Post by Krillin on Nov 12, 2010 1:36:07 GMT -5
Chapter 42:
Up To Piccolo
"Oh, man," said Krillin, watching as Piccolo and the androids landed on the other island. "Should we really just let Piccolo go off and fight the Androids all by himself?"
"We have to work as a team," said Yamcha. "Something tells me Piccolo's got a plan up his sleeve."
"What could he possibly do to defeat those two?" asked Krillin. "Even if he almost destroys one, the others will just hop in and take him out."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I don't think you know what you're getting into by challenging me," said 17 to Piccolo. "Just give up. Really. You can't win."
Piccolo simply smirked. "Very well," said 17. "Let's see what you've got."
"Keep those two out of this," said Piccolo, glancing at 18 and 16.
"Those two are only spectators. This is between you and me."
Piccolo smiled. Excellent. If it's just him, I won't have any problems shutting him down. Then I'll take out the other two. With them gone, Cell won't have anything to absorb, and will never be able to become complete.
Piccolo began powering up, alerting the other androids. "I sense two powers," said 16. "Piccolo is not alone."
"What was that?" asked 17, turning to 16. Piccolo seized the opportunity and launched at the android, chopping him in the back of the neck, sending 17 stumbling forward.
Piccolo moved forward and punched the android in the face twice, then delivered a massive flurry of attacks, every one of which made contact.
17 responded by kicking Piccolo in the chest, then flew into the air. Piccolo flew up to meet him, the two trading blows faster than ever.
"Wow," said 17, breaking off momentarily. "Not bad."
"COME BACK HERE!" shouted Piccolo. The two began trading blows again. Finally, Piccolo delivered a kick directly to 17's face, sending the android flying backwards.
17 looked up from where his face was pressed against the dirt. "He beat me," he said in disbelief. "How? Just how did he beat me? I must have miscalculated somewhere."
Piccolo raised one hand, blasting the android. When the smoke cleared, 17 had been able to dodge the blow. His strength is incredible, thought the android.
"What's wrong?" asked Piccolo, shouting up to his opponent. "Do you need to recharge your batteries?"
"No," answered 17. "I am never going to give up." He charged at Piccolo, who launched himself into combat with the android, trading blows again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Do you feel that?" asked Gohan from where they were waiting at Kami's Lookout. "It feels like Piccolo's fighting someone."
"Yes, I feel it," answered his father from behind him. "It must be one of the androids. I can't sense any sort of opposing power."
"Do you think he'll need our help?
"Piccolo's stronger than either of us. He can take care of himself."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Oh, man!" said Krillin. "I didn't think Piccolo was that powerful!"
Just then, the phone rang. Krillin answered.
"Krillin, it's me, Bulma," said the voice of Bulma. "I've finished analyzing the plans, and I have a way to shut the androids down! It's a remote that will shut them down, leaving them defenseless!"
"Really?" asked Krillin. "Bring it over here as soon as you can!"
"Right," said Bulma. "I'm on my way!"
Krillin turned to the others. "That was Bulma! She's made a remote we can use to turn the androids off! She's on her way right now!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Is that all you've got for me?" shouted 17 as he and Piccolo broke off temporarily.
Piccolo launched himself at the android, who managed to block it. The android launched a kick at Piccolo's head, who crossed his arms and blocked it.
The punches the two were throwing were exploding with force, so great was the energy released by this conflict.
Piccolo shot down at 17 from the sky, delivering a direct punch to the android's face. He opened his mouth, sending a beam out of it at the android, who raised one hand and blocked it. Piccolo darted out from the light, smashing 17 in the stomach, and knocking him down into the ocean.
17 landed on the ocean floor. Piccolo is supposed to be nothing to us. Why the change? We didn't even think Goku was supposed to be this strong.
17 shot out of the water and started throwing blows at the Namek. Landing on the island, 17 launched a flurry of punches, but Piccolo managed to dodge or block every blow. Finally, a punch got through, sending the Namek flying backwards into a cliff. 17 sent a wave of energy, destroying the cliff.
When the smoke cleared, Piccolo was unharmed. He shot at 17. 17 made to block, but only an after-image passed through him. The real Piccolo launched himself a moment later, knocking 17 back into another cliff. Piccolo shot the cliff, destroying it in an even larger explosion than the one 17 had created.
17 shot out of the ground behind Piccolo, launching a kick that the Namek managed to block. Piccolo dodged a punch, then hammered 17 in the head, grabbing him and attempting to throw him into the ground.
The android, however, reversed the attack, and it was 17 who sent Piccolo hurtling into the ground, creating a crater. Piccolo, however, had managed to keep his hold on 17, and smashed him into the ground right next to him.
17 spun Piccolo around him, sending the Namek flying into the sky. Charging Piccolo, the Namek was unable to block in time, and the android delivered a direct blow to his chest.
Piccolo drew back. "This game is much more difficult than I thought it would be," said 17. "I'm learning a lot from you, Piccolo."
Piccolo glanced over to the side, seeing movement. His eyes widened, his teeth gritted.
"Delightful," said Cell, standing on top of a nearby cliff. "What a momentous occasion. A day for the history books, to be sure. The completion of my being will mark the dawning of a new age! Thank you for bringing 17 and 18 to me. You should feel fortunate to have played a part in the events leading up to my completion!"
"Oh great," said Piccolo. "I thought I had more time than this! Now what? If he merges with those two it's all over!"
"Hey!" shouted 17 to Piccolo. "What is that thing?" Piccolo looked at him in surprise.
He doesn't know... they don't even know who Cell is!
"Oh," said Cell, smiling. "I have been aching to behold this for so long. It's almost as if I've seen them before, I recognize them somehow. Androids 17 and 18." His gaze fell on 16. "Who is this one? He bears the Red Ribbon Insignia. He must be one of Dr. Gero's earlier, less efficient models."
Cell leapt down from the cliff. He powered up to full power. "Well, now," said the android. "Let's get started, shall we?" He walked towards Piccolo and 17. Piccolo didn't even move. "What's wrong?" asked Cell to Piccolo. "You're frightened. Don't be ashamed. You feel my power and it's hard to bear."
"What do you mean?" asked Piccolo, finding his voice. "It's not your power! You stole it by taking the lives of innocent people!"
"What? Fool! Stole it? They're part of greatness now! I've given them all a purpose!" He continued walking towards Android 17.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What horrible energy!" exclaimed Master Roshi. "Piccolo must be flipping out! I'M FLIPPING OUT! Oh, dear. I think I overdid it on the coffee."
"I didn't have any and I'm still about to jump out of my skin!" said Krillin. "Man, this just isn't natural. It's driving me nuts, hanging out here in the bleachers while the fight's going on!"
"Yeah, you said it!" said Tien. "This is nuts! There must be something we can do!"
"I appreciate that you're both eager to help, guys," said Master Roshi. "But I think our best bet is staying put until Bulma gets over here with her new remote control!"
"Right," said Krillin.
"Can't you guys fly faster than Bulma can get here in her jet?" asked Chi-Chi. "One of you guys can fly out to meat Bulma, and bring back the remote!"
"You're right!" said Krillin.
"Of course I'm right. You can solve problems without your fists, you know."
Krillin shot off, heading towards Bulma.
"I CAN'T TAKE THIS ANYMORE!" screamed Tien. "I don't know if I can help or not, but I'm not going to find out staying here!"
"TIEN, NO!" shouted Master Roshi, but it was too late. Tien shot off, heading towards Piccolo and Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Hey," said 17 to Cell, who was approaching him. "I was in the middle of something. You're intruding."
"Yes, I see that now," said Cell. "How rude of me. There must be some way I can make it up to you."
17 smiled. "No need for long-winded apologies. Just go away. We have some business that we're trying to settle."
Cell raised his tail. "Yes, I see your point, but I have a little... business... of my own I need to take care of."
"17!" shouted Piccolo. "HE CAME HERE TO KILL YOU AND ANDROID 18! WATCH OUT!" 17 threw himself out of the way of Cell's tail, which would have pierced him. 17 launched a flurry of attacks at 17, who barely dodged them.
Cell grabbed on to 17's arm and slammed him against the ground. Before Cell could hit 17 with his tail, Piccolo came flying out of nowhere, kicking Cell off of 17.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It feels like Cell's there!" said Gohan, standing up from his meditation. "Dad, we can't let Piccolo fight the Androids and Cell all by himself! He'll die for sure!"
"Calm down, Gohan," said Goku. "Something tells me the Androids won't just let Cell absorb them. I bet you they're going to fight back."
"So what you're saying is, Piccolo and the Androids will fight against Cell? What if it's still not enough?"
"Then not even our help would do them any good."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Thank you, Piccolo," said 17, getting to his feet. "That was close. So what's the deal? You say this creature's here to kill us?"
"His name is Cell," explained Piccolo. "He was spawned by Dr. Gero's computer, and he came here to absorb the two of you. If he succeeds, and he's able to integrate you and Android 18 into his being, his evolution will be complete!"
"What a creep!" said 18.
"Rejoice, my brother and sister," said Cell. "The three of us are like pieces to a puzzle. Designed and destined to fit together and form one whole. Unite with me and realize Dr. Gero's dream to create the ultimate warrior."
