Dragon Ball Z: Dynasty
Written by: Feraligreater328
Edited by: StevenBodner
Chapter 80: The Power of Cell
On Kami's Lookout...
Goku stared at the crystal ball with a dire look on his face. Things had just become much, much worse. Around him, Future Ranch, Gohan, and Gine were all panicked. Future Ranch shook him. "Uncle! Come on! We can't just sit here and ignore this!"
The Saiyan from Earth shook his head. "No... we can't go there. None of us are strong enough to do anything but get in the way..."
Gohan sounded worried. "But Dad, Mr. Piccolo..."
Gine looked to her son, seeing something truly harrowing. Goku's hands were shaking, his eyes focused on the image of Cell. Future Ranch and Gohan were both too distracted by their emotions, but Gine could easily read why her son was so scared. Cell's energy, not the energy he gave off...but the energy within...it was rancid. Like a chilling wind, a shriek seemed to echo out from Cell's core. And that was truly terrifying.
Goku glanced away from the crystal ball and over to Kami, the worry was clear on his face. "Dammit...this is bad..."
On the barren island...
Piccolo stared up at Cell, dumbfounded at the physical changes that the monster had undergone since the last time he had seen him. Cell was taller, much buffer, and his hands now bore five fingers each. His tail was thicker and longer and his number of wings had doubled, with his previous two wings having split in twain and each formed into a pair.
Bardock shouted again. "Piccolo!"
Piccolo turned to his partner, Bardock looked as if he was about to vomit. "What is that thing and why does its energy feel like that?!"
"So wait, you two don't know this guy?"
Piccolo gasped, turning and staring in shock at 17 and 18. Both of the battered Androids looked upon the giant, green insect with disgust. Piccolo spoke in a hushed tone. "Y-You don't know...? You...don't know who Cell is?"
Cell predatorily growled under his breath. "Ah...Android 17, a truly free-spirited being. And Android 18, even the harrows of battle don't eclipse your ethereal beauty~"
18 took a reflexive step back. "Oh hell no..."
The monster's eyes shifted to the Android on the edge of his vision. "And who is this one? He bears the Red Ribbon insignia...and something within my mind draws my attention to him. But I have no knowledge of this one. Perhaps, he is an example of Dr. Gero's early work, in the same line as that Android 8 I dismembered not too long ago..."
Cell leapt down from his ledge with a cackled. Upon hearing that cackle, Bardock's ears immediately perked up. And he suddenly looked very concerned indeed. The lack of energy he was experiencing after his prior, island-destroying attack, weighed heavily on Bardock. But now he grasped what was really going on here.
Cell stood up tall, towering over everyone. "I have sniffed the bouquet, and now it is time to-"
Bardock shot forward, launching a kick at Cell. The monster blocked the attack with his forearm and shot a glare at Bardock. Bardock scowled, remembering very clearly the vision of the future that he had experience way back when he first returned to Earth. "You! I remember you now!"
Cell shoved Bardock back and Bardock took on a fighting stance. "You monster! You're the biggest threat that we're going to face in this conflict! You're just like Frieza! And so, you should be what we focus on!"
Bardock's Super Saiyan power sputtered and flickered like a dying fire; he was running on fumes. "I will not let you near those Androids! No matter what!"
Cell snickered. "Oh Bardock. You really are an enigma amongst your brutish race. People might see you as a thug, but you really are quite intelligent. Able to deduce the truth of a situation no matter how convoluted it might seem. If only you hadn't chosen to vanish before I made myself known in this timeline, you might have actually been able to stop me..."
Bardock flinched. Cell turned to him. "My knowledge on you is both limited and second-hand, but it is still quite an honor to meet the father of the man I was developed to take vengeance on. And I only say that with a hint of sarcasm. You are quite unique, a being that is unique to 'this world'~"
The older Saiyan became more defensive. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?!"
Cell smirked. "It means that, in the world in which I was born, you are nothing more than a forgotten memory. A miserable, excised hunk of fat from the meat of history. You died with the rest of the Saiyans, remembered only by Vegeta as part of a group, rather than an individual..."
Bardock growled. "So what?!"
Cell turned to him, stalking forward with his loud, clomping footprints. He loomed over Bardock. "You died...your pathetically weak wife died...your worthless eldest son died...and your youngest son never bothered to mourn a single one of you. He thought so little of you...that he never thought of you to begin with~"
Bardock's shoulders sagged a bit as he was engulfed by the overly-large shadow of Cell. Before Cell could continue, however, Android 17 called out. "Hey! If you're here for us, then don't be rude and ignore us!"
Cell's head snapped in 17's direction with an audible click. 17 sneered at him. "We were having an awesome fight with these guys! One that a pest like you has no business in! So why don't you screw off until a victor is decided and then come back for your turn!"
The monster sighed. "Ah, the impetuous youth. Always keen to spoil the moment..."
