The Worst Battle

by Penny98

There are some battles you cannot fight to save others. Sometimes all you can do is be there and support those who have to fight it alone. For Goku, this would be a challenge as he watches his wife fight her own battle…..with Cancer.

11. Being there for Chichi

Hey all! This is gonna be quite a really long chapter so buckle in! Happy reading! Xx

Chapter 11- Being there for Chichi

The morning sun rose over the hospital, shining through the blinds of the hospital room. Chichi stirred in her sleep and stretched, her head wasn't as sore as it had been for the last few weeks, the sleep was well and truly needed, but she also woke up with less stress. Now that Goku knew, and her belief that he would stand by her. It made her feel well and truly blessed that he would be there for her. Come what may. She sat up in her bed and looked around, she didn't see Goku in his chair, she wondered if he had gone home in the night. Only for him to come waltzing into the room holding a couple of trays of food.

'Okay so I spoke to the nurses in the canteen and they said fruit salad was the best thing for you to have to build up your sugar levels. I also got you this green smoothie which the nurse said was good for your immune system. Hope you like it' Goku handed her the food. Chichi softly smiled and accepted her breakfast

'You didn't have to do that' she smiled

'Of course I did. You make me tons of food every day. The least I can do is bring you yours' he said sitting in the chair next to her

'Come here' She scooted in her bed as he sat on the bed with her, both of them enjoying breakfast in bed

'How do you feel this morning?' he asked

'Honestly….. Good. I mean, under the circumstances. I'm just glad this is all out in the open, I felt this huge wave of relief when I woke up'

'I'm glad. Just promise me Chichi. No more secrets, let me be there for you' he said as she took his hand in hers, softly smiling at him

'I promise' she said as she ate her breakfast. Goku at his 5 bacon sandwiches and couldn't help but wince

'Ugh. Hospital food is gross' he said as she chuckled

'I remember you complaining the last time we were here. You were in a full body cast and were forced to have the food here because I was too busy being here taking care of you'

'Yeah but you did go home once. And when you did you brought back those brownies'

'Yeah. I thought you needed cheering up' she smiled

'That was the best thing you could have given me, not to mention the sponge baths too' he winked. Her face blushing

'GOKU!' She nudged him

'And then of course that time I got you ride my…..'

'Finish that sentence, and I will throw you out of this room' she warned and also chuckling, making him laugh. He couldn't remember the last time they reminisced together, it had been a while. He supposed that was his fault, he hadn't been around for the last few months to talk to her.

'Back then, my head was all over the place' he said Softly

'Sure. You had just come back from the other world'

'Well that, and the fact that I was still getting used to being a sayien. And then I found out about me being the giant ape that killed my grandpa. And that my friends knew about it, and that they didn't tell you about my death as soon as it happened. And Gohan and Piccolo… everything just felt wrong'

'But things worked out in the end. You said so yourself, Piccolo got Gohan so strong'

'But I didn't ask Piccolo to take Gohan. I didn't expect him to be left on his own for 6 months in the wilderness, or to be trained by what was my worst enemy. I wanted to train him when he was ready'

'I know you did…..'

'They just let him take Gohan, didn't tell you I was dead till a few days later, leaving you alone and worried.'

'That was a long time ago'

'My friends…. They say they do things to protect me, not telling me about grandpa, me being the monster and destroying the martial arts arena, but all it did was make me resent them, and now they've done it all again! By not telling me about your cancer! I thought they would have learned by now! Obviously Not!'

'Goku. I asked them to not say anything to you. This isn't they're fault. If you're gonna be angry, be angry at me. I shouldn't have made them keep this secret. 18 only told Krillin cause he caught her crying'

'He of all people should have told me. We're best friends. How could he not say something!?' Goku huffed. Chichi placed a hand on his shoulder, he turned to face her.

'This isn't his or anyone's fault. No one can be blamed for this happening to me' she said softly. He nodded. Understanding what she meant, but it didn't stop him being angry at his friends.

*Knock Knock*

'Good morning Chichi'

'Good morning' She bowed her head to the doctor

'Well I'm glad to see your looking better than yesterday. Now I don't want to be lecturing you again about pushing yourself. I expect you take as much rest as required while you undergo chemo therapy.'

'Yeah I know. I promise' she said

'I'll make sure of that' Goku added

'Well I'm glad someone will be keeping an eye on you. We have you scheduled in today for your next round of chemo. Your husband is welcome to sit with you' he said. Chichi looked to Goku who took her hand, stroking along her knuckles.

'Okay. Thank you' she said

'Oh you also have some visitors outside' he said as he left the room to gestured them to go in.

