Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A yellow vehicle lands on the beach at Kame House. Bulma exits holding a small box in her hands. She skips over to Kame and enters through the open door. She salutes to the people inside

“Hello in there! Guess who!” She exclaims

Roshi, Krillin and Turtle all turn to look at her.

“Bulma!” Krillin says while holding a plate of food

Bulma starts to walk inside, ‘Yep…! I got your invitation, so here I am!”

Roshi stands up from in front of the tv with a beer mug in his hand.

“Ah, good! I wasn’t sure you’d make it. It’s been way too long huh.” He says

Bulma looks around the house, “I miss this place…. Hasn’t changed a bit.”

Roshi chuckles, “Well don’t be such a stranger, you don’t always have to wait for an invitation, you know.

He takes a drink from his mug as Bulma shoves the box in his face, surprising the old man.

“Here! I brought you some goodies.” She says

Turtle looks at the box and smiles. 

Roshi rubs the back of his head, “That’s sweet but you didn’t have to go to all that trouble.” Roshi moves his face closer to Bulma’s chest, “I mean you could just give me a sample of those other goodies.” 

Roshi reaches out for Bulma’s chest, her face twists in anger as she raises her box and knocks the old man upside the head with it. Roshi drops his mug causing beer to splash all over him and the mug itself hits Turtle on the head. Turtle looks distraught at the box of goodies, ignoring the mug entirely.

“I see you still can’t take a joke!” Roshi says angrily

“And I see you’re still a dirty old creep!” Bulma responds in kind

Krillin walks over and picks up the goodie box. He starts balancing it on his finger as he stands besides Bulma.

“Oh yeah, that reminds me, where’s Yamcha? Thought he’d be with you.”

Bulma falls to the ground and holds her hands up to her face.

“Yamcha? That jerk? How should I know? He-he-he broke up with me a year ago to focus on baseball!” Tears stream down her face, “Baseball!” I’m done with him! Who needs that guy! Right!?”

“Hmmm, that’s unexpected?” Roshi says

Krillin hands Bulma a box of tissues, “Yea, I would never in a million years think Yamcha would break up with Bulma.”

Bulma wipes her face and blows her nose as she looks around the house.

“Why isn’t Launch here?” Bulma asks

Krillin takes the goodie box to the kitchen, “Oh, she’s long gone. She went chasing after Tien Shinhan five years ago.” 

He opens the box revealing many dumplings which Krillin and Turtle dig into. As Krillin is scarfing down the dumplings, he turns to Bulma.

“Hey Bulma, there’s someo-.” He speaks before he’s interrupted by a kid who speeds into Kame House. 

A young boy wearing the bright orange turtle school gi. His brown hair is fluffy and messy, his eyes are purple, and his face is covered in freckles. 

“The Amazing Boxer is here! Dojyan!” He exclaims

He has a bright eyed smile across his face as he enters. His smile grows even larger as he sees Bulma and a spark comes to his eyes. He runs to her, almost tackling her.

“Heya Bulma! Dojyan!” He exclaims

Bulma stands stunned for a second before her eyes widen.

“Boxer!! What are you doing here!?” She exclaims

Boxer moves back from Bulma and explains with a large smile, “So I graduated Kindergarten really early because I’m super smart right. So I ask Yamcha to train me to fight so I could surprise you with everything I learned.”

“So you asked Yamcha to keep it a secret.” She asks

“Yup! Dojyan!” He exclaims

Bulma slams her fist right on top of his head.

“You idiot, you don’t keep those kinds of things secret!” She exclaims 

Boxer holds the top of his head, “But everything is okay.” 

Bulma sighs, “That’s not the point, you have to think about others before you do things. Mom, Dad, Tights and I wouldn’t like it if you just popped up injured one day without any explanation.”

“But you went out on your own all the time when you were younger.” Boxer retorts

“Boxer, you are five, I was sixteen!  And even then our parents knew I was leaving at least!” Bulma says

Boxer crosses his arms and pouts, Bulma stares him down.

Boxer exhales, “Alright I’m sorry.”

Bulma shakes her head, “Good enough I guess.”

Boxer recovers quickly and looks at Bulma with the spark in his eyes returning.

“But look what I can do! Dojyan!” He exclaims

In a puff of smoke Boxer is gone and two Krillins are in the room.

“A perfect duplication, I can even copy voices.” Boxer says

As Bulma looks at him she notices his eyes are shaped like stars.

“Oh wow, that’s really good.” Bulma says, “Almost perfect though. Your eyes are stars.”

“Really! That keeps happening.” Boxer pouts as Krillin, “Oh well. Dojyan!” Boxer exclaims.

In another puff of smoke a second Bulma appears and then a Roshi and then a Turtle before Boxer reappears. 

“I can switch really fast too.” He says

“I’ve never seen Oolong or Puar do that, you must be really talented.” Bulma says smugly 

A smug smile comes across Boxer’s face as he puffs out his chest. Bulma hugs her little brother.

“You’re still in trouble, dumpster baby.” She says smiling

Boxer clicks his tongue as a voice is heard from outside.

A voice from outside says, “Hello.”

Bulma and Krillin rush to the door. They find the source of voice to be Goku, he’s holding a child in his arms.

“Goku!” Bulma exclaims

Hey!” Krillin says

Master Roshi and Turtle make their way to the door as well to see their friend with Boxer close behind. He stands behind Bulma

Goku greets everyone, “Hi.”

His friends look at him confused.

“So who’s the kid?” Bulma asks

“Yeah, what gives? Are you babysitting him for somebody?” Krillin guesses

Goku smiles, “He’s my son.”

Roshi Bulma and Krillin exclaim in shock. 

“Yours, Goku!” Roshi yells

Goku puts down the boy, “Yep that’s right. Crazy huh.” He looks to his friends and then to his son, “Come on… say hi.” 

The boy walks up a bit and bows to them.

“Um…hello.” He says

The others bow to him and greet him back. Turtle smiles at the boy as Goku speaks.

“His name is Gohan. He says

“Gohan huh, ya named him after your dear old grandpa I see.” Roshi says

“Uh huh.” Goku replies

Roshi chuckles, “I must admit, this is some surprise. I honestly didn’t think you had it in you, Goku!” 

Turtle approaches Gohan, Gohan takes a firm grasp of his father’s pants and looks warily at him. Bulma walks over and squats down to the boy’s level.

“He’s so cute. So how old are you?” Bulma asks

Gohan counts on his fingers, “One, tw– I’m four, miss.”

“Wow, aren’t you the little gentleman.” Bulma reaches out and pats the boy’s head, “I wish our Boxer was like that.”

Goku looks down at Bulma, “Who's that?”

Bulma stands up and points behind her, “That’s Boxer, he’s my little brother, he was supposed to be at the Transformation Kindergarten Oolong and Puar attended but…” Bulma grumbles.

Krillin continues, “He’s been training here for a couple months hehehe.”

Goku bows to Boxer, “Nice to meet you, Boxer, the name‘s Son Goku.” He motions to Gohan, “And this is my son, Gohan.

Boxer walks in front of Bulma and Gohan moves in front of his father. The two boys bow to each other. As the boys raise their heads their eyes lock. The two freeze for a couple seconds before they both run back to their respective guardian with a scared look on their faces. Gohan hides behind his father and Boxer stands in front of his sister. Gohan trembles and Boxer stands shakily.

“MONSTER!!!” Both boys exclaim

“Boxer, what's wrong!?” Bulma asks

Boxer points at Gohan before he turns to his sister

“I thought… I saw… a monster.” Boxer says

His face becomes flushed as he looks at Gohan then at the ground. Bulma chuckles and hugs her brother.

Goku looks back to Gohan before he quickly looks to the sky and scowls.

“What is it, Goku? What’s the matter?” Krillin asks

“Something’s on its way here… something strong!” Goku says

Krillin looks up to the sky, “What? I don’t see anything.

“It better not be Yamcha.” Bulma says holding Boxer in her arms

Goku starts to sweat as a look of fear comes across his face.

Goku’s voice trembles, “What an incredible power! I can barely believe what I’m feeling! But what could… what could possibly…!?” Goku pinpoints the source of the energy. “There!”

A man comes from the sky, as he speeds down to the ground the others notice him. Goku stands in shock at the stranger’s power as he lands. Everyone stands stunned as the stranger stares at Goku. The stranger opens his mouth.

“So we finally get to meet. Kakarrot.”

Chapter Text

“I didn’t recognize you at first but you look exactly like our father.” The stranger says

Krillin turns to Goku, “What’s he talking about? Do you know him?”

Kakarrot! What’s with the condition of this planet!?” The stranger exclaims, “Your mission was to exterminate this species! What kind of game have you been playing?”

Krillin walks up to the stranger, “Look, big guy. I don’t know who you are or where you came from, but we don’t need any drunks like you hanging around.” Krillin wags his finger, “So get on, leave! scram!”

The stranger looks down at Krillin and smirks

“Krillin! Don’t get any-” Goku screams

He is interrupted as Krillin is batted away by the stranger. Krillin is sent flying into the front of Kame House breaking through the wall, almost hitting Boxer and Bulma. Boxer stares daggers at the stranger, while Gohan runs behind Bulma. Goku looks back to Krillin before turning back to the stranger.

“Whyyy you…” Goku growls 

Everyone’s faces turn shocked as they see what Krillin was hit with.

“A-A tail!?” Goku exclaims

The stranger's smirk turns into a confident smile.

“So you finally realize who I am, Kakarrot.” He says 

“What do you mean? Who are you?” Goku asks

The stranger points to his temple, “Think Kakarrot, think. Unless you had a blow to your head, you should remember me and our mission.”

“I have no idea who this Kaka-whatever is! My name is Goku.” Goku says

As they continue their conversation, Boxer drops to the floor and walks towards the stranger. Bulma grabs onto his arm with a scared look on her face.

“You’re not going over there!” She exclaims concerned

“He hurt Master Krillin, I have to do something.” He grunts

“I am your big sister and you’re going to listen to me!” She exclaims

“Fine! I won’t go over there!” He says

Boxer moves to his sister’s side and takes a deep breath. He holds both of his hands in front of himself. He pulls them to his side cupping both of them. The device on the stranger’s head beeps and Goku turns behind him, as a brilliant blue light emanates from Boxer’s hand. The stranger’s eyes narrow as his device starts making a cacophony of beeps and boops.

“Kaaaa, Meeee, Haaaa, Meeee, HAAAA!” Boxer exclaims

A Kamehameha flies directly at the stranger. The stranger just stands there as the blast hits him. In an instant, the stranger, unharmed, appears in front of Boxer and kicks him up in the air before swatting him away, causing Boxer to skid across the beach. The stranger looks at his hand as he walks towards Boxer

“Boxer!!” Bulma screams

Bulma runs to her brother as the stranger walks over to the boy. Bulma scoops up her brother as the stranger stands over the both of them. He looks at the two of them and presses the side of his device before turning back to the rest of the group. Krillin has gotten up and stares daggers into the stranger.

“Krillin, just looking at this guy gives me chills, in a way I’ve never felt before.” Goku says

“That’s because you and I are the same! You are not a mere Earthling but a member of the most powerful race in the universe! You are a Saiyan warrior!” The stranger exclaims

Everyone looks shocked.

Roshi’s voice shakes, “N-no… it can’t be…!”

And I am your older brother, Raditz!” The stranger announces

Everyone freezes,as their brains process the information Boxer groans. Raditz looks down, before looking back at the group in front of him. He opens his mouth to speak but he stops as his eyes lock on Gohan and a smile comes across his face.

“That child is yours isn’t it, Kakarrot?” Raditz asks

“N-no!” Goku stammers

“Is that so? Then pray tell why is it that he has a tail? That alone is proof of his heritage.”

