Chapter 18 Plot:
Chapter 18: "Truth behind the dreadful tale! Similarities change perspective!" The retaliation comes so a halt. Kakarot begins to see a connection that opens his eyes about those around him more. Perhaps people can change. Could there possibly be a glimpse of the Saiyan who was around years back? Was this meeting fate? The real devil in this situation here… he can see it clearly now.
WHILE COMBAT CARRIES ON…
Seeing Paragus' and Broly's true motives makes the Saiyans realize just how much influence Frieza had in their lives. It's clear that Broly is unable to control his incredible power. Paragus is the only one who can make matters worse. He is truly a terrible influence for his own son, who he is using as a tool for revenge.
Gine finds herself cornered as she desperately tries to hold him back. When Paragus' plan brings Gine's children to a bleak scenario that would lead to death, the mother realizes she can't afford to lose. She takes down her barriers and reveals to Paragus what she would never show her children.
After all, the nicest ones are usually the most dangerous when angry. But Gine has her reasons.
A/N: Espeon804 here with another great chapter!
PUBLISHED: November 5th, 2019!
WORDS: 29,327
Question of the day: What do you think the Saiyan language sounds like? Wattpad readers, answer here!
Your answer will come soon enough in this chapter, and in the Possible Questions! Yay!
I made this chapter extra-long today. Because knowing myself… I won't be writing for a while since the new Pokémon games are around the corner! Ten more days! I'm coming, Wooloo!
Every Saiyan fights here! Yay! Well, not everyone has the same share but… you get it.
This chapter was truly, truly very difficult to write. Probably as hard as Book 2's Chapter 28. I kept typing, scrapping, rearranging paragraphs and more. Trying to keep up with over 10 characters at once is hard alone.
This chapter... I dunno how to feel about it. It's one of those that make you feel conflicted. You're unsure of what will happen next. Ever saw an episode like that? You're watching tv and the episode leaves you like; "Oh. I don't like what's happening here. I hope things get better for everyone."
This chapter is one of those. It is not a happy chapter. I must warn you.
I spent several days being very careful about typing this one.
But what we see here are inner conflicts of other characters besides Kakarot and Karot, for example.
Kinda broke my heart. But I can't always be so nice with these characters. Especially when it comes to plot.
This is also one of those chapters when I wish I can find my sketchbook or tablet. I so badly wanted to draw some art.
Gine art.
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN DB, DBZ, DBGT, DBZKAI, OR DBS! Akira Toriyama is the true genius behind it! If I owned the series then… well, this fanfiction would had never existed. Haha.
Key:
"Talking"
"Foreign Language"
'Thoughts'
'Telepathy'
It will be awhile! Hopefully, a new chapter comes out before December 5th!
I'm just shamelessly reminding y'all of my birthday. I should stop.
-Espeon804
- Chapter 18: Truth behind the dreadful tale! Similarities change perspective! -
"HAAAAAAA! HYAAH!"
Paragus staggers back after receiving another kick from Gine. He catches her foot in time to save himself, and he grabs her ankle, pulling her forward and elbowing her stomach, sending her to the ground.
Gine quickly rolls away to avoid being stomped on. Lying on her back, she remains still until he is close enough, and she kicks both feet forward. Her feet slam against his chest and knocks him back as she lands on her feet just above his head. She jumps back to avoid her ankles from being grabbed again.
Paragus jumps to his feet quickly. He sprints towards her with a shout, and he throws his punch, which is blocked by a pair of hands. He only managed to push her back. He attacks again with his other hand, and he misses due to her tilting head head.
Gine releases his fist and blocks his next punch with a single arm. With her other one, she throws a punch that is easily dodged. She swings both arms, delivering a chop that crosses Paragus' chest. He attacks again, and the pair are trading fast blows again. Her eyes follow his movements as she has to think quickly on how to dodge, block, and counter his every move. Pain slams against her abdomen, and she winches as she feels her vision brightening for a split second. Her heart is starting to race. With every successful attack he lands, she feels her blood rushing even more.
This kind of pain is different. It's not like she's being beaten senseless as she lies on the floor, not daring to move. It isn't a practice spar at all. No. This is true combat. Something she hasn't done in decades. Everything around her moves in a blur. Her awareness is high. Her senses are working at their best. It's been so long.
Oh, how much she hates this sensation. May the stars forbid her from getting too excited over this. She has the focus on stopping him. But how can she do that…
… when she's still holding back?
Her eyes remain on him as he changes his tactics. She follows him quickly as he begins to jump around her. What is he doing? Her mind begins to form an idea but-
Paragus snags her tail quickly. "Gotcha!"
Gine freezes as she stares at the gloved hand that holds her tail. She feels it giving it a firm squeeze, and she mentally slapped herself for forgetting about that.
"You thought you can outmatch me. But we all know fighting is not really your thing. You don't like to do it much, because I heard it scares you." Paragus says to her, looking at her angry eyes.
"You… don't know who you are dealing with." Gine mutters. The fool thinks he knows everything. He hardly knows much about her personal life, aside from the fact that she has three boys from her late husband.
He doesn't know what she's trying not to do.
"An angry mother. I know." Paragus says. "But you can't move right about now, can you? You did good for someone who is known for always running away. For standing firm this long, I'll give you credit for trying."
Gine can't believe this Saiyan. Does he really think he won already? No time for games. She sees that he may have intentions to kill her. "If you think I'll fall defeated by a simple tail weakness, then you really don't know what you're up against."
Paragus is surprised to feel her tail move in his hold. It swiftly swings before he has time to process what she meant. He is sent flying several feet, and he hits the ground and rolls to a stop. He is quick to his feet, and his eyes locate Gine in the distance. "You really were training. Seems you have that familiar drive you had while you were in the military."
"Hm." Gine plants her feet on the ground, and she launches from where she stands. Sending dirt and grass flying due to the heavy lift-off.
They went from being over ten yards apart to a near foot all in a single second. Paragus guarded his face from a powerful chop delivered by Gine. Seeing just how focused her eyes on, this fight may drag on longer than he hoped. He flies back as he blocks more of her attacks. What land are quick and painful. She's very fast, like most female Saiyans.
The pair battle in the air, trying to land as many hits as they can. They eventually break apart to catch some breath or a short break, only to close the gap again.
Gine lands a kick against Paragus again before she flies back and zips behind him, but he quickly turns around to block the next attack. Now the pair or Saiyans are flying around and past each other. It's not until Gine sees his fast-flying fist. She fails to block it on time, and it hits her directly against her chest. Her eyes widen as she feels the wind knocked from her lungs. Her body won't obey her at this painful second, and a kick sends her flying across the sky and over countless trees.
She is airborne for several seconds, until she crashes through a row of trees. It isn't enough to slow her down. She hits the ground back-first and bounces off, tumbling several feet more until it stops. She lies on her stomach, with her mouth opening and closing as she tries to breathe. Placing her hands on the ground, she gets to her knees, and she slowly rises to her feet. She places a hand against the chest portion of her armor, feeling the few cracks the punch gave it. She catches sight of Paragus floating over her in the sky, but she can't very well move. She struggles, until a loud gasp filled her lungs with much-needed air.
"You're very lucky you are wearing that armor." Paragus says as he slowly descends towards the ground.
Gine glances behind her. How far was she knocked back to arrive near a waterfall? There's a large cave next to a river. It's unfortunate she can't even get a sip of water right now. The bright side is, they are far from the ship. She won't have to worry about ChiChi and the others getting hurt.
Finally, Paragus lands on the grass. "You still intend to stop me until you drop dead."
Gine looks at him again, and she resumed her fighting stance. She takes notice of what's behind his swaying cape. "That's where you held the remote, right?"
"Huh?" Paragus frowns. "It disappeared."
"Don't you have a fail-safe?"
He seems puzzled on why she would ask. But, to her surprise, he does draw out what appears to be some sort of metal bracelet. A blinking light is seen on it. "I actually do. This alone will knock him unconscious."
"Good. That means you can use it to stop him, right?" Gine asks, seeing a glimmer of hope. However, seeing him putting it away upsets her.
"No. He'll be knocked out for a long while. Maybe a few days, since it turns his own energy against him. I'm not using it, not when revenge is so close."
"Your need for vengeance will only destroy you."
"Your interference will only hurt you." Paragus springs forward and lands a punch against her chin. Her head is merely pushed back.
So he won't listen to reason now? That's no good. Might as well beat it out of him. Somehow… if she can do it.
With a worn-out chuckle, she challenges him. "Is that all you got?"
Paragus jumps and sends a punch that is dodged. He seems to know exactly where to hit, because he immediately strikes her chest again.
Once again, she can't breathe. Her body is still trying to recover from the first time. Now it's even worse since it didn't get the chance. She can't cry out in pain as she takes another punch against the chest, followed by another that sends sharp pain through her lungs. Her mouth is wide open as her facial expressions is the only thing telling Paragus that she is screaming.
Another heavy blow, and she feels dizzy.
Another one blurs her vision.
Okay. So challenging him was a dumb idea.
The word is starting to spin as she feels slightly disoriented. Her heart is thundering and fighting to keep pumping, despite the lack of oxygen it is receiving.
Paragus pulls his fist back as far as he can go, and he throws a heavy punch against her chest. A piece of the armor breaks off, and he sees her eyes widening in absolute pain. She coughs and spits, unable to take anymore of it.
Gine catches his fist before he could try again. She yanked him from the ground and throws him over her head.
As soon as he felt his feet leave the ground, Paragus is already clinging on to her wrist with his free hand in efforts to not be sent away. His hand grips the pink armband there, and he feels it slip. Losing his hold, he is thrown inside the cave. He hits the rocky floor, and he quickly gets to his feet. He dealt enough damage to the female. Focusing his attacks against her chest was wise in his end. She can't breathe right. Not for a while. He probably bruised up her lungs. If it weren't for her armor, he would had shattered her ribs by now.
He looks at the armband and tosses it rudely to the ground. He hears her wheeze, meaning she can finally breathe. Just not in a normal pattern. She's struggling to fill her lunges. His eyes meet with hers, and he speaks. "You are going to kill yourself at this rate. You might as well quit before that happens."
Gine releases a nasty cough before taking in a deep breath again. Her chest is in so much pain. Every throb of pain she feels is just as bad as it was before. It doesn't lighten up. It won't anytime soon.
She places her hand against her chest again. Her response is spoken through a raspy voice. "This stabbing pain… it lingers… and it will linger for hours. As long as I feel this pain… I know that I still exist." Her right hand begins to crackle with energy. "As long as I exist… I will keep fighting. This overwhelming pain… in the heat of battle... That is what it means… to feel alive."
Paragus eye falls on her gathering energy. He sees dancing static, and how it glows brilliantly inside the dark cave. But what really stands out makes him freeze in an instant.
There's a glowing tattoo just below her exposed wrist. The side view of the head of an Oozaru. It glows in the same color of her energy. Paragus is in disbelief..
He recognized it.
"That's impossible… you aren't supposed to be alive."
"Well… that's true… I'm not…" Gine tells the truth, but it flies over his head. She looks at the glowing mark with some sadness. "You brought this sight to yourself. I keep on the armbands for a reason… but the mark doesn't show anyway, unless I am using my energy."
Paragus looks at her again. "I see now why you stayed on the sidelines. You're afraid of yourself, aren't you?"
Gine nearly staggers as the sharp pain stabs her chest again. "... I am afraid of giving in to my anger."
- NOVEMBER 4TH, AGE 724-
She always… lacked the instinct. She was far too gentle. Those outside of Planet Vegeta called her pure. Other Saiyans saw no use in her. She was born among the low-class. She's ranked in the top-class of that category, meaning she has a lot of potential.
She still had those instincts to fight. She always liked a good fight, but she could never bring herself to kill anyone. Whenever she fought, it was more of a friendly match than a fight to the death. She was never into the idea of claiming a life with her own two hands. But her energy manipulation was incredible. As a child, she mastered the flow of her own energy at the age of six. They knew that there was something extraordinary.
She was just so careful.
Energy can be unleashed as a gust of air. A scorching blast… it can be manipulated in many forms.
But Gine was unique. She doesn't just pull energy from her own body. She uses the charge on her and her surroundings. It's what is scene when fabric rubs against each other. Static.
There are several energy types. Hers… was labeled as plasma. It was electrical, which is said to be very difficult to control. Lighting is unpredictable, so is its power. But somehow, it was so natural for her to use it.
It was such a waste. A gentle Saiyan like her has such a great flow of energy. By the time she was a young teen… cases like these were common.
There were several Saiyans who lacked the violent instincts King Cold wanted to see. He needed it for his conquest. He wanted to see more. And so… he unleashed a project. He claimed it would make the Saiyan race more powerful than others. They also wanted to see how far Saiyan potential can go.
It was a training session for a selected group of Saiyans. Anyone who was chosen was considered very honorable.
And Gine was one of them.
But why her?
Turns out…King Cold was lying.
They took several Saiyans in who lacked violent instincts to a lab. There were probably around fifty. Fifty naive Saiyans who were either too timid or just didn't fit for combat. Saiyans who would rather become cooks or mechanics to fix ships…
They were said to be born abnormal.
Gine thought this was a perfect opportunity to fix herself. She always thought there was something wrong with her. She was fit to be a soldier. She just wasn't very effective in combat, especially when the situation meant life or death.
Stepping inside the lab, she is met with five doctors who are gathered in a group. Their masks make it hard to see their faces. One of them noticed her and checks a clipboard.
"She's number twenty-six out of the fifty. Gine. 16 years old. Ranked at the top sector among the low-class. She was born with a Powerlevel of 80. She has a gentle nature that gets in the way of her using her full potential." The doctor with the clipboard looks at her now. "Come sit, Gine. We will run a few tests and see what to do with you."
Gine looks behind her. The door is already closing. She shyly walks towards the group who stepped aside, revealing a rectangular chair. Already, she feels her stomach twisting as chills run down her spine.
This isn't right. Something is wrong here. She needs to get out.
Instincts never lie.
"Um…" Gine tried to think of an excuse as she stops walking. "I'm sorry. I didn't eat this morning, and I'm a bit famished. Can I just go-"
"It's good that you didn't eat. You were instructed not to do so anyway." The doctor motioned her towards the chair. "Come on. We don't have all day. We have other candidates waiting."
"Candidates?" Gine echoes. "I'm sorry. I thought we were going to train, not sit in a chair…"
She pauses as she looks at each doctor. Sniffing the air, it smells like the room was just cleaned up very recently. No. Maybe about ten minutes ago. She can't pick up the scent of any other Saiyan at all. She saw someone else walk in… so she can't possibly be the first one.
Didn't they say she was the twenty-sixth person?
That's when her stomach drops. She's in grave danger.
Immediately, she turns around and sprints towards the door. She hears the doctors yelling, but she doesn't care. She needs to go. Now.
Just as her hand lands on the handle, the sound of something twirling in the air makes her freeze. Something heavy wraps around her tail, and pain blisters through her spine. She cries out as she falls to the smooth floor. Within seconds, she hears their footsteps, and she feels hands lifting her arms. She is dragged to the chair and forced to sit back against it. Now she sees what caught her tail. It appears to be some sort of heavy rope with weights hanging from the ends.
She can't move.
"Now, now. Running away will do you no good." A doctor says as he walks to her side. He presses a button against the chair. Metal restraint hold down her arms, legs, and head, which makes the female panic even more.
"What… are you doing?! Let me out..!" Gine demands for an answer and to be freed. She can't even move a finger, which makes this even more terrifying.
The chair leans back until it lies flat like a bed.
This is bad.
"We… are going to make you a true Saiyan warrior. Just as promised. This will heighten your hidden instincts. It will also break your limits. We'll see how far your potential can go" Another doctor picks up a needle from nearby. Seeing the clear liquid glow, she knows this is far from normal. The doctor aims the needle towards her right wrist. "Let's hope you will survive this."
"S-surivive?!"
Most of the others died because their bodies couldn't endure the blistering and agonizing pain. It stopped their hearts… only 5% survived.
And Gine will soon find out she is part of that 5%.
"N-no! Please! Don't do this! Just let me go!" Gine pleads quickly, feeling the cold needle poking her skin. It's aimed right at the blood vessel there, which scares her even more. "Don't do this! AAAAH!"
The needle sinks in. The doctor slowly injects the substance, until there is nothing left. He fills the needle again, and gives her the same treatment against her other wrist. Quickly, he steps back.
It starts off as burning where she was shot, then the burning spreads through her arms until is swallows her entire body. Her eyes widen as the pain suddenly explodes through every vein within her. In an instant, her agonizing screams of pain fills the room.
Her entire body feels like it is being ripped apart to the bare bone. Her body feels like it is burning beyond being engulfed in flames. It travels to her head… and the pain worsens there.
"It's to her head now." One of the doctors announce.
The main one waves his hand. "Bring in phase two!"
A pair of doctors walk to the table quickly. One stands at each side, holding a needle carrying the same substance. They line up against her temple, and in an instant, they push inside and deliver the dosage. As soon as the needles pull out, they step away.
