Post by Krillin on Nov 2, 2010 1:49:11 GMT -5
Chapter 15: New Allies Received
"Why won't the Dragon Balls work for me?" screamed Frieza angrily. He'd tried for the tenth time to wish for immortality, but each time the Dragon Balls did nothing.
"Perhaps there's some sort of password," said Captain Ginyu. "Some hidden word that must be spoken. I can try the dance of hidden words, if you'd like."
"No more dancing!" said Frieza. "Let me check my scouter. There must be at least one more Namek around that I haven't dealt with yet."
Frieza and Ginyu began checking their scouters. "There's a few Nameks over there," said Frieza. "You stay here and guard my Dragon Balls. I'll take care of this personally."
"Of course, Lord Frieza." Frieza shot off in his hover vehicle, flying towards the two power signatures.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Within moments, Ginyu and Jeice were on Gohan. Gohan managed to block every single one of the initial blows.
I need some back up, thought Gohan. Shooting a meaningful glance down at Krillin, he tried to convey his need for help.
"Right!" screamed Krillin, getting the message. Charging in to help Gohan, he launched a flurry of attacks at Jeice.
Jeice turned and managed to dodge every blow Krillin threw. Gohan smashed him in his back, knocking him down. Krillin took advantage of the situation to throw Jeice to the ground.
Burter punched Krillin in the head, knocking him down, but was soon met by another spree of attacks from Gohan, which he managed to block.
Jeice, taking advantage of the situation, came up and punched Gohan in the head, stunning him. Burter delivered an energy blast directly to Gohan's stomach. Gohan was propelled back into a mountain.
Gohan crawled out of the rubble. He was hurt, but not too badly.
"This kid is just too much!" exclaimed Jeice, watching the half-Saiyan emerge.
"I think it's time for a combined assault," said Burter. The two members of the Ginyu Force pressed their arms together, launching a combined energy blast at Gohan.
The power was far too much for Gohan to deflect, and had to take the blast full on. He was down, hurting pretty badly. He felt like he had a few broken ribs.
I need to keep fighting, thought Gohan. I need to stop them, or else we're all doomed.
Just then, there was a loud roar overhead. Looking up, all the fighters saw a bright spot of light descending to the planet.
"Who's that, I wonder," asked Burter, not too concerned.
"Maybe it's some of the locals back from vacation," said Jeice.
"They have no idea what they're getting into." The two laughed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
At the landing site, the smoke cleared, revealing a perfectly round ship, with the Capsule Corporation logo on it's side. The door opened, and Goku stepped out.
"It feels like the battle's already begun," said Goku to himself. Patting the Sensu beans tied to his belt, he took off, flying at an incredible speed towards where he felt the others.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It's my dad," panted Gohan, too weak to yell in joy. "He's finally here!"
Within seconds, the orange-and-blue clad Saiyan had landed.
"Who do you think you are?" shouted Jeice at the newcomer. "Don't you know to mind your own business?" He flew at Goku, throwing a punch. His punch only passed through the after-image of where Goku had been.
Goku had moved over to Gohan. "How are you feeling, son?"
"I'm fine," said Gohan.
"Yeah, you look like it. Here, take this." He handed Gohan a Sensu bean.
Gohan ate it without protest. Within seconds, his injuries were completely healed. "I feel stronger than ever!" he exclaimed. "I'm ready to fight again!"
"I know you are, Gohan, but let me handle this."
"But they're too powerful! You'll need my help!"
"You let me worry about them. I think Krillin needs our help right now though." The two flew over to where Krillin lay.
"Hey, Goku," said the monk, unable to sit up. "You made it."
"Yeah, just in time from the looks of it," said Goku. "Here, take this."
Krillin hopped up. "Alright! I'm healed!"
Goku looked over to Vegeta. "Hey, Vegeta! Catch!" He threw the remaining Sensu bean to Vegeta.
"What is this?" asked Vegeta, looking at the bean.
"Eat it! You'll be healed!"
Soon, Vegeta was completely healed. "I feel stronger than ever!"
"Hey, Gohan!" said Krillin suddenly. "We should probably go find the Dragon Balls. We'll need to get the radar from Bulma, so we'd better get going."
"Right!" The two shot off to where they'd last seen Bulma.
"Now," said Goku, turning to face the two remaining enemies, "You have no idea what you're dealing with. Leave this planet now."
"We'll never surrender to a puny Saiyan like you!" screamed Burter. "Jeice- let's go!"
"Yeah, let's get him!" shouted Jeice. The two Ginyu Force members shot directly at Goku. Every punch they threw, though, seemed to pass right through him.
"Why can't we hit him!" screamed Burter in frustration.
"Maybe it's because I'm moving too fast for you," said Goku from behind him. His after image faded away.
Burter and Jeice shot an energy blast at him. Goku simply moved before they could hit him again.
"I gave you your one chance," said the Saiyan. Knocking Burter out cold, he turned to Jeice. "I recommend you leave now. Your teammates will be a little sore, but they'll recover. Never come back here."
This guy's way too powerful, thought Jeice, panicking. I better go get the Captain. I don't stand a chance.
Just then, there was a loud explosion. Vegeta had finished Recoome off. Shooting into the air, he kneed Burter in the neck, killing him.
"Vegeta!" said Goku, furious. "They were defenseless! That was low!"
"They would have come back and tried to finish us off!" said Vegeta. "They already would have killed your son and friend if you hadn't shown up in time."
"You know how to receive mercy, but not to give it."
"I don't need a lecture, Kakarot. The one you let go could bring about your end, and the end of your son as well."
Goku and Vegeta continued to glare at each other.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Captain Ginyu was overseeing Frieza's crew hiding the Dragon Balls. He had done the safest thing he could think of with them- he'd buried them beneath sand.
"Work faster, men! You need to work with style if you're going to become members of the Ginyu Force! Style!"
Just then, his scouter indicated an approaching power level. That's Jeice, thought Captain Ginyu.
Within seconds, Jeice had landed. "Captain, sir!"
"Where are the others?" asked Captain Ginyu, noticing the absence of the other three Ginyu Force members.
"They're down and out, sir."
Maybe those guys were stronger than I thought, thought Captain Ginyu. "Who did it? Vegeta and his allies?"
"Partly, sir- they took out Guldo and Recoome. But Burter and I had them down for the count, and some other guy showed up! He gave the three some sort of food, and they were up and as good as new! Burter and I attacked, giving him everything we had, but we just couldn't touch him! He took Burter out, and gave me the chance to run! I did run, sir, but to ask you for help!"
Someone strong enough to take on Jeice and Burter and not even get touched? thought Ginyu. "Alright, Jeice. Let's go." The two shot off in the direction of the battlefield.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So what do you have planned now, Kakarot?" asked Vegeta, irritated.
"Let's worry about that Captain Ginyu guy first," said Goku. "I can sense that he's on his way here, and he's powerful."
"Then allow me to let you deal with him yourself," said Vegeta, laughing. Taking off, he flew at an incredible speed somewhere else.
Within minutes, Jeice and Captain Ginyu had landed. "You've really done it now, mate," said Jeice. "The Captain's here, and he's not happy."
"So you're the one who took down Burter," said Ginyu, looking Goku over. "Well, I am the Captain of the Ginyu Force, and I am the second strongest fighter in the universe! Nobody can defeat me!"
"Yeah," said Goku. "I can feel your power, and I have to say I'm not all that impressed."
"What?" asked Ginyu. "Unfortunately for you, I also have the coveted ability to raise my fighting power in an instant. You can't possibly tell my full power."
"You're not very good at concealing it," said Goku. "I can sense deeper than the power you're displaying openly. Your scouters aren't very good for determining a power level if your opponent has any sort of skill at concealing it. Once you can sense power, though, you can truly learn how to conceal it."
"All right then," said Captain Ginyu, smiling. "If you're as good as you say you are, why don't you show me your full power?"
Goku smiled. "All right, then. You asked for it." He braced himself. Captain Ginyu smiled, and clicked his scouter.
Goku began to scream. The wind picked up around him as his power started to grow and grow. Captain Ginyu's look of confidence became one of horror as his scouter kept indicating Goku's power rising.
"Hey! Stop that!" Ginyu looked on in ever increasing panic. "90,000- 100,000- 110,000- NOW IT'S OVER MINE!"
Goku finally finished up. "So, what does your scouter say?"
Ginyu gripped his head in panic. "IT'S AT 180,000!"
"180,000!" screamed Jeice. "Burter and I didn't even stand a chance!"
"I'll give you one last chance," said Goku. "Leave now. I don't want to fight you. You don't have to hurt people."
"The captain of the Ginyu Force does not surrender!" screamed Ginyu. He launched himself at Goku. Goku managed to dodge every single punch easily.
"All you have to do is apologize," said Goku. "Then you can leave in peace."
"Apologize?" asked Ginyu. He smirked. "I believe I actually have a better idea."
He removed his scouter. "Jeice, catch." He threw it down.
"All right, Captain Ginyu!" said Jeice, realizing what was about to happen.
"I'm about to show you the true power of the Ginyu!" said Captain Ginyu. Charging up a fist, he wounded himself quite severely.
"What are you doing?" asked Goku, shocked. This guy's completely insane!
"BODY CHANGE!" screamed Captain Ginyu. A beam of energy shot out from his mouth and entered Goku's.
A few moments later, the technique was complete. "What… what did you do?" asked Goku, looking at Captain Ginyu, who was in Goku's body.
(From this point until the end of the body-change, Goku is Goku, despite being in Ginyu's body, and Ginyu is Ginyu, despite being in Goku's body)
"I simply swapped bodies with you," said Captain Ginyu.
"Captain," said Jeice, flying up to Ginyu. "Here's your scouter, sir."
"Good," said Ginyu, taking the scouter and putting it on. "Now, Jeice, let's get back to the ship. Frieza will be pleased to hear I defeated the one called 'Goku.'"
"Right, Captain." The two shot off back towards the ship.
You may be hiding in my body, Ginyu, thought Goku, but you'll still lose.
-DBZ: SGTW-
In an unexpected turn of events, Goku is Ginyu and Ginyu is Goku. Will this spell the end for our heroes? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 16: We Claim This Ship
"There she is!" shouted Gohan to Krillin, spotting Bulma. The two swooped down and landed next to Bulma.
"Where have you two been?" screamed the woman. "I want answers!"
"No time to explain, Bulma!" said Krillin, grabbing the Dragon Radar. "Got it, let's go!" The two shot back off into the air, now heading towards Frieza's ship.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Dende, my child," said Guru, "Come here."