"It's a nice offer, but no thanks," said 17. "Besides, it seems a little crowded in there already. I don't need you. This is what I am."
"It doesn't matter what you think you are, you are part of me, and I am going to absorb you."
"Go ahead and give it your best shot, Cell."
"17!" shouted 16. "I would not fight him! It is extremely risky! It would be best for the both of you to run. This is a creature that has great power. Escape is highly recommended."
"Now you speak. Well go ahead and take off if you like. Don't you worry. I'll take care of the big bad monster." He shot at Cell, throwing a punch, but Cell vanished before the punch could hit.
Cell reappeared above 17, elbowing him into the ground. Piccolo shot at Cell, who blocked the punch, and the follow-up kick. He punched Piccolo backwards, sending him flying to the ground.
"You shouldn't have interfered, Piccolo," said Cell, walking to where Piccolo lay. He kicked the Namek further away.
"That really smarts," muttered Piccolo, climbing to his feet. He concentrated a massive amount of energy into his hands and shot it at the approaching Cell. The blast obliterated half of the island they were standing on.
"Brilliant!" said 18 as the smoke cleared away and there was no sign of Cell. "What an attack!"
"Don't be fooled," said 16. "It's not over yet."
Sure enough, Cell emerged from the water. Piccolo was speechless in shock. "Are you finished playing games, Piccolo?" asked the monster. "You can't stop me. It's useless to resist."
"Piccolo..." said 17.
"RUN, 17, NOW!" shouted Piccolo. Cell delivered a punch to Piccolo's face that dropped the Namek.
Cell walked forward and picked up Piccolo. "I could absorb you, Piccolo, but I already have enough of you in my cell structure. You are just refuse." He raised a hand and blasted Piccolo through his stomach.
"No!" said 17, frozen in horror. "What a beast!"
Cell laughed and threw Piccolo into the water.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Piccolo!" screamed Gohan, feeling his mentor's power fade. He fell to his knees.
"No, guys," said Goku. "We've lost Piccolo! He's gone!"
"I can't take this anymore!" shouted Gohan, powering up into Super Saiyan. He glared at his father. "If you won't stop Cell, then I will!" He lifted his fingers to his forehead.
Goku turned Super Saiyan and darted forward, grabbing Gohan. "No, Gohan, wait! We only have one chance to beat that monster, and we have to play to win! If we don't, Piccolo's sacrifice will be in vain!"
Gohan calmed down and dropped Super Saiyan. Goku released him, dropping his own transformation.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Alone at last," said Cell. "It seems that Piccolo will no longer be joining us." He turned to 17. "Don't be afraid, Android 17. This is your destiny. It has always been. You are part of me!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
With Piccolo down and out, can anybody stop the ruthless Cell from his goal of ultimate completion? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 43:
Say Goodbye, 17
"Come here to me, 17," said Cell, walking forward. 17 assumed a fighting stance. "So nice of you not to run off. Is this oddly familiar to you? As if we've been here before? Of course it does! Because it is your destiny! We were all drawn here as to a magnet! To this time, to this place! This is where the three of us shall become one!"
Cell broke into a run, heading towards 17. "All right, let's play." said 17. He broke into a run, heading towards Cell. "You want me, well here I am!" He leapt into the air, then shot down, head butting Cell. He climbed to his feet. Cell had dodged at the last second.
Cell dropped from the sky, his shadow alerting 17 to his presence. He leapt out of the way, Cell crawling on all four, trying to smack 17 with his tail.
"You're not absorbing me, you freak!" shouted 17. Cell merely laughed, charging at 17 once again. 17 leapt over the kick. Cell leapt after him, throwing a flurry of attacks that 17 managed to dodge or block.
Finally, Cell drew back, then swirled, his tail smacking 17 in the face, sending the android flying backwards. Cell charged after him, trying to stab him 17 with his tail. 17 managed to evade the tail.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Bulma, do you see Krillin anywhere?" asked Master Roshi's voice over the telephone. "He should be on his way to meet you."
"No sign yet," said Bulma, looking around.
"He's coming out to get the remote because he thinks he can get it here faster than your jet."
"Oh yeah?" asked Bulma, smiling. "I think we'll have a little race to settle that one."
"Hey, just keep your eyes peeled. This is serious. Tien's heading to the battlefield as we speak. And we're not sure, but we're fearing the worst about Piccolo."
"Right. Gotcha. I'll speed up, but I'll stay on course and keep an eye out for Krillin."
-DBZ: SGTW-
17 hit the ground hard. Within seconds, Cell was on him, his feet digging into 17's head. Kicking the android into the air, Cell leapt up, and punched him into the ground. He leapt on top of the android again, delivering punch after punch.
"17," said Cell, "I take no pride in humiliating you like this. It's a simple merger, that is all. Your resistance is the cause of your pain."
"16," said 18 from where they watched, "perhaps escape is best."
"Yes," said 16. "Agreed. You go. I will stay here. It is best that way. You are the one that Cell is seeking to unite with, so you are the one that must leave. Not me."
"But what will you do here?"
"I will kill Cell. This world is a good place. Cell wishes to destroy it. I will not let that happen." He walked forward, heading towards Cell.
"16, what do you think you're doing! Come back! You'll be killed!"
16 stopped and turned back to 18. "That does not matter. Life is good, but living in fear is not my idea of living." He resumed walking towards Cell. "By the way, I enjoyed the time we spent together. You guys are... cool."
17 climbed to his feet, groaning in pain from the damage Cell had delivered to him. Cell punched him in the chest, knocking him back down.
"Yes, I'd have to say that you're ripe for the picking, 17," said Cell. "Unless you have any more objections, it's dinner time!" He picked up 17.
"You... you monster," said 17. "You disgust me. Nothing could be more detestable than becoming part of you."
"Oh, your words hurt me. But that's okay. All that you fail to understand will now become clear to you."
Cell raised his tail over 17, which expanded into a funnel-shaped opening. He tried to force it down on 17, but the android grabbed it, trying to push it up off and away from him.
Just then, Cell felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he saw 16, who cocked a smile before hammering Cell in the face, sending the creature flying backwards.
Cell caught himself, landing. "So, the big one is more powerful than I thought. Interesting." He returned his tail to it's needle-like shape.
17 looked up in surprise. "16! It's you!" he said. "I don't believe it! How did you get him off of me?"
"I used one of my hard punches," replied 16.
Cell smiled. "I find this disturbance to be refreshing," said the monster. "Oh, yes."
"Hey, thanks for the help, 16," said 17, "but I think you just made him angry."
"I am going to destroy him," replied 16.
"May I ask how?"
"According to my calculations I am just as strong as Cell." 16 positioned himself in between Cell and Android 17. "Cell, I recommend surrender."
"What?" asked Cell in disbelief. "To a piece of junk like you?" 16 launched himself at Cell, throwing a flurry of punches. Cell managed to block every blow thrown. Finally, Cell disappeared, reappearing in the air. 16 shot after him, and the two resumed fighting.
Finally, the two darted away from each other. After a momentary staredown, they charged at one another, smashing their heads together. Cell pulled back and punched 16 in the face, forcing him backwards a step. Cell shot his tail out and stabbed the android in the neck.
16 smiled. "What?" asked Cell in shock. "That's impossible! I pierced your neck! That's where your neural link is!"
"Not in my design," replied 16.
"So, Dr. Gero made some improvements." 16 pulled Cell's tail out of his neck, then flew up, swinging the creature around by the tail he hadn't yet let go of. Finally, he did, sending Cell flying into the ground.
Cell shot out of the ground, flying away. 16 caught up to him. "So, your fast too, huh?" asked Cell. "Well this is where I cut out." He changed directions. 16 followed. Cell stopped and kicked the android in the stomach. 16 recovered quickly and head butt Cell in the chest, sending him against a cliff.
16 charged at Cell again, but Cell got out of the way, sending 16's punch into the cliff. Cell wrapped his tail around 16's neck.
"Now I've got you," said Cell. "This little altercation has been stimulating. Thank you." He began pulling on 16's neck. He flew around in front of 16, who shot him with eye lasers, and took Cell's tail off of his neck, then kicked Cell into the ground again.
16 darted down, smashing one of his feet onto the base of Cell's tail. Lifting the appendage, he began pulling, and snapped the tail off.
"That should put a stop to your absorbing capabilities," said 16, throwing the tail over his shoulder. "Now, you are like a bee without a stinger."
"Not exactly," said Cell, climbing to his feet. "You analogy of the bee is not quite accurate. You see, when bees lose their stingers, they're gone for good. The bee dies." Cell started screaming. Moments later, a new tail popped out. "But when Cell loses his tail, well, he just grows another one. Since some of Piccolo's cells comprise my cellular structure, I too have the ability to regenerate my body." He smirked. "I love the Nameks. An amazing race. I am the best of every race. All neatly rolled into one super being. "
It's just too much, thought 17.
"A valiant effort, my friend," said Cell to 16, "but just a minor inconvenience to me."
"I thought I had the solution," said 16, "but I did not. You are bound to have a weak point somewhere though."
"Really now. You'll see."
"This time I'll rip off your head!" 16 assumed a fighting stance.