The pain doubles there. Her head feels like it might explode.
Her screams are nothing humane, and her emotions…
She fears for her life.
The doctors press a button, and they are swallowed by a protective bubble. They clearly know the next step.
Her energy slips from her control, in response to her agonizing pain. Pink, white, and black bolts escape her body and fly across the room. They engulf her and strike the walls. The lights flicker until they shatter, and all power shuts off. The only thing lighting up the room are the electrical bolts that dance from her body.
Her vision blurs and it slowly turns red. Only, she was never able to see red.
She can smell the static that fills the air. The only thing that fills her ears are the sounds of her own screams, and her thundering heart.
This pain… she feels her tears burning her face.
This pain… is the only thing her mind focuses on now.
This pain… as long as she still feels it… She's alive.
Doctors watch and take notes. They see her fingers curl and stretch out. They watch her feet kick helplessly. They watch her arch her back as she desperately tries to move. Her restrained tail spazzes constantly. It's completely puffed, matching her overwhelming stress. Her eyes tremble as the torture carries on.
The world around her fades. She is unaware that she is still screaming even as all sound ceases to exist for her. Everything fades to darkness, and she finds herself standing in an empty dark void.
She is met with a pair of massive glowing red eyes. A pair she can't look away from.
Those are… her eyes…
Slowly, her senses do return. The world returns to her, and the torture had stopped. She is breathing hard, and her body twitches, still in great pain. Her energy had settled down. After what feels like forever, she can hear distorted voices around her. It takes a minute for her to finally understand them.
"...and the fact that her heart didn't stop is amazing." One doctor's voice fills her ears.
"Incredible. She actually pulled through!" Another doctor sounds very pleased. "She was the perfect candidate!"
"Wonderful. She may give us a hand to overthrowing them one day…"
"King Cold thinks we'll cooperate and use her for Lord Frieza's benefit. These Saiyans hate the Frost demons… So surely we can use them to overthrow them?"
"It will take years until that is possible…"
A doctor looks her over. He looks at where she was first shot. He pulls out what appears to ne a stamp from his pocket, only it glows with power.
He stamps it against her wrist, and Gine screams out as sharp pain seeps through her skin there. It doesn't last long since he pulls it away after a few seconds.
A glowing pink tattoo is now there. The side-view of an Oozaru's head. "Ah. She's the second one to survive. A grand success."
Gine looks at each doctor, still trembling. The fire within her hasn't settled at all. If anything, it's much worse.
"It seeped well into her brain. This is good." He looks at Gine now. "Tell me, how do you feel?"
She can't even respond. Trying to do as much as form words is near impossible at the moment.
How does she feel? What kind of question is that?!
What have they done to her? They brought in so much pain… and it won't stop. Gine feels the heat swallowing her again, and her throat feels like it is on fire. She hates this. She hates that she was so gullible. She hates how she is experiencing this pain…
At this very moment… she hates everything.
The doctor presses his hand against her beating chest. "This power you have flowing through you… take pride in it. You are a true Saiyan warrior now. The rage you feel… embrace it."
Embrace it? For her to merely feel so much flowing through her body is unreal. It's completely unnatural.
She wants him to shut up.
"Now… you will perform much better. Whenever you feel helpless… I'm sure such instincts will trigger. A gentle warrior such as yourself will explode in ways never seen in a Saiyan. You'll put on quite a show. How will they handle your fury?"
He won't shut up.
She can't calm down. They forced her here… made her a lab monkey. All because they wanted to see if it was possible to make a gentle Saiyan become a violent monster. She never felt so much anger flow through her before… but this is what they wanted. They'll have their results.
"You will do good for us."
He did this to her.
Her eyes widen and turn feral in an instant. The onyx color is replaced with a blood red. They lock on the doctor that spoke to her.
He has the nerve to grin at the face of death.
…
It was news to hear that the laboratory collapsed. Witnesses described how a massive lightning storm destroyed the inside and brought flames within the building. There were no survivors.
All except one.
An alien soldier observes the destruction with a gun in hand. He enters the area the experiment took place. He finds that the room had fallen apart, with the exception of a few walls. Doctors lie dead under or over the rubble. What was once their white lab coats are charred black in many places. Their skin was burned beyond repair. Pink bolts would jump across the room every now and then. Stepping inside would result to being shocked.
What makes the alien freeze is the sight of a moving tail. That unmistakable monkey tail. Red eyes pierce through the darkness and lock on the alien.
- OoOoOoOo -
Paragus growls. "King Cold's doctors… I heard about it."
"I was obviously never the same. The doctors drew out exactly what they said they would." Gine says. "They wanted to see how far my potential could go. My battling instincts were sharpened. My violent instincts were surfaced. My skills in combat become enhanced when… it gets ugly. I'm unable to stop myself when I fall too deep."
Paragus seems to remember something else. "There were orders from King Vegeta to kill any Saiyans who wear that mark. So how the hell did you survive?"
"I was already retired. They never bothered to look at me." Gine says. "Bardock saw the mark himself before I retired… and he promised to never tell anyone about it."
Talking about this brings back the painful memory every time.
"The pain I went through back then… nothing has matched it yet. They have no idea on just how terrible it is. You have no idea."
Paragus nearly scoffs at what she claims. "I have no idea?"
"I'm sure you've heard… of my explosive temper. Right?"
Paragus frowns at this. He heard of it for sure. "I heard the gossip of your reaction to what happened after Turles disappeared on Planet Scorch."
She destroyed one of the medical rooms. She nearly killed her eldest son out of fury.
That explains a few things. Gine's temper nearly surfaced now and then. The most recent caused the power of the ship to blow out.
Maybe what happened between her and Launch was part of it? She looked like she was about to hurt her. Instead, she destroyed her gun.
Gine sighs. "Somehow, it seems that temper skipped a generation. Kakarot's son has it, too. It's much worse, don't you think? Unlike me, the kid is completely unaware of his own temper. He blacks out. It has to be due to his Human blood."
"Kakarot's son?"
Gine simply carries on. "Yes. Humans are far more emotional than we Saiyans are. So a Saiyan-Human hybrid certainly has no control of their rage at all."
"How does that compare to you?"
"Me? I'm aware of what I am doing." Gine is sad to admit that. Maybe there is a benefit to being blind to to actions when angry. Too bad she doesn't have that.
Kakarot sometimes experiences blind rage… but that's because he was Human raised.
"Go ahead and cross me if you have the nerve. I hate getting so angry. If I were you… I would stop whatever it is you are doing. If you cause the demise of anyone one of my children… let me assure you, my anger is the least of your worries."
Paragus huffs. "No… you're bluffing. Even if you did somehow survive the experiment… you are too scared to sink that deep."
He isn't wrong.
She's afraid to fight seriously for that reason. And here she is… involved in a serious fight…
"Don't do this to yourself." Gine begs him quietly. "You'll hurt yourself… and I'll regret it later. Just give up… and you can see your son."
Her words somewhat annoy him. Why is she so concerned for him? "Don't worry. I'll end this quickly before you can even feel regret."
She hears a distant boom from outside. She glances out there, remembering just how hard the others are fighting. The first concern that comes to mind is if Kakarot is okay.
WHAM!
Something heavy struck the side of her face. Gine falls on her back with a grunt. She glares at the Saiyan that walks closer.
Paragus walks closer as he aims his energy blaster towards her. "Saiyans like you don't survive very long. You lower your guard when you feel concern for others."
He fires, and the energy blast is unleashed.
Gine throws her hands out. A translucent pink force field shields her from the attack in an instant. The blast tries to pierce through, but it only breaks down and explodes.
"What the?! A forcefield?!" Paragus is surprised. This was not something he expected. It doesn't stop him apparently. He keeps firing. Each blast strikes the shield, but they either bounce off or are cancelled out on impact.
Seeing this repeated process annoys him. Meeting eyes with Gine, he sees her saddened expression. From the way she is looking at him, there is regret in her eyes.
Is she taking pity on him?
She's frustrated as well, because she just can't get through to him. He won't listen.
"You know what I learned about you, Gine?" Paragus frowns. "You have too much sympathy for everyone. Even your enemies. I've never seen a Saiyan care so much about the well-being of others as much as you. Not even close. I see why they would take you."
Gine flinches as he keeps firing. Is he mocking her? It's hard to tell. Her shield is starting to break.
He thinks she's a fool. He's a bigger one.
"You know what I learned about you, Paragus?" She begins to counter, though she speaks with sadness. "You're just a coward who hides behind a weapon all the time. Let it be a machine or a living being." Gine thrusts his hands forward, and the shield condenses and fires as a single blast that knocks Paragus back.
He falls on his back, and his weapon clatters on the ground next to him. He is quick to sit up, scooting back. "You can't say anything! You're the one who ran away from fighting and worked in a butcher shop!"
"It was to protect myself, and my children! It was because of what the frost demon did to me!" Gine protests, trying to justify her reasons. "You don't know me, or what I can do! I was called a coward, but I refused to be treated like a weapon! How dare you give such a harsh treatment to your own son!"
"You don't understand a thing about us!"
"That is no excuse to take an innocent child and raise them to be your personal tool of war!" Gine counters.
"No Saiyan stays innocent, Gine! Just look at your own children!" Paragus snatches the gun from the ground. "You are just as naive as they say you are! You yourself act innocent and run away from the past! You say that fighting and killing is the worst thing to do, but such a morality will do you no good! You're nothing more than a hypocrite!"
Click.
"Huh?" Paragus looks at his gun, realizing static is jumping around the surface. It takes a few seconds for him to realize it is jammed. "How the hell did she…?"
A pink light illuminates the cave. It draws Paragus' attention to the source, which makes him uneasy. A ball of static-coated energy is hovering from Gine's hand.
"You're right. I am a hypocrite." Gine shakes her head, appearing ashamed. Her tone sounds saddened as she goes on. "Tell me, Paragus. You seem to know more about me than the other Saiyans around here. Go ahead and tell me what you know, since you claim to know about our past so much. You gave the others a little history… so what about me? You heard about me enough like the others, right?"
Paragus growls lightly. "You were a member of Bardock's crew. Whenever you invaded a planet, they relied on you to take down their defenses."
"That's... correct." Gine seems hurt to hear what he said. "You heard of what took place in Planet Mineral, right?"
"Of course… that mission would have been impossible without your help. You were able to disable their forcefield to penetrate their defenses. Because of that, it was a success."
"That's all you know?" Gine wishes that is the case, but it's not.
She knows that he heard about it. It hurts.
"It's true. You mainly disabled technology. That was about it- GAH!" Paragus is cut off as he is kicked in the stomach. He falls on his back, gritting his teeth in pain.
"What were you going to tell my children?" Gine asks with her voice slightly shaking. She lowers her foot slowly. "There's more to that story to tell to someone I hid it from, right? Stop playing dumb. I know you must have overheard it from Bardock."
Paragus grunts before he resumes talking. "On Planet Mineral… the natives didn't stand a chance against any of you since they rely on technology for defense. The dangerous planet was reduced to a cakewalk because of you."
"That's it. That's exactly what I was expecting to hear." Gine turns away for a few seconds. She walks around, conflicted, and upset. "I never told my children, because it's something I would rather forget. But if that is all you know… then you clearly have no idea why I left when I was doing so well a year before."
She swings her arm harshly, sending the sphere flying. It strikes Paragus square on the chest, and his entire body freezes as small lightning bolts jump across his body.
Paragus can't move. He's stunned!
"I was a coward, to run away the way I did. I didn't want my children to go through the same pain I did… which was why my eldest turned out to be such a coward. I never taught him how to live life at the edge, because such a life scared me, and it was all wrong when it involves bloodshed! I had quit… retired… and worked as a butcher… But even if a Saiyan tries to run away from fighting, the fight always finds you. Physical or not."
She shakes her head as she bends down and pushes aside his cape. She slips her hand inside the pocket of his armor. As soon as her fingers brush a smooth surface, they grip around it and she pulls it out.
"H-hey!" Paragus can't do much at the moment. Seeing her step away with the bracelet alarms him.
"I can't tell anyone how wrong it is to slaughter when I did that very same thing a long time ago. I deserve no right to plead for mercy when I ignored those cries in the past. It hurts, every time I think about it. They kept saying that we were just doing our job, and we should get over it. I never could. It got harder and harder for me to harden my heart, especially when it involves children… I just… couldn't take it anymore…" Gine's voice is trembling as she recalls all of this. "Do you know… how many innocent lives I had killed? Lives who were happy and living their days with no worries…? People who were raising their children…?"
Paragus growls lightly. He wasn't expecting this.
"We were taught since we were children… to harden our hearts and look at the opponent straight in the eye. Don't avert your eyes away from them regardless if they fall defeated or fall dead. To take pride in your strength and your Saiyan heritage. To take the idea of purging a planet as showing the universe how powerful we were. That is everything King Cold and Frieza filled our heads with. I hate that I…"
Her lips pull back as she growls lightly.
"Those… stupid little lies. Destroying worlds isn't showing the universe how powerful we are. It's showing that we are just mindless monsters… Frieza's disposable pawns. And oh, how right they were. In the end… Frieza just disposed of all of us in one day, didn't he?"
Paragus just stares at her. Everything she said… it's all so true.
"That day I woke up and realized my life was a lie… it was what caused me to not want to fight anymore. It was what caused me to have to be rescued so many times by Bardock, until I finally quit. That lifestyle we Saiyans had… wasn't meant for me. It wasn't meant for us. Everyone around me was an idiot, blabbering about Saiyan pride… why do they take pride in killing an innocent? Why did I?"
She takes in a shaking breath, gripping the bracelet tightly.
"I hate it so much. I was so stupidly blind back then. I… I hate..." Gine shuts her eyes, causing a few tears to fall. "I hate that I still remember...!"
For several seconds, there is nothing but silence. Paragus finds himself able to move again. He appears a bit clumsy with how he moves, but he is on his feet again. After hearing her little speech, he sees her a bit differently… a soldier who saw through the lies. But knowing that she saw through his own lies and exposed him… he can't allow her to walk away so easily. What happened before… it had to be a lucky shot.
"Every Saiyan here is hurt by Cold and Frieza… one way or another. You are no exception, Paragus." Gine's voice trembled. "But it doesn't mean I can forgive you. You lost yourself a long time ago… to the point that you don't deserve to be called a Saiyan."
"What?" He frowns.
"You can call me a coward all you like. But a true coward is the one who hides behind someone else… and uses them for their own selfish benefit. One who sees their own son as not a living being… but a machine."
Gine's eyes open, and throws her foot forward, landing a kick against Paragus' head. She sends him to the ground. She wipes away her tears as she walks towards him.
Paragus takes a few steps back, and he takes a quick look at his surroundings. Seeing nothing useful, he sprints forward again, only he makes a sharp turn around her.
Gine gasps and turns around quickly, and her eyes catch sight of him turning around and running the other way now. He's trying to throw her off! Quickly, she curls the fingers of her free hand as she prepares to stop the trickery.
Paragus stops moving and swings one arm, sending a chop her way. He watches he get in position to counter it, and he smirks. At the last second he drops his arm and throws his leg out instead, striking her other hand and knocking the bracelet out of it.
Gine realizes what he just did. She reaches out to snatch it, but he beat her to it and jumps back, leaving her to just grabbing air. She looks at him with surprised eyes as he laughs.
"Call me a coward if you like. But I see it as destiny. This isn't my story. This… Is Broly's!" Paragus spins the bracelet around his finger before his hand clamps around it. "All of this is happening because of our selfish king was afraid of a baby! My son wants nothing more than the pain to end. It's why he fights now!"
"You manipulated him into thinking that is his only choice!" Gine protests. The way Paragus thinks… it's unbelievable to her. She feels so bad for his son.
"Hm." Paragus frowns.
Time is running out. Gine is low on options right about now. She tries to reason with him again. "All of this is pointless. All of us had let go of the past, so why can't you? Prince Vegeta had nothing to do with this! All you are doing is destroying us! You have to stop this!"
"I'm not stopping anything." Paragus frowns, ignoring her pleading look.
"Paragus! Listen to me! You have to use the bracelet!" Gine desperately cries out. If anything, she sounds like she's on the verge of tears. Truthfully, she is. She feels her eyes starting to water. The entire situation is stressful and terrible.
"Stop asking me that." Paragus grumbles. "If you know me well enough, I will never change my mind."
"That's your problem! You just don't get it! None of this is necessary! Just use it, and we'll let you go!"
Paragus glances outside.
"Use the bracelet." Gine mutters. "Please. We don't have to foolishly fight amongst ourselves anymore."
He simply growls.
Gine prays that he would listen. She steps closer to him, speaking firmly. "Use the bracelet!"
But he still stands firm.
"Use the bracelet!" She demands this time through a growl.
Paragus looks at the accessory before giving her a challenging look.
What is he plotting now? She already doesn't like it. He just won't listen, and it starts to infuriate her. "Use the bracelet!"
