Rest In Peace, Kentaro Miura (Author of Berserk) 1966-2021. I may not know a lot about the series, but it had a hell of a run, and you were gone far too soon. (Yes, I updated the Guts v Nightmare chapter, but I wanted to say it here, as well.)
Also. No, I didn't plan this because Cloud v Link 2 is the next battle. This won the previous poll.
The members of the Z-Crew, CC, and the others all figured right now, there wasn't a lot they could do. So, they decided to all go to dinner. It was a bit surprising to those who hadn't met Future Trunks yet, or hadn't met him since he returned again (namely Mr. and Mrs. Briefs). As they ate, F. Trunks still seemed to be sitting in disbelief at the fact that he was here, but considering what he had been going through, that was understandable.
"Hey, where's Krillin?" Goku asked, realizing he and 18 weren't present.
"18 decided to head home for the night, and Krillin got called downtown. Something about a break-in at a local clothing shop." Vegeta answered, not looking up from his food. Bulma sat down and sighed in relaxation that she could finally eat, until she blinked in surprise as her phone rang, and the I.D. simply said 'Just Answer It'. Raising a brow, she hit answer.
"Hello?"
"…this guy in Trunks' future, he may not be exclusive to his future. That guy may start the same reign in our timeline too…" Beerus muttered, thinking about something. Something wasn't sitting right with the Destroyer Cat, but right now he couldn't say what it was… aside from his food not being here yet.
As the CC Crew returned to the main lounge, th sounds of fighting and grunts could be heard from the main room, making everyone pause in confusion.
"…Is Piccolo fighting someone?" Goku asked.
"I'm right here." The Namekian remarked dryly, having planned on leaving, but staying after things got… complicated, to say the least.
Walking into the main lounge, the tv was playing the game Skorch had challenged Vegeta to, this time having Beerus fighting Piccolo, Skorch was chilling on the couch, his skull smoking as usual, but another stream of smoke wafting off of him as well.
"Skorch?"
"Gah! Crap!" Skorch muttered, waving some smoke away and quickly chomping down the last of his flaming nacho-taco. "Hey! How's it hangin'?"
"Good t'see you, Skorch." Goku nodded, friendly as ever. Oddly, the usually orange fire around Skorch's skull was a light green now, but that didn't make much of a difference to the Sayian.
"It's not like we needed you the past three hours, but hey, whatever." Bulma muttered under her breath.
"By the way, you're out of pretzels." Skorch added, tossing a crushed bag into a nearby garbage can. Despite having met him, the Pilaf Gang felt similar to Future Trunks when he saw Skorch. Confusion, apprehension and an odd sense of wonder. Skorch looked over and saw the older Trunks, doing the equivalent of 'blinking'. "So, this is the Older Trunks from the timeline where everything went to hell?" He asked bluntly, the question not making sense as he should know that, but hey, gotta make introductions somehow.
"Yup! Trunks, this is Skorch. He's a Watcher, and… it's kinda hard to explain what he is." Goku nodded. "He's this sort-of Entity-God-thing who hangs out with us, I think he might be able to help us with this Goku Black mess."
"Hey, uh, Whis? I need to talk to you and Lord Beerus… NOW." Skorch laughed awkwardly, before his eyes lit up with concern, looking for the briefest of moments to F. Trunks, then back to the others.
"Skorch, there are more important things we need to-GRRK!" Beerus began indifferently, but to everyone's shock, Skorch simply grabbed Beerus by the throat and threw him through a suddenly appearing portal.
"Hey, I cued up another Death Battle for ya." Skorch remarked, looking to the others.
"That's great and all, but we need to talk about what you-"
"Death Battle!" He exclaimed, then followed after the thrown G.O.D. unsure of what to do, those who wanted to watch another episode settled down to watch.
(*Cues: Invader – Jim Johnston*)
"They're two of the most iconic swordsmen in video game history, known for taking on things way out of their league. And winning like a badass!" Boomstick began with his usual fanfare.
"This should be interesting." Future Trunks remarked.
"Link, the champion of Hyrule." Wiz introduced the first fighter, a boy with pointy ears, a green hat and a large sword.
"And Cloud Strife, guardian of the lifestream. And orphans." Boomstick introduced the second fighter, a boy with blonde hair, a weird outfit and a massive, awesome sword.
"Since both combatants use vast player-customizable arsenals, in this scenario they will wield what they are most comfortable taking into battle."
"They use the weapons they choose to bring into their fighting games. However; since standard skills, weapon traits and armor aren't specified in Dissidia and Smash, we're taking those from their whole story… however confusing, and contradictory that may be… guys, just bear with us here."
SCENARIO
- Arsenals Taken From Respective Fighting Franchises
- Said Arsenal's Attributes & Specs Taken From All Canon Sources
- Best Possible Armor Taken From All Canon Sources
- Final Fantasy 7 Remake Will Not Have Preference Over Any Potential Information or Stats Which Changed from the OG Game
- Some Weapons Will Be Taken From Breath of the Wild But Their Stats/Breaking Points Will Be Somewhat Generalized
- No Outside Help
"And remember in Death Battle, there is no outside help allowed."
"Yeah, yeah, we know, we know. They have summons and they're cool, and fairies, and their– SHUT UP! It's our show, and this is the way we do it!" Boomstick snapped. "Besides, this is gonna be confusing enough as it is!"
"I'm Wiz and he's Boomstick, and it's our job to analyze their weapons, armor, and skills to find out who would win... a Death Battle."
"Isn't that intro normally in reverse?" Goten asked. "I thought it was Boomstick who introduced it."
Link
(*Cues: Soulcalibur II - Link's Theme*)
"In the long-forgotten, downtrodden, but no less magical world of Hyrule, a myriad of monsters and heroes have made history for their unbelievable feats and powers. From all-powerful demon kings, to mystical masks, you don't need to look far to find something… interesting, in the land of Hyrule." Wiz began, as different figures were shown. One was of a blonde girl in a pink and white dress, one was of what looked like a shinobi, to a being who looked like a more monstrous version of Piccolo in ornate armor. "But through it all, there is no legend greater than the Warrior from Hyrule, Link! Link is the multi-incarnated hero of the Hyrule Kingdom. Humble and brave, he has defeated the forces of evil for ten generations." Wiz continued as Link was shown, he looked human, aside from the pointed ears.
