Welcome to the next chapter of this story! I'm really excited to present you with the next chapter of this unusual crossover that I've enjoyed writing so much. Although I was a bit disappointed by the initial reception, I understand that it's part of the process. However, I feel deeply grateful for the favorites and follows that some readers decided to give to my story. So to all those who gave favs and follows, I would love to read your opinions and comments. Your support and participation mean a lot to me and inspire me to continue with this story!
Let's get to the review responses:
Danish78: Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you found the beginning of the story interesting and that Serafall's behavior intrigued you. In this chapter, you'll understand better why Serafall acts that way. Thank you for your support, and I hope you also enjoy this chapter!
Without further ado, let's begin with the next chapter!
Chapter 1 - Unexpected Intrigues.
[Universe 7, Present Timeline]
The kiosk where Trunks had been attended to upon his arrival in critical condition in the present timeline had gathered all the members of the Capsule Corporation, but the atmosphere was somber and oppressive due to the recent event. A dense silence enveloped the place, only interrupted by Bulma's sobs and the murmurs of voices trying to console her. Mai, Pilaf, and Shu watched with confusion, unsure of what to say or do to help, while the Trunks of this timeline clung to his mother's hand, trying to understand the profound sadness that surrounded her.
Goku and Vegeta stood nearby, observing the scene with a mix of sorrow and determination on their faces. Suddenly, Bulma staggered and fell to her knees, overwhelmed by the pain of loss. Vegeta, with quick reflexes, hurried to hold her in his arms, enveloping her in a comforting embrace.
"Just as the thrusters were about to activate... his hand let go of mine and then..." Tears welled up in Bulma's eyes again. "No... no..."
"Bulma..." Vegeta murmured softly, feeling his wife's trembling as she clung to him for comfort. "You did everything within your power."
Bulma felt as if her heart were being ripped from her chest, each beat resonating with the overwhelming pain of loss. Every breath was an exhausting effort, as if the air itself had become thick and heavy with the sadness that enveloped her. Her mind was filled with memories of her son from the day she met him in that desolate wasteland, now those happy memories were mercilessly cut through her soul with a sharp stab of despair.
As she clung to Vegeta, Bulma was overwhelmed by a tumultuous mix of emotions - grief, anger, sadness... all intertwined in a confusing tangle within her, threatening to drown her in her despair.
Little Trunks watched the scene with wide eyes filled with confusion, sensing the heaviness in the air, the palpable sadness enveloping his family. He felt overwhelmed seeing his mother's pain, the distress of present Mai, and, above all, the ominous fate that befell his future self.
He held onto Bulma's hand tightly, trying to comfort his mother as well. However, the feeling of helplessness overwhelmed him, leaving him insecure and vulnerable. In his mind, his future self's words still echoed, filled with determination and hope. He had believed that his future self would return with a triumphant smile, announcing that evil had been defeated. But now, with this shocking event, that hope vanished abruptly, leaving him with a bitter sensation he had never experienced before.
But things don't always go as you expect them to; reality can be very cruel.
"If only I had found the solution sooner, if only the time machine thrusters had activated faster..."
"It wasn't your fault, Bulma," Vegeta whispered with firm but comforting voice.
Bulma buried her face into Vegeta's chest, letting out choked sobs as she clung desperately to him. Vegeta held her firmly, trying to reassure his distraught wife and hoping she would soon find strength amid the pain.
For a moment, time seemed to stand still as Vegeta and Bulma held onto each other, sharing their grief in silence. Words were unnecessary at that moment; their determination and connection were enough to console each other in such a painful loss.
Finally, Bulma pulled back slightly from Vegeta, looking at him with teary yet determined eyes. "Thank you, Vegeta," she whispered, her voice trembling but filled with gratitude. "I don't know what I would do without you."
Vegeta softened his usually rough expression, showing a mix of compassion and determination in his eyes.
"I will do whatever it takes to bring him back," he promised, clenching his fists tightly. "It's a promise."
With a deep sigh, Bulma nodded slowly, letting Vegeta's strength seep into her; Goku, who had been observing the horizon but not missing any detail of the situation, approached Vegeta with determination, a spark of optimism shining in his eyes.
"Come on! Not all is lost!" Goku exclaimed enthusiastically, trying to lift the mood. "I know this has been really tough, but we still have the Dragon Balls. We can use them to find out what happened, and maybe find a way to fix things."
Vegeta frowned, his expression skeptical. "Do you really think the Dragon Balls can help us in this situation?" he asked incredulously.
"Of course they can!" Goku nodded convincingly. "We've always relied on the Dragon Balls in times of need, and they've never let us down."
Vegeta scowled, deepening his brows as he looked at Goku with a mix of frustration and disdain.
"Always taking things lightly, you insect," Vegeta growled with a tone of voice reflecting his usual bitterness. "What if we can't solve anything by searching for the Dragon Balls? Does your empty head not grasp the reality of the situation?"
