What's This Life For
Disclaimer: HAHAHAHA, I finally own Dragonball Z and the pathetic Hercule Satan too! MWHAHAHAHAHAHA. * Wakes up and looks at clock.* It was just a dream. *Starts to fall back asleep.* I'M GOING TO BE LATE FOR WORK!!!!!!
Not very popular to people. Being called a ' nerd', 'dork', was the only name to call him by. No one ever paid attention to him. He was most likely a typical eighteen year old in school with no friends. The reason why he was in school was to meet people his own age. Well that plan backfired.
At lunch, no one sat by him. He was alone eating his lunch by himself. Heh, not even the school bugs would walk by him. They would make fun of him if he fell asleep in class even though everyone else did. Gym was another story. Picking teams was more of a nightmare to him. No one would pick him and they would argue over who gets the loser. He would just give up and sit on the bleachers.
His grades were not as high as they used to be. They dropped from an A to a C. This worried his mother greatly and there was nothing that she could do. He was more depressed often and never made conversation at the dinner table. Even his hunger was taking an effect on him. He would poke his food with his fork and would eat it sometimes.
The things he used to enjoy was now like a memory to him. Sparring with his little brother was just a way to kill time, though time was never killed sparring. Reading a book was like a sin, it just couldn't be done. Going over old friend's houses was just getting fresh air, but the air was never fresh.
His body slowly dying and his mind was never used. School is just another name for Hell.
" So I called Sharpner last night and he said that he could get us free movie tickets for Friday," Erasea said as she talked to Videl at her locker. " Think you can make it? C'mon, it will be fun."
" Are you kidding," Videl explained. " The stupid project for science is due in two weeks. I better start it soon or else I'll loose some sleep doing last minute pasting. I can't do a simple mobile if my life depended on it. You guys go have fun. I'll get you another day."
" It's just two weeks away and Friday is only one week," Erasea said tugging on Videl's shirt. " It's a new movie and it got high ratings. Plus, it's free. Please Videl."
Videl rolled her eyes and nodded. Erasea smiled with glee and she headed towards her class. Videl stayed at her locker gathering her books. A click of another locker made Videl turn her head.
" I guess the dork actually made it on time today," Videl said shutting Gohan's locker. " Let me guess, you finally learned how to work an alarm clock or did you finally realize that the snooze button doesn't turn it off."
Gohan paid no mind to Videl and just opened his locker again, this time putting his foot in there.
" Why don't you talk once and a while," Videl said. " Why don't you tell me some gibberish about what the sky is blue? I'm in for a good laugh."
Gohan remained silent and shut his locker. He walked passed Videl looking at the ground all the way.
****
" So if the sun is over a thousand degrees then why is boiled water only over a hundred," Mr. Char asked. " Mr. Gohan, why don't you answer that?"
Gohan remained silent. Whatever he say would probably scar him even more in life. He shrugged his shoulders.
" I see," Mr. Char said. " Miss Videl, why don't you answer that?"
" Since nerd boy can't, I might as well give it a shot," Videl teased. A few snickers were heard. " The sun is like a star and there is no oxygen in the atmosphere to cool it down. Just like there's no oxygen in Gohan's head."
The class laughed as Gohan paid no attention to them. That's how it was like everyday. Being teased, spit balls being spat at you, plus food being thrown at you. Everyday was a new torture for the life of Son Gohan.
When class ended, the teacher called Gohan up to his desk. A few snickers were heard plus more spit balls.
" Mr. Gohan," Mr. Char began to say. " You're grades are dropping drastically and your grade in this class is a 65. I've talk with your other teachers and it seems your grade here is almost the same as your other classes. Is there something going on that might be affecting your grade? If there is, do I have to have a conference with your parents?"
" No sir," Gohan replied. " There's nothing."
Mr. Char shook his head.
" Unless you bring up those grades then I'm going to have to keep you after school in order to bring up your grade."
" That's not necessary," Gohan sighed out. " It's nothing really. I better head home before my mother worries."
Gohan left before the teacher could reply back. The hallways were bare, which made Gohan a bit relieved, or did it? He fumbled around with the numbers on his locker hoping to get in the right combination. When he opened his locker, a white substance came pouring out of his locker.
Laughter filled the hallways once more as the students came from their hiding spots. Everyone pointed at the white powered Gohan. He just merely shook his head and put his books in his locker. It was just getting worse and worse everyday. It used to be gum wrappers pouring out of his locker, now flower? Gohan shut his locker and made his way through the laughing hallways.
****
When Gohan made it home, he went straight for his room. Not bothering to say hello or even a simple ' hey,' just to his room he went. Chi-Chi dipped her tea bag in her tea and watched Gohan enter his room. He was so depressed these days. He never said a word anymore and you'll be lucky if you even see him smile. Chi-Chi sighed and turned to Bulma.
" See what I mean," she whispered quietly. " He's not the same Gohan anymore. It's like some other person has replaced him. I don't know what to do Bulma."
" He doesn't tell you anything," Bulma whispered back. " How long?"
" A few weeks since he's been in school."
" Maybe it is school. You know how teenagers are at this age," Bulma said taking a sip of her tea. " Maybe if you tell him the news, I'm sure he'll brighten up."
" I sure hope you're right," Chi-Chi said getting out of her seat. " I'll tell him while you get Goten, Trunks and Vegeta. I know they will be hungry since it's way past dinner time."