"Each fairy hero is Link-ed... Haha! ...to each other." Boomstick laughed.
"No, Boomstick, he's not a fairy…" Wiz said flatly, to those watching's confusion.
"Hold on… Pointy ears, tights, magic, and look at that hair! Fairy, duh." Boomstick challenged.
"He certainly kinda looks like one."
"He's way bigger than one though." Goku remarked. "Aren't they tiny little winged beings?"
"Typically, yes, but that may not be the case in this world." Future Trunks shrugged, his mind running all over the place right now.
"Each incarnation of Link bears the Spirit of the Hero, bestowing the unbreakable will and combat prowess of each previous owner, including the previous incarnations of Link, we think."
BACKGROUND
- Age: Around 17
- Height: Around 5'7"
- Bears the Spirit of the Hero
- Left-Handed
- Skilled in Boxing, Sumo Wrestling, Hang-Gliding, Sailing, Playing the Ocarina ("What's an Ocarina? Isn't that a big fish?" Goten asked.)
- Bearer of the Triforce of Courage ("I take it there's three different forces, then…" Vegeta remarked.)
- Multi-Incarnate (Piccolo raised a brow at that, but didn't comment on it yet)
- Humble, Brave, and Usually Mute
- HATES Pots and Chickens With a Burning Passion (That confused most watching, but they decided it was too early to start questioning things)
"We'll be honest here, this is probably one of the most confounding timelines in any form of media… EVER."
"Here's a brief timeline." Wiz remarked as a massive timeline with about twenty different tangents appeared. It began simply enough, but then seemed to go off on five different paths, all ov which then convened back to one specific spot. "See, there's Link from the original NES games, then there's also Young Link and Toon Link. On top of that, Breath of the Wild and Hyrule Warriors are more recent additions to the timeline, meaning we have to re-evaluate everything and-"
"Screw that! I ain't readin' all that!" Boomstick muttered.
"That seems interesting… so all these events are from the same guy?"
"I think that's the implication, but I can't say…" Piccolo commented. "Perhaps he exists in multiple timelines, like Skorch has hinted at, or perhaps multiple worlds exist with their own Link in them, and somehow all were connected..."
"How does that work? The whole coming back as another person thing?" Goku asked.
"Goku, it's technically what happened to me." Piccolo answered. That wasn't one-hundred percent the truth, but it was a good generalization. "Some cultures believe when you die, you just get born into a new body, it's possible due to magic of some sort Link just got born over and over in different timelines."
"That's what we're going with." Skorch remarked, appearing from nowhere. "I don't know these games well enough to have a deeper answer, so… yeah. Bye." Then they were gone.
"Who was he talking too?" Mai asked.
"No idea, he just does that sometimes." Lil' Trunks shrugged.
"And through it all, he's got over ten Links worth of learning to work with. Which is a good thing, considering all the insane threats he's taken on. From calamites to demon kings, Link's had to prove he's an expert with tons of weapons and magic, especially his iconic Master Sword." Boomstick continued as Link's sword was shown stuck into a rock. A much younger Link walked forward and grabbed the hilt, and pulled. A dramatic tune played as Link pulled the sword free, holding it up above him.
"There's something about that sword that seems… important." Vegeta commented. "This whole set-up seems to be trying to prove something about it."
MASTER SWORD A.K.A GODDESS SWORD
- Crafted by the Goddess Hylia
- Repels Evil
- Indestructible (That got Future Trunk's attention)
- Sword Beam/Skyward Strike
- Deflects Light Energy Magic ("What are the different types of magic?" Goten asked.)
Medallion Add-Ons
- Bombs – Launches Fire
- Ether – Freezes Foes
- Quake – Makes Earthquakes
"This double-edged blade was forged by the goddess Hylia to slay powerful demons. It repels evil and deflects light-based magic."
"And when Link's in top shape, he can shoot beam thingies out of it. Why this changes when he takes damage, I don't understand, but hey, FANTASY LASERS!" Boomstick shouted as Link fired a blast from his sword.
"Okay, I guess." Shu shrugged.
"When low on energy, the Master Sword can still launch the Skyward Strike by calling on help from above. Which may seem like a violation of Death Battle rules-"
"Hey! It kinda is!"
"-but since the help itself is more metaphorical, it doesn't violate said rules. In addition, it utilizes three magical medallions. Also, the sword itself cannot be destroyed in the traditional sense. It can run out of energy and need time to effectively recharge before being of use once more, but it can't be shattered like a typical sword. Should he absolutely need to, Link could probably use it as a regular sword."
That got Future Trunk's attention, and he took his sword out from its sheath. He looked it over, it was in surprisingly good shape for everything it had been through… but having an indestructible sword? That'd be something he would have use for. Even if his use would mostly be driving it into Goku Black's chest and then slicing his head off with it…
(*Cues: The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past - Hyrule Castle (ZREO Remix))
"However, the Master Sword is far from Link's only weapon, and while it may be one of his most powerful weapons, the variety he carries often assists when needed."
"He's got some deep pockets. He somehow carries around a boomerang and tons of powerful bombs, which he can just buy at stores… AWESOME!"
"Again, we should look into some sort of locker-bag." Piccolo remarked, remembering something from a few episodes ago. While he didn't have much use for it, some sort of portable locker which could hold so much more than it should could be useful, even if it was just for the Dragon Balls.
"You can't buy bombs at a store, right?"
"No."
"Along with his explosives, he packs a Hookshot which helps him zip line his way around and brings things to him. Man, that really would've helped to get that last beer all those times on the couch… Probably still be married." Boomstick remarked as Link pulled out said tool, fired it into a wall, and then flew towards said wall.
"…"
"Hey, Dad?" Young Trunks spoke up.