“You leave him alone!!!” Goku exclaims

“You break my heart, Kakarrot. Is an uncle not allowed to meet his nephew on this planet?” He asks sarcastically

“I told you that my name is Goku, so get off my planet!” Goku says

Raditz laughs, “Spoken like a true Saiyan. Maybe you remember your mission after all. I’ll explain thusly, your mission was to exterminate all life on this planet so it could be sold to the highest bidder. We Saiyans are born warriors ready to kill from birth, despite your pitiful power level, thanks to this planet’s moon an extermination should have been easy for you?” Raditz looks at Krillin and then back down at Boxer, “At least that’s what was believed but it appears that this planet has a few warriors of comparable strength even under a moon.”

“Hold on, what do you mean even under a moon?” Goku asks

Krillin and Roshi all look at each other. Raditz notices them and smirks.

“A Saiyan’s true power is revealed under a full moon after all but that doesn’t matter now.” Raditz says, “I came to recruit you to join the remains of the Saiyans, the last royal Prince Vegeta remains alongside his mentor and attendant Nappa. We have plans to increase our productivity tenfold but we require your assistance. Imagine it now Kakarrot, a life of endless combat and conquest, doesn’t it excite your Saiyan instincts.” Raditz has a look of elation as he speaks, “However I will be fair, it would be hard for you to leave your child and mate, so I will allow them to come along.”

“You’re insane! I’d rather die before I help you slaughter innocent people!” Goku exclaims

“I see Kakarrot, unfortunately this is an important matter and I need another Saiyan to help with it but since you don’t want to help out I’ll have to settle for the next best thing.” Raditz’s eyes lock onto Gohan, “I’ll be borrowing my nephew.”

Raditz starts walking towards him. Goku steps in front of his son.

“If you take one more step, I’ll kill you!” Goku exclaims

Raditz smiles as he knees Goku in the gut. Goku is sent flying and lands across the beach. He struggles to get air to his lungs as writhes in pain. Gohan tries to run towards his father but Raditz grabs hold of the collar of his qipao. Gohan cries out loudly.

“Daddy!!!” He wails out

Raditz lifts Gohan in the air, “Listen here Kakarrot, if you won’t help out with the mission, I’ll be taking the boy instead. I’ll give you a full Earth day to make your decision. As a sign that you’ll take the mission seriously you are required to kill 100 Earthlings and line them up on this beach and don’t think I won’t be counting. I hope you make the right decision Kakarrot, I wouldn’t want to be forced to separate my nephew from his father.” He says mockingly

“Give me… back… my son.” Goku heaves out

“You know what you have to do to get him back, lit tle bro ther.” Raditz begins to fly away, “And don’t think about trying to fight me, we both can see the difference between our power levels.

Goku sits up and yells, “GOHAN!!!”

Gohan cries out, “DADDY!!!”

“See you tomorrow Kakarrot!”

Raditz flies away laughing, the glint of the dragon ball is the last thing to leave Goku’s eyes as he stares into the sky. Roshi and Krillin run over to him as he beats the ground in frustration. Bulma holds her brother tight. As Gohan soars through the air he stops crying for a moment as a chill goes down his spine. He looks back to the island and begins to cry harder. In his sister’s arms Boxer trembles as he bares his teeth and his pupils turn into stars.

Chapter Text

Goku yells out, “Nimbus!!”

“Now wait Goku, don’t do anything rash!” Roshi exclaims

Krillin grabs onto Goku’s shirt, “Do you think you’re in any shape to fight that guy!”

Goku lowers his head, “I- I have to do something…”

“Then let’s take a moment to catch our breath.” Roshi says

Bulma walks over to the rest of them, “I can’t imagine an older sibling acting like that.

“It doesn’t matter who he is…” Goku strains himself trying to stand, “I can never forgive him for this!”

“What can we do, your brother’s strength is off the charts.” Krillin nervously says, “If he can take you down…”

Goku makes it to his feet, “His tail…his weakness should be his tail…if I can grab it he won’t be able to move.”

“That’s right you were the same!” Roshi says

“But how are you gonna grab his tail?!” Krillin asks

Goku lowers his head, “I won’t be able to. Not by myself, at least

Beads of sweat form on Krillin and Roshi’s brow.

“Now you’re talkin! We’ll help in any way we can!” Roshi exclaims, We don’t know where Yamcha or Tien are at but…

Krillin’s voice shakes, “I-If the three of us fought together…” Krillin gulps, “We’re all going to die.” He looks at Bulma, “But hey! Bulma can wish us back with the dragon balls if that happens, right?”

“You can count on me.” Bulma says

“No Krillin, that’s not possible. Lord Kami taught me that Shenron can’t grant the same wish twice. You and Roshi were already brought back before. If you die again there’s no coming back.

Roshi and Krillin stand stunned for a moment before Krillin speaks up.

He gulps, “O-ok Goku, W-we’ll help you regardless!” 

“That’s right!” Roshi exclaims 

Krillin hunches over and thinks to himself, “I’ll never get a girlfriend at this point.”

Bulma looks down at her brother and makes a confused expression.

“Why do my arms feel wet?” She thinks to herself

Boxer wriggles himself out of Bulma’s arms. 

Boxer breathes heavily, “I ‘hah’ want to ‘hah’ help too.”

“No! No way!” Bulma exclaims, “You are staying here! Let the adults handle this!”

Boxer’s body trembles as the wind picks up around him. He looks at Bulma with his star shaped pupils and a determined look on his face. Bulma looks at him concerned, she reaches out for his face.

“What happened to…”Bulma starts to speak

“Bulma!!!” Boxer screams over her, “I cannot just sit around and do nothing! I was taught if I or someone is threatened by an evil person, that I must strike them in a single blow! I refuse to disrespect the teachings of my masters!!!”

Bulma takes a step back, Roshi and Krillin are stunned and Goku smiles. Krillin slaps his cheeks and gets a determined look on his face.

“Boxer is right!” Krillin exclaims, “There’s no reason for hesitation!”

“Thanks Krillin.” Goku says

“It’s great that you boys are motivated but we have to find him first.” Roshi says

“Do you have the Dragon Radar, Bulma? Goku asks

“Of course! Gohan’s hat has a Dragon Ball on it.” She says

Bulma reaches into her pocket and pulls the circular device. Multiple dots appear on the screen and one is moving quickly away from them.

“There it is! It’s moving incredibly fast.” She says

The dot stops suddenly.

“Thank goodness he’s still on Earth!” Roshi exclaims

“That’s good, we might be able to beat him!” Goku says

“Yeah!” Krillin exclaims

“You don’t stand a chance.” A voice from next to the house says 

Everyone turns around to see a tall green man wearing purple clothing.

“It’s Piccolo!!!” Bulma yells out

Bulma and the others scurry away while Goku and Boxer ready themselves

“What are you doing here?” Goku asks

 I want him dead.” Piccolo responds

Goku relaxes and stands up straight, Boxer remains in his stance for a second before looking over to Goku and relaxing.

“You two know each other?” Goku asks

“He and I have met. You four don’t stand a chance against him. I’m the best chance you have to win this battle.”

Bulma, Roshi, and Krillin look at Piccolo with shock. Boxer looks at Piccolo and narrows his eyes.

Piccolo continues, “You know as well as I do that, he’s stronger than both of us. If we fight separately we’re outmatched but if we fight together we might be able to overpower him!”

“Maybe…and what do you get out of this?” Goku questions

“He stands in the way of my plans to take over the world. The life of your brat doesn’t matter to me.”

Boxer turns around and moves over to Bulma. He tugs on her jacket and she leans over.

“What do you need?” Bulma asks

Boxer cups his hands over his mouth and whispers in her ear.

“Don’t his ears look like Mimi’s?” He says

Bulma looks at Piccolo as the image of a brown fruit bat with a mouth stuffed with a banana fills her head. She holds a hand to her mouth as she tries to stifle her laughter.

“They do, don't they?” Boxer says

“Not now Boxer, this is important.” Bulma says choking up

Goku walks over with his hand outstretched, “Bulma I need to borrow the Radar.”

“Right.” Bulma says

Goku with the Radar jumps upon the Nimbus.

He turns to Piccolo, “Do you think you can keep up with the Nimbus?”

“Don’t be absurd. My flying technique is far superior to yours.”

Goku smirks at Piccolo before the two blast away. 

Boxer tries to run after them before being grabbed by Bulma.

“You’re not going anywhere!” She sternly says

Boxer breaks away from her grasp before smirking, “DOJYAN!”

In a puff a smoke Boxer has turned into a hawk and quickly follows behind the two. Bulma fist trembles as her face morphs with rage.

“That brat!!” She exclaims, “Come on let’s go!” 

She runs over to her flying vehicle. Roshi and Krillin follow behind her

“I certainly don’t want to miss this battle, let’s go Krillin!” Roshi says

“Right!” Krillin exclaims

The three of them take off. As they fly they see Boxer ahead of them as they get closer, he suddenly gets a burst of speed and almost disappears from their sight. Bulma and the others are left dumbfounded.

“Is he always this fast?” Bulma asks

“Nope this is new.” Krillin says confused

Bulma’s anger subsides but is replaced with concern once again.

“First that strange feeling when I held him, next his eyes, now this speed” she sighs, “what is going on with my little brother?”

Chapter Text

Raditz lands in the crater where his space pod is stationed. He gently puts Gohan on the ground in front of him.

“It’s nice to meet you,…Gohan? That is what my brother called you, right?” Raditz asks

Gohan continues to cry and scream. Raditz rolls his eyes and places him into the space pod.

“You can calm down in there, while we wait for your father.” He says, “Now then I should find something for us to eat.”

Raditz walks out the crater as his device makes a sound. He pushes the buttons on the side.

“I’m receiving an alert but…” He continues fiddling with the device, “W-What!? A power level of 710!? And it’s this close!”

Raditz starts looking around as his device locks in on the space pod.

“What? My nephew.” He shakes his head, “Whatever that boy did is causing my scouter to malfunction.”

Goku and Piccolo close in from the sky.

“We’re close! We’d better start descending.” Goku says

“It won’t make a difference, he knows we’re coming.” Piccolo says “That device on his ear, it tells him the location and strength of his target.”

“So in other words, we can’t sneak up on him.” Goku says

“Yes he’ll see us coming.” Piccolo says

“In that case, the only thing we can do is attack head-on!” Goku exclaims

Back at the crater, Raditz looks around confused as his scouter gives multiple readings.

“16, 820, 400, 9. That settles it, this thing’s broken.” The scouter beeps again, “A new reading…? And it’s approaching fast!” Raditz turns his head towards the sky, “One, no two of them, 322 and…334!? That’s Kakarott’s power level, I guess he and that Earthling he was with started the mission. It’s not like he knows where to find me.” Raditz crosses his arms, “Wait if that is Kakarrot, then…” he turns back to the space pod, “Those readings about Gohan! The child of a low-class Saiyan being that powerful is unheard of… could it be, could he be the Super Saiyan!”

His scouter beeps again as Goku and Piccolo appear above head. The two of them descend in front of Raditz. 

Raditz looks at Piccolo. “Oh it’s you again.” He turns to Goku, “Kakarrot! Your mate is an Earthling, correct!?” Raditz asks

“What?!” Goku responds

“Answer me! The mother of your son, she’s an Earthling right!?” Raditz asks

“Y-yes.” Goku says taken aback 

“I see.” Raditz presses a couple buttons on his scouter, “Kakarrot, I have changed my mind. You won’t have to kill 100 earthlings. You just have to take it over. This planet will be the beginning of the New Saiyan Empire!” Raditz laughs, “Finally this is the chance we’ve been waiting for! How does it sound Kakarrot, your precious planet will be safe under our command.” 

“No way! Get off my planet and give me back my son!” Goku exclaims

“Sorry but I’m the one who’ll take over this planet.” Piccolo says

Raditz fiddles with his scouter again, “That’s a shame Kakarrot, I guess I’ll have to beat the Saiyan back into you.” 

