Book 4: The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan

by Espeon804

Book 4. Humanity has proved itself a threat. Their ultimate creation backfires and becomes their worst enemy. A Bio-Android goes by the name of Cell - an insect like organism who absorbs anyone it can get to... but for what purpose? Saiyan, Human, Namekian, and Android are forced to join forces. This is indeed a dissonance. It seems that Goku is struggling with himself.

29. The future is never over!

Chapter 29 Plot:

Chapter 29: "The future is never over! It's time to part ways!" With another harsh battle won, the warriors can only try to catch a breath. But the fight for sought peace is far from over. While humanity seems to slowly gain its senses…there is still an air of unease. Not everyone was able to rest in peace. The next mission is to gain back what was lost. However, it cannot be done with everyone. The timeframe has finally been met, and it's time to say goodbye. Until next time! While they part ways, they fight for what they believe is right!

AFTER ALL…

Kakarot would do the same for them. He would never give up on anyone, so why should they leave him to his fate?

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A/N: Espeon804 here with another great chapter!

What the heck, it's 2025.

What the heck.

GOOD NEWS! Chapter 29 and 30 have been published on the same day! Book 4 is FINALLY marked as "Complete"! It only took a thousand years! Woooooo!

(Seriously. You have no idea how satisfying it was to change the settings on this book.)

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PUBLISHED: FEBRUARY 9TH, 2025!

WORDS: 21,681

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Chapter Themes: Please DO listen to the music when promoted! (Well you really don't have to but I think it's fun.)

Add to YouTube URL:

1) "Tears of Grief" DBZ Kai

watch?v=mFUbpveLiEs

2) "A New Foe Rears His Head" DBZ Kai

/watch?v=HODTTBd7BS0

3) "An Agonizing Choice" DBZ Kai

/watch?v=JxOL95Nr7Dg

4) "Farewell" PMD1, Remastered by TGH

/watch?v=5rL23YC1kOg

5) "Time to Set Out" Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon

/watch?v=pG5nvbKICpk

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DISCLAIMER: I do not own the Dragon Ball franchise. Akira Toriyama was the main author behind it.

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Key:

"Talking"

"Foreign Language"

'Thoughts'

'Telepathy'

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- Chapter 29: The future is never over! It's time to part ways! -

Home.

It's a word that lost all meaning decades ago. From the moment Planet Vegeta was brought to its abrupt end, there was no home to return to. It was all stolen, burned, tarnished…demolished within moments. To think it was because of a spark of paranoia from a galactic tyrant who gleefully described its destruction as "pretty fireworks".

But did they really have a right to complain? Before the fall of Planet Vegeta, there were other worlds who once thrived too. While those worlds are still standing, the natives that once inhabited them no longer live. The planet lives on, with only fragments of what it used to be.

They did that. It wasn't just for the money, either. It was all for the thrill of battle: To show the universe just how mighty and invincible the Saiyan race were. While they had their fun, everyone else only saw mindless and beastly things that had a sweetooth for genocide. Those who looked further realized that the Saiyans were blinded by their own ambitions, oblivious to the fact that they were seen as disposable tools for the frost demons.

The Saiyans refused to believe that. They made up over half of their army. There was no way cutting them out would ever be considered.

And oh, how wrong they were.

Maybe they did deserve it—no, they did deserve it. Most would say they died the same way they lived. It was a fitting end for them, ironic even. The Saiyans were never one to speak of morality. Good or evil was a topic that shifted between worlds and species. It was all about perspective. But…if hundreds of species deemed the Saiyans as an evil race, then perhaps they are right. Nappa made his point. They raided worlds long before the frost demons took interest in them. Planet Vegeta wasn't even their native planet, as they had destroyed the native Tufffles that once thrived in it. It was the Saiyans' fate to plunder, and to fall to the hand that fed them.

Long before even that, in ancient history, they had a civil war against each other. Peace was simply out of the question. Even the most "better natured" Saiyans had skeletons in their closet. Whether or not it was nature or nurture is a common topic that will never see the end.

Lately…lately these are the thoughts that circulate in Raditz's head, as he flies through the clouds.

He doesn't know why he is having these thoughts. Perhaps it's because he knows how the world will react to Kakarot's death. There will be an international celebration. They will dance on his grave if they can. It's nothing new. Saiyans were never spoken about in a positive light.

So why did this death feel so different? It's not because of blood-relation, or how abrupt it was.

Perhaps it's because no one was prepared to deal with a demon who anticipated Kakarot's death for so long. Was that deserved? The demon was the reason Kakarot spiraled into such a sadistic nature. Can one truly blame Kakarot for all the things he did to humanity after he broke free from that prison?

Or maybe…Kakarot could have made the choice to not give into the temptation. To not his grudges get the better of him. To have simply left the Earthlings alone while they were freed from Frieza's clutches. But…would have that been a sign of weakness?

What was right, what was wrong…Raditz sometimes questioned it. What the Earthlings say as evil and cruel, the Saiyans saw as something to be honored and praised about. It is surreal, how sharp the contrasts are.

It's perhaps the topic that weighs heavily on everyone's minds during the trip back to the ship—the ship that is still grounded and unable to fly. Even if it can fly, they won't be leaving Earth anytime soon. It's not because they lack a purpose or destination…but because they have another mess they have to clean up. A mess that, even if they don't want to admit it, they are all responsible for.

Once they arrive, they are greeted with silence. They all saw what happened. They all know what to expect. The only one who is out of the loop is ChiChi, who refused to watch anymore of the tournament the moment Cell started to torment the children.

It means she had no idea…

When questions arise on who will break the news to ChiChi, Raditz is the first to volunteer. It wasn't that everyone was too hesitant to raise any hands, Raditz simply never gave that hesitation the chance to make itself known. It was instantaneous. He already planned to tell her regardless of anyone's decision. It's what surprised everyone the most. What surprises everyone even more, is how ChiChi responds to the news.

1) She does break down into tears. Raditz does his best to comfort her, as awkward as it is for him. Surprisingly, she doesn't pin any blame on anyone. She doesn't lash out. She doesn't curse them or throw any vile insults.

She instead asks about her son. When she was informed that he was fine, she aks about his mental state.

That is undetermined. It has been for quite some time.

Nappa is the one to bring the unconscious child over to her. He lies him down near his mother, who cries for him. She cries for Trunks. She cries for all the years of anguish they had to witness and endure. She cries for the childhood they never had. She cries for everything that went wrong, that she was powerless to prevent.

All that crying. And somehow, even now, Raditz can't bring himself to cry. Everything feels dull. Quiet. He doesn't know why he is filtering everything out. It's simply…much easier to move on. He has to move on. It's the only way he can find some kind of a break—some way to save his youngest brother from the unknown turmoil that cursed demon is putting him through. The only thing Raditz can do is place his brother's body in the suspension casket. Once everything is sealed and secured, Raditz takes one more look at his brother's lifeless form.

It's almost like he is asleep. Even at death, he has the nerve to look so relaxed.

Kakarot's plan worked. Cell is dead.

But celebrating…

Celebration…

Raditz almost doesn't want to do as much as make dinner. The weight in his legs, his head, it makes it so difficult to move. He wants nothing more than to close his eyes and embrace the comfort of sleep. Sleep usually puts the mind at ease.

But, there is still so much to do.

He wordlessly makes his way to the kitchen. While investigating what is available, he discovers that the food supply has been restocked and organized into their respective capsules. Cheelai informs Raditz that she and her partner gathered food during their absence, including adding their own stored food supply from their time with Paragus. She offers her turn to cook the food, insisting with her experience in feeding two Saiyans many times before. She tells Raditz that he needs to rest. Raditz decides to allow her to take charge. He is too tired to protest anyway.

He heads for the medical room, where every healing chamber is in full operation. As much as his body aches and desires rest, it's nothing compared to the dread he feels seeing his son's limp and unconscious form floating inside the healing liquid. The buzzing of lights, the humming of the chamber at work…it doesn't sit right. Future Trunks shouldn't have suffered so much.

And Karot…the young child he is. He slumbers in a separate chamber, almost as if he's lifeless. His mother refuses to leave the chamber's side, staring at her son.

The third and final chamber is occupied by Kauli. She was against going first before, but she eventually caved after Gine begged her to go. She too is asleep. The last time she was in there…it wasn't a pleasant thing either.

It doesn't surprise Raditz that Turles is monitoring her nearby. Tarble is busy checking the status of each chamber every few minutes. Everyone needs their turn, so it's up to him to decide when someone else can go.

Meanwhile, Cheelai prepares and cooks the biggest dinner seen in a long time; A giant grilled fish, glazed with honey and seasoned with spices. It is served with poultry and the buttered vegetables they could find. Rice and potatoes are plentiful. Caramel-glazed fruit and several pies were baked to perfection. It looks absolutely stunning.

But still, it doesn't feel right. There is no Kakarot to compliment the food.

Eating in silence was never part of the plan. No one really had an appetite. Vegeta especially, was picking at his food. Whether or not it is related to Kakarot's death is undetermined, but it was unlikely.

They store the leftovers; They make sure to put away the proper portions for the ones in healing once they wake.

After that, everyone cleaned up and went to their own corners. Sitting or standing, lost in their own thoughts. Now that reality is sinking in, it almost feels like they didn't win. The silence is uncanny, but no one really wants to talk.

Once Tarble calls for Raditz in the medical room, he enters without a word. He doesn't remember crawling into the chamber, or the feeling of Tarble fitting the oxygen mask on his face. He doesn't even hear the liquid filling the tank. He just closes his eyes, and he drifts off.

His dreams are filled with distorted memories of Cell's tournament. But what stands out the most, is the sadistic grin painted across Future Trunks' face.

- 0000 -

The moment Karot opens his eyes, he sits up with a start. The environment is nothing he has ever seen before. He sits in the middle of a massive field of light-green grass—the grass is far too light in color, with the tips of the blades faded, as if they are the fingertips of a phantom. Floating in the air are the tiniest specks of yellow light, and the sky is a white sight of nothingness. Behind him, the ghastly field expands as far as his eyes can see. To his left and right are no different—he's in an endless void of some sort. He stands, cautious, trying to swallow the lump on his throat.

'Where am I?' Karot's thoughts bounce in every direction. He jumps again, not expecting his inner monologue to become so loud.

'Gohan? Gohan! Is that you?'

Trunks' voice. Karot can't pin down its location. Its volume and direction are scattered, but it doesn't flood his ears. It's not a real sound, instead ringing strong in his head, swirling with slight panic.

'Trunks? Where are you?' Karot flinches at the volume of his own thoughts again. He touches his mouth, realizing he can't speak. His lips won't move.

'I…I don't know. I can hear you, but I can't figure out where you are. All I see is this strange grass.'

'It's the same for me. How…how can I hear you, but I don't see you?' Karot takes several steps back, looking to his left and right.

He bumps into something. He spins around in a battle-ready stance, meeting Trunks' face. He relaxes in an instant, relieved to see he's at least, not alone.

'This place is giving me the creeps,' Trunks' mouth wasn't moving either.

Telepathy. They are communicating through telepathy.

But why?

Karot tries to assort the possibilities. What is the most logical reason for this? This place…it has to be some sort of mental illusion, something to keep his brain from panicking. But…is he dreaming? It doesn't feel like he is, but it doesn't feel like he's awake either.

'How are we communicating like this?' Karot asks. 'Do you know telepathy?'

'No. I don't. I was never taught how to use it,' Trunks thinks. 'I guess you're just as lost as I am.'

Karot nods. His eyes search, but the sights are all the same. What does catch his eye is something he thought Trunks lost.

'Your…your tail…?'

The faintest brush almost makes Trunks jump out his skin. Looking behind him, he can see a transparent limb where his tail used to be. He is hesitant, reaching for it with curled fingers. At the lightest tap, there is nothing. His entire hand phases through, as if he touched a ghost.

'Where are we?' Frantic, Trunks turns to his right, then left, trying to comprehend what he is seeing. 'How did we get here?!'

'This is…a place that doesn't exist.'

Karot spins around. His heart skips a beat as he meets his father's face—a face with a scar. His hair is thicker on the wrong side.

…That's not his father.

'Who are you?' Karot asks carefully, unsure of what to make of what he is seeing.

'Saiyans usually don't ask questions.' The stranger crosses his arms.

The stranger's voice…Karot recognizes it. 'Your that voice we heard before. The voice that told us to fly away during the tournament!'

The stranger responds with a firm nod.

'Were you watching us the entire time?' Trunks asks.