'I didn't know the boys were coming this morning…..?' Chichi said as the door opened to see 18, Bulma and Krillin enter the room. Goku was frowning at all 3 of them as chichi softly smiled

'Hey you guys' Krillin waved

'Hey' Chichi waved. 18 looked to chichi and sighed. she walked over to her and gave her a big hug. Chichi welcomed it with open arms

'You scared me you know! Please don't do that again!' 18 cried, chichi softly chuckled and pulled back

'I'll try'

'How do you feel?' Bulma asked giving her a hug also

'I'm okay, I have a chemo session this afternoon'

'You need one of us there?' Bulma asked

'She Has Me!' Goku huffed at her

'Goku….' Chichi turned to him and looked to the others apologetically

'Look we just wanted to say…' Krillin started

'No! You don't have anything to apologise for, this was all me' Chichi exclaimed 'I made you keep this from Goku and you all went along with it, I never should have made you do that. And I'm sorry. You were all just being kind and I appreciate all you've done for me'

'We wouldn't have let you do this alone Chi. You know that' Bulma softly smiled

'I still shouldn't have made you keep this from Goku or the boys. It wasn't fair on any of you'

'Not like they haven't before' Goku muttered. The statement alone sent chills down Krillin and Bulma's spine. Chichi frowned at her husband. She ought to be the one he was cross at, not their friends.

'Goku, we are sorry' Krillin tried to talk to him

'You Didn't tell me my wife was sick! We have known each other since we were young boys. We told each other everything! You were supposed to my best friend but you kept this huge secret from me. Me out of everyone who should have known wat was happening to my own wife!' Goku huffed

'I don't have excuses! the only thing I have now is my apologies. But you gotta believe me when I say that it killed me I couldn't tell you, that chichi wouldn't tell you. I thought…..'

'You Thought it was better to keep this from me! From Gohan and from Goten. If I had done what you did, if I knew 18 was the one to be ill and keep it from you, wouldn't you react the same way!?' Goku asked. Krillin thought of that, he looked to his wife, the woman he loved and he knew exactly how he would feel. Anger, resentment, fear. All of those things, he could see on Goku's face when it came to Chichi.

'Yeah. I would.' He answered. Goku frowned and huffed

'I don't know if I'm ready to forgive you Krillin, Or you Bulma. You should have told me too' he said

'I know. Believe me I wanted to'

'Wanted to is not the same as telling me is it!?'

'I know that!'

'After what happened with you not telling me that I was the giant ape! I thought you would have learned by now!' He huffed. Bulma gasped, they had never discussed this. but they supposed it was gonna happen at some point

'Goku, we did that for your own good. We didn't want to break your heart, we knew how you would feel if we told you were the one who…..well…..ummm…'

'That I was the one who killed my Grandpa. You didn't think that was information that I might have found useful. You forget that Gohan had a tail as kid!? You don't think I should have known!?'

'We didn't know he had a tail! We only found you had a son when you brought him to Kami House!' Bulma argued

'You knew I got married though!? Didn't you think that Chichi and I would have kids!? That maybe the tail was genetic!? You still didn't come and find me to maybe just tell me the truth about it all! You had years to say something! But no! You let me figure it out all by myself whilst fighting with Vegeta! I felt sick to my stomach! Not only because I had killed the one man who always looked out for me as a boy, but the fact that my friends didn't think it wise to tell me! Maybe I could have been prepared if Gohan transformed but I wasn't! What if he had turned to the ape during the times before Raditz showed up!? he could have ended up killing both me and Chichi! Then where would that leave us!? A young boy without both his parents to take care of him!' Goku finally let out years' worth of pent up anger and resentment towards his friends. Bulma and Krillin bowing their heads in shame. He had made his point. And they hadn't helped.

'Goku, you know we only did what we thought was best for you' Krillin said. Goku turned away from them, looking out the window.

'You were wrong' he answered. You could cut the tension with a knife. Chichi looked to her friends and softly said

'I think its best you go. Don't worry, I'll talk to him' she whispered. Bulma nodded and gave her a hug as did 18. Krillin gave her a quick peck on the cheek as the 3 left the room. Bulma shut the door behind them and felt her tears flow. Krillin also felt overwhelmed with emotion as he was comforted by his wife

'What if this is it? What if he never forgives me!?' He asked

'Give him time. He's still grasping with the news his wife has cancer. His emotions are gonna all over the place right now'

'I hope your right. Cause I'm gonna do if he doesn't forgive me' He said as they left the hospital.

…..

Chichi turned to Goku as he still looked out the window.

'You know they do all they do to protect you, it's the same as when you protect them physically' She said as he scoffed

'Keeping secrets? That's something friends do?'

'To protect one's feelings, it's not unheard of'

'But why?!'

'Because they love you Goku. They all Love you, and they want to protect you just as much as you protect them. I know it's what I did' she said as he looked back at her and sighed

'I know. And I'm sorry it's just… I just wish they told me' he said. He sat back on the bed with her as she rested her head on his shoulder. Another knock come at the door as they were greeted by their sons

'Hey guys…..we uhhhhhhhhh. We brought someone else too' Gohan smiled as a familiar and sad face came through the door, The Ox king.

'Dad!' Chichi gasped, feeling herself tear up

'Chichi!' he cried and ran to her side! Chichi embraced her father tightly as Goku looked to Gohan

'I called him last night. I had to tell him, I'm sorry' he said as chichi looked to her eldest and softly smiled. She knew she wouldn't be able to get the words out with her father, but Gohan stepped up for her. She was grateful.

'Oh chichi you poor dear! Why didn't you say something!? I would have come to help you! you know I would have! I'm your dad!'