Bulma laughed at Chi-Chi's comment and wished her luck on Gohan. Chi-Chi needed it. Ever since Gohan started school he's been out of it. He never does anything anymore and he rarely speaks about anything. Chi-Chi even asked him if he wanted to fight in the World Martial Arts Tournament. Just a shake in the head and a small reply of ' no.' That's how she knew something was definitely wrong with her eldest son.
Chi-Chi quietly opened the door to Gohan's room. She saw him doing the same every other time she would always check on him. He would lie there on the bed reading a book and acted like the whole world was against him. Chi-Chi entered the room and slowly closed the door behind her. The last thing she needs is two tiny demi-saiyans and one hungry saiyan ease dropping on her and Gohan.
" Hi sweetie," Chi-Chi said giving him her best smile. As usually, Gohan just stayed there reading his book. " May I asked why you're covered in flower? Did your cooking project go a little out of hand?"
"...Mm.."
" At least I got something out of you," Chi-Chi said putting her hands on her hips. " I have some good news that might brighten up your day. Your father is coming back for a whole day! Isn't that wonderful?"
"...."
She thought that Gohan would be the most enthusiastic out of the bunch but instead, she didn't even get a reply. He just sat there, reading his book. Chi-Chi gave up. In fact, she almost gave up on everything for him. No words to express how he felt, no actions to see his feelings, he gave nothing back even though everybody gave to him. Even his old mentor couldn't even help him. The only person that could hopefully help him now, was none other than his father, Goku.
" I think," Gohan finally replied after saying almost nothing all day. " I'll stay home tomorrow. I really don't want to go to the Tournament tomorrow. I think I'll just stay home."
" Don't you want to see your father," Chi-Chi said almost in a yell. " You haven't seen him in seven years. Aren't you the least bit happy?"
" Kinda," Gohan replied still looking down at his book. " He can see me after the Tournament if he has time."
If Chi-Chi could, she would run up to Gohan and choke him. Instead, she took a deep, very deep, breath and clamed down.
" You are going tomorrow Gohan weather you like it or not," Chi-Chi said opening up his door. " Dinners ready. Come on out and at least eat something tonight. You're worrying the hell out of me not eating anything."
"....."
Gohan closed his book and followed Chi-Chi. Maybe he will eat tonight. Anything is better than being covered by flower. Which reminded him.
" Let me change first," Gohan said closing the door behind his mother.
" But Gohan-"
The door closed in her face. Being as curious as she was, she pressed her ear on the door. Bulma, who had the two chibi's at the dinner table and her hungry husband, put her hand on her friend's shoulder.
" Don't pry," she said pulling Chi-Chi away from the door. " So? Is he excited about Goku's return?"
" Kinda," was all Chi-Chi replied before heading towards the table to dine.
****
" So Trunks and me tried to sneak attack Vegeta but Vegeta was too fast and he whacked us with an attack and sent us both flying," Goten said between mouthfuls.
" Yeah but we got back up and did a double ki blast on my dad and it hit him," Trunks said continuing with the story.
" And after that, Vegeta did a Galactic Gun-"
" It's not a Galactic Gun Goten, it's a Galic Gun," Trunks interrupted.
" Yeah Ga-l-ic Gun attack and it came at us a super speed-"
" But we turned into super saiyans and blocked it-"
" While Vegeta was surprised that we did-"
" And we sent out a counter-"
" Which sent Vegeta flying-"
" And then we were called for dinner," Trunks finished.
Vegeta grunted in return and was too busy eating. Chi-Chi and Bulma only smiled and shook their heads in reply. Gohan slowly ate his food. Vegeta noticed that Gohan changed a lot, he just didn't know why. He used to be as hyper as Goten and Trunks but now, he was just dull.
Gohan never really talked much anymore and he was not even happy to hear that his father was coming back. Vegeta tried talking to him, but all he got was 'mm' or just complete silence. He did get a sentence here and there but that was all. He didn't care about the first offspring of his rival, he just didn't want his fighting power go to waste.
" I need a better sparring partner before the tournament tomorrow," Vegeta finally said after finishing his dinner. " These two over there find a way to cheat in battle. What do ya say Gohan, are you up to fight or are you just going to dwell in your room like a sewer rat?"
Gohan started playing with his food again. He poked a pea a couple of times and mixed his rice. Vegeta counted to ten.
" Well, speak," Vegeta said.
" Leave him alone Vegeta," Chi-Chi said. " Maybe he doesn't want to spar with someone like you."
" Oh, now the brat has his mommy speaking for him," Vegeta taunted hoping to get something out of Gohan. Nothing worked and Gohan just stared at his food no longer playing with it.
" Vegeta, why don't you just leave Gohan alone and have a normal dinner like everybody else," Bulma said glaring at Vegeta.
" Fine," Vegeta said leaving the table grabbing Trunks by the collar. " Then the brat and I are going home. Lets go."
" Dad! I'm not finished dinner yet," Trunks complained trying to grab his food. " I still have chicken to finish!"
" Train now eat later."
" Bye Trunks," Goten said stealing the chicken. " See you tomorrow."
" Wait Vegeta you're my ride," Bulma said getting out of her seat. " Thanks Chi-Chi bye."
