Dragon Ball C

by MajinHercule

Heavily inspired by MasakoX of TFS, 5 What If scenarios thrown into one story to shake things up in the Dragon World: 1. What if Kid Goku became a Super Saiyan (After Krillin died in Dragon Ball) 2. What if Goku married Bulma? 3. What if Raditz turned good? 4. What if Nappa turned good? 5. What if Future Trunks was stuck in the past after warning Goku about the Androids?

18. Chapter 18

DRAGON BALL C PART XVIII: THE TOURNAMENT BEGINS

"Challenges may come,

Fighting's just begun.

But there's no stopping me from spreading out my wings,

Concentrate my power,

In the final hour,

In the end,

I am gonna win!"

- Dragon Ball Super

LAST TIME ON DRAGON BALL C!

As peace seemingly gripped the Seventh Universe, Son Goku, Raditz, and Vegeta went to the planet of Beerus, the God of Destruction, for a special training session. However, Goku asked Whis to take him to Grand Zeno, the Omni-King, and the result was Zeno's desire to see the ultimate battle: The Tournament of Power, a battle royal between eight universes, with the cost of defeat being the greatest price, total erasure. Together, Goku, Vegeta and Son Gohan faced off against warriors of the Ninth Universe, before Goku fought Toppo, the leader of Universe 11's Pride Troopers. The two fighters proved to be each other's equals, but Toppo declared that there was one even stronger than him: Jiren the Gray.

Under Gohan's guidance, ten warriors were chosen to represent Universe 7 in this battle: Son Goku, Son Gohan, Vegeta, Raditz, Kami, Android 17, Android 18, Nappa, Master Roshi and Ranch. Together, they bid farewell for possibly the last time to their loved ones as Whis transported them to the World of the Void, where the tournament would take place.

Can Universe 7 survive this grand spectacle? Or will they end up as just a footnote in history, a memory left for only the surviving universes? The Tournament of Power is about to begin!

The team from Universe 7 materialized, with everyone taken aback by the sight of the World of the Void, with dark, cloud like masses seemingly floating everywhere. Looking around, they saw a strangely colored disc that they were standing on, and in the middle, a huge column, while several blocks travelled around.

"What is this?" Master Roshi asked, but Whis was quick to answer.

"It appears they're still constructing the platform," Whis says, pointing up, "See?"

Looking up, they saw three Gods of Destruction: Iwne, the fur-covered Destroyer from the First Universe, the strange-looking and almost emaciated Arak from the Fifth Universe, and the fox-like Liquor from the Eighth Universe.

"I wonder why Gods of Destruction are building it…" Beerus says, but then adds, "I suppose it doesn't matter." Shortly thereafter, several spheres of light appear.

"Guys, look!" Goku says, the excitement in his voice growing, "It looks like the other teams are arriving!" Sure enough, their opponents teleport in, with Quitela, the God of Destruction from Universe 4, giving Goku an angry look.

"Everyone, look over here!" 18 shouts, and the team goes over as she peers over the edge, a seemingly endless abyss of nothingness below them.

"Well, they did say if you fall off the edge, you'll lose," Whis says.

"Is it just me, or does the gravity feel different?" Nappa asks, "Almost like...Planet Vegeta."

"Now that you mention it…" Raditz says, while the other fighters look at the Saiyans in confusion.

"It feels normal, Dad," Ranch says, "Right, Gohan?"

"Of course it does," Gohan says, "The Grand Minister said we'd experience the gravity of our home worlds. For me and Ranch, that's Earth. For the four of you, Vegeta."

"Whatever," Vegeta says in response. Ten times Earth's gravity is nothing anymore. It's a minor handicap at best, as long as we can still-

Vegeta's thoughts are interrupted as Kami speaks up, "It seems we can't fly, either."

"What?" Goku says, jumping up and making an attempt, but he lands, his face disappointed, while Whis gleefully floats.

"You idiot, you were there when the rules were explained!" Beerus says, and looking at Whis, "But how come you can fly?!"

"I'm merely a spectator and not a combatant, the same rules don't apply to me," Whis says.

"Yeah, but over there, those guys are flying…" Goku says, pointing to two warriors from Universe 10.

"They have wings, Kakarot," Raditz says, shaking his head.

"The rules did say that natural flight was allowed," Whis says in agreement, "You'll have to keep your battles to the ground."

"Well, this is quite a reunion," a voice says, and turning, the warriors from Universe 7 see Frost, standing in his Final Form, looking them over smugly. Vegeta stares at him. This is the one they call 'Frost'. He may be dangerous if he's improved himself like Freeza did.

"Hey Frost, how's business?" Ranch says, an arrogant grin across her face. Frost hesitates for a moment, but then smiles and walks away. Kami approaches, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"He's afraid of you, Ranch," Kami says, "If he did get stronger, he's not sure he can stop you."

"Hey, Hit!" Goku says, waving, with Raditz looking up at the assassin, sighing. His attention is broken as a voice cries out, "Master Raditz!"

"What?" Raditz says as a smiling Cabba approaches him, "I'm not your master, Cabba."

"Oh, Cabba!" Goku says, smiling, "Have you been keeping up with your training?"

"Yes," Cabba says, while Goku looks behind him at two women, with dark hair and eyes, the trademark look of Saiyans, one in purple, baggy pants and a pink tube top, the other in a dark red shirt and skirt.

"Who's this?" Goku says.

"Oh," Cabba says, "This is Caulifla, she's a Saiyan."

Caulifla walks forward, with the other Saiyan cowering behind her.

"I've never met a girl Saiyan," Goku says, extending his hand, only for Caulifla to slap it away.

"You must be as dumb as you are strong if you think I'm your friend," she says, "We're fighting to decide the strongest in all the universes."

While Goku shows a hurt expression at first, he smiles, "The strongest in all the universes, eh? You're just like me. Who's this one behind you?"

"Uh…" the girl says meekly.

"That's Kale," Cabba says as she tries to hide behind Caulifla, "That big guy, he was watching the tournament, wasn't he?"

"Yep!" Nappa says, "I remember you, kid! Name's Nappa!"

Cabba bows respectfully at Nappa, and then looks in the back, seeing Vegeta standing with his arms crossed, glaring at him.

"Who's that?" Cabba asks. This guy looks serious...that look on his face, it reminds me of King Sadala.

"That's-" Goku says, but Vegeta cuts him off.

"My name is Vegeta, the Prince of All Saiyans," Vegeta says sternly.

"Prince of All Saiyans? Master Rad-," Cabba says, stopping himself, "I mean, Raditz, didn't you say that's where the Saiyans in your universe were from? That means he's your leader?"

"Uh-" Raditz says, looking at Vegeta, who only glares at him, "It's uh, complicated to explain." Not that it will matter much longer… he thinks to himself.

"Are you okay?" Gohan whispers to Ranch, looking at Caulifla and Kale.

"I'm fine," she says. Cabba...how strong have you gotten? And what about your friends?

Kami looks at the rest of the gathered warriors from Universe 6: Botomo and Auta Magetta, two large, dark green Namekians, and a robed boar-like creature. "Namekians."

"I guess Champa decided to double up on what he could," Gohan says, "Considering what's at stake, I can't say I blame him."

"The power off those two is intense," Kami says, "So far, I'd say our 'friends' from Universe 6 are our biggest obstacle."

"And it's weird, those guys over there-" Gohan says, pointing at the warriors from Universe 4, "I count only eight of them."

"It could be they didn't have time to assemble ten fighters, and this is what they have to work with," Master Roshi says. Gohan nods, but then gasps, as do most of the warriors gathered.

"That energy…" Vegeta says in shock as a glowing sphere appears, as Khai, Vermoud, Marcarita, and the ten warriors of Universe 11 appear.

"They're all wearing the same uniform as Toppo," Gohan says, "Those must be the Pride Troopers he spoke about."

Caulifla smiles as she turns, the Pride Troopers materializing in an obvious team battle pose, "Ha," she says, "I guess Universe 7 is all talk if those geeks have them worried."

"I'm gonna go greet them!" Goku says happily walking towards them, "Yo, Toppo!"

"...Son Goku," Toppo says plainly.

"It looks like we're going to finish what we started the other day," Goku says.

"We are here bearing the fate of Universe 11, and I have no interest in personal squabbles," Toppo says.

"Still, we're going to have to fight sooner or later," Goku says.

"Then we'll deal with that then," Toppo says as Goku looks around, noticing a large, muscular warrior with gray skin, his back turned.

"Hey, you!" Goku says, but as soon as the words leave his mouth, a cold, deep, stoic voice responds from behind him.

"Get lost," he says, the voice a deep baritone with no indication of interest or friendliness.

"How did you…" Goku says, turning around to see a stern, emotionless face with two huge, dark eyes staring at him. This must be Jiren, Goku thinks. Just then, a surge of purple energy rises from above as five blocks come hurling down at the two of them, with Goku jumping out of the way, never taking his eyes off of Jiren, landing after a close call. "He never took completely read the movement of those blocks. This guy's something else."

"The fighting stage is complete and all the warriors are here," The Grand Minister calls out, "Universe 2, Universe 3, Universe 4, Universe 6, Universe 7, Universe 9, Universe 10, and Universe 11."

"This isn't going to be easy," Kami says, "Even the weakest foe will be a challenge."

"Everyone keep a clear head, and remember our strategy: Work together. Got it?" Gohan says.

"And now, silence please for an announcement from Grand Zeno," the Grand Minister says as Grand Zeno appears from his floating throne, smiling happily.

"Everyone, thank you for coming!" Zeno says, the excitement in his voice obvious, "I'm really looking forward to this, you see? And I hope you make it really exciting!"

"Thank you for those words of encouragement!" the Grand Minister says, as he begins to rise above the center column on a small platform, "Once more, I shall explain the rules of the Tournament of Power. This tournament will last for 100 taks. This pillar below me will descend as time passes. Once it reaches the floor, the tournament is over. There are no weapons other than techniques permitted, nor is killing allowed. An opponent is only eliminated if they fall off the fighting stage, so therefore even an incapcitated warrior is safe. Skills to prevent falling are not allowed, however, if a warrior can naturally fly, that is permitted. There are also no healing items allowed, no matter how wounded a warrior is. That is all."

"Remember guys," Gohan says, "We need teamwork. We'll all fight back to back in a circle, supporting one another."

"How boring," Vegeta says, while Raditz shakes his head. 17 and 18 exchange a brief glance, while Goku seems to be ignoring Gohan,looking directly at Toppo.

"Do you think we can win?" Shin asks the Old Kai, with the pair of them, Beerus, and Whis now observing from the spectator seating.

"All we can do is trust in them," the Old Kai replies.

"Your fate is in their hands," Whis says.

"Shut up, Whis! You're only saying that because you're not being erased!" Beerus says.

"How fortunate for me," Whis says with a small laugh. Beerus sighs and stands, cupping his hands.

"I want to tell you all good luck, we're all counting on you!" Beerus yells, "Remember 'Teamwork', got it?!"

Quitela glares over at Beerus, "Beerus of all people spouting off about teamwork. Pathetic."

Beerus quietly says to himself, "I heard that…"

"No retort?" Whis asks, "This tournament is filled with unexpected surprises!"

"He's a prick, that's all," Beerus says.

On his platform, the Grand Minister turns to the Omni-King, "May we begin the tournament?"

"Hurry!" Zeno replies, and nodding, the Grand Minister addresses the assembled warriors.

"Prepare yourselves," he says, as the tension in the World of the Void builds up. The Grand Minister raises his arm, "Let the Tournament of Power...BEGIN!"

In that instant, a massive brawl between nearly every warrior, excluding that of Universe 7 begins, with ki blasts and explosions taking place throughout the arena.

"Where did he go?!" Goku says, wandering off with a grin on his face, "Ah, there he is!"

"Dad, come back!" Gohan says, "Teamwork, remember?"

Goku smiles as he sees Toppo engaging Magetta, but is stopped by Ganos, the green-skinned, taloned warrior from Universe 4, the two exchanging a flurry of blows, causing Ganos to quickly retreat. "Damnit!" Gohan says as he watches 17 and 18 walk away together. Slowly, Vegeta begins to walk away from the group as well.

"Vegeta, damnit, get back here!" Raditz yells.

"I'm going for a walk," Vegeta says in response with a malicious grin on his face.

"I…" Gohan says, exasperated.

"Forget it, Gohan," Master Roshi says, "You'd be a fool if you didn't expect those four to do this."

"We're still here, nephew," Raditz says, "The others can handle themselves. All we have to do to win is have one more person on the stage then the other guys."

"Good grief," the Old Kai says, shaking his head while Beerus facepalms, "What was the point of that planning session if it's all gone to hell already?!"

"Damn every one of them," Beerus says. The action continues in the arena as numerous ki blasts fly out, while the robot Nariama from Universe 3 shouts it's name twice, extending its arms and spinning at great speed across the stage, forcing back Cabba and the rabbit-like Pride Trooper Dyspo. Ea, the Supreme Kai of Universe 3, smiles as he observes.

"Super Survival Mode! This will be our key to victory!" He says, but his smile fades as Hit landson one of Nariama's arms, stopping the attack, while Basil lands on the other. "Our...perfect strategy…" Ea says in shock. A moment later, several blasts land near Basil, the red wolf dodging and looking up, seeing Lilybeu, one of the winged warriors from Universe 10, firing at him.

"You think you're special because you can fly?!" he yells as an energy sphere forms, "Try this, Shining Blaster!" The Shining Blaster flies out, hitting her, while Basil forms another, kicking it at Lilibeu, the two blasts overwhelming her and sending her hurtling over the edge of the stage, screaming. She only stops when she opens her eyes, and to her surprise she finds herself sitting in the bleachers above, with Rumushi and Gowasu behind her.

"I see," Roshi says, "If you fall off, you end up in the stands."

As the battle rages, Goku resumes his fight with Ganos, 18 fighting the Pride Trooper Cocotte, 17 attacking Murisarm, and Vegeta against Rubalt. The rest of Team Universe 7 stand there ground as Botamo, Lavender, Comfrey, Shosa and Dercori surround them, Lavender snarling at Gohan, "You won't win so easily this time!"

The six warriors hold together, when in a rush, they attack, with Gohan attack Lavender with a Masenko, a Kamehameha from Master Roshi on Dercori, a Double Sunday from Ranch onto Shosa, a Shinsatuho from Kami onto Comfrey, and a combination Bomber DX/Shining Friday from Nappa and Raditz on Botamo, knocking the attackers back. "Keep your guard up!" Kami yells. They're testing our strength, Gohan thinks, They know there's more to us than just this.

In almost dance like fashion, Goku dodges a huge, rapid barrage of green energy blasts from Ganos, with Ganos running off at the end. Smiling, Goku sees Toppo briefly before the leader of the Pride Troopers attacks another opponent, and then, standing seemingly unfazed by the carnage going on around him, Jiren, who opens his eyes and glares at Goku. His gaze quickly changes as Rabanra, the dark orange fighter from Universe 2, stands before him, only to realize the danger he's in, quickly sprinting away.

"Jiren's not moving," Khai says, watching.

"Of course," Vermoud says, "That's his style. Jiren will only go on the move when he feels he's needed."

The staredown between Goku and Jiren continues, until a large arm grabs Goku from behind, wrapping behind him.

"Damnit, he let his guard down again!" the Old Kai says while Quitela laughs.

"Get him, Nink!" the God of Destruction yells down as Nink begins to drag Goku towards the edge.

"For crying out loud, Goku, use your full power!" Beerus yells while Goku struggles.

"Are you crazy? You'll fall, too!" Goku yells out.

"As long as I take you with me, that's fine," Nink says as they get closer to the edge.

"That's what you think!" Goku yells, as he unleashes the power of Super Saiyan Blue just as Nink reaches the edge, blasting the warrior from Universe 4 off into the stands, while Goku hangs on, pulling himself up, "Damn, that was close!"

"Nink from Universe 4 has dropped out," the Grand Minister says to Zeno.

"I wonder who'll be next!" Zeno says happily. Back on the stage, 17 catches a shin kick from Murisarm, countering with a rapid kicking combination of his own, sending the kickboxer from Universe 10 off the stage.

He wasn't anything special, 17 says as he turns, catching a glimpse of Vegeta blasting Rubalt, also from Universe 10 back. Rubalt grabs the edge of the stage, struggling to pull himself up, but Vegeta jumps up and lands on Rubalt's left hand, with Rubalt yelling in pain as he instinctively lets go with his right, falling off.