Dende approached Guru. "Yes sir?"
"I have a gift for you. To help you on your mission." Guru laid his hand on Dende's head. A bright aura surrounded Dende, but after a few moments, it was gone. Dende looked at himself in awe.
"It's okay, Dende," said Guru. "Don't be scared of this new power that you feel within you, son. It has always existed inside of you. I merely uncovered it."
"Must I go?" asked Dende.
"The sooner the better, my son."
Dende nodded. "Goodbye, Guru. And don't you go dying on me, okay?" Dende ran out of the house. Guru watched as he took off into the air, flying off.
"Be strong, my little warrior," said Guru. "It pleases me that in these dark hours a flame so small burns so brightly. Deliver the password to the Earthlings, so that they may have their wish."
-DBZ: SGTW-
It looks like Frieza's away on errands, thought Vegeta, looking over Frieza's ship. Apart from the henchmen who were everywhere, there was nobody. This is going to be easier than coloring inside the lines.
Vegeta blasted every henchman he could see. Entering the ship, he walked to Frieza's private quarters. Blasting everyone he encountered, he entered the quarters only to find that the Dragon Balls were not there.
"Where are they?" screamed Vegeta in frustration. "Well, maybe I should have a look around. They'll turn up."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Dende was flying at maximum speed to meet up with Gohan and Krillin. Just then, he saw something up ahead. Before he had the opportunity to slow down, let alone stop, he'd passed by. Looking back, he saw it was Frieza.
Just a small fry, thought Frieza to himself. Kids are learning to fly earlier and earlier these days.
Frieza began the ascent up to the top of the pillar Guru's house stood on. Within seconds, he'd reached the house. "Hello?" said Frieza. "Is anyone home?"
The door opened, and Nail stepped out. "I'm home. Welcome, friend."
"Why thank you very much. I'm a visitor here, touring your lovely planet, and I happened to find seven Dragon balls. A man at the gift shop told me about the legend behind the balls. You know, the wish. But the balls don't work unless you have a password. Would you happen to have the password, my good man?"
"Not me. You should check with the Chamber of Commerce, friend. They have that sort of information."
Frieza chuckled. "The chamber is dead, my good man. And so are you if you don't tell me the password."
"I'll never tell you the password," said Nail, dropping all pretense at formality.
"Oh?" asked Frieza. "Then maybe your friend will."
"My friend is a very old man. He's dying as it is, and he doesn't need your help. Besides, you wouldn't hurt him anyways."
"And why is that?"
"He created the Dragon balls. If he dies, they go with him. See?"
"Well then," said Frieza, disappointed. "I guess I'll have to just beat on you until he's ready to speak."
"I'll fight you," said Nail. "But not here. Follow me." He took off, Frieza right behind him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
I can't believe I regained my strength so quickly, thought Vegeta to himself. Now all I have to do is focus on my power. Still, that little brat's stronger than me. I'll need to find out how he improved.
Vegeta put on a new suit of armor, without the shoulder guards that his last pair had. Putting on gloves, he sensed something.
It appears I have company. I believe I'll observe them. Maybe they'll lead me to the Dragon Balls. Walking outside, he hid as he watched Gohan and Krillin land.
"According to the radar," said Gohan, "the Dragon Balls are not in the ship."
"Huh?" asked Krillin, confused. "Why not?"
"They probably thought they would be able to find them easier if they were there." Gohan walked over to a spot of land. "I think it says they're buried right here."
Gohan blasted the dirt. "There they are!" Luckily, he'd gotten it right the first time, and there were the seven Dragon Balls.
"I wish we knew the password," said Krillin. "Didn't Goku say there was a password?"
Oh great, thought Vegeta. They don't even know the password.
"Krillin," said Gohan, looking into the sky, "I think I hear something coming."
"There's two of them," said Krillin. "We'd better get under cover. This doesn't feel right."
Just then, Captain Ginyu and Jeice set down. Gohan felt an overwhelming urge to hide, despite the fact that Ginyu was in his father's body. "Krillin, something feels weird."
"What's weird?" said Krillin. "It's your dad!"
"Yeah, but what's he doing with Jeice? And why is he wearing that scouter?"
Krillin looked Goku up and down. "You might be right."
"There's one last thing. Look into his eyes."
Krillin did so, and he saw something that he'd never seen in Goku's eyes before- the desire for power, for everything evil.
"Let's be cautious," said Krillin, realizing that this wasn't right. "Hey, Goku!" shouted Krillin, keeping himself ready for any sign of attack. "What took you so long?"
"Captain Ginyu was a great fighter," said Ginyu, playing along as if he was Goku. Gohan, however, realized that his father would never talk about an enemy like that. "Now," continued Ginyu, "how did you find the Dragon Balls?"
Krillin and Gohan realized immediately that this wasn't Goku, but played along. "We noticed the ground had been dug up," said Krillin.
"Did you make a wish?" asked Ginyu, starting to panic. If Frieza gets back and the Dragon Balls can't be used, I'm dead!
"No, we didn't know the password. Do you know it?" Krillin watched as Gohan snuck around to the opposite side, waiting for an opportunity.
"Maybe. Why don't I try?" Ginyu turned to the Dragon Balls. Gohan saw his opportunity and tripped Ginyu, knocking him down. Krillin punched Jeice in the stomach, knocking him backwards.
"I don't know what you've done with my father, Captain Ginyu," said Gohan, staring down into the face he knew so well, "but you won't get away with it."
"Wh- what are you talking about?" asked Ginyu, trying to buy time.
"Don't play dumb. I recognize your voice."
This is nuts! thought Vegeta, transfixed. If Ginyu's in Kakarot's body, where's Kakarot?
His questions were answered when he saw Goku in Ginyu's body flying over. "Of course!" said Vegeta to himself. "If Ginyu's in Kakarot's body, then Kakarot must be in Ginyu's body!"
"Gohan! Krillin!" yelled Goku. "Captain Ginyu's stolen my body!"
"Yeah, we know!" yelled Krillin.
"You don't stand a chance against me," said Ginyu, laughing. "So you saw through my little trick. Big deal. Now I'll just have to kill you the old-fashioned way."
"You'll never reach full power," said Goku, smiling. "You don't understand that body as well as I do."
"Oh really?" asked Ginyu. Getting up, he began to power up. "Jeice! Give me a reading!"
Jeice clicked his scouter. "Uh... 23,000 sir... and going down!"
"Now you see how hopeless- wait, WHAT?" screamed Ginyu, finally hearing Jeice's words. "That's not possible! I should be at 180,000!"
"Gohan! Krillin!" yelled Goku. "Take him down!"
Gohan and Krillin charged into combat against Ginyu, who was unable to stop the flurry of attacks. Falling back, he clicked his scouter.
"400,000!" screamed Ginyu. "THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE! THERE'S NO WAY HE COULD HAVE THAT MUCH POWER!"
"NO WAY!" screamed Jeice. "THAT CAN'T BE RIGHT!"
"Oh, but it is," said a voice from behind him. Whipping around, he saw none other than Vegeta standing there.
"V-Vegeta!" screamed Jeice, backing up. Clicking a button on his scouter, he then screamed, "NO! 300,000!"
"We Saiyans get stronger after every battle. The worse we are beaten, the more power we gain," said Vegeta, grinning. "The kid is half-Saiyan, which accounts for his increase."
Jeice took off into the air running. Vegeta launched an energy blast, killing Jeice instantly.
"Vegeta!" yelled Goku. "That was not necessary! He'd given up!"
Vegeta simply ignored Goku.
Meanwhile the fight between Ginyu and Gohan was completely one-sided. Ginyu was over matched in every aspect except technique, which Gohan was equal in.
Gohan disappeared and reappeared behind Ginyu, knocking him down. "Had enough yet?"
Ginyu groaned, as he was far too weak to get up. Still, he had a cocky smile on his face. "Time for another switch!"
"Oh no!" screamed Goku, realizing what was about to happen. He leapt towards Ginyu as fast as he possibly could.
"Body Change!" screamed Ginyu, sending out a beam directly at Gohan. Goku, though, got in between the two, taking the beam himself.
When the light cleared, both Goku and Ginyu were back in their right bodies.
"Dad, are you alright?" shouted down Gohan.
"I'm fine," shouted back Goku.
Krillin came and landed over next to Goku. "Okay, then tell me- how did we find the Dragon Balls?"
Goku simply smiled. "You went and got the Dragon Radar from Bulma."
"Gohan!" shouted Krillin to his friend. "Your dad's in his right body again!"
"Listen, Ginyu," shouted Gohan to the injured enemy. "This is your last chance. Leave the planet now or else we will have to finish this."
"No," said Vegeta, blasting Ginyu through his heart. "We finish this now."
"Vegeta!" shouted Goku, angry again.
"You're far too soft, Kakarot," said Vegeta. "If Ginyu had used his body change technique on your son, we'd all be dead by now. Now, let's get you in a regeneration tank. We may need your help to deal with Frieza."
The three of them carried Goku into the medical bay, where they had a slight problem when Goku spotted a needle. Afterwards, Goku was submerged in a tank, healing from all his injuries.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will Goku recover in time to help the others? Will Dende make it in time to deliver the password to the others? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 17: Race for a Wish
Frieza frowned. This Namek had been leading him for a while now. He'd promised to take him to a better place to fight, but they still hadn't landed.
His impatience finally getting the better of him, he pulled ahead of Nail. "This is far enough. We will fight here."
"Fine," said Nail, landing. Frieza landed right in front of him.
"Before you begin your pathetic struggle to survive, I should warn you that you stand no chance."
"I'm not like the rest of the Nameks you've faced. I've been fully trained in the arts of combat." Nail began powering up. Throwing his arms out, the ground began to shake.
"My goodness," said Frieza, looking at his scouter. "According to my scouter, I may have underestimated your strength. But you still pale in comparison to what I have in store for you." Frieza smiled. "The light show was impressive, but in all relative terms, I'm five hundred thousand times stronger than you."
Nail grunted in disbelief.
"Observe my left hand," said Frieza, holding the hand in question up. "It's strength alone is enough to crush you. As a special one-time bonus, I will fight you with my other hand behind my back."
"It's time to fight!" screamed Nail, charging at Frieza. He delivered a massive blow to Frieza's shoulder, which didn't phase Frieza in the slightest.
"You don't seem to understand," said Frieza, grabbing onto Nail's arm. "You don't stand a chance." He ripped Nail's arm clean off of his body.
Nail screamed in pain, falling to the ground. "Oh, my," said Frieza, laughing. "That has got to hurt."