'I know and I'm so sorry dad. but I just didn't wanna worry you with all of this'

'Nonsense! When Gohan called to tell me, I dropped everything to get here to see you. You're my daughter and I love you very much!' he embraced her again. Chichi wrapped her arms around the giant King and welcomed his embrace. Goku softly smiled and brought Goten to his lap

'I made you this mama' he said showing her a picture he drew as she chuckled

'Awwww how sweet Goten, Is that me?' she pointed

'Yep! And there's me, Gohan, Dad and Grandpa. All of us together as a family when you're better again' He said. Chichi felt her heart sink a little. There was no guarantee if she would be better, but she'd be dammed if she was gonna think the worst

'Well I love it. In fact, I think its gonna go on our fridge at home' she smiled

'So your coming home today?' Gohan asked

'Well I need to have my chemo session but then I will be home.'

'Great! Cause Goten and I have been cleaning around the house for you, everything is ready for you. I've had to tell Videl that I was babysitting Goten while you were here'

'Did she ask about what was wrong with me?' Chichi asked as he nodded

'Yeah. She wants to know what's going on. And mom honestly, everyone else has been asking too. They ought to know now that we do' Gohan suggested as she sighed hard, she knew he was right.

'Yeah… I know. You can tell them' Chichi said

'You sure?'

'Yeah. I think I've kept everyone in the dark long enough.'

'Chichi, have the doctors said how long treatment will be?' The Ox King asked

'I'm currently doing my 6-month trial of chemo. Until they see a change in my development, I'm receiving 2 sessions of chemo a week'

'Oh I wish you told me sooner, I could have been with you'

'I'm sorry dad. I just didn't want you to worry. And I wasn't alone, I had friends with me' she said. Goku frowned at that, she should have had her family with her.

'Well we have a session this afternoon, after that we'll come home' Goku answered

'Okay well how bout I take the boys back to Mt Paouzu and we get some lunch ready for you both' The Ox king asked

'Yeah that would be great!' Goku smiled

'Thank you dad' she smiled as the ox king gave her a kiss on the cheek. He and the boys left and headed back home. Leaving Goku and Chichi waiting for her next chemo appointment.

…

After the chemo therapy. Goku flew home, holding a tired chichi in his arms. He held her close to him and not wanting to ever let her go. As angry as he was at his friends. He couldn't help but feel angry at her too. How could she not tell him about all of this? He couldn't believe that she thought he'd leave her if she was weak. She had never been weak, in all the time he knew her. Was her self-esteem that low that she believed that? Had he done that to her? Despite being angry with her, he was also so angry with himself. He saw his home come to view and landed by the door. Still holding her in his arms

'Goku, I can walk from here' she yawned

'You sure?' He asked, she nodded in response before setting her down on her feet. they enter the kitchen and were greeted by Gohan, Goten and the Ox King.

'Hey you two' The Ox king got up to greet them, bringing chichi to sit down

'Hey dad…..' she said in a daze

'Mom are you okay?' Gohan asked

'I'm just a little tired from the chemo honey. Nothing to worry about.' She answered, she looked around the kitchen and saw how clean it was 'You guys cleaned?' she gasped

'Well we didn't want you to come home to some house work. We thought it was better for you to be resting rather than do housework'

'I appreciate that but there was no need'

'Of course there was. You do enough around here mom, please let us help you.' Gohan said, Goten nodding agreement. 'And I called Videl, She said she would go to the store and get some food for you guys. So you didn't go running around after everyone.'

'Gohan….'

'No mom! You will do as we say' Goten pointed at his mother the same she would to instruct him to do his homework, making her chuckle

'You heard them' Goku Grinned as chichi chuckled

'I've been told then'

'Now, are you hungry? We do have some fish cooking with some steamed vegetables. We also did some rice for you Goku' The Ox king chuckled

'Actually, if it's alright with you, I would like to go take a nap before eating. That chemo session really took the energy out of me' she said getting up from her chair

'Okay honey, we'll be here if you need us' The ox king gave her a kiss as she headed to her bedroom. Goku watched her leave the room. He hadn't left her side since finding out her diagnosis. And now that he knew, he didn't want to be without her.

'Dad! You want some food? I know you wouldn't have eaten the food in the hospital, and if you did, it was gross' Goten asked as Goku looked to him

'You know, I'm not really hungry right now buddy. I think I'll go take a nap with your mom' he said leaving the room. Gohan and the Ox king looed to the other, they had never known Goku to skip out on food

'How do you think he's taking it?' The Ox king asked his eldest grandson

'Hard. He doesn't know how to handle this. and I don't blame him, this isn't exactly a battle he can fight and win.'

'No. But all he can do is support her in this battle. She's gonna need all the help she can get'

'We'll be there for her grandpa!' Goten added

'I know Goten. As will I, and all of our friends.' The Ox King said. Gohan nodded in agreement. Suddenly he sensed an oncoming Ki. He then frowned

'Excuse me' he said leaving the kitchen

'Gohan where are you going?' Goten asked

'There's someone I need to see' he answered and took off into the sky, heading towards the Ki.