The stranger nods again. Karot can't decide if he should trust him or not. But, it's evident he is a Saiyan. He has a tail, and it's not tucked away as it should be. He isn't on guard, which means he's comfortable with speaking to them.

Karot squints his eyes. If this stranger who looks like his father went all the way through the trouble to speak with them, then he clearly wants to help. The traits he has only leads to a simple conclusion. 'You're related to us, aren't you?'

'Humph. Familiar ties isn't the reason I've decided to help you, but yes. We do share blood,' the stranger responds. 'My name is Bardock.'

'My uncle told me about you,' Trunks responds, in awe. 'You're our grandfather.'

Karot is stunned. He heard stories from Uncle Raditz. From all the tales he was told, Bardock sounded like an unstoppable force that rivaled the Saiyan king. He took on missions even the elites turned down. He and his grandmother…

'Stop staring at me like that. I'm not a god.' Bardock's frown is more than enough to snap Karot from his pondering.

'You brought us here,' Trunks responds. 'But why? I thought Saiyans don't bother with others. And…how are you talking to us if you are dead?'

Bardock shakes his head. 'So many questions. Is that an Earthling thing? Whatever. To answer your first one, I am communicating with you because I want to. As for your second question, it's part of…something I was forced to pick up decades ago. Although, intercepting your dreams was a lot easier than I expected.'

That doesn't answer much, but Karot decides to accept it. 'If you are here talking to us, then it must be important.'

'At least you know how to get straight to business. So let's talk; That power of yours. Before this year is done, you need to learn how to control it.'

'What?' Karot blinks. 'You're talking about what we used against Cell, aren't you? But we already killed him. Why do we have to hurry?'

Bardock just looks at him. 'Your bloodlust.'

For a second, Karot can see flashes of the tournament before his eyes. He remembers Cell's disfigured body when he deflected his own attack against him.

It reminds him of the incident on the ship. When his father…

Karot shuts his eyes. He doesn't want to think about it.

'Saiyans use anger as fuel in combat. It is our greatest strength—if that rage is channeled correctly.' Bardock explains. 'Although I am assuming you know this already. You've experienced firsthand what blind rage does to you.'

Of course. Karot is all too familiar with it, and he had witnessed what Trunks can do. Their blind rage may be different from each other, but the results always end with unnecessary and reckless destruction. Overexertion.

'And if it's not blind rage, it's the sort that surfaces when you finally give in to all of your existing violent tendencies.' Bardock narrows his eyes. 'Saiyans do take joy in a good fight, but we shouldn't go out of our way to drag out our enemy's suffering for our own pleasure. If they are too weak to defend themselves, there is no reason to drag out the fighting anymore. They are already dead.'

"You are already dead."

Kakarot's words to Cell…

Karot looks at his hands. He remembers how that power felt, and how angry he was. The thoughts that clouded his mind…he doesn't want to have those terrible thoughts ever again.

Next to him, Trunks looks far more ashamed. He can't seem to bring himself to look at his grandfather.

'But you are learning,' Bardock continues. 'There is little reason to scold yourselves over it. From what I've observed, a Super Saiyan alone is channeled through rage. So what you experienced is a higher level than even that. It doesn't surprise me that you refused to listen.'

Trunks yelled at his father…

He was tempted to attack him.

'Here is my way of seeing it; Don't just get angry for the sake of getting angry. There has to be a purpose. Redirect your malice with a purpose, a single goal. See your power as a small flame. If you try to reach out in too many different places, that flame will spread out far beyond your control. But if you lead it towards a single direction…you can burn a steady path. Yes, there will be destruction, but it's focused and controlled. You get that?'

Trunks heard something similar before. 'The fire analogy…I've heard it before. Uncle Turles—'

'It's the easiest way to visualize your power. It's something I've taught Raditz and Turles, something I've taught Gine.'

Karot realizes his father was never mentioned. The reason for it is obvious, but to speak to his grandfather before his father got to do as much as to know him is strange.

'But that's not why I am here. There is something far more important to discuss here.'

The pair exchange looks, trying to understand what other reason Bardock would make himself known to them. Searching through their memories of the tournament isn't difficult. The most vibrant was the moment Kakarot was killed.

Karot sighs, although no sound comes out. 'Something is terribly wrong, right?'

Bardock's face forms a frown.

'It's about the demon, isn't it?' Trunks asks. 'He has Goku's—uh, I mean Kakarot's soul. It's too late, isn't it?'

2) Bardock looks off to the distance. 'When I asked King Yemma, I was informed that his soul didn't arrive in Otherworld at all. But at the same time, he's not present in the living world, either.'

'What?' Karot tilts his head. 'What does that mean? That doesn't make any sense.'

'That's what I said,' Bardock agrees. 'But then I remembered Hell and Heaven aren't the only possible dimensions for souls to go. That's when King Yemma came to the conclusion that he likely wounded up in The Demon Realm.'

'The…Demon Realm?' Trunks frowns.

'I don't know all too much about it. I tried to ask for details, but he was in no mood for it. But what he did tell me, was that pesky crown atop Kakarot's head saved him from being consumed by that damned demon. For once, it did something that benefited him. My guess is that in a fit of rage, that demon sealed him away somewhere until he can figure out what to do with him. But, take that with a grain of salt. It's the best theory I've got.'

Karot can't decide if that's the best or worst news he has ever heard. 'What you're saying is, we have a chance to save him!'

'I wouldn't say it's promised, but the odds do look better,' Bardock thinks. 'To take extra precaution, King Yemma took Kakarot's body away so that the demon has no vessel to sneak into. It's basically a stalemate until one side shows weakness. The demon is weak now, yes, but the moment he consumes Kakarot's soul, not only will he inherit his power, he will also amplify that with the hatred he loves to play around with. The last time something like that happened…I don't know. The big ogre said something about the Kais or whatever. They probably stopped him before, or someone related. He's investigating this case as we speak, but that's not for you to get involved in. At least not yet.'

'Not yet?' Karot echoes.

'But there is no way of telling when the demon finds the break he's looking for. The future…the future doesn't look favorable.'

The two listening lower their heads.

'But, as it seems…fate can be changed.'

They look at their grandfather, confused.

'The concept of time is complicated. I've seen glimpses of the future, and the outcome was always true. But you, Seleriak, broke the laws of time by traveling between two timelines. That means that perhaps, some things can be altered. Your interference has changed the threads of fate. Prince Vegeta is still alive. Your planet is still in one piece. That overgrown insect remains dead. None of that was supposed to happen.'

The two youths watch as Bardock takes a few steps across the vast space.

'I'm not Gine or anything. Words of encouragement or whatever, I don't do those. I just wanted to talk, because this is the only chance I can talk to you both at the same time. I have doubts you'll be sticking around for much longer.'

Karot knows who Bardock is talking to. He looks at his cousin, who seems to understand.

'You can pass on this information to everyone else, because they will need to prepare as well,' Bardock thinks. 'You don't have to fight in every given opportunity, but never stop training. You will never know when the next threat will come. A Saiyan should be prepared for everything.'

Karot nods. As much as he hates fighting, he understands he has to at least stay in shape for it. Bardock is right. There is no telling when the day will come when his power will be needed.

'There's nothing else that needs to be said.' Bardock turns his back and walks away. He raises a single hand, his tail swaying with every step.

He fades into nothing.

- 0000 -

The moment Karot opens his eyes, he sits up.

The first thing he notices is…that nothing hurts. Nothing hurts at all. He checks his hands, then his arms. There isn't the slightest bruise, not a scratch on his body.

'I'm…healed…?'

He's in bed. His mother is asleep on the other side of the room. With careful motions, he turns his body and slides off the surface. His feet hover just inches from the ground to not wake her. A low-key flight is the best option.

Entering the hallway, he meets Future Trunks' gaze. No words need to be spoken.

They had the same dream.

It was real.

- Morning -

Breakfast came just as easy as dinner did. This time around, Gine did all the cooking alone.

The morning atmosphere is just as quiet, but not as heavy as the night before. Conversations exist, very light ones. Oolong and Puar are arguing over card game rules, but it's rudely interrupted when Launch, in her blonde form, almost breaks the table in two.

Walking from the back, Raditz makes his way to the lobby. He got a fresh change of clothes, pulling at the fabric that feels strange against his body. He can't understand how Earthlings are comfortable with wearing such restricting clothes. What they call "jeans" feel near suffocating to move around in.

"I can't wait until Tarble makes the next set. This isn't what I had in mind." Turles had no choice with the attire either. His choice of clothes are a sleeveless black top and big jeans. He seems to have the same opinion. "How do Earthlings move in these?"

"I see that you've already replaced your arm," Raditz says.

"Yeah." Turles rests his hand on the forearm of the new prosthetic. "It's a newer model too."

It falls silent between them. The lobby feels empty, despite how many people are awake inside the ship. For the first time since the Cell situation, it feels safe enough to relax. Raditz feels as if his tail can finally breathe. His mind, on the other hand, remains restless. He can't stop thinking about where his brother could be.

"The little tyke. How is he faring?" Turles breaks the silence with a question.

"He's with ChiChi," Raditz answers. "He's still asleep. I can assume the future kid is asleep as well."

"Hm, and Karot's still out like a light," Turles says. "I've decided to leave them be. If they want to sleep in, I see no reason to complain."

Raditz had no plans to nudge them awake regardless.

"And the small creature?" Turles asks.

"Zhanshitao will live," Raditz replies. "He will have an awkward gate for a while."

"For a while?" Turles echoes. "You're saying his legs will grow back?"

"Under normal circumstances, yes," Raditz says. "But he's a different case. He hatched as a runt. He has to maintain his small form to conserve energy. I'm not sure if that affects his natural healing ability or not. Sure, he has been crushed before, but he never sustained these kinds of injuries."

"So it's not guaranteed."

"No. Mother warned me to not have my hopes up."

The door of the information room opens, drawing both of their attention. Tarble walks out, followed by Nappa, as he heads to the main controls.

"What's going on?" Turles asks.

"Just a precaution," Tarble answers. His fingertips graze the keyboard before he begins to type. The monitor screen above turns on in response. "I will need to secure the forest. Since Cell has been killed, it wouldn't surprise me if anyone else tries their luck with us by tomorrow. It's an effective strategy since we are exhausted, but to be frank, I am in no mood for it."

"Although we can't exactly complain, since we are the cause for it," Nappa says. "I'll give them credit, these Humans really don't know when to quit."

Vegeta walks out from the room. Eyes fall on him, but only for a few seconds. "We can set up the defenses, but what about the state of this ship? How much longer will it remain immobile?"

"If I can work on it undisturbed, I can predict it flying again by the next year," Tarble answers. "I don't have all the parts I need to fix specific hazards, and we don't have the fuel to run it. All of that will take time. I'm actually considering expanding it, if it's possible. We can salvage parts from Cold's abandoned ship if it remains untainted."

"I'm quite positive the elements made half of its parts useless," Vegeta says, with a cross of his arms.

"You'll be surprised by what I can do. I know it's been a slow process—almost four years since it crashed here—but if no more damages are sustained, it should be as good as new on schedule."

His tail stops moving on that note.

"If I can somehow get access to the advanced radar that King Cold had, we can detect forces beyond this planet's atmosphere. We will be able to scour the universe again."

"Again?" Near the broken door, the Earthlings exchange glances.

"This solar system only has one inhabitable planet, you see," Tarble says. "And we are clearly not welcome here. My hope is that within the next few years, we can find a new planet to inhabit. Favorably, one that doesn't have much intelligent life so we don't clash with the natives."

"So you want us to live isolated?" Kauli arrives, overhearing this. "There's only a handful of us left."

"Yes, I am well aware. But I doubt any other world would welcome us with open arms. It's the best solution I can come to. All the infighting is something we don't need, as tempting as it may be to some of you."

Vegeta narrows his eyes.

"Between the history of the Tuffles, and what Earthlings are capable of, I believe it's best we don't agitate forces who have other assets to make up for their lack of battle power. Of course, there is another problem: As much as I would desire a quick departure, we unfortunately have a new case that is preventing us from leaving."

"I was tempted to let this planet deal with it," Vegeta says, shooting his brother a glare despite knowing he won't see it. "But I was informed that we are the only ones capable of cleaning up this mess. Let this planet fall apart any further, and it wouldn't do Seleriak any favors. Tch."

"No way. You're actually helping someone else?" Kauli gasps. It was half-exaggerated.

"Don't make me change my mind." Vegeta glares at her now. "The only reason I am agreeing to this is not because I want to help him. I am just in no mood to deal with Tarble's constant whining."

