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.

27. Clear your mind, and just let go!

Chapter 27 Plot:

Chapter 27: "Clear your mind, and just let go! Become your own warrior!" Everything seems to be… impossible to recover from. This is the moment everyone sees their own major flaws. This entire fight is the consequences of everyone's decisions. Running away, holding back… it will do nothing. But even with their best efforts… what can they do? What do they see in themselves? What does Karot see within himself? They say half-breeds have greater potential. Is that what they are afraid of? To lose due to being afraid of breaking your own limits seems cowardly. Just…let it go.

HESITATION IS A STRONG TETHER…

As the situation continues to fall south, trying to climb back out becomes near impossible. No one stands the slightest chance. Everyone is giving their all. Everyone is breaking their limits. But even with all of that effort, it's futile. There is no way to win, so why bother trying?

There is only one way to beat such an unstoppable monster.

You have to become an unstoppable monster.

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A/N: Espeon804 here with another great chapter!

PUBLISHED: APRIL 25TH, 2024!

WORDS: 22,205

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I had this idea back when I first wrote this series years ago, that I wanted to title every single chapter in the same format seen in DBZ Kai.

I think I believed it was interesting that each episode basically had two titles. I dunno.

Obviously I didn't do this for every chapter, but the majority, yes. You can see it. Someone actually did notice this years ago, which made my day. XD

And it's extra fun to read them with the Kai's "title card" theme (the Yamamoto version) with the narrator's voice. That's my random note today. Have fun reading the titles with that in mind.

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DISCLAIMER: I do not own the Dragon Ball franchise. Still hard to believe Akira Toriyama is gone…

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Key:

"Talking"

"Foreign Language"

'Thoughts'

'Telepathy'

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It's almost done. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

-Espeon804

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-- Chapter 27: Clear your mind, and just let go! Become your own warrior! --

"Oh, damn."

Taro's eyes remain fixed on the gigantic crystal ball. Many are muttering among themselves from what they are seeing displayed.

Tarble is practically destroying everything around him with no sense of awareness.

"This is clearly his first transformation. He's not going to stop until everything is dead."

"That's strange. I thought he would know how to handle it," Shugesh says. "Don't the elites get some sorta special training to channel it or whatever?"

Fasha frowns. "Considering I didn't know he existed until recently, I think we can say that he wasn't granted that privilege."

"If he was attacking that insect freak, maybe there would be a better chance," Borgos says.

"Even if he could, what good is that form?" Fasha asks. "It's far too weak when compared to a Super Saiyan!"

Borgos growls. She was right.

"What can they do? Maybe they had a chance against Cell, but then he just had to create those spawns!" Fasha says. "And if what that freak said about their strength is true, this fight is done! They are all going to die the moment they are finished toying with them!"

"What about Gine? Gine is still there!" Borgos says. "She needs to get out of there!"

"You want her to run away?!" Shugesh snaps. "You know she won't. Not for as long as her sons are fighting!"

"Idiot! If she's killed, her spirit won't reform! She'll be gone for good!"

"Damn it." Taro growls. "Had he not healed the way he did, he would probably be dead by now! Doesn't make any sense! How can such a weak species create something that is a real threat against a Saiyan?!"

Fasha frowned. "This isn't the first time it happened. The Tuffles. Remember?"

"This is ridiculous…" Taro looks over to Bardock. But, before he can open his mouth, the squad Captain collapses on the ground. Taro immediately hurries over to him.

"He's doing that thing again," Shugesh says.

"Already?!" Fasha groans.

Borgos approaches his leader, kicking him lightly. "Hey! Bardock! You're making a scene over here! Get up!"

A moment passes, and Bardock jolts. He is helped to his feet by Taro as the rest of his squad stares at him, puzzled by what happened. He places a hand against his ringing head.

"What was it?" Fasha asks. "It had to be intense if it brought you down like that."

"It wasn't anything good, was it?" Borgos asks.

Bardock is trying to wrap his mind around what he just saw. It was so brief, but it was packed with far too much information for his mind to digest. He squeezes his eyes shut, trying to sort out the pieces.

Borgos opens his mouth, but Fasha strikes his chest as a warning to stay silent. Everyone else waits, curious or concerned.

What he saw…

It can't be.

But every vision that crossed his psyche was always the future—a fate that cannot be undone.

"So…that's your plan, Kakarot…?" Bardock lowers his head. His eyes are burning as they fall on the crystal ball. "You've kept it to yourself all this time, because even I don't agree with this!"

"What? What did he do?" Fasha asks, more curious than anything after hearing the Saiyan tongue. There was no reason to use it…not unless he is trying to be secretive about something. But he was being vague. He didn't want them to know, either…which only meant whatever he saw made him furious.

She hasn't seen him this angry in years.

Bardock walks past, ignoring her question. His fists are clenched tight. He wants to punch something, anything.

"What I hate the most…is that I understand why. Idiot…! You idiot….!"

-- 0000 --

A gigantic fist rises high, and it swings towards the ground. Vegeta is forced to push his body to make the lunge to avoid being crushed. His landing sends fresh blisters of pain, a reminder of his broken leg. He can't move as he would like, and he won't be able to keep moving for much longer.

The ground continues to shake as the giant continues his rampage. It doesn't look like his brother is attacking him directly. It's all aimless. Vegeta just so happened to be in the wrong spot.

Nappa is still unconscious, just a small distance away. Had Tarble struck the ground a little further from where he did, Nappa might had been crushed.

'I have to think of something quickly if I want to get out of this before he crushes me!' Vegeta tries to push his weight off the ground, using his good leg for support. Any bit of pressure that falls on the other only brings a fresh wave of terrible pain.

It never crossed his mind how difficult it is to stand when the ground is constantly shaking.

Flying is such a privilege.

…

Yamcha will never get used to that horrible sight.

He was nearly crushed to death by Goku twice before. Each time he turned into that monster, it was like he had a sweet tooth for blood. Upon learning about the existence of the Saiyan race, it all started to make sense. Yamcha came up with the theory that maybe Goku remembered his mission every time he transformed. But, looking at Tarble now, it wasn't true at all! They just became mindless beasts!

He can't move as he would like. The Cell Jrs practically turned his entire body into a drumming set from how bad everything is throbbing. It doesn't help that the ground keeps shaking. Every time he hears that roar, a fresh wave of panic would make Yamcha lose his focus.

He doesn't want to be crushed alive—

A giant hand slams on the ground nearby. Yamcha holds his breath.

The beast lowers his head closer to the ground. Thick drool seeps from between Tarble's fangs. Upon hitting the ground near Krillin, the earth doesn't absorb it right away. Piccolo and the Z-Fighters freeze, not wanting any sudden movements to alert the monster. But at the same time, no one wants to be coated with such a gross substance.

"Oh, man. If he's drooling like that, then I doubt he even knows who he is…!" Krillin whispers. "And I'm afraid that if that stuff touches me, a hundred baths won't get rid of it! What is that?!"

"Forget about the baths…I don't think anyone would be able to get out of that. It's like jelly…!" Yamcha gulps.

"It slows down your enemy's movements. Doesn't come off easy for a reason…" Raditz's nearby voice starles the Z-fighters. "Don't let it touch you. All it takes is a single ember to land on that, and you'll be combusted to death."

"Hah…" Krillin shrinks. "I almost forgot…that's a thing they can do. And if Nappa can do the damage he did in his normal form…"

Yamcha gulps. "These Saiyans and their biology…!"

They go silent as Tarble scans the area, listening. He takes several steps closer. A low rumble fills the air as he turns his head, shifting his pointed ears. It's not until he turns his back to them that it feels safe enough to breathe normally.

"No sudden movements," Raditz warns them. "Right now, anything could be perceived as a challenge."

"That's because he's out of control!" Yamcha's whisper is sharp.

"Idiot! It's not that he's out of control! Although it does look that way, trust me when I say that's not the case."

"Raditz could be right, you know," Krillin agrees. "Maybe it's not that he's out of control. I mean, Yeah, Goku was the same way. But maybe it's because every time he transformed, he just couldn't keep his Saiyan instincts from running wild!"

"So basically, Tarble is completely consumed by his bloodlust!" Piccolo says with a scowl. "What can we possibly do, other than slice off his tail?"

"First, he needs to calm down…!" Raditz pushes himself to his knees. "Once he can do that, we should be able to break through that barrier and reach him where he can really hear us."

Krillin's face twists. "What do you mean by 'really'? You're saying he can't hear us now? I thought Saiyans can hear much better in that form!"

"I think what the Saiyan is saying is that Tarble would be able to process our words," Piccolo says. "Think about it. When someone is too angry to think, talking to them is like speaking to a brick wall. He needs a clearer mind. Then, he will listen."

Krillin nods once. "Makes sense."

"Problem is, how can we get close enough without him trying to swat at us?" Tien asks. "If he's basically too angry to think straight as you say, then how do you reason with—"

They all fall silent as Tarble's ear twitches. He turns towards them, making his way over on all fours. He dips his head, sniffing the ground.

No one dares to make a sound as the beast draws closer. Yamcha holds his breath, praying that the sound of his hammering heart won't give away his location.

…

Trunks isn't moving.

From how hitched his breathing is, he won't be able to think straight.

Karot doesn't know how to help him. He knows his cousin came from a timeline when things are far worse than this. But, it's so hard to imagine. How could the world be in a more horrifying state than what they are facing now?!

Trunks was doing so well when he first arrived. But as things got worse here, Karot can only guess he couldn't keep himself together. He always thought that being older makes one braver, but maybe that's not the case at all.

Something terribly related to Tarble's transformation must have happened before.

"Eugh. That's a pitiful sight." Cell's attention is on Trunks. "But, you did say that he was your teacher. What kind of hell did he put you through for you to have this kind of reaction?"

He's not mocking him in the slightest. From his tone alone, Karot can tell that he's confused.

Cell shakes his head. He looks back at the tense scene. "Doesn't matter. This unexpected transformation is the best entertainment I'm getting now. Although, it has gotten a bit quiet, so why not kick things up a notch?"

He points a single finger towards Tarble, and he fires a small energy blast. It flies past, striking the ground beneath Tarble's nose. The small explosion startles the monster back to his feet.

The fighters on the ground panic as the prince roars and throws both fists down. With the little strength they have, they lunge at the last second. As Tarble's fists bury into the earth, his ear twitches towards Krillin. He turns towards the Z-Fighter, snarling and snapping his jaws at him. Krillin narrowly escapes getting clamped between the pointed fangs.

Karot can't believe it. Cell is practically treating Tarble as a sport of entertainment! It won't be long until everyone is too tired to move, and Tarble might just kill them all!

If they can just somehow pull him out of that angry fog, then he will become conscious again. But right now, by just looking at the red eyes, it's like a window. Behind that red glass, Karot can imagine Tarble, who is screaming and raging in his normal form. Such horrible screams…

He's so angry…

The beast roars again. Yamcha makes a dive, avoiding being swatted by the giant's hand. He crawls away, clenching his teeth each time the ground shakes. Behind him, Tien and Krillin are pushing their bruised bodies to avoid being sandwiched to the ground.