…

Goku entered the bedroom to see chichi lying down on the bed. Wearing her navy blue silk nightdress that reached her knees and lying on her side. Goku removed his shirt and lay down on he bed, spooning her on her side, his chin resting in the crook of her neck, kissing her shoulder.

'Mmmmm….Goku….' She moaned. Goku rolled her on her side making her rest her head on his bare chest.

'I missed this' he whispered

'Me too, you feel comfy'

'You always say that'

'Cause its always true'

'We're gonna get you through this chichi. I promise we'll get you through this'

'It's gonna be a long road Goku. A lot of things are gonna change for me'

'You'll still be you, that's all I care about' he kissed her forehead

'You're sweet' she yawned

'That's why you married me' he chuckled

'And for so many other reasons, but right now it's because your currently my pillow'

'You can use me all you want'

'I'll hold you to that'

'I love you Chichi' He whispered

'I love you too Goku' She answered back

'And I promise. I'm not going anywhere, now or ever' he said as they both nodded off into a slumber. Both wrapped in each other's arms.

…

Gohan flew at High-speed towards the Ki. Seeing the figure come into view. He stopped in the air and greeted the figure.

'Gohan. I was coming to see you' he said

'Hello Piccolo' Gohan frowned. Piccolo sensed the tension between them. He took a guess on what this could be about.

'If this is about your mother….' He began but was cut off by the angry demi sayien

'You knew! You knew and you said nothing! When we were training together! You could have told me then!'

'I made her a promise Gohan, she begged me to say nothing to you, she didn't want you to worry'

'I'm her son!'

'All the more reason she chose to keep it from you!'

'And that gave you the right too!? I could have been there for her. The time that has been lost I won't be able to make back with her! Neither will Goten or Dad! Did you think about that!?'

'Your acting as if she's already lost this fight. She hasn't. she can beat this' The namekian stated confidently not affected by Gohan's outburst

'You better prey she does. Because if she doesn't…..i will never forgive you for not telling me' Gohan promised, his tone was low, and it managed to make Piccolo uncomfortable. He grunted and shook it off

'Gohan…I'm sorry' he said. Gohan was angry at him, and will be for a while. He couldn't acknowledge his friends' apology.

'Just Go Piccolo. Leave us. We need time' Gohan ordered and took off back to his parent's' home. Piccolo stayed in his position, hovering over the earth below and sighed hard.

'I pray she finds the strength to fight this' Piccolo said to himself and headed back to the lookout.

…

3 months had gone by.

The son family had adapted to the new routine since finding out Chichi had cancer. Twice a week, they were taking her to the hospital to receive her chemo treatment. Chichi has lost a significant amount of weight due to her lack of appetite. She also had lost her long dark hair. When she was going through her treatments, the clumps of hair stressed her out and made her sad. So Gohan suggested she just shave it all off, it made her nervous but she reckoned it may be for the best. After it was done. She felt somewhat liberated from it all. Her family all supported her as she was sick, tired, stressed and sad. She felt so blessed to have a family like hers, they all supported her and loved her and were always going to be by her side. Each week, she'd have someone come sit with her as she received her treatment.

Today she sat in the big recliner chair, wearing a hot pink cheongsam, and wearing a shoulder length black wig with a side fringe reading a magazine as a familiar face walked through the door.

'Hey so I know you said no chocolates but come on, everyone needs chocolates' 18 smirked handing Chichi a bar of mars, she had brought Marron with her

'I bought you this teddy auntie chichi' She smiled

'Awww how sweet. Thank you Marron, I'll be sure to put him somewhere safe when I get home' Chichi smiled placing them next to her. Marron sat with her mother on her lap. 18 grabbed a magazine and read

'So, any cute doctors go by?' She asked

'Oh come on 18!' Chichi giggled

'Hey come on now, I need some entertainment in here. So any cute doctors….or nurses?' she smirked as Chichi looked up from her magazine and blushed

'The one by the older lady patient' she nudged her head in the direction, 18 looked up and saw the young brunette haired doctor chatting with the elderly lady

'Oh wow!'

'He just started. Its his 3rd day. And his accent is to die for' chichi giggled

'What's the accent?' 18 asked as the young doctor came over to them, adjusting the machine chichi received her chemo

'Good Afternoon, How are you feeling today Chichi?' he asked in very strong British accent. 18 almost swooned

'He talks funny' Marron giggled

'I'm good thank you Dr Jones. Thank you for asking' Chichi smiled

'Glad to hear it, we don't need you feeling any worse. So just relax, your session will be over soon' he smiled and looked to 18 and marron 'These friends of yours?' he asked

'Yeah. This is 18 and her daughter Marron'

'Hello nice to meet you' he offered his hand to shake hers as she accepted

'So you Chichi's new doctor? She asked

'No I just work around all the patients, Chichi was here when I was on my first day, so it is nice to see a familiar face. Despite the circumstances of our meeting' he said as chichi nodded in agreement.

'That's cool' 18 blushed

'Well I better go check in on the rest of the patients. Come find me when you finish' he smiled and left them to it

'Woah!' 18 gasped

'Yeah I know. A little young though'

'Still woah!'

