Cell Absorbs Krillin: A Hypothetical What-If in Dragon Ball
Cell Absorbs Krillin: A Hypothetical What-If in Dragon Ball
Introduction to the Concept
In Dragon Ball, Cell’s ability to absorb other beings plays a central role in his transformation and power escalation. Specifically, Cell achieves his Perfect Form by absorbing Androids 17 and 18. But what if the narrative took a different turn? What if Cell absorbed Krillin instead? While this scenario doesn’t occur in the canonical storyline, exploring this hypothetical situation offers fascinating insights into both characters and the potential impact on the series.
Understanding Cell’s Absorption Ability
Cell, an android created by Dr. Gero, possesses the ability to absorb other beings to increase his power. This is most evident in:
- Absorbing Android 17: Transforms Cell into his Semi-Perfect Form.
- Absorbing Android 18: Allows Cell to reach his Perfect Form.
Each absorption not only amplifies Cell’s physical abilities but also integrates the absorbed individual’s unique traits and characteristics into his being.
Krillin’s Role in the Cell Saga
Krillin plays a vital part in the Cell Saga, acting as both a warrior and a moral compass. His decision to spare Android 18, despite knowing the risks, highlights his compassion and emotional depth. However, Krillin’s proximity to Cell and the Androids raises an intriguing hypothetical: What if Cell had turned his absorption ability on Krillin instead?
What Would Happen If Cell Absorbed Krillin?
1. Power Boost for Cell
While Krillin’s power level is lower than that of the Saiyans or the Androids, his abilities are not insignificant. If Cell absorbed Krillin, the following changes might occur:
- Enhanced Intelligence: Krillin’s strategic thinking and battle experience could provide Cell with sharper tactical skills.
- Access to Krillin’s Techniques: Cell might gain the ability to use Krillin’s signature moves, such as the Destructo Disc (Kienzan) or the Solar Flare (Taiyoken), adding more versatility to his arsenal.
2. Impact on Cell’s Personality
Krillin’s compassion and humanity could influence Cell’s personality, creating an intriguing mix of ruthless ambition and emotional complexity. While Cell is predominantly driven by the desire for perfection and destruction, absorbing Krillin might introduce a moral conflict within him.
3. Effect on the Z Fighters
If Cell absorbed Krillin, the dynamics among the Z Fighters would shift dramatically:
- Emotional Devastation: Krillin’s death would deeply affect Goku, Gohan, and Android 18, potentially fueling their determination to defeat Cell.
- Loss of Tactical Support: Without Krillin’s strategic mind and supportive role, the Z Fighters might struggle to recover during key moments in the saga.
Hypothetical Outcomes of This Scenario
A. Cell Gains Partial Perfection
If Cell absorbed Krillin instead of Android 18, he might not reach his Perfect Form but instead evolve into a unique “Semi-Perfect Plus” state. This form could possess increased speed, intelligence, and technique versatility but lack the overwhelming power of his true Perfect Form.
B. Gohan Awakens Even Sooner
Krillin’s absorption could serve as a catalyst for Gohan’s transformation into Super Saiyan 2. The loss of a close ally might push Gohan to unlock his hidden potential earlier, leading to an even more intense confrontation with Cell.
C. Android 18’s Role Changes
Without being absorbed, Android 18 might actively join the Z Fighters sooner, potentially contributing to the battle against Cell in a way that aligns with Krillin’s sacrifice.
Why This Scenario Matters
Although Cell absorbing Krillin is purely speculative, it highlights several core themes in Dragon Ball:
- The Value of Every Character: Krillin’s skills and personality make him a vital part of the team, even without Saiyan-level power.
- Emotional Stakes: The hypothetical loss of Krillin emphasizes the emotional depth of the series, reminding fans of the personal sacrifices made during battles.
- What-If Possibilities: Exploring alternate scenarios deepens fans’ appreciation for the original story while sparking creative discussions about how events could unfold differently.
Conclusion
While Cell absorbing Krillin is not part of Dragon Ball’s canonical events, imagining this scenario provides an opportunity to explore the characters’ dynamics and the series’ themes in new ways. Krillin’s unique traits, if absorbed by Cell, could lead to fascinating changes in the narrative, altering the balance of power and emotional stakes in the Cell Saga. This thought experiment reminds us of the intricate storytelling and character relationships that make Dragon Ball a timeless epic.