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?

19. Chapter 19

This chapter is dedicated to my late friend Myke, who tragically passed away on April 28, 2020 from COVID-19. I'll see you on Snake Way.

DRAGON BALL C PART XIX: THE BLUE AND THE GRAY

"Don't you know I'm unstoppable?

Don't even try 'cause you will fall!

I've got a strength,

Deep in my soul,

That gives me courage and control,

I'll go beyond the Limit Break,

The universe is mine to take,

I have no fear,

I think it's clear,

Let's kick it up into high gear,

Oh, this is Dragon Ball Super,

We've got the skills to blow Zeno away!"

- Dragon Ball Super

LAST TIME ON DRAGON BALL C!

The Tournament of Power began, the greatest collection of fighting talent ever assembled into one place at one time. One by one, each at the hands of Universe 7, six other universes fell: Universes 9, 10, 4, 2, 3 and 6. Now, only ten fighters from Universes 7 and 11 remain, with only twenty-one minutes remaining in the tournament itself. Can Son Goku and his teammates prevail, or will Jiren the Gray's incredible, seemingly unmatchable power prove to be too much to overcome? The Tournament of Power concludes now!

Looking at the stands, the Grand Minister thinks for a moment, and smiles, "Well, we don't need all this anymore." The spaces previously occupied by the now erased universes disappear, and the remaining spots fly towards each other, compacting. With a nervous chuckle, Nappa looks over to the Pride Troopers.

"Hey uh, how're you doing?" he says, then looks back down the ring.

Raising his head up, Gohan sees a hand reaching down, and gazing up, he sees his father standing in front of him. He smiles as he grabs Goku's hand and stands.

"You never cease to amaze me, Gohan," Goku says as the two walk along.

"Thanks, Dad. You were pretty amazing back there against Jiren," Gohan says, "I've heard about different techniques like that, but I've never seen anything to that degree."

"I told your uncle this, but I think it was just a fluke," Goku says, "A good one, but I'm not sure how I can pull it off again."

"There has to be a way," Gohan says, "There's too much riding on this for it just to be a fluke."

Raditz nods, "In any case, we have numbers, but they have power. I don't think we can simply wait them out. Jiren may have decided the rest of us are beneath him, but once that clock gets closer to zero, I have a feeling he's going to decide to end things."

"You're right,' Master Roshi says, stepping over to them, "But power isn't everything. The two I fought should've run circles around me, but here I am."

"So, we've finally reached the end game," Vegeta's voice shouts as he jumps down, joining the other five.

"Where the hell have you been?" Raditz says, "We really could've used your help against Kefla!"

"You managed," Vegeta says.

"Hey, ease up on him, Raditz," Goku says, "If it weren't for Vegeta, I'd be out of this thing."

"What?" Raditz asks.

"He gave me some of his energy," Goku explains, while Vegeta turns away, embarrassed.

"Well, that was awfully nice of you, Vegeta," Raditz says with a grin.

"Shut up, I only did it to make sure we got through this thing," Vegeta says.

"Hey, will you two knock if off for once!" Roshi says, "This is hardly the time or the place for any of the usual bullshit between the two of you!"

As he says that, Kahseral, Dyspo and Toppo step out of the shadows, standing in front of the six.

"There is no need for us to withdraw anymore," Toppo says, "Here and now, the Pride Troopers will stop you and put an end to this tournament."

"How much have you recovered, Kakarot?" Raditz asks.

"I'm not sure," Goku says, "If I really try, I might be able to pull Blue off...but the thought of using that with the Kaioken makes me a little nervous."

"Master Roshi, any thoughts?" Gohan asks.

"Hmm," Roshi says, "Those two that were hanging out with Jiren aren't exactly what I'd call novices. But the cyborg on the other hand…"

"That's a lot of talk coming from an old man," Kahseral says, "I happen to be the General of the Pride Troopers!"

17 nudges Raditz and rolls his eyes, making the jerking off motion while Raditz can't help the smirk that comes across his face.

"First you mocked the lovely maidens from the Second Universe, and now you dare mock the Pride Troopers?" Toppo booms. 17 only shrugs.

"Okay, first, Saint Nick, you really need to take it down a level," 17 says, "Second, while you and Br'er Rabbit there-"

"Hey!" Dyspo says at the insult while 17 continues, "-Might find this hard to believe, but you don't hear me bragging about how I'm the almighty Red Ribbon Android, do you?"

"And yet you were a badge of justice," Toppo sneers.

"What, this?" 17 says, pointing to his 'ranger' armband, "I'm actually on my lunch break right now. A park ranger's job is never finished."

"We're wasting time," Vegeta says.

"Vegeta," Gohan says, "You, me and 17 can take on Dyspo. Uncle Raditz...I think you know who to fight."

"I do," Raditz says, looking at Toppo.

"I'll handle the General," Roshi says.

"Dad, stay back and rest," Gohan says, "We can handle this."

"I want to fight, too," Goku says, but Raditz puts his arm up and looks at his brother.

"Save your strength, we're going to need it, Kakarot," Raditz says.

"Don't be a stubborn idiot," Vegeta warns, while Goku nods.

"Alright. Good luck, you guys," Goku says as he leans against a rock.

"All that talk is nothing against my speed," Dyspo says, backing up his boast as he quick kicks cause Vegeta and Gohan to go on the defensive, while Roshi and Kahseral begin their hand to hand battle.

"It looks like I might have underestimated you," Roshi says as he dodges a few blows from the General.

"Likewise," Kahseral says as he dodges an array of unconventional blows.

"Well, it looks like I get Universe 11's number two," Raditz says, looking Toppo over.

"I suppose the same can be said about you," Toppo says, "Do you really think you have the same power as your brother?"

Raditz smiles, "You know? I really do." And at that moment, Raditz attacks Toppo, the observers quickly realizing that they're all evenly matched. In an amazing surprise to the spectators, Vegeta drops his guard and doesn't even transform, taking every blow from Dyspo that he can.

"Has he finally lost his mind?" Beerus asks. Whis watches for a moment.

"No, he hasn't," Whis says, "From what I understand, Vegeta has always had a strong envy of Goku's power. While his Super Saiyan 4 power puts him on par with Raditz and Goku, Goku's discovery of that Ultra Instinct state may have pushed him to wanting to find it for himself. Perhaps these blows are just what he needs to 'awaken' as it were."

"Come on, my kid hits harder than you!" Vegeta taunts.

"Oh, so you're a wise ass, too?" Dyspo says as he continues his attack. In the stands, Ranch snickers, and looks over to Khai and Vermoud, "You guys should know, he's not kidding!"

Vermoud shrugs, "We've already seen what Saiyan hybrids can do, but even if she's right, it doesn't matter. Dyspo doesn't need brute force when he can simply outmaneuver his opponents with his speed."

"If it makes you feel better," Gohan says dodging Dyspo's blows, "You hit harder than my daughter."

"Mine too," 17 says as he jumps in the sky, firing off a Photon Flash that barely misses Dyspo.

"This isn't some kind of social outing!" Dyspo says, firing off a barrage that drives Gohan back.

As that fight rages on, Roshi and Kahseral continue to battle, neither making headway. This is as close to fighting myself as I'm going to get, Roshi thinks, Well then, it's time to change things up a bit. At that moment, Roshi raises his arms up, his hands out, and begins a combo of clawing attacks and punches.

"No way," Nappa says, "He's using the Wolf Fang Fist!"

All the Universe 7 spectators look at Nappa quizzically. "...That Yamcha uses? You know, 'Hey, Wolf Fang Fist'?"

"I didn't see you using it," Ranch says plainly while Nappa sighs.

I'm not below borrowing techniques from time to time! Roshi thinks as the attack begins to overwhelm Kahseral. "Enough of this, old man!" At that, two yellow energy blades emerge from Kahseral's arms, extending his reach, but Roshi jumps high into the air, forming a cross with his arms, speeding down towards the General.

"No way! I remember that one!" Goku says in amazement, but the Cross Arm Dive barely misses, with Kahseral clearly rattled by the impact. He turns around, swiping at Roshi, only for the attack to go right through him, with Roshi disappearing.

"What?" Kahseral says in surprise, but he's answered with a chop to his neck and a spinning heel kick from behind, with just enough force to send him over the edge of the ring.

"Kahseral from Universe 11 has been eliminated," the Grand Minister says.

"That's not bad fighting from that old man," Beerus says. Breathing hard, Roshi makes his way over to Goku and sits down.

"We need to spar again some time," Goku says, "You really surprised me."

"Well," Roshi says, "I guess there was no point in holding back. I think I'm spent, though. I think I'm just going to wait here for Jiren to eliminate me. Maybe we'll get lucky and the attack will kill me, and he'll get disqualified."

"Don't talk like that," Goku says, but Roshi only laughs.

"Goku, you gotta have a sense of humor about these things," Roshi replies, "We really don't have anything else left at this point. Although…"

Roshi looks at Goku and puts his hand on his chest as his arm glows.

"Master, what are you doing?" Goku says.

"I'm giving you almost everything I have left," Roshi says, "It's almost three hundred years of energy stored up by denying myself the one thing I've wanted most: the touch of a pretty lady. Now, get in there and make the most of it."

Goku smiles at his old teacher, "Thank you, Master Roshi. I will."

As Goku's about to take off, Roshi stops him, "But uh...let's not be too hasty, let's see how the others handle this."

They watch as Dyspo continues to alternate attacks between Vegeta, 17 and Gohan while Toppo and Raditz, now a Super Saiyan, struggle with each other, Toppo firing off a Justice Flash that Raditz easily dodges.

"When are you going to get serious?" Raditz asks, "I know you're holding back, or are you really content to fight with this amateur hour horseshit?"

"Your resolve and strength is great, I will grant you that," Toppo says, "Your actions and methods may be misguided, but your desire to see the universes restored is just. However, I need not waste extra energy with one that cannot match the gods."

"What? Cannot match the…" Raditz says, then he smiles, "Huh, that's right, isn't it? I've got to be the only one in this tournament that hasn't shown off."

"Shown off?" Toppo says, his tone changing to concern, "You're holding back as well?"

Raditz smiles, "If you agree with my wish, then simply have your team forfeit and we can fix this entire mess."

Toppo shakes his head, "For something like that, I cannot agree to. Not because of the defeat, but the Super Dragon Balls have already been promised to someone else."

"I wonder who that could be," Raditz says, looking over to Jiren, still meditating.

"That guy's been promised the wish?" Shin says in amazement, and then he looks at Vermoud, "What could he possibly want? Your job?"

Vermoud smiles and shakes his head, "No. You can all sit in awe of Jiren's strength, but believe it or not, he has no interest in becoming a Destroyer. He turned that offer down. He might seem like some kind of unholy beast to the rest of you, but Jiren is a being of principal. When he was told of this tournament, he refused, in spite of learning that his existence was in danger. Jiren wanted no part in eliminating other universes. He said it was 'barbaric'. It was only with the promise of whatever he desired that he showed any interest at all."

"And that is?" Beerus asks, intrigued, but Vermoud is silent.

"Enough of that," Raditz says, "I guess if that's the case, one of us is going to have to watch this end from up there." With a yell, Raditz' power increases to incredible levels, as his aura changes from white to light blue, his hair changing to that of the Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan. He looks at Toppo and cracks his knuckles.

"So, it wasn't a boast afterall," Toppo says, his own energy increasing as he fires off another Justice Flash which Raditz blocks with his own Shining Friday.

"Two can play that game," Raditz says, firing off multiple Single Sundays, Toppo jumping out of the way as they barely miss, the last one grazing the top of his uniform. The two exchange blows once more, with Raditz slowly gaining the upper hand.

"For underestimating you, I apologize," Toppo says as he launches a barrage of punches that fail to land.

"Uncle, get out of the way!" Gohan yells, now powered up to his Ultimate form. Raditz sees this and dodges as Gohan let's a Kamehameha rip, hitting Toppo, who blocks it, but gets knocked down to a knee from the impact. He stands back up.

"Tag out," Gohan says, landing in front of Toppo, "We could use your help on the other one."