"Say whatever you like," Tarble says.

Nappa frowns. "Although we will need to discuss this with the kids."

"How are they going to take it?" Kauli asks. "First we have to figure out what we are going to do about this mess. I already don't like the idea of going out into space. I've never done it before. Leaving this planet…I don't know. I grew up here. And before you get on to me about it, I am no space pirate like the rest of you, alright?"

"We are aware," Nappa says. "Neither are the kids. We may wound up living in this ship while it drifts in space until we find an acceptable place. It's not something that bothers me, but long-term space travel doesn't sit well with anyone unfamiliar with it."

"The majority of what we do doesn't sit well with them," Vegeta says. "They will have to accept it regardless."

"There are some things they can never adapt to, Vegeta," Nappa reminds him. "And forcing their hands never did them any favors."

Raditz remembers it so vividly. From the moment he spotted his nephew hiding behind Bulma at the beach, and the time he abandoned him to survive in the wilderness…the kid never had a break since. He was always running away, or fighting against something. It was a norm for the Saiyans. But, for a child who spent the first four years of his life in peaceful solitude, it had to be too much.

Maybe once he would mock Karot for it…but now…

"We didn't really have much of what the Earthlings call a childhood." Raditz says. "Hate to say what happened to these kids is what would be considered a rite of passage back home."

"We've raised them too much like Saiyans. It really did put a mental strain on them," Nappa says.

Tarble agrees. "It wouldn't be fair to keep forcing their hands like this. As powerful as they may be, they are still children. Their minds are still developing."

Turles shrugs. "I have nothing against letting them rest for some time. Let them be…children. Whatever that means. I didn't exactly have that privilege."

Vegeta almost rolls his eyes. He turns his back towards the monitor screen. Not a word comes out of his mouth.

They are unaware of it, but Karot and Future Trunks had been listening the entire time, with their backs pressed against the hallway walls. They give each other a quick glance, unsure if they should reveal themselves or not.

That's when the broken door is pushed aside.

Broly steps inside the lobby, heading straight for Tarble. He holds something in his hand—something furry and lavender as he drops it in the prince's hand.

"Oh. I wasn't expecting it to have survived the clash. You actually found it," Tarble says, stunned.

Vegeta's face twists. "I…is that the kid's tail? What the hell do you need that for?"

"Well, I was hoping to have found yours as well, but it seems to have disintegrated," Tarble says, earning a strange look. "Although Seleriak's was what I was more hoping to see turn up."

"I'm confused," Kauli says. "Are you going to reattach it or something?"

"Nonsense. There is no need for that. I just needed it to understand its genetic makeup. That's all." Tarble reaches down and feels around the base of the controls. He finds what he is looking for, opening a small hatch and setting the tail inside. Once closed, the screen displays a loading bar.

Everyone falls silent, mostly confused. Once the bar fills, information fills the screen, lined up in several rows filled with numbers. While the Earthlings remain confused on what they are seeing, it's the elites sharing the same dumbfounded look. Tarble's fingers have gone completely still on the keyboard.

"What is it?" Raditz is concerned. "Is something wrong?"

"This is unexpected," Tarble says. "His tail is 90-percent composed of Saiyan DNA."

Everyone else is shocked.

"What? Seriously? That much?" Raditz asks. "The hell is the 10-percent then?!"

"The fur's density and color."

"Th…that's it?"

"It does make sense. Humans don't have tails. And just as Nappa said before, his Saiyan blood is so potent. But…what I don't understand it's the anomaly of its growth rate. After a while our tails just stop coming back naturally, because it's considered more of a burden than a benefit to us. But his keeps regenerating, no matter how many times he dismembers it from his body…how many times Turles?"

"From what he told me, I can say that's the twelfth tail right there," Turles says.

"Twelfth?" Nappa repeats, shocked. "You get lucky if it grows back after the fourth time."

"Was he perhaps…experimented on or something?" Kauli asks.

"I can understand that theory, but there aren't any strange alterations here," Tarble says. "My guess is that it has much to do with his Human genes. The adrenaline rush Humans tend to get is a far more extreme spike when they experience fear. The sensation of danger usually triggers a chemical response that signals the body to sprout a new tail as a defense mechanism. Although, the conditions do require the presence of a full moon."

"This planet doesn't have a moon anymore," Tien says, confused.

"Yes, but The Resistance Army thought it would be hilarious to send a frequent pulse of Blutz Waves across this planet's atmosphere. Which, I am going to find the source of and destroy it."

The last sentence was spoken with such bitter hatred, Nappa has to take a step back. Tarble's fingers fidgets with the Oozaru pendant hanging from his neck. He mutters something low in his breath in his native tongue, something about the untimely transformation he experienced. If his tone didn't make his displeasure known, his tail practically sliced the air just now.

"After the incident with Kauli's Saiyan heritage being identified, it's likely they did this to uncover any more possible Saiyans that could have been sent to this planet unnoticed. They would quickly neutralize them if they reacted to it," Tarble continues. "So, yes. Even if there is the slim chance there are other Saiyans among us on this sad planet, they are likely dead now. How splendid."

"Oh. I see." Kauli frowns.

"So, does that means in Trunks' future, those waves still exist?" Tien says.

"That's practically what I said," Tarble replies.

"And since he was constantly fighting those Androids…I guess that explains it then," Tien nods. "Why his tail keeps growing back."

"Yes. And each time it does, it's stronger than the previous one. Harder to part from, you see," Tarble says. "I have my doubts Seleriak would have been able to tear out his own tail the way he did without that newfound power of his."

"Damn," Kauli mutters.

"Hurts like hell, too. No Saiyan would even consider doing that to themselves," Nappa says. "Makes every nerve in your body feel like you're being stabbed by a thousand knives at once."

"It's likely Seleriak will see a new tail very soon," Tarble says. "He's still young."

"Good for him I guess, but what about that Vegeta? He's missing his tail," Oolong wonders.

The mentioned prince casts him a glare. It's more than enough to send the pig hiding behind Tien's leg.

Tien is brave enough to ask. "Will it grow back? I don't know if the rule is different for adult Saiyans."

Vegeta glances at the man. Whatever the reason the question is asked doesn't concern him, but it does annoy him. It's clear on his face. He makes his move to leave the lobby. But before he enters the information room, he answers;

"It depends. It has a mind of its own."

As he vanishes out of sight, Oolong steps away, relieved that nothing horrendous happened to him.

"I guess whatever Kami put Goku went through really was the only way it would remain stunted, huh?" Krillin realized.

"Come again?" Tarble asks.

That's when Krillin goes on to explain how Kakarot's tail always grew back when he was a kid. It wasn't until he spent three years training under Kami that when he returned as a young adult, it was nowhere to be seen.

"That's right. I do remember Kakarot mentioning something about that," Raditz says. "He must have done something to the very base that blocked the chemical signals, so it would remain dormant."

"So Vegeta has a chance then. Whoop-de-doo," Kauli says with a roll of her eyes.

"Not all too surprising. Raditz's tail grew back when we fought against Frieza," Nappa says.

"It did?" Kauli blinks. "Geez. Are you sure we ain't part lizard?"

"So basically there is nothing wrong with him is what you're telling us," Raditz says, ignoring her question. "Those soldiers didn't alter one thing. His mother didn't try anything…"

"He's 100-percent clean of any alterations," Tarble says. "Just the Human blood."

"Wow." Turles wasn't sure what he was expecting, but that was the best news he heard about the kid.

Tarble turns towards the hallway. "You can come out now, both of you. Eavesdropping is incredibly rude."

"What?"

To everyone's surprise, Future Trunks and Karot step into the lobby, averting their eyes. They approach the crowd.

"How did you know they were there?" Krillin asks. "I didn't even sense their energy!"

"I can smell them," Tarble answers. He's unaware of the strange looks he's receiving from the Humans.

Future Trunks moves forward, keeping his head low as he brushes past the crowd. Once he stands near the prince, he looks at him. His eyes are glossed. He's on the verge of crying. "So there's nothing wrong with me. They never did anything to me…?"

Tarble smiles, giving him a nod. "I don't know who said such a horrendous thing that led you to that conclusion, but it's at least one more thing you don't have to worry about."

"...It was Teacher."

Tarble's smile fades.

"Ever since I was small…he always said so."

- 0000 -

"I can't believe all of that happened to you, Trunks. I…I wish there was a way to undo it all. I really do."

Gine and everyone else had gathered at the table to listen to Future Trunks' story. He is finally willing to tell them everything.

He tells them how he was locked away by his mother, and about what Chille did. He tells them how he met Tarble and Karot, how they taught him with their twisted morals, how Tarble descended further into madness, and all the terrible things that came after.

All of the horrid tales finally shed more light into his previous outburst.

Tarble is speechless, deep in his own troubled thoughts. Just when he thought he heard everything, the iceberg only got so much deeper. His fingers play with the pendant hanging from his neck. When he transformed, how many ill memories did he resurface?

"So Gohan wasn't spared from that twisted future either," Krillin says. "He was just better at hiding it.'

"He didn't want to scare me, yes," Future Trunks confirms. "But he liked to torture people he didn't like."

"Goodness…" Gine sinks into her chair.

"The Androids in this timeline…they are far more tame somehow," Future Trunks says. "I noticed it when I fought them here. They weren't sadistic things that killed people for sport. Maybe it's because they actually had a goal in mind or something. Or maybe because in my timeline, they too were far more aggressive by default. I don't know. I'm still trying to understand it."

"Your resistance is incredible," Tien says.

Future Trunks sighs. "Didn't really have a choice. There were times I did want to give up, but the time machine was the only reason I kept fighting against those temptations. It wasn't until Goku died that I just…gave into it I guess. Maybe in the very back of my mind, I knew there was no way I could defeat Cell if I kept the mindset I did… So I just…let my hatred take hold of me. All the hate from my years growing up…all the hate from what Chille did, what the Androids did…what Teacher did…"

Tarble nods.

"But what's terrifying…was just how easy it was. I stopped worrying. I was content with throwing everything away. I accepted that I wouldn't be the same. What was the point of holding it back anymore? I guess…that was what triggered the transformation. And…I will admit. It felt…freeing. If it weren't for you all…I don't think I would have snapped out of that haze."

"You weren't kidding when you said you knew a thousand ways to kill him, were you?" Kauli asks.

"...No. Maybe it was a bit of an exaggeration…but…Nappa was right. I could have gotten creative if I wanted to."

Everyone exchanges glances.

Future Trunks looks at his hands. "I don't want to experience that again. It makes me sick to my stomach. I never…had so much blood on my hands. I could have made a clean kill, but I didn't want to do that. It was like, the more pain he was in, the more satisfying the kill was. That's when it became all too clear why my mentors were the way they were. It's all too anticlimactic when you can just step on a butterfly. So why not tear off its wings instead?"

"I guess that explains your Androids, too," Yamcha says.

Future Trunks nods.

"Speaking of the Androids, it's clear you understand the behavior and anatomy of the Oozaru due to how your mentors taught you" Nappa says. "When the Androids of this timeline had you cornered, you told us back then you never transformed into your primal form before. That was clearly a lie."

"Yeah. He used it against the Androids, didn't he?" Kauli recalls.

Future Trunks frowns. "A lie…maybe. It was the first time I willingly transformed into that thing. And…back then, I wasn't so ready to talk about any of my mentors. It was easier to put up a brave face."

"So now my question is, what are you going to do as soon as you return home?" Vegeta asks.

The question catches Future Trunks off guard. He didn't expect him to say anything. "I…am going to defeat the Androids of course. What else?"

Vegeta scoffs. "Not defeat them. Destroy them. With mere Super Saiyan might? That's impossible. You were unable to defeat them before. Even though you have gotten stronger, their teamwork is exceptional. You've seen what the Earthlings did to Cell when they put their minds together. Those Androids will easily overwhelm you if you are careless!"

"I'm well aware of that!"

"Then you will use your newfound power against them." Vegeta slams a hand against the table. "End the pointless fight once and for all in a single shot! I can care less about how that form makes you feel!"

"Vegeta!" Tarble glares at him.

"He needs to hear it!" Vegeta returns the glare. "If he decides to run away from it due to ill experiences, he will never grow! Once he learns to channel it properly, then he should have nothing to worry about!"

Vegeta slams both hands on the table, standing with intense eyes staring directly at the startled teenager.

"Let that power go to waste, and it will be the greatest insult to all of us! You two are the strongest warriors standing on this forsaken planet!" Vegeta's eyes fall to Karot. "Don't just settle with what you already have! Climb higher! Aim higher, so that nothing like this ever happens again! You got that?!"

