Pikkon shot out of the ring like a meteor, slammed viciously into the wall of the distant stands, then slid down and passed out.
"Th-the match is over!!"
The referee froze for a full three seconds before coming to his senses and making the announcement with a stutter.
"The winner—Son Goku!!!"
The entire arena erupted!
Yet Goku, the champion, did not even spare his fallen opponent a glance, much less respond to the referee's invitation to receive his award.
The instant his victory was announced, he undid his transformation, turned into an afterimage, and rushed straight toward the last row of the stands.
"Big brother!!!!"
Like a child who had finally seen family after years away from home, Goku threw himself forward.
"Hey, everyone. It's been a long time."
Sun Wuxiu caught the charging Goku and gave him a huge hug. Then he smiled at Piccolo, Gohan, Krillin, and the others who had already gathered around.
"Looks like you've all been doing pretty well in Other World. Every one of you has gotten stronger."
"Big brother! Where have you been?!"
"A few things happened. It's a long story."
Sun Wuxiu patted Goku on the back to comfort him.
He looked at Goku.
That battle had lasted only a few dozen seconds, but Goku's composure and strength filled him with immense relief as an older brother.
This future Goku had been dead for twenty years, yet his strength in his normal state had likely reached an astonishing level.
"This isn't the place to talk."
Sun Wuxiu glanced at the ever-growing crowd of curious onlookers—dead people—and at Grand Kai, who was preparing to come over and present the award.
"Goku, bring Piccolo and the others. Let's find somewhere quiet to talk."
"Okay!"
Goku wiped his eyes and turned to wave at the