"Come on, don't be so pessimistic. If it doesn't work, we can consult the Super Dragon Balls," Goku responded with tone against the hostility of the Saiyan prince. "After all, Lord Beerus said these could fulfill any wish across all universes."
What could Vegeta say about it, certainly most of the things the God of Destruction said were more than true; Vegeta frowned at Goku's words, still maintaining certain reservations about the suggestion of resorting to the Super Dragon Balls. However, despite his initial reluctance, he couldn't ignore the logic behind the idea.
"The Super Dragon Balls..." Vegeta murmured thoughtfully as he considered Goku's proposal. "While the idea is good, there is much playing against us."
Bulma looked up, her eyes red from crying, but a small spark of hope shining in them. "Maybe Goku is right," the scientist said with a trembling voice. "We don't have much more to lose at this point. Although..."
Suddenly, she remembered that adventure she had with Jaco when they visited that planet whose being stood out in its omniscience as perversion and preference for young and beautiful women, the idea of visiting that place disgusted her greatly because Bulma knew the trick that had been played on her and was aware of it, but the determination to find out what happened to her son was stronger, and if she obtained the answers she needed, she could determine the course of action to take.
"I know who can give us information about it."
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[Unknown Universe or Dimension]
Trunks awoke to a sharp pain that seemed to penetrate every cell of his body. His mind struggled to clear, as he slowly opened his eyes to the unfamiliar surroundings of a hospital room. The rhythmic sound of a machine monitoring his pulse filled the room, creating an atmosphere of unease in the air. Each beat echoed in his ears, reminding him of the fragility of his existence in this moment of vulnerability.
He strained to remember how he had ended up there, but his mind was a whirlwind of confusion and blurry fragments of memory. He remembered flashes of an intense battle, the feeling of being crushed with no alternative for salvation, the desperation to reach the woman who had been with him in his most difficult moments… but everything seemed distant, like part of a dream of which he could barely recall the details.
"Where... am I?" he murmured to himself, his voice sounding weak and distant in the quiet of the room. He felt like he was floating in limbo between reality and dream, not knowing what was true and what was fiction.
Trunks blinked several times, trying to focus his vision as his mind struggled to understand his situation. The hospital room's white and sterile environment seemed strangely familiar and unfamiliar at the same time, like he was trapped in a confusing dream from which he couldn't wake up.
A wave of sharp pain coursed through his body as he tried to move, reminding him of the severity of his injuries. In addition to his left arm wrapped in thick bandages, he felt a stabbing sensation in his right side every time he breathed deeply. His ribs were bandaged, and each inhalation was a constant reminder of his fragility. Furthermore, his right leg was wrapped in a lattice of bandages, indicating a significant injury to that limb. Every movement provoked a new stab of pain, and Trunks struggled to find a comfortable position in the hospital bed as he tried to calm the unpleasant sensations overwhelming him.
The familiar smell of disinfectant and the constant hum of medical machinery filled the room, enveloping him in a sense of unreality. For a moment, he allowed himself to close his eyes and focus on the regular sound of his own pulse, finding a glimpse of tranquility amidst the chaos surrounding him.
As he tried to sort out his thoughts and figure out where he was, and then make a decision about what he would do, he heard a door suddenly open, and a nurse entered the room, carrying a tray of medications, as well as other antibiotics and bandages.
The nurse was a middle-aged woman, with dark hair pulled back into a neat bun. Her white uniform was immaculately clean, and she had a voluptuous figure, her prominent breasts serving as her introduction, possessing enigmatic lilac eyes and an indescribable beauty whose expression reflected a mix of professionalism and concern.
Trunks, still amidst his confusion, noticed an anomaly in the nurse's aura as she approached. Her ki seemed enveloped in a dark essence, a shadow looming over her subtly but unsettlingly. It was as if there was something hidden beneath the surface of her calm and professional appearance, something that didn't fit with the light and purity of the hospital environment, yet her ki did not reflect a malignant essence, and that was something that totally threw him off.
This contradiction only confused him more, making Trunks feel even more uneasy and disoriented amid the situation.
"It's a relief that you've woken up," said the nurse in a friendly tone, noticing Trunks's lost expression. "You had a severe concussion, and it was predicted that you would take several months to wake up."
"How many days was I unconscious?" Trunks asked, his voice sounding weak and distant, as if he were speaking from a distant place.
The nurse consulted a folder on the nearby table before responding:
"It's been fifteen days since you were admitted to the hospital. Your recovery has been amazing, considering the severity of your injuries," said the nurse as she applied saline to the intravenous bag attached to the Saiyan's healthy arm. "It could be said that it's thanks to having such a strong constitution, which also surprised us quite a bit. Your physical constitution could be described as... out of the ordinary."
Trunks nodded, although confusion persisted within him. Fifteen days of his life seemed to have vanished in the blink of an eye, and he couldn't help but wonder what had happened during that lost time. However, he decided not to overwhelm himself with questions at that moment.