“I told you the name’s Goku and I’m an Earthling!” He exclaims

“You reject your heritage, you’re breaking your brother’s heart.” He says sarcastically

“That’s right and as far as I’m concerned I don’t have a brother!” Goku exclaims

Raditz smirks, “I’m interested in seeing your plan to defeat me.”

Piccolo throws off his turban and cape, they hit ground with a noticeable thud.

“You guys talk too much.” He says

“You’re wearing weighted clothing as well, Piccolo.” Goku says

Piccolo cracks his neck, “Yes. I haven’t felt this light in ages

“His power level jumped to 408.” Raditz thinks

Goku takes off his undershirt, wristbands, and boots.

“It looks like we’ve both been pushing ourselves. I’m glad you're on my side this time.” Goku stretches, “Now we can have a good fight!”

“Kakarrot’s power has shot up to 416.” Raditz laughs, “You are definitely stronger but not strong enough. So this is what they mean when they say you don’t know your place.” 

“If you think strength is everything then you don’t know anything about fighting!” Goku exclaim

“Prepare yourselves!” Raditz exclaims

Goku and Piccolo take their stances, and in an instant Raditz appears behind them and elbows their backs. Goku and Piccolo quickly rebound, vaulting off the ground away from Raditz.

“He’s fast, so fast I don’t want to believe it!” Goku thinks to himself

“He came at us from the front but struck us from the back!” Piccolo thinks himself in stunned silence

“It looks like your defenses aren’t too bad, that’ll keep things interesting for a little bit, while I start attacking you seriously!”

“He didn’t show this kind of power earlier.” Piccolo thinks

“If I could just grab his tail…” Goku thinks to himself

“Let me tell you something interesting about Saiyans. Their rank is based on their power. I am a low-class warrior, while the two other Saiyans of my group are a mid-class and a high-class.”

Goku and Piccolo have the same thought running through their minds, “That means they're even stronger than him!” 

A look of fear comes across their face, Raditz face twists with elation.

“That’s the expression I love to see. Fear.” He thinks to himself.

Sweat drips down Piccolo’s face, “So even if we beat you, we still have to worry about those other Saiyans.”

“It sounds like we’re in a lot of trouble.” Goku nervously says

“You still have a chance to live Kakarrot, because if those guys come they will definitely kill you and everyone on this rock.” Raditz says

“You must be excited Goku.” Piccolo says

“It would be a lie to say I’m not a little excited but right now just thinking about it is giving me the chills.” Goku replies, “But we’ll deal with that later! My son! Where did you hide him!?”

“I didn’t hide him, I placed him in my spade pod so he can relax,” Raditz points ahead, “he’s in the crater behind you two.”

Goku flies up and sees a hawk flying overhead circling the grasslands.

He looks down and sees the white sphere in the middle of the crater.

“Gohan! Daddy’s Here! Hang In There, Okay!? Daddy’s Going To Save You!”

Goku starts to descend and the hawk flies down into the crater. The hawk lands in the crater and turns back to Boxer. He crawls to the edge of the crater and pokes his head out to watch the battle. 

“Save him Kakarrot! Don’t make me laugh if anyone’s saving Gohan it’s me!” Raditz exclaims

Goku silently lands on the ground.

“Ready when you are.” Piccolo says

Goku takes a breath, “Let’s go.”

The two charge at Raditz, they deliver a flurry of blows towards the Saiyan menace, which he blocks with ease. They throw the final attack of their barrage as they vanish from Raditz’s vision, appearing behind him. They go to attack his back but Raditz without turning kicks them both away and remains floating in the air. Goku and Piccolo rebound, going back in for another attack. Raditz without changing position rises dodging completely. He continues to rise, forcing Goku and Piccolo to follow him to the sky. They charge him head on once again but Raditz raises his fist up and stands up before he shoots out two purple energy beams from his hands directly at the two of them. The light illuminates the faces of Goku and Piccolo as they try to dodge. Goku completely evades the beam, Piccolo however has his arm caught in the attack. As the beams hit the ground, mountains are erased and the ground shakes. Goku lands back on the ground and looks at where Raditz used to be. “Behind you.” Raditz says as he kicks Goku in the back of his head. Goku slides across the ground.

“Did that jog your memory Kakarrot, I tried to aim for the scar.” Raditz says

Goku struggles to get to his feet and to catch his breath, “P-Piccolo are, you…”

Goku looks at him surprised as he sees Piccolo is missing his right arm.

Piccolo breathes heavily with a brow full of sweat, “D-Don’t worry, I-I can still fight ‘hah’ with just one of my arms.”

Raditz laughs, “See, even together you can’t even think of beating me.”

“Goku, you got any new techniques or tricks up your sleeve?” Piccolo asks

“Sorry, I don’t got anything new.” Goku replies 

Piccolo smirks, “Then I have no choice, I’ll have to use my new technique.” 

Chapter Text

Boxer watches from the crater as Goku engages Raditz alone. Piccolo stands back as veins start popping out of his head, he places his index and middle finger to his forehead and breathes. Goku takes a beating from his brother and is kicked away. Goku hops off the ground and flies into the air.

Raditz clicks his tongue, “Persistent Bastard!”

Goku cups his hands to his side, “Ka, Me, Ha, Me,

Raditz smiles as his scouter beeps, “ Haha your power level is skyrocketing! 924! 925! 926! show me what you got Kakarrot. On this planet they can somehow focus their ki into a single point.” His scouter beeps again and he turns to Piccolo, “1020! 1030! His power level is rising even faster!”

Goku yells out, “HAAAA!”

A bead of sweat appears on Raditz's brow as he dodges the brilliant blue beam from Goku. Goku manipulates the beam causing it to chase his brother. Raditz turns back and skids to stop before outstretching his arm. He braces himself with his other hand and catches the Kamehameha. An explosion happens on impact leaving Raditz shaken but unharmed. 

“This guy is amazing…” Goku nervously says

“That was fun! Now it’s my turn!” Raditz exclaims as he fires a quick ki blast at Goku

The blast hits, destroying a portion of Goku’s shirt and causing Goku to fall to the ground. Raditz rushes over to Goku.

“Now it’s time to end this!” He exclaims

“The only end here is yours!” Piccolo exclaims

Raditz quickly turns to him, “1330! All of his ki is gathered in his fingers! Damn it!

“Take this!! Makankosappo!!!” Piccolo yells

The light from the drilling beam of ki blinds Goku and Piccolo. As the light dissipates Raditz is seen with only a broken shoulder pauldron and a grazed bleeding shoulder. A smile comes across his face and he claps.

“If that hit me I would have been done for. If that is.” His smile drops, “I was considering letting you live as a punching bag but you’re more trouble than you’re worth.”

“Is… is this the end!?” Piccolo asks himself

“I’ll make it painless!” Raditz says

Raditz raises his arm with a smile before he suddenly drops to his knees. Goku stands behind him, holding tightly to his tail.

Goku smiles, “You shouldn’t have let your guard down!”

Goku grips tighter and Raditz falls to the ground.

“Piccolo! Hurry use that technique again!” Goku exclaims

“Right. Make sure you don’t let go, Goku. I can only do this one more time!” Piccolo replies 

“K-Kakarrot!” Raditz struggles to speak, “Are you g-going to kill your only brother?”

“I told you before, as far as I’m concerned I don’t have a brother!” Goku replies

“K-Kakarrot, I’m sorry. I promise to leave the planet and never come back.”

“Don’t listen to him, Goku!” There’s no way he’s telling the truth!” Piccolo exclaims

“Kakarrot, I know I’ve done some horrible things but I swear that I’ll keep my promise.” His voice cracks, “P-please believe me little brother.”

Goku stands there conflicted as he stares at Raditz’s pained expression, the blurry visage of a woman appears in his head.

“No Goku! Don’t Let Go Of His Tail!!” Piccolo screams out

Please Kakarrot!! You Have To Believe Me!! I Never Wanted To Hurt You!!”

As Raditz says that the woman’s visage becomes less blurry within Goku’s mind and he lets go of Raditz’s tail.

“So you promise to leave the planet?” Goku asks

Raditz stands face to face with Goku, “Yes I promise that I’ll leave.” He places a hand on Goku’s shoulder, “I’m sorry brother.” 

Raditz punches Goku in the gut, sending him flying. Raditz flies over and lands with a foot on Goku’s chest.

“But you promised…” Goku says struggling to breathe

“And I intend to keep said promise,” Raditz says, “but I never said I would leave alone.” He drives his foot deeper into Goku’s chest, “I wonder how many of your bones I must break before you listen to reason!”

“Damn it! You fool!” Piccolo exclaims

As Goku screams and Piccolo stands unable to do anything, Boxer looks from within the crater, “I need to do something!” 

As he starts to leave the crater he stops as a chill runs down his spine. He turns back around to the space pod. One word and only one word leaves his trembling lips.

“Monster.”

Gohan breaks out the space pod completely destroying it. Raditz and Piccolo look towards the boy in shock. Gohan lands out the crater right in front of Boxer, his black eyes now filled with wisps of blood red light.

“What the hell!?” Raditz says

“G-…Gohan.” Goku says weakly, “Run away.”

Beads of sweat form on Raditz brow, “1307!” 

Gohan’s voice trembles, “You… You… LEAVE MY DADDY ALONE!!!!”

Gohan explodes with energy as he charges at Raditz. A golden ball of energy surrounds Gohan as he headbutts his uncle. Cracks start forming within his armor. Raditz stumbles back, nearly falling over. Gohan lands on the ground unaware of what just happened and makes his way to his father. Raditz limps towards the two of them, a sadistic smile on his face.

He breathes heavily “You little brat, ‘ha ha ha’ forget your father, I’ll be taking you with me. If you’re with me I can mold you into the perfect Saiyan warrior.” 

“Gohan, run away! Now!” Goku’s exclaims

“Your power fluctuations are caused by emotions, I see. Come with me nephew and I’ll bring out your Saiyan blood

As Raditz reaches out to grab Gohan, Boxer comes flying past taking Gohan along with him as he skids across the ground. He holds tight as he pulls Gohan along as he runs away. Raditz turns to chase after the boys but is put in a full-nelson by Goku.

“What!?” Raditz exclaims

“HURRY PICCOLO!!!” Goku screams

“I just need a bit more time! Why didn’t you grab his tail!?” Piccolo asks

“He can cut it off if he needs to!” Goku says

Raditz struggles against Goku.

“Damn it, Gohan did a number on me! Kakarrot, if that attack fires you’ll be dead as well!” Raditz exclaims

“If that’s how it has to be then that’s fine!” Goku says determined 

Piccolo smirks, “Son Goku, if that’s what you want then I won’t hesitate! Killing you both is great for me!” 

“Hurry Piccolo! I don’t know how much longer I can hold on!” Goku exclaims

“Sorry to keep you waiting.” Piccolo says

“DO IT NOW!!” Goku screams

Energy gathered at his fingertip, Piccolo points directly at Raditz’s chest.

“MAKANKOSAPPO!!!”

As it approaches Raditz his look of worry washes away. The drilling beam of ki hits its target burrowing through Raditz armor and exits out the back of Son Goku. The two men fall to the ground both with a satisfied smile on their face. 

Raditz laughs, "I can't believe I was done in by my own brother and nephew! Although Kakarrot had to sacrifice himself.”

Piccolo walks over to Raditz, “Goku won’t be dead for long.” 

“Huh?” Raditz asks 

“On this planet we have these things called Dragon Balls. Once gathered they can grant just about any wish and that includes bringing the dead back to life.”

Raditz smiles, “Lucky bastard. A word of advice: you shouldn’t spill everything to an opponent even if they’re down. Everything that has happened today has been transmitted to my allies in outer space. They’ll surely wipe this planet out in search of those Dragon Balls.” 

“Then they’ll bring you back to life, I assume?” Piccolo asks

“No I doubt that’ll be the case, I’m a bit different from the average Saiyan.”

