Post by Krillin on Nov 11, 2010 4:34:44 GMT -5
Chapter 39:
The Reunion
"These new developments are most unsettling, Mr. Popo," said Kami from where he oversaw the events taking place below.
"Haven't you gotten tired of standing there yet?" asked Piccolo, opening his eyes. "You're just wasting your time, you know. You can watch events unfold as long as you like, it won't change anything. We're still going to have to combine our powers to fight the androids."
"For the last four years I have felt a disturbance taking shape on the Earth below," said Kami. "A great evil. But I'm afraid it wasn't the androids that I sensed. There is another threat. A vile creature that I fear will prove to be a hundred times more lethal and cunning than even the androids."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Bulma's full attention was on her television set in her jet.
"And now, Channel 8's continuing coverage of the disaster in Ginger Town," said the anchorman. "To recount, all activities in the West City suburb of Ginger Town came to a screeching halt this morning when the entire population mysteriously vanished into thin air. Authorities are at a loss to explain the sudden disappearance of Ginger Town's inhabitants and attempts at contacting anyone within the city itself have so far gone unanswered."
"Ginger Town, huh," said Bulma to herself. "That's not far from where we found the time machine! I wonder..."
She called Kame House. "Yo, Krillin here."
"Krillin, this is Bulma! Did Gohan and Trunks show up there yet?"
"Yeah, they got back not long ago. Instant Transmission, you know. So what's up? You sound all wigged out, Bulma."
"Listen, turn your TV on to Channel 8. And hurry, because I think there's something that you're really going to want to see."
Krillin turned the television on. "Well," said the anchorman, "it seems like we have more information on the crises in Ginger Town. Our latest reports indicate that there are no signs of life anywhere. However, it seems the clothing of the victims has been discovered throughout the city. Wait, our Channel 8 reporter has just arrived at the scene."
The scene switched to Ginger Town. "Uh, I'm reporting live from downtown Ginger Town," said the reporter, sounding freaked out, "and the entire place is completely deserted. All of the 15,000 residents have suddenly disappeared. Piles of garments lie scattered throughout the city, as though these people were sucked right out of their clothes! There are also indications that these people may have been trying to defend themselves against someone or something."
"Oh, goodness!" shouted Master Roshi.
"Man, this is really bad!" shouted Krillin. "It's the androids! They must have done this!"
Gohan came downstairs after hearing the shouting. "What's going on?"
"Come on over here and have a look at this!" said Krillin, gesturing for Gohan to look at the TV. Gohan walked over and stared at the television.
There were sounds of screaming coming from nearby the news crew. "Oh, the humanity!" shouted the reporter. "As you can hear, the city isn't deserted after all!" Gunshots rang out throughout the city. "Now I can hear shots! It sounds like machine gun fire, coming from the very core of the city! But we can't make out who's doing the shooting!" The reporter turned back to the camera. "And it appears the commotion has died down once again- huh?"
The Z-Fighters braced themselves as they saw the reporter get a look of fear on his face. Suddenly, the camera cut out.
"Krillin, quick!" shouted Yamcha. "Flip it to another channel!"
Krillin darted forward and changed it. The new channel showed Ginger Town, but the camera was laying on the ground, and there was nobody in sight. They heard more gunshots ring out in the distance, but they stopped soon enough.
"It... sounds like it's over..." said Krillin.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Kami suddenly turned and walked to another part of the lookout, horror etched in every feature of his face.
"What is it?" asked Piccolo, staring at his counterpart. "Tell me what's happening down there!"
"It's... awful!" said Kami, his eyes wide. "Even worse than I'd feared!"
"What? What do you mean? You're not making any sense! Explain yourself!" Kami continued to stare in horror. Finally, he turned his eyes away from the scene below, closing them.
"You old fool!" shouted Piccolo. "You actually enjoy keeping me in suspense like this, don't you? I want you to tell me exactly what's going on down there. Start talking."
Kami turned to Piccolo. "No. I won't."
"Look, old man. I have no intention on asking you again. Now I need to know what's happening on Earth."
"Yes, but telling you is pointless now. Because when you and I become one, you will understand everything that has happened."
Piccolo smirked. "So you've finally come to your senses. I was beginning to wonder how much longer I'd have to wait."
Kami walked forward, face-to-face with Piccolo. "We must hurry, before there are any more victims on Earth."
"I'm ready. But let's get one thing straight! When we combine, we use my body. Understand?"
"Agreed. It will be so. Your body is much younger, and more powerful. I understand. Our union will make you more powerful, Piccolo, and you will obtain my vast knowledge. I hope you will use these new powers wisely." The two stared at each other shortly. "For our merger to transpire, place your hand on my chest." Piccolo did as ordered.
"No, Kami!" said Mr. Popo.
"There's nothing to worry about, Mr. Popo," said Kami. "Alone I can do little to help those on Earth." He smiled. "The time is right. Piccolo has changed. The evil that once filled his entire being has greatly diminished. And when we unite, I trust he will use our combined strength in the service of good." He closed his eyes. "I thank you for all you've done, Mr. Popo."
Kami started screaming, pressing himself into Piccolo's hand. A white aura surrounded him. Finally, there was an explosion of light, and Kami had vanished, his staff laying against the ground.
Piccolo stood up, in awe at his power. He walked to the edge of the lookout.
"Goodbye, Kami," said Mr. Popo. "I'll miss you."
"No longer am I Kami or Piccolo. I am a Namek who has long since forgotten his name." Reaching the edge of the lookout, he turned and raised a hand to Mr. Popo. "I... must go." He leapt off the lookout, plummeting towards Earth. He shot off towards Ginger Town.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"We are still attempting to connect via satellite to our correspondent in Ginger Town," said the anchorman, "but at last word it looks like he too may have become a victim."
"Trunks," said Gohan, walking to the door. "Let's go."
"Right," said Trunks, following Gohan. "Can't we just use Instant Transmission to get there?"
"I don't have a strong enough energy signature to lock onto there," said Gohan, exiting Kame House. "Besides, I feel like flying."
The two shot off, heading in the direction of Ginger Town.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Piccolo landed and looked around. Just as he'd seen from the Lookout, there were no people around. He began to walk around, searching for the cause of this catastrophe.
Finally, he heard something approaching. Turning, he saw it- a tall, humanoid, insect-like creature with green skin and orange muscles. He had a tail ending in a stinger-like appendage, that Piccolo knew was to suck up his victims.
"At last we meet," said Piccolo. "Face to face." Suddenly, his eyes went wide. "What the? What am I sensing from that thing? His power... I've sensed it somewhere before!"
"You're next, Piccolo," said the creature, gesturing to the clothing of his victims.
"What did you just say?" asked Piccolo.
The creature braced himself and began powering up. An immense amount of wind came off of it.
"This can't be!" said Piccolo to himself. "What's going on?"
A massive wave of energy shot out from the creature.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Do you sense that?" asked Trunks to Gohan.
"It's weird," said Gohan, "but I can sense two Piccolo's. We'd better get ready. We might need to make a move if this gets any more weird." He flashed into Super Saiyan, increasing his speed.
Trunks transformed right behind him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What's the matter?" asked the creature. "You seem afraid, Piccolo."
"No, far from it, in fact," said Piccolo. "Now tell me how you know that name."
"Well, one might say that... we're brothers."
"What?" asked Piccolo, horrified. The creature merely laughed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now I'm sensing Frieza!" said Gohan. "And his father!"
"I'm sensing my father," said Trunks. "This is getting too weird." He then sensed something else. "Now what?"
"Now I'm sensing MY father!" said Gohan.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now," said Piccolo, "if you've finished showing off, I want answers. Who are you?"
"Silly Piccolo," said the creature. "My secrets will not be unlocked so easily."
"No matter. I'll still destroy you. Whoever you are."
The creature laughed. "You're even more amusing than I imagined!"
Piccolo smiled. "Well, we'll still see if you feel that way after I've beaten you."
"Such a fighter spirit. I will enjoy absorbing you, Piccolo."
"You keep using that name," said Piccolo. "But I think you've mistaken me for someone else." He braced himself. "So allow me to introduce myself." He began powering up. A massive amount of energy exploded off of him. "The Piccolo you know is gone. I am the Namek. And as for you, well, you're finished."
"I am impressed, Namek," said the creature. "Your power is astounding. I'm sure you will prove to be a most satisfying meal."
"Don't count on it."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Whose power level is that?" asked Trunks. "I don't recognize it at all."
Gohan smiled. "It's Piccolo! Krillin was right! He's fused with Kami and become a Super Namek!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"You know you've made one critical mistake," said Piccolo. "You never should have emptied this city of it's entire population!"
"Why's that?" asked the creature.
"Because as long as there are no innocent bystanders to get in the way, I can fight you to the fullest of my abilities!"
"So what's stopping you?"
Piccolo thought for a moment. "You know, that's a really good question." He raised one hand and concentrated a massive amount of energy into it. The creature's eyes widened. He crossed his arms in front of himself, ready to take the blast.
Piccolo fired. The blast was too much for the creature, which was blown backwards.
The creature pushed rubble off himself, then looked, seeing Piccolo charging at him. Raising his hands to block the blow, he was unprepared for Piccolo stopping just before he would have attacked, then circling around him, kicking him in the back.