'You are terrible' chichi giggled as did 18.

'Well I think its good we can have a laugh while we here. We need to keep you as positive as possible'

'Any news on Krillin?' Chichi asked

'He's still sad that Goku won't speak to him'

'I've been trying to tell Goku to forgive him, but he's finding it hard. I can't help but feel I brought this on them both, I just wish I said something sooner now.'

You can't change the past, I'm sure Goku will come around. I mean I get annoyed at Krillin too but he's too lovable to ignore' she chuckled

'I'll try and speak to Goku again when I'm home'

'And I'll get Krillin to come see you, it's about time he came to sit with you during one of these sessions'

'But then who am I gonna talk about cute doctors to?' chichi joked

'Well you'll just have to wait till I come in next' 18 smirked

'That's true. You're a good friend 18'

'And don't forget it' she winked as chichi smiled

…

Another day, another session. Chichi sat receiving her treatment. She was reading on of her novels when she looked up to See Bulma coming in with Trunks and Bulla.

'Hey, Sorry I had to bring them but mom and dad aren't home right now'

'Its okay, its nice to see you all. Especially you' chichi cooed to Baby Bulla taking her from Bulma and sat her on her lap

'She missed you' Bulma chuckled

'She's so sweet. Reminds me of Trunks when he was a baby' Chichi smiled at the young demi sayien

'So….. does the medicine hurt?' Trunks asked

'No it doesn't hurt. It just makes me feel tired and sometimes ill'

'Goten said he heard you throwing up a few days ago'

'Trunks!' Bulma huffed at her son's bluntness

'He said it worried him. And that he wished he could take it away for you, so you can be safe again' He said. Chichi softly smiled at him.

'You've been looking out for him?' she asked

'We play what he wants to play to cheer him up. I don't like seeing him sad.'

'You're a good friend to him Trunks, never change' she smiled as he nodded. Bulma softly sighed and looked to her friend

'How's Goku been?' she asked

'You mean is he still mad at you?'

'Is he?'

'He'll come around Bulma. He's just as mad at Krillin and I've been trying to talk him round about that.'

'Man, talk about stubborn'

'Yeah, I thought that too' Chichi softly chuckled 'Maybe it's the sayien in him'

'I guess he and Vegeta aren't so different after all' Bulma sighed as she watched chichi make faces at baby bulla who was laughing 'I'm glad you haven't let this cancer bring you down'

'The battle's not over yet. and I'm still fighting' chichi smiled as did Bulma. They spent the rest of the session talking and gossiping

….

'Peek a Boo!' Chichi played with her granddaughter while she received her treatment. Pan waved at her face and laughed as Chichi tickled her little tummy. Videl had gone to get them both some tea and came back to sit with her mother in law

'My dad also sends his love. He says if you need anything, just let him know' she smiled

'That's kind of him, but all I need is my family, thank you for bringing Pan with you, I feel bad I haven't seen her as much as I should be. She's growing up so fast' Chichi sighed

'She missed you. So did I. I just wish you came to talk to us sooner. I would have happily helped you out'

'I know you would have, its one of the reasons I sent Goten to you, I know you'd have taken care of him' chichi sighed. Videl looked her worried

'Is there something you're not telling me?' Videl asked as chichi looked at her. Looking rather sad, but she needed to say it

'I need you to do something for me Videl' she instructed, Videl listening with worry 'If I don't beat this…..'

'Don't say that….'

'Let me say this! I may not get another chance' she huffed 'If I don't beat this, and I…pass, I need you to take care of everyone. I know you'll look after Gohan and Pan of course, but I also need you to keep an eye on Goten and Goku too. I worry of what will happen to them, and they will need all the support they can get. and I know I can depend on you to keep it all together.' Chichi instructed. Videl felt her eyes fill with tears and couldn't help but lunge from her chair and hug chichi tight. Chichi wrapped an arm around while still holding pan. Grateful to have such wonderful girls as part of her family.

…..

Another week went by, chichi was knitting a onesie for Baby pan as her father entered the hospital room holding a tea for her

'How are you feeling today sweetheart?' he asked concerned

'Okay. Considering what's happening to me' she said

'Have the doctors come to talk to you yet? Are you keeping to this diet? Is it making you sick? Do we need to do more scans? Are you…' he rambled

'Dad! I'm alright. Please stop worrying'

'I can't help but worry, you know how I am' he said. She looked her father, concerned

'You feel like you could have done more for mom?' she asked as he sighed hard

'I just wish there was more we all could have done. But in the end, it was her battle. And the cancer was too strong for her. To this day, I wish I could have done more to help her'

'Dad, she had been ill for a while, There wasn't anything we could do' she said sadly

'I know. But I refuse to not be there for you now. I just wish you told me about this sooner'

'You had already been through this with mom. And I didn't want to worry you, believe when I say I was trying to spare you from all the grief of all this.'

'The only grief I would feel is if something happened to you and I didn't know about it, because maybe I could of helped. And this is exactly why I am here now. I won't leave your side. That I promise you. I love you Chichi' he said, crying a little as did chichi

'I love you too dad' she said as they shared a sweet father/daughter embrace.

….

