Did Krillin Wish for Android 18 and 17 to be Human? Unpacking a Key Dragon Ball Z Moment
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Yes, Krillin did indeed wish for Androids 17 and 18 to be turned into human beings using the Dragon Balls. This pivotal moment occurs after Goku declines being resurrected and plays a crucial role in both characters’ narratives, particularly Android 18’s. However, the wish was denied by Shenron, who claimed it exceeded his power. Undeterred, Krillin then used his wish to remove the bombs Dr. Gero had implanted within them, demonstrating a remarkable act of compassion and a subtle hint of the burgeoning affection he held for Android 18. Let’s delve deeper into this event and its implications.
The Wish and Its Significance
Why This Moment Matters
Krillin’s wish is more than just a simple act of altruism; it’s a turning point for the Androids and for Krillin himself. Up until this point, Android 17 and 18 were viewed as threats, dangerous creations of Dr. Gero programmed for destruction. Krillin’s wish acknowledged their potential for humanity, even if it couldn’t be fulfilled directly by Shenron.
Shenron’s Limitations
The reason Shenron couldn’t grant Krillin’s initial wish highlights an important aspect of the Dragon Ball universe: Shenron‘s powers are not limitless. The specific reason Shenron couldn’t turn them human is that their power levels far exceeded his own. Altering their very nature, particularly when it involves powerful cybernetic enhancements, was beyond his capabilities.
The Second Wish: Removing the Bombs
Faced with Shenron’s refusal, Krillin pivoted, opting to remove the bombs within the Androids. This wish was achievable because it involved simply disabling a device, not fundamentally altering their beings. This wish was ultimately granted and had a massive effect in freeing them from Dr. Gero‘s control. This second wish underscores Krillin’s strategic thinking and genuine concern for their well-being.
Ripple Effects and the Budding Romance
Krillin’s actions had profound consequences. While Android 18 initially reacted with her trademark cool detachment, it was evident that she noticed this act of kindness. This selfless act paved the way for their eventual romance and marriage. It demonstrated Krillin’s capacity for empathy and his willingness to see beyond their initial roles as villains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about this pivotal moment and related topics:
1. Did Android 17 and 18 ever become fully human?
No, Android 17 and 18 never became fully human. While Krillin wished for it, Shenron was unable to grant the wish. They retained their cybernetic enhancements and remained cyborgs throughout the series.
2. Why are they called “Androids” when they are cyborgs?
This is a common point of confusion. While they are referred to as Androids, they are technically cyborgs, meaning they were originally human but augmented with cybernetic parts. The term “Android” is used loosely within the Dragon Ball universe to refer to artificial humans, regardless of their composition.
3. How were Android 17 and 18 able to have children?
Despite being cyborgs, Android 17 and 18 retained enough of their original human biology to reproduce. Dr. Gero’s modifications, while extensive, did not completely eliminate their reproductive capabilities. Android 18 eventually had a daughter with Krillin, named Marron.
4. Was Android 18 evil before her relationship with Krillin?
In the timeline presented in the main Dragon Ball Z series, Android 18 was more mischievous and rebellious than outright evil. She and Android 17 were initially destructive and rebellious, but not driven by the same malevolent intent as villains like Frieza or Cell. The alternate timeline seen in the Trunks Saga presents a much darker version of them.
5. Why didn’t Krillin wish to become a Super Saiyan?
Krillin is a dedicated martial artist, but his strength is rooted in human potential. Wishing to become a Super Saiyan would fundamentally change who he is. Additionally, even with the potential power boost, he might not possess the innate Saiyan characteristics to fully harness the form’s power, unlike Saiyans like Goku or Vegeta.
6. Why is Krillin considered a strong human when he’s not a Saiyan?
Krillin has dedicated his life to martial arts and has consistently trained alongside powerful beings. His perseverance and mastery of techniques like the Destructo Disc have allowed him to become one of the strongest humans in the Dragon Ball universe, even without Saiyan blood.
7. How strong is Krillin compared to Android 18?
Dragon Ball Super suggests that Krillin is surprisingly close to Android 18 in power. While she possesses significant strength due to her cybernetic enhancements, Krillin’s training and experience allow him to hold his own. In certain scenarios, he is even capable of surpassing her.
8. What is the origin of Android 17 and 18’s real names?
Android 17‘s real name is Lapis, and Android 18‘s real name is Lazuli. These names are derived from the semi-precious stone, Lapis Lazuli. This information is revealed in supplemental material and adds another layer to their backstory.
9. What are the limits of Shenron’s power?
Shenron’s power is limited by the power of his creator, the Namekian. He cannot grant wishes that exceed the creator’s abilities. Furthermore, he cannot directly kill someone stronger than his creator.
10. Why does Krillin still call Android 18 “Android 18” even after they are married?
This is a matter of personal preference. Android 18 is the name she identifies with, and it’s likely that both she and Krillin are comfortable with it. It is also likely that Krillin and Android 18 may not know what their real names were.
11. What happened to Android 17 after the Cell Saga?
After the Cell Saga, Android 17 lived a secluded life as a park ranger, protecting wildlife on a remote island. He made a return in Dragon Ball Super during the Tournament of Power, revealing significant power growth and a strong sense of responsibility.
12. How did Krillin and Android 18 fall in love?
Their relationship developed gradually. Krillin’s kindness and selfless actions, particularly his wish to remove the bombs, resonated with Android 18. She saw a genuine goodness in him that contrasted with the destruction and chaos surrounding them. This eventually led to a mutual attraction and a loving relationship.
13. What is the significance of Krillin’s daughter’s name, Marron?
Marron‘s name is a pun, just like many names in the Dragon Ball series. “Marron” means “chestnut” in French, which connects to Krillin‘s bald head, often compared to a chestnut. This adds a subtle layer of humor and consistency to the character naming conventions.
14. Is Master Roshi stronger than Krillin?
Dragon Ball Super has implied that Master Roshi is stronger than Krillin. Master Roshi has proven himself to be stronger than even Krillin and Yamcha twice in Dragon Ball Super, making him the strongest human Z-Warrior. Despite Krillin‘s dedicated training, Master Roshi’s experience and hidden potential allow him to surpass Krillin in certain situations.
15. What is the Games Learning Society?
The Games Learning Society is a community of researchers, designers, and educators who explore the potential of games for learning and engagement. The organization fosters the use of games to improve learning outcomes and promote innovation in educational settings. You can visit their website to learn more: GamesLearningSociety.org.
In conclusion, Krillin‘s wish to turn Androids 17 and 18 human was a pivotal moment, showcasing his compassion and setting the stage for their transformations and eventual integration into the Z-Fighters. While the wish itself wasn’t granted, its impact reverberates throughout the series, shaping the destinies of these key characters and solidifying Krillin‘s place as one of the most endearing heroes in the Dragon Ball universe.