" Bye Bulma," Chi-Chi said watching her friend chase after her husband. " It was a nice dinner, while it lasted. So, who wants dessert?"
" Me," Goten said standing on his chair but then quickly sat down when Chi- Chi caught him. " Yes please."
"..."
Gohan got out of his seat and headed towards his room. He said a small ' thank you' before shutting his door. Chi-Chi sighed and cut up the apple pie for her and Goten. Apple pie was Gohan's favorite but now, nothing was.
****
Crowds came from near and far came to see the Worlds Martial Arts Tournament. Fighters prepared for many years for the battle to see who is the strongest and will bring home the medal. Many wanted the million zenny for themselves and some just wanted to fight for fun though some wanted to prove their power.
Gohan walked absentmindedly behind his grandfather. After taking a cold shower to get rid of the flower still left in his hair, he knew today was just going to be the same ever other day. Videl would be fighting in the Tournament plus Sharpner and Erasea would be in the crowd watching. Though his worries didn't stop there.
His father was coming back and instead of being excited, it just seemed like he saw him everyday. Everybody seemed so excited for Goku's return, even Goten. Vegeta just wanted his rival back to fight when everybody else just wanted to see their old childhood friend. Gohan didn't care. He was too worried about himself than anybody else.
When school was being more of a hassle, so was everything else. He just didn't seem to care about anything else or even his family. If Chi-Chi died today, Gohan really wouldn't care. Something else was just nagging in the back of his head that he tried to ignore everyday, but everyday, it seemed like a good idea.
" Oh look, the world champion is here," Krillin commented. " Hey, isn't that his daughter with him? Did ya here that his daughter had gum in her hair so she had to cut it short? It doesn't look that bad at least."
Gohan paid no mind. He knew if he'd poke up his head, Videl would catch him for sure. It was safer looking at the ground.
" Doesn't that girl go to your school Gohan," Bulma asked.
"...."
" I'll take that as a yes," Bulma said looking at Gohan with concern. " I'm sure you'll feel better when your father comes."
"..."
" We should of left the puppy at home," Vegeta said. " Let him whimper in his cage."
" Vegeta can it," Piccolo said coming from behind a tree. " We don't want to hear mindless comments."
" Mindless?! Why I ought to kill you for that," Vegeta said looking up to Piccolo. " But my battle isn't with you green Namck."
" Now look who's whimpering," Krillin commented.
Vegeta gave his evil death stare and Krillin cowered down. Eighteen rolled her eyes and Marron giggled at her father. Piccolo looked over at Gohan who seemed deep in thought. But how deep was he?
" Gohan," Piccolo said walking up to old student. " What's bothering you so?"
"..Mm.."
Everybody gave up on Gohan. Piccolo was the one who never gave up on his old pupil even though his pupil gave up on himself. Piccolo was determined to help Gohan and Goku was going to help.as soon as he gets here!!!!
" Are you sure Goku's supposed to be here," Krillin asked being a bit impatient.
" Give it time," Piccolo said keeping his eye on Gohan. " He'll be here."
And as if almost on cue, Goku appeared in front of everybody.
" Hey guys," he said giving his famous Son Smile.
Everyone stared at Goku, well, almost everyone. Gohan still looked at the ground and glanced up for a sec. He saw Goku next to Baba and the halo floating on top of his head. He shrugged his shoulders and continued to look at the ground. Piccolo noticed the slight shrug and turned his eyes to Goku.
" Are you just going to stand there or are you going to say ' hello'" Goku said.
Krillin, Chi-Chi, Ox-King, and Yamcha are hugged Goku.
" Oh Goku, I've missed you," Chi-Chi said tearing in the eyes.
" And I've missed you," Goku said looking in his wife's eyes. But something familiar caught his eye. " Hey Chi-Chi, you got a mini-me hiding behind you leg!"
" This is your son Goten," Chi-Chi said stepping aside to show Goten. But with her minor efforts, Goten still hid behind her leg. Goku bent down to Goten's size and smiled.
" My name is Goku."
Goten shifted a bit and stepped forward.
" I'm Goten."
" Hi Goten."
There was a bit of silence but then Goten raced into Goku's arms. He smiled happily and Goku gave one in return. He tossed him up a couple of times and placed him on his shoulder. Goku's thoughts were cut off again when he noticed his eldest son behind Ox-king.
Something about him seemed.off. He wasn't the happy child he saw before he left. No. Instead he was just a man hiding behind a mask, a mask of pain and hidden feelings. For the first time, Goku couldn't read him. The rest of the time, he knew what Gohan was thinking or was feeling. But now, he was more of a closed book. He looked like he has never been opened.
Putting Goten down and walking up towards Gohan, Goku noticed that everyone's happy expressions turned to a bit of concern. Goku shook of the expression and walked up to his son.
" Don't you want to say hi to your old man," Goku said hoping something would cheer up his son.
"..Hi...," Gohan said stuffing his hands in his pockets.
Silence.
" How have you been," Goku asked trying to build a conversation.
" Mm," Gohan simply replied not looking up at his dad.
Goku looked over at Chi-Chi who shook her head.
" How about you two catch up later," Bulma said breaking up the discomfort. " We'll all talk and chat after the tournament. Besides, we have to find some decent seats before all the good ones are taken."
" Good idea," Chi-Chi said. " Good luck Goten, you too Goku."
