The Gift of the Dragon Balls

A Senzu and a Stay of Execution

Goku's friends swarm toward him, relieved but terrified by the extent of his injuries. Then Yajirobe claws his way up from underground, having hidden beneath the earth for the entire battle, and announces that he brought Senzu Beans from Korin Tower. He pops one into Goku's mouth, and the effect is instantaneous. Broken bones mend, wounds close, and Goku leaps into the air, fully restored. The celebration halts when everyone notices Kami standing over the unconscious Piccolo, preparing to finish the demon off. Goku rockets down and blocks Kami's path.

The Dragon Balls Would Disappear

Kami protests that Piccolo is still alive and still a threat, but Goku argues on two fronts. He promises to beat Piccolo again if the demon ever returns, and, more critically, he reveals that Kami lied about one thing. Since Kami created the Dragon Balls, his death would cause Shenron and the Dragon Balls to cease to exist. Tien suggests they could wish Kami back afterward, but Goku explains there would be no Shenron left to grant that wish. The price of destroying Piccolo would be losing the Dragon Balls forever.

A New Guardian? Not a Chance

Kami falls silent and admits he is no longer fit to serve as Guardian. Master Roshi disagrees, reminding him that the world is at peace and none of them would be here without the Dragon Balls. Kami admires Goku's teacher, and Goku agrees, noting with a grin that Roshi is also a bit of a pervert. Kami magically restores Goku's torn outfit, declaring the Kame symbol suits him best. Goku then asks Yajirobe for another Senzu Bean and, to everyone's horror, feeds it to the unconscious Piccolo. The demon springs back to life, laughs at Goku's foolishness, and flies away vowing revenge. Goku watches him go with genuine excitement, hoping Piccolo grows stronger for their next bout. Kami offers Goku the position of Guardian of Earth, but Goku turns it down flat, calling the job too boring. He summons Flying Nimbus, hops on with Chi-Chi, and waves goodbye as they soar off into the sky.