He fully turned to his prey and began to stalk forward. "You have no idea how long I waited. You have no idea how many years I suffered. Thinking that you were lost forever, gone like the surreal beauty of a candle in the wind. You have no idea the joy I experience when I was handed a second chance to unite with you! To achieve true, gorgeous perfection~"
Shaking off the wretched feeling that Cell had placed on him, Bardock stomped onto the monster's tail as it dragged across the ground. Cell turned his head and stared back at the Saiyan. Bardock sneered. "We weren't done talking!"
Cell boldly retorted. "I believe we were. You are nothing now. So, fade as you did in my world."
Bardock started to shout. "I-"
Cell's fist slammed into Bardock's gut, lifting the Saiyan high into the air. A geyser of blood exploded from Bardock's mouth with a single, strained cough. Weakly, the Saiyan tried to throw a punch. But Cell quickly whipped around Bardock, grabbing him by the back of the head and squeezing. Bardock howled in pain as Cell's hand squeezed. Cell chuckled. "Perhaps I misjudged you. You would have to be a fool to think you could win here~"
The monster pulled his hand back, charging a rough-hewn, blue blast. He smirked and whispered to Bardock. "Evolution is an ever-advancing concept. Nothing I would expect a hairless ape to grasp. But, rest assured, the best parts of you shall live on!"
And then, Cell thrust his hand into Bardock's back and sent him launching forward. "RIOT JAVELIN!"
Bardock went flying forward, smashing into a nearby mountain and causing a massive explosion. As the light died down and the smoke cleared, all that was left visible was Bardock's hand, the rest of him covered by rubble and debris. Cell stared down at his hand with satisfaction. "A truly excellent technique indeed..."
Piccolo was trembling. "So... you've copied his techniques too...?"
Cell nodded. "Yes. I have access to such a wide variety of skills. From the Kamehameha to the Spirit Bomb, I am the culmination of all of your best traits with the excess discarded~"
Piccolo and the Androids stood in stunned awe at how effortlessly the monster had ridded himself of Bardock. Cell stood before them; his arms splayed out. "Now, with the introductions done, I believe that I am ready to get started! I have gone on a long journey to reach this point, and I have enjoyed 3,365,026 appetizers to prepare myself for this! But now, it is time to feast!"
Piccolo gasped. "Oh no... I was wrong from the start..."
And then, Cell started to power up. The monsters let loose a deep, gravelly howl that quickly increased to a high-pitched shriek. As he did, his rotten aura flowed around him like a dark fog. As the aura got bigger and bigger, human screams began to ring out from it. The ghastly images of tortured victims radiated from Cell's being and the force of his power caused the mountains to crumble. The air became stiff. The sea roiled at the very presence of this beast. Cell's power erupted force, the pressure of it washing across the battlefield and shoving Piccolo off of his feet. 17 and 18, meanwhile, we left mostly untouched by the pressure. As if Cell was avoiding hitting them with it. 16 stood stalwart, his glare trained on this malicious foe.
Piccolo quickly got to his feet and glanced back at the Androids, they three of them still standing there. It was quite clear to the Namekian just what had gotten Bardock so worked up. What Cell had become was something truly wretched. But then, Piccolo was shocked by a voice speaking right next to his ear. "What's the matter? Are you frightened?"
Piccolo turned and stared up at Cell, who was now right next to him. The Android smirked. "It's okay. Really. You feel my power and you're reacting naturally. So... why don't you just stand aside, Piccolo...?"
Cell tried to step past Piccolo, but the Namekian stomped his foot down and got right in the monster's way. Piccolo clenched his shaking fist. "Not a chance. Not while I'm still standing...you won't get near those Androids..."
The monster laughed. "Piccolo...if you wanted me to rip off your legs, all you had to do was ask~"
And then, Cell did just that. He slammed his fist into Piccolo's waist and broke the Namekian in half with a single strike. As the two halves of Piccolo fell to the ground, Cell continued his march forward. "Stay down, Piccolo. I must have a talk with my dear 17 and 18~"
Both Androids flinched at the sheer brutality of Cell's actions. 18 growled in frustration. "Why are people so fixated on us today?! First that Bardock guy shows up and demands a fight, and now this freak is after us! What the hell is going on?!"
Cell hissed. "I already told you..."
And then, he charged. 18 flinched back as the massive, freakish bug charged. 17 put up his fists. "Fine then! Bring it on!"
Cell was happy to oblige. But, as he drew closer, a flash appeared in front of him and then quickly wrapped around his body. Annoyed, Cell turned and glared at his assailant. "Won't you just stay down?!"
Piccolo was shakily back on his newly regrown feet. With a grunt, he materialized new pants and shoes on his lower body. And then, he shouted at the other Androids. "17! 18! You need to take this seriously! This guy is here to eat you!"
17 and 18 both flinched back, stunned. 17 cried out. "Eat us?!"
Cell snarled. "I am tired of your interference, you worthless wretch!"