" Isn't Gohan fighting," Goku asked.
"..."
" Gohan hasn't trained in a long time," Chi-Chi whispered in Goku's ear. " He doesn't want to fight, his grades dropped drastically, and he's always distant from everybody. He's been like this since he started school. I'll tell you more after the tournament."
Goku gave a quick nod and head towards the sign-up sheet. He gave a quick worry glance at Gohan and then followed his friends to fight.
**** " Hey, look Sharpner," Erasea said pulling him away from the popcorn machine. " Isn't that Gohan over there?"
Sharpner pulled out his binoculars and gasped in amazement.
" Hey, it is mountain boy," Sharpner said. " Lets yell his name and see if he turns around."
" Which name should we call him by?"
****
Gohan still trailed behind his family though Chi-Chi walked beside him. She was talking with him about stuff and hoping to get something to catch him off guard. Nothing triggered him. She talked about his father, sparring, school, anything to get him to open up. All she got was some words, silence, and the most famous ' mm.' She wouldn't give up on her son, not just yet.
" Mountain Boy!"
" Hey Mountain Boy, when did you get snow on your cap?"
Gohan turned around and saw none other than Sharpner and Erasea. They were pointing and laughing at him.
" I can't believe he fell for it," Sharpner said still laughing.
" I would have been smart enough not to respond and I'm a blonde," Erasea said laughing along with Sharpner.
" Who are they talking to," Chi-Chi asked. " Who's Mountain Boy? Where's Mountain Boy? What are they talking about?"
Sharpner and Erasea laughed even harder hearing Chi-Chi's questions.
" Mounhahahaha, he's-he's Bwahahaha y-your soahahahaha," Sharpner said still laughing.
Chi-Chi didn't understand what Sharpner was saying. His laughing got on Chi- Chi's nerves.
" Just ignoring him," Master Roshi said. " We have more problems to deal with. The good-looking girls are already in the stands and Junior Division is going to start soon. C'mon, I want to sit next to that pretty girl that just passed by us!"
Chi-Chi rolled her eyes along with everybody else. She noticed something. Gohan was gone.
" Where's my baby," Chi-Chi yelled. " He's going to get lost in a huge crowd like this!"
" Relax Chi-Chi," Ox-King said putting his hand on Chi-Chi's shoulder. " Gohan just walked ahead. I'm sure he's fine."
" Fine? Fine?! He's out there all alone without me to make sure he's okay!"
" Mountain Boy turned into a Mama's Boy," Sharpner shouted.
Chi-Chi finally realized what Sharpner was talking about and pulled her trusty frying pan. Sharpner saw the pissed off Chi-Chi and began running for his life. Erasea, on the other hand, was being closely watched by the old turtle hermit.
" I wonder how she got her frying pan through the metal detector," Bulma asked. Everyone shrugged their shoulders. " She always full of surprises. I'll grab her and Yamcha, you get the old guy over there."
****
If Gohan saw what happened back there, it would have brought a smile on his face. But walking ahead of everyone else seemed safer at the time. He was wrong.
" Well, well, well. If it isn't the dork boy himself? Did you get lost from your Mommy?"
Gohan knew that voice very well. It was none other than the snobby brat of Hercule, Videl. Gohan just kept on walking hoping that she would leave him alone. But today wasn't his lucky day.
" Hey, where are you going," Videl said stepping in front of Gohan. " I want to ask you a question, about the homework due in two weeks. You know the science project."
Gohan stopped walking and heaved a sigh. He nodded and she continued on.
" Since you're the school dork I thought I should ask you first. Since we're talking about plants and we have to plant our own, well you see my plants are always dying and I have only a few seeds left. I put them in sunlight, water them, and even let them stay outside for a bit. Some don't grow and some are dead by a day. Why?"
No insults, no busting his stones, not even throwing water balloons at him. He thought for a moment and somehow knew that she was hiding something. Maybe if he helped her, she might leave him alone for a bit. It was worth a shot.
" How much water are you giving them a day," Gohan asked.
" You do have a voice," Videl exclaimed. " Wow and I thought you were trying to be a mime or something. Ha! Well, that's all I needed to know."
Gohan was confused. So he had a voice, big deal. He wasn't one on a big conversation.
" Huh," Gohan said still confused.
" Please," Videl said rolling her eyes. " My plants are fine. Their beautiful flowers and I have plenty of seeds left over. I just wanted to make sure you could speak and didn't forget how to. I've seen your grades Gohan and they're not the greatest. I'm starting to think that you cheated on the entry exams to get into school. You know, I think I'll mention that to the principle when we get back to school."
" I didn't cheat," Gohan said actually sticking up for himself.
" Then why are you failing your classes? First day of school you acted all brainy and a Mr. Know-it-all. Second day you still acted brainy and after that, you just became stupid. No wonder no one likes you, you're just a failure."
Those words stabbed Gohan in a way you would never think possible. Videl made sense for once and Gohan couldn't calculate. His mind was more of a blur than anything else. He felt sick to his stomach and part of him just wanted to cry in the corner. The other part still nagged him from day one. The part he was leaning more towards to everyday.
Suicide.
Gohan felt his eyes begin to water. Videl's words, they were true. He was a failure. Blinking away the tears just dying to pour down his face, Gohan walked around Videl as a single tear escaped from the corner of his eye.
