Hello everyone,

I know I had said that I would be publishing chapters weekly, but there was an event that greatly dampened my spirits, perhaps too much...

My favorite mangaka had passed away.

You see, I had left work early on Thursday, excited to have Friday off. I planned to take advantage of the day to do my routine chores, tidy up my house, watch some series, and properly rest to be ready to continue with the fic.

However, during a moment of rest, I decided to take a look at Twitter, to see what relevant things were happening at that moment. That's when I came across news that deeply shook me.

Akira Toriyama was gone...

Despite the surprise, my initial reaction was to feign indifference. Was it perhaps a defense mechanism? Who knows. For a moment, I clung to the hope that it was just a misunderstanding or something, but the truth was that the news left me in a state of total bewilderment.

As the day went on, even as I quickly opened the YouTube app on my television and watched as the news of the passing was already worldwide and being discussed on news programs in several countries, my mind was flooded with memories from various stages of my life. From childhood days to the most recent moments, each memory seemed to surface out of nowhere, bringing with it a mix of emotions and nostalgia.

I have no idea exactly when I typed in the YouTube search bar "compilation of memorable videos, Dragon Ball AMVs, Dragon Ball Z GT, and Super." Maybe it was an impulse to reminisce about simpler times, or perhaps I was seeking some kind of comfort in the familiarity of the series that meant so much to me. However, as the familiar images of iconic characters and epic scenes filled the screen, a lump began to form in my throat.

Quickly, memories of my childhood flooded back.

After school, before or after doing homework, I always turned on the TV to watch the next episode of Dragon Ball. It was like a sacred tradition for me. I didn't care if I had a ton of homework to do—that could wait! The first thing was to turn on the TV to watch the episode.

My friends and I played at recess to recreate the episode we had seen the day before. Sometimes I was Goku, and other times I played the roles of the villains. Since I was chubby, many had nicknamed me Majin Buu, haha. What good times! I also remember clearly how the girls would look at us with annoyance, and many of them would roll their eyes in disgust, saying, "Ugh, what stupid boys." I even remember that when I took a shower and had long hair, I would use the shampoo as soap to pretend I was transforming into a Super Saiyan, and sometimes I would shout the mythical KA-ME-HA-ME-HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA.

I also remember that when I watched TV, I experienced many tense moments, such as waiting to see if Cell would finally absorb 18 and reach that perfect form. And what about when Goku returned from the Snake Way just in time to prevent Vegeta and Nappa from killing the remaining Z warriors? When Gohan transformed into SSJ2, it was a roller coaster of emotions!

When Freeza survived the Genki Dama and all the warriors were exhausted, I thought it was the end of the world! I was scared that there was nothing left that could stop him, until Goku transformed into a Super Saiyan.

And then, when Goku asked everyone to raise their hands to give him their energy for the Genkidama, I was so close to the TV, raising my hands as fast as I could! I thought somehow I was giving my energy to Goku so that Genki Dama would grow; I even remember how my parents looked at me strangely, wondering what the heck their son was doing.

Tears started to fall as I remembered those wonderful moments of my life. And all motivation in me decayed, I wasn't in the mood to do anything...

Toriyama's work was more than just a series to me; it was a turning point. Those moments watching Dragon Ball were some of the few moments of true happiness I had in my life.

I think the best way to honor his memory and his work is through this fic I will write, respecting the essence of the characters. I don't consider myself as good as Toriyama, never! I don't even come close, but still, I want this work to be the best it can be, staying true to his style. I will give it my all.

I will write this chapter with more words than usual as a kind of tribute. I know it's not very ostentatious, but it's the best I can do right now.

Thank you, Toriyama sensei, I hope Kaio-sama has welcomed you with open arms.

Let's get to the review responses:

Winterwolf23543: I greatly appreciate your comment and your ideas as a new reader. I'm glad to hear that you've been enjoying the story so far. I understand your concern about Trunks' character development and how it might influence the plot. Your suggestion of making him a peacemaker or a neutral entity striving to maintain balance is exactly what I had in mind. I will value your feedback and strive to handle the plot in a way that maintains interest and originality.

On the other hand, I loved what you wrote; maybe I'll borrow it, hahaha. You should write your own fic. If you'd like, I can be your beta and collaborate with you by contributing ideas. Don't let the idea of writing hold you back; even I used to write poorly, but with practice, I managed to improve. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. Keep your spirits up, and I hope you'll be encouraged to write your fanfic soon!

Danish78: Thank you for your comment, my friend. Of course, I had to establish the groundwork for the Kokabiel arc to ensure the future warrior's intervention fit well. Regarding the other matter, don't worry, I won't portray Trunks as someone depressive. We all have our moments of weakness, and at some point, Trunks needed to let it out to move forward. Thank you for your feedback, and I apologize for the mistake in the previous chapter; it won't happen again. Regards.

Ceysar: Agradezco tus palabras amigo, asumo que eres hispano hablante o quizás eres estado unidense que quiso comunicase conmigo en español dada que es mi lengua materna, (Si es el segundo caso me siento halagado jajaja) En fin, si es la primera en mi perfil esta la misma sección para gente de habla hispana, si tengo la fortuna de que me sigas leyendo, puedes entrar al fic en español llamado "un horizonte diferente" para tu mayor comodidad.

The Stasis Slayer: Thank you for your kind words and support bro! I'm thrilled to hear that you're enjoying the story despite it being my first attempt in English. I'll take your observations about the grammatical errors and formal language into account and work on improving those aspects. I look forward to delivering more chapters that keep you engaged!

RaijuTsuiga1126: Sorry bro.


Chapter 5.- Looming Threat

Five days had passed since his conversation with Dr. Abbader. Trunks now found himself in a slightly better condition compared to his initial state. The wounds he had suffered during the confrontation with his enemies were gradually healing, although there were still visible signs of his battle on his body. Bandages covered the most affected areas, and although the pain persisted, it was less acute than in the previous days.

In the hospital room, Trunks spent his days focused on his recovery. Given his delicate condition, he was limited to remaining bedridden. Although this situation was somewhat bothersome, he accepted it resignedly, as he was aware of his fragile health condition, as well as the limitations of his body. Furthermore, as a staunch follower of rules, he adapted to medical advice without objections.

One of the nurses suggested to Trunks that reading could make his stay in the hospital more bearable. Although he hesitated at first, once he started reading the recommended book, Trunks noticed that reading became, somehow, an interesting pastime. Aware of the value this represented as a distraction during his recovery, he remained absorbed in the novel the nurse had given him. Although some topics were a bit difficult for him to understand at first, his curiosity about what would happen next drove him to make reading a habit, not only to pass the time but also to enrich his mind.

After all, Gohan had told him that a warrior must be strong both physically and mentally.