“When will they get here?” Goku asks

“In one year's time, they’ll get here in a year.” Raditz says

Piccolo sweats profusely, “In just one year, two even stronger than you.”

Boxer walks over with Gohan in tow. He lets go of him and Gohan runs over to Goku. Gohan is crying profusely as Goku tries to soothe him.

“It’s okay, Gohan, everything is going to be okay.” Goku says, I’ll be back soon.

Gohan wails. 

Boxer walks over to Raditz with a blank expression, his hair whips around slightly.

“Why are you smiling?” He asks

“What?” Raditz says

Boxer’s face turns to one rage, “Why are you smiling!? You lost and failed your mission so what are you smiling about!” Tears stream down his face, “So why are you smiling when you didn’t accomplish ANYTHING!!!!”

Winds start to whip up and Raditz feels himself fill with energy. Goku, who felt weak, suddenly feels his energy come back. 

“Death in combat is the only way for a Saiyan to go.” Raditz says, “Boy, remove my scouter and throw it away

Boxer flips Raditz on his back, removes the device in his ear and chucks away.

“Thank you. I’m happy I got to die seeing my family is strong. That is why I’m happy I have nothing left to worry about. This is a proper death.” Raditz grits his teeth, “Kakarrot, Gohan! I’ll only say this once so listen well! I am glad to have met you!” He lowers his voice, “When we met I told you, you looked exactly like our father, that wasn’t completely true. You and your son have our mother’s kind eyes.” A single tear streams down Raditz face, “I’m happy that I got to see them again.”

Goku looks over to his brother with a conflicted expression. The wind dies down and Boxer’s eyes turn back to normal. The ship carrying Bulma, Krillin and Roshi descends. As Bulma hops out the ship Boxer runs directly towards her, almost knocking over. 

He wails and cries out loudly.“I’m sorry, Bulma I’m sorry, I couldn’t do anything!!!” 

Bulma rubs her brother’s head, “It’s okay, you couldn’t do anything, you’re only 5.”

Bulma’s words run deep as he looks back to Gohan.

“But he’s only 4.”

Chapter Text

As Gohan cries over his father, Krillin and Roshi rush over to them.

“Goku!! C’mon you gotta hang in there!” Krillin exclaims, “Everything’s going to be okay Gohan!”

Piccolo walks over and explains the situation with the Saiyans to them.

“Hey…Krillin.” Goku says weakly, “Dying is pretty rough isn’t it…”

“Don’t worry, we’ll get the Dragon Balls and wish you back as soon as possible.”

Suddenly Goku’s body disappears. Krillin, Gohan and Roshi look around in shock.

“‘’Hmm’ I see this must be Kami’s doing.”

“Lord Kami?” Roshi and Krillin question in unison

“Who else could do something like this? He must have something planned for Goku.

Bulma walks over with Boxer in her arms. His eyes are red and swollen. Krillin picks up Gohan in his arms

“Where’s Goku?” She asks

“It looks like Lord Kami took his body for some reason.” Krillin says

“If God himself took it, then I’m sure it’s for a good reason.” Roshi says

“For now let’s just focus on gathering the rest of the Dragon Balls, then we can revive Goku before the Saiyans arrive.” Krillin says

Bulma sighs, “Where is Yamcha, when you need him the most?”

“Probably playing baseball, like you said earlier.” Krillin says

“Wait a minute, that reminds me, how did Goku’s brother manage to find him so easily?”

Piccolo places his cape over his head, “It’s the strange device he had attached to his face. It can tell the location and strength of anyone within a certain area. That kid in your arms chucked it away.”

Bulma looks down at her brother and sighs.

Boxer sniffles, “I can grab it.”

He lets go of Bulma and retrieves the scouter from where he threw it.

“He called it a scouter.” Boxer says 

He hands Bulma the scouter and she fiddles with the buttons and holds the device up to her eye.

“This little thing is incredible!” She exclaims, “It’s a little banged up but I should be able to fix it.”

Krillin looks up at Bulma, “…You are amazing Bulma.”

“If I can fix it we can gather up everyone so we can prepare, though I’ll need some to figure everything out.” Bulma says

“Then let’s go back to Kame House, you can work there.” Roshi says

“Right there’s not much we can do out here.” Bulma says

“And once we drop you off, I’ll start collecting the Dragon Balls.

Roshi turns to Piccolo, “What do you intend to…”

Roshi freezes as Piccolo raises his stub and forces out a new arm in its place. Everyone looks at him disgusted.

“I’ll be training in preparation and you can leave Goku’s brat. I’ll be taking him from here.”

Krillin moves Gohan behind.

“No. No way!” Krillin exclaims, “You’re not planning on eating him are you!?”

“Don’t be absurd!” Piccolo says with a surprised expression, “That boy has a tremendous power hidden within. Without him here we would have lost. He’ll be a powerful asset once he’s properly trained and I’m the only one who can give him that training.”

Krillin gulps, “You’re serious aren’t you…” 

Krillin puts Gohan down and walks over to Piccolo with him.

“Krillin what are you doing!?” Roshi asks

“Yea, this is Piccolo we’re talking about!?” Bulma says scared

“I don’t think we have a choice in the matter.” Krillin says, “He’ll take him from us anyway and we need all the help we can get against the Saiyans.” Krillin turns to Gohan, “Can you go with Mr.Piccolo for a while Gohan?”

Gohan looks around silently, his expression is a mixture of confusion and sadness. His lips tremble as he opens his mouth to cry, he stops and his eyes lock on Boxer. Boxer rubs his eyes and walks over to Gohan and hugs him. He mimics his sister and rubs Gohan’s head

“It’s going to be okay. It’s gonna be okay.” Boxer says

Gohan returns the hug

“Ok.” He says

“Not that you had a choice in the matter.” Piccolo says

The boys let go of each other as Piccolo approaches. He grabs Gohan and flies away. They fly into a grassy wasteland and Piccolo drops Gohan on the floor.

“Listen up, even though we’ve beaten your uncle. His two friends are coming and they’re even stronger than him. The two of us alone won’t stand a chance! We need your help. If you can be trained your strength may give us the edge we need to win this battle!” Piccolo says

“Huh? M-m-m-m-me!? B-b-but I c-can’t fight… I can’t fight at all!”

“You haven’t realized it yet but you have an unbelievable power hidden deep within you. That’s why I’m going to train you, so you can realize your full potential!” Piccolo says

“I…don’t have any power.” Gohan meekly says

Piccolo smirks, “You want to see proof?”

Piccolo grabs Gohan’s head, and lifts him off the ground.

“No-! Stop It! Oww!! What are you doing!?” Gohan exclaims in pain

Piccolo’s eyes lock on a mountain in the distance as he pulls his arm back and throws Gohan full force at the mountain. Gohan cries as he is thrown.

“Now let’s see if you have what it takes. Show your hidden power brat!” Piccolo thinks

As Gohan gets closer to the mountain his tears dry, his brow furrows and eyes focus right ahead. The red wisps of light returns to his eyes and as if by instinct he raises his arms and surrounds himself in a ball of ki. He shoots a beam from the ball. The beam hits causing a massive blinding explosion. Piccolo covers his eyes. As the explosion subsides, Piccolo sees the results. Gohan has completely destroyed the mountain and left a path of destruction leading away from it.

“It's even greater than I imagined…!” Piccolo thinks

Gohan sits where the mountain used to be in silence, Piccolo walks towards him. Gohan turns to Piccolo.

“D-did I do that!?” He asks surprised

“That’s right, it looks like you're starting to understand. It appears that your powers and emotions are closely linked however you can’t maintain it, which isn’t good for us. We’re going to turn you into the greatest warrior the world has ever known.” Piccolo says

“B-But… But I don’t want to fight. I want to be a great scholar.” Gohan says

“You’ll have plenty of time to be whatever you want after the Saiyans are dealt with. They’re planning on killing everyone on Earth. If they succeed, you won’t have any future to look forward to.” Piccolo replies

“B-But I’m scared…” Gohan meekly says

“Quit whining!” Piccolo exclaims, “or I’ll kill you right now! Shut up and take off your tunic!”

Gohan starts to cry as he removes his tunic, “But ‘sniff’ if daddy’s coming back I want to be trained by him.”

“That’s too bad, your father isn’t cut out to be an effective teacher.” Piccolo says, “He doesn’t command any respect. That’s evidenced by how coddled you are.”

“Wh-What should I do f-for training?” Gohan aks

“”Nothing too difficult, you just need to survive.” Piccolo responds

“What? Survive?” Gohan says confused

“Yes. You’ll be surviving out here on your own. If you’re still alive after six months, then I’ll teach you how to fight.”

Gohan sweats nervously, “Alone for six months in a place like this!? I…I can’t stay out here by myself for that long!”

Piccolo chuckles, “You won’t be alone. The area is filled with blood-thirsty beasts to keep you company.”

“Wh-what!? P-please don’t leave me!!” Gohan whines

“Quiet!” Piccolo exclaims, “You have no time for this infantile behavior! Do whatever it takes to survive out here until I return. By the end, you’ll be stronger both physically and mentally. Your hidden powers are the key to the entire planet’s fate. Believe in your abilities and find an effective way to draw on them at will.”

“Bu-But… But I” Gohan stutters

“Farewell.” Piccolo says, “Oh and you're free to try to escape but the outlying area is nothing but desert. It makes this place look like a paradise!”

As Piccolo turns to leave Gohan yells out.

“W-Wait!” He exclaims, “What about food!? And a bath or bed!?”

“That’s for you to figure out, or do you not know the definition of survival.” Piccolo says

“…B…but that’s not fair.” Gohan says

“If you are going to resent anything, then curse your own fate, as I do.” Piccolo says

He flies away, Gohan runs after him.

“WAAAIT!!!!” Gohan screams, “I’m Scared! Don’t Leave Me Here!!”

As Piccolo becomes a speck in the sky, Gohan stops running. Tears start to well up in his eyes as he cries in the middle of the wasteland.

Chapter Text

Goku and Kami stand in the Afterlife’s Waiting Desk. In front of them sits the imposing King Yemma. Kami holds Goku’s shoulder and presents him.

“Please Great King Yemma, I humbly ask that you permit this man to call upon King Kai and seek his guidance and wisdom.”

Yemma looks over Goku in his book of souls. 

He leans on his hand as he thinks aloud.“Let me see…Son Goku…quite a list of commendable achievements here, I’d say…Enough to get yourself straight into Heaven, in fact! You’re telling me that despite this, you want him to risk Snake Way to meet King Kai?”

“Yes sir.” Kami says

Goku turns to Kami, “Say does everyone come here when they die?”

“They do.” Kami replies

“Even aliens?” Goku asks

“Yes.Everyone who dies comes here to get judged for Heaven or Hell even those from across the veil of space.” Kami replies

“Hey, did a guy named Raditz come through here a little while ago?” Goku asks

“Goku! Don’t be so flippant!” Kami exclaims

Yemma looks down from his book.

“Your brother right?” Yemma says, “Sent him straight to hell of course.

“Didn’t he put up a fight!?”  Goku asks surprised

Indeed he tried to, however I overpowered him.” Yemma says

“Woah!” Goku exclaims, “Raditz was tough! You must be very strong!” Goku turns to Kami, “Maybe I oughta be trained by him!”

Kami whispers, “lower your voice! don’t let king yemma hear you! fear not king kai is the stronger of the two anyway.”

“Hey I heard that.” Yemma says, “You’d be wise not to insult someone who can send you to hell!”

“M-my sincerest apologies!” Kami says nervously, “I didn’t think that you’d overhear! You must have the Devil’s own ears!”

Yemma exhales sharply, “You have no sense of humor, do you?” He looks at Goku, “If you want to go so badly, then you’re free to see King Kai.” He points behind him, “Wait for the guide by the entrance, however if you fall off Snake Way, don’t come crying to me.”

