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CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Time Chamber

Zukanna stood at the head of the grand council table in her chambers, her crimson cape draped over her shoulders, lending her an air of regal authority. Her gaze swept across the room as the Z-fighters began arriving one by one. The tension in the room was palpable, but Zukanna's calm composure set the tone.

Goku arrived first, flanked by Chichi and Gohan. Though he was still pale from his recovery, his energy was steady, and his trademark grin was back. Chichi clung to his arm, her worry evident. Gohan, though young, carried the weight of recent battles in his eyes.

"Glad to see you're back on your feet, Goku," Zukanna said, her voice warm but firm. "We'll need every ounce of your strength for what's ahead."

Goku chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Heh, yeah. Thanks, Zukanna. I feel good as new! Let's do this!"

Chichi interjected; her voice sharp. "He just woke up! Don't push him too hard, Zukanna!"

Zukanna smiled gently. "Don't worry, Chichi. I'll make sure he's not overdoing it."

Soon after, the room filled with the familiar presences of Trunks, Krillin, Tien, Yamcha, Nio, Broly, Cressa, and Bulma. Each carried their own mixture of apprehension and determination. Just as Zukanna was about to speak, a powerful surge of energy announced Piccolo's arrival. He entered with a stoic expression, his aura now brimming with a newfound power.

"Piccolo," Zukanna greeted, her violet eyes narrowing with recognition. "I see you've found a way to grow stronger."

Piccolo gave a single nod. "I fused with Kami. It was necessary."

Zukanna tilted her head slightly, her tone teasing but with a tinge of reproach. "While I am happy for you, your timing couldn't be worse. You've left us without the Dragon Balls."

Piccolo's expression didn't waver. "Then we'll have to find a new Guardian."

Goku nodded. "We could go to new Namek and ask the Namekians for a new guardian."

Zukanna placed a hand on her chin, considering. "Agreed. That is a good plan, Goku."

Her thoughts drifted to Vegeta. The room felt incomplete without his presence, and though she knew he was injured, she couldn't help but worry. Just as the thought crossed her mind, she felt a familiar, fiery energy approaching.

The doors swung open, and Vegeta strode in, his arm still broken and cradled against his chest. He held himself tall, though his steps betrayed the effort it took to do so. His pride wouldn't allow him to show weakness, even now.

"Vegeta," Zukanna greeted, her voice softening. "Glad to see you're okay, little brother. Are you fit to sit through this briefing, or do you need medical attention?"

Vegeta's glare could have burned through steel. "Don't insult me, sister. I will live. Let us begin."

Though his words were sharp, Zukanna's trained eye caught the subtle tension in his posture, the way his knees threatened to buckle under him. She nodded, letting it slide. "Very well."

She straightened, her authoritative tone filling the room. "As you all know, Cell is a threat unlike anything we've faced before. If we don't stop him, he won't just destroy this planet—he'll destroy everything. Every one of you will need to push yourselves harder than you ever have before. This is no time for hesitation."

Vegeta scoffed, leaning against the wall. "I'll train alone. I don't need anyone slowing me down."

Piccolo crossed his arms. "Same here. I work better on my own."

Zukanna's tail lashed behind her as she slammed her palm on the table. "Enough!" Her voice reverberated, silencing the room. "This is not the time for pride or ego. The fate of the universe is at stake! If we fail, there will be nothing left to be proud of!"

Vegeta's scowl deepened, but he said nothing, his gaze averted. Piccolo simply closed his eyes, his jaw tightening.

Zukanna turned to Bulma. "Bulma, do you have anything in the works that could help us?"

Bulma smirked, pushing her hair back confidently. "As a matter of fact, I do. I've been working on something that could dramatically increase a Saiyan's power. But I'll need five days to finish it."

"Five days," Zukanna repeated, nodding. "That'll have to do. Thank you, Bulma."

She looked to Goku next. "What about you? Any ideas on how to make the most of our time?"