Frieza was shocked when a new arm shot out from the wound. Nail got up, ready to fight again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Here, take these," said Vegeta to Krillin and Gohan, handing them each a suit of armor. "When we fight Frieza, the added protection will help you."
The two suited up into their new armor. Gohan's was an exact replica of Vegeta's old armor, the set he arrived on Namek in. Krillin's was more like the suits Raditz and Nappa wore.
"So, what do we do now?" asked Krillin.
"We stay here and keep an eye on the Dragon Balls," said Vegeta. "You two go keep an eye on them. I'm going to take a little nap."
"So, while we're waiting for Frieza or someone to shop up," said Gohan angrily, "You're going to be taking a nap?"
"Yeah," said Vegeta. "Now, go watch those Dragon Balls."
Gohan and Krillin walked outside, looking over the Dragon Balls. "Man, I hate it when Vegeta bosses us around," complained Krillin. "It's like he's just using us for personal gain."
"Yeah, but we need his help," said Gohan. "And he needs ours. Frieza is more powerful than any of us, so we need to work together to have any hope of defeating him."
"Yeah, you're right. Still, why don't you just stand up to him? You're stronger."
"Vegeta's not the kind of person that bends to power. If he did, he'd still be following Frieza's orders."
The two looked at the Dragon Balls. "One of us should go and get the password from Guru," said Krillin. "Frieza's near there, so it'd be hard to get there, but we could."
"We'd better not risk anything until my dad gets better," said Gohan, sensing in the direction of Guru's house. "Frieza's too close for comfort, though it feels like someone's distracting him. Wait- I sense something coming towards us."
"Who?" asked Krillin, confused. "I don't sense anything."
"It's not a strong power," said Gohan, his eyes shut, trying to place the power. "But whoever it is, they're coming here. And they're nearly here."
Just then, the person passed over a mountain. "It's Dende!" shouted Krillin.
Dende spotted Krillin and Gohan. The first thing he recognized was the armor they were wearing- he turned and almost started to run away. Krillin flew up to meet him.
"Dende! It's us!" Dende relaxed when he recognized Krillin.
"Hey!" shouted Dende in relief. "Guru sent me to tell you guys the password!"
"Alright!" said Gohan, thrilled. "Now we can wish Piccolo back!"
"Yeah," said Krillin. "But I'm thinking we should move the Dragon Balls away from the ship, you know?"
"Why's that?" asked Gohan.
"I don't really want to let Vegeta have a wish."
Gohan turned and looked at the ship. "Yeah, it'd be best not to let him know we're summoning the Dragon." The three flew down and gathered up the Dragon Balls.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Nail fell to the ground, battered and bloody. He'd been stalling for some time, buying time for Dende.
"Nail," said the voice of Guru in his head. "Dende has reached the Earthlings. Thank you for everything, my child."
Nail smiled. He looked Frieza right in the eyes. "I'm going to let you in on a little secret," said the Namekian, smiling. "Our plan worked perfectly."
"What plan?" asked Frieza, smirking.
"We sent Dende off to the Earthlings with the password to summon the Dragon," said Nail. The tyrant's smirk fell right off his face. "He's reached them by now. You'll never make it back in time."
"WHY YOU DIRTY LITTLE-" screamed Frieza. He shot into the air, heading towards his ship. "I'M GOING TO KILL THOSE DIRTY MONKEYS ONCE AND FOR ALL!"
Nail laid his head down, glad he'd done his part right.
-DBZ: SGTW-
The three looked down at the Dragon Balls, lying there. They'd moved them to the other side of a mountain, hiding from Vegeta.
"Alright, Dende," said Gohan. "Summon the Dragon."
Dende recited some words in Namekian, one of which was the Dragon's name, Porunga. Immediately, the sky went dark, and a bright beam of light shot up from the seven Dragon Balls. A huge, muscular Dragon appeared.
"Oh, wow!" said Gohan, looking at the Dragon in awe.
"You who have summoned me," said Porunga in a booming voice, "I will grant you three wishes."
"Dende, wish for everyone on Earth killed by Vegeta except Nappa to be returned to life!"
Dende translated the wish. "That is not within my power," said Porunga. "I can only restore one life with each wish."
The three's face fell. "King Kai," shouted Krillin, trusting him to be watching. "We can only wish back one person per wish."
-DBZ: SGTW-
King Kai had indeed been watching. As soon as he'd relayed the information to the others, Piccolo had stepped forward. "Tell them to wish me back."
"What's the big idea?" protested Yamcha. Tien also looked suspicious. "Don't we get any say?"
Piccolo turned to the others, agitated. "Listen! I know what I'm doing! If I'm wished back, it means Kami's back too, which means the Earth's Dragon Balls are back!"
The others shut up and smiled. "Wow, great idea, Piccolo!"
"Piccolo's the man!" said Tien.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Gohan, can you hear me?" asked King Kai to Gohan.
"Hey, it's King Kai," said Gohan, staring into the sky.
"Gohan, the others have discussed it, and they've decided to wish Piccolo back."
"Right!" Gohan turned to Krillin. "Wish Piccolo back!"
Dende translated the wish. Porunga's eyes glowed. "It is done."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Back on King Kai's planet, they watched as Piccolo's halo disappeared.
"You're alive!" screeched Chiaotzu, happy.
"Alright!" said Piccolo. He walked up to King Kai and placed his hand on his back.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Gohan, it's me," said Piccolo. "I have a feeling you guys are going to be needing my help, so wish me to Namek."
"Bring Piccolo to Namek," said Gohan to Dende.
Dende translated the wish. "It is done."
They looked around. "Where is he?" asked Gohan, not seeing Piccolo.
"We wished him to Namek!" said Dende, realizing what had happened. "He's on the planet, but he's not right here!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Meanwhile, Vegeta had woken up from his nap. Looking outside, he was shocked to see the sky so dark.
Did I really sleep that long? he thought to himself. It's night already. Suddenly, he remembered something. This planet doesn't have nights! That means- "NO!" he screamed, realizing what was happening. He launched himself out of the ship. Sighting the Dragon, he didn't waste a second in shooting towards them.
Gohan looked up just in time to see Vegeta coming in for a landing. Drawing his sword, which he kept on his back even with his new outfit, he positioned himself between the Saiyan Prince and the Dragon Balls.
"You little idiot!" screamed Vegeta, rage contorting every feature of his face. "Don't you understand that our only chance to beat Frieza is if I'm immortal?"
"No, Vegeta," said Gohan. "We're doing things our way, not yours."
"Out of the way." Vegeta tried to backhand Gohan out of the way, but Gohan blocked it and within seconds he'd knocked Vegeta backwards.
"Hey, Gohan!" shouted Krillin. "What should our last wish be?"
Gohan didn't have time to decide when all of a sudden, the Dragon vanished. The Dragon Balls shot into the sky, and fell to the ground, stones.
"No..." said Dende, falling to his knees.
"Dende, what happened?" asked Krillin, confused.
"Guru's gone," said the child, starting to cry.
"He died before we could make the last wish!" said Krillin, horrified.
"But at least the Earth's Dragon Balls are back," said Gohan. "But for right now, we have bigger problems. You guys feel that?"
"It's Frieza," said Vegeta. "He's coming!"
"We're in trouble," said Krillin.
-DBZ: SGTW-
With only two wishes made, the Namekian Dragon Balls are gone. Now, Frieza is approaching, and he's out for blood. Can our heroes hold off the evil long enough for Goku to arrive? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 18: Battle with Frieza Begins
Piccolo tried to get his bearings straight. He'd realized that the Dragon had dropped him on the completely wrong side of Namek, and now was just trying to figure out how to get to Gohan.
I can sense Gohan, said Piccolo. He's fine for now, but I'd better hurry. He took off in the direction of his pupil.
Just then, he sensed another power, far fainter, and decreasing by the minute. He was directly in the opposite way of the direction Frieza was traveling, so Piccolo decided to check it out while he had a moment.
Coming in for a landing, Piccolo saw Nail, heavily injured. "He looks like me!" said Piccolo. "Could be worse, I guess. This guy has definitely seen better days."
"Yeah, you could say that again," said Nail, looking with one eye at the other Namekian. "What a drag, huh?" He looked at Piccolo in more detail. "Hey, it's you. Guess the Earthlings got to make their wishes. I love it."
"I see. Well, if you know me, then you'll know I'm out of time. I'm quite sure we've never met before, but I'm glad your beating sure hasn't made you lose your sense of humor. You take good care of yourself, my friend."
"Wait a sec," said Nail, as Piccolo began to walk away. "I can sense your great power, but I just don't think it's going to be enough."
"We'll see."
"If only you had come back as your original self, you could have beaten Frieza for sure."
"What!" Piccolo turned to face Nail.
"I've fought him," continued Nail. "I know how strong he is."
"So, if I united with Kami, I'd have what I need right now." Piccolo grimaced. "How ironic. He's probably laughing so hard we could hear him all the way from Earth."
"No, you're wrong. Nobody wants you to win as much as Kami does. His very survival depends on it."
Piccolo frowned. "Well, it's too late now, at any rate. And I think I would rather die than unite with that old geezer anyhow."
"Well, unite with me, then," said Nail. "It's the only help we can give. Sad, but true. I'm the last warrior on Namek."
"You are?" asked Piccolo, frowning again. "That's just great."
"I know, but if we unite, then you'll be much stronger than you are right now."
Piccolo began to turn away again. "I appreciate the offer, but there's just not enough room in me for the two of us."
"Oh, your ego's too big."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Listen," said Vegeta, still furious at Gohan and Krillin. "We need a plan, fast. Frieza is on his way here, and we don't stand a chance!"
"Well, what do you suggest?" asked Gohan angrily.
"Yes, Vegeta," said a voice from behind them. "What do you suggest?"
The three whipped around. There, standing on the cliff, was Frieza, an evil smile on his face.
"So you're the ones, huh? Naughty. I don't see how three shrimps and a burnt out Saiyan managed to get the best of the Ginyu Force. But now it's your turn! It's okay. It won't hurt too bad. Relax, death is my specialty. What do you say we get this thing started? I know how anxious you all are to resolve this dispute once and for all."
Frieza jumped up and flew slowly down to the bottom of the cliff.
"I always knew that you would turn on me someday, Vegeta. But I never knew when. Now I see that you were just waiting for the stakes to get higher before you played your hand." Frieza smiled. "I commend you. After all, it just might have worked. What a pity. I hope you enjoyed your little rebellion, because now it's over, my clever little warriors."