Tarble punches and slaps the earth, roaring and snapping in every direction. Bounders shatter. The ground is in constant agony. Whenever the warriors landed, he would attack that spot next. It's impossible to stay still.

Yamcha grunts as he crashes on the ground. A giant looming shadow tells him that he is the next target. His body is protesting. He can't move!

"Hey! Over here!" Krillin is on his feet. Tarble makes his lunge towards him

"Hey big guy! This way!" Tien shouts.

Tarble makes an early landing as his claws dig deep into the earth. A sharp shift churns the ground as he snarls towards Tien. He charges his way on all fours before lifting and throwing his hand down.

Tien leaps for the air. Tarble catches nothing.

For how much longer can they keep dodging?

…

It's impossible to dodge forever. Perhaps, the only thing keeping everyone on their toes is the adrenaline coursing through them. It can be helpful, but only for some time. Something has to be done. Karot knows standing around can't be his only option.

Karot prepares to make his escape. Perhaps he can blast Cell's head off if he times his attack correctly. But, it's like Cell can read his mind. The bio-Android is shaking his head.

"That won't be enough, and you know it. You two are going to stay here and watch the scene that you could've prevented. Have a seat. It will be a while," he says.

Karot hates how useless he feels. He doesn't want to stand by and watch as everyone around him falters against a force like this! What's even more frustrating is that he doesn't have the power to stop it, no matter how hard he tries to summon it. Can it even be summoned?

His father believes he and Trunks have the potential. But, could it be a delusion? There is no telling how much mental damage that demon did to him. Karot still doesn't trust him. His father…everything went wrong with his father. Everything that is happening now is because of his father.

But what is there to believe anymore? Who is there to trust anymore? He can't even turn to Gine for any form of guidance. Even if she did turn away from the genocidal life she had, it doesn't take away the horrible crimes she committed. What he witnessed her do under that thunderstorm was more than enough confirmation for him.

But is Karot any better? He killed innocent people, all because his father told him he had to in order to survive.

Is this tournament truly their punishment? They deserve this, don't they? That has to be why Trunks is frozen. He must be thinking the exact same thing. He must've done terrible things that Karot can't imagine. Tarble made him do the most terrible things. There's a reason he is afraid of himself, just as Karot is. He knows how that feels.

Trunks…he must feel all alone even now.

Karot walks over to him. He didn't notice how awkward the ground feels beneath his feet until now. He forgot that he is missing a boot, but it's not important. He takes Trunks' hand, ignoring the sharp pain that stabs his shot shoulder. It's enough to snap Trunks from his trance. The shaking ground makes him nervous, but he guides Trunks away.

Cell only watches them for a few seconds before turning his attention back to the chaos.

Once Karot feels he is a decent distance away, he releases Trunks with a sigh. "I know that you are scared. I am too. But, you came here to help us…to keep this world from falling into the same darkness your own had. You can't just give up."

Trunks stares at his feet. "...I don't want to give up. I've been telling myself since I was little, that things would eventually get better. Everytime something terrible happened, I told myself that tomorrow could be better. But…it never was. It always got worse. Yesterday always looked better. Yesterday was something I've always taken for granted. Sometimes, it almost made me wish I wouldn't wake up, only so that I wouldn't see what terrible things the morrow would bring. I know it's a terrible thing to think about…but…that demon…he corrupts a new victim everyday. With every passing day, someone finally gave up. Resisting is pointless. Teacher said so himself. He always told me that it's so much easier to stop caring. But…the moment he did stop caring, he became a horrible person, and it was right after you—"

He stopped. Karot knows why.

"These negative thoughts and feelings can drown you over there. It tried to claim me every single day. The only thing that kept me from being swallowed by despair is knowing that I can change someone's life. That this timeline…can have a better future than I can ever hope to see. I just want to make other people happy, because all I've ever known was hopelessness. You can see it in everyone's eyes. No laws. No structure. Every man for himself. Kill or be killed. What a terrible place to be. What a terrible thing to preach…Teacher tried to make me see it. But I refused to accept that as real. To become a monster like him…no…"

Karot's shoulders sink. "That's what Cell wants. I guess he wants to see someone fight who has nothing left to lose."

"The most terrifying kind of person that can exist. I know it all too well," Trunks says. "The scary part is, I felt that mindset trying to claim me time after time. These timelines are blending too close to each other…it's getting harder to tell them apart."

Another distant roar. Trunks tenses up.

"You know that's not true!" Karot says. He puts optimism in his tone, trying to keep the gloom away. "There is still hope here. I know it looks bad, but there is always a way. Even if it looks impossible!"

Trunks sighs. "You sound like my Master alright."

Karot would point out that they are technically the same person, but he decides not to nitpick.

"With every round this tournament had, Cell kept negating one thing after the other. How do you fight against someone who keeps changing the rules for his own benefit? How do you…fight against a monster who only sees everyone else as a toy he can just disregard once he gets bored…?"

Karot wishes he can find the right words to comfort him. But it feels false to say anything. What can he do when he feels the same way?

"He acts just like those Androids. Only…it's much worse," Trunks says. "You would think I would know how to handle them by now, but I would be lying to myself if I say I know what to do. I don't. Even if I do know, I don't have enough power to carry it out. The Androids never got tired. And while Cell doesn't have that endless stamina, he instead keeps healing, and he always gets stronger. What I hate the most…is how I always freeze up when things get bad."

'Yeah. I know how that feels.' Karot can sympathize.

Trunks takes a seat at last. His tail curls close to his lap. The shaking ground almost makes sitting uncomfortable, but he has no plans to move. Not for some time.

"Usually in those situations, whenever I felt cornered like that, by some dumb luck I've managed to escape," he says. "But, it always cost someone their life. All the dying…the dying never stopped. And even now, it feels like…someone is going to die. And it will be all my fault, because I was too weak to stop it."

"That…that can't be true," Karot says.

"Don't lie to yourself. You know it is. Teacher…he would always criticize me for it. He hated the way I think…he hated my mercy. He would…always remind me that my humanity is just a ploy…that at the end of the day, my Saiyan genetics is all the world will ever see. That no matter how hard I try to resist, no matter how hard I try to be Human, there is nothing that will ever stop me from being the monster that he is. That is why I will always be hunted. It's fate that I will have to fight to stay alive every day of my life."

Trunks grabs his tail, almost glaring at it like it's a parasite attached to his body. He turns his focus towards Tarble. Karot follows his gaze, watching as the gigantic beast continues to wreak havoc against the weakened fighters. Everyone is dodging or trying to stay out of the way. The occasional blast would make Karot jump as he worries someone got hit.

It's all entertainment to Cell.

And they can't do anything about it.

"Whenever I disagreed with him, Tarble would always make a point about it. His favorite way of doing so…was forcing me to turn into that monster just to make a sport out of it. And I've hated it. I still hate it."

Tarble did that…? Karot stares at him, unable to find the words he wants to say.

Trunks frees his tail, and it curls against his body again. "My Master…he…promised that he would never force me to transform. I wanted to believe him, I really did. But just like everyone else, of course he would break that promise. And just like Tarble would, he said it was the only way to keep me alive. But why? Why is the answer to everything killing it? Why does someone else have to die just for me to live another day? I…never asked for this. Ever since I was born, I just remember trying to stay alive."

They are a lot more alike than Karot originally thought.

Karot lowered his head. "I don't remember much of anything except trying to stay strong, so that the other Saiyans won't see me as too weak. Even when I was with Frieza, he told me that mercy was just a stupid tether making me useless. So, I didn't have a choice but to kill something or someone just so he wouldn't kill me. I had to keep fighting just so I could get back to dad. But…I was convinced he abandoned me, and I got so mad, so when I did finally see him again I…I just attacked him."

"Yeah…sounds about right…"

"Yeah…" Karot takes a seat. "And then Vegeta kicked my dad out because his kindness made him weak. But then my dad…he changed so much. I don't even know who he is anymore."

The roaring has their attention again. Now it's Raditz and Gine trying to stay out of the monster's way.

"You know how to stop him, don't you?" Karot asks.

"It's not like Cell will allow me to anyway."

Karot gives Trunks his full attention. So he does know. Now he wonders just how many times he saw Tarble in that form to know how to handle it so well.

"Teacher told me that the Great Ape is a beast, because it's the most primal and truest form of Saiyan instincts. You can't just walk up and talk to it and hope everything works out. You have to match its energy. If you are too friendly, it will only see you as easy prey. In fact, the only way I ever avoided being crushed was by fighting against him. Hiding was impossible, because he would always sniff me out."

"Doesn't fighting him only make him more angry?"

"Yeah. Pain does anger him more. Really does feel like a brick wall, huh? Truth is, Tarble has temporarily forgotten the common tongue. So the only way to communicate with him is through his native one."

"Do you know it?" Karot asks.

"Bits and pieces. I'm not so fluent," Trunks says. "Even you in the future didn't know it all too well. Teacher said it didn't surprise him. The Saiyan language isn't something that can be picked up by anyone…like Spanish, or French. Your mind has to be wired a certain way. He said it's the ancient tongue of the Oozaru."

"Really…?" Karot gasps. "That's why it sounds so weird—it's nothing a Human can make naturally."

"Teacher said that it's because we aren't pure-blooded, so trying to speak it would be a challenge. He said our Human blood tainted that connection. We aren't as attuned to our primal mindset as the others. That's why Goku and Kauli were able to pick it up so quickly. It's natural to them. Not so much for us."

Was that true…?

"But…" Karot tilts his head. "You said you can't speak it all too well."

"Yeah. I can't."

"But, I heard you. It was fluent." Karot's confusion only grows upon seeing Trunks' twisted expression. "You got mad at Vegeta…and it was like…a switch."

"What…?" Trunks clearly doesn't recall.

"I mean your eyes were red so I guess…you might have got into that state of mind somehow, right?"

"My eyes were…" Trunks stares at his lap. It's clear that he doesn't remember much of it. His mind must be trying to put the pieces together.

"Do you two ever wonder why you remember absolutely nothing when your rage gets the best of you?"

Cell's voice seemingly came from nowhere. The young fighters have forgotten he was there for a moment.

He's still not looking at them, but he continues.

"None of you fools know how to control your instincts. It's such a shame, really. You get overwhelmed with fear or anger, and you are incapable of fighting as you should. Honestly. My own children are far better than you."

Karot can't fathom how he heard their conversation, or how much of it he was eavesdropping. "How did you—"

"Namekian DNA." Cell taps the base of his ear.

"O-oh…" Karot has a sinking feeling. He just…pretended he didn't notice?

Or is he messing with them?

"You want to know the difference between you and them?" Cell asks. "Take a look. The situation just got a lot worse. One of their own has no idea what is even happening, so he attacks just about anything in order to preserve his existence. Do you see your fellow Saiyans throwing a tantrum? Do you see the Humans cowering in fear? Even the Namekian is actively trying to find a way out of this! That's because they accept every part of themselves that make up who they are. They have been in countless battles the two of you can only dream of. And while you two sulk like lost puppies, the adults, despite how tired and wounded they are, they keep fighting. They are fighting, knowing they don't stand a chance. But all you can do is plead and beg, and that is what gets on my nerves."