He begins to squeeze it firmly.
Losing her patience, Gine snaps, speaking with a loud and threatening tone. "USE THE BRACELET!"
Paragus gives it a firm squeeze, and it breaks to pieces, which silences her. As her sudden outburst reduces to despair, he drops the pieces to the ground. He never took his one eye off her. "I already told you, he won't stop. Did you really think begging and yelling would make me change my mind?"
Gine stares at the pieces. "You fool… is vengeance really worth everyone's lives…?"
"This planet won't be the first he destroyed. I'm far too used to it by now." Paragus says. "Your death will mean nothing to me. None of you do. All that matters is to get back at the royal family once and for all. Anyone who interferes will meet their same fate."
Gine lifts her head to look at him. At this rate, no one may survive. Paragus doesn't care about who dies… as long as Prince Vegeta dies in the end. Everyone is out there fighting a Saiyan who doesn't even realize what he is fighting for. She could have simply snatched the bracelet and flew out to stop it. She couldn't even do that much…
All because she hesitated. Hesitate, as she always did.
"He's… after Kakarot too… you know?" Gine mutters.
"That sounds like a personal problem for him. Kakarot should have kept his mouth shut from his screaming." Paragus huffs. "But what are you going to do?"
Gine speaks quietly in the Saiyan tongue; "Very soon, you'll wonder why you are face down on the ground… charred and scorched like a pig."
Was that a threat?
Paragus throws a punch towards her face, but he is surprised by how fast she ducks. He throws another, but his fist is caught. He looks at her and is met with her teary eyes.
"Huh?"
Gine's doesn't budge as he tries to pull his hand free. Slowly, she turns his arm the wrong way, dealing pain to him.
His pain-filled cries… it's too much. To hear them makes her tremble. Something is swelling inside of her.
It's scaring her.
As it goes on, she shuts her eyes and steps away, freeing him. She shakes and grabs her head. "I can't… I can't…"
At this moment, her fears start to swallow her. She feels her throat tightening as tears well up in her eyes. They fall and roll of her face as a small whimper escapes her throat. One hand clings on the wrist where the cursed mark is located.
"Don't make me… do this…"
She can't take it.
She can't…
She can't do it.
- 0000 -
"I… I didn't mean to piss him off! I swear!"
Future Trunks has no idea how to deal with this. All he did was send Broly to the ground since Kakarot and Vegeta kept fighting over who fights first. He never imagined it would trigger Broly to what Nappa identified as a "Primal Mindset'. What is that, exactly?
He saw those red eyes before. The one time he did was the closest Tarble came to killing him in his own timeline. So his guess… A Saiyan just turns into a savage or brutal individual.
And from what he witnessed with Tarble… his fighting instincts were at their peak. So for Broly… he can see why Nappa was alarmed. He got stronger. His energy is overwhelming.
The purple-haired teen isn't the only one who feels this. Everyone else did. If it was strong enough for even Kauli to feel, then it's clear they are in a very bad position.
Kakarot remains in his spot in the air, watching Broly struggle in his rage below. Such power is all too new to his senses. "It's okay, Trunks. You didn't know."
Raditz frowns. "This is incredible. I hate to admit it, but I doubt anyone of us can tackle him on our own. We will have to give our all."
"I couldn't have said it any better." Tarble agrees as he clenches his fists. With a mighty shout, golden aura swallows him as he transforms into a Super Saiyan.
"Hey! You! Earthlings!" Nappa looks back at the Z-Fighters. "This isn't a fight you can win at all! Your best bet is to head home!"
"You're just tossing us aside?!" Krillin is surprised. "We aren't exactly cowards!"
"Well, this is the one time we'll allow you to run. The difference between this and Cell, is Cell has a tournament! You have a bigger chance then! Right now, this fight is only meant for us Saiyans! Don't take it the wrong way. You've displayed your abilities, but they will do no good here!"
"He's right." Kakarot agrees. "What you can do is return to the ship and protect those who aren't fighting, such as my wife!"
Yamcha would protest, but seeing the glares from the other Saiyans, it seems there is no talking out of this one. He turns to Tien and Krillin, who seem to have a silent agreement. Looking back at Kakarot, he speaks. "Well, you just watch, Goku! When we face Cell, we'll show you that we are no pushovers."
"I know you're no pushovers." Kakarot says. "Go on while you have the opportunity."
The Z-Fighters nod and they fly off quickly. Silently, they agree that this fight is impossible for them. But surely, they are determined to prove their worth when The Cell games come.
That's if it does come. Surviving this fight is a priority now.
As the trio fly on, Tien glances back as he realizes something. "Did… Goku just agreed that we aren't pushovers?"
"Looks like even he's starting to go for a better change." Yamcha smiles. "That's a relief. I don't want him trying to impale me every time he sees me."
Krillin agrees with a nod. "Maybe these Saiyans really were misguided. Now that they operate on their own… I guess they are slowly starting to find themselves."
"Well, we better keep those on the sidelines safe." Tien says. "And we need to come up with a strategy for that baby. If we take our eyes off him, he'll just vanish in the blink of an eye."
"Yeah. The last thing we need is for Raditz to come after our heads." Krillin agrees.
"He sure is a cute little guy for so much trouble." Yamcha says. "He's certainly a handful. I guess Saiyan babies are like that. His eyes are so blue and pure, but behind that is a stubborn and demanding thing. Funny. He reminds me of Bulma."
The three fly in silence, having the same idea. It's not until a few seconds they exchanged surprised looks.
"WAIT A MINUTE! BULMA?!"
…
Back at the battlefield, the Saiyan warriors all wait patiently, and anxiously as Broly stomps through the ground. Not one of them lower their guard for a second.
"Kauli." Tarble calls her carefully. "Maybe you should go with them."
"What?!" The request has Kauli a bit surprised. "Why me? I mean, I'm not an idiot. I know that there is no way in hell I can fight this Broly guy on my own. But don't toss me aside like y'all did to the Humans!"
"Don't take it personal… but I don't want you getting hurt." Tarble frowns. "You are just now learning how to manipulate your energy. But it's not good enough for hard combat like this. Maybe if you had some training in the time chamber-"
"Look here. Listen, I mean." Kauli says, refusing to go anywhere. "I have my reasons for staying. As much sense as it would be for someone like me to leave this fight, my stubborn ass doesn't wanna go nowhere. I don't know what it is. But I have a hunch it has something to do with… being a damn Saiyan. Why is y'all biology like this? It's dumb."
Turles chuckles at her reaction to what she is feeling. "Humans would be scared to fight someone this strong. But for us Saiyans… It gets our blood flowing. After all, fighting is in our blood. We live for battle. So what you are feeling… it's completely normal. Seems you found it."
"Ah, shit." Kauli knows it now. "I darn caught the dumbass disease."
Tarble sighs, now knowing it is impossible to convince her to leave. "Well… let's try not to be a dumbass, shall we?"
Vegeta chuckles small. "How long is that going to last, Tarble? Someone is bound to screw something up. I'll tolerate for now. Only because this Saiyan freak we are dealing with isn't someone we can toy with."
"You finally learned your lesson? I am shocked." Tarble turns to him, genuinely surprised.
"Humph. Don't get so ahead of yourself, Tarble. I just remembered something. That's all." Vegeta hardens his focus. "I don't plan on getting myself killed."
Nappa nods slowly with an impressed smile. Seems the talk he had with Vegeta had some effect. What's more is this fight is a bit more personal. It involved the foolish mistake of King Vegeta. Something the prince probably doesn't want to punished for.
Karot inches back. "He's looking right at us now."
Indeed. On the ground, Broly has turned his attention to the flying Saiyans above. While it is unclear on how badly he lost control, they know he is dangerous. He won't be easy to predict.
Future Trunks tightens his fists, getting himself ready.
Finally, after a long moment, Broly roars in fury as he launches himself from the ground. He rockets past Vegeta and Future Trunks, throwing a fist directly at Kakarot. Kakarot manages to block the attack, being forced back. The attack is road out.
Kakarot chuckles. "Well then… I guess you hold a grudge against me too, huh?" He swings out both arms, pushing Broly's fist back, and he sends a punch of his own that strikes the Saiyan across the face.
The two Saiyans exchange their punches and kicks. Kakarot dodges several before he twists his body around and lands a roundhouse kick. He is surprised that Broly didn't budge much. "Whoa! You are a tank!"
"Sorry to jump in!" Tarble flies past Kakarot and unleashes a blast point-blank at Broly's face. The Saiyan flips back. Tarble chases after him. "You can't very well handle him on your own!"
"Well, you never know." Kakarot isn't too bothered. He feels Broly's energy. It's much higher than Vegeta, who stands as the strongest among them.
And of course, Vegeta isn't pleased. The older prince once again joins the fray to pin Broly down. He and Tarble begin to attack Broly. It's noted that they share a similar fighting style.
Kakarot prepares to join in, but due to his focus temporarily being torn away from Broly, he finally senses an energy signal he ignored before.
Is that Gine?
Is she fighting too? It's not easy to grasp, since his mother isn't all that strong… right?
"Big brother?" Kakarot calls, feeling uneasy.
"Yes? What?" Raditz turns to him. "Whatever question it is, make it quick! We have no time for a conversation!"
"I just need to confirm something. Maybe you don't know but… it's about mom. Paragus said she was once in the military. I think you said that once…"
Raditz's annoyed expression softens up. He didn't expect this. "... Yes. She was. I don't remember if I told you or not… but she worked with our father, Bardock. And our father was the commander of his team. They did a lot of work."
"What happened before she retired?"
"Mother doesn't speak of her military days much. She hates to even think about it, so trying to ask to much will only upset her." Raditz frowns. "From my guess to how startled she was when Paragus brought up one of her pass missions… I can only assume she must have a high body count."
That's what he thought. Kakarot isn't sure how to feel about this. After all, any Saiyan who was In the military can't avoid claiming a life. And such a job starts when they were born. They are ranked and placed in their rank based on their powerlevel.
"I've seen what she is capable off when she's angry enough. As a kid when I had Turles near death on Planet Scorch… she killed the badger that took him down with just a few heavy shots." Raditz lowers his head. "There is no way a Saiyan who never killed before can do that. She knew exactly how to take down that thing. It's safe to assume that she did her work, and somewhere along the line… she just gave up."
Kakarot nods. It makes sense now. They way she can dodge and catch bullets, and how she can form a forcefield…
Gine really was a soldier at one point. A very experienced one in fact.
"I think she can deal with Paragus, if that is what you are worried about." Raditz says. "From what Turles and I learned about him as kids… he knows Gine, since they crossed paths in the battlefield a few times before."
"So mom was a soldier. But you told me she wasn't a good fighter." Kakarot says.
Raditz recalls one thing. "Paragus did say… our parents only told us the end of that story."
"That's what I don't understand. Why not tell us everything? You were in the military, too." Kakarot frowns, confused by it all.
"There are some things a parent should never tell their child." Raditz says. "I think mother felt to say nothing was the best thing to do. She has her reasons. And looking at Broly here… I see what a parent's influence can have on their children. While mother sheltered us from whatever she did, Paragus didn't shelter his own kid. Seems like he had Broly prepared for this moment throughout his entire life."
"A weapon." Kakarot growls. "A living weapon."
"And that's something I know irks mother more than anything. Especially when it involves children. She always… had a soft spot for children." Raditz says.
"She has a reason to fight Paragus." Kakarot mutters. "For Broly's sake. I see now. If she changed for a better life.. so can Broly. So can… all of us."
To hear that from Kakarot out of all the Saiyans…
It's a good thing Youzi left him.
"For that reason, we can't kill him." Nappa frowns, overhearing the conversation. "He's not evil. He was just misguided. Broly is very innocent, and very confused. He doesn't know how to control his power."
"And a Saiyan who can't do that becomes a monster." Raditz frowns. "What can we do from here?"
Broly roars and slams his arm against Tarble and Vegeta, sending them flying back.
"We spoke long enough." Raditz flies off to join the fight. Kakarot is quick to follow. Turles appears to have heard the small conversation. He looks back at the direction Gine's energy is coming from.
"Come on! Don't just stand there!" Nappa flies past Turles. It snaps him out of it.
Karot screams as he unleashes a blast. He grows annoyed by how easily Broly avoids it.
Broly knocks Tarble back again, and he catches Vegeta's fist before he could land a hit. He begins to throw fast punches that constantly strike Vegeta across his torso. The final blow is enough to leave the prince unable to breathe. He is kicked back, but Nappa catches him and releases him carefully.
"Gah…!" Vegeta places a hand near his chest as he glares at Broly. "You just don't know what to expect from him! I hardly got a hit in!"
Karot stiffens. "He's tough!"
"He grows stronger the more he fights!" Kauli shouts at them. "Am I right?!"
"Remind me to teach you how to properly sense energy." Kakarot tells her. He will have to remember somehow. "Looks like Broly really did wake that up in you. You aren't wrong. I don't know how to feel about this."
"I do. I don't like this." Future Trunks frowns as he feels intimidated by the red eyes. "I never fought against a Saiyan like this before!"
"None of us have." Turles grumbles. "But it sounds like to me you are about to try to avoid this. That Human blood in you really makes you a coward sometimes. Don't worry. Kakarot's kid has the same problem."
"It's not like I like to fight as much as you do! But I never said I was going to run!" Future Trunks protests. "What I am saying is; What can we possibly do?!"
"Fight." Nappa answers. "For as long as your body allows you. The second you stop, you'll find yourself dead."
"What?!" Kauli blinks. "Against that monster? He turned Vegeta's ass into a Piñata! We can't possibly just-"
"Don't lose your motivation." Nappa interrupts her.
"How can I not when-"
"K'tarrlee kl Oozaru."
They freeze, as they picked up the familiar language being spoken.
"K'tarrlee kl ekeh-yeh. K'tarrlee kl eh lehkoo-oo."
Future Trunks just stares at the general. What the heck did he just say? From the pronunciation of the words. The rolling sounds. The rhythm… he recognizes it. He heard Tarble speak it from time to time, especially when he was so angry…
"I… I'm sorry." Kauli begins, just as puzzled. "I was… never taught how to speak Saiyan."
Vegeta rubs his face with a snarl as he watches Broly carefully. "What he just said… are the very words we Saiyans were taught since we were children."
"The translation." Raditz begins. "He said, 'Fight with your Great Ape. Fight with your teeth. Fight with your everything.' What that means is… keep fighting, no matter what. Fight until the very end, even if that is death."
"Oh…" Kauli looks back at Broly. "A Saiyan thing. Got it."
"Here's your word of the day. Remember it." Vegeta clenches his fist. "K'tarrlee means 'fight'."
Future Trunks blinks. "Who ever thought the Saiyan language would sound so motivational?"
"You'll learn it eventually, kid. It'll roll out of your tongue naturally." Raditz says. "Lessons come later. Right now, feel that Saiyan blood! Let it flow!"
"You don't have to say it twice!" Turles flattens his hands and brings them close to each other. An orange ring of energy forms between them. He slowly pulls his hands further apart until the ring is bigger than his head. Nearby Saiyans move out of his way to give him a good throwing range. He throws his hands above her head before launching the attack forward. "Kill Driver!"
Broly is struck, and the ring begins to push him back. He struggles against the force until it bursts, and it seems to hurt. Broly retaliates quickly by firing a single blast. The Saiyans separate and avoid the attack. They fly around Broly, attacking him in turns. Broly finds himself being pushed around constantly, and it angers him even more. He throws his hands down with a mighty scream, and an unseen force blows all the Saiyans away just as they closed in. Broly locks his eyes on to one target and swings one hand, unleashing another massive blast.
His target, not surprising.
"WHAAAAAA!" Kakarot is flipping towards the sky. "Crap! Crapcrapcrapcrapcrap- OH, SHIT!" His eyes nearly bulge out, and he rolls to his right in the nick of time. A deadly blast flies right past him.
"Language!" Raditz warns him from below. "Little Kakarot shouldn't use big words like that-"
"SHUT UP! THIS ISN'T THE TIME FOR THAT! I NEARLY LOST MY HEAD!"
"Incoming!" Future Trunks warns Kakarot.
Broly is closing in, snarling with an animalistic look in his eyes.
Kakarot jumps back quickly, and he throws his arms out to the side. Immediately, he rotates them in separate directions in a 180 turn, before bringing his arms closer together, cupping his hands to his side. "KAAA… MEEEE…. HAAAA…. MEEEE….!"
Broly thrusts his hand forward.
And Kakarot does the same with both. "HAAAAAAAAAAA!"
Broly catches the blast to his surprise. The enraged Saiyan grunts and struggles as he is slowly being pushed back by the power behind it. It doesn't help him very long as the blasts bursts and burns his hand. Broly recoils back as he cries out, unfamiliar with such an injury.
"He really hasn't fought a serious fight much." Kakarot notes as he lowers his hand. "But still, he's really catching on!"