"You'll have to catch me first," said Cell. The two charged at each other, Cell moving out of the way of the kick 16 threw. Cell landed behind the android and kicked him in the jaw, then followed up with a punch to the face.
"So much for that strategy," said Cell. "Now, do you have any more tricks, or can I get on with my work?" He charged at 16, who sat up and pointed his fist at Cell. His fist shot off of his arm, smashing Cell in the face.
16 darted forward and reattached his hand, then punched Cell into the ground. Lifting Cell once more, he threw the creature into the ground again, creating a sizable crater.
16 put his hands under his arms, then removed both. He pointed the stubs at the crater. "Blasters, fire!" An extremely powerful energy wave blasted from his wrists, directly into the crater.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Wow, that's strange," said Goku from where he sat in the lookout. "Cell's energy signal just took a nosedive."
"I felt it too," said Gohan. "Is he losing?"
"It doesn't seem possible, but somebody seems to have the upper hand on him right now. If they could just hold on a little longer."
-DBZ: SGTW-
16 reattached his hands to his arms.
"Incredible," said 17, shocked. "16 beat Cell!"
16 turned to look at 17 and 18. "Why are you still here? It is imperative that you run from this place! That attack was not enough to finish Cell."
"Don't worry," said 17. "I think you've taken the wind out of that freak's sails. You're obviously stronger than he is. And with us at your side, no one can even touch our little gang. I'm telling you, 16, you are truly state of the art. Now, we'll have the whole world as our playground!"
"17, LOOK OUT!" shouted 18. "CELL'S BEHIND YOU!"
Cell leapt out of the ground behind 17. He quickly expanded his tail, lowing it onto 17. Within seconds, 17 had been captured.
Cell began to glow with a white light. His features began to change, becoming less insect like and more human like.
16 ran towards 18. "We cannot allow him to absorb you too!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan and Goku gritted their teeth from what they felt.
"Woah," said Goku, getting to his feet. "This isn't good. It feels like Cell's power level just shot through the roof!"
"He must have gotten one of the androids," said Gohan.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Ah, this is much nicer," said Cell, his body literally crackling with power. "Yes, I could get used to this. I've waited so long."
"He wants you, 18!" said 16, grabbing 18 and taking off running. Cell simply shot in front of the two of them, blocking their path. 16 pushed 18 back, taking up a position between her and Cell.
"You can't escape me," said Cell. "It's over. You had a small window of opportunity to defeat me, and now it's too late."
Tien watched from where he'd hovered nearby. Okay, Tien. What would Goku do if he was here? Everything he could to keep Cell away from that android! Even die.
Cell walked to the nearby water, examining his reflection. "Ah, new look. More becoming than the last. Merging with 18 should have a similar effect." He turned to face the androids.
16 punched Cell directly in the face, but the blow didn't even phase Cell. Cell raised a hand and blasted the android backwards, off his feet. There was a large chunk of 16's head missing.
"So, Android 18," said Cell. "It's your turn. Come here."
"I'm not listening to anything you say," said 18. "Look what you did to 16! You're a monster! Why don't you just go back to wherever you came from?"
"I'm on the verge of becoming a god," said Cell. "What do you think? I'll leave? My dear android, when will you understand that you belong to me?" He walked towards Android 18, who backed up, staying as far away from Cell as possible.
"Stay where you are," said 18, putting her hand to where her heart would be. "I'm warning you. One step closer and I'll detonate."
Cell stopped. "Extinguish yourself? You wouldn't dare!"
"Oh, no? Just try me. Anythings better than merging with you. I'm not a creature like you are. We're completely different. How can I be a part of you?"
Just then, movement caught Cell's eye. "What is he doing?" he asked. Tien had flown over.
"I'm doing the only right thing," replied Tien. "I'm stopping you." He put his hands together, forming a triangle.
"You fool! You've seen that you're no match for me."
"I might just be a pothole in the road to you, big guy," said Tien, aiming his hands, "but I'm going to be one heck of a deep pothole. Tri-beam-HA!"
The beam of energy blasted the area surrounding Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"OH NO!" shouted Goku.
"Tien just jumped in, didn't he?" asked Gohan, already knowing the answer.
"We had a plan! Tien's not even supposed to be there! What's the deal?"
-DBZ: SGTW-
A massive crater had formed where Tien had attacked.
"18," said 16, noticing how she was laying on the ground. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine," said 18, getting to her feet.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" shouted Tien to the androids. "GET OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW!"
Cell shot out of the crater. Tien launched another attack, sending the raging beast back into the hole. He continued to launch wave after wave of attack, knocking Cell deeper and deeper underground each time.
"Can you fly?" asked 18.
"I will try," said 16. The big android got to his feet. 18 grabbed onto him, and the two flew off. Tien continued blasting Cell into the hole, buying more and more time for the Androids.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"How long can Tien keep fighting?" asked Gohan. "He's strong, but Cell is stronger!"
"Tien will not be able to last much longer," said Mr. Popo. "His life force is slipping away. He must stop, or the next energy blast he fires could be his last!"
"I won't let that happen!" said Goku. "All we need is some more time!"
"Dad, let's go get him," said Gohan. "We can't just let him die, and we're not strong enough to beat Cell!"
Goku stood up. "Good idea. You stay here. I'll get Tien." He raised his fingers to his forehead and disappeared.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Tien looked over slowly when he saw Goku appear next to him. "Goku," he said. "The androids need more time to get away. Cell got 17, and we need to stop him from getting 18."
Goku nodded. Cell flew out of the crater. He did a double take when he saw Goku. "It's Goku!" exclaimed Cell in surprise.
"And you're Cell," said Goku, frowning.
"Well, Goku," said Cell. "It's so nice to meet you."
"Yeah, I bet. So you can add another head over your mantle, right? I'd really like to teach you a lesson. But I need one more day before I'm strong enough to go up against you." He scowled. "I'LL MAKE YOU PAY, CELL! YOUR DAYS OF TERRORIZING THE EARTH WILL BE FINISHED FOR GOOD!"
Cell laughed. "Here I always wondered what it would be like to face the legendary Goku. And all you have to say is 'see you tomorrow'? How disappointing! From all I've heard, I never would have thought you were a coward."
Goku's eyes went wide when he felt something. I sense Piccolo! He's alive! He grabbed onto Tien and vanished.
"Clever trick," said Cell, turning to see where Goku had reappeared on the shore. "But they didn't get very far."
Goku ran over to Piccolo, who'd washed up onto the shore. "What's this?" asked Cell to himself. "How could he still be living?" He watched as Goku carried Piccolo to Tien.
"Hang in there, guys," said Goku. "I'll get you some of Korin's Sensu Beans as soon as we get back to Kami's place!"
"No, Goku," said Cell quietly. "We will fight right now." He charged at Goku, who vanished just before Cell punched him. "That's quite a move," said Cell, thinking back to how effectively Gohan had used it against him. "I must find out how he and his brat do that." He shot off, in search of 18.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Kwille!" shouted baby Trunks from where he was sitting next to his mother.
"What?" she asked. "Krillin? I don't see him yet?"
Just then, Krillin came shooting out from nowhere. She opened the canopy to her jet.
"Bulma," he said, "I'm sorry, but we really need that remote right away!"
She handed it to him. "Here, take it. But you have to be within ten meters of the Androids, or else it won't work. And could you tell me where my son is? The one from the future?"
"Yeah. He, Gohan, Goku, and Vegeta are training at Kami's place."
She closed the canopy and waved goodbye, shooting towards Kami's.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I guess those Sensu Beans did the trick," said Gohan, looking at the rejuvenated Piccolo and Tien. "You both look like you're feeling a lot better."
"You bet," said Tien. "I thought I was gone for good this time."
"You did good in stopping Cell from absorbing Android 18," said Piccolo. "But remember- it still wasn't enough. We're going to need a force more powerful than all of us to stop them now. Not one of us can take that guy down. Not even you two," he said, looking at Goku and Gohan. "We're going to need something... more."
"Goku!" shouted Mr. Popo, running up. "Come quick! Vegeta and Trunks are coming out of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber!"
The four set off running towards the entrance.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will Vegeta and Trunks be strong enough to defeat the evil Cell, now that he's absorbed Android 17? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 44:
Saiyans Emerge
Gohan, Piccolo, Mr. Popo, Tien, and Goku arrived at the door to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber just in time to see it open.
Trunks was the first to emerge. His hair was longer, he was taller, and he was a lot more muscular. "Thanks for waiting, guys," said the half-Saiyan. "Did we miss anything?"
"It's good to have you back!" said Goku, as Vegeta walked out. "Things have gotten worse since you've been gone."
"You've changed," said Gohan to Trunks.
"I'll say," said Goku. "You look like you're in great shape!"
"You were in the chamber a whole day," said Mr. Popo. "I've never known anyone who's lasted that long before."
"We probably could have come out a lot sooner," said Trunks. "But father wasn't ready to leave until he was sure he'd done all he could do. He insisted on training for the full year even though it really only took him a couple of months to transf-"
"Quiet, boy," said Vegeta. Trunks looked back at him in surprise. "You've said quite enough. Out training is not to be discussed. Ever."
