The steady hum of Ahsoka's ship filled the cabin as it soared through the endless expanse of hyperspace. The faint, pulsing glow from the viewport illuminated the otherwise dim interior, casting long shadows across the faces of the passengers.

Bardock sat alone on a bench near the ship's rear, his arms resting on his knees and his head bowed. His wild, spiky hair seemed to droop, reflecting the weight of his emotions. His fists clenched and unclenched rhythmically, and his thoughts were a storm of guilt, anger, and grief.

Gine was gone. Her absence felt like a hole in his chest, one he couldn't fill no matter how tightly he gripped his emotions. The image of her fading from life, her bloodied hand on his cheek, played over and over in his mind.

"You should've protected her," he muttered under his breath, his voice low and venomous, as if chastising himself. "You're a warrior. You're supposed to be strong enough… so why weren't you?"

Across the cabin, Ahsoka leaned against a wall, her arms crossed, watching Bardock quietly. Her lekku twitched slightly, and her expression was concerned and understanding. She could feel the waves of anger and sorrow radiating from him. They were raw and visceral, and they hung heavy in the air.

Finally, after a moment's hesitation, she pushed off the wall and approached him. "Bardock," she said gently, her voice cutting through the hum of the ship.

Bardock's head snapped up, his sharp gaze locking onto her. "What?"

Ahsoka's tone was calm but firm. "I can feel it. You're tearing yourself apart over what happened. Gine wouldn't want that."

Bardock looked away, his jaw tightening. "You didn't see what happened. You didn't feel her life slip away right in front of you. Don't tell me what she would or wouldn't want."

Ahsoka sighed, crouching slightly to meet his gaze. "You're right. I didn't. But I know what loss feels like. I've been through it more times than I care to count. Beating yourself up over it isn't going to bring her back."

Bardock scoffed, leaning back against the wall. "And what am I supposed to do? Just forget about her? Move on like it doesn't matter?"

"No," Ahsoka said softly. "You carry her with you. You honor her memory by doing what you can for the people who are still here. For your sons."

At the mention of his children, Bardock's expression darkened further. "Raditz and Kakarot…" He closed his eyes, taking a deep, shuddering breath. "Now they have to grow up without their mother. Gine's gone, and I can't help but worry for them. What kind of father am I?"

"You're a father who fought with everything he had," Ahsoka said firmly. "And who's still fighting. That's all anyone can ask."

Bardock didn't respond immediately. Instead, his mind drifted to another memory that had haunted him since the battle. Obi-Wan's final moments.

The Jedi's calm, determined voice echoed in Bardock's mind. "There's a boy on that ship. A boy who needs protecting. I can't be there for him anymore, Bardock, but you can. Protect him… like he's your own."

Bardock opened his eyes, staring blankly at the floor. The weight of Obi-Wan's words pressed heavily on his chest. Luke. The boy was just a kid, innocent and unaware of the galaxy's dangers. Yet Bardock couldn't shake the feeling of responsibility that had been thrust upon him.

"I don't get it," Bardock said suddenly, his voice breaking the silence. "Why did Obi-Wan trust me? He barely knew me, and now he wants me to protect that kid. How am I supposed to do that when I couldn't even protect Gine?"

Ahsoka sat beside him, her expression thoughtful. "Maybe he saw something in you. Something you don't see in yourself yet."

Bardock frowned, his hands gripping his knees tightly. "I'm not some noble hero, Ahsoka. I'm a fighter. A Saiyan. All I've ever known is how to survive by strength alone."

"And yet," Ahsoka countered, "you've chosen to fight for something more than just survival. You fought Cooler not for yourself but for Gine, your sons, and everyone else who couldn't stand up to him. That's more than just survival, Bardock. That's purpose."

Bardock fell silent, his thoughts churning. He didn't want to admit it, but Ahsoka's words struck a chord. He thought of Raditz and Kakarot, waiting for him on Dagobah. He thought of Luke, whose future seemed tied to his strangely. And he thought of Gine, whose sacrifice had pushed him to awaken the power that had ultimately defeated Cooler.

He closed his eyes again, taking a deep breath. "I don't know if I can do this," he admitted quietly. "But I'll try. For them."

Ahsoka placed a hand on his shoulder, offering a reassuring smile. "That's all you can do. And you're not alone in this. We'll figure it out together."

The sound of soft footsteps drew their attention. Luke, clutching his small bag of belongings, approached hesitantly, with his aunt and uncle standing a short distance behind him. Tarrin lingered nearby, leaning casually against a bulkhead but keeping a watchful eye on the boy.

"Are we almost there?" Luke asked, his wide eyes filled with curiosity. "You said we were going to a swamp planet."

Ahsoka smiled, standing and ruffling his hair lightly. "Almost. It's called Dagobah. It's… different from what you're used to, but it's safe."

Bardock watched the exchange silently, his gaze lingering on Luke. The boy's innocence was palpable, starkly contrasting to the chaos Bardock had known his entire life. He felt a pang of guilt, knowing that such innocence wouldn't last long in a galaxy like this.

As the ship's console beeped, signaling their approach to Dagobah, Bardock stood, his resolve hardening. He didn't have all the answers, and the weight of his losses still threatened to crush him. But for now, he had a purpose. And he wouldn't let Gine's sacrifice—or Obi-Wan's trust—be in vain.

The dense fog of Dagobah clung to the ship's hull as it descended through the swampy atmosphere. The gnarled trees twisted like skeletal fingers, and the air seemed alive with the buzzing of unseen creatures. Bardock stood at the viewport, his arms crossed, staring out into the unfamiliar, murky landscape. The weight of his grief and guilt had followed him all the way here, pressing on him like a crushing tide.

"Dagobah," Ahsoka said from the cockpit, her voice cutting through the hum of the ship. "It's not much to look at, but it's safe."

Bardock didn't respond, his eyes fixed on the horizon as the ship touched down on a relatively stable patch of ground. The landing ramp hissed open, releasing a wave of humid air into the cabin.