On another day of receiving chemo, Chichi accompanied by Gohan and Goten, Both watched as the nurses hooked her up to the chemo pump and relaxed back in her chair. She looked tired today, there was bags under her eyes, and she yawned often.

'Tired?' Gohan asked

'I didn't get much sleep last night, you dad was the same, when I can't sleep, he can't sleep'

'He's worried about you'

'Yeah I know. I think he feels like he's being useless. But I assured him, there is nothing he can do right now. And as frustrating as it is, it is just a waiting game for the time being.'

'I think that's why he's restless, and If I'm honest, so are we' Gohan exclaimed as Goten nodded in agreement

'We just want you well again mom'

'I know you do. and I wish I could just tell you it's all gonna be okay'

'But you can't' Goten said sadly. Chichi hated to have this conversation with them. They were her babies. She didn't want them worrying, but this needed to be said otherwise she could die without saying at all

'Boys, I want you both to know. I'll fight this as best as I can, but I need to say it. This cancer may beat me and I may be gone…..but I need you both to look after each other if that happens. Gohan, you have a family yourself, I want you to protect as best you can. And that includes looking out for your grandpa, brother and father too. Goten, you will need to do the same. Look after your older brother, your niece, your dad and everyone else we know and love. And for both of you to look after your dad. I worry about him. Can you both promise me that?' she asked as they looked to the other. Both holding back their tears and nodded at her

'Yeah mom we promise' Gohan nodded

'We love you mom, and we believe your gonna be okay!' Goten said as chichi nodded. Having faith in her youngest's words. She brought him to sit on her lap and kiss his forehead. Gohan grabbed her free hand and gave her a soft kiss. Chichi felt blessed to have such wonderful children, and prayed to the gods she would be here for a long time. But only time would tell.

After Gohan and Goten Left. Chichi was asked to stay overnight for observation as her iron levels were low and wanted to just keep her in the hospital to see if she would take a turn for the worst. She didn't argue and obliged. As she got her hospital room, she heard a knock on the door and made the assumption it was one of the nurses. Only to be surprised by a familiar face.

'P… Piccolo?'

'I uhh… I just wanted to see if you were…'

'Still here?' she guessed

'If you were alright' he said. Chichi softly smiled and nodded, gestured him to sit down at the chair next to her as she lay in the bed

'Considering I've lost all my hair and receiving chemo that's making me tired and dizzy and sick, I'm feeling optimistic about it all, I'm surprised you didn't come with Gohan and Goten, they were here an hour ago'

'Gohan and I aren't on speaking terms currently' he admitted as she frowned a little

'He still not talking to you?' she asked 'I'm sorry, I know that's my fault. Let me talk to him for you, I'll get him to see sense'

'I don't think it will make a difference. He's mad at me for not telling him about you, that I could have just refused to listen to you'

'Yes but then you'd be dealing with my wrath, and I am not as forgiving as Gohan.'

'So you think he'd forgive me?' he asked as she nodded

'Gohan has always been stubborn, he gets It from me. I don't back down easy. Not even to Goku. But Gohan is different. He will eventually understand why you did what you did and he will forgive you, he has to'

'Why has to?'

'Because it was my fault to begin with. But also because I may not survive this, I know nobody wants me to say this but I have to, If I don't make it. Gohan has been given the responsibility to look after everyone in our family, but I need someone to also look out for him' she turned to look at Piccolo

'You think that's me?'

'Goku may be in a worse state. And Gohan will need comfort from his closest friend, I know he's angry at you now but in time I know he'll forgive you. Your more than a friend to us Piccolo, in a way, we see you as a family member.' She smiled softly. Piccolo thought about that, he had never had people to consider family, but he and the son family had been through so much together. He smiled back at her and leaned back in his chair. Both chatting and reminiscing until she fell asleep. Piccolo left the hospital, trusting her word that Gohan and he can find the path to friendship once more.

…

'Hold Still will you?' Launch giggled as she painted chichi's nails as chichi received her treatment

'I still don't see why this is necessary' Chichi giggled

'You're here for another 2 hours. May as well have fun with it' she giggled. Chichi was grateful to have Launch visit, she would always bring baked goods or find an activity they could do to pass time. it made her grateful to have a friend who was so considerate. As Launch finished with one hand, she was gonna do the other when there was a knock on the door. Chichi was greeted by 2 other familiar faces

'Tien? Chiaotzu! What are you guys doing here?' Chichi gasped

'I called them, figured they would want to see you' Launch smiled. Chiaotzu hovered over to Chichi and handed her a bouquet of purple and white flowers

'I hope you like em' he blushed

'I do. thank you, they're lovely' she smiled as Tien kissed Launch on the cheek and sat in the chair next to her

'I'm sorry we hadn't come sooner, figured you would be busy with everyone else visiting' Tien said

'True. But its always nice to see familiar faces.'