"We're not finished," Toppo yells, but Gohan blocks his path.

"I'm your opponent now, Toppo," Gohan says.

"...The son," Toppo says, "You've done well in the tournament. You didn't show anything like this power when I watched you fight the Ninth Universe."

"I've always been a fast learner," Gohan replies as he attacks, meeting heavy resistance from the huge Pride Trooper.

Raditz heads over and watches as Dyspo continues to attack Vegeta, the Prince taking every blow head on, still in his base form. Finally, Vegeta grabs both of Dyspo's arms and pulls him in, and looks him dead on.

"Hey!" Vegeta yells, "Want to see something cool?!"

"...What?" Dyspo asks, but Vegeta blasts him back and lets out a yell, turning Super Saiyan 4. Dyspo charges to get around him, but Vegeta speeds up and stands in his way, the two exchanging blows.

"Don't think because of the extra speed you have that it's enough to catch me!" Dyspo says as he charges around, alternating his attacks between Vegeta, 17, and Raditz to varying effect.

"Alright," Goku says standing up again, "I think I've rested up enough. I don't know what it is, I'm not one hundred percent, but I can definitely go a few more rounds now."

"You're sure about this?" Roshi asks, but Goku nods.

"Well, if I'm not, what difference does it make?" Goku says as he jumps out, entering the fray between Dyspo and the rest of the team. "Hey, mind if I join in?"

"What? Goku?" Dyspo says, stopping just long enough for Raditz to connect, knocking him back.

"Well, at least you're good for a distraction," Raditz says, but Goku only shakes his head.

"Actually, I was being serious," Goku says, "I think it's time we started to bring this one home."

"I cannot allow that," a deep voice behind him says. Goku turns and sees Jiren, having left his meditation, standing and staring at both him and Raditz.

"I'm surprised to see you're up, after what you said when you took out Hit," Goku says, "I guess you still think I'm worthy."

Jiren only looks at Goku and then finally speaks up, "Well?"

In their fight, Gohan and Toppo both stop, watching.

"Jiren...what are you doing?" Toppo asks.

"I could ask the same thing to my dad," Gohan says, but Toppo shakes his head.

"Your father, while being a considerable fighter, exhausted too much of his power to be considered a threat to Jiren. Why now? What are you Saiyans getting at?" Toppo asks. Gohan smiles.

"What can I say, we love a good fight," Gohan says.

"It would appear so," Toppo replies, assuming another battle stance, "If that is the case, then I shall give you one."

"I think he's waiting for you, Kakarot," Raditz says. Goku steps forward and looks Jiren directly in the eye, neither one blinking. Finally, with a huge yell, Goku powers up, going right into Super Saiyan Blue. In spite of the huge rush of energy, Jiren doesn't flinch at all, and before anybody can see what's happening, the two engage in battle at such a high speed that only the angels can follow the action.

"Now this is more like it!" Goku says, "My hands are actually starting to sting a little bit!"

"Tell me," Jiren says, "What drives your endless quest for strength, Goku?"

"I can't explain it," Goku replies as the two exchange blows, "I've always wanted to get stronger and have great fights."

"Then it is as I thought," Jiren says, "You don't even know."

"Well, what about you, Jiren?" Goku asks.

"I seek something beyond strength," Jiren replies.

As their battle continues, Raditz sneers as the two land, powering up as he flies in.

"Oh come on, Raditz, this is my fight!" Goku says.

"You already had a turn, Kakarot! Remember what I said? We do it together!" Raditz says as he charges Jiren, his blows having no effect. It's like a steel wall! But it doesn't matter, I have to defeat him and win the Dragon Balls. There's too much riding on it to lose!

"You are indeed a stubborn race," Jiren says, firing off a flurry of punches, but to his surprise, Raditz begins to subtly dodge each one, closing in on Jiren, and lands a single punch right into Jiren's torso, catching the mighty warrior in shock.

"He...actually hit him!" Shin says in surprise.

"I've got you figured out!" Raditz says as he continues to press his attack.

"Raditz watched both their major fights and the skirmish we just saw," Kami says, "He must have found some kind of opening in Jiren's technique. It's a huge leap for him to make."

"What's going on? How can this even be happening?!" Vermoud shouts.

"Raditz is actually winning," Shin says.

"Don't be so cocky," Khai says, "Are you that blind to believe such a thing is possible?"

"Perhaps…" Whis says, stopping.

"Perhaps what, Whis?" Vados asks.

"Perhaps the reason why Raditz is pressing this attack in such a way, is to serve as his own catalyst to unlocking Ultra Instinct," Whis replies.

"I suppose that's possible," Beerus says, "The way he was dodging those attacks, it was as if he was knocking on it's door."

"No, he's not," Vermoud says, "Your fighters are impressive, Beerus. I'll be the first to acknowledge that. And what Goku did earlier against Jiren was one of the most incredible things I've ever seen. But the power Jiren's putting out now...he had to use far more against your ace."

"Are you saying Jiren's just playing with my dad?" Ranch asks while Vermoud shrugs.

"I'd say it's more like he's testing him," Vermoud replies, "Jiren wants to know if Raditz is at the same level."

"That is an interesting strategy," Whis says, "I do need to stress that no matter what gains Goku makes, Raditz is always quick to follow. He's already done something his brother hasn't. Jiren's attempts to probe may backfire."

"I hope you don't take me to be as stupid as my brother," Raditz says as he presses his assault, "While it's nice to be making some progress against you, I know damn well you're holding back. You could at least show me the same respect!"

"I'm giving you the respect your power deserves," Jiren responds.

"Was that an insult or a compliment?" Nappa asks aloud.

"I told you," Vermoud says, "Jiren is a being of principal. Would you believe me if I told you our greatest champion, our strongest warrior, would never harm a fly?"

"How preposterous," Beerus says.

"Well," Whis says, "I suppose there is a difference between 'harm' and 'hurt'."

"And I don't care," Beerus says, "I'm not spending what could be my last minutes getting into a semantic argument over the moral code of my possible vanquisher. Ah, damnit, Whis! Why didn't I pack a lunch?!"

"He's talking about food…" Shin whispers to the Old Kai, "Does this mean he thinks we're doomed?"

"If I understood Beerus, I never would've been put in that damn sword," the Old Kai says.

Raditz lands, with Jiren still in front of him, and prepares to attack again, but Goku beats him to it.

"Damnit, Kakarot!" Raditz says in frustration as Jiren and Goku exchange blows once again.

"No!" Goku says, "Raditz, I know you want us to work together, but right now, we need your strength against the other two!"

"And you need mine against him!" Raditz says.

"No, he doesn't," Jiren replies as he counters and attacks, the intensity of his attacks picking up against Goku. For a moment, Raditz's jaw drops. That bastard was only humoring me!

"Fine," Raditz says, "And you, don't think we're finished!" At that, Raditz heads off as the aces of the two remaining universes continue to battle.

"Your brother is very brave," Jiren says, "And very foolish."

"Funny," Goku says, dodging several "He says the same thing about me."

Struggling with all he can, Gohan grits his teeth while Toppo presses down on his left shoulder as Raditz jumps into the air, firing off a barrage of ki blasts that explode almost on top of the two, causing Toppo to break the hold and turn.

"So, you've returned," Toppo says.

"Gohan, go," Raditz says, "Vegeta and 17 could use a hand."

"He's pretty tough, Uncle Raditz," Gohan says, "Two would make this easier."

"I don't care about easy," Raditz says, "I have to do this now."

Reluctantly, Gohan jumps back and re-enters the battle with Dyspo while Raditz and Toppo assume fighting stances, only this time Raditz jumps in first, attacking with a renewed vigor that catches the leader of the Pride Troopers off guard. If Jiren doesn't want to take me seriously, then we'll see what happens when I take care of his friend.

"Look at that ferocity," Shin says, "Jiren's comments must have struck a nerve."

"Perhaps," Whis says, "But Raditz isn't the type to get riled up so easy."

"I suppose you didn't notice their little strategy, did you?" Vados asks, as all eyes fall on her, "By alternating which one of the Pride Troopers Gohan and Raditz fight, their bodies are forced to adapt to new conditions: Dyspos' speed, Toppo's tactics, and Jiren's brute force. Of course, Gohan hasn't attacked Jiren yet, but I believe that too may just be a matter of time."

"Hold still, damnit!" Dyspo yells out as Vegeta dodges further attacks, oblivious as Gohan dives in with a jumping kick, knocking him back into a huge rock. Dyspo tries to move forward, but an above barrage from 17 keeps him from advancing.

"Ha, now I've got you right where I want you!" Vegeta says as he pulls his hands back, "Galick Gun...FIRE!"

The purple beam flies out at Dyspo,the warrior responding as he jumps into the air, taking a battery of blasts from 17, including one on his leg. He lands, wincing in pain as Gohan presses his attack, battering Dyspo back, the Pride Trooper desperately trying to block.

"You're not going to stop me so easily!" Dyspo says as he begins to pick up the speed of his attacks, driving Gohan back. 17 intervenes by firing off an Accel Shot, the barrage limiting Dyspo's movements as Gohan begins to counter, knocking Dyspo away and beginning his own barrage of blasts.

"Damnit!" Dyspo says as he desperately dodges the dual barrages, coming from both sides, just wide enough so that 17 and Gohan can avoid hitting the other.

"He's trapped!" Khai exclaims as a look of worry comes onto his face.

"Leader, help me!" Dyspo yells, looking over, only to see the battle raging between Toppo and Raditz, and then, scanning the arena, seeing Goku and Jiren still fighting.

"Well, well, well!" Vegeta says as he holds out his hand, "I'd say the only things you're the fastest at is having the wind taken out of your sails and running your mouth. Let's put an end to that. BIG BANG ATTACK!"

The Big Bang Attack flies forward, hitting Dyspo head on, leaving a huge crater and hurling him into the arena. Vegeta jumps up and begins attacking, firing off a point-blank Lucora Gun, each blast hitting Dyspo, until finally he lands, pressing the assault on, getting Dyspo dangerously close to the edge.

"Dyspo can't even defend himself anymore!" Vermoud says in surprise.

"The speeds he's been moving at have been taking their toll on him," Marcarita says, "And now he's injured."

"I do wonder just how many opponents of this caliber Dyspo is used to fighting, all at the same time," Vados adds.

"I'm not done yet!" Dyspo says, grabbing Vegeta's tail and slinging him into the rocks, speeding up so fast that only a trail is left behind, battering Vegeta as 17 arrives, Dyspo changing his attacks to fight the android while 17 only blocks the attacks.

"You finally realized you'll never match my speed?" Dyspo says as he unleashes more kicks and punches.

"Yoo-hoo!" Vegeta cries out as he emerges again. Dyspo turns and frowns, seeing the Saiyan still standing. These three are impossible!

17 grins, holding his hands out as an energy barrier forms around Dyspo, surprising the Pride Trooper. "You aren't going anywhere," 17 says.

"Ha, and perfect timing, too!" Vegeta yells, his arms out as yellow energy surrounds him, "FINAL FLASH!"

Dyspo's eyes go wide as he looks around, blasting the barrier but with no effect. A hair before the blast hit, 17 drops it, the Final Flash hitting Dyspo head on with enough force to blast him off the stage. A second later, he appears next to Kahseral, clearly shaken.

"How could I lose…?" he wonders.

"They outplayed you," Khai says, "You still fought well."

"Dyspo has fallen," Toppo says to himself as he blocks more attacks from Raditz, Then they will join up on me next, and then when I fall, on Jiren. We must make a stand now! It's only a matter of time until the others join this Saiyan.

Taking a few deep breaths, Gohan watches as 17 and Vegeta regroup with him. "So, what's the plan?" 17 asks, "We have numbers on our side."

"Yeah, but I'm not sure for how much longer," Gohan replies, looking over as he watches Goku and Jiren still battling, "Dad might be fighting Jiren on a level playing right now, but it's only a matter of time until 'push' turns into 'shove'. I don't know how long Dad can last against him. He can't do it alone. Vegeta...I think you and 17 should help Raditz out against Toppo."