He sits back down, turning his head away with crossed arms.

"But trust me when I say you won't remain where you stand for very long. Enjoy it while it lasts."

Karot is sure that message was directed towards him. He almost hides behind the table.

Turles sits up. "So, kid. Do you think you can tap into that power by command? Like a Super Saiyan?"

"Uh…" Future Trunks feels all eyes on him. "I understand you are curious about how it works. But…it's not something I can put into words. With a Super Saiyan, I can transform any time by just getting angry. But that power…I don't know. It's something far deeper than that. I don't really want to think about it."

He catches Vegeta's glance.

"But…I guess I can try. I'm going to need a lot of space though. I might end up destroying something just from its energy output alone."

"Then it's a good thing we have just the room for that," Nappa says.

- 0000 -

Tarble stands near the controls of the training room, right behind the massive window. Near him stands Nappa and Vegeta, who want the front row seats to the upcoming spectacle. At the very back of the room are the other Saiyans, and the Z-Fighters who are understandably nervous, but curious.

The most focused among them is Raditz, who hasn't said a word since he stepped foot in the room. With his arms crossed and lips pressed, he is perhaps the most tense person in the room.

'I understand we need to study it to understand it…but to push these kids into that position again…' Raditz narrows his eyes. 'Will it really help Seleriak against those future Androids? What if he falls into the brink of madness again?'

Turles doesn't appear to agree with this either. At least, if anything were to go wrong, Raditz knows Turles would be one of the first to step in.

Because Gine looks half-ready to end it now.

"I'm going to need to collect some data between the both of you," Tarble explains. "First, we will begin with you powering up in your normal form. Then we will do this again, but with you two as a Super Saiyan. After that, if you can, you both will transform into that newfound power of yours."

"Are you sure this room will be able to handle it?" Turles asks as he gives the wall a quick tap. "Didn't you say you are still trying to repair this ship? The shockwave might just shatter everything."

"Not if we open the roof and windows," Tarble replies. "The worst that can happen is a power outage, but I can easily repair that."

The roof within the training room lifts, supported by several beams that connect the pieces together. The windows sink into the walls, allowing the gentle breeze of outside to brush past everyone.

"Whenever you are ready," Tarble tells the youths.

"Oh…he says he has things under control, but Saiyans carry far too much power," Cheelai whispers to Lemo.

"Maybe this demonstration could be good for Broly," Lemo says. "See? He's already interested."

A quick look at Broly confirmed Lemo's words as true. Broly, as silent as he is, had been intrigued from the very beginning.

First, it is Karot who will be tested alone. Then it's Future Trunks. They both flare their energy at the highest they can muster in their base forms.

"How do you trigger the Super Saiyan transformation at command?" Tarble asks.

"I don't know," Karot answers as he clenches a fist. "I guess thinking about all the things my dad did makes me so angry. I hate how powerless I felt back then. And even now, it still feels that way."

In an instant, his aura wavers before flaring gold. He is in his Super Saiyan form. His turquoise eyes hold intense, but calm fury.

"Seems to work the same way for the rest of us," Nappa says.

…

By the time it's Future Trunks' turn, he transforms in a heartbeat. His long hair sticks out on both sides, unrestrained by the ponytail as it was before. It's quite an interesting sight.

"All I have to do is remember how I found my Master on the ground," he says, breaking down his own transformation process. "It never fails to make me angry, because I know it was my fault."

Tarble is typing on the keyboard, nodding his head.

"The pressure is the same from any other Super Saiyan," Krillin says, cautious. "You don't just see it. You can feel their anger. Really makes your stomach sink to the ground."

"Is there really no other way to trigger the transformation?" Yamcha asks, just as nervous. "You just have to get angry every single time?"

"As of now, it seems to be the only possible method," Tarble answers. "It's no different for a Saiyan hybrid. The same rule applies for us."

"Can't imagine having to stay angry like that…" Tien frowns.

"It's not that you stay angry," Future Trunks says. "At least for me. Although, I did learn to relax this power. It's just enough so rage isn't so constant, but not too much that it goes away completely."

The aura fizzles away whisps. His hair remains gold and standing.

"I was told that anger is like oxygen for a flame. It ignites that form and keeps it alive. The moment you decide to relax, it is extinguished. I just have to hold on to the tiniest spark, and it holds itself together. My body is able to maintain this form all day if I wanted it to. Uncle Turles helped me master it."

Turles steps back as eyes fall on him. "Hey. He was going to kill me, alright?"

"Sorry about that."

"Alright. I need you to flare your energy again. This time at full strength," Tarble says. "I know you don't want to do this, but just a few seconds is all I need of that new form. Do you think you can do it?"

Future Trunks looks at him, frowning.

…

"...I…don't know," Karot says during his session. "Like Trunks said, reaching that power isn't possible unless I have a certain way of thinking. …I don't like having those kinds of thoughts."

"I know, kid," Nappa says. "But Vegeta is right. You're going to have to learn about this power, too. Maybe you can find a way to call it briefly, like with a Super Saiyan."

"Maybe."

Karot takes several deep breaths. He closes his eyes, perhaps gathering all of his nerves.

He screams, and his energy skyrockets as the size of his aura doubles. The entire ship shakes while a powerful gust flares out the ship, almost blowing everyone away.

Frightened by the earthquake, Oolong sprints outside with Launch and ChiChi close behind.

"Please don't hurt yourself too much, Gohan!" ChiChi calls as she rushes out the door.

Tarble is focused, the screen in front of him blaring. His fingers remain still on the keyboard as he feels for any change.

"His power is rising," Tarble says. "but it doesn't feel the way I remember it."

"It's lacking the malice it's supposed to have," Nappa announces. "Right before he transformed against Cell, the air was thick with it. This isn't enough."

"You're right." Vegeta rests a finger on his chin. "He's not going to change. Not like this."

After several seconds, Karot stops screaming, gasping as his aura dies. He crouches down, catching his breath.

"Screaming as hard as you can won't help you," Vegeta says. "What's holding you back?"

…

"Don't know…" Future Trunks answers during his session. He's just as exhausted. "I think it's because Cell isn't here anymore. So I don't really…have a motivator to trigger it."

"I figured as much," Tarble says.

"So what now?" Vegeta asks him. "How are they going to master it if they can't even take that form?"

"We just have to keep trying," Future Trunks says.

…

The ground trembles against Karot's rising power. He is screaming through his teeth, titling his head back as he tries to reach for the power he is sure is still there.

But his energy dwindles. He falls to his hands and knees, his breathing hoarse.

Concerned, Tarble speaks up. "Perhaps we should end things here. I don't wish to strain their bodies."

"No…" Karot pushes himself to his feet. Despite how winded he is, he prepares himself for another session. "I won't stop trying. Not yet! I was able to do it when I was tired and bleeding, so I can do it again. I just…have to reach somewhere!"

"I admire your determination, but this isn't the way to do it," Tarble says. His words are ignored as Karot begins to flare his energy again. "All you are doing is pushing yourself too hard. It will not have a positive end result."

"I just…I just have to remember…how it feels…!" Karot screams through clenched teeth. His cry dies as he falls to his knees again. His aura fades out. He is panting, but he's already trying to stand.

"Karot! That's quite—"

Vegeta pushes Tarble back, interrupting him. "Let him keep going. This is his decision to make."

Tarble frowns. He rests his hands on the keyboard again, waiting.

Gine steps forward. "You say Cell was the reason for your transformation…but that's not just it. He's part of it, yes, but do you remember why you defied him?"

Karot looks at her.

"Your father is dead, but it was not his death alone that forced your hand, was it?"

Karot thinks for several seconds, and he finds his answer. "The demon."

"Think about the demon. It's not a person or a living thing. It cares nothing about anyone. The demon hurt your father. The demon rules the future. Think about how it only likes to hurt people for its own sick entertainment. Think about…what you wish to do with it once you see it, knowing it deserves no mercy, no second chances."

The demon did hurt everyone. Not just them, the Earthlings, too. It took advantage of his father when he was at his weakest. It whispered false promises and turned him into a bloodthirsty monster. It's the reason for Cell's creation. It's the reason for the twisted timeline that hangs in the future. It's the reason why…his father is held captive in The Demon Realm.

What even is The Demon Realm? Is that where Youzi lives? Is that where he is at his strongest? Is that where…

It'll torment his father further. It'll try to break him. Even if they somehow do bring his father back to life, what if he's far worse than he was when he returned from being held as a prisoner by The Resistance Army…?

They won't be able to save him anymore. Youzi will darken everyone's hearts. The entire world…

Karot is back on his feet, his eyes void of any focus. Echoes of his father's twisted laughter fills his thoughts. It begins to distort, morphing into Youzi's own.

Youzi in his father's body, using it as a vessel. The entire world, engulfed in flames, deafened by screams.

His mother. His unborn baby sibling…dead.

Dead and bloody, beneath his possessed father's feet.

The white angry bolts spark around Karot's body as he snarls.

His aura explodes. He screams. Tarble is nearly blown back.

To merely destroy Youzi won't be enough.

The demon deserves a fate far worse than being erased from existence. Karot wants to make the demon wishes to be destroyed. All the bloody deaths, Karot should return to him tenfold; Every single tactic. Every single trap. Every blade. Every bullet.

The blood on the ship…

Future Trunks' twisted smile.

"NGH!"

And just as fast as it arrived, it vanished. Karot is on his hands and knees again. This time, his muscles burns too much. His hair loses the golden color, falling black on his shoulders. He gasps for air, sweating and trembling.

"Twenty seconds." Tarble counts.

"Sorry, I couldn't do it…" Karot whispers, trembling. "I got too scared…"

"No, no. It's ok. I understand. I just needed a brief moment, and you gave me exactly that. That's all. I won't ask you to do anything else."

Karot nods, thankful.

Future Trunks bites his lip, taking a deep breath. Eyes are on him now.

"You can do it…" Gine says. "Even if it's…just for a little while."

Future Trunks nods, but he fails to hide the tension in his body.

"Nervous?" Raditz asks him. "I am too."

"I have to do this," Future Trunks says as he walks past and towards the entrance. He looks at Karot as his cousin walks out. They share a brief, silent conversation.

Raditz can see the worry in Future Trunks' face. "Listen, Seleriak, if you don't want to do it then—"

Future Trunks steps inside the room.

"Kid…"

"Gohan doesn't have to worry about mastering that form anytime soon. He gets a pass," Future Trunks says. "But I don't have a choice. My world is far more dangerous. I don't have the luxury to take my time with this. So…just watch me."

Tarble nods. "Whenever you are ready."

Future Trunks closes his eyes. He inhales deeply through his nose. He remembers what Gine said. He holds on to her words. Unlike Karot's world, that was his future. Youzi is still there, thriving in it, corrupting every speck of hope that lingered.

He had to put an end to it.

"The only way I can maintain it…is if I harden my heart," Future Trunks tells himself. "Do not think about anything else. It doesn't matter. Just as Teacher said. Sympathy is irrelevant. Compassion is pointless. The world doesn't care about you. The moment you were born, nobody cared about you. So why should you care about them? Why should you care…? You are only wasting your time…"

Raditz opens his mouth to intervene, but Gine presses a hand against his chest.

She looks pained as well, but she understands it's necessary.

"Compassion is a weakness."

Future Trunks knows the words are false. He knows they are lies. However, at this very moment, he has to convince himself they are true. He has to put himself in that same mindset he had against Cell. He despises it, but he has to fill his head with thoughts of despair, and anger.

He knows the risk he is taking. Nappa pointed it out. Bardock did, too. He almost allowed it to control him in the fight.

But just this moment, he will have to let it consume him again.

That terrible, terrible bloodlust.

"You have to harden your heart," he tells himself again. "The entire world dances with madness. It will eat you alive if you expect any kindness. It doesn't exist. It never existed…it will never exist…and you know why."

He has to convince himself, just for a moment.

"They will take advantage of your ignorance. They will use you. Betray you. Kill you. Every single day, they will try, again and again. You can't escape it. It was your fate from the moment you came to be. Harden your heart, or they will eat you alive…"

It was too hard. He could see it vividly.

The way the soldiers looked at him the moment they realized what he was. The way his mother struck him. How Chille shot her down with no hesitation…

…all because he was born.

And it hurt.

It still hurts.

"Harden your heart. Compassion is a weakness…"

Every single time he displayed any sort of empathy, he was punished for it. His Teacher killed Wasabi. His Teacher killed a little girl.

It is the life of a hopeless future consumed by endless darkness. The only way to survive is to throw away your humanity.