'So how have you been feeling?' He asked

'Okay. Considering what's happening to me'

'I'm sorry it is, its not fair It should happen to you' Chiaotzu said

'Your sweet. But no one could have predicted this. I'm trying to stay positive for my family's sake'

'That's the spirt. You've always been a tough one, since the day we met' Launch giggled

'Not much has changed' Chichi joked

'How has Goku been taking it?' Tien asked

'He tries to stay positive for my sake but I can see what its doing to him. He's never been good at controlling his emotions when something was out of his control'

'You got that right. He would act on impulse rather than think it through' Tien admitted

'Hmmm' Chichi Sighed, she was worried for her husband. It was worse because he wouldn't tell her either.

'You shouldn't worry chichi, no matter what happens, we'll all be here to look out for him' Launch softly smiled and finishes her nails

'Him and your sons too' Tien smiled

'MMM HMM!' Chiaotzu nodded

'Thank You' Chichi smiled

…

'You ate some of them already?' Chichi giggled at the half eaten box of chocolates she received from Master Roshi, Yamcha, Puar and Oolong

'Oolong! You said you wouldn't eat them!' Roshi huffed

'Its not my fault! You handed them to me and you expect me to not eat them!'

'Your useless oolong' Puar huffed making oolong blush, and chichi giggle

'You seem better then when we saw you last Chichi' Yamcha referred the last time he sat with her as she received her chemo. That was 2 weeks ago. If she was looking better, it must be a sign she was getting better.

'Last few months, everyone has been so nice. Coming to sit with me, chatting with me, trying to cheer me up. I'm grateful for all your support'

'Of course. The least we can do is offer that.' Roshi smiled as she nodded 'And your still as spunky as I recall hehehe' Roshi teased. Chichi knew he was only trying to cheer her up and she rolled her eyes

'I don't have the strength to smack you' she chuckled

'You need anything currently? A drink, some snacks?'

'I'm okay, lately my appetite has been mostly smoothies and soups. Can't remember the last time I had some proper meat to eat'

'Yeah I know what you mean, I don't know if I could go a week without some meat in system, and I mean anything! Chicken, Beef, porrrrrr….' Yamcha stopped in his sentence when he saw oolong!

'I hate you' Oolong huffed as chichi chuckled

'We hope you don't mind all this company chichi. If we're bothering you, we can come back another day' Puar offered

'No, I like it, it's a good distraction considering what I'm doing' she said as she looked at the chemo pump.

'You're a strong one, you'll give this cancer a run for its money I'm sure' Roshi winked. Chichi softly smiled and hoped the old hermit was right.

…..

Chichi was expecting for Bulma to be with her for today's session. But she was running late. Chichi leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes. She suddenly felt a presence in the room, looked up to see a face she wasn't expecting to see

'V…..Vegeta?' she gasped as he sat in the chair next to her, not saying anything.

'The woman doesn't know I'm here, you say anything I will beat the crap out of kakarott' he threatened

'But don't you do that anyway?' Chichi asked

'Humph!' He huffed

'So why are you here?' she asked

'I wanted to know what all the fuss was about, your letting yourself get run down by the likes of this disease'

'In my defence it's an aggressive disease'

'I wouldn't know. Sayiens don't get the likes of what you call cancer, our bodies are strong. At least a sayien of my rank are'

'Yes. You did say before. But unfortunately, a human body is rather frail, at least mine is. Hence the treatment' she referred to the pump next to her. Vegeta looked at her face and saw how frail she appeared. Her skin pale, her face drained of fat and that wig that hid her bald head

'Are you in pain?' he asked not looking at her, chichi was surprised by his question, she didn't expect him to ask such a question but she was obliged to answer

'No, just makes me tired. Goku sometimes will sit with me and protect me while I sleep'

'What does the clown think will happen if he isn't around in a hospital?'

'Knowing him, he wouldn't wanna miss anything.' Chichi said as he huffed again. She looked at him and sighed 'Vegeta… can I ask you a question?'

'You just did' he smirked as she rolled her eyes

'No I meant a proper question you ass!'

'Depends on the question'

'Well… it's about Goku' she said as he turned to look at her

'I'm listening'

'Well I just want to know… you do consider him a friend right?' she asked as he scoffed and looked at her

'Woman, what are you…..'

'Please just answer me! Don't sugar coat it. Yes or no?' she asked, he could see she was serious in her question, which made him wonder what point she was trying to make. He thought about his and Goku's relationship over the years, it went from enemies to somewhat acquaintances, then from there it led to a sort of friendship. Vegeta would never say to the clown's face but in this small room with just the two of them, he would admit

'Yes. I consider him….. a friend' he answered as she nodded slowly

'Then as his friend. I wanna ask you, if anything happens to me…if I die' she said as he grunted 'I need you to look out for him. Be whatever he needs you to be, a friend, a punch bag, anything! It's the only way I know he'll be alright with his friends rather than just his sons. I'd hate to think of him suffering alone' she explained as he grunted

'I don't know which is worse, you wanting me to be his punch bag or being friends with that oaf!' he said. He heard her laughing and turned to look at her, it was strange, he didn't think he could ever make her laugh, he then let himself give a soft smirk as she looked at him.

'So?' she whispered

'You have my word' he gave her a gentle nod. Referring to her request as they both made small talk till the end of her session.