Whipping around, the creature dodged a second kick, darting backwards away from Piccolo. Piccolo charged at him again, then moved behind the creature, kicking him into the sky. He charged forward, and launched a punch at the creature just as he landed.
The creature stopped himself just in time, then darted backwards in to the sky. Raising two fingers to his forehead, he began charging energy into them. Piccolo's eyes went wide with shock as he recognized the move.
"Special Beam Cannon, fire!" shouted the creature, launching a spiral of energy at Piccolo. Piccolo deflected the energy into the sky, which then exploded far away from either fighter.
"He's good," said Piccolo to himself. He looked up just in time to see the creature charging at him. He leapt out of the way of the kick. The creature launched after the Namek, throwing a flurry of punches. Piccolo managed to block or dodge every one.
Piccolo punched the creature in the face, sending it upwards in to the sky. Piccolo then darted behind it, kneeing it in the stomach, sending it flying down into the ground.
Piccolo landed down on the ground in front of the creature, who was climbing to his feet. "I must admit," said Piccolo. "You're a lot stronger than I gave you credit for. But don't let that go to your head."
The creature laughed. "You have yet to see my true strength. I was unable to gather enough energy in this city to reach my full power."
"Your full power?" asked Piccolo, shocked. "Monster! That's why you absorbed all those innocent people!"
"Yes. It is their living energy that gives me my power."
"Who are you? What kind of a twisted mind would think to send you here in the time machine?"
The creature had a look of surprise on it's face. "Answer me!" shouted Piccolo.
"I came here of my own accord," said the creature. "The time capsule was much to small for me to fit in in my present state, so I was forced to regress to my larval form and enclose myself within an egg. Pretty ingenious, don't you think?" The creature cupped his hands in front of him. "You seem to know much, Piccolo. But there is still much for you to learn."
Piccolo's look of horror was replaced by one of shock when he sensed Goku again.
"Ka.. me... ha..." began the creature, moving it's hands behind itself in the fashion Piccolo knew so well. Sure enough, in it's hands formed a blue orb of energy.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I'm sensing my father again!" shouted Gohan. "That's it, we're not going this slow anymore!" He stopped.
Just then, Piccolo's voice came in his mind. "Gohan, I know you're on your way. But wait. I'm going to try and get some answers from this thing."
Gohan looked up in shock. "Right, Piccolo." He gestured to Trunks. "Piccolo wants us to wait. So let's go." They took off flying again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Piccolo readied himself to stop the blast. He knew Gohan would listen to him, and he had an idea to get some answers.
"...me... HA!" finished the creature, sending a wave of blue energy at Piccolo. When the smoke cleared, Piccolo's right arm had been blown off.
"No..." said Piccolo to himself. He collapsed on the ground, in pain.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Is this the end of Piccolo? What mad plan does he have to get answers? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 40:
His Name is Cell
"My arm..." groaned Piccolo.
"Now do you see how hopeless your situation is?" asked the creature. "You have no chance against me."
"You're right," said Piccolo. "Without my arm, any chance I had at beating you is gone, and I have no choice but to surrender. But before I do, I would to know why I can sense Goku's energy in you. And Frieza's, and Vegeta's."
The creature thought for a moment. Finally, he laughed. "Very well. Since you're literally dying to know, I guess there's no harm in telling you." He smiled. "My name is Cell. I am an android."
"You're an android?"
"I am the single greatest achievement of my creator, Dr. Gero. In his efforts to create a supreme fighting organism, Dr. Gero devised a means by which he could fuse cells of the world's greatest fighters into one, and then cultivate that cell into a singular entity. Unfortunately for the good doctor, however, he soon realized the project was far too complex to be completed during his lifetime."
That doesn't add up with Gero turning himself into an android, thought Piccolo. That means Cell is from a different time line.
"As such, he diverted his attention to more meaningful pursuits, but only after he had programmed his computer to complete the enormous task which he had begun. The computer worked tirelessly to complete the fusion of cells of the mightiest warriors to ever walk the earth. Warriors such as the Saiyan Nappa, the young but powerful Gohan, and, of course, cells were gathered from you, Piccolo, so that great strength and determination might also be harnessed for our purposes."
Cell smiled. "Most notably, the cells of Goku were incorporated into my design, as were those of the mighty Saiyan Prince, Vegeta. Ultimately the cells were these sources and others were joined into one, and though the traits of some were chosen to be more dominant than the others, some traits of each were retained."
Piccolo smiled. "Now I understand. You learned the Kamehameha wave when you inherited Goku's cells."
"That's right. Goku's were not the last cells I would inherit, however. In a fortunate turn of events, Frieza paid a brief visit to Earth, and though it seemed he was mostly machine at the time, it was possible to extract a few of his remaining cells before he was defeated at the hands of Goku."
Goku? thought Piccolo. Of course! In the time line Cell came from, Trunks never came back from the future! And Gohan- he wasn't a Super Saiyan at that point in time! But I wonder... "So tell me this," said Piccolo. "How did Dr. Gero get the cells? I don't recall seeing him or anyone suspicious around."
"There is a simple explanation. By now you must have learned of Dr. Gero's tracking device. It's very small, insect-like, comparable to a common house fly." He pointed over his shoulder. "There, you see. It's watching us at this very moment, waiting for an opportunity to gather more cells."
Piccolo saw it. He raised his remaining hand and blasted it, destroying it.
Cell laughed. "Excellent work, Piccolo. But I'm afraid that once again you've only managed to waste your efforts. The computer already has the cells it needs for my completion back at the lab."
"You're wrong," said Piccolo. "We destroyed Dr. Gero's lab, and all of his equipment."
"Luckily, the computer was hidden in a bunker below the laboratory."
"I see. It's not too late, you know. One of the others is bound to find that computer and destroy it!"
"Don't be absurd. The computer will work undisturbed for the next 24 years. At which time, I'll be completed."
"Just one more question," said Piccolo. "Why are you here? Why did you come to this time line?"
"My, you are full of questions," said Cell. "Well, I suppose I'll answer this last one. It's quite simply, really. You see, I cannot realize my full power from the energy of humans alone. According to the computer, I am looking for a very specific source of energy. The energy of Androids 17 and 18. Unfortunately, in the time in which I came from, Androids 17 and 18 no longer existed. They had somehow been defeated by Trunks, and along with them, my hopes for ever reaching my final, perfect stage. Luckily, however, I discovered that Trunks possessed a time capsule, which I decided to borrow for myself. After disposing of young Trunks, as I mentioned earlier, I regressed to my larval form, and traveled to a pre-determined destination. This time."
Now it's becoming clear, thought Piccolo. Trunks had set the coordinates in the time machine to tell us that he'd defeated the androids. So when Cell hijacked it, this is where it brought him. He smiled. "Alright. That's my last question." He shot out a new arm. "But I will never allow you to become complete."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan had nearly reached Ginger Town when Piccolo's voice came into his head again.
"Alright, Gohan," said Piccolo. "I've gotten all the answers I need out of this creep. You can come whenever you're ready."
Gohan stopped. "Alright, let's go." Trunks grabbed onto his shoulder and they vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I hope you don't mind," said Piccolo, "but I've invited a few friends over."
Gohan and Trunks appeared. They both turned and faced Cell. "That is definitely whatever came out of the time machine," said Trunks.
"Yeah, definitely," said Gohan. "Piccolo, why can I sense all sorts of weirdness from him?"
"I'll explain later," said Piccolo. "After we deal with him."
How did they appear out of nowhere? thought Cell. No matter.
"So, Gohan," said Cell. "How is your father doing?"
"You'll see soon enough," said Gohan.
He's still alive in this time line. I'll deal with him later. I don't have nearly enough power to fight all three of them at once. Cell raised his hands to his head. "Solar Flare!" The resulting beams of light blinded the three. Cell leapt off, running.
"That was one of Tien's moves, wasn't it?" asked Piccolo, holding his eyes.
"Yeah," said Gohan, covering his own eyes. "It's great if you need to make a quick escape. But how did that thing learn it? And how did he know my father was sick?"
The three slowly regained their eyesight. "I'll explain everything momentarily," said Piccolo. "I sense Vegeta and Tien approaching. They'll want answers, too."
Gohan and Trunks nodded, dropping their transformations. Cell had gotten away.
"That's strange," said Vegeta to himself, flying within sight of Ginger Town. "One of the power levels I was following seemed to disappear. But I can still sense the others, and it feels like Gohan and Trunks are with it."
Vegeta spotted them. When he saw them, he dropped his Super Saiyan transformation in shock. "It's the Namek! But how?"
Piccolo looked up and spotted him. "Namek, I demand to know what happened here!" shouted the Saiyan Prince, landing.
"I'll tell you," said Piccolo. "But let's wait for Tien first. He should be here shortly."
"In the meantime answer me this. Who are you really? The real Piccolo could never have such incredible power!"
"I'll tell you," said Trunks. "He needed to get stronger quickly so he merged with Kami!"
"Piccolo merged with Kami?" It seems too incredible to imagine. With that union, Piccolo has become even more powerful than I am, even as a Super Saiyan! That's impossible. He's nothing more than a mere Namek!
This situation is hopeless, thought Piccolo. I'm not even sure I can beat Androids 17 and 18, let alone 16. And that still leaves Cell!
Tien landed. "Alright, Namek," said Vegeta. "Tell us what's happened here. I demand to know."