"And leave you to fight Jiren with Kakarot?" Vegeta asks, almost in disbelief. Gohan shrugs.

"I can't explain it," Gohan says, "But I thought I knew my own limits. I should have exhausted all my power against those Namekians, against that fusion...and especially against Dyspo just now. But I still have some left. I know the three of you can prevail against Toppo. I'm not sure if any of us can stop Jiren, but I at least have to try."

"Fine," Vegeta says, "But don't expect me to share once we deal with that lumbering oaf."

"I wouldn't dream of it," 17 says. As those two head off, Gohan hears a cough around the corner. Turning, he sees Master Roshi, sitting against a rock, clearly exhausted. Gohan smiles.

"I forgot you were still in this," Gohan says, kneeling next to him, "I can't say I blame you for sitting this one out."

"Believe me, it's not by choice," Roshi says, "I think when I get home, I'm going to give that pig a big kiss on the lips."

"Here," Gohan says, sending a small energy wave to Roshi, who briefly glows, "That should be more than enough power to get you back to 100%."

"It is, I can feel it," Roshi says, "I'm not exactly itching to jump back into this, though."

"I didn't think so," Gohan says, "Look, we might be able to draw this out. As long as we have one more fighter than they do, we win."

"You want me to keep a low profile, eh?" Roshi says.

"I just want to win this and go home to Pan and Videl," Gohan replies.

"I'll do what I can, Gohan. Just make sure we all get to go home," Roshi says. With that, Gohan stands and powers up into his Ultimate Form, rushing off. For a moment he watches Goku and Jiren, the two appearing like unwilling dance partners in an endless high-speed rush of attack-counterattack, back and forth. Jiren's fast, but he's not much faster than Dyspo, Gohan thinks, I should be able to at least avoid his attacks. His strength and endurance, on the other hand is a problem. In a head on fight, he only has to focus on one opponent. Together, me and Dad might be able to drive him back.

Taking a running leap, Gohan jumps in, right next to Goku, beginning his own assault, while a look of annoyance comes across Jiren's face as he begins splitting his attacks. Kami watches for a moment, shaking his head in disbelief.

"I'm seeing this, but I still can't believe it," Kami says, "Has Gohan really been holding himself back all this time?"

"No," Whis said, "Earlier with your battle against the Namekians from the Sixth Universe, there was some speculation how Gohan was able to keep fighting at such a level, in spite of the how it was taxing his body. The Supreme Kais suggested it was due to a combination of his own transformation technique, as well as unconsciously making use of a healing ability he gained during his brief tenure as an apprentice to the Supreme Kai. I believe that such speculation is correct."

"You mean the more Gohan pushes himself, the faster he gets stronger?!" Ranch asks while Whis nods, "Oh man, that is totally unfair!"

"Well, it's pretty nifty now!" Nappa says. As the three continue their battle, Raditz continues taking the fight to Toppo, now having to dodge barrages of energy blasts coming from both 17 and Vegeta. Toppo presses back against Raditz, his aura glowing as he rushes him with multiple kicks and punches. The Saiyan begins blocking with his left arm, dodging while he can, as his right arm begins to glow with bluish energy, finally retaliating with a Tyrant Lancer, blowing Toppo back as Raditz catches his breath.

"What was that?" Ranch asks in surprise while Nappa grins.

"That was a trick your grandpa used to do," the older Saiyan replies. They watch as Vegeta takes over on offense, picking up where Raditz left off with a flurry of kicks and punches against Toppo, now struggling to even defend himself.

"Is this all you've got?!" Vegeta yells as he continues to push forward. Toppo responds by firing off several ki blasts, enough to create a little bit of distance between himself and Vegeta.

"I will never let someone like you defeat me!" Toppo booms, his aura increasing as he begins to fight back against Vegeta, ignoring several blasts courtesy of 17 that land near him.

"We don't have to defeat you," 17 says, rushing in and flanking Toppo with his own attacks

"More interference from the false protector?!" Toppo yells, grabbing 17's arm and pulling it back, while 17 whines in pain, "I have you now!"

In response, the green Android Barrier forms around the two, while 17 looks up to see Vegeta, watching. The android smiles, "Vegeta, go for it!"

"Galick Gun...FIRE!" Vegeta yells, the force of the impact blowing the barrier, along with 17 and Toppo, backwards towards the edge of the fighting stage, 17 dropping the barrier and jumping away while Toppo tries to stop himself, his momentum ending right before he hits the edge.

"Almost," Toppo says, "But not enough."

17 sighs, "Horseshoes and hand grenades…"

"What was that?!" Toppo asks. "Nothing," 17 says, readying himself again. Assuming a pose, Toppo lets out a roar as a white aura surrounds him, charging and continuing his assault, with 17 putting in noticeably more effort to block.

Damn, whatever he did, he's gotten even stronger. He might be faster than Goku, 17 thinks.

Watching, Shin gasps, "That power coming off him...it's almost like…"

"Divine energy," Kami says while Vermoud and Khai smile.

"I suppose such a thing is to be expected," Whis says, "It'd be foolish to think that one wouldn't get as strong as Toppo without some sort of additional guidance."

They have no idea what guidance we gave him, Vermoud thinks to himself.

"That little trick won't stop me!" Vegeta yells, firing off more ki blasts as Toppo deflects them, advancing towards the Prince, who stops and then begins an assault on his own, only for Toppo to overwhelm him and get him into a chicken wing headlock. As he applies pressure, he suddenly releases the hold as Raditz dives down, pressing a much more effective attack, scoring numerous kicks to Toppo's side. With a huge ki blast, Toppo fires off at Raditz, causing the Saiyan to dive out of the way.

As Toppo's defiant battle continues, Goku and Gohan continue to press their own combined assault against Jiren, the powerful Pride Trooper not letting the two connect with any blows, his own attacks barely missing father and son.

"Why?" Jiren asks as he continues to batter them, "Why do the two of you still persist?"

"If you haven't figured that out by now, Jiren," Goku says, "Then there's no point explaining!"

"We're never going to give up!" Gohan says, "Sooner or later you're going to realize that!"

Jiren grunts as he keeps attacking, "A foolish notion."

"This is getting annoying," 17 says as he fires off a massive amount of ki blasts towards Toppo, countering with his own Justice Flash, neither of them relenting. Toppo then jumps up and lands near 17, attacking and forcing the android back.

"You cannot retreat!" Toppo yells, holding his hands out. A huge wave of energy fires out, with 17 desperately countering with his own wave, struggling to keep his footing. Steadying himself, 17 smiled. "I've got you now, grandpa."

17 focuses his energy, as the beams collide at each other. "You're pretty strong, I'll give you that, but that's not going to save you now. I don't have to beat you. I just have to keep you here until the clock runs. My own energy is infinite...what about yours?"

Toppo grunts and lunges, giving it nearly his all. "I….MUST NOT...FAIL!"

For a moment, Toppo's own beam begins to overwhelm 17, with the android getting dangerously close to the edge.

"Do it, Toppo!" Vermoud yells down.

"Now prepare your-ah!" Toppo says, looking behind him to see Vegeta, the Pride Trooper doing what he can to ignore the ki impact on his back. "You lawless coward? Have you no honor?!"

"All's fair in love and war," Vegeta says, firing off several more blasts, the intensity of each growing. "What will it take to knock you down?" The Prince fires off my blasts, Toppo beginning to struggle to stay up. Vegeta follows up with another barrage, Toppo not wavering, but 17's beam getting dangerously close. His own rage building, an aura engulfs Vegeta as he holds his hand out, "BIG BANG ATTACK!", the huge blast hurling towards Toppo, hitting him square on the back. Toppo yells out in pain as 17's beam overtakes him, leveling the surrounding terrain and leaving a scorched, smoking trench. As the smoke clears out, Toppo still stands, but a moment later falls over. Shaking his head in disbelief, Vegeta walks over, but frowns as he sees Toppo stir, standing up, the top of his uniform tattered and torn open so that his entire body from the torso up is revealed.

"You are one tough bastard, I'll give you that much," Vegeta says.

"...Worthless." Toppo says, his voice deeper, "Justice...is worthless now."

Across the arena, the fight between Gohan and Goku against Jiren stops, all three turning their heads.

"That energy spike...what's going on?" Gohan asks while Jiren furrows his brow.

"Toppo has made his decision," Jiren says.

"This power," Shin says, his jaw dropping, "It feels like divine energy!"

"Of course it does," Vermoud says, smiling, "Would you believe that before this business started, I was contemplating retirement? I couldn't let anybody do it, I had to be sure that my successor would hold justice as the true virtue of life. Toppo is being groomed for that mantle, and now he's accepted the power of Destruction."

"He's a Destroyer?!" Ranch asks, "How's that fair?"

"Oh, sure, but Jiren's fine," Nappa says quietly to himself, causing Kami to briefly snicker.

"Fair or not, I've danced with the power of Destruction," Vegeta says, "If you think that kind of power scares me then the joke's on you."

With an amused smirk on his face, Vegeta walks over to Toppo, who glances down at the Prince.

"I no longer fight for justice. That side of me died in that blast," Toppo says as the purple energy of Destruction surrounds him.

"Oh shit," Nappa says while most of the Universe 7 spectators jaw's drop.

"He was serious!" Shin says, his eyes wide.

"Your timing is perfect, Toppo. Let's be sporting about this and give them all a good show," Vermoud says.

Huge bolts of lightning strike the ground near Toppo, the thunder nearly deafening as the great leader of the Pride Trooper bellows loudly, overcoming the thunderclaps as a golden light shines from his body. Vegeta hops away quickly, watching with fascination, his expression lacking any humor it had before from besting Toppo.

"Holy crap," Ranch says, "It's like he's going Super Saiyan 3 or something!"

They continue to watch as the arena quakes from the raw power coming Toppo, his muscles increasing in size as more lightning falls. Finally, a huge column of energy surges upwards through the World of the Void, as the symbols of the Universe 11 God of Destruction appear on Toppo's bare chest, glowing red, the familiar dark purple energy of Destruction surrounding him. Toppo's size had grown as well, the Pride Trooper now taller, his muscles and limbs much more well defined, and his face now a stoic expression. Sarcastically, Vegeta begins to clap.

"Oh wow, like I haven't seen this before," he says, confidently moving forward.

"No! Vegeta, stay back!" Raditz warns, but Vegeta scoffs, ignoring his old rival.

"Or what?" Vegeta says, "This is just a show, nothing more! If he wanted to save his own universe that much, he'd have broken this out much sooner if it were anything."

That idiot! Raditz thinks to himself

"These next moments will determine the fate of our universe," Khai says, watching.

"I hope you're right about this, Vegeta," 17 says, staying on guard.

"Your arrogant friend down there doesn't realize that he's dealing with a Destroyer," Vermoud says, "He's about to pay the price for his arrogance."

"'Price'? Don't make me laugh, clown!" Vegeta yells, "Do you expect me, Vegeta, the Prince of All Saiyans, to kneel and grovel?"

In response, Toppo holds his hands out.

"Oh dear, here it comes," Vegeta says, grinning, "This isn't the first time I've dealt with this."

"Hakai."

Out of Toppo's arm an orb of the Energy of Destruction forms, flying out towards Vegeta. The Prince holds out his hand, holding the energy steady, smiling, but Vegeta's smile fades as the orb continues moving forward, forcing him to resort to both hands.

"This will not stop me!" Vegeta yells, beginning to struggle, grunting as he strains against, "I...will...not...lose! I...am...the...Prince!"

Vegeta yells as the blast sends him flying back, and a massive surge of destructive energy soards through the arena as the energy erupts, spiking through fissures and producing winds exceeding hurricane face. The stunned onlookers watch, shocked, protected by a barrier produced by the angel attendants. As the blast subsides, they see that nearly a quarter of the arena has been destroyed, with chunks of rocks left floating, the sky transforming in color from the sheer power Toppo put out.

"You there, it is useless to hide," Toppo says.