"Well," said Trunks, turning back to the others. "I guess you're going to have to wait and see for yourselves."
"So it worked out?" asked Goku.
Vegeta smirked. "Maybe. I will take care of everything now. There's no need to attempt the training, Kakarot, because I'm sure you will not survive it. Besides, I can guarantee that I won't be needing any of you to help me take care of the androids."
"You fool!" shouted Tien.
"Listen," said Piccolo. "I don't know how powerful you think you are, but you're underestimating our enemies."
"While you were in that room, Cell swallowed up Android 17 and transformed! So don't try to tell us you can handle it. You don't even know what you're up against!"
Vegeta laughed. "Clearly trying to defeat Cell has taken it's toll on all of you. That's why I'm offering to take care of him myself."
"Vegeta," said Goku. "I really suggest that you listen to Piccolo and Tien. I mean, you'd have to triple your strength to stand a chance-" He broke off when Vegeta merely laughed.
Just then, Bulma set down on the top of Kami's tower. "Hey, where are you guys?" she called out, walking outside.
The others went outside to meet her. "Hi there!" she said, smiling.
"Bulma, what are you doing here?" asked Goku.
"I brought some things for all of you," she answered. "You might need them." Just then, she spotted Mirai Trunks. "Oh my gosh, Trunks! What happened to you!" She ran forward to him. "You've grown. Is this a wig- no, it's real!" she said, grabbing Trunks's hair.
"I was in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber," answered Trunks. "Father and I trained in there for a whole year, but outside only a day passed. That's why I've grown a little."
"Now why are you here?" asked Vegeta.
"Hold on, I'll show you," said Bulma, reaching into her pocket. "You see, this fight with Cell's gonna be tough, so I thought you guys might be able to use some new combat suits." She pulled out a capsule, throwing it, revealing a chest.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It's just like the one I used to wear on Namek," said Gohan, pulling on one of the boots. "Remember dad? A perfect fit!"
"These are really light," said Goku, examining his chest plate. "Cool!"
"Aren't you going to wear yours?" asked Bulma to Piccolo and Tien.
"I am a Namek, not a Saiyan," said Piccolo, "and I refuse to dress like one."
"I refuse to wear the same suit as Vegeta," said Tien. "Not after all the horrible things he's done."
"Come on, guys," said Goku. "They look great. And they fit good, too."
"There's no need for you to wear that," said Vegeta, smirking at Goku. "You won't even get a chance to use it. So why even bother putting it on?"
"Is that because you plan on finishing Cell all by yourself?" asked Goku. "Well, I hope that you can pull it off."
"So long," said Vegeta, taking off.
"I'll follow him," said Trunks.
"Wait!" said Goku, digging around in his old clothes. He pulled out two Sensu Beans. "I saved these two for you and Vegeta to use."
Trunks took them. "Thanks, Goku."
"Good luck. And if you get into any trouble, get yourself out of there. Okay?"
"Right," said Trunks. "Thank you for everything, Goku. And I hope that your training goes well." He shot off, heading after Vegeta.
"It's time for us to start our training, Gohan," said Goku.
"Right," said Gohan. He took off towards the Hyperbolic Time Chamber.
"Wait, Gohan. Hold on." Gohan looked back at his father in surprise. Goku smiled, grasping his stomach. "Can we eat first? I'm kind of hungry."
"Right now, dad?" asked Gohan, disappointed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I should have caught up with those androids by now," said Cell. "There's no way they could have gotten so far away from me." He shot up into the sky. "Not with 16 as injured as he is. They must be hiding on one of these islands."
He sucked in a massive amount of air. "18!" he screamed, extremely loudly. "COME OUT NOW! I WILL FIND YOU! GIVE UP NOW, 18, OR ELSE! IF YOU DO NOT SHOW YOURSELF, I WILL DESTROY THESE ISLANDS ONE AFTER ANOTHER UNTIL I FIND YOU!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So that's Cell," said Vegeta, hearing the voice of the monster. "Nice of him to let me know where he is. I can't wait! Soon all will know that I am the strongest in the universe."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Not coming out?" screamed Cell, his voice still booming over the islands. "Then I will begin destroying the islands one by one! Do you understand?"
"He's crazy!" said 18, hearing Cell from the island she and 16 were hiding on.
"Do not be afraid, 18," said 16. "Please stay calm. I do not think Cell would destroy these islands. You are far too valuable. He will not run the risk of destroying you."
"They still refuse to show their faces," said Cell, frowning. "Perhaps they don't believe my threats are real. I'll show them. They will learn."
He raised a hand, pointing it at a random island below. He shot an energy blast at it, the explosion destroying the island. He looked at the devastation, watching for any sign of the Androids trying to escape.
"I don't think the Androids were on that island," said Cell. "I guess I'll move on." He raised his hands, sending energy blasts at various islands, destroying them.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Oh, good," said Vegeta, looking at the red glow from the destruction. "The fireworks have already started."
Not far behind him, Trunks followed. I'm coming, Father. I won't let you do this alone.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan sat, watching his father devour his sixth bowl of food. Gohan had finished his five bowls of food moments before, but his father still surpassed him in appetite.
Goku turned, taking another bowl from Mr. Popo. He began shoveling that bowl. He then took another, and after that, yet another. Finally, he sat back, letting out a loud belch. "Oh, yeah!" shouted the Saiyan, his hands on his stomach. "That was great!"
"Um... are you finished?" asked Mr. Popo.
"Yeah," said Goku. "Thanks a lot!" He turned to Gohan. "Let's train, son!"
"Right!" said Gohan, getting to his feet. Goku paused for a moment to snatch an apple from the table, then followed Mr. Popo to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber.
The others were waiting outside the entrance to the Chamber. "Well, hi there!" said Bulma, holding baby Trunks. "So you're really going through with this, huh?"
"Goku, Gohan," said Mr. Popo, smiling. "It's your turn." He held the door open for them. They both crossed over the threshold without looking back.
"It's hot in here," said Gohan, looking around. "The gravity's different, too."
"We need to get used to this," said Goku, walking forward. "We're going to spend an entire year in this room."
"I'm ready," said Gohan.
Goku showed Gohan around. "Now, let's go take a look out there," said Goku, pointing outside. Gohan walked out.
"How is this possible?" asked Gohan, shocked at the sight of void. "How can this room be floating in the middle of nowhere? There's nothing out there!"
"It stretches for an eternity," said Goku. "The gravity increases the further out you go, so be careful. Don't go wandering off by yourself. You might get lost and never come back."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Cell surveyed the devastation. "Still no sign of them," he said to himself. He'd blown up most of the islands already.
"One island left," he said, looking at the last island. He smiled. "I've got her!" He flew to the island. Raising his hand, he readied an energy blast.
Just then, he sensed something. Turning around he saw Vegeta suddenly come shooting at him, stopping two feet in front of him.
"It's you," said Cell. "Vegeta."
"Yes, and you're Cell," said Vegeta, smirking. "Hello."
The two landed on the island.
"What are you doing here?" asked Cell, matching Vegeta's smirk with one of his own. "Have you come to protect the Androids from being absorbed?"
"No," answered Vegeta, clenching a fist in front of him. "I've come to tell you- your time is up."
Cell laughed. "I see. Is that right? Come on."
"I find it hard to believe that my cells are in your body. How could you have turned out so ugly? What a waste. Although, it's obvious where you've gotten most of your strength from."
"You should consider it an honor to be part of me. I am the strongest in the universe."
Vegeta laughed. "That's where you're wrong. I am the strongest and I will prove it. Just look at me. I have changed."
"I don't believe you are as powerful as you think you are," said Cell. Just then, his smile vanished, as he sensed another approaching power level. Trunks shot into the area, landing a moment later.
"I hope this isn't a private party," said Trunks.
"Is that you, Trunks?" asked Cell. "It appears you've been through some changes as well." He regained his cocky grin. "So, I guess it's two Saiyans for the price of one. Will your other friends be joining us too?"
"There will be no more interruptions," said Vegeta. He gestured at Trunks with his head. "And he's only here to watch the fight. I don't need reinforcements."
"Just you?" asked Cell, frowning. "That won't be much of a challenge."
"For me, absolutely not," replied Vegeta.
Cell smiled. "Very well. I must say, I am impressed by your determination."
"Are you ready?" asked Vegeta, bracing himself. "To face a power not seen in thousands of years?" He began powering up, his aura flaring wildly around him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Can you sense Vegeta's energy, Tien?" asked Piccolo. "It's growing. And now we wait."
"No, I can't wait," said Tien. "Vegeta can't beat Cell alone."
"Let him try," said Piccolo, walking to the edge of the lookout, his cape and turban reappearing on him. "He's determined to prove himself to all of us. It's your turn, Vegeta. Show us what a pure-blood Saiyan can really do."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Vegeta let out a breath as he finished his transformation. His muscles had grown substantially.
Cell's mouth was open in shock at the power Vegeta was displaying.
Vegeta smirked, leaping directly at Cell, punching the monster in the stomach.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Is Vegeta's new power really enough to finish off Cell? Or will he still fail, and fall like the people who came before him? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Word Count: 7,280
Up To Piccolo
"Oh, man," said Krillin, watching as Piccolo and the androids landed on the other island. "Should we really just let Piccolo go off and fight the Androids all by himself?"