Reading became a refuge for Trunks, transporting him to distant worlds and allowing him to escape, albeit briefly, from the reality of his situation. In the pages of books, he found exciting adventures, fascinating characters, and valuable lessons that he could apply to his life from now on.

After finishing the books the nurse had lent him, Trunks found out that there were no more books available in the hospital's reading room. This news left him a little disheartened for a moment, as reading had become an essential part of his daily routine and an escape from the monotony of hospital life.

One sunny morning, Trunks received the news that he could take short walks around the hospital grounds. Carefully and with a bit of assistance, he got out of bed and stepped into the garden. The fresh air and the gentle murmur of nature provided him with a welcome respite after days of confinement in the hospital room.

As he ventured into the garden, Trunks was greeted by a gentle breeze playing with the leaves of the trees and carrying with it the fresh scent of flowers in full bloom. The melodious singing of birds added a serene melody to the surroundings, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that contrasted with the hustle and bustle inside the hospital.

As he walked through the garden, Trunks' eyes landed on a lush tree whose outstretched branches offered a welcoming shade. Without hesitation, he approached and found it to be more than suitable for his purpose. Carefully, he settled beneath its canopy, assuming the lotus position, closed his eyes, allowing the gentle murmur of nature to envelop him completely.

He took a deep breath of the fresh air filling his lungs, feeling how each breath provided him with a renewed sense of vitality. With each conscious inhalation and exhalation, the accumulated tension in his body seemed to slowly dissipate, as if the breeze itself carried away all his worries and fears.

He decided to make use of the time the nurses had given him to practice the meditation techniques he had learned during his warrior training. With each conscious breath, Trunks delved deeper into a state of profound serenity, letting calmness envelop him completely. However, his moment of peace was interrupted when the same nurses who had helped him out to the garden called him for lunch. Although reluctant to leave that state of harmony, Trunks returned to reality, hoping to resume his mental training later.

While the promise of food always lifted his spirits, during his time in the hospital, they were dampened due to the strict diet imposed by the doctor. He felt a bit weak, and his stomach rumbled demanding food immediately. However, he trusted the doctor's expertise and was willing to accept any recommendations he gave, and if he said that eating less and a specific meal would help in his recovery, who was he to contradict him?

But he was tired of eating steamed boiled vegetables.

Doctor Abbader was in his office meticulously reviewing Trunks' medical records, searching for clues that could explain the complications in his recovery. There was something that puzzled him: despite the generous amounts of food Trunks had consumed during his stay in the hospital, the records showed worrying signs of malnutrition.

Frowning, Doctor Abbader compared the data over and over again, contrasting them with those of different humanoid creatures and even with those of people from the human world. Surprisingly, he found too many similarities in nutrition and anatomy matters. This coincidence piqued his curiosity and led him to seek a logical explanation for this contradiction.

How was it possible that a patient who had been receiving adequate nutrition showed signs of malnutrition? The answer eluded his understanding, challenging the laws of human physiology and testing his knowledge and experience as a doctor. Determined to solve this puzzle, Doctor Abbader immersed himself in deep reflection, searching for clues that could provide answers to this mysterious medical anomaly.

Then, he remembered the patient's strange physiognomy and the rarity of some unknown cells that were not recorded in medicine, which likely performed unknown functions in the patient's body, and perhaps his extraterrestrial side had much to do with it. He reflected deeply and wondered the following: Should he allow him to eat anything? And if so, what results would it yield? Would it help him recover or worsen the situation? It was a somewhat difficult decision...

Doctor Abbader knew he had to proceed with caution, considering all possible consequences of his actions. On one hand, allowing Trunks to eat anything could help him study the effects it would have on his body and thus prevent malnutrition from worsening. On the other hand, there was a risk that an uncontrolled diet could worsen his health.

After carefully weighing all options, Doctor Abbader came to a decision. Although it was a risk, he decided to allow Trunks to experiment with a more varied and less restrictive diet. He believed that this measure could provide valuable information about his condition and hopefully, learn more about the anatomy of his peculiar patient.

Determined, Doctor Abbader called for the nurse in charge of Trunks' care.

"Zatherina," he expressed through the magic circle to contact her, "could you come to my office, please?"

"Hai, Sacho-sama. Right away."

Once he gave the instruction, the doctor patiently waited for the nurse in charge of Trunks to arrive at his office. Finally, the door opened with a soft creak, and the nurse in charge of Trunks entered the room. She paused upon seeing the doctor's serious gaze, feeling a slight knot in her stomach as she prepared to hear what the doctor had to tell her.

"Zatherina, I need you to make a change in Trunks' diet," Abbader said, without beating around the bush.

The nurse raised an eyebrow, surprised by the unusual request. While it was common for patients to have dietary restrictions for medical reasons, Trunks had not shown serious eating problems until now.

"A change?" the nurse asked curiously.

Doctor Abbader nodded. Seeing the look of doubt on the nurse's face, he began to explain in detail his reasons behind the decision made. He mentioned the signs of malnutrition he had observed in Trunks' recent study, although the nurse found it counterproductive, she noticed the concern reflected on the doctor's face at the apparent contradiction between the assigned diet and the evident health problems in the Saiyan. He explained how this discrepancy had led him to reconsider making a slight change in Trunks' treatment and to consider the possibility of a more varied diet as a measure to address this issue.

That includes some not-so-healthy foods.

"And that's why I want to see how his body reacts to this change," the doctor explained. "Perhaps this way, we can better understand his unique physiology."

Zatherina nodded, understanding the logic behind the proposal. However, she couldn't help but feel a little nervous about the potential risk involved. After all, Trunks was a very special case, and any change in his treatment had to be done with caution.

"I understand, doctor. I'll make the necessary adjustments immediately," she responded professionally.

Abbader nodded in gratitude, and Zatherina left the office, ready to implement the new instructions. As she walked through the hospital corridors, she reflected on the doctor's strange request and hoped that things wouldn't get too complicated.

With that in mind, the nurse headed to the kitchen, finding it somewhat amusing that she had to ask the cooks to prepare special food, as if instead of attending to a hospital patient, she was dealing with a customer at a luxury restaurant. The idea seemed surreal to her, but it also brought her a hint of amusement; after all, she didn't encounter such peculiar situations every day in that hospital.

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The demons of Kuoh Academy had agreed to meet with the priestesses in the park after finishing their normal club activities. Discreetly, they dressed in priestly clothes, disguising their true identities under carefully crafted costumes. The crosses they wore were fake; they knew that if they were authentic, they could cause them serious harm. After agreeing on search points and separating, they began to roam the city streets, avoiding crowded places and preferring quieter areas in search of clues.

Issei was lost in his thoughts; it had been 3 days since they faced Freed, after the priest Valper appeared and took him to a different location, from that moment on the group dedicated their time to search for both priests, but there was nothing. The worst part was that Kiba disappeared again to search for both priests, apparently he was obsessed with his revenge.