Raditz was the first thing Bardock saw. The boy stood a short distance away with his arms crossed, his tail swishing impatiently behind him. Beside him, Yoda sat calmly on a moss-covered log, his watchful eyes observing everything with quiet understanding. Baby Kakarot cooed from a makeshift carrier strapped to a nearby tree branch, his chubby arms reaching for something unseen.

Raditz's face lit up when he saw Bardock. "Dad!" he yelled, running toward him with excitement.

Bardock stepped off the ramp and dropped to one knee, catching Raditz in a tight embrace. For a moment, the weight of his grief lifted, replaced by the comfort of his son's presence.

"Raditz," Bardock said, his voice thick with emotion. "I've missed you, kid."

"I missed you too, Dad!" Raditz pulled back, grinning up at him. But the grin faded as his eyes scanned the area. "Where's Mom? Is she still on the ship?"

Bardock's heart sank. The question he had dreaded most hung in the air, heavy and unavoidable. He glanced back at Ahsoka, who had stopped at the base of the ramp with Luke and his family. She gave him a small nod of encouragement.

Bardock took a deep breath, gripping Raditz's shoulders gently. "Raditz… I need to tell you something. About your mom."

Raditz tilted his head, his brow furrowing. "What? What's wrong?"

Bardock's voice cracked as he spoke. "She… she's gone, Raditz. Your mom… she's not coming back."

Raditz froze, his face a mixture of confusion and dawning realization. "What do you mean, 'gone'? You're lying! She's fine, right? She has to be!"

Bardock's grip tightened slightly, his own voice trembling. "I'm sorry, kid. I tried to protect her, but… I wasn't strong enough. Cooler… he…"

"You let her die?" Raditz pulled away from him, his small fists clenched, his face twisting with anger. "You're supposed to be the strongest, Dad! You're supposed to protect us! How could you let her die?"

"Raditz, please—" Bardock began, but Raditz wouldn't hear it.

"I hate you!" Raditz yelled, tears streaming down his face as he turned and ran into the fog, disappearing into the swamp.

"Raditz!" Bardock shouted, starting to follow, but he stopped as the sound of Kakarot's wailing reached him. He turned back to see his youngest son crying in his carrier, his small body trembling with sobs.

Bardock stood there, frozen, his mind racing. He felt like a failure on every level—as a fighter, a husband, and now as a father. His hands balled into fists at his sides, his knuckles white as he struggled to keep his composure.

Luke, standing beside his aunt and uncle, had been watching quietly. His bright blue eyes flicked toward the direction Raditz had run, and without a word, he took off after him.

"Luke!" Owen called, stepping forward. "Get back here! It's dangerous out there!"

Ahsoka raised a hand, stopping Owen in his tracks. "Let him go," she said calmly.

Owen's face twisted with concern. "Let him go? He's just a kid! There's no telling what's out there!"

Ahsoka's tone remained steady. "He'll be fine. Trust me."

Owen hesitated, clearly torn, but Beru placed a hand on his arm, giving him a reassuring look. "If Ahsoka thinks it's okay, then we should trust her."

Tarrin, who had been leaning casually against a nearby tree, whistled low. "Well, this got heavy fast," he said, scratching the back of his neck. "I'm not great at this whole 'emotional meltdown' thing. Anyone want me to fetch the kid, or…?"

Ahsoka shot him a look that silenced him, though her lips twitched in the faintest hint of amusement. "No, Tarrin. Luke will handle it."

Tarrin shrugged. "Alright, but don't say I didn't offer."

Raditz had run far, his small feet splashing through the murky swamp as he weaved between twisted trees and hanging vines that hung like drapes from the ancient branches overhead. The air was thick with humidity, and the cries of unseen creatures echoed in the distance, but he paid them no mind. It was the pain in his chest that consumed him—an aching hollowness he didn't understand.

He finally stopped at the base of a massive tree, its gnarled roots sprawling outward like the fingers of a giant grasping for the ground. Raditz gasped for breath, his heart racing as he slowly slid down against the rough bark, his back pressed firmly against its trunk. Tears blurred his vision as he clenched his fists, digging his nails into his palms.

"It's not fair," he muttered, the words shaking as they escaped his lips. "It's not fair…"

"Raditz?" a soft voice called from the shadows, breaking through his swirling thoughts.

He turned sharply, startled to see a boy standing a few feet away. Raditz didn't recognize him at first. The boy had messy blonde hair and bright eyes that seemed almost too large for his face.

"Who're you?" Raditz snapped, his voice laced with frustration. "Go away!"

The boy didn't move. Instead, he tilted his head slightly, observing Raditz with a calm curiosity. "I saw you run off," he said. "I wanted to make sure you were okay."

"I'm fine!" Raditz shouted though the quiver in his voice betrayed the hurt he was trying to hide.

The other boy stepped closer, unfazed by the outburst. "I don't think you're fine," he said gently. You look… sad and mad."

Raditz glared at him, feeling a fresh wave of anger bubbling up inside. "What do you know?" he spat defensively. "You don't know anything about me or my mom!"

Luke hesitated for a moment, his expression softening. "You're right. I don't know you," he acknowledged, his tone sincere. "But I do know what it feels like to miss someone. I… I never knew my mom or dad. But I still miss them."

The admission hung in the air, and Raditz's glare faltered. The connection sparked something within him, and he felt the walls he'd built around himself start to crack. He sank to the ground, his shoulders shaking as fresh tears fell. "It's not fair…," he breathed, the weight of his grief spilling out. "She didn't deserve to die. She was the best."

Luke sat beside him, maintaining a respectful distance as he let Raditz express himself. For a moment, silence enveloped them, the sounds of the swamp wrapping them like a warm blanket. "Your dad tried to save her," Luke said finally, his voice gentle yet firm. I think he misses her, too."

Raditz sniffed, trying to compose himself. "Then why couldn't he save her?" he asked, his voice small and filled with anguish.