"There should be no hesitation in the battlefield, Kakarot!" Raditz reminds him to keep moving as he passes him to close the gap. His hand is already sparking with energy. Quickly, he crushes it in his hand before throwing it forward. "Saturday Crush!"
Just as Broly recovered from his hands stinging, he is surprised to see a pink bundle of energy flying his way. He is struck head on and growls as the energy swallows him and travels through his body. He's stunned, but not for as long as Raditz would have liked. He breaks himself free somehow and kicks Raditz back before he could land a physical attack on him.
"What?!" Raditz exclaims through clenched teeth.
Broly throws a punch, but chains wrapped around his arm and restrains it from traveling any further. He looks back and sees Kauli holding the other end.
"Somebody get him before he treats me like a chained dog!" Kauli exclaims for help.
Karot flies in and kicks Broly below the chin. Seeing how it didn't to much surprised him.
Broly snarls and swings his captured arm with a stronger force. Kauli finds herself being swung around like a lasso until he releases her towards Karot. She collides to him like a cannon, and the pair fly back, only to be caught by Future Trunks.
"Thanks, Trunks." Kauli thanks him, feeling very dizzy. The teen holds her steady to keep her from falling until she has control of her senses again.
With Raditz remaining Broly's closest target, the enraged Saiyan attacks again. He sends his punches that are mostly dodged, and his attacks end as he is kicked in the face.
Raditz makes quick work of his legs, landing kick after kick, but it ends once Broly snags one ankle. He tries to pull free, but he ends up being pulled instead, being elbowed against the stomach. He coughs out a mouthful of saliva after taking such a heavy hit. His eyes catch sight of a fist flying his way. He throws up his hands to block it.
"EEEEEEEEE!"
Broly and Raditz quickly turn to the source of the sound. A white ball of light strikes Broly across the face. It zips around his head and then underneath, striking his chest.
Broly growls, irritated by the ambush. He tries to crush the ball with his hands, but he misses as it zips away to fly behind him. He turns around to swat at it. It flies away in the nick of time. Broly misses due to how small the light is. He is struck under his chin and he floats back quickly.
"Zhanshitao?!" Raditz has no idea how the creature got here. He's somewhat glad he did arrive, but at the same time, he knows the Giantula only placed himself in danger. "Hey! What are you doing?!"
Zhanshitao's angry screeches carry on as he continues to strike Broly with every opening he has.
"Pull back, you idiot!" Raditz scolds him. "You'll only get yourself killed!"
"Hold on!" Nappa flies past Raditz. "Keep doing that! He's distracted!"
Raditz isn't sure what the general has planned, but he can't ignore it. Reluctantly, he agrees to it. "Nevermind, Zhanshitao! Just keep hitting him for as long as time allows!"
Zhanshitao carries on, and Broly struggles to do as much as catch him.
"Perfect! Keep him distracted, just like that!" Nappa lifts one hand, curling his fingers as it sparks with white bolts of energy. Within seconds, the light engulfs his entire hand and wrist. "If he's this strong, this shouldn't kill him. But it damn sure will hurt!"
Raditz's eyes widen. "Everyone! Get out of the damn way!"
"Huh?" Kakarot looks away from Broly's struggle. He felt the energy spike, and it draws his attention to Nappa. "Whoa!"
Kauli is quick to make a dive. "Time to move out!"
The rest of the warriors take notice, and they fly out the way.
Broly finally snags Zhanshitao, only to scream as the alien tarantula bites him with his tiny fangs. He angrily throws him like a ball, and Zhanshitao's screech can be heard fading away. He glares at his bitten hand.
Nappa pulls his hand back, and the energy trails after it. He throws his hand forward, and it is unleashed as a massive force that puts on a flashing light show of destruction.
Many are forced to shield their eyes due to the flashing being so blinding. The display draws Broly's attention, who reacts too late, taking the attack directly. A massive explosion rips through the air and nearly blows everyone away.
After several seconds, everything seems to settle. Nappa slowly lowers his hand as he keeps his eyes on the ball of smoke his attack left behind.
The smoke is cleared away by the wind. Broly is still afloat, shaking with his lips pulled back, and wearing an expression filled with rage. He is missing chunks of his top armor. One shoulder pad broke off as most of the chest portion has fallen off, leaving him with the shirt that layered underneath. Other than that, he seems unharmed.
"Wha…?" Nappa blinks. "He took it head on… and I hardly left a scratch…!"
"That tells us two things." Tarble begins to note as he braces himself. "The armor we have is very durable. The other thing… he somehow deflected the attack with his own energy. Somewhat like a shield."
"He's learning." Vegeta growls irritability. "A gifted warrior. That's what he is without a doubt. Maybe he's more than that. His power is unreal!"
Nappa growls as he clenches both of his hands. "He just keeps… brushing off our attacks…!"
Broly looks at the damage his armor took, and he snatches the other shoulder pad, tearing it off with little effort. He tosses it aside as his red eyes lock on to the general. His energy engulfs him again as he pulls both arms back. He swings one arm, followed by the other, unleashing a green glowing blast that is unleashed in the same fashion.
"What the?!" Nappa flies around the first one quickly. He is forced to ball himself up to protect his body from the second one. He is struck, and a burst of his energy breaks it apart as he lowers his arms and legs. "This is getting really annoying! What does it take to do as much as give him a cut or two?!"
"Hm?" Vegeta looks at Nappa quickly. He seems to detect something.
Nappa growled as he fires a blast that is simply avoided.
Broly swings his arms, firing blast after blast that the general is forced to deflect or guard against. The gap between them is closed within seconds, faster than Nappa can realize. Just as they meet eyes, Broly connects a punch against Nappa's stomach, forcing the air from his lungs.
"Oh, no!" Karot gasps. "I didn't see him move! He just-"
"He's gotten faster!" Future Trunks notes, growing frustrated.
Broly throws another punch that lands across Nappa's face. Another hits his chest, and other hits the face again. His heavy swings deal heavy hits. It's not until Nappa punches his face that he pauses. But it did nothing more than touch his face.
Nappa can't believe it. He feels weak due to the fact that the head didn't even budge. It's almost like a replay of Vegeta's struggle against Perfect Cell.
Broly jerks his head away before snatching Nappa's wrist. He knees the Saiyan's stomach before pulling him forward and headbutting his head. The headbutting goes on, making those watching grow uneasy.
The first one to act is Turles, who probably saw an opening. He charges forward with shout, preparing himself to throw a punch, but Broly stops his abuse and swings Nappa at him, batting him away.
Nappa gains some control, and kicks Broly's chest. It's not enough to knock the Saiyan back, but it's just enough for Nappa to free his hand. He distances himself, placing a hand against his bruised head as he growls heavily. "Why you…!"
"Damn. I nearly forgot about the one flaw he has." Raditz feels stupid for forgetting sowmthing so major.
"Wait? Even the big guy has a problem?" Kauli blinks. "What is that?!"
Raditz answers with annoyance. "He hates losing."
"Doesn't everyone?" Turles questions.
"Well, yes. But he doesn't take it well."
"Nappa!" Vegeta is also familiar with this, trying to pull him back. "That's enough. Whatever you have planned won't work!"
Nappa ignores the call, sending a quick blast with a single hand that simply bounces off the larger warrior. He sends another and has the same results. "You think I'm afraid of you?! How about this?!" He flicks two fingers up. Broly cries out in surprise as a massive explosion bursts from below his feet and rips through his entire body. Nappa remains in the pose as he waits.
A sudden burst of air clears away the smoke, revealing an agitated Broly with his arms spread out. Even with that, it only chipped off more of his armor.
Feeling humiliated, Nappa remains still, shaking for several seconds until Broly charges for him again. He snaps, charging an orange ball of energy from his hand. As he fires, he screams out in anger; "THAT'S LUUUUCK!"
Broly stops in his tracks and catches the blast with his bare hands, just as he did with Kakarot's Kamehameha Wave. It nearly swallows his arm as he fights against it. Closing his hands quickly, the blast breaks apart to sprays of light. Broly looks at his hands for a few seconds before they both charge with intense energy. The warrior unleashes another roar, possibly to rile himself up.
"You… are you using me like some sort of mirror?! Are you trying to intimidate me?!" Nappa shouts angrily as his own energy begins to flow around him. "Nobody but nobody intimidates the MIGHTY NAPPAAAA!"
He opens his mouth quickly, and he fires his ultimate Break Cannon that seems to surprise Broly.
Broly's charged attacks shrink to nothing as he opens his own mouth. With a scream, he fires his blast from the mouth instead. Only, his is faster and massive, flying wildly until it hits the Break Cannon.
The two blasts clash and fight it out, but within seconds, the green blast overpowers Nappa's own. Nappa is forced to shut his mouth, and he tilts to his left quickly. Broly's blast flies right past him, and the heat of it makes the general flinch. If he were an inch closer, it would have been ugly.
Nappa stares as the blast flies off in the distance. He slowly turns back to Broly, with his hands shaking in rage. His constant efforts being pushed away clearly got under his skin. "I'M SICK OF THIS! I'M NOT SOME PUSHOVER! YOU HEAR MEEEE?!" He soars towards Broly with intentions to take him on with physical strength.
"NAPPA! DON'T BE RECKLESS!" Vegeta scolds him a warning, but it came too late
Broly dodges Nappa's angry attack, and his fist pierces through Nappa's armor, just above abdomen. The general is frozen, experiencing too much pain to scream over. Everyone else freezes.
A glow is seen from where Broly's fist is buried. A blast shoots right through Nappa's back, leaving a bleeding hole. Broly pulls his hand free, and Nappa's energy fades out as he begins to fall. His blood flies fresh from the wound.
"Damn it!" Kauli gasps.
Karot gasps. Seeing Nappa being wounded so quickly frightens him. Despite how angry he's been lately, he never held any anger towards the general. He did look after him time after time.
This is a terrible sight.
Kakarot growls, trying to search for something. He finds a way to stall Broly in an instant. "Everyone! Cover your eyes!"
Raditz would ask, but seeing Kakarot spread out his hand and place his fingers at both sides of his head is enough. He covers his eyes as instructed. "Do why he says quickly!"
Once everyone else filled through, Kakarot shuts his own. "Hey! Broly!"
Broly growls and turns towards the Saiyan.
"SOLAR FLARE!"
A blinding light shines from Kakarot's body. Broly looks right into it, and he hollers as he grabs his face to cover his eyes. He's temporarily blinded.
"We only have a moment! Hurry!" Kakarot descends after Nappa quickly. Everyone else opens their eyes and see the results of Kakarot's attack. They quickly follow him.
Nappa crashes to the ground, laying on his back in absolute pain. Within seconds, everyone else lands around him.
"Idiot. I tried to warn you!" Vegeta snarls at him. "Always allowing your anger get the best of you! Such wrath is fatal!"
"Easy, Vegeta." Tarble growls at his brother.
"Mr. Nappa!" Karot begs as he drops to his knees. "Come on! You have to get up! Please! We need you!"
"His energy is dropping fast. He's losing blood." Future Trunks notes immediately.
"Good observation. I had an idea of what it could be. The scent of blood is strong." Tarble frowns as he walks up to Nappa. "I need everyone to be my eyes for a moment. How bad is it?"
"He looks like shit." Kauli growls.
"I need clarification. I am aware that he may appear rough." Tarble instructs her. He's not so surprised by the way she described it.
Future Trunks speaks up quickly. "The wound is too severe to ignore. It's gaping from both sides, and the bleeding won't stop itself. He'll die within minutes if we don't do something!"
"Someone speaks my language. Seems I taught you well in your timeline." Tarble nods. "Now I know what we are dealing with. This is nothing we can ignore."
Karot appears scared by the growing pool of blood. It's clear that he's having flashbacks to what he saw once before. He tries to speak, but his words only come out as gibberish.
Kakarot looks towards the sky. He takes note of Broly now just rubbing his eyes. "Guys. He's recovering."
"Do you think you and I can hold him off? Raditz asks. "Or maybe you can use your Solar Flare again?"
"From how fast we've seen him learn, I don't think it will work twice." Kakarot frowns. "We might have to use Range of Fury."
The name of the technique is enough to make Raditz wear the face of someone who has a massive stomach ache. "Gaaah… I hate doing that!"
Karot clenches his hands tightly as he trembles. He can't remain still for a second longer. "Damn it…! THAT'S ENOOOOOOOUGH!" He screams towards the sky as his energy explodes, blowing away everyone nearby. Before anything could be said, he rockets from the ground and towards Broly.
"Gohan! No! What are you doing?!" Kakarot flies after him, fearing the kid would only hurt himself.
Broly sees the child coming his way. He swipes at his fist, but misses as the child pulled it back. The other hand comes faster than he could prepare for, and it hits him directly against his nose, breaking it on impact. Broly's head is pushed back as he screams out in pain.
Kakarot stops flying due to what he just saw. He feels the energy spike coming off of his son. "G-Gohan…?!"
"He was holding back this much?!" Vegeta is even more surprised.
With a mighty cry, Gohan throws another punch with his other hand, and it strikes Broly on the face again. This assault carries on, actually making an impact to everyone's surprise. The child switches tactics, attacking with his feet instead. His kicks strike Broly's stomach like bullets.
"Hah…" Future Trunks smiles nervously. "He carries that same anger teacher had… he's definitely the same person…"
Karot lands an uppercut before locking his hands together. He throws his combined fists down, sledgehammering the Saiyan down. He gives no second to spare, spreading his hands out and charging a pair of energy spheres. He thrusts his arms down at the falling target rapidly, unleashing a frenzy of blasts.
Broly recovers from the shock of the ambush. His eyes are met with the raining blasts, and he guards his head as he is struck constantly. His frustrated screams can be heard over the explosions.
"Wait a second! This is our chance!" Tarble lands on the ground quickly and checks his pockets. "Damn! I don't have anything to heal him with!"
"The reckless idiot got himself hurt from his blind anger, as always." Vegeta crosses his arms and turns to Kakarot. "Did you happen to pick up any of those healing beans?"
"You mean, the Senzu Beans?" Kakarot seems to remember them. He turns to Raditz. "Did you bring any?! You used one on me!"
Raditz shakes his head, appearing angry with himself. "It didn't cross my mind to bring any. Foolish mistake."
"You're kidding?!" Vegeta snaps at him, looking close to attacking him. "If anyone dies out here, the fault is all yours!"
"No one ever said there was going to be a Saiyan fight today!" Raditz snaps back. "I was considering on taking them to the Cell Games, if that makes you feel better! I'm already angry with myself for not being prepared before! Give me a break!"
"You dare to raise your tone-"
"Stop bickering, and save that for later!" Tarble shouts at the angry pair. "Just give me a hand! Come now, Raditz! I need your help!"
"Huh? What could I possibly do?" Raditz asks as he walks alongside Tarble. The pair drop to their knees next to Nappa.
In the skies, Broly blows away the blasts by unleashing his energy. He flies after Karot, only to have a Masenko unleashed directly at his face. He is pushed back once more.
Tarble feels around Nappa's armor until he locates the gaping wound. He gives the damaged part of the armor a harsh tug, pulling it apart enough to give more room. "Since we can't heal him, we'll just have to stop the bleeding. I need you to sear the wound shut."
"What?!" Raditz didn't think that would be a request. "How do you expect me to do that?!"
Tarble pauses for a second, a bit shocked. "You're telling me such a thing never crossed your mind?"
"I've never done it before." Raditz grumbles, hating to admit it.
"I saw mom do it to Krillin." Kakarot tells them quickly. "Come on, Raditz. I'm sure if she can do it, so can you."
"Damn. She can do that?" Raditz seems to remember this, and his expression becomes grim. Their mother truly has experience. If she sealed wounds before… then she was effective during her working days.
Kakarot catches his look. The idea falls on him as well. Turles looks between the two, somewhat confused.
"Is there a problem?" Vegeta frowns.
"Bah… There's a problem with me." Raditz answers. "I can't exactly control how much energy I unleash at the first few tries. I might end up stopping his heart instead of healing him. The wound is too close to his chest."
"He'll bleed out if we do nothing!" Future Trunks tries to encourage his father.
"Or, I'll accidently fry his heart. He's vulnerable right now, so it may kill him. He might die either way…!" Raditz becomes frustrated. This is a bad time. They can't debate on this with a life on the line!
"Just use as little as you can! It can't be that hard!" Turles tries to push his brother. He along with everyone else are clueless on what else to do.
"You can't exactly do little when your energy mocks plasma!" Raditz snaps at him. "Mother never sat down and taught me that, alright?! What do you expect me to do?!"
Vegeta sneers at this. "Tch. Same excuse every time! You've always been a mama's boy!"
"What was that?!" Raditz's eyes widen with anger.
"Damn it! We are running out of time!" Tarble reminds everyone.
Karot fires another Masenko, screaming in fury. He keeps the blast going for as long as he can, until Broly breaks free.
Raditz looks towards the sky, knowing the kid can't keep fighting alone very long. He punches the ground, conflicted on what to do. "Damn it! Fine!" He spreads out his other hand, and the pink bolts engulf it in seconds, giving his hand a pink glow.