"You hate me," laughed Vegeta. "Like I care. I quit. I'm free now. All those years being nice to you, I could puke!"
"That's right, get it all out. Live boldly, even if it is just for a few minutes." Frieza began powering up.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Can't you feel that power?" asked Nail to Piccolo. "It's our only chance."
Piccolo was in awe at the power he felt from Frieza. "Why not? Alright." He knelt by the dying warrior. "You're on. But if I don't like it, you're out. Understand me?"
"Man," said Nail, smiling. "You're too much. Just wait. You'll be begging to keep me around."
Piccolo placed his hand on Nail's elbow. "Yeah, right. I doubt that. Now, tell me what to do, quick."
"Right. Just keep your hand right there."
"You can stay until we beat Frieza. After that, I'm gonna charge you rent. You got that?"
Nail smiled. A white aura surrounded him. When it cleared, he was gone.
Piccolo stood up and stared at his hands in awe. "Wow, unreal. My gosh. This is amazing! I feel INCREDIBLE! YES YES YES YES! I CAN WIN! I FEEL GREAT! I CAN DO THIS!"
He smiled. "I'm home! I'm alive! This is a miracle! I'm awake! I'm wide awake!" He took off into the air, flying towards the battlefield. "Hang on, Gohan! Here I come!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now look at me, Vegeta. Have you forgotten what I really am? You fool! How dare you challenge me!"
Vegeta continued to smirk. "You'd better wipe that smirk off your face, Vegeta!" Frieza shot a blast at Vegeta, who dodged it. Frieza continued to launch blast after blast at the Saiyan.
"Krillin," said Gohan. "Now is our chance! Frieza's distracted!"
Krillin looked at the tyrant in fear. "Right, but is that a good idea?"
"It may be our only chance!" The two moved into position, both launching energy waves at Frieza. Frieza turned and sent a blast in their direction. They dodged easily, and Frieza continued to launch.
Finally, Gohan moved in front of one and deflected it away.
Krillin was still in shock. "He's too strong... what are we going to do?"
"I know," said Frieza. "You're all going to perish!"
"Nonsense!" said Vegeta, joining the others. "Our chances of winning are just as good as your's are! Are you so blind that you haven't noticed our power is increasing with every attack?"
Vegeta looked at his allies. "Our power is enormous. Especially that little kid's. He's half-Saiyan, you know." Vegeta turned back to Frieza. "And I've become a Super Saiyan. Your worst nightmare."
Frieza laughed. "We'll pass that bridge when we come to it." Suddenly, any trace of a smile fell from Frieza's face. "That is if we EVER come to it, FOOL!" Frieza launched himself at Vegeta, who blocked the blow. Frieza sent his other hand at Vegeta, which was also blocked.
"You low-life Saiyan! How dare you!" The ground began to shake from the struggle.
"Should we help Vegeta?" asked Krillin, turning to Gohan.
"No," said Gohan. "We need to get a feel for Frieza's technique before we can do anything. Piccolo taught me that strength isn't everything. If you know your enemy better than he knows you, you have an advantage."
Krillin turned back to the fight. Gohan sure trusted Piccolo a lot.
Vegeta and Frieza had formed a crater around them. They both hopped out, landing on opposite sides. "Not bad," said Frieza, smiling. "You've definitely improved, Vegeta. I commend you. Perhaps you are close to becoming a Super Saiyan."
"Why don't you transform, Frieza?" said Vegeta.
"What does he mean?" asked Gohan, confused.
"Well, how bout it, Frieza, why don't you stop fooling around and show us the real you?"
"So," said Frieza, "you found out my little secret."
"That's right. Your loving minion Zarbon blurted it out."
"What's going on?" asked Krillin to Vegeta.
"The form of Frieza you see before you is not what he really is. It's just a clever camouflage. He can transform to his real self at any time. He just uses this form to conserve energy."
"Oh, you rude little ruffian," said Frieza. "I don't choose my real form because my power is too radical to control."
"That's just great," said Krillin.
"Don't listen to him," said Vegeta. "He's just saying that to intimidate you. His power won't increase that much."
"Is that so?" asked Frieza.
"Why don't you show us then?"
"Oh, all right," said Frieza, smiling. "I'll bare it all. Why not? Well, strap yourselves in. You're in for one heck of a ride!" He braced himself. "Oh, and Vegeta, I just wanted you to know that any remote chance you had of winning is about to go flying out the window! Oh, one more thing. It would be nice for somebody to give me a countdown."
"," said Vegeta quickly. "That good enough for you?"
"I love it," said Frieza. "Here goes!" A bright blue light enveloped him. He grew slightly, and his armor shattered.
"Who do you think you're fooling?" asked Vegeta. "You grew two inches and busted some armor. You call that a transformation?"
Frieza laughed. "Vegeta, it pains me to see you going through this. What a waste. I favored you so much. Why couldn't you just continue to obey me?"
"Obey? I just pretended to obey you, you fool. I've been waiting for any chance I got to destroy you once and for all!"
"So, you're just like your father, the good king. He couldn't wait to die either."
"Dodoria told me about how you destroyed the Saiyan race," said Vegeta. "But you were foolish enough to leave the strongest one alive. That is one mistake you're going to pay dearly for."
"You're just a bunch of talk. I've had enough of this. Allow me to show you something not even your worthless father got to see." A windstorm swept up as Frieza began his real transformation. His body grew much larger, his horns bent upwards, his voice got lower, and most importantly, his power skyrocketed.
Frieza looked at the three. "How do you like it? Allow me to mention to you, Vegeta, that my fighting power in this form is over one million."
"That's impossible!" shouted Vegeta in denial.
"Allow me to demonstrate," said Frieza. "Which one of you would like to go first?"
"I would," said Gohan, walking forward.
"Gohan!" screamed Krillin. "Are you nuts?"
This is the kid Vegeta said was powerful, thought Frieza, looking Gohan over. I'll still be able to take him no problem.
Gohan ignored Krillin. I've got to buy time for my father to get here, thought Gohan to himself. "What, are you scared, Frieza?"
Frieza laughed. "No, runt, I'm scared that you won't be much of a challenge!"
Gohan simply charged at Frieza, launching a flurry of punches and kicks. They tyrant managed to block every one, then backhanded Gohan in the face. "Not bad, kid. Vegeta was right, you definitely have power. But it's still not enough."
Gohan took that opportunity to launch a kick at Frieza's face, which got through. Frieza reared back a little from the blow. He charged up a blast and threw it, hitting Gohan directly in the stomach, sending him flying backwards.
"All worn out?" asked the tyrant, smiling at the half-Saiyan laying there, panting. "Too bad. I guess it's time for you to die."
Suddenly, out of nowhere, Krillin came flying in, a kick aimed directly at Frieza's head. Frieza simply stepped back, and when Krillin flew by, head-butt Krillin. One of Frieza's horns pierced Krillin's stomach, and he fell off into the water. Frieza walked forward and placed one of his feet on Gohan's head, preparing to crush the life out of him.
"I believe this is where we were," said Frieza. He looked up at Vegeta. "Vegeta, why so cold-hearted? Can't you see the boy is in pain? But you're too petrified to help him, aren't you?"
Even if I get Frieza off of him, the kid's still finished, thought Vegeta. It'd be better if he was put out of his misery. Why can't I stomach this? I've seen much worse without even blinking an eye.
"Destructo Disk!" screamed someone. The disk of energy was sent right at Frieza, who flipped over, avoiding a fatal hit, though his tail was cut in half.
Krillin began to charge up a second disk.
"WHAT?" screamed Frieza in shock. "IT'S THAT GUY? BUT HOW? HE WAS SHISH-KEBOB!"
The next disk split in to three disks, and Frieza barely managed to dodge them all.
Frieza charged at Krillin, which was exactly the reaction he was hoping for. He took off, flying as quickly as he could. As Frieza was off chasing Krillin, Dende ran forward, and placed his hands on Gohan. "Don't worry, Gohan," said the Namekian child. "You'll be fine." A glowing light surrounded Dende and Gohan.
Vegeta watched in awe as the light faded. Gohan got up and started punching, testing his strength.
Just then, Krillin came shooting back onto the scene. "All right! Mission accomplished!"
"Just one question," said Vegeta, looking at Krillin angrily. "Why did you keep that kid's power a secret?"
"We didn't know Dende could heal people!" said Krillin angrily. "If we'd known that, we would have had him heal Goku!"
Just then, Frieza returned. Gohan shot up and joined Krillin and Vegeta.
"What?" asked Frieza, flustered. "Him too? Maybe they did wish for immortality." Frieza started to get a little worried.
Gohan powered up to full power. "The kid's truly a Saiyan," said Vegeta with pride in his voice for his race. "He gets stronger after every battle!"
"Gohan's power is amazing," said Krillin, sensing Gohan's massive increase in power.
"He's flustered," said Vegeta. "We have a good chance if we all attack together. Hit it, boys!"
The three launched a wave of energy blasts at Frieza, who crossed his arms. When the smoke cleared, Frieza was a little scratched, but otherwise completely unharmed.
"Is that the best you got?" asked the tyrant. "You're pathetic. You'd better come up with a new game plan, amigos."
"What now?" asked Krillin.
"I don't know," said Vegeta, completely out of ideas.
"You guys stay out of this," said Gohan. "I'll take him on." He shot directly at Frieza. Before he could reach his enemy, a beam of white light shot out from the right, and stopped directly in front of him.
When the light cleared, it revealed itself to be Piccolo.
"It's Piccolo!" said Gohan, happy. "Am I dreaming? Is it really you?"
"Good to see you, Gohan," said the Namek, staring at Frieza. "So that's Frieza?"
"That's him," said Gohan, turning his attention back to the enemy.
"I see," said Piccolo. "King Kai thinks he's unbeatable. We'll find out."
"You're right," said Vegeta. "We will. But who are you? Just another weak Namek?" Piccolo continued to stare at Frieza. "I recognize you! You're the one we destroyed so easily on Earth! Why these fools wasted their wishes on bringing you back I don't know!"
"Do me a favor. Just keep your big mouth shut! Then, after we beat Frieza, it'll be you and me, head to head.
"Sure. I can go along with that. I guess some people just aren't satisfied with dying once."
"I suggest you go about your business, Namek," said Frieza. "I haven't decided to kill you, but I'm very close."
"I'd like to do this while I'm still young." Piccolo turned to the others. "Just stay out of this, if you don't mind."