"They see you as a freak of nature…a monster…a demonic spawn from the depths of Hell. Your kindness is nothing more than a facade…of what you truly are deep down. Accept it…"

His Teacher forced him to transform into that monster. His Teacher made him claim the lives of countless incidents.

His Teacher was a monster…until the moment he died.

He snaps out of that haze.

No. He can't think about that.

"The monster that stalks the earth…the one that corrupts the innocent…. What innocent? It doesn't exist anymore. It's all the Saiyan's fault."

His mind flashes countless images. The burning buildings.

The screams. The Androids.

"The Human's fault."

Cell. Youzi.

He feels it swelling in his chest.

It scares him. But he can't push it away.

"So what's the point? There is no reason to fight it."

Kakarot's dead body. His master's dead body. Teacher's dead body.

It keeps rising.

"There's nothing left…"

Indeed. There is…nothing left.

Back home, there will be no Karot. No Tarble. His mother, Wasabi…everyone he knew…dead.

Dead because of his own hesitation…because he was the fool who was afraid…

He was a coward.

"No…"

He doesn't know where he is. He doesn't remember why he is muttering to himself. He doesn't know how long he's been standing there.

He feels it wash over his entire body, just as it did before. He didn't resist it then.

He shouldn't resist it now.

The moment he feels it at its peak, he doesn't push it away. He welcomes it.

Towards the sky, he let out a scream of all of his existing anguish. The blisters burst through his entire body. His aura skyrockets, just as Karot's did.

Everyone is blown back.

3) They slowly stand, staring at the very same form that had Cell trembling like a leaf. The air hisses as the small bolts of lightning continue to jump across Future Trunks' body. His long and golden hair stands upright like blades, a response to the incredible amount of energy flowing through the strands. He takes in a deep breath, his nails digging into his skin.

Karot is speechless upon seeing it from the opposite end. With a rational mind, he can't recognize his cousin at all.

"He…he did it…" Nappa says. "And…he didn't change back…!"

"He isn't changing back…" Vegeta repeats, just as stunned as he was the first time he saw it. "This means…he's still holding on to it willingly. Tarble, are you getting all of this?"

"I-I am." Tarble almost forgot his own words. "This is incredibly helpful. I can get a proper analysis of this power…thank you! That should be enough!"

"Uh…I don't think he's listening to you," Nappa says.

Future Trunks is yet to move. His eyes remain closed, and he doesn't make a sound. Despite it all, and how calm he looks on the outside, everyone can feel it.

The air is thick with overwhelming pressure, laced with the endless lust for blood.

"Kid…?" Nappa almost dares to take a step forward, but he has second thoughts. "Kid!"

No response.

"Seleriak…?" Tarble begins to approach. "Can you hear us?"

"Don't come any closer. I might just kill you."

Tarble staggers back, startled by the cold and wrathful tone of Future Trunks' voice.

His fists are trembling, as he's barely containing every nerve in his body to remain still. Future Trunks takes in a deep breath through his nose, but it does nothing to quell it.

Finally, his eyes open, cold and blue. Almost everyone holds their breaths.

"Incredible…" Gine whispers.

"Even now, his demeanor has changed," Vegeta points out. "Those are the eyes of someone who is ready to kill. And yet, he has no target."

"Soon, perhaps I will," Future Trunks replies, almost spooking the prince. "You said it yourself: It will be the Androids. And…perhaps if I'm lucky…I'll get to meet Cell again."

Vegeta takes a cautious step back as a sinister smile forms on the teen's face.

"But don't worry," he says. "I won't play with my food."

"Oooo-oookay…." Kauli breathes. "Now I'm starting to understand why Cell froze up the way he did. This kid is scaring the shit out of me…"

"He didn't do anything, and it already feels like I'm dying every time he looks at me…" Krillin whispers.

Nobody says another word, as they can only watch. Raditz is unable to tear his eyes off his son.

His…son…

It's so difficult to believe…that his son is capable of so much power. How wrong it feels, how wrong it looks.

The crackling of bolts.

The blue stare of death.

- 0000 -

"I don't think I can stomach seeing that up close again."

Yamcha has his back pressed against the wall. His heart must be racing, judging from just how shallow his breathing is. He happily takes a glass of water offered to him from Krillin.

At the moment, Tarble is transferring the information over to the main screen. His tail remains stiff and nervous, but his fingers fly without missing a beat. From just how focused his eyes are, it's almost as if he is able to read the countless information that floods the screen.

Vegeta steps next to him, his arms crossed as he takes a look at the progress. "Well. Did you gather the information you needed?"

"It's still complicated…but I think I have some of the ingredients," Tarble answers quickly. "I'm afraid that form is not something we can accomplish so easily. There's still so much we don't understand. But…the fact that Seleriak was able to hold onto it when Karot couldn't…sets some pieces in place."

"What's your belief for his succession?" Vegeta asks. "Can't just be because he's older."

"No, no it's not," Tarble answers. "I believe…it was far easier for him to maintain because of the sort of world he was raised in. What's even more impressive was how he switched his perspective. It took a while for him to do, but once he did, it was instantaneous. Perhaps that very same resolve was exactly what triggered his transformation. It explains…quite a few things, actually…"

He slows down, until his fingers rest.

"Is the way he behaved back there…exactly the sort of person his Teacher wanted him to become? If he saw his cold-blooded actions against Cell, how would he respond?"

"Isn't that something you should know the answer to?" Vegeta asks.

Tarble frowns. "That's the thing. I…don't know."

"Then what are you whining about? It's obvious you and the you from the future are two entirely different people. It's about time you stop sulking."

Vegeta leaves him with that. Tarble goes completely still, the words sinking into his head.

Everyone else is gathered around Future Trunks, although there is a lot of caution in the air. He understands everyone's nerves, not offended at all. He took a much-needed seat on the floor, which is good for him either way. It gives his body time to rest, all while putting everyone else at ease.

Raditz is completely dumbfounded by it.

He hates how his body almost locks up when his son steps so close. It was likely his instincts screaming at him to keep a fair distance from what is perceived as a life-threatening force.

His own son can easily kill him in one blow if he really wants to.

However, at this moment…this very moment, the malice that swallowed Future Trunks before had vanished. His Super Saiyan form too, wisped away, as he now adjusts the lacing on his boots. He's distracting himself, maybe. His eyes are back to the shade of blue they are supposed to be.

"You know, for a second there kid…we thought we lost you," Nappa says.

"That's reasonable," Future Trunks replies, as he switches to the other boot. "The second hardest thing for me to do was to let that power go."

"Uh…" Kauli raises a finger. "Should I be afraid to ask what was the first hardest thing…?"

He pauses, ashamed of what he has to say. "I…wasn't lying when I told Tarble to stay away from me."

Kauli bites her lip and moves back. "Okay. Noted. Nice of you to warn him."

"That means you have some control over it," Turles says. "Give it some more practice, and you'll be able to trigger it as easily as breathing."

"If I have to adapt into that horrible mindset to do so every single time…that scares me," Future Trunks says. "But some advice actually helped me."

"Advice…?"

"I was told not to get angry for the sake of being angry. Get angry for a purpose. Direct your malice with a purpose. Then, the fire won't spread out of control. Instead, it's a single path of your choice…"

"There's the fire analogy again," Nappa says.

"Bardock."

"Huh?" Nappa recognizes the name. He looks at Gine, confused.

"I've only ever heard it from Bardock. He told me the same thing," Gine says. "But I never…"

"I've met him. In my dreams," Future Trunks confesses.

"Wh—"

Karot steps closer. "The both of us did."

He gives Future Trunks a nervous glance, who catches the silent message in an instant.

"There's…something else we need to tell you," Future Trunks says.

"Uhhh…guys…?" Krillin's distant voice calls.

Raditz shoots him a glare. "Not now!"

"Isn't Goku supposed to be in the casket…?"

Confused and alarmed, everyone hurries across the ship and to the suspension casket. As they peer inside, it's evident that it's empty.

"Wh—what the hell?!" Raditz is tempted to open it, but he restrains himself. "What's going on?!"

"Bardock wasn't lying…" Future Trunks mutters. "They really did take the body."

"They what?" Raditz spins around. "What's going on?!"

Karot sighs. "I need everyone to listen."

…

With Bardock's message passed to every present person in the room, silence was the first response. At first, it seems no one knows how to react. The information almost doesn't seem real.

ChiChi had to take a seat just to process everything, and it's understandable. Not only is Kakarot dead, but his very soul is being held hostage. How long would it take until Youzi can make use of it?

"The Demon Realm." Raditz almost hissed at the mere concept. He glares at his feet, his arms right across his chest. "Where the hell are we supposed to look for a demon realm?"

"Certainly not Hell," Tarble answers. "From the sound of it alone, it's more of another world than anything else."

"And why should we have any business going to a place like that?" Vegeta asks.

"Because if we don't, we will have a demon wearing Kakarot's face knocking at our doorstep. And frankly, I am in no mood to fight to the death again anytime soon."

"Tch."

Nappa huffs. "The better question we should be asking is… Where the hell do we even begin to look? We don't know a damn thing about that place!"

"I suppose I should begin conducting research. It's just a great shame so many libraries have been soiled. They would be useful right about now," Tarble says.

"What about the Androids?" Tien asks. "They were created by that Dr. Gero. Is it possible they could have some information we don't know about?"

Kauli almost laughs. "Oh yeah. Sure. A pair of twin teenagers who miraculously know everything some boring old scientists would waste time about?"

"Could be in their database," Tarble points out.

"Touché."

"If that's the case, then it would be favorable for them to wake up right about now," Vegeta says. "That's if they can. Don't get your hopes up."

"Well, 17 appears to be stable, although the same can't be said for 18. She's still under dire care in the medical room," Tarble says.

"So…how does that work?" Yamcha asks. "Is she like…part robot or…?"

"They are called Androids, but they are a lot more like cyborgs if we want to be accurate," Tarble explains. "Modified humans with enhanced abilities that go beyond what you are capable of. They may just make it…if careful measures are taken."

"You can fix them?" Nappa asks.

"More or less. It will put a delay on the ship repair if we prioritize them, but yes. I can."

"What if they turn against us?" Yamcha asks.

"Us?" Tarble almost laughs. "Please, spare yourself the worry. They were programmed to target Kakarot…really us Saiyans if you need any sort of confirmation. I have doubts they would bat an eye towards you if they were to regain consciousness. Besides…"

His tail strikes the wall next to him as he lets out an amused chuckle.

"You have no reason to linger anymore. This alliance, I'd say it's to expire."

"Hmph. So we're back to being enemies then?" Raditz almost laughs. "Oh, sure. Too bad the fighting will be one-sided. But don't worry. We won't pick a fight with you. There's no fun in killing something so easily."

"Who says we will be easy to kill? You've seen what we did to Cell," Yamcha says. "The next time I see you, I'll make you wish you never underestimated me."

"If you were wise, I wouldn't try to initiate a fight at all," Tarble warns him. "We are through with fighting your kind. All we want is Kakarot out of the demon's clutches, and we will go on about our way."

"Even if we do nothing, who's to say the other Earthlings won't have the day idea?" Tien asks. "There are a lot of people who would be happy to see all of you dead. They won't give up all because you defeated Cell."

"We know," Tarble shrugs.

"If they wish to confront us, then so be it. Who am I to judge them?" Vegeta asks. "Just have them know they better be prepared to die if they attack first. I'll give them points though, for initiating a pointless fight."

"Yeah. Figured you would say that," Yamcha sighs.

"Well…I guess we should get going then?" Krillin asks. "You know, while we still can."

"We aren't going to snipe you," Raditz grumbles.

The Earthlings exchange looks.

"Okay, so we know where Goku is, but where are we supposed to even look?" Kauli asks. "How much time do we even have? Damn. Can't we just go a week without something trying to kill us?"

"Agh. You're right. We don't know the first thing about that place," Turles grumbles. "What do we even do?"

"What if we are already too late?" Krillin asks. "What if Youzi already absorbed Goku's soul?"

Nervous tension floods the room. A loud bang on the wall made just about everyone jump.

"What are you saying?" Vegeta hisses. "That we have already lost?"

Nervous glances cross the room. That's when Gine takes several steps forward, her attention fixed on the ceiling.

"King Kai!" she called. "I have an important question to ask you!"

"King Kai?" Vegeta echoes.

"Oh, of course!" ChiChi gasps as she races to Gine's side. "He might just have some information about this!"

In an instant, the terrible ring pierce through everyone's eardrums as a loud, intrusive voice floods their minds.