Goku grinned. "The Hyperbolic Time Chamber! A year's worth of training in just one day."

Piccolo nodded. "It's a good option, but it only has enough food for two people at a time."

Zukanna's eyes lit up as she turned back to Bulma. "Can you stock capsules with enough food for multiple people?"

Bulma tapped her chin. "I'll see what I can do."

Zukanna addressed the group again. "Here's the plan: we'll split into teams. One group will train in the Time Chamber, while the other protects the planet. We'll rotate to make sure everyone gets their turn."

Tien crossed his arms. "I'm not training with the Saiyans. I'll stick to my own methods."

Yamcha clapped him on the back. "I'll join you, buddy."

Krillin scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "I'll go with Tien too. I don't think I can keep up with the Saiyans."

Piccolo stepped forward. "I'll train with them. Someone has to make sure they stay sharp."

Zukanna nodded. "That's fair. Saiyans, you're with me."

Cressa shook her head. "I'll stay behind to protect Bulma and former Queen Shiva. Someone has to ensure their safety."

Zukanna gave her a grateful look. "Thank you, Cressa."

Vegeta grumbled under his breath, but he didn't argue. The weight of the situation seemed to finally sink in.

Zukanna's gaze swept over the room, lingering on each face. "This won't be easy, but we'll find a way. We have no other choice. Let's make every moment count."

The group nodded in unison, their resolve solidifying as the meeting concluded. As the warriors began to disperse, Zukanna couldn't help but wonder if their efforts would be enough.

As the meeting concluded, the Z-Fighters began to file out of Zukanna's chambers, their conversations buzzing with a mix of tension and determination. Zukanna remained seated at the head of the council table, her fingers steepled as she watched them leave. When most had departed, she raised her voice.

"Piccolo, Goku, Broly—stay behind for a moment."

The three turned back, curious but compliant, and moved closer to her. Once the doors had closed, Zukanna stood, her violet eyes locking onto each of them in turn.

"I'm acting on Goku's suggestion to travel to New Namek," she said. "If we're going to find a new Guardian and restore the Dragon Balls, it needs to happen now. You're all welcome to come with me. Strength in numbers, after all."

Goku grinned, his infectious optimism shining through. "Count me in! It'll be great to see New Namek again."

Piccolo nodded, his demeanor reserved but resolute. "If it means we get the Dragon Balls back, I'm in."

Broly simply inclined his head. "I'll go wherever you need me, Zukanna."

She smiled at their unwavering support. "Good. Hold on to me, then."

The three warriors stepped closer, placing their hands on Zukanna's shoulders. With a soft glow of energy, Zukanna focused on the distant planet, feeling the tranquil energy of New Namek. "Kai Kai," she said softly, and in an instant, they vanished.

The group appeared on New Namek, the atmosphere calm and serene. Verdant fields stretched into the horizon, the sky a peaceful turquoise. The soothing hum of life on the planet contrasted sharply with the chaos they had left behind.

"It's been a while," Goku said, taking a deep breath of the crisp air. "Forgot how peaceful this place is."

Zukanna nodded. "Let's not disturb it more than necessary."

They took to the skies, flying toward the nearest Namekian village. After a short flight, they landed near a cluster of simple domed houses. Namekians of varying ages paused their work and stared at the newcomers. One of them, an elder draped in flowing white robes, stepped forward. His face brightened upon seeing Zukanna.

"Guardian Zukanna," the elder said, bowing slightly. "Your presence here is an honor."

Zukanna dipped her head respectfully. "Elder, it's good to see you again. I wish I came under better circumstances."

"What troubles you, Guardian?"

Zukanna gestured to Piccolo. "Our Guardian of Earth has merged with Piccolo to combat a powerful threat, leaving Earth without its Dragon Balls. We've come to seek a new Guardian."

The elder's expression grew somber, but he nodded. "This is a grave matter indeed. A Guardian is vital for balance. Fortunately, we anticipated this day might come. One among us has been training for the role." He turned and called out in the Namekian tongue, summoning someone.