Disclaimer: HAHAHAHA, I finally own Dragonball Z and the pathetic Hercule Satan too! MWHAHAHAHAHAHA. * Wakes up and looks at clock.* It was just a dream. *Starts to fall back asleep.* I'M GOING TO BE LATE FOR WORK!!!!!!
Not very popular to people. Being called a ' nerd', 'dork', was the only name to call him by. No one ever paid attention to him. He was most likely a typical eighteen year old in school with no friends. The reason why he was in school was to meet people his own age. Well that plan backfired.
At lunch, no one sat by him. He was alone eating his lunch by himself. Heh, not even the school bugs would walk by him. They would make fun of him if he fell asleep in class even though everyone else did. Gym was another story. Picking teams was more of a nightmare to him. No one would pick him and they would argue over who gets the loser. He would just give up and sit on the bleachers.
His grades were not as high as they used to be. They dropped from an A to a C. This worried his mother greatly and there was nothing that she could do. He was more depressed often and never made conversation at the dinner table. Even his hunger was taking an effect on him. He would poke his food with his fork and would eat it sometimes.
The things he used to enjoy was now like a memory to him. Sparring with his little brother was just a way to kill time, though time was never killed sparring. Reading a book was like a sin, it just couldn't be done. Going over old friend's houses was just getting fresh air, but the air was never fresh.
His body slowly dying and his mind was never used. School is just another name for Hell.
" So I called Sharpner last night and he said that he could get us free movie tickets for Friday," Erasea said as she talked to Videl at her locker. " Think you can make it? C'mon, it will be fun."
" Are you kidding," Videl explained. " The stupid project for science is due in two weeks. I better start it soon or else I'll loose some sleep doing last minute pasting. I can't do a simple mobile if my life depended on it. You guys go have fun. I'll get you another day."
" It's just two weeks away and Friday is only one week," Erasea said tugging on Videl's shirt. " It's a new movie and it got high ratings. Plus, it's free. Please Videl."
Videl rolled her eyes and nodded. Erasea smiled with glee and she headed towards her class. Videl stayed at her locker gathering her books. A click of another locker made Videl turn her head.
" I guess the dork actually made it on time today," Videl said shutting Gohan's locker. " Let me guess, you finally learned how to work an alarm clock or did you finally realize that the snooze button doesn't turn it off."
Gohan paid no mind to Videl and just opened his locker again, this time putting his foot in there.
" Why don't you talk once and a while," Videl said. " Why don't you tell me some gibberish about what the sky is blue? I'm in for a good laugh."
Gohan remained silent and shut his locker. He walked passed Videl looking at the ground all the way.
****
" So if the sun is over a thousand degrees then why is boiled water only over a hundred," Mr. Char asked. " Mr. Gohan, why don't you answer that?"
Gohan remained silent. Whatever he say would probably scar him even more in life. He shrugged his shoulders.
" I see," Mr. Char said. " Miss Videl, why don't you answer that?"
" Since nerd boy can't, I might as well give it a shot," Videl teased. A few snickers were heard. " The sun is like a star and there is no oxygen in the atmosphere to cool it down. Just like there's no oxygen in Gohan's head."
The class laughed as Gohan paid no attention to them. That's how it was like everyday. Being teased, spit balls being spat at you, plus food being thrown at you. Everyday was a new torture for the life of Son Gohan.
When class ended, the teacher called Gohan up to his desk. A few snickers were heard plus more spit balls.
" Mr. Gohan," Mr. Char began to say. " You're grades are dropping drastically and your grade in this class is a 65. I've talk with your other teachers and it seems your grade here is almost the same as your other classes. Is there something going on that might be affecting your grade? If there is, do I have to have a conference with your parents?"
" No sir," Gohan replied. " There's nothing."
Mr. Char shook his head.
" Unless you bring up those grades then I'm going to have to keep you after school in order to bring up your grade."
" That's not necessary," Gohan sighed out. " It's nothing really. I better head home before my mother worries."
Gohan left before the teacher could reply back. The hallways were bare, which made Gohan a bit relieved, or did it? He fumbled around with the numbers on his locker hoping to get in the right combination. When he opened his locker, a white substance came pouring out of his locker.
Laughter filled the hallways once more as the students came from their hiding spots. Everyone pointed at the white powered Gohan. He just merely shook his head and put his books in his locker. It was just getting worse and worse everyday. It used to be gum wrappers pouring out of his locker, now flower? Gohan shut his locker and made his way through the laughing hallways.
****
When Gohan made it home, he went straight for his room. Not bothering to say hello or even a simple ' hey,' just to his room he went. Chi-Chi dipped her tea bag in her tea and watched Gohan enter his room. He was so depressed these days. He never said a word anymore and you'll be lucky if you even see him smile. Chi-Chi sighed and turned to Bulma.
" See what I mean," she whispered quietly. " He's not the same Gohan anymore. It's like some other person has replaced him. I don't know what to do Bulma."
" He doesn't tell you anything," Bulma whispered back. " How long?"
" A few weeks since he's been in school."
" Maybe it is school. You know how teenagers are at this age," Bulma said taking a sip of her tea. " Maybe if you tell him the news, I'm sure he'll brighten up."
" I sure hope you're right," Chi-Chi said getting out of her seat. " I'll tell him while you get Goten, Trunks and Vegeta. I know they will be hungry since it's way past dinner time."