"All right," said Piccolo. "But listen closely. What you are about to hear could determine if we live or die. Ever since I arrived in Ginger Town, I have been fighting a creature known as Cell. He is in fact an android created by Dr. Gero.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Later...
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So you're saying he possesses cells from Kakarot and me?" asked Vegeta.
"We have only two choices," said Piccolo. "We can either find Cell, or track down Androids 17 and 18. Without them, Cell cannot reach his final form. I say we go for Cell, since he'll be easier to find. Whatever we do, we have to do it quickly, since once Cell reaches his final form, there'll be no stopping him."
How can this be happening to me, thought Vegeta. Every time I reach a new level of strength, there's a higher power to challenge my authority! It's like Fate's laughing at me with a big stupid grin, just like Kakarot.
"Well, we could wait at Master Roshi's," said Gohan. "With Instant Transmission, the moment we can sense Cell, we can get there quicker than he can get out of there. And in the mean time, if the androids show up there, we can take care of them."
"You're right," said Piccolo. "But what if Cell doesn't raise his power level? Then what do we do?"
"We watch the television. Whenever we hear about Cell attacking a town, we use Instant Transmission to get there and surprise him."
"Good idea."
"Let him become complete!" shouted Vegeta. The others looked at him in shock. "If Cell destroys the androids, it will save me the trouble! And fighting one battle is easier than fighting four!"
"The androids alone were enough to beat us," said Piccolo. "If he absorbs them, he'll be far more powerful than us."
"I don't care. Like a true warrior, I will strive and overcome this challenge! I am now a Super Saiyan. But I won't stop there. I will ascend!"
"How can you become stronger than a Super Saiyan?" asked Trunks.
"I'm sure Kakarot will try to do the same, don't you think?" asked Vegeta. "If any of you want to take on Cell or the androids while I'm away, be my guest. I'll be back to finish the job once you fail." He shot off, flying away.
"Sometimes he really gets on my nerves," said Piccolo. "Is it really possible to surpass a Super Saiyan?"
Gohan didn't answer. He, too, had begun to feel like there was something looming beyond his power. Shaking himself out of his musings, he turned to Trunks. "We should head over to Dr. Gero's lab. At the least we should prevent another Cell from ever emerging."
"I'll stay here and try to track down Cell," said Piccolo.
"I'll help you out," said Tien to Piccolo. "The more eyes we have looking for Cell, the better."
Piccolo nodded. "I'll send word if we find Cell," he said to Gohan.
"Right," said Gohan. "After we're done at the lab, we're going to head back to Master Roshi's. We'll let you know if anything appears on the news. Good luck." He raised his fingers to his forehead, Trunks grabbing his shoulder. The two vanished.
Piccolo and Tien shot into the air, searching for Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan and Trunks reappeared over the ruins of Dr. Gero's lab. "It must be buried under all this rubble," said Gohan.
The two started blasting the rubble away, searching for the entrance to the basement that the Cell from this time was, according to the Cell from the future, growing in.
"I think I found it," said Trunks. He nudged over a rock, exposing a long shaft down into the rubble.
The two slowly flew down to the bottom. They saw a massive steel door. Pushing it open, Gohan held up a small energy ball, illuminating the region surrounding them.
"Let me," said Trunks, groping the wall until he found the light switch. Trunks walked forward to a massive object in the center of the lab. "This must be Dr. Gero's master computer."
Gohan approached a tank filled with water. "Look here." Trunks walked forward, looking at the small creature in the middle. "This must be Cell at the beginning of his development," said Gohan.
"That thing is made up of cells from all of the greatest fighters in the world," said Trunks. "With you being so much more powerful in this time line than in the time line Cell and I came from, I wonder how strong this one will be when it matures."
"I don't think I want to find out," said Gohan. "Speculation is good enough for me."
Trunks left the tank and approached a table. Lifting one of the papers, he began shaking with excitement. "I don't believe it! It's all here!"
Gohan walked forward and hovered over Trunk's shoulder. "Are those really plans for Android 17?"
"Yes, they are! Everything about their design is right here!" Trunks picked up the plans and rolled them under his arm. "With these, we might be able to find a weakness to exploit! What a lucky break!"
Gohan lifted another set of plans off the table. "These are no good. They're just plans for a gas-powered toaster oven or something." He surveyed the room one last time, looking for anything useful. "We've got everything we need. Let's make sure nothing ever comes out of this evil place again."
The two started blasting everything in the lab. Finally, the two turned to the larval Cell. They blasted it in unison, destroying it.
"This place is going to blow!" shouted Trunks. The two ran out of the hallway, then shot up the entrance shaft.
Gohan raised his hands one last time as they hovered over the ruins of the lab. "One more for the road!" he screamed, shooting an energy blast down the hole. The resulting explosion shook the area surrounding for miles.
"Let's get those plans to Bulma," said Gohan. "If anyone will be able to find a weakness, it will be her."
"You go on ahead," said Trunks. "I'm going to find my father and train with him. If he can surpass a Super Saiyan, maybe he can show me how to as well."
"Vegeta's pretty... independent," said Gohan, taking the plans from Trunks. "Good luck."
Trunks flew off. Gohan raised his fingers to his forehead and teleported to Capsule Corp.
Bulma looked up from her work in surprise. "Gohan, what are you doing here?"
Gohan held up the plans. "Me and Trunks were in the bottom of Gero's lab, and we found plans for one of the androids. We were hoping you could look these over and maybe find a weakness."
Bulma examined the plans. "Maybe. If there's any weakness, I'll be able to find it."
"Thanks. I'd better be getting to the others and tell them what's going on." He raised his fingers to his forehead and teleported to Kame house.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will our heroes manage to stop the diabolical Cell in time, or will he find the androids before they get the chance? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 41:
Goku Awakens
Ever since Cell had evaded them at Ginger Town days before, Gohan, Piccolo, Tien, and Krillin had taken it upon themselves to act as a task force with the express purpose of finding Cell before he found the androids and hurt too many more innocent people.
Gohan sighed, watching the television. Since he was the one who could use Instant Transmission, he remained at Kame House, keeping his eyes on the news, trying to keep informed of Cell's movements. In the event something was on the news about Cell, he would go and gather the others, moving to the scene immediately.
The plan would have worked so far, but Cell was cunning enough to know after the first few attempts how quickly the Z-Fighters were at arriving at his location when the news reported he was there, or he accidentally raised his power level to a detectable level.
Finally, Gohan snapped up, sensing Krillin's power level rise. He stood, putting his fingers to his forehead, and vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Krillin had found Cell attacking at an airport. He'd tried to buy enough time for two innocent bystanders to escape on a plane, but Cell had gone after them, ignoring Krillin. They faced off on the wing of a plane.
Oh, man, thought Krillin. I hope Gohan's not taking a nap, or else I'll have to hold him off for longer than I'd like. His fears were baseless, as Gohan appeared and transformed, facing Cell. Krillin could feel the others approaching.
"Now we've got him," said the half-Saiyan, landing on the steel wing of the plane. "Good job, Krillin."
Cell tensed up, realizing that he'd made a critical error in chasing the two innocents when he could have knocked Krillin out and escaped. "Who have you gotten, boy?" asked Cell. "All it looks like you've managed to do is get yourself trapped."
Gohan darted at Cell, who dodged out of the way. He launched an energy blast at the engine on the wing, crippling the plane. Gohan and Krillin both grabbed onto the plane. Cell used the resulting confusion to hop onto the ground, concealing his power level again.
Gohan and Krillin gently set the plane down. "Darn it!" shouted Krillin as Gohan dropped Super Saiyan. "He got away again!"
"Don't blame yourself," said Piccolo, landing nearby. "Cell slipped up, which he's never done before. He resorted to desperate measures to escape. You had to, or else Cell still would have won, because you would have had to let innocent bystanders die."
Cell watched from where he hid in the control tower. "These Earthlings are really starting to get on my nerves. How is it they are able to follow me so quickly after my presence is known?" He smirked. "No matter. After I have absorbed the other Androids, I will show them who they are truly dealing with." He shot out of the other side of the control tower, sprinting as fast as possible.
"We should get back to Kame House," said Krillin. "Cell's not going to show himself for a while now, so it'd be best if we just waited until he did on the news."
The others agreed, and Gohan transported them all back to Kame House.
-DBZ: SGTW-
It had been a day since their failed attempt at capturing Cell, and still there was no news on his whereabouts.
"Darn it!" shouted Krillin, frustrated when the news didn't say anything about what they were calling "the Creature". "We almost had him yesterday. But he's too... too..."
"Don't sweat it, Krillin," said Piccolo. "Cell will make a reappearance soon. His hunger is too much for him."
Just then, the TV show was interrupted by a news bulletin. "The Creature continues it's path of destruction, leaving no one it encounters alive. Now, we have multiple Creature sightings in South City."
"Let's go, guys!" shouted Gohan. The others gathered around him and they vanished.
Just then, Chi-Chi and Master Roshi were alerted to the sounds of footsteps upstairs. They both tensed up, not knowing who it was.
The doorway blocking the stairs suddenly opened. "Hey, guys," said the person. "Got anything to eat? I'm starving."
"G-Goku?" asked Chi-Chi, staring at her husband.