And this had been another fruitless day of searching; darkness began to envelop the city. Issei and the others realized that they would get into trouble if they didn't return soon. Keeping the operation secret was challenging, and he couldn't help but worry about the possible consequences if Rias found out what they were doing. He was also aware of how troublesome it would be if they were caught by the Student Council.

"Today was another bust," Issei said with a tone of annoyance. "It's a miracle that Buchou still hasn't found out about this."

"What about me not finding out about what?"

A female voice was heard, which, although reflecting calmness, exuded a threatening aura.

"Explain yourself, Isse."

Issei shrugged, as if seeking refuge under an invisible shell, while the other three demons lowered their gaze to the floor, feeling intimidated by the situation. Slowly, Issei began to turn around, only to be met with the voluptuous figure of Rias Gremory who was tapping her foot repeatedly on the ground, demanding explanations with an impatient gesture, accompanied by a shorter raven-haired girl.

After being discovered, the group retreated to a nearby park, seeking a quieter place to discuss the situation. Rias, visibly annoyed by the revelation, listened incredulously as Issei and the others explained their actions.

"Destroy the Excaliburs?! Are you two serious..." Rias seemed on the verge of exasperation, placing a hand on her forehead as she tried to process the news.

On the other side was the young raven-haired girl with glasses, along with Saji who was in the Seiza position.

"Saji. So that's what you were doing behind my back? What do you have to say in your defense?"

The sternly questioning black-haired girl was Sona Sitri, heiress of the prestigious Sitri clan. Additionally, she held the title of Student Council President of Kuoh Academy, which gave her even more influence and respect among the students, besides being the youngest daughter of Doctor Abbader.

"I'm sorry, Kaichō..."

Saji lowered his gaze, feeling the weight of disappointment in his mistress's words.

"If apologies were enough, there wouldn't be any jails."

Once her pawn's apology was rejected, and without saying another word, Sona Sitri invoked a magic circle around her hand. Without warning, she began to administer spankings to Saji, whose high-pitched cries echoed in the air with each blow, making Issei swallow hard, wondering if Rias would punish him similarly. Although the scene seemed surreal, there was no room for doubt: Sona was expressing her disapproval in an unconventional but effective manner.

"Shut up," Sona said energetically, "you'll receive a thousand spankings so you won't act behind my back again."

"G-Guh, I'm sorry... KAICHOOOO!"

Ignoring Saji's punishment, Issei and Koneko lowered their gazes as they were being watched by Rias, demanding explanations. Issei and Koneko felt uncomfortable under Rias's penetrating gaze, lowering their heads in a sign of submission, aware that they had to explain their extracurricular activities. The atmosphere was tense, and the silence that followed Saji's punishment only intensified the feeling of discomfort in the air.

—Buchou, what's happening is that... —Issei began, searching for the right words to explain the situation without making things worse.

Before he could continue, Rias interrupted him with a firm and demanding gaze, urging him to be direct and clear in his explanation. She knew she wouldn't tolerate evasion or excuses, and she expected a frank and honest response from her subordinate.

Issei and Koneko nodded firmly and began to explain to Rias that their goal was to help Kiba destroy the fragments of Excalibur, who, motivated by the desire to avenge his fallen comrades, they decided to alleviate the burden of guilt Kiba carried. They expressed their understanding of the pain and frustration Kiba was experiencing and their desire to support him in his quest for justice.

Rias listened attentively to her subordinates' explanation, observing their expressions and gestures as they spoke. As they recounted their motives, she could perceive the sincerity in their words and the determination in their eyes. Although initially surprised by the revelation, she began to understand the magnitude of the pain and anguish driving Issei and Koneko to act in that way.

"I didn't want Kiba-sempai to leave... Buchou."

Rias held a moment of silence, reflecting on what she had just heard. As she considered Issei and Koneko's words, she felt empathy for Kiba's pain and his friends' determination to help him. Recognizing the nobility of their intentions, she decided to forgive their transgression and offer her support to her friend and comrade in his mission.

"You two really are foolish children. Making me worry so much..."

With a compassionate expression on her face, Rias embraced Issei and Koneko tenderly, showing her concern for their well-being. Rias's warm gesture conveyed a sense of security and support, acknowledging the difficulties they had faced and the emotional burden they carried on their shoulders. In that embrace, Issei and Koneko felt their leader's empathy, displaying the genuine affection she felt for her servants.

"It's not fair, Kaicho," Saji exclaimed with tears falling in a picturesque manner from his eyes, "Rias-sama is much kinder."

—Rias is Rias, and I am me.

It seemed that Saji's punishment wasn't going to end anytime soon. Each spanking he received resonated in the air, accompanied by his anguished screams. Meanwhile, in his mind, the delirious dream he had about impregnating Sona and marrying her was far from coming true. He realized how distant and unreal that fantasy was compared to the harsh reality of the discipline he was receiving.

—Well, now that's cleared up —Rias spoke, drawing the Sekiryuutei's attention —Issei, show me your butt.

Issei was dumbfounded.

—Huh? B-Buchou... You're not going to forgive me?

Rias smiled as sweetly as she could, while her hand, covered in a crimson hue, lay waiting.

—It's the duty of the master to discipline his servants. You will also receive 1,000 lashes.

The tension in the air was palpable as Issei prepared himself for the punishment, aware that the consequences of his actions were about to be felt.

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Trunks entered the hospital room with a dubious expression on his face, certainly not very convinced about wanting to continue eating the same old food. However, as he crossed the door, he was met with a surprise that left him stunned. Nurse Zatherina had organized a veritable feast on the table, a variety of foods that seemed to have come out of a gastronomic dream.

Trunks's gaze roamed the table, from the juicy meat cuts to the colorful salads and tempting desserts. A delicious smell wafted in the air, arousing his appetite and making his stomach growl in anticipation. Although he was initially worried about the idea of changing his diet, he now felt intrigued and certainly hungry at the sight of so many delights together.

Zatherina watched Trunks's reaction closely with a smile on her lips, noticing how the young man's expression shifted from uncertainty to joy. The idea of trying this new food seemed to awaken a genuine interest in him; Zatherina found his innocent curiosity charming. The slight laughter this situation provoked added a touch of warmth to the moment.

"Go ahead, you can eat," Dr. Abbader, who was sitting accompanied by Mai, invited Trunks to approach the table and serve himself whatever he wanted.

"Can I really?" asked the Future Warrior with a tone of shyness.

The doctor didn't respond, just nodded, causing Trunks to get excited as he sat down next to Mai.

"Don't forget your manners," the girl said to the Future Warrior.

None of those present had any idea of the spectacle they were about to witness.

The doctor was perplexed by what he was witnessing, and soon realized he had gotten himself into an unexpected situation. In the dining room, no one could understand where all that amount of food was going. The Saiyan, seemed to consume a quantity of food that defied all logic, almost as if he were a titan-class beast.