With a shout, Cell sent out a burst of his power strong enough to slice Piccolo's arm into pieces. The Namekian feel back, crying out in pain. And then, Cell charged. Clearing the distance between himself and the Androids in an instant, Cell grabbed 17 by the arm, heaving him through the air and slamming him. Before the raven-haired Android could react, Cell stomped down onto his other arm and the thrust his tail in the boy's face. 18 flinched. "What?!"
17 was stunned, still not processing what just happened. "Huh?!"
Android 16's gaze hardened and he started to move forward, but Piccolo leapt back into action before the hulking Android could respond. Piccolo flew in and kicked Cell in the throat, sending the distracted bio-Android flying through the air. Cell landed on his feet with a sneer. "You're going to make me kill you, eh Piccolo?"
17 stood up, rubbing his sprained wrist. "Thanks, Piccolo..."
18 glared over at the Namekian. "So, what is this? You're on our side now?"
Piccolo sighed. "I owe you two an apology. I've made a mistake here today. I had assumed that Dr. Gero would have designed his creations to work together in order to achieve a goal...but, of course, that's not the case...sick bastard..."
17 nodded. "He certainly was. But this thing, another of his creations...you said it wants to eat us?!"
Piccolo nodded. "This is Android 22. He calls himself Cell. He's a unique, bio-engineered clone made up of an amalgamation of every powerful warrior to ever show up on this planet. He's a walking codex of techniques, abilities, biology, muscle-memory, and tactics. Gero built him and made sure that he was well-taught."
18 spoke up. "22? Gero was 20. What happened to 21?"
17 shook his head. "That's beside the point. We've never seen this thing, Piccolo. Where did it come from?"
Piccolo gritted his teeth. "The future. He's from a parallel timeline where you two have died. He told me that he was here to reunite with you and attain his 'perfection'..."
17 and 18 both still looked confused and taken aback. Cell cut in. "You listened to me, Piccolo. That makes me so happy. It's a shame what I'm going to have to do to you..."
The monster smirked. "Dr. Gero and his computer made sure that I was given all of the tools necessary. Simulations of various observed battles have been coded into my genes. All to achieve one goal. My true potential. My Perfection!"
He lurched towards the three of them and they all went on the defensive. Cell continued. "I could have just waited in my time. Going around the Earth and beyond, absorbing the necessary bio-energy to jumpstart my evolution. But it would never have felt complete. It never would have felt right. I could ingest this entire universe, but that wouldn't give me what I want! I need quality! Quality prey! In order to reach my pinnacle, I need the pinnacle of human life to give me what I want! To reach the zenith of evolution from all of my parts combined, I need the enhancements that have granted two ordinary fools the maximum in human potential!"
Cell's hellish pupils fell squarely on 17 and 18. "I need you! My missing pieces! I need your hearts! Your souls! I need everything that you are to mount my zenith! And I will have you! There is no escape! There is no negotiation! You will join me! By force, if necessary!"
The monster flinched and then fell silent for a moment, as if try to shove back into place something that had come undone. He cleared his throat and smiled. "Forgive me...my time spent in my future, convinced that I had lost you forever...it did some things inside my head..."
Cell motioned at the two. "Come now, 17 and 18. I know your nature. You hate this world and the inferior creatures that live in it. The ones that would look down upon you. So, join me. We can combine our strength and be more than just mere rulers. Together, in my perfection, we can be Gods! The power we'd wield in that form would be unrivaled, unquestionable, and unstoppable! No one in this life would have step on you again!"
Finally, 18 spoke up. "Get bent!"
17 chuckled. "You think you understand us, bug guy? You don't know a goddamned thing about us! We revel in being unique and powerful, sure, but that's an appreciation of ourselves! We never asked Gero to turn us into Androids. And we certainly aren't grateful for it!"
18 snapped. "With or without this power, we've always survived by being ourselves! Not the batteries towards some hideous, clingy freak that clearly can't read a room before he starts ranting in it! We intend to live our lives how we want! And you can just die!"
Cell groaned. "That's a shame. But, a sad inevitability. You will see the light, 17 and 18, even if I must remove your eyelids to make you view it."
Piccolo stepped forward, his beaten and battered body standing as strong as it could. "You won't be doing that. Rip my legs off as many times as you wish, but I'll keep standing back up to stop you. You will never be perfect!"
The Namekian heard two sets of footsteps behind him. He turned to see 17 and 18 both stepping up. 17 smirked. "Ya know...you aren't so bad, Piccolo. We should go out for a drink after all of this..."
18 gripped her fists. "We'll fight together, but only so I can give some payback to Bardock for punching me in the eye..."
Cell chuckled, taking on a predatory stance. "Fools..."
Standing atop of far-off ridge...
Krillin and Tien both realized just how screwed they were. Piccolo was able to fight evenly with the Androids. But Cell's power eclipsed his by a pretty wide margin. Tien gripped his fists. "This is really bad...not only is Piccolo much weaker than Cell, but he's exhausted..."