"Yeah, it's me!" said the Saiyan. Chi-Chi ran forward and gave him a hug.
"You're okay!"
"I'm sorry I worried you, Chi-Chi. Everything's going to be all right. I'm all better now."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah!" His smiled turned into a frown. "In my dreams I could hear everything that was going on. We're in deep trouble, aren't we? But I'm not ready to fight just yet."
"Of course you're not," said Ch-Chi. "You still need to rest, so just stay put."
"Hey, I'm all right," said Goku. "Just relax now. It's time for me to start my training once again. It's time for me to move to the next level." He walked to the window. "Vegeta knows it too, and I think Gohan does too. Through my dreams, I could hear Vegeta speaking what I had also felt. That there is a level beyond that of a Super Saiyan. And I will rise to claim it."
"I don't think it can be done," said Master Roshi.
"I can do it. It's the only way to beat Cell. And I won't know if I don't try, will I? All I need to know for sure is a year."
"A year? But that's a long time!"
"But we both know a place where it could be done in a day," said Goku, smiling. He turned to his wife. "Hey, Chi-Chi! I'd like to take Gohan with me, if that's alright with you."
Chi-Chi nodded glumly. "Fine. But promise me that when you beat these androids, he'll study."
"I promise," said Goku. "I'd better get going." He gave his wife one last hug, raised his fingers to his forehead, and vanished
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Darn it!" shouted Krillin. "He's too fast for us!" He, Gohan, Tien, Yamcha, and Piccolo had arrived at West City only to find Cell had fled the scene once again.
"Cell!" said Piccolo in frustration. "Curse him! We were too late again!"
Gohan came down from where he'd been flying. "No sign of him. He's nowhere in the entire city, as far as I could tell."
"We could really use Goku's help," said Krillin.
Just then, the others were distracted by Goku appearing behind Krillin.
"Its... my dad!" said Gohan, shocked.
"Goku?" asked Yamcha, staring at the Saiyan.
Krillin turned to see what the others were staring at. He looked Goku up and down, then turned away. "Yep. Must be losing it." Just then, he realized the others were staring at Goku. He turned again. "G... Goku?"
"Hey guys!" said Goku, waving. "I'm back!"
Gohan ran forward and gave his father a hug. "So, you're back to normal?"
"Almost," said Goku. "I'm just really hungry. Can we get something to eat?"
"Yeah," said Krillin. "He's back to normal, all right."
Goku walked to Piccolo. He scratched behind his head, staring at the Namek. "Kamicollo!" he finally said. Piccolo jerked in surprise. "What?" asked the Saiyan. "Did I say something wrong?"
"I've been through some changes," said Piccolo, "but my name is still Piccolo. And don't forget that."
"Right," said Goku. "But listen. There's no way we can defeat a power like Cell in a fight right now. And that's why I've decided to start training again. I know a place where I can get a year of training in a day."
"So it's back to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber," said Piccolo. "I see. Nobody has ever managed to stay in there for more than a year. It might be too much for you to handle."
"Yeah, that's why I'm taking Gohan, Trunks, and Vegeta along with me." Gohan looked up in surprise. "Surely one of us will be able to do it," continued Goku.
"Then go. Quickly," said Piccolo. "Cell gets stronger every day. Time is in short supply. If we let Cell absorb 17 or 18, we're finished for sure."
"Right. Let's go get Trunks and Vegeta, Gohan."
Gohan nodded. The two raised their fingers to their foreheads and disappeared.
One day is more than we can afford, thought Piccolo. It better be worth it.
"Things are looking up!" said Tien. "When those guys are done training, I know we'll be ready for Cell!"
"You bet!" said Krillin. "We'll win! And the Earth will be safe once again! Man, I just can't wait to get to Cell now! His days of terrorizing people will be over for good!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Vegeta stood upon a rock overhang, staring into the sky. Yes, I can feel it, thought Vegeta. I know it can be done. I can ascend beyond a Super Saiyan. The only question is- how?
Behind him, 30 feet away, Trunks sat, watching his father. Father, you're so proud and arrogant, thought the half-Saiyan. Well I've got news for you- I'm not going anywhere. If you can raise your power to the next level, then so can I. I'm here to stay, whether you like it or not.
Just then, Gohan and Goku appeared directly behind Trunks. Trunks stood and faced them. "Goku! You're better!"
"Hey, how's the training going, Trunks?" asked Goku.
"Not well. I guess my father really doesn't want me to train with him. He thinks I'll slow him down and every time I get close he tells me to get lost." Trunks looked at his father. "Look at him. He's done nothing but stand there, staring into space, for the last three days. He hasn't moved."
"Yeah, that is strange," said Goku. "Maybe he's just waiting for a sign, or something to show him the way. I'll go have a word with him." He flew over to Vegeta.
"Kakarot, leave me alone," said Vegeta as Goku landed behind him.
"Hey, hold on," said Goku. "I just want to help you out, Vegeta. I know what you're trying to do. There's a room at Kami's place where you can get a year of training in one day."
Vegeta looked up. "I could ascend to the next level very quickly." He turned to Goku. "Take me there."
"Sure, but here's the problem. Only two people can enter at once. I'm going in with Gohan, so you'll have to go in with Trunks."
"This better not be another one of your tricks."
"Hey, would I lie to you?" asked Goku. "We're all in this together now, remember? This is on the level, I promise."
"All right, I'll go," said Vegeta. "As long as I get to go first."
"Sure. You know, this is a great way for a father and son to get to know each other."
The two flew over to Gohan and Trunks. Trunks grabbed onto Gohan's shoulder, Vegeta reluctantly grabbed on to Goku's, and they vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"You three should get some sleep," said Piccolo as they landed at Kame House. "I'll keep an eye on the news, and watch for the androids."
Yamcha, Tien, and Krillin nodded. Within minutes the three were out cold in front of the television, and Piccolo sat, staring at the news.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Follow me," said Mr. Popo, leading the Saiyans along a corridor. "You'll find everything you need here. There's food, a bed, and bath. It's not very luxurious, I'm afraid."
"I require nothing but the essentials," said Vegeta. "This is not a vacation. This is work."
"Ignore him, Mr. Popo," said Goku. "He's a little uptight today. He's just eager to complete his training."
"Yes, so then I can take care of you and your son," said Vegeta to himself. He smirked.
"Here it is," said Mr. Popo, gesturing to a large wooden door.
"So that's the Hyperbolic Time Chamber?" asked Gohan.
"Which group goes first?" asked Mr. Popo.
"You two," said Goku to Trunks and Vegeta. "Go on in."
"Good," said Mr. Popo. "Right this way, please." He opened the door. "Once you have crossed the threshold, you will spend a year in this room. But once you leave, only a day will have passed in this dimension. Good luck."
Vegeta and Trunks entered the chamber.
"I hope those two get along," said Gohan. Knowing Vegeta, though, that hope was likely to go ignored.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What's so special about this place?" asked Vegeta.
"It's hot," said Trunks. "There's less air. And the gravity is different." He walked outside the entry room. "I... don't believe it!" he said, catching a sight of the massive void surrounding the doorway.
Vegeta followed, looking around without much apparent surprise.
"There's nothing here!" said Trunks. "We're surrounded by total emptiness! Floating in a gigantic void! What kind of place is this?"
"Too much for you?" mocked Vegeta.
"Of course not, but... now I know why few can stand a full year in this place. It's... overwhelming."
"It is," agreed Vegeta.
I must not let my father see that I am afraid, thought Trunks. This is my chance to prove myself to him. But I don't know if I can spend an entire year in this place! It's too much for me! It's too much!
-DBZ: SGTW-
"If you're planning on going outside today, don't!" said the news. "Creature sightings are at an all-time high. It would be a good day to stay in and lock your doors. These are dangerous times, folks, and we can only hope that somewhere there is someone that can-"
"I can't stand it!" muttered Piccolo. "Sitting here doing nothing while Cell continues his reign of terror! Curse you, Cell!"
Just then, he heard footsteps outside. Getting up, he moved to the window.
"Hi. Can Goku come out and play?" asked Android 17. The three Androids had arrived.
Oh, this is perfect, thought Piccolo. It's exactly what I wanted for breakfast.
"Goku is not here," said 16.
"Not here?" asked 17, frustrated.
"Get up," said Piccolo, waking the others. "We've got Androids."
They stood and ran outside. "Hold your ground," said Piccolo. "I'll handle this." He faced 17. "Goku's not here right now, but perhaps I can take his place."
"No thanks," said 17, "but tell us where he is and I might change my mind."
"I don't like the look of this," said Krillin.
"Goku's gone now," said Piccolo, "so why don't you go get lost."
"Now now," said 17. "It's not very nice to talk to your guests that way, you know."
"Alright, have it your way." Piccolo pointed to a nearby island. "There. That island. You and me."
"Very well. If you really want to."
"You three stay here," said Piccolo to the others. "This is my fight now." He and the Androids took off, flying towards the island.
They landed. "I think it's my turn to sit this one out," said 18, sitting on a nearby rock.
"If you cooperate, I'll go easy on you," said 17, walking towards Piccolo, while rolling up his sleeves. "Last chance. Tell me where Goku is."