Trunks, still feeling the effects of his recovery, looked up at the nurse with a worried and confused expression.
"Where is Mai?" he asked weakly, struggling against the weakness still present in his body.
The nurse furrowed her brow slightly at Trunks's question, as if considering how to respond to that concern.
"Mai?" the nurse repeated thoughtfully. "Do you mean the woman who was with you when you were found?"
The future warrior weakly nodded.
The nurse perfectly noted his distress and offered a compassionate smile to try to reassure him.
"She's in good condition, so don't worry too much about it."
Trunks was about to interrupt to get more information about Mai, but the doctor once again anticipated his thoughts.
"I understand that you're worried about your friend, but right now you need to focus on recovering," the doctor continued, anticipating the Saiyan's reaction. "Doctor Abbader has an important meeting with the Maōs and will be busy for a while. You can expect his visit later," she said as she made some notes. "If you want my recommendation, you should take a nap; you clearly need it."
Once the nurse made a respectful bow and left the room, Trunks sank into a state of reflection as he continued to process the information, replaying in his mind the events that led him to be lying in a hospital bed. Although he was relieved to know that Mai was okay, he remained concerned for her well-being and wondered where she might be.
But what he couldn't shake from his mind was that recent event. Was Zeno-sama's power really such that it could open different dimensions? Just thinking about it was madness, as he still remained reluctant to believe that such a diminutive being could destroy universes as if they were planets. And thanks to him, Trunks found himself stranded in a different place.
Nor could he shake off the nurse's peculiar words before she left. The mention of "demon kings" echoed in his mind like an echo in a vast abyss of uncertainty. It wasn't a common expression in his world, which led him to wonder what it really implied. Had he fallen into the world of the Makaio-shin (1), or had he been transported to a dimension populated by other types of demons? And if it was a different dimension, what role did these beings play in it? Questions crowded his mind, feeding a growing sense of unease and confusion.
Yielding to the mental fatigue caused by recalling the recent events, Trunks decided that the best thing for him was to follow the nurse's advice and focus on his recovery. He closed his eyes and tried to rest, allowing fatigue and weakness to gradually dissipate as his body recovered.
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Sirzechs strode with determination through the hospital corridors, his imposing presence filling the air with an aura of authority that didn't go unnoticed. Doctors and medical staff who saw him immediately bowed in respect. This display of deference reaffirmed his position as one of the rulers of the underworld.
By his side, Serafall Leviathan walked with him, her radiant smile and positive attitude noticeably absent, replaced instead by an oddly serious and reflective demeanor, which was uncommon for her. She was clearly concerned, though no one could discern exactly what was troubling her, as Serafall was adept at hiding her deepest thoughts behind a childish and playful facade.
Despite her internal concerns, she struggled to maintain composure while accompanying Sirzechs on this visit to the hospital.
Sirzechs noticed Serafall's demeanor perfectly, which was peculiar considering that she had shown little interest in the young man's recovery during the time elapsed. This lack of attention aroused a slight skepticism in him, immediately dismissing that she was concerned about the young man's recovery, which generated the concern of wanting to know the true reason for his companion's mood.
But for the moment, he decided to set aside this observation, trusting that he could find out more later. There were other more important matters at hand.
Sirzechs knocked on the door indicating the office of the hospital chief, observing the name engraved "Dr. Abbader" written with elegant calligraphy and exquisite neatness. Once they heard "come in," both Maōs entered the office.
Once inside, with a firm but respectful look, both Maōs approached the doctor's desk.
"Welcome, Sirzechs-sama, Serafall-sama. Thank you for coming so promptly. Please, take a seat," said the doctor kindly, indicating the chairs in front of his desk.
Sirzechs nodded courteously and then sat down in front of the doctor's desk, followed by Serafall who mimicked the gesture.
"I attended your call as quickly as possible, Dr. Abbader. May I ask the reason why you summoned us?"
Dr. Abbader nodded solemnly before responding:
"Of course, Sirzechs-sama. The results of the analyses of the young man you requested have concluded. I speak frankly," said the doctor without mincing words. "I have summoned both of you because the findings we have come across are quite interesting and require your immediate attention."
Sirzechs and Serafall exchanged a look, intrigued by the doctor's words. Sirzechs leaned forward, showing his interest:
"Could you explain more thoroughly what you found in the analyses, Dr. Abbader?"
The doctor took out some X-rays while turning on a monitor displaying the studies that showed the analyses performed.
"According to our analyses, we observed that the anatomy of the young man's cells, muscles, and bones shows notable differences compared to that of a common human being," the doctor explained in detail as he changed the slides showing the results of his studies. "His muscle tissues seem to have exceptional density and resistance, suggesting a unique adaptation. This could imply that his body is unusually adapted to withstand physical stress and maintain optimal performance in high-demand situations."