But it wasn't just the quantity that was surprising, but the speed at which he devoured one dish after another. In a matter of seconds, the young man would empty a plate and already be digging into the next one, showing no signs of slowing down. His way of eating wasn't as crude as Goku's, in fact, it showed a lot of manners, but it certainly wasn't a pleasant sight to behold; the efficiency with which he consumed the food was bewildering to everyone at the table.

"Now I understand," he thought to himself. "His metabolism must be absurdly fast, which is why he needs to consume enormous amounts of food. That would explain why his body started showing signs of malnutrition."

Despite having found a logical explanation for Trunks' eating behavior, the scene still seemed disturbing to him. The idea of such an accelerated metabolism was so illogical, out of reality, and scientifically impossible, but it's well known that nature always has many surprises.

Meanwhile, Zatherina watched the scene with a mixture of surprise and concern. Although she was glad to see that Trunks finally had an appetite, the speed at which he consumed the food left her dumbfounded. She wondered if she had miscalculated in preparing the banquet, or if perhaps Trunks had an insatiable physical need due to his strange condition.

Mai watched Trunks with an expression of astonishment. Although she was used to the prodigious appetites of Saiyans, she was even surprised at the speed and amount of food Trunks could ingest. However, in that dystopian future they lived in, they couldn't afford to eat so much. Despite that, Mai couldn't help but feel genuine joy at seeing her dear friend enjoy something as simple as lunch. The sight of Trunks relishing the food reminded her of moments of normalcy and happiness in a world full of tragedy.

"This is Delicious Do you have more?" he asked casually.

"EHHH," exclaimed the nurse incredulously. "Y-you've just eaten a meal for 20 people

—But I'm still hungry," he said, his tone sounding almost pleading.

The nurse blushed at the boy's tone of voice, but quickly remembered the hospital procedures and the professionalism expected of her. With a concerned look, she glanced at the hospital director for guidance on how to handle the situation appropriately.

With a nod of approval, Doctor Abbader authorized Trunks' request and instructed the cafeteria staff to serve more food. Intrigued by the uniqueness of the young Saiyan's metabolic system, the doctor saw this opportunity as a window to investigate and better understand his patient's physiology.

Contrary to the director's decision, the nurse nodded with some resignation and called the cleaning crew to clear the dirty dishes and bring more food. Although concerned about the patient's health and aware of hospital procedures, she knew she had to follow Doctor Abbader's orders and ensure Trunks received the necessary care.

"That was... splendid," he commented after having devoured 15 more plates of food...

The doctor was astonished, surpassed by his expectations. He had never imagined that someone like Trunks would need such an amount of food to survive. The Saiyan race turned out to be an enigma and a marvel to him. If this was how a hybrid fed, he wondered in amazement how a pure specimen would do it. The complexity and singularity of Saiyan physiology left him perplexed, and he felt motivated to delve deeper into studying it.

Grateful for Doctor Abbader's generosity, Trunks rose from the table intending to leave. However, before he could take a step, the doctor stopped him with an unexpected request. With an enigmatic gesture, he indicated that there was still a crucial element missing from his feast...

Intrigued by the doctor's suggestion, Trunks watched with curiosity as the doctor invoked a magic circle. Before his astonished eyes, a 20-liter water container materialized in front of them, followed by a sack containing 4 kilograms of fructose and starch.

"What is this?" Trunks asked, surprised to see the objects on the table.

"The dessert," the doctor responded with an enigmatic smile. "I have observed that your glycogen reserves are considerably depleted. You need to replenish those nutrients immediately."

Doctor Abbader began to mix the water with the fructose and starch in front of Trunks' amazed eyes. As he made the mixture, he calmly explained the process.

"The human body needs approximately 10 liters of water to stay hydrated and function properly. However, observing your extraordinary feeding capacity, I calculated that a body like yours would require a considerably larger amount of fluids and nutrients to sustain itself."

Trunks listened attentively to the doctor's words, fascinated by the magical spectacle unfolding before him.

"This bag contains starch, a type of complex carbohydrate found in foods like rice, potatoes, and bread; it is an important source of energy for the body, as it breaks down into glucose, which is then used as fuel for various metabolic and physical functions."

Trunks nodded, paying attention to the doctor's words.

"And this one contains fructose, a type of natural sugar found in fruits and honey. Unlike other sugars, such as glucose, fructose is metabolized differently in the body and is absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream. This provides a more gradual and sustained release of energy, helping you maintain stable blood sugar levels and providing longer-lasting energy."

The combination of water, fructose, and starch transformed before his eyes into a revitalizing substance, emanating a comforting energy. Once finished, the doctor made it levitate with a gesture of his hand until it reached the surprised Saiyan's hands.

"Drink it all, not a drop left," the doctor instructed, as Trunks observed the peculiar mixture.

"30 kilograms of water with sugar..." the future warrior mused thoughtfully, then smiled to himself. "Alright, I'll drink it all."

After finishing the strange mixture, the doctor watched in surprise as Trunks' body began to emit steam. The vapor rose in spirals from his skin, creating a surreal spectacle that left the entire medical staff bewildered. It was a vivid reminder of the unique and extraordinary nature of his metabolism, which seemed to defy all logic and understanding.

Not even a dragon possessed such an unreal metabolism.

"I-I can't b-believe what I'm s-seeing!" the nurse exclaimed in disbelief.

Intrigued by this phenomenon, Doctor Abbader watched with interest as the steam rose from Trunks' body until it reached the ceiling. He recognized that the Saiyan's metabolism was truly exceptional, capable of processing large amounts of energy efficiently and converting them into water vapor. Indeed, the Saiyan race was a wonder from another galaxy.

"Well, I don't feel so weak anymore," the future warrior said with a smile, but as he tried to move his arm, he suddenly felt a sharp pain, causing him to let out a groan.

Coming out of his stupor, the doctor quickly intervened.

"Don't rush," the physician said, his expression turning serious as he reminded the young Saiyan that his recovery was not yet complete and that it was important to take things slowly. Trunks nodded in understanding, aware that his impatience to return to full strength would only delay his recovery process.

"I'm sorry, doctor. I guess I got too excited," Trunks responded with a grimace of pain, nodding at the doctor's warning.

"It's understandable, but it's important that you listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard. Recovery takes time, and we don't want to risk a relapse," the doctor added, carefully placing his hand on Trunks' shoulder in a reassuring gesture.

Trunks nodded determinedly, recognizing the importance of following the doctor's instructions to ensure a full recovery. Although he was eager to return to his full strength, he knew he had to be patient and allow his body to recover properly.

The next morning, when the doctor entered Trunks' room for his routine check-up, he was surprised to find the bed empty. A chill ran down his spine as he scanned the room for any clues. The sheets were perfectly stretched, as if Trunks had never been there. However, his personal belongings remained untouched in their usual place.