"Go find him yourself," said Piccolo, throwing his cape and turban to the side.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Can Piccolo defeat Android 17? Or will he fail like Gohan and Vegeta at the feet of these unstoppable Androids? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Word Count: 7,440
The Reunion
"These new developments are most unsettling, Mr. Popo," said Kami from where he oversaw the events taking place below.
"Haven't you gotten tired of standing there yet?" asked Piccolo, opening his eyes. "You're just wasting your time, you know. You can watch events unfold as long as you like, it won't change anything. We're still going to have to combine our powers to fight the androids."
"For the last four years I have felt a disturbance taking shape on the Earth below," said Kami. "A great evil. But I'm afraid it wasn't the androids that I sensed. There is another threat. A vile creature that I fear will prove to be a hundred times more lethal and cunning than even the androids."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Bulma's full attention was on her television set in her jet.
"And now, Channel 8's continuing coverage of the disaster in Ginger Town," said the anchorman. "To recount, all activities in the West City suburb of Ginger Town came to a screeching halt this morning when the entire population mysteriously vanished into thin air. Authorities are at a loss to explain the sudden disappearance of Ginger Town's inhabitants and attempts at contacting anyone within the city itself have so far gone unanswered."
"Ginger Town, huh," said Bulma to herself. "That's not far from where we found the time machine! I wonder..."
She called Kame House. "Yo, Krillin here."
"Krillin, this is Bulma! Did Gohan and Trunks show up there yet?"
"Yeah, they got back not long ago. Instant Transmission, you know. So what's up? You sound all wigged out, Bulma."
"Listen, turn your TV on to Channel 8. And hurry, because I think there's something that you're really going to want to see."
Krillin turned the television on. "Well," said the anchorman, "it seems like we have more information on the crises in Ginger Town. Our latest reports indicate that there are no signs of life anywhere. However, it seems the clothing of the victims has been discovered throughout the city. Wait, our Channel 8 reporter has just arrived at the scene."
The scene switched to Ginger Town. "Uh, I'm reporting live from downtown Ginger Town," said the reporter, sounding freaked out, "and the entire place is completely deserted. All of the 15,000 residents have suddenly disappeared. Piles of garments lie scattered throughout the city, as though these people were sucked right out of their clothes! There are also indications that these people may have been trying to defend themselves against someone or something."
"Oh, goodness!" shouted Master Roshi.
"Man, this is really bad!" shouted Krillin. "It's the androids! They must have done this!"
Gohan came downstairs after hearing the shouting. "What's going on?"
"Come on over here and have a look at this!" said Krillin, gesturing for Gohan to look at the TV. Gohan walked over and stared at the television.
There were sounds of screaming coming from nearby the news crew. "Oh, the humanity!" shouted the reporter. "As you can hear, the city isn't deserted after all!" Gunshots rang out throughout the city. "Now I can hear shots! It sounds like machine gun fire, coming from the very core of the city! But we can't make out who's doing the shooting!" The reporter turned back to the camera. "And it appears the commotion has died down once again- huh?"
The Z-Fighters braced themselves as they saw the reporter get a look of fear on his face. Suddenly, the camera cut out.
"Krillin, quick!" shouted Yamcha. "Flip it to another channel!"
Krillin darted forward and changed it. The new channel showed Ginger Town, but the camera was laying on the ground, and there was nobody in sight. They heard more gunshots ring out in the distance, but they stopped soon enough.
"It... sounds like it's over..." said Krillin.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Kami suddenly turned and walked to another part of the lookout, horror etched in every feature of his face.
"What is it?" asked Piccolo, staring at his counterpart. "Tell me what's happening down there!"
"It's... awful!" said Kami, his eyes wide. "Even worse than I'd feared!"
"What? What do you mean? You're not making any sense! Explain yourself!" Kami continued to stare in horror. Finally, he turned his eyes away from the scene below, closing them.
"You old fool!" shouted Piccolo. "You actually enjoy keeping me in suspense like this, don't you? I want you to tell me exactly what's going on down there. Start talking."
Kami turned to Piccolo. "No. I won't."
"Look, old man. I have no intention on asking you again. Now I need to know what's happening on Earth."
"Yes, but telling you is pointless now. Because when you and I become one, you will understand everything that has happened."
Piccolo smirked. "So you've finally come to your senses. I was beginning to wonder how much longer I'd have to wait."
Kami walked forward, face-to-face with Piccolo. "We must hurry, before there are any more victims on Earth."
"I'm ready. But let's get one thing straight! When we combine, we use my body. Understand?"
"Agreed. It will be so. Your body is much younger, and more powerful. I understand. Our union will make you more powerful, Piccolo, and you will obtain my vast knowledge. I hope you will use these new powers wisely." The two stared at each other shortly. "For our merger to transpire, place your hand on my chest." Piccolo did as ordered.
"No, Kami!" said Mr. Popo.
"There's nothing to worry about, Mr. Popo," said Kami. "Alone I can do little to help those on Earth." He smiled. "The time is right. Piccolo has changed. The evil that once filled his entire being has greatly diminished. And when we unite, I trust he will use our combined strength in the service of good." He closed his eyes. "I thank you for all you've done, Mr. Popo."
Kami started screaming, pressing himself into Piccolo's hand. A white aura surrounded him. Finally, there was an explosion of light, and Kami had vanished, his staff laying against the ground.
Piccolo stood up, in awe at his power. He walked to the edge of the lookout.
"Goodbye, Kami," said Mr. Popo. "I'll miss you."
"No longer am I Kami or Piccolo. I am a Namek who has long since forgotten his name." Reaching the edge of the lookout, he turned and raised a hand to Mr. Popo. "I... must go." He leapt off the lookout, plummeting towards Earth. He shot off towards Ginger Town.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"We are still attempting to connect via satellite to our correspondent in Ginger Town," said the anchorman, "but at last word it looks like he too may have become a victim."
"Trunks," said Gohan, walking to the door. "Let's go."
"Right," said Trunks, following Gohan. "Can't we just use Instant Transmission to get there?"
"I don't have a strong enough energy signature to lock onto there," said Gohan, exiting Kame House. "Besides, I feel like flying."
The two shot off, heading in the direction of Ginger Town.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Piccolo landed and looked around. Just as he'd seen from the Lookout, there were no people around. He began to walk around, searching for the cause of this catastrophe.
Finally, he heard something approaching. Turning, he saw it- a tall, humanoid, insect-like creature with green skin and orange muscles. He had a tail ending in a stinger-like appendage, that Piccolo knew was to suck up his victims.
"At last we meet," said Piccolo. "Face to face." Suddenly, his eyes went wide. "What the? What am I sensing from that thing? His power... I've sensed it somewhere before!"
"You're next, Piccolo," said the creature, gesturing to the clothing of his victims.
"What did you just say?" asked Piccolo.
The creature braced himself and began powering up. An immense amount of wind came off of it.
"This can't be!" said Piccolo to himself. "What's going on?"
A massive wave of energy shot out from the creature.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Do you sense that?" asked Trunks to Gohan.
"It's weird," said Gohan, "but I can sense two Piccolo's. We'd better get ready. We might need to make a move if this gets any more weird." He flashed into Super Saiyan, increasing his speed.
Trunks transformed right behind him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What's the matter?" asked the creature. "You seem afraid, Piccolo."
"No, far from it, in fact," said Piccolo. "Now tell me how you know that name."
"Well, one might say that... we're brothers."
"What?" asked Piccolo, horrified. The creature merely laughed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now I'm sensing Frieza!" said Gohan. "And his father!"
"I'm sensing my father," said Trunks. "This is getting too weird." He then sensed something else. "Now what?"
"Now I'm sensing MY father!" said Gohan.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Now," said Piccolo, "if you've finished showing off, I want answers. Who are you?"
"Silly Piccolo," said the creature. "My secrets will not be unlocked so easily."
"No matter. I'll still destroy you. Whoever you are."
The creature laughed. "You're even more amusing than I imagined!"
Piccolo smiled. "Well, we'll still see if you feel that way after I've beaten you."
"Such a fighter spirit. I will enjoy absorbing you, Piccolo."
"You keep using that name," said Piccolo. "But I think you've mistaken me for someone else." He braced himself. "So allow me to introduce myself." He began powering up. A massive amount of energy exploded off of him. "The Piccolo you know is gone. I am the Namek. And as for you, well, you're finished."
"I am impressed, Namek," said the creature. "Your power is astounding. I'm sure you will prove to be a most satisfying meal."
"Don't count on it."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Whose power level is that?" asked Trunks. "I don't recognize it at all."
Gohan smiled. "It's Piccolo! Krillin was right! He's fused with Kami and become a Super Namek!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"You know you've made one critical mistake," said Piccolo. "You never should have emptied this city of it's entire population!"
"Why's that?" asked the creature.
"Because as long as there are no innocent bystanders to get in the way, I can fight you to the fullest of my abilities!"
"So what's stopping you?"
Piccolo thought for a moment. "You know, that's a really good question." He raised one hand and concentrated a massive amount of energy into it. The creature's eyes widened. He crossed his arms in front of himself, ready to take the blast.
Piccolo fired. The blast was too much for the creature, which was blown backwards.
The creature pushed rubble off himself, then looked, seeing Piccolo charging at him. Raising his hands to block the blow, he was unprepared for Piccolo stopping just before he would have attacked, then circling around him, kicking him in the back.