"Yes?"
"You and Mom…"
"No, Trunks. We're not. We're never going to."
"Okay, cool… thanks."
"Doubt it." Wiz said flatly. "Link is an excellent archer and uses the Hero's Bow in conjunction with several arrow types. However, much of Link's arsenal is more suited to exploration than combat."
"How much force is that thing putting on his arm?" Goku asked as Link flew across what looked like a temple.
WEAPONRY
BOOMERANG
- Attacks Up To 5 Targets
- Always Returns ("Well, duh. It'd just be a stick if it wasn't.")
BOMBS
- 5 Second Fuse
- Water Bombs
- Bombchus
HERO'S BOW
- Fire Arrows
- Ice Arrows
- Light Arrows
- Silver Arrows
HOOKSHOT/CLAWSHOT
- Used to Grab Things
- Can Pull Link Across Entire Rooms In Seconds
RODS
- Thunder
- Fire
- Ice
GUARDIAN SWORD
- Magical Sword Forged by Guardian Scouts
- Found in Ancient Shrines
- Despite Being Incredibly Powerful, is Surprisingly Frail
"Wait, that's all!? I thought Link had like, hundreds of weapons!" Boomstick exclaimed. "…well, he does… at least in some of the more recent games. Don't believe me? Here's all his major weapons from ONE game." With that, a rapid-fire slideshow went off, showcasing all the different weapons and their names.
MasterSwordTreeBranchTorchSoupLadleBoomerangSpringLoadedHammerTraveler'sSwordSoldier'sBroadswordKnight'sBroadswordRoyalBroadswordForestDweller'sSwordZoraSwordFeatheredEdgeGerudoScimitarMoonlightScimitarScimitaroftheSevenEightfoldBladeAncientShortSwordRustyBroadswordRoyalGuard'sSwordFlamebladeFrostbladeThunderbladeGoddessSwordSwordSeaBreezeBoomerangBokoClubSpikedBokoClubDragonboneBokoClubLizalBoomerangLizalForkedBoomerangLizalTriBoomerangGuardianSwordGuardianSword+GuardianSword++LynelSwordMightyLynelSwordSavageLynelSwordFireRodMeteorRodIceRodBlizzardRodLightningRodThunderstormRodViciousSickleDemonCarverBokoblinArmLizalfosArmKorokLeafFarmingHoeBoatOarWoodcutter'sAxeDoubleAxeIronSledgehammerGiantBoomerangTraveler'sClaymoreSoldier'sClaymoreKnight'sClaymoreRoyalClaymoreSilverLongswordCobbleCrusherStoneSmasherBoulderBreakerGoldenClaymoreEightfoldLongbladeEdgeofDualityAncientBladesawRustyClaymoreRoyalGuard'sClaymoreGreatFlamebladeGreatFrostbladeGreatThunderbladeSwordoftheSixSagesBiggoron'sSwordFierceDeitySwordBokoBatSpikedBokoBatDragonboneBokoBatMoblinClubSpikedMoblinClubDragonboneMoblinClubAncientBattleAxeAncientBattleAxe+AncientBattleAxe++LynelCrusherMightyLynelCrusherSavageLynelCrusherWindcleaverMoblinArmWoodenMopFarmer'sPitchforkFishingHarpoonThrowingSpearTraveler'sSpearSoldier'sSpearKnight'sHalberdRoyalHalberdForestDweller'sSpearZoraSpearSilverscaleSpearCeremonialTridentLightscaleTridentDrillshaftFeatheredSpearGerudoPleaseSendHelpImLosingMyMindLolJKSpearSerpentineSpearAncientSpearRustyHalberdRoyalGuard'sSpearFlamespearFrostspearThunderspearBokoSpearSpikedBokoSpearDragonboneBokoSpearMoblinSpearSpikedMoblinSpearDragonboneMoblinSpearLizalSpearEnhancedLizalSpearForkedLizalSpearGuardianSpearGuardianSpear+GuardianSpear++LynelSpearMightyLynelSpearSavageLynelSpearscrolled by incredibly quickly on screen, leaving those watching wondering… what just happened!?
"…and this is why we're trying to keep this stuff to only what's in Smash or Soulcalibur." Wiz remarked.
"Aww…" Boomstick moaned. "But they're awesome weapons!"
"We aren't trying to discredit them, but since many of them only last so many strikes before breaking irreparably, we have to decide where to draw that line."
"I guess that makes sense." Future Trunks shrugged in understanding. He had to admit, this battle was interesting so far, but there was also a point where you needed to work with what you had on you, rather than what you had in reserves. That was something he had learned in his time in the Future.
"Which is why he hides behind several layers of defense and armor, like the Red Ring, which reduces injury by 75%. Despite being… y'know, a ring. Still, it's better than one that only makes you invisible…"
"For the last time, Boomstick. There was so much more to that ring than that! You were just drunk the entire time!" Wiz grumbled.
"Are we missing something?"
"I think so."
"The Golden Gauntlets brace his arms against intense pressure, though they don't increase his overall striking power, but allow him to lift solid rock columns as if they were nothing. On top of that, he also has three specific boots for different tasks." Wiz added as more of Link's gear was shown.
"Three, huh? Told you he's a fairy."
"Ugh… The Iron Boots weigh 130 pounds, the Hover Boots float in midair, and the Pegasus Boots with attached Roc's Feather increases Link's speed and agility to superhuman levels."
ARMOR
RED RING
- Defense +75%
CHAIN MAIL SHIRT
- Riveted, Provides Slight Armor
GOLDEN GAUNTLETS
- Bracers Can Withstand Over 1000 Tons (Goku was interested in those for training reasons)
BOOTS
- Iron Boots
- Hover Boots
- Pegasus Boots & Roc's Feather
HYLIAN SHIELD
- Indestructible
"But his best defense is the legendary warrior's weapon, the Hylian Shield." Boomstick said as the shield was shown, with ornate designs and patterns on a very sturdy-looking shield.
"Hey, Trunks." Goku spoke.
"Yeah?" Both Trunks replied.
