What is a hero: a rebel finds meaning

Naruto

A real hero never gives up, no matter what! That's what makes someone strong!

Heero

Emotions get in the way. A true hero completes the mission, regardless of feelings.

Goku

But strength alone isn't everything. A hero fights to protect, not just to win.

Naruto

Then what about friends? You can't protect anyone if you're just a weapon!

Heero

Attachments create weaknesses. I've seen comrades die because someone hesitated.

Goku

Maybe... but the strongest power comes from wanting to protect others.

Heero

Then prove it. This vest has enough explosives to level the city. Stop me... if your emotions don't get in the way.

Naruto

(He's actually willing to sacrifice everyone here... what kind of hero does that make him?)

Goku

Heero... you don't have to do this. There's another way!

Heero

(He moved faster than my reflexes... how is that possible?)

Goku

I didn't want to fight you. I just wanted you to see that protecting others includes protecting you too.

Naruto

Hey, I get it. When you're used to fighting alone, it's hard to trust anyone else with your life.

Heero

(They didn't even hesitate... they risked everything for someone who was threatening them...)

Naruto

That's what being a hero means! Not just protecting the mission, but protecting everyone - including yourself!

Heero

But... if I let myself care, I'll hesitate. People will die because I couldn't make the hard choice.

Goku

Then let us help you carry that burden. That's what friends are for.

Heero

(Friends... I've spent my whole life pushing people away... can I really start letting them in now?) I got a lot to think about.