Bulma laughed at Chi-Chi's comment and wished her luck on Gohan. Chi-Chi needed it. Ever since Gohan started school he's been out of it. He never does anything anymore and he rarely speaks about anything. Chi-Chi even asked him if he wanted to fight in the World Martial Arts Tournament. Just a shake in the head and a small reply of ' no.' That's how she knew something was definitely wrong with her eldest son.
Chi-Chi quietly opened the door to Gohan's room. She saw him doing the same every other time she would always check on him. He would lie there on the bed reading a book and acted like the whole world was against him. Chi-Chi entered the room and slowly closed the door behind her. The last thing she needs is two tiny demi-saiyans and one hungry saiyan ease dropping on her and Gohan.
" Hi sweetie," Chi-Chi said giving him her best smile. As usually, Gohan just stayed there reading his book. " May I asked why you're covered in flower? Did your cooking project go a little out of hand?"
"...Mm.."
" At least I got something out of you," Chi-Chi said putting her hands on her hips. " I have some good news that might brighten up your day. Your father is coming back for a whole day! Isn't that wonderful?"
"...."
She thought that Gohan would be the most enthusiastic out of the bunch but instead, she didn't even get a reply. He just sat there, reading his book. Chi-Chi gave up. In fact, she almost gave up on everything for him. No words to express how he felt, no actions to see his feelings, he gave nothing back even though everybody gave to him. Even his old mentor couldn't even help him. The only person that could hopefully help him now, was none other than his father, Goku.
" I think," Gohan finally replied after saying almost nothing all day. " I'll stay home tomorrow. I really don't want to go to the Tournament tomorrow. I think I'll just stay home."
" Don't you want to see your father," Chi-Chi said almost in a yell. " You haven't seen him in seven years. Aren't you the least bit happy?"
" Kinda," Gohan replied still looking down at his book. " He can see me after the Tournament if he has time."
If Chi-Chi could, she would run up to Gohan and choke him. Instead, she took a deep, very deep, breath and clamed down.
" You are going tomorrow Gohan weather you like it or not," Chi-Chi said opening up his door. " Dinners ready. Come on out and at least eat something tonight. You're worrying the hell out of me not eating anything."
"....."
Gohan closed his book and followed Chi-Chi. Maybe he will eat tonight. Anything is better than being covered by flower. Which reminded him.
" Let me change first," Gohan said closing the door behind his mother.
" But Gohan-"
The door closed in her face. Being as curious as she was, she pressed her ear on the door. Bulma, who had the two chibi's at the dinner table and her hungry husband, put her hand on her friend's shoulder.
" Don't pry," she said pulling Chi-Chi away from the door. " So? Is he excited about Goku's return?"
" Kinda," was all Chi-Chi replied before heading towards the table to dine.
****
" So Trunks and me tried to sneak attack Vegeta but Vegeta was too fast and he whacked us with an attack and sent us both flying," Goten said between mouthfuls.
" Yeah but we got back up and did a double ki blast on my dad and it hit him," Trunks said continuing with the story.
" And after that, Vegeta did a Galactic Gun-"
" It's not a Galactic Gun Goten, it's a Galic Gun," Trunks interrupted.
" Yeah Ga-l-ic Gun attack and it came at us a super speed-"
" But we turned into super saiyans and blocked it-"
" While Vegeta was surprised that we did-"
" And we sent out a counter-"
" Which sent Vegeta flying-"
" And then we were called for dinner," Trunks finished.
Vegeta grunted in return and was too busy eating. Chi-Chi and Bulma only smiled and shook their heads in reply. Gohan slowly ate his food. Vegeta noticed that Gohan changed a lot, he just didn't know why. He used to be as hyper as Goten and Trunks but now, he was just dull.
Gohan never really talked much anymore and he was not even happy to hear that his father was coming back. Vegeta tried talking to him, but all he got was 'mm' or just complete silence. He did get a sentence here and there but that was all. He didn't care about the first offspring of his rival, he just didn't want his fighting power go to waste.
" I need a better sparring partner before the tournament tomorrow," Vegeta finally said after finishing his dinner. " These two over there find a way to cheat in battle. What do ya say Gohan, are you up to fight or are you just going to dwell in your room like a sewer rat?"
Gohan started playing with his food again. He poked a pea a couple of times and mixed his rice. Vegeta counted to ten.
" Well, speak," Vegeta said.
" Leave him alone Vegeta," Chi-Chi said. " Maybe he doesn't want to spar with someone like you."
" Oh, now the brat has his mommy speaking for him," Vegeta taunted hoping to get something out of Gohan. Nothing worked and Gohan just stared at his food no longer playing with it.
" Vegeta, why don't you just leave Gohan alone and have a normal dinner like everybody else," Bulma said glaring at Vegeta.
" Fine," Vegeta said leaving the table grabbing Trunks by the collar. " Then the brat and I are going home. Lets go."
" Dad! I'm not finished dinner yet," Trunks complained trying to grab his food. " I still have chicken to finish!"
" Train now eat later."
" Bye Trunks," Goten said stealing the chicken. " See you tomorrow."
" Wait Vegeta you're my ride," Bulma said getting out of her seat. " Thanks Chi-Chi bye."