"You mean his body is made for... fighting?" Serafall asked, showing a semblance of unease.
Her suspicions increased upon hearing the doctor's unequivocal response.
"Exactly."
Sirzechs listened attentively to the explanation, intrigued by the doctor's revelations. Sirzechs reflected for a moment before continuing:
"Could you delve deeper into these differences and how they might influence the young man's abilities?"
Dr. Abbader cleared his throat before continuing:
"While conducting these analyses, I couldn't help but draw comparisons with the muscular and skeletal density observed in various primate species in the human world. Interestingly, we discovered striking similarities with subspecies of gorillas and orangutans in terms of the robustness, density of muscle tissues, bones, and various cellular compositions of the young man."
Sirzechs and Serafall exchanged a concerned glance at this unexpected revelation. Sirzechs frowned; he didn't like where this was heading.
"I also want to highlight that we analyzed his aura and spiritual characteristics in depth," he said, taking a pause to take a sip of water, "and what we found was certainly... peculiar."
"What do you mean by peculiar, Tou-san?" By this point, Serafall had abandoned formalities; her face reflected deep concern at what she was hearing.
"Our analyses also revealed certain aspects that distinguish him from a conventional human. There appear to be unique characteristics in his genetic and energetic structure that set him apart, leading us to conclude that, while he may be a hybrid, his spiritual signature does not match that of any known yōkai or other supernatural being."
The Maōs fell silent; at this point, they didn't know what to say.
"Given the results obtained, we also decided to meticulously analyze his blood group, and similarly, we made an equally extraordinary discovery," the doctor cleared his throat again. "After comparing it meticulously with the common blood groups of people in the human world, we found that it doesn't fit into any conventional categories. He seems to possess a unique and unprecedented blood type, adding another layer of mystery to his nature."
Sirzechs' expression turned more serious at Dr. Abbader's revelations. He crossed his arms over his chest, pondering the implications of what they had just heard.
"I see..." Sirzechs murmured, his voice laden with concern. "Given the nature of what you've just revealed to us, we must proceed immediately once the young man wakes up. Determining whether he poses a threat or not is crucial at this time."
However, before the Maōs could leave to implement their contingency plan, Dr. Abbader cleared his throat once more, catching the attention of both regents.
"I would like to make a request if you don't mind," the doctor said as he put away the study sheets. "I would like a period of time to interact with and monitor this young man. I believe it would be beneficial for all of us to have a preliminary insight with him before deciding on more drastic measures."
Sirzechs and Serafall exchanged an incredulous look at Dr. Abbader's request. Sirzechs was intrigued by the information the young man would likely provide during this period, internally wondering what prompted the doctor to make such a request before the planned interrogation.
Serafall, on the other hand...
"No!" She exclaimed, interrupting her father abruptly. The doctor certainly seemed surprised by his eldest daughter's sudden reaction. "I disagree with that."
Sirzechs appeared taken aback by Serafall's adamant response. While he had proposed the idea of a contingency plan, her colleague's reaction caught him off guard, especially since she was typically more flexible when it came to serious matters.
"Serafall, wouldn't it be better to trust that Dr. Abbader may make some progress? " —Sirzechs said calmly, trying to ease the tension in the room. "I'm sure he has valid reasons for requesting this."
"I said no! "—She replied, reaffirming her decision with marked emphasis. "Did you not witness the chaos his arrival caused, the collateral effects of his landing, and moreover, with the information we just heard?! We don't know where he's from... and if... and if..." She suddenly faltered. "...if he's a being like 'him'."
Both the doctor and the crimson Satan swallowed hard at the mere mention of "him."
"Don't jump to conclusions! " —Sirzechs exclaimed, disturbed, as if the mention of "him" had caused a cataclysm in his thoughts. "We cannot assert anything yet."
"Exactly, " she retorted, "we don't know... and I DON'T WANT TO FIND OUT! "
Both the doctor and Sirzechs exchanged glances once more.
"I know this concerns you, Serafall, "Sirzechs responded, a bit calmer now. "But we must approach this situation with caution and determine the truth behind all this. We cannot ignore the opportunity to get answers directly from the young man."
Dr. Abbader intervened calmly, trying to mediate between the divergent opinions.
"Daughter, please try to understand, " —the doctor paused for a moment, recovering from the shock of what seemed to be a taboo subject, "this conversation could provide us with crucial information to find an answer to the situation we are in. Besides, it would be unfair on our part to judge that young man arbitrarily and without any evidence, don't you think he has the right to be heard and express his version of the events? "
Serafall found herself in an emotional crossroads. Her protective instinct urged her to reject any possibility of interaction with the young man, whose mysterious nature represented a potential threat to the underworld and likely to the entire supernatural world. Her mind was clear about rejecting any interaction that could endanger the safety of her people.