Karot feels the heated gaze from Cell.

"Hearing your little sob stories, I can understand why you struggle so much. You lack the drive Saiyans have, and the determination that comes from a Human. You feel so torn on what to do with yourselves, that you are just running in circles! And what do you do? You lash out at everyone, because you are so scared and frustrated. You do all of that, because you fear who you are. Such a life is confusing, isn't it?"

"I never asked you to be my therapist," Trunks growls.

"Oh but you especially need one. Especially from those little episodes you've displayed earlier. The next one might just get you killed."

Trunks leans back, and Karot feels the need to step in. But, what can he say? Cell appears done with his butt-in as he tunes back in to what he sees as a show. It leaves the two young fighters sitting, and pondering.

"Is that it then…?" Trunks finally asks after a moment. "Was Teacher teaching me the right thing all this time…? Or…was it all wrong because he was trying to teach me like a Saiyan?"

Karot can hear the uncertainty. The doubt. He felt that too. He understands.

"Sometimes, I wonder the same thing," Karot says. "That maybe I've been overthinking everything. Maybe…maybe…"

He doesn't know.

Trunks doesn't know.

Karot grunts and squeezes his head as he throws it back, frustrated.

What is anything anymore?!

…

Krillin climbs to his feet with Yamcha's help. The trembling ground made it difficult—his body feels like it's bearing several broken bones.

"I'll never get used to seeing that transformation. I've always hated it…"

Yamcha agrees with a nervous nod. At that same moment, he freezes. Krillin can see why.

Vegeta is limping towards them, wearing a scowl that might just spell out death. His face darkened the closer he got to them.

"H…hey. We are on the same side, remember?" Yamcha lifts both hands in surrender.

"I never forgot, you idiot," Vegeta says. "I wouldn't even waste my time coming anywhere near you Earthlings if I didn't see anything worthwhile from it."

"Oh. Ok. So uh…what do you need?"

Vegeta seems ready to yell at him, but he takes a deep breath. For a moment, he is hesitant, probably debating if he truly wants to go through with whatever he is about to do. Even as he speaks, his tone holds that hesitation. "As much as it pains me to say it…we are going to need your assistance."

Krillin and Yamcha exchange looks. Did he hit his head?

"That glowing bomb you've created earlier," Vegeta clarifies. "It was the most effective technique against that Cell. If you can make another one of those, perhaps one much bigger if he doesn't see it, it might just give us the same breakthrough we were granted before. Can you do that?!"

Krillin almost takes a step back. "Uh…you're talking about The Spirit Bomb, right?"

"I don't care what it's called! You obviously know what I am talking about, so stop standing around and get to it before someone notices!"

A request (more like demand) from Vegeta was the last thing the Earthlings expected. The situation is all too dire. They see no reason to question it.

"You go on and do it, Krillin. I'll try to keep Cell and those little monsters distracted," Yamcha says.

"Are you sure? There's so many of them! It's not like I can hide!" Krillin points out.

"We will figure something out. Hurry!"

Krillin nods once. "Alright!"

…

Fingers stretch and sink into the earth. Raditz is on his knees. The Cell Jrs are creeping on him, crackling like tiny cartoon villains. It's perhaps the most annoying sound he has heard all day.

"Why won't you ever shut up…?"

Small bolts leap across his body. Looking back, his mother is in no better shape. She, too, can hardly move. Aside from the lighting bolt turning against them that siphoned their energy, it's avoiding Tarble that drained them both so much more.

There is nothing fun about this. He just wants to go home.

But…

"As long as I can still stand…!"

He's on his feet. The bolts grow bigger.

"I can still fight!"

The Cell Jrs step back as large bolts launch from his body in nearly every direction. The bolts take a path on the ground, churning the dirt as they fire towards the monsters. They jump around, avoiding the bolts as if it is second nature.

From the cliffside, Kakarot watches the aggressive display. Somehow, seeing his brother fighting is giving him the energy to get back on his feet. The Cell Jrs have noticed, and they are looking his way.

"I would judge you for not staying down so that the pain would be easier on you…but look at me." Kauli almost chuckles as she wipes the blood that trickles from her lip. "Why is being a Saiyan so damn complicated…? I hate this feeling. Can't even stay still when I want to."

Broly, being the only one unharmed, steps forward. He is ready to take on the next wave of attacks.

"Turles is still unconscious. Can't blame him for it," Kauli says. "Broly. Can you keep an eye on him? We don't exactly want anyone to die today."

Broly nods.

"Kauli, are you sure about this?" Kakarot asks.

"Are you doubting me?" Kauli responds. "Listen. I know I'm not exactly strong like you, but I know my way around things. You've taught me to be flexible with what I already have, and I did exactly that. If I'm going to die today, it won't be by my sister's rule. I'll die on my own terms."

Kakarot chuckles. "Well, alright then."

"But, there is something strange I've noticed happening during this whole thing."

Kakarot looks at Kauli, curious.

"Cell is all over the place," Kauli says. "He would say one thing, and then act against those words. Almost like…there's a bit of a drawback in there. Do you think the combination of those cells are affecting his personality? Or maybe he can't make up his mind on what is more appealing to him. Whatever it is, it's making him difficult to predict. Can't trust anything he says."

"Do you think these guys are the same way?" Kakarot asks, as the Cell Jrs creep closer.

"No. I don't think so. They have their own twisted thing going on," Kauli says. "They are savage little beats. All of them."

…

"KAIO KEN—AAAAAAAA!"

A flaring red punch connects to a Cell Jrs face. Yamcha makes a sharp turn and slams the heels of both feet against another's back, sending it to the ground. He keeps moving, despite how much his burning muscles are against it. If he stops moving, he won't be able to stand anymore.

If they catch him, he's as good as dead.

He doesn't have to hit them. He just needs to distract them the best way he can. Krillin wasn't able to make the Spirit Bomb as big as he would have liked before. Maybe this time, it's possible. For as long as no one notices, it could be twice as big!

With that thought, it gives Yamcha the boost of motivation he needs. His movements increase in speed. He keeps the Cell Jrs guessing on where he is going. But, he knows it won't last forever. One of them is going to catch him, and he will be in a world of pain.

He has to accept that.

"C'mon! What are you waiting for?!" Yamcha shouts at them.

And it's not just him. Raditz, Gine, and Kakarot too. Kauli and Broly…everyone is doing their best. They are tired. They are outmatched. But, for as long as they can keep those Cell Jrs occupied, that is all that matters. Kakarot's plan to rely on the children's strength isn't working. All they can do now is stall.

Piccolo punches a Cell Jr. to a stagger. Raditz elbows another. Gine narrowly dodges an attack from one. Tien unleashes his Kaio Ken for a boost to save himself from being trampled. Kakarot and Kauli are keeping them at bay.

But they retaliate.

Their cackling laughter makes Yamcha's stomach sink as he witnesses one bringing Tien to his knees. Another blasts Piccolo on the back, forcing him to the ground. Gine and Raditz are brought down, and the other Saiyans—

A heavy slam rattles through Yamcha's skull. His face hits the ground faster than he can process. He lies on his back, lifting his head. A boot slams on his stomach, pushing the air out his lungs as he lies back down.

He can't move.

…

Meanwhile, hiding behind a rock formation, Krillin stands with both hands facing the sky. No one has noticed the glow yet, but it's likely because it's not big enough to be significant.

"Oh, man, if the Saiyans can't defend themselves, then I'm dead the moment one of those things notices me…!" Krillin gulps. "Come on…! Can't this build any faster…?"

It's growing much too slow compared to last time. Everyone is too busy to spare any bit of energy they have. The planet is too barren to make use of any organic life. What can he do? His arms are burning from how long he has been holding them in the air.

'Why does this have to take so long? Even if I gather everything this planet can afford to spare, will it be enough? All it did was bring Cell to his knees last time. What about now? What if they shake it off?'

Wait.

Krillin looks towards the sky, puzzled. 'Is it possible that I can draw energy from space itself? Would that even work? There are other planets out there. But as far as I know, Earth is the only inhabitable planet in this solar system. How far can I possibly reach for another sign of life?'

It's worth a shot. If it doesn't work, then he can say that he tried. What other option does he really have?

Krillin closes his eyes with a deep breath. 'Come on, universe. Help me out a little. I just need a little more of your energy. Whatever you can spare!'

He can hear the constant struggles. They can't keep fighting. Tarble is still rampaging on the field, and from the sound of it, he's targeting Piccolo now.

To just stand around and do nothing makes Krillin feel like dead weight! Everyone is fighting to give him time. If only he can do something to help them a little! But, he knows if he tries, he'll only get plummeted. The Spirit Bomb would have no way of being launched. He would only throw everything away.

No matter how much it hurts, he has to stay where he is.

…There's a new problem.

It's too quiet.

Krillin peaks over the formation, and he holds his breath. Nearly every fighter is on the ground, experiencing a world of pain. The only ones still standing are Vegeta and Broly. Krillin can't quite figure Broly out, but he knows Vegeta won't be able to stand for much longer. He's struggling to do that much.

Vegeta's doing a good job at hiding it, but Krillin sees the slightest change in his face whenever he puts weight on his bad leg. This is not looking good.

The Cell Jrs are bored with them. They are looking around for someone—are they looking for him? Krillin tenses at the thought. He can't let them see him. Just looking at The Spirit Bomb, it isn't—

'Holy crap!'

It's already triple the size of his body?!

Did the universe answer to his pleas? That has to be it! At the rate it is growing, the impact it will have…

Wait…!

Krillin's face goes pale. He looks back at the disinterested Cell Jrs.

'Please don't look up! Don't look up!'

…

'Damn.'

Vegeta already can't move the way he would like. But now, it feels like his body just wants to give up when his mind does not. He has all the will in the world, but his burning muscles and aching body have other plans.

He knows the small Human can't remain hidden forever. A quick glance at the sky. The Spirit Bomb is still growing. Little by little.

'The lack of life on this planet makes it too difficult for that thing to grow. I suppose we are to blame. Such a delayed punishment.'

Looking at his surroundings, there has to be something, anything that would work as a distraction. He can try to fire a frenzy of energy blasts, but all it will do is fly in careless directions. One would surely fly past the short earthling if he's not careful.

A Cell Jr. tilts its head towards its unnatural shadow. One of them noticed the glow!

Vegeta is frantic. It's too small to be effective in any way! And with his rampaging brother, someone is going to be crushed…!

"Damn. Damn! I didn't want to resort to this, but it looks like I'll have to make as much noise as possible…!"

Another Cell Jr. takes notice, then another. Vegeta clenches his teeth. Cell himself is taking notice of the unnatural glow.

Not this! This is their only shot! If it is unleashed now, they will just dodge it!

Vegeta throws his head back with a loud scream. All eyes are on him as he fires a single blast at each Cell Jr. his eyes fall on. They all leap out of range, looking down at him with a mix of confusion and amusement. He continues, but he is careful to not attack any that are within Krillin's radius. With each failed attempt, they draw closer, laughing at his antics.

And to make matters worse, Tarble has noticed him.

