On My Shoulders - A Dragon Ball Z Fanfiction.
_________________________ D R A G O N B A L L Z__________________________
CHAPTER 01 - THE DUTY OF A WARRIOR.
_________________________ D R A G O N B A L L Z__________________________
PLANET EARTH - MOUNT PAOZU, 438TH DISTRICT AREA, 10:35 PM, SUNDAY JANUARY 1st , AGE 774
The night rain raged on mount paozu, violent winds would drag away the more weaker plant life and minerals that were spread all about the mountainous region without relent, nature sometimes could be mortal and cruel, an unstoppable force that would go on it’s course no matter what, trees and bushes would be violently shaken or thorn apart from the ground, flying at kilometers in distance at all sides, as lightning crackled from the gray/dark clouds above, luckily for the inhabitants of said place, they knew exactly when to expect the climate to be so harsh in that specific season that preparations were done 1 month before it would occur, so farmers and the like didn’t lost anything on their crop fields, animals were safe inside their barns and plants on their improvised greenhouses, hopefully they’d be able to hold on until the end of the week, when the rainy weather would finally come to an end.
But, what people didn’t knew was that this was the least of their worries, 7 years of peace made some of the population grow careless and complacent towards a possible threat, one that was already developing in an alarming rate under their very noses, but who could blame them ? that monster Cell almost robbed the entire population of the planet from their freedom, their lives and everything they’ve worked so hard for, it seemed like Gero’s/Red Ribbon Army’s ambition knew no bounds, the organization’s hatred towards Goku would completely consume all, one of the many reasons the hero decided to stay on the other world, claiming that his presence would only attract other enemies and the earthlings would pay the ultimate price from the Saiyan’s actions sooner or later, but that wasn’t nearly enough to placate his only son’s frustration and sorrow, had he heard the others and destroyed the infuriating android when he had the chance, then maybe his father would be still alive and well, but the power influx that he gained from the Ascended Super Saiyan state filled the boy with such arrogance and hatred that the only thing on his mind was to make Cell suffer, for EVERY single person the monster killed/absorbed, including the Android twins.
Of course, this decision to drag the fight longer and torture Cell would only lead the monster to desperation, and they say that even a rat will attack the cat when cornered, ah how true that statement is, because moments after reverting to his imperfect form, the coward decided to inflate himself, threatening to blow up the earth and everything that lived there, Goku made a very hard decision, a responsible one nonetheless, to teleport him away, saving billions of lives, although losing his own life in the process, that’s why his son, his pride and joy, would torture himself in guilt constantly for not heading the pleas from his friends and eliminating the monster, it was to late to go back now, Goku was dead and chose to stay that way, and Gohan only got himself to blame for that, the other z-Fighters knew that he did what he could to save them, and never held it against him for Goku’s second departure, it seems that despite Trunks’s warnings and all the history-changing events, Goku was destined to die one way or another, be it by the terrible virus disease or on the battle field. The Cell Games Arena would forever remind Gohan of his foolishness and naivety, no matter how hard he’d train his body or mind, he’d never be able to measure up to his father, that fact alone was eating him on the inside, and to make matters worse, 6 months after Goku’s own symbolic funeral, Chi Chi, his mother, the person that the Half-Saiyan loved so much, died from the very same Virus, there was no cure on this era, Goku had taken the last of the pills brought from the future by Trunks, and somehow it’s evolution was silent, no one noticed until it was too damn late, what most people didn’t knew was that Chi Chi was carrying Goku’s unborn child, who unfortunately perished while still inside her womb, this.. devastated Gohan even more, as the pre-teen became recluse and withdraw, the only thing he did was train, train and train, to the point Piccolo had to chose his words carefully whenever they’d be on it, there were those who mourned with Gohan, like Bulma and Krillin, as both were very close to Goku being his childhood best friends.
Others like Tien, Yamcha and Chiaotzu offered their condolences, to no avail as the young boy was functioning on auto-pilot, gone was the innocent, shining eyes that he once sported whenever in their presence, to give place to a cold, angry and silent person, it was saddening really, the Blue-haired female scientist would try and reason with him numerous times to come and live with her and Vegeta, oh Vegeta.. another lost soul that one became, for the first 3 weeks, he’d do nothing but mop all day, Kakarot was gone, it was like life-time objective of surpassing him was all for naught, he’d greet his teeth in silent fury, knowing that both son and father had surpassed him in every aspect, his hands would bleed from the force he put whenever clenching it, anger also became his main drive to keep training, maybe once he died too, he’d be able to challenge Kakarot once again, proving to that third-class clown that HE and only HE, the prince of all Saiyans, was the best, he didn’t care much for the idiot’s wife and son, they could go and rot for whatever the hell he’d care.
His wife Bulma would enter constantly on arguments with him whenever the subject of adoption regarding Gohan would be mentioned, causing them to drift apart for a long, long time, as for his own baby infant of a son, heh.. he doubted that he’d amount to something, although the prospect of training him to be another strong warrior was tempting, but the woman wouldn’t allow it, saying that her baby boy didn’t need to become a cold-hearted killer like his father, humph.so be it then, he had no use for insects that would only further slow him down, another threat would arise one day, and by then, he’d be prepared.