Luke hesitated again, unsure how to respond. Instead, he cautiously placed a hand on Raditz's shoulder, offering a small gesture of comfort. "Maybe he couldn't," he said slowly. "But he's still here. And I think he needs you, too."

Taken aback by the boy's unexpected empathy, Raditz felt his anger evaporate, replaced by a strange sense of understanding. He looked at Luke, his fierce expression softening. He searched the other boy's eyes for a hint of judgment but found none.

"My name's Raditz," he finally said, the introduction coming out more quietly than intended.

"Nice to meet you, Raditz," Luke replied, his smile genuine. "I'm Luke."

The name lingered in the air, igniting a budding friendship amidst their shared pain. Raditz said nothing more, but he didn't push Luke away either. Instead, he turned his gaze back to the sprawling forest around them, the vastness reminding him of how small he felt.

Perhaps Luke was right. Perhaps they were both just trying to navigate their own storms. The realization felt oddly comforting like sunlight breaking through a canopy of heavy leaves.

Back at the ship, Bardock stood silently in the dim light of the cockpit, the murmur of the swamp outside a quiet backdrop to the turmoil within. Ahsoka approached him, her expression one of empathy. "Give him time," she said gently, nodding toward the small bundle in Bardock's arms. Cradled against his chest, Kakarot's face was scrunched up in distress, his cries echoing softly through the air. "He's grieving, just like you."

Bardock nodded slowly, his gaze distant as he gently rocked Kakarot. "I don't know how to make this right." The universe's weight seemed to rest heavily on his shoulders, and the weight of loss seemed even more so.

"You start by being there," Ahsoka advised, stepping closer. "For both of them." She glanced at the empty space that Raditz had only recently occupied, the silence amplifying the loss they all felt.

Bardock exhaled heavily, his shoulders slumping beneath the emotional burden. "I'll try. For them, I'll try." As he spoke, he felt Kakarot squirm in his arms, his tiny fists flailing as he cried. Bardock smoothed a hand over his son's soft hair, whispering soothing words though his heart felt uncertain.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps echoed through the swamp, drawing Bardock's attention. He turned to see Raditz and Luke approaching, their expressions somber but calm in contrast to the turmoil inside him. As they drew near, Bardock knelt, opening his arms hesitantly, inviting Raditz into their shared moment of vulnerability.

Raditz hesitated momentarily at the sight of his younger brother's distress, the conflict swirling inside him. But when he caught Bardock's eye, he felt an undeniable call to family. With a rush of determination, he ran into his father's embrace, burying his face in Bardock's shoulder. The sound of his father's heartbeat provided a moment of comfort. "I'm sorry, Dad," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. I didn't mean it."

Bardock held him close, wrapping his free arm around Raditz as he tried to manage both sons in this whirlwind of feelings. "It's okay, kid. I'm sorry, too." He was surprised by how much strength he drew from this simple exchange. As Kakarot continued to wail at that moment, something shifted inside Bardock.

He felt a flicker of hope ignite within his chest. He had lost so much — friends, comrades, and dreams — but he still had his sons, and they still had each other. As Kakarot's cries began to subside, Bardock cradled him even tighter, whispering reassurances to him and to Raditz, who was now looking at his baby brother with a mixture of protectiveness and sadness.

From the swamp's shadows, Yoda emerged, his small form steady as he approached Bardock, his cane tapping softly against the wet ground. Sensing the ancient Jedi's presence, Bardock looked up, his sharp Saiyan eyes meeting Yoda's calm, calculating gaze.

Yoda stopped a few paces from Bardock and inclined his head slightly. "Victory, you have achieved, against a great foe. Yet, rest you cannot. Darkness still lingers, it does."

Bardock's brow furrowed, his grip on baby Kakarot tightening slightly. "You mean Cooler? He's gone—or at least I hope he is. If he comes back, I'll finish the job."

Yoda shook his head slowly. "Gone, Cooler may be, but not the darkness he left behind. Deeper, the shadows grow. A great evil stirs."

Bardock sighed, his tail flicking irritably behind him. "I had a feeling it wasn't over. Cooler might've been the first, but he's not the only one out there. If he's gone, it won't be long before someone else tries to take his place. Frieza, maybe."

At the mention of Frieza's name, Bardock's expression darkened. His grip on Kakarot tightened momentarily before he relaxed, careful not to wake the sleeping infant. "If Frieza hears about what happened to Cooler, he'll come here. He'll want to see it for himself. And when he does…" Bardock's voice trailed off, his fists clenching at his sides. "That bastard destroyed Planet Vegeta. He killed our people. This would be the perfect chance to pay him back."

Raditz, sitting quietly beside his father, looked up at the mention of Planet Vegeta. His young face was filled with confusion and anger. "Frieza? The one who destroyed our home? You'll fight him, won't you, Dad? You'll stop him?"

Bardock glanced down at his son, his expression softening slightly. "If he shows up, Raditz, I'll do more than stop him. I'll make sure he pays for what he did to us."

Yoda's voice, calm yet firm, broke through the tense air. "Revenge, you seek. Dangerous, that path is. Clouded by anger, it becomes."

Bardock scowled, his sharp gaze turning back to Yoda. "I don't need a lecture about anger, old man. Frieza deserves it. After what he did to my people, to my family—he deserves everything coming to him."

Yoda's ears twitched, and he leaned slightly on his cane. "Perhaps. But consume you, revenge can. Blind you to the greater threat, it may."

Bardock frowned, his tail curling slightly around his waist. "What greater threat? If you're saying Frieza's not the biggest problem out there, I find that hard to believe."

Yoda tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "Not only Frieza, the darkness I sense. Stronger, more insidious, it is. Twisted, the Force becomes. Deeper into shadow, the galaxy falls."

Ahsoka, who had been standing nearby, stepped closer, her brow furrowed. "You're sensing something else, Master Yoda? Something… worse than Cooler or Frieza?"

Yoda nodded slowly. "Yes. A presence, cold and cruel. Hidden, it remains, but its reach… vast, it is."