"So much for my ambush," 17 replies, hiding behind a wall of rock, "I guess that doesn't make me just."

"Justice and evil are behind me now," Toppo says, "There is only being and not being."

"Huh, no shit," 17 says.

"What?" Toppo asks.

"Oh, don't mind me, just thinking out loud," 17 says, revealing himself. Toppo responds by firing off a Justice Flash down at 17, who uses his barrier to protect himself. His eyes go wide as cracks begin to appear in it, the ranger quickly dashing to higher ground.

This guy's impressive. Even his normal blasts are stronger now, 17 thinks as he fires off even more blasts at Toppo with no effect at all. Toppo rushes forward and attacks, knocking 17 through several upturned crags.

"Why isn't that working?" 18 asks.

"It's Hakai," Beerus says, "The Energy of Destruction. It's protecting him like a suit of armor."

"So, this is the unhinged power of a Destroyer…" Kami says.

"Well, that's just great," 17 says, "I suppose this is what I get for using my barrier. Now I can't do anything to you."

At that, 17 begins leaping through the wrecked stage, firing off more and more blasts, followed by a massive Photon Flash, which doesn't even phase Toppo.

"This will not save you!" Toppo yells, holding his arm out again, "Hakai!"

Another wave of destructive energy flies out. Beerus stands, looking down and yells, "17, get out of there! More Destruction is on the way!"

They watch as 17 leaps out of the way as a massive sphere obliterates a large rock in front of him.

"It's coming this way!" 18 says, but Beerus holds his hand up.

"Calm down, mortals," Beerus says as the sphere passes above them. He signs, "The good news after observing him, he hasn't fully mastered this power. Toppo has to charge up his attacks."

"So they can attack him when he's doing that?" Nappa asks, but Kami responds.

"No," Kami says, "That energy is still surrounding him. Even if they could attack, they'd only end up like that rock."

Hearing that, Khai and Vermoud exchange a glance, smiling at what appears to be an assured victory. Dashing from rock to rock, 17 does what he can to avoid Toppo, now firing off another Justice Flash.

"There is nowhere to run. It is time to end this!" Toppo yells, charging up another blast, only for a smaller ki blast to break his concentration. "I see. Vegeta. You survived."

Standing and clutching his right arm, now in his base form, Vegeta breathes heavily, "Did you really think you could beat me so easily?"

"You can barely stand. What makes you think you can win?" Toppo asks.

Vegeta sneers at him, "You're not the only one that can destroy worlds!" Vegeta pulls his hands back, "Galick Gun FIRE!"

The Galick Gun flies out, but Toppo merely flicks a small amount of destructive energy in its path, stopping the beam. Vegeta gasps as Toppo flies forward, hitting Vegeta head on and driving him back through several rocks. Toppo then picks him up head first, and squeezes.

"Look how easy it would be for me to end your pathetic life," Toppo says, "But I would get disqualified."

Vegeta grunts in pain as Toppo picks him up and throws him, clearly heading out of the arena, but then a large rock hits him, knocking Vegeta back to the stage. He turns and sees Raditz, staring him down.

"I'm sorry, Vegeta, I didn't mean to throw it that hard," Raditz says, keeping his eyes on Toppo.

"So, you've returned," Toppo says, "I have to give you credit for your resolve, Raditz. But there is no chance of victory."

"Funny," Raditz says, "As long as I can still fight, I always have a chance."

"I'm sorry," Toppo says, "If you refuse to submit, you leave me no choice."

Raditz lets out a yell, the energy around him growing and shining in a bright blue light, until finally it completely subsides, leaving Raditz standing, looking calmer and slightly more muscular, a focused look on his face, and no aura.

"Oh?" Whis says, intrigued.

"What is it?" Nappa asks, but Whis smiles.

"Raditz has somehow achieved a power beyond Super Saiyan Blue," Whis says.

"Are you sure about that? Dad looks the same to me," Ranch asks, but Kami speaks up.

"No, Whis is right," Kami says, "I've seen this before. When your uncle and cousin entered the Room of Spirit and Time against Cell. They made Super Saiyan their natural state. Look, your father doesn't even have an aura anymore, but the small leaks of divine ki coming from reek with intense power."

"Do what you must, Toppo, but I'm not breaking my promise to Cabba for anybody!" Raditz yells, firing of a huge Weekend that intercepts another Hakai blast, the two engage in combat with Toppo firing off blast after blast, Raditz easily dodging them as he retreats, jumping across rocks but not relenting as he returns more blasts, slowly getting closer to Toppo, and then finally engaging him hand to hand, the onlookers surprised that the destructive barrier surrounding Toppo is unable to hold Raditz back, the force of each blow filling the Null Realm with thunderclaps, until finally Raditz transitions into a Dynamite Monday, the impacts knocking Toppo back.

"How can he get through that?" Khai asks aloud, "Toppo should be invincible!"

"Enough!" Toppo bellows, holding his ground as he extends his arms, "It is time to end this little game!"

Raditz smiles as he holds his own arms out as well, with purple energy surrounding them. He fires off a huge God Weekend at Toppo, which is countered by the largest Hakai yet, but the two converge, the beam holding the sphere in place, until finally it pushes through, causing a huge explosion as Toppo jumps out of the way, slowly standing.

"I will not lose!" Raditz yells as he zeroes in, pummeling Toppo back against a rock, the blue in hair slowly turning into a darker shade, until finally yells out with a primal scream as blue light erupts from him, his hair and eyes now royal blue.

"Another transformation?! So soon?!" Vermoud asks in shock, looking over to Whis and Beerus, "And just what the hell do you call this?!"

"It's an evolution," Whis says, "Raditz keeps pushing himself more and more, and his energy is adapting at an incredible pace to its new environment. This form might even exceed Goku when he includes his Kaioken technique. How incredible!"

"Don't let up, Raditz! Eliminate him!" Beerus encourages.

Toppo tries to block but it's of no use, all he can do is fire off another Justice Flash, with Raditz able to easily deflect the attacks, until finally Toppo stops, breathing heavily.

"It's over!" Raditz yells as he holds his arm out, now glowing with a very familiar looking dark purple energy.

"What?!" Beerus asks, "How did he…"

"Mortals can't use that technique! They just can't!" Vermoud shouts in disbelief. Below, Raditz grins at Toppo.

"You aren't the only one in this Tournament that knows about the power of Destruction! HAKAI!"

With that, Raditz fires the blast at the ground below Toppo, which slowly begins to crack as the fissures below it erupt with destructive energy, causing the ground to crumble as Toppo tries to jump out of the way, but it's no use, as the leader of the Pride Troopers falls into the abyss below, appearing a split second later in the stands next to Dyspo, his uniform repaired to it's pre-battle status, his normal reform returned.

In surprise, the Grand Minister shakes his head but speaks nonetheless, "Toppo from the Eleventh Universe has been eliminated. Only Jiren remains from the Eleventh."

"How could I fail?" Toppo asks in disbelief while Dyspo pats him on the back, "I forsook everything, and it still wasn't enough."

"Whis, I'm feeling pretty hopeful!" Beerus says, looking down as Jiren, Goku and Gohan stop fighting.

"It's in your hands now, Jiren!" Vermoud yells down, while Jiren only nods, not taking his eyes off his opponents.

"Perhaps those feelings might be premature, my Lord," Whis says, motioning towards Raditz, who's now back in his base form, breathing heavily, "It seems the energy required for that Hakai took its toll and then some."

"Do it, Jiren!" Toppo yells down, but Jiren only gives an angry look into the stands.

"Be silent, Toppo," Jiren says.

"That's a hell of a way to treat your friend," Gohan says.

"He is not my friend," Jiren says.

"Jiren…?" Toppo asks, shocked.

"You threw everything away in the name of power, including justice!" Jiren says, "Who gives a damn about you? I'll handle this the way I want to: alone."

"Jeez, what's his problem?" Ranch asks.

"You want to know why, girl?" Vermoud says, frowning as the members of the Seventh Universe lean in to listen, "Well, learn while you can about Jiren the Gray. When Jiren was but a child, he returned home, his family and friends were slaughtered. Jiren was taken in by Gicchin, an old friend of mine. He valued justice more than any of us. Jiren's power grew, and together with his master, they recruited a force to bring justice to the murderer of his parents. But their enemy wasn't anyone like you or your friends. He was a terrible demon. Gicchin and most of Jiren's companions were slaughtered. Jiren tried to rally the others, but it was no use. They didn't have Jiren's resolve, and left him alone. It was then that Jiren realized that the true path to justice was through absolute strength, and he swore that as long as he breathed, it would never happen again. Was Gicchin and Jiren's family avenged? Oh yes, but because the monster was a demon, their souls would never find peace. Even before then, Gicchin knew that there was one key lesson that Jiren hadn't learned, in spite of his strength."

"What's that?" 18 asks.

"...Teamwork," Vermoud says, "That's why Jiren joined the Pride Troopers, in the hopes that one day he would learn to work with others. That Jiren would finally realize the importance of trust...just as all of you have."

"And because his teacher can't find peace...that's why Jiren wants the Super Dragon Balls?" Nappa asks, and solemnly, Vermoud nods.

"I had no idea," Dyspo says softly, looking at Toppo, "Boss, did you know about this?"

"...No." Toppo says quietly.

"That's enough, Vermoud," Jiren says.

"And here I thought you were just some kind of killing machine without a soul," 17 says, "All you want is to see your friends and family once more. You're pretty human after all."

"Be silent," Jiren says.

"And tell us," Vermoud calls down to 17, "If you somehow prevailed against this man before you, what would you wish for, mortal?"

"I'm a pretty happy guy in general," 17 says, "So I guess it'd be something simple. My wife's been nagging me for a vacation. I think a nice little cruise would do nicely."

"You would waste the Super Dragon Balls on leisure? You've got to be joking," Vermoud says.

"Am I laughing, clown?" 17 says while Jiren stares at him. The gray behemoth of the Eleventh Universe turns as he hears laughing, and turns to see Raditz in the distance. "Is something funny, Saiyan?"

"Yes, actually," Raditz says, moving towards Jiren. Jiren looks at Goku and Gohan, "We will resume this later."

Gohan and Goku look at one another, shocked.

"I...think we should listen to him, Dad," Gohan says, Say what you want about his strength, at least Jiren is being a sportsman about this, he thought.

"Maybe. I wonder what your uncle has up his sleeve," Goku says.

"All this strength and power, and your story isn't as good as mine," Raditz says, "So you lost your parents and a few friends. What has all your power gotten you? Strength? That's a bad bargain, Jiren."

"What would you know about it?" Jiren asks.

"Not much and I really don't care," Raditz says, "Neither do you, for that matter. Look at your team watching you. They were all drawn together and united behind your strength, and you show disdain for Toppo. My parents and nearly my entire race was wiped out, and did I turn into an obsessed stoic prick with nothing to show for it? No! I'm fighting for the greatest woman in existence, for two boys that want to be like Daddy, and for a daughter I don't think anybody else could be prouder for! You fight for a pat on the back!"

Jiren's eyes narrow as he focuses on Raditz, who lets out a yell and regains his evolved form, holding his hands out for a God Weekend, his hands surrounded by a huge purple aura, electricity crackling around him.

"Jiren! After everything you've said and done, are you afraid to be hit by this?!" Raditz yells out.

"Come!" Jiren says, ready for the blast.

"Give it to him, Dad!" Ranch yells.

"End this!" Kami encourages.

Raditz lets out a yell as the arena shakes upon impacting Jiren, the eyes of the spectators wide in awe of the sheer power Raditz is letting out.

"Ha! A direct hit!" Nappa yells.

"...Jiren…" Toppo whispers softly, the Pride Troopers watching with concern.

As the tremendous impact from the blast subsides, Raditz looks ahead at a smoking crater, and smiles, seeing Jiren down on the ground, the members of Team Universe 7 cheering at the victory.

"Kakarot, this shouldn't be too diff-" Raditz says, but then grunts in pain as he looks down to see a clenched fist in his stomach, surrounded by a white glove. He looks up, looking Jiren right in the eyes, the gray Pride Trooper showing almost a hint of respect.