"We have to work as a team," said Yamcha. "Something tells me Piccolo's got a plan up his sleeve."
"What could he possibly do to defeat those two?" asked Krillin. "Even if he almost destroys one, the others will just hop in and take him out."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I don't think you know what you're getting into by challenging me," said 17 to Piccolo. "Just give up. Really. You can't win."
Piccolo simply smirked. "Very well," said 17. "Let's see what you've got."
"Keep those two out of this," said Piccolo, glancing at 18 and 16.
"Those two are only spectators. This is between you and me."
Piccolo smiled. Excellent. If it's just him, I won't have any problems shutting him down. Then I'll take out the other two. With them gone, Cell won't have anything to absorb, and will never be able to become complete.
Piccolo began powering up, alerting the other androids. "I sense two powers," said 16. "Piccolo is not alone."
"What was that?" asked 17, turning to 16. Piccolo seized the opportunity and launched at the android, chopping him in the back of the neck, sending 17 stumbling forward.
Piccolo moved forward and punched the android in the face twice, then delivered a massive flurry of attacks, every one of which made contact.
17 responded by kicking Piccolo in the chest, then flew into the air. Piccolo flew up to meet him, the two trading blows faster than ever.
"Wow," said 17, breaking off momentarily. "Not bad."
"COME BACK HERE!" shouted Piccolo. The two began trading blows again. Finally, Piccolo delivered a kick directly to 17's face, sending the android flying backwards.
17 looked up from where his face was pressed against the dirt. "He beat me," he said in disbelief. "How? Just how did he beat me? I must have miscalculated somewhere."
Piccolo raised one hand, blasting the android. When the smoke cleared, 17 had been able to dodge the blow. His strength is incredible, thought the android.
"What's wrong?" asked Piccolo, shouting up to his opponent. "Do you need to recharge your batteries?"
"No," answered 17. "I am never going to give up." He charged at Piccolo, who launched himself into combat with the android, trading blows again.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Do you feel that?" asked Gohan from where they were waiting at Kami's Lookout. "It feels like Piccolo's fighting someone."
"Yes, I feel it," answered his father from behind him. "It must be one of the androids. I can't sense any sort of opposing power."
"Do you think he'll need our help?
"Piccolo's stronger than either of us. He can take care of himself."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Oh, man!" said Krillin. "I didn't think Piccolo was that powerful!"
Just then, the phone rang. Krillin answered.
"Krillin, it's me, Bulma," said the voice of Bulma. "I've finished analyzing the plans, and I have a way to shut the androids down! It's a remote that will shut them down, leaving them defenseless!"
"Really?" asked Krillin. "Bring it over here as soon as you can!"
"Right," said Bulma. "I'm on my way!"
Krillin turned to the others. "That was Bulma! She's made a remote we can use to turn the androids off! She's on her way right now!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Is that all you've got for me?" shouted 17 as he and Piccolo broke off temporarily.
Piccolo launched himself at the android, who managed to block it. The android launched a kick at Piccolo's head, who crossed his arms and blocked it.
The punches the two were throwing were exploding with force, so great was the energy released by this conflict.
Piccolo shot down at 17 from the sky, delivering a direct punch to the android's face. He opened his mouth, sending a beam out of it at the android, who raised one hand and blocked it. Piccolo darted out from the light, smashing 17 in the stomach, and knocking him down into the ocean.
17 landed on the ocean floor. Piccolo is supposed to be nothing to us. Why the change? We didn't even think Goku was supposed to be this strong.
17 shot out of the water and started throwing blows at the Namek. Landing on the island, 17 launched a flurry of punches, but Piccolo managed to dodge or block every blow. Finally, a punch got through, sending the Namek flying backwards into a cliff. 17 sent a wave of energy, destroying the cliff.
When the smoke cleared, Piccolo was unharmed. He shot at 17. 17 made to block, but only an after-image passed through him. The real Piccolo launched himself a moment later, knocking 17 back into another cliff. Piccolo shot the cliff, destroying it in an even larger explosion than the one 17 had created.
17 shot out of the ground behind Piccolo, launching a kick that the Namek managed to block. Piccolo dodged a punch, then hammered 17 in the head, grabbing him and attempting to throw him into the ground.
The android, however, reversed the attack, and it was 17 who sent Piccolo hurtling into the ground, creating a crater. Piccolo, however, had managed to keep his hold on 17, and smashed him into the ground right next to him.
17 spun Piccolo around him, sending the Namek flying into the sky. Charging Piccolo, the Namek was unable to block in time, and the android delivered a direct blow to his chest.
Piccolo drew back. "This game is much more difficult than I thought it would be," said 17. "I'm learning a lot from you, Piccolo."
Piccolo glanced over to the side, seeing movement. His eyes widened, his teeth gritted.
"Delightful," said Cell, standing on top of a nearby cliff. "What a momentous occasion. A day for the history books, to be sure. The completion of my being will mark the dawning of a new age! Thank you for bringing 17 and 18 to me. You should feel fortunate to have played a part in the events leading up to my completion!"
"Oh great," said Piccolo. "I thought I had more time than this! Now what? If he merges with those two it's all over!"
"Hey!" shouted 17 to Piccolo. "What is that thing?" Piccolo looked at him in surprise.
He doesn't know... they don't even know who Cell is!
"Oh," said Cell, smiling. "I have been aching to behold this for so long. It's almost as if I've seen them before, I recognize them somehow. Androids 17 and 18." His gaze fell on 16. "Who is this one? He bears the Red Ribbon Insignia. He must be one of Dr. Gero's earlier, less efficient models."
Cell leapt down from the cliff. He powered up to full power. "Well, now," said the android. "Let's get started, shall we?" He walked towards Piccolo and 17. Piccolo didn't even move. "What's wrong?" asked Cell to Piccolo. "You're frightened. Don't be ashamed. You feel my power and it's hard to bear."
"What do you mean?" asked Piccolo, finding his voice. "It's not your power! You stole it by taking the lives of innocent people!"
"What? Fool! Stole it? They're part of greatness now! I've given them all a purpose!" He continued walking towards Android 17.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"What horrible energy!" exclaimed Master Roshi. "Piccolo must be flipping out! I'M FLIPPING OUT! Oh, dear. I think I overdid it on the coffee."
"I didn't have any and I'm still about to jump out of my skin!" said Krillin. "Man, this just isn't natural. It's driving me nuts, hanging out here in the bleachers while the fight's going on!"
"Yeah, you said it!" said Tien. "This is nuts! There must be something we can do!"
"I appreciate that you're both eager to help, guys," said Master Roshi. "But I think our best bet is staying put until Bulma gets over here with her new remote control!"
"Right," said Krillin.
"Can't you guys fly faster than Bulma can get here in her jet?" asked Chi-Chi. "One of you guys can fly out to meat Bulma, and bring back the remote!"
"You're right!" said Krillin.
"Of course I'm right. You can solve problems without your fists, you know."
Krillin shot off, heading towards Bulma.
"I CAN'T TAKE THIS ANYMORE!" screamed Tien. "I don't know if I can help or not, but I'm not going to find out staying here!"
"TIEN, NO!" shouted Master Roshi, but it was too late. Tien shot off, heading towards Piccolo and Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Hey," said 17 to Cell, who was approaching him. "I was in the middle of something. You're intruding."
"Yes, I see that now," said Cell. "How rude of me. There must be some way I can make it up to you."
17 smiled. "No need for long-winded apologies. Just go away. We have some business that we're trying to settle."
Cell raised his tail. "Yes, I see your point, but I have a little... business... of my own I need to take care of."
"17!" shouted Piccolo. "HE CAME HERE TO KILL YOU AND ANDROID 18! WATCH OUT!" 17 threw himself out of the way of Cell's tail, which would have pierced him. 17 launched a flurry of attacks at 17, who barely dodged them.
Cell grabbed on to 17's arm and slammed him against the ground. Before Cell could hit 17 with his tail, Piccolo came flying out of nowhere, kicking Cell off of 17.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It feels like Cell's there!" said Gohan, standing up from his meditation. "Dad, we can't let Piccolo fight the Androids and Cell all by himself! He'll die for sure!"
"Calm down, Gohan," said Goku. "Something tells me the Androids won't just let Cell absorb them. I bet you they're going to fight back."
"So what you're saying is, Piccolo and the Androids will fight against Cell? What if it's still not enough?"
"Then not even our help would do them any good."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Thank you, Piccolo," said 17, getting to his feet. "That was close. So what's the deal? You say this creature's here to kill us?"
"His name is Cell," explained Piccolo. "He was spawned by Dr. Gero's computer, and he came here to absorb the two of you. If he succeeds, and he's able to integrate you and Android 18 into his being, his evolution will be complete!"
"What a creep!" said 18.
"Rejoice, my brother and sister," said Cell. "The three of us are like pieces to a puzzle. Designed and destined to fit together and form one whole. Unite with me and realize Dr. Gero's dream to create the ultimate warrior."
"It's a nice offer, but no thanks," said 17. "Besides, it seems a little crowded in there already. I don't need you. This is what I am."