"What is he doing down there…?" Kakarot asks. He tries to push himself off the ground, but a fresh wave of blistering pain only reminds him to stay down.

"He's being stupid! Why would he make himself an obvious target?!" Kauli asks. She can't fathom why anyone would want to draw the attention of Cell's twisted spawns. She's in great pain from just two of them!

"Wait. Why would he make himself a target?" Kakarot's eyes go wide.

Vegeta remains still as they draw closer. He throws down his fists, and they are engulfed in flames. Frightened by the heated glow, the Cell Jrs hesitate for a second. It's just enough of a window for Vegeta to strike those closest to him—several punches within a second as he turns his body around.

He pulls his flaming fists close to his face, swallowing a massive gulp of air. In the midst of their confusion, he circles his lips. Flames are unleashed, engulfing the small monsters in an instant as he turns his body around in a full circle.

A ring of fire, and nearly every Cell Jr. is a part of it. They scream and throw their arms, trying to extinguish themselves.

But just as Raditz said. The flames don't come off easy.

"Oh that's just annoying," Cell scowls. "I'm going to have to assume they can all do that now—Shake it off, children! It's just a little heat! It won't kill you!"

Watching from the sidelines, Karot and Trunks are stunned. The flames don't just stop, either. Vegeta leaps back with another gulp of air, and it's another wave. The Cell Jrs are screaming.

"How many times can he do that before his body turns against him?" Kauli asks, squinting at the glow.

"I don't know," Kakarot says. "I never did that before."

"I get that they hate fire, but why use it so much? It doesn't really do anything except annoy them!"

Vegeta unleashes a third wave. Kakarot is deep in thought. "Maybe you're right, but they are still insects. They don't like the heat at all. Unless they find a way out, they will be too scared to get close to him."

Kauli watches for a while longer. Aside from the glow of the flames, there is something else that feels unnatural. Her eyes trace towards the sky, and now, everything makes sense. "Maybe he's counting on that."

Kakarot follows her gaze, and he almost laughs at what he sees.

"It's bigger than the last one! But how?!"

"Don't know, don't care." Kauli raises one hand towards the sky. "What matters is giving it an extra boost! They are too distracted to notice!"

"That's right!" Kakarot offers his hand towards the sky as well.

Broly notices the absence of the Cell Jrs he was pushing back before. They have all gathered around Vegeta, trying to stop him perhaps. Seeing the flow above his head, he too, offers a fraction of his energy.

Vegeta unleashes another wave, but it is short-lived. He wheezes, clearly out of breath. His lips are burning and his mouth has gone dry. For how much longer he can continue, it's difficult for him to determine. But, stopping isn't an option. The moment the Cell Jrs have a chance to shake away their natural fear of fire, it will be useless.

He spits on the ground. He absolutely despises the bitter taste in his mouth. It will be something that won't fade for the rest of the day, no matter how many times he will try to wash it out. But, that's only if he is that lucky to stay alive to attempt to do so.

He glances over his shoulder. Vegeta can feel the vibrations beneath his feet growing stronger with every heavy stomp. Tarble is drawing close, and he is taking his time. It's a huge risk Vegeta is going to have to take, but it's the only way he can keep Cell's eye on him as well. There is no telling if the main bio-Android is the type to interfere with the affairs of others or not.

'Just a little more!' Another deep breath, and that awful, foul, and bitter taste fills his mouth again. It takes every ounce of willpower to just not spit it out too early. He has to make sure this one is big, because he can already tell he can't do it again.

Tarble is several hundred feet away from him. Good.

The Cell Jrs are just starting to collect themselves when they notice the strange silence from the Saiyan. The moment they look at him, they almost scream.

Vegeta leaps from his spot and throws down his arms with his mouth wide open. Almost like a fire-breathing dragon, a massive trail of flames is unleashed. The Cell Jrs scramble as the flames meet the ground and spread out as a bright and glowing inferno blanket. He lands a great distance away, watching all the Cell Jrs move within in such a frantic manner. He would be laughing if he wasn't exhausted.

In fact, his vision is starting to double. The constant sharp intakes of air back to back probably wasn't doing his already tired body any favors. But, there is no moment for him to breathe, the shaking ground intensifies even more. He turns around, looking up. Tarble stands over him. His red gaze is focused, as if he can see him.

In fact, Vegeta felt this gaze before. It was exactly like when Tarble stood over him, while he was paralyzed on the ground. He has that same exact look on his face.

'Your mind forgot, but your body remembers.' Vegeta prepares to make his leap.

Tarble's nostrils flare. He's taking long breaths of air. He catches a scent, and his fangs are fully bared with a guttural growl.

'Now I see. The way I've pushed you to harness your strength, it wasn't the method expected from a Saiyan.'

Vegeta lifts his trembling arms, holding his hands in front of his face. His body is shaking beyond his control. The only reason he hasn't passed out yet, is because he keeps moving.

'I hated that Nappa had to say it, and I hate that I'm starting to agree with it. Every single time I tried to force your hand it was through the same matters that damn Frieza put me through. All of that pain, all of that torture, it was the way of life for me. I actually believed it was the only way….'

For a moment, Vegeta can see it again. He remembers vividly how Tarble looked at him when they discovered him on Namek. Fear…and relief.

How Tarble looked at him when Vegeta trapped him in that gravity chamber. Fear…and pain.

How he looked at him when he stood before him…in that Super Saiyan glow. Defiance…and hatred.

Hatred…

Vegeta was at his mercy on the ground. Tarble could have killed him.

He would had never even thought about such a thing back on Namek. But that day, killing Vegeta was all Tarble could ever think about.

And at this very moment, Tarble, who towers 50 feet above him, is displaying that same desire.

'You set aside your animosity during this tournament. But at this very moment, your true nature bleeds through. You still want me dead, and you don't even realize it. Can't say I didn't see this coming. Even after all that Nappa said…'

Tarble roars and throws his fist down. Vegeta fights through the pain of his legs as he makes his lunge out of range. Another swat, and Vegeta ducks, almost falling. Tarble is hot on his tail, chasing him, trying to snatch him from the ground to snap him like a twig.

He jumps.

Something snaps.

Sharp pain blisters through Vegeta's thigh. He holds back a scream.

A bright orange glow intensifies from within Tarble's mouth. He unleashes a gigantic trail of concentrated flames. Vegeta leans back, gasping as it misses his body by an inch. The heat singes his eyebrows. The Cell Jrs below are startled and make their moves to get out of the way.

Liquid. Liquid fire. It bathes them all, and they are screaming, running, flying.

Vegeta falls on the ground, and in an instant, his hands grip his bad leg. He can't make a jump like that anymore. Even if he could, his body won't listen to him. His lungs are burning. Anyone else would just give up here, but he can't do that. He refuses to give in. He's stronger than this—far stronger than this!

'So why won't my body do as I say?! This can't be my limit! Not now!'

Darkness. A shadow. A giant hand.

Tarble lifts him from the ground like a doll.

'Oh, hell!'

"Oh, no! Vegeta!" Kakarot gasps.

Vegeta tries to pull his way free, but the more he resists, the tighter his body is squeezed. "T-Tarble…!"

Cell watches, not so amused. But it's not the sight of Vegeta that is the reason. His focus is on his children, who are still on the ground, with smoke rising from their bodies. "I understand that it hurts, but you're not dead! Shake it off and retaliate!"

Up above, Krillin keeps his eyes on the ground. All the Cell Jrs are still in one place. There is no time for it to get any bigger. This is the only window of opportunity he can take.

"Alright. Here goes…!"

He tightens his jaw before throwing both hands down in a heavy swing. High above, the massive Spirit Bomb begins its descent. The air around it roars from the pressure, blowing past like an intense gust. Krillin can feel it as he allows his arms to go limp. He did all that he could do.

Vegeta can see it approaching. The illusion of distance makes it look smaller than it actually is. Just when Vegeta thinks it got as big as it can get, he has to check again. It has to be ten times bigger than his body!

Tarble must have noticed the change. His ears are twitching, and he's sniffing the air. The pressure from The Spirit Bomb is just enough to send a breeze through his fur. He takes a step back, growling low. Stepping back again, he makes the choice to jump backwards for safe distance.

That is when everyone notices. Everyone's gazes are towards the sky.

"What the—" Cell almost forgets how to speak as his eyes land on the massive sphere plummeting towards the ground. "When did they—"

Krillin lets out a tired chuckle. "You let yourself get distracted…"

"He made them gather in one place…and used the fire as a distraction…!" Upon this realization, Cell glares at his children. "Snap out of it! Get out of the way!"

The Cell Jrs are just starting to climb to their feet when they notice it. They all look up. The near-blinding light is close. They freeze, mesmerized by the glow, and perhaps intimidated by its size.

"What are you doing?!"

It swallows them.

A series of rapid explosions erupt from within. The Cell Jrs' screams merge from inside the core. It sinks into the earth, and the blinding light swallows everyone's vision. Everyone is forced to protect their eyes, all except Tarble, who roars towards the explosion instead.

…Several seconds pass. Gravel rains back down as the light begins to dim. Scattered inside a massive crater like sprayed insects, the Cell Jrs are charred and motionless.

Yamcha reaches up and helps Krillin to the ground. His eyes are fixed on the enemies. There is a thick blanket of uncertainty in the air.

"I know that didn't kill them. There is just no way," Tien says as he joins them. "Even if it was bigger. All it probably did was bring them closer to death."

"It's better than nothing," Krillin says.

"How in the world did you do that?" Yamcha asks him. "It was like, three times bigger than the last one!"

"I think the universe decided to answer me…or something. Whatever it was, it at least had some kind of effect…" Krillin frowns. "...or at least I hope…"

They aren't moving at all. Vegeta isn't buying it. From the looks of it, the worst of the damage are their wings. They've been completely burnt off, but it means nothing. Wings are the easiest to destroy. It's not anything vital, either.

However, they are vulnerable on the ground.

Raditz climbs to his knees. He flicks his hand, but no matter how hard he tries, while he feels the buzz, it's not strong enough to form bolts. His body is burnt out. If he tries to strain it out for a simple Saturday Crush, all he will do is zap himself at best.

"Bah…fine."

But he still has energy left.

"What are you waiting for, you morons…" Raditz cups his trembling hands towards his flank. Blue light begins to gather into a growing sphere. Streaks of the light begin to rotate as it builds in power, screaming with intensity. "Attack while you still can—we have to destroy those things…!"

Gine is on her knees. She never expected a Kamehameha Wave. It didn't once cross her mind that Raditz could easily switch his energy type. This technique didn't need any form of plasma. Unlike her, he can still…

That same light is coming from Krillin. Yamcha. Tien…

…Kakarot.

On the sidelines, Trunks watches in awe as Piccolo joins in, forming a Masenko. Broly forms what appears to be an intense green sphere of energy. Kauli too, is doing her best. Between both hands, a light blue sphere is forming.

From the looks of it, Gine and Nappa are out of commission. Vegeta is unable to escape the grip he is held in. Trunks wants to jump in. He wants to help! What if it's not enough?

He takes a step forward, but Cell holds out his arm. A signal to not move.