All of them, Except Gohan maybe, had moved on with their lives, vowing to never forget about his father and their friend, they were not as close with his mom, but also cared to at least attend her own funeral held on the Fire mountain, near her old home, his grandpa the Ox King was the most affected right after him of course, by her premature death, and since it was a natural cause, the Dragon Balls couldn’t bring her back, he’d also offer Gohan a new home with him, but the pre-teen refused altogether, he was only 11 years old, but didn’t wanted to be a burden to anyone, not his grandpa, not Krillin, not Bulma, he’d carry his own weight from that moment onwards, alone, and never again endanger people with his stupidity and lack of control.
Looking at his mother’s grave, alongside another one, he believed it was the grandmother he never knew, the now 18 yeas old walked silently towards it, stopping right between the two and focusing on Chi Chi’s, he’d frown deeply and close his eyes, the rain already had him soaked since earlier, the Purple Gi and white cloak, the Symbol of the Demon Style from his Namekian, master and friend Piccolo, he’d wear it proudly for the rest of his days, of course his dad had an influence on his training also, but Piccolo was first and foremost the one who trained him, although his initial cruel, harsh methods would still scare him sometimes, he grew a lot stronger from that, learned to walk and survive on his own two toes, gratitude was one of the many words that he’d use to describe the Ex-nemesis of Goku, nowadays he’d train with him, and teach new techniques whenever he was free from duty at the lookout, after all, Dende was the new guardian, and needed his guidance too, albeit In a different fashion.
those thoughts brought some comfort, but soon they’d give place again to grief and sorrow, the absence of both his parents hurt so much, to the point he nearly choked on his tears, but swallowing it quickly, Gohan opened his eyes, Dark irises that once held warmth and compassion, now was empty and lifeless, one could truly get lost whenever looking at them directly, not that he’d give people the time of a day though, besides, in the long run who would want to associate with an weakling that let his father die and caused their mother’s death indirectly ? yeah, no one, and he would never complain about it, instead, he’d hide his true emotions and push away whoever tried to make him open up or get to close for comfort, it was the only way to protect them from having the same, cruel and unfair fate, crouching down near the saying “ SON CHI CHI, XXX-XXX A LOVING MOTHER AND WIFE TILL THE END , he’d put a flower bouquet, carefully arranged in his Grandpa’s castle, on it, muttering a silent prayer, he’d think to himself..
“ Mom.. I’m truly sorry, you didn’t really deserve that, if wasn’t such an arrogant brat back them, IF ONLY I had killed Cell when dad asked me too, you’d still be… no, it’s no use anymore, utterly and completely useless to dwell on the past, I’ll protect the earth from all threats, that is a promise of a lifetime, and to do it, I’ve given up the future you wanted for me, sometimes sacrifices must be made, just like dad did, for the greater good, the bigger picture.. I know what you thought about fighting and martial arts, and yeah I know, It’s a dangerous life, full of mortal peril, not something I’d choose willingly over a bright, prosper future as a Scholar,
but I just can’t ignore the fact that the earth will be unprotected, not that I doubt my fellow warriors and friends, but having all this power at my disposal and not doing anything to rise on the planet’s defense, would be the same as spitting on both yours and dad’s memory, so please.. forgive me, I know I don’t deserve your love nor respect right now, but I stilkl hope you both watch me from above, I love you both, and always will.”
After also praying for his dad and grandma, Gohan would get up and look above into the night, stormy sky, it was slowly receding, and a few minutes later it came into a halt, using his aura to warm and dry himself, the young half-Saiyan then began floating until he’d gain speed and fly towards his home, in the way, his cloak would dance in the wind, flying was something he loved to do, he felt free, away from the problems and responsibilities, even if it was only a temporary measure to gather his thoughts, a furry appendage was firmly wrapped around his waistline, his tail had grown again, much to his and Piccolo’s disbelief and concern, but ever since it happened, the young man felt that his powers were way easier to control, and a few months back, he had a shocking discovery.. another level beyond Super Saiyan 2, fist it was practically impossible to bring it out, like he was tearing his body and mind apart, it was like trying to pour the ocean into a cup and keep it there, so he trained and meditated till his body could withstand the strain, Gohan felt it was just yesterday, on the many rocky desert areas around his house.. that he first succeeded on taming the new form..
_____________F L A S H B A C K : ON _________________________
“ RAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! “
his body ached all around, muscles and veins bulging dangerously, as lightning cracked on his aura, not an entire week has passed since the young warrior had his tail regrown in one of his many sparring sessions with Mr.Piccolo, after getting a few hits in, he’d be enraged, the Full Moon was out, restored a few years ago by the new dragon balls Dende created, so maybe by the blutz waves that it emanated from the orbit, his body’s only reaction was to once again regrown a tail, Piccolo panicked and stopped as soon as he noticed, dashing back with widened eyes, he had cuts and bruises all over the place, much like his pupil, the difference was that on base form he had little bit of an advantage, the reason why Gohan would only transform whenever training on his own, claiming that he’d get much stronger increasing his base power, and it bared amazing results from the beginning, after a couple weeks of going through what could be compared to “hell on earth” as he called Piccolo’s training to be, the zenkai boosts he received only encouraged the Namekian to increase it by a whole lot, Gohan never complained, he took it as a way to both improve.. and punish himself from his past deeds.