Moments later, a young Namekian emerged from one of the houses. His face lit up when he recognized Goku and Piccolo. "Goku! Piccolo!" Dende said, his youthful enthusiasm shining through. "It's been so long!"

"Heya, Dende!" Goku greeted, giving him a wave. "You've grown!"

Zukanna stepped forward. "Dende, would you be willing to become Earth's new Guardian?"

Dende's face turned serious, but he nodded eagerly. "Of course! I can't wait to see Gohan again. I'll do whatever it takes to help."

Zukanna smiled warmly. "Thank you, Dende. Your help will be invaluable."

As preparations were made for their departure, Zukanna pulled Broly aside, walking a few steps away from the others. Her tone softened as she addressed him. "Broly, do you trust me?"

Broly blinked, taken aback by the question. He met her gaze and answered without hesitation. "Yes. Always."

Zukanna's lips curved into a charming smile. "Good. Because I might need your help with a... contingency plan."

Broly tilted his head, his curiosity piqued. "What kind of plan?"

She hesitated, before saying, "It involves us... fusing."

Broly's cheeks flushed red. "F-Fusing? What do you mean?"

Zukanna giggled, finding his reaction endearing. "Not that kind of fusing, Broly. I mean combining our power into one being using the Potara earrings."

Broly relaxed slightly, though his blush remained. "Oh. That makes sense. If it comes to that you know I got your back, always."

She chuckled and reached out, brushing her fingers against his cheek. "Thank you, Broly, it means a lot to me that you are willing to do this for me. Don't worry. It's only a backup plan. But it's good to know I can count on you."

Broly nodded firmly; his expression serious despite his reddened face. "I trust you, Zukanna. If it comes to that, I'll do whatever's necessary."

"Thank you." Her voice was soft, but the sincerity in her words was unmistakable.

After bidding farewell to the elder and the villagers, Zukanna teleported the group, along with Dende, back to Earth's lookout. The atmosphere was solemn as Dende took his place, immediately setting to work on creating a new set of Dragon Balls.

Meanwhile, Bulma arrived with a large stockpile of supplies, including new Saiyan armor, food capsules, and even a portable gravity chamber. She handed the equipment to Zukanna with a confident smile. "This should make your training a lot more efficient."

Zukanna nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Bulma. This will help immensely."

The Saiyan group gathered near the entrance to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. Zukanna turned to the others, her voice steady but firm. "This is it. We have one year in there to surpass our limits. Train like your lives—and the universe—depend on it."

With that, the Saiyans exchanged determined looks, said their goodbyes to those staying behind, and stepped into the chamber, ready to face the grueling year ahead.

The heavy white void of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber stretched endlessly in all directions. The atmosphere, heavy with increased gravity and the stillness of timeless isolation, immediately pressed down on the Saiyans as they stood together at the entrance. Zukanna surveyed her team with determination burning in her violet eyes.

"Listen up," she said firmly, addressing the group. "The time chamber isn't just about building raw power. It's about refining control, pushing beyond limits, and finding new heights. This is our best chance to get stronger before we face Cell."

Vegeta crossed his arms, his expression as prideful as ever. "Fine. I'll train with the boy," he declared, glancing at his son.

Zukanna shook her head, cutting him off. "No, Vegeta. You'll train with Goku."

Vegeta's brow twitched in irritation. "What? I don't need Kakarot—"

"This isn't about what you need, little brother," Zukanna said, her tone unyielding. "It's about what's best for everyone. Goku can push you in ways no one else here can. And you need to push him too."

Vegeta growled low in his throat but didn't argue further, though his silence was as sharp as any insult.

"Gohan, Trunks," Zukanna continued, turning to the younger Saiyans, "you two will train together. Gohan, your battle instincts and skill will be invaluable for Trunks."

Gohan nodded with a small smile. "Got it."