The bio-Android crosses his arms, wearing the expression of a disappointed parent. "I know you are still alive! Get back to your feet, or I will have to punish you!"

They are twitching…!

"I'm tired of this, damn it!" Raditz thrusts both hands forward. "KA-ME-HA-ME, HAAAAAAAAA!"

It's like a series of cannons. Raditz's blast is fired. Krillin, Yamcha, and Tien's follow suit. Then it was Piccolo. Then Kauli. Then Broly. Then Kakarot. All from different directions, all merging to the same place.

The Cell Jrs just got to their feet, and they are engulfed once more. Only this time, the colorful explosion bounces back. It is a lot more violent, unleashing a shockwave that knocks everyone off of their feet.

The clouds of dirt settle, revealing the Cell Jrs standing inside their transparent force fields, made from the same material Cell had displayed twice before.

"No way…!" Raditz is on his knees again. "They deflected it…!"

"How are we supposed to kill these guys?!" Krillin almost panics. "No matter what we throw at them, they just bounce back up! Just like him!"

Cell's scowl shifts to a smile. He begins to laugh, having the center of attention once more. "I don't think you put into account that my children came to be right after I regained my full strength. I'll give you credit, though. That would have killed them…had I not gained a power boost before they were born. AHAHAHA!"

Faces go pale. Krillin takes a step back. "No…that can't be. You're saying…"

"Those damn Senzu Beans…!" Tien hisses.

One by one, the Cell Jrs tense up and sprout new pairs of wings. They all crackle and chuckle, turning their focus to each and every stunned fighter.

"No…this can't be it…!" Trunks shakes his head. "They aren't invincible! There is no such thing!"

"First time for everyone, right?" Cell glances towards the terrified teen. "Don't worry. Your allies won't have to suffer for much longer. But it's not just the Cell Jrs you have to worry about killing you."

As if on cue, Tarble is pushing himself back to his feet. The blast must have pushed him down too, and all it did was make him even more angry. Roaring towards the sky, he slings Vegeta around in his clutches before unleashing a purple blast that pierces through distant mountains. It digs a destructive path through the ground, churning gigantic pieces. Everyone is forced to scurry out of the way.

Vegeta grunts as he feels his body being slung in every direction. The constant explosions and flying gravel brings pain to his ears. His fingers are unable to pull apart the gigantic hand that is holding him. From the corner of his eye, he locates Nappa's unconscious form, and Tarble is heading right for him!

After several failed attempts, the distance between Nappa and Tarble shrinks too much. Vegeta punches the hand, frustrated with the entire situation. "STOP IT! I SAID STOOOOOOOP!'

His voice carries over, and it has Tarble's attention. He stops, just one more step away from crushing Nappa beneath his feet. Tarble brings his fist close to his face. His eyes narrow at Vegeta as his nostrils flare again.

It's disgusting. Vegeta can only turn his head away as each inhale brings his hair towards the beast. The curious sound coming from him tells Vegeta that Tarble recognizes him through his scent. Perhaps there is still a part of him in there, somewhere.

"You have to listen to me. Your flames are the only effective method we can use against those spawns!" Vegeta shouts. "I need you to turn your focus towards them! Use everything you've got— AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

Both of his shoulders pop from their sockets. Dislocated. His arms are being crushed by the increased pressure as Tarble brings his other hand over. Another squeeze, and Vegeta's screams are near blood-curling. Everyone can hear it. The constant popping. The snapping…!

"This is bad! He's crushing him!" Piccolo shouts.

"I thought he broke through to him for a second!" Tien growls. "We've got to do something! He forgot who he is!"

"It's not that he forgot. It's just that his mind is so tunnel focused on the source of his pain. Of course it would fall to Vegeta!" Raditz shouts. "What scares me, is that normally anyone else would be a bloody corpse by now. Vegeta is still alive…"

"Y…you mean Tarble is delaying it?" Krillin asks.

Yamcha gulps. "He's torturing him…!"

"We have…to stop this!" Gine is on her feet, and she makes her move towards the beast. In a flash, a Cell Jr appears in her field of vision. She has no time to react as she is kicked back to the ground.

Cell is laughing at what he is seeing. His children creep towards the fighters, wearing the same maddening expression that is painted all over his face. "Yes! That's it! There is nothing you fools can do! You might as well lie down and accept your deaths, because it's over! You simply cannot overcome perfection!"

"Does this guy ever shut up…?" Krillin gets into a fighting stance. The only issue is, the form is limp. He can't keep his breathing stable. But, it's not just him. Everyone else…

Too tired. Everyone is too tired.

"Cell! That's enough!" Karot shouts. "Can't you see you've already won?! They can't fight anymore! You've proved that you are perfect! Just let them go!"

"I was going to let them go, until the two of you presented disappointment after disappointment," Cell said. He still refuses to look at them. "Didn't you miss what I said? Because you've annoyed me, your punishment is to stand here while you watch everyone die. Do I have to remind you? This is all your fault. If only you stopped crying."

"Leave them alone!" Trunks shouts. "Just leave them alone!"

"And still, you've learned nothing." Cell huffs. He raises his voice. "Alright children. Playtime is over! It's time to wrap this up! Throw away your toys so we can go!"

Fear. It strikes true within their cores. Trunks' breath shutters before he screams. "NOOOOOOOOOOO!"

"No… wait…!" Karot shouts. His energy pulses, increasing. "I can feel it slipping…! It's… it's coming out…!"

"There is nothing to see here!" Cell snaps at him at last. "You incompetent idiot! Why can't it get through that thick skull of yours?! You are utterly useless! The both of you! There is nothing you can do!"

"No…! I refuse to accept that! I won't!" Trunks' own energy doubles in size as he stomps through the ground. "Cell! I'll rip out your wings…and…and….!"

"Ok, that's enough." Cell swings a single arm, and a blast tears through the ground before them. Both young fighters fall on their backs. He approaches them, staring them down as his lips part into a snarl. "Now you're just embarrassing yourselves."

The Cell Jrs make their leap. Despite the odds stacked against them, they stand firm.

"Hey guys…I just want you to know…" Yamcha clenches his fists. "No matter what happens…I'm glad I got to go down with a proper fight this time!"

"I guess…we can agree with that. We really did give them our all!" Krillin agrees. "For once, I can feel proud of losing!"

They power up one last time, screaming towards their enemies. Just inches away—

"RAAAAAAAAAAH!"

A heavy fist slams against two of them. Another swing knocks down three.

Mid-jump, Broly is positioned between everyone and the Cell Jrs, pulling his fists close to his chest. He swings them down as he screams, and his energy explodes green, blowing everyone back.

The Cell Jrs land, shielding their faces against the wind. The Z-fighters and the Saiyans climb to their feet once more, awestruck by the intense energy flowing through their senses.

"What is this…? He's not even a Super Saiyan!" Piccolo gasps.

"RAAAAAAAAAAA-AAAAAAAAAH!"

The ground cracks beneath Broly's feet as he continues to power up. The intense green energy cloaks his body, flowing like a vortex. His muscles double in size as his onyx eyes begin to shift red. They flicker once…twice…

They shift to gold.

He lunges. The ground caves from his lift-off. Broly lands a heavy hook that sends a Cell Jr. flying. He follows with another, then a third. He grabs a fourth by the foot and slings it towards its sibling like a bat. He tosses the sixth, kicks the seventh…!

He grabs the eight by the head and glares at them all. He speaks through bared teeth. "Help him! HELP THE PRINCE!"

"Wh…wha…?" Raditz at first can't find his words. Once his brain processes the shift in language, he nods. "R-right!"

He makes his move. Kakarot and Kauli are almost hesitant. Kauli grabs Kakarot's arm. "You stay here with your brother, alright? I'll go! Let me try talking to him!"

"What?" Kakarot is stunned. "Why?!"

"Maybe he will listen to me. I don't know. We have to try something!" She lunges from the cliff and makes her descent. Kakarot watches from the ledge, and he smiles.

Raditz and everyone pushes the effort to run. As much as their bodies ache, they don't stop.

"Why are we running?!" Krillin asks. "What did he say?!"

"He wants us to help Tarble come to his senses!" Raditz explains. "I doubt any of us can do it alone!"

"What about that Broly guy?! We're just going to leave him?!" Yamcha asks.

"I know it sounds crazy, but something tells me we can leave him to himself for now." Raditz narrows his eyes. "It took all of us combined to keep him from doing as much as killing us when we fought. We narrowly escaped death. The only reason we defeated him was because Zhanshitao managed to bite him. If he was that much trouble to us, then maybe he can hold them off. Not forever, but just enough! He's not wounded like the rest of us!"

"You're serious…?" Krillin looks back, watching as Broly tosses the Cell Jrs around like they are lightweight. "Oh, man. Am I glad he's on our side!"

"Trust me. For a second there, I was worried he didn't know who we were." Raditz agrees. He can't blame Krillin for being frightened. Not this time. Raditz never felt relief like this. But now, something new was worrying him.

'Tarble…what the hell did you teach him?!'

…

Cell drums his fingers against his arms as he watches, curious. "How intriguing. That new face didn't even turn gold, and yet his power almost mirrors that of a Super Saiyan. He's not your average Saiyan warrior…"

Trunks is speechless. He faced that power before. And that power…it's stronger now. Perhaps from the Time Chamber. But this time, it's like Broly has control over it. His eyes aren't red.

But what does gold mean?!

It's like…

"It's like, he's a beast without actually taking the form of one. He has that same pressure. That…that same pressure…!"

Trunks can see the Oozaru's shadow beneath Broly's feet.

Such raw strength. Incredible malice. He knows that sensation.

But unlike him, Broly doesn't try to resist it. It's like, he embraced it.

…

"Alright. Here is my plan!" Raditz begins.

"What? You? A plan?" Kauli asks.

"Shut up! I know I'm not a tactical genius like Nappa, but he's taking an unprompted nap right now! You will just have to listen to me!" Raditz looks up. "Tarble can't see, so we can take advantage of that. He's relying on his other senses. In our primal forms, they are increased by tenfold along with everything else! Even if he can't sense energy since he's unfocused, right about now, he knows we are here. He can smell us a mile away regardless."

"That's…scary," Krillin says.

"If we scatter, he will get confused. Make as much noise as you can. Fire at will around his feet if you have to. Just don't let him grab you! His tail will break your spine if he catches you. Got it?!"

"Uh…yeah. Sure." Yamcha is more nervous that a broken back was a possibility Raditz brushed passed.

"Let's go! Scatter now!"

Tarble turns towards them with a growl, but he freezes as everyone splits in different directions. He growls and turns towards Piccolo, lunging at him with his teeth. A blast from behind makes him change course. Yamcha jumps out of range in time to avoid being crushed. Just as Tarble targets him, a stray blast strikes near his feet. Then behind him. Then near his other foot.

He stumbles around, confused and frustrated. He roars at every direction, forgetting about the Saiyan that is between his hands.

Raditz makes his jump. He lands on Tarble's forearm and sprints down towards his hands. He reaches for Vegeta, but he loses balance as Tarble turns around. Raditz ducks, avoiding a heavy tail.