Bardock's frown deepened as he considered Yoda's words. "Another enemy? Great. Just what we need."

Raditz tugged at his father's arm, his young face set with determination. "Then we have to stop it, don't we, Dad? We can't let it hurt anyone else."

Bardock looked down at his son, his expression softening for a moment. "We'll stop it, Raditz. One way or another."

Yoda's gaze remained fixed on Bardock. "Caution, you must take. Strength alone, not enough it will be. Wisdom, patience—these, too, are weapons."

Bardock let out a low grunt, his frustration clear. "Patience isn't exactly a Saiyan specialty. But I get what you're saying. If there's another threat out there, we'll deal with it."

Ahsoka stepped forward, placing a hand on Bardock's shoulder. "You're not alone in this, Bardock. Whatever's coming, we'll face it together."

Bardock glanced at her, his sharp gaze softening slightly. He gave a small nod, his tail flicking behind him. "Thanks. I'll hold you to that."

Tarrin, leaning casually against a nearby tree, broke the tension with a low whistle. "Alright, not to ruin the whole 'save the galaxy' vibe here, but are we seriously not going to talk about how swampy this place is? I mean, I get the whole 'hidden Jedi master' thing, but couldn't he pick somewhere less… wet?"

Ahsoka shot him a look, though her expression had a hint of amusement. "Tarrin, maybe focus on the bigger picture here?"

Tarrin shrugged, grinning. "I am. I'm just saying, a nice desert planet wouldn't kill anyone."

Raditz snorted, and even Bardock let out a faint chuckle, the tension in the air easing slightly. Yoda's calm, knowing gaze lingered on Bardock for a moment longer before he turned, his cane tapping softly against the ground as he walked away.

As the group settled into a quiet discussion about their next steps, Bardock glanced down at Kakarot, who stirred slightly in his arms. His thoughts drifted to Gine, her voice and touch still fresh in his memory. He would fight for her, Raditz, Kakarot, and the galaxy. Whatever darkness was coming, Bardock would face it head-on because that's what a Saiyan did.

And this time, he wouldn't fail.

The pitch-blackness of deep space gave way to the sleek, imposing structure of an Imperial research facility hidden within an asteroid field. No star charts marked its location, and only a select few knew its existence. It was a place shrouded in secrecy and guarded by legions of elite stormtroopers and automated defense systems. As a Lambda-class shuttle approached, the facility's hangar doors slid open, welcoming the Emperor's arrival.

Emperor Palpatine sat on his throne-like chair inside the shuttle, his yellow eyes glowing faintly beneath his hood. His gnarled hands rested on the armrests as he felt the shuttle's gentle touchdown. He could sense the anticipation and trepidation of those awaiting his presence. The Force hummed with the fear and obedience of the facility's personnel.

When the shuttle's ramp lowered, the air filled with the hiss of hydraulics. Palpatine descended with a slow, deliberate gait, his black robes billowing around him. A group of scientists and officers lined up to greet him, their expressions a mix of nervousness and reverence. At their head was a tall, gaunt man in a pristine white lab coat, his slicked-back hair and rimless glasses giving him a clinical, detached air.

"Welcome, my Emperor," the lead scientist said, bowing deeply. "We are honored by your visit."

Palpatine's gaze swept over the gathered personnel, his voice low and rasping. "I trust that honor is matched by results. Take me to the laboratory. I wish to see the progress on the task I have given you."

"Of course, Your Majesty," the scientist replied, straightening and gesturing toward a set of reinforced doors. "If you would follow me."

The group moved quickly through the sterile halls of the facility. The walls gleamed with metallic sheen, and the air was filled with a faint hum from the machinery powering the station. As they approached the lab, Palpatine's eyes narrowed. He could feel something unusual, a flicker of curiosity piqued by the facility's secrets.

The scientist stopped before the doors and keyed in a long, intricate code. With a hiss, the doors slid open, revealing a cavernous laboratory filled with advanced equipment. Tanks of glowing green liquid lined the walls, each one containing shadowy figures suspended within. Data screens flickered with information streams, and the soft beeping of monitors created a rhythmic backdrop to the scene.

Palpatine stepped inside, his gaze immediately drawn to a figure standing at the center of the lab. The tall, slender Kaminoan scientist turned to face him, his long neck and almond-shaped eyes unmistakable. Clad in a tailored version of the Empire's uniform, he looked every bit as meticulous as the facility itself.

The Emperor paused, his tone sharp and intrigued. "A Kaminoan. How unexpected. Your people were... dealt with. Yet here you stand."

The Kaminoan inclined his head gracefully. "Indeed, my Emperor. I am one of the few survivors. But I do not mourn my people. I have found my place in your Empire. My loyalty is absolute."

Palpatine's lips twisted into a cruel smile. "Good. Then I trust your expertise has elevated this project beyond expectations?"

"More than you could imagine," the Kaminoan replied, gesturing toward a console. "Come. Allow me to show you."

The group moved deeper into the lab, where the Kaminoan activated a holographic display. Images and data from the battle on Tatooine began to fill the air—Gine valiantly fighting against Cooler, showcasing her extraordinary strength. But as the footage progressed, it turned tragic; Gine was overwhelmed, her life flickering out before Bardock's eyes. The scene shifted dramatically as Bardock, fueled by grief and rage, transformed into his Super Saiyan form. Each frame captured the intensity of his newfound power as he engaged Cooler, ultimately turning the tide and defeating the formidable foe. Small annotations alongside the visuals highlighted their genetic profiles, emphasizing the extraordinary lineage that coursed through their veins.

"These," the Kaminoan began, his voice calm and clinical, "are the subjects of our study. From the battlefield, we recovered invaluable samples—blood, tissue, and traces of energy signatures. The DNA of these beings is unlike anything we have encountered. Especially this one…" He highlighted Bardock's golden-haired form. "The one with the unusual hair pigmentation."

Palpatine's eyes narrowed, intrigued yet cautious. "This specimen stands out significantly from the others. What do you propose we do with it?"