Trunks looked at his father, hesitant but obedient. "Yes, Aunt Zukanna."

Finally, she turned to Nio and Broly, who both looked eager but uncertain. "You two are with me. We're focusing on controlling your berserker forms. If you can't master that, all the power in the world won't save you."

Broly and Nio exchanged glances and nodded in unison.

"We'll rotate partners every two months," Zukanna added. "That way, everyone gets a chance to push each other in different ways. Now go. We have no time to waste."

Vegeta muttered something under his breath, but he and Goku flew off deeper into the chamber, followed by Gohan and Trunks. Once they disappeared into the endless expanse, Zukanna turned to Broly and Nio.

"Let's get started."

Zukanna stood firm, her golden aura flaring as she powered into her Wrathful Super Saiyan form. Her hair spiked and grew longer, her body was covered by a red fur, her golden eyes lit up with a fiery glow, her presence commanding as her voice rang out, sharp and clear. "Transform into your berserker forms—but don't lose yourselves. You're not here to unleash chaos. You're here to control it."

Nio and Broly exchanged determined looks before powering up. Their energy exploded outward, shaking the ground beneath them. Broly's eyes glowed green as his power surged, muscles bulging, his energy like a raging storm. Nio's transformation was similarly intense, his power spiking wildly as his body surged with the green-tinted energy of a berserker.

"Now," Zukanna said, her tone steely, "come at me. Both of you."

They didn't hesitate. Broly was the first to charge, his roar echoing through the chamber as he launched a massive punch toward her. Zukanna ducked under it, her movements fluid, but before she could counter, Nio was upon her, his knee aiming for her midsection. She twisted, blocking the attack with her forearm, but the sheer force sent her skidding backward.

"Good!" she shouted, her voice carrying over the clash of energy. "Now focus. Keep your rage in check, or you'll lose control!"

Broly growled, his massive fists swinging with destructive power. Zukanna dodged and deflected, but his blows were relentless. Meanwhile, Nio came in from the other side, his strikes faster but no less devastating. Zukanna found herself forced into the defensive, her golden aura clashing against their green energy with every collision.

"You're improving," she said through gritted teeth as she caught one of Broly's punches and redirected it. "But you're still letting your instincts take over. Fight with your mind, not just your power!"

The battle raged on for hours, the three Saiyans exchanging blows with increasing intensity. Zukanna's strategy was to push them to their limits, forcing them to teeter on the edge of losing control without falling over. It was grueling, and she took her fair share of hits—Broly's raw strength and Nio's speed made them a formidable pair.

As the days turned into weeks, progress became evident. Broly's movements became more focused, his attacks precise rather than wild. Nio's energy no longer spiked uncontrollably; his aura steadied even under pressure.

By the end of two months, Zukanna stood before them, her armor battered but her expression proud. Broly and Nio knelt on the ground, panting heavily but glowing with the satisfaction of their achievement. Their berserker forms still burned brightly, but the chaotic edge was gone, replaced by a calm, controlled power.

"You did it," Zukanna said, her voice softer now. "You've both come so far. But this is just the beginning. The real challenge starts now."

Broly looked up at her, a rare smile breaking across his face. "Thank you, Zukanna. I couldn't have done this without you."

Nio nodded; his own expression serious but grateful. "Yeah mom, you've shown us what we're capable of."

Zukanna smiled, her golden eyes gleaming. "And you've shown me that we have a real chance. Now let's keep pushing. We're not done yet."

The oppressive heat and gravity of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber had become second nature after months of relentless training. The air shimmered with energy, the white void around them resonating with the intensity of their battles. Zukanna stood with Trunks as the pairs rotated once again. The young half-Saiyan looked up at her, his lavender hair sticking to his forehead with sweat, his expression a mixture of determination and awe.

"Are you ready, nephew?" Zukanna asked, her tone gentle yet firm. She stretched her arms, her golden aura flickering around her as she prepared to train him.