"Both Murisarm and Rubalt of Universe 10 have dropped," the Grand Minister says. The battle rages on as several warriors from Universe 9 begin to surround Goku, with Bergamo, Lavender, and Basil leading the charge as Goku dodges multiple attacks.

"Dad, look!" Ranch calls out, and Raditz nods as she points to to Comfrey and Chappil, the dragon-like warrior.

"I see them, get ready!" Raditz says as Ranch positions herself in front of Raditz, father and daughter both turning Super Saiyan.

"You fool!" Bergamo says to Goku, "Not only do you have to fight the three of us, but three others as well, including Chappil, the 'Iron Skin Battler'!"

"Stay away from his poison, Dad!" Gohan yells out.

"Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide…" Lavender says.

"Goku!" Beerus yells down, "You only have to knock them off, not beat them!"

"Now!" Raditz yells as both he and Ranch each unleash a Weekend, "Fortnight!"

Chappil dodges out of the way, the blast scattering Sorrel, Bergamo, Basil and Lavender, and hitting Comfrey, sending him flying out of the arena.

"Good job!" Raditz says as he turns back to normal, with Ranch following suit. Goku takes advantage of the confusion to begin his assault, first attacking Basil and then Lavender, his skin eruprting with a white glow.

"Oh, a magic barrier!" the Old Kai says, "That poison shouldn't be able to affect him, now!"

Vegeta stands and watches Goku's fight with the Trio de Danger, You're not going to have all the fun here, Kakarot, he thinks, attacking Chappil, driving him back and, putting his hands on him, unleashing a Double Galick Cannon that blasts Chappil out of the arena. "You bastard!" A female voice cries out as Hop, Oregano, Hyssop and Roselle attack.

"Well, at least Vegeta's taking some of the pressure off of Goku," Whis says.

"Universe 9 really seems to have it out for those two," Shin says.

"I'll scratch your face up!" Hop says, her claws extended, swiping at Vegeta, while Hyssop fires off a barrage of ice crystals, which Vegeta blocks, but watches as he right hand and forearm become covered with ice.

"Now, you're mine!" Hop says, attacking Vegeta, but Vegeta's speed is too much as he launches into his Wild Hunt attack, driving Hop into the stage with such an impact it chips the edge off. At that time, a web fires off from Oregano, catching Vegeta's left arm.

"Now you're useless, you'll never escape these threads of mine!" Oregano says.

"You fools underestimate my power!" Vegeta yells, powering up to Super Saiyan and quickly overwhelming the pair, firing off an energy blast that knocks both Oregano and Hyssop off. Looking around, Vegeta spots 18 kicking Sorrel off the stage as well, and smiles as he sees a bewildered Roselle looking at him, obviously terrified.

"Your pals didn't put up much of a fight. Maybe you'll prove to be a better play thing for me," Vegeta says, walking forward.

"No, please, stop!" Roselle yells, standing and running back, "Someone help me!"

Vegeta watches, momentarily stunned as Roselle jumps off the edge of the arena, but shakes it off, and turns to see Goku, now a Super Saiyan, dodging the attacks from the Trio de Danger.

"What the hell was that?!" Ro shouts at Roselle, "You moron!"

Roselle realizes what he just did, "Oh...shit!"

"Trio de Dangers, don't you dare lose!" Ro shouts down as the three wolves continue their onslaught against Goku while Vegeta jumps in, easily repelling Lavender.

"This is it, bros!" Bergamo shouts, their backs to the edge of the stage. "TRIANGLE DANGER BEAM!" The three shout.

Vegeta and Goku watch as it homes in, Goku powering up to Super Saiyan Blue and Vegeta to Super Saiyan 4, each assuming a stance.

"Final…" Vegeta says.

"-hameha!" Goku yells, as the two beams fire out, combining into a massive Final Kamehameha that overpowers the Triangle Danger Beam, blasting Lavender, Basil and Bergamo out of the arena and into the stands, while Ro watches, terrified.

"...Ten warriors have fallen," Sidra says, almost in shock, "...What will become of the Ninth Universe?"

"Basil…" Zeno says, "Lavender...and Bergamo! All the pictures are dark!"

"All warriors from Universe 9 have dropped out, and thus, there are no warriors left. Therefore, Universe 9 shall be erased at once," the Grand Minister says.

"Grand Zeno, please!" Ro shouts out in terror, but his response is only met as Zeno cheerfully raises his hand, with the entire contingent from Universe 9 glowing in a bright, white light, and then vanishing, with only Mohito, Sidra's angel attendant, remaining, as a faint smirk comes across his face. Everyone fighting down below stops at this turn of events, the reality setting in.

"Whis…" Beerus says, "Show me the Ninth Universe, I don't care where." Whis projects an image from his staff, but only shakes his head.

"It looks like everything is gone, my lord," Whis says solemnly.

"He actually did it," Beerus says, "He erased an entire universe…"

Vegeta and Goku revert back to their normal states, with even Vegeta appearing to be slightly rattled.

"Kakarot...do you remember my promise to you?" Vegeta asks.

"That you'd be the one to kill me?" Goku replies and Vegeta nods.

"That's right," Vegeta says, "Keep that in mind."

Goku smiles, realizing what Vegeta is saying.

"It all makes sense now," Anato says, "All eight of those universes were to be erased in an instant, just as the Ninth Universe was. The remaining seven have been given a chance to survive by Son Goku. Their erasure means that the mortal levels of the remaining universes will be re-balanced. That is the purpose of this tournament."

"I can't feel Ro or Sidra's energies at all," Shin says, now sweating profusely.

"Of course," Whis says, "That is what erasure is."

"Still, to do so without any hesitation…" the Old Kai replies.

"Is everyone alright?" Kami asks.

"Barely," Roshi replies while Raditz takes Ranch's hand, squeezing it.

"It's going to be okay," he says to his daughter, "Just keep your head in the game."

Standing by her brother, 18 shakes her head, first at the erasure, and then again at the lack of emotion on 17's face.

"Are you okay?" he asks.

"I just saw a universe erased, of course I'm not," 18 replies, "You seem fine, though."

"If we lose, that's all that happens. It doesn't seem so bad. No pain, no suffering. We should all be so lucky. I guess you've grown kinder over the years," 17 says, "But right now, we have to go back to how we used to be. Thanks to Dr. Gero, we have infinite energy. We never tire, sis. We need to press that advantage."

18 smiles at her brother, "You're right. Let's do it!"

"...Why has everyone stopped fighting?" Zeno asks the Grand Minister, confused at the lack of action that had for the past five minutes been exciting the Omni-King to no end.

"It appears they're all a little unsettled from the erasure of the Ninth Universe," the Grand Minister replies in a matter-of-fact tone, "They will be starting up again shortly."

Raditz looks up, having overheard this, and shakes his head in disgust. That little blue bastard doesn't even realize what he's doing, and then has the audacity to act surprised.

Standing together, Vegeta notices two figures moving towards him and Goku: Botamo and Hit.

"Trunks told me about those two," Vegeta says, "That purple one gave you all trouble, right?"

"Yeah," Goku says, smiling, "I've been aching' for a rematch."

"Forget it," Vegeta says, turning to Goku, "Save your strength, Kakarot, you'll need it. I'll handle them."

"Are you sure about that, Vegeta?" Goku asks, but Vegeta smiles and nods, while Goku does likewise, heading off. With a yell, Vegeta powers up to Super Saiyan, charging at Hit, only for Botamo to block his path, absorbing the attack and allowing Hit to escape.

"You'll face me first," Botamo says plainly, while Vegeta unleashes a flurry of ineffective attacks, with Botama responding with a heavy punch of his own which Vegeta grabs.

"You really think throwing me will work?" Botama asks with a grin.

"Who said anything about throwing you?" Vegeta says as he quickly ties up Botamo's arms, and, rushing around behind him, he picks up Botama and starts walking to the edge.

"Hey, wait a second, what are you doing? Time out!" Botamo yells in vain.

"Time out? You're joking, right?" Vegeta says, but from behind him…

"Choo-po!"

"Incoming!" Nappa yells, watching as Dium, the flying, bird-like warrior from Universe 10 begins to dive on them, launching out a fiery breath attack directly on Gohan, causing everyone else to dive out of the way as Gohan counters with a Kamehameha, driving the blast away and forcing Dium to dodge, but then he begins a barrage of blasts coming from his mouth, scattering the group.

"Remember," Gohan says, "Don't fight anymore than you have to!"

"Let's see you handle this!" Nappa yells, firing off a Bomber DX at Dium, grazing him, only to have him fly right into a Kamehameha from Master Roshi, forcing Dium out of the arena and onto the spectators bench, much to Rumushi's chagrin.

"Good, that's one more down," Beerus says, "Whis, I'm starting to think we might have a chance."

"Don't count on it, Beerus!" Champa yells, pointing down. Beerus looks as he sees Magetta swinging at Vegeta.

"Vegeta!" Beerus yells out, "Insult that metal bastard, it'll break his spirit!"

"Really?" Vegeta says, "Is that all an overgrown bucket of bolts has? Come on, if you can't do better, you belong in a junkyard like the piece of trash you are!"

Magetta responds by spewing molten metal at Vegeta, while Champa cackles.

"We took a few precautions against that!" Champa yells, "You can't insult Magetta if Magetta can't hear!"

"What?" Beerus says, watching as Botamo hops up on Magetta, covering the Metal Man's ears.

"Together, we become Bota Magetta," Botama says, "And we are invincible!"

"What a load of crap!" Vegeta says, "You're only covering his ears!"

Vegeta dodges as Magetta's assault begins, creating a large amount of smoke that begins to cover the floor of the arena.

***

Damnit, Raditz thinks finally reaches a clearing, There goes our plan.

Shaking his head, he assumes a ready stance as he watches a figure jumps out of the smoke in front of him, his eyes going wide as he recognizes the warrior.

"Cabba…" Raditz says, a sad tone in his voice. Cabba looks sternly at Raditz and powers up to Super Saiyan.

"Unless you want to jump off now, we've got no choice but to fight!" Cabba says.

"And what do you think will happen?" Raditz says, powering up to Super Saiyan. Cabba sighs briefly, "You're a strong Saiyan, Cabba, stronger than any of us were at your age. You were able to fight my daughter evenly...until she ascended her form. That's not an easy thing to do."

"I don't want to fight you, master, but in this tournament, you're my enemy!" Cabba yells.

"No," Raditz says, "Foe, Cabba, not enemy. Besides, I'm not going to fight you."

"Why not?" Cabba says, "

"We both know how it would end," Raditz says, his voice blunt with not a shred of arrogance, "I'll agree not to fight you, but not everyone else from the Seventh Universe will see it that way. I'm sure even Ranch would want a rematch. Just do your best and avoid us, for your own sake. I don't want you or Planet Sadala on my conscience."

"When this tournament's over, one of us will be gone," Cabba says. Raditz nods.

"That's right," Raditz says, ""But just remember, Cabba: Sixth Universe or Seventh Universe, a Saiyan is still a Saiyan."

Cabba nods, "Right. Well...good luck, master."

Raditz watches as Cabba disappears into the smoke. Damn Zeno and damn Kakarot.

***

Firing off a pair of Death Beams, Frost laughs at the carnage around him, smiling as he sees an unsuspecting Nigrissi, charging the warrior from Universe 3 and swiftly eliminating him with a knee to the back. As this happens, Hit stands before Nigrissi's team mate, the robot Narirama, pulling off a Time Skip attack that blows the arms off his opponent.

"You can either leave the stage now," Hit says, "Or I can force you off. It's your choice."

Narirama responds by charging up a cannon in the center of it's chest, only for Hit to perform another Time Skip, knocking the robot off the stage. What is that strange presence I feel?

***

Ranch dodged several attacks from Methiop, the crustacean warrior from Universe 10. After dodging a haymaker, she connects with a punch to his face, smiling.

"You're nothing!" Ranch says, only for Methiop's mandibles to catch her hand, causing her to frown. A second later she drops to the ground as Methiop punches her in the gut, Ranch staggering backwards and bumping into something rather large.

"You're in my way," a voice says. Ranch turns around to see the huge, towering figure of Napapa standing behind her. He laughs as he tries to grab her hair, only for her to roll out of the way.

"Leave her alone, you jerk!" another voice cries out as Nappa emerges from the smoke, jumping up and landing next to Ranch, "You okay kid?"

"Mr. Krabs here caught me off-guard, that's all," Ranch says as the two of them assuming fighting stances, "I want to finish what we started."

Nappa grins, sizing up Napapa, "You got it!"

Napapa laughs, "What's wrong, little girl? You need a grown up to protect you?"

At that, Methiop attacks again, the range of his punches surprising Ranch, but she manages to dodge, quickly turning Super Saiyan while Napapa and Nappa charge each other, causing a mighty clash. Once again, Ranch throws a punch at Methiop, who like before, catches it with his mandibles, only for Ranch to grin, firing off a Shining Friday right in his face, with enough force to knock him off the stage. She turns and watches as Nappa and Napapa struggle to gain ground against each other, until, first with a grunt, Nappa let's out a yell, turning Super Saiyan and grabbing the Yokoduna of Universe 10, jumping up and delivering a powerbomb near the edge, with enough force that the ground below cracks, and then gives way, sending Napapa to the stands. In anger, Rumushi looks down at the two of them.

"What's wrong with all of you?! We only have four fighters left!" he yells.

"Easy, Lord Rumushi," Gowasu says in response, looking down at the ring. We still have Obuni.

***

The Preecho yelled out in pain as Master Roshi held him in place with the Thunder Shock Surprise, struggling to break fee only for his efforts to be in vain.

"If it makes you feel any better, I can't move either while I have you immobilized!" Roshi yells out, "But lucky for me…"

A second later, a yellow blast erupts, sending The Preecho off the stage as Kami hops down, helping Master Roshi stabilize himself.

"That technique gave me a bit of a flashback," Roshi says while Kami nods.

"Piccolo came up with it," Kami says, "I'm not fond of using techniques like that, but in a situation like this...anyway, are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Roshi says, "Where are the others?"

"Nappa and Ranch are fighting together, and I think Raditz and Gohan are off on their own for now," Kami says, "I know we have a plan, but until we can regroup, everyone should be able to handle themselves for the time being."

"I'm not too sure," Roshi says, "Kami, haven't you noticed that there's one fighter that hasn't budged the entire time?"

Kami's silent as he thinks for a moment.

***

"Ah, there you are!" Goku says, smiling as he sees Jiren, simply standing and observing, "I've been wondering when I'd get a chance to see what you can do, Jiren!"

Jiren only stares at Goku, studying him while Goku assumes a fighting stance, but Goku's head turns in surprise as a figure jumps through the smoke.

"Justice Flash!" a booming voice bellows as Toppo emerges, firing off his barrage at Goku, who begins desperately deflecting the attacks, dodging out of the way and being forced to retreat.

Jiren only watches and then looks at Toppo. "Let him waste his strength on the other warriors in the tournament, Jiren, while we preserve ours."

Jiren says nothing as they walk away.

Raditz looks to his left as he sees Goku stumble, and scowls, "Kakarot."

"Having fun?" Goku asks, but Raditz only shakes his head, "You still don't get it, even after seeing the Ninth Universe get erased?"

"Well, yeah, I get it," Goku says, kneeling as he attempts to recover some stamina, "But if we're going to go out, we might as well have a good time doing it!"

"We shouldn't be faced with this at all, you idiot!" Raditz snaps, seeing the slight hurt in Goku's eyes, and immediately regrets it, "Look, it's just…"

Raditz is cut off by a laugh, and turning, both he and Goku see a short, red, bespectacled warthog like humanoid, wearing black robes reminiscent of a friar, with a black shark fin on his head.

"What the hell?" Raditz says to himself.

"You two are quite skilled, and it seems you're both itching for a fight!" he proclaims, "Very well! Then I, Dr. Rota, shall show you why I am called 'Doctor'!"

Raditz only shakes his head and with a small yell, turns Super Saiyan 2, holds his hand out, and fires off a Saturday Crash. "My ability is -"

The blast hits Dr. Rota, sending him flying and out of the arena, and into the stands, much to Champa's chagrin.

"You're the first to fall?!" Champa says in surprise.

"I...didn't even get to use my magic," Dr. Rota says glumly, his head down.