But, on the other hand, a small voice in the back of her mind reminded her of the importance of truth and the need to understand the situation fully. Although her protective instinct screamed that staying away was the safest option, a part of her wondered if ignoring the unknown young man would be the right decision in the long run. Doubt plagued her, creating internal tension as she struggled to reconcile her desire for protection with the longing for knowledge and understanding.
Serafall looked at both of them distrustfully, but finally relented, recognizing the logic in their arguments.
"I still disagree, " she conceded, completely resigned. "Just make sure to take any precautions."
Sirzechs continued, his expression serious yet understanding.
"I appreciate your understanding, Serafall, " —said Sirzechs, pleased that Serafall did not oppose the decision he had made. "This young man may have answers that could help us better understand what's happening. We cannot afford to overlook that opportunity."
And once he turned his gaze to the doctor, he added:
"Very well, Dr. Abbader. I'll give you a period of ten days to speak with the young man and gather all relevant information. I expect a daily and detailed report on any progress you make during that time. "
Dr. Abbader nodded gratefully, thanking Sirzechs for his cooperation.
"Of course, Sirzechs-sama. I will promptly inform you of any significant progress that arises during our conversations with the young man."
Serafall, showing apprehension about the decision made, watched the conversation with a serious expression. Although she had accepted the decision, her gaze reflected a slight doubt and concern, as if she were not entirely convinced of the implications of leaving the young man in Dr. Abbader's hands. Her lips tightened slightly, revealing her inner unease, as her mind assessed the possible risks of this decision. Although she trusted Sirzechs's wisdom, she couldn't help but feel a slight sense of unease about the unknown represented by this new twist of events.
"Thank you for the information provided," Sirzechs added, taking a step towards the door. "We look forward to hearing from you soon."
"It will be done."
With that said, Sirzechs headed towards the door, closely followed by Serafall, who remained silent, her gaze fixed on the floor and lost in her thoughts; as she was about to leave the office, she felt a hand touch her back.
"Daughter," the doctor said softly, showing understanding towards Serafall's reluctance. "I'm sorry this is difficult for you, but I ask you to trust that we can handle this situation, and if everything goes out of control, we will do whatever is in our power to calm the situation."
Serafall lifted her gaze to her father's, meeting his warm and understanding eyes. She took a moment to absorb his words, feeling a glimmer of relief amidst her worry.
"Thank you, Tou-sama," Serafall responded with a whisper, acknowledging the support her father offered her in this difficult moment.
They shared a brief exchange of glances, conveying mutual trust and complicity, before Serafall decided to leave the room, ready to continue with her responsibilities.
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The golden rays of the sun filtered through the partially open window of his room, illuminating the walls with their colorful glow, casting dancing shadows that played with the light. Trunks immersed himself in the comforting sensation brought by the gentle warmth of the sun, feeling temporarily relieved by the warmth flooding the room.
Suddenly, the Saiyan heard the sound of the door opening, distracting him from his thoughts and indicating someone's entry into the room.
"Good morning, young man," greeted the newcomer politely.
"Good morning," responded Trunks, observing the man cautiously. He had an elegant appearance, with neatly trimmed purple eyes, mustache, and beard, and round, lightweight glasses that gave him an air of authority.
"It seems you're in better condition now," said the man seriously, a fact that didn't go unnoticed by Trunks.
"Yes," he responded honestly, a slight expression of relief crossing his face as he remembered the pain from the previous day. "Yesterday my arm hurt a lot, I could barely move it, but now the pain has decreased considerably."
The doctor nodded understandingly, attentively observing Trunks' expressions as he spoke, as if assessing his physical and emotional state. Trunks, for his part, felt reassured by the presence of the doctor, although he still maintained an instinctive caution due to the situation he was in.
"I'm glad to hear that," replied the doctor kindly. "Allow me to introduce myself, I am Doctor Abbader Sitri, the director of this hospital," he added, extending his hand in a gesture of greeting.
Trunks accepted the handshake with a firm grip, gradually feeling more comfortable in the presence of Doctor Abbader. The warmth in his voice and the tranquility in his gaze helped dissipate some of the tension he had been experiencing since his arrival at the hospital.
"Pleasure to meet you, my name is Trunks Brief."
"The pleasure is mine, Trunks Brief," replied the doctor with a friendly smile, showing a genuine gesture of courtesy. "I apologize for my absence yesterday. Other matters arose last minute that required my immediate attention."
"Yes, I understand," he responded with a sympathetic gesture. "There's no need to apologize. The priority is always to address any emergencies that may arise." Moving his arm a bit to check if the pain had subsided, he added, "I appreciate you finding time to check up on me today."
"I appreciate your understanding, Trunks," said the doctor, grateful for the young man's understanding. "It's always reassuring to encounter such understanding patients."
"I would also like to thank you for taking care of us," he genuinely thanked for the attentions the hospital had towards them even though they weren't obligated to do so.
Doctor Abbader nodded with gratitude at Trunks' words.