Trunks nodded eagerly; his hands clenched into fists. "Yes, Aunt Zukanna. I want to get stronger—strong enough to protect my future and everyone in it."

Zukanna smiled warmly at him. "Good. That determination will take you far. But remember, strength isn't just about power. It's about control, strategy, and the will to protect what you care about."

Trunks' eyes hardened with resolve. "I understand."

The two began sparring, their movements a blend of speed and precision. Zukanna deliberately held back, focusing on teaching Trunks how to refine his form and anticipate his opponent's moves. Despite his youth, Trunks was incredibly talented, his Saiyan blood giving him natural instincts that made him a quick learner.

"You've got potential," Zukanna said as she blocked one of his punches and countered with a sweep kick that Trunks narrowly dodged. "But don't let your confidence turn into arrogance. Always keep your guard up."

"Yes, Auntie!" Trunks replied, leaping back and firing a burst of ki blasts at her. Zukanna deflected them effortlessly, her golden aura absorbing the energy as she closed the distance between them.

As the weeks went on, Zukanna found herself growing fond of the young Saiyan. They shared stories during their breaks—Trunks spoke of his life in the future, his struggles against the androids, and his admiration for his father despite Vegeta's aloof nature. Zukanna, in turn, shared tales of her own upbringing and battles, offering wisdom that she hoped would guide him when he returned to his time.

"You know," Zukanna said one evening as they rested, the endless expanse of the chamber strangely serene in its silence, "when this is all over, I was thinking of accompanying you back to the future."

Trunks looked up at her, startled. "Really? You'd do that?"

She nodded thoughtfully. "I've been thinking about it. But time travel is a delicate matter. The Kais strictly forbid it. I need to be sure it's the right decision."

Trunks smiled softly. "It would mean a lot to have you there. But I don't want you to risk anything on my account."

Zukanna chuckled and ruffled his hair. "You're a good kid, Trunks. But don't worry about me. Just focus on becoming the protector your future needs."

As the final two months approached, Zukanna paired with Vegeta. The siblings faced each other in silence, the air between them charged with both tension and understanding. Vegeta stood taller now, his energy sharper, more refined. His mastery of Super Saiyan and his recent ascension to Super Saiyan 2 gave him an aura of newfound confidence.

"You've come far, little brother," Zukanna said, her tone both teasing and genuine. "But don't think I'll go easy on you."

Vegeta smirked; his arms crossed as he powered up. "Don't insult me, sister. I'll prove to you why I'm the Prince of Saiyans."

The chamber shook as Vegeta's golden aura erupted, bolts of lightning crackling around him—a hallmark of Super Saiyan 2. Zukanna followed suit, transforming into her Wrathful Super Saiyan form, her power roaring to life as she crouched into a fighting stance.

The battle was fierce and unrelenting. Vegeta came at her with a barrage of punches and kicks, his movements precise and aggressive. Zukanna blocked and countered, her strikes heavier and more calculated. They traded blows, the ground beneath them cracking with each impact.

"Not bad," Zukanna admitted as she parried a powerful strike. "You've gotten stronger."

Vegeta smirked, sweat dripping down his brow. "Stronger than you, perhaps."

She laughed, the sound rich and genuine. "Not a chance, little brother."

Their battle intensified, the siblings pushing each other to their limits. Vegeta's pride flared, but it was tempered now by a grudging respect for his sister. He began to see her not just as family, but as a true leader and warrior.

During a brief pause, Vegeta spoke, his voice quieter but still firm. "You've become... formidable, sister, your power is unmatched"

Zukanna raised an eyebrow, surprised by the compliment. "Did the proud Prince of Saiyans just give me praise? Are you feeling, okay, little brother?"

Vegeta scowled, his face flushing slightly. "Don't push it, sister."

She smiled, warmth filling her expression. "Thank you, Vegeta. That means more than you know."