"Whatever that was about…" Raditz says, then looking at his brother, sighs, "Look, two days ago this bombshell was dropped on me. You weren't there with Vegeta and Nappa when the news came about our world, Kakarot. Nappa was the only one that reacted, but Vegeta...he acted with indifference, and I knew to follow his lead. I lost our parents...and then, years later, well, I found you, I married Launch, and then Buu killed them all. Luckily we got them back, but this time, Kakarot...if we lose, we're done, and there's nothing we can do about it. If Zeno wanted to erase the universes, then at least this gives a chance to survive. I...may have overreacted."

Goku only laughs and slaps Raditz on the break, "It's fine, Raditz. Let's just do our best to make sure that doesn't happen, alright?"

Raditz nods, "Right. Let's show everyone what the sons of Bardock can do!"

***

Desperately, Shosa from Universe 4 blocked a huge barrage of punches and kicks from 18, slowing being driven back towards the edge, while 17 watched, remaining vigilant, until finally, 18 breaks through with a huge roundhouse kick to his stomach, sending him down to the ground, not breathing. 18 stands over him.

"You must think I'm stupid if I'm going to fall for that," she says, but her eyes widen slightly as he doesn't move.

"Oh dear," Whis says, watching from the stands.

"Killing is against the rules," Shin says, a small look of panic coming across his face, "What will happen to Android 18?"

"Relax," 17 says, walking over to her, "If you killed him, then I'm sure the Omni-King would've said something by now. Now...get up."

Shosa's eyes open as he jumps up, catching the androids off-guard and responding with a huge barrage of ki-blasts, causing them both to dodge, but 17 jumps in front of his sister, activating his Android Barrier as the blasts begin to deflect, and then subside.

"Now, that wasn't very nice," 17 says, staring Shosa down and then jumping forward with an assault of his own, a moment later 18 jumping in, the two overwhelming him, and with a joint ki-blast, send Shosa flying out of the arena.

"Damnit!" Quitella says as Shosa appears in the stands, the now eliminated fighter sobbing.

The smile from 17 fades quickly as another warrior attacks, a flying kick barely missing him.

"Oh, what now?" 17 says, looking at Majora, also from the Fourth Universe, "Most people fight with their eyes open. You must be awfully cocky."

"No, 17," 18 says, "There's too much at risk for something like that. He's blind."

"She's quite perspective, isn't she?" Majora says.

"That means if he can't see, he can track us by smell," 18 says. Majora laughs.

"In that case, I'll handle this one, sis," 17 says, stepping forward.

"You want to fight me alone? For such bravado, you're making a grave mistake," Majora says.

"We'll see about that," 17 says, watching his opponent, stepping forward, only to be rushed by Majora as the two exchange a huge amount of blows. 17 jumps back as several key blasts are fired off. He stops for a moment to catch his breath, inhaling through his nose, but then he smiles, jumping up and firing a very fast barrage of blasts around Majora.

"Are you as blind as I am? Aren't you trying to hit me?"

"No!" 17 says, landing. A look of panic comes across Majora's face as smoke surrounds him.

"That's very clever," Whis says, "All that excess smoke is overwhelming Majora's sense of his smell."

"Then all we have to hope for is that his sense of hearing isn't as honed," Beerus says. Watching, 17 ensures that Majora's hearing won't be a problem by firing off two small ki blasts that explode right by Majora's ears. In pain, the fox grabs is ears in agony, and 17 uses the opportunity to deliver a flying kick, knocking Majora off the fighting stage.

"Damn it!" Quietella yells in frustration while Shosa comforts Majora.

"That's what he gets," Beerus says, smiling, "Whis, I'm beginning to think we might pull this off."

"It's still hard to say," Whis replies, "Only a quarter of the field has been eliminated, and I'm afraid our results are meaningless unless we can overcome three specific fighters…"

Beerus nods, looking down, first at Hit, calmly walking through the chaos, and then at Toppo and Jiren. Those three...We know what Hit and that boastful one can do, but that grey guy worries me…

With ease, Frost smashes through the defenses of Murichim, the leader of Universe 10's warriors, and then knocks him from the arena with a strong tail swipe, dusting off his hands and chuckling to himself, when he hears a noise from behind him.

"You there," a gruff voice says. Frost's eyes raise as he turns around to see Vegeta in his base form staring at him, "That fat oaf was mine."

"Oh?" Frost says, a smile forming, "This tournament is a free for all, is it not? That means first come, first serve."

"Then it's a good thing I'm still hungry," Vegeta says, taking a battle pose. Frost laughs.

"Come Saiyan, must we really fight? After all, our universes might as well be one. Two brothers are our destroyers, and even Saiyans have fought under me. We'd make quite a team here."

A grin grows across Vegeta's face, "Tell me: How did these Saiyans join you? Was it a choice or did they join you willingly?"

"The Saiyan Army volunteered," Frost says, "We brought peace to many worlds. And I must admit, I made the horrible mistake of underestimating you Saiyans from Universe 7. If we joined our power, this tournament would be all but decided."

Watching above, Beerus' mouth drops, "Vegeta can't really be entertaining this, can he?!"

"You know, I used to work for one like you," Vegeta says, "It was quite a lark, conquering planet after planet. I think I could used to that life once again. I accept."

"What?!" Beerus yells out as Champa begins to cheer, "As he lost his mind?!"

"Oh, a turncoat?" Whis says, "This should be interesting. Raditz did mention that Vegeta has some kind of score to settle with Goku."

"Yeah, but now of all times?!" Beerus shouts.

"Of course, I'm not stupid, my new friend," Frost says, "Perhaps a small test of our loyalty is in order. You see that Saiyan girl right there?" Frost raises his arm and points at Ranch, her own jaw dropping at these events. "Eliminate her. In turn, I'll eliminate a target from my team of your choice."

"Very well," Vegeta says as he approaches Ranch, her face one of fear as she looks up at Vegeta. He stares at her, turns Super Saiyan, but then gives her a wink.

Oh, thank goodness, she thinks as she powers up as well, and the two begin battling each other, and as the fight progresses with Frost laughing, Ranch quickly realizes how much Vegeta's holding back.

"Wait a second…" Beerus says softly.

"Come on, you can do better than that," Frost shouts out to Vegeta, "Where's that incredible power you showed before?"

As he yells this, Ranch throws a kick which Vegeta catches. Smiling at her, Vegeta makes a quick head motion towards Frost, and Ranch nods, with Vegeta tossing her up into the air, the girl landing and delivering a solid punch into Frost's stomach, catching him by surprise, and then knocking him back with an uppercut. Staggered, Frost yells out in rage.

"You traitor!" he screams, but just as he finishes, he sees Ranch power up to Super Saiyan 2.

"You'll never learn, will you?!" She shouts, "MASENKO!"

The blast hits Frost head on, blowing backwards with enough force to eliminate him, appearing in the stands next to Dr. Rota, with Champa shocked and Frost's face showing one of nothing but rage.

"Frost from the Sixth Universe has dropped," the Grand Minister announces.

"As if a Saiyan would ever bow to the likes of your kind!" Vegeta yells as Ranch powers down.

Beerus grins and Whis nods with approval, "He certainly is cunning."

"Good thing for me, I know your real strength," Ranch says to Vegeta.

"Not yet you don't," Vegeta says, powering down as well, "If you hadn't have caught on, I may have had to knock you down to keep up the ruse."

"You think you can trick me?!" Frost yells down, extending his hand as red energy forms around it.

"No!" Zeno yells down, raising his own hand. With a flash of white light, much as the warriors from Universe 10 did, Frost disappears. Terrified, Champa looks up to Zeno's throne. "No outside attacks! The next universe to try it gets erased, okay?"

"Forgive me, Grand Zeno!" Champa yells out, kow-towing. Ranch sighs.

"Good riddance," she says as Vegeta hops away, only to meet the gaze of Caulifla, with Kale standing by her side.

"That was quite a show you put on," Caulifla says, smiling, "Cabba says you're quite a fighter. Feel like taking me on?"

"You'll lose," Ranch says, powering back up to Super Saiyan, "I don't think you realize how strong this makes me."

"Sis…" Kale says, but Caulifla holds her hand up, grinning, "Why don't you show me how strong you really are? Then I can use that to beat everyone else here. You're not scared, are you?"

"I don't think you realize what you're asking," Ranch says, "No offense, but I'm leaving now."

"No, wait!" Caulifla says. Ranch watches as Caulifla extends her arms and yells out, turning Super Saiyan herself, "Let's do this, one on one. Saiyan versus Saiyan!"

Caulifla launches an attack with surprising speed, with Ranch doing what she can to keep up. Shit, she's strong!

"I think you are scared!" Caulifla yells out, attacking Ranch and blocking a counter-attack, with neither one having a clear advantage. "I'll show you!"

With a yell, Caulfila's energy grows, her muscle mass increasing even more. Ranch smiles and easily dodges the incoming attacks.

"Hold still, damnit!" Caulifla yells out as Ranch avoids each blow.

"You may be strong, but I'm guessing you haven't been a Super Saiyan very long!" Ranch yells.

"So what?! All I have to do is hit you and you're done!" Caulifla says, but each punch and kick thrown is fruitless.

"That's the trick, isn't it?" Ranch says, "Let me give you a hint: You will never hit me in that form."

"What?!" Caulifla says, stopping.

"We call that 'Grade 3'. It's strong, sure, but look how slow you've become. It's totally useless against someone you're having a serious fight with. On top of that, it drains your energy really fast. "

Frustrated, Caulifla powers down to regular Super Saiyan, "Then why don't you show me how to do that blue thing?"

"I can't do that yet," Ranch says, "But how about this?"

WIth a yell, Ranch powers up into Super Saiyan 2, while Caulifla and Kale brace themselves. "This form we call either an Ascended Saiyan, or 'Super Saiyan 2'."

"That's the form you beat Cabba with," Caulifla says, "How do you do it?"

"Practice," Ranch says, assuming a fighting pose, her eyes locked on Caulifla, "If you keep it up, you might reach this level some day...or even something beyond it."

"Beyond? What, like some kind of 'Super Saiyan 3' or those other forms?" Caulifla asks. Ranch grins. "Show me."

With a deep breath, Ranch braces herself and begins powering up.

***

"Whoa, you feel that?!" Goku says, looking across the stage. Raditz nods at first, smiling, but then he has a realization.

"Oh no, Ranch!" he says, "She's trying to turn into a Super Saiyan 3! Has she lost her mind?! You were the only one to do it, and you were dead!"

"Hey, don't forget the kids!" Goku says, "But yeah, you're right. Even as strong as Ranch is, those fusions still had a greater power reserve to draw on."

"I've got to get to her, Kakarot," Raditz says, "If she goes through with this, she's going to be completely vulnerable once she runs out of gas!"

"Come on, let's go!" Goku says.

"Prepare yourselves!" Heles, the God of Destruction from the Second Universe proclaims.

"What the hell is she talking about, Whis?" Beerus asks while Whis shrugs.

Running through the smoke, Goku and Raditz run across 17 and 18.

"You two, have you seen Ranch?" Raditz asks as he stops. Both of the androids shake their heads.

"We've been a little busy," 17 says.

"Damn," Raditz says, looking up, he frowns at what he sees: Three young girls overlooking the battlefield, "Uh...does that strike any of you as odd?"

"They don't look like they're here for a tournament, they look like they're out shopping," 17 says. 18 nudges him.

"Hey, I'm wearing a pink tracksuit," 18 says. 17 shrugs.

"It's a bit more suited for this than what they're wearing," 17 says.

"Never mind them, let's go!" Raditz says, but before he can get moving again, the girl in the middle cries out.

"My fellow warriors, attention please!"

"And now, lovely flowers shall bloom over the battlefield!" Heles shouts.

"From beautiful Universe 2, I am Brienne de Chateau," the girl in the middle says.

"I'm Sanka Ku," the girl to Brienne's right says, "And I'm Sous Roas!" the one to the left says.

"Let us blossom and sing out the song of love and victory!" Brienne yells, "And now, let us transform! Formation!"

"Okay, what is this fever dream?" Raditz asks while 17 bites his lower lip, 18's jaw dropping in surprise and confusion.

They watch as a bright pink light fills the battlefield, only for a huge energy blast to fire off at them, the light subsiding as 17 drops down.

"Thank you…" Raditz says quietly as 17 nods.

"What's the big idea?!" Brienne yells, running forward with Sanka Ku and Sous Roas flanking her, "There's a meaning to our transformation ritual! You just can't interrupt us in the middle of it!"

"May I remind you what's at stake here?!" Raditz says, but he's ignored as Toppo runs in out of nowhere.

"She is correct!" Toppo blooms.

"Where did you come from?!" Raditz yells, exasperated, but Toppo continues.

"The pose that a warrior strikes is justice!" Toppo yells, and pointing a damning finger at 17, "You sir, have violated that code!"

"He's got you there!" Goku says, "Don't you want to fight them at full strength?"

"Not really?" 17 says, but then he sighs, taking a seat, "Whatever. Do what you want."

"Ladies, please pose as long as you like!" Toppo yells, returning to where he was.

"Don't hold back!" Goku encourages the girls as they pose again.

"And now, let us sing out, the song of love and victory!" Brienne yells once more as Raditz joins 17, watching the three transform once more into the robust Ribrianne, the cat like Kakunsa, and the orange-visored Roasie

"This is the ultimate form of Universe 2's true champions!" Heles yells down, "While our mortal level may not be the highest, none can doubt the power of our love!"

"Don't need no credit card to ride this crazy train…" Raditz says shaking his head, and standing once more, "After all that crap, why don't you show us what you can actually do?!"

"Alright, here we go!" Ribrianne yells back, forming a heart in her hand and dancing around in the shape of a heart, three more hearts fly up, followed by Ribrianne firing a massive barrage of hearts down, each one impacting the ground, with nearly every male competitor ensnared by it.

"Look at all of them, Whis, how can they be so small minded?!" Beerus says, watching.

"Not all of them," Whis says, "It looks like it's not having much of an affect on our own team," Whis says.

"Of course," Shin says, "Their own love must be overpowering it, somehow."

"Come on, show us more!" the Old Kai yells out while Shin shakes his head.

"Great ancestor, please!" Shin pleads.

Standing forward, Roshi smiles, "Puar, thank you!"

"Good job, Master Roshi," Gohan says, "Something like this had me concerned. This is starting to go south, fast. Everyone split up!"

"Right," Kami yells as he heads off, "Just look out and don't get sloppy!"

"Same to you, Kami!" Master Roshi says.

"Oh, to hell with this," Raditz says, taking off through the chaos. Papa's coming, Ranch.

"Raditz?!" Goku shouts after his brother, "Don't you want to see the rest?"

"Uh-oh," Whis says, pointing down, "It looks like this has drawn someone else's attention."

Walking forward and calmly dodging the hearts, Jiren bats one away and raises his head, firing off an energy attack of us own at one of the larger hearts, with Ribrianne dropping down and landing near Vegeta.

"So, this is your ultimate form," Vegeta says, "After all that, I expected more than hearts."

"Aren't you impatient," she says, attacking Vegeta, now powered up to Super Saiyan, and to the Prince's surprise, she proves to be an able fighter.

"I take it back," Vegeta says as Ribrianne tucks and begins to roll forward at high speed, with Vegeta jumping out of the way as he watches her momentum carry her forward, making her way towards Kami, now facing off with Universe 10's Dyrasem.

"Namekian, dodge!" Vegeta yells out, and turning his head, Kami sees Ribrianne, hitting the deck as she plows right into Dyrasem, the force sending him clean out of the arena.

"Universe 10's Dyrasem is now eliminated," the Grand Minister announces.

"You idiot! Rumushi berates him, "You weren't even her target! Just collateral damage!"

"I hope you enjoyed Ribrianne's display," Heles says, "Now...who's next?"

As she says that, her attention turns to Roasie, now fighting Goku, albeit in his base form as he dodges and deflects a huge barrage of ki blasts, with one even managing to graze him. "Excellent," Heles says, her gaze shifting to Kakunsa, engaging in a vicious, beastlike attack on 17, who knocks here away.

"I've got you now!" she yells down, "I'll make you pay for screwing with our transformation!"

She rushes down, bouncing from the rubble as 17 dodges her feral, relentless attacks.

"The stamina of a beast warrior will never let up," Heles says, then adds, "At least until her prey exhausts himself."

Beerus smirks, "I've got some bad news for her."

Kakunsa rushes in, only to run right into 17's Android Barrier.