"It's part of our duty to attend to all patients who come to our hospital, regardless of the circumstances," he explained as he approached the bed to check the status of the IV connected to Trunks' arm. "But I sincerely appreciate your words."
Trunks nodded silently, watching the doctor perform his work.
"By the way," he said, catching the doctor's attention, "I remember the doctor who examined me yesterday mentioned that you would have information about my... friend. Her name is Mai. Do you know anything about her?"
Doctor Abbader nodded solemnly, recognizing the importance of Trunks' question.
"Are you referring to the young lady who was with you when you were found?" the doctor asked calmly, and Trunks nodded slowly. "Her condition is stable now. Fortunately, she did not suffer serious injuries, although she will remain under observation for some time to ensure her complete recovery."
Trunks felt a weight lift off his shoulders upon hearing that Mai was okay, but he still had questions.
"Can I see her?" he asked, hopeful.
"Of course," replied Doctor Abbader, offering a reassuring smile. "But first, I'd like to discuss some additional details about your own health status and the circumstances that brought you here. You must understand that my duty is to anticipate any sudden changes."
Trunks nodded, understanding the logic behind the doctor's request. He knew there were many questions that needed answers, and he was willing to cooperate to get them. After all, these people took the trouble to help him; the least he could do was to collaborate with them.
Doctor Abbader approached Trunks, pulling a pen from his coat to begin jotting down the information he would gather on his notepad, preparing for the routine check-up.
"Now, Trunks, can you tell me a little more about how you're feeling? Have you experienced any additional pain or any other changes during your stay?" the doctor asked as he took out a stethoscope and began listening to Trunks' lung and heartbeats.
Trunks took a moment to consider his response, trying to assess his physical sensations.
"I feel better compared to yesterday," Trunks responded, absorbed as the doctor carried out his work. "The pain in my arm has decreased, although I still feel it slightly sore. My head is also better; I don't have dizziness or intense pains."
Doctor Abbader nodded as he made his notes.
"It's good to know that you're experiencing improvement," the doctor said with a note of optimism in his voice. "Now, could you tell me if you've experienced any other symptoms besides the pain in your arm and head? For example, have you had trouble breathing, dizziness, nausea, or any notable changes in your appetite or mood?"
Trunks reflected for a moment before responding:
"No, I haven't experienced any other concerning symptoms. My breathing has been normal, and I haven't had dizziness or nausea, but..." Trunks paused briefly, catching the doctor's attention, "I still can't move completely. I feel that when I make sudden movements, the pain returns intensely."
Doctor Abbader listened attentively to Trunks' additional concern and nodded with understanding.
"I understand. Based on your symptoms and the exams we conducted, we concluded that your body underwent a pressure similar to that of a crushing force, which could have caused damage to the muscle and joint tissues," he explained, making the future warrior swallow hard. "Given the nature and severity of your injuries, we'll need to limit visits with your friend for the time being. You need time to rest and allow your body to recover properly."
"Alright," he whispered.
Doctor Abbader observed Trunks' reaction closely, noting the resignation in his expression.
"Perfect," said the doctor, putting away his pen. "Regarding the visit with your friend, we have recreational schedules for patients. One of my nurses will take you to the hospital garden, where you can see your friend and catch up with her."
Trunks nodded, grateful for the opportunity to reunite with Mai, even under the hospital's restrictions. He was eager to see her and make sure she was okay, but he understood the need to take care of his own health first.
"Don't mention it, young man," replied the doctor courteously, reflecting genuine concern for Trunks' well-being in his gaze. "I'll be closely monitoring your health and making regular visits to ensure you're recovering properly."
The doctor paused for a moment before continuing, his expression taking on a more serious tone.
"And given the dramatic nature of your arrival... I have some doubts that I'd like you to clarify."
Trunks noticed the grim expression that crossed the doctor's face but decided not to comment on it. Instead, he simply nodded seriously, showing his willingness to answer any questions the doctor had.
"I'll help in any way I can," Trunks said determinedly, trying to convey confidence.
With a nod, the doctor left the room, leaving Trunks lost in his thoughts. But once the doctor was far enough from the young man's room, he hurried to the bathroom and leaned against the sink, gasping with exasperation and pure fear reflected on his face.
For the first time in millennia, the stoic and professional demeanor of the hospital director and head of the Sitri clan shattered like fragile glass falling to the ground.
"Such po-power!" the doctor stammered, between gasps and tremors, his voice reflecting deep bewilderment. To calm himself, he turned on the water tap and let the cold liquid run over his face again and again, seeking to soothe the turbulence of his thoughts.
"How is it possible for a being of human nature to possess immeasurable power? It doesn't make sense!" He repeated to himself over and over again, unable to find a logical explanation to justify what he had just witnessed.
His human nature, that was what caught his attention the most. According to what little he knew and what he had heard in the reports of the soldiers who accompanied his daughter and Maō Lucifer when they brought those young people to his hospital, they quickly noticed that Trunks' injuries were caused by protecting the woman who came with him.