Kakarot is alarmed by how intense it is. "No, no! That's too much!"
"Shut it, Kakarot! I'm under enough pressure!" Raditz barks at him.
"Damn it, y'all…"
Heads turn to Kauli, who spoke quieter than usual. Most had forgotten she was even there since she was so quiet. Her expression doesn't when hold the slightest irritation.
It's a bit… unusual to see from her.
"I hate being the center of attention." Kauli mutters as she walks forward. It brings a bit of confusion.
She lowers herself to her knees next to the general, and she takes his massive hand into hers. With a sigh, she seems to hesitate with whatever she has planned. But seeing the blood pooling, she grabs his hands tighter.
"What are you doing?" Vegeta wonders.
Kauli doesn't answer. Her mouth opens, and she begins to sing a soothing song, all in English;
"Listen, just hear me.
Hear my voice, it is what you'll need.
Look deep, within me.
See my eyes, it will set you free."
At the last sentence, at the same time it was sung, her blue eyes become vibrant. They remain locked on Nappa's, who's own suddenly glows in the same fashion.
It scares a few watching. Others are in disbelief. What is happening here?
"Revert them, back to state of mind.
With melody, it's merely not their time.
Such demise, will come another day.
Like the rain, that children sing away."
Everyone is speechless, witnessing the very wound glow a faint blue.
"Revert them, back to state of mind.
With melody, it's merely not their time.
Such demise, will come another day.
Like the rain, that children... sing... awaaaay..."
The last note is held, and Kauli appears to fall into a trance as the glow engulfs both of her eyes entirely.
Anyone would normally freak out, but they all appear completely still, and relaxed. The bleeding seems to stop… and the glowing wound is… closing.
Nappa is healing. Even the injuries and bruises he obtained before are rapidly fading away. The beautiful note that travels in the air… it can only be described as… touching. A voice of an angel.
Kakarot can't even move if he wanted. It's almost as if she's a siren, but not the type that has the intention to hurt. Something about hearing her voice… it is more than beautiful. For the first time in a long time… he feels completely relaxed, a feeling he thought he would never hear again. It's not just him… everyone…
Even Vegeta, who normally wears a scowl on his face, appears lost, like he is dreaming.
Her voice is like a lullaby.
After several seconds, Kauli stops and drops his hands as her own slam on the ground. She inhaled deeply as her eyes stop glowing, widening in shock. She really did fall into a trance.
Everyone else blinks and shake their heads, apparently snapping out of it as well. It takes a few seconds for them to gather themselves. Tarble immediately turns to Kauli with a question. "What the hell did you just do?!"
"Gaaah… she's… she's… one of them…" Nappa's voice grabs the spotlight now. He sounds worn-out, but he sits up with little effort. He places a hand at where he was hurt, but there is no wound anymore.
"O-okay… how in the…?" Raditz is still trying to piece together what just happened. He points a finger at Nappa before pointing the other at Kauli. He is at a loss for words.
Kakarot is louder than everyone else, asking his question in an outburst; "Whoa! How did you do that?!"
"Where was this a long time ago?!" Vegeta asks a more logical question.
Kauli doesn't answer. She looks at the ground as she rubs her arm.
Vegeta is ready to push her further, but he turns to Nappa as he remembers something. "Wait. You said she was one of them. One of who?!"
"It makes sense on why her eyes are blue." Nappa says. "I completely forgot about it, since they were killed off by Frieza's men a few years before Planet Vegeta was destroyed. The blue-eyed tribe were rare enough. They had incredible healing powers that's triggered through voice. It can even soothe a Saiyan in stress."
"What…?" Vegeta looks back at Kauli. "I think father spoke of them before."
"That explains why she has such an amazing voice…" Tarble nearly whispers, as if the pieces finally clicked for him.
"It's a good thing she didn't leave when asked before…" Future Trunks realizes.
Kakarot tilts his head, looking at Kauli with curiosity. "Why haven't you done this before?"
"Because…" She finally answers. "I didn't trust any of you yet. I don't like letting anyone know what I can do, because I was afraid of those who know would abuse it. Not like they could, anyway. It never works when I am the one under stress."
"That's the only downside." Nappa nods. "It only works if they are calm enough to clear their thoughts."
"Hm." Vegeta is somewhat impressed. "I see why Frieza got rid of your people. What puzzles me is how you managed to survive. Perhaps your parents fled somewhere and stayed under the radar."
"I don't remember my own parents. Just like Kakarot, I had a bit of head trauma." Kauli frowns. "Look. I don't… like being stared at. So…"
Nobody seems to catch on.
Kauli snarls and snaps at them all, but it's not as strong as usual. "Damn it! Stop staring at me before I jab your eyes! I damn sure won't fix them, either!"
"Nice Kauli is gone." Kakarot notes quietly.
"Listen… I… I need to rest." Kauli shuts her eyes, unable to hide her exhaustion very long. "I knew this would drain me, but I felt like I had to repay y'all somewhat for allowing me to live after that… rude encounter. Well, most of y'all. I probably would had left Vegeta dead."
"You…!" Vegeta seems ready to counter, but Nappa lightly pushes him back. They exchange looks. The general seems to be asking him to let it go.
"She won't be able to do that again for a while. Healing fatal wounds drains a lot of her energy." Nappa announces to everyone. He looks at Kauli. "Thanks. I owe you one."
"Yeah… you can start by keeping your temper under control next time. I don't do this often." Kauli sighs.
Tarble slowly stands. "Well, we better figure something out quickly. I'm afraid the child is at his limit."
Everyone else is reminded of what took place before. Looking at the sky, it's clear Karot can't keep going. The child stops firing his blast and is knocked back by Broly.
"Everything we tried before didn't work." Kakarot frowns. "I would try my Power Pole, but he might actually break it. Though my grandpa told me it's impossible…"
"Weapons might not work." Future Trunks frowns. "Didn't do well against the Androids."
"The only effective thing I've seen was that collar around his neck." Turles says. "It probably threw his energy off balance. It certainly hurt him, and it stoped his anger in an instant. But Paragus isn't here. I doubt he would just hand over the remote, either."
"An electric shock… yeah. It was powerful." Kakarot recalls what he saw. "The collar stops him like my crown does for me."
Future Trunks' expression reveals that he has an idea. "Wait electricity! Father! I think I know what we can do! But… we need grandmother here to help!"
"What is it, kid?' Raditz asks, somewhat interested. He didn't quite catch what the term 'grandmother' is for until it hit him. "Wait. What do you need mom for?"
"If you and grandmother can combine your power… it will mock what the shock collar did to him. In fact, it might just be stronger. Strong enough to calm him down!"
Raditz stares at his son's future-counterpart. What the teen just said… clicks. "Seleriak… you are a genius! That might just work!"
"I… I am?" Future Trunks wasn't ready for that kind of praise.
"You have your mother's brain, without a doubt! That never crossed my mind!" Raditz quickly looks around, and his eyes land on Nappa. "Nappa. I need you to find my mom. She's the best chance we have."
"What? Why do I have to find her?!" Nappa growls, not pleased that he was picked out of all people.
"Because, she and I have the same energy type. You know what it feels like. Finding her shouldn't be too hard." Raditz answers.
Vegeta seems to agree. "I don't often agree with Raditz, but sending you off is the best option. We can't risk you losing your head again."
Nappa opens his mouth to protest, but one look at Kauli is enough for him to close it back.
"Besides." Raditz goes on. "If she sees you, then she'll know we are occupied, and the matter is serious. I don't ask much from you. Not like I like to."
Nappa frowns, but he nods. "You have a point there. You do give off a strange energy signal that always stood out. I've been familiar with it for as long as Vegeta has. But he will need to stay here. I'll be as quick as I can. I can't promise I'll be back right away."
He quickly flies off in search for Gine.
"I hope she's alright." Raditz frowns. "She's out there fighting Paragus."
"She is?!" Future Trunks asks. "Now that you mention it, I felt her energy clashing with his. Maybe she's trying to hold him off for us."
"Yes. But that concerns me." Raditz frowns. "Mom doesn't do well with violent fights. She doesn't know how to handle them very well. I remember father having to step in, especially when she got too worked up when she was backed up against a wall. Too many Saiyans picked on her after she retired."
"Oh, yes. I remember that." Turles nods.
A distant explosion makes the warriors look towards the sky again. Karot is screaming out in pain as he falls towards the ground.
"Gohan!" Kakarot gasps as he leaves the ground quickly.
Broly screams as he forms a sphere above his head before throwing it down at the child. Kakarot flies in quickly and pulls Karot into his arms, and he turns his body around. The sphere slams and rubs heavily against his back. The pain is unreal. He can only scream before it bursts and sends him down.
"Oh, no! Goku!" Future Trunks gasps as he quickly flies from the ground. Raditz and Turles are quick to do the same.
Vegeta growls. "This is getting nowhere! But it's not like I'll just give up!" He rockets off.
Kauli watches the situation turn bad again. She grows concerned, knowing if anyone gets hurt again, there is nothing she can do. From the way things are looking, it could happen very soon.
A hand falls on her shoulder. She looks back, meeting eyes with Tarble. Though he can't see, he seems to know she was worried.
"Come now." He says as he gently takes her hand. He smoothly helps her to his feet, like a gentleman. "Let's get you somewhere safe."
Kauli looks back at the fight. She feels a tug at her arm, meaning Tarble had already left the ground. Her own feet leaves the surface as she begins to fly. She follows him, knowing she has no other choice.
Karot gasps as he realizes his father had saved him. "D-dad?!"
"Hey…" Kakarot smiles through the pain. "Sorry for giving you a rough time. I have a lot to make up for it, huh? Heh-heh…"
Karot notices Broly coming quickly. "Dad! Watch out!"
Kakarot knew this was coming. "Don't get unmotivated yet." He throws Karot off him, sending him far, and just in time. A foot slams against his back. Kakarot swiftly turns around and blocks the next attack. Broly carries on with his angry strikes, and Kakarot struggles to keep blocking until he is being battered once more.
"Hah!" Vegeta unleashes a blast at the rampaging Saiyan, but as expected, it is knocked away. The next one is unleashed, but what he didn't expect as for Broly to swing Kakarot in front of it. He used him as a shield!
Raditz grits his teeth as he hears Kakarot cry out in pain. "Stop firing, everyone! Shit!"
What now?!
Kakarot grunts as he struggles to move. He desperately tries to get away now, but Broly keeps catching him, hitting him with stronger blows every time. He dodges a punch from hitting his chest, and it hits his shoulder again.
And it snaps.
"Uncle Goku, hold on!" Future Trunks flies faster. It's hard for him to get close, especially with Broly moving the way he is.
The shoulder now being dislocated sends sharp pain. Kakarot cries out again, but it doesn't drag on as a fist hits his mouth.
Kakarot can't… keep up anymore. He falls helpless towards the ground, hearing Broly flying in.
Broly's rage is impossible to stop. The Saiyan can't control the very power that flows through him. He hovers over Kakarot now, releasing a mighty roar before slamming both fists against his stomach, forcing Kakarot to spit up and cry out. The Saiyan spirals even faster towards the ground.
Broly opens his mouth wide. The same green energy gathers to a sphere as before. He fires, and it strikes Kakarot head on.
Cell won't have his chance at this rate.
"RAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Broly turns around, and a boot kicks him right under his chin, forcing his head back. He growls as he lowers it quickly, and a boot strikes his face. He doesn't budge there.
Raditz snarls as he pulls his leg back. He delivers a roundhouse kick quickly, and is strikes Broly on the side of his head. His attacks are heavier as he lands a frenzy of kicks against his head. "Don't you even dare… try to claim the life… of my little BROTHER!"
At the final word, he kicks Broly back and clenched both hands tightly. He opens the palms, and a pair of massive pink spheres of energy forms.
Broly rubs the pain away from his face. Noticing the illuminating light, he looks at Raditz and is surprised to see the oncoming attack.
"WEEKEEEEEEEND!" Raditz screams out as he thrusts both hands forward. A pair of massive light purple blasts are unleashed, and they strike Broly head on, swallowing him in the destructive light.
"That's it, father!" Future Trunks screams over the sound of the impact.
Raditz growls as he lowers his sparking hands. He looks around quickly until his eyes lock on Kakarot.
There's a ton of smoke coming from his body…
… and he's no longer a Super Saiyan.
Everything is in slow motion in everyone's perspective. Kakarot continues to fall. Just before he could hit the ground, a pair of strong arms catches him.
Raditz descends to the ground with his wounded brother in his arms. He lands and stands on his knees. He lowers his brother until the warrior's head lies on his lap. "Kakarot… give me a sign. Anything! Give me a damn sign!"
Turles growls lightly as he locates Broly, who is shaking off the attack. Even that didn't do enough. "I hate doing big brother duty." He rockets from his position and lets out a scream as he charges for Broly.
Future Trunks has the same idea. The two warriors attack Broly from both sides. They both throw a punch, but Broly catches both of their fists.
Broly swings the pair against each other, and their bodies collide with a painful smack. Broly lifts his foot and brutally kicks them both down at the same time, and they spiral down. He doesn't catch a break here. He catches fast movement from the corner of his eye, and he sees Vegeta soaring in.
"Don't get so hopeful you won yet!" Vegeta shouts at him.
"I'm here!" Tarble flies in just behind him.
"You caught up fast. Where is she?" Vegeta asks.
"I tried to escort her to the ship, but she insisted she could go by herself. I tried to argue with that. She then told me she is no princess."
Vegeta huffs. "Female Saiyans aren't so delicate. I'm not surprised. But enough on that, Kakarot's about to lose his tail!"
"Clearly! Can the day get any worse?! By stars!" Tarble shouts in frustration as he lifts one knee up. He slams the back of his hand against the palm of the other.
"You aren't doing it right, idiot!" Vegeta gets into the same poster, only his is flipped. "You fire from your right!"
"Does it matter?!" Tarble snaps at him.
"That's not what we were taught!" Vegeta snaps back.
"Damn it! Just fire the bloody thing!" Tarble screams out.
Broly screams as he decides to engage. He forms a pair of green energy spheres, one from each hand. One for each prince.
Vegeta and Tarble draw their arms back further. Their bodies are engulfed with sharp purple aura. Sparking energy gathers to their palms. "Galick…!"
Broly swings both arms forward. The deadly spheres fly towards the princes in a spiraling motion.
"BURRRRST!" Tarble unleashes his attack in a single motion.
"GUUUUUN!" Vegeta fires his as well.
The pair of blasts collide with the green spheres, and it's a battle of which attack will overpower the others. The royal brothers apply more power, and even then…
The spheres break through.
Vegeta's and Tarble's eyes widen in shock. "IMPOSSIBLE!"
Karot winches at the sight of the two being hit and sent flying back. He jumps as they are struck with a green blast that follows. "The hell is that Saiyan made of?"
Future Trunks was forced to stop flying due to the princes' attacks. He throws his arms out, ready to add his attack to the formula. "Uncle Turles, are you ready?"
Turles raises his own arms, but he freezes. He hears the sound of sparks flying, coming from one of his arms. In a hurry, he pulls the sleeve back, revealing his prosthetic arm sparking in many places. A bolt falls loose. "Shit."
Future Trunks gasps at the sight of it. "Not good…"
"Hey… hey… Kakarot."
The sound of Raditz's concerned voice draws their attention quickly. They look to where Raditz is, and their eyes widen at the pained expression on his face. They see why.
Kakarot looks horribly wounded. His energy is so low, it's hard to tell if he's alive or not.
"Oh, no. How hard was he hit?!" Future Trunks gasps. They just saved Nappa, but now it's Kakarot who needs saving.
This battlefield is overwhelming. Future Trunks is reminded of his fights against the Androids of his lsn timeline. They always end up like this.
"Kakarot… stop playing around!" Raditz demands, but his expression holds worry. "Kakarot?"
Turles slowly floats towards his brothers, now very concerned. This doesn't look good. Especially since Raditz grows more scared with each silent second from the youngest brother.
Tears finally fall from Raditz's face. "I was so foolish. Why did I even… let you be…?!" He shakes his head as he fails to old back a whimper. He shuts his eyes tight as the tears stream down his face. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry…!"
He lowers his head.
"Please be okay…!" Raditz clenches his teeth. "I don't want the demon to steal you…!"
Broly snarls as he swings at Vegeta and Tarble as they attack him again. He grabs them both by the head, and he slams their heads together several times. Within seconds, their foreheads are bleeding, but the assault doesn't stop.
"Damn iit!" Raditz glares at the brutality. "TAO! NOW'S THE TIME!"
Just before Broly can headbutt the two princes again, a white ball of light flies inside Broly's hair. The invasion forces him to drop them. He grunts and grabs his head as he screams out in pain. Angry screeching can be heard.
The creature actually came back.
Vegeta and Tarble hit the ground, laying in rather uncomfortable positions, unaware of what is happening now.