Krillin had a lump in his throat and Bulma's shutdown remote gripped in his hands. "Sh-Should we jump in...?"
Tien appeared to give it some thought. Some serious, serious thought. And then, he gravelly shook his head in the negative. "We need to see how this plays out. Wait for an opportunity. Not even counting the Androids...that monster would kill us in an instant..."
Krillin shook his head. "So, we just stand here and watch Piccolo die?!"
Tien stared back at the battlefield. "No. We wait until a moment of pause comes in, and then we use that remote. Cell might still kill us, but we'd at least put a stop to his plans..."
Krillin flinched and stared down at the remote. "O-Oh..."
Back on the battlefield...
Piccolo, 17, and 18 all stared down Cell. The monster stared back, hungry. The Androids and Piccolo took their battle stances and Cell cackled in delight. "Oh, I am going to have so much fun playing with my food..."
Piccolo cringed and, using his telepathy, he spoke to 17 and 18. 'Listen to me, both of you. We've fought each other for a couple of hours. We know each other's techniques and fighting styles, so we should be able to coordinate. You need to avoid his tail. It can spew out and powerful, acidic substance and it's how he absorbs people...'
17 shuddered. 18 scowled in disgust. Breaking the telepathic link, Piccolo shouted. "LET'S END THIS!"
He roared and his power swelled. And then, he and the Androids charged at Cell. Cell smirked and stood stalwart, waiting for them to come to him. But, as he waited, Piccolo shouted again. "You two keep your distance!"
They both nodded and shot into the air. Cell flinched, glancing up at his fleeing prey, and Piccolo shoulder tackled him in the chest. Cell was stunned and Piccolo opened up on him. The Namekian pounded into Cell, unleashing a storm of punches and kicks against the monster's torso. Cell smirked and threw a single punch of his own, causing a noticeable dent into Piccolo's chest that quickly swelled into an ugly, purple bruise.
Piccolo gurgled, but he didn't fall. Instead, he launched a kick at Cell's face. The monster ducked it, falling to the ground. Piccolo snarled and threw another punch, but Cell caught it and slammed his foe against the rocky floor.
As Cell prepared to hit Piccolo again, a bright light suddenly shined behind him. He turned just in time to eat Android 18's Infinity Bullet to his chest and face. Cell stumbled back and 17 followed up with an Electric Shot. The blast looked as if it was going to connect and 17 smirked, but Cell quickly dispelled the attack with a Kiai.
Bursting up from the ground, Piccolo tackled and latched onto Cell, trying to pin his arms and hold him steady. He shouted up to the Androids. "Blast him again! I'll hold him!"
17 and 18 both nodded, charging their attacks once more. Cell chuckled. "Completely fruitless..."
And then, he slammed his knee into Piccolo's stomach. The Namekian lurched over, veins popping up all around his head. Cell grabbed him and heaved him onto his shoulder, smirking at the Androids and then tossing Piccolo at them. 17 let his blast disperse and caught his new ally. "Hey, Piccolo! Wake up!"
Piccolo quickly stirred; his left eye cracking open. And then, he shouted. "Behind you!"
The two Androids turned to see Cell rushing at them from behind. He slammed his elbow into 18's chest and then kicked 17 in the side. Finally, raising both of his fists, he smashed 17 and 18 down into the ocean, allowing Piccolo to merely fall to the ground like debris.
On the sidelines, 16 watched as Piccolo crashed to the ground and Cell landed. The hulking Android was in deep thought, his eyes blinking with light as his internal processor calculated what his scanners were picking up.
17 and 18 both shot from the water and launched themselves at Cell. With a look of smug superiority, Cell blocked their punches and kicks with his bare hands. Once that got boring, he smacked both of them to the ground with his tail. Cell chuckled, clearly having the time of his life, and front-flipped towards his foes. He grabbed them with his prehensile, three-toed feet, and then back-flipped with them, stomping them into the ground.
Cell smirked and then, without looking, he back-fisted the approaching Piccolo and knocked him to the ground. "Sneak attacks are so desperate, Piccolo~"
Cell dragged his tail across the ground, thrashing Piccolo in the side and sending him flying away. With him removed, Cell looked down at his helpless prey. "Now, which morsel to ingest first...?"
But, suddenly, the monster dodged to the side, a Special Beam Blast shooting past him. He scowled and turned to see Piccolo struggling onto his feet. The Namekian growled, his eyes half-lidded. "We aren't done yet..."
The bio-Android turned to face him. "Says the being that seems to be passing out from exhaustion. Why not just sleep, Piccolo? Sleep and let the inevitable come to you."
Piccolo snarled. "Never...I'll die fighting before I just let a wretch like you have your way. It's the only way I can make up for what I've...allowed you to do to the Earth..."
And then, Piccolo tossed a stretching punch that smashed right into Cell's cheek. Cell didn't budge, instead just smirking. "Very well, Piccolo..."