"You laid a trap?!" Kakunsa says, while 17 smiles at her, "I was supposed to that!"

"I don't get exhausted easily, and it turns out you were the prey the entire time," 17 says as the barrier begins spinning at high speed, launching Kakunsa into the air. 17 jumps up and with a kick, sends her flying, only to watch as Bikal, one of Kakunsa's winged teammates from Universe 2 catches her, throwing her back towards 17, the two colliding, with 17 being driven into a wall while Kakunsa jumps back.

"Damnit," Beerus yells, "So close!"

"Thank you," Kakunsa says.

"No thanks are needed," Bikal says, an affectionate tone in her voice, "I would do anything for you!"

The two embrace while Beerus sighs, "Is this really the time or place for that?"

As the dust from the impact clears 17 notices his sister approaching as he gets out.

"You need something?" he asks her.

"You look like you're having some trouble. Do you want some help?" 18 asks.

"It's nothing to worry about, sis. Fighting that beast made me remember my time on the island. I got distracted, that's all. Now, it's time to get serious, I guess." 17 says.

Stopping in his tracks, Raditz assumes a ready stance as he senses a strong energy nearby, but breathes a sigh of relief as Nappa jumps out, in his own battle stance.

"Oh, it's just you," Nappa said, "Where you heading?"

"It's Ranch," Raditz says, "She's trying to turn into a damn Super Saiyan 3!"

"Alright!" Nappa says, "If she pulls that off, she'll be kicking some serious ass!"

"No!" Raditz shotus, confusing his old comrade, "That form burns through energy way too fast! I have to stop her!"

"If we find Kakarot, he can just use his Instant Transmission!" Nappa says. Raditz's expression changes and he blinks, looking back towards where he came from, somewhat flabbergasted.

"I...shit, why didn't I think of that?!" Raditz says, "Damnit, I was just with him! Those damn...whatevers, from the Second Universe! They distracted me!"

"Well, there's nothing we can do about that now," Nappa says, and stopping, he raises his hand to a golden bear-like head, watching them just over large piece of rubble, "Looks like Botamo got split up from Magetta."

Raditz shakes his head, "I don't have time to deal with him."

"Then don't," Nappa says, "Go on, your kid needs you. I'll handle him."

"You're sure you can do this?" Raditz says, and Nappa nods.

"I'm positive, Raditz. Besides, even if I can't, it gets you a decent enough head start."

"Right," Raditz says, "Good luck."

"No worries," Nappa says as Botamo comes around the corner and Raditz heads off. Botamo looks Nappa over.

"I remember you. You were watching in the stands during that tournament," Botamo says, "How come you didn't fight? You're telling me some little girl is stronger than you?"

"Look who's talking, Pooh Bear," Nappa says, assuming a fighting pose, "Ask that fat sumo-wannabe just how it worked out for him!"

With that, Nappa let's out a yell, turning Super Saiyan, and prepares to rush the elastic ursine.

"Whoa!" Caulifla says, backing away from Ranch as the torrent of the in progress transformation picks up in intensity, grabbing Kale as she tries to get a safe distance away.

"How much power does she have, Caulifla?" Kale asks, a worried look on her face, while Caulifla smiles in anticipation.

"A lot! I can't wait to reach this level!" Caulifla says, turning in surprise as she feels a hand grab her shoulder, "You want some?!"

She quickly stands down when she sees Cabba, clearly panicked.

"Come on, we have to go!" Cabba says.

"Why? This is just starting to get interesting!" Caulifla says.

"She was able to take me out with just one punch, and she didn't have nearly this amount of energy!" Cabba says, "We won't last long against her, no matter what we do!"

At that moment, Ranch yells out huge, primal scream, her aura now a pulsing golden sphere, the stage around her starting to break apart in chunks.

"Sis, I think we should listen to him!" Kale says, pulling at Caulifla's shirt.

"Alright, fine!" Caulifla says, but before she leaves, looks over at Ranch, "You! Don't think this is over! I'm coming back for you!"

The three run just as Raditz jumps through the chaos, seeing his daughter in agony as the transformation picks up in intensity.

"Ranch, stop!" Raditz yells, but it's useless as she continues to power up, the wind created by the surge in energy changing direction and now moving towards her, until a blinding explosion bellows out. Subsiding, Ranch stands, a smile on her face, her hair longer, her size increased, and a stern look on her face as electricity crackles over her body.

"I'm unstoppable now," she says, looking at her father, "What do you think, Dad?"

Raditz nods, smiling at his daughter, "You've come a long way. I'm sure your uncle and cousin are proud of you, I know I am. But you can't handle that kind of energy yet!"

"I know, Dad. I can feel it draining away, I don't have much time," she says, "I might as well use it or lose it." Ranch steps forward, but then falls to one knee, and looks up to her father, "Shit. I overdid it."

"Just go back down, Ranch, now," Raditz says, touching his daughter on the shoulder, "You might be able to salvage some of your power."

Ranch shakes her head and smiles, "Nah, I don't think so. If I'm going out, Dad, I'm gonna make it count."

WIth that, Raditz watches as his defiant daughter leaps away in search of prey. If only I had stopped her…

Flying backwards at great speed, Zircor of the Tenth Universe yells as he falls from the stage. Before both Roasie and Ribrianne, the Yardratian Jimizu stands with his hand outreached, where just a moment before Zircor had attempted a battle with him.

"You shall never attempt to defile the proud defenders of the Second Universe again!" Jimizu proclaims, and looking at Roasie and Ribrianne, smiles, "The flames of your love shall never fade as long as I stand, maidens."

"Oh dear," Cus, the small angel attendant of Rumushi says with a frown, "Another fighter has fallen...we only one one left."

"It appears we must brace ourselves for the end," Gowasu says.

"Not yet, we still have one more chance," Rumushi says, "Obuni! You are are last chance! Find a way!"

"There's no need for alarm, Lord Rumushi," Obuni calls back, "The fate of the Tenth Universe is safe."

Beerus raises an eyebrow at this, "He doesn't sound arrogant at all, does he?"

"No," Shin says, "He might be difficult."

"I'll go check on the others," Vikal says to Kakunsa, "Happy hunting." As Vikal turns, before she knows it, she feels a sharp pain in her back, followed by more blows all over her body. With a strong roundhouse, 17 sends Vikal back, right into the stands of Universe 2.

"It appears she is in no condition to continue," Soura, Heles' attendant says plainly.

"Vikal is out of bounds," the Grand Minister says, "And has therefore dropped."

"Vikal…" Zeno says, looking over the teams on his tablet, "Drop!"

Screaming, Kakunsa charges at 17, "I'll get you, you bastard! How dare you harm my Vikal!" Her charge is greeted by a knee to her chest, and 17 looks right at her.

"Those fliers ruin it for the rest of us," he says simply, "That's why I had to take care of your friend first."

"You dirty, low-down, smug, arrogant…" Kakunsa says, beginning an angry tirade.

"May I offer some assistance?" Ribrianne asks cheerfully.

"You stay away!" Kakunsa says, "He's going to pay for what he did to Vikal!"

"If you say so Kakunsa," Ribrianne says, "After all, you have love on your side!"

The battle between the two rages at high speed. Smiling at her brother's actions, 18 calmly walks away as 17 blasts himself backwards into the arena's artificial sun, somehow standing on it.

"He's using it as a platform?!" Shin says.

"Is that allowed?!" Champa yells out, while Zeno happily cheers.

"It appears so," the Grand Minister says. Kakunsa charges up at him, throwing a punch, only to have it be grabbed by 17.

"This was an interesting fight, I appreciate the lesson," 17 says, blasting Kakunsa back and off the stage. 17 lands, dusting his hands off, while Goku looks on, amazed.

"That was quite a trick, 17!" Goku says, clearly impressed, "You didn't do anything like that when we fought. You were holding a few tricks up your sleeve, weren't you."

"Of course," 17 says, "If I showed you everything I could do, you might adopt those techniques and spoil the surprises."

"Oh ho!" Whis says, clearly approving, "That's very clever. In addition to his incredible power, it appears 17 was quite a produent choice."

"Most of our warriors are familiar with each other," Shin says, "17 is an Earthling, but he's barely fought with them. Who knows what else he's capable of?"

***

"Do what you will, Saiyan," Botamo says, opening himself up, "I can take any attack you have. I can play with you for a few minutes."

"Is that a fact?" Nappa says, attacking Botamo's stomach with a barrage of punches to no effect while Botamo laughs.

"See what I mean?" Botamo says. Nappa attacks again, with little effect at all.

"Don't be an idiot!" Beerus yells down, "If you keep that up, you're the one that's going to lose!"

Champa laughs at the seemingly futile battle, but Nappa persists, his attacks becoming stronger and harder, until Botamo's face turns into one of panic.

"Wait...I can't feel the ground...oh no, my feet!" Botamo yells out, the momentum from Nappa's attacks lifting him into the air.

"Do something, damnit!" Champa yells down. Botamo fires off green energy blasts, but his own girth prevents any kind of attack angle.

"Jump, you idiot!" Champa screams.

"I can't!" Botama yells back. Nappa raises his arm, and smiles, delivering a huge Bomber DX that launches Botamo into the air.

"I'm at least taking you with me!" Botamo yells down, firing an energy blast, but Nappa grins.

"I don't think so, Pooh Bear!" Nappa says, smiling as he raises his right hand, his index and middle fingers up, launching a blast that removes any doubt about Botamo's elimination. The huge warrior appears right next to Dr. Rota in the stands, distraught.

"Botamo of the Sixth Universe has dropped," the Grand Minister says.

"Are you useless or something?!" Champa screams, "How could you get knocked out in such a stupid way?!"

"I'm sorry, sir!" Botamo says, hanging his head down in shame.

"You're the third fighter we've lost!" Champa yells, smacking Botamo on the head, "Thanks to you, we've got seven fighters left, and Magetta's vulnerable! Meanwhile those jerks from the Seventh haven't lost any!"

"To be completely fair, Lord Champa," Vados interjects, "No fighter from the Eleventh Universe has fallen either."

"Yes," Fuwa says, "That's right, but they haven't eliminated anybody. Universe 7 is like a juggernaut right now!"

"Maybe we just outclass everyone," Beerus yells, much to Champa's chagrin.

"All that may just change, my lord," Whis says, pointing down, as Ranch finds herself face to face with Vuon, the dinosaur like Pride Trooper.

"You and your savages from Universe 7 will fall, and it shall start with me!" Vuon yells, while Ranch sizes him, grinning.

"Oh really?" Ranch says, assuming a fighting pose and immediately attacking, her speed and power catching Vuon off guard.

"Incredible," Shin says, "It's a shame that form can only be maintained for such a short period."

Vuon struggles to block, but manages to jump back, firing a barrage of ki blasts at Ranch, who easily deflects them away, causing more chaos on the already damaged arena. Vuon raises his arms, his hands glowing yellow, and suddenly a beam fires out, hitting Ranch and ensaring here, "Ha! My Justice Whip renders evil criminals powerless!"

Struggling, Ranch grins, "Too bad for you I'm not an evil criminal!" With a yell, she slowly begins to power out of it, with Vuon struggling to maintain it, but it's all for naught at Ranch breaks free, rushing towards Vuon with a powerful kick, sending the Pride Trooper off the stage.

"And...Vuon! Boop!" Zeno says, hitting his tablet.

"Ha! Good job, kid!" Beerus yells out, smiling at Vermoud.

"He's certainly becoming full of himself," Khai says, while Vermoud turns away and looks at his Supreme Kai.

"Let him gloat," Vermoud says, "Beerus has no idea what's in store for his warriors."

"Yes," Khai says, looking down at Jiren and Toppo, neither engaged in a battle. The rest of the Pride Troopers can fall, but as long as Jiren remains, the Eleventh Universe will be safe.

Going through the rubble, Gohan readies himself as he sees a tall figure emerge. He lowers his defense at smiles. "Kami, thank goodness. I thought you were someone else."

"Likewise," Kami says, "I know we agreed to split up, but here we are."

"And you are not alone," a voice says, and stepping through smoke, the two warriors watch as Obuni steps forward, "I am the warrior Obuni, from the Tenth Universe. The Supreme Kai says you're a powerful fighter, Son Gohan. I have judged you worthy to face me."

"He seems pretty serious," Kami says, "I can't sense any kind of power from him."

"I know, he must be hiding it," Gohan says, "Kami, I'll take care of this. Go help the others."

"You're sure?" Kami says, but Gohan nods.

"He's the only one left from the Tenth Universe. If anybody interferes, they'll have to deal with both of us."

"As you wish. Good luck," Kami says, jumping away. The two square off, and then jump at each other, both attacking and countering at impressive speeds.

"I knew I was right about you," Obuni says, "I've been waiting for someone like you."

With that, Gohan watches as Obuni splits, each version a different color, stacked nearly on top of each other. Damn, I don't know which one is the real one!

Obni rushes forward, and while Gohan attacks, it misses completely while he feels himself knocked backwards.

"Oh dear," Shin says, "What is he doing? How could Gohan miss?"

"It will be difficult for Gohan to overcome," Whis says, "One of Gohan's strengths is his ability to track enemies by ki, unconsciously. His opponent is manipulating his own energy, allowing Obuni to redirect his energy at will, causing him to appear, to Gohan at least, somewhere he's not. It may seem basic, but it's actually a very refined technique."

"So in short," the Old Kai says, "By doing this, he's faking Gohan out."

"Precisely," Whis says.

Obuni keeps up the attacks, batting Gohan, until finally, Gohan stops, powering up into his Ultimate Form.

"You refuse to give up, don't you? You're a true warrior, Gohan, now prepare yourself!" Obuni says, attacking once more, his face turning to surprise as Gohan grabs his arm right after a punch.

"I just figured out how to find you," Gohan says, countering and knocking Obuni back. Once more, Obuni attacks, hitting Gohan, only for the same results.

"He can't read Obuni's moves, so he's letting himself get hit," Beerus says.

"It's...effective, I'll give him that," Whis says, "But there's an obvious downside. If Gohan doesn't defeat him quickly, he may end up as our first warrior to drop."

"I'm pleased to have met one like you, Son Gohan," Obuni says, "You are a true warrior, but don't think you can last. I'm the only warrior remaining of my comrades. An entire universe is counting on me, and I will not fail them."

Obuni breathes deeply, clearly reaching the point of exhaustion as the two resume their battle, Obuni's energy running out as Gohan is able to press his own attack. Finally, Gohan jumps up, pulling his arms back as blue ki surrounds his hands.

"Ka...me...ha...me...HAAAA!" Gohan says, letting a Super Kamehameha, rip, hitting Obuni dead on, the last warrior from the Tenth Universe yelling in pain as he's blasted out of the fighting arena.

"And...Obuni!" Zeno says.

"With the last warrior from the Tenth Universe having fallen," the Grand Minister says, "Universe Ten shall be erased at once."

"Bye-bye!" Zeno says, raising his arm as white energy begins to surround Team Universe Ten. Below, Gohan gasps as he lands, seeing a small locket, inside a picture of Obuni, and presumably his wife and small child. He bends down and picks it up, looking at it.

"You did well, Obuni. You have my thanks." Gowasu says, patting the shamed fighter on the back, "Now...it is time for us to meet our fate." With that, the gathered warriors disappear, along with Gowasu and Rumishi, while Cus hangs her head sadly, wiping a tear from her eye. "Farewell...Lord Rumishi…"

Gohan watches the locket disappear, and hangs his head. I won't let that happen to us. I can't let the same thing happen to Videl and Pan.

"Gohan...we should leave," Kami says, returning. Gohan looks at the Namekian and nods.

"Let's finish this and get the hell out of here," Gohan says, reverting to his normal state. Kami looks at Gohan for a moment.

"In spite of all this chaos, Gohan, I have the distinct feeling that we're being watched. Or, to use a better word, hunted," Kami says.

"What do you mean?" Gohan asks. Kami kneels down, motioning for Gohan to do so and well, and begins to speak softly.

"I don't think the Fourth Universe is only fielding eight fighters. I think two of them might be camouflaged or using some kind of invisibility."

Gohan considers this for a moment and nods, "I don't think something like that's far fetched. There's a guy fighting that's made of metal and drinks lava, two guys or more that can instantly teleport...I think until we're able to deal with whatever is out there, we can't discount any possibility."

"I agree," Kami says, "But finding them may be tricky, especially if they can hide their ki."

"They can hide their ki," Gohan says, but then he smiles, "But they can't hide themselves from reality...I hope."