A white ball of light flies out of Broly's hair just before the Saiyan could crush it. The ball of light grows as Zhanshitao inside shakes with rage.
The light explodes, and Zhanshitao's glowing body begins to rapidly grow in size. Broly floats back quickly, very surprised to see the transformation. It takes merely a few seconds for Zhanshitao to reach his true form.
A much uglier and scarier version of himself, towering a massive 30 feet. It's eight red eye stare Broly down, before it's poisonous fangs spread out.
It's screeching roar fills the air, drowning out every other sound.
"It's back to normal?!" Turles screams out in disbelief. "It better not eat us!"
Future Trunks is even more stunned. "I liked him better when he was little…!"
Broly remains stunned for a few seconds, before he lets out a loud roar himself. He charges at the beast, narrowly dodging a claw swipe.
Raditz lowers his head even more, feeling the need to protect Kakarot even more. "Mother… where are you, damn it?! Mother…!"
- 0000 -
She couldn't stop herself from crying. There is just too much pressure.
She can't do this anymore. She so badly wants to run out of the cave. She wants to get away from this. But… if Paragus reaches Broly again… stopping Broly would become impossible.
She's stranded.
On the brighter side… it's just her and him. No one else… has to witness anything if it goes out of hand.
She hasn't felt her Saiyan instincts being this strong in decades. She's afraid. She wants to stop him, but it requires more out of her to do that much. But, she can't keep fighting this hard. It's making her blood rush so much. Doing as much as standing still is so difficult to do.
She isn't the only one standing still.
Gine can tell from how Paragus froze, that something came up. She studies his facial expression as he checks his scouter. There is a small grin forming on his face.
Gine's instincts are screaming now. Something… went terribly wrong. One of her sons… are dying.
Dying because of Paragus...
No.
Her hands are trembling.
She's getting too angry.
She tried to scare him off… only because she's scared of what she might do.
They might die. She might die here… and if she dies…
She won't even exist anymore.
'Bardock… I'm scared…' Gine thinks to herself.
But if she runs away… her sons...
She freezes.
No. She can't run.
Paragus is the one making Broly do all of what he is. Bardock won't be here to comfort her, or to tell her everything is going to be okay.
Because it's not.
It will only get worse, especially with Cell. If she is going to dare to run away from this, then coming here was pointless.
Not everyone she encounters will listen to reason. Some people can't be changed. Paragus is one of them. He's lost himself in vengeance… he can't crawl back out. He doesn't understand what it means to let go. Gine knows why she kept avoiding her past. Paragus says she ran away from it. She has her reasons! The fool clearly wants to see what it is. She can feel it surfacing.
Does she have to show him why she retired in the first place?
She doesn't want to.
She still feels her tears fall. Is this really happening?
B-BMP!
For a second, she sees that laboratory again.
Paragus is already walking towards the cave exit. He takes a good and long look outside. "That's good, Broly. Seems like everyone's power levels are dropping like stones. They really thought they could stop him?"
Hearing him say that means...
...her children…
...they are… in grave danger…
That fear alone… she remembers what happened on Planet Scorch. She remembers Turles' tiny and broken body…
To lose them all at once? No…
She can't lose them.
She wipes away her tears, knowing that she has no other option left. Crying won't fix anything. Saiyans don't fall for tears. She's not surprised that Paragus simply ignored it.
She can hear her husband's words. Something he once said that she always remembered;
"Saiyans are a warrior race. We fight because it's in our blood. To hell with all the fancy reasoning and petty justifications! What matters is that you get to go wild out there."
So… he knew it too well.
Not everyone they will encounter will listen to reason. So why bother trying to talk to the enemy anymore? Just fight them. Regardless if she likes it or not… she's a Saiyan.
A fresh tear falls as she speaks quietly. "You idiot… I already told you… you won't leave my sight. I also warned you… the more you don't listen… the angrier I get…"
Paragus simply stares at her.
"You've finally pushed me to my limit. I can't take it anymore…! I'm done with trying to save you anymore!" Gine's saddened tone slowly changes, sounding more frustrated. More angry.
What's the point in fighting the dread she is feeling? He won't take the warnings, so fine.
At this moment here, she stops resisting, allowing the sensations to flow through her all at once. Her fingers twitch as she feels the emotion grow so strong. Paragus resurfaced this dreadful sensation… he might as well damn pay the price.
She can no longer endure it anymore.
This anger.
And all the stress from everyone fighting each other the last few days, it washes over her like a wave. It takes hold of her very being.
B-BMP!
Her chest is hot. Her throat is on fire. Her blood… is boiling...
Why does anger have to burn so much?
Her body… she can feel it fighting to remain still. Her tail twitches as the furs slowly rise. She is yet to bare her teeth, but the flare in her eyes, and the appearance of her tail… she may be silent, but she is far from calm.
"You… still stand there…" She nearly whispered, looking at Paragus without blinking.
Paragus frowns. "And?"
As she speaks, her tone seems to have darkened, and it lowered in pitch. Despite how calm it sounds, there is fury and loathing deep inside. "What are you waiting for, Paragus?"
She sounds… absolutely terrifying.
Detecting the change in her tone, Paragus hesitates once more. 'What's this? Don't tell me… has she finally made up her mind? Is this the wrathful Gine I hear about from time to time?'
"Why the hesitation? I was wide open."
Paragus doesn't respond to her words. He knows that she's trying to lure him in. He can feel how the air around her changed. Looking at her tail, he knows that she is seething with rage. According to what he heard from others… this is only the first step. It begins with the warning signs. Right now, she is a ticking time bomb.
She takes note of him not making a move. "You can stand there until you starve. Starvation is no concern for me." Gine says. "I'm already dead."
"What…?" Paragus looks at the halo hovering over her head. So… it's not an accessory after all. He's trying to grasp how it is possible for her to be here if she is dead.
"Do you want to know how I died?" Gine closes her eyes as she recalls this. "I witnessed my husband getting vaporized along with our planet all in Frieza's hand. I was aboard his ship serving him dinner, in hopes to steal a pod and flee to Planet Earth. But after seeing Bardock die like that.. and our people…"
Her hands tremble even more.
"And hearing Frieza say that he would track down Raditz and Kakarot… I realized I had no chance of escape. I could have died a coward… but I saw no point. I was going to die anyway, right? I felt no reason there… to stand by anymore. So, I attacked Frieza."
Paragus can't believe it.
"I behaved as any mother would to protect her children. But the effort was futile. He had me at his mercy." Gine growls. "At that moment when I was face to face with Death… I felt this unspeakable fury. Angry that I had to be thrown away. Angry at myself for not being strong enough. Angry that I was going to die. And I died… with that fury."
The fact that Frieza blew her to pieces… oh, it was the worst way to go.
"Meeting with King Yemma… no one was able to calm me down. I was lost in my grief and anger… until I meet with Bardock who arrived there moments before me. He has always been the one to calm me down."
But now...
"But… this time, he's not here."
She is quiet for several seconds. But her hands don't stop shaking. The burning within her body is unbearable. It's clear even as she speaks.
"So what now, Paragus? You aren't Frieza, so you can't blow me to pieces. You certainly aren't Bardock, who simply has to pull me into his arms to soothe me. You can't stop this like they did. You can only deal with this."
"Is that so?" Paragus asks.
Gine can tell that he is accepting that fact alone. The fool doesn't have a clue on just what he is up against. As the seconds go on, Gine feels her blood boil even more.
"So now I'm curious."
Her attitude, and the way she talks… her anger is silent. Deadly. Whatever those doctors did to her… Paragus is seeing the results right here and now.
Gine's eyes open. They are filled with the same unmistakable rage heard in her voice… and seen by her tail. What's alarming… is now they have that recognizable red color, as any other Saiyan's would when angered so far. It makes Paragus take a step back.
Switching to the Saiyan tongue, she challenges him with a single question;
"How well… can you handle my fury?"
Paragus is quick to get into a defensive stance. He keeps his one good eye on her, watching her carefully. His guard is much higher now. A Saiyan with red eyes is when they are most dangerous.
The two Saiyans stare each other down. Silence hangs in the air as each side waits for someone to make the first move.
Gine waited long enough. She springs from where she stands with a growl.
Paragus gasps as she suddenly vanished where she stands. He looks around quickly, and he spots her right above. He throws his hand out to counter her attack, but she flips herself back and lands behind him instead. He spins around quickly.
Gine throws a harsh punch against his face, and it turns into a frenzy as more attacks land. She lands one blow against his stomach, and she watches him bend over, holding his stomach.
Paragus shuts his eye as he steps back. Her attacks became much heavier now. No surprise there. Seeing her rushing in, he throws his hands out in time to block several of her punches. However, he fails to stop her from kicking his legs. He nearly loses balance. A powerful uppercut knocks him back.
"You must be pulling my tail!" Gine shouts as she throws a kick against his chest. "You claim you can beat me in a fight, right?! Well, come on! Let's have it! Or was it all… A COWARDLY LIE?!" A snarl rips through her throat as she jumps up. Using both feet, she lands a frenzy of kicks against his chest in mid-air. The final one is the hardest, and he falls back.
Paragus grunts as he falls on his bottom. He looks up in time to see a fist flying his way. He catches it, and a shockwave of air blows from the impact. His arms shook as he struggles not to be overpowered by a single arm.
Her blows are stronger.
Gine clenches her other hand and throws another punch. It connects to the side of his face, and he hits the ground. Her head slightly moves back and shakes as her snarl widens. She pulls her other fist back and throws it towards his head. Her mouth snaps open and she releases a very violent scream. "RAAAAAAAH!"
A wave of uneasiness hits Paragus. Any creature who doesn't fight might had froze like a deer in headlights. That scream he just heard is unlike anything she let loose before. It exploded from her throat, almost like a roar. The wrath behind it can be felt to the bone.
Paragus kicks both feet forward, double kicking her stomach. He pushes her away from him, and he rolls to his feet.
Gine lands on her feet, and she skids backwards across the cave floor until she slams one foot down to anchor herself. With a long growl, she sprints forward, drawing one hand back as it engulfs with energy. She unleashes her Single Sunday, which is double the size than what she unleashed before.
Paragus nearly panics at how fast it is coming. He recoils back and jumps to his left. The blast flies past him and hits a wall, leaving a deep hole inside.
"RAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
The enraged scream from Gine is enough to draw his attention away from the hole. He crosses his arms over his face, but Gine springs high and slammed her foot down against the back of his head, stomping his face to the ground. Not even a second passes, and he is kicked below his stomach, forced to flip to his back. He reacts too slow, and he is stomped on the stomach now. He spits up and screams before grabbing her ankle. She looks at him now. The fury is still there.
Gine yanks her ankle free, and she slams her foot against the side of his face, forcing his head to the ground. She pushes her leg down harder, and a crater bursts as his head sinks into the ground.
Paragus bites back a scream as he felt his skull at the brink of being crushed. He quickly draws out his energy blaster and fires.
Gine quickly jumps back and dodges. As he fires again, she jumps to her right.
Paragus is forced to stop trying. She's too fast. He can't keep up with her anymore.
It finally hits him that he is outclassed, which has him confused and frustrated at the same time. He holds his head as he stands, and he clenches his other hand. She's running towards him again. Once the distance is close enough, he throws his punch, and her hands snatch his arm, stopping it from making any contact.
Gine pulls his arm harshly, forcing him forward. She releases him, and just as he flies past her, she turns swiftly and kicks his back, sending him to the ground.
Her fighting skills make it seems she never retired.
"I hate this entire situation I am in now." Gine speaks angrily. "Fighting you? This isn't even a fight. The fact that I feel a tinge of disappointment from it… it makes my stomach turn."
Paragus is quick to his feet. He faces her and swings his arms, missing a few punches. Having enough, his attacks become more violent. Instead of missing, his punches are being blocked, which only frustrate him more.
Paragus is struck hard under his chin, and a punch against the stomach pushes the air out of him. His body is being battered.
Every blow is heavy against the enemy Saiyan. He is constantly forced back as his body is knocked around. His head turns harshly as a fist slams against the side of his face. A harsh kick against his chest knocks him to the ground.
"I hate how I want a better fight from you. I hate the feeling of how my blood is boiling for a good fight. These stupid, stupid Saiyan instincts. No matter how hard I try, I just can't run away from them. I knew that if I got back into fighting, it would be difficult to pull away from it again. After all, fighting is in our blood. So for me to see you use someone else to fight your battles… I hate how much it disgusts me!"
WHAM!
Her boot slams against his left side, shattering a few ribs. Paragus is sent tumbling across the floor. It comes to a stop quickly, but the pain he is experiencing doesn't. He notices her coming closer, and he is struggling to do as much as get to his knees after taking such a painful blow. Seeing her boots come into his line of sight makes him freeze.
Paragus seems to realize he can't escape her fury so easily. His face shows regret, as he now sees his mistake. He doesn't have Broly to save him… since the Saiyan is rampaging beyond his control. He had forgotten how it feels to be the one against the wall.
"Get up, you little brat!" Gine's lips part away as they expose her teeth, forming an ugly snarl. Seeing his scared expression, she speaks harshly. "What's the matter? Why won't you fight back anymore?!"
Paragus is on his feet, and he steps back.
Seeing him moving away, Gine growls heavily before she screams out her demand in the Saiyan language; "FIIIIIIGHT!"
The powerful cry echoes through the cave, until there is silence.
Oh… everything about her really did flip like a switch.
That's exactly it. It's like a switch, almost. In the right circumstances… Gine is very terrifying. Paragus sees now. This ugly side of her is the Saiyan warrior that was ideal for King Cold. Heartless, merciless… and fueled with fury. Her gentle side was pushed to the deepest part of her mind. She feels nothing for him.
Saiyan instincts demand for her to keep fighting. The violent part of it… wants it to be painful.
She won't stop until her anger settles.
Paragus hesitates, but he quickly closes the gap between them. He swings his arms, trying to land his attacks. Just as expected, Gine is able to dodge or block every single one. It ends once she kicks him back to the ground where he was before.
Gine stares him down, speaking harshly. "Don't tell me you are just now realizing your mistake?"
Paragus finds himself starting to crawl back.
"Go ahead. Check that fancy scouter of yours you rely on so much. That alone places you at a disadvantage." Gine challenges.
Paragus stands up and growls lightly as he turns his scouter on.
As the scouter numbers start to measure her power, he freezes with a gasp. It finally beeps quickly, signaling him the final results. "Th-thats impossible…! You were holding back even then…?!"
"That's nothing compared to what the other Saiyans have, but I'm sure you already figured that out." Gine says. "I've trained to get stronger while I was down in Hell, and after that, I trained King Kai."
"King Kai?" Paragus echoes the name, not familiar with it at all.
"Who will save you now? Certainly not your son. He's too busy trying to take down Vegeta and Kakarot, just as you wanted, remember?"
The pink and orange static begin to jump around her hand. It slowly spreads across her body, causing her hair to rise and flow as if there is a steady breeze.
The cave is once again illuminated by her flowing energy. The sound of the crackling bolts of energy indicates that touching her may result to being zapped or stunned. She appears far more intimidating. Terrifying, even.
"Gine…" Paragus begins, trying to talk her down. "We can talk this out…"
"In battle, Saiyans don't talk with words. They talk through their firsts." Gine slowly walks forward, causing him to walk back. "You know that, being a Saiyan yourself. But… oh, that's right. You're not a Saiyan anymore."
"I… I thought you were caring!" Paragus tries to save himself.
"I do care about others. But what makes you think I will care about you?" Gine asks him as she lightly tilts her head back. "You clearly know nothing about my past, do you? The terrible past that I wanted to forget. But it's clear that it's impossible. All I wanted was to avoid the conflict, but no…"
Paragus nearly jumps as a bolt jumps across the cave walls.
"You dare to call back the ugly side of me I promised to keep sealed away for all of eternity! The last time it came out, an overgrown badger got cooked to well-done!" Gine shouts. "All because my son was in grave danger. After all… it is a mother's duty… to protect her children. No matter WHAT it takes!"
Another bolt jumps across the walls.
Paragus' eye shrinks as she comes closer. He crawls back until his back is pressed against the wall. He is absolutely terrified now, convinced that she is going to kill him. He would call for Broly now, but he's beyond his control now.
He's on his own.
CLAP!
The sound echoes through the cave.
Paragus freezes as his eye falls to her hands again. It fills with fear at the sight of her rubbing them together as anyone would when they are cold. But in this case, it's building up her power more. The tiny bolts of lighting jump around her hands in a frenzy now as they seperate. He knows what this is.
"It's…"
Gine slowly spreads her fingers apart, not breaking any eye contact with him.
"No… Not that…!" Paragus gasps, realizing what is about to unfold.
She doesn't attack right away, since she appears distracted by something.
After a few seconds, she looks at her hands that are swallowed with the destructive energy. She slowly closes them, and the bolts snake around her fists now. Opening them slowly, she watches the power flow. Her eyes are so fixed on the pink and white colors, she stares for several seconds…
She hasn't seen this in so long.