“Goku, have a safe journey. The year ahead will be rather challenging.” Kami says 

Goku waves goodbye, “Ok I’ll tell this King Kai guy that you sent me. Oh say hi to Mr.Popo for me, will ya?”

As Goku waits for the guide he hears King Yemma yell out.

“Shut Up! You’re in the way! Go home already!”

A small red car comes up to Goku. A blue one with two horns on the side of his head steps out of it.

“Terribly sorry for the wait. I’ll be your guide to the head of Snake Way.” He says

He opens the door for Goku. Goku steps in and the oni gets back in the driver seat. They drive down the purple road surrounded by yellow clouds.

“How are you?” The oni asks, “In good health I hope?”

Goku looks out the window, “I suppose, aside from being dead and all. “Say what’s this King Kai like?” Goku asks

King Kai is known as the God of the North, he watches over the Northern Quadrant of the Universe.” The oni says

They drive for a little bit longer before they stop.

“Well, here we are.” The oni says

Goku steps out of the car and his eyes widen. In front of him the purple road ends and a massive stone snake lays on the ending. It is suspended above an endless amount of yellow clouds and it’s tail isn’t visible.

“You mean Snake Way is actually a snake!?” Goku exclaim

“Yes.” The oni says, “If you follow the road all the way to the end, it will take you straight to King Kai.”

Goku stands on the snake’s head, “It looks pretty long…”

“According to the legend, it’s about one million kilometers!” The oni says

“Wuh- One million kilometers! Has anyone ever reached the end!?” Goku asks

“Of course. King Yemma has done it in just the past hundred million years.” The oni says

“And… nobody else…?” Goku says, “Well if one guy can do it, so can two.”

“Be careful not to fall into clouds, Hell is down there, if you fall in there you’ll never get out.” The oni says

“R-right.” Goku says, “Gee I didn’t even pack a lunch…”

“You’ll be fine, sir.” The oni says, “You’re already dead, so it’s not like you can starve to death anyway.”

“You’re right. Oh can you do me a favor. Do you know Fortune Teller Baba?” Goku asks

The oni nods, “Yes she comes by sometimes to say hello.”

Goku smiles, “Great! Next time she comes in could you ask her to tell Master Roshi not to bring me back to life for one year?”

The oni opens a notebook, “No problem. Master Roshi, one year.” He writes in the notebook, “Got it!”

“Thanks.” Goku says, “Well I guess I’ll get going now.” Goku turns to the endless expanse, “So all I have to do is not fall right?”

“That’s right.” The oni says

Goku jumps, “Then I’ll go by air!!”

“Hey!” The oni exclaims, “That’s not fair…”

He watches Goku slowly disappear from his vision.

Chapter Text

Up top of the Lookout, Kami stands in silence. Mr.Popo comes up to him.

“What is it, Lord Kami? Is there something bothering you?

“Hmmm, It’s out Piccolo something has changed, he isn’t acting like the villain I’ve come to expect. I can still feel the evil in his heart, but at the same time, it’s somehow different than it was before.”

“I think so too.” Mr.Popo says “The old Demon King would never train Son Goku’s child… no matter the circumstances.”

“I first noticed a change when Goku and his brother’s soul arrived in the Afterlife. The souls of those killed by a Demon Clansman, remain trapped in between the Other World and this one. He clearly is not the Demon King of old… or maybe… maybe Piccolo has realized as I have that in one year, we will die.”

Mr.Popo stands in stunned silence, “One year…”

“I’m not certain if Piccolo will die by the hands of the Saiyans or if I will succumb to old age before then. Our lives are bound together. Two halves of the same being. One cannot exist without the other.” Kami lets out a small laugh, “Though I may be God, foreseeing your own death is a tough thing to deal with. Piccolo must want to pass on his legacy to someone else even if it’s the child of his archenemy.”

“Then the Dragon Balls…” Mr.Popo says

“Yes. Their next use very well might be their last.” Kami says, “Hm!?”

What is it now, Lord Kami?” Mr.Popo asks

“I feel a change, maybe there will be some hope for us after all.” Kami says

Back on the battlefield Krillin watches as Piccolo carries Gohan away. His body trembles as he lowers his head.

Krillin thinks to himself,“I couldn’t even deny that Piccolo was right! Some friend that makes me!” He says aloud, “Oh Goku and Chi-Chi are going to have a fit…”

“Krillin!” Bulma exclaims, “We’re going back now!”

Krillin looks back at the sky before running back to the ship. They take off back to Kame House.

“Well, we can’t very well keep this news from Chi-Chi can we…” Roshi looks at Krillin, “Krillin why don’t you run over and tell her hmm?”

“What!? Why do I have to do it!?” He exclaims confused

“Because we don’t want to get killed.” Bulma says

They make it back to Kame House and Bulma runs into the building. Boxer comes up behind her with a toolbox. She takes a seat at the table and gets to work. Roshi and Krillin take a seat on the couch. Boxer sits next to her and watches as she works. As Bulma works, the sun starts to set, Boxer runs out the house and runs back in with a robe. He hands it to his sister and she takes off her jacket and puts on the robe.

“Thanks Boxer.” She says.

“You’re welcome, Dojyan.” He says

The Sun eventually sets as Bulma continues to work, she turns to her brother and he’s struggling to stay awake.

“You should go to sleep.” She says

“I’m fine, ‘ha~’” He yawns, “This is important.”

Bulma chuckles,“I know, we can find the others with this.”

Boxer yawns, “No I mean, we can help people with this.”

Bulma’s ears perk up, “What do you mean, Boxer?”

“A rescue plane,” Boxer rubs his eyes, “can check for people better with this.”

Bulma smiles, “Well aren’t you a little hero. But even heroes need sleep. I promise to give you some schematics when I have the time. Ok.”

“Ok.” Boxer says

He heads up to the bedroom and Bulma keeps working. 

Hours pass as the Sun rises. Boxer makes his way downstairs and sees Bulma still working on the scouter. She yawns as she fiddles with the device. She places it on the side of her head and presses the buttons on the side. She turns back to the couch. 

“Hey! I did you guys!!” She exclaims

Really! DOJYAN!” He exclaims

“Boxer, can you wake those bozos up for me please?” Bulma asks

“Ok, cover your ears.” Boxer replies

Boxer transforms into a ship horn and produces a sound that shakes the room. Roshi and Krillin fall on the ground and scramble around in shock. 

Bulma laughs, “Serves you right for sleeping at a time like this!!”

“You mad woman, is this how you treat your elders!?” Roshi exclaims from the floor

“Yeah yeah Roshi, stand up.” Bulma says

Roshi picks himself off the floor, a blanket wrapped around his legs. Bulma presses the buttons on the side of scouter.

“I added our numeric system so it’s easier to understand, “The scouter beeps, “Let’s see 150, that number is your strength level!”

“What an incredible device… it can actually tell you that?” Roshi says dumbfounded

Krillin hops onto top of the couch, “What about me, huh Bulma? What’s mine?”

Bulma turns to him, “Krillin you are a…” The scouter beeps, “Whoa, you’re a 220!”

“Wow 220!” Krillin exclaims, “Looks I really have surpassed you Master Roshi!”

“Are you sure that thing is fixed?” Roshi asks

Boxer jumps up and down, “Oh oh me next, me next!”

“You got it!” Bulma exclaims, “Boxer, you are a…you are 200 exactly!”

“200!” Boxer exclaims, “I’ll be catching up to you soon, Master Krillin!!”

“Bulma, are you really sure that thing is working properly!?” Roshi asks exasperated

“The best part about this thing is that it can find powerful people from all over the world, it can even tell you their exact location.” Bulma presses the side of the scouter, “Huh? There’s a power of 250 about 3000 km away!”

“250!?” Krillin exclaims, “That must be Tien Shinhan!”

Bulma turns around and points, “There’s a 212 over there.”

“That’s probably Yamcha.” Roshi says

The scouter beeps, “And a 329!? But who!?”

“It’s gotta be Piccolo.” Roshi says

“Woah… he’s pretty powerful.” Krillin says nervously

“Thanks to this, we can find Yamcha and everyone else with ease!” Bulma exclaims, “If we split up, the other four Dragon Balls will be easy to find! We’ll bring back Goku in no time!”

“Hey!” A voice comes behind the door, “I said hey!”

Krillin walks to the door and opens it to find Yajirobe is standing outside a hovercraft right next to him. Bulma and Roshi stand behind him. Boxer stays behind folding Bulma’s robe.

“ “Hey” yourself. Ever heard of knocking?” Krillin says

“It’s me.” Yajirobe says

“Hey you’re the guy from Sir.Korin’s place! Uhh, Yahtzee Dooby?”

“It’s Yajirobe ya idiot!” Yajirobe exclaims angrily, “You did that on purpose!” He calms down, “This is a stupid place to put a house. Sir.Korin didn’t tell me it was gonna take this long to find ya. He’s aware of the whole situation, so you, that Yamcha guy, Tien something or other, and Chiaotzu need to get over there now.”

“So we’re meeting at Korin’s tower? How come?” Krillin asks

“Lord Kami, ya see, says he’s gonna be givin’ us some trainin’. I’m in on this too.” Yajirobe says

Boxer runs up to the door with a bright light in his eyes, he hops on top Krillin

“Am I invited too!?” He excitedly asks

“Uh what’s your name?” Yajirobe asks

“Boxer!” He exclaims

“Nope, I wasn’t told ‘bout any Boxer.” Yajirobe says

Boxer’s eyes dim and he hops off Krillin going back into the house.

“We’ll be there! All of us, right away!” Krillin exclaims

“Later. I’ve done what I was s’posed to…oh yeah one more thing. Goku said not to bring him back to life until them enemies get here.” Yajirobe says

“Huh!? Why not?” Bulma asks

Yajirobe climbs into his hovercraft, “Something ’bout trainin’ in the Other World, an old lady named Baba will be here in a little while. Ask her when she gets here.”

Yajirobe drives away leaving everyone to process what he just said.

“Training in the Other World huh?” Krillin questions

A hovercraft is making its way to Kame House.

“Is he coming back?” Krillin asks, “No…

“It’s not him…”Bulma says

As the hovercraft closes in, its passengers become evident.

The Ox King waves as he spills out the craft, “It’s me! Ahoy there, Master Roshi!”

“Geh…!!” Roshi exclaims, “It’s Ox King and Chi-Chi!!”

Boxer walks out the house as the craft comes to a complete stop. Chi-Chi walks out with a scowl on her face. Ox King gets on his hands and knees as he bows to Roshi.

“It has been much too long! How have you been!?” He exclaims

“Er, umm, fine I…suppose.” Roshi says nervously

Boxer walks in front of Roshi and bows.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Senior Ox King.” He turns to Chi-Chi, “It’s an honor to meet you, Ms.Chi-Chi.”

Chi-Chi bows,“It’s nice to meet you too.” 

Ox King gets up and bows as well, “It’s nice to meet you, Junior.”

Bow stands straight, “My name is Boxer, I am Bulma’s younger brother and the newest student of the Turtle School”

“Oh!” Chi-Chi exclaims, “That’s nice, do you happen to know where my Goku and Gohan are?”

Krillin and Roshi nervously approach Chi-Chi.

“W-Well… uh… you see.” Krillin stutters

“Mr.Goku has unfortunately passed away.” Boxer says

“Passed away!” Chi-Chi exclaims, “You don’t mean to say…”

Chi-Chi almost collapses being caught by her father.

“Well, uh where’s Gohan?” Ox King asks, “I want to be with him while he’s processing this.”

“Gohan has been taken by Piccolo.” Boxer says

“He’s in the hands of the Demon King!!!” Ox King yells

Chi-Chi completely faints.

“Chi-Chi!” The Ox King exclaims.

“We’ll explain everything inside but I promise you, that I’ll make sure Gohan gets safe and sound!” Krillin says determined

Ox King looks down at his daughter in his arms and grimaces. They all enter Kame House and discuss the coming year.