Within minutes, pandemonium broke out in the hospital. Nurses and doctors ran back and forth, checking every corner for any sign of Trunks.

Chaos engulfed the hospital as the search intensified. The hallways echoed with the sound of worried voices and the beeping of medical devices. Time passed, and uncertainty grew, leaving everyone with the same question in mind: where was Trunks and what had happened for him to disappear so mysteriously?

"Quick, we have to find him! We can't afford to waste any more time!" exclaimed one of the doctors, urging his colleagues to redouble their efforts in the search.

The doctors were very concerned about not being able to find the subject; every passing second increased their worry about the whereabouts of the young Saiyan. However, despite their best efforts, Trunks seemed to have vanished into thin air, leaving everyone puzzled and frustrated by the lack of clues.

"Are there any news yet?" asked one of the head doctors, his voice filled with a mix of frustration and concern.

"Nothing, sir! It's like he vanished!" replied another doctor, his face displaying a bewildered expression.

Uncertainty hung over the room, enveloping everyone in an aura of tension and worry. Meanwhile, the raven-haired companion of Trunks observed the scene with a blend of anxiety and determination, resolved to find her missing companion no matter what.

Showing a hint of frustration, Doctor Abbader realized the last place he hadn't checked, feeling foolish for overlooking the time when Mai and Trunks had their moment of weakness.

"Everyone, calm down," said Doctor Abbader calmly to the frantic doctors.

Closing the door of the storage room, he began walking in a determined direction.

"Where are you going, Doctor?" asked another bewildered colleague.

"To see our 'fugitive'."

This statement left everyone confused, but they followed their boss's orders and returned to their duties.

On the hospital rooftop, groans and voices resonated, clearly indicating that someone was exerting a tremendous effort. The tones of the voices varied, revealing the intensity and determination behind the effort.

"29,998... 29,999... 30,000..."

The numerical figures were colossal, confirming the magnitude of the task at hand. The individual in question was exercising with impressive determination, performing push-ups with just one finger, specifically his right arm finger, which was the only one healthy. However, he didn't settle for performing push-ups in the traditional manner; akin to his father and friends, he kept his legs in the air to increase the tension.

With stealthy and silent movements, the group approached Trunks. The young Saiyan was so focused on his exercise routine that he didn't perceive the presence of those approaching him. His attention was focused on his muscles contracting and relaxing with each repetition, his breathing deep and steady, as he aimed to complete 50,000 repetitions before 10 in the morning.

"Young Trunks."

The voice snapped him out of his concentration, causing his skin to prickle and throwing off his balance, making him fall backward and leaving him sore.

"That hurt," muttered Trunks as he lay on the ground. Then, as he looked up, he saw the doctor with a serious expression and arms crossed, along with his assistants, sending a shiver down his spine. "Uh, hello?"

"You seem to be feeling much better," the doctor's tone was grave, making Trunks feel uneasy. "I think I shouldn't have given you so much glucose. Do you realize the trouble you've caused?"

Trunks cautiously got up, feeling slightly uncomfortable with the situation. He knew he had caused concern among the hospital staff by leaving without notice, but he didn't expect such a direct reprimand from Doctor Abbader.

"I'm sorry, doctor, I just felt so full of energy," Trunks said, trying to maintain composure despite his nervousness. "I wanted to train a bit and lost track of time."

Doctor Abbader frowned upon hearing him say "train a bit," yeah right just a bit… Anyway, the doctor looked at the young Saiyan seriously before nodding his head.

"So, training, huh..."

"It's admirable to see your commitment to your own well-being," commented Doctor Abbader, with an approving expression on his face. "Sometimes we forget how important it is to take care of ourselves, but you have set a good example for us."

The doctors nodded in agreement, expressing their support and recognition towards Trunks for his determination and courage in his recovery process.

Trunks felt reassured by the words of the doctor and the other physicians, feeling a renewed sense of self-confidence. Although he knew the road to recovery would be difficult, he felt strengthened by the support of those around him.

"But you must also remember that your health is the most important thing right now. You can't risk worsening your physical condition due to excessive training," warned the doctor firmly. "You need to rest and allow your body to recover properly."

Trunks nodded silently, acknowledging the validity of the doctor's words. Although his determination to strengthen himself remained intact, he understood the importance of taking care of his health to face future challenges effectively.

"I'm sorry again, Doctor Abbader. It won't happen again," Trunks assured sincerely, willing to follow medical advice with more discipline in the future.

Doctor Abbader nodded, seeming satisfied with the young Saiyan's response.

"I hope so. Now, come with me, I need to check your current condition and discuss the treatment plan for the coming weeks," ordered the doctor, indicating for Trunks to follow him back to the consultation room.

Trunks looked out the window at the panorama of the underworld. Although it had seemed strange at first to see a violet sky with lilac hues, he had grown accustomed to it over time. After all, he had visited other worlds, each with its own peculiarities, so this was nothing to be amazed by.

Although he was not yet fully recovered, he no longer felt discomfort in his body. Nevertheless, he still wore bandages in some areas, with the cast on his arm being the most noticeable. Additionally, he had a patch on his left cheek where he had suffered a wound. Luckily, this one wasn't deep and wouldn't leave a scar, but they covered it as a precaution to prevent infections.

"Yeah, that's right. After all, if I stay bedridden, I'll rust, and I don't want that to happen," Trunks replied simply. "That's why I train."

The sincerity in Trunks' words surprised Doctor Abbader and the other present doctors, who were impressed by his humility and determination. Some doctors, knowing the level of power of this young man, believed they would encounter someone arrogant and disdainful, boasting of their power as many supreme class demons and many gods from different pantheons did, but instead, they found someone who recognized his own limitations and was willing to work hard to overcome them.

The good thing was that now he could train. Luckily, he no longer caused headaches for Doctor Abbader with escapades for training. Now he would notify and not do it alone, he always had an escort. However, the strange thing was not the escort itself, but who made it up: women, specifically the nurses.

When an escort was requested for Trunks, there were no men. This was because the same demons scared off the men with such devilish looks that they lost the desire to train with the pleasant blue-haired man. Everyone liked him, and his determination to become strong had also infected the hospital staff, who also wanted to train. It was a somewhat interesting situation, although new to him.

"Is something wrong, Trunks?" Mai asked as she delicately wrapped her arms around the blue-haired man's torso.

Trunks was surprised to feel Mai's arms around him, but he also felt great joy to recognize whose affectionate hugs they were.

"Ah, Mai," the blue-haired man smiled, glancing at her. "I was just admiring the scenery a bit."

Mai, with a lovely smile, continued to embrace the blue-haired man.