Therefore, it is not unreasonable to conclude that this young man is very attached to the human race.
Although he proved to be understanding and polite, what truly troubled him was the young man's innocence. This quality could become the ultimate weapon against the factions and the eventual peace alliance that was forming between the three.
If the Khaos Brigade were to find him, they could argue that the three factions pose a threat to humans. The idea that the factions would represent a danger to humanity could resonate powerfully in the young man's mind, and he might decide to take action. Trunks could be easily persuaded to believe in this distorted narrative, unaware of the true intentions of that organization. Unleashing the worst-case scenario.
And that was what terrified him.
Furthermore, the mysterious source of his power raised troubling questions. How was it possible for an individual to possess such an amount of energy? What events or circumstances led to this exceptional power? Could he be the son of a god from another alternate dimension? Doctor Abbader was perplexed by these questions, aware that the answers could reveal an even more complex picture than he had imagined.
"I hope your arrival doesn't bring any misfortune upon us."
He uttered these words in a whisper, almost like a silent plea. Although his mind told him that Trunks was just a patient in need of help, a small seed of doubt had been planted within him. What consequences would the presence of this young man bring in the future? Now his daughter's reluctance to go ahead with the proposed plan made sense. Perhaps she too had perceived the extraordinary amount of power emanating from the young warrior, and that had stirred in her a deep fear and mistrust.
There was no point in dwelling on the matter further; for now, he would continue monitoring Trunks a little longer before giving his report to the Maōs.
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On the outskirts of the prestigious Kuoh Academy stood an ancient stone building, whose walls seemed to guard whispers from the past. Its Gothic architecture, adorned with relief details, conferred a mysterious and venerable atmosphere to the place, adding a touch of intrigue and charm to the structure. The imposing and majestic building seemed to invite the curious to delve into its shadowy depths in search of hidden knowledge and ancestral secrets.
This ancient building belongs to the Occult Research Club, one of the many club options offered by Kuoh Academy for extracurricular activities.
Or so was the facade it pretended to give.
For this is the meeting point of one of the two demon families that wield their influence in this city: the Gremory clan.
According to the Ars Goetia, Gremory is an infernal prince who commands a great army of demons. She is often depicted as a beautiful and seductive woman, wearing a crown on her head and riding a camel. She has a soft and charming voice that can hypnotize those who hear it. It is said that she has knowledge of arts and sciences, as well as the ability to reveal hidden secrets and teach about the future.
And for good reason, the Gremory clan is one of the most powerful and respected clans. Not for nothing is Sirzechs one of the regents of the underworld belonging to this clan.
But turning our attention to the club, two young people are seen walking along the path that led to the ancient building, located near the prestigious Kuoh Academy. As they approached, they could see the imposing structure of the building, its walls worn by time and the ivy climbing up the walls. The two young people exchanged words in an animated tone, anticipating what they would find inside that place.
They were Issei Hyodo and Asia Argento, two recently reincarnated demon youths by the president of the occult research club: Rias Gremory.
Issei Hyodo was a young man with short brown hair, with several bangs that partially covered his eyebrows and two extensions of hair that fell parallel to his nape. His brown eyes reflected a mix of determination and curiosity as he observed the building before them. Beside him, Asia Argento stood out with her long blonde hair that reached her back, with a fringe divided over her forehead and a single strand that protruded from the top, ahoge style, leaning backwards. Her green eyes shone with a gleam of anticipation and nervousness, as Rias had called them immediately.
Apparently, it was an important matter.
Just as they entered the club, both young people could see two unknown girls. They were foreign girls with a rosary hanging around their chests. Both seemed to be the same age as Issei. One of them had brown hair, while the other had blue hair with a green strand and intimidating eyes. Both possessed captivating beauty, but from the way they behaved, it was evident that they were not ordinary people. They wore white tunics and clerical clothes, clearly suggesting that these two young women were exorcists.
"The sacred swords Excalibur, which were guarded by the Catholic Church, with headquarters in the Vatican, the Protestant Church, and the Eastern Orthodox Church, were recently stolen," spoke the blue-haired girl, while Rias listened attentively.
The conversation about the theft of the sacred swords Excalibur completely caught Issei's attention. The blue-haired girl spoke with a seriousness that made the seriousness of the situation clear, while Rias Gremory listened carefully to every word.
"The Excalibur itself does not exist," concluded the girl.
Issei's confusion increased when the young woman mentioned that the Excalibur itself did not exist. What did she mean by that? Was it perhaps a metaphor or a symbol beyond its physical appearance?
"I understand the situation," said Rias, staring at both priestesses. "What do you expect from me?"
Her question resonated in the room, filling the air with a sense of expectation. Issei watched with curiosity, wondering what role Rias would play in this intriguing and mysterious matter.