Piccolo and Frieza landed. They continued to stare at each other, sizing the other up.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Does Piccolo have what it takes to take down Frieza single-handed? Or is he in over his head? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Word Count: 7,897
"Why won't the Dragon Balls work for me?" screamed Frieza angrily. He'd tried for the tenth time to wish for immortality, but each time the Dragon Balls did nothing.
"Perhaps there's some sort of password," said Captain Ginyu. "Some hidden word that must be spoken. I can try the dance of hidden words, if you'd like."
"No more dancing!" said Frieza. "Let me check my scouter. There must be at least one more Namek around that I haven't dealt with yet."
Frieza and Ginyu began checking their scouters. "There's a few Nameks over there," said Frieza. "You stay here and guard my Dragon Balls. I'll take care of this personally."
"Of course, Lord Frieza." Frieza shot off in his hover vehicle, flying towards the two power signatures.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Within moments, Ginyu and Jeice were on Gohan. Gohan managed to block every single one of the initial blows.
I need some back up, thought Gohan. Shooting a meaningful glance down at Krillin, he tried to convey his need for help.
"Right!" screamed Krillin, getting the message. Charging in to help Gohan, he launched a flurry of attacks at Jeice.
Jeice turned and managed to dodge every blow Krillin threw. Gohan smashed him in his back, knocking him down. Krillin took advantage of the situation to throw Jeice to the ground.
Burter punched Krillin in the head, knocking him down, but was soon met by another spree of attacks from Gohan, which he managed to block.
Jeice, taking advantage of the situation, came up and punched Gohan in the head, stunning him. Burter delivered an energy blast directly to Gohan's stomach. Gohan was propelled back into a mountain.
Gohan crawled out of the rubble. He was hurt, but not too badly.
"This kid is just too much!" exclaimed Jeice, watching the half-Saiyan emerge.
"I think it's time for a combined assault," said Burter. The two members of the Ginyu Force pressed their arms together, launching a combined energy blast at Gohan.
The power was far too much for Gohan to deflect, and had to take the blast full on. He was down, hurting pretty badly. He felt like he had a few broken ribs.
I need to keep fighting, thought Gohan. I need to stop them, or else we're all doomed.
Just then, there was a loud roar overhead. Looking up, all the fighters saw a bright spot of light descending to the planet.
"Who's that, I wonder," asked Burter, not too concerned.
"Maybe it's some of the locals back from vacation," said Jeice.
"They have no idea what they're getting into." The two laughed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
At the landing site, the smoke cleared, revealing a perfectly round ship, with the Capsule Corporation logo on it's side. The door opened, and Goku stepped out.
"It feels like the battle's already begun," said Goku to himself. Patting the Sensu beans tied to his belt, he took off, flying at an incredible speed towards where he felt the others.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It's my dad," panted Gohan, too weak to yell in joy. "He's finally here!"
Within seconds, the orange-and-blue clad Saiyan had landed.
"Who do you think you are?" shouted Jeice at the newcomer. "Don't you know to mind your own business?" He flew at Goku, throwing a punch. His punch only passed through the after-image of where Goku had been.
Goku had moved over to Gohan. "How are you feeling, son?"
"I'm fine," said Gohan.
"Yeah, you look like it. Here, take this." He handed Gohan a Sensu bean.
Gohan ate it without protest. Within seconds, his injuries were completely healed. "I feel stronger than ever!" he exclaimed. "I'm ready to fight again!"
"I know you are, Gohan, but let me handle this."
"But they're too powerful! You'll need my help!"
"You let me worry about them. I think Krillin needs our help right now though." The two flew over to where Krillin lay.
"Hey, Goku," said the monk, unable to sit up. "You made it."
"Yeah, just in time from the looks of it," said Goku. "Here, take this."
Krillin hopped up. "Alright! I'm healed!"
Goku looked over to Vegeta. "Hey, Vegeta! Catch!" He threw the remaining Sensu bean to Vegeta.
"What is this?" asked Vegeta, looking at the bean.
"Eat it! You'll be healed!"
Soon, Vegeta was completely healed. "I feel stronger than ever!"
"Hey, Gohan!" said Krillin suddenly. "We should probably go find the Dragon Balls. We'll need to get the radar from Bulma, so we'd better get going."
"Right!" The two shot off to where they'd last seen Bulma.
"Now," said Goku, turning to face the two remaining enemies, "You have no idea what you're dealing with. Leave this planet now."
"We'll never surrender to a puny Saiyan like you!" screamed Burter. "Jeice- let's go!"
"Yeah, let's get him!" shouted Jeice. The two Ginyu Force members shot directly at Goku. Every punch they threw, though, seemed to pass right through him.
"Why can't we hit him!" screamed Burter in frustration.
"Maybe it's because I'm moving too fast for you," said Goku from behind him. His after image faded away.
Burter and Jeice shot an energy blast at him. Goku simply moved before they could hit him again.
"I gave you your one chance," said the Saiyan. Knocking Burter out cold, he turned to Jeice. "I recommend you leave now. Your teammates will be a little sore, but they'll recover. Never come back here."
This guy's way too powerful, thought Jeice, panicking. I better go get the Captain. I don't stand a chance.
Just then, there was a loud explosion. Vegeta had finished Recoome off. Shooting into the air, he kneed Burter in the neck, killing him.
"Vegeta!" said Goku, furious. "They were defenseless! That was low!"
"They would have come back and tried to finish us off!" said Vegeta. "They already would have killed your son and friend if you hadn't shown up in time."
"You know how to receive mercy, but not to give it."
"I don't need a lecture, Kakarot. The one you let go could bring about your end, and the end of your son as well."
Goku and Vegeta continued to glare at each other.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Captain Ginyu was overseeing Frieza's crew hiding the Dragon Balls. He had done the safest thing he could think of with them- he'd buried them beneath sand.
"Work faster, men! You need to work with style if you're going to become members of the Ginyu Force! Style!"
Just then, his scouter indicated an approaching power level. That's Jeice, thought Captain Ginyu.
Within seconds, Jeice had landed. "Captain, sir!"
"Where are the others?" asked Captain Ginyu, noticing the absence of the other three Ginyu Force members.
"They're down and out, sir."
Maybe those guys were stronger than I thought, thought Captain Ginyu. "Who did it? Vegeta and his allies?"
"Partly, sir- they took out Guldo and Recoome. But Burter and I had them down for the count, and some other guy showed up! He gave the three some sort of food, and they were up and as good as new! Burter and I attacked, giving him everything we had, but we just couldn't touch him! He took Burter out, and gave me the chance to run! I did run, sir, but to ask you for help!"
Someone strong enough to take on Jeice and Burter and not even get touched? thought Ginyu. "Alright, Jeice. Let's go." The two shot off in the direction of the battlefield.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So what do you have planned now, Kakarot?" asked Vegeta, irritated.
"Let's worry about that Captain Ginyu guy first," said Goku. "I can sense that he's on his way here, and he's powerful."
"Then allow me to let you deal with him yourself," said Vegeta, laughing. Taking off, he flew at an incredible speed somewhere else.
Within minutes, Jeice and Captain Ginyu had landed. "You've really done it now, mate," said Jeice. "The Captain's here, and he's not happy."
"So you're the one who took down Burter," said Ginyu, looking Goku over. "Well, I am the Captain of the Ginyu Force, and I am the second strongest fighter in the universe! Nobody can defeat me!"
"Yeah," said Goku. "I can feel your power, and I have to say I'm not all that impressed."
"What?" asked Ginyu. "Unfortunately for you, I also have the coveted ability to raise my fighting power in an instant. You can't possibly tell my full power."
"You're not very good at concealing it," said Goku. "I can sense deeper than the power you're displaying openly. Your scouters aren't very good for determining a power level if your opponent has any sort of skill at concealing it. Once you can sense power, though, you can truly learn how to conceal it."
"All right then," said Captain Ginyu, smiling. "If you're as good as you say you are, why don't you show me your full power?"
Goku smiled. "All right, then. You asked for it." He braced himself. Captain Ginyu smiled, and clicked his scouter.
Goku began to scream. The wind picked up around him as his power started to grow and grow. Captain Ginyu's look of confidence became one of horror as his scouter kept indicating Goku's power rising.
"Hey! Stop that!" Ginyu looked on in ever increasing panic. "90,000- 100,000- 110,000- NOW IT'S OVER MINE!"
Goku finally finished up. "So, what does your scouter say?"
Ginyu gripped his head in panic. "IT'S AT 180,000!"
"180,000!" screamed Jeice. "Burter and I didn't even stand a chance!"
"I'll give you one last chance," said Goku. "Leave now. I don't want to fight you. You don't have to hurt people."
"The captain of the Ginyu Force does not surrender!" screamed Ginyu. He launched himself at Goku. Goku managed to dodge every single punch easily.
"All you have to do is apologize," said Goku. "Then you can leave in peace."
"Apologize?" asked Ginyu. He smirked. "I believe I actually have a better idea."
He removed his scouter. "Jeice, catch." He threw it down.
"All right, Captain Ginyu!" said Jeice, realizing what was about to happen.
"I'm about to show you the true power of the Ginyu!" said Captain Ginyu. Charging up a fist, he wounded himself quite severely.
"What are you doing?" asked Goku, shocked. This guy's completely insane!
"BODY CHANGE!" screamed Captain Ginyu. A beam of energy shot out from his mouth and entered Goku's.
A few moments later, the technique was complete. "What… what did you do?" asked Goku, looking at Captain Ginyu, who was in Goku's body.
(From this point until the end of the body-change, Goku is Goku, despite being in Ginyu's body, and Ginyu is Ginyu, despite being in Goku's body)
"I simply swapped bodies with you," said Captain Ginyu.
"Captain," said Jeice, flying up to Ginyu. "Here's your scouter, sir."
"Good," said Ginyu, taking the scouter and putting it on. "Now, Jeice, let's get back to the ship. Frieza will be pleased to hear I defeated the one called 'Goku.'"
"Right, Captain." The two shot off back towards the ship.
You may be hiding in my body, Ginyu, thought Goku, but you'll still lose.
-DBZ: SGTW-
In an unexpected turn of events, Goku is Ginyu and Ginyu is Goku. Will this spell the end for our heroes? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 16: We Claim This Ship
"There she is!" shouted Gohan to Krillin, spotting Bulma. The two swooped down and landed next to Bulma.
"Where have you two been?" screamed the woman. "I want answers!"
"No time to explain, Bulma!" said Krillin, grabbing the Dragon Radar. "Got it, let's go!" The two shot back off into the air, now heading towards Frieza's ship.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Dende, my child," said Guru, "Come here."
Dende approached Guru. "Yes sir?"