"Older one." Goku corrected himself. "Why don't you use a shield?"
"Most material that could block a Ki attack was too heavy or awkward to fight quickly with." Future Trunks remarked. "It's not impossible, but I preferred to have the freedom to use a sword and Ki attacks."
"Fair."
(*Cues: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword - Staff Roll*)
"Originally forged from the Thunder Dragon Lanayru, the Hylian Shield is completely indestructible, and can only be wielded by someone who is deemed worthy by Lanayru, most often the Knights of Hyrule or Link." Wiz explained.
"Link also has a little help from the goddesses, via the Triforce of Courage. This tiny golden triangle embodies his ability to beat overwhelming odds. Now, the Triforce is a whole thing we don't have time to go into great detail on, but there's three parts to it – no duh – and each one grants its wielder incredible power! There's the Triforce of Courage, which isn't super clear what it does, but has granted the user protection from some types of magic. The Triforce of Power, which may have been corrupted to grant the user awesome demon powers, and the Triforce of Wisdom. The last one has been known to give the user telepathy, precognition, and mystic energy projection, among other abilities… what this has to do with being a nerd, I dunno. But hey, this franchise can be really confounding."
"So… If I had to guess, I'd get the Triforce of Power, Vegeta would get courage and Piccolo or Gohan would get Wisdom." Goku remarked, thinking aloud.
"Like hell you would! Why do you get the Triforce of power!?" Vegeta demanded.
"Because I'm stronger?"
"LIKE HELL YOU ARE!"
"Hang on." Piccolo said, putting his fingers to his temples. "The Triforce of Wisdom is telling me something… it's saying you're both idiots."
"He is a puzzle solver, analyzing and exploiting his opponents' weaknesses even when there is only one possible means of winning."
"Screw you water temple…" Boomstick muttered.
"But while Link has the necessary tools to take on any opponent, his over-reliance of inventory over pure skill leaves him vulnerable." Wiz explained.
"Well, his armor certainly seems lacking." Vegeta remarked. "Aside from the shield, and ring I guess, he doesn't seem to have much in terms of protection. Unlike us, he also doesn't seem to be fast enough to be able to avoid attacks to negate the need for it."
"Still, anyone who can fight a guy three times his size, while wielding a sword twice as large as he is, is a badass in my book." Boomstick remarked. That gave Vegeta pause, but he wasn't sure if he was dismissive or impressed. "Plus, it doesn't matter which iteration of Link we're talking about, this dude is insane! From stopping rampaging demon lords, to stopping the moon from colliding with earth, Link has gone up against insurmountable odds and somehow managed to pull through… even if things don't always go perfectly."
FEATS
- Bears the Triforce of Courage
- Puzzle-Solver
- Has Saved Hyrule/Earth Multiple Times
- Has Single-Handedly Defeated Entire Armies
- Routinely Fights Monsters Many Times His Size
- Defeated Ganondorf Across Multiple Timelines, Including Calamity Ganon
- Z-Targeting = Very Fast Reflexes
- Strong Enough to Throw Armored Gorons
- Has Been Impaled, Mutilated, Lost Limbs, Attacked by Chickens, Yet Keeps on Going
"Chickens can attack you?" Young Trunks asked, skeptically.
"You've never heard of cock fighting?" Pilaf asked.
"Pilaf! There are kids here!" Goku snapped.
"Cock fighting is when two chickens fight."
"…oh…"
"Yeah, sometimes they feed them nothing but crack and strap blades to their feet. Two go in, one leaves alive."
"…what did you three do before you got here?" Gohan asked, and there was no response.
"Link's taken all sorts of beatings in the past." Wiz nodded. "He's been impaled, beaten nearly to death, been run through with his own sword, had his arm ripped off…"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa! This is a series made for kids, right?!" Boomstick exclaimed. "I thought Nintendo was all about family entertainment! What's next?! Adult artists designing a manga series for kids based on a Nintendo game?!"
"What are they talking about?"
"Don't question it."
"Don't give them ideas, 'Stick." Wiz said flatly. "You've seen what the internet does with stuff it likes… but regardless, while his weapons may be indestructible, Link is still technically mortal. While he can take a lot, he can still be killed by physical attacks."
"With so many weapons and skills, there are few who can stand a chance against the Hero of Hyrule. Plus, if he dies, we can always just clap and bring him back to life…"
"HE'S NOT A FAIRY!" Wiz shouted, and the doors closed.
Cloud Strife
(*Cues: Final Fantasy VII - Mako Reactor*)
"Final Fantasy has its share of legendary warriors and infamous worlds. Throughout its long, complicated history, there have been countless heroes, villains and anti-heroes – many of whom are swordsmen – who were all deserving of their own Death Battle." Wiz began as many different characters and locations were seen. Those watching had questions, but weren't sure if now was the time to ask. "But above it all, none stand out more, than Cloud Strife. Guardian of the Lifestream, and no ordinary swordsman."
"There's no way around it. He's a friggin' super soldier." Boomstick remarked with a 'here-we-go-again' edge to his voice. "But damn! The only thing he needs more than an anti-drug PSA is a haircut!"
There was no denying it, even among some of the Z-Crew, they thought his hair looked weird, even if it did kinda look like half of Goku's haircut. But somehow… it didn't work. At least, Goku didn't think it did. But that didn't take too much away from the rest of him. Cloud worse what one could describe as armor, but someone else might describe as junk. As around his right shoulder and arm, and waist he had some sort of scrap-metal armor attached to him. Those watching weren't sure if it was meant for practicality, or because he could. Still, there was a look on his face that said 'serious' and 'broken'.
"He looks like a scrawny super Sayian." Goten commented.
"He's so… handsome…" Mai said quietly.
"Who? Cloud or Trunks?"Pilaf asked, then recoiled when Mai glared at him.
BACKGROUND
- Age: 21 (Roughly)
- Height: 5'7"
- Superhuman Strength & Speed
- Retains Zack's Memories & Skills (Everyone was wondering 'Who?')