Her eyes slightly widen as she hears a high frequency ring invade her ears. It takes several seconds for her to realize what she is hearing is coming from her own power…
She hasn't heard it in so long.
The plasma-like energy flowing through her body, and how it is concentrated to her hands. How it makes them tingle when used to the max...
She hasn't felt this in so long.
She tore her eyes from her hands, and they fall to Paragus, who stares back at her. He seems to shrink by the mere look in her eyes. The red color is piercing through his very soul.
"I know… even I have surprised myself. Do you know how long it's been since I summoned this technique?" Gine asks. Her tone holds bitterness, mixed with anger. The expression she wears on her face… there is the anger, mixed with resentment. "When I retired, I abandoned this attack and swore to never use it again. But what do you know?"
Paragus slowly moves away from her against the wall.
"I didn't think I could summon it again." Gine continues as her eyes watch him carefully. "In fact, it just came out of nowhere, thanks to you endangering my sons. That alone… is terrifying. You… you somehow made me do this."
The zapping intensifies, and she looks at her hands again.
"You won't use it, would you?" Paragus inches away some more. "You left that lifestyle… so you have no reason to use it anymore!"
"Oh, no… I have my reasons now. My anger… it makes me do terrible things." Gine says. "You fool. How dare you… make me this angry. You're surfacing bitter and horrible memories. I actually want to kill you. From the look on your face… you remind me of the few fools who pushed me this far."
She trembles even worse now.
"You pushed me this far… Let me assure you, there is nothing SWEET about this side of me that made those poor souls SCREAM!"
Her fingers spread as she faces her hands towards him and the energy seems to intensify even more. This scares Paragus even further.
She lifts one arm and slowly guides her zapping hand until it is hovering above her shoulder. In that position alone, anyone who never knew her before would think she is a monster.
"Wait… wait!" Paragus waves his hands as she draws her hand back. "WAIT! HAVE MERCY!"
She freezes there. Those two words… it's one of the few words that stops her from doing anything. A plea that…
Staring into his eyes…
Those voices…
"Gotcha!"
Paragus' voice snaps the woman from her thoughts. Gine blinks, and her eyes widen as they land on an oncoming energy blast. The distance is too small to avoid. She is struck against her chest, and she cries out in pain and falls to the ground.
Smoke rises from the hole left there. Paragus walks over to her to investigate, and he frowns seeing the blast only broke through the armor. Her skin is slightly burnt. "Once again, your armor saved your life. But it won't save you a third time."
He aims again and fires. Gine jerks away, and the blast pierces through her left shoulder. Her pained-filled cry only annoys him.
Gine moves back, narrowly dodging. She slowly stands, and the blast pierces through her tail. The pain is agonizing. She falls back to her knees as it blisters through her spine.
"Your hesitation will cause your life! Attack now!"
What?!
Rushing inside the cave are the space soldiers he came with. She had forgotten he brought an entire army with him. They don't even hesitate to shoot at her.
Time seems to slow down as her eyes widen at the sight of the countless energy bullets coming towards her.
This fool…
Really wants to anger her with his cowardly tactics...
Such fury hits her like a truck. Her eyes widen and turn feral in a second.
Gine swings her arm with a heavy snarl, and the energy is unleashed, flying towards the bullets as several strands that travel in a zig-zag fashion. The bullets are destroyed by the contact alone. The strands that didn't hit the bullets zip around the surprised soldiers like lightning bolts. Immediately, the bolts bursts into a massive electrifying explosion. The sound of electrocution fills the cave.
Paragus shields his face, trying not to be blinded. His one eye widens as he witnesses the destruction that flew around him. The attack completely missed him and struck everyone else.
Or… Did she miss him on purpose? Can she really control her energy that well?!
As soon as everything settles, every soldier lies dead. Electricity travels across their scorched bodies…
They were fired. Some are scorched black.
"Well… it seems I still have it in me… after all." Gine's red eyes watch the jumping static running through the floor. "It's a bit sloppy since I haven't used it in so long. But it was still effective."
Paragus steps back the second Gine turns her attention towards him.
"What's wrong? Scared now?" Gine asks him as she lowers her arm. What's scary for Paragus is how her hands still hold on to that power. "Don't tell me… it's because you didn't think I would actually do it. Is that it? You are just like the others who challenged my patience. They thought I got so soft and weak. They taunted me for abandoning the side of me I was known for as a soldier. But as soon as they see it… they turn pale on the face, with nothing to say. It's amusing… on just how that works. I told you, didn't I? I didn't want to do this. But oh well… it's already too late to change my mind."
Paragus steps back, and he rushes for the cave exit immediately.
"No one has ever escaped this alive unless I wanted them to. After all…
… you can't outrun lightning."
She swings her other arm, unleashing another wave towards Paragus this time.
He glances back and screams. He is struck, along with the wall behind him.
The energy spirals through the cave, causing the walls to collapse.
The blast rockets out from the cave exit just as it falls apart. The attack breaks apart to individual lightning-shaped strands that fade out within seconds. Anyone would had mistaken it as lightning from a thunderstorm.
A cloud of dust and debris fill the air within seconds. After a while… it seems to settle down. The only sound heard left is a low hum.
A pile of rocks slide free, exposing a forcefield formed from a pair of hands. Gine stands crouched with her head down, and arms crossed above it.
Once she determines things had stabilized, she lowers her hands, and the shield disappears. She looks around, seeing the destruction she caused. She looks at her hands again, which is still charged and ready to unleash another wave of the attack.
The rubble of what was once a cave continues to roll off from high places as the occasional breeze knocks the balance off. It's not until a large cluster rolls away in a rapid pace as a gloved hand shoots out. It is followed by the head of Paragus, who is bruised and scratched all around. He grunts as he slowly pulls himself free from the rocky trap. Upon reaching the surface, he falls to one knee.
Gine raises an eyebrow.
His cape is covered with tears and seared-in holes. His gloves are torn, with a few of his fingers exposed. But, none of that matters to him.
He's still alive.
For a few seconds, Paragus has a coughing fit as his body clears his lungs from the dust he might have inhaled. His hand trembles as he reaches for the cracked scouter that is still hooked on to his face. He removes it carefully, but is not so careful with handling it. With a harsh squeeze, more cracks burst until the device is crushed in his hand.
"If I took that head on… I wouldn't had survived…!" The thought of it angers the Saiyan even more.
"That attack wasn't made for a single target, you know." Gine's response makes him freeze. "It's a wide-range attack designed to take down multiple targets. So its power is spread out. What you just endured was strong enough to kill twenty average humans at least. I held back the power since we were inside a cave, after all."
Paragus holds his breath. He wished she left him alone. He slowly rises and looks at her.
Gine slowly lifts her other zapping hand. "You aren't Human, so of course you would had survived. It's a good thing you did. It would be a real shame if you died too quickly."
What she just said…
Paragus realizes that she isn't through with him yet.
"Gine…" He begins quickly, trying to find a way out of it. He speaks to her carefully. He's clearly trying to get her to understand her actions, due to him switching to the Saiyan tongue. "This… this isn't like you. Not at all. You wouldn't take the pleasure of constantly hurting someone, would you?"
"You assume that I am sadistic here? That's ridiculous." Gine then responds the same way. "I am taking no pleasure from this. Not at all."
"Then why not kill me the first time?"
"I already said I had to hold back earlier. Besides… your body won't allow you to die so easily. It's built to tank powerful attacks, is it not?" Gine explains. "What I am feeling… it's unsettling rage. It won't go away. Not anytime soon. This… is what happens when I give in."
She swings her arms back.
"This a mere preview of what I did on Planet Mineral."
She swings her arm harshly, releasing another wave that soars and strikes Paragus. She watches the explosive shockwave take place immediately afterwards. Her eyes don't leave her screaming target. Slowly, her arm lowers as the electrical display breaks apart, revealing Paragus shaking on his knees.
"How does it feel when every muscle in your body becomes numb?" Gine almost mocks him before she reverts her language back to the common tongue. "I bet you had no idea electricity even has a smell until now."
She begins to take slow steps towards the Saiyan.
Paragus is quick to his feet, but he staggers and falls. His body won't work with him very well, but he needs to get away from her.
Gine sees his struggle. "Terrible, isn't it? This is the part when my enemies begin to regret mocking me. As much as I would like to stop… there's a big part of me that is saying… Why stop? I'm just getting started."
Another wave is unleashed. Paragus screams as he feels his body being fried once more. The bolts travel through him powerfully, and he feels his muscles weakening even more. He drops to his elbows, shaking uncontrollably as he tries to crawl.
"Endless Thundercrash. That's the name of the attack you are being hit with." Gine explains. "Because it doesn't stop after the first time. It's like a thunderstorm. A display of lightning that no one wants to mess with. It's weak by itself. But unleashing it multiple times can do a lot of damage. This is… my most powerful attack yet."
She grits her teeth, seeing just how badly he is struggling.
"How dare you make me use it again. You made me break a personal promise. And for that… you won't escape this pain so easily! I've completely given in, and there's no stopping me!"
Gine swings her arm with a snarl. Another wave hits him, and bolts fly, followed by another electrical burst. She swings her other arm, sending another right away. Her arms swing in turns as she unleashes wave after wave. The thundering sounds of impact drown out her heavy growling.
ZZZT-BOOM!
ZZZT-BOOM!
ZZZT-BOOM!
Her red eyes are locked on to her target, never blinking as the violent display carries on.
Just as she prepares to send another, her right arm is engulfed with the painful bolts, sending blistering pain through it. She clenches her teeth as she growls out in pain, and she lowers her arm quickly. She balls her hands tight, forcing the energy to fade out.
Using Endless Thundercrash draws a lot of power. Using it one too many times does recoil damage. Her energy will become unstable, and it will hurt her.
Still, her eyes go back to her target. He's lying on the floor, but he's still alive. His armor did a good job absorbing most of the impact. Still, he's burned in a few places, and he's terribly stunned. He certainly can't breathe right. Another wave might had killed him.
'Gine… you don't have to keep doing this.'
It's the thought she has in her head. The part of her that holds reason.
She can't hear it.
'He's no longer a threat. He won't even be able to move for a few hours… so why carry this out anymore?'
That tiny voice remains unheard. She's simply too angry to listen to reason.
"You're lucky… that I had to take a break." Gine speaks again, her tone still holding the rage within her. "But the moment my energy stabilizes… I'll keep going. You'll suffer until you die. Looking at your current condition… you don't have long. So let me ask you… have you felt my rage to your very core yet?"
Paragus can't even talk. Trying to is impossible.
Now he understands why she was crying earlier. She knew this would happen if he angered her so far. It's why she was glad none of her sons were around to witness this. They would never see her the same way ever again.
This is how she was before retirement, was it? Or does she act like this when she is filled with wrath?
Gine slowly walks towards him, not bothered by the scared look in his eyes. Seeing his annoying face keeps her motivated to keep hurting him.
Paragus flinches as she stops in front of him.
She stares him down. Her tail doesn't remain still. It moves impatiently, sometimes violently. The fur is still standing. Due to her eyes not turning back to black yet, she hasn't settled down at all.
Paragus looks at her. It's all he can do as static continues to run through his body. He grunts Gine places her boot against the side of his face. He looks eyes with her, and he feels like he is being crushed by her anger alone. It's like her Oozaru form is present.
Finally, the static begins to jump around her right arm. Gine turns her attention back to her hands, and she gathers the energy again. It seems waiting is over. Without a word, wearing a snarl, she slowly lifts her hand to send the next attack.
Only, she doesn't unleash it. She sniffs the air, and she growls lightly at what she picks up.
Gine's eyes tear away from Paragus in an instant, and they land on Nappa, who lands from flight several feet away. A part of her wishes she can sense energy, but at this moment, it doesn't matter.
Nappa freezes at the sight of her. "Whoa. That's an ugly face. Your eyes are red. What the hell did he do to set you off?"
He pauses, and his eyes go wide as he holds back a gasp.
His eyes fell on the glowing mark of her wrist. He seems slightly afraid of the mere sight of it. "The cursed mark…!"
She finally greets him, but her tone is far from being friendly. "Well, hello General. What brings you here?"
A/N: Finally finished!
I need to draw myself Gine using her Endless Thundercrash. I have the image in my head but… my art supplies vanished. *sniff*
That moment you realize that this book has too much edge.
Lemme stop joking around.
Seriously though. Sometimes I hate how much I matured in four years. Some of the older chapters from Book 3 and under makes me cringe now.
"Why did I write that?" I would ask myself.
I'm not a perfect writer. Obviously.
Moving on.
Didn't you just love how the Saiyans were sorta working together without knowing? Realize how great of a team Tarble and Vegeta could be if they can just get along!
"Saiyans are a warrior race. We fight because it's in our blood. To hell with all the fancy reasoning and petty justifications! What matters is that you get to go wild out there."
-Bardock in Xenoverse
My crazy friend who reads this: So if Gine were a deadly sin, what would she be?
Me: Yo. I'm not putting that on anyone else.
Friend: Just tell me. Please?
Me: No.
Friend: Please?
Me: No!
Friend: Pleeeeeeease?
Me: NO! Chille did that mess in the book. He never met her so she has no reason to… urgh fine. Fine. Fine.
If she had to be labeled with one, it probably would be Wrath.
Happy now?
Friend: Like King Bradly-
Me: This isn't about Full Metal Alchemist!
Friend: But her backstory was kinda like hi-
Me: No, no! There are a ton of characters who went through that! Captain America did. Deathstroke did. Bucky kinda did! Even freakin' Carter from Halo Reach! You know… In the game trailer…
Friend: You play Halo?
Me: My twin brother does. But I love Reach.
-Actual Conversation.
Possible Questions:
PQ1: Huh. What does the Saiyan language sound like?
A: I remember a few readers asking me this since book 1. I just realized I never answered. Huh. Well then! Might as well now!
Bright side is, we had a look at a few Saiyan words! From Nappa! Whoooo!
Chille did describe it a few times.
Unfortunately I don't know how to make up languages, but I do have an idea on what it could sound like. As we all know, whenever a line is written "With quotation marks and italics combined", it means someone is speaking another language. Most of the time, it is pointed out. If done with the Saiyans without the language name added, it's automatically Saiyan.
What does it sound like? Uhhh…
I don't remember which chapter Chille described it in… but he said how the Saiyan's give their Rs a hard roll. And many of their words have those Rs.
Ls and Ks are spoken louder than any other sound as well. Those letters are used a lot also.
So the most used letters in the language are K, L, R, and all the vowels. Lol. Other letters are used of course.
But let me put it like this. The letter S sounds like it is used a lot in English. ;)
The majority of their vowels are short vowels. The only way to tell if they are long is if there is two of the same vowel side by side. So you have "E" said as "Eh" and "EE" said as well… "E". XD
Double Rs mean the R-rolling drags on longer.
Can you roll your Rs?
Imma be silly. But it's to give you an idea of how they speak, I suppose. Try to pronounce the OTES Saiyan word; "K'tarrlee"
*It translates to "Fight".
Capital letters are to be spoken with extra effort. Remember to roll those Rs. (Or try. Haha.)
Try saying; "KEht-taRRRL-EE!"
For fun, scream it out, and you'll sound like Gine when she demanded Paragus to fight.
Hey. That's pretty fun to say when you roll your Rs.
Tbh I used to scream that made-up mess when I was a kid, only because I was acting like a bird.
Kids are weird.
So I realized how it sounds like my ideal Saiyan language. So I tossed it in here?
Does it affect the way they say their names? Well, that's up to you to decide. Have fun saying "Kakarot". Lol
Those who speak Spanish, your language is fun btw.
Oh wow. I just gave y'all a made-up Language-Arts lesson. Whoops. But ELA is my strongest subject, next to Reading and Science. Haha.
PQ2: Kauli has healing powers?!
A: I had the idea since book 3. I just didn't know how to hint it. But we all saw how defensive she acts whenever someone asks why her eyes are blue.
We'll look more into that in the future.
Yes. Her song lyrics are made-up from me.
PQ3: Broly's character?
A: Many wondered why he said "Kakarot" angrily. Well, we'll look more into that in the future chapters! But it was hinted in the previous chapter.
Here, I tried to mix in Broly's fighting style from both movies. It has the brutality from DBZ, and the wild and animalistic style from DBS. It wasn't… easy.
I also tried to make the fight make sense. In DBZ this dude was IMPOSSIBLE to hurt. He's like that hidden boss you find by accident. Then in DBS he was getting beat up but gradually got stronger and stronger. So I mixed them up here as well.
I sorta mixed in Paragus' character from both movies as well. That wasn't wasn't easy, either. I tried not to make him a total jerk. He's just a Saiyan hungry for revenge so…
Goodness. This really was a challenge. Yeah. I need a break, guys. My brain can't keep up with all this. XD
PQ4: Is Broly going to be part of the story?
A: Ever since that new movie came out… I grew attached to him.
Most likely :)
PQ5: So Gine isn't nice?