"I have a gift for you. To help you on your mission." Guru laid his hand on Dende's head. A bright aura surrounded Dende, but after a few moments, it was gone. Dende looked at himself in awe.
"It's okay, Dende," said Guru. "Don't be scared of this new power that you feel within you, son. It has always existed inside of you. I merely uncovered it."
"Must I go?" asked Dende.
"The sooner the better, my son."
Dende nodded. "Goodbye, Guru. And don't you go dying on me, okay?" Dende ran out of the house. Guru watched as he took off into the air, flying off.
"Be strong, my little warrior," said Guru. "It pleases me that in these dark hours a flame so small burns so brightly. Deliver the password to the Earthlings, so that they may have their wish."
-DBZ: SGTW-
It looks like Frieza's away on errands, thought Vegeta, looking over Frieza's ship. Apart from the henchmen who were everywhere, there was nobody. This is going to be easier than coloring inside the lines.
Vegeta blasted every henchman he could see. Entering the ship, he walked to Frieza's private quarters. Blasting everyone he encountered, he entered the quarters only to find that the Dragon Balls were not there.
"Where are they?" screamed Vegeta in frustration. "Well, maybe I should have a look around. They'll turn up."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Dende was flying at maximum speed to meet up with Gohan and Krillin. Just then, he saw something up ahead. Before he had the opportunity to slow down, let alone stop, he'd passed by. Looking back, he saw it was Frieza.
Just a small fry, thought Frieza to himself. Kids are learning to fly earlier and earlier these days.
Frieza began the ascent up to the top of the pillar Guru's house stood on. Within seconds, he'd reached the house. "Hello?" said Frieza. "Is anyone home?"
The door opened, and Nail stepped out. "I'm home. Welcome, friend."
"Why thank you very much. I'm a visitor here, touring your lovely planet, and I happened to find seven Dragon balls. A man at the gift shop told me about the legend behind the balls. You know, the wish. But the balls don't work unless you have a password. Would you happen to have the password, my good man?"
"Not me. You should check with the Chamber of Commerce, friend. They have that sort of information."
Frieza chuckled. "The chamber is dead, my good man. And so are you if you don't tell me the password."
"I'll never tell you the password," said Nail, dropping all pretense at formality.
"Oh?" asked Frieza. "Then maybe your friend will."
"My friend is a very old man. He's dying as it is, and he doesn't need your help. Besides, you wouldn't hurt him anyways."
"And why is that?"
"He created the Dragon balls. If he dies, they go with him. See?"
"Well then," said Frieza, disappointed. "I guess I'll have to just beat on you until he's ready to speak."
"I'll fight you," said Nail. "But not here. Follow me." He took off, Frieza right behind him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
I can't believe I regained my strength so quickly, thought Vegeta to himself. Now all I have to do is focus on my power. Still, that little brat's stronger than me. I'll need to find out how he improved.
Vegeta put on a new suit of armor, without the shoulder guards that his last pair had. Putting on gloves, he sensed something.
It appears I have company. I believe I'll observe them. Maybe they'll lead me to the Dragon Balls. Walking outside, he hid as he watched Gohan and Krillin land.
"According to the radar," said Gohan, "the Dragon Balls are not in the ship."
"Huh?" asked Krillin, confused. "Why not?"
"They probably thought they would be able to find them easier if they were there." Gohan walked over to a spot of land. "I think it says they're buried right here."
Gohan blasted the dirt. "There they are!" Luckily, he'd gotten it right the first time, and there were the seven Dragon Balls.
"I wish we knew the password," said Krillin. "Didn't Goku say there was a password?"
Oh great, thought Vegeta. They don't even know the password.
"Krillin," said Gohan, looking into the sky, "I think I hear something coming."
"There's two of them," said Krillin. "We'd better get under cover. This doesn't feel right."
Just then, Captain Ginyu and Jeice set down. Gohan felt an overwhelming urge to hide, despite the fact that Ginyu was in his father's body. "Krillin, something feels weird."
"What's weird?" said Krillin. "It's your dad!"
"Yeah, but what's he doing with Jeice? And why is he wearing that scouter?"
Krillin looked Goku up and down. "You might be right."
"There's one last thing. Look into his eyes."
Krillin did so, and he saw something that he'd never seen in Goku's eyes before- the desire for power, for everything evil.
"Let's be cautious," said Krillin, realizing that this wasn't right. "Hey, Goku!" shouted Krillin, keeping himself ready for any sign of attack. "What took you so long?"
"Captain Ginyu was a great fighter," said Ginyu, playing along as if he was Goku. Gohan, however, realized that his father would never talk about an enemy like that. "Now," continued Ginyu, "how did you find the Dragon Balls?"
Krillin and Gohan realized immediately that this wasn't Goku, but played along. "We noticed the ground had been dug up," said Krillin.
"Did you make a wish?" asked Ginyu, starting to panic. If Frieza gets back and the Dragon Balls can't be used, I'm dead!
"No, we didn't know the password. Do you know it?" Krillin watched as Gohan snuck around to the opposite side, waiting for an opportunity.
"Maybe. Why don't I try?" Ginyu turned to the Dragon Balls. Gohan saw his opportunity and tripped Ginyu, knocking him down. Krillin punched Jeice in the stomach, knocking him backwards.
"I don't know what you've done with my father, Captain Ginyu," said Gohan, staring down into the face he knew so well, "but you won't get away with it."
"Wh- what are you talking about?" asked Ginyu, trying to buy time.
"Don't play dumb. I recognize your voice."
This is nuts! thought Vegeta, transfixed. If Ginyu's in Kakarot's body, where's Kakarot?
His questions were answered when he saw Goku in Ginyu's body flying over. "Of course!" said Vegeta to himself. "If Ginyu's in Kakarot's body, then Kakarot must be in Ginyu's body!"
"Gohan! Krillin!" yelled Goku. "Captain Ginyu's stolen my body!"
"Yeah, we know!" yelled Krillin.
"You don't stand a chance against me," said Ginyu, laughing. "So you saw through my little trick. Big deal. Now I'll just have to kill you the old-fashioned way."
"You'll never reach full power," said Goku, smiling. "You don't understand that body as well as I do."
"Oh really?" asked Ginyu. Getting up, he began to power up. "Jeice! Give me a reading!"
Jeice clicked his scouter. "Uh... 23,000 sir... and going down!"
"Now you see how hopeless- wait, WHAT?" screamed Ginyu, finally hearing Jeice's words. "That's not possible! I should be at 180,000!"
"Gohan! Krillin!" yelled Goku. "Take him down!"
Gohan and Krillin charged into combat against Ginyu, who was unable to stop the flurry of attacks. Falling back, he clicked his scouter.
"400,000!" screamed Ginyu. "THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE! THERE'S NO WAY HE COULD HAVE THAT MUCH POWER!"
"NO WAY!" screamed Jeice. "THAT CAN'T BE RIGHT!"
"Oh, but it is," said a voice from behind him. Whipping around, he saw none other than Vegeta standing there.
"V-Vegeta!" screamed Jeice, backing up. Clicking a button on his scouter, he then screamed, "NO! 300,000!"
"We Saiyans get stronger after every battle. The worse we are beaten, the more power we gain," said Vegeta, grinning. "The kid is half-Saiyan, which accounts for his increase."
Jeice took off into the air running. Vegeta launched an energy blast, killing Jeice instantly.
"Vegeta!" yelled Goku. "That was not necessary! He'd given up!"
Vegeta simply ignored Goku.
Meanwhile the fight between Ginyu and Gohan was completely one-sided. Ginyu was over matched in every aspect except technique, which Gohan was equal in.
Gohan disappeared and reappeared behind Ginyu, knocking him down. "Had enough yet?"
Ginyu groaned, as he was far too weak to get up. Still, he had a cocky smile on his face. "Time for another switch!"
"Oh no!" screamed Goku, realizing what was about to happen. He leapt towards Ginyu as fast as he possibly could.
"Body Change!" screamed Ginyu, sending out a beam directly at Gohan. Goku, though, got in between the two, taking the beam himself.
When the light cleared, both Goku and Ginyu were back in their right bodies.
"Dad, are you alright?" shouted down Gohan.
"I'm fine," shouted back Goku.
Krillin came and landed over next to Goku. "Okay, then tell me- how did we find the Dragon Balls?"
Goku simply smiled. "You went and got the Dragon Radar from Bulma."
"Gohan!" shouted Krillin to his friend. "Your dad's in his right body again!"
"Listen, Ginyu," shouted Gohan to the injured enemy. "This is your last chance. Leave the planet now or else we will have to finish this."
"No," said Vegeta, blasting Ginyu through his heart. "We finish this now."
"Vegeta!" shouted Goku, angry again.
"You're far too soft, Kakarot," said Vegeta. "If Ginyu had used his body change technique on your son, we'd all be dead by now. Now, let's get you in a regeneration tank. We may need your help to deal with Frieza."
The three of them carried Goku into the medical bay, where they had a slight problem when Goku spotted a needle. Afterwards, Goku was submerged in a tank, healing from all his injuries.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will Goku recover in time to help the others? Will Dende make it in time to deliver the password to the others? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 17: Race for a Wish
Frieza frowned. This Namek had been leading him for a while now. He'd promised to take him to a better place to fight, but they still hadn't landed.
His impatience finally getting the better of him, he pulled ahead of Nail. "This is far enough. We will fight here."
"Fine," said Nail, landing. Frieza landed right in front of him.
"Before you begin your pathetic struggle to survive, I should warn you that you stand no chance."
"I'm not like the rest of the Nameks you've faced. I've been fully trained in the arts of combat." Nail began powering up. Throwing his arms out, the ground began to shake.
"My goodness," said Frieza, looking at his scouter. "According to my scouter, I may have underestimated your strength. But you still pale in comparison to what I have in store for you." Frieza smiled. "The light show was impressive, but in all relative terms, I'm five hundred thousand times stronger than you."
Nail grunted in disbelief.
"Observe my left hand," said Frieza, holding the hand in question up. "It's strength alone is enough to crush you. As a special one-time bonus, I will fight you with my other hand behind my back."
"It's time to fight!" screamed Nail, charging at Frieza. He delivered a massive blow to Frieza's shoulder, which didn't phase Frieza in the slightest.
"You don't seem to understand," said Frieza, grabbing onto Nail's arm. "You don't stand a chance." He ripped Nail's arm clean off of his body.
Nail screamed in pain, falling to the ground. "Oh, my," said Frieza, laughing. "That has got to hurt."
