Will Vegeta Cry If Goku Died? A Saiyan’s Struggle with Pride and Grief
The question of whether Vegeta would cry if Goku died is complex, layered with years of rivalry, reluctant respect, and a simmering, almost unbearable kinship. The direct answer? No, Vegeta likely wouldn’t shed a visible tear. But that’s just scratching the surface. To truly understand Vegeta’s potential reaction, we need to delve into the intricate tapestry of his character development and his complex relationship with Goku. His grief wouldn’t manifest in tears, but rather in a rage-fueled determination to avenge Goku and surpass him simultaneously, a paradox that perfectly embodies Vegeta’s Saiyan pride and his begrudging admiration. His internal turmoil would be a silent storm, a profound loss that would reverberate through his being, forever altering his trajectory.
The Pride of a Prince
Vegeta, the proud Saiyan Prince, doesn’t do sentimentality. Crying is seen as a weakness, a display of vulnerability that he actively suppresses. He was raised in a harsh environment where strength was paramount and emotions were liabilities. He witnessed the destruction of his planet, the genocide of his race, and the crushing dominance of Frieza. These experiences forged an iron will, a stoic exterior designed to conceal the pain and trauma within. To publicly display grief, especially over a rival, would be anathema to everything he stands for.
Saiyan Resilience and Suppression of Emotion
Saiyans, by nature, are a warrior race. They are conditioned to channel their emotions into battle, to use anger and frustration as fuel for their power. Showing vulnerability is seen as a detriment, something that can be exploited by an opponent. This deeply ingrained cultural predisposition makes it incredibly difficult for Vegeta to express grief in a traditional, outward manner. His pain would be expressed through training, pushing his limits, and a fierce, unwavering resolve to become stronger.
The Unspoken Bond with Goku
Despite their constant rivalry and Vegeta’s initial animosity, a deep and complex bond has formed between him and Goku. Goku is the only other full-blooded Saiyan Vegeta knows, a living connection to his lost heritage. More importantly, Goku is the benchmark, the constant challenge that pushes Vegeta to surpass his own limitations. Goku’s existence is intrinsically tied to Vegeta’s own growth and purpose.
More Than Just Rivals: A Shared Heritage
Their relationship transcends mere rivalry. They are brothers in arms, forged in the crucible of battle. They have saved the universe together countless times, relying on each other’s strengths to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. While Vegeta would never openly admit it, he respects Goku’s power and his unwavering spirit. He recognizes the unique bond they share, a bond rooted in their shared Saiyan heritage and their mutual drive to become stronger.
The Loss of a Yardstick
Goku’s death would represent more than just the loss of a friend or rival; it would be the loss of a yardstick, a measure against which Vegeta gauges his own progress. Goku’s constant pushing of boundaries forces Vegeta to do the same. Without Goku, Vegeta would lose a crucial element of his motivation, a vital component of his Saiyan identity. His grief would be compounded by the fear of stagnating, of losing his purpose without his eternal rival.
The Manifestation of Grief: Rage and Determination
Instead of tears, Vegeta’s grief would likely manifest as a burning rage, a fierce determination to avenge Goku’s death and surpass him in the process. He would channel his pain into training, pushing his body and spirit to their absolute limits. He would seek out the one responsible for Goku’s demise and unleash the full force of his Saiyan fury.
Avenge and Surpass: The Saiyan Way
For Vegeta, honoring Goku’s memory wouldn’t be about mourning, but about proving himself worthy of the rivalry they shared. He would strive to become the strongest warrior in the universe, not just to avenge Goku, but to surpass him, to finally claim the title of the ultimate Saiyan warrior. This drive to avenge and surpass is a crucial part of his character, a manifestation of his pride and his unwavering commitment to his Saiyan heritage.
A Silent Promise
While outward displays of emotion are unlikely, Vegeta would undoubtedly carry Goku’s memory with him, using it as a source of motivation and strength. He would likely make a silent promise to honor Goku’s legacy, to protect the Earth and its inhabitants from future threats. This silent promise would be the most profound expression of his grief, a testament to the complex and unspoken bond between two Saiyan warriors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore this complex topic:
1. Has Vegeta ever shown emotion?
Yes, there have been instances where Vegeta has displayed emotion, albeit fleetingly. He showed fear when facing Frieza on Namek, and a hint of tenderness towards Bulma and Trunks. He also experienced a moment of despair when realizing Goku had surpassed him during the Cell Games. These moments are rare, but they demonstrate that Vegeta is not entirely devoid of emotion, merely adept at suppressing it.