" Bye Bulma," Chi-Chi said watching her friend chase after her husband. " It was a nice dinner, while it lasted. So, who wants dessert?"
" Me," Goten said standing on his chair but then quickly sat down when Chi- Chi caught him. " Yes please."
"..."
Gohan got out of his seat and headed towards his room. He said a small ' thank you' before shutting his door. Chi-Chi sighed and cut up the apple pie for her and Goten. Apple pie was Gohan's favorite but now, nothing was.
****
Crowds came from near and far came to see the Worlds Martial Arts Tournament. Fighters prepared for many years for the battle to see who is the strongest and will bring home the medal. Many wanted the million zenny for themselves and some just wanted to fight for fun though some wanted to prove their power.
Gohan walked absentmindedly behind his grandfather. After taking a cold shower to get rid of the flower still left in his hair, he knew today was just going to be the same ever other day. Videl would be fighting in the Tournament plus Sharpner and Erasea would be in the crowd watching. Though his worries didn't stop there.
His father was coming back and instead of being excited, it just seemed like he saw him everyday. Everybody seemed so excited for Goku's return, even Goten. Vegeta just wanted his rival back to fight when everybody else just wanted to see their old childhood friend. Gohan didn't care. He was too worried about himself than anybody else.
When school was being more of a hassle, so was everything else. He just didn't seem to care about anything else or even his family. If Chi-Chi died today, Gohan really wouldn't care. Something else was just nagging in the back of his head that he tried to ignore everyday, but everyday, it seemed like a good idea.
" Oh look, the world champion is here," Krillin commented. " Hey, isn't that his daughter with him? Did ya here that his daughter had gum in her hair so she had to cut it short? It doesn't look that bad at least."
Gohan paid no mind. He knew if he'd poke up his head, Videl would catch him for sure. It was safer looking at the ground.
" Doesn't that girl go to your school Gohan," Bulma asked.
"...."
" I'll take that as a yes," Bulma said looking at Gohan with concern. " I'm sure you'll feel better when your father comes."
"..."
" We should of left the puppy at home," Vegeta said. " Let him whimper in his cage."
" Vegeta can it," Piccolo said coming from behind a tree. " We don't want to hear mindless comments."
" Mindless?! Why I ought to kill you for that," Vegeta said looking up to Piccolo. " But my battle isn't with you green Namck."
" Now look who's whimpering," Krillin commented.
Vegeta gave his evil death stare and Krillin cowered down. Eighteen rolled her eyes and Marron giggled at her father. Piccolo looked over at Gohan who seemed deep in thought. But how deep was he?
" Gohan," Piccolo said walking up to old student. " What's bothering you so?"
"..Mm.."
Everybody gave up on Gohan. Piccolo was the one who never gave up on his old pupil even though his pupil gave up on himself. Piccolo was determined to help Gohan and Goku was going to help.as soon as he gets here!!!!
" Are you sure Goku's supposed to be here," Krillin asked being a bit impatient.
" Give it time," Piccolo said keeping his eye on Gohan. " He'll be here."
And as if almost on cue, Goku appeared in front of everybody.
" Hey guys," he said giving his famous Son Smile.
Everyone stared at Goku, well, almost everyone. Gohan still looked at the ground and glanced up for a sec. He saw Goku next to Baba and the halo floating on top of his head. He shrugged his shoulders and continued to look at the ground. Piccolo noticed the slight shrug and turned his eyes to Goku.
" Are you just going to stand there or are you going to say ' hello'" Goku said.
Krillin, Chi-Chi, Ox-King, and Yamcha are hugged Goku.
" Oh Goku, I've missed you," Chi-Chi said tearing in the eyes.
" And I've missed you," Goku said looking in his wife's eyes. But something familiar caught his eye. " Hey Chi-Chi, you got a mini-me hiding behind you leg!"
" This is your son Goten," Chi-Chi said stepping aside to show Goten. But with her minor efforts, Goten still hid behind her leg. Goku bent down to Goten's size and smiled.
" My name is Goku."
Goten shifted a bit and stepped forward.
" I'm Goten."
" Hi Goten."
There was a bit of silence but then Goten raced into Goku's arms. He smiled happily and Goku gave one in return. He tossed him up a couple of times and placed him on his shoulder. Goku's thoughts were cut off again when he noticed his eldest son behind Ox-king.
Something about him seemed.off. He wasn't the happy child he saw before he left. No. Instead he was just a man hiding behind a mask, a mask of pain and hidden feelings. For the first time, Goku couldn't read him. The rest of the time, he knew what Gohan was thinking or was feeling. But now, he was more of a closed book. He looked like he has never been opened.
Putting Goten down and walking up towards Gohan, Goku noticed that everyone's happy expressions turned to a bit of concern. Goku shook of the expression and walked up to his son.
" Don't you want to say hi to your old man," Goku said hoping something would cheer up his son.
"..Hi...," Gohan said stuffing his hands in his pockets.
Silence.
" How have you been," Goku asked trying to build a conversation.
" Mm," Gohan simply replied not looking up at his dad.
Goku looked over at Chi-Chi who shook her head.
" How about you two catch up later," Bulma said breaking up the discomfort. " We'll all talk and chat after the tournament. Besides, we have to find some decent seats before all the good ones are taken."
" Good idea," Chi-Chi said. " Good luck Goten, you too Goku."