Whipping around, the creature dodged a second kick, darting backwards away from Piccolo. Piccolo charged at him again, then moved behind the creature, kicking him into the sky. He charged forward, and launched a punch at the creature just as he landed.
The creature stopped himself just in time, then darted backwards in to the sky. Raising two fingers to his forehead, he began charging energy into them. Piccolo's eyes went wide with shock as he recognized the move.
"Special Beam Cannon, fire!" shouted the creature, launching a spiral of energy at Piccolo. Piccolo deflected the energy into the sky, which then exploded far away from either fighter.
"He's good," said Piccolo to himself. He looked up just in time to see the creature charging at him. He leapt out of the way of the kick. The creature launched after the Namek, throwing a flurry of punches. Piccolo managed to block or dodge every one.
Piccolo punched the creature in the face, sending it upwards in to the sky. Piccolo then darted behind it, kneeing it in the stomach, sending it flying down into the ground.
Piccolo landed down on the ground in front of the creature, who was climbing to his feet. "I must admit," said Piccolo. "You're a lot stronger than I gave you credit for. But don't let that go to your head."
The creature laughed. "You have yet to see my true strength. I was unable to gather enough energy in this city to reach my full power."
"Your full power?" asked Piccolo, shocked. "Monster! That's why you absorbed all those innocent people!"
"Yes. It is their living energy that gives me my power."
"Who are you? What kind of a twisted mind would think to send you here in the time machine?"
The creature had a look of surprise on it's face. "Answer me!" shouted Piccolo.
"I came here of my own accord," said the creature. "The time capsule was much to small for me to fit in in my present state, so I was forced to regress to my larval form and enclose myself within an egg. Pretty ingenious, don't you think?" The creature cupped his hands in front of him. "You seem to know much, Piccolo. But there is still much for you to learn."
Piccolo's look of horror was replaced by one of shock when he sensed Goku again.
"Ka.. me... ha..." began the creature, moving it's hands behind itself in the fashion Piccolo knew so well. Sure enough, in it's hands formed a blue orb of energy.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I'm sensing my father again!" shouted Gohan. "That's it, we're not going this slow anymore!" He stopped.
Just then, Piccolo's voice came in his mind. "Gohan, I know you're on your way. But wait. I'm going to try and get some answers from this thing."
Gohan looked up in shock. "Right, Piccolo." He gestured to Trunks. "Piccolo wants us to wait. So let's go." They took off flying again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Piccolo readied himself to stop the blast. He knew Gohan would listen to him, and he had an idea to get some answers.
"...me... HA!" finished the creature, sending a wave of blue energy at Piccolo. When the smoke cleared, Piccolo's right arm had been blown off.
"No..." said Piccolo to himself. He collapsed on the ground, in pain.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Is this the end of Piccolo? What mad plan does he have to get answers? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 40:
His Name is Cell
"My arm..." groaned Piccolo.
"Now do you see how hopeless your situation is?" asked the creature. "You have no chance against me."
"You're right," said Piccolo. "Without my arm, any chance I had at beating you is gone, and I have no choice but to surrender. But before I do, I would to know why I can sense Goku's energy in you. And Frieza's, and Vegeta's."
The creature thought for a moment. Finally, he laughed. "Very well. Since you're literally dying to know, I guess there's no harm in telling you." He smiled. "My name is Cell. I am an android."
"You're an android?"
"I am the single greatest achievement of my creator, Dr. Gero. In his efforts to create a supreme fighting organism, Dr. Gero devised a means by which he could fuse cells of the world's greatest fighters into one, and then cultivate that cell into a singular entity. Unfortunately for the good doctor, however, he soon realized the project was far too complex to be completed during his lifetime."
That doesn't add up with Gero turning himself into an android, thought Piccolo. That means Cell is from a different time line.
"As such, he diverted his attention to more meaningful pursuits, but only after he had programmed his computer to complete the enormous task which he had begun. The computer worked tirelessly to complete the fusion of cells of the mightiest warriors to ever walk the earth. Warriors such as the Saiyan Nappa, the young but powerful Gohan, and, of course, cells were gathered from you, Piccolo, so that great strength and determination might also be harnessed for our purposes."
Cell smiled. "Most notably, the cells of Goku were incorporated into my design, as were those of the mighty Saiyan Prince, Vegeta. Ultimately the cells were these sources and others were joined into one, and though the traits of some were chosen to be more dominant than the others, some traits of each were retained."
Piccolo smiled. "Now I understand. You learned the Kamehameha wave when you inherited Goku's cells."
"That's right. Goku's were not the last cells I would inherit, however. In a fortunate turn of events, Frieza paid a brief visit to Earth, and though it seemed he was mostly machine at the time, it was possible to extract a few of his remaining cells before he was defeated at the hands of Goku."
Goku? thought Piccolo. Of course! In the time line Cell came from, Trunks never came back from the future! And Gohan- he wasn't a Super Saiyan at that point in time! But I wonder... "So tell me this," said Piccolo. "How did Dr. Gero get the cells? I don't recall seeing him or anyone suspicious around."
"There is a simple explanation. By now you must have learned of Dr. Gero's tracking device. It's very small, insect-like, comparable to a common house fly." He pointed over his shoulder. "There, you see. It's watching us at this very moment, waiting for an opportunity to gather more cells."
Piccolo saw it. He raised his remaining hand and blasted it, destroying it.
Cell laughed. "Excellent work, Piccolo. But I'm afraid that once again you've only managed to waste your efforts. The computer already has the cells it needs for my completion back at the lab."
"You're wrong," said Piccolo. "We destroyed Dr. Gero's lab, and all of his equipment."
"Luckily, the computer was hidden in a bunker below the laboratory."
"I see. It's not too late, you know. One of the others is bound to find that computer and destroy it!"
"Don't be absurd. The computer will work undisturbed for the next 24 years. At which time, I'll be completed."
"Just one more question," said Piccolo. "Why are you here? Why did you come to this time line?"
"My, you are full of questions," said Cell. "Well, I suppose I'll answer this last one. It's quite simply, really. You see, I cannot realize my full power from the energy of humans alone. According to the computer, I am looking for a very specific source of energy. The energy of Androids 17 and 18. Unfortunately, in the time in which I came from, Androids 17 and 18 no longer existed. They had somehow been defeated by Trunks, and along with them, my hopes for ever reaching my final, perfect stage. Luckily, however, I discovered that Trunks possessed a time capsule, which I decided to borrow for myself. After disposing of young Trunks, as I mentioned earlier, I regressed to my larval form, and traveled to a pre-determined destination. This time."
Now it's becoming clear, thought Piccolo. Trunks had set the coordinates in the time machine to tell us that he'd defeated the androids. So when Cell hijacked it, this is where it brought him. He smiled. "Alright. That's my last question." He shot out a new arm. "But I will never allow you to become complete."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan had nearly reached Ginger Town when Piccolo's voice came into his head again.
"Alright, Gohan," said Piccolo. "I've gotten all the answers I need out of this creep. You can come whenever you're ready."
Gohan stopped. "Alright, let's go." Trunks grabbed onto his shoulder and they vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I hope you don't mind," said Piccolo, "but I've invited a few friends over."
Gohan and Trunks appeared. They both turned and faced Cell. "That is definitely whatever came out of the time machine," said Trunks.
"Yeah, definitely," said Gohan. "Piccolo, why can I sense all sorts of weirdness from him?"
"I'll explain later," said Piccolo. "After we deal with him."
How did they appear out of nowhere? thought Cell. No matter.
"So, Gohan," said Cell. "How is your father doing?"
"You'll see soon enough," said Gohan.
He's still alive in this time line. I'll deal with him later. I don't have nearly enough power to fight all three of them at once. Cell raised his hands to his head. "Solar Flare!" The resulting beams of light blinded the three. Cell leapt off, running.
"That was one of Tien's moves, wasn't it?" asked Piccolo, holding his eyes.
"Yeah," said Gohan, covering his own eyes. "It's great if you need to make a quick escape. But how did that thing learn it? And how did he know my father was sick?"
The three slowly regained their eyesight. "I'll explain everything momentarily," said Piccolo. "I sense Vegeta and Tien approaching. They'll want answers, too."
Gohan and Trunks nodded, dropping their transformations. Cell had gotten away.
"That's strange," said Vegeta to himself, flying within sight of Ginger Town. "One of the power levels I was following seemed to disappear. But I can still sense the others, and it feels like Gohan and Trunks are with it."
Vegeta spotted them. When he saw them, he dropped his Super Saiyan transformation in shock. "It's the Namek! But how?"
Piccolo looked up and spotted him. "Namek, I demand to know what happened here!" shouted the Saiyan Prince, landing.
"I'll tell you," said Piccolo. "But let's wait for Tien first. He should be here shortly."
"In the meantime answer me this. Who are you really? The real Piccolo could never have such incredible power!"
"I'll tell you," said Trunks. "He needed to get stronger quickly so he merged with Kami!"
"Piccolo merged with Kami?" It seems too incredible to imagine. With that union, Piccolo has become even more powerful than I am, even as a Super Saiyan! That's impossible. He's nothing more than a mere Namek!
This situation is hopeless, thought Piccolo. I'm not even sure I can beat Androids 17 and 18, let alone 16. And that still leaves Cell!
Tien landed. "Alright, Namek," said Vegeta. "Tell us what's happened here. I demand to know."