"That wasn't half-bad, Saiyan," Jiren says as he pulls his hand back, the orange globe already formed signifying an incoming Power Impact. Raditz yells in pain as the orb erupts, sending the Saiyan flying back in agony.

"Now!" Vegeta yells as he and 17 begin to attack Jiren, Vegeta powering up into Super Saiyan 4, the pair dodging more than attacking. Looking next to his son, Goku asks, "Ready, Gohan?"

Gohan nods, activating his Ultimate Form, "Let's end this and go home, Dad."

Goku smiles and goes Super Saiyan Blue, father and son launching themselves into the intense melee, the fury of the assault forcing the gray beast back, but Jiren counters with huge energy beams, causing the four warriors to scatter, with Vegeta being blown back by a fierce punch, the Prince quickly regaining his composure and jumping back into the melee.

"Jiren's speed is incredible!" Shin says, "How can he keep up with four opponents of this caliber so easily?"

Finally, a red aura surrounds Jiren as he bellows in rage, the blast forcing his four attackers back and seeking what cover they can.

"There's no way to get through him!" Gohan says, taking a deep breath.

"He's amazing," Goku says, smiling, "I'm not sure if we can pull this off, Gohan, but you gotta admit, it's a lot of fun."

Gohan chuckles, "Yeah, I guess it is, Dad."

As they prepare themselves again, they stop in shock at the sight before them: Master Roshi, stepping out in front of them and approaching Jiren.

"Master...what are you doing?" Goku asks.

"Has that old man finally lost his mind?" Beerus asks in shock.

"No," Kami says, "Although I have no idea what he's about to do."

Jiren looks down at Roshi, his face somewhat confused.

"Goku," Master Roshi says, "I swear, you are both my greatest and worst student! If there were two lessons you were to learn, it's that there's always someone better, and our own creed: Move well, learn well, play well, eat well and rest well! That's the Turtle School Way! You showed me that this old man still has a future, and that age has nothing to do with limits! You taught me that by always pushing yourself. Now, watch and learn, Goku!"

In that instant, Roshi jumps in and begins attacking Jiren, but to everyone's shock, Jiren's attack actually misses Master Roshi, the observers watching in stunned silence as Roshi dodges with an incredibly unnatural ease.

"The way he's moving…" Beerus says, then he shakes his head in disbelief, "Whis, you don't actually think that he's figured out how to use…?"

"No," Whis says, "That is not Ultra Instinct. I believe Roshi understands the concept quite clearly, though. Jiren's blows, while fast, are intentionally being held back. He's well aware of what would happen if he hit Roshi with the same force as his attacks on the others."

That's not the important thing, Kami thinks, Roshi knows that Goku learns easily by observation. Ultra Instinct isn't a transformation reliant on power...it's a transcendent state of mind.

"Is that part of his plan?" Shin asks, "Would he trade his own life to save his own universe?"

Jiren continues to swing, his face one of annoyance as each attack barely misses, while he begins his own assault, nothing flashy and nothing damaging.

"Do you understand now, my student?!" Roshi says as he avoids more attacks, but as he continues, his speed drops, until finally he takes a right punch from Jiren, putting him into one knee, while Jiren follows up with an uppercut, knocking Roshi off the stage and into the stands.

"A true display of valor," the Grand Minister says, "However, Roshi of the Seventh Universe has been eliminated."

Undaunted, Roshi stands up and yells down, "You see, Goku? You can do it! You carry the spirit of the Turtle School within! Make your master proud!"

"Brave, but foolish," Jiren says, turning to Goku, who's now powered up to Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken.

"Alright, Jiren, this time no messing around!" Goku yells as he launches into his own attack, blowing past the other remaining warriors, with Gohan and 17 joining in, the three continuing to push Jiren back as he fires off several blasts, scattering Gohan and 17 while Goku continues, his speed even greater than before. As they battle around the arena, Vegeta joins in, the four managing to make a level playing field against Jiren, with Goku providing most of the offense, the others taking advantage of the distraction.

Finally, Jiren manages to push Gohan back, focusing on Goku as he pushes Goku back towards where Raditz made his stand.

"He won't budge at all," 17 says, frowning as he dodges more attacks.

"Remember what we discussed?" Vegeta asks, grunting as he dodges.

"I'm ready when you are, Vegeta," 17 replies.

Vegeta dodges a bit more and yells out as he increases his attacks, "Now!"

In that instant, a barrier formed over the three of them, with three smaller ones surrounding Raditz, Goku and Gohan.

"What the…?" Gohan says in surprise, "What are you two doing?!"

"The only thing we can do to stop him," 17 says, "I want you guys to know I'm saying good-bye to that vacation."

"17, what do you mean?!" 18 calls down.

"Someone's got to protect those animals," 17 replies, "But do me a favor, sis: Look out for my wife and family."

"What's he doing?!" Ranch asks.

"Years ago, Dr. Gero put bombs in them," Kami replies, "I think 17 means to detonate it to force Jiren out. As for Vegeta…"

Vegeta's already once shown his raw destructive power. Is this his intention as well?

"...Tell Maron, and Trunks...and Bulla that I love them very much," Vegeta says as he begins to channel his energy, the blast contained to the barrier 17 had put up while everyone pleads with the two not to follow through.

I see, Kami thinks, I remember this technique.

"Tell me, Kami: You've been to the other side. Will I see Kakarot there?"

I only hope that the other side will still be there for you, Vegeta.

The blast grows in intensity, the power managing to create cracks in the Android Barrier, until finally there's a massive, blinding explosion. As the dust and smoke clears out, Vegeta and 17 are nowhere to be found, while Jiren stands, slowly, the back of his uniform now torn.

"Your friends gave their lives in this battle," Jiren says, "Bloodshed could have been avoided. This does not please me."

"Now wait a minute, both of them died? Isn't that some kind of foul?!" Beerus yells out.

Vermoud scoffs, "Did you really forget the rules, Universe 7? If a warrior's own technique causes their death…"

"I'm afraid he's right," Whis says, "It appears these three are your last hopes."

"'Your'?!" Beerus asks, but then remembers, "Oh, right."

Goku and Gohan stand in awe of Jiren, while a weak voice calls out.

"And what would please you, Jiren?" Raditz says, standing up, his battle vest having been destroyed. He fires off several weak blasts that Jiren lets hit him. Getting close, Raditz leaps into an attack pattern, but is quickly put down by Jiren.

"You should just exit the ring," Jiren says.

"You shut up!" Raditz says, attacking once again. Jiren catches a punch and counters hard, with Raditz falling into one of the crevices now scarring the arena.

I'm going to win this damn thing and wish all of you back, Raditz thinks, remember his words to Cabba, But that's not an excuse to get sloppy, understood?

Raditz pulls himself back up. "I swear on the lives and souls of my family, my universe is going to prevail. There's still fight in me, Jiren. Never sell a Saiyan short!"

Raditz attacks again and is easily countered once more.

"Dad, no!" Ranch cries down as Raditz pulls himself up once more.

"If I wanted a kiss I'd call you mother…" Raditz says as he attacks, and like before, Jiren easily counters, this time drawing out his attacks and in an almost cruel fashion, keeps Raditz on his feet.

"Don't you understand? You have no chance against me," Jiren says.

"No, not yet," Raditz says, holding his hand out, "Keep your eye on the birdy!"

Raditz begins charging up a Shining Friday which Jiren easily deflects, and lands another punch across Raditz's face in return.

"That was a good one…" Raditz says as he hits the ground.

Dear, get up. We're going to that amusement park with your brother and Vegeta.

Damnit, let me sleep a little more. Kakarot can use his Instant…

Somehow, against all odds, Raditz rises again, his face bruised, "Alright, I'll fight all eight of you."

"He's delirious," Kami says in a concerned tone.

Raditz attempts a rush, his blows being futilely dodged by Jiren, who finally catches him.

"I will at least acknowledge your great love for your family," Jiren says, blasting Raditz into the air. He lands, somehow his right leg draped around the edge of a floating rock formation.

"Kakarot…" Raditz says weakly as he raises his hand, a yellow sphere of energy firing down towards his brother, "Take this bastard out...for all of us."

Goku nods, "Thanks, Raditz. I will."

At that moment, Raditz fell, falling down into the nothingness of the Null Realm, only to appear in the stands a second later, his clothing repaired, his body showing no sign of injury.

"Huh, we should have all our battles here…" Raditz says, "Don't forget what I said, Kakarot!"

"It all comes down to Goku and Gohan," Kami says, Neither of them knows how to give up. Gohan...to be fighting a warrior like Jiren...

Goku turned towards Gohan and smiled, "Boy, I sure can pick 'em, can't I? What's it called when you're too full of yourself?"

"Hubris, Dad," Gohan says, "And sometimes you do give Vegeta a run in that department."

Goku nods, then frowns, "Vegeta…"

"Yeah…" Gohan sadly says, "Look, let's just make sure his sacrifice wasn't in vain. Jiren's too strong and too fast for us to keep fighting him head on. I think there's only one way we can win, Dad: Raw brute force. Ki."

"I think you're right, Gohan," Goku says, "It hasn't failed us before."

Together, father and son walked out and stood in front of Jiren, Goku powering up to Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken and Gohan into his Ultimate Form. In pure defiance, Jiren stares at both of them as their energy spikes. The two pull their hands back, the blue ki being generated illuminating the battle field, while Zeno watches gleefully, fidgeting in anticipation at what's coming next.

"Ka...
Me...

Ha….

Me…."

The eyes of the onlookers from both remaining teams go wide. The Grand Minister shoots a look over to the Angels, who all nod once.

"Everyone, this may get a bit bumpy," Whis says.

This is it, Master Roshi thinks, the pinnacle of the Turtle School! Goku, you honor everyone that has donned that uniform. Do it for all of them! Show your old master just how you'll use the Kamehameha Wave to put out this fire!

"HAAAAAAAA!" Goku and Gohan scream, as two enormous Kamehameha's streak towards Jiren, holding his arms out in front of him to block the attack. The onlookers only watch terrified at the pure energy being unleashed, while winds well beyond that of the strongest hurricane whip by. To them, the blasts seemed like an eternity, but by the time Son Goku and Son Gohan relented, less than ten seconds had passed.

"Ho...ly….shit," Ranch says in shock. Raditz only nods his head in agreement, not even bothering to turn his head.

"Did they get him?" Nappa asks. Beerus looks to his left and furrows his brow and sees the empty spot next to Toppo.

"No," Beerus replies. That is, unless…

Before Goku and Gohan was now a huge trench, with chunks missing in some areas from the sheer intensity of the blast. However, before the full extent of the Kamehameha's damage could be known, Jiren rushes forward, charging towards Goku.

"Dad, look out!" Gohan yells, pushing his father out of the way and barely avoiding Jiren's attack.

"Are you okay, Gohan?" Goku asks and Gohan rises, the anger on his face quite apparent.

"So, that's how you want to play?" Gohan says stepping forward as he lets out a yell, his hair turning golden and rigid as electricity crackles around him.

"Super Saiyan 2?" Ranch asks, "I thought that form he was using utilized his full potential? That he wouldn't need to go Super Saiyan ever again?"

"Key, Kami…" Nappa whispers, "Is it just me, or there is something familiar about this?"

"Yes, Nappa," Kami says. It was only through his anger that Gohan was able to best Cell all those years ago. Is that the key to this fight as well? Gohan...you were only a child then.

Ranch gasps, "Of course!" Give up now, and I'll grant you a quick death, as painless as possible. Resist...well, you'll make me angry. And trust me, you wouldn't like me when I'm angry.

Ha ha, the Incredible Gohan! Let's kick his butt!

"They certainly seem excited now," Shin says, "But we're nearly done for."

"Whis, what's so special about Gohan getting angry?" Beerus asks.

Raditz turns around and smiles, "Lord Beerus, if we're right about what we think is going to happen...you're in for a show."

"That's oddly inspiring," Beerus says. We had another ace up our sleeve, and we didn't even know it.