"I need just a few seconds of him staying still!" Raditz shouts. "Then I can grab Vegeta!"

Tien lands nearby. His eyes are fixed on the captured prince, who has gone limp. "He's unconscious. He doesn't have much time."

"I got this!" Kauli sprints past Tien. She skids to a stop, shouting. "HEEEEY! DOWN HERE!"

Tarble turns towards her. He stops his attacks, sniffing.

'This Saiyan language thing is going to be quite an experience…' She thought before she spoke. "You know it's me, don't you? I think it's about time you remember who you are, Tarble!"

Tarble tilts his head. He's unaware of Raditz climbing down his arm again. He reaches Vegeta, and he is steadily pulling him free.

"I get that you are angry, but this isn't the way to go about it! You're forgetting what's important, and that is Cell! That monster is using you so that we can't reach him! Do you really want to be his weapon? I know you are better than that! I know you can hear me in there, Tarble! Wake up! We need you!"

Tarble's eyes squint as he leans his head forward. It's clear that he knows her voice. The gears in his head are turning.

"Can't you hear me? It's me! Kauli!"

Tarble lowers his head. Recognition is flashing across his face.

A stray blast strikes his eye. Tarble screams, staggering and grabbing his face. Blood oozes from the socket as he bellows towards the sky.

"Tarble!" Kauli gasps.

Raditz screams as he loses his balance again. Vegeta has been freed, and he is falling.

In the distance, Cell lowers his finger, scoffing.

"Why YOOOOU!"

He turns around, and a burying fist snaps his head sideways. From the corner of his eye, he meets Karot's furious gaze.

Cell stumbles. He is punched across the face again. He blocks the third attack and catches the fourth. He stands there, staring at the angry hybrid, perplexed.

"You're nothing more than a big bully! Treating the rest of us like stupid PLAYTHINGS!" Karot throws his head forward, slamming his skull against Cell's nose. It breaks, and he is rewarded with a scream.

It's drowned by Tarble's roaring. The beastly prince glares down at the group of fighters, with every fang exposed. He opens his maw and the inside glows orange.

"Out the way!" Piccolo screams.

Kauli is grabbed by his extended hand, and she's whipped out of firing range. A hot and condensed trail of flames strikes the ground where she stood. She stares for just a moment before her eyes fall on Vegeta, who lies on the ground near Tarble's foot. "He's…he's right there!"

"On it!" Krillin makes a break for it, but he leaps back in time to avoid being cooked alive.

"Guess there's no point in playing nice now!" Kauli pulls her arms close to her body. "Gine! Shield! Now!"

Gine just registered the order. "What?!"

Blue bullets of ki fire in every direction with no sense of target. Everyone is forced to duck to avoid being battered by the relentless assault.

The sounds of whizzing bullets and rapid explosions are fluid everywhere. Gravel flies as the ground trembles. Doing as much as standing up is the equivalent to running recklessly into crossfire.

"I guess being in the military has its perks!" Yamcha shouts over the stray attacks. He shrieks and hides behind a boulder, avoiding getting blown by debris.

A loud hum behind him makes him jump. Gine throws both hands out, and a pink transparent dome is formed, swallowing everyone inside. The bullets that strike the dome merely bounce out, rippling the walls. "Looks like I just have enough energy to spare after all…!"

But she's winching. Her hands are buzzing like pins and needles. She can't hold it for very long.

Tarble shields his face as he is constantly struck by what probably feels like rocks being thrown at him in an endless storm. He swings back his arm before throwing it forward in a slicing motion. A ripple of air strikes Kauli, throwing her back, forcing the bullets to stop. Tarble lunges after her, swatting her across the body. She is thrown through a boulder shattering it to pieces.

"Oh, no!" Yamcha gasps.

Kauli sits up, growling. "You're starting to really get on my damn nerves! The hell is wrong with you?!"

She lunges, avoiding being swept up. She assaults his body with a fury of punches before landing a heavy blow under his chin.

…

In the distance, Kakarot is watching all the chaos. Broly is keeping the Cell Jrs from attacking anyone else with such violent vigor. Kauli is keeping Tarble occupied, but for how long? Seleriak and Karot…they are both fighting Cell again. But it's desperation.

The sound of movement confirms one thing, at least.

"Welcome back," Kakarot says.

Turles is on his feet. He presses his prosthetic hand against his chest, wheezing. He's badly hurt, but he's still bold enough to stand.

"What the hell is going on?" Turles asks.

"Everything, really," Kakarot answers.

"Think you're really funny, don't you…?"

Turles limps past, standing near the edge of the ledge. He catches sight of the fighting, and he holds his breath.

"Is that Tarble?!"

"Oh yeah. You did kinda pass out before he transformed, huh?" Kakarot places his hands near his hips. "He's kinda…too angry to think right now. Looks like they tried talking to him, but Cell didn't like that. He just blasted him. Now he's back to rampaging again."

"Why is Kauli there…?" Turles gasps. "She's not a Super Saiyan!"

…

Kauli rockets after him as he stands, fists clenched tight. Making a sharp turn around his body, she performs a spiraling kick that strikes him across his head, forcing his body back. A pair of blue condensed spheres grow at the palm of her hands, and she slams them both on the back of his head. The pressure makes them both burst, and Tarble almost loses his balance.

"What in the—" Raditz watches Kauli dive after him. He realizes she is trying to buy them time to get to Vegeta. She's not going Tarble a second to breathe.

There. Vegeta is in the middle of the field. Tarble has moved away at last.

Kauli faces one hand towards Tarble, teeth tight as her scream gets compressed into her chest. The strain in her voice grows heavy as a massive sphere of swirling dark blue energy forms, illuminating her figure. She grips her wrist with the other hand before firing—with the recoil nearly blowing her back.

The light engulfs him, and an explosion rips through the field. It shatters the forcefield. Gine hits the ground while everyone else is forced to shield their face from the flying debris.

"Looks like the training was effective after all!" Raditz shouts. "You're not a bad teacher, Kakarot!"

"I doubt that's enough to do anything to that monster. She's not strong like the rest of us," Piccolo says. "She still has a lot to work on. The blast wasn't controlled very well. She almost sent herself flying."

"Even so, these Saiyans really are natural warriors," Tien says. "That's terrifying."

"Save the flattery for later! Just focus on what needs to be done!" Raditz begins to run towards Vegeta again.

In the air, Kauli is breathing hard. Her eyes are focused on the dust clouds below. That had to do something, at least. She gave it everything she had.

A hand shoots out from the cloud. Kauli is caught. A single, red glowing eye falls on her. The other is squeezed shut, and bleeding.

"Tarble…! Tarble!"

Tarble snarls, and he squeezes. Something snaps. She screams.

"No, no!" Gine makes her jump, but Tarble fires a blast, and she's forced to dodge. "You…!"

"Your sister, wasn't it?!"

Cell is shouting over the commotion. He knocks the two young fighters back, unphased by their efforts.

"Yes, Kauli. I believe this is a fitting way for you to meet your end; By a Saiyan's hand. The very same race you turned against the humans to join. Aqua will be thrilled!"

"Tarble…Tarble please…!" Kauli's voice is squeezed out of her lungs. She can't do as much as scream anymore. Those on the ground who try to save her are forced to pull back with every blast Cell sends their way. The young fighters can't stop him.

…Tarble stopped.

Her whimpering is a familiar sound to him.

It was just like when Vegeta hurt her. He remembers…

A distant, golden explosion.

There was only time to look left, and a streak of gold strikes across Tarble's face like a bullet. He is knocked off balance, falling on his side. The ground trembles underneath his massive weight.

Hovering in the air is Turles, with his broken arm bleeding a stream down to the elbow. His face is flooded with pain, but his green eyes burn with incredible rage. He stares the beast down, meeting his eyes, almost spitting out his words.

"You will not take her away, or I swear I'll RIP YOU IN HALF!"

Tarble sat up, growling at Turles' Super Saiyan form.

"HAHAHA! You can't be serious right now!" Cell laughs as the Saiyan glares at him. "You chose now to become a Super Saiyan?! What did you do? That's pretty cute, actually—"

"SHUT UUUUUUP!"

Turles rockets towards Cell, throwing a punch that is blocked in an instant. Karot and Trunks step away, startled.

"By the way, is it Super Saiyan Day? Because you are by far the second person who has achieved it in this tournament. It seems everyone is breaking their limits! I suppose I could say "you're welcome" buuuuuut…"

He grips his arms and spins the Saiyan around. He throws a mighty kick, sending Turles flying back.

Many eyes trace Turles who leaves a dusty and cloudy path on the ground.

"Turles!" Gine stands.

"Don't worry about me! Help her!" Turles screams at her.

Gine almost protests, but Kauli does need help. Once she reaches her, she strokes her hair from her forehead, frowning. She presses her hand against the worst wound. A distant explosion nearly pushes her to the ground.

Turles is back in the air, rocketing after Cell.

"Turles!" Gine shouts as she boosts Kauli on her back. "Stop! You can't keep fighting like this! You're already hurt!"

"Just GO!" Turles screams at them before he is knocked down again.

"I knew this would be a problem, damn it!" Raditz shouts. He slings Vegeta over his back. He makes a run for it, trying to distance himself from the danger.

Cell snags Turles' arm, not budging in the slightest as the Saiyan tries to pull away. "I am not interested in fighting you. You're already half dead."

A blast is fired. Turles is sent flying, leaving behind a trail of smoke. He lands within the crowd. Immediately, Krillin rushes over to help him.

Turles slaps his hand away. "No…I'm not…done yet. I can still…keep fighting….!"

"But Turles…! Your arms!"

"I don't care…! That monster has brought nothing but humiliation and pain…and he's going to pay…! He's going to—"

"Stop it…"

Turles freezes, and he looks back.

"Stop it…you're…a damn embarrassment…"

Kauli is conscious. She looks at him, laying helplessly over Gine's shoulder.

"I'm not a princess, alright? Why do you have to act so stupid? You even went Super Saiyan over something so stupid. You know damn well that transformation ain't gonna do shit to Cell. Seriously. What is wrong with y'all emotions?"

Turles doesn't know what else to say. She still doesn't make any sense sometimes.

But, she has a point.

"Fine. Say whatever you want." Turles looks away.

The massive shadow looming over them is an immediate reminder that Cell isn't the only problem. Everyone looks up, seeing Tarble is finally back on his feet.

"I'm not sure for how much longer we can keep this up! He just doesn't quit!" Krillin shouts.

The orange glow builds up within Tarble's maw again.

At the last second, he changes direction.

It fires straight for Cell instead.

"What the?!" Cell makes his lunge. The flames narrowly miss him. The heat is intense, even where he is positioned. He almost doesn't notice the second wave that is unleashed. The third wave comes, and he reacts too slow. He is engulfed, and screaming.

The Cell Jrs are distracted by the sounds of his cries. They make their move, but Broly brings them back down to the ground like a wrecking ball.

"He…he changed targets…" Yamcha whispers. "Do you think that means…?"

"Prince Tarble…?" Gine calls.

Tarble looks back, and he nods once.

"I guess…a punch from an angry Super Saiyan was all it took…" Krillin mutters.