The Kaminoan's long fingers danced over the console, creating a new display. "Cloning them would be insufficient. Their power stems from their individuality and their unique ability to adapt and grow stronger. To create simple replicas would be to waste their potential. No, my Emperor. We are taking this to the next level."

"Explain," Palpatine commanded, his tone sharp with intrigue.

The Kaminoan gestured toward one of the glowing tanks. Inside was a partially formed figure, its shape humanoid but indistinct. "Using their DNA as a foundation, we are engineering the ultimate life form. A being that combines the resilience and power of both Cooler and the other warrior with enhancements of our own design. It will be faster, stronger, and utterly loyal to the Empire."

Palpatine approached the tank, his eyes narrowing as he examined the figure within. "And you are certain this... creation will be loyal? It must not become another uncontrollable force."

The Kaminoan nodded, his voice confident. "We are ensuring that loyalty through genetic modification and programming. This being will have no purpose but to serve you, my Emperor."

Palpatine's sinister grin returned, his satisfaction evident. "Excellent. Continue your work. But do not fail me. The Empire's future may depend on it."

The Kaminoan bowed deeply. "We will not fail, my Emperor. The ultimate life form will be ready soon."

As Palpatine turned to leave, his mind churned with possibilities. The defeat of Cooler and the emergence of a Super Saiyan had shaken the galaxy, but now, the Empire had the means to rise even stronger. With the power of these beings harnessed and controlled, nothing could stand in his way.

The endless stretch of Snake Way twisted and coiled through the Other World like a serpentine ribbon of golden energy. Below it, an expanse of swirling clouds seemed to stretch forever, glowing faintly with the otherworldly light of this realm. Gine soared above the path, her eyes fixed on the horizon, but no matter how far she flew, the end was nowhere in sight.

"This thing just keeps going and going," Gine muttered to herself, her voice tinged with both awe and frustration. "How long is this, anyway? Did King Yemma say a million miles? Or was it a hundred thousand? Either way, it's way too long!"

She pushed herself to keep flying, her arms pumping and her tail swishing behind her. Her determination to reach King Kai was unwavering, but the strain of maintaining her flight began to take its toll. The unfamiliar landscape, though beautiful in its own right, was oddly disorienting. The clouds below glowed with a surreal light, and the sheer vastness of Snake Way made it feel as though she was flying in place.

Gine's arms grew heavy, and her breathing turned ragged. She wiped her brow with the back of her hand, grimacing. "Okay, Gine, time for a break," she said, her voice a mix of exhaustion and resolve.

She descended and landed lightly on the winding path, bending over with her hands on her knees as she caught her breath. "Phew… Who knew being dead could be so tiring?"

Straightening up, she glanced at the path ahead. It seemed to stretch on endlessly, twisting and turning out of sight. Behind her, the same view greeted her—miles and miles of Snake Way, with no discernible starting point.

"This has to be some kind of joke," Gine muttered, placing her hands on her hips. "Does anyone actually make it to the end of this thing? Or do they just give up halfway and take a nap?"

Her stomach growled loudly, breaking the silence. She froze, then looked down at her belly with a mix of annoyance and surprise. "Oh, come on! I'm dead! How am I even hungry? Is this some kind of cosmic prank?"

Gine sighed and plopped down on the edge of the path, her legs dangling over the glowing expanse below. She rummaged through her armor, even though she knew there was no food to be found. "Figures. No ration packs, no snacks, not even a single space bar. Great planning, Gine. Really top-notch."

Her stomach growled again, louder this time, and she groaned, flopping onto her back with her arms spread out. "This is ridiculous. I could fight a whole squad of Cooler's soldiers, but I can't handle an empty stomach."

As she stared up at the ethereal sky, her thoughts drifted to Bardock and her boys. She wondered how they were doing, whether they were safe, and if Bardock had managed to keep them together despite everything. The memory of her final moments made her chest tighten, but she pushed the sadness aside. She had a mission now, even if it didn't make much sense yet.

"King Kai better have something amazing to say when I get there," she muttered. "Like how to protect my family from all this craziness."

Pushing herself up, Gine stretched her arms and legs, shaking off the fatigue. "Alright, back to it. If I keep going, maybe I'll find someone who can point me in the right direction—or at least share a sandwich."

She started walking, her boots tapping softly against the golden path. The rhythm was steady and oddly soothing, and she found herself marveling at the strange beauty of the Other World. The glow of the clouds below seemed to shift and swirl, almost as if they were alive. The energy in the air was unlike anything she'd ever felt, vibrant and calming all at once.

Her pace quickened as she adjusted to her surroundings' strangeness, and soon, she found herself jogging along the winding path. "Okay, Snake Way. You might be long, but you're not going to beat me," she said aloud, her determination renewed. I'll get to King Kai, no matter what."

As if in response, her stomach growled again, and she groaned. "Fine, but first, I'm finding something to eat. There has to be food somewhere on this ridiculous road."

The golden coils of Snake Way seemed eternal, winding endlessly through the Other World. Gine trudged forward, her steps heavy and her tail dragging limply behind her. Her once boundless energy had waned, replaced by exhaustion and a comically persistent hunger. She clutched her stomach dramatically, groaning as her imaginary last reserves of strength dwindled.

"I'm going to starve to death. Again," she muttered, staggering along the path. "Does it even count if I'm already dead? Is this some kind of afterlife torture?"

Her surroundings had remained the same for what felt like days. The glowing clouds below remained constant, and the sky above was always a surreal, timeless shade of light blue. The lack of variation was beginning to mess with her sense of time.

"Do they even have nights here? Or do the dead just wander around in endless daylight until they go crazy?" she mused aloud, rubbing her eyes. "And why does this stupid road keep twisting? It's not like I can take a shortcut."

She groaned again, louder this time, and flopped onto her back in mock defeat. "If King Kai isn't waiting with a buffet, I'm turning around. I don't care if it takes another eternity."