- First Class SOLIDER Training
- Impulsive & Moody
- Inferiority Complex
- Pulls Off Drag Surprisingly Well (Some blinked in surprise, others in confusion)
"What's drag?" Goten asked.
"It's when a man dresses like a woman, or vice versa." Gohan answered, then answered the unasked question that he knew was coming next. "Videl watches a show about it."
"Why would someone do that?" Vegeta asked, skeptically.
"I can't say. Some people just enjoy doing it, for other's there's a deeper reason."
"Huh." The Prince shrugged. Not understanding why someone would do it, but also not really caring at the same time. It wasn't his call, and it wasn't his thing, but if someone enjoyed it, who was he to judge?
"Skorch does it, apparently." Piccolo remarked, surprising those present.
"Him too?!" Shu exclaimed. "Er- what?"
"Impulsive and moody, Cloud strove to join the illustrious Shinra organization... Instead, he was forcefully exposed to Mako poisoning, a raw energy drained from the planet itself. Trust me, it's just going to get more confusing from here."
"And somehow it gave him all the memories of his dead buddy, Zack, including his First-Class SOLIDER training. Thanks, convenient planet poison. It's like super weed, but instead of chilling you out, it makes you into a super-solider. Man, for all the anti-drug PSA's out there, they don't really seem to mention the awesome super-power-side to doing drugs!"
"That's not how it works, Boomstick. The only powers you gain from doing drugs is the ability to die quicker, and eat an unhealthy amount of food, then lie around all day looking at the ceiling."
"You say that like it's a bad thing!"
"Sounds like it is, it'd be impossible to train." Goku remarked, somewhat dismissively. "Besides, it'd probably mess up your body, what kind of idiot would willingly do that?"
"Why do I feel like I'm being judged…" Skorch blinked.
"…that's not all Cloud inherited from his friend. His main weapon is Zack's Buster Sword, a colossal single-edged blade." Wiz continued, trying to ignore Boomstick's remark. "With his strength, Cloud can swing this much faster and stronger than any normal human."
"Holy shit! Look at it! That's a man's sword right there!" Boomstick exclaimed as the Buster Sword was shown. Smaller than the Dragonslayer, but in the same caliber of both impractical and yet awesome.
"I feel like he's compensating." Gohan said.
"For his haircut?" Goten asked, not getting the double entendre.
"…yes, let's go with that."
BUSTER SWORD
- Length: 6'
- Width: 2'
- Base Power: 19
- Base Accuracy: 96%
- 2 Linked Materia Slots
- Single-Edged Broadsword
- Passed Down Between Angreal, Zack, & Cloud ("Is it just me, or does 'Zack' seem like a bit of a lacking name compared to the others?" Pilaf asked.)
- Makes For An AWESOME Back-Scratcher
"Wow. That sword's bigger than all of us!" Goku exclaimed.
"Except me." Piccolo shrugged. "Still, yeah."
"The Buster Sword contains two slots for materia, condensed Mako that grants magical abilities and attacks, which can be used by just about anyone, but is mainly used by SOLIDERS. However, since their creation damages the planet, Cloud has limited his materia use."
"I mean… fair." Piccolo shrugged, thinking it over. "Over tax the planet, and then there's nothing left for you to draw your power from. Not to mention everyone and everything else on the planet."
"So? They could just move to another." Goku shrugged.
"…I'm not even justifying that with an answer."
"He typically carries the Firaga materia, which shoots fire at things, because fire is awesome. And in the second slot, we're giving Cloud his most iconic materia, Thundaga. This materia can shoot electricity and summon lightning bolts."
(*Cues: Final Fantasy VII - Bombing Mission*)
"Cloud has an encyclopedia's worth of anger issues, physical trauma and emotional pain. So much in fact, he could single-handedly give My Chemical Romance enough ideas for another dozen or so albums." Wiz a remarked, somewhat sarcastically. "But, that actually works to his advantage. He can channel his rage into extremely powerful Limit Break attacks."
"Hm. So maybe he has a few things in common with a Sayian." Vegeta conceded, having seen nothing similar to a Sayian in Cloud.
LIMIT BREAKS
- Braver
- Cross-Slash
- Paralyzes Foes
- Blade Beam
- Climhazzard
- Finishing Touch
Meteorain
- Launches Up To 6 Meteors
- Omnislash Version 5
"These emo-charged Limit Breaks range from paralyzing foes with Cross Slash to launching meteors from his sword. But his deadliest move is the Omnislash, a move so quick and powerful, it practically guarantees victory."
"If anger is power, isn't there a limit?"
"What do you mean?"
"Someone's anger can build and build, but eventually, there's nothing more, right? You can lose everything, lose everyone, but eventually your mind won't be able to give you any more anger, right?"
"…I think you're right, but I don't know the science behind that."
"The important word there being 'practically'." Wiz added. "The Buster sword may be Cloud's main gear, but it isn't all he has. For one reason or another, he doesn't carry any other materia on his person. But, Cloud wears Ziedrich armor. While this magical band has zero materia slots, and may look extremely ineffective, it grants the wearer an extraordinary amount of defense, and halves damage received from elemental, magical and physical effects.
"Also, Cloud wears a ribbon, which makes him immune to all status effects like burns and stuns. Well, I guess that makes it worth wearing a freakin' chick accessory."
Mai was a bit annoyed by Boomstick's condescending remark, but didn't feel the need to say much about it. Bulma wasn't here, so really it was her against like, seven boys, so she figured to let it go.
ARMOR
ZIEDRICH
- Defensive Strength: 100%
- Magic Defensive Strength: 98%
- 20% Power Increase
- 0 Materia Slots
METAL PAULDRON
RIBBON
- Grants immunity to status ailments, including burns, ice, poisoning, electricity, etc. ("Sure." Piccolo shrugged, not sure what to say to that.)
(*Cues: Unknown Theme*)
"Cloud is brash and aggressive, but not the brightest fighter. He often relies on overpowering opponents through sheer ferocity and brute strength."