2. Would Bulma influence Vegeta’s reaction?
Bulma’s presence and her own grief over Goku’s death would undoubtedly impact Vegeta. He cares deeply for his family and would likely offer her support, though perhaps not in a conventionally comforting way. He might offer her practical assistance or simply remain steadfastly by her side, providing silent reassurance.
3. How would Trunks react to Goku’s death?
Trunks would likely be devastated. He views Goku as a mentor and a role model. His reaction could range from sadness and disbelief to anger and a desire for revenge. Vegeta, as his father, would need to provide guidance and support, helping him channel his grief into something productive.
4. Would Vegeta train harder after Goku’s death?
Absolutely. Training is Vegeta’s primary coping mechanism. Goku’s death would serve as a powerful motivator, pushing him to surpass his limits and become stronger than ever before. He would see it as his duty to protect the Earth in Goku’s absence.
5. Would Vegeta blame himself for Goku’s death?
It’s possible. Vegeta often struggles with feelings of inadequacy and a desire to prove himself. If he felt he could have done something to prevent Goku’s death, he might harbor feelings of guilt and self-blame.
6. Would Vegeta seek revenge?
Highly likely. Protecting his loved ones and avenging fallen comrades is a core part of Vegeta’s character. He would undoubtedly seek out the one responsible for Goku’s death and exact retribution.
7. Would Vegeta acknowledge Goku’s strength publicly after his death?
Perhaps. While he would never admit inferiority, he might, in a moment of reflection, acknowledge Goku’s exceptional power and unwavering spirit. This acknowledgment would likely be understated, but it would be a significant departure from his usual behavior.
8. Would Vegeta become more protective of Gohan and Goten?
Possibly. He would likely feel a sense of responsibility to protect Goku’s family, particularly Gohan and Goten, in Goku’s absence. He might become more involved in their training, ensuring they are prepared to defend themselves against future threats.
9. Would Vegeta ever admit he missed Goku?
Unlikely. Vegeta’s pride would prevent him from openly admitting such a sentiment. However, his actions and demeanor might betray his true feelings. His increased dedication to training, his heightened vigilance, and his subtle displays of support for Goku’s family could all be interpreted as signs of his unspoken grief and longing.
10. How would other characters react to Vegeta’s reaction?
Characters like Gohan and Piccolo, who understand Vegeta’s complex personality, would likely recognize the depth of his grief, even if he doesn’t express it outwardly. They would understand that his stoicism is a mask, concealing a profound sense of loss.
11. Could Goku’s death trigger a new transformation for Vegeta?
It’s plausible. Grief, anger, and a desire for revenge are powerful emotions that could potentially unlock a new level of power for Vegeta. The emotional turmoil caused by Goku’s death could serve as a catalyst for a new transformation, allowing him to surpass his previous limitations.
12. How would Vegeta’s training style change after Goku’s death?
Vegeta’s training would likely become even more intense and focused. He might incorporate aspects of Goku’s training methods, not necessarily because he wants to emulate Goku, but because he recognizes their effectiveness. The focus would be on maximizing his power and eliminating any weaknesses.
13. Would Vegeta continue to strive to be stronger than Goku, even in death?
Absolutely. The rivalry between Vegeta and Goku is eternal. Even in death, Goku would serve as a benchmark for Vegeta, a constant reminder of the heights he needs to reach. He would continue to strive to surpass Goku, not out of malice, but out of a deep-seated need to prove himself worthy of the rivalry.
14. How does Vegeta’s Saiyan pride impact his emotional expression?
Vegeta’s Saiyan pride is the cornerstone of his character. It dictates his behavior, his values, and his emotional expression. He believes that showing weakness or vulnerability is unacceptable, and he actively suppresses any emotions that might compromise his image as a proud Saiyan warrior. This pride is a shield, protecting him from the pain and trauma of his past.
15. Can video games help players understand complex characters like Vegeta?
Absolutely! Many games explore complex character arcs and emotional development. Games, especially those with strong narratives, can help players understand and empathize with characters like Vegeta, who struggle with expressing their emotions. Understanding character motivations and relationships is crucial for success in many games. To explore the intersection of gaming and learning, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Understanding how people learn through the medium of games is a crucial aspect to modern education.