"It doesn't matter what you think you are, you are part of me, and I am going to absorb you."
"Go ahead and give it your best shot, Cell."
"17!" shouted 16. "I would not fight him! It is extremely risky! It would be best for the both of you to run. This is a creature that has great power. Escape is highly recommended."
"Now you speak. Well go ahead and take off if you like. Don't you worry. I'll take care of the big bad monster." He shot at Cell, throwing a punch, but Cell vanished before the punch could hit.
Cell reappeared above 17, elbowing him into the ground. Piccolo shot at Cell, who blocked the punch, and the follow-up kick. He punched Piccolo backwards, sending him flying to the ground.
"You shouldn't have interfered, Piccolo," said Cell, walking to where Piccolo lay. He kicked the Namek further away.
"That really smarts," muttered Piccolo, climbing to his feet. He concentrated a massive amount of energy into his hands and shot it at the approaching Cell. The blast obliterated half of the island they were standing on.
"Brilliant!" said 18 as the smoke cleared away and there was no sign of Cell. "What an attack!"
"Don't be fooled," said 16. "It's not over yet."
Sure enough, Cell emerged from the water. Piccolo was speechless in shock. "Are you finished playing games, Piccolo?" asked the monster. "You can't stop me. It's useless to resist."
"Piccolo..." said 17.
"RUN, 17, NOW!" shouted Piccolo. Cell delivered a punch to Piccolo's face that dropped the Namek.
Cell walked forward and picked up Piccolo. "I could absorb you, Piccolo, but I already have enough of you in my cell structure. You are just refuse." He raised a hand and blasted Piccolo through his stomach.
"No!" said 17, frozen in horror. "What a beast!"
Cell laughed and threw Piccolo into the water.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Piccolo!" screamed Gohan, feeling his mentor's power fade. He fell to his knees.
"No, guys," said Goku. "We've lost Piccolo! He's gone!"
"I can't take this anymore!" shouted Gohan, powering up into Super Saiyan. He glared at his father. "If you won't stop Cell, then I will!" He lifted his fingers to his forehead.
Goku turned Super Saiyan and darted forward, grabbing Gohan. "No, Gohan, wait! We only have one chance to beat that monster, and we have to play to win! If we don't, Piccolo's sacrifice will be in vain!"
Gohan calmed down and dropped Super Saiyan. Goku released him, dropping his own transformation.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Alone at last," said Cell. "It seems that Piccolo will no longer be joining us." He turned to 17. "Don't be afraid, Android 17. This is your destiny. It has always been. You are part of me!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
With Piccolo down and out, can anybody stop the ruthless Cell from his goal of ultimate completion? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Chapter 43:
Say Goodbye, 17
"Come here to me, 17," said Cell, walking forward. 17 assumed a fighting stance. "So nice of you not to run off. Is this oddly familiar to you? As if we've been here before? Of course it does! Because it is your destiny! We were all drawn here as to a magnet! To this time, to this place! This is where the three of us shall become one!"
Cell broke into a run, heading towards 17. "All right, let's play." said 17. He broke into a run, heading towards Cell. "You want me, well here I am!" He leapt into the air, then shot down, head butting Cell. He climbed to his feet. Cell had dodged at the last second.
Cell dropped from the sky, his shadow alerting 17 to his presence. He leapt out of the way, Cell crawling on all four, trying to smack 17 with his tail.
"You're not absorbing me, you freak!" shouted 17. Cell merely laughed, charging at 17 once again. 17 leapt over the kick. Cell leapt after him, throwing a flurry of attacks that 17 managed to dodge or block.
Finally, Cell drew back, then swirled, his tail smacking 17 in the face, sending the android flying backwards. Cell charged after him, trying to stab him 17 with his tail. 17 managed to evade the tail.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Bulma, do you see Krillin anywhere?" asked Master Roshi's voice over the telephone. "He should be on his way to meet you."
"No sign yet," said Bulma, looking around.
"He's coming out to get the remote because he thinks he can get it here faster than your jet."
"Oh yeah?" asked Bulma, smiling. "I think we'll have a little race to settle that one."
"Hey, just keep your eyes peeled. This is serious. Tien's heading to the battlefield as we speak. And we're not sure, but we're fearing the worst about Piccolo."
"Right. Gotcha. I'll speed up, but I'll stay on course and keep an eye out for Krillin."
-DBZ: SGTW-
17 hit the ground hard. Within seconds, Cell was on him, his feet digging into 17's head. Kicking the android into the air, Cell leapt up, and punched him into the ground. He leapt on top of the android again, delivering punch after punch.
"17," said Cell, "I take no pride in humiliating you like this. It's a simple merger, that is all. Your resistance is the cause of your pain."
"16," said 18 from where they watched, "perhaps escape is best."
"Yes," said 16. "Agreed. You go. I will stay here. It is best that way. You are the one that Cell is seeking to unite with, so you are the one that must leave. Not me."
"But what will you do here?"
"I will kill Cell. This world is a good place. Cell wishes to destroy it. I will not let that happen." He walked forward, heading towards Cell.
"16, what do you think you're doing! Come back! You'll be killed!"
16 stopped and turned back to 18. "That does not matter. Life is good, but living in fear is not my idea of living." He resumed walking towards Cell. "By the way, I enjoyed the time we spent together. You guys are... cool."
17 climbed to his feet, groaning in pain from the damage Cell had delivered to him. Cell punched him in the chest, knocking him back down.
"Yes, I'd have to say that you're ripe for the picking, 17," said Cell. "Unless you have any more objections, it's dinner time!" He picked up 17.
"You... you monster," said 17. "You disgust me. Nothing could be more detestable than becoming part of you."
"Oh, your words hurt me. But that's okay. All that you fail to understand will now become clear to you."
Cell raised his tail over 17, which expanded into a funnel-shaped opening. He tried to force it down on 17, but the android grabbed it, trying to push it up off and away from him.
Just then, Cell felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he saw 16, who cocked a smile before hammering Cell in the face, sending the creature flying backwards.
Cell caught himself, landing. "So, the big one is more powerful than I thought. Interesting." He returned his tail to it's needle-like shape.
17 looked up in surprise. "16! It's you!" he said. "I don't believe it! How did you get him off of me?"
"I used one of my hard punches," replied 16.
Cell smiled. "I find this disturbance to be refreshing," said the monster. "Oh, yes."
"Hey, thanks for the help, 16," said 17, "but I think you just made him angry."
"I am going to destroy him," replied 16.
"May I ask how?"
"According to my calculations I am just as strong as Cell." 16 positioned himself in between Cell and Android 17. "Cell, I recommend surrender."
"What?" asked Cell in disbelief. "To a piece of junk like you?" 16 launched himself at Cell, throwing a flurry of punches. Cell managed to block every blow thrown. Finally, Cell disappeared, reappearing in the air. 16 shot after him, and the two resumed fighting.
Finally, the two darted away from each other. After a momentary staredown, they charged at one another, smashing their heads together. Cell pulled back and punched 16 in the face, forcing him backwards a step. Cell shot his tail out and stabbed the android in the neck.
16 smiled. "What?" asked Cell in shock. "That's impossible! I pierced your neck! That's where your neural link is!"
"Not in my design," replied 16.
"So, Dr. Gero made some improvements." 16 pulled Cell's tail out of his neck, then flew up, swinging the creature around by the tail he hadn't yet let go of. Finally, he did, sending Cell flying into the ground.
Cell shot out of the ground, flying away. 16 caught up to him. "So, your fast too, huh?" asked Cell. "Well this is where I cut out." He changed directions. 16 followed. Cell stopped and kicked the android in the stomach. 16 recovered quickly and head butt Cell in the chest, sending him against a cliff.
16 charged at Cell again, but Cell got out of the way, sending 16's punch into the cliff. Cell wrapped his tail around 16's neck.
"Now I've got you," said Cell. "This little altercation has been stimulating. Thank you." He began pulling on 16's neck. He flew around in front of 16, who shot him with eye lasers, and took Cell's tail off of his neck, then kicked Cell into the ground again.
16 darted down, smashing one of his feet onto the base of Cell's tail. Lifting the appendage, he began pulling, and snapped the tail off.
"That should put a stop to your absorbing capabilities," said 16, throwing the tail over his shoulder. "Now, you are like a bee without a stinger."
"Not exactly," said Cell, climbing to his feet. "You analogy of the bee is not quite accurate. You see, when bees lose their stingers, they're gone for good. The bee dies." Cell started screaming. Moments later, a new tail popped out. "But when Cell loses his tail, well, he just grows another one. Since some of Piccolo's cells comprise my cellular structure, I too have the ability to regenerate my body." He smirked. "I love the Nameks. An amazing race. I am the best of every race. All neatly rolled into one super being. "
It's just too much, thought 17.
"A valiant effort, my friend," said Cell to 16, "but just a minor inconvenience to me."
"I thought I had the solution," said 16, "but I did not. You are bound to have a weak point somewhere though."
"Really now. You'll see."
"This time I'll rip off your head!" 16 assumed a fighting stance.
"You'll have to catch me first," said Cell. The two charged at each other, Cell moving out of the way of the kick 16 threw. Cell landed behind the android and kicked him in the jaw, then followed up with a punch to the face.