Trunks was initially surprised by this new way of Mai's affection, which had begun since she woke up. As soon as she did, much to the nurses' jealousy and the doctors' astonishment, she rushed towards Trunks in a big affectionate hug. She was, from then on, marking her territory, and she knew she was doing it well. Instantly, he could see the nurses' reactions: they were of anger and jealousy. However, instead of getting angry, Mai felt a little internal malice grow inside her. With a mischievous smile and a look of superiority, she hugged Trunks even tighter, who was confused by the situation.

Despite the demons' anger and jealousy, she was affectionate with the warrior from the future.

"This place is incredible," Mai released her hug and stood beside Trunks, also admiring the panorama. "A bit gloomy, but equally incredible."

Trunks smiled, remembering how his black-haired friend reacted upon learning about their situation. It was a total shock, especially being in the underworld. Her first impression was that they had died and were in limbo waiting to reach the other world. After a long explanation, Mai was able to take it all in. Internally, she distrusted the demons for obvious reasons, but not only because of that, but also because of everything supernatural, especially those who self-proclaimed themselves as gods.

The events with Zamasu had traumatized her a bit. Doctor Abbader diagnosed her with post-traumatic stress and post-war stress. Two types of ailments had formed within her, which was not surprising, given that she had suffered through such a bloody war for so many years. However, Mai's determination was immense, and she did not succumb to madness.

"Do you know? I've thought about everything that has happened, and now I know that I must cherish what matters to me," Mai whispered as she took his hand.

Upon hearing Mai's words, Trunks' heart beat strongly. Mai was someone very important to him, and that was clear in that moment. He didn't know what to think about it; he felt overwhelmed with happiness and fulfillment. The revelation of Mai's feelings towards him filled him with a warm and comforting sensation, making him feel that even in the midst of uncertainty and challenges they faced, there was a special bond between them that strengthened him.

Not fully understanding those feelings, but at the same time recognizing Mai's importance in his life, Trunks decided to let things take their course calmly. He didn't want to rush things or risk that special connection they had discovered. He preferred to enjoy every moment they shared together; perhaps in the future, that relationship would evolve into something more intense and powerful.

"For me, you're important too," the warrior from the future responded with a warm smile.

############################

Rias and Issei heard a knock on the door of the Hyodo residence. They were about to have dinner, so they were puzzled by the visit and headed towards the door to see who the mysterious visitor was.

Upon opening the door, they were met with an imposing figure displaying five pairs of black wings spread out, casting an ominous shadow over them. It was Kokabiel, whose long, dark hair waved in the wind, his red eyes radiating a sinister gaze as if he had the urge to dismember them, and his pointed ears made him look more like a demon than a fallen angel. The cadre was sporting a sinister smile, carrying someone as if they were a sack of potatoes.

"IRINA!" exclaimed Issei, seeing his childhood friend in that state.

"She came to my quarters. So, I gave her a warm welcome. It's a pity the other two slipped away from me," Kokabiel said with a laugh, revealing part of what had happened.

According to his account, the two to whom Kokabiel referred were Kiba and Xenovia.

Issei placed Irina on the ground and requested Asia's help to heal her. A green light emanated from Asia's body, covering Irina as she began to breathe softly. However, Issei noticed that Irina was no longer carrying Excalibur. What had happened to it? Meanwhile, Kokabiel continued to speak, apparently unconcerned about Issei's doubts.

"I wouldn't do something stupid like talking to a Demon King. Well, on second thought... maybe if I rape and kill his younger sister, I'm sure Sirzechs would focus all his attention on me," Kokabiel retorted, showing a nonchalant attitude towards the gravity of the situation.

Rias observed the cadre with indescribable anger. Issei felt an immense rage coursing through him upon hearing those words spoken by that cadre, but his anger was subdued by the overwhelming presence emanating from him.

—Did you come all the way to my doorstep to say that?" Rias asked incredulously, trying to control her emotions.

Kokabiel smirked predatorily in response.

"Exactly. I want to see the world burn, and I'll start with Kuoh Academy as an appetizer," Kokabiel responded defiantly.

Rias swallowed hard, aware of the gravity of the threat.

"If you do something like that, you'll trigger a new war between God, the fallen angels, and the demons. Do you understand?" Rias warned, trying to make him understand the magnitude of his actions.

"That's exactly what I'm looking forward to!" the cadre replied without removing his wolfish grin. "I thought Michael would start a war if I stole the Excaliburs... But all he sent were just exorcists and two wielders of holy swords. It's boring. I'm really bored! That's why I'm going to unleash a massacre, and the protagonists will be Sirzechs and Serafall's sisters. Sounds fun, right?"

Kokabiel uttered those words with a tone of contempt and excessive confidence, as if he were enjoying the idea of sowing chaos and destruction. His red eyes gleamed with a mix of malice and excitement at the prospect of carrying out his sinister plan. Meanwhile, Rias felt a chill run down her spine upon hearing the fallen angel's words, fully aware of the grave consequences his actions could unleash.

"I won't allow you to harm my friends or my family," Rias exclaimed, her voice resonating with determination and authority.

But Kokabiel simply chuckled disdainfully at Rias's threat, as if he considered her insignificant.

"That's the spirit!" Kokabiel exclaimed with a malicious laugh. "Alright, let's unleash the true power of the Excaliburs so we can have more fun, shall we? The academy's courtyard would be an excellent battlefield. The night is young, and my thirst for blood calls out."

That explained everything; the true mastermind behind all this mess was Kokabiel.

"What do you plan to do with the Excaliburs?" Rias inquired, a hint of concern tinting her voice, her gaze fixed on Kokabiel, who seemed to contemplate the answer on the horizon, where his gesture pointed.

"We're going to unleash the greatest of wars, Rias Gremory, sister of Sirzechs Lucifer!" Kokabiel exclaimed defiantly, his voice resonating in the air like a dark thunder charged with malice and anticipation, as the words seemed to carve themselves in the mist around them.

Kokabiel, with a satisfied smile dancing on his lips, turned on his heel towards the academy, his dark wings spreading majestically before disappearing into the night mist. The threat had been made, and it was time to face it head-on.

Upon the declaration, Rias Gremory didn't hesitate, her gaze shining with determination.

"Issei, let's go to the academy immediately!" Rias ordered with determination.

"Yes!" Issei responded instantly, his determination reflected in his eyes as he prepared to face whatever awaited them in the battle to come.

Sirzechs was visibly disturbed. The queen of his younger sister had called him desperately for help. Kokabiel had launched his declaration of war with great fanfare, and his plans were truly insane.

Unfortunately, they couldn't leave immediately. They would need at least an hour to arrive.

Before doing so, they had to settle their affairs in the underworld.

Sirzechs didn't want to communicate the situation to Serafall. He knew very well the impulsive temperament of his Maō companion, in addition to her unhealthy obsession with her beloved younger sister. Sirzechs was aware of being what they call a "siscon," and he admitted it. He loved his dear Ria-tan very much, but not to the point of invading her personal space or wanting to grope her every moment, that much was clear.