…

Some days, all of their friends would be with chichi as she received her treatment, but out of everyone, Goku was the one to be with her all the time. He would always get them to her sessions on time, get whatever she needed to get her through her chemo treatment. Goku noticed lately her ki had spiked back up, it was good! Maybe the chemo was taking effect on her, maybe she was gonna be okay. But she wasn't out of the woods yet.

Today, she and he were playing a game of checkers. Goku looked at his pieces and the look of concentration on his face was priceless to chichi. She waited as he took his turn. He then let out a smirk and moved his piece.

'HA!' he took one of her pieces as chichi smirked. Moving her piece over all of his pieces to get to his side. Goku huffed and put the piece he just removed on top of the one she moved, making a king

'Show off' he huffed as she giggled

'I suppose this is one battle I can beat you at' she smirked

'You Got lucky!' he argued

'You're such a sore loser' she teased

'Says you! Remember the first time I beat you at chess?' he asked

'Ugh! Don't remind me! I can't believe I left my king wide open for an attack'

'Yeah you weren't concentrating as much'

'I wasn't concentrating because you thought it would be a good idea to take off your shirt to distract me!' she argued

'You didn't complain'

'I wish I had now' she blushed

'Do you?' he winked. Chichi felt like a little girl all over again when he flirted with her

'No'

'Yeah I didn't think so' he chuckled as she giggled

*Cough! Cough! Cough!*

She suddenly began to cough hard. Goku grabbed her some water as she drank it fast. She caught her breath and saw the look of concern on Goku's face.

'Babe?' he asked worryingly

'It's okay. I'm okay' she smiled softly.

'You sure?'

'Yeah, come on. Let's reset the game, maybe this time I'll go easy on you' she grinned as he watched her reset the board.

*Knock Knock Knock*

'Excuse me?' A nurse poked her head into the room

'Hello' chichi waved

'Sorry to disturb but you have another visitor' she said as Goku and chichi looked at the other and nodded. And Into the room, entered a familiar friendly face

'Hey you two' he waved, chichi smiled and Goku frowned

'Krillin' chichi smiled. Goku somewhat frowning still, he wanted to forgive Krillin, but it was too hard right now.

'I just wanted to stop by and see how you were doing chichi. I heard the treatment is going well so far' he asked

'Yeah. The dosage has been big and it makes me a little more tired after receiving but otherwise I think its having an effect'

'I'm glad. I know 18 has been here more often, I'm sorry, I've just been so busy with my work and taking care of Marron'

'I understand Krillin, you don't need to explain yourself to me.' She smiled. Krillin looked to Goku who couldn't look him in the eye. Chichi sighed hard and gave Goku a nudge as He looked to his best friend

'Goku, I miss you buddy. I hope we can put all of this behind us soon'

'Krillin, I told you, I just need time. And I don't wanna discuss this right now. I just wanna be here to support my wife' he said

'Oh Right! Of course! Well I just wanted to stop by and see how you were doing. Maybe you wanna come to kame house soon, I know Marron would love to see you both'

'Oh that would be nice.' Chichi smiled as Krillin nodded, giving her a peck on the cheek

'Well I'll see you soon' he said and left the couple to it. Goku let out a hard exhale and sat up in his chair. Chichi had been trying to get him to talk to Krillin about what happened but he wouldn't budge. But today was not that day. Today he was gonna talk, for her sake at least.

'You need to forgive him honey'

'I can't'

'Why? You forgave me'

'That's different!'

'How?'

'Your my wife!'

'And he is your best friend!' She argued 'He has been there for you since you were a small boy and he doesn't deserve this, I asked him to keep this quiet and not once did you punish me, please just go after him and make peace' she said as he grunted

'Chi…. it's so difficult'

'I know, and I know you don't wanna hear this. but if this treatment isn't working…..'

'CHICHI!' He huffed

'Goku we're are coming to the end of the 6-month trial. We'll find out If the treatment has worked. And if it hasn't, that means I won't have long left in this lifetime. But I can't let you self-destruct and push your friends away, not when they will be the thing you need them most' she pleaded. Goku couldn't face her as she said this. this wasn't what he wanted to hear. The last 5 months had been so hard, taking care of her, watching her struggle day by day with exhaustion, low appetite, the hair loss. He wanted to take it all away for her but it couldn't happen.

'I don't want to lose you chi' he whispered

'I know. I don't want to go. But this is why you need to forgive Krillin honey, because if I'm gone, you'll need him more than ever. I trust him to look out for you, just like Vegeta, piccolo and all out other friends.' She smiled as he looked at her, this brave fantastic woman who he loved with every fibre of his being. He looked back at the door Krillin left through and back to his wife

'I'll be right back' he said and left the room in a flash. Chichi sat there in silence for a moment and leaned back in her chair

'Oh Dende if I'm close to the end. Please… look out for Goku and our sons. I hate the thought of leaving them here. Alone' she sighed and continued on with her chemo. 6 months were almost up. she knew soon that the results will be upon her and if she was live or die. And if she was honest, she wasn't sure if she wanted that question answered.

Wow this was big chapter but I'm so pleased with how its turned out. Hope you guys liked it and lease leave me comment and let me know what you think. Lots of love xx

Penelope out ;)