'Yes, yes! I've been listening into your conversation ever since the very mention of The Demon Realm was brought up!' King Kai answered. 'I'll cut straight to the chase: Because of how powerful Goku's very soul is, a weaker demon like Youzi can't exactly just take it as he would like to. He is forced to be patient.'

"What do you mean by this?" Vegeta asks. "We have time?"

'Precisely, yes! You see, when someone dies, three things can happen to their soul. They are either sent to Heaven, or Hell, or they are cleansed to be reincarnated! It all really depends on what King Yemma decides to do with it, but there is a system at the end of the day.'

"Okay, but Kakarot's soul did neither of those things. It didn't even reach the checkout station," Raditz says.

"There's a checkout station?" Kauli asks, baffled.

"I'll tell you later."

'Yes, I am aware," King Kai continues. 'So that brings us to the fourth thing.'

"I thought you said there were only three," Tien says.

'I'm trying to get to my point, if you would just let me!'

Tien sighs.

'The fourth thing rarely ever happens. But if someone were to make a contract with a demon, their soul is assigned to said demon the day they die, right? So it doesn't do as much as reach Otherworld. It instead becomes tethered to the demon, like a dog chained to a tree! Usually the demon would be able to consume the soul right away, but stronger souls tend to fight back. So they have no choice but to wait.'

"Okay…so Youzi hasn't gotten what he wanted yet," Raditz says.

'Not yet! A Saiyan soul like Kakarot's is tough to absorb! It has to be tenderized first! That takes a lot of time. It's not something Youzi can force, either. See, when a soul has nowhere to go, it wanders aimlessly. Overtime, it will begin to weaken more and more unless it's stationed somewhere, or reincarnated. Some take weeks to become vulnerable. Others, months! But someone like Goku…hm. Hmmm…'

"How long?" Turles asks.

'Hold on! I'm thinking here! Give me a moment!'

Turles growls, but he waits along with everyone else.

It felt like ages until the telepathic voice returned.

'Yeah! I would say…you have about eight years!'

"EIGHT YEARS?!"

It was the last number anyone was expecting.

"That's almost too generous, don't you think?" Yamcha asks. "Are you sure this is accurate? You're actually saying we have eight years to bring Goku back?!"

'You have to consider just how powerful Goku's soul is. Not just because he's a Saiyan, but because of all that power he has behind it! If Youzi tries to consume it now, he'll likely destroy himself because he can't control that much power at once. He will need to be patient, wait for the soul to become dormant. Then, he can do as he pleases. Stronger souls take longer to become submissive. The eight years is an estimation, yes. If I were you, I would prepare now and head out within seven years.'

"Well, at least we know that demon can't do as he pleases with him yet." Tien says.

"We have seven years to train our asses off," Yamcha says. "Don't see the problem with that."

"So I guess that means in seven years, we'll be seeing each other again, huh?" Krillin sighs.

"You actually want to get yourself involved in our business?" Raditz asks.

"Hey. That Youzi turned Goku into a heartless monster that sought to torture and slaughter all of humanity. Maybe we have a bone to pick with him."

"Even if we do stay out of the way, it wouldn't surprise me if Youzi decides to target what's left of humanity left, just for the thrill of it. To stand back and watch isn't exactly my style," Tien says.

"Besides. Even if you don't want to admit it, we do know Goku more than any of you," Krillin says. "So we'll lend a hand. We have a common enemy, don't we?"

"I suppose. Although, we are only doing this because we have to. We aren't heroes," Raditz tells Krillin. "But I will take responsibility for this. I will have to clean this up."

"Wait."

Everyone looks at Karot.

"Something isn't right here. Bardock said that the reason Youzi couldn't use my dad's body was because of the crown on his head. He didn't mention anything about the soul needing to get weaker.'

Future Trunks blinks. "Right. He did say that."

"Ugh. This just got a lot more confusing," Kauli grumbles.

"Wait!" Future Trunks waves his hands. "I think I get it! The reason King Yemma took Goku's body away is so that Youzi can't puppet it as he likes. He's still lingering around, isn't he?"

"That's true," Turles says.

"Since he has no access to Goku's body, he has no choice but to only rely on his soul. But it's too strong right now."

"I get it now," Kauli says. "Although it sounds like a headache."

ChiChi takes a step into the spotlight. "King Kai! We were told that the Crown of Restraint was created by the Kais. Can you confirm this?"

'Oh! I don't know why I was expecting a more…in-depth question. You had me worried I would have to look back into something that hasn't crossed my mind for hundreds of years. But yes, yes! I can confirm that this is true. That crown is designed to contain universal destruction. I guess Kami misunderstood and used it instead to contain Goku! So, we don't have the crown anymore! They won't be very happy if they find out.'

"So, it's true then. Although I guess we shouldn't have doubted Kakarot's grandfather…or the dragon who spoke about it," Gine says.

"Does this mean he can look into it then?" Raditz asks.

"We should be able to talk to them!" Gine says. "Or, at least I can! I can ask King Kai to—"

'Whoa, whoa! Slow down! I never said anything about taking you there! Are you crazy?! I can't even step foot in their sacred realm anyway! Even if I could, I would never!'

"What?! Why?!"

'Don't take it personal. It's not like I would outright refuse to. This situation is fuzzy, I will agree with you. But the Kais you speak of surpass even me! They were born with a status I could only dream of! I guess you can say they were always the golden children!' He laughs at his own joke, but it doesn't last as he realizes no one seems to get it. 'Sorry.'

"So there's a hierarchy," Vegeta says. "So explain this to me then: Why the hell are you King Kai when you can't even step foot in their palace?"

There was no answer. Perhaps the idea didn't cross King Kai's mind before.

'Well, er…the difference between them and I…are the roles they play in the universe,' King Kai explains. 'And they are far more powerful than me!'

"Far more powerful than you? Just how much power are we talking?" Yamcha asks, a bit unnerved.

'Well, let's see…what's a good comparison…' King Kai hums to himself as he searches for a conclusion. Once he finds it, he gasps. 'How about this?! They are powerful enough to destroy Frieza with a single blow!'

"WHAT?!" Everyone's jaws drop open.

"You're kidding?" Vegeta takes a step forward, glaring at the sky. "We were dying out there! You're telling me one of those golden Kais could have just swooped down and killed Frieza like it's another Tuesday?"

'Pretty much.'

Everyone is left stunned.

"Wait a second! If that's the case, then why didn't they ever show up when he was doing his evil emperor things?" Krillin asks.

Yamcha's eyes go wide. "Yeah! That's what I'm wondering about! I mean, they could have stopped his tyranny without even trying! But instead, they just stood back and watched?!"

'The Kaioshin do not intervene with mortal lives. They simply create, and watch how things play out, if I can put it in simple terms.'

"Mortal…?" Nappa echoes the word. "You're implying that…"

'They are gods. What? Were you expecting them to be some guardian or something?'

Everyone remains speechless as he laughs.

'In their perspective, you and everyone else on this planet are mere insects! They know you exist, but you're so insignificant to them, they don't bother to pay any attention to you unless you make enough noise. It's probably why they know Frieza by name!'

"Just…just an insect…?" Vegeta can't believe…

'It's pretty easy to see why. They are creation gods, after all. They are the sole reason you even exist! The entire situation with Frieza is a toddler throwing a temper tantrum to them. It's annoying, sure, but they just carried on with their duties!'

"I…ok. Wow." Kauli steps back. "If I didn't feel so small before, I just did."

Raditz shakes his head. "So we can't rely on them since they won't pay us any mind anyway. Just great…"

'There is an exception though.'

"An…exception?"

'If there is something, or someone who is a threat to the universe itself…they might actually pay it attention. See, it's not very fun when the things you created are getting destroyed left and right. What Frieza did was just a nibble. But if by some crazy chance that something far more powerful decides to be reckless with untimely destruction—and on a massive scale on top of that—they are likely to make themselves known. It has happened before.'

"It has?!"

'But that issue has been resolved. It's nothing to fret over.'

"Great…at least we know they don't ignore everything…I guess."

'BUT! With the very prospect of Youzi becoming a universal threat, they might just pay it some mind. I can't promise that they will, but it's likely! Just don't have your hopes up too high.'

"Noted," Tarble says. "We had planned to tackle this on our own regardless. If the Kais just so happen to make themselves known, then it's a lucky coincidence I suppose."

Kauli frowns. "That means we have to prepare for anything. I would say we have plenty of time…but I don't know…"

"Hey, didn't you hear the guy?" Krillin says. "We have about seven years to get ready to get Goku outta there! If we train hard starting today, we will be more than ready to take that freak on!"

"Let's say worst-case-scenario comes, and Youzi is successful with absorbing Kakarot's soul," Nappa says. "We will have to account for that too. Seven years is more than enough time to think of something."

"Oh, man. Now that I think about it…" Yamcha turns to Karot. "You'll be grown up by that time, huh?"

Karot blinks, and he looks at his hands. That didn't cross his mind at all.

"So he will be," ChiChi sighs.

"Hey. And don't forget." Nappa looks at her. "You will have a pretty big kid by then. You aren't going to leave him in the dust, are you?"

ChiChi places a hand against her stomach.

"I know you don't like the idea of them fighting," Tarble says. "But they at least need to be prepared. You've seen what Cell can do."

She closes her eyes with a sigh. "I…I know. I know. I just hate it. All I want is for the constant fighting to end."

"Once that demon is gone…it might just be," Raditz says. "That's what we are working towards. We'll be out of your hair soon enough."

He looks at everyone else.

"Well? Sounds good enough? You don't have a choice but to tolerate us for another seven years! Trust me. We don't want to be here any longer than you want us here!"

"Oh, yeah. We get it," Yamcha says. "The next time you see us, we will surprise you."

"I believe it," Nappa says. "From what we've witnessed, maybe you're not half bad. I guess."

"Hey! Don't forget about us!" Cheelai calls from the distance. "Maybe we can't fight, but we aren't just going to stand around! You tell us all about that demon, and we'll whip up something that will make him wish he never messed with any of you!"

"You want to get involved? It's your funeral," Turles says. He glances at Broly, who had remained silent the entire time. "More than enough time to get him ready I guess."

"So it's settled then," Vegeta says. "We will meet back here in Mount Paozu, seven years from today. I expect everyone to bring something new that would catch even me off-guard. Otherwise, don't bother showing your face."

"Then we expect you to master the next level of Super Saiyan by then," Tien says. "How about that?"

Vegeta clenches his teeth. "Don't make me kill you now."

"Hey. I was just trying to remind you of your goal. Nothing wrong with a little motivation," Tien says. "Don't get me wrong. I'll never forgive you for all you've done. But for you to go as far as to at least try to clean things up…maybe I'll tolerate you a while longer."

"Tch. You speak as if you are capable of killing me, but fine. Let's get this over with."

"Let's save us an idiot," Kauli says.

"Let's kill us a demon!" Yamcha pumps a fist in the air.

"YEAH!" Several voices chimed at once, more fists pumping in the air. Vegeta rolls his eyes instead.

Gine smiles as she throws a soft punch in the air. It takes a second for her eyes to catch it, how her body is highlighted with a soft glowing light. She lifts her hands in front of her face. Sparkling glitters of light are starting to rise from her body.

Turles is the first to notice this as well. "Mom? What's wrong with your body…?"

His question alone is enough to have all eyes on her. It's a scary sight for some. They don't have a clue on what is going on.

"Mother?! What's happening?!" Raditz is afraid that something went wrong. But… seeing her sad smile…

4) Gine lowers her hands and looks at Raditz. "Well. It looks like I completed my end of the bargain."

"What?" Turles steps forward, concerned. "What are you…? Wait. You mean…"

She nods slowly. "I made it my mission to not just help Kakarot, but this planet itself. I wanted to stop the fighting between yourselves and…well, you get the idea. I was expected to go once we defeated Cell, so I was surprised when I remained here. And now, I see it."

Everyone else is just confused.

"It seems that everyone here has come to a decision That there is no point in fighting each other anymore. The killing and destruction can finally stop. Seeing that…I'm not surprised that my time has come. I'm long-due my stay, after all."

Raditz realizes what he's talking about. He's grown so used to her being around, he nearly forgot that she's already dead. "So…that means…"

She nods. "I convinced King Yemma to let me stay until I completed my mission. Now that's it's done… I'm afraid it's time for me to say goodbye."

"Wait just a second!" Kauli bluffs out. "You're leaving without warning?! We can't just spend the rest of the day with you? We…aren't exactly ready for you to go."