Precisely because of that degree of affection and concern, Sirzechs didn't want to share the information with Serafall. He knew very well the devotion and protective instinct of his Maō companion towards her beloved younger sister. He knew that if anything happened to his little sister, Serafall would be willing to unleash her fury against those responsible, even if it meant facing all of Grigory. And that, undoubtedly, would seriously complicate the situation.

Sirzechs breathed a sigh of relief as he remembered the young man who had arrived in the underworld a week ago. He vividly recalled the daily reports that Dr. Abbader sent him, detailing Trunks' steady improvement since his arrival.

But more than his physical recovery, what stood out in the reports was Trunks' character. The doctor reported that despite the terrifying power he possessed, Trunks showed himself to be a very kind and helpful person. He had helped an elderly man to his feet when he stumbled in the hallway and had come to the aid of some nurses when a heavy object fell near them.

"That young man..." Sirzechs thought carefully, debating whether it would be prudent to use that option.

Aware that, although he wasn't sure if anything concrete could be done, at least contacting Dr. Abbader could be a first step. If his solution wasn't viable, they could work together to find another alternative. It was better to try something than to sit idly by waiting for time to pass and the situation to worsen.

Plus, it would be unfair not to inform the doctor that his daughter was in grave danger.

Without further ado, he activated the circle and began establishing communication with Dr. Abbader.

############################

Doctor Abbader walked aimlessly, lost in his thoughts, unaware that Trunks had greeted him. The urgency of the situation had completely consumed him. Sirzechs's call had been clear: his daughter could be in grave danger of death.

Declare war?! It was utter madness. The three races had not fully recovered yet, and it was likely that they would be extinguished if they faced each other again in a scenario as violent as war.

Kokabiel had lost his mind!

Trunks noticed the concern on Doctor Abbader's face as he passed by without recognizing him. Seeing this, Trunks felt that something was amiss. He decided to follow the doctor, instinctively knowing that something important was happening and that, if he could help, he would do so without hesitation.

He followed Doctor Abbader through the corridors of the underworld hospital, clearly worried. The doctor looked tense and distressed, and his ki reflected it. He seemed absorbed in his thoughts, which only heightened Trunks's unease. He couldn't help but wonder what was going through the doctor's mind and what the extent of the emergency was that kept him in that state.

Doctor Abbader hesitated for a moment, struggling internally with the decision to share his concern with Trunks. On one hand, he wanted to protect his daughter, Sona, from any threat or danger, but on the other hand, he knew that Trunks deserved to know the truth.

"One of my daughters is..." Doctor Abbader began, his voice filled with doubt as he looked off into the distance.

Trunks didn't like how things were going, so he took Doctor Abbader by both shoulders to force him to look him in the eyes. With determination in his expression, Trunks hoped to catch the doctor's attention and find out what was really going on.

"What's happening with your daughter?!" he inquired, concerned by the doctor's troubled expression. "You can trust me, I assure you!"

Doctor Abbader hesitated once more, his eyes reflecting an internal struggle as he debated whether to share the information with Trunks. After a moment of indecision, he finally yielded to the evident concern on the young man's face and decided to speak.

"My youngest daughter... is in mortal danger."

Trunks was taken aback by the revelation.

"As I once told you, she's the heir of my house, remember?" Trunks nodded. "She also owns part of the territory in Kuoh City, in the human world." Trunks nodded again. "You see..."

Doctor Abbader began to explain his daughter's responsibilities and duties, as well as the weight that all of that carried. Then, he told him about the current problem of the three factions: the stolen holy swords and the conflict it generated. He also explained about the restarting of the great faction war, which this time would not only affect supernatural beings but also the human world, which would fall like a vile house of cards.

"I really don't know what to do," Doctor Abbader said, his voice filled with anguish. "Time is running out, the Maōs will take time to arrive, I can't go myself given the obligations at the hospital and the clan... I can't think of anything to..."

"I will rescue your daughter."

The young man abruptly cut off the conversation. Doctor Abbader looked at him with surprise, feeling a mixture of gratitude and concern for the young man's determination.

"Trunks, that's too risky," the doctor responded, his voice laden with concern. "I can't ask you to put yourself in danger like that."

But Trunks did not waver in his determination.

"I can't stand idly by knowing that someone is in danger. Especially if it's your daughter and because you've treated Mai and me with such kindness," Trunks responded without hesitation. "It's the least I can do for you, so please, tell me where your daughter is and how I can find her."

The demon and the hybrid stared at each other, one with amazement and the other impassive. Doctor Abbader never believed he would find someone so noble capable of risking danger to save people he didn't even know. He knew his reports were not wrong.

"Thank you very much," the doctor expressed his gratitude, but Trunks brushed it off. "We have a magic circle that will take you near the location. The truth is we don't have enough power to drop you at the exact spot, but knowing you, you won't have any trouble tracking it down with that ability of yours, right?" the doctor continued. Trunks nodded, watching with interest as the Sitri family's magic circle appeared beneath his feet. Magic intrigued him.

"Good, it will be the highest and most malignant power you may encounter," the doctor urged. "I beg you, save my daughter and her friends."

"Don't worry, Doctor Abbader," Trunks responded, adjusting his jacket. "I will annihilate that bastard. Just please, take care of Mai while I'm away."

"Don't worry," the doctor replied sincerely. "She'll be safe here."

Trunks nodded, making it clear that he trusted Mai's safety under the hospital's care.

"Alright, I'm off," he said firmly, bidding farewell.

############################

Rias felt desperate, a sense of powerlessness engulfing her as she watched Kokabiel seemingly immune to all their attempts to stop him. Every attack, every strategy simply dissipated against the enemy's destructive power. Even the newly acquired Balance Breaker obtained from Kiba, the Sword of Betrayal, proved ineffective against him.

The situation became even more desperate with the collapse of the church's envoys. Not only had they fallen in combat, but their minds were shattered by the magnitude of the situation. Irina had been taken to Issei's house to recuperate, but no one could predict how she would react upon learning the truth: that God had perished during the last great factional war.

The impact of this revelation also hit Asia hard. Although she was now a demon, in her previous life, she had been a devout believer in God, and the news of the Almighty's death shook the foundations of her beliefs. It was a hard truth to digest, an emotional blow that resonated deep within her being and left her in a state of shock.

Kokabiel licked his lips with a perverse expression, excited to see his enemies fallen before him. He felt a twisted pleasure in contemplating how his plan unfolded perfectly. He could sense the shadow of war slowly looming over the three factions, anticipating the clash of armies and weapons. All of this, just to satisfy his delirious ambitions.

Only one last step remained to achieve his most coveted ambition; unleash war and prove the supposed superiority of the fallen angels over all others.