"Like a badass! You don't need to think too hard when you're strong enough to cut through freakin' skyscrapers. Cloud's singlehandedly taken down quite a few powerhouses, like the giant Bahamut SIN, and planet-busting Sephiroth. He's even been completely impaled and shrugged it off like it was nothing. Multiple times! I mean, look at this shit!"
"It's impossible to deny, Cloud's superhuman abilities make him one of the deadliest swordsmen in video game history."
FEATS
- Defeated Sephiroth/Jenova 3 Times (Those watching didn't know who that was, but if they were mentioned under 'feats' it had to be impressive in some regard.)
- Killed Bahamut SIN (See previous point)
- Works Best as Point-Man In A Team
- Focuses on Overpowering Foes
- Has Survived Several Long Falls
- Shrugged Off Impalement Multiple Times
"So, is being impaled not as painful as it looks? Because a lot of people seem to be impaled and then are just fine." Lil' Trunks asked. "I know you're being stabbed, but if you're walking it off…"
"Wanna find out?" Skorch asked, appearing with a scythe, with no warning or chill.
"Point that near my son, and everyone will find out what happens when someone is impaled through the skull!" Vegeta threatened, menacingly.
"That's a dirty euphemism where I'm from." Skorch replied.
"Just get out!" Vegeta snapped, and Skorch was gone.
"Even if he looks like a girl, and dresses like one sometimes too. Even if he kinda pulls it off." Boomstick remarked as Cloud in drag was shown.
"He looks more feminine than Future Trunks did that one time." Gohan shrugged.
"Hey, I don't look like a girl." Future Trunks scowled in annoyance.
"That's… debatable." Piccolo shrugged, being brutally honest. "No offence, but the long hair look, it didn't really suit you. Bulma had to yell at Roshi to stop calling you 'Princess Trunks' behind your back."
"Really?" Future Trunks groaned, then muttered something under his breath.
Cloud witnessed and cries over Zack's death, then the doors closed. This time, there was a perfect 50-50 split between the party over who they thought would win. It was harder to decide than usual, as both fighters seemed very similar, just a more 'medieval' and 'futuristic' versions of one another. Now, it could be argued that may not be the case, but none of them had played any of the games, so they were solely going off of what the Death Battle clips showed.
Goku - Cloud (found the Limit Breakers to potentially be the reason for victory)
Vegeta - Link (Iron bracers, Link has actual magic, which seemed more effective.)
Goten - Link (Triforce)
Gohan - Cloud (Skill and experience of SOLIDER training)
Piccolo - Cloud (Same as Goku)
Lil' Trunks - Cloud (Cooler sword)
Future Trunks - Link (indestructible weapon and shield seemed more useful)
Mai - Cloud (because Daddy)
Shu - Cloud (Bigger sword = more damage)
Pilaf - Link (Dealt with giant monsters, seemed to have no trouble with it.)
By now, Beerus and Whis were back, the former reading something and the latter having a 'please-don't-make-my-day-worse' vibe about him, which was quickly becoming a 'Okay-fine-screw-me-I-guess' vibe. Those present wanted to ask, but had a feeling they should wait.
"Hey, Skorch. What's your thoughts on these guys?" Goten asked as Skorch walked by to get a drink.
"Don't have a strong one. Legend of Zelda was always boring to me, and Final Fantasy – especially 7 – was way too overhyped for me to get into it. They're both good franchises, with good games from what I've seen, but they ain't for me." The Entity shrugged. "…and I've probably just pissed off someone somewhere something fierce… and it feels good."
No one commented on that, they all looked back to the screen where the video had finished some random ad.
"All right, the combatants are set. Let's end this debate once and for all." Wiz remarked.
"IT'S TIME FOR A DEATH BATTLE!" Boomstick shouted as the doors closed then re-opened.
(*Cues: Fire Temple Theme - The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D*)
The scene faded into what looked like an ancient temple, but it was hard to tell what sort of purpose it served. There were markings and drawings which all seemed to be telling some sort of grand story, and for the briefest of moments, Gohan and a few others swore they had seen them before… but it was impossible to say where, as if a dream had materialized in their brain while they watched, and the harder they thought, the further it drifted away. Before those watching, was the Master Sword, returned to its pedestal. From the shadows, boots walked into the main room, illuminated by torch light and a few beams of sunlight that got in through the ceiling, casting long shadows throughout the temple. Link walked forward and approached the shining blade. The music seemed to swell and get more energetic until Link pulled the sword from the stone, holding it above him victoriously.
"Hey." A voice spoke up in irritation. "Do yourself a favor, and put that thing down and walk away."
From the other side of the room, Cloud Strife entered. He wore the armor he normally did, but seemed to have some long robes on overtop of it. The Buster Sword remained on his back, and his demeanor was one of someone who really didn't want to be here right now. Or ever. Link silently stared at him, but made no move to put the sword away.
"I'm serious. This isn't going to end well for you." Cloud said in a low warning.
"Link's mute, right?" Trunks asked.
"I think so."
To prove the young Saiyan's point, Link pointed at Cloud with the Master Sword.
"Ugh… fine." Cloud muttered, drawing the Buster Sword.
FIGHT!
(*Cues: Those Who Fight/Fighting (Metal) - Final Fantasy VII*)
Cloud charges at Link and tries to swing his Buster Sword, but Link blocks with his Master Sword. Cloud is sent backward, while Link is sent into the air. To some, being launched into the air would be disorienting at best and terrifying at worst, but Link clearly seemed to know what he was doing in some regard. While in the air, Link fires two Sword Beams at Cloud, who deflected them, but was taken aback by the attack, clearly not expecting Link to have some form of Materia. Perhaps due to his look or the weapon he held, but it made little difference. Cloud then jumps into the air, performing a flip as he did so and drove his Buster Sword into the ground, causing a Blade Beam to explode forward and carve a path directly to the Hyrule Warrior.
Link landed after being launched, and held his shield up, which absorbed the blast, but did sent him back a good distance, dark drag marks appearing on the floor. Cloud charges at Link and they both swing at each other. In a shower of sparks and clashing sounds, the swords struck one another repetitively as Link and Cloud seemed to struggle to out-maneuver the other, but their opponent seemed to predict what was coming.