"No. I don't think it was that alone." Gine looks at Kauli, who is limp against her body. She's still conscious, but barely hanging on. "I know how that feels…to be the center of attention on the battlefield."

Cell steps out of the fire, the tips of his wings reforming. He spits, absolutely livid. "So it seems that my fun is over. These Saiyans are such a killjoy. Everytime I think something entertaining is about to happen, it all goes to waste."

He flares his energy.

"Pull yourselves together children! We are done here! Kill the Saiyan Kakarot! Kill that Kauli! And kill anyone who gets in the way! It's time to go! And this time, I am serious. Anyone who shows an ounce of mercy will get in trouble! And that means NOOOOW!"

"Wh—" Krillin had no time to react. To everyone's horror, Broly is blown back by a single attack from a livid Cell Jr. The others spring from their positions, soaring towards the other fighters. Broly is on his feet, flying after them, but a pair kicks him down to the ground.

All of them are cloaked in yellow aura. Just as Cell promised, they are just as strong as him, and this time, they are not holding back.

Tarble is brought back to the ground by a single punch. The other fighters are unable to counter as they are struck. Kauli falls from Gine's back, and her legs are crushed by a single stomp. Bones are shattered, and her screams shake everyone.

Enraged, Turles flies in, but his arm is caught—the prosthetic torn to the wires, clean from his shoulder. In the same instant, the Cell Jr. takes the arm and thrusts it through his abdomen, stabbing him in an instant. Turles' screen is cut short as he is kicked down to the ground.

"I won't let you!" Tien flies in, and a small blast strikes him on his third eye. Immediately, he slams his hands over it, screaming. His body is exposed, and a blast is fired. He stepped out of the way just enough to be grazed. A bleeding hole is burned through his shirt. His flank is wounded.

Yamcha and Krillin are lifted from the ground by a punch from a Cell Jr. Their fists bury deep, and they spit out blood before they hit the ground. Piccolo moves in, but his remaining arm is grabbed. Just as he turns around, it too, is torn clean.

A Cell Jr. twists Raditz's arm the wrong way before elbowing it down the center, snapping it like a twig. Gine watches, mortified. She lifts a hand to gather energy, but none comes. She freezes.

A Cell Jr. stands in front of her. It grabs her by the neck, and slams her through the ground.

Kakarot clenches his fists, watching the Cell Jrs bringing everyone to the ground within seconds. "I can't…I can't just stay here! I have to do something, or everyone will die protecting Kauli and me!"

He meets Raditz's eyes, seeing the heated glare before his face gets buried back into the ground.

'What do you mean you don't want me to jump in?! I can't just watch as they kill you! This is all my fault! I know it's my fault! So why won't you let me fix this?! He wants to kill me, not you!'

Yamcha is thrown to the ground. Krillin screams. Gine is spitting, collapsing on her knees.

'I'm sorry. I can't just watch this anymore. My final trump card…I was hoping it wouldn't come to this…'

Kakarot steps forward.

An explosion erupts beneath a group of Cell Jrs. The source…

Nappa's awake, laying on the ground, with two fingers pointed towards the sky. His body almost gives in, but he sucks back the pain. He is on his knees. His energy begins to flow, but it doesn't turn gold.

Vegeta too, is coming to. He blinks open his eyes, noticing the elder Saiyan on his feet through his blurred vision.

He almost wants to go back to sleep. Everyone around him is being treated as a joke.

"Nappa…you idiot… You're only going to get yourself killed…" Vegeta manages to choke out. "Just stay down…he won't kill you if you don't be so damn stubborn…"

Nappa takes an unsteady step forward. "Sorry, prince. We have to keep Kakarot and Kauli alive. Nobody should have to die. That includes you. I don't care what you say. I'm keeping that damn promise…"

"What…" Vegeta tries to move, but sharp pain stabs every nerve in his body. That is when he realizes…every bone is shattered. It has to be. He can't move as much as a finger without agony assaulting him in every way.

He never felt so powerless.

What's worse? He hates to admit it, but Tarble was right.

Had he Cell killed before he was perfect, none of this would be happening.

Cell would have never been as much as a blueprint if Kakarot wasn't captured during his exile. The demon would have never been a problem. They would still have the Dragon Balls, wouldn't they?

The Cell Jrs are laughing. Nappa is barely on his feet. He's trying to fight, but they are breaking him, too. He just regained consciousness, and already…

The prince didn't realize he was zoning out until now.

No matter how much Nappa's body is being punished, he still stands. So badly, it's all over his face, he wants to give in. But every single time it looks as if he is about to collapse, he would stand back up.

'I don't get it…' Vegeta can never wrap his head around it.

For a moment, Vegeta feels as if he was 5 again. Wounded, unable to move. Despite all of that, Nappa stood his ground to protect the young prince.

He always did.

…

The fifth time Raditz fell on the ground, he doesn't get up.

Fear.

Karot never felt so much fear.

"Uncle Raditz!" Karot has to reach him quickly, but Cell…

Cell steps in the way. He kicks him on the stomach. Hard. Karot is on his knees, retching, gagging. He wants to vomit. He feels the pain all the way through his spine.

"Stop it! Tell them to stop!" Trunks rushes towards his cousin, helping him to his feet. "Please Cell! Please! I'm sorry I can't fight the way you want me to! But you don't have to do this! You don't have to!"

"You're right. I don't have to. But I am. I am so sick and tired of all your whining! It's all you've been doing through this entire tournament! And you know what? That's not what pisses me off. What pisses me off, is the false hope I was given! I was told that I would be rewarded with a fighter that would surpass me in strength. But what is this?! Take a look around, Seleriak! What IS this?!"

His voice rang.

He's so angry.

But the only person more angry than Cell, is Trunks.

He hates this.

He hates himself.

He hates everything.

Why is he so utterly useless?! No matter what he does, no matter how hard he begs, no matter how hard he fights, nothing! Nothing! Nothing is working! Everyone is dying, and he is powerless to stop it!

All because he's so scared.

What is he so scared of?!

'You have to do it!' Trunks' frustrated thoughts don't help him move. The anger, the fear, everything…it's all in the way. 'How hard is it to harden your heart?! It's the only way, so why are you being such a damn, sniveling coward?! Useless brat! Stop kicking yourself, and get angry! Get ANGRY! GET ANGRY—'

"Are you seriously crying…? Again…?" Cell's disappointed tone doesn't match the livid look in his eyes. If anything, Trunks' tears are an insult to injury.

And it's not just Trunks.

Karot as well.

A pair of terrified…and powerless kids…

Cell sighs, squeezing the bridge of his nose. "I'll kill the both of you quickly…because you're in enough pain as is. It would only be fair."

Sympathy from the enemy.

Is it that bad…?

…

Broly is the only one still standing. Seeing everyone on the ground is the motivation he needs to keep fighting. He roars, unleashing his wild energy. He storms through the Cell Jrs, knocking them all off their victims. He is fighting all of them alone, screaming in pain with every attack he takes.

Turles doesn't have the energy to transform into a Super Saiyan again, if he tried. "Talk about…anticlimactic. An underwhelming transformation…can't this day get anymore humiliating…?"

A low and rumbling groan from Tarble is the only sign anyone has that he is still conscious.

"Gugh…I hate this kind of pain…" Gine whispers. Tears are collecting to the corners of her eyes. "This is the kind of pain you feel…when you are near death…"

"Don't…don't say that mom. You're not going anywhere. You should…make yourself return to Overworld if you can…"

"Don't know…don't know if I have the energy to call for him…" Gine whispers. Her voice is fading. She's on the verge of losing consciousness.

"Mom…don't you dare give up…you hear me…?"

"He's right…we are all still here…" Raditz's words are cut off by heavy coughing. "Although…this situation does seem hopeless. I nearly lost myself. It's like…no matter what I try to do…nothing works. Even in fury… I did nothing…" Raditz shuts his eyes tight, as his body shakes lightly. "I've broken my limits so many times, but when I needed to break it the most…it was just within my grasp and I…I couldn't do it…"

"Raditz…" Gine whispers.

"It's all my fault. I didn't…properly teach Kakarot how to be a Saiyan. He went from being too afraid to claim lives to enjoying it too much… What was I doing? I pushed him too hard and the Humans fought back harder and made this monster…"

Turles frowns. "Raditz…don't…be so hard on yourself. I was the one who encouraged his exile. If anything…this was my fault. On top of how I made it worse for him. I made those soldiers torture Kakarot even more…"

"Don't take all the blame here. Don't forget…why he started this in the first place," Yamcha mutters. "Known the Saiyan since he was a kid…and I could had told him sooner about what he did…"

"Maybe if we just told the truth to Goku from the start…" Krillin punches the ground. "Damn it! We wouldn't even be here fighting like this…!"

Nappa is groaning. "Was it really worth it, Vegeta? To make Cell achieve his perfect form?"

Vegeta glances at him. "Hmph. Was it really worth it…? You're implying this is all my fault we are in this mess."

"You—"

"I am well aware of what I did…but I'm not going to whine over it," Vegeta says. His scowl loosens to a frown. "Tch. To think it would become this dire. To be humiliated and slung around like a damn doll. In the end…annihilated by an overgrown insect. Is that really how this story ends? I would much rather die by my own two hands…!"

Doing as much as move his own body…

"Dah… I can't even do as much as that. A pitiful sight. My father is rolling in his grave."

Raditz's coughs again. "We really did deserve this, didn't we?"

"Is this really a proper time…for self-reflection…?" Piccolo asks. "You really believe this is where you die…?"

"Got any other bright ideas…green man?" Raditz asks.

Piccolo scoffs.

"Even if I do deserve death…I'm not going down like this…" Raditz tries to lift his head, but he falls back down, wheezing. "A Saiyan I know…taught me. He taught me…to never give up, no matter how bleak the situation gets…! To keep fighting, even if I have no working limbs on my body. To keep fighting…until my heart gives out…! That is what it means to be a Saiyan warrior…! I am not running away! You hear me, Cell!"

"Oh, I hear you. An idiot who doesn't know when enough is enough. It's no wonder your race got wiped out in a single day. You are far too dangerous…to be left alone."

Cell lifts a finger, gathering a small sphere of purple light. He aims for Kauli, chuckling.

"The lot of you put up a good fight. Cheers to you, and your incredible efforts. Perhaps if you survive this, you can die easy, knowing you gave it your all to the very end. But unfortunately, not all of you have that chance."

Turles tries to move, but he just…

"NOOOO!" Karot screams. "STOOOOOP!"

Kauli squeezes her eyes shut. Everyone braces themselves as the sphere of light begins to buzz.

"THAT'S ENOUGH, CELL!"

All actions stop. Everyone turns to the source of the voice.

"Kakarot?" Vegeta is a bit surprised.

Cell frowns. "Goku. Don't tell me. Do you wish to confront me one last time? It would be a wise thing to do at least, to spare your allies from their agonizing deaths. A last ditch effort to save everyone? I'll give you the honor, only because the world would enjoy seeing you finally die."

"Sorry," Kakarot responds dryly. "I just need a moment with the kids. You don't mind, do you?"