As for his master, he also got stronger, but it didn’t took a genius to know that soon he’d reach a wall, well, as long as Gohan would grow even more powerful, it didn’t matter if he got left in the dust, what worried Piccolo was that the boy.. no, the man under his tutelage was becoming even more of a loner the HE was, he hated to admit it but he missed the more goofy side of Gohan, his gentleness and kind-hearted nature was what changed him a few years prior in the first place, so seeing the boy changing so much from water to wine was kinda off-putting, even if the destiny of the whole world rested on his shoulders, it wasn’t healthy to throw himself at training like that, to make matters worse, that troublesome tail of his was back, and it only could mean one thing : trouble, the green-skinned alien still remembered how much of a threat the Oozaru, the Great Ape form of the Saiyan Race was back then, it still plagued his mind, but.. he began to notice that Gohan wasn’t a single bit out of control or demonstrating signs of transforming, maybe he was strong-willed enough to contain it ? only time would tell..
“ KID… YOUR TAIL.. IT’S BACK !!! “
Gohan was out of breath, his sight a little foggy, they’ve been training non-stop ever sicne 05: AM from that day, on the harsh conditions of the Desert, and at night it was even worse with the cold, sweating bullets and feeling like a steamroller had ran though him, Gohan’s mind was completely focused on the task at hand, defeat his master, as soon as possible before passing out, that was until the words “Tail” and “it’s back” came out of his Namekian Master’s mouth, and reached his ears, he was now fully aware of the danger that he currently represented, it was a Full Moon tonight, GODDAMNIT !!! he had to yank it of or hid before.. wait, the last time he instantly transformed by looking at the celestial body up there, but now.. nothing happened, what gives ?!..he had so many questions going through his head, perhaps Vegeta knew something about it so.. nah, he would rather die then help the “Third-Class snot nosed brat” with anything, mentally scratching that possibility, he’d just descend into the ground with Piccolo not far behind, and then the young Saiyan-human hybrid took a minute to breath and catch his air, both him and his master ate a senzu bean, and instantly felt his injuries and soreness disappearing, and on his case, his power went up through the roof, yes, Piccolo’s methods were really demanding and harsh on his body/mind, but it brought results regardless, now it was up to him to train on his Super Saiyan forms, both 1st and 2nd levels, and speaking of which, lately, he had being able to feel that yet another stage could be reached, but for the life of him, the young man couldn’t access it, just trying was painful and tiring to the point of depriving him of nearly all his ki energy and stamina, something that Piccolo and Goku had advised to be EXTRA careful with, because it would mean his death in case it reached zero..
But with this new power-up, his body felt incredible strong and way more resistant, not to mention that his ki control had improved by leaps and bounds, the Namekian in front of him could attest to that, if his proud expression was anything to go by, staring at his hands, the Half-Saiyan would close and open them as if inspecting the new found strength that he had achieved, while Piccolo closed his arms, and just observed, curious on what his pupil was thinking..
“ Mr.Piccolo.. I have something to tell you, lately I’ve been training a lot on both super Saiyan and it’s ascended state, it has become a second nature to me, all the while we train on base form to also get more powerful, I decided to really go for full mastery of my forms, and during those few months training on my own, whenever I’d go all out, I felt something there, like a pool of endless energy, the thing is, I just CAN’T bring it out without harming myself, it’s too much, I know that if I dared even attempting it, I could seriously do severe damage to my own body, no matter how much of a tank my Saiyan genes make me to be, there’s got to be limits on how much power we can bring out, but now.. after so much training, I’m confident that I can try again, specially with you here to supervise it..it’s not that I don’t trust my own judgement, it’s just..”
Piccolo wouldn’t let his pupil finish his speech, approaching him and putting his big, green hand on his right shoulder, he’d smirk and nod at Goha, who had a look of uncertainty initially, only to be changed into a small expression of happiness..
“ Gohan, you did the right thing, despite the amount of raw, incredible power and potential that you possess, you clearly are responsible enough to know that there’s still limits you can’t breach, and that’s why I knew from the day I left you alone in the wilderness to survive that you were capable of great feats, and don’t think for a second that I don’t know that you’ve been doubting yourself ever since “that” happened, Kid.. there was nothing you or anyone else could’ve done to prevent it, and while I also am of the opinion you were reckless, I VERY MUCH DOUBT that, any other person would be able to control all that rage and emerge victorious, even when the odds were all against you, don’t beat yourself over the fact that your father decided to stay on the other world. You didn’t intentionally caused his dead, how the hell would you even know that Cell would put that stunt ?!! Don’t be a damned fool to feel responsible for every single bad thing that happened that day, and remember, Goku CHOSE to stay dead, seconds before we would wish him back, all we can do is move forward and accept his decision, as for your mother.. I’m truly sorry kid, but it’s the natural course of life, be born, grow up, reproduce and die, that’s all that Is to it, now man up and focus on your training, you made me proud that day.. you single-handily defeated that android monster, I couldn’t be more happy to have you as my pupil, “
To say Gohan’s burden was significantly more light now, would just be putting it lightly, after absorbing all those words said to him by Piccolo, always the wise and perceptive person, the voice of reason on his moments of fear and doubt, kind of like a father figure would be, hehe. Just imagining it brought joy to the Young warrior, if he stopped to think about it, Piccolo was more present then his biological dad, not that he’d judge Goku for that, the man always protected them with everything he had, and he was proud to be his son, but in that moment he’d just permit himself a little bit of happiness and comfort, before going back to the emptiness that had become his life, despite his gratefulness and momentary sense of safety, he knew that his past mistakes and sins wouldn’t just be erased or cease to exist, that much Gohan knew and accepted, thinking to himself..