"All right," said Piccolo. "But listen closely. What you are about to hear could determine if we live or die. Ever since I arrived in Ginger Town, I have been fighting a creature known as Cell. He is in fact an android created by Dr. Gero.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Later...
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So you're saying he possesses cells from Kakarot and me?" asked Vegeta.
"We have only two choices," said Piccolo. "We can either find Cell, or track down Androids 17 and 18. Without them, Cell cannot reach his final form. I say we go for Cell, since he'll be easier to find. Whatever we do, we have to do it quickly, since once Cell reaches his final form, there'll be no stopping him."
How can this be happening to me, thought Vegeta. Every time I reach a new level of strength, there's a higher power to challenge my authority! It's like Fate's laughing at me with a big stupid grin, just like Kakarot.
"Well, we could wait at Master Roshi's," said Gohan. "With Instant Transmission, the moment we can sense Cell, we can get there quicker than he can get out of there. And in the mean time, if the androids show up there, we can take care of them."
"You're right," said Piccolo. "But what if Cell doesn't raise his power level? Then what do we do?"
"We watch the television. Whenever we hear about Cell attacking a town, we use Instant Transmission to get there and surprise him."
"Good idea."
"Let him become complete!" shouted Vegeta. The others looked at him in shock. "If Cell destroys the androids, it will save me the trouble! And fighting one battle is easier than fighting four!"
"The androids alone were enough to beat us," said Piccolo. "If he absorbs them, he'll be far more powerful than us."
"I don't care. Like a true warrior, I will strive and overcome this challenge! I am now a Super Saiyan. But I won't stop there. I will ascend!"
"How can you become stronger than a Super Saiyan?" asked Trunks.
"I'm sure Kakarot will try to do the same, don't you think?" asked Vegeta. "If any of you want to take on Cell or the androids while I'm away, be my guest. I'll be back to finish the job once you fail." He shot off, flying away.
"Sometimes he really gets on my nerves," said Piccolo. "Is it really possible to surpass a Super Saiyan?"
Gohan didn't answer. He, too, had begun to feel like there was something looming beyond his power. Shaking himself out of his musings, he turned to Trunks. "We should head over to Dr. Gero's lab. At the least we should prevent another Cell from ever emerging."
"I'll stay here and try to track down Cell," said Piccolo.
"I'll help you out," said Tien to Piccolo. "The more eyes we have looking for Cell, the better."
Piccolo nodded. "I'll send word if we find Cell," he said to Gohan.
"Right," said Gohan. "After we're done at the lab, we're going to head back to Master Roshi's. We'll let you know if anything appears on the news. Good luck." He raised his fingers to his forehead, Trunks grabbing his shoulder. The two vanished.
Piccolo and Tien shot into the air, searching for Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan and Trunks reappeared over the ruins of Dr. Gero's lab. "It must be buried under all this rubble," said Gohan.
The two started blasting the rubble away, searching for the entrance to the basement that the Cell from this time was, according to the Cell from the future, growing in.
"I think I found it," said Trunks. He nudged over a rock, exposing a long shaft down into the rubble.
The two slowly flew down to the bottom. They saw a massive steel door. Pushing it open, Gohan held up a small energy ball, illuminating the region surrounding them.
"Let me," said Trunks, groping the wall until he found the light switch. Trunks walked forward to a massive object in the center of the lab. "This must be Dr. Gero's master computer."
Gohan approached a tank filled with water. "Look here." Trunks walked forward, looking at the small creature in the middle. "This must be Cell at the beginning of his development," said Gohan.
"That thing is made up of cells from all of the greatest fighters in the world," said Trunks. "With you being so much more powerful in this time line than in the time line Cell and I came from, I wonder how strong this one will be when it matures."
"I don't think I want to find out," said Gohan. "Speculation is good enough for me."
Trunks left the tank and approached a table. Lifting one of the papers, he began shaking with excitement. "I don't believe it! It's all here!"
Gohan walked forward and hovered over Trunk's shoulder. "Are those really plans for Android 17?"
"Yes, they are! Everything about their design is right here!" Trunks picked up the plans and rolled them under his arm. "With these, we might be able to find a weakness to exploit! What a lucky break!"
Gohan lifted another set of plans off the table. "These are no good. They're just plans for a gas-powered toaster oven or something." He surveyed the room one last time, looking for anything useful. "We've got everything we need. Let's make sure nothing ever comes out of this evil place again."
The two started blasting everything in the lab. Finally, the two turned to the larval Cell. They blasted it in unison, destroying it.
"This place is going to blow!" shouted Trunks. The two ran out of the hallway, then shot up the entrance shaft.
Gohan raised his hands one last time as they hovered over the ruins of the lab. "One more for the road!" he screamed, shooting an energy blast down the hole. The resulting explosion shook the area surrounding for miles.
"Let's get those plans to Bulma," said Gohan. "If anyone will be able to find a weakness, it will be her."
"You go on ahead," said Trunks. "I'm going to find my father and train with him. If he can surpass a Super Saiyan, maybe he can show me how to as well."
"Vegeta's pretty... independent," said Gohan, taking the plans from Trunks. "Good luck."
Trunks flew off. Gohan raised his fingers to his forehead and teleported to Capsule Corp.
Bulma looked up from her work in surprise. "Gohan, what are you doing here?"
Gohan held up the plans. "Me and Trunks were in the bottom of Gero's lab, and we found plans for one of the androids. We were hoping you could look these over and maybe find a weakness."
Bulma examined the plans. "Maybe. If there's any weakness, I'll be able to find it."
"Thanks. I'd better be getting to the others and tell them what's going on." He raised his fingers to his forehead and teleported to Kame house.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will our heroes manage to stop the diabolical Cell in time, or will he find the androids before they get the chance? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 41:
Goku Awakens
Ever since Cell had evaded them at Ginger Town days before, Gohan, Piccolo, Tien, and Krillin had taken it upon themselves to act as a task force with the express purpose of finding Cell before he found the androids and hurt too many more innocent people.
Gohan sighed, watching the television. Since he was the one who could use Instant Transmission, he remained at Kame House, keeping his eyes on the news, trying to keep informed of Cell's movements. In the event something was on the news about Cell, he would go and gather the others, moving to the scene immediately.
The plan would have worked so far, but Cell was cunning enough to know after the first few attempts how quickly the Z-Fighters were at arriving at his location when the news reported he was there, or he accidentally raised his power level to a detectable level.
Finally, Gohan snapped up, sensing Krillin's power level rise. He stood, putting his fingers to his forehead, and vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Krillin had found Cell attacking at an airport. He'd tried to buy enough time for two innocent bystanders to escape on a plane, but Cell had gone after them, ignoring Krillin. They faced off on the wing of a plane.
Oh, man, thought Krillin. I hope Gohan's not taking a nap, or else I'll have to hold him off for longer than I'd like. His fears were baseless, as Gohan appeared and transformed, facing Cell. Krillin could feel the others approaching.
"Now we've got him," said the half-Saiyan, landing on the steel wing of the plane. "Good job, Krillin."
Cell tensed up, realizing that he'd made a critical error in chasing the two innocents when he could have knocked Krillin out and escaped. "Who have you gotten, boy?" asked Cell. "All it looks like you've managed to do is get yourself trapped."
Gohan darted at Cell, who dodged out of the way. He launched an energy blast at the engine on the wing, crippling the plane. Gohan and Krillin both grabbed onto the plane. Cell used the resulting confusion to hop onto the ground, concealing his power level again.
Gohan and Krillin gently set the plane down. "Darn it!" shouted Krillin as Gohan dropped Super Saiyan. "He got away again!"
"Don't blame yourself," said Piccolo, landing nearby. "Cell slipped up, which he's never done before. He resorted to desperate measures to escape. You had to, or else Cell still would have won, because you would have had to let innocent bystanders die."
Cell watched from where he hid in the control tower. "These Earthlings are really starting to get on my nerves. How is it they are able to follow me so quickly after my presence is known?" He smirked. "No matter. After I have absorbed the other Androids, I will show them who they are truly dealing with." He shot out of the other side of the control tower, sprinting as fast as possible.
"We should get back to Kame House," said Krillin. "Cell's not going to show himself for a while now, so it'd be best if we just waited until he did on the news."
The others agreed, and Gohan transported them all back to Kame House.
-DBZ: SGTW-
It had been a day since their failed attempt at capturing Cell, and still there was no news on his whereabouts.
"Darn it!" shouted Krillin, frustrated when the news didn't say anything about what they were calling "the Creature". "We almost had him yesterday. But he's too... too..."
"Don't sweat it, Krillin," said Piccolo. "Cell will make a reappearance soon. His hunger is too much for him."
Just then, the TV show was interrupted by a news bulletin. "The Creature continues it's path of destruction, leaving no one it encounters alive. Now, we have multiple Creature sightings in South City."
"Let's go, guys!" shouted Gohan. The others gathered around him and they vanished.
Just then, Chi-Chi and Master Roshi were alerted to the sounds of footsteps upstairs. They both tensed up, not knowing who it was.
The doorway blocking the stairs suddenly opened. "Hey, guys," said the person. "Got anything to eat? I'm starving."
"G-Goku?" asked Chi-Chi, staring at her husband.
"Yeah, it's me!" said the Saiyan. Chi-Chi ran forward and gave him a hug.