Chapter Text

Gohan sits atop a small rock sobbing his eyes out.

“I’m scaaared!” He cries 

As he cries the ground begins to shake. The rumbling gets louder as Gohan rubs his eyes. He looks up and sees a massive T-Rex-like dinosaur. The beast has a maw covered in slobber and a distinct cross shaped scar on the side of its head. It looms over the small child casting a large shadow. Gohan’s face twists with fear. The beast roars and lunges at Gohan, barely missing as Gohan starts to run.

“SOME-SOMEBODY HEEELP!!!” Gohan screams out, “ANYBODY~!!!”

The boy continues to scream into the vast wilderness before he trips. The dinosaur lunges at Gohan once again, but as it does the blood red light returns to Gohan’s eyes. Gohan’s brow furrows as he pushes himself off the ground. Gohan launches into the air and lands atop a grassy rock formation. He catches his breath before looking around. He looks down the pillar and sees the dinosaur searching for him, a look of relief comes across his face. Gohan walks around the formation, it’s shaped like a pillar and it’s not very wide. He looks around and looks down the pillar once again before stumbling back. His look of relief quickly changes into one of fear.

“Waah!” He cries out, ‘I can’t get down~!”

Gohan cries for hours, the Sun sets and the starry sky surrounds him. Gohan lays down in the fetal position.

“I’m scared. I’m hungry.” He whines as his stomach growls, “I’m going to die.”

A thumping sound is heard nearby and as Gohan sits up he sees a couple apples in front of him.

“Apples!” He exclaims, “Some apples have fallen here! Lucky me!”

Gohan goes to bite one but stops. He looks around for a tree or someplace for these apples to have come from.

“Oh well!” Gohan says

He takes a couple large bites of an apple before his lips purse.

“It’s Sourrrr!” He whines, “This tastes awful. I want to shumai dumplings!!”

Off in the distance Piccolo watches over the boy.

“You filthy brat, is there no end to your whining?” He says, “This will be the last time I intend to help you. If you can’t survive on your own after this, it means I was wrong about you.”

Piccolo continues watching through the night as Gohan lays down to sleep. A few hours pass as Gohan gets up, he drops his pants and pees off the side of the  pillar.

“I don’t know what to do.” He says, “I can't get down from here but if I stay up here I’ll starve.” Gohan sniffles, “Why is this happening to…” Gohan looks down for a second, “Huh? Why can I see my shadow at night?” He turns around, “Ah it’s the Moon! I’ve never seen it full…be…be…”

Gohan stares deeply into the pearly light, he places his hands on his heart. It feels like his heart is trying to escape his chest. No longer a heartbeat but now a solid and steady drumbeat. The drumbeat speeds up as his eyes turn a pale red. His ears ringing as the drumbeat’s speed intensifies even more. A smile crawls across Gohan’s face as his body morphs. His teeth sharpen and enlarge, his body grows tearing and ripping through his clothing, hair grows all over his body as he releases a primal roar. All his hair turns brown and his ears sharpen as his body continues to grow and change. His nails turn into claws and his jaw extends outwards. Soon Son Gohan no longer exists, being replaced by a massive Great Ape. The Great Ape crushes the top of the pillar under its weight and crashes to the ground. It wildly swipes its arms around destroying the rest of it. Piccolo looks at the beast in awe. The Great Ape roars and fires a beam from its mouth into the distance. A massive explosion rocks the surrounding area. It fires two smaller blasts from its mouth towards Piccolo’s direction. Piccolo flies out the way.

“What’s going on!? Such an incredible destructive power!!! If he keeps this up the entire world is going to be gone before the Saiyans arrive!!!” At this moment Raditz’s words ring through his head, “A Saiyan’s true power is revealed under a full moon after all but that doesn’t matter now.” Piccolo looks to the sky, “That’s it!! The Full Moon!!!” 

Piccolo raises his hand and fires a golden beam at the Moon, completely destroying it. Piccolo closes his eyes at the ensuing explosion. The Great Ape stops its rampage and turns to Piccolo, it growls at him before it begins to shrink. The beast shrinks, completely disappearing and in its place lays a naked Son Gohan. The boy lays on the ground, passed out. Piccolo lands by the boy and looks at the destruction around them. Multiple rock formations have been destroyed and smoke lingers from where the beast fired its blasts. 

Piccolo walks to Gohan, “The tail must be the source of their true power, it somehow allows them to transform at the sight of a full moon.” Piccolo looks at the sky, “Blowing up the moon was the right call. If this brat can cause all this destruction, I shudder to think what those two Saiyans could have done.” He looks down at Gohan, “But if they need both their tail and the moon to transform… should I remove it? Without the moon, the tail seems like it’s only a weakness.” Piccolo easily pulls Gohan’s tail off, “There… I suppose I can provide you with some clothes and a weapon at least. I’ll make it look like your father’s outfit.” Piccolo shoots a finger beam at Gohan, “The character will be different however.”

Gohan lays on the ground asleep with a sword right next to him, he’s now wearing an outfit exactly like Goku, an orange gi with blue wristbands, boots, undershirt, and belt. The main difference is the 魔 kanji written on his back.

“Now then, I have my own training to focus on, should you survive for six months, I’ll put you through training so tough, you’d wish you died in the wild.” Piccolo smirks, “Hell won’t compare to what I intend to do, I’ll turn you into a fine Demon.”

Piccolo flies away leaving the boy alone. 

Hours later Gohan awakens amongst the rubble. He rubs his eyes as the sun shines bright.

“What happened?” He questions, “The last thing I remember is looking at the moon…” Gohan grabs hold of his head, “Ow, my head hurts!” Gohan’s stomach growls, “I’m hungry~… I’m thirsty~…”

The young boy stands up and tries to walk around but finds himself stumbling backwards, he trips over the sword Piccolo left for him and falls right on his head. Gohan tries to stand again but can’t seem to find his balance. 

“What’s going on?” Gohan looks at his wrists, “Wristbands?” Gohan looks down, “Woah I have new clothes, and they look just like Daddy’s.” Gohan smiles as he looks over his clothes, “Wait, my tail!” His eyes widen, “My tail is gone!!”

Gohan gets up and slowly and steadily walks around. He looks around and sees the sword on the ground. 

“Mr.Piccolo must have helped me out.” He picks it up and slings it over his shoulder.

Gohan starts walking around the grassy area, he’s hunched over and walking shakily. He comes across a pond and he runs towards it, stumbling his way to the water’s edge.

“Water!” He exclaims

Gohan plunges his face into the water. 

He pulls his head out and gasps, “I need something to eat now.” 

Gohan looks around the area for anything to eat but he doesn’t see anything. A shadow comes up from the water behind him as he stands by the water’s edge. A large crocodile breaches the water and chomps at Gohan. The young boy narrowly avoids being eaten as he jumps forward. The crocodile stares Gohan in the eyes as it pulls itself out of the water.Gohan’s legs quickly figure out how to work as he runs away but the crocodile gives chase. The crocodile narrowly misses Gohan as it constantly lunges at him. Gohan ends up running right into a large rock formation. He turns around to change directions but the crocodile stands right in front of him. Gohan holds his arms in front of his face. Tears stream down his face

“Go away!” He yells

The crocodile opens its mouth but quickly shuts it and runs away. Gohan stands there trembling for a few seconds before he lowers his arms.

“I-its gone?” Gohan questions

As Gohan walks away from the rock formation, he’s whisked away. A large falcon holds the boy within its talons. It flies through the sky above the wasteland.

“Hey, let go of me!!” Gohan exclaims

The falcon continues flying, moving past the wasteland into the surrounding desert. The red wisps come to Gohan’s eyes as his brow furrows.

“I said let me…GOOOOO!!!” 

Energy bursts forth from Gohan’s body as he instinctively surrounds himself in a ball of ki. The ball burns the falcon’s foot and it drops Gohan. The boy screams as he falls.

“SOMEBODY HELP MEEEEE!!!!” He yells out for anyone

Gohan falls near the top of a funnel shaped pit. The young boy tries to escape but the loose sands shift around him causing him to move closer and closer to its center. A dark hole sits at the bottom of the pit. Gohan tries to fight against the sands but can’t and he falls into the darkness.

Chapter Text

Gohan sits atop a small rock sobbing his eyes out.

“I’m scaaared!” He cries 

As he cries the ground begins to shake. The rumbling gets louder as Gohan rubs his eyes. He looks up and sees a massive T-Rex-like dinosaur. The beast has a maw covered in slobber and a distinct cross shaped scar on the side of its head. It looms over the small child casting a large shadow. Gohan’s face twists with fear. The beast roars and lunges at Gohan, barely missing as Gohan starts to run.

“SOME-SOMEBODY HEEELP!!!” Gohan screams out, “ANYBODY~!!!”

The boy continues to scream into the vast wilderness before he trips. The dinosaur lunges at Gohan once again, but as it does the blood red light returns to Gohan’s eyes. Gohan’s brow furrows as he pushes himself off the ground. Gohan launches into the air and lands atop a grassy rock formation. He catches his breath before looking around. He looks down the pillar and sees the dinosaur searching for him, a look of relief comes across his face. Gohan walks around the formation, it’s shaped like a pillar and it’s not very wide. He looks around and looks down the pillar once again before stumbling back. His look of relief quickly changes into one of fear.

“Waah!” He cries out, ‘I can’t get down~!”

Gohan cries for hours, the Sun sets and the starry sky surrounds him. Gohan lays down in the fetal position.

“I’m scared. I’m hungry.” He whines as his stomach growls, “I’m going to die.”

A thumping sound is heard nearby and as Gohan sits up he sees a couple apples in front of him.

“Apples!” He exclaims, “Some apples have fallen here! Lucky me!”

Gohan goes to bite one but stops. He looks around for a tree or someplace for these apples to have come from.

“Oh well!” Gohan says

He takes a couple large bites of an apple before his lips purse.

“It’s Sourrrr!” He whines, “This tastes awful. I want to shumai dumplings!!”

Off in the distance Piccolo watches over the boy.

“You filthy brat, is there no end to your whining?” He says, “This will be the last time I intend to help you. If you can’t survive on your own after this, it means I was wrong about you.”

Piccolo continues watching through the night as Gohan lays down to sleep. A few hours pass as Gohan gets up, he drops his pants and pees off the side of the  pillar.

“I don’t know what to do.” He says, “I can't get down from here but if I stay up here I’ll starve.” Gohan sniffles, “Why is this happening to…” Gohan looks down for a second, “Huh? Why can I see my shadow at night?” He turns around, “Ah it’s the Moon! I’ve never seen it full…be…be…”

Gohan stares deeply into the pearly light, he places his hands on his heart. It feels like his heart is trying to escape his chest. No longer a heartbeat but now a solid and steady drumbeat. The drumbeat speeds up as his eyes turn a pale red. His ears ringing as the drumbeat’s speed intensifies even more. A smile crawls across Gohan’s face as his body morphs. His teeth sharpen and enlarge, his body grows tearing and ripping through his clothing, hair grows all over his body as he releases a primal roar. All his hair turns brown and his ears sharpen as his body continues to grow and change. His nails turn into claws and his jaw extends outwards. Soon Son Gohan no longer exists, being replaced by a massive Great Ape. The Great Ape crushes the top of the pillar under its weight and crashes to the ground. It wildly swipes its arms around destroying the rest of it. Piccolo looks at the beast in awe. The Great Ape roars and fires a beam from its mouth into the distance. A massive explosion rocks the surrounding area. It fires two smaller blasts from its mouth towards Piccolo’s direction. Piccolo flies out the way.

“What’s going on!? Such an incredible destructive power!!! If he keeps this up the entire world is going to be gone before the Saiyans arrive!!!” At this moment Raditz’s words ring through his head, “A Saiyan’s true power is revealed under a full moon after all but that doesn’t matter now.” Piccolo looks to the sky, “That’s it!! The Full Moon!!!” 