"Screw it… let's see how you handle this!" Cloud growled. The word 'Cross-Slash' appeared above Cloud, and the next several strikes left a red line in the air, forming some sort of shape. The slashes were deflected (albeit just barely) by Link, who continued to struggle to find an opening, before taking a gamble and rolling under Cloud on the final strike. Suddenly spinning upwards, Cloud yelled in pain as blood flew from behind him, as Link had succeeded in scoring a wound across his back. The attack sent Cloud flying, and when he landed, he ripped the cloak off and tossed it away, now standing in his tank-top and baggy pants.
"There's first blood."
(*Cues: Powerglove - Power, Wisdom, Courage*)
"Thundaga!" Cloud shouted, before summoning the Materia and firing multiple shots at Link, who was forced to run and and blocks them with the Master Sword. However, the attacks didn't completely avoid him, as Link was burned several times as he ran by bits of the electric attacks. Finally, perhaps in an attempt to escape or re-direct the attacks, Link jumpe and performs another Spin Attack, launching himself high into the air with a yell and deflecting the Materia. In retaliation, Cloud decided to try and take the high ground, jumping into the air and summoning a huge Thundaga blast before launching it at Link from above. Link – to everyone's surprise – used his Master Sword to absorb the Thundaga. As Cloud landed, Link fires a Thundaga-fueled Skyward Strike at Cloud, who gets hit and is sent flying.
"How-?!" Cloud (and a few watching) exclaimed.
"Well, if the sword is indestructible, I guess that's not out of the realm of possibility." Gohan shrugged, thinking it over. "Still, to be able to absorb and re-direct that amount of power? What's that sword made of?"
(*Cues: Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children - Tenrai - Divinity II*)
As Cloud remained in the air from the previous attack, Link takes his Hero's Bow and fires arrows at Cloud, who managed to deflect them with his Buster Sword. Cloud lands and charges at Link, who retaliated with an Ice Arrow. Once Cloud is close enough, he fired it, the arrow digging into Cloud's lower abdomen and freezing Cloud, but thanks to Cloud's Ribbon, he immediately thaws out with a small explosion.
"Okay… you're not a regular SOLIDER… who are you!?"
Link didn't say anything.
Cloud charges at Link and swings again, but Link dodges and throws a Boomerang, leaving him defenseless for a moment and allowing Cloud to deliver a series of sword strikes on him. The Buster Sword dug deep, and it was clear armor or no, Link felt that. Cloud then proceeded to use Climhazzard and Link attempts to counter with his Master Sword, but this was a fatal flaw in Link's strategy. Cloud eventually performed a mighty upswing, sending the Master Sword out of Link's hands and forcing him to hide behind his Hylian Shield. Cloud delivers blow after blow on Link's Hylian Shield. While the shield wasn't breaking, it was clear there was only so much Link himself could brace against.
"The boomerang is going to save him." Goten said.
"That'd be stupid, don't be absur-" Shu began, but the boomerang returned and hit Cloud in the back of the head. "Well, I'll be damned."
(*Cues: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword - Staff Roll*)
Knowing there was little time to act, Link fired his Hookshot and retrieved his Master Sword. Link then swings at Cloud, cutting deep into the rival sword wielder and sending him flying. Cloud was clearly getting angry, and used his Firaga Materia and fires a few shots at Link. Link puts on his Pegasus Boots, begins to increase his speed, and runs with his Hylian Shield outstretched. Dodging the Firaga, Link stops and runs up a pillar. Link launches himself at Cloud, striking him with another Spin Attack.
Link lands on a platform above the ground, while Cloud lands on a small ring on a pillar on the far side of the temple room. Cloud then used some sort of power, tapping into Meteorain and sending a series of rocks at Link.
(*Cues: Final Fantasy VII - Battle in the Forgotten City*)
"Stars, rain down!" Cloud demanded. Link uses his Hylian Shield and blocks every meteor.
"Okay, that thing has to have some sort of weakness." Goku remarked. "There's no way that thing is just THAT tough!"
While Link is distracted blocking the meteors, Cloud charges in and strikes Link with his Buster Sword, sending Link into the air.
"Man, they are really just throwing each other into the air this time, aren't they?" Pilaf remarked. "They're fighting in the air more than you guys usually do."
"You're not wrong." Piccolo shrugged.
"This ends here!" Cloud shouted.
"…I think Link's about to win." Mai remarked.
Cloud then performs his ultimate technique: the Omnislash Version 5, on Link, who manages to block the majority of the attack with his Hylian Shield. Even though it was being blocked, the attack was both impressive, and very draining on both Cloud and Link. Future Trunks wondered how he could learn that/do that to Goku Black. Once Cloud goes for the final strike, Link uses Z-Targeting to execute a well-placed sword swing, striking Cloud in the middle of the final blow and causing him to slam into the ground.
"Cloud's dead."
(*Cues: Gerudo Valley - Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary Symphony*)
As Cloud falls to the ground on his knee, succumbing to his wound, Link throws a flurry of Bombs. The bombs explode, sending Cloud flying in the air, and with help from the Triforce, Link performs the Fatal Blow, piercing through Cloud. Link lands with his Master Sword buried into the ground as Cloud's lifeless body falls shortly after. Link then gets up and walks away.
"Damn." Piccolo blinked. "That was… more than I expected."
While it was disappointing to see him die, it was clear towards the end of the battle that no matter what Cloud threw at Link, his strategy of brute force attacks wasn't going to be successful. Link's tactics of dodging, striking at opportune times and knowing how to outflank Cloud were simply better.
Results
(*Cues: The Legend of Zelda - Main Theme Orchestra*)
"Whoa! Chalk one up for the fairy guy; that was awesome!" Boomstick exclaimed.
"This might be one of the closest duels in Death Battle yet." Wiz mused. "Link's combination of arsenal and strategy were just enough to defeat Cloud's brute force. Both of their weapons were incredibly tough, and could more than stand up to one another's."