Kami smirks, "Remember, even Hit makes use of a pocket dimension."

"That's true, but I think if they had guys that could do that, they'd have made their move by now. We'll just have to stay extra vigilant, even in the midst of this mess," Gohan says, standing back up. He looks to the distant, "It seems people are getting over the Tenth Universe's erasure a lot faster than the Ninth. Master Roshi looks like he's making a new friend."

"Interesting," Kami says.

***

Moments earlier, Master Roshi stood alone, but sensed a presence behind him, "I know you're watching me," he says, "Why don't you come on out, are you afraid of an old man?"

"So, I've been detected," a feminine voice says as Dercori appears from the shadow.

"The talisman user of Universe 4," Roshi says, "I've been keeping my eye on you. You're the perfect opponent for someone like me."

"I'll teach you to insult me," Dercori says as a flaming blast flies towards Master Roshi, who punches through it.

"No heat," Roshi says, confirming his suspicion, "You're using illusions."

"That's right," Dercori says, firing off several talismans around her, "You've observed me, and now you must have some kind of plan against these. But you should know: My technique uses seventy-six attacks and one hundred and twenty-nine illusions. Can you see through all of them?"

Roshi takes a step back and stops himself, noticing the edge of the arena, but then quickly comes to his senses, "That's one an illusion too." As he sprints along, he finds himself in a bizarre caricature of the arena, devoid of any warriors, and Decori appears before him.

"I've bounded your shadow, old man. You're stuck there," she says, "I hate bright planets. My world is a dark place...and now, here, I am unstoppable."

"So it would seem," Roshi says, but reaching into his back pocket, he shows off a small jar, "I guess I'm just lucky I'm your opponent." Placing the jar on the ground, Roshi continues, "You see, I'm not nearly as strong as my friends, but while they have power, they're straight forward. They aren't too good at dealing with deception. That's why they brought me along, to deal with people like you and your damned troublesome attacks. MAFUBA!"

The swirling green energy flies out from Master Roshi, the wave hitting Dercori head on, as she screams in terror as he directs the Mafuba into the jar. A moment later, he bends over and picks it up.

"Well, I guess that's two for this old man," he says, casually tossing the jar off the stage. A second later, Decori appears next to Shosa and Majora, breathing heavily, traumatised from the ordeal.

"Hey!" Quietella shouts towards the Grand Minister, "That's using a weapon! It's against the rules!"

"That's no weapon, that's just an accessory!" Beerus yells, "There's nothing in the rules against that as long as it doesn't heal!"

"Hmm," the Grand Minister says, looking over to the Omni-King, who's smiling happily at what he just witnessed, "It is the judgment of Grand Zeno that this technique shall be permitted, since the object itself is harmless."

Quietella nearly objects, but composes himself, cursing as he sits back down. Beerus grins.

"That's quite a nifty tricky," Beerus says, while Whis' eyes go slightly wide.

"Yes…" Whis says, shaking his head.

"What?" Beerus says.

"Well, I suppose it can't be helped now, but from what I understand, Goku, Kami and Nappa also know that technique."

"What?! Damnit, and if they don't have those jars…" Beerus says.

"Oh well, there's nothing we can do about it now!" Whis says cheerfully.

***

Below them, Kami and Gohan nod in approval. "I hope that technique doesn't take too much out of Master Roshi," Gohan says, "He said that it killed his master."

"That's true," Kami says, "But Master Roshi is still much stronger than Mutiato was, and much stronger than when...King Piccolo returned."

"Right," Gohan says, then suddenly, both he and Kami exchange a look of alarm and dive, in opposite directions, as a ki blast goes zooming by them, impacting the rocks in front of them.

"Damn, that thing had some speed," Gohan calls over to Kami.

"There wasn't much power, but if it hit one of us, it'd have been enough to knock us out of the arena," Kami says. He looks over and ducks again as another blast flies by.

"It's a damn sniper," Gohan says, "We might be stuck here."

"Hmm," Kami says, "I have an idea, Gohan. You'll know when it's safe to come out."

With that, Gohan watches as seemingly another Kami emerges, followed by another, and yet another, each one taking off down the alley, dodging the energy blasts, until an entire parade of at least twenty clones, along with Kami himself, rush down towards the sniper.

"Now that's a distraction!" the Old Kai says, grinning.

"That energy coming off of each one, it's like each is its own Kami," Shin says, "It's the same technique he used against Frost."

"Exactly," Whis says, "And whoever is fire those energy blasts will be hard pressed to figure out the real Kami from the clones. Bravo!"

"Hurry up, Hermila!" a voice cries out, "I know you can hear me!"

"Hang on," the sniper, the green-skinned Hermila from Universe 2 responds, "I'm a little busy."

So, he has a partner in crime, Kami thinks. If I can stop those two from joining up, we'll be in a strong position. As the clones get closers, the blasts become more frequent and frantic, some missing, some hitting a clone, only for the clone to disappear while Kami presses on. Zeroing in, Kami seems Hermila move behind a column of rock. That won't work! Stopping, Kami holds out his arm and fires off a huge Explosive God Wave, leveling the column and revealing Hermila, now on his knees withering in pain as Kami approaches.

"That wasn't a bad tactic," Kami says, "You might have picked off some of the less focused fighters."

"I was expecting a lot in this tournament," Hermila says, looking up to Kami, "But to be honest, I wasn't expecting what you just did. After what you did...I can't move."

Kami nods, "Then I commend you. Farewell."

With that, Hermila grins, firing a blast into the ground that shatters it, sending Kami flying down. Hermila stands up and laughs. "'I commend you!' How honorable!"

"It's more honorable than you!" Kami's voice says as two clones grab him. Looking forward, Hermila sees Kami step out from behind a boulder, as the two clones jump off, holding Hermila with them while Kami smirks.

"It's not fair!" Hermila shouts out as he appears in the stands.

"Hey, how come that's not an elimination?!" Champa yells out. Looking towards him, the Grand Minister responds.

"Copies or clones are permitted, so long as the original remains in the ring," he says, while Champa slumps down, cursing.

"That wasn't bad," a gruff voice says from behind Kami. Turning, Kami eyes a huge Namekian, his skin darker in color than Kami's own, the Namekian wearing a brown robe and two white gloves.

"Indeed, you're pretty impressive," a second voice says, and Kami moves and sees a second Namekian, while not as imposing as the other, still of an impressive stature, wearing a dark blue vest.

"So, the Namekians of the Sixth Universe," Kami says, "I doubt you two are here to try to team up with me."

"No," the larger one says, "I am Pirinia, and he is Saonel."

At that moment, Gohan lands, standing next to Kami.

"We were content to wait while the field narrowed itself down," Sanoel says, "It would give us time for our power to stabilize. But perhaps fighting has made it happen sooner than expected."

At that instance, the two Namekians emit a white glow around them. Gohan gasps in surprise while Kami's eyes narrow.

"I see," Kami says, "Fusion."

Pirina nods, "When news of this tournament came to our world, many of our brethren stepped forward to share their energy, wisdom and power. We are the last hope of Planet Namek. What are you?"

"The two of you are indeed powerful," Kami says, "And while I may not have used that technique, know that I am not some mere Namekian warrior. Before you stands the Son of Katas, the Prodigy of the Dragon Clan, and the...King of the Demon Clan. On Earth they gave me two names...Kami, the Guardian of Earth, and...Piccolo."

Pirina and Saonel exchange a look with each other, while Kami smiles. "I see that word means as much to your Namekians as it does to ours. But neither of those names are who I truly am. I'm just a Namekian who's long since forgotten his name...and I stand here to defend my universe, the same as you."

"Should Gohan be taking part in this battle?" the Old Kai says, "He needs to rest, at least a little, especially with the resilience of those two Namekians. They don't seem fazed at all."

"I think I can explain," Shin says, "Years ago, when we were dealing with Majin Buu, I had taken Gohan under my wing as an apprentice. He only trained with a sword, but still, an apprentice to a Supreme Kai gains certain powers. Gohan may not be consciously aware of it, but he's healing from every wound and fight faster than normal."

"Oh?" the Old Kai says, "I see. He's healing himself unconsciously. With his Saiyan physiology and that little trick I pulled on him all those years ago, it makes for quite a combination."

"Yes," Shin says, "In time, Gohan's raw power might rival that of his father going all out."

"If that's the case, then this fight could prove quite pivotal for our team," Whis says.

With amazing and surprising speed, the two Namekians attack Kami and Gohan, nearly catching them off-guard, the two struggling to even put up a defense, with Kami leaping back, firing off a barrage of blasts that Pirina easily dodges, firing off his own Demon Hand, pinning Kami against a rock. WIth a yell, Gohan powers into his Ultimate State, turning towards Pirina.

"Kienzan!" Gohan shouts as a Destructo Disk flies, severing Pirinia's arm and freeing Kami, who walks forward and stands next to the Saiyan.

"It's clear to me now," Gohan says, "If all those Namekians fused with them, their energy and resilience has to be through the roof. We don't have to worry about using lethal force against them. There's no need to hold back."

They watch as Pirina's arm regenerates in front of them.

"Very well," Kami says, "What do you say we get serious? KAIO-KEN!"

"Kaio…" Saonel says, a little surprised, while Pirina's eyes go wide at Kami's sudden uptake in power.

"...What?!" Pirina says, blocking as Kami leaps forward, this time taking the fight to the large Namekian while Gohan does likewise with Sanoel, the two surprising the Namekians and pushing them back, going on the offensive. Pirinia throws a punch, only to watch it go through Kami, while Kami retaliates, only for the blow to go right through Pirinia, catching the large Namekian in a feint.

An Afterimage and a clone?! Pirinia thinks, and he's answered by a flanking kick to his torso by Kami, hunching him over while Gohan jumps in front.

"Kami...I'll handle the two of them. You'll need a little bit of time to gather the power to end this."

"That's right," Kami says, putting his index and middle fingers to his head, "Do what you can, Gohan."

Saonel and Pirina resume their attack, with Gohan blocking attacks from both, being pushed backwards by the force of it, his own counter attacks, while hitting both, lack the focus thanks to the numbers advantage working against him, but Gohan leaps up, delivering a hammer blow onto Saonel, only to be pushed upwards into the air with both Namekians attacking him.

No matter how strong the foe, no matter how many there are, Kami thinks, We'll stand together, through victory or defeat. This is my promise to not just you, Gohan, but to the Earthlings I've watched, guarded and loved, and to my own Namekian brothers. We will not fall!

Landing, Gohan pulls his hands back as Saonel charges him, firing off a Super Kamehameha that's intercepted by a huge Mouth Energy Wave from Pirinia, a struggle between the two beams taking place, while Kami speaks up.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Gohan," Kami says, now glowing an alternating blue-white and red from the Kaioken, "Shinsatsuhō!"

The Shinsatsuhō fires forward, piercing through Saonel, catching him by surprise, and travelling forward, through Pirina's chest, while Gohan's Super Kamehameha moves forward unimpeded, blasting the two Namekians into the sky.

So, this is the true power of this Son of Katas? Saonel thinks as he falls out of the arena, He's truly impressive.

A moment later, the two Namekians appear next to each other in the stands, Botamo sitting behind them, while Champa's face turns to one of fear and concern.

"The two of you lost?" the God of Destruction says softly, looking over to the empty stands surrounding Whis and Beerus, his brow furrowing.

"He...really is incredible," Pirina says, "At least it was one of our own that bested us."

What is with these guys from Universe 7? Champa wonders, How many aces can Beerus have up his sleeve?

"Oh dear," Vados says, feigning concern, "It appears that if this keeps up, our fate may as well be sealed. We might not even have the numbers to pull of your cowardly strategy of simply outlasting every other universe."

"Hey, shut up, Vados!" Champa snaps, "As long as we're still here, you're supposed to be on our side, you got that?!"

"Just kidding, my Lord," she says, "Although it doesn't change the fact that our situation is looking quite grim."

"Yeah? Tell me something I don't know!" Champa yells.

"Well, pi to the two hundred and eleventh-billionth, forty-seventh-"

"Just stop, damnit!" Champa screams, "Damn, why didn't we bring food with us? I need comfort food!"

***

Stopping for a moment, Ranch smiles at the huge blast in the distance. That's Gohan, alright. It's nice to see him going all out and not acting like that domesticated bookworm he was becoming. In her side vision, a figure moves quickly, but Ranch reacts, quickly cutting them off. Before her stood a female with long, flowing pink hair and light-green skin, her figure curvaceous and quite feminine, a circlet around her brow. This was Caway of the Fourth Universe.

"What are you, some kind of space elf?" Ranch says

"I'll beat some respect into you, you brat!" Caway says, spinning as an energy trident materializes in her hand, lunging forward, but Ranch easily reaches out and grabs the tip of it.

"What? How?!" Caway says in surprise as Ranch then grabs the shaft, breaking the trident and sending Caway onto the ground.

"I don't think you have any idea what those words mean when you're talking about me," Ranch says, her aura glowing once more as electricity crackles around her, jumping forward and delivering a vicious combo of punches and kicks before transforming it into a Dynamite Monday, knocking Caway straight up at the end. Looking up, Ranch raises her hands high as an energy sphere forms around her, and a huge blast flies up. This is for Trunks and his future self, wherever he is!

"Who's a brat now?!" Ranch yells as the blast hits Caway, now screaming in terror, sending her high into the sky, enough to be considered out of bounds. She continues screaming until she feels a smack on her head from behind, with Quietella glaring at her. Ranch smiles but then frowns as she drops to one knee, reverting back to normal.

"Well...I knew this was coming," she says to herself as she quickly gets behind a rock. Shit...I'm done for…

A huge burst of smoke and energy erupts behind Master Roshi.

"What the hell…?" the old master says, turning around to see a green humanoid with bird like legs, a green vest, baggy pants, a red beret and yellow goggles above his eyes. Ganos. "Ah, another fighter from the Fourth Universe."

"You eliminated my friend, and now you're going to pay dearly for that, old man," Ganos says.

"Does everyone in your universe want a crack at me? Alright, come at me," Roshi says.

With a roar, Ganos' muscles increase and his features become more birdlike. "A transformation, eh?" Roshi says.

"I'm going to break you, you old fart!" Ganos says, rushing Master Roshi only to be greeted with a fist that knocks him back.

"Well, that was boring. I saw that coming from a mile away," Roshi says.

"My anger may have gotten the better of me, but you're still nothing but an old twig, easy to snap," Ganos says, attacking again, only for Roshi to easily avoid each blow.

"You think an old man wearing an undershirt, khakis, sunglasses and flip flops fighting in a battle of this magnitude isn't odd?" Roshi says, "I guess you guys never heard the phrase 'appearances can be deceiving'".

Ganos leaps into the air, with two energy blades erupting from his arms, diving towards him. "Grand Eagle!"

"Nope!" Roshi says, leaping over the attack as Ganos crashes into the ground, pounding his fist into the dirt in anger.

"How? I'm faster than you!"

"Yeah," Roshi says, "You're also stronger, too! But I have a little thing known as 'experience', and it does wonders."

Roshi fires off an energy blast, knocking Ganos back, and calmly walks forward.

"I'm not done yet, old man," Ganos says as electricity surges around him, charging Roshi even faster than before, finally landing a series of blows and taking the fight to him, knocking him black with an energy blast of his own.

"Well then," Master Roshi says, standing up and pulling out another small jar. This guy's getting stronger every second. If enough time passes, he might even threaten Goku. I'll have to nip this in the bud right now.

Pulling his hands back, Roshi yells as the familiar green spiraling wave of the mafuba flies out, only for Ganos to leap up, laughing.

"Did you think that would work on me, you old geezer?" Ganos yells out.

"MAFUBA!" a baritone voice yells from behind as a second wave hits Ganos. Roshi stands and sees Nappa, controlling the wave.

"Perfect timing, Nappa!" Roshi says as Nappa directs the mafuba down into the jar. He picks it up and casually tosses it out of the arena, then walks over to the elder Saiyan, "That guy may have become a real problem if you hadn't stepped in."

"Seeing you use it earlier was a reminder," Nappa said, "Sometimes we Saiyans are a little too reliant on brute force.."

"I'm glad you didn't," Roshi says, "I think we should take a breather, we'll need every last bit of energy to make it through this."

"Take your time," Nappa says, "They'll have to go through me first."

In a panic, Prum of the Second Universe nervously backed away after seeing not only Hermila eliminated, but also the two Namekians of the Sixth, each in relatively short order.