Their training continued, each sparring session strengthening their bond. By the end of the two months, Vegeta's Super Saiyan 2 form was near perfection, and Zukanna had pushed her Wrathful Super Saiyan form to new heights. The siblings stood side by side, their respect for each other unspoken but deeply felt.

In her heart, she was proud of how far he had come—and how much closer they had grown.

As the days ticked down in the endless void of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, Zukanna couldn't shake the growing unease gnawing at her. While the other Saiyans were pushing themselves to their limits, breaking barriers through sheer effort and willpower, her progress felt... unnatural. She matched Vegeta's power gains with little effort, surpassed Goku's transformations with shocking ease, and even kept pace with Broly's and Nio's explosive growth spurts.

It didn't sit right with her.

During one of her solitary meditation sessions, Zukanna sat cross-legged on a smooth stone platform. Her golden aura flickered faintly around her, her mind racing as she replayed moments from their training. She thought of Broly's berserker fury and Nio's unrelenting power, both tied to their unique genetic traits. But she was supposed to be normal—just a Saiyan warrior forged through experience and discipline. Wasn't she?

Her thoughts were interrupted when Broly walked over, his presence like a quiet storm. He knelt beside her, his immense frame casting a long shadow. "You seem... distracted," he said, his voice gentle despite its gruff timbre. "Is something wrong?"

Zukanna opened her eyes, glancing at him with a faint smile. "Just thinking. Training's been intense, and I'm... noticing things."

Broly tilted his head, his expression earnest. "What kind of things?"

She hesitated, weighing her words. "How fast I've been growing in power. It's like... every fight, every session, I leap ahead more than I should. Vegeta, Goku, Trunks—they're working just as hard, but my gains almost feel... exaggerated."

Broly nodded slowly, his brow furrowing. "You do grow fast," he admitted. "Faster than anyone except maybe me or Nio. But you've always been strong, haven't you?"

"I thought so," Zukanna said, her tone contemplative. "But this is different. It doesn't feel earned. I'm keeping up with hybrids and mutants, Broly. That's not normal for a regular Saiyan."

Broly frowned, looking away for a moment as if searching for an answer. Finally, he said, "Maybe... you're not as 'normal' as you think."

Zukanna chuckled softly, though there was no humor in it. "Maybe not."

Later, during a sparring session with Goku, the feeling only grew. Goku, in his fully mastered Super Saiyan 2 form, pushed her harder than anyone else had in the chamber. Yet no matter how hard he struck, how clever his techniques, Zukanna adapted almost instinctively. Her movements became sharper, her counters faster. By the end of the session, she wasn't just keeping up—she was matching him blow for blow.

As they took a break, Goku wiped sweat from his brow and grinned at her. "Man, Zukanna! You're something else. I thought I'd have the upper hand there, but you keep surprising me."

"Yeah," she replied, forcing a smile. "Surprising myself, too."

Goku tilted his head, his grin fading. "You okay? You seem... off."

Zukanna looked at him, debating how much to say. Finally, she shook her head. "I'm fine, Goku. Just tired, I guess."

He didn't press further, but the look in his eyes told her he wasn't entirely convinced.

As the final days of training approached, Zukanna stood alone at the edge of the chamber, staring into the endless white expanse. Her fists clenched at her sides, the golden aura around her flaring slightly as her emotions churned.

"I don't know what's happening to me," she murmured to herself. "But I'll figure it out. After we beat Cell."

Her resolve hardened, and she turned back to rejoin the others. Whatever the truth was, it would have to wait. For now, the universe needed her focus, and she wouldn't let them down.

The doors of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber creaked open, and the Saiyans stepped out one by one. Their base forms radiated subtle power that made the surrounding Z Fighters stop and stare. The gains were undeniable—every movement the Saiyans made seemed to carry a weight, a controlled force, that hadn't been there before. Compliments and exclamations followed from the group.

"Wow," Krillin said, shading his eyes against the residual energy from the chamber. "You guys really went all out in there!"

Trunks gave a modest nod, his sharp eyes scanning the group. "We had to."