The energy around Gohan spikes as he breathes heavily, shouting, "If the price of our survival is seven other universes, then so be it! And if wanting to live is unjust, then come and face me, Jiren!" Gohan screams in rage as a golden column erupts, his voice echoing through the Null Realm, the energy subsiding and Gohan stands, his body glowing blue with a golden aura around it, his hair spikier, his eyes showing no trace of pupils or irises. He charges Jiren, and begins driving the Pride Trooper back, dodging Jiren's blows, and to the surprise of everyone, driving a punch in Jiren's torso, Jiren clearly surprised at the sudden pain.

"Whoa!" Raditz says, his eyes wide as he grins.

"He connected!" Ranch says happily.

"I'LL END THIS ONCE AND FOR ALL!" Gohan yells, continuing the assault, pushing Jiren backwards in an amazing hurricane of kicks and punches, forcing Jiren down to a knee, bracing himself from the impacts.

Kami focused in, watching the assault, his attention turning to Jiren. The Namekian's eyes go wide, "Oh no."

Raditz's smile fades as he turns to Kami, "What?"

"It's Gohan, he's in grave danger," Kami says, "Remember when your brother fought Lord Beerus? And respectfully, sir, just what is the stamina of a Destroyer?"

Beerus perks up, "I'm not answering that, Namekian, however...your theory is correct."

"What does he mean?" 18 asks, the question being answered in the form of a huge eruption of red-orange energy. As it subsides, Jiren stands, no longer blocking, a faint red aura around. He grunts as he charges at Gohan, who in his enraged state is unable to put up any kind of a meaningful defense, reverting back to normal.

"Gohan!" Goku yells as he watches his son being thrown, landing close to him. Goku grabs him and drags him away. Gohan smiles as he sits up, banging the back of his head on the rock.

"I underestimated him, Dad," Gohan says, "He's too strong and too fast. If I trained for ten years solid and he stayed like this...maybe."

Gohan moves closer to Goku, putting his hand out, "Here, Dad. Take whatever you can from me. I can't explain how, but I know you can beat him."

An aura formed around Gohan's hand, and a ball of energy shot out, dispersing across Goku's body. He moves his head down in surprise.

Just how much energy did Gohan have left?! Goku thinks, looking at his son, chuckling. "I was just thinking, Gohan. This time, you're the one trusting me to beat a superior foe. I'm not sure if you're right, but I'm going to do my best to find out if you are! Just do me one favor."

"What's that, Dad?"

"Just...don't give him a Senzu Bean," Goku says. Gohan gives a small laugh, and nods.

"Sure," he says, standing up. "Jiren!" he yells, holding his hand up as he walks away from cover, walking towards the edge. Jiren only glares at him. "You win," Gohan says, looking down into the abyss. He then turns his head back to Jiren, "My Dad's going to kick your ass," he adds jumping off, appearing in the stands an instant later. He looks at his body and shrugs.

"You did well out there, kid," Beerus says, "You're lucky you won't find out if you're wrong, though."

"You were awesome out there!" Ranch says, giving her cousin a hug.

"Thanks Ranch," Gohan says, "You were, too."

"By his own hand, Son Gohan of the Seventh Universe has been eliminated," the Grand Minister says.

"Excuse me," Beerus calls out, "What happens if there's a draw?"

Vermoud's head turned in interest.

"Well, in that event," the Grand Minister replies, "Then there would be no winner."

"No win-hey, Goku!" Beerus yells, "Did you hear that? You better beat him!"

Goku steps out, smiling, "This is the last time, Jiren."

"I'm ready," Jiren responds. Goku powers up to Super Saiyan Blue and charges forwards, with Jiren doing likewise, but as Jiren lunges with a punch, Goku ever so slightly dodges, springing upwards and delivering a jump kick, hitting Jiren in the shoulder. The two titans of their universes continue to exchange blows, but it becomes apparent in their brief melee that Jiren still holds the upper hand, countering Goku's attacks and knocking him back, the Saiyan reverting to his normal form.

"Not even with Gohan's energy can Kakarot break through Jiren's defenses," Raditz says. What are we missing? There has to be some way to stop him.

"Is this all you can do, Goku?" Jiren asks, glaring at Goku as he slowly pulls himself up, breathing heavily.

All of them are counting on me, Goku thinks, Vegeta and 17 gave their lives and trusted me to finish this, to keep their families safe. I'm not letting them or anyone else down!

Goku charges forward once more, but doesn't power up, only to be relentlessly battered and pushed back by as the gods comment on how outmatched the Saiyan is. Finally, on the edge, Jiren draws his right arm back as a red glow encompasses it.

"It's over," Jiren says as he follows through, but to the surprise of everyone, he only hits air, his face turning to one of brief surprise as he turns around, Goku suddenly behind him, his body exhibiting a small silver glow. Jiren attacks again, but to his own frustration Goku easily dodges, and counters with a punch into Jiren's gut that sends the gray warrior back and onto one knee.

"What?" Vermoud shouts as Goku jumps at Jiren, delivering an attack on his own, knocking him back. Goku then stops as Jiren picks himself up, glaring at Goku until the two finally charge each other, and everyone can only watch in stunned amazement as the entire arena shakes and explodes from the ferocious battle erupting beneath them, the two remaining warriors moving at incredible speeds, mortals and deities alike shocked at just how this pair was able to achieve so much in so little time, all while Zeno cheers and claps with the excitement and wonder of a small child. Whis focuses on Goku through all of this, nodding, until finally a small smile forms across his face.

"Can you sense that, Lord Vermoud?" Toppo asks.

"What's he talking about?" Nappa whispers to Whis.

"I believe we have a new reason to hope," Whis says, "Goku has finally understood the lessons presented to him. At this moment, everything - his family, his friends, his enemies, his world, his universe, his love, his fear, his hate, even himself, none of it exists. Goku's reality is now only Jiren and the fight, all the rest burned away by his own energy, now flowing unrelented. It's only a matter of time before he gains total understanding of this new state."

"All this power," Toppo says, "How is this even possible?!"

"Jiren!" Vermoud yells, "You have to do something fast! Stop Son Goku and end this!"

Jiren responds by powering up once more and driving another assault, using his own power to generate shock waves, pinning Goku in one location as cracks slowly form below it.

"He has to do something!" Ranch says.

"He can't," Raditz says.

"Dad's too busy defending that he has no way to retreat," Gohan says.

"All of you, shut up and watch," Beerus says, as the battle rages on. Khai smiles approvingly at the fight.

"Perfect," Khai says, "Goku's abilities are impressive, even enviable, but even now all he can do is try to stop Jiren's main attack. Eventually, either that rock will crack or Goku's energy will run out. And then, well…"

Toppo focuses on the battle more, "What are those sparks?"

Everyone looks in closer, and Gohan smiles, "I see. Dad's creating his own counter attack. Look, you can see them almost forming a sphere around him!"

Slowly, the sparks expand until finally a huge shockwave breaks out, knocking Jiren back while Goku roars as a column of silver-blue light erupts as Jiren lands on the central platform, observing as Goku's power continues to expand.

"Well done," Jiren says, "You've managed to channel all this incredible energy to overcome my own, Goku." At that, Jiren smiles, "I guess I have no choice but to match you!"

Jiren yells as a red aura erupts from him, the sphere of a Power Impact forming in his head, the entire arena shaking as Jiren fires an enormous Power Impact down towards Goku. "IT'S OVER!" the warrior yells, but to everyone's shock, everything ceases into pure calmness in the arena below. Pizzled, Jiren turns around once more, as Goku stands, his hand up, the Power Impact hovering above it. Goku closes his fist and it disappears. The Saiyan's body is covered in a brilliant silver-blue aura. Jiren growls and attacks again, only to be hit numerous times in nearly all parts of his body. Once more these attacks continue, each time resulting in Jiren being thrashed, while Goku seemingly stands still, his eyes now silver, his hair white, his face one of a calm seriousness.

"Wow! Goku's even more amazing! He's super duper amazing!" Zeno yells.

"Indeed," the Grand Minister says, "Son Goku has arrived at something truly incredible."

All the gods watching rise and observe in amazement as Jiren charges only for Goku to easily knock him back once more.

"Whis?" Beerus asks.

"Goku's done it, hasn't he?"

A genuine and satisfied smile forms on Whis' face.

"Yes."

Beerus grins, "What an amazing guy! That glow...that aura. That is indeed the true and complete power of Autonomous Ultra Instinct!"

Jiren pulls himself up and Goku finally speaks, "The real battle starts now."

"So it would seem," Jiren replies, the two staring at each other. Jiren can't even react as Goku dies down and attacking, his blows cutting across Jiren's face, the gray warrior sneering as he looks at the blood, charging forward and attack with all he has, only this time Goku is the one with the advantage, countering every attack, even obliterating Power Impacts with seemingly little effort as the two continue moving through, Jiren doing all he can to try to fight back, but Goku's speed and focus clearly proves to be too much of an obstacle. Finally, Jiren dives down and charges, only to take a powerful blow to his stomach, knocking him back through several rocks. A red column of energy erupts and Jiren stands, breathing heavily, Goku still ahead of him. Angrily, Jiren glares at his opponent.

"This is not possible!" he yells, "I cannot lose, and I will not accept defeat! If I fail, all my efforts, everything I have struggled for, will be pointless, just like before! And I will not go through that again!"

Jiren's energy spikes as he screams, the top of his uniform splitting to reveal his incredible toned body, the power being putt out engulfing areas of the arena, turning the site for the spectators below to one of a hellish landscape, the two standing off once more, as Jiren charges, the two final champions of their universes exchanging blows at lightning speed, finally matching one another and performing incredible, mind boggling feats, all within seconds, leaving the onlookers amazed at the scene unfolding. Finally, Jiren blasts a huge Power Impact at Goku, with the Saiyan responding when his own Super Kamehameha, both struggling and putting everything they have into their own blasts, neither one yielding, but slowly the Power Impact overtakes Goku, creating a huge crate in the remnants of the ring. For a brief second, only Jiren stands, but the battle resumes as Goku leaps out, the ferocity picking back up, with Goku slowly losing ground once more, the two grabbling, pushing back and forth.

"You're still going even after all that," Jiren says, "You're even tougher than I thought."

The two break off and exchange blows once more, a barrage of ki blasts from Goku being dodged by Jiren, responding with his own Power Impact, hitting head on and causing Goku to yell in pain as he's knocked down, his aura gone, but once more he stands, shocking Jiren.

"This can't be!" Jiren says, "You can't have anything left! How is this possible?! Answer me, Goku!"

"Because Vegeta and 17," Goku says, "And all the others gave everything they had so I can keep going. If I quit now, then I betray that trust, and I refuse to let all of them down!"

"How foolish! I'll show you what your ideals mean in the face of my power!" Jiren yells as he charges, but Goku powers up and matches him, even beginning to exceed Jiren's speed.

"I'll show you just what my ideals mean, Jiren!" Goku says as he overtakes Jiren.

"He's even faster than before!" Khai says.

"That can't be, how is Goku doing this?!" Vermoud yells.

"That should be obvious," Kami says, "He's not fighting for himself. He's fighting for every single one of us. That's the difference between him and Jiren."

The Pride Troopers turn to listen with interest, while Roshi speaks.

"Kami is right. Behind every one of Goku's strikes is a community of people that have grown up with him. Strengthening him through every challenge he's faced. Enemies and rivals became friends, and joined him in his own quest to be the best fighter he can. Goku knows that if it weren't for them, he'd never have gotten this far on his own!"

"All of us are who we are because of Kakarot," Nappa says, "He showed me mercy and saved my life. Thanks to him...I have a life that was denied to me. I've achieved things I never thought possible. His tenacity earned our respect as warriors, and his drive pushed all of us to new heights."

"I was destined to be a soulless killing machine," 18 begins, "But Goku changed all of that. He showed compassion towards those would murder him, and now look at me: I have a wonderdful daughter and the greatest husband."

"My uncle doesn't know how to give up," Ranch says, "Not even illness and death stops him. We're not the only ones who believe in him. Across time and space, Goku is the one we believe in the most."