Frieza was shocked when a new arm shot out from the wound. Nail got up, ready to fight again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Here, take these," said Vegeta to Krillin and Gohan, handing them each a suit of armor. "When we fight Frieza, the added protection will help you."
The two suited up into their new armor. Gohan's was an exact replica of Vegeta's old armor, the set he arrived on Namek in. Krillin's was more like the suits Raditz and Nappa wore.
"So, what do we do now?" asked Krillin.
"We stay here and keep an eye on the Dragon Balls," said Vegeta. "You two go keep an eye on them. I'm going to take a little nap."
"So, while we're waiting for Frieza or someone to shop up," said Gohan angrily, "You're going to be taking a nap?"
"Yeah," said Vegeta. "Now, go watch those Dragon Balls."
Gohan and Krillin walked outside, looking over the Dragon Balls. "Man, I hate it when Vegeta bosses us around," complained Krillin. "It's like he's just using us for personal gain."
"Yeah, but we need his help," said Gohan. "And he needs ours. Frieza is more powerful than any of us, so we need to work together to have any hope of defeating him."
"Yeah, you're right. Still, why don't you just stand up to him? You're stronger."
"Vegeta's not the kind of person that bends to power. If he did, he'd still be following Frieza's orders."
The two looked at the Dragon Balls. "One of us should go and get the password from Guru," said Krillin. "Frieza's near there, so it'd be hard to get there, but we could."
"We'd better not risk anything until my dad gets better," said Gohan, sensing in the direction of Guru's house. "Frieza's too close for comfort, though it feels like someone's distracting him. Wait- I sense something coming towards us."
"Who?" asked Krillin, confused. "I don't sense anything."
"It's not a strong power," said Gohan, his eyes shut, trying to place the power. "But whoever it is, they're coming here. And they're nearly here."
Just then, the person passed over a mountain. "It's Dende!" shouted Krillin.
Dende spotted Krillin and Gohan. The first thing he recognized was the armor they were wearing- he turned and almost started to run away. Krillin flew up to meet him.
"Dende! It's us!" Dende relaxed when he recognized Krillin.
"Hey!" shouted Dende in relief. "Guru sent me to tell you guys the password!"
"Alright!" said Gohan, thrilled. "Now we can wish Piccolo back!"
"Yeah," said Krillin. "But I'm thinking we should move the Dragon Balls away from the ship, you know?"
"Why's that?" asked Gohan.
"I don't really want to let Vegeta have a wish."
Gohan turned and looked at the ship. "Yeah, it'd be best not to let him know we're summoning the Dragon." The three flew down and gathered up the Dragon Balls.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Nail fell to the ground, battered and bloody. He'd been stalling for some time, buying time for Dende.
"Nail," said the voice of Guru in his head. "Dende has reached the Earthlings. Thank you for everything, my child."
Nail smiled. He looked Frieza right in the eyes. "I'm going to let you in on a little secret," said the Namekian, smiling. "Our plan worked perfectly."
"What plan?" asked Frieza, smirking.
"We sent Dende off to the Earthlings with the password to summon the Dragon," said Nail. The tyrant's smirk fell right off his face. "He's reached them by now. You'll never make it back in time."
"WHY YOU DIRTY LITTLE-" screamed Frieza. He shot into the air, heading towards his ship. "I'M GOING TO KILL THOSE DIRTY MONKEYS ONCE AND FOR ALL!"
Nail laid his head down, glad he'd done his part right.
-DBZ: SGTW-
The three looked down at the Dragon Balls, lying there. They'd moved them to the other side of a mountain, hiding from Vegeta.
"Alright, Dende," said Gohan. "Summon the Dragon."
Dende recited some words in Namekian, one of which was the Dragon's name, Porunga. Immediately, the sky went dark, and a bright beam of light shot up from the seven Dragon Balls. A huge, muscular Dragon appeared.
"Oh, wow!" said Gohan, looking at the Dragon in awe.
"You who have summoned me," said Porunga in a booming voice, "I will grant you three wishes."
"Dende, wish for everyone on Earth killed by Vegeta except Nappa to be returned to life!"
Dende translated the wish. "That is not within my power," said Porunga. "I can only restore one life with each wish."
The three's face fell. "King Kai," shouted Krillin, trusting him to be watching. "We can only wish back one person per wish."
-DBZ: SGTW-
King Kai had indeed been watching. As soon as he'd relayed the information to the others, Piccolo had stepped forward. "Tell them to wish me back."
"What's the big idea?" protested Yamcha. Tien also looked suspicious. "Don't we get any say?"
Piccolo turned to the others, agitated. "Listen! I know what I'm doing! If I'm wished back, it means Kami's back too, which means the Earth's Dragon Balls are back!"
The others shut up and smiled. "Wow, great idea, Piccolo!"
"Piccolo's the man!" said Tien.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Gohan, can you hear me?" asked King Kai to Gohan.
"Hey, it's King Kai," said Gohan, staring into the sky.
"Gohan, the others have discussed it, and they've decided to wish Piccolo back."
"Right!" Gohan turned to Krillin. "Wish Piccolo back!"
Dende translated the wish. Porunga's eyes glowed. "It is done."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Back on King Kai's planet, they watched as Piccolo's halo disappeared.
"You're alive!" screeched Chiaotzu, happy.
"Alright!" said Piccolo. He walked up to King Kai and placed his hand on his back.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Gohan, it's me," said Piccolo. "I have a feeling you guys are going to be needing my help, so wish me to Namek."
"Bring Piccolo to Namek," said Gohan to Dende.
Dende translated the wish. "It is done."
They looked around. "Where is he?" asked Gohan, not seeing Piccolo.
"We wished him to Namek!" said Dende, realizing what had happened. "He's on the planet, but he's not right here!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Meanwhile, Vegeta had woken up from his nap. Looking outside, he was shocked to see the sky so dark.
Did I really sleep that long? he thought to himself. It's night already. Suddenly, he remembered something. This planet doesn't have nights! That means- "NO!" he screamed, realizing what was happening. He launched himself out of the ship. Sighting the Dragon, he didn't waste a second in shooting towards them.
Gohan looked up just in time to see Vegeta coming in for a landing. Drawing his sword, which he kept on his back even with his new outfit, he positioned himself between the Saiyan Prince and the Dragon Balls.
"You little idiot!" screamed Vegeta, rage contorting every feature of his face. "Don't you understand that our only chance to beat Frieza is if I'm immortal?"
"No, Vegeta," said Gohan. "We're doing things our way, not yours."
"Out of the way." Vegeta tried to backhand Gohan out of the way, but Gohan blocked it and within seconds he'd knocked Vegeta backwards.
"Hey, Gohan!" shouted Krillin. "What should our last wish be?"
Gohan didn't have time to decide when all of a sudden, the Dragon vanished. The Dragon Balls shot into the sky, and fell to the ground, stones.
"No..." said Dende, falling to his knees.
"Dende, what happened?" asked Krillin, confused.
"Guru's gone," said the child, starting to cry.
"He died before we could make the last wish!" said Krillin, horrified.
"But at least the Earth's Dragon Balls are back," said Gohan. "But for right now, we have bigger problems. You guys feel that?"
"It's Frieza," said Vegeta. "He's coming!"
"We're in trouble," said Krillin.
-DBZ: SGTW-
With only two wishes made, the Namekian Dragon Balls are gone. Now, Frieza is approaching, and he's out for blood. Can our heroes hold off the evil long enough for Goku to arrive? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 18: Battle with Frieza Begins
Piccolo tried to get his bearings straight. He'd realized that the Dragon had dropped him on the completely wrong side of Namek, and now was just trying to figure out how to get to Gohan.
I can sense Gohan, said Piccolo. He's fine for now, but I'd better hurry. He took off in the direction of his pupil.
Just then, he sensed another power, far fainter, and decreasing by the minute. He was directly in the opposite way of the direction Frieza was traveling, so Piccolo decided to check it out while he had a moment.
Coming in for a landing, Piccolo saw Nail, heavily injured. "He looks like me!" said Piccolo. "Could be worse, I guess. This guy has definitely seen better days."
"Yeah, you could say that again," said Nail, looking with one eye at the other Namekian. "What a drag, huh?" He looked at Piccolo in more detail. "Hey, it's you. Guess the Earthlings got to make their wishes. I love it."
"I see. Well, if you know me, then you'll know I'm out of time. I'm quite sure we've never met before, but I'm glad your beating sure hasn't made you lose your sense of humor. You take good care of yourself, my friend."
"Wait a sec," said Nail, as Piccolo began to walk away. "I can sense your great power, but I just don't think it's going to be enough."
"We'll see."
"If only you had come back as your original self, you could have beaten Frieza for sure."
"What!" Piccolo turned to face Nail.
"I've fought him," continued Nail. "I know how strong he is."
"So, if I united with Kami, I'd have what I need right now." Piccolo grimaced. "How ironic. He's probably laughing so hard we could hear him all the way from Earth."
"No, you're wrong. Nobody wants you to win as much as Kami does. His very survival depends on it."
Piccolo frowned. "Well, it's too late now, at any rate. And I think I would rather die than unite with that old geezer anyhow."
"Well, unite with me, then," said Nail. "It's the only help we can give. Sad, but true. I'm the last warrior on Namek."
"You are?" asked Piccolo, frowning again. "That's just great."
"I know, but if we unite, then you'll be much stronger than you are right now."
Piccolo began to turn away again. "I appreciate the offer, but there's just not enough room in me for the two of us."
"Oh, your ego's too big."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Listen," said Vegeta, still furious at Gohan and Krillin. "We need a plan, fast. Frieza is on his way here, and we don't stand a chance!"
"Well, what do you suggest?" asked Gohan angrily.
"Yes, Vegeta," said a voice from behind them. "What do you suggest?"
The three whipped around. There, standing on the cliff, was Frieza, an evil smile on his face.
"So you're the ones, huh? Naughty. I don't see how three shrimps and a burnt out Saiyan managed to get the best of the Ginyu Force. But now it's your turn! It's okay. It won't hurt too bad. Relax, death is my specialty. What do you say we get this thing started? I know how anxious you all are to resolve this dispute once and for all."
Frieza jumped up and flew slowly down to the bottom of the cliff.
"I always knew that you would turn on me someday, Vegeta. But I never knew when. Now I see that you were just waiting for the stakes to get higher before you played your hand." Frieza smiled. "I commend you. After all, it just might have worked. What a pity. I hope you enjoyed your little rebellion, because now it's over, my clever little warriors."