“ I’m sorry mr.Piccolo, but my decision still stands, never again I’ll cause pain and suffering, it already destroyed my family, I can’t let it happen to anyone else, not until I draw my last breath “
and then, they resumed the training for the next feel hours, there was a moment that the young Saiyan felt it again, the immense pool of power wanting to be released, amidst the blows he’d trade with his master, and the energy blasts that both would unleash on the area, the feeling was just getting stronger and stronger, so after parring and ducking from Picollo’s frontal strikes, the young hybrid would manage to hit the Namekian with a round-house kick, nailing him on the stomach, drawing purple blood from his mouth in the process, Piccolo would skid away and hit the rocky mountain wall on the canyon, a few spider-webs forming when he was embed there… the debris fell in great amounts, nearly burring him under it all, only for him to explode with a deep purple aura, and fly up above… and when he did, Gohan was there.. summoning all the power he could muster, hands clenched and a very serious expression on his face, it seemed like he was totally concentrated on the task at hand, the ground would tremble violently, lightning would crackle in the sky, as the Piccolos’s eyes widened…
“ W-WHAT IS THIS POWER… HOW THE FUCK HE…”
He couldn’t finish the sentence, as his pupil would release a very loud roar, followed by what felt like an infinite amount of ki, a very bright pillar of energy would be unleashed to the sky’s direction, yellow in color, a immense crater formed below, debris flew everywhere as a cloud of dust hid Gohan’s silhouette.. and when it dissipated, Piccolo’s mouth went agape, there stood his pupil and surrogate son, Spiky, golden hair reaching his mid back with a single bang falling to the side of his face, he looked way more fearsome with no eyebrows visible, a more pronounced forehead, and a stare harder then steel, he also noticed his eyes were in a darker shade of teal, at least compared to his previous Super Saiyan forms… damn, the kid was on another level entirely, and he was sure that every single Ki user/practitioner felt it from all across the globe, or maybe even the galaxy..
_____________F L A S H B A C K : OFF _________________________
Smiling to himself, Gohan still felt proud of achieving the new form, and Piccolo’s expression was compared to a Fish he’d catch with his dad all those years ago, but he claimed that on that day, his pupil was ready for almost anything fate could thrown his way, although his training would never stop, quite the contrary, it would just increase, and feeling that training on the open would be far too dangerous to the planet, Gohan had the idea of asking Shenron to improve the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, the 1st wish consisted on making the room adjust to the power-level of the people entering there, only problem was only one could use the room per time now, the gravity and environment inside would be even more hazardous and challenging then it ever was, how they didn’t thought about that earlier ? oh well, what’s done it’s done, and for the 2nd wish, he’d ask for Sheron to make it that no one would age while there, only getting the desired power and results would suffice, and it worked like a charm ever since, mastering his forms were a peace of cake, well, for the first 3 levels of course, he wasn’t surprised when he discovered yet another power wanting to be brought out, but then decided to refine his control over ki and to get even more physically/mentally stronger just in case, better be safe then sorry like they always say.
Upon reaching the front yard of his dome-shaped house, The young Saiyan descended from the skies and walked to the door, but before he could open it, he halted.. there was someone there, and when a familiar ki signature was nearing his position, he’d just sigh and look behind him, an already annoyed huff leaving his mouth..
“ Vegeta, what do I own the pleasure of receiving a visit from the prince of all 3 Saiyans ?.. I don’t suppose you’re here to see how I’m doing.. “
“ SPARE ME you’re sarcasm brat !!, believe me, I would never waste my valuable training time to just come and visit your pathetic self on my own accord, so listen and listen well third class trash, the Woman is worried about you and refuses to fix my GR until YOU come to West City, she wants to talk to you about Gods knows what, I don’t really give a damn about it, so well, message given, I’ll be on my way, and YOU BETTER go if you know what’s good for you “
After that was said and done, the flame-haired warrior blasted off towards Capsule Corp,
Gohan would just raise his left eyebrow at the Saiyan prince’s statement, he had grown tired of the idiot’s empty threats, it seemed that Vegeta was under the impression that he could treat him like common trash, well fuck him, the only thing the young man would do now was take a shower and have dinner before meditation, Bulma could wait until tomorrow, it was not because her midget of a husband had “kindly asked”, no, he would at least see what she truly wanted, although a feeling on his gut was telling that he wouldn’t like the answer.
“ Well, I’ll worry about it tomorrow, now I’ll just relax.. well, as much as relaxing would meditation be of course “ laughing at his own words internally, The young warrior entered his home, proceeding to the bathroom after taking off his clothes, his sore, muscular body needed it, only Dende knew how much.