But, before Cell could charge at the Namekian, 17 and 18 both sprang back up and let loose a barrage of strikes against his back. Cell snarled and flexed his wings up, knocking 17 and 18 to the ground. With them taken care of, Cell turned his attention back to Piccolo.
As the bio-Android started his march forward, Piccolo stared him down. He knew he was staring ever-approaching death in the face. So, with no other options, Piccolo looked deep within. 'I don't have the energy for this...but...'
In his right hand, Piccolo summoned forth power from Nail's energy reserve. The energy of a mortal warrior, grounded and ingrained in a solid foundation. In his left hand, Piccolo summoned forth the power from King Piccolo's energy reserve. The energy of a wicked demon, radiating malice and ill-intent. With these energies in each of his hands, Piccolo summoned what was left of his own power into his chest. And then, he clasped his hands together and formed a tri-colored sphere of energy between them.
Piccolo roared, these three energies pulsing and causing the land to shake. A massive cloud of dust was blown out and the pressure sent 17 and 18 both flying. Cell, however, continued his march without so much as a sign of stopping.
The Namekian closed his eyes, remembering back during his training. This technique blew a mountain away. It had to do something against this monster. As Cell continued his approach, Piccolo powered the attack at much as he could. And so, with a thrust of the middle and index fingers on both of his hands, Piccolo sent his attack launching forward. "HELLISH EARTH DRILLING CANNON!"
And so, Piccolo's attack shot out. A massive, purple beam encircled by a yellow Special Beam Cannon made from Nail's energy and a blood-red Special Beam Cannon made from King Piccolo's energy. This massive version of the Special Beam Cannon crashed into Cell hard and the resulting explosion sent 17 and 18 hurdling through the air.
After landing, the two sat up to see the spectacular sight of Piccolo's massive attack shredding away at the ground. The beam continued on, spiraling through the ocean and over the horizon.
As the smoke and debris clouded the air, Piccolo fell to his knees. The last of his power had been used up.
On Kami's Lookout...
Gohan and Future Ranch were both jumping for joy, excitement on their faces. Gohan smiled wide. "He did it! He obliterated Cell! That move was so cool!"
Future Ranch nodded. "Piccolo is the best! He's just as formidable as I've always heard he was! This is unbelievable!"
Mr. Popo breathed a sigh of relief. "Things were looking grim for a moment there. But it appears as if you're safe, Kami~"
As Popo turned, however, he saw a certain look on Kami's face. Not relief, but a look of grim acceptance. Gine and Goku, meanwhile, both looked aghast. Mr. Popo spoke again, in a terrified whimper. "Kami...?"
Kami closed his eyes, gripping his guardian staff tight. "So... this is where it ends..."
On the far-off ridge...
Krillin and Tien both stared in awe at Piccolo's handywork. A deep ridge had been dug into the island and was rapidly filling with water mere feet in front of the Namekian. Tien pumped his fist. "Hell yeah. Good job Piccolo! Things have just gotten a whole lot easier..."
Krillin nodded. "Y-Yeah..."
As the shorter warrior glanced down at the remote, Tien glared over to 16, 17, and 18. "Now, all we have to do is put a stop to those three and then this is all over. So, let's-"
But then, a horrendous feeling washed over Tien and Krillin. They both stared towards Piccolo with dread and Krillin cried out, his voice barely above a squeak. "N-No way!"
Back on the battlefield...
Android 17 and Android 18 were both excited as they shakily got to their feet. Piccolo had succeeded! The bug monster was no more! 17 laughed out loud. "And that was the guy I was fighting too! Of course, my guy is the one to secure the kill!"
18 blushed and snapped at him. "Bardock is strong too! He just used all of his energy to try and finish us off! That's all!"
17 snorted. "Yeah, sure. Whatever you say, 18~"
Suddenly, Android 16 spoke up. "This Is not the time for such trivial arguments."
18 turned to him. "Lighten up, 16! Piccolo squashed the bug! Let us breathe easy for just a minute!"
16 retorted. "He did not."
17 flinched. "What?!"
16 gripped his fist. "That attack was not enough to finish off Cell."
And then, 17 and 18 turned their attention back to Piccolo...and watched as, from the water right in front of the Namekian, Cell emerged. The monster was wreathed in a field of protective energy, water dripping from his wings, feet, and tail. As Cell loomed over the Namekian, he chuckled. "Are we done with these silly games, Piccolo?"
Piccolo knew he was dead. Shakily, he got to his feet and stood up to Cell one last time, staring the monster in his hellish, slit eyes. Cell sneered. "You should have known, Piccolo, that it was foolish to resist. I will achieve my goal of perfection, and nothing on this planet can stop me..."
And the, Cell's eyes tracked over to 17 and 18, and he let loose a predatory growl. Piccolo gripped his fists and shouted at the top of his lungs. "17! 18! YOU HAVE TO RUN!"
Cell immediately turned his attention back to Piccolo and threw a devastating right hook. The fist smashed into Piccolo's face and wrenched his neck so hard that an audible snap was heard. Piccolo landed on the ground hard, and then laid still.