Piccolo raises his hand and fires a golden beam at the Moon, completely destroying it. Piccolo closes his eyes at the ensuing explosion. The Great Ape stops its rampage and turns to Piccolo, it growls at him before it begins to shrink. The beast shrinks, completely disappearing and in its place lays a naked Son Gohan. The boy lays on the ground, passed out. Piccolo lands by the boy and looks at the destruction around them. Multiple rock formations have been destroyed and smoke lingers from where the beast fired its blasts. 

Piccolo walks to Gohan, “The tail must be the source of their true power, it somehow allows them to transform at the sight of a full moon.” Piccolo looks at the sky, “Blowing up the moon was the right call. If this brat can cause all this destruction, I shudder to think what those two Saiyans could have done.” He looks down at Gohan, “But if they need both their tail and the moon to transform… should I remove it? Without the moon, the tail seems like it’s only a weakness.” Piccolo easily pulls Gohan’s tail off, “There… I suppose I can provide you with some clothes and a weapon at least. I’ll make it look like your father’s outfit.” Piccolo shoots a finger beam at Gohan, “The character will be different however.”

Gohan lays on the ground asleep with a sword right next to him, he’s now wearing an outfit exactly like Goku, an orange gi with blue wristbands, boots, undershirt, and belt. The main difference is the 魔 kanji written on his back.

“Now then, I have my own training to focus on, should you survive for six months, I’ll put you through training so tough, you’d wish you died in the wild.” Piccolo smirks, “Hell won’t compare to what I intend to do, I’ll turn you into a fine Demon.”

Piccolo flies away leaving the boy alone. 

Hours later Gohan awakens amongst the rubble. He rubs his eyes as the sun shines bright.

“What happened?” He questions, “The last thing I remember is looking at the moon…” Gohan grabs hold of his head, “Ow, my head hurts!” Gohan’s stomach growls, “I’m hungry~… I’m thirsty~…”

The young boy stands up and tries to walk around but finds himself stumbling backwards, he trips over the sword Piccolo left for him and falls right on his head. Gohan tries to stand again but can’t seem to find his balance. 

“What’s going on?” Gohan looks at his wrists, “Wristbands?” Gohan looks down, “Woah I have new clothes, and they look just like Daddy’s.” Gohan smiles as he looks over his clothes, “Wait, my tail!” His eyes widen, “My tail is gone!!”

Gohan gets up and slowly and steadily walks around. He looks around and sees the sword on the ground. 

“Mr.Piccolo must have helped me out.” He picks it up and slings it over his shoulder.

Gohan starts walking around the grassy area, he’s hunched over and walking shakily. He comes across a pond and he runs towards it, stumbling his way to the water’s edge.

“Water!” He exclaims

Gohan plunges his face into the water. 

He pulls his head out and gasps, “I need something to eat now.” 

Gohan looks around the area for anything to eat but he doesn’t see anything. A shadow comes up from the water behind him as he stands by the water’s edge. A large crocodile breaches the water and chomps at Gohan. The young boy narrowly avoids being eaten as he jumps forward. The crocodile stares Gohan in the eyes as it pulls itself out of the water.Gohan’s legs quickly figure out how to work as he runs away but the crocodile gives chase. The crocodile narrowly misses Gohan as it constantly lunges at him. Gohan ends up running right into a large rock formation. He turns around to change directions but the crocodile stands right in front of him. Gohan holds his arms in front of his face. Tears stream down his face

“Go away!” He yells

The crocodile opens its mouth but quickly shuts it and runs away. Gohan stands there trembling for a few seconds before he lowers his arms.

“I-its gone?” Gohan questions

As Gohan walks away from the rock formation, he’s whisked away. A large falcon holds the boy within its talons. It flies through the sky above the wasteland.

“Hey, let go of me!!” Gohan exclaims

The falcon continues flying, moving past the wasteland into the surrounding desert. The red wisps come to Gohan’s eyes as his brow furrows.

“I said let me…GOOOOO!!!” 

Energy bursts forth from Gohan’s body as he instinctively surrounds himself in a ball of ki. The ball burns the falcon’s foot and it drops Gohan. The boy screams as he falls.

“SOMEBODY HELP MEEEEE!!!!” He yells out for anyone

Gohan falls near the top of a funnel shaped pit. The young boy tries to escape but the loose sands shift around him causing him to move closer and closer to its center. A dark hole sits at the bottom of the pit. Gohan tries to fight against the sands but can’t and he falls into the darkness.

Chapter Text

Gohan lands onto a large pile of sand. A pillar of light from the hole above illuminates the boy. Cracks in the ceiling allow for light to reach the room. Piles of sand cover the room. Gohan slides down the sand and looks around the place he’s in. Hieroglyphs cover the walls 

“I think I’ve seen those drawings before.” Gohan says

He walks around the room while looking around and he trips over something jutting out the ground. He falls down right in front of something. Gohan stands up and looks at. It’s rotund with a dark yellow shell, it’s eyes are massive and blue and it’s face looks skeletal with nothing but a bar where the mouth should be. The sudden appearance shocks the child causing him to exclaim in fear. Sand starts to fall around him as he does. Gohan cowers away, covering his head with his arm. The boy looks up and actually gets a good look at the thing that scared him. It was a robot, the eyes look to actually be lights that are turned off and the face is just metal sheets and other things that made it look close to a face. It’s all surrounded by a round dark yellow casing. The robot in its entirety looks to be partially buried in this cave surrounded by debris.

“It’s a robot.” Gohan says 

Gohan gets closer to it and gets a better look, the “face” of the robot is covered by a glass dome, with 4 red buttons where the dome connects to the casing, two buttons on each side. Gohan presses one and a red light turns on in the “face” of the robot. A whirring sound comes from the robot and soon after beeps and boops as well.

“Who’s there?” The robot asks, its voice distorting as it talks, “Who took me out ‘zzz’ standby mode?” 

“Woah, it’s talking!” Gohan exclaims

“Who are you? What do you want?” The robot asks again

Gohan bows, “Uh my name is Gohan, sir.”

“Well Gohan, keep your voice down. Are you trying to cause a cave in?” The robot sarcastically asks

Gohan whispers, “my name is gohan.”

“I heard you, the first time.” The robot says

“What are you doing down here, sir?” Gohan asks

“That’s none of your business, just put me back in standby mode and get out of here.” The robot says

“But I don’t see any way out.” Gohan whimpers

“There is a trail right behind me.” The robot says

Gohan looks up and sees light coming from a pathway right above the head. Gohan smiles as he excitedly climbs on the robot and makes his way into the pathway.

“Wait.” The robot says, “Standby mode.”

“Oh right.” Gohan says

He turns around and presses the button again before he makes his way back into the pathway.

“Thank you, sir.” He says as he enters the pathway. Gohan runs through the pathway and makes it to the exit. He looks around and sees a chasm. It separates him from the outside. He looks down and sees nothing, it’s even higher than the pillar from yesterday. Gohan runs back into the cave and turns the robot back on.

“Mr.Robot Mr.Robot, I can’t!” Gohan exclaims

“Stop yelling.” The robot exclaims as sand starts falling around them, “Don’t you remember what I told you.”

“I can’t make it out from this far away…” Gohan whines

“That’s not my problem.” The robot says, “Now put me back in standby mode and leave.”

“But I can’t get out of here all by myself!!!” Gohan bawls, “I can’t!”

Gohan holds the robot close as the cave shakes.

“Stop yelling.” The robot says, “Look, I told you how to get out of here. What’s your problem?”

Gohan looks around the shaking area as the robot continues

“What are you some kind of crybaby. Don’t you realize that you might be trapped forever if you don’t leave right now. Now get out of here.” It says

A snake slithers from between the debris behind the robot, it makes its way towards Gohan paralyzing the boy. His legs tremble and his mouth remains sealed shut.

“Did he leave?” The robot asks, “Gohan!? Come back, you forgot to put me back in standby mode. ……He’s gone now I’m going to be stuck here forever wide aware. I can already feel my power cells draining away.”

“Uhm, Mr.Robot I’m right here.” Gohan says

“Your…? Still here?” The robot asks

“You're blind, Mr.Robot.” Gohan says, “Your eyes must be turned off.”

“Yes, I’m conservering my energy, now leave.” The robot says

“Maybe you can help me get out here, Mr.Robot?” Gohan asks

“I could but I’m not going to, I don’t know how a kid like yourself got here but you have to take care of yourself. Now stop bothering me. The robot says

Gohan starts to cry but holds his hand over his mouth. Tears start welling up in his eyes as Gohan whimpers quietly.

“Now put me back in standby mode and leave. I have already wasted too much power dealing with you and your problems.”

Gohan walks over to the robot and turns it off once again. Tears flow down his face as he looks to the pathway out of here, before he turns around and sits down next to a pillar. He holds himself close as he cries to himself in silence. He moves next to the buried robot, and drifts to sleep. 

The next day comes and Gohan opens his eyes to see a scorpion on his chest. He screams and moves to turn the robot back on.

“Wake up, wake up, please help me!” He exclaims

“What do you need now?” The robot asks

“There’s a scorpion.” Gohan says fearfully

“Yes this is a cave, caves have scorpions.” The robot says,

“But I’m scared.” Gohan whines

“They also have spiders, snakes and bats, now stop being such a baby and put me back into standby.” The robot says

Gohan goes to put the robot back into standby mode but stops.

“Do you have anything to eat?” Gohan asks

“Of course, I keep plenty of food for me and the other robots,” the robot says sarcastically, “What do you think?”

“But I’m hungry.” Gohan whines

“You can always make a snake steak and scorpion shish kebab.” The robot says

Gohan’s eyes start to water and he tries to hold back his voice.

“Now for the last time, put me back in standby mode and leave me alone.” The robot says

Gohan whines get louder.

“Keep it down.” The robot says 

“But I’m starving!!” Gohan cries out, “I miss my mommy and my daddy! Waaah”

“Look if you just stop crying I’ll help you but you have to learn how to control yourself.” The robot says

Gohan chokes back his tears, “Okay.”

“At this time of day, the Sun shines through a crack in the ceiling in the far right corner of the cave. If you go over there you might find some edible fungus.”

Gohan runs off to the other side of the room and comes back a couple moments later with a broken vase holding some mushrooms.

“Thank you, Mr.Robot. They were right where you said they’d be.” Gohan says 

“Gr~eat glad to have helped. Now put me back in standby mode.” The robot says

“But I can’t eat them like this.” Gohan says

“You’re never going to survive out there, with that kind of attitude.” The robot says

“Aren’t you a robot, don’t you have anything to cook these with?” Gohan asks

“I am the Dynamic Exploration Machine:Model.C-6, I do not come with a kitchen.” The robot says

“Oh…” Gohan says, “Wait, C-6 is that your name?”

“C-6 is my designation number, I guess you could call it a name.” C-6 says

“C-6, I recognize that name.” Gohan says, “The Dynamic Exploration Machine:Model.C-6 was called the greatest machine to ever exist. It allowed for numerous historic discoveries but it was lost during a mission to the Whosa…wazit… ruins…” Gohan’s eyes widen, “Is this The Whosawazit Ruins!?”

Sand starts falling over them

“Quiet Gohan quiet.” C-6 says, “And yes it is. It seems my reputation precedes me. Well uh Gohan, press the bottom red button on my right side.” 

“Ok but why?” He asks

“Well I wouldn’t be the greatest machine to ever exist if I can’t cook some mushrooms, now can I?” C-6 says

Gohan smiles as he presses the button, causing the glass dome to open up. A bunch of whirring sounds come from C-6 as his lights come on.

“Now that I can see, hmmm you are quite young Gohan. Whatever, put that vase inside and then press the button again.”

Gohan does as C-6 says and a few seconds later a red tint comes to the metallic portions of C-6’s “face”. A mist fills his dome, fogging it up.