"Oh, this is is bad," he says, looking for an exit.

"Well, well, well," a smug voice says. Prum turns and sees Vegeta, now in his base form, smiling, "I'm guessing from you losing your cool that you don't have any special powers of your own. This'll be easy."

"Wait, no!" Prum says as Vegeta holds out his hand, "Someone, help!"

At that moment, Jimizu appears in front of Prum. "You called?"

"Oh thank goodness, get me away from-" Prum says, but it's too late.

"BIG BANG ATTACK!" Vegeta yells, the blast hitting the pair and knocking them both out the arena.

Above, the Grand Minister nods, "Both Prum and Jimizu of the Second Universe have fallen. As of now, one half of the warriors in the tournament have been eliminated."

"And still, not one of ours has fallen," Shin says, "Great Ancestor, I'm feeling very hopeful right now."

"You should," the Old Kai says, "I am too. But remember, there's still a couple of warriors we know will be trouble! Hit hasn't made a move yet, and those two heavy hitters from the Eleventh Universe are biding their time."

"Geez, will you stop moping around, Kale?" Caulifla says, peering from behind a rock, "You're not exactly helping morale."

"I'm sorry, Caulifla," Kale says, "But after seeing what that Saiyan did...I'm not sure we can even stand up to them. All those fighters from Universe 7 are on another level. Aren't you even just a little scared?"

"The only thing I'm scared of is my own potential," Caulifla says, "Anything Ranch or the other Saiyans can do, we can do. We're just going to let them knock each other out, then we can clean up."

As she says that, the ground begins rumbling around them as a rock in front of them bursts, revealing the rotund warrior from Universe 4, Monna.

"You looking to start some shit, stranger?" Caulifla says in a ready pose.

"Monna sees the opening," Quietella says, "With those two Namkeians gone, the timing to strike is perfect."

"I'm here to destroy," Monna says.

"Oh yeah?" Caulifla says, cracking her knuckles, "If you want a fight, you got it, sister."

"You ready?" Monna says, but at that instant, Cabba rushes in, standing between Monna and his two fellow Saiyans.

"Hey tiny, you're in my way," Caulifla says.

"I'll handle her," Cabba says, "You two find somewhere safe while I deal with...this."

"You're not the boss of me!" Caulifla argues, her voice rising.

"Don't pay the hero just because they're girls," Monna says, "They can fight me too!"

"Thanks, but no thanks. I'm confident my power is enough to handle the likes of you."

"That's some ego you got, boy!" Monna says, rushing Cabba. He blocks, but she grabs his arms and pushes.

"You two, get out of here, now!" Cabba says.

"She's overpowering you, get out of the way!" Caulifla yells.

"No, we need your power for bigger fights!" Cabba shouts back.

"Oh come on, I have tons to spare, we can deal with her!"

"Don't be an idiot!" Cabba screams, "There's too much riding on this for you to be careless! Trust me, I can beat her!"

"He has a point!" Kale says, "We should save our strength for stronger enemies!"

"...Alright, but you better not lose!" Caulifla says, "Kale, let's move!"

"Right," Kale says as the two run off. Cabba pushes back against Monna, and with a yell, turns Super Saiyan, blasting her away from him. He lands and the two square off.

"I'll be honest, that almost hurt," Monna says, "But I'm gonna make you sorry!"

With that, her lower half expands to a tremendous, sphere like size as she leaps into the air, landing and rolling towards Cabba, running into him and knocking him black. She then leaps again and lands on him, jumping up again, the young Saiyan turning back into his base form. Cabba blasts himself backwards, stopping until he sees that he's right at the edge. He watches as she barrels towards him, and leaps out of the way, but to his surprise, her momentum doesn't take her over.

"She can turn?!" Cabba says right as Monna collides with him, sending him over the side of the arena.

Damnit, I failed, he thinks, At least Kale and Caulifla will get somewhere safe…

But then, he feels something around his wrist, his fall stopping. He opens his eyes to see Raditz, who then pulls him back onto the ledge.

"Do you mind?!" Monna says landing in front of Raditz, "Don't steal my victory!"

"Oh, shut up," Raditz says, blasting her away with a Saturday Crush.

In the stands, Champa cheers, "Ever since I saw him, I knew Raditz was a stand up guy!"

"Why would he do that?" Beerus says, confused.

"Well, those two have formed a bit of a master-student relationship," Whis says.

"Thank you," Cabba says, standing up, "I'm in your debt."

"I'm not going to stand by and see a Saiyan get eliminated so easily," Raditz says, "Universal home be damned. You better not be planning to lose and break your promise to me."

"My promise?" Cabba asks, confused.

"That I would someday see Planet Sadala," Raditz says.

"...Only one universe can survive," Cabba says, "No matter how hard I fight, I can't beat any of you."

"Of course you can't," Raditz says, "I'll be candid with you. But I told you earlier, I'm going to win this damn thing and wish all of you back. But that's not an excuse for you to get sloppy, understood?"

"Yes," Cabba says.

"Good. You can start to repay me by eliminating her," Raditz says, pointing into the distance as Monna regroups and regains momentum."

"I will," Cabba says, as Raditz nods and jumps away. Cabba turns towards Monna and once again readies himself. This time I'll remember my pride as a Saiyan.

"How disgusting!" Monna says, "That display made me want to puke. Once I'm done with you, I'll take care of Raditz, and then after him, I'll deal with those two Saiyan bitches that were with you!"

Monna rolls through Cabba again, but this time he stands his ground, as electricity begins to cackle around him. "You'll never touch them!"

"How pathetic! Your race is nothing but frauds and cowards!"

"You shut up!" Cabba says.

"It's true! All Raditz could do was blindside me and run away!" Monna says, "He's nothing but a spineless coward! Once I'm done here, I'll find myself some worty foes!"

"Don't you dare call us unworthy!" Cabba says, and with a massive yell, his power spikes as goes beyond Super Saiyan, a huge energy wave ripping out as the electricity crackles around him.

"Is this supposed to scare me?" Monna says, only to be greeted with a hard punch and uppercut that stuns her.

"Alright, now I'm angry!" she yells as she jumps into the air and begins spinning, only for Cabba to respond with a huge energy wave that blasts Monna into the air and out of the ring. He reverts back to his normal state.

"...Monna….Monna…" Zeno says, finding her picture, "Boop!"

"And now, the Fourth Universe only has three fighters remaining," the Grand Minister says.

***

"Did you hear that, sis?" 17 says, "It looks like Universe Four has been hiding something all along."

"Invisible fighters?" she asks, but 17 shrugs.

"It's hard to tell," he says, but his suspicion is confirmed as suddenly a force from seemingly nowhere hits him and knocks him over the edge.

"17, no!" 18 yells, diving over after her brother, catching his hand and pivoting herself, firing off energy blasts with enough momentum to send him back onto the stage as she falls.

"Sis, why?" he yells down.

"You're too important!" 18 shouts back, and a moment later she finds herself in the stands, the first member of her team eliminated.

"You sacrificed yourself to save your brother?" Shin asks, but 18 nods.

"He's a stronger fighter than I am. If we had to choose, I'd take him over me every time," 18 replies.

"I can't say I'm pleased to lose someone now," Beerus says while Quietella snickers. Sneaky bastard. He thinks he can just have warriors hide and push them when they're off guard.

"What happened?" Whis asks.

"Universe 4 is hiding fighters," she says, "We realized that was certain when the Grand Minister said they only had three left."

Back down on the stage, 17 stops for a moment, and then performs a side chop, the dust below it flying, showing the presence that someone was standing there.

"With Gamisaras dropping, the Fourth Universe only has two remaining fighters," the Grand Minister says.

"That's what I thought," 17 says, "Now, where's your other friend?"

"Stay on guard, Gohan," Kami says, "We might be fighting someone we can't see very shortly."

"We should get away from the edge," Gohan says, but at that moment, Quietella shouts down.

"Shantza, take care of those two!" he yells.

At that instance, several red rings descend around Gohan and Kami, encompassing them.

"Brace yourselves," a familiar voice says. Gohan registers it as belonging to Bergamo.

"That's impossible," Gohan says, "The Ninth Universe was erased."

"We've been summoned from an alternate reality to take our revenge," Bergamo says.

"I'm going to enjoy cutting you up," Hop says. Kami attacks her, only for his blow to go right through here. He then attacks Sorrel with the same effect.

"This is some kind of trick," Gohan says, "But it won't work."

"Are you sure?" Basil says as his attack connects. In response, Kami jumps back.

"They can turn solid," Kami says, "This is certainly strange."

"There is no escape for you now," Bergamo says.

"I can't sense their energy," Gohan says.

"Neither can I," Kami says, "But I sense two others nearby. One is stationary, the other is circling around."

"One must be controlling these things, the other is waiting to attack," Gohan says, "...I'll take care of the illusions. Ready?"

"Ready," Kami says as the two leap up. Gohan fires off a ki blast at the diminutive blue Shantza, blasting him out of the ring.

"What the hell? Why didn't you even try to dodge?!" Quietella says.

"That's impossible!" Shantza simply replies.

"You can run, but you can't hide," Kami says, firing off energy blast after energy blast in the surrounding area.

"Still, he'll never hit him!" Quietella says.

"I don't have to!" Kami yells up as all the energy blasts home in on a single point, exploding.

"With the elimination of Damon," the Grand Minister says, "All fighters from Universe 4 have dropped. Their erasure shall now commence."

"What?!" Quietella says in horror, "This isn't fair at all! Damnit, you little twirp!"

He starts trying to stomp on the tiny Damon, only to stop while the other fighters from Universe 4 calmly accept their fate.

"If I'm going out, I'm taking all you with me!" Quietella yells as purple energy surrounds him, only for it to change to white.

"Bye-bye!" Zeno says as the crew from Universe 4 disappear.

Watching from afar, with both Jiren and Dyspo by his hand, Toppo shakes his head.

"How disgraceful," Toppo says, "I take no pleasure in seeing another universe annihilated, but to resort to such tactics…"

"Hmm?" Dyspo says, looking alert.

"What is it?" Toppo says.

"I'm not sure, I thought I heard something," Dyspo says, but at that moment, a strange blue creature, Maji Kayo from the Third Universe, leaps over, his arm outreaching towards Jiren.

"You're mine!" he shouts.

"Think again," Dyspo says, intercepting the blow and knocking Maji Kayo back against a rock, "Justice Crush!"

A huge energy blast flies towards Maji Kayo, hitting him head-on. Dyspo walks forward, seeing his opponent battered with a huge hole in him.

"Please…." Maji Kayo says in pain, "...mercy…."

"He has an unusual body, Dyspo," Toppo says, "Stay on your guard."

"Don't worry, I've got this," Dyspo says approaching, "I'll knock him out before he knows what happened."

With a leaping kick, Dyspo attacks, shattering the rock, but Maji Kayo laughs.

"Gotcha!" he says as his body swarms over Dyspo.

"You're a monster…" Dyspo says, struggling.

"Correct!" Maji Kayo says.

"That's our Maji Kayo for you!" Ea says happily as Mosco beeps in approval.

"Those ears are huge, Dyspo," Maji Kayo says as his hand turns into a blue pair of scissors, "I bet if I cut them off, you could run even faster."

"Dyspo is struggling against him," Toppo says, stepping forward, but a hand blocks his way.

"I'll handle this," Jiren says calmly as he advances.

"Well, look at that, he can talk," Maji Kayo says as Dyspo blasts his way out.

"I'm sorry Jiren, I gotta sit this one out!" Dyspo says.

"He can get away," Maji Kayo says, "You're the one I was after anyway."

"Yes, good!" Ea shouts, "Reveal the mystery of Jiren for us!"

Maji Kayo forms a huge first and swings, only for Jiren to throw a single punch, the force of which blasting Maji Kayo high into the air and out of the arena, while everyone stops in sheer shock.

"All that from a shockwave?!" Ea says as Maji Kayo, now significantly smaller, appears next to him.

"I believe it is now time," Khai says and Vermoud nods.

"I'll give him the order," Vermoud replies. Jiren...can you hear me?

I can, my Lord.

There is no need for you to conceal yourself anymore. Crush the strongest fighters first. You need not worry about the weaker ones. I want you to start with Son Goku from the Seventh.

Understood.

Jiren calmly walks forward until finally, he sees him.

"So you finally decided to fight me after all this time," Goku says, striking a battle pose, but Jiren responds with some kind of shockwave emanating from his mere gaze, while Goku tries to hold himself up.

"How can one person have this much energy?!" Beerus says in shock as the energy fades. Jiren and Goku both stare at each other.

"You stay back, Kakarot," a voice says. Goku turns to see Nappa, who walks forward and stand between him and Jiren.

"Nappa, get of here," Goku warns. Nappa shakes his head and smiles.

"No," he says, "I made a promise to you years ago, remember? When you saved me from Vegeta? Well, that debt's just reached maturity. If I'm going out, I'm going to make sure you're paid in full."

"A life debt?" Jiren asks and Nappa nods, "So be it. Come."

"Has he lost his mind?!" Beerus yells, but Whis only shrugs.

"Sayan honor is a complicated thing, my Lord," Whis replies.

"But...Nappa has to know he has no chance here," Shin says.

"Maybe he's trying to get Jiren to tip his hand, maybe give Goku something to work with?" the Old Kai suggests.

With a yell, Nappa powers up to Super Saiyan, but doesn't stop, his mass increasing even more as energy crackles around him, until finally he stops, having reached Super Saiyan Grade 3. He then charges, the speed not quite impressive, and throws a picture perfect punch, his arm wrapped in pinkish purple energy, only for it to stop just inches in front of Jiren's face as a shockwave erupts from it. Nappa's look turns to one of bewilderment as he quickly laughs nervously.

"Hey, uh...sorry about that Champ," he says, reaching forward slowly, "You uh...got some dust on you…"

Jiren responds with a quick uppercut, the force of which launches Nappa out of the ring and directly into the stands of Universe 7.

"That wave...it made a small area of pressure that's working like a barrier," Shin says.

"What was the point of that?!" Beerus yells, "We've lost two fighters thanks to your hair brained scream?! Wait, it wasn't even that, you don't have hair!"

Below, both Jiren and Goku resume their standoff. Goku attacks with a Kamehameha, only for it to effortless bounce around Jiren. Smiling, Goku powers up to Super Saiyan and leaps in and attacks, each blow hitting the barrier with no effect. A moment later, Goku powers up to Super Saiyan two and continues, still with no effect.

"Alright, if that's how it's gonna be," Goku says, leaping back and transforming into Super Saiyan God, his attacks increasing in speed and intensity, the shockwaves creating craters centered beneath them. Goku stops and looks at Jiren, stepping back and reverting to his normal form. "Okay, if that won't work, maybe this will."

With a scream, Goku begins powering up even more, reaching Super Saiyan Blue.

"Well, I can't deny that the full power of Super Saiyan Blue is impressive," Vermoud says, "Admirable, in fact. But...it's still useless."

"Not at all," Khai says, "In fact, this could be quite beneficial for us. Everybody has already seen what Jiren's power is compared to lesser warriors. And I am convinced from what I've seen, both this hour and in his fights against Toppo and in the Exhibition Match, that Son Goku is the second strongest fighter present. With that said, he still has no chance against Jiren. Once Goku is eliminated, the others will lose their will to fight. I was certain the moment I saw the full force of Goku's power then that this battle was not only inevitable, but it would be the decisive match of the tournament that decides all our fates, and with Jiren's victory, our survival is assured."

"In other words, you want Goku to fight at his full power and lose as a form of mental warfare? I like that," Vermoud says.

"Hubris and overconfidence are still dangerous, my Lord," Marcarita says.

"You're right," Vermoud replies, "And that'd be true...if it were anyone else he was fighting."

Goku steps forward, and unleashes a torrent of attacks, breaking through Jiren's barrier, causing the Pride Trooper to block as the two begin to exchange blows across the arena at incredible speed, with every attack Goku throws missing, and likewise from Jiren as they brawl. Goku quickly lands, powering up his Kaioken and firing a quick Kamehameha, only for Jiren to flip out of the way and retort with his own combo, hitting a hammer blow from behind and then catching Goku's foot, throwing him down to the ground. Kneeling over in pain and breathing hard, Goku feels intense pain on his back as Jiren drives is foot down and picks him up, holding his fist in front of his stomach.