"He saw inside me the true warrior that I could be," Gohan says, "And he placed all of our trust in my hands. It's a heavy burden to carry, and I wonder just how Dad can do it. But then I get home and I see Videl and Pan, and I remember - you don't choose to carry this burden. You carry it whether you want to or not."

"Good thing for us my brother carries it without second thought," Raditz says, "My little brother...a weakling infant, not even worthy to be called a 'Low-class warrior', now stands as the pinnacle of Saiyan evolution. All because we believe in him. I've faced many of the same trials as Kakarot, and he knows better than I just what's at stake - and I'm the smart one, remember? It doesn't matter who Kakarot fights: I'll bet everything in existence on his victory every single time. And so would many others that don't even know Kakarot but for a few minutes, like Hit and Cabba. Even our departed foes from the Sixth universe believe in him. That's just the kind of person my little brother is."

"Yes, he's quite endearing, isn't he?" Beerus says with a smile. Below, the action picks back up with even greater intensity as blasts are exchanged and dodged, the remaining half the fighting stage being chipped off piece by piece as the battle intensifies, the shockwaves growing in strength, the explosions of energy seemingly occurring at random. Finally, Goku jumps in and launches an assault, breaking Jiren's defenses down and connecting with a powerful uppercut, launching the Pride Trooper into the air, and following up with a huge Kamehameha, creating a massive crater with a wounded Jiren in it.

"Jiren!" Vermoud yells out. Goku walks forward and looks down at Jiren.

"Finish me already," Jiren says weakly.

"Do you understand now, Jiren?" Goku asks.

"Don't waste your time preaching. Throw me off the edge, this fight is yours."

Goku raises his hand as golden orb forms in his hand, but suddenly Goku yells in pain as blood spurts out from his body, following forward in agony as Jiren watches in amazed shock.

"What's going on?!" Raditz asks.

"Whis, what the hell is happening to him?!" Beerus asks.

"That power...I didn't know it was taking such a toll on his body," Whis says.

"Oh, no," Gohan says in horror.

"But...this battle...this was Goku's victory!" Beerus says, "Nobody can deny that! Jiren was done for!"

"Hurry up Jiren and eliminate him!" Vermoud yells, "You didn't come all this way to lose! Stop hesitating, you can still claim the Super Dragon Balls and get your wish!"

Clenching his teeth, Jiren stands up and holds his hand out as Power Impact forms in his hand.

"Son Goku, you are truly a magnificent warrior," Jiren says, "And I hate that our battle must end this way; we deserve much better. I'm sure you of all people understand why I must do this. It's only a small comfort, but even though you will be nothing, you will live forever in my memories. Farewell."

WIth that, Jiren fires into the ground beneath Goku, splitting it and jumping back, watching as the broken Saiyan falls into the void, but then gasping as an energy blast intercepts him. Several more fire out, first juggling him and then blasting him into a small floating rock. Everyone looks down, gasping at what they see.

"Vegeta!" Raditz yells, smiling.

With a smug smile, Vegeta stands in his Super Saiyan 4 form.

"Damnit, that guy…" Vermoud says.

"Sorry to interrupt your little 'farewell' party, Jiren, but that idiot and I have unfinished business, and I'll be damned if I'll let you ruin it," Vegeta says.

Behind him, another figure begins to climb up. 18 smiles and shouts, "17!"

"After that explosion, I didn't think he would have made it," Kami says.

"Neither did I," 17 says, "It was a gamble, so I guess I'm pretty lucky."

"He is so cool," 18 says smiling as her brother hops down next to Vegeta.

"Jiren, you don't have much time!" Vermoud shouts down.

"Goku's in pretty rough shape, it looks like we're going to have to handle this, Vegeta," 17 says.

"You don't say," Vegeta replies, staring up at Jiren.

"Such a wasted effort to keep him in the ring," Jiren says, "Does this 'trust' you place in your friend blind you from what's in front of your eyes?"

"'Friend'? Please don't call Kakarot my 'friend'," Vegeta replies, "He's just my means to his own end, that's all. Kakarot may be the strongest now, but it's only a matter of time before I overtake him. My pride as a Saiyan warrior demands nothing less."

"You talk a lot," Jiren says.

"And you're out of gas," Vegeta says as an aura erupts around him, "And I will be the one to do what Kakarot could not!"

Vegeta charges into Jiren, able to match the Pride Trooper this time one on one, while an astonished 17 observes.

"Those two are incredible," 17 says, bracing himself as Jiren rushes towards him, knocking him aside, continuing his own pursuit of Vegeta as their battle rages down the column, both landing as Jiren takes heavy breaths.

"What's wrong, finding it tough to keep up?"

"Keep up with this!" Jiren says as he attacks again, his foot landing on Vegeta's tail as an energy blast from 17 hits him, the android wrapping his arms around him.

"That won't work twice!" Jiren yells as a Power Impact forms in his hand.

"You wanna bet?" 17 says as his barrier forms around them, just as the Power Impact explodes, shattering the barrier and throwing 17 back. As the dust clears, Jiren stands, shaking with shock. He vomits and drops to his knees in agony, the Pride Troopers looking on in horror.

"They got him!" Beerus says, "They really got him!"

Looking up, Goku weakly chuckles, "They're really awesome…"

Vegeta walks up to 17 and slaps him on his shoulder, "Not bad, Android. I feel better about losing to you."

"That was a long time ago, Vegeta," 17 says, "I guess you could say I'm on a hot streak now. It was a huge risk, but I was okay with it. I knew if it didn't work, you'd be here to finish it."

"Hmmph," Vegeta says.

"You should probably do that now," 17 says, motioning towards the column.

Shaking his head, Vermoud speaks up, "Jiren, you did your best. I know you did." Vegeta walks to Jiren and holds his palm out.

"You don't even have the nerve to look your vanquisher in the eye," Vegeta says as a blue orb forms in his hand.

"Jiren, what are you doing?!" Toppo yells out, "Is this how you want to end your life, on your knees, useless?"

"Your friend has quite a mouth," Vegeta says.

"I have no friends," Jiren says quietly.

"If you give up now, what is the point of all the effort you made to become the strongest?" Toppo yells, "What would your teacher think at this moment of you, his finest pupil? You may not believe in your strength, Jiren, but all of us do! We know you are the most powerful! And I will not give up on you, not even now! Now stand up and fight!"

"Nice speech, very touching," Vegeta says, "BIG BANG - "

Vegeta's cut off as Jiren's power spikes, a red aura engulfing him and knocking Vegeta back, a huge wave of energy heading towards both him and 17, the two putting everything they can in a shield before them, vegeta dropping into Super Saiyan 2 as they struggle, but suddenly their barrier holds.

"Sorry to keep you guys waiting," Goku says, standing, holding his left arm out and his right hand to his temple, "But I've got this."

"How the hell are you still standing?!" 17 asks.

"I should ask you guys the same thing," Goku replies, walking forward, "Vegeta and I can take the lead now. You can back us up, 17."

"Sharing the limelight with you? I guess this really is the end of the universe," Vegeta says smiling.

"We've all broken through our limits, Vegeta, but now we have to take all of that and work together, or our universe is doomed," Goku says.

Together, Vegeta, 17 and Goku hold the energy barrier against Jiren's onslaught.

"We're going to need more than this to hold that back!" Goku says, "Come on, give it more, Vegeta!"

"Do you remember my promise to you, Kakarot?" Vegeta asks, grunting.

"Huh?" Goku asks, confused, "What do you mean?"

"Damnit, my promise, Kakarot?!" Vegeta yells, holding on as more energy blasts hit. Goku smiles.

"Now I do. The one where you're going to kill me, right?" Goku asks.

"I can't kill you if we fail!" Vegeta yells, giving his all as Jiren ceases the blasts.

"Are you guys gonna get a room or are we ending this?" 17 snarks, the barrier shattering. The three stare Jiren down, ready to strike. Finally Jiren smiles, and lets out a primal yell and charges, with Vegeta and Goku taking the lead in fighting him back while 17 fires off a pair of energy blasts.

"Incredible," Kami says while watching, "Goku and Vegeta are actually fighting side by side!"

"Kakarot, can you get me a clean shot?!" Vegeta yells between dodges and attacks.

"I think I can try!" Goku responds, driving forward, his power spiking and declining rapidly, as he goes back and forth from his base form and Super Saiyan.

Jiren responds with greater force, keeping the pair on their toes as the crash into the huge pillar in the ring, no longer the huge monument on the battlefield, but merely one section high. Everyone watches as Goku get's driven back by Jiren as several energy blasts hit the monster. Jiren turns and responds with a Power Impact, with 17 jumping out of the way, but the blast nearly obliterates the stage beneath him as he falls, clinging on the edge with just one hand.

"It's unbelievable, they finally learned how to work together!" Whis says happily.

"Keep it at, you've got him!" Beerus yells down, just as Goku grabs onto Jiren's back, locking in a full nelson.

"Get off me!" Jiren yells but Goku hangs on, grimacing through Jiren's struggles.

"Vegeta, now!" Goku screams, "DO IT!"

Powering up into Super Saiyan 4, Vegeta pulls his arm back, now surrounded by a huge greenish aura, and yells, "GAMMA BURST SHINE ATTACK!", a huge blast flying forward and hitting Jiren head on, knocking Goku back and over the edge. Vegeta gasps in shock, but then grins as Jiren drops to one knee. Vegeta charges forward, screaming, knocking himself into Jiren and pushing as fast as he can, toppling Jiren over the edge, Vegeta's own momentum causing him to fall out as well.

So...this is the great power of the Seventh Universe, Jiren thinks falling, This is the power of trust.

Goku appears in the stands next to Gohan, and a split second later, Vegeta appears, and then Jiren next to Toppo, their clothing fully repaired.

"Jiren!" Toppo says, but Jiren only hangs his head in shame.

"I failed all of you…" he says solemnly.

"You didn't fail us," Toppo says, "You did very well. Thank you, Jiren."

"But why, Toppo? I treated all of you with contempt during the fight."

"Hey, Jiren?" Dyspo asks, "If you had won, even if you did bring Gicchin back, what do you think he would say about you? You need to let things go, Jiren. We're behind you 100%."

"You're right, Dyspo," Jiren says.

Down in the arena, 17 pulls himself up and takes a knee, his face one of complete astonishment. The Grand Minister floats down in front of the spectators.

"17!" 18 yells, pointing down, "Oh, he is just the coolest!"

"I don't think I need to remind you all," the Grand Minister says, "But with Jiren's elimination, the erasure of the Eleventh Universe will now commence."

At that moment, Vermoud, Khai and the Pride Troopers are surrounded by a glowing white aura.

"Hey, wait a second!" Goku yells, moving towards Jiren. Jiren looks up at him. "Jiren! I know you probably won't like hearing this, but I think you and I both got a lot stronger while fighting each other. Like you, that's not how I wanted our fight to end. I don't think I've had enough. I'm going to see you again someday, you hear?"

Jiren pulls back in surprise, but then warmly smiles at Goku. "You bet."

And in that instant, the Eleventh Universe was erased.

"I'm glad he's a good guy," Raditz says.

"You really want to go through all of that again, Kakarot?" Vegeta asks. Goku smiles.

"Yeah, I do, Vegeta. What do you say? It can be before you decide to kill me, of course," Goku says. Vegeta only smiles at his old rival.

"Congratulations to all of you," the Grand Minister says as he descends down to 17, Zeno floating beside him, "And especially to you, 17, the sole winner of the Tournament of Power. Have you decided what you want your wish from the Super Dragon Balls to be?"

"It can do anything you want!" Zeno says with enthusiasm, "Anything at all!"

"That's nice," 17 says, "But if you don't mind, please bring back all the universes that were erased."

"Are you sure?" the Grand Minister says as Zeno watches closely. 17 looks at his watch.

"Can you speed it up? I'm on a lunch break and a Ranger's job is never finished." 17 replies. The Grand Minister smiles as he recites, "Emoc Htrof Enivid Nogard Dna Tnarg Ym Wsiw, Pretty Peas!"