"So much for that strategy," said Cell. "Now, do you have any more tricks, or can I get on with my work?" He charged at 16, who sat up and pointed his fist at Cell. His fist shot off of his arm, smashing Cell in the face.
16 darted forward and reattached his hand, then punched Cell into the ground. Lifting Cell once more, he threw the creature into the ground again, creating a sizable crater.
16 put his hands under his arms, then removed both. He pointed the stubs at the crater. "Blasters, fire!" An extremely powerful energy wave blasted from his wrists, directly into the crater.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Wow, that's strange," said Goku from where he sat in the lookout. "Cell's energy signal just took a nosedive."
"I felt it too," said Gohan. "Is he losing?"
"It doesn't seem possible, but somebody seems to have the upper hand on him right now. If they could just hold on a little longer."
-DBZ: SGTW-
16 reattached his hands to his arms.
"Incredible," said 17, shocked. "16 beat Cell!"
16 turned to look at 17 and 18. "Why are you still here? It is imperative that you run from this place! That attack was not enough to finish Cell."
"Don't worry," said 17. "I think you've taken the wind out of that freak's sails. You're obviously stronger than he is. And with us at your side, no one can even touch our little gang. I'm telling you, 16, you are truly state of the art. Now, we'll have the whole world as our playground!"
"17, LOOK OUT!" shouted 18. "CELL'S BEHIND YOU!"
Cell leapt out of the ground behind 17. He quickly expanded his tail, lowing it onto 17. Within seconds, 17 had been captured.
Cell began to glow with a white light. His features began to change, becoming less insect like and more human like.
16 ran towards 18. "We cannot allow him to absorb you too!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan and Goku gritted their teeth from what they felt.
"Woah," said Goku, getting to his feet. "This isn't good. It feels like Cell's power level just shot through the roof!"
"He must have gotten one of the androids," said Gohan.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Ah, this is much nicer," said Cell, his body literally crackling with power. "Yes, I could get used to this. I've waited so long."
"He wants you, 18!" said 16, grabbing 18 and taking off running. Cell simply shot in front of the two of them, blocking their path. 16 pushed 18 back, taking up a position between her and Cell.
"You can't escape me," said Cell. "It's over. You had a small window of opportunity to defeat me, and now it's too late."
Tien watched from where he'd hovered nearby. Okay, Tien. What would Goku do if he was here? Everything he could to keep Cell away from that android! Even die.
Cell walked to the nearby water, examining his reflection. "Ah, new look. More becoming than the last. Merging with 18 should have a similar effect." He turned to face the androids.
16 punched Cell directly in the face, but the blow didn't even phase Cell. Cell raised a hand and blasted the android backwards, off his feet. There was a large chunk of 16's head missing.
"So, Android 18," said Cell. "It's your turn. Come here."
"I'm not listening to anything you say," said 18. "Look what you did to 16! You're a monster! Why don't you just go back to wherever you came from?"
"I'm on the verge of becoming a god," said Cell. "What do you think? I'll leave? My dear android, when will you understand that you belong to me?" He walked towards Android 18, who backed up, staying as far away from Cell as possible.
"Stay where you are," said 18, putting her hand to where her heart would be. "I'm warning you. One step closer and I'll detonate."
Cell stopped. "Extinguish yourself? You wouldn't dare!"
"Oh, no? Just try me. Anythings better than merging with you. I'm not a creature like you are. We're completely different. How can I be a part of you?"
Just then, movement caught Cell's eye. "What is he doing?" he asked. Tien had flown over.
"I'm doing the only right thing," replied Tien. "I'm stopping you." He put his hands together, forming a triangle.
"You fool! You've seen that you're no match for me."
"I might just be a pothole in the road to you, big guy," said Tien, aiming his hands, "but I'm going to be one heck of a deep pothole. Tri-beam-HA!"
The beam of energy blasted the area surrounding Cell.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"OH NO!" shouted Goku.
"Tien just jumped in, didn't he?" asked Gohan, already knowing the answer.
"We had a plan! Tien's not even supposed to be there! What's the deal?"
-DBZ: SGTW-
A massive crater had formed where Tien had attacked.
"18," said 16, noticing how she was laying on the ground. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine," said 18, getting to her feet.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" shouted Tien to the androids. "GET OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW!"
Cell shot out of the crater. Tien launched another attack, sending the raging beast back into the hole. He continued to launch wave after wave of attack, knocking Cell deeper and deeper underground each time.
"Can you fly?" asked 18.
"I will try," said 16. The big android got to his feet. 18 grabbed onto him, and the two flew off. Tien continued blasting Cell into the hole, buying more and more time for the Androids.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"How long can Tien keep fighting?" asked Gohan. "He's strong, but Cell is stronger!"
"Tien will not be able to last much longer," said Mr. Popo. "His life force is slipping away. He must stop, or the next energy blast he fires could be his last!"
"I won't let that happen!" said Goku. "All we need is some more time!"
"Dad, let's go get him," said Gohan. "We can't just let him die, and we're not strong enough to beat Cell!"
Goku stood up. "Good idea. You stay here. I'll get Tien." He raised his fingers to his forehead and disappeared.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Tien looked over slowly when he saw Goku appear next to him. "Goku," he said. "The androids need more time to get away. Cell got 17, and we need to stop him from getting 18."
Goku nodded. Cell flew out of the crater. He did a double take when he saw Goku. "It's Goku!" exclaimed Cell in surprise.
"And you're Cell," said Goku, frowning.
"Well, Goku," said Cell. "It's so nice to meet you."
"Yeah, I bet. So you can add another head over your mantle, right? I'd really like to teach you a lesson. But I need one more day before I'm strong enough to go up against you." He scowled. "I'LL MAKE YOU PAY, CELL! YOUR DAYS OF TERRORIZING THE EARTH WILL BE FINISHED FOR GOOD!"
Cell laughed. "Here I always wondered what it would be like to face the legendary Goku. And all you have to say is 'see you tomorrow'? How disappointing! From all I've heard, I never would have thought you were a coward."
Goku's eyes went wide when he felt something. I sense Piccolo! He's alive! He grabbed onto Tien and vanished.
"Clever trick," said Cell, turning to see where Goku had reappeared on the shore. "But they didn't get very far."
Goku ran over to Piccolo, who'd washed up onto the shore. "What's this?" asked Cell to himself. "How could he still be living?" He watched as Goku carried Piccolo to Tien.
"Hang in there, guys," said Goku. "I'll get you some of Korin's Sensu Beans as soon as we get back to Kami's place!"
"No, Goku," said Cell quietly. "We will fight right now." He charged at Goku, who vanished just before Cell punched him. "That's quite a move," said Cell, thinking back to how effectively Gohan had used it against him. "I must find out how he and his brat do that." He shot off, in search of 18.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Kwille!" shouted baby Trunks from where he was sitting next to his mother.
"What?" she asked. "Krillin? I don't see him yet?"
Just then, Krillin came shooting out from nowhere. She opened the canopy to her jet.
"Bulma," he said, "I'm sorry, but we really need that remote right away!"
She handed it to him. "Here, take it. But you have to be within ten meters of the Androids, or else it won't work. And could you tell me where my son is? The one from the future?"
"Yeah. He, Gohan, Goku, and Vegeta are training at Kami's place."
She closed the canopy and waved goodbye, shooting towards Kami's.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I guess those Sensu Beans did the trick," said Gohan, looking at the rejuvenated Piccolo and Tien. "You both look like you're feeling a lot better."
"You bet," said Tien. "I thought I was gone for good this time."
"You did good in stopping Cell from absorbing Android 18," said Piccolo. "But remember- it still wasn't enough. We're going to need a force more powerful than all of us to stop them now. Not one of us can take that guy down. Not even you two," he said, looking at Goku and Gohan. "We're going to need something... more."
"Goku!" shouted Mr. Popo, running up. "Come quick! Vegeta and Trunks are coming out of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber!"
The four set off running towards the entrance.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Will Vegeta and Trunks be strong enough to defeat the evil Cell, now that he's absorbed Android 17? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior
Chapter 44:
Saiyans Emerge
Gohan, Piccolo, Mr. Popo, Tien, and Goku arrived at the door to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber just in time to see it open.
Trunks was the first to emerge. His hair was longer, he was taller, and he was a lot more muscular. "Thanks for waiting, guys," said the half-Saiyan. "Did we miss anything?"
"It's good to have you back!" said Goku, as Vegeta walked out. "Things have gotten worse since you've been gone."
"You've changed," said Gohan to Trunks.
"I'll say," said Goku. "You look like you're in great shape!"
"You were in the chamber a whole day," said Mr. Popo. "I've never known anyone who's lasted that long before."
"We probably could have come out a lot sooner," said Trunks. "But father wasn't ready to leave until he was sure he'd done all he could do. He insisted on training for the full year even though it really only took him a couple of months to transf-"
"Quiet, boy," said Vegeta. Trunks looked back at him in surprise. "You've said quite enough. Out training is not to be discussed. Ever."
"Well," said Trunks, turning back to the others. "I guess you're going to have to wait and see for yourselves."
"So it worked out?" asked Goku.