"You hate me," laughed Vegeta. "Like I care. I quit. I'm free now. All those years being nice to you, I could puke!"
"That's right, get it all out. Live boldly, even if it is just for a few minutes." Frieza began powering up.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Can't you feel that power?" asked Nail to Piccolo. "It's our only chance."
Piccolo was in awe at the power he felt from Frieza. "Why not? Alright." He knelt by the dying warrior. "You're on. But if I don't like it, you're out. Understand me?"
"Man," said Nail, smiling. "You're too much. Just wait. You'll be begging to keep me around."
Piccolo placed his hand on Nail's elbow. "Yeah, right. I doubt that. Now, tell me what to do, quick."
"Right. Just keep your hand right there."
"You can stay until we beat Frieza. After that, I'm gonna charge you rent. You got that?"
Nail smiled. A white aura surrounded him. When it cleared, he was gone.
Piccolo stood up and stared at his hands in awe. "Wow, unreal. My gosh. This is amazing! I feel INCREDIBLE! YES YES YES YES! I CAN WIN! I FEEL GREAT! I CAN DO THIS!"
He smiled. "I'm home! I'm alive! This is a miracle! I'm awake! I'm wide awake!" He took off into the air, flying towards the battlefield. "Hang on, Gohan! Here I come!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now look at me, Vegeta. Have you forgotten what I really am? You fool! How dare you challenge me!"
Vegeta continued to smirk. "You'd better wipe that smirk off your face, Vegeta!" Frieza shot a blast at Vegeta, who dodged it. Frieza continued to launch blast after blast at the Saiyan.
"Krillin," said Gohan. "Now is our chance! Frieza's distracted!"
Krillin looked at the tyrant in fear. "Right, but is that a good idea?"
"It may be our only chance!" The two moved into position, both launching energy waves at Frieza. Frieza turned and sent a blast in their direction. They dodged easily, and Frieza continued to launch.
Finally, Gohan moved in front of one and deflected it away.
Krillin was still in shock. "He's too strong... what are we going to do?"
"I know," said Frieza. "You're all going to perish!"
"Nonsense!" said Vegeta, joining the others. "Our chances of winning are just as good as your's are! Are you so blind that you haven't noticed our power is increasing with every attack?"
Vegeta looked at his allies. "Our power is enormous. Especially that little kid's. He's half-Saiyan, you know." Vegeta turned back to Frieza. "And I've become a Super Saiyan. Your worst nightmare."
Frieza laughed. "We'll pass that bridge when we come to it." Suddenly, any trace of a smile fell from Frieza's face. "That is if we EVER come to it, FOOL!" Frieza launched himself at Vegeta, who blocked the blow. Frieza sent his other hand at Vegeta, which was also blocked.
"You low-life Saiyan! How dare you!" The ground began to shake from the struggle.
"Should we help Vegeta?" asked Krillin, turning to Gohan.
"No," said Gohan. "We need to get a feel for Frieza's technique before we can do anything. Piccolo taught me that strength isn't everything. If you know your enemy better than he knows you, you have an advantage."
Krillin turned back to the fight. Gohan sure trusted Piccolo a lot.
Vegeta and Frieza had formed a crater around them. They both hopped out, landing on opposite sides. "Not bad," said Frieza, smiling. "You've definitely improved, Vegeta. I commend you. Perhaps you are close to becoming a Super Saiyan."
"Why don't you transform, Frieza?" said Vegeta.
"What does he mean?" asked Gohan, confused.
"Well, how bout it, Frieza, why don't you stop fooling around and show us the real you?"
"So," said Frieza, "you found out my little secret."
"That's right. Your loving minion Zarbon blurted it out."
"What's going on?" asked Krillin to Vegeta.
"The form of Frieza you see before you is not what he really is. It's just a clever camouflage. He can transform to his real self at any time. He just uses this form to conserve energy."
"Oh, you rude little ruffian," said Frieza. "I don't choose my real form because my power is too radical to control."
"That's just great," said Krillin.
"Don't listen to him," said Vegeta. "He's just saying that to intimidate you. His power won't increase that much."
"Is that so?" asked Frieza.
"Why don't you show us then?"
"Oh, all right," said Frieza, smiling. "I'll bare it all. Why not? Well, strap yourselves in. You're in for one heck of a ride!" He braced himself. "Oh, and Vegeta, I just wanted you to know that any remote chance you had of winning is about to go flying out the window! Oh, one more thing. It would be nice for somebody to give me a countdown."
"," said Vegeta quickly. "That good enough for you?"
"I love it," said Frieza. "Here goes!" A bright blue light enveloped him. He grew slightly, and his armor shattered.
"Who do you think you're fooling?" asked Vegeta. "You grew two inches and busted some armor. You call that a transformation?"
Frieza laughed. "Vegeta, it pains me to see you going through this. What a waste. I favored you so much. Why couldn't you just continue to obey me?"
"Obey? I just pretended to obey you, you fool. I've been waiting for any chance I got to destroy you once and for all!"
"So, you're just like your father, the good king. He couldn't wait to die either."
"Dodoria told me about how you destroyed the Saiyan race," said Vegeta. "But you were foolish enough to leave the strongest one alive. That is one mistake you're going to pay dearly for."
"You're just a bunch of talk. I've had enough of this. Allow me to show you something not even your worthless father got to see." A windstorm swept up as Frieza began his real transformation. His body grew much larger, his horns bent upwards, his voice got lower, and most importantly, his power skyrocketed.
Frieza looked at the three. "How do you like it? Allow me to mention to you, Vegeta, that my fighting power in this form is over one million."
"That's impossible!" shouted Vegeta in denial.
"Allow me to demonstrate," said Frieza. "Which one of you would like to go first?"
"I would," said Gohan, walking forward.
"Gohan!" screamed Krillin. "Are you nuts?"
This is the kid Vegeta said was powerful, thought Frieza, looking Gohan over. I'll still be able to take him no problem.
Gohan ignored Krillin. I've got to buy time for my father to get here, thought Gohan to himself. "What, are you scared, Frieza?"
Frieza laughed. "No, runt, I'm scared that you won't be much of a challenge!"
Gohan simply charged at Frieza, launching a flurry of punches and kicks. They tyrant managed to block every one, then backhanded Gohan in the face. "Not bad, kid. Vegeta was right, you definitely have power. But it's still not enough."
Gohan took that opportunity to launch a kick at Frieza's face, which got through. Frieza reared back a little from the blow. He charged up a blast and threw it, hitting Gohan directly in the stomach, sending him flying backwards.
"All worn out?" asked the tyrant, smiling at the half-Saiyan laying there, panting. "Too bad. I guess it's time for you to die."
Suddenly, out of nowhere, Krillin came flying in, a kick aimed directly at Frieza's head. Frieza simply stepped back, and when Krillin flew by, head-butt Krillin. One of Frieza's horns pierced Krillin's stomach, and he fell off into the water. Frieza walked forward and placed one of his feet on Gohan's head, preparing to crush the life out of him.
"I believe this is where we were," said Frieza. He looked up at Vegeta. "Vegeta, why so cold-hearted? Can't you see the boy is in pain? But you're too petrified to help him, aren't you?"
Even if I get Frieza off of him, the kid's still finished, thought Vegeta. It'd be better if he was put out of his misery. Why can't I stomach this? I've seen much worse without even blinking an eye.
"Destructo Disk!" screamed someone. The disk of energy was sent right at Frieza, who flipped over, avoiding a fatal hit, though his tail was cut in half.
Krillin began to charge up a second disk.
"WHAT?" screamed Frieza in shock. "IT'S THAT GUY? BUT HOW? HE WAS SHISH-KEBOB!"
The next disk split in to three disks, and Frieza barely managed to dodge them all.
Frieza charged at Krillin, which was exactly the reaction he was hoping for. He took off, flying as quickly as he could. As Frieza was off chasing Krillin, Dende ran forward, and placed his hands on Gohan. "Don't worry, Gohan," said the Namekian child. "You'll be fine." A glowing light surrounded Dende and Gohan.
Vegeta watched in awe as the light faded. Gohan got up and started punching, testing his strength.
Just then, Krillin came shooting back onto the scene. "All right! Mission accomplished!"
"Just one question," said Vegeta, looking at Krillin angrily. "Why did you keep that kid's power a secret?"
"We didn't know Dende could heal people!" said Krillin angrily. "If we'd known that, we would have had him heal Goku!"
Just then, Frieza returned. Gohan shot up and joined Krillin and Vegeta.
"What?" asked Frieza, flustered. "Him too? Maybe they did wish for immortality." Frieza started to get a little worried.
Gohan powered up to full power. "The kid's truly a Saiyan," said Vegeta with pride in his voice for his race. "He gets stronger after every battle!"
"Gohan's power is amazing," said Krillin, sensing Gohan's massive increase in power.
"He's flustered," said Vegeta. "We have a good chance if we all attack together. Hit it, boys!"
The three launched a wave of energy blasts at Frieza, who crossed his arms. When the smoke cleared, Frieza was a little scratched, but otherwise completely unharmed.
"Is that the best you got?" asked the tyrant. "You're pathetic. You'd better come up with a new game plan, amigos."
"What now?" asked Krillin.
"I don't know," said Vegeta, completely out of ideas.
"You guys stay out of this," said Gohan. "I'll take him on." He shot directly at Frieza. Before he could reach his enemy, a beam of white light shot out from the right, and stopped directly in front of him.
When the light cleared, it revealed itself to be Piccolo.
"It's Piccolo!" said Gohan, happy. "Am I dreaming? Is it really you?"
"Good to see you, Gohan," said the Namek, staring at Frieza. "So that's Frieza?"
"That's him," said Gohan, turning his attention back to the enemy.
"I see," said Piccolo. "King Kai thinks he's unbeatable. We'll find out."
"You're right," said Vegeta. "We will. But who are you? Just another weak Namek?" Piccolo continued to stare at Frieza. "I recognize you! You're the one we destroyed so easily on Earth! Why these fools wasted their wishes on bringing you back I don't know!"
"Do me a favor. Just keep your big mouth shut! Then, after we beat Frieza, it'll be you and me, head to head.
"Sure. I can go along with that. I guess some people just aren't satisfied with dying once."
"I suggest you go about your business, Namek," said Frieza. "I haven't decided to kill you, but I'm very close."
"I'd like to do this while I'm still young." Piccolo turned to the others. "Just stay out of this, if you don't mind."
Piccolo and Frieza landed. They continued to stare at each other, sizing the other up.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Does Piccolo have what it takes to take down Frieza single-handed? Or is he in over his head? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
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