_____________C H A P T E R E N D _________________________
Story Home
Create First RoomCHAPTER 01 - THE DUTY OF A WARRIOR.
_________________________ D R A G O N B A L L Z__________________________
PLANET EARTH - MOUNT PAOZU, 438TH DISTRICT AREA, 10:35 PM, SUNDAY JANUARY 1st , AGE 774
The night rain raged on mount paozu, violent winds would drag away the more weaker plant life and minerals that were spread all about the mountainous region without relent, nature sometimes could be mortal and cruel, an unstoppable force that would go on it’s course no matter what, trees and bushes would be violently shaken or thorn apart from the ground, flying at kilometers in distance at all sides, as lightning crackled from the gray/dark clouds above, luckily for the inhabitants of said place, they knew exactly when to expect the climate to be so harsh in that specific season that preparations were done 1 month before it would occur, so farmers and the like didn’t lost anything on their crop fields, animals were safe inside their barns and plants on their improvised greenhouses, hopefully they’d be able to hold on until the end of the week, when the rainy weather would finally come to an end.
But, what people didn’t knew was that this was the least of their worries, 7 years of peace made some of the population grow careless and complacent towards a possible threat, one that was already developing in an alarming rate under their very noses, but who could blame them ? that monster Cell almost robbed the entire population of the planet from their freedom, their lives and everything they’ve worked so hard for, it seemed like Gero’s/Red Ribbon Army’s ambition knew no bounds, the organization’s hatred towards Goku would completely consume all, one of the many reasons the hero decided to stay on the other world, claiming that his presence would only attract other enemies and the earthlings would pay the ultimate price from the Saiyan’s actions sooner or later, but that wasn’t nearly enough to placate his only son’s frustration and sorrow, had he heard the others and destroyed the infuriating android when he had the chance, then maybe his father would be still alive and well, but the power influx that he gained from the Ascended Super Saiyan state filled the boy with such arrogance and hatred that the only thing on his mind was to make Cell suffer, for EVERY single person the monster killed/absorbed, including the Android twins.
Of course, this decision to drag the fight longer and torture Cell would only lead the monster to desperation, and they say that even a rat will attack the cat when cornered, ah how true that statement is, because moments after reverting to his imperfect form, the coward decided to inflate himself, threatening to blow up the earth and everything that lived there, Goku made a very hard decision, a responsible one nonetheless, to teleport him away, saving billions of lives, although losing his own life in the process, that’s why his son, his pride and joy, would torture himself in guilt constantly for not heading the pleas from his friends and eliminating the monster, it was to late to go back now, Goku was dead and chose to stay that way, and Gohan only got himself to blame for that, the other z-Fighters knew that he did what he could to save them, and never held it against him for Goku’s second departure, it seems that despite Trunks’s warnings and all the history-changing events, Goku was destined to die one way or another, be it by the terrible virus disease or on the battle field. The Cell Games Arena would forever remind Gohan of his foolishness and naivety, no matter how hard he’d train his body or mind, he’d never be able to measure up to his father, that fact alone was eating him on the inside, and to make matters worse, 6 months after Goku’s own symbolic funeral, Chi Chi, his mother, the person that the Half-Saiyan loved so much, died from the very same Virus, there was no cure on this era, Goku had taken the last of the pills brought from the future by Trunks, and somehow it’s evolution was silent, no one noticed until it was too damn late, what most people didn’t knew was that Chi Chi was carrying Goku’s unborn child, who unfortunately perished while still inside her womb, this.. devastated Gohan even more, as the pre-teen became recluse and withdraw, the only thing he did was train, train and train, to the point Piccolo had to chose his words carefully whenever they’d be on it, there were those who mourned with Gohan, like Bulma and Krillin, as both were very close to Goku being his childhood best friends.
Others like Tien, Yamcha and Chiaotzu offered their condolences, to no avail as the young boy was functioning on auto-pilot, gone was the innocent, shining eyes that he once sported whenever in their presence, to give place to a cold, angry and silent person, it was saddening really, the Blue-haired female scientist would try and reason with him numerous times to come and live with her and Vegeta, oh Vegeta.. another lost soul that one became, for the first 3 weeks, he’d do nothing but mop all day, Kakarot was gone, it was like life-time objective of surpassing him was all for naught, he’d greet his teeth in silent fury, knowing that both son and father had surpassed him in every aspect, his hands would bleed from the force he put whenever clenching it, anger also became his main drive to keep training, maybe once he died too, he’d be able to challenge Kakarot once again, proving to that third-class clown that HE and only HE, the prince of all Saiyans, was the best, he didn’t care much for the idiot’s wife and son, they could go and rot for whatever the hell he’d care.
His wife Bulma would enter constantly on arguments with him whenever the subject of adoption regarding Gohan would be mentioned, causing them to drift apart for a long, long time, as for his own baby infant of a son, heh.. he doubted that he’d amount to something, although the prospect of training him to be another strong warrior was tempting, but the woman wouldn’t allow it, saying that her baby boy didn’t need to become a cold-hearted killer like his father, humph.so be it then, he had no use for insects that would only further slow him down, another threat would arise one day, and by then, he’d be prepared.