Vegeta smirked. "Maybe. I will take care of everything now. There's no need to attempt the training, Kakarot, because I'm sure you will not survive it. Besides, I can guarantee that I won't be needing any of you to help me take care of the androids."
"You fool!" shouted Tien.
"Listen," said Piccolo. "I don't know how powerful you think you are, but you're underestimating our enemies."
"While you were in that room, Cell swallowed up Android 17 and transformed! So don't try to tell us you can handle it. You don't even know what you're up against!"
Vegeta laughed. "Clearly trying to defeat Cell has taken it's toll on all of you. That's why I'm offering to take care of him myself."
"Vegeta," said Goku. "I really suggest that you listen to Piccolo and Tien. I mean, you'd have to triple your strength to stand a chance-" He broke off when Vegeta merely laughed.
Just then, Bulma set down on the top of Kami's tower. "Hey, where are you guys?" she called out, walking outside.
The others went outside to meet her. "Hi there!" she said, smiling.
"Bulma, what are you doing here?" asked Goku.
"I brought some things for all of you," she answered. "You might need them." Just then, she spotted Mirai Trunks. "Oh my gosh, Trunks! What happened to you!" She ran forward to him. "You've grown. Is this a wig- no, it's real!" she said, grabbing Trunks's hair.
"I was in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber," answered Trunks. "Father and I trained in there for a whole year, but outside only a day passed. That's why I've grown a little."
"Now why are you here?" asked Vegeta.
"Hold on, I'll show you," said Bulma, reaching into her pocket. "You see, this fight with Cell's gonna be tough, so I thought you guys might be able to use some new combat suits." She pulled out a capsule, throwing it, revealing a chest.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"It's just like the one I used to wear on Namek," said Gohan, pulling on one of the boots. "Remember dad? A perfect fit!"
"These are really light," said Goku, examining his chest plate. "Cool!"
"Aren't you going to wear yours?" asked Bulma to Piccolo and Tien.
"I am a Namek, not a Saiyan," said Piccolo, "and I refuse to dress like one."
"I refuse to wear the same suit as Vegeta," said Tien. "Not after all the horrible things he's done."
"Come on, guys," said Goku. "They look great. And they fit good, too."
"There's no need for you to wear that," said Vegeta, smirking at Goku. "You won't even get a chance to use it. So why even bother putting it on?"
"Is that because you plan on finishing Cell all by yourself?" asked Goku. "Well, I hope that you can pull it off."
"So long," said Vegeta, taking off.
"I'll follow him," said Trunks.
"Wait!" said Goku, digging around in his old clothes. He pulled out two Sensu Beans. "I saved these two for you and Vegeta to use."
Trunks took them. "Thanks, Goku."
"Good luck. And if you get into any trouble, get yourself out of there. Okay?"
"Right," said Trunks. "Thank you for everything, Goku. And I hope that your training goes well." He shot off, heading after Vegeta.
"It's time for us to start our training, Gohan," said Goku.
"Right," said Gohan. He took off towards the Hyperbolic Time Chamber.
"Wait, Gohan. Hold on." Gohan looked back at his father in surprise. Goku smiled, grasping his stomach. "Can we eat first? I'm kind of hungry."
"Right now, dad?" asked Gohan, disappointed.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"I should have caught up with those androids by now," said Cell. "There's no way they could have gotten so far away from me." He shot up into the sky. "Not with 16 as injured as he is. They must be hiding on one of these islands."
He sucked in a massive amount of air. "18!" he screamed, extremely loudly. "COME OUT NOW! I WILL FIND YOU! GIVE UP NOW, 18, OR ELSE! IF YOU DO NOT SHOW YOURSELF, I WILL DESTROY THESE ISLANDS ONE AFTER ANOTHER UNTIL I FIND YOU!"
-DBZ: SGTW-
"So that's Cell," said Vegeta, hearing the voice of the monster. "Nice of him to let me know where he is. I can't wait! Soon all will know that I am the strongest in the universe."
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Not coming out?" screamed Cell, his voice still booming over the islands. "Then I will begin destroying the islands one by one! Do you understand?"
"He's crazy!" said 18, hearing Cell from the island she and 16 were hiding on.
"Do not be afraid, 18," said 16. "Please stay calm. I do not think Cell would destroy these islands. You are far too valuable. He will not run the risk of destroying you."
"They still refuse to show their faces," said Cell, frowning. "Perhaps they don't believe my threats are real. I'll show them. They will learn."
He raised a hand, pointing it at a random island below. He shot an energy blast at it, the explosion destroying the island. He looked at the devastation, watching for any sign of the Androids trying to escape.
"I don't think the Androids were on that island," said Cell. "I guess I'll move on." He raised his hands, sending energy blasts at various islands, destroying them.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Oh, good," said Vegeta, looking at the red glow from the destruction. "The fireworks have already started."
Not far behind him, Trunks followed. I'm coming, Father. I won't let you do this alone.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Gohan sat, watching his father devour his sixth bowl of food. Gohan had finished his five bowls of food moments before, but his father still surpassed him in appetite.
Goku turned, taking another bowl from Mr. Popo. He began shoveling that bowl. He then took another, and after that, yet another. Finally, he sat back, letting out a loud belch. "Oh, yeah!" shouted the Saiyan, his hands on his stomach. "That was great!"
"Um... are you finished?" asked Mr. Popo.
"Yeah," said Goku. "Thanks a lot!" He turned to Gohan. "Let's train, son!"
"Right!" said Gohan, getting to his feet. Goku paused for a moment to snatch an apple from the table, then followed Mr. Popo to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber.
The others were waiting outside the entrance to the Chamber. "Well, hi there!" said Bulma, holding baby Trunks. "So you're really going through with this, huh?"
"Goku, Gohan," said Mr. Popo, smiling. "It's your turn." He held the door open for them. They both crossed over the threshold without looking back.
"It's hot in here," said Gohan, looking around. "The gravity's different, too."
"We need to get used to this," said Goku, walking forward. "We're going to spend an entire year in this room."
"I'm ready," said Gohan.
Goku showed Gohan around. "Now, let's go take a look out there," said Goku, pointing outside. Gohan walked out.
"How is this possible?" asked Gohan, shocked at the sight of void. "How can this room be floating in the middle of nowhere? There's nothing out there!"
"It stretches for an eternity," said Goku. "The gravity increases the further out you go, so be careful. Don't go wandering off by yourself. You might get lost and never come back."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Cell surveyed the devastation. "Still no sign of them," he said to himself. He'd blown up most of the islands already.
"One island left," he said, looking at the last island. He smiled. "I've got her!" He flew to the island. Raising his hand, he readied an energy blast.
Just then, he sensed something. Turning around he saw Vegeta suddenly come shooting at him, stopping two feet in front of him.
"It's you," said Cell. "Vegeta."
"Yes, and you're Cell," said Vegeta, smirking. "Hello."
The two landed on the island.
"What are you doing here?" asked Cell, matching Vegeta's smirk with one of his own. "Have you come to protect the Androids from being absorbed?"
"No," answered Vegeta, clenching a fist in front of him. "I've come to tell you- your time is up."
Cell laughed. "I see. Is that right? Come on."
"I find it hard to believe that my cells are in your body. How could you have turned out so ugly? What a waste. Although, it's obvious where you've gotten most of your strength from."
"You should consider it an honor to be part of me. I am the strongest in the universe."
Vegeta laughed. "That's where you're wrong. I am the strongest and I will prove it. Just look at me. I have changed."
"I don't believe you are as powerful as you think you are," said Cell. Just then, his smile vanished, as he sensed another approaching power level. Trunks shot into the area, landing a moment later.
"I hope this isn't a private party," said Trunks.
"Is that you, Trunks?" asked Cell. "It appears you've been through some changes as well." He regained his cocky grin. "So, I guess it's two Saiyans for the price of one. Will your other friends be joining us too?"
"There will be no more interruptions," said Vegeta. He gestured at Trunks with his head. "And he's only here to watch the fight. I don't need reinforcements."
"Just you?" asked Cell, frowning. "That won't be much of a challenge."
"For me, absolutely not," replied Vegeta.
Cell smiled. "Very well. I must say, I am impressed by your determination."
"Are you ready?" asked Vegeta, bracing himself. "To face a power not seen in thousands of years?" He began powering up, his aura flaring wildly around him.
-DBZ: SGTW-
"Can you sense Vegeta's energy, Tien?" asked Piccolo. "It's growing. And now we wait."
"No, I can't wait," said Tien. "Vegeta can't beat Cell alone."
"Let him try," said Piccolo, walking to the edge of the lookout, his cape and turban reappearing on him. "He's determined to prove himself to all of us. It's your turn, Vegeta. Show us what a pure-blood Saiyan can really do."
-DBZ: SGTW-
Vegeta let out a breath as he finished his transformation. His muscles had grown substantially.
Cell's mouth was open in shock at the power Vegeta was displaying.
Vegeta smirked, leaping directly at Cell, punching the monster in the stomach.
-DBZ: SGTW-
Is Vegeta's new power really enough to finish off Cell? Or will he still fail, and fall like the people who came before him? Find out in the next chapter of DBZ: Son Gohan the Warrior!
Word Count: 7,280