This is my tribute to Akira Toriyama. I’ve found it incredibly fitting to draw Piccolo against the setting of Namek, a place where legends were born and tragedies occurred. Not only was Piccolo Toriyama‘s favorite character, but he is also mine. I admire the rocky, yet natural progression from a demon king—who originally set out to conquer the Earth as his father had wanted—only to find his own purpose. He genuinely began to care for the Earth’s inhabitants, particularly Gohan. He still has his edge, yet also has a softer side; there has been great balance between the two over the course of Dragon Ball. And even though I don’t care much for Dragon Ball Super, I had a lovely time watching Super Hero, where Piccolo finally returned to the spotlight like he deserves.

I first discovered Dragon Ball on Nicktoons, where Dragon Ball Z Kai (an abridged and remastered version) was aired. From then on, I started collecting my favorite characters as figures, reading the manga (including the original Dragon Ball), and I even have a collection of VHS tapes and the full color manga. I know I am gushing—and you might not even read this far—but I really mean it when I say: I feel like I lost someone close to me. I admire Toriyama for his pioneering work in the field of manga and animation. His world building and art style are so whimsical and inviting, so much so that I’ve made my own fan characters and created new alien races. I love to see the world of Dragon Ball reflected in my own art in writing.

There is much more that I can say—and that I wish I could say—but ultimately, I am just devastated. He was the same age as my mom, who is thankfully still with me. Now I am more aware than ever how precious life is, and how all good things must come to an end.

Rest in peace, Akira Toriyama.