"You're okay!"
"I'm sorry I worried you, Chi-Chi. Everything's going to be all right. I'm all better now."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah!" His smiled turned into a frown. "In my dreams I could hear everything that was going on. We're in deep trouble, aren't we? But I'm not ready to fight just yet."
"Of course you're not," said Ch-Chi. "You still need to rest, so just stay put."
"Hey, I'm all right," said Goku. "Just relax now. It's time for me to start my training once again. It's time for me to move to the next level." He walked to the window. "Vegeta knows it too, and I think Gohan does too. Through my dreams, I could hear Vegeta speaking what I had also felt. That there is a level beyond that of a Super Saiyan. And I will rise to claim it."
"I don't think it can be done," said Master Roshi.
"I can do it. It's the only way to beat Cell. And I won't know if I don't try, will I? All I need to know for sure is a year."
"A year? But that's a long time!"
"But we both know a place where it could be done in a day," said Goku, smiling. He turned to his wife. "Hey, Chi-Chi! I'd like to take Gohan with me, if that's alright with you."
Chi-Chi nodded glumly. "Fine. But promise me that when you beat these androids, he'll study."
"I promise," said Goku. "I'd better get going." He gave his wife one last hug, raised his fingers to his forehead, and vanished
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Darn it!" shouted Krillin. "He's too fast for us!" He, Gohan, Tien, Yamcha, and Piccolo had arrived at West City only to find Cell had fled the scene once again.
"Cell!" said Piccolo in frustration. "Curse him! We were too late again!"
Gohan came down from where he'd been flying. "No sign of him. He's nowhere in the entire city, as far as I could tell."
"We could really use Goku's help," said Krillin.
Just then, the others were distracted by Goku appearing behind Krillin.
"Its... my dad!" said Gohan, shocked.
"Goku?" asked Yamcha, staring at the Saiyan.
Krillin turned to see what the others were staring at. He looked Goku up and down, then turned away. "Yep. Must be losing it." Just then, he realized the others were staring at Goku. He turned again. "G... Goku?"
"Hey guys!" said Goku, waving. "I'm back!"
Gohan ran forward and gave his father a hug. "So, you're back to normal?"
"Almost," said Goku. "I'm just really hungry. Can we get something to eat?"
"Yeah," said Krillin. "He's back to normal, all right."
Goku walked to Piccolo. He scratched behind his head, staring at the Namek. "Kamicollo!" he finally said. Piccolo jerked in surprise. "What?" asked the Saiyan. "Did I say something wrong?"
"I've been through some changes," said Piccolo, "but my name is still Piccolo. And don't forget that."
"Right," said Goku. "But listen. There's no way we can defeat a power like Cell in a fight right now. And that's why I've decided to start training again. I know a place where I can get a year of training in a day."
"So it's back to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber," said Piccolo. "I see. Nobody has ever managed to stay in there for more than a year. It might be too much for you to handle."
"Yeah, that's why I'm taking Gohan, Trunks, and Vegeta along with me." Gohan looked up in surprise. "Surely one of us will be able to do it," continued Goku.
"Then go. Quickly," said Piccolo. "Cell gets stronger every day. Time is in short supply. If we let Cell absorb 17 or 18, we're finished for sure."
"Right. Let's go get Trunks and Vegeta, Gohan."
Gohan nodded. The two raised their fingers to their foreheads and disappeared.
One day is more than we can afford, thought Piccolo. It better be worth it.
"Things are looking up!" said Tien. "When those guys are done training, I know we'll be ready for Cell!"
"You bet!" said Krillin. "We'll win! And the Earth will be safe once again! Man, I just can't wait to get to Cell now! His days of terrorizing people will be over for good!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Vegeta stood upon a rock overhang, staring into the sky. Yes, I can feel it, thought Vegeta. I know it can be done. I can ascend beyond a Super Saiyan. The only question is- how?
Behind him, 30 feet away, Trunks sat, watching his father. Father, you're so proud and arrogant, thought the half-Saiyan. Well I've got news for you- I'm not going anywhere. If you can raise your power to the next level, then so can I. I'm here to stay, whether you like it or not.
Just then, Gohan and Goku appeared directly behind Trunks. Trunks stood and faced them. "Goku! You're better!"
"Hey, how's the training going, Trunks?" asked Goku.
"Not well. I guess my father really doesn't want me to train with him. He thinks I'll slow him down and every time I get close he tells me to get lost." Trunks looked at his father. "Look at him. He's done nothing but stand there, staring into space, for the last three days. He hasn't moved."
"Yeah, that is strange," said Goku. "Maybe he's just waiting for a sign, or something to show him the way. I'll go have a word with him." He flew over to Vegeta.
"Kakarot, leave me alone," said Vegeta as Goku landed behind him.
"Hey, hold on," said Goku. "I just want to help you out, Vegeta. I know what you're trying to do. There's a room at Kami's place where you can get a year of training in one day."
Vegeta looked up. "I could ascend to the next level very quickly." He turned to Goku. "Take me there."
"Sure, but here's the problem. Only two people can enter at once. I'm going in with Gohan, so you'll have to go in with Trunks."
"This better not be another one of your tricks."
"Hey, would I lie to you?" asked Goku. "We're all in this together now, remember? This is on the level, I promise."
"All right, I'll go," said Vegeta. "As long as I get to go first."
"Sure. You know, this is a great way for a father and son to get to know each other."
The two flew over to Gohan and Trunks. Trunks grabbed onto Gohan's shoulder, Vegeta reluctantly grabbed on to Goku's, and they vanished.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"You three should get some sleep," said Piccolo as they landed at Kame House. "I'll keep an eye on the news, and watch for the androids."
Yamcha, Tien, and Krillin nodded. Within minutes the three were out cold in front of the television, and Piccolo sat, staring at the news.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Follow me," said Mr. Popo, leading the Saiyans along a corridor. "You'll find everything you need here. There's food, a bed, and bath. It's not very luxurious, I'm afraid."
"I require nothing but the essentials," said Vegeta. "This is not a vacation. This is work."
"Ignore him, Mr. Popo," said Goku. "He's a little uptight today. He's just eager to complete his training."
"Yes, so then I can take care of you and your son," said Vegeta to himself. He smirked.
"Here it is," said Mr. Popo, gesturing to a large wooden door.
"So that's the Hyperbolic Time Chamber?" asked Gohan.
"Which group goes first?" asked Mr. Popo.
"You two," said Goku to Trunks and Vegeta. "Go on in."
"Good," said Mr. Popo. "Right this way, please." He opened the door. "Once you have crossed the threshold, you will spend a year in this room. But once you leave, only a day will have passed in this dimension. Good luck."
Vegeta and Trunks entered the chamber.
"I hope those two get along," said Gohan. Knowing Vegeta, though, that hope was likely to go ignored.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What's so special about this place?" asked Vegeta.
"It's hot," said Trunks. "There's less air. And the gravity is different." He walked outside the entry room. "I... don't believe it!" he said, catching a sight of the massive void surrounding the doorway.
Vegeta followed, looking around without much apparent surprise.
"There's nothing here!" said Trunks. "We're surrounded by total emptiness! Floating in a gigantic void! What kind of place is this?"
"Too much for you?" mocked Vegeta.
"Of course not, but... now I know why few can stand a full year in this place. It's... overwhelming."
"It is," agreed Vegeta.
I must not let my father see that I am afraid, thought Trunks. This is my chance to prove myself to him. But I don't know if I can spend an entire year in this place! It's too much for me! It's too much!
-DBZ: SGTW-
"If you're planning on going outside today, don't!" said the news. "Creature sightings are at an all-time high. It would be a good day to stay in and lock your doors. These are dangerous times, folks, and we can only hope that somewhere there is someone that can-"
"I can't stand it!" muttered Piccolo. "Sitting here doing nothing while Cell continues his reign of terror! Curse you, Cell!"
Just then, he heard footsteps outside. Getting up, he moved to the window.
"Hi. Can Goku come out and play?" asked Android 17. The three Androids had arrived.
Oh, this is perfect, thought Piccolo. It's exactly what I wanted for breakfast.
"Goku is not here," said 16.
"Not here?" asked 17, frustrated.
"Get up," said Piccolo, waking the others. "We've got Androids."
They stood and ran outside. "Hold your ground," said Piccolo. "I'll handle this." He faced 17. "Goku's not here right now, but perhaps I can take his place."
"No thanks," said 17, "but tell us where he is and I might change my mind."
"I don't like the look of this," said Krillin.
"Goku's gone now," said Piccolo, "so why don't you go get lost."
"Now now," said 17. "It's not very nice to talk to your guests that way, you know."
"Alright, have it your way." Piccolo pointed to a nearby island. "There. That island. You and me."
"Very well. If you really want to."
"You three stay here," said Piccolo to the others. "This is my fight now." He and the Androids took off, flying towards the island.
They landed. "I think it's my turn to sit this one out," said 18, sitting on a nearby rock.
"If you cooperate, I'll go easy on you," said 17, walking towards Piccolo, while rolling up his sleeves. "Last chance. Tell me where Goku is."
"Go find him yourself," said Piccolo, throwing his cape and turban to the side.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Can Piccolo defeat Android 17? Or will he fail like Gohan and Vegeta at the feet of these unstoppable Androids? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
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