At that, in the sky above, the seven Super Dragon Balls begin drawing closer and closer, and explode with pure light that fills the sky as the huge golden dragon appears, descending down upon the Grand Minister. The dragon speaks, and the Grand Minister replies, "Esealp erotser eht desare sesrevinu."

The eyes of the dragon glow as it shoots up into the sky.

THE SIXTH UNIVERSE - PLANET SADALA

In a small pavilion, Champa gasps, looking down and feeling his body, laughing. Behind him, voices speak up.

"Kale, we're alive!" Caulifla says with glee.

Looking up into the sky at the huge golden trail left behind, Cabba smiles, "Thank you, Raditz. Thank you."

"Hey, Cabba, come on!" Caulifla says, grabbing him, "Let's go train so we can hit Super Saiyan 3! And after that, we'll hit Super Saiyan 4 - no, Super Saiyan Blue! Come on, what are you waiting for!"

Champa smiles as he watches Cabba get hauled away, turning to the rest of his team, Magetta and Botomo hugging, Hit looking downward thoughtfully. Finally, Champa looks up into the sky.

Well, I'm not thanking you, Beerus, Champa thinks to himself.

THE ELEVENTH UNIVERSE - OUTSIDE OF PRIDE TROOPER HQ

The Pride Troopers look at the glow of the golden dragon across the sky, the furthest out among them Jiren. From behind, Toppo approaches.

"You look troubled, Jiren," Toppo says.

"It was the last thing Goku said to me," Jiren says, "He hoped we would meet again. He has the one thing I lack. And because of my own past, how can I grow like that if I can't even form connections."

"Jiren, are you such a coward that you're afraid to even try? What do you call the last moments in the tournament? I say that we accept Son Goku's challenge and meet them head on! And next time, we will prevail!"

Jiren smiles in agreement, "Yes, you're right. Victory will be ours in our next battle." Looking up, Jiren thinks of Goku. Do not disappoint me the next time we fight, Son Goku. But, until then...stay strong.

THE NULL REALM

Jumping down, 18 smiles at her brother, "Are you sure about that wish? What about that vacation for your family?"

17 shrugs, "I'm sure Bulma will have no problem letting me charter her ship. Besides, I doubt she's built a machine that can restore universes."

"She might…" Goku speaks up, only for Raditz to slap him upside his head. Goku whines as he holds the back of his head, looking at Gohan, who only gives a small shake of his head.

"It'd be a real dick move to just leave the other universes hanging like that," 17 says.

"I'm glad you didn't do that," Goku says, "Don't worry about that boat."

"I guess you're rubbing off on me," 17 says.

"Goku!" Zeno says diving down, "That was so fun and cool!"

"I didn't expect that 17 would make such a wish," Shin says. The Grand Minister descends to the stands.

"Of course, in his wisdom, the Omni-King foresaw this outcome. He believed that the warrior with enough strength to reach the end would also have the virtue to make such a selfless wish," the Grand Minister explains.

"So, what would have happened if some other wish was made?" Beerus asks.

"A selfish wish would have made quite a damning indictment when presented with such an opportunity," the Grand Minister replies, "As such, the Omni-King resolved in that event to erase all of reality."

"What?!" Beerus, Shin and the Old Kai yell in unison.

"So, in truth, this was a battle for the survival of all," Vados says.

"Perhaps his majesty had hoped this challenge would be what would save them," Whis says this, "That through this struggle, Goku and his friends would overcome their weakness, and show just how much mortals can change."

"So, what should we play next, Goku?" Zeno asks.

"Well, I know a fun game about building hotels and houses -" Goku says, but he's cut off as Beerus rushes over, covering Goku's mouth.

"Oh my, look at the time, this young man has to get back to work," Beerus says, "It's been quite a treat, but we really must be going. We'll do lunch, Whis can get you the details, you have us number. Whis, come on!"

The Grand Minister smiles as the warriors and deities from the Seventh Universe gather, "Your fighting was incredible, as was your wish. You have our gratitude."

"Hey, Goku?" the Omni-King asks, "You'll come back and play, right?"

"Of course, Zeni!" Goku says, holding his fist out, "Until then, keep it real, alright?"

Zeno bumps his fist to Goku's and laughs.

UNIVERSE 7 - CAPSULE CORPORATION HQ COURTYARD

Standing before them was the same gathering that had seen them off, each one smiling as the defenders of Universe 7 embraced their friends and families.

"Yes, yes, it was quite a battle, I'm sure you'll hear all about it," Beerus says as he sits down at a table, "Where the hell's that little blue imp, anyway, I'm starving!"

"I wonder how the kids are doing," Raditz says.

"Oh I'm sure they're fine," Goku says, "You're never gonna believe who 17's assistants are."

Bulma smiles, walking over to Gohan, who's embracing Videl. She turns her head and looks into Gohan's hair.

"What is it, Mom?" Gohan asks.

"You have a blue hair," Bulma says, tugging at it. She holds out in front of Gohan, who laughs.

"Well, I'll be damned," Gohan says, "I guess that tournament changed me in more ways than one.

As food was brought out, Goku walked over to 17. "Thanks for everything."

"I should be the one thanking you," 17 says, "We both know how things would have turned out if you weren't around. Back then, all I wanted was to kill you. But then you gave your own life to stop Cell. I suppose this makes us even."

"Are you sure you can't stay and celebrate?" Goku says, "Vegeta's going to fire up the grill."

"I can't," 17 says, "Who knows when some creep might show up on the island. I really should be there to greet him."

"You've got it," Goku says as the two disappear.

THE NEXT DAY

Vegeta and Goku grunted as they pushed against each other, the former in Super Saiyan 4, the other in Super Saiyan Blue.

"Dammit Kakarot, quit screwing around! How can I defeat you if you won't use Ultra Instinct?!"

"It's not that easy, Vegeta!" Goku says, breaking off as Raditz charges forward with a Dynamite Monday, following up with a barrage of ki blasts against both Vegeta and Goku.

"Well, you better learn fast then!" Raditz says as his aura fades, showing off his Full Powered Super Saiyan Blue form, attacking both again as Vegeta and Goku block. Finally, Vegeta and Raditz join together, attacking Goku, the three pairing off and on against one another, the shockwaves rattling the canyon which had remained untouched in the nearly eighteen years since the trio had first fought there.

"You guys don't get it!" Goku says, doding more attacks, "I was lucky to get pushed so hard in the tournament, but now I can't repeat it!"

"I see," Vegeta says, "I guess when I achieve an even greater power, you won't have a chance!"

"Don't count on it, Vegeta!" Raditz says, "We'll never stop getting stronger!"

"Of course we won't, Raditz!" Vegeta yells, taking a battle stance, "A Saiyan's strength knows no limit!"

This is the continuing journey that will never end for Son Goku and his friends: The struggle to break through their own limits and redefine the very meaning of the word 'power'. New and mightier foes will emerge, and even greater adventures will begin, and Goku and his fellow warriors will be ready. But until that time, farewell.

UNIVERSE 7 - DEEP SPACE, LOCATION UNKNOWN

In the vastness of deep space, a tall figure stood at the forward window of a spaceship, staring out. Behind him a communicator beepeed, and a minion spoke up.

"Lord Cooler, it's a message from your brother's flagship!" the minion said. Cooler sighed and turned around.

"How many years have we been out here, and finally we hear something?" Cooler said, "What is it?"

The minion read the message, his face changing to a shocked expression, gasping, "It's...it's Emperor Freeza. He has been killed in combat, and your return is requested immediately to assume full command of the Freeza Force."

Cooler considered this for a moment, "I believe you mean the Cooler Force."

"Of...of course, Lord Cooler!" the minion said. Cooler looked at the remaining members on the crew and scowled.

"I believe it is customary to kneel before the Emperor," Cooler said. Each one did so. Cooler smiled as he walked over to the helm and punched in a course. He then turned to the crew, "I am certain that the demise of my...unfortunate...little brother was caused purely by his own arrogance. I will not make such an error. From this moment on, either this universe accepts me as it's sole ruler, or I will see it burned to ash. Helm, engage course!"

"All hail the Emperor!" the minion yells out, "And long live Emperor Cooler!"

The crew began chanting as Cooler stepped back to the window, smiling as the warp engines picked up in speed.

NEXT TIME ON DRAGON BALL C!

The peace that the champions of Earth had fought so hard to maintain is shattered as a stunning new enemy with incredible power is brought forward in a quest for vengeance brought on by a damning decision from the past. Who is this new foe whose power could threaten the universe? Find out in the next exciting chapter of Dragon Ball C: The Sins of the Father!

AFTERTHOUGHT

Welp. This happened. Sorry about the delay. Life kind of got in the way.

So, thus concludes the Tournament of Power. I did do my best to try to give everyone their moment to shine instead of it just being the Saiyan Show.

In my original outline, I had the idea that of course Raditz and Goku would be (along with 17) the ones to win. Of course! But I realized at that point that Raditz was just basically becoming Good Guy Vegeta. So I had to throw a bit of conflict in this, because I felt that Raditz in the end would be predictable. But then I thought about what I could do with this. I thought it would be much more interesting if Gohan outlasted Raditz, thanks to some minor yet game changing details.

So, now Gohan goes further, what would be a good way to send him off? Originally it was a double Kamehameha, Jiren rushes forward, knocks Gohan out. Okay, it...works. Then that turned into Gohan basically taking a blast for Goku and getting knocked out. But then I thought, "Well, what if Gohan just pushed Goku out of the way, and then we got a Gohan rage moment."

Well, Gohan's rage hasn't been a thing since Chapter 8, and even when he became Majin Gohan, he wasn't that angry. So, speaking of rage….yeah. Gohan gets Super Saiyan Rage. I think it's plausible, at least with this Gohan. Remember, he and (Future) Trunks share a genetic mother, so it's possible that trait got passed down (Bulma is a bit of a hot head), mixing with the Saiyan DNA to make SSR a possibility. I don't know. It's Dragon Ball, and my number one rule when dealing with weird things in this universe is "The King is a dog, roll with it."

The one big thing I really wanted to change was to have Jiren not try to kill everyone, unlike the show. I guess the problem is that with the manga and the show, with some of the newer characters, we get different personality quirks. Show Jiren is an asshole. He doesn't care about his teammates, his story is kind of bland. Manga Jiren is more interesting. This Jiren is so dedicated to his job, that one of the conditions of his joining the Tournament is that if the Jiren Signal goes off, so to speak, Jiren's leaving, deal with it. And he's not a dick over 17 sacrificing himself and so on. He doesn't even try to kill Goku's friends just to prove a point. He can be cold and a bit of a jerk, but his character gets better development.

And yes, Broly is going to happen, as alluded to above. I've already started work on it. It should be much more straightforward.

One of the reasons for the delay was 2020 just kind of happened. Work got busy, then my life got really busy, and then we have Covid and all this other insane shit going on. Sometimes it's hard to get into a writing mood. Besides, it doesn't help that when I am in the writing mood, there's other projects that I just have to poke at, in addition to this. But, now that this is done, we move forward.

I am seriously debating if I want to do the Moro arc after this. If you guys haven't read the Dragon Ball Super manga, especially after the Tournament of Power arc. The Moro arc is very well done, and I do hope that if the TV show resumes, they'll cover it. It's quite a thing to read, but until I know it's over, I'm not sure if I can do it with this universe (Buu is a factor, and Buu is dead. So yeah, I know I can bring him back, but I'm just not sure how to - actually, I literally just figured it out as I typed this. Fortune Teller Baba gets a check from Goku, and a favor from the Galactic Patrol. More on that later. Still not sure if I want to do it, though).

That said, if I don't go forward with Moro, then what I will do is have one final arc, inspired heavily by elements of GT, and this will be something a little more original, and a grand sendoff. So, we'll see.

Until then, thank you for your patience on this, and I hope that you and your friends and loved ones are safe in this world that 2020 has decided to bring us. As always, if you have any questions etc, I'll be more than happy to respond.