"Kakarot…" Raditz is confused.

Cell raises an eyebrow, and he slowly lowers his hand. "Well, I suppose some final words with the children is something I am kind enough to grant. This is your last break, however. I've given a generous amount of those, so make this one count."

'Since when was that a privilege…?' Almost everyone shares the same thought.

Kakarot nods. He jumps off the ledge and lands. Just as Cell implied, the Cell Jrs don't attack. They watch him walk by with curious eyes. No one makes a peep. Only the sound of boots crushing gravel fills the air.

At last, he stops in front of his son and nephew. He takes a look at his surroundings before giving them his full attention. "You two…Gohan. Trunks."

Karot doesn't say anything, but it's Trunks who speaks up. "Goku?"

Kakarot presses his lips together. A saddened expression is worn on his face. "I just…want to say that I am sorry, to the both of you."

The two hybrids stare at Kakarot, as if he has grown a second head.

"I already know a simple sorry won't fix everything. In fact, nothing I say would fix anything at all. You have every right to hate me. No one deserves this. I did all this, and I don't deserve any forgiveness." Kakarot rubs the back of his head. "I'm…not so great with words, but I mean every word I say. I tormented everyone all because of a stupid grudge. I didn't listen to everyone, and now look at us. This mess. My mess."

He sighs. Both of his arms drop.

"Maybe you can pin the blame on Vegeta, but it was really me who pushed him to do all these things. Even before I lost my head, I was pretty useless in his eyes. It all led up to this."

Vegeta grumbles. "You say that…"

"I caused both of you to lose something no kid should. You both deserve happy memories, but there are none. You both went through so much pain, and Cell here…is a living combination of all of it."

Cell huffs. He heard that enough times already.

The two stare, almost stunned.

"You aren't wrong to feel the way you do. Fighting, you both hate fighting so much. Unlike us, fighting was never a sport to you. It was a tool of survival shoved into your hands that you never wanted. And just when you thought it was over, something worse comes up, and you have to fight again. I know where the fault lies. I know I have no right to talk about this."

Kakarot dropped his head. He tries to form a smile. It almost falters.

"I know how monsters like Cell think. He's just going to keep hurting everyone, because while you can plead and beg all you like…all it's going to do is encourage him to make it hurt even more. And it's not that he's doing this because he was ordered to, but because he can."

Cell chuckles to himself at that last sentence.

"Surrendering yourself to Cell won't do anything, but make your deaths quicker. Nothing will be gained from this. Chille will have the last laugh beyond the grave. There will be nothing left to hope for, and the entire world will go mad. It can't happen again, can it?"

Trunks felt his heart sinking. He grips his chest, trying to ease back the burning trying to rise from his throat.

"Between Chille and the Androids, I've been thinking about it for a long time now. That…because of me, you two are just going to go through more hurt. I know you heard it a million times; 'Put aside all the what ifs. Stop overthinking it. Don't let your fear hold you back.' But no one ever asked what you wanted to do, huh? You've been forced to listen to other people your entire lives. I know that you're scared of what could happen, or what you might do if you finally listen to them. No amount of sorries will fix that. All of this is my fault…

…which is why after Cell dies today, you two don't have to keep suffering like this anymore."

"What?" Trunks' eyes widen. Kakarot turns around. "What are you—Goku. What are you doing?" He steps after the Saiyan who is approaching Cell. "You can't! He beat you down last time!"

"Kakarot! Listen to him!" Raditz calls. "Whatever stupid plan you have won't work!"

"Kakarot!" Turles shouts at him, his voice strained. "Idiot! Come back here!"

But Kakarot ignores them both. His eyes harden with newfound determination. "Just you and me Cell! Leave everyone out of this! Especially the kids!"

"What is that dumbass trying to do…?!" Kauli is stunned.

Cell is nearly as surprised as everyone else. Still, he shrugs, not seeing it as a big deal. "I suppose that is fair, but pointless. You're only going to throw your life away."

"Even if I do, it wouldn't be as pointless as you claim." Kakarot says. "I had this planned for quite some time now."

Gine and Raditz are frozen.

"Planned? Well, now you have my attention, Saiyan." Cell slips into a fighting stance. "Whatever you have to offer, go ahead and show me! Your Plan Z! But it seems futile. All you are doing is delaying your fate. Another disappointment for me, isn't it?"

"Oh no. It won't be." Kakarot gives him a dark grin. "Sorry to say, there won't be any fancy fireworks. But I can promise, you'll be trembling in the end."

"I can't wait to knock that stupid confidence out of you."

Kakarot chuckles before bending his legs. He flinches, fighting against the strain and the pain blistering through him.

"HAAAA-AAAAAAH!"

Kakarot's Super Saiyan aura spikes. The air around him ripples as he pushes out all the energy he has left. It's weak, but his fighting spirit is still strong.

It's not even close to being enough to defeat Cell. Everyone can feel it. Everyone can tell.

But, he isn't worried at all. He's still as twisted as he can be.

"Kakarot!" Gine shouts at him. "Stop it! Whatever this is you are doing is foolery! Drop it and come back!"

Kakarot simply glances at her before smirking. He vanishes where he stood, and reappears behind Cell.

They clash, and a shockwave ripples through the air, nearly popping eardrums. No words are exchanged among the crowd. All eyes are fixed on the pair of warriors that fight relentlessly.

Limbs are a blur, but Kakarot is the one getting battered. Despite the harsh beating he is taking, he doesn't back down.

He never backed down.

"Kakarot!" Raditz shouts at him at last. "You're only going to kill yourself! Stop! Stop being so stupid!"

"He's right, Goku! This isn't going to change a thing! All you are doing is hurting yourself! Pull back! Don't give Cell what he wants!" Krillin shouts.

"Kakarot!" Voices shout. "Kakarot!"

'It doesn't make any sense to me…' Trunks watches the fight carry out high above. Kakarot—who is on his last leg—continues to fight for the sake of everyone. He was told by his mentors that he had always been that way. So, to see it happening right before him in real time…they were not exaggerating.

Everything he was ever told was never an exaggeration, was it?

"Goku… stop…" he hears himself mutter.

'Why would you keep fighting a battle you can't win?' Trunks thinks, as if Kakarot can hear him. 'You know you don't stand the slightest chance, but you go against the odds and you keep fighting… why? What is there to accomplish here? Why won't you just run away?'

A mental image of his master flashes through him.

He stood before the young Trunks, against a pair of Androids he had no chance against. He sent Trunks away and fought.

And he fought…

And he….

Trunks' stomach drops. "Kakarot… Why are you smiling…?"

Cell cups his hands to the side. "KAA-MEE…!"

Kakarot does the same. "HAA-MEE…!"

"HAAAAA!"

The two blue blast clash, nearly blinding everyone with dancing bright blue light. They both burst, and smoke rains down and swallows the crowd. Everyone ducks and shields their eyes.

The smoke clears, and Cell hovers right above Kakarot. He kicks his legs down, sending him through the earth. The bio-Android approaches the Saiyan, who struggles to climb out of the hole. Once Kakarot is out, Cell stands right in front of him.

"That was such a pathetic outcome, Kakarot." Cell appears more angry than disappointed. "I don't know what to say. I hate that I expected this, but you could have at least surprised me with something."

"Heh. It's a bit delayed, actually." Kakarot is on his feet, but he looks as if he could collapse at any second. His laugh is worn down, near faint, but he won't back down. "But I'm not exactly the finale you are looking for."

"How anticlimactic." Cell grumbles. "And I can't even get a refund."

A shrill voice tears from the crowd. It's from Gine. "Kakarot! Get out of there! You're done! You don't have to fight anymore!"

"It's ok." Kakarot grins, with his eyes fighting to stay open. "I already told you…I'm not worried about anything."

"The hell are you on about?!" Turles shouts. "You can hardly stand!"

"They are right. This display of foolish bravery has gone on long enough." Cell frowns. "You can't even move properly."

"That doesn't mean anything. I still have my final trump card. It's a selfish one I was hoping to avoid…but you have to trust me."

"I've trusted enough false promises. I still have a request to fulfill." Cell rolls his eyes. "Your time is up, Saiyan. And soon, everyone else on this sad rock will follow your fate."

"That is…where you are wrong, Cell." Kakarot wears a dumb smile, staring dead at the Android. "We were both already dead the moment this tournament bega—"

A heavy backhand snaps Kakarot across the face with a deafening crack. His head snaps to his back. He's knocked off the ground, weightless against the world.

Time seems to slow down as he tumbles across the earth. It comes to a halt as he stops skidding a great distance from where he stood.

Only the howl of the wind keeps the silence at bay.

The Saiyan does not move.

Gine just stares, before gritting her teeth and letting out a shrill scream full of fury. Already, her eyes are red and glossed with tears. It wakes Nappa from his trance, making him restrain the enraged mother with nearly all his remaining strength.

Karot finds himself frozen in place. Every part of his body…locked and unresponsive. His breath is held tightly, as if letting it go could blow up the entire planet.

His eyes do not leave his father's figure.

Raditz feels his strength returning, just enough for him to move. He is on his elbows and knees, making a desperate crawl towards his youngest brother, completely ignoring Cell. He drags himself across the field, his breathing is almost out of control. The sound of his mother's scream was the same thing he heard when it was thought Turles—

It can't be!

It just can't!

Dropping to his brother's side, the sight of his twisted neck is enough to make his heart sink. Gently, Raditz cradles his head, staring at his unfocused eyes.

"Kakarot…Kakarot stay with me! Just hang on…! I'll find a…I'll find a way…! I'll…I-I'll find…"

His voice trails off.

Raditz's eyes can't leave it. His mouth slowly opens, almost trembling. After several painful seconds, the words he finally finds come out as a horrified whimper;

"H-he's dead…!"

Kauli's eyes are already filled with tears. "No…!"

"Goku…!" Krillin is stunned.

Karot is speechless. His mind cannot grasp what he just heard.

Vegeta struggles to find words, his face nearly pale from all he just witnessed. Finally, his lips form a snarl before he snaps. "He could easily be breathing right now if he just kept his distance! What was he thinking?! What was…the point of that?! I don't understand…!"

Piccolo can't fathom anything at the moment. "Why would he…?"

"When he said he anticipated everything…" Yamcha whispers. "You don't mean…"

"He can't be…that stupid…!" Tien grunts.

All the words around Karot brings reality to the ground. He remembers his father being relaxed all this time… smiling and never worried…it never made sense. Even now…it doesn't make sense.

But he's gone…

Gone…

"Dad…no…"

Cell lowers his arm and turns to the shaken crowd. His laughter snaps the dazed from their clouds.

"Come on, kid. Why so grim?" Cell asks. "I granted your wish, didn't I? I thought you wanted daddy to die a long time ago. But, from the look on your face, I suppose you didn't really mean it. You know what they say: 'Be careful with what you wish for'. Hahaha."

Karot is stunned. He did say that.

He really did say that.

His father is gone, and Raditz…Raditz mentioned before how…

"He won't be going to Otherworld," Karot whispers, his voice shaking.

"But…the necklace broke! The contract doesn't matter anymore, right?!" Yamcha is panicked