed. "I'm ready."

Once more Kami's hand hovered above his head and once more the Guardian of Earth passed on the responsibility of an entire world. Krillin took it in stride, casting his reach outward and finding the planet's sound.

Thump

With two sources of strength ringing in his mind, Krillin fell deeper into himself. Looking for the third sound needed to create the dragonballs. He reached into the waters of his crafted space and dove in. Traveling further than he ever had before. Searching for Namek's last gift. Deep into the waters he searched until the light blue he knew faded and was replaced by a void of black where no light could follow.

There was a deep silence, just as there had been in every past attempt, but this time Krillin sat down in the darkness. Crossing his legs and holding his palms upward, the old monk pleaded with all his strength.

Please. Hear me.

There in the depths of himself, for the very first time. Something answered.

Thump

The power of his beast, still unmade, nearly made him lose his breath. Never had he been able to hold all three sources of strength together.

The sound of his heart matched by the tide.

Thump

The chorus of the Earth.

Thump

And the beat of his dragon.

Thump

His focus completely on the task, Krillin held strong and wove the sounds. Kami saw his student's hands cup themselves and hang over the edge as if preparing to catch something. Only to be blown backward by a gust of power. The Ajisa trees were nearly ripped out of the ground as Krillin's energy soared higher and higher. His years in the time chamber came to his aid as he knitted the sounds together. Reaching out further with steady hands, Krillin's eyes opened just as a flash of light enveloped him. As if the sun itself descended upon the lookout, the old monk heard three powers becoming one, as a single noise rang out.

THUMP

Then, as quickly as it came, the light faded, and the wind died. Kami slowly got back to his feet and walked over to his student. Sitting down at the lookout's edge, Kami let his feet hang before looking over to his pupil.

Cradling it like a child, Krillin held an orange sphere with a single red star in its center. It was larger than Shenron's, yet smaller than Porguna's, but none could deny what it was. A dragonball, the first of seven. Kami placed a hand on his student's shoulder as the old monk shook with exhaustion. Krillin held the orb, his orb as if his life depended on it. He was not even aware enough to register his teacher's words that rolled out softly and filled with care.

"Well done."

"What… was that?"

Piccolo had no one to ask as the others had long since fallen asleep around the small campfire they had made in the North Mountains. The light of the fire had gone out hours ago once the stories were told, and the laughs had fallen quiet. Kami's other half had been waiting for the morning while meditating, but power had awoken him. A power emanating from the lookout. Searching for his leader, Piccolo received his second shock of the night and realized that the monk was not sleeping with the others. Quickly scanning the area, he located Krillin, close to the campsite.

Moving quickly, he found the monk sitting down and leaning against a rock, his eyes gazing upward as sweat drenched his body.

"I made one," Krillin said slowly, still looking at the sky. "I finally made one."

"That… that was you?" Piccolo gasped, unable to comprehend what he was hearing. "Your other half."

"Yeah," Krillin wheezed, wiping down his face. "That's me."

"Krillin that power, your power it's-"

"That's what happens when you train for a few decades," the monk said, cutting off Piccolo and slowly catching his breath.

"D-decades?" Piccolo questioned before coming to his own answer. "The time chamber, that's what you've been doing."

"Among other things, don't let the others know. I needed the room for myself, and they aren't ready for it."

"… Then you've done it? You created a dragonball?"

"Yes, just six more to go."

"I don't understand, with that level of strength… why haven't you joined us here? You can't do both?"

"No, I told you before, I can't leave the lookout. I have to stay there to make more dragonballs. I have a connection with the Earth up there. If I leave before they are finished, then that connection will be severed. I'd have to restart again… and I don't think I have that in me."

Piccolo stepped forward to continue the argument but thought better of it and just sighed.

"Don't worry, we'll still win," Krillin said, getting up and dusting off his backside. "We'll win because we have to."

Piccolo eyed the monk before letting out a small laugh. "Back then, during the 23rd, Tenkaichi Budoukai. There was a moment where I thought I killed you."

"Really?"

"I used all my strength in the final blow of our match. I believed it would be a suitable taunt for Son Goku to watch his friend die in the ring, but you got up."

"I still lost though."

"Perhaps, but you accomplished something I didn't think possible back then," Piccolo said with a sharp gaze. "Son Goku may have been the one to beat me, but you were the first to surprise me, even now you still do."

"That might be the nicest thing you've ever said to me."

"Don't let it go to your head, human," Piccolo chuckled. "Now sleep, you've done enough for one day."

With that, the namekian left to return to his meditation, leaving Krillin alone once more.

Sleep, huh, if only I could. The monk thought to himself as he dutifully began to practice his basics.