17 and 18 both gasped in horror, watching as Cell lifted Piccolo from the ground and his head fell limply to the side. The monster chuckled. "I could absorb you, Piccolo. But, no, I have what I need of you within my cellular structure already. I'm afraid you are of no value anymore, not with the ultimate power at my fingertips...so I bid you a fond farewell~"
Cell pressed his hand against Piccolo's abdomen. And then he spoke only one more word. "Makosen."
A blast fired from Cell's palm and ripped through Piccolo's side. A gurgle of pain escaped the Namekian's throat as the blast did its work, leaving everyone viewing the fight in shock.
On the far-off ridge...
Tien and Krillin both flinched back in utter horror. Tien gripped his fists, looking furious. "N-No... Piccolo..."
Krillin shook his head. "That bastard..."
On Kami's Lookout...
Kami hit the ground like a stone, his eyes having gone white. Mr. Popo shrieked in terror and ran over to him. "KAMI!"
Gine rushed over as well, placing her hand on the old guardian's chest and trying to feel for a heartbeat. Gohan, meanwhile, leapt from his seat and started to run towards the edge of the Lookout. "Mr. Piccolo!"
Future Ranch drew one of her pistols. "I knew we shouldn't have just sat here!"
Before either of them could make it off the Lookout, however, Goku grabbed a hold of both of them. He pulled them both tightly against his chest and held them there. As they both shouted at the top of their lungs, begging to be let go, it was all Goku could do not to break down and join them. He was furious, but he knew that facing Cell now would be suicide.
Goku glared back towards the hallway leading to the Time Chamber. "Dammit Vegeta, it's been nearly 24 hours...where the hell are you guys...?!"
Back on the battlefield...
Piccolo was twitching, the last threads of life fraying and nearly broken. He gurgled, his eyes rolled back and purple blood erupting from his mouth. Half of his torso had been blown away, leaving only a smoking hole in its place. Cell lowered Piccolo, giving a twisted chuckle, and then tossed him into the raging ocean behind him. As Piccolo sunk, Cell gave his own eulogy. "Alas, poor Piccolo. Born inferior and serving as little more than a stepping stone for those greater than him. I'm sure that someone, somewhere is grieving over his loss..."
The monster turned towards 17 and 18. "But, won't it be a cold comfort to live on in the perfection we shall create, 17 and 18? My perfection~"
Android 16 looked quite displeased, watching as Piccolo disappeared beneath the waves. He glared at Cell, and then spoke to Android 17 and Android 18. "17. 18. You both should take Piccolo's last words to heart. Immediate flight from this location comes highly recommended."
However, to 16's surprise, 17 and 18 both stepped forward. They were both pretty badly beaten, but the two of them had the same look in their eyes. Fury. Utter fury. 16 called out to them as they stepped forward. "What are you two doing?"
17 spoke up. "Those guys...they put everything they had on the line to try and stop Cell from getting at us..."
18's fist clenched tight. "How would it make us look if we were to just run off after they did that?! It would make us look like ungrateful cowards!"
16 sighed. "This course of action has a high probability of ending unfavorably."
18 nodded. "Maybe so, 16..."
17 shouted. "...but that's just the story of our lives!"
17 and 18 both shouted and charged towards Cell. The monster turned to them and smiled wide. "I see you're making this easy for me!"
The two Androids immediately clashed with the monster and started to exchange blows back and forth. The two of them, with their Infinite Energy Engines, were trying their best to deal any amount of damage to this freak. And progress would be good.
17 went for a kick, but Cell grabbed it with a chuckle. He responded with a kick of his own that sent the male Android flying back. 18 moved in with a punch, but Cell responded with a punch to the stomach. As 18 went flying back, 17 caught her. They both stood and charged in again at the monster.
18 flew in and landed a spearing kick directly to the center of Cell's chest, making the black diamond plate in the center flex inward. 17 followed up on this with a hammer fist to the top of Cell's head. Cell didn't hit the ground, but he was forced to take a knee. 18 followed this up by forming an Energy Barrier around her foot and driving it into Cell's beak.
The monster went flying back and slid across the ground, lying still. 17 and 18 watched him, both of them taking a fighting stance. And then Cell sat up, no worse for wear. "Oh my. You two still have some fight~"
Cell got to his feet, his ghastly aura flaring around him. "I suppose I can remove the kid-gloves~"
17 and 18 flinched and Cell tented his hands. "TRI-BEAM!"
The attack went flying forward and caused a massive explosion between the two Androids. They both took to the air and glared down, but Cell was gone. Before either could react, a yellow beam shot forward and pierced through 17's shirt, burning away the Red Ribbon insignia. He cried out in pain. 18 gasped. "What?!"
Cell chuckled, right behind the female Android. He placed his chin on her shoulder. "Dodon Ray~"
And then, he thrust his hands into the small of 18's back. "And now, Double Sunday!"