"I can't stay for much longer. As much as I would like to…staying out too long is dangerous for a soul like me. You understand why. I was lucky Cell didn't erase me." Gine explains.

"I know you were!" Raditz understands. "But what can we do now? I mean…the only reason why none of us killed each other was because of you."

"Listen. You are very capable of doing this. I may be the voice of reason that brought us together, but now it's up to all of you to carry it on without me." Gine says, placing a hand on top of Raditz's head. "You've been a great brother and father. I know you can do this."

"Mother…"

"Make me a new promise." Gine cuts him off. "Promise me that you'll be the best brother. The best uncle…the best father. Protecting them isn't all it takes. It's having good judgement…and having a good heart. I've seen it from you before with your brothers…and that adorable baby you have. Promise me that you will never turn your back on family, or even betray them. Can you do that?"

With a sad smile, Raditz nods. "I promise."

"That's my son." Gine smiles in return. She turns to Turles with a sad look. "If I knew you were still alive…I would have searched for you to the ends of the universe. No parent is perfect. I wish I had looked twice before I left you there."

"It's…okay. You don't have to apologize." Turles mutters.

"You make me a promise. No matter what happens…don't lose sight of yourself. You cherish what you already have…and be thankful for what you are given. I know you are more than capable of doing it." Gine says.

Turles nods once. "Of course. I will."

The glowing becomes more noticeable as it brightens. Gine sighs and turns to Broly. "You…you're an example to everyone, Broly. A Saiyan untouched by Frieza…you are like Kakarot and Prince Tarble. Once, they were both just as pure as you were. Negative influences turned things around…but seeing you here…it shows that Saiyans aren't evil by nature. It takes terrible things to turn us around. You hold on to your morals. I hope that you'll learn to control your power one day."

Broly nods. "Thank you."

Gine looks towards Karot now. "My grandson…Karot. I know these last few years were rough on you. You acted out of anger and confusion…I can't blame you. You are in need of guidance…someone to help you. I think I know who is perfect for that job, and he's done a great job so far."

Nappa notices a few eyes are on him now. "What? Why is everyone looking at me?"

"Well…let's just say you're pretty good with children." Raditz says. "You managed to handle Vegeta and I when we were kids. I doubt anyone else could do that. You taught us a lot…even if Vegeta won't admit it."

Vegeta huffs and turns away.

"Take care of them. I know you can." Gine says. Her attention falls to Kauli next. "Kauli…you are without a doubt, an Earthling Saiyan like my Kakarot. To learn that you are from a gifted tribe of Saiyans…it's incredible to know that you stand among us. It's a relief that Frieza never got his hands on you."

Kauli chuckles. "He could try."

"Whatever you decide to do from here on out…it's your decision to make. I know you'll do what's best," Gine says. "Follow your heart."

She turns to Future Trunks.

"Seleriak. Good luck. This past won't be forgotten, thanks to you. I know you'll be going home soon so…slay those Androids for us."

Future Trunks laughs small. "You bet I will. I'm glad I got to meet you…grandma."

Gine's smile brightens at that word. She turns her attention to the royals. "Prince Vegeta…Prince Tarble… I know you aren't the type to take so many words, so I'll keep it short. What makes a great prince is one who learns from their mistakes. It will make you better. I can't decide for you what you do from here. I just hope you don't make the same mistakes twice."

"Hmph." Vegeta closes his eyes. "I never asked for your advice. But, I'll keep it in mind."

Tarble smiles. "I suppose we have no other choice, do we?"

Gine chuckles. "And you, Humans."

"She's… talking to us." Krillin didn't expect this. She mostly ignored them any other time.

"You don't have to try to understand how we Saiyans think or act. It's not easy for me to grasp how Humans operate…but it works." Gine says. "But as said before… your gift is your endless teamwork and resistance. You adapt quickly…and you think of things no one else would. I originally thought you were selfish, but now I see that you have a good heart. Forgive me for how I treated you before."

"I get it." Yamcha says. "You were just doing what mothers do. To be honest, we were worried you were like the others…well! Don't take it the wrong way! What I meant was-"

"It's okay. Just take care of yourselves. Prove to them that not every human is as selfish as Chille was." Gine's face darkens, but only for a second. "In fact, I have some business to take care of."

Tien nods. "We'll show the world what we can do."

"ChiChi…" Gine walks up to her, and they exchange a small hug. She grabs and holds her hands as she looks into her eyes. "I know you will find your husband. Don't lose faith. You two are such a great combination, even if no one else sees it. Take good care of my coming grandchild, who I know will be absolutely adorable."

ChiChi smiles. "I'll be careful. You take care." She steps away to give the Saiyan some space.

"And you, Namekian…" Gine looks around, realizing he isn't around. "He left so soon? Well…I guess he had enough of being around us. I know he can hear me. I just want him to know there's no point in trying to take over the world anymore. I'm sure he can find something new to fulfill his life."

Gine's body becomes translucent, and the sparkles increase in numbers. She closes her eyes to take in the fact that she is indeed…leaving.

"Everyone…while it was tough… I'm so glad I got to meet all of you…regardless if it was a first or a reunion. Save Kakarot for me…and destroy that demon once and for all."

"We will." Krillin says. "It won't get away with his soul that easily!"

"You can count on us!" Yamcha agrees.

"We'll put in every ounce of effort." Tarble nods. "No matter what it takes, for everyone's sake."

Raditz clenched his fists. "I'll get my little brother back. Just you wait!"

"Don't leave me out of this." Turles warns him.

"Boys…" Gine calls them. "I may see you again, but it better not be anytime soon. Don't do anything foolish that will cost your life. Understand?"

Raditz and Turles both nod.

Gine's smile softens, and she appears to be on the brink of tears. "Well…I guess this is it. I said what I wanted to say. King Yemma is calling. It's time." She opens her arms. "Don't have me leave you like this."

Raditz and Turles just stare for a few seconds. However, seeing her body starting to become more ghost-like, they realize they have no time. In an instant, the two brothers quickly close the gap and nearly take down Gine with a powerful embrace.

"Bleh. It's a disease that runs in the family." Vegeta is disturbed by what he is seeing.

"Stop being such a brat." Kauli grumbles.

Gine chuckles lightly, holding them close. Finally, tears trickle down her face as she tries not to cry too much. "I'll miss you both. Just look at you… All grown up and so strong. Your father must be so proud…"

Turles closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. Her embrace comforts him in some way. "I'm so glad I was able to see you again, mom. The time was great…"

Raditz is probably giving her the tightest hug. It's almost as if he reverted to his childhood self who always clung on to his mother's hand. The tears that fall from his eyes certainly prove it. "I'm going to miss you, mother. Thank you…for everything you did for us. Really…"

"It's okay." Gine gently pulls herself away from them. She wipes away her tears as she goes on. "Dry up those tears. There's no reason to cry you two. You should be happy. So…do me a favor and do what Kakarot would do. Smile away those tears, knowing there is hope out there. Just smile, knowing that I am always watching over you."

She gives them a warm and cheerful smile, and after that, she turns and walks away, taking slow steps towards the door, which seem to brighten until it's blinding…like a door to the Otherworld.

Perhaps it is no illusion. She steps out, her features highlighted by the endless light of the afterlife.

Someone else is moving in there.

Kakarot?!

Gine slows down, just as confused as everyone else. In a heartbeat, she sprints towards the figure, leaping into their arms. It's not until the figure spins around that the red bandana worn around their head makes one thing clear.

That's not Kakarot at all.

"Father…?" Turles pipes up first. A few heads turn to him before they look back at the scene. Raditz prepares to call out to them, but Bardock is already walking further into the light, a clear halo above his head.

As they begin to vanish, their tails intertwine. No words are spoken, but Gine easily relaxes in his arms, knowing that she doesn't have to fight anymore.

The light fades away, dimming until the fields of Mount Paozu are clear to the eye. Future Trunks slowly points towards the door before looking towards Nappa, who merely shrugs.

Karot turns to his mother. And for the first time since forever, he falls into her arms and cries. He sobs loudly, a reminder that…he is still a kid.

"That…that man she ran to…" Kauli is confused. "Was I seeing things? He looked a lot like…"

"His name is Bardock." Vegeta huffs, turning the other way. "Gine's mate, husband, whatever you want to call him. I'm familiar with him. He was quite infamous a long time ago. Tch. Though now I can see why they ended up with three noisy brats."

Kauli decides to ignore the jab towards the brothers. She's far more interested with the small interaction. "I don't get it…I thought Saiyans hate it when their tails are grabbed."

"You have so much to learn," Raditz sighs. "That is true, but I need you to think. What possible reason would a Saiyan have their tail vulnerable to someone else? I swear…you are just as bad as Kakarot was."

Vulnerable…?

Kauli glances at Turles, who has his eyes transfixed outside. What happened yesterday…it wasn't mockery at all, was it?

Was it…?

Heat floods her face as she forces herself to look the other way. 'That can't be it. I'm just…overthinking things! It was probably an accident!'

That sounded stupid in her head.

She has to fight the urge of pulling her own hair, biting back a growl. 'Accident my ass! He was being an idiot messing with my head!'

Her mind flashes back to yesterday. His golden form striking the enraged Tarble off his feet.

In fact…how many times did he step in to…

'Oh…gods.' The realization struck her harder than a cannon. 'I'm a dumbass…'

The air feels too stuffy, too unbearable. Kauli clenches the collar of her shirt and ducks her head as she turns heel and hastily walks away.

"Where are you going?" Raditz asks her.

"I…I need to drink some food—I mean water! Water! I need to drink water!"

Raditz's concern morphs into confusion as she heads straight into the library. "That's…there's no water in there."

"She needs to drink some food…?" Nappa looks at Vegeta, who shrugs.

Silence falls among the group again. Everyone is…lost in their collective thoughts. Gine's words, Bardock's warning, and King Kai's confirmation…

There is one thought they all share.

Broly turns his attention to outside. "We'll find him. Kakarot…needs our help. It was Gine's last wish."

Raditz looks outside as well. "Until then…little brother…I'll protect this mountain for you. I know how much it means to you."

Everyone else looks outside, watching the few sparkles that remain flutter away towards the sky.

The first to turn away is Future Trunks, who clenches the fabric of his pants. He plucks a capsule from his pocket, a sad smile on his face.

"I guess…that's my cue."

- 0000 -

"No…no! NO!"

Outside, Karot's pained scream can be heard for miles. He clenches his hands as Future Trunks tosses a bag inside the time machine.

"You have to leave? Already? Right now?!"

Everyone had gathered outside, listening to Karot's distraught.

"Can't you just stay one more day?!"

Future Trunks sighs as he drops to the ground. He turns to his heartbroken cousin, a soft smile on his face.

"I would like to, trust me. But…if I stay here any longer, I'm afraid you won't learn how to grow on your own. I don't have a purpose here anymore."

"Don't say that! You do have a purpose!"

Future Trunks shakes his head. "Not in this timeline. I did what I had to do here, and it's time for me to return home. Besides, you heard what Tarble said. The Humans will stop hiding soon, and will probably go after all of you by tomorrow if they are bold enough."

He slaps the time machine.

"I'm afraid if I stick around too long, some angry people might do some damage to this thing if they see me leaving in it. It's not so easy to repair."

"But…I don't want you to leave… Grandma already left. I don't…I can't…"

Karot's wavering tone has Future Trunks frozen in place. The child can't hold himself together as tears fall from his eyes.

"You're the only other person who understands me," Karot protests. "What am I going to do now once you leave? I know…I know I have to train to get ready for Youzi but…you know more about fighting demons than I do! What do I do?!"

Future Trunks places his hands on Karot's shoulders.

"The demons of the future…are the worst versions of ourselves," he says.

Karot blinks.

"Our darkest of desires, our cruelest of intentions, that's what you'll be up against. You might have to fight the worst version of your father possible, I know. But…you won't be fighting him alone. You'll be a big brother soon, right? And of course, I'll be there too."

Karot glances over his shoulder. Baby Trunks is giggling from Raditz's arms.

"Listen to me." Future Trunks crouches to reach Karot's level. "You already proved yourself to be incredibly strong. Two people are going to look up to you, so do me a favor. Be the best teacher for them, okay? Teach them everything you know. Unlike me, they have a chance to have an incredible future…a future I know you will fight for. You can do that, right?"

Karot nods, wiping the tears away.

"There is no Shenron," Future Trunks says. "So don't do anything crazy, okay? Trunks is…"

He takes a deep breath. He can almost see his master standing in Karot's place.

"Trunks is going to need you."

"Yeah. I know," Karot says.