"It's over," Jiren says as an energy sphere blows Goku back. Calmly Jiren turns around for a moment, but then senses back around, he sees Goku standing, now with the blue-red aura of a Kaioken.

"Where do you think you're going?" Goku asks as he launches another attack, only for Jiren to counter with several high speed blows that knock Goku back.

"What was that?!" Kami says in shock, watching.

"Not even I can see what's happening...this is one tough bastard," Vegeta says in surprise.

He's at an entirely different level, Roshi thinks.

"Goku's time here might be over," 18 says.

"No, he still has gas in the tank, just you watch. I bet Kakarot can take his Kaio-thing up to times twenty!" Nappa says.

"No...he can't," Beerus says quietly.

"Huh?" Nappa says turning around.

"What Lord Beerus means," Whis says, "Is that Goku was already fighting at that level."

"What!?" Nappa says, looking back down at the ring, "Oh, we are screwed."

"Heh," Goku says, standing up, holding his side as his form reverts to normal, "You've really outplayed me here, Jiren. I can't believe I couldn't even land a blow using Blue and Kaikoen times twenty. But...it gave me a real appreciation of your strength."

"Your father may be sensing his defeat," Kami says, but Gohan shakes his head.

"No...Dad still has one trick up his sleeve," Gohan says.

"I'm going to have to resort to something I've only thought I might need once," Goku says, "Still, I've never had to do this."

Jumping up onto a rock, Goku raises his arms up. What's this? Jiren thinks.

"Okay, everyone, I need you to send me as much energy as you can spare!" Goku shouts out.

"What is he doing?" Shin asks.

"Gohan described this technique as a 'Spirit Bomb', a move devised by the Northern Kai," Whis says.

"Kami used that when Freeza invaded," Nappa says, "But there wasn't nearly as much power in play now."

"Take some of mine, Dad!" Gohan shouts while Kami joins in.

"Here, take all of it, Uncle Goku" Ranch says joining in, while 18 and Nappa do the same from the stands. Alone, 17 smiles and raises his hands up, as does Roshi.

"Oh, I remember this one," Vegeta says, "It wrecked that freak working for Freeza. Here you go, Kakarot, don't say I haven't helped."

That idiot is wide open, Raditz says, Sorry brother, someone has to stand guard.

"Oh, look at this," Ribrianne says, peaking over, "There's nothing he can to defend himself. I think I'll send Goku some of my love. Pretty-"

But as she says this, Raditz blasts here away. "Come on, Kakarot! Get to it! I can't fend off the wolves all day!"

"Sorry, but it's still not enough," Goku shouts as the Spirit Ball grows, it's glow covering the stage, "I'm gonna need a lot more time to pull this off."

"I'll wait," Jiren says, "Nobody interfere! If this is his special move, then I want it done right. Come at me with all you have, Goku!"

"Alright," Goku says smiling, "Thanks for being a good guy, Jiren!"

With a sigh, Raditz raises his hand, glowing as his energy joins the fold while the gods from the non-competing universes discuss their surprise at how two warriors can put out such power.

"Yes, this thing is ready! Jiren, I hope you don't regret giving me that extra time!" Goku shouts, unleashing the Spirit Bomb down at Jiren, "This is what happens when the Seventh Universe unites! This is our Spirit Bomb!"

The huge sphere hits Jiren, scouring the ground beneath them, but to the surprise of everyone, the Spirit Bomb begins moving up towards Goku.

"Seriously?!" Gohan says in surprise, "Dad, you have to push back!"

"Kaioken times ten!" Goku says, stopping the Spirit Bomb, but Jiren pushes harder, "Kaioken...times...twenty!"

Finally, the Spirit Bomb makes progress once more towards Jiren, but Jiren focuses his energy once more, and the sphere makes it way up towards Goku.

"He's still pushing!" Zeno shouts amazed.

"Uh-oh…' Goku says, struggling as the Spirit Bomb contracts and then grows in size.

"I think Goku's reached the limit of his power," Whis says, "While Jiren remains calm and collected."

"It's astounding," Shin says, "In my entire life, I've never felt anything like this."

"Jiren's power is on the same level of a destroyer," Whis says, "Or, it may even exceed that. I have heard a rumor that one of the universes produed a mortal that surpassed it's destroyer. It's a very wild notion...but it appears it might be true."

"That energy ball cannot remain stable much longer," Vados says while Goku continues to struggle against the Spirit Bomb, throwing everything he can to repel it, until finally, he stops, falling towards it and colliding, the Spirit Bomb hitting the ground below and exploding in a brilliant, blinding white light, devastating the area around it while onlookers dive for cover. All that is, except for Jiren.

"It's over, Jiren," Toppo says, "This is your victory."

"It would seem the standoff is over," the Grand Minister says, "I am relieved to see the ring was able to withstand that."

Shocked, the onlookers see electricity crackling around the crater.

"Did...did Goku lose?" Zeno asks, showing worry in his voice.

"I can't sense Dad's energy at all," Gohan says.

"The force from that…" the Old Kai says while Beerus stands, a look of shock on his face, "I'm afraid Goku may have been completely obliterated."

"Obliterated?" Champa asks, "That's...perfect! That means Jiren will be disqualified!"

"I'm afraid not," Vados says.

"That's correct," the Grand Minister says, "The energy from the attack, and the attack itself originated with Son Goku. While deliberate killing is not permitted, any deaths resulting from one's own technique, even accidental, upon themselves is not against the rules. Hence, Jiren will receive no penalty."

Respectfully, both Khai and Vermoud stand and bow, while everyone only looks on in a state of pure bewilderment.

"Although," Vados says, "It looks like in spite of that impressive display, none of the universes have lost the will to fight."

"Hey, Sixth Universe!" Champa yells, "I want you to press on, damnit! Find a way to win, no matter what it takes!"

"Very sound advice," the Grand Minister says, "I want to remind all of you that not even half the time has elapsed. Until that column has completely descended, you all have a chance. This battle will continue until only one universe remains. So, I encourage all of you to make the most of the time you have left."

"Is this really the end for us?" Beerus wonders to himself, "Goku, are you finished?!"

In response, the arena begins to shake, and it grows, affecting the entire World of the Void.

"What are these tremors?" Toppo asks.

"Ah," Beerus says.

"Oh? Is there something you wish to say, Lord Beerus?" Whis asks.

Beerus only grins, "Here it comes."

At that moment, a brilliant column of white light emerges from the crater as Goku rises out of it, now enveloped with st range, silvery blue aura. He turns to face Jiren, the look on his face of one deadly seriousness, his eyes silver.

"Goku's okay!" Zeno says happily as Jiren marches forward, joined by Dyspo and Toppo.

"Goku survives…" Toppo says.

"I'm going to go out on a limb and assume that it wasn't blind luck that Goku survived that," Kami says.

"His energy...it's such a paradox," Gohan says, "It's so intense and so calm at the same time."

"I know Goku's power and abilities better than any," Whis says, "And I must say, I'm intrigued at this development."
Goku moves and attacks at nearly unwatchable speed, with neither Toppo nor Dyspo aware of what happened as Jiren moves away, blocking and countering.

"He...only grazed Jiren, but still, considering that he couldn't touch him before…" Kami says.

"It's not just that," Gohan says, "I can't sense any kind of transition between attacks or dodges. It's creepy."

"What the hell is going on?" Vegeta asks, "My eyes aren't deceiving me, but he's moving at such speed...Kakarot, what have you become?"

Jiren attacks again as Goku easily steps out of the way. "You don't know when to give up, Goku!" Toppo shouts as he charges, with Dyspo at his side, "You've already lost this battle!" They're met by Goku easily catching their blows.

"Take this!" Toppo shouts, "Justice Flash!"

As the barrage fires, Goku calmly walks through it, towards Jiren. Toppo jumps out of the crater while Jiren only raises his hand. Once again, Goku attacks, but this time Jiren is able to block each attack, although is own counters fail to connect as the two battle in the air.

"It's incredible," Kami says, "Every time he attacks, Jiren meets him with equal force but then Goku increases his strength to compensate him. They're both pushing themselves through this.

"How is this possible?" Khai says.

"Of course, it's so obvious now," Whis says happily, "I had hoped for this! I never thought it would actually happen, but the Saiyan has achieved it!"

"Do you mind explaining?" Nappa asks.

"...Autonomous Ultra Instinct," Beerus says while all the Supreme Kais and Gods of Destruction look over to Beerus in shock.

"That's impossible!" Vermoud yells.

"Well, we can't be certain," the Grand Minister says, "But it may be possible."

"What do they mean?" Shin asks.

"You mean you really haven't heard of this?" the Old Kai asks.

"Why now, and why Goku?" Beerus asks, clearly annoyed at seeing this new power from Goku.

"The Spirit Bomb served as the catalyst," Whis says, "What most likely happened, the energy replenished Goku's own exhausted energy. It would not be enough for him to reach this state. But, my theory is that with Goku already using his full power, at it's explosion, the power of the Spirit Bomb shattered Goku's own potential, allowing him to break through and reach levels he hadn't before. Now, we are in uncharted territory."

As the two great warriors continue, their attacks increase in speed and ferocity as the arena takes more and more damage, with Goku finally letting out a massive energy blast towards Jiren, flying backwards and rebounding off the column, heading fight for Jiren in spectacular collusion.

"You are truly fascinating, Saiyan' Jiren says. As the smoke clears, Jiren stands, a red aura around him, holding Goku's punch in his hand, "However…"

Everyone watches as Goku reverts to his normal state, "You are done. You have nothing left to offer me."

With that, Jiren blasts Goku away back into the crater, only for Hit to emerge, grabbing Jiren's hand.

"The infamous assassin," Jiren says, "Why are you here?"

"To do a job," Hit says.

Back on the side of the crater, Raditz tends to his brother, "What the hell was that, Kakarot?"

"To be honest," Goku says, exhausted, "I'm not even sure."

"You have to get somewhere safe," Raditz says, "I can't repel something like that. Not unless you show me how."

Raditz stand and looks over at Jiren and hit, and then back at his brother, but Goku's gone.

***

"You better start talking, Kakarot," Vegeta says, seeing Goku appear next to him, "You're safe. This is a blind spot."

"I...wish I knew," Goku says.

"I swear, you were only given life to mock me. First you're a Super Saiyan, then a Super Saiyan God, then a Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan ...and now this. No matter what I do, you always have to find a way to surpass me. But now look at you. You can't even move," Vegeta says. With a sneer, he holds out his hand as blue energy surrounds it.

"Vegeta...what…?" Goku asks, confused. Vegeta gives an evil grin.

"I have no use for a cripple," Vegeta says as the blast fires off, but instead of impacting, it surrounds Goku, and he slowly stands up.

"You..gave up some of your energy?" Goku asks, stretching.

"I told you, I'll be the one to kill you someday, Kakarot," Vegeta says, "As much as it pains me to say it, alone I can't beat Jiren...yet. Besides, the look on your face was worth the cost. Did you even hear what the gods called that?"

"No," Goku says.

"It has a name. 'Autonomous Ultra Instinct'. No Super Saiyan Silver or some dumb name," Vegeta says.

"If I could reach that again...I might have a shot," Goku says, looking over a rock as he watches Hit struggle against Jiren.

Jiren presses his attack, but Hit dodges one blow, then another.

"Time Skipping," Jiren says plainly.

"So, this is what Goku was up against," Hit says, "And now it's my burden as well. I have to say, they're intense."

"Do you really think you can stand against me, assassin?" Jiren asks.

"I told you before, that's my job," Hit says, performing a Time Skip that Jiren punches through, Hit blocking in his new position.

The two engage once more, with Jiren having the upper hand, Hit's only avenue of attack and moving being his own Time Skips, each one being countered with seemingly little effort by Jiren. Finally, Jiren presses a barrage, knocking Hit back.

"Jiren is not fooled by any of Hit's deception," Vados says.

"Then why does he keep doing it?" Champa asks.

The battle continues like it has before, until Jiren finally speaks.

"How many times must you fail? End this futility," Jiren says.

"And how many times do I have to tell you, I have a job to do," Hit says, only to be blown back by Jiren.

Watching nearby, Cabba, Caulifla and Kale watch.

"He's in trouble," Caulifla says calmly, "We have to do something, maybe we can catch him off guard."

"No," Cabba says, "I think I know what Hit is doing. He's learning Jiren's style, and from that he's going to get an opening. We cannot interrupt him, or it'll all be ruined."

Hit attacks once more, this time Jiren dodging the blows, the Pride Trooper stopping just short of the edge, until a purple energy engulfs him.

"He stopped Jiren," Goku says, "That's pretty clever, he was planning this the whole time."

"Ha! The Ultimate Assassin strikes again. Jiren can't do a thing now," Caulifla says.

"Jiren, get a hold of yourself!" Vermoud says.

Hit stands on a rock formation, his hand out, containing Jiren. He looks down to his fellow teammates, "You three, move! I've got him now, but there's a lot of work you three can do! Go, save the Sixth Universe!"

Cabba, Kale and Caulifla takes off while Vados nods, "That's unusual. Teamwork isn't Hit's normal style. He must be planning to hold Jiren until the end of the tournament while everyone else gets eliminated. He's out of the fight, but so is the only other threat. With Goku already exhausted, it creates a very level playing field for everyone else."

"I see, that's brilliant!" Champa yells, "Hold him there until time runs out Hit!"

I wish I could, Hit thinks as he watches Jiren slowly begin to move, But at this rate, I can't hold him here until the end. I have to put everything into one attack, for the Sixth Universe, or it's all over. Energy gathers in Hit's free hand as Jiren struggles to walk forward, leaping into the air towards the Pride Trooper, but the energy sphere stops shortly before Jiren's face, with Jiren reaching out, pushing back.

"Do you know what your 'assassin's pride' is worth?" Jiren asks, "Nothing! Not with blood on those hands!"

At that instant, the energy shatters, Jiren now free, with Hit watching in shock.

"This is amazing," Vados says, "Jiren possess the power to even transcend time."

Hit attacks again, with Jiren easily dodging, and then countering, unleashing a huge flurry of blows that drives Hit back, blasting him through a huge rock formation, flying past the retreating Saiyans. Hunched over, hit looks up as Jiren appears before him, firing off a Power Impact that sends Hit hurling over the edge and into the stands.

"Contestant Hit of the Sixth Universe has been eliminated," the Grand Minister says.

"What?!" Champa says, "That can't be!"

"He never had a chance!" Vermoud shouts.

"Don't sweat it, Hit," Champa says, "He just got lucky, that's all."

"No," Hit says, "The moment my attack failed, I lost."

"Well, it might not be in vain," Champa says, "I think you've inspired our last four warriors. We still have Magetta, and I'm sure our Saiyans can figure out some kind of truck."

"And with that elimination," the Grand Minister says, "Fifty taks have passed, and only fifty more remain. The tournament is now half-way concluded."

Upon saying that, the sky turns from it's purplish hue to a greenish one, as Jiren rejoins both Toppo and Dyspo.

"Only fifty taks left," Toppo says.

"You can take it from here," Jiren says, looking over to an observing Goku, "I have no interest in any of the other fails. The only ones that intrigued me have failed."

Jiren floats up, a red glow surrounding him as he begins to meditate.

"Well," Vermoud says, "It's almost disappointing that we have all this time left, and nobody left to serve as a threat."

"How arrogant," Beerus says softly.

"That can't be," Cabba says, while Caulifla tends to Kale, who's now breathing heavily, "Hit was our best shot!"

"Kale, are you okay?" Caulifla asks, "Come on, this is no time to have a damn panic attack."

"Hit…" Kale says, "Hit lost. Hit lost! HIT LOST!"

"Wow, she's taking this hard," Caulifla says, but Cabba grabs Caulifla by the hand.

"We need to get away, now!" Cabba says, "Her energy is growing at a tremendous rate! We don't want to be by her when it reaches its boiling point!"

"What?" Caulifla asks, "You mean she's turning into a Super Saiyan?"

"No," Cabba says, "Something else!"

Kale begins to glow as a torrent of wind and energy surrounds her, a greenish-yellow column erupting as Kale's size and muscles increase, as does her size.

Looking over from afar, Vegeta's eyes go wide. Impossible! He thinks, This power...that's no normal Super Saiyan. It...it's fueled by such rage. It's exactly as it was told to me as a child. Did that fat oaf up there luck out by somehow drafting his universe's Legendary Super Saiyan?!

Dodging through the carnage, Raditz manages to find Goku.