All of them, Except Gohan maybe, had moved on with their lives, vowing to never forget about his father and their friend, they were not as close with his mom, but also cared to at least attend her own funeral held on the Fire mountain, near her old home, his grandpa the Ox King was the most affected right after him of course, by her premature death, and since it was a natural cause, the Dragon Balls couldn’t bring her back, he’d also offer Gohan a new home with him, but the pre-teen refused altogether, he was only 11 years old, but didn’t wanted to be a burden to anyone, not his grandpa, not Krillin, not Bulma, he’d carry his own weight from that moment onwards, alone, and never again endanger people with his stupidity and lack of control.
Looking at his mother’s grave, alongside another one, he believed it was the grandmother he never knew, the now 18 yeas old walked silently towards it, stopping right between the two and focusing on Chi Chi’s, he’d frown deeply and close his eyes, the rain already had him soaked since earlier, the Purple Gi and white cloak, the Symbol of the Demon Style from his Namekian, master and friend Piccolo, he’d wear it proudly for the rest of his days, of course his dad had an influence on his training also, but Piccolo was first and foremost the one who trained him, although his initial cruel, harsh methods would still scare him sometimes, he grew a lot stronger from that, learned to walk and survive on his own two toes, gratitude was one of the many words that he’d use to describe the Ex-nemesis of Goku, nowadays he’d train with him, and teach new techniques whenever he was free from duty at the lookout, after all, Dende was the new guardian, and needed his guidance too, albeit In a different fashion.
those thoughts brought some comfort, but soon they’d give place again to grief and sorrow, the absence of both his parents hurt so much, to the point he nearly choked on his tears, but swallowing it quickly, Gohan opened his eyes, Dark irises that once held warmth and compassion, now was empty and lifeless, one could truly get lost whenever looking at them directly, not that he’d give people the time of a day though, besides, in the long run who would want to associate with an weakling that let his father die and caused their mother’s death indirectly ? yeah, no one, and he would never complain about it, instead, he’d hide his true emotions and push away whoever tried to make him open up or get to close for comfort, it was the only way to protect them from having the same, cruel and unfair fate, crouching down near the saying “ SON CHI CHI, XXX-XXX A LOVING MOTHER AND WIFE TILL THE END , he’d put a flower bouquet, carefully arranged in his Grandpa’s castle, on it, muttering a silent prayer, he’d think to himself..
“ Mom.. I’m truly sorry, you didn’t really deserve that, if wasn’t such an arrogant brat back them, IF ONLY I had killed Cell when dad asked me too, you’d still be… no, it’s no use anymore, utterly and completely useless to dwell on the past, I’ll protect the earth from all threats, that is a promise of a lifetime, and to do it, I’ve given up the future you wanted for me, sometimes sacrifices must be made, just like dad did, for the greater good, the bigger picture.. I know what you thought about fighting and martial arts, and yeah I know, It’s a dangerous life, full of mortal peril, not something I’d choose willingly over a bright, prosper future as a Scholar,
but I just can’t ignore the fact that the earth will be unprotected, not that I doubt my fellow warriors and friends, but having all this power at my disposal and not doing anything to rise on the planet’s defense, would be the same as spitting on both yours and dad’s memory, so please.. forgive me, I know I don’t deserve your love nor respect right now, but I stilkl hope you both watch me from above, I love you both, and always will.”
After also praying for his dad and grandma, Gohan would get up and look above into the night, stormy sky, it was slowly receding, and a few minutes later it came into a halt, using his aura to warm and dry himself, the young half-Saiyan then began floating until he’d gain speed and fly towards his home, in the way, his cloak would dance in the wind, flying was something he loved to do, he felt free, away from the problems and responsibilities, even if it was only a temporary measure to gather his thoughts, a furry appendage was firmly wrapped around his waistline, his tail had grown again, much to his and Piccolo’s disbelief and concern, but ever since it happened, the young man felt that his powers were way easier to control, and a few months back, he had a shocking discovery.. another level beyond Super Saiyan 2, fist it was practically impossible to bring it out, like he was tearing his body and mind apart, it was like trying to pour the ocean into a cup and keep it there, so he trained and meditated till his body could withstand the strain, Gohan felt it was just yesterday, on the many rocky desert areas around his house.. that he first succeeded on taming the new form..
_____________F L A S H B A C K : ON _________________________
“ RAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! “
his body ached all around, muscles and veins bulging dangerously, as lightning cracked on his aura, not an entire week has passed since the young warrior had his tail regrown in one of his many sparring sessions with Mr.Piccolo, after getting a few hits in, he’d be enraged, the Full Moon was out, restored a few years ago by the new dragon balls Dende created, so maybe by the blutz waves that it emanated from the orbit, his body’s only reaction was to once again regrown a tail, Piccolo panicked and stopped as soon as he noticed, dashing back with widened eyes, he had cuts and bruises all over the place, much like his pupil, the difference was that on base form he had little bit of an advantage, the reason why Gohan would only transform whenever training on his own, claiming that he’d get much stronger increasing his base power, and it bared amazing results from the beginning, after a couple weeks of going through what could be compared to “hell on earth” as he called Piccolo’s training to be, the zenkai boosts he received only encouraged the Namekian to increase it by a whole lot, Gohan never complained, he took it as a way to both improve.. and punish himself from his past deeds.
