It could be that a new threat emerges. Maybe another android, stronger than Cell, was observing the fight and decides to take advantage of the chaos after Gohan's death. This new android could become the main antagonist as it poses a greater danger to the remaining fighters.
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.
Another scenario could be that Gohan contracts a deadly and incurable disease in the fanfiction world. Despite the efforts of his family and friends, including the use of any available advanced technology or magic, he succumbs to the illness, leaving everyone in mourning.
Perhaps Gohan sacrifices himself to save the other Z - fighters. He might choose to take on Cell's full - power attack that was meant for all of them, and in the process, he loses his life. In the fanfiction, it could also be that Cell has some sort of hidden power - up that catches Gohan off - guard and leads to his death.
In this fanfiction, if Gohan dies in the Cell Games, perhaps the story could focus on how the other characters cope with the loss. For example, Chi - Chi could become a more hardened character, vowing revenge on Cell or any other threats. Piccolo might take on a more fatherly role to Goten, trying to train him to be as strong as Gohan was. And the Earth might be in a state of mourning, which could attract new villains who see it as a time of weakness.
Perhaps in a fanfiction, Gohan dies protecting his family. He stands against a powerful foe that targets his loved ones. He endures a brutal battle, but in the end, his injuries are too severe. His death shatters his family and friends, and the Z - fighters are left to pick up the pieces and continue the fight without him.
The story could progress with a darker tone. There would be a lot of mourning at first. Then, the remaining characters might start to look for ways to prevent future threats more aggressively. For example, Bulma could use her scientific skills to develop new weapons or defenses.
If Gohan dies in the Cell Games in fanfiction, Goku and Chi - Chi's relationship would be severely strained. Goku might blame himself for not being able to protect their son, and Chi - Chi would be heartbroken and potentially angry at Goku. Vegeta's relationship with Goku could also change. He might respect Goku more for his pain, or he could become more competitive, vowing to never let his own family be in such a position.
Well, the story could take a very different turn. Gohan was a symbol of hope for a new generation of fighters. His death would shatter that hope. The remaining Z - Fighters would have to reevaluate their strategies and training methods. Maybe they would start to focus more on group attacks rather than relying on individual powerhouses like Gohan. And the fanfiction could explore how the other characters grow and change in the face of this great loss. They might also seek new allies or ways to resurrect Gohan, which could lead to all kinds of new adventures and challenges.
His father, Goku, would be deeply affected. He might feel guilty for not being there to protect Gohan or for not training him better. Vegeta, too, would be shocked. Despite their rivalry, he respects Gohan's power. His death could make Vegeta more determined to defeat their enemies. And Chi - Chi would be heartbroken. She had always hoped for Gohan to have a normal life, and his death would be a cruel blow.