"The Catholic Church was in possession of two Excaliburs, as well as the Protestant Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. The last Excalibur from the Eastern Orthodox Church was lost during the previous war between God, demons, and fallen angels. Now, one Excalibur from each church has been stolen, and the culprits have escaped to Japan, bringing the sacred swords to this city," explained the priestess with orange hair.
Reflecting on this news, Rias Gremory put a hand to her forehead and exhaled. It seemed that her territory was full of incidents and problems. Turning to the two priestesses, she asked with curiosity:
"Who stole the Excaliburs?"
The president's question resonated in the room, creating a sense of intrigue and urgency.
"The ones who stole them were the Grigori."
Rias opened her eyes surprised by the response. She was indeed taken aback by the news.
"Our request... No. Our demand, is that no demon interfere in the battle between us and the fallen angels for the Excaliburs," declared Xenovia with determination. "In other words, we have come to tell you not to meddle in this incident."
Rias observed the priestesses with disbelief, her gaze reflecting surprise and confusion at their words. However, this expression soon gave way to a more intense look, filled with anger and frustration, upon hearing the insinuation from the priestesses.
"Are you suggesting that we might collaborate with the fallen angels?!" Rias asked, her tone reflecting skepticism at the possibility raised by Xenovia.
"The headquarters does not rule out that possibility."
Rias showed deep annoyance at the priestess's blunt response. The fact that an enemy dared to intrude on her territory visibly disturbed her. But what irritated her most was the order not to participate or intervene in the matter. The idea that someone would question her authority or threaten consequences sparked a growing fury within her, and her demeanor became serious and resolute as she prepared to face the situation with determination.
"Let me inform you of something. I am the sister of one of the Four Great Maō! Do you really think we are going to collaborate with the fallen angels?!" Rias responded, with annoyance in her voice. "While our clan has connections with the higher ranks of the Church, that does not mean I am willing to tarnish the name of our Gremory household!"
"We cannot afford to take risks," responded the blue-haired priestess firmly.
After those words, both the blue-haired priestess and Rias stared at each other, each evaluating the other's stance and determination. Rias took a deep breath to calm her decisions and have a clear response.
"After careful consideration, I have decided to accept your proposal," declared Rias, with seriousness in her voice as her blue eyes reflected determination. "But keep in mind that I do so for strategic reasons and to maintain peace between our factions."
"We appreciate your cooperation. Let's go, Irina," responded the blue-haired priestess, ready to leave.
"Hai, Xenovia."
"Wait," intervened Rias, stopping them before they left. "Since you're here, wouldn't you like to have a cup of tea?"
"We don't need it," declined Xenovia, with a determined look on her face. Before leaving, the priestess looked at Asia Argento with a gesture that showed annoyance. "I see, so you're the witch."
Asia was paralyzed, not knowing how to react to the priestess's crude comment.
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Two days had passed since the doctor had his first conversation with Trunks. Once he finished his routine check-up, Doctor Abbader summoned Sirzechs Lucifer to inform him of his findings. The meeting took place in the office of the patriarch of the Sitri clan, where Sirzechs and the doctor sat face to face.
"Doctor, I'd like to know why Serafall is absent. It's strange that she's not present in such an important meeting," inquired Sirzechs, his tone reflecting a slight concern.
Doctor Abbader seemed a bit uncomfortable before responding. "I would like to address this issue specifically with you, Sirzechs-sama," he explained calmly. "So I would prefer to keep my daughter out of this for the time being, if you don't mind."
Sirzechs briefly reflected on Serafall's absence. He knew his daughter had her own reservations and concerns, and decided to respect her decision to stay out of it for the time being. Although he had a hunch as to why Abbader made that decision.
"I understand. I suppose she must have personal reasons for making that decision, so let's focus on what you want to inform me about," said Sirzechs with determination, focusing on the matter at hand and leaving the issue of Serafall for later. "What prompted you to summon me so abruptly?"
The doctor cleared his throat for a moment, clearly unsure where to begin. "I decided to speak with the young man to get to know him better and learn about his background. However, what I heard from him was unsettling, and I felt it necessary to inform you immediately," he explained bluntly.
Sirzechs frowned at the direction the conversation was taking, worried about what the doctor had to say. This conversation promised to be interesting to say the least.
"Very well," Sirzechs settled into his chair, and from a red magical circle appeared a tea cup. "I'm listening."
End of chapter.
Clarifications:
(1) Makaio-shin: They are a subspecies of the Shin race that govern the Dark Demon Realm in exile after being banished from the Celestial Realm or the World Core.
Considered as the polar opposites of the Kaio-shin, they wield much greater authority than the Makaio race to which Dabura belongs.
At this point, I imagine many of you have an idea of whom Bulma will visit in the next chapter. Therefore, I'd like to open up a discussion for when I update the next chapter. What do you think will be the urgent revelations that Doctor Sitri will have to report to Sirzechs? Discover it in the next chapter!
I bid you farewell. See you later!