Another possible ending is that Gohan sacrifices himself to defeat Cell. He could use a self - destructive move that not only takes out Cell but also costs Gohan his life. This would be a very dramatic and tragic ending, but it would also show Gohan's selfless heroism.
Trunks could also be a popular character in such fanfictions. He might be curious about Gohan's interactions with Cell and get involved in their affairs. His time - traveling knowledge could add an interesting twist to the story. Also, Vegeta could be included. His pride might not allow him to accept Gohan getting too close to Cell and he could try to put an end to their relationship or partnership in the fanfiction.
One idea could be to focus on Gohan's internal struggle during the Cell Games. Maybe he's doubting his abilities even more than shown in the original, and it's through his friends' and family's words of encouragement that he finally finds his resolve.
Well, this fanfic could be quite interesting from a character - development perspective. If Cell kills Gohan, it could change the entire dynamic of the Dragon Ball world. For example, Vegeta might be forced to step up in a different way, or the Z - fighters might have to completely reevaluate their strategies. It might also show a different side of Cell, perhaps a more menacing and victorious side that we haven't fully seen in the original series.
One possible fanfic could be about Goku's intense training before the Cell Games. He might be shown pushing his limits in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, trying out new techniques and forms to defeat Cell. Maybe he discovers a new power level that no one, including himself, expected.
First, give the MC a clear backstory. For example, if they are a human, explain where they come from, their family, and what led them to get involved with the events related to Cell. Maybe they were training in martial arts because they had a personal vendetta against powerful beings after their family was killed by a random villain. This would give them a motivation to face Cell.
In this 'dbz gohan snaps fanfiction', it may depict Gohan's transformation from his normal self to a more extreme state. This could be due to a variety of factors. It could be related to the constant battles and the toll it takes on his mental state. Or perhaps he discovers some dark secret that makes him snap. The fanfiction would likely detail his internal struggle, his newfound abilities if any, and how it impacts the overall Dragon Ball Z universe. His friends and foes would surely be affected by this change in Gohan, and the story could explore all these aspects in great detail.
In fanfiction, Gohan could have a secret power that he discovers during the Cell Games. This power could be related to his Saiyan heritage in a new and unexpected way, like being able to tap into an ancient Saiyan ability that no one else knew about. It could completely change the course of the fight against Cell.
Goku is often a common character. Since Gohan has a strong relationship with his father, in time - travel scenarios, they might interact a lot. For example, Gohan could go back in time to save Goku from an early death or to train with him. Vegeta is also a likely character. He might be skeptical of Gohan's time - traveling at first but then get involved in Gohan's plans. Another common character would be Piccolo. He has been Gohan's mentor, and in time - travel stories, he could offer his wisdom and help to Gohan again.
If Goku and Female Cell interacted, it could change the perception of enemies in the DBZ universe. Their cooperation might lead other fighters to be more open to the idea of redeeming former foes. For example, if they manage to work together successfully, Vegeta might rethink his stance on some of the villains he's faced.