A: Oh. She is. Just remember this is an alternate universe so…
Well, anyway, she's just as compassionate as the Gine we saw from the DBS movie and in the Dragon Ball Minus Manga. (Though really they are the same thing.) It was explained that she quit because she wasn't a good fighter. She was also a former member of Bardock's crew. Most of us know this already.
But I figured that if she was a former member, there had to be more to the story on why she left. Due to her compassionate nature, I wrote it as she simply lost the motivation. She can't hurt innocents anymore.
Especially after she woke up and realized everything Frieza promised them was a big fat lie. She was just a pawn to him.
In this story, she's not pure. She will kill you if you hurt her children. She's not a pacifist. But she has a heart, more than most Saiyans has. Mostly because she lacked the violent Saiyan nature. After realizing what harm she was doing, she swore to never do it again, only to find herself fighting again on Earth.
It's pretty neat and sad at the same time.
PQ6: Gine's OTES lore?
A: I had this idea for a very, very long time. Do you know how painful it was not to rush it? I have no idea if I am good at foreshadowing or not… but I'll list the hints I dropped. Oh boy. Here we go.
*While Gine was officially seen in present time in Book 1 (Ch. 14), there was no idea then on why she did quit from me then. But I think it's nice to see Gine was a decent fighter in terms of defense. She caught a punch from Raditz and had a firm grip. She explained there that it's not that she doesn't know how to fight. She's still a Saiyan. She just wasn't cut out for it. She had to quit.
*Gine has a habit of bouncing straight back to happiness and friendliness after appearing angry or intimidating. It's an interesting note I have to take. This is something I found her doing a lot whenever I re-read the series.
**Such an example was in Book 3's Chapter 20 when she demanded ChiChi to destroy the bone necklace. But Gine merely hates Youzi. She referred to him with hatred in her tone, which is rare to hear.
*Through the series around book 3 and 4, Gine is shown to grow more angry the more someone refuses to listen to her reason. She's kind enough not to foolishly lash out like most Saiyans, but it's easy to tell when her patience starts to run out. This was seen with Vegeta, Launch, and Paragus in previous chapters. She's still a Saiyan, after all.
*Other times Gine hides her anger behind a smile. Does it count? Maybe not. But I wanted to point it out. This was seen twice;
**Book 4, Chapter 14. Caught a bullet from Launch and fired it back. All with a smile.
**She was squeezing the life out of Raditz's tail while smiling. It's not something one can do casually.
**These events did tell the reader that she is very capable of easily ending one's life. She just doesn't do it.
*The only time we saw glimpses of Gine's "short temper" is when someone she cares for is hurt or in danger. She also tends to become rather rude to the one causing the harm.
**Doesn't really count much. But Gine did threaten to kill soldiers for trying to kill Kakarot.
*The one time we witnessed Gine act in fury was when Kid Turles was thought to be dead on Planet Scorch. (Seen in Book 3's Chapter 8)
*After the Turles event, we also saw how she nearly killed Kid Raditz out of anger. But she missed on purpose because at the same time, she can't hurt her own children. He surely would have died if he wasn't her family.
**But it was also explained that a Saiyan mother killing her child is heard of before. Thanks to Gine's kind side, Raditz was spared.
*When Kakarot was exiled, we catch a glimpse of Gine understanding what anger can do. (Book 3. Chapter 10)
Bardock: "I already saw it coming. I don't know when… but Kakarot… his anger will blind his judgement."
Gine: "Judgement, you say? Hatred can turn anyone into a monster. How long until he takes a murderous path?"
*She speaks to a few Humans with disgust. Such as the Z-Fighters when she first met them. (Such as Yamcha). But only because she assumed they had hurt Kakarot in some way. She eventually warmed up to them a bit.
*Book 4. Ch. 12, she warns Kakarot of the way he handles his anger is twisted. She said she came to help him control it. It implies she knows exactly how it feels.
*Whenever she does get very angry, her power slips out. This was scene with Ch. 17 with Launch and Paragus. She had to catch herself before it went too far. This was what many readers picked up.
*Gine revealed to Kakarot at Chapter 11 that she was experimented on.
** "Many had died during the injection, because their bodies couldn't endure it. It was like poison. Those who did… it changed them. Many were reported to be far more aggressive than a Saiyan should be… such as myself. When their rage got the best of them, they got into an animalistic rampage of destruction. Unable to stop until everything around them is barren. Far worse than the Oozaru itself. Something you had done… when Chille told you what you did…"
That's all I got so far.
Also, how do you think she convinced King Yemma to allow her to stay for an entire month? Well… you make a guess.
To summarize it, Gine was born gentle. She doesn't like to hurt much. She lacks those violent Saiyan instincts. Doctors took her and gave her shots to increase them. Shots killed other Saiyans. She survived.
What did the shots do? It enhanced her violent nature that she once lacked. She still fights well due to her fighting instincts. But when she's enraged, her fighting skills become far more sharp due to her feeling nothing but anger. Every other emotion doesn't matter. Nothing else matters. Her attacks are far more violent and brutal.
Due to her violent nature being unnatural, when she does get angry, it's terrible. It's why she's afraid of fighting here. She knows what happens when she becomes enraged.
And unlike Gohan, when she is enraged, she still controls her every action. She doesn't act out of impulse. Basically she just "flipped sides". It's why her anger here is mostly controlled. Her rage is at its worse when it's "Animalistic" or Oozaru-like. Even then, she still remembers everything she did in such a state.
In short, she temporarily becomes a cold-blooded fighter filled with wrath. It's the kind of Saiyan warrior King Cold wanted to use. Her gentle nature is gone in that state, which is why she fights without mercy.
Now I wonder how bad it would be if she is a Super Saiyan?
So she and Gohan have some similarities. What impact will it have here?
PQ7: Endless Thundercrash?
A: In the OTES timeline, Endless Thundercrash is Gine's ultimate move. The word "Endless" is in the name to stay in line with the whole days of the week thingy.
She rubs her hands together for friction, and to charge the attack. It is unleashed as storm of lighting-shaped strands that will burst and electrocute once they hit the target. It's very similar to when lighting hits.
It has a similar explosive display you see from Raditz's Vacation Delete, just to give you an idea.
Reader: He never used it here.
Me: Later
How would it work in games like Xenoverse? (Just so you have an idea)
It is a wide-range attack that can be fired up to six times in a row.
While it deals heavy damage to the main target when fired in a successful frenzy, anyone nearby would be blown away and stunned for a few seconds. However, the attack drains more ki the more it is used.
Be careful: If it used up to the max amount of times, the user will be unable to move fast or guard for several seconds. So they are left wide open for retaliation. It's pretty risky to use.
So for those who don't play Xenoverse but are Pokémon fans, Endless Thundercrash is just like a Hyper Beam. Powerful, but the user can't move for the next turn, so they are left wide open. It's also like moves such as Fire Blitz. Powerful, but it deals heavy recoil damage. For Gine, the recoil is getting a stamina break.
Those limits are to keep players from abusing such an overpowered move.
After using Endless Thundercrash to the max, you won't be able to use it again for a while. So be sure it lands when you do.
Oof. This chapter was a massive challenge, y'all.
Time for Pokémon Sword and Shield to calm my nerves! This American is about to visit the U.K!
I promise I'll behave myself. I might steal a Wooloo though.
Question Time:
Q: (Ch. 10) I swear this book is like a fine wine- it just gets better with age.
Been over a year since I touched this but hot DAMN is it still hype. Can't wait to fully catch up again- off I go binging
A: I guess because the updates are so slow, I was able to write with better ideas than I would have if it were consistent. Thanks to that, I was able to use Broly more than before.
Thank you for checking back in. It's nice to see you again! Thank you!
Q: (Ch. 12) So like, I've been watching JoJo and have come to crazy theory.
What if...youzi is...AN ENEMY STAND?/1!?
(funny jojo reference pls laugh)
Anyhow, I know that I'm probably late to the love and affection parade by now (almost a whole year hot dang) but-
I get how time-consuming writing of this scale can be. Sure I mightn't have any top tier fics under my belt (or any at all lol) but the level of emotion, commitment, and creativity going into this is just mind blowing, especially considering the fact that you still have to put up with grown-up stuff.
Hell, you weren't even mad when you made this, as writer and a person you're just, breathtaking.
Your other stories...yeah, it's a shame, but that doesn't mean it's the end. Not even Stephen king had his first stories make it big- some renowned writers are known to have made hundreds of books, with only a handful reaching success.
My point is- as many people have probably already said- you can do this, OTES won't be the only big story you have if you keep at it. You're exceptional- if anyone can pull off something bigger than this book, it's you.
(he says while binging this series)
A: Once again, thank you! Writing has gotten harder to do ever since I left high school. I'm glad I never gave up on it. I did take a break from it, which helped a lot.
I'm okay with this series being as popular as it is. I just wrote for fun. So if my other books don't get as much attention, it's all good. Someone out there will enjoy it.
Q: (Ch. 13) Damn. Even Youzi!Goku cares about the 4th wall's integrity. A literal demon cares more about it than King Kai himself.
Nearly had a heart attack when Edgehan showed up. Thought he got possessed haha just kidding...
...unless?
A: I'm trying to give the 4th wall a break. (No pun intended) I'm not Deadpool. Lol
Omg. Edgehan. Best name I ever heard. I'm laughing. XD
Q: (Ch. 14) Kauli reminds me of those fighterZ edits where Cooler holds a gun-
Y'know, I never realized just how amazing Nappa really is. Staying loyal to the throne like that, putting the princes above himself always, and having their best interests at heart...
Nappa is best mom, end of debate.
It's my headcanon now that during Vegeta's chamber year, he spent everyday thinking of taunts while he was training
YO WHAT'S THIS? THE EARTHLINGS PACKING HEAT!? AYYYYY
oh my god, Goha- er...Karot, is Sasuke. But like, worse.
A: Maybe I should check out those edits. YouTube keeps recommending me some videos about the glitches too.
Heck yeah. Nappa is going to get more of a spotlight very soon. He's more of a mentor now, especially towards the children. It's pretty neat. He is always looking after Vegeta and Tarble, so we'll see where it goes.
Q: (Ch. 15) Wait...
Name starts with an L, very secretive about it..
...has an obsession with writing...
..you don't mean...
...you're...
LIGH-
"I am going to raid your ass"
-Kauli, OTES
Damn, two chapters without on the dot reviews? Something ain't addin up chief. Boutta change that myself if I have to
A: I'm not Light Yagami. Nice guess though.
But my name also has an I in it. :)
So now you have to letters. "L" and "I". ;)
I sometimes feel like Kauli has a lot of quotables in this book.
Q: My final stop in this binge and good LORD
Sassy Tarble is my new religion. Thank you and your welcome.
Kauli butting heads with launch...it was inevitable. They go together like sparks and gunpowder lol
FJDJJHHDDHGVWHX
TURLES' REACTION TO LEAVING KAULI FOR A YEAR IS JUST SO- MMMMM
I thought you were bad at fluff L. Coulda fooled me.
DAAAAMN, Gohan got that sass. This isn't the emo/edgy verse, this is the one where everyone spills the tea-
Nappa is slowly becoming my favourite in this series. Dishing out reality checks to edgy teens and arrogant princes like Halloween candy. Nappa is best mom.
Ohp- I see what you did there with that knife you sly bastardTalk about a cliffhanger ending...
I LOVE IT
A: I think everyone likes sassy Tarble. But everyone here knows Kauli is the queen of sass. No one has topped her yet. Haha.
Let's be honest. Kauli isn't a people person. She hates people. Most of us hates people. We can all relate to her in one way or another. I swear if anyone can do her voice, I know a few people in my family who can do it. I don't do well with voice acting. Kauli carries the attitude of a southern woman.
I say I am bad at it. It takes forever to type the fluff. I guess I am getting better thanks to television but still. Eeeeeeeh!
Gohan indeed doesn't sugarcoat anymore.
And Nappa. Well, he is the oldest character among the Saiyans, so of course he can preach. Haha. When he has a leveled-head, he's very wise. When he's angry, then he can he can bit careless. Someone called him Grandpa Nappa. I am so done. XD
So we got Edgehan, Mama Gine, and Grandpa Nappa. And then The Prince of All Assholes. Anyone got names for the others? XD
This chapter here has a hidden thing, I guess. Many readers, I assume you are concerned for Gine. But let's see here… Gine represents that one mom who will throw herself in jail by trying to protect her kids.
How do I know? My parents are very nice. But they become the most terrifying thing when one of my siblings get hurt or are in danger. I remember my father scaring off a group of teens who were messing with my little brother. My mom won't hesitate. She will beat anyone up.
My angry mom is kinda like Kauli, you could say.
Haha...
Next Time:
*Insert "Dragon Ball Z Kai episode preview theme" here*
Raditz: (Serious) This is Raditz, the oldest brother of Kakarot.
Raditz: (Concerned) Kakarot is heavily wounded. And Kauli can't pull her power off a second time. Turns out it doesn't work while under stress!
Future Trunks: (Uneasy) What can we do, father?! Broly is- aaaah! I can't take this anymore!
Raditz: (Alarmed) Kid? What are you… What the?!
Nappa: (Facing Gine) Looks like they did a lot to you. Someone has to calm you down. I hate for your sons to see you in this condition.
(Within a foggy void, a transparent Bardock carefully takes Gine's hands to his.)
Tarble: (Annoyed) Damn it! None of this would have happened of my father wasn't such a fool! And such absurd choices were passed down to my brother!
Vegeta: (Angry) What are you saying? What could you possibly do to fix this?!
Tarble: (Angry) I already told you that I am far better than you. As long as you stand at the top, our future is doomed. So forget it. I'm nothing to stand by anymore! Look around you, Vegeta! This mirrors something you would do! The apple doesn't fall far from the tree after all!
Kauli: (Grumbles) Just when I thought they finally got over this...
Vegeta: (Alarmed) The hell?! How did you- this is insanity! Whatever you intend to do-
Tarble: (Angry) It's far too late. I'm not listening to anyone who is foolish enough to follow you! I'm the one in charge now!
Vegeta: By the blue moon- when did you pull this off?!
Raditz: Next time on, "The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan!" Chapter 19: "An alternative mindset of a genius! The Saiyan's terrifying nature!"
Raditz: Hello?! Did we forget how dangerous the gentle Saiyans are when they are pissed off?! I thought we learned that from Kakarot!
Damn it! What would father do?!
REVIEW! REVIEW!
To be Continued in Chapter 19!
Upcoming Chapters: (Read at your own risk!)
Chapter 19: "An alternative mindset of a genius! The Saiyan's terrifying nature!" The unexpected battle has come to and end, but time is still ticking as Cell waits patiently for the deadline to arrive. It seems the humans had a way of dealing with the threat without needing to borrow the Saiyans' power after all! Because the Human's latest threat is fully developed and ready to bring great destruction, Prince Tarble finally had enough. Seeing anger and envy begins to make him act out. His lack of hope towards the future calls out an ugly side of him when everyone once again is against his ideals!
Chapter 20: "Kneel, or face the consequences! Countdown for the final battle!" The cards were set long before anyone noticed, and now the best hand was played! Prince Tarble stands in a position that not even Prince Vegeta would had predicted! Warriors of every type are set to prepare for the battle against Cell, but it won't be so easy now that they have no choice… but to trek carefully under a watchful eye. The word was kept firm… to not cross the line that was drawn. Future Trunks realizes he is about to relive his dreadful present again! And Karot finds himself caught up in the mess! And now… it appears Kakarot is no longer the main threat among the Saiyans, because that throne was taken!
Chapter 21: "What it means to stick together! Power comes in numbers!" The deadline is due to end! The warriors all brace themselves, taking in the training they endured to heart. But Kakarot isn't too shaken, and neither is Raditz. It's questionable, but the two brothers always seems to know what is going on. Knowing how powerful Cell is, they should be at least a little nervous? After what occurred for the last few days, Prince Vegeta finally came to a conclusion. And Prince Tarble seems to come to some agreement. There is no reason to play around anymore. Everyone has the dreadful feeling that not all of them will walk from the upcoming fight alive.
Chapter 22: "Show us your power, Trunks! The Tournament has begun!" The Cell games has finally started, and who is Cell's first pick? It's Trunks! No one ever said Cell would do the picking, but there can't be any complaints. No weapons means no swords, but the half-Saiyan warrior proves he doesn't need it to fight! It's clear on why Cell wanted to fight Trunks first. And it's also obvious on why he would want to fight Kakarot last. Maybe this was all due to personal grudges?
Chapter 23: "Human warriors, prove your worth! It's time to go all-out!" Cell so far shows little signs of being taken down. The hope next lies on the Z-Fighters who most of the Saiyans find a bit… unhelpful. However, Kakarot knows they aren't to be underestimated. The Humans learned a lot since their defeat five years back! Krillin, Yamcha, and Tien work together to fight that terrible threat! It seems they truly learned a lot. Humans learn from their mistakes better than anyone else, after all!