The sound of footfalls draw both of their attention. Future Trunks stands to address the arrival. His body stiffens at the sight he sees.

Tarble holds the sword in his hands. His own eyes have averted away from him. "I…believe you will need this."

"Oh. Right." Future Trunks takes it. "Thanks."

"And, you're going to need these."

Curious, Future Trunks opens the palm of his hand. Three capsules are dropped on the palm.

"I've made two spares in case the other gets destroyed, but that's it from me. You'll be on your own if you lose all three," Tarble says. "Trust me when I say you will need it soon."

"Can you stop being so vague?" Future Trunks asks.

Tarble sighs, looking in his direction. "The pendants, Seleriak. I am yet to locate where the source of the Blutz Waves are. You will have to figure that out on your own."

"Makes sense." Future Trunks pockets them away. He almost moved back as a notebook is offered to him.

"Blueprints. Instructions. Karot helped write and draw everything down," Tarble answers the unasked question. "The ship needs some repairs, I am assuming? I'm sure you're smart enough to figure out the contents."

Future Trunks flips through the pages. The amount of detail filling each space is almost mind-blowing. "This…this is incredible. Thank you."

"It's the least I can do."

After Future Trunks places the notebook on the seat of his time machine, he returns to his waiting cousin. His eyes fall on his sword, a forlorn look on his face.

With a deep breath, he pushes it towards Karot.

"Wh…what?" Karot takes a step back. "But…doesn't this sword mean a lot to you?"

"Yes. I agree with Karot here…" Tarble didn't even realize the sword was handed over until now. "Why give up something sentimental?"

"I'm not giving it up." Future Trunks pushes it closer.

Karot stares back, and the realization strikes him as he looks back at Raditz, then the baby. He takes the sword without a word, and he nods. "Okay. Don't worry."

Future Trunks takes a step back, and he looks at everyone else. He smiles again and dusts off his pants to rid the nervous energy.

Raditz approaches without a word, Baby Trunks cooing in his arms.

"Well…this is it, dad." Future Trunks looks down at his baby counterpart, his smile brightening. "And I…guess this is goodbye, little me."

Raditz lifts Baby Trunks towards him, and Future Trunks takes a nervous step back. "What's the matter with you? You rarely ever held him. He's not going to blow up or anything."

"I…I know that!" Future Trunks says. "It's just…you know. Weird? You know, time paradoxes…one of the theories. It's just uh—"

"Your very existence proves there's a multiverse. Just hold him," Kauli sighs.

With a nervous chuckle, Future Trunks holds out his hands and lifts Baby Trunks from his father. The mere action of holding a baby is incredible on its own, even if it's not the first time. To be so close to his baby counterpart is even more eerie. It's something he can never get used to.

Baby Trunks laughs. In turn, Future Trunks smiles. Then he laughs.

His laughter turns into a scream as a handful of his hair gets yanked.

"Ow! Owowowow!" Future Trunks staggers, holding his baby counterpart far from him. Unfortunately he can only go so far as the baby refuses to let go of his hair. "Ow that hurts! That hurts! Stop pulling my—yours—ugh! Our hair! Stop! Stooo-ooop!"

"Is…" Oolong tilts his head. "Is Trunks pulling…Trunks' hair…?"

Baby Trunks explodes into hysterical laughter. Kauli begins to laugh, then Karot, then it spreads like a wave.

"Okay, that's quite enough." Raditz grabs Baby Trunks' tail with a light squeeze to restrain him. As the baby becomes limp and confused, Raditz pulls him away from Future Trunks and hands him over to Kauli.

"Uh…?" Kauli is frozen stiff.

"If you're so afraid, just squeeze his tail a bit. It won't hurt him, and he won't knock your teeth in."

Kauli's face almost pales. "He…he can do that?"

Raditz turns back to the older version of his son, who is frantically fixing his hair. He crosses his arms with a chuckle. "Your hair should be the least of your worries. You have bigger things to focus on."

"I know." Future Trunks ties his hair into a ponytail. He smiles at his father. "I promise… I'll kick those Androids' asses once I return home."

"Yeah. Go do that." Raditz smiles.

"You aren't worried about…those Androids are you?" Kauli asks, cautious of the powerful baby in her arms. "You haven't really mastered that new form of yours yet."

"What you should be worried about is if you can rein in your bloodlust. The last time I checked, you haven't mastered it yet," Vegeta says.

"I know," Future Trunks says. "It would be easier for me to stick around longer until I have their new form down but, unfortunately I don't have that kind of time. I will just have to learn on my own."

"Tuh! You claim you won't play with your food, how will we know for sure?"

"I'll find a way to direct things in one blow…all of my animosity. If I can do that, then there will be no Androids left for me to consider dismantling into pieces."

"Hmph. Then you best hope to prove me wrong. That kind of power is not meant for a half-breed to wield."

"Maybe you're right…but it's my power. I won't have it locked away forever. You said so yourself."

Vegeta scoffs.

He looks at Kauli, who is too nervous to hold Baby Trunks any longer, then Turles.

He turns to his father again.

"Are you sure you will be fine?" Raditz asks.

Future Trunks nods. "As much as I hate the idea, I can't go after them right away. For one, they have no energy signal, so tracking them down isn't so easy. But because they can't sense energy, they won't go looking for me unless I make enough noise. I'll use it to my advantage, and master the form in my own time. I know just the place to go anyway."

"Well, alright. Just don't do anything rash…okay?"

"Yeah."

Silence overtakes the room once more. Future Trunks turns his gaze to the ground, clearing his throat.

"Well, I guess…I'll be going now."

Raditz huffs at the words. "Oh, by the full moon boy, cast your pride aside for a second and come here."

Future Trunks chuckles, but he moves forward anyways. Once he stands before his father, he rubs the back of his head, his eyes still fixed on the ground. "So uh…I know that—"

5) An arm slings around his back, and he's pulled into a one-handed hug. He remains frozen in place as Raditz gives him a proud pat on the back.

"You did good, son," Raditz tells him. "And I know you'll do what you think is right. Screw what the rest of the world thinks."

Future Trunks opens his mouth to speak, but it promptly closes as he nods instead. Once released, he takes a step back, a smile on his face. "Thank you, father."

Future Trunks kicks himself off the ground and makes a short flight inside the time machine. Once he is settled, he flips a few switches, and the engine begins to hum to life.

"Bye, Trunks!" Kauli calls out. "Turn those Androids into scrap metal"

"See ya, Trunks! Thanks for fighting with us!" Krillin hollers.

"Go beyond your best, kiddo!" Nappa shouts.

"Make those Androids regret coming, Seleriak!"

"Kick their asses!"

"We are rooting for you, kid!"

"Bye, Trunks! I'm going to miss you!"

All the cheers swell Future Trunks with great happiness. His finger hovers above the window button, but it's frozen in place. The mere motion of down felt almost impossible.

'To be completely honest…I'm not ready to leave either.' He looks down at everyone, everyone who took the time to gather around to watch his departure. Cheelai and Lemo, ChiChi and Broly, they all wave with heartfelt energy. The Z-Fighters are the most energetic about it.

Nappa, Tarble, Turles, and Vegeta…they are patient, waiting…

Kauli smiles up at him.

Raditz gives him a thumbs up. Clinging on to his leg is Baby Trunks, who looks at him with curious eyes.

And Karot…Karot is on the verge of tears.

"Maybe it seems pointless to go back to such a cruel place…but as long as there is a spark of hope…it can be repaired," Trunks tells himself. "It can heal. I will…free my world from darkness once and for all."

He presses down on the button, and the window is sealed. He pulls a lever, and the engines roar. A cloud of dirt is blown in the air as the time machine inches from the ground, ascending towards the sky.

The further he is away from them, the more it weighs down on his chest.

He blinks away his tears as he smiles, and he waves down at the crowd. He doesn't take his eyes off them even as the ship becomes swallowed by white light. Even as the air twists and distorts around him, he doesn't look away.

He pumps a fist in the air.

"FOR THE FUTURE!"

Raditz pumps a fist in return, and his baby counterpart follows the motion with a laugh.

The distortion twists the machine into itself, and it siphons out of sight. The light dies…

…everything is back to normal.

Nobody moves, nor do they look away from the spot Future Trunks was last seen. The first minute that goes by is denial. The second was the reality that he won't be coming back

Vegeta is the first to move for the ship. "I've seen enough. I'll be inside training, so don't interrupt me."

No one argues against it. Everyone else is content with staying outside for a while longer. Their eyes turn back to the sky as Future Trunks' parting words ring strong in their heads.

"I'm going to miss that kid," Turles says.

Raditz picks up Baby Trunks, who babbles and giggles. No words have to be said as the two brothers share a smile.

To think it all started from when he landed on Earth, facing a farmer with a shotgun as his greeter on Planet Earth. Then he arrived at a lone house on a small island, meeting his clueless little brother.

To think it leads to facing Frieza, bringing down the evil emperor.

To think it leads to returning to Earth, only to face the retaliating Humans who learned and adapted.

To think it leads to the Androids and Cell.

To think a Super Saiyan would be a real deal…

"A lot has happened in five years, hasn't it?"

Everyone looks at him, and they silently agree.

---

A/N: One left.

OKAY! Okay. I actually want y'all to listen to me for a moment.

The Demon Realm I had in mind was long before Dragon Ball Daima was announced. I had Bardock and King Kai's explanations as my interpretations years ago. The concept was actually formulated from Xenoverse.

Have I been watching Daima? Yes. I have.

Could some of it be implemented in a possible book 5? Well, likely. We will see.

I just wanted to say that, because I thought it was hilarious.

---

Possible Questions:

PQ1: "You seem to be setting up book 5's plot despite it being in the air."

A: Yes, I am aware. It's not like I can ignore the problem Kakarot is in anyway, so it was going to be written regardless. Had Kakarot merely died and Youzi wasn't around, the book would be left ambiguous. But you know. Youzi. The contract. Yay.

It's not like they can ignore the fact Kakarot is dead when Youzi can grow into a major threat if left unchecked.

PQ2: "Gine is gone?'

A: Yep. Her mission is done so she's back in Otherworld. I had a lot of fun writing her, but it's time for her to take a huge step back. She has played her role.

Her disappearing scene may be a tiny bit inspired by Pokémon Mystery Dungeon. (I mean I love the games so let me have this one.)

PQ3: "Will Trunks be alright all alone?"

A: Agh. When you think about it, he will be alone in the future, huh? Everyone who was close to him has unfortunately perished.

Maybe he will meet good people, but that's only if they would trust him…

PQ4: "What will become of Broly and the others?"

A: As of now, I do want to keep him significant to the future plot. So if Book 5 rolls around, then expect more Broly content.

Anyways, I can't really think of any other questions as of now. More will be answered in the next chapter.

---

Question Time:

Q: Keep it up I love this story please.

A: I'm glad you do enjoy it!

---

Next Time:

*Insert DBZ Kai's "Episode Preview" theme here*

Future Trunks: (Determined) It's me again, Trunks speaking.

Future Trunks: So this is the last one huh? I'm pretty sure everyone is wondering what's about to happen. I'll have you know…I am going to fight for both of our futures. Androids 17 and 18…Cell…ALL of you are going down at last!

Future Android 17: (Mocking) Aw, look at you. You've gotten braver since the last time we've seen you. Let's see if you have the strength to back it up.

Future Android 18: (Angry) Come on, 17! Let's finish this idiot once and for all!

Raditz: (Determined) We have a lot of work to do. There has to be some sort of way to locate Kakarot. No matter how long it takes, we will find you, you hear me?!

ChiChi: (Pained) I am very glad you are willing to put in all your effort…but we have a problem…?

Raditz: (Frightened) W-wait a second! Now?! RIGHT NOW?!

Raditz: Next time on, "The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan"! The saga finale! "Chapter 30: What it means to be a warrior."! Stay tuned, and don't miss it!

Raditz: (Scared) Seriously! Because what the hell am I going to do?!

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REVIEW! REVIEW!

To be Concluded in Chapter 30!

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Upcoming Chapter: (Read at your own risk!)

THE FINAL CHAPTER - Chapter 30: "What it means to be a warrior." In the present and the future… it's time to make a final score with old enemies. Raditz and the others begin their research to track and prevent anymore destruction. Future Trunks stands firm, stronger than ever, and ready to bring peace to his timeline once and for all. Meanwhile, Gine holds her promise to protect her children, no matter what. They all will encounter what was once a major threat. Never again shall they dare to bring any harm to anyone! What does it mean to be a warrior? The answer will vary, but a fight will always come!