" Isn't Gohan fighting," Goku asked.
"..."
" Gohan hasn't trained in a long time," Chi-Chi whispered in Goku's ear. " He doesn't want to fight, his grades dropped drastically, and he's always distant from everybody. He's been like this since he started school. I'll tell you more after the tournament."
Goku gave a quick nod and head towards the sign-up sheet. He gave a quick worry glance at Gohan and then followed his friends to fight.
**** " Hey, look Sharpner," Erasea said pulling him away from the popcorn machine. " Isn't that Gohan over there?"
Sharpner pulled out his binoculars and gasped in amazement.
" Hey, it is mountain boy," Sharpner said. " Lets yell his name and see if he turns around."
" Which name should we call him by?"
****
Gohan still trailed behind his family though Chi-Chi walked beside him. She was talking with him about stuff and hoping to get something to catch him off guard. Nothing triggered him. She talked about his father, sparring, school, anything to get him to open up. All she got was some words, silence, and the most famous ' mm.' She wouldn't give up on her son, not just yet.
" Mountain Boy!"
" Hey Mountain Boy, when did you get snow on your cap?"
Gohan turned around and saw none other than Sharpner and Erasea. They were pointing and laughing at him.
" I can't believe he fell for it," Sharpner said still laughing.
" I would have been smart enough not to respond and I'm a blonde," Erasea said laughing along with Sharpner.
" Who are they talking to," Chi-Chi asked. " Who's Mountain Boy? Where's Mountain Boy? What are they talking about?"
Sharpner and Erasea laughed even harder hearing Chi-Chi's questions.
" Mounhahahaha, he's-he's Bwahahaha y-your soahahahaha," Sharpner said still laughing.
Chi-Chi didn't understand what Sharpner was saying. His laughing got on Chi- Chi's nerves.
" Just ignoring him," Master Roshi said. " We have more problems to deal with. The good-looking girls are already in the stands and Junior Division is going to start soon. C'mon, I want to sit next to that pretty girl that just passed by us!"
Chi-Chi rolled her eyes along with everybody else. She noticed something. Gohan was gone.
" Where's my baby," Chi-Chi yelled. " He's going to get lost in a huge crowd like this!"
" Relax Chi-Chi," Ox-King said putting his hand on Chi-Chi's shoulder. " Gohan just walked ahead. I'm sure he's fine."
" Fine? Fine?! He's out there all alone without me to make sure he's okay!"
" Mountain Boy turned into a Mama's Boy," Sharpner shouted.
Chi-Chi finally realized what Sharpner was talking about and pulled her trusty frying pan. Sharpner saw the pissed off Chi-Chi and began running for his life. Erasea, on the other hand, was being closely watched by the old turtle hermit.
" I wonder how she got her frying pan through the metal detector," Bulma asked. Everyone shrugged their shoulders. " She always full of surprises. I'll grab her and Yamcha, you get the old guy over there."
****
If Gohan saw what happened back there, it would have brought a smile on his face. But walking ahead of everyone else seemed safer at the time. He was wrong.
" Well, well, well. If it isn't the dork boy himself? Did you get lost from your Mommy?"
Gohan knew that voice very well. It was none other than the snobby brat of Hercule, Videl. Gohan just kept on walking hoping that she would leave him alone. But today wasn't his lucky day.
" Hey, where are you going," Videl said stepping in front of Gohan. " I want to ask you a question, about the homework due in two weeks. You know the science project."
Gohan stopped walking and heaved a sigh. He nodded and she continued on.
" Since you're the school dork I thought I should ask you first. Since we're talking about plants and we have to plant our own, well you see my plants are always dying and I have only a few seeds left. I put them in sunlight, water them, and even let them stay outside for a bit. Some don't grow and some are dead by a day. Why?"
No insults, no busting his stones, not even throwing water balloons at him. He thought for a moment and somehow knew that she was hiding something. Maybe if he helped her, she might leave him alone for a bit. It was worth a shot.
" How much water are you giving them a day," Gohan asked.
" You do have a voice," Videl exclaimed. " Wow and I thought you were trying to be a mime or something. Ha! Well, that's all I needed to know."
Gohan was confused. So he had a voice, big deal. He wasn't one on a big conversation.
" Huh," Gohan said still confused.
" Please," Videl said rolling her eyes. " My plants are fine. Their beautiful flowers and I have plenty of seeds left over. I just wanted to make sure you could speak and didn't forget how to. I've seen your grades Gohan and they're not the greatest. I'm starting to think that you cheated on the entry exams to get into school. You know, I think I'll mention that to the principle when we get back to school."
" I didn't cheat," Gohan said actually sticking up for himself.
" Then why are you failing your classes? First day of school you acted all brainy and a Mr. Know-it-all. Second day you still acted brainy and after that, you just became stupid. No wonder no one likes you, you're just a failure."
Those words stabbed Gohan in a way you would never think possible. Videl made sense for once and Gohan couldn't calculate. His mind was more of a blur than anything else. He felt sick to his stomach and part of him just wanted to cry in the corner. The other part still nagged him from day one. The part he was leaning more towards to everyday.
Suicide.
Gohan felt his eyes begin to water. Videl's words, they were true. He was a failure. Blinking away the tears just dying to pour down his face, Gohan walked around Videl as a single tear escaped from the corner of his eye.