18 went flying forward, screaming all the way. She crashed into 17 and they both exploded. As they hovered mid-air, dazed, Cell formed two spheres of energy in his hands and tossed them at the two Androids. "DOUBLE SPIRIT BALL!"
Cell directed each of the spheres, battering the two Androids through the air. There was no defense for the two, they barely even had long enough to cry out, much less summon their Energy Barriers.
Suddenly, the balls dispersed and Cell came flying in with a harsh kick to 17's stomach. But, before his prey could be sent flying, Cell latched onto him with his toes. 18 tried to charge in and help her brother, but Cell simply outmaneuvered her and grasped onto her with his other, empty foot. He cackled. "Dear 18~ Can you even see with that black eye you have?! Poor dear~"
Cell hissed and shot towards the ground, stomping 17 and 18 into the harsh rock below and making it shatter. The bio-Android leapt away and landed a couple yards from the two. And then, he charged another blast. 17 and 18 both shakily pushed themselves up and glared at their tormentor. He cackled at this. "SCATTER BULLET!"
The monster fired a massive energy beam towards 17 and 18. He surprised them by twisting it up into the air and splitting it apart, but then brought it right down onto their heads. 17 and 18 both screamed in pain as the blasts singed them and were blown back by the ensuing explosion.
As 18 quickly came to, hearing tromping footsteps in the distance, she opened her eyes and saw that her deputy ranger badge had fallen out of her pocket. Dazed, she tried to reach for it, only for a green, three-toed foot to stomp down atop it. 18 glared up at Cell and the monster laughed in her face. "You both act as if you're so strong, and yet you can't even take the moves I've taken from second-tier nobodies! It's pathetic~"
With no other way to attack, 18 did the only thing she could. She spat right on Cell's cheek. "Choke on me..."
Cell chuckled. "Ah, I see you have accepted your fate. Very good~"
And then, Cell reached down and wrapped his hand around 18's throat, denying her the ability to breathe freely. "You can be the one who has to watch."
Cell held 18 down, keeping his fist tightly wrapped around her neck. And then, he reached down and grabbed the stirring 17 by the throat and lifted him into the air. 17 kicked, trying to get loose, but to no avail. And then, to his and 18's horror, Cell lifted his tail...and the stinger opened to reveal a moist, fleshy orifice. Acid dripped out of the giant bell hovering over 17 and sizzled on the ground around him and he whimpered in fear. And then Cell shouted. "WELCOME HOME!"
The tail thrust down, but 17 put up his hands and tried to stop it. "N...N... No..."
Cell cackled. "Oh, you still have some fight?! Well, let's see how long that lasts~"
And then, Cell squeezed 17's neck even tighter. 17 still held the tail at bay, but it was clear that he was utterly helpless. He held back his inevitable doom at 18 was forced, helplessly, to watch. It was over. Cell had won!
On the far-off ridge...
Tien clenched his fists tight. "That bastard! Using our techniques for cold-blooded torture..."
Tien started to march forward, but Krillin called out to him. "Tien! Wait! What are you doing?!"
The three-eyed warrior turned to his companion. "What does it look like I'm doing?!"
Krillin shuddered. "B-But Cell is stronger that both of us put together! He'll kill you!"
Tien snapped back. "So what?! I'd rather die than be a spectator Krillin! And you should feel the same way! Us standing here has already cost Piccolo and Bardock their lives! We can't just be witnesses anymore!"
Krillin flinched and Tien stepped up to him. "I can see it on your face, plain as day, Krillin! You don't want to use that remote! You don't want to be the person who has to unfairly push a button to end someone's life! I understand that! I do..."
Tien threw his hand towards the horrific display in front of them. "But is being devoured like that any better of a fate?!"
Krillin looked towards Cell and the Androids, his hands shaking on the remote. He saw the look of utter terror on Android 18's face. "I..."
Tien shook his head. "Face it. If Cell kills us, that's fine. At least he won't absorb those two and become all-powerful. At least...we'd be able to do something here..."
Krillin closed his eyes, taking a deep breath and letting it out. "Y-You're right..."
Tien nodded and turned. "Thank you, Krillin. Now, let's-"
Krillin and Tien both prepared to leap into the fray, but then they saw something that stopped them in their tracks. Something that they weren't expecting.
Back on Kami's Lookout...
As Goku watched the display on the crystal ball, he realized that he just couldn't sit back and wait anymore. The situation had gotten too far out of hand. Cell was on the precipice of becoming a problem too big to stop! With purpose, Goku stood up and pressed his fingers to his forehead. But, before he could use his Instant Transmission, Gohan grabbed a hold of his shirt.
Goku turned. "Gohan! What are you doing, Son?!"
Gohan snapped back. "You aren't going alone, Dad! We can do this together!"
Goku look unsure. "G-Gohan...I can't take you down there. That monster could-"
"Well you certainly aren't going by yourself, Uncle."