“Gohan, press the button again.” C-6 says

Gohan presses the button and releases all the steam. 

Gohan reaches his hand towards the vase but is hit by a wave of heat. Gohan waits a little bit before reaching for the vase again. He takes a bite of one of them and grimaces.

“Bleh, these taste funny.” Gohan says

“You’re welcome, hey.” C-6 says, “If you don’t like then just throw it out then.”

Gohan continues to eat the mushrooms, “I’m sorry, it’s just not my mommy’s. I miss her so much and I don’t know where I am.”

“Yes, you do.” C-6 says

“Huh?” Gohan asks

“You are at The Whosawazit Ruins, if you know where that is, then you know where you are.” C-6 says

A smile forms across Gohan’s face, “You’re right C-6.”

“The directions aren’t your biggest issue anyways.” C-6 remarks

“What do you mean?” Gohan asks

“Traveling through this endless desert seems nearly impossible for you. Even though you know the way everything is against you, the Sun, the winds, no food or water and the creatures within the desert itself.” C-6 says

“Yeah…” Gohan says

“Gohan can you do me a favor?” C-6 asks

“What is it?” Gohan asks

“Can you wipe off my eyes, the steam made it hard to see.” C-6 responds

“Ok.” Gohan says

The boy climbs up inside of the robot and rubs its lights with his wristbands.

“Can you see now?” Gohan asks

“Yes. Thank you Gohan.” C-6 says

Gohan looks at C-6 and gets a determined look on his face. He closes the glass dome and moves the robot’s side. He takes his sword and starts digging away at the debris surrounding C-6.

“Gohan, what are you doing?” C-6 asks 

“I’m going to get you outta here.” Gohan affirms

“Stop that.” Gohan continues digging, “I don’t need your help, I’ll leave when I’m ready.” As Gohan starts to unearth C-6’s arm, the pillar behind him begins to fall. C-6’s arm quickly moves above Gohan catching the pillar. As the pillar falls the cave begins to shake. Sand starts flowing in from the cracks and the surrounding area begins to crumble.

“C-6 I’m sorry!” Gohan exclaims

“What are you waiting for, get out of here? I can’t hold this thing forever!” C-6 exclaims

“But you’re still trapped!” Gohan protests

“You have to get out of here now, before the ceiling crashes down on you!” C-6 exclaims

Gohan tries to continue digging C-6 out.

“Gohan, please this is your last chance, you must escape. Go the pathway and get out of here!” The robot screams

“Ok.” Gohan says

He slings his sword over his shoulder and climbs on top of C-6 making his way out of the cave. He stands at the chasm once again and freezes, he looks down before taking a step back. He goes back to the edge again.

Gohan runs back to C-6, “I-I can’t do it!”

“Are you insane!” The robot exclaims

A snake slithers from the top of C-6 and lunges at Gohan. Using its free hand C-6 swats away the serpent, allowing the pillar to fall on top of it. The felled pillar blocks the way out and crushes C-6. 

With its dome cracked C-6 says, “Gohan, press the top button on my left above the standby mode button. It's the only way to escape now..” 

Gohan does as C-6 says and his eyes go dark for a moment. 

A bunch of whirring and beeps are heard as its eyes turn on. A voice that doesn’t sound like C-6 comes from him.

“Low Power Mode deactivated.” 

C-6 lifts its other arm out the rubble and uses its flipper-like feet to pull itself out of the hole. With both arms carrying the pillar, C-6 chucks it out away from the exit.

“Don’t bite your tongue, Gohan.” C-6 says

“Don’t bite my… Woah!” Gohan is picked up by C-6

C-6 turns to the exit and throws Gohan out of the cave. Gohan soars to the other side of the chasm and lands right on the edge. As he turns back, the cave collapses in on itself. The surrounding rocks of the cave fall into the chasm as sand dust and debris obscure everything. 

“C-6!!!!” Gohan cries out

The boy without thought jumps down into the chasm. He hops down using large rock formations and footholds all the way down. Gohan scrambles around the bottom looking for C-6 until a glint catches his eye. Gohan runs towards the light and finds C-6, crushed underneath a large boulder. Tears start to stream down the boy’s face.

“C-6, I’m sorry it's my fault, all my fault.” He cries, “I’m so sorry.

“G-gggohan?” C-6’s voice distorts even more

The glass dome over its face is gone and the lights it uses for eyes are cracked.

“C-6 you’re alive!” Gohan exclaims 

“You have to learn how to take care of yourself.” C-6 says

Gohan starts digging up debris and sand, “Don’t worry, I’ll get you out of here.” 

“Gohan, that won’t do any good, my power cells are depleted and my body is broken.” C-6 says as his eyes flicker on and off, “In the 45 years I was trapped alone in the ruins, I am glad that you were the person I met.”

“C-6, No!” Gohan's tears come harder, “I can’t just leave you here not like this.”

“Be strong, Goha….” The light fades from C-6

C-6!!!!!!” Gohan yells out, “Noooo!!!”

Gohan presses the red buttons over and over again as he cries. He raises his fist in anger and brings it down, only stopping right before he hits C-6. 

“No!” Gohan thinks to himself, “I have to survive, I have to get home!” 

Gohan shakes away the tears and looks up to the top of the chasm. He jumps back the way he came. Gohan with a determined look in his eye walks towards the sun.

“I have to.”

Chapter Text

Gohan sits alone in a cave, a fire illuminates the area, as a storm rages outside. A skeleton of large fish is laid next to the flame and a leaf holding some berries and mushrooms. The boy crushes a couple small plants between two rocks. An oily substance is squeezed out of the plants, and Gohan holds up his arm showing a scrape. He winces in pain as he applies the substance.

“2x2=4, 2x3=6, 2x4=8.” Gohan says to himself, “2x5=10 2x6=….” He sighs as his mind starts to wonder, “How can I get through the desert?” Gohan yawns, “I’ll think about it tomorrow.”

The young boy lays his head down as the fire warms him and falls asleep. As the sun rises on a new day, the cave Gohan resides in is illuminated as the fire from the night before had burned out. Gohan awakens and reaches for the leaf with berries on it. He rubs his eyes with his other arm as he feels something strange. Gohan rubs the strange thing, it’s warm, rough and it’s fleshy. As Gohan turns his head to look he comes face to face with a blue dinosaur. Gohan screams and the dinosaur roars as Gohan runs out of the cave. Gohan stands by the entrance to the cave, with a scared expression.

“Wait, I need to be brave, if I want to get home.” He thinks, “My daddy would be brave.”

Gohan turns back to the cave as a tall long neck dinosaur exits it. Gohan puts his hands up sloppily and stands firm with trembling legs. The dinosaur completely ignores the boy as it stumbles onto the wet grass and falls over. Gohan skittishly approaches the dinosaur, as he looks at it he sees the green grass has been soaked in red. There is a large gash in the long neck’s side.

“You’re hurt.” Gohan says, concerned, “Wait right here!”

Gohan runs back into the cave and feels around the floor where he slept. He grabs the leaf and rock from yesterday. He runs back outside and starts climbing the outside of the cave. Once he reaches the top, he finds a bunch of the small plants he used yesterday. He gathers a lot of them and climbs back down to the dinosaur. He places the leaf on the ground then places the plants atop the leaf. He grinds the plants onto the leaf using the rock. He moves closer to the dinosaur and places the leaf on its side. It growls at him and shakes around. Gohan holds the leaf in place while the long-neck tries to shake it off.

“I know it hurts but I promise this will help you feel better!” Gohan pleads

Gohan runs to the face of the long-neck and raises his arm. The long-neck smells his arm and then smells its side and calms down. The long-neck lays its head down and exhales deeply. The ground shakes as its stomach rumbles.

Gohan laughs, “You must be hungry.”

The young boy runs through the wasteland. He makes his way to a plateau and he quickly climbs it, once at the top he finds a large tree filled with blue heart shaped fruits. Gohan walks up to the trunk of the tree and picks up some of the blue fruits that had fallen. As he grabs the fruits, a snake comes out of the grass. It hisses as the boy and sways. Gohan gently picks up the snake and moves it to behind it. The snake looks back at him confused before it slithers away. Gohan takes a bite of one of them and a syrupy juice comes out of it.

“These things are delicious, despite how weird they look.” Gohan says

The young boy walks around the plateau and finds berry bushes and smaller trees with nuts splayed across the ground. He picks them up and walks to the edge of the plateau. He looks down and grimaces.

“I can’t climb down like this.” He thinks, “Well I have to get down.”

He takes a deep breath, steps back and hops off. The berries, nuts and fruits fly out of his arms as he falls.

“Oh no I got to…” Gohan starts as he lands on the ground. Shocks go through his body paralyzing him with his arms in the carrying position. The fruit berries and nuts all fall neatly in his arms, “…catch them.” He finishes

Gohan makes his way back to the cave. He drops his haul in front of the long-neck. The dinosaur sticks its tongue out and eats all of it in one gulp. Gohan rubs the long-neck’s nose.

“You’re going to be okay, my daddy taught me how to make that medicine.” The boy says as his stomach growls, “I need to get me some breakfast too. I’ll be back.”

Gohan runs off again in a different direction this time. He runs past a boulder and stops. He turns around and walks back to the boulder. He looks at it for a second before he raises his fist and strikes it with his full force. Gohan winces in pain and shakes his hand.

He sighs, “I guess I haven’t gotten much stronger.”

Gohan continues running, and a few moments after he leaves, the boulder shatters. Soon, Gohan comes across a pond. It is surrounded by a couple of short bushes and shrubs. Gohan digs through the shrubs and bushes and grabs some leaves and sticks. The young boy stands at the water’s edge and holds his hand out. He extends his arm out further and scrunches his face. His face turns red and his body trembles. A golden aura surrounds his arm and a ball of ki fires from his hand. It hits the pond causing a large explosion. Fish rain from the sky and Gohan collects them.

“I still can’t do it right.” He pouts

The boy makes his way back to the cave. The long-neck raises its head as he approaches. Gohan goes back into the cave and relights the flame. He sticks the fish on the sticks he’s gathered and throws some of the foliage he grabbed into the fire.

Gohan intently watches the flames as the fish cooks. It takes a few minutes but once they're browned he takes them outside and sits by the long-neck as he eats. He looks behind him at the long-neck.

“Are you feeling better?” He asks,

The dinosaur moves its head to Gohan and licks him.

Gohan laughs, “Stop, that tickles! The dinosaur stops, “My name is Gohan, it’s nice to meet you. I want to get out of here, do you know how to get through the desert?”

The long-neck snorts at Gohan.

Gohan sighs, “I guess you wouldn’t know,” He rests his head on his hand, “If I only had a plane or a bo…” Gohan’s eyes widen, “That’s it, I can build a sand boat!” He jumps up, and turns to the long neck, “In my new history books, I learned that before cars, some people built sand boats, to quickly get through deserts! Thank you mommy!” 

Gohan jumps around in joy. The long-neck tilts its head in confusion and lays it down. Gohan runs into the cave and grabs his sword before running back into the wilderness. Gohan travels all across the wasteland as he gathers materials. He takes his sword cuts down any long grass he comes across. He climbs atop of rock formations for any sticks he could find. Once he has gathered an arm full, Gohan makes his way back to the cave. As he makes his way back, Gohan hears the cries of the long neck and the roars of a different dinosaur. The young boy drops everything in his hand and runs towards the source of the noise. Gohan sees the dayinosaur with the X-scar attacking the long-neck. Gohan pulls out his sword to attack the X-scar. He jumps at the X-scar and is swatted away with its tail. Gohan is dent flying into a nearby rock formation. He hits the back of his head and falls to the ground. His sword lands in the ground right in front of him. Gohan’s eyes become hazy, as he passes out the last thing he sees is his pained expression. Red wisps start to form and tears start to well in his eyes as unconscious takes its hold.