As for his master, he also got stronger, but it didn’t took a genius to know that soon he’d reach a wall, well, as long as Gohan would grow even more powerful, it didn’t matter if he got left in the dust, what worried Piccolo was that the boy.. no, the man under his tutelage was becoming even more of a loner the HE was, he hated to admit it but he missed the more goofy side of Gohan, his gentleness and kind-hearted nature was what changed him a few years prior in the first place, so seeing the boy changing so much from water to wine was kinda off-putting, even if the destiny of the whole world rested on his shoulders, it wasn’t healthy to throw himself at training like that, to make matters worse, that troublesome tail of his was back, and it only could mean one thing : trouble, the green-skinned alien still remembered how much of a threat the Oozaru, the Great Ape form of the Saiyan Race was back then, it still plagued his mind, but.. he began to notice that Gohan wasn’t a single bit out of control or demonstrating signs of transforming, maybe he was strong-willed enough to contain it ? only time would tell..
“ KID… YOUR TAIL.. IT’S BACK !!! “
Gohan was out of breath, his sight a little foggy, they’ve been training non-stop ever sicne 05: AM from that day, on the harsh conditions of the Desert, and at night it was even worse with the cold, sweating bullets and feeling like a steamroller had ran though him, Gohan’s mind was completely focused on the task at hand, defeat his master, as soon as possible before passing out, that was until the words “Tail” and “it’s back” came out of his Namekian Master’s mouth, and reached his ears, he was now fully aware of the danger that he currently represented, it was a Full Moon tonight, GODDAMNIT !!! he had to yank it of or hid before.. wait, the last time he instantly transformed by looking at the celestial body up there, but now.. nothing happened, what gives ?!..he had so many questions going through his head, perhaps Vegeta knew something about it so.. nah, he would rather die then help the “Third-Class snot nosed brat” with anything, mentally scratching that possibility, he’d just descend into the ground with Piccolo not far behind, and then the young Saiyan-human hybrid took a minute to breath and catch his air, both him and his master ate a senzu bean, and instantly felt his injuries and soreness disappearing, and on his case, his power went up through the roof, yes, Piccolo’s methods were really demanding and harsh on his body/mind, but it brought results regardless, now it was up to him to train on his Super Saiyan forms, both 1st and 2nd levels, and speaking of which, lately, he had being able to feel that yet another stage could be reached, but for the life of him, the young man couldn’t access it, just trying was painful and tiring to the point of depriving him of nearly all his ki energy and stamina, something that Piccolo and Goku had advised to be EXTRA careful with, because it would mean his death in case it reached zero..
But with this new power-up, his body felt incredible strong and way more resistant, not to mention that his ki control had improved by leaps and bounds, the Namekian in front of him could attest to that, if his proud expression was anything to go by, staring at his hands, the Half-Saiyan would close and open them as if inspecting the new found strength that he had achieved, while Piccolo closed his arms, and just observed, curious on what his pupil was thinking..
“ Mr.Piccolo.. I have something to tell you, lately I’ve been training a lot on both super Saiyan and it’s ascended state, it has become a second nature to me, all the while we train on base form to also get more powerful, I decided to really go for full mastery of my forms, and during those few months training on my own, whenever I’d go all out, I felt something there, like a pool of endless energy, the thing is, I just CAN’T bring it out without harming myself, it’s too much, I know that if I dared even attempting it, I could seriously do severe damage to my own body, no matter how much of a tank my Saiyan genes make me to be, there’s got to be limits on how much power we can bring out, but now.. after so much training, I’m confident that I can try again, specially with you here to supervise it..it’s not that I don’t trust my own judgement, it’s just..”
Piccolo wouldn’t let his pupil finish his speech, approaching him and putting his big, green hand on his right shoulder, he’d smirk and nod at Goha, who had a look of uncertainty initially, only to be changed into a small expression of happiness..
“ Gohan, you did the right thing, despite the amount of raw, incredible power and potential that you possess, you clearly are responsible enough to know that there’s still limits you can’t breach, and that’s why I knew from the day I left you alone in the wilderness to survive that you were capable of great feats, and don’t think for a second that I don’t know that you’ve been doubting yourself ever since “that” happened, Kid.. there was nothing you or anyone else could’ve done to prevent it, and while I also am of the opinion you were reckless, I VERY MUCH DOUBT that, any other person would be able to control all that rage and emerge victorious, even when the odds were all against you, don’t beat yourself over the fact that your father decided to stay on the other world. You didn’t intentionally caused his dead, how the hell would you even know that Cell would put that stunt ?!! Don’t be a damned fool to feel responsible for every single bad thing that happened that day, and remember, Goku CHOSE to stay dead, seconds before we would wish him back, all we can do is move forward and accept his decision, as for your mother.. I’m truly sorry kid, but it’s the natural course of life, be born, grow up, reproduce and die, that’s all that Is to it, now man up and focus on your training, you made me proud that day.. you single-handily defeated that android monster, I couldn’t be more happy to have you as my pupil, “
To say Gohan’s burden was significantly more light now, would just be putting it lightly, after absorbing all those words said to him by Piccolo, always the wise and perceptive person, the voice of reason on his moments of fear and doubt, kind of like a father figure would be, hehe. Just imagining it brought joy to the Young warrior, if he stopped to think about it, Piccolo was more present then his biological dad, not that he’d judge Goku for that, the man always protected them with everything he had, and he was proud to be his son, but in that moment he’d just permit himself a little bit of happiness and comfort, before going back to the emptiness that had become his life, despite his gratefulness and momentary sense of safety, he knew that his past mistakes and sins wouldn’t just be erased or cease to exist, that much Gohan knew and accepted, thinking to himself..