But as her gaze shifted forward, something caught her eye. The road ahead seemed to slope downward slightly, and for the first time, there was a distinct change in the path's structure. Gathering her strength, Gine pushed herself up and started jogging, her curiosity overriding her fatigue.

As she reached the end of the slope, the golden road abruptly stopped. She skidded to a halt, her boots kicking up tiny sparks against the glowing surface. Gine blinked in disbelief, staring at the abrupt termination of Snake Way.

"It's… empty?" she said, her voice rising in disbelief. "That's it? That's the end of the road? No King Kai, no welcome party, no answers—just nothing?"

Her fists clenched, and she let out a frustrated scream, shaking her fists at the sky. "Are you kidding me? I came all this way, and there's nothing here? What kind of sick joke is this?"

She stomped around the edge of the path, her tail flicking furiously behind her. "They send me on this endless road, make me starve, and now there's nothing?! Oh, great job, Other World! Real nice!"

But as she ranted, something caught her eye—a faint glimmer below, barely visible through the swirling clouds. She squinted, tilting her head. There, far beneath the edge of Snake Way, was a tiny, round object floating in the void.

"What is that?" she muttered, leaning forward. The object grew clearer as she focused—a small, spherical world, green with patches of brown and a single tree sprouting from its surface.

Curiosity overtook her frustration. "Alright, fine. If this isn't the end, then maybe that is," she said to herself, cracking her knuckles. "Guess I'm going down."

She leaped into the air, her energy flaring to life as she descended toward the tiny planet. The closer she got, the stranger it seemed. It was impossibly small, more like a floating orb than an actual world. The gravity felt strange too, pulling her in even as she tried to slow her descent.

"Is this some kind of trick?" Gine muttered, hovering just above the surface. "It's… so tiny. How does anyone live here?"

Finally, she landed softly on the planet, her boots touching down on springy grass. The single tree stood in the center, its branches stretching out lazily. A small house was nestled beside it, and from within, she heard faint music and the unmistakable sound of laughter.

Cautiously, Gine approached the house, her hand resting on the hilt of her weapon. "This has to be it, right? I mean, what else could it be?"

As she stepped closer, the door creaked open, and a small, round figure emerged. He had blue skin, thick glasses, and antennae sticking out from his head. His robes billowed slightly as he stepped forward, and his expression was calm but curious.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" the figure said, his voice warm and jovial. "A Saiyan on my planet? That's something you don't see every day."

Gine blinked, her hand dropping from her weapon. "You must be King Kai."

The figure chuckled, adjusting his glasses. "That I am! And you must be Gine. I've been expecting you."

Gine crossed her arms, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten as curiosity took over. "Alright, King Kai. What's the deal? Why did I have to fly all the way here?" She looked around, eager to find out what awaited her in this meeting with such a revered figure.

King Kai chuckled warmly, acknowledging her question. "Well, Gine, you've caught my attention as the Saiyan who's stood up to Cooler—that's truly impressive!" He paused, his respect for her clear. "

Gine frowned, rubbing the back of her neck. "I wouldn't call it a feat, exactly. Cooler still... well, you know, killed me." Her voice dropped slightly as she admitted it, the memory still fresh despite being in this strange afterlife.

King Kai waved a dismissive hand. "Ah, don't sweat the small stuff! You held your own against one of the most dangerous beings in the universe. That's more than most can say. And besides," he leaned in conspiratorially, "being here means you're getting another chance to make something of that Saiyan spirit of yours."

Gine tilted her head, her skepticism clear. "I don't know about that. I'm not exactly a warrior. Bardock, my mate—he was always the strong one. I just did what I had to do to protect my family."

King Kai nodded sagely. "And that's precisely why you've caught my interest! You see, Gine, strength isn't just about brute force or flashy power. It's about heart, resolve, and knowing what you're fighting for. That's why I think you'd make an excellent student."

"Student?" Gine echoed, blinking in confusion. "Wait, you're saying you want to train me?"

"Exactly!" King Kai exclaimed, clapping his hands together. "But there's a catch."

Gine crossed her arms, narrowing her eyes. "Of course there is. What kind of catch?"

King Kai smirked, his antennae twitching with excitement. "To begin your training, you have to pass a test."

"A test?" Gine groaned. "Great. What kind of test? Do I have to lift a mountain or something?"

King Kai shook his head, his grin widening. "Oh no, nothing like that. The test is… you have to make me laugh."

Gine blinked, staring at him as if he'd suddenly sprouted another set of antennae. "Make you laugh? That's the test?"

"Exactly!" King Kai replied, his voice chipper. "If you can make me laugh, you're in. Simple as that."

Gine rubbed her temples, clearly baffled. "You've got to be kidding me. I've fought tyrants, raised two kids, and faced my own death, but making someone laugh? That's your big test?"

King Kai chuckled. "What can I say? Comedy is a vital skill! It shows creativity, quick thinking, and a willingness to look at life's absurdities. Now, go ahead—hit me with your best joke."

Gine hesitated, frowning as she searched her memory for something remotely funny. "Uh, alright," she started awkwardly. "Why... uh… why did the Saiyan cross the road?"

King Kai leaned forward, intrigued. "Why?"

"To... uh... to... train on the other side?" she finished lamely, her expression cringing even as she said it.

King Kai stared at her, unimpressed. "Hmm… It's not bad for a first attempt, but it's not quite there. Try again."

Gine groaned, rubbing her temples again. "I'm not good at jokes! That's Bardock's thing. He always had this dark, sarcastic humor. Me? I'm just... me."

"Well," King Kai said, tapping his chin, "maybe you need to loosen up. Try something different. Make it personal! Comedy's all about timing, creativity, and finding what works for you."

Gine huffed, pacing back and forth. "Alright, let's see… Um, what do you call a Saiyan who's bad at fighting?"

King Kai perked up. "What?"

"Me," Gine deadpanned, throwing her hands up in exasperation.

King Kai snorted, then burst into laughter, doubling over as he clutched his sides. "That—ha! That was great! You didn't even mean it, did you?"