Kokabiel's dark and twisted mind reveled in even more sinister thoughts. Once he had dealt with all the servants of the respective heirs, he would save Sirzechs and Serafall's sisters for last. Oh yes, he would subject them to unimaginable torment, raping them repeatedly until they begged for the sweet release of death. His macabre plan was filled with cruelty and sadism, imagining Sirzechs and Serafall's expressions when they arrived on the battlefield.

Outside the combat zone, Sona Sitri and her nobility were busy tending to and fortifying a powerful barrier. However, they knew that this barrier would not last long. They could only pray that their comrades would win the battle, although deep down they knew it was a nearly impossible hope.

They were fighting against a cadre, a fallen angel capable of wiping out a city with a single attack. Did they really think they could defeat him? Now, honestly, they believed they had made a grave mistake, one that they could pay for with their lives and those of thousands of innocents that day.

They couldn't even hold him off until the deadline Sirzechs had given them.

Sona felt defeated. With every passing second, her hopes of emerging victorious faded more and more. It was ironic and sarcastic, but now only a miracle could save them all from the imminent destruction looming over them.

Little did she know, sometimes even demons get miracles.

############################

The landscape that stretched out before him was remarkably similar to that of his own world: tall trees, a ground covered in fallen leaves, and the soft whisper of the wind through the branches. However, there was something different, something that made it feel more alive, more vibrant. He could feel the human presence in every corner, in every nook and cranny of the city, and it filled him with immense joy.

Excitement seized him as he realized he was in a place where life flourished everywhere. The fresh air filling his lungs was a delight to his senses, and the scent of nature enveloped him, bringing back memories of when he traveled to the past.

The pure air he breathed filled his lungs, infusing vitality into every cell of his body, while gently swaying his hair to the rhythm of the breeze. Every detail of the environment, from the gentle murmur of a nearby stream to the melodious singing of birds in the trees, contributed to the sense of awe and wonder that overwhelmed him.

The night enveloped the landscape with a cloak of darkness speckled with stars, awakening in him a sense of nostalgia for times past and lost memories. It was an extraordinary experience to find himself immersed in a world so brimming with life and energy.

Despite the presence of supernatural beings who shared this world, it did not surprise him in the least. After all, Dr. Abbader had told him that many supernatural beings lived and coexisted with people.

That beautiful world teeming with life was about to change forever due to the ambition and stupidity of a lunatic with delusions of grandeur. The mere idea made his fists clench with fury, remembering the desire of the nefarious individual responsible for the annihilation of his world.

For that reason, he had set out to annihilate that wretch without showing an ounce of mercy.

"I've found you... Kokabiel."

Quickly igniting his ki to fly, he made his way to the battlefield as fast as possible.

############################

—¡Kaicho! —exclaimed Saji, pointing to the sky—. Look!

Sona and the others turned their gaze to where the pawn was pointing and were surprised to see a large bright blue spot shining intensely. It was approaching at an overwhelming speed.

Like a streak of white light, Trunks crossed the skies at breakneck speed, disintegrating the barrier into thousands of fragments. The wind he generated stirred hair and clothing as he sped away into the distance. His passage was so swift that they barely had time to be amazed.

Until they heard a loud sound in the area where Rias Gremory and her nobles were battling the cadre.

The roar echoed in the darkness of the night, causing everyone present to startle and seek refuge in the shadows. The earth trembled beneath their feet as the din reverberated in the nighttime air, enveloping them in an atmosphere charged with tension.

Once the curtain of smoke and dust slowly dissipated, revealing the newly formed crater under the silver light of the moon, an imposing figure emerged from its center. Its silhouette stood out against the lunar glow, radiating a powerful and mysterious presence that captured the attention of all present in the darkness of the night.

Every detail of the figure became visible as it approached, every tense muscle and every fold of its attire standing out in the moonlight. Its eyes gleamed with determination as they scanned the battlefield with intensity, as if searching for a specific target.

Kokabiel, in the midst of battle, noticed the sudden interruption and focused his gaze on the newcomer. His eyes burned with a mix of surprise and irritation at seeing the newcomer, whose aura of defiant power filled him with fury.

"Who the fuck are you?!" roared Kokabiel, his voice resonating with anger as he prepared to confront the intruder with all his might.

Kokabiel, furious at the interruption, sneered with contempt as he saw the stranger completely ignoring him. However, instead of confronting him directly, the mysterious warrior headed towards the group of kids, who were still amazed by his arrival.

The stranger approached Rias with evident concern, but his sharp gaze didn't waver. Although they had never met before, the presence of the individual evoked unfamiliar and hard-to-describe sensations in Rias. Yet, somehow, she was convinced that the individual did not pose a threat to them.

"Are you alright?" called the stranger to Rias, who felt strangely comforted by his presence.

Those words were enough to snap her out of her daze.

"Uh... yes... we're fine," responded Rias, still a bit stunned by the timely intervention of the stranger.

Trunks let out a sigh of relief upon seeing Rias conscious, despite her bedraggled appearance from the battle, she was unharmed. A genuine smile spread across his face as he turned to face the threat before him.

Meters away, he spotted the daughter of Dr. Abbader, recognizing immediately the resemblance of her appearance to the description given by the doctor. She was out of the battle zone, which comforted him knowing she was also safe.

"I'm glad to hear that," he responded sincerely. "Please retreat from here, I'll handle this."

Trunks' words surprised Rias. Seeing the determination in the stranger's eyes and feeling his power, Rias felt she had no choice but to trust him. She didn't want to put her nobles at risk.

"Thank you, I leave it to you," responded Rias, as she withdrew with the others, trusting that he would be able to handle the situation successfully.

Trunks remained silent, watching solemnly as Rias, with a swift leap, headed towards where the unconscious Asia lay. Carefully, he scooped her up in his arms and moved away with his nobles, seeking a safe place. Now, the young ones became mere spectators of what could be a great battle, watching attentively as both contenders moved away from the front line.

However, Kokabiel's fury was evident in every gesture and word. To him, this filthy human dared to obstruct his war plans. If only he knew who he was, he wouldn't dare call him filthy.

"Who the hell do you think you are, you damn imbecile?!" exclaimed the cadre furiously.

However, Trunks remained unperturbed in the face of Kokabiel's fury. He knew he couldn't allow the threats and provocations of the cadre to distract him from his objective.

The challenge resonated in Trunks' words as his gaze clashed with Kokabiel's.

"Someone who came from far away just to kill you, Kokabiel."

End of Chapter


Clarifications

(1) It is the evolved form of the Sacred Gear, being its most powerful manifestation. Once achieved, it can be activated again much more easily than the first time. With proper training, it can be kept activated for a longer period of time.

I appreciate the warm reception my fic has received. I have created an account on X with the username Bellzerion so you can follow me and stay updated on the story's progress. I'm considering whether I should open a DeviantArt to share images related to the fic or if I upload them directly on X. I would love to hear what you think about the last chapter and I'll be attentive to any suggestions you may have.

With nothing more to add, I bid you farewell. Long live Dragon Ball!