Gohan grinned, holding back his own excitement. "Dad looks stronger than ever, and Vegeta too!"

Zukanna barely heard any of it. Her arms hung limply at her sides; her gaze distant. The unease she'd buried in training had resurfaced the moment she stepped out. The truth was clawing at her insides, demanding to be acknowledged. Why? Why am I growing like this?

She didn't even notice when Piccolo stepped forward, his piercing gaze fixed on her. His voice was calm but probing. "Zukanna. Something's wrong. I can feel it."

The other fighters quieted, their chatter fading as they noticed her withdrawn demeanor. Zukanna glanced up at Piccolo, her golden eyes conflicted. For a moment, she didn't answer, but Piccolo's patience held, his silent encouragement drawing her words out.

"I've been thinking," Zukanna finally said, her voice low. "The way I've been growing... It doesn't feel right. Even for a Saiyan, this rate of progress—it's unnatural."

Her confession hung in the air like a heavy cloud. The others exchanged uneasy glances, but Piccolo's reaction was different. He stiffened, his usually stoic expression faltering for a moment.

Zukanna narrowed her eyes, immediately picking up on the shift. "You know something."

Piccolo didn't answer right away. He looked at her for a long moment, as if deciding whether or not to speak. Finally, he sighed, his voice heavy with reluctance. "Zukanna... there's something you should know. Something I hoped you'd never have to question."

Piccolo's gaze shifted, but he didn't speak immediately. The silence was deafening. Everyone else held their breath, their focus on the Namekian and the Saiyan queen.

"Piccolo," Zukanna pressed, her voice now tinged with frustration. "Tell me. Now."

The Namekian let out a deep sigh, his shoulders sagging slightly. "Fine," he said reluctantly. "You deserve to know. Back when you were still a child, training under Nail, Guru gave Nail... instructions. He ordered Nail to make a wish using the Dragon Balls. The wish was to enhance your potential—to make it... more potent."

Zukanna's breath hitched. Her eyes widened in shock as Piccolo continued, his voice heavy.

"Guru believed you were destined for great things, but he also believed that your natural power might not be enough. He wanted to ensure you'd grow fast enough to protect not only the Namekians but the galaxy. That, combined with the potential unlock Guru gave you during the fight with Frieza... it explains your rate of growth."

For a moment, no one spoke. The wind on the Lookout was the only sound.

Zukanna took a step back, her expression a mixture of disbelief and anguish. She staggered slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "So... all of it. My strength, my victories... it wasn't me. It was because of a wish?"

"Zukanna," Piccolo began, his tone soft, "you've still—"

"No!" she snapped, her voice trembling. "It wasn't me! It was because someone decided I needed help. It wasn't earned!"

Her thoughts raced. She remembered her battles, her triumphs, the pride she'd felt in standing against impossible odds. Now they all felt hollow, tainted by the knowledge that her power had been artificially bolstered. Her mind briefly flashed to the fruit of the Tree of Might, another unfair boost. What part of my strength is even mine? she thought bitterly.

"Zukanna, listen to me," Piccolo tried again, stepping closer, his hand reaching for her shoulder. "This doesn't change who you are or what you've accomplished. You've proven yourself a thousand times over—"

She pulled away sharply, shaking her head. "Don't," she said coldly. "Just... don't."

With that, she turned and shot into the sky, her golden aura flaring around her as she vanished into the horizon.

The group stood in stunned silence, unsure of how to respond. Finally, Broly stepped forward, his brows knitted in concern. "I'll go talk to her, calm her down." he said, his voice quiet but firm. Without waiting for a reply, he took off after her, his own energy flaring as he followed her trail.

Goku scratched the back of his head, looking at Piccolo. "Man, that was rough. You think she's gonna be, okay?"

Piccolo sighed heavily; his expression grim. "She's strong, but... this is something she'll have to come to terms with on her own. Let's hope Broly can get through to her."