Gine blinked, her expression caught between confusion and amusement. "Wait, that's what got you? I wasn't even trying to be funny!"

King Kai straightened, wiping a tear from his eye. "Exactly! Sometimes, the best jokes are the ones that come naturally. You've got a knack for this, Gine, even if you don't realize it."

Gine sighed, shaking her head. "Well, if that's what it takes to pass, I guess I'm in."

King Kai grinned. "Oh, you're definitely in. Now, the real work begins. Welcome to King Kai's training, Gine! I promise you, by the time we're done, you'll be a force to be reckoned with."

Gine raised an eyebrow. "You mean there's more to this than bad jokes?"

"Oh, much more," King Kai assured her, his tone turning serious for a moment. "But don't worry—you've got what it takes. Now, let's get started!"

He paused for a moment, a playful grin spreading across his face. "But first, how about we get you some food? I hear training on an empty stomach doesn't produce the best results. I'm not saying you need to eat like a Saiyan, but a little snack wouldn't hurt! What do you say? A feast fit for a warrior?"

Gine chuckled, shaking her head. "Okay, okay, I'll admit it—I'm hungry! Let's grab some food first!"

"Alright, alright," King Kai laughed, smiling broadly. "A well-fed fighter is a happy fighter! Let's eat before we train!"

The dim glow of neon lights bathed the lower levels of Coruscant in an otherworldly haze. Trunks, standing amidst the bustling chaos of makeshift stalls and narrow walkways, took in the scene with a mixture of curiosity and unease. He glanced at the small capsule in his hand—the compact form of his time machine—and sighed.

"This makes no sense," he muttered, turning the capsule over in his palm. "The time machine was supposed to take me to Earth's past, not... wherever this is."

He stuffed the capsule into his pocket and looked around again, noting the strange architecture, the cacophony of alien languages, and the countless beings moving about their business. It was fascinating but entirely alien.

"Did I overshoot? Undershoot? What even is this place?" He groaned, running a hand through his lavender hair. "Great. Just great."

His musings were interrupted by the sound of raised voices nearby. Turning, he saw two white-armored stormtroopers looming over an elderly alien woman at a small stall. She was frantically gathering up the items they'd knocked to the ground, her four arms trembling as she pleaded with them.

"I-I'll pay soon," she stammered. "Please, just a little more time—"

"You're out of time, old lady," one of the troopers barked, kicking over another crate. "The Empire doesn't wait for anyone."

Trunks felt his jaw tighten, his frustration bubbling into anger. Without hesitation, he strode toward the scene, his boots clanging against the metal walkway.

"Hey!" he called out, his voice firm. The troopers turned to face him, their visors reflecting the dim neon light. A few feet away, the trunks stopped, and he crossed his arms. "Leave her alone. Now."

The troopers exchanged a glance before bursting into laughter. "Oh, this is rich," one of them said, stepping closer to Trunks. "What are you gonna do, kid? Look tough until we go away?"

Trunks clenched his fists, his blue eyes narrowing. "I said back off. You're not going to like what happens if you don't."

The second trooper snorted. "Oh yeah? Or what?"

Trunks opened his mouth to respond, but before he could say a word, a voice cut in.

"Or he's going to embarrass himself and everyone here."

A young woman stepped between Trunks and the troopers, her hands raised in a placating gesture. She looked to be about his age, with messy, short hair and sharp eyes that practically sparkled with mischief. Her patched-up clothes and easy confidence suggested she was no stranger to these streets.

"Gentlemen," she said smoothly, "let's not waste your time on this off-worlder. He doesn't know the rules down here. We'll clean up this mess, and you can get back to doing... whatever important Empire stuff you do."

The troopers hesitated, clearly annoyed, but the woman's nonchalant demeanor seemed to diffuse their aggression. One of them pointed at Trunks. "You're lucky we've got other things to do. Next time, keep your mouth shut."

With that, they turned and walked off, their blaster-toting swagger leaving a sour taste in Trunks's mouth. He glared after them, his fists still clenched before the young woman turned to him and smacked him lightly on the arm.

"What the hell were you thinking?" she demanded, her voice low but sharp. "Do you have a death wish?"

Trunks blinked, taken aback. "I was trying to help. They were harassing her."

"Yeah, and you were about to get yourself blasted in the process!" she shot back, crouching to help the elderly woman pick up her belongings. "This isn't the kind of place where you play hero, rookie."

Trunks crouched down as well, though his irritation was evident. "I had it under control."

"Oh, did you?" She rolled her eyes, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Because from where I was standing, it looked like you were about to eat pavement."

The alien woman smiled gratefully at them both. "Thank you, young ones. You didn't have to help, but I'm glad you did."

Trunks offered her a small smile. "I'm sorry for the trouble. I couldn't just stand by."

The woman patted his arm with one of her hands. "You've got a kind heart, but be careful. The Empire doesn't forgive kindness."

As the woman shuffled back to her stall, the young woman turned back to Trunks, crossing her arms. "Seriously, what's your deal? You don't look like you're from around here."

Trunks hesitated. "What makes you say that?"

"Oh, I don't know," she said, tilting her head and tapping her chin in mock thought. "Maybe the sword strapped to your back? The fact that you just yelled at stormtroopers? Or how about the part where you look like you're trying to figure out what planet you're on?"

Trunks blinked, momentarily thrown off. "I'm... not from here."

"Yeah, no kidding," she said, smirking. "So, where are you from? And don't tell me you're on some kind of quest because you're giving off major 'lost tourist' vibes."

Trunks opened his mouth to respond, but he found himself distracted by her confident grin and the way her hair caught the neon light. For a moment, he forgot what he was going to say. He shook his head quickly, mentally berating himself. Focus, Trunks. Now's not the time to get distracted.

"I'm from far away," he said finally, his voice steady. "And I... got lost on the way."

The woman raised an eyebrow. "Far away, huh? That's vague. You've got a name, at least?"

"Trunks," he replied.