"You're up and moving again, I see," Raditz says, taking a look next to his brother, "It seems I may have quite a task here."

"Yeah," Goku says, "I'd join you, but I don't think I've recovered enough to face her."

"Probably not," Raditz says, "Besides, you're better off fighting someone like Jiren. If you can get lucky and turn into that Ultra Instinct again."

"I think it was a fluke," Goku says, "Believe me, if I knew, I'd be teaching all of you the trick."

"That may be some power up," Ribrianne says, stepping forward with Su Roas by her side, "But that is nothing next to the power of level! Ready Roasie?"

"Ready!" Su Roas says.

"No, maidens!" Zirloin says, stepping forward along with Rabanra and Sarbuto, "Get back!"

But it's too late as huge blasts of green energy fly forward, hitting all five members of the Second Universe and knocking them out of the arena.

"With those five," the Grand Minister says, "Universe 2 has been eliminated. Prepare for erasure,"

"What, but how-" Heles begins to ask, only to disappear.

"This is bad," Kahseral says to himself as he sees Kale turns his attention to him, "Pride Troopers, form up!"

"Jiren, come on!" Toppo says, "They need us!"

Breaking his concentration, Jiren opens his eyes, observing the incoming rampage. "That is unnecessary," he says before resuming his meditation.

"I'd hate to see what his idea of 'necessary' is," Dyspo says, "What do we do, boss?"

"...Stay back," Toppo says, "I trust Jiren."

"You guys!" Catopesra, the Envoy of Justice from the Third Universe says, rushing towards the remaining six Pride Troopers, as his side the huge android Viara "You're all about justice! Shouldn't you do something?"

"We are!" Kahseral says as Zoire, Kettle, Cocotte, Kunshi and Tupper all gather. "Ready? Formation B!"

The Pride Troopers stand ready as Kale rushes forward, easily blasting through their defenses while Kahseral dives for cover, the five other Pride Troopers being knocked off, along with Catopesra and Viara.

"Incredible," Kahseral says as he scurries away.

In the stands, the front of Mosco opens, revealing Mule, the tiny, implike, true God of Destruction from the Third Universe, "Doctor Paparoni, do it now!"

"Understood!" Paparoni says, twirling his cane around, the remaining warriors from the Third Universe joining up with him. With a purplish, blinding light, a merging occurs.

"Just what in the hell is happening now?!" Beerus shouts, seeing the huge, monster like beast emerge from the light.

"Anilaza cannot fail us!" Ea shouts out as Anilaza powers up, shaking the ring.

"They're pulling out all the stops here," Goku says.

"I can't believe they had something like this up their sleeve," Dyspo says, "I'll be honest, I didn't think much of what I saw from the Third Universe."

"Go Anilaza, unleash your wrath on her!" Ea shouts.

"This is gonna be one amazing clash!" the Old Kai says as Anilaza makes it way towards Kale. Kale responds with a roar of her own, her size and mass increasing once more as she rushes into Anilaza, easily breaking through the defense being put up, driving the huge android towards the edge, and with one titanic blast, pushes it off the stage.

"...Or not," the Old Kai says, his eyes wide.

"What is she?" Shin asks.

"It's a story almost every Saiyan knew," Nappa explains, "Ages ago, one emerged of immense power. The Legendary Super Saiyan. It was just a myth, but the story goes that as soon as that Saiyan reached that power, it was gone. It stayed with us, kind of a long term goal to reach for, but I don't think anybody ever believed it. Hell, when I saw what Kakarot could do, I just assumed he was it, but then Raditz and the others achieved the same power...it wasn't legendary, it was just...well, you get the idea."

"That story sounds much like the one Shenron spoke of of the original Super Saiyan God," Whis says.

"Yeah, but does she look like a Super Saiyan God?" Beerus asks.

"She's not a god, she's not even a monster," Shin says, "She's a devil."

The Grand Minister's mouth drops in shock for a moment, be he regains his composure, "With...with that, the Third Universe shall now be erased."

"Viara...Papparoni…' Zeno says, struggling to keep up with the sudden rush of eliminations.

"I guess this is fate," Ea says plainly, looking at Mule. Turning around and smiling, Mule looks at Camparri, his angel attendant, giving him a thumbs up as the other members of the Third Universe begin to glow.

"Thanks for all your support!" Mule says as he disappears.

"Well, at least he came out in the end," the angel says.

"Ha!" Champa says happily, "This is the ticket, right here! A moment ago we thought we were down and out, and now look at us, kicking ass and taking names! Don't stop, Kale! Keep up the good work!"

Kale doesn't even respond as she blasts through a rock formation, revealing a surprised Ranch, still recovering.

"Oh, not good," Ranch says, running with everything she as she left as green energy blasts fly towards her.

"YOU TRIED TO TAKE CAULIFLA FROM ME!" Kale shouts, stopping as she finds Magetta.

"Choo-Po!" Magetta says, as if to say 'yeah!', but suddenly Kale bends down and grabs the Metalman. "Choo-Po?! CHOO-PO!" Magetta protests as he's hoisted in a gorilla press over Kale's head.

"Uh, Kale?" Champa cries down "Put Magetta down, he's on our side!"

"I'm afraid her own rage is blinding her, sir," Vados says.

Ranch stops as she reaches the edge, turning around to see Kale walking towards her, who then throws Magetta at her.

"Oh, shit!" Ranch says as the two collide, falling off. Ranch quickly scrambles up Magetta and lets out a ki blast, sending herself back into the ring while Magetta appears next to hit. Ranch laughs, but her expression changes as she sees more ki blasts heading towards her, each colliding and knocking her off as well.

"Ranch, are you okay?" 18 asks.

"What...what just happened?" Ranch asks in response, "Her power...that's incredible. It's like there's no way to stop it."

"It looks like the odds are tilting against us, my Lord," Vados says. Clenching his teeth, Champa leans over and yells down. "Hey Caulifla, remember those two things I gave you? Now's the time!"

"What's he talking about?" Cabba asks, but Caulifla opens her hand, revealing two small Potara earrings.

"Just a little 'Plan B'," Caulifla says, "Champa said if both Kale and I wear these, we'd fuse together and become one badass warrior! He only wanted us to use it if things got pretty rough. I guess this counts."
"And you want me to wear one?!" Cabba asks, but Caulifla shakes her head.

"No!" she says, "We have to figure out some way to get one onto her left ear. I'll put this one on and boom! Fusion! Or something like that."

"Give me the earring," Cabba says, "In my ascended form, I might be fast enough to put it on her. She's not going to listen."

"Okay," Caulifla says, "But you better not screw this up, we only have one shot."

"Don't worry about it," Cabba says, powering up to Super Saiyan 2 and taking off, dodging energy blasts from Kale.

"Hey, Kale! Why don't you calm down, we can take this through!" Caulfila says.

"CAULIFLA….AND CABBA!" Kale shots, firing blasts at the Saiyan.

She's forgotten everything, Cabba says as he dodges the attacks, jumping up and landing on her head. He struggles to hold on, but finally gets the Potara Earing on her left ear. "Okay, now!"

"Right!" Caulfia says, reaching out to put on the earring, but a blast knocks her away towards the edge, with the earring falling out of her hand.

"Oh, no!" Cabba says, jumping off and racing towards the earring, grabbing it and then making a beeline towards Caulifla, using a blast from his feet as she falls off the edge. He grabs her and slaps the earring on her right ear as he suddenly finds himself with his team, observing.

"It worked!" Cabba says as he watches Caulifla fly back on the stage, with Kale heading right towards her, the two combining in a flash of brilliant light.

"Oh, that's not good," Shin says.

"Wonderful," Raditz says, snickering, "Still, that was quite a display from Cabba."

"Yeah," Goku says, "But I think now we have a bigger problem."

"Well, Vados?" Champa says smugly.

"It would seem that you were right with this gambit," Vados says, "The Potara fusion doesn't just join two energies together, but multiplies it dozens of times over. The resulting being also has its own personality."

As the light subsides, standing on top of the formation is a girl, with features resembling both Kale and Caulifla; Kale's dark skin and ponytail with spikes like those of Caulifla's, gold colored wristbands similar to that of Caulifla's, an almost shorter version of Kale's shirt, and long, tight-like pants, both the same color of Kale's clothes.

"Alright!" Cabba shouts, "Go you two-no, that's wrong. Go Kefla!"

"Kefla," she says to herself, "I think that works pretty well."

She shouts, and the resulting energy surge shakes the ring as 17, Roshi, Kami and Gohan regroup with Goku and Raditz.

"Would someone care to explain?" 17 says.

"Fusion," Raditz says.

"LIke the kids, right?" 17 asks, "I don't think she had enough sanity to pull off that little dance."

"It's the earrings," Goku says, "The ones the Supreme Kais wear."

"I see," 17 says, "That's a nifty tricky. I hope we brought a pair with us."

"We decided against it," Gohan says, "It seemed too risky. Apparently Champa thought otherwise."

"Master Roshi," Raditz asks, "You think you can pull off a mafuba on her?"

"No," Roshi says, "Besides, I only brought the two bottles along."

"Damn," Raditz says as Kefla looks at them.

Rejoining Dyspo, Toppo and Jiren, Kahseral stops, "I'm sorry, Leader."

"It's alright," Toppo says, "How could anybody prepare for something like that?"

"She's either going to come after us or the Seventh," Dyspo says.

"She won't come after us," Toppo says, motioning towards Jiren, "We should let them fight and eliminate each other."

"Hey, I can see you guys, you know," Kefla says, firing a blast towards the fighters of Universe 7, scattering them. She flies down and stands, surrounded by them, "Okay, who's first?"

"All of us," Gohan says, "We're not dumb enough to fight you one on one."

"If you say so," Kefla says, starting by attacking Roshi, who rolls out of the way while she follows up with an attack that drives each fighter back.

"This power, it's so intense," Kami shouts, blocking an attack and grimacing from the pain of it.

With a yell, Goku powers up into Super Saiyan while Raditz does likewise, Gohan entering his Ultimate Form, all three attacking .

"Whoa, this might be trouble," Kefla says, hopping back and taking a familiar pose, "I guess I better step on the gas a bit." She lets out a yell as the ground shakes, a greenish-gold aura covering her as she reaches her own Super Saiyan state.

"Does she have any kind of limit?" Ranch asks, amazed, "It's like a bottomless well!"

She attacks again, quickly overpowering them, to the surprise of each one, while Master Roshi retreats to safety.

"Where the hell is Vegeta?!" Raditz shouts as he dodges an attack, increasing his transformation to Super Saiyan 2 while Goku matches that. With a huge blast, she knocks the two brothers away, each in different directions, while she turns her attention to Kami.

"I see," Kami says, "KAIOKEN TIMES THREE!"

Kami attacks, briefly overtaking her while 17 fires off several blasts at her, with Kefla turning and deflecting each one. She then turns and begins firing the same green energy blasts Kale used at Kami, who at first is able to deflect them, but the intensity picks up both in speed and power, slowly moving Kami back, until finally Kefla lefts loose with a red energy wave, blasting Kami away and eliminating the Namekian.

"Kami!" Gohan says, looking at Kefla, "Alright, let's do this."

"You want some help?" 17 asks, but Gohan shakes his head.

"No, I can do this," Gohan says as he takes a ready pose.

"By the way, I've been meaning to ask, why does a Saiyan have pink hair?" Kefla asks. Gohan smiles.

"I'll tell you about it some time," Gohan says.

"I know better than to mess around with you," Kefla says, "You and your green pal there managed to take out Saonel and Pirina. But let's see how well you can do without him!"

Kefla begins her attack on Gohan, with each on countering, fighting at very intense speeds while Goku recovers, watching the battle with pride.

Damn, Gohan's gotten stronger, Goku thinks, He's come so far in just this tournament alone.

"You sure you don't want to stop and go Super Saiyan?" Kefla asks, tauntingly, "You might need it."

"There's many different paths to power," Gohan says, "I'm not like my dad or uncle. They may have reached a level rivaling the gods, but I'm walking my own path. I may have Saiyan blood, but I was born on Earth, and I choose to fight as a human."

"Whatever man, nice speech," Kefla says, ramping up her attacks as Gohan does likewise.

"He's incredible," Kami says, watching, "Just days ago, Gohan didn't show any kind of hint as to having this kind of power, and now he's fighting toe to toe with someone that would give even Goku a hard time."

Finally, Kela leaps back and begins channeling a huge amount of energy, "I think it's time to end this little dance. She holds her hands out as green and red alternating energy envelops them, and she reaches out, firing off a massive Gigantic Blast towards Gohan, who fires back with his own Kamehameha.

"Damn, this is intense," Gohan says as he struggles to maintain the beam. You still have more power, Gohan! Let it all out, now!

Dad? Gohan thinks to himself, remembering his father's words from his climactic showdown with Cell, He's right. Holding on, Gohan lowers his left arm as blue energy gathers around it, and fires off a second Kamehameha, the two beams overpowering the Gigantic Blast, racing along towards Kefla.

"Oh…" she says, and just before the beam hits her, she earrings crack, with Kale and Caulifla both watching the beam head right towards.

"Sis?" Kale says as the Kamehameha's collide with them, blasting them off the stage. Gohan smiles and kneels down, breathing hard as Goku and Raditz come over to him.

"Nicely done," Raditz says, looking up to the stands at Universe 6 as Caulifla and Kale appear.

"What?" Champa says, "No, no, no, it can't end like this! My perfect strategy is ruined!"

"And with Kale and Caulifla being eliminated, Team Universe 6 has no remaining fighters," the Grand Minister announces.

"Well, he had a good run, but I guess this really is good-bye," Vados says, having moved over to sit with Team Universe 7.

"You could at least wait until we're gone!" Champa screams.

"Oops," she says.

"I hope they win," Saonel says, and standing up, alongside Pirina, look over to Kami, giving him a respectful nod, which Kami returns.

Cabba stands as well, and looks over to Ranch, smiling, "Thanks for everything, Ranch. I hope you visit us one day with your dad."

Ranch nods, wiping a small tear away. Next to Cabba, Botamo slowly comforts a crying Magetta.

"I won't forget, Cabba," Raditz yells out, "Remember that."

"Good luck," Cabba says. Seeing his team's unity, Champa calms down and smiles happily, and then looks over to Beerus, who has his back turned away. Champa then sees the white glow.

"Hey, Beerus!" Champa says as Beerus turns his head slightly. The fatter brother sticks his tongue out and extends his middle finger, and then disappears, leaving only two remaining universes in the Tournament of Power.

Alone, Beerus stood, stone faced, his eyes closed.

"Say something."

NEXT TIME ON DRAGON BALL C!

Out of eighty warriors, seventy have fallen and six universes have been erased. But the real challenge now is for those that remain. From the Eleventh Universe, Kahseral, Dyspo, Toppo and the nigh unstoppable Jiren. From the Seventh Universe, Master Roshi, Android 17, Raditz, Vegeta, Son Gohan and Son Goku. Out of these ten warriors, the fate of a universe will be decided in the next climatic chapter of Dragon Ball C: The Blue and the Gray!

AFTERTHOUGHT

Wow, I haven't updated this thing in a decade, amirite? Jokes aside, this one was a bit of a challenge to write up. You see, I ran into writer's block after I started this, and I just sort of floundered with it after the erasure of Universe 9. Thankfully, I managed to get back into gear just before the holidays.

When I was coming up with the thought of how I wanted to do this tournament (I knew I'd get to it eventually), it was around June or July of 2018, and the manga was finally reaching these chapters. I knew that the manga had done it's Zen Exhibition Match with the Gods of Destruction, and I had originally thought I could do that, but that chapter ran long enough as it was. The manga tournament seemed very short and almost rushed, but there were certain things in it that I liked that I wanted to incorporate in here, mainly things like Universe 6 lasting a lot longer and having them become more of a threat, a larger role from Gohan, etc. With a reshuffling of the team, it led to different situations arising. I also wanted to take a different direction from what MasakoX had done with his "What if Raditz Turned Good" series, where Raditz had snuck a Senzu Bean along and fed it to Goku towards the end, which...kind of ruined it, I think.

I also wanted to give everyone their own little moment before they went out, at least from Universe 7. The only one who really didn't get that was 18, but then again, she did sacrifice herself to save 17 from elimination.

So ...hopefully the rest of this will be a bit easier to write, at least as far as the Tournament of Power goes. Let me know if you have any questions, I'm always happy to discuss this with you guys, and thanks for reading.