"Not to mention Link's items and armor helped him match Cloud's superhuman abilities. Plus, while the Limit Break may be awesome, and can slash a building in two; the Hylian shield could tank that and keep on truckin', while Cloud had no such shield."
"Figured." Vegeta shrugged.
"Cloud may be powerful, but Link's Golden Gauntlets were simply stronger. In Ocarina of Time, Link used them to lift – and throw – an enormous column of granite. As granite weighs 166 pounds per square foot, this means Link can withstand over a thousand tons of pressure on his arms. Because of this, he was surviving any of Cloud's assaults."
"Man, I guess his stuff is just that powerful!" Goku remarked, surprised. "We should try nd get some…"
"Now sure, Cloud has survived feats that were impressive on their own, fighting Sephirot, smashing through multiple floors in a building, and being impaled, just to come back and throw a dude were all impressive, and his Limit Breaks were something Link may not have been able to handle, but he wasn't prepared for Link's literal generations of sword mastery."
"However, while Link may have dealt with magic in the past, Cloud's materia was definitely something Link wasn't totally prepared for. That would end up potentially killing him, but Link's survival skills were more adept and readier to take on any sort of attack, be it physical or magic."
"Cloud should've had his mind on more than just the Master Sword." Boomstick said.
"The winner is Link." Wiz concluded.
While the episode was entertaining, there were bigger things to deal with, and the Entity seemed to know this, and wordlessly appeared in the room and looked around.
"Talk. Now." Vegeta ordered. He took something from his pocket and handed it to Skorch. The Entity looked at it, then nodded in acceptance.
"Listen closely." Skorch said, his eye sockets narrowing somewhat, suddenly, he pulled his legs into a sitting meditation position, and he was floating off of the ground. He held his arms out to the side, and then a series of arms appeared around him in different positions, akin to certain Hindu idols. A blueish fog seemed to swirl around him, and Skorch spoke:
"Against this fellow, your realms askew.
Strength alone cannot beat him, neither red or blue.
A terrible threat, this being will pose.
Be fearful of the one, that they call Rose.
Many will fall, those fight that they dare,
This threat is not one; don't expect it to be fair.
Bring about a new ally, or perhaps, two.
In your last moments, you'll know what to do."
The fog disappeared, and Skorch stood back up normally.
"…that's it?"
"That's all I can clearly say, yes."
"I… I don't know if that was helpful or not." Goku admitted with a slight shrug."
"GOKU! You're with Whis, Myself and the Skeleton!" Beerus barked. "We're leaving for the Tenth Universe in two minutes!"
"Two minutes… yeah, I got time." Skorch mused, then left the room, leaving everyone very confused. Regardless, they looked to the readers. "Okay, another chapter down. Sorry if this wasn't as big or detailed as you all wanted, I don't know much about these games, and they don't really interest me. But that wasn't an excuse to not try, so I hope I did right by you all! Now, time for reviews… First up, is one from a 'Guest', and… let's just go over it…
The death battle between Master Chief and the DOOMSLAYER was bullshit. If you don't understand I recommend you do as much research on the doom slayers feats and strengths and see how old he is and how long he's been fighting and do some research on his training with the night sentinels.
"…everything about this review is wrong. Master Chief vs Doomguy (Halo VS Doom) came out on Oct 18, 2011. DOOM came out May 13, 2016. The Doom Slayer didn't exist when the episode came out. Furthermore, while the Slayer and Guy are the same person, it wasn't called 'Master Chief vs Doom Slayer'. If you were making a joke, that'd be one thing, but it didn't seem like you were. Also, my second most popular story on this site is a DOOM fic, so of course I know about all that. Next is from a 'dperson3569', who wrote…
Why are they so surprised about why Goku came to Earth? Raditz revealed this in the first episode of Z.
"Like I said, I had to change some things around for the preview. Don't worry, it'll make sense later. Next review comes from a 'Spyash2', who wrote…
Is it so bad I want them to react to Slick Goku? Because that would be hilarious lol
"Ooooh, that'll be a fun one to show them! Uh, let's see… Ah, here's one from a 'PatrickMan231', who wrote…
Also, even if Goku uses the Hakai technique. It won't work. Superman has tanked Darkseid's Omega Beams. Omega Beams are a form of existence erasure. They are supposed are termination itself in the comics. The Omega Beams are supposed to make it so you never existed in the first place. The 5th Dimensional Imp, Mr. Mxyzptlk failed to erase Superman from existence too. Doomsday Clock number 12 states that no matter what happens and how many times Superman's existence is attacked, he can never be erased. He will survive.
"…interesting remarks. Also, please stop recommending me SethTheProgrammer and other videos. I have like twenty saved, I was asking for proof, not other places to look for other people's opinions. Anyhow, keep your dreams shining bright – unlike that idiot Dream who cheated to where he is – and I'll see you all around!"
"Watcher. I need to talk to you."
Once the four were gone, the others dispersed, unsure of what to do. Bulma had been working on the Time Machine her future self had designed, and was busy studying the blueprints in her lab.
Thoom, Thoom, Thoom, three heavy knocks came at the door.
"It's unlocked." Bulma remarked, hearing the doors open but not looking up from her work. "Sorry, Vegeta. I don't have everything ready for the time machine, and-"
"Where is Mai?" A new, deeper voice spoke.
Bulma looked back to the doorway, and screamed at the figure who stood in the doorway.
"W-wh-wh-who…?!"
"I am T-800 Cyberdyne System Model 101. Where is the one known as Mai?" The figure in the doorway spoke, removing its glasses to reveal a human eye, and a robotic, red eye.
To Be Continued…
NEXT TIME: Did someone say 'Girl's Night?' (and some other side characters I've been neglecting?) Well, let's hope this furry fight isn't as horrific as that Cats movie…
P.S. Sorry if you think the latter half of the battle was lacking. 1.) I don't know (or really care) about these characters. B.) People kept asking for the update, so I figured I'd cut some corners. III.) See points 1.) and B.)