“ I’m sorry mr.Piccolo, but my decision still stands, never again I’ll cause pain and suffering, it already destroyed my family, I can’t let it happen to anyone else, not until I draw my last breath “
and then, they resumed the training for the next feel hours, there was a moment that the young Saiyan felt it again, the immense pool of power wanting to be released, amidst the blows he’d trade with his master, and the energy blasts that both would unleash on the area, the feeling was just getting stronger and stronger, so after parring and ducking from Picollo’s frontal strikes, the young hybrid would manage to hit the Namekian with a round-house kick, nailing him on the stomach, drawing purple blood from his mouth in the process, Piccolo would skid away and hit the rocky mountain wall on the canyon, a few spider-webs forming when he was embed there… the debris fell in great amounts, nearly burring him under it all, only for him to explode with a deep purple aura, and fly up above… and when he did, Gohan was there.. summoning all the power he could muster, hands clenched and a very serious expression on his face, it seemed like he was totally concentrated on the task at hand, the ground would tremble violently, lightning would crackle in the sky, as the Piccolos’s eyes widened…
“ W-WHAT IS THIS POWER… HOW THE FUCK HE…”
He couldn’t finish the sentence, as his pupil would release a very loud roar, followed by what felt like an infinite amount of ki, a very bright pillar of energy would be unleashed to the sky’s direction, yellow in color, a immense crater formed below, debris flew everywhere as a cloud of dust hid Gohan’s silhouette.. and when it dissipated, Piccolo’s mouth went agape, there stood his pupil and surrogate son, Spiky, golden hair reaching his mid back with a single bang falling to the side of his face, he looked way more fearsome with no eyebrows visible, a more pronounced forehead, and a stare harder then steel, he also noticed his eyes were in a darker shade of teal, at least compared to his previous Super Saiyan forms… damn, the kid was on another level entirely, and he was sure that every single Ki user/practitioner felt it from all across the globe, or maybe even the galaxy..
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Smiling to himself, Gohan still felt proud of achieving the new form, and Piccolo’s expression was compared to a Fish he’d catch with his dad all those years ago, but he claimed that on that day, his pupil was ready for almost anything fate could thrown his way, although his training would never stop, quite the contrary, it would just increase, and feeling that training on the open would be far too dangerous to the planet, Gohan had the idea of asking Shenron to improve the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, the 1st wish consisted on making the room adjust to the power-level of the people entering there, only problem was only one could use the room per time now, the gravity and environment inside would be even more hazardous and challenging then it ever was, how they didn’t thought about that earlier ? oh well, what’s done it’s done, and for the 2nd wish, he’d ask for Sheron to make it that no one would age while there, only getting the desired power and results would suffice, and it worked like a charm ever since, mastering his forms were a peace of cake, well, for the first 3 levels of course, he wasn’t surprised when he discovered yet another power wanting to be brought out, but then decided to refine his control over ki and to get even more physically/mentally stronger just in case, better be safe then sorry like they always say.
Upon reaching the front yard of his dome-shaped house, The young Saiyan descended from the skies and walked to the door, but before he could open it, he halted.. there was someone there, and when a familiar ki signature was nearing his position, he’d just sigh and look behind him, an already annoyed huff leaving his mouth..
“ Vegeta, what do I own the pleasure of receiving a visit from the prince of all 3 Saiyans ?.. I don’t suppose you’re here to see how I’m doing.. “
“ SPARE ME you’re sarcasm brat !!, believe me, I would never waste my valuable training time to just come and visit your pathetic self on my own accord, so listen and listen well third class trash, the Woman is worried about you and refuses to fix my GR until YOU come to West City, she wants to talk to you about Gods knows what, I don’t really give a damn about it, so well, message given, I’ll be on my way, and YOU BETTER go if you know what’s good for you “
After that was said and done, the flame-haired warrior blasted off towards Capsule Corp,
Gohan would just raise his left eyebrow at the Saiyan prince’s statement, he had grown tired of the idiot’s empty threats, it seemed that Vegeta was under the impression that he could treat him like common trash, well fuck him, the only thing the young man would do now was take a shower and have dinner before meditation, Bulma could wait until tomorrow, it was not because her midget of a husband had “kindly asked”, no, he would at least see what she truly wanted, although a feeling on his gut was telling that he wouldn’t like the answer.
“ Well, I’ll worry about it tomorrow, now I’ll just relax.. well, as much as relaxing would meditation be of course “ laughing at his own words internally, The young warrior entered his home, proceeding to the bathroom after taking off his clothes, his sore, muscular body needed it, only Dende knew how much.
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