Goku turned at the sound of a Capsule opening and saw Future Ranch standing up, a Vladimirov KPG held in her arms. She locked and loaded a belt of ammunition into it and then slung several more over her shoulders. "If we're rushing into this, we're doing it together!"
Goku flinched. He looked into the eyes of both of these kids, both of them wanting this more than anything. And, after some thought, Goku started to relent. "O-Okay, fine. I guess-"
Suddenly, Gine called out. "Wait!"
The other three turned to her. Gine was staring deep into the crystal ball. "You might want to see this, before you recklessly charge in."
Goku, Gohan, and Future Ranch all gathered around the crystal ball, looking into it. In it, they saw Cell and the two Androids he was hunting. But, behind Cell, was a massive shadow looming with ill intent for the monster.
Back on the battlefield...
Cell cackled and laughed out loud as he saw Android 17's strength begin to rapidly fade. "It won't be long now! Soon, I will be perf-"
And then, two massive hands clapped down onto the sides of Cell's head, crushing it flat between them. Cell shrieked and gagged in pain, shakily stepping forward with his eyes popped out of his head and his tongue hanging out of his beak. With his focus broken, the monster dropped 17 and 18 to turn and face his assailant. And, for his troubles, he was met with a massive fist to the face.
Cell went flying and landed in a heap across the barren landscape. Able to breathe again, Android 18 glanced up and was immediately handed her deputy ranger's badge. "You dropped this."
She and 17 both looked up, shocked and in awe of who was standing over them. Android 16 stood tall, looking fearless. 17 cried out. "16! It's you..."
16 nodded. And then, without a word, he began to march forward towards Cell. As he walked, both Androids gasped in shock. 18 called after him. "16! What are you doing?!"
Android 16 didn't stop marching forward. "As you have all been fighting this hateful creature known as Cell, I have come to two conclusions from my observations. Number one, this Cell is a wicked creature with no value for life or nature and, therefore, must be eliminated. And, number two, I am at least 2.86% stronger than Cell."
17 and 18 both flinched at this bold claim. But, after seeing all the horrors that Cell was capable of, neither could believe that their peaceful, nature-loving ally could possibly be that strong. 17 called out. "Seriously 16! Stop! Please! He's going to kill you, man!"
18 tried to stand, but was unable. "You have to stop! You got a lucky shot off on Cell! W-We should just use this time to run!"
16 shook his head. "I will not be killed so easily. I am designed after Dr. Gero's son: an efficient and skilled soldier with a wide variety of combat expertise. That knowledge, combined with my power, should be enough to lend me a 58.95% chance of victory today."
Shakily, 17 made it to his feet and cried out. "That isn't good enough, man!"
This made 16 stop moving, a smile spreading across his face. 18, using 17 as leverage, pulled herself up and called out. "59%?! That's still a 41% chance of you dying! That's...that's unacceptable! We...we can't lose you! You're our friend! You're our only friend, 16!"
16 turned and glanced back at the two of them, seeing fearful tears in their eyes. He spoke gently to the two of them. "I feel the same way. And I ask...if I am living a life where I cannot defend my only two friends from a fate worse than death, then what is the point of living? If I cannot protect, with my entire body, those things that I hold dear...then there is no point."
17 and 18 both flinched. 16 turned and continued to walk. "This planet and everyone on it deserve to live happy, peaceful lives. Lives free of the horrors, such as Cell, that Dr. Gero would dare to inflict on them. Although I am also one of his creations, I cannot allow such horrors to go unchecked. Especially ones that would dare lay their hands upon my two, cherished companions..."
18 blushed. "16..."
17 shook his head. "I-Idiot! What are we worth?! We're nothing more than unwanted street punks! You shouldn't risk yourself over us like that! We're not worth it, 16!"
16 smiled wide, still facing Cell. "I disagree. The two of you are worth more to me than anything. You're both good people. You have an appreciation for life and a genuine love for nature and animals just as I do. Or...to put it in words that would better resonate with you..."
The hulking Android shot a thumbs up. "You guys are... cool~!"
And so, leaving his dear companions on that note, Android 16 continued his march forward and eventually came upon his foe. Cell had recovered from 16's previous assault and gotten back to his feet. The Android, in contrast to his mood prior to this moment, looked utterly furious. "You! Walking garbage! I didn't allow Bardock or Piccolo to stand in my way, so don't think that I'll show mercy to some nameless hunk of junk just because he's wearing a Red Ribbon Army insignia!"
16 stole one more glance at 17 and 18, seeing them lacking that accursed sigil. He raised his thumb to his chest and grinded the offending mark away. And then, he spoke in a deadly serious voice. "This is the moment I would standardly offer peaceful negotiation. But, as with Son Goku, you have no access to that option. Prepare to face oblivion, Cell."
Cell hissed. "So, you think you can kill me?!"
16 closed his blue eyes and took a deep breath. And then, he opened them to reveal bright red eyes. "Affirmative."