She extended a hand. "Reya. Welcome to Coruscant, Trunks. You're lucky you met me; otherwise, you'd probably already be on a one-way trip to an Imperial prison."

"Thanks," Trunks said, shaking her hand. He noticed how warm her grip was, and for a brief second, he found himself smiling. He quickly cleared his throat. "But I could've handled it."

Reya rolled her eyes. "Sure, you could've. Well, good luck not getting yourself killed, rookie," she said over her shoulder, her tone flippant. "You're gonna need it."

With that, she turned and started walking away, weaving effortlessly through the bustling crowd. Trunks stood there for a moment, blinking in surprise. "Wait, what?" he said, hurrying after her. "You're just gonna leave me?"

Reya glanced over her shoulder with a smirk. "Yep. You seem like you've got everything under control."

Trunks quickly caught up, dodging a merchant carrying a stack of boxes. "I don't! I mean—well, not really! I'm—uh—kind of lost."

"Clearly," Reya said, not breaking her stride. "But you'll figure it out. Or not. Either way, not my problem."

"Come on!" Trunks pleaded, falling into step beside her. "You just said I'd probably end up in an alley somewhere if I wasn't careful."

"Yeah, and you probably will," Reya said casually, sidestepping a droid that trundled past. "So, maybe don't do that."

Trunks hesitated, fumbling for the right words. "I just—uh—I don't know where to go, and this place is... different."

Reya stopped abruptly, spinning around to face him. "Different? That's what you're going with? Look, rookie, everyone down here is lost in some way or another. You'll fit right in."

"I mean, it's not just that," Trunks said, scratching the back of his neck. "You seem like you know your way around, and I—uh—I could use someone like you to, you know, help me out."

Reya raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "Someone like me? That's flattering. But what's in it for me?"

"I—uh—I don't know," Trunks stammered, his cheeks heating up. "I could—uh—owe you a favor? Or pay you? Or... or something?"

Reya crossed her arms, her sharp eyes studying him. "You're really bad at this, you know."

"At what?" Trunks asked, genuinely confused.

"Asking for help," she said bluntly. "Or talking to people. Or functioning in general."

Trunks flushed deeper, running a hand through his hair. "I'm usually better at it, but you're—you're kind of distracting."

Reya blinked, her smirk faltering for just a second. "Distracting?"

Trunks nodded quickly, clearly not thinking it through. "Yeah, you're, uh... you're really... pretty."

The words hung in the air for a moment as Trunks realized what he'd just said. His eyes widened, and he waved his hands frantically. "I mean—not that it's a bad thing! I just—uh—I didn't mean to say it out loud! Not that I don't think that, but—uh—wow, I'm just gonna stop talking now."

Reya stared at him, her lips twitching as if she were fighting back laughter. "You've got to be kidding me," she muttered, shaking her head.

"I'm sorry!" Trunks blurted. "I'm just... not used to this. Any of this."

Reya sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Alright, rookie. You win. I'll help you."

"You will?" Trunks asked, his voice tinged with both relief and disbelief.

"Yeah," Reya said, her tone exasperated but amused. "Because at this rate, you're going to embarrass yourself so badly that the Empire will put out a bounty just for the entertainment value."

Trunks chuckled nervously. "Uh, thanks. I think."

"Don't thank me yet," Reya said, starting to walk again. "You're officially my problem now. Try not to make me regret it."

"I won't," Trunks said, falling into step beside her. "I promise."

As they walked through the winding streets, Reya began pointing out various landmarks. "Alright, rookie, lesson one: down here, nobody cares who you are or where you came from. All that matters is staying alive and not drawing attention."

"Got it," Trunks said, nodding. "Stay alive, don't draw attention."

"Lesson two," Reya continued, gesturing to a shady cantina. "Places like that? Don't go in there unless you've got backup or a death wish."

"Understood," Trunks said quickly. "No cantinas without backup."

Reya glanced at him, smirking. "Lesson three: stop agreeing with everything I say. It's weird."

"Right, uh—wait, no, I mean—got it," Trunks stammered, tripping over his words.

Reya rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of a smile on her face. "This is going to be a long day."

As they continued walking, Trunks couldn't help but glance at her out of the corner of his eye. There was something about Reya's sharp wit and confident demeanor that intrigued him—and made him feel completely out of his depth. He shook his head, trying to focus.

"Alright," Reya said, stopping at a narrow alley. "If you're sticking with me, rookie, you'd better keep up. Deal?"

"Deal," Trunks said, nodding firmly.

"Good," Reya said, smirking. "Let's see if you survive."

With that, she led the way deeper into the maze of Coruscant's lower levels, and Trunks followed, feeling both nervous and oddly hopeful. Whatever this strange new world had in store for him, at least he wasn't facing it alone.

Wow, things with Bardock's family are definitely not going to be the same now that Gine's gone. It's heartbreaking, really. But man, I wish there was some way she could come back... *cough* dragon balls *cough*. Just throwing that out there, you know?

Meanwhile, the Empire's got their hands in some seriously shady science experiments. I mean, I get it—when strange and ridiculously powerful beings keep showing up and tossing your guys around like toys, you kind of need a backup plan. And let's not forget the Empire's still chasing those dragon balls, so they're not out of this galactic arms race just yet. Never count Palpatine out; the guy always has something up his sleeve (or hidden under his creepy hood).

Speaking of threats, next up, we've got Frieza. Bardock's right—there's no way Frieza isn't going to show up eventually after hearing about Cooler's defeat. Although... is Cooler really gone? That whole energy-ball-into-space situation was suspiciously vague. Let's not rule out another dramatic comeback just yet.

Oh, and Trunks. Poor guy's still trying to figure out where the heck he is. At least he's got Reya to help him out now, but seriously—what's wrong with him? I guess growing up in a post-apocalyptic future doesn't leave much time for socializing with girls your age. Still, maybe he'll figure out how to talk to her without tripping over himself. Fingers crossed!

Stay tuned, folks—this story's just getting crazier by the chapter.