He could face Jiren again. But this time, Gohan would be the one to come out on top. Maybe he'd have studied Jiren's fighting style thoroughly and found a way to counter it.
The 'naruto pain into power fanfiction' could potentially rewrite Naruto's character arc in a unique way. It may show him in situations where he is pushed to his limits by pain, more so than in the original series. This extreme pain could lead to a more profound and perhaps unexpected transformation of his power. For example, he might discover a hidden power within himself that was only unlocked through experiencing a great deal of pain. This could also lead to new plot twists and interactions with characters like Sasuke or Kakashi, as they react to this new, more powerful Naruto who has emerged from his pain.
In this fanfiction, Gohan could show off his long - hidden power. Maybe he'll defeat some powerful foes in really cool and unexpected ways. For example, he might use new techniques that we've never seen him use before in the official story.
A prevalent theme could be the power of the human spirit. Despite experiencing pain, Naruto's spirit is strong enough to convert that pain into a formidable power. This can also be related to the theme of hope. His transformation from pain to power gives hope to other characters in the fanfiction that they too can overcome their own pain and grow stronger.
There were a few novels that could be recommended, including Those Years Living in the Future World of Dragon Ball, If Dragon Ball, Latiz took Gohan away, and The Strongest Sun Gohan of Dragon Ball. These novels all used Gohan as the protagonist, telling his growth and adventures in the Dragon Ball world. These novels might satisfy your need for Gohan to be the protagonist.
In this fanfiction, Gohan might learn valuable life lessons from Grandpa Gohan. Maybe Grandpa Gohan would teach Gohan some old - fashioned martial arts techniques that have been forgotten over time.
In such a fanfiction, perhaps future Gohan could warn present - day Gohan about upcoming threats that he has faced in his own timeline. He might share his experiences and knowledge, which could make present Gohan a stronger fighter and a wiser person.
Piccolo might also be a savior. He has a soft spot for Gohan since they trained together. He could use his strategic mind and powerful attacks to outwit Raditz and rescue Gohan. Maybe he teams up with Goku for an even more epic rescue mission.
Perhaps Gohan's own overconfidence could lead to his death. He might underestimate an enemy's power or a dangerous situation and make a wrong move that results in his end. For example, he could rush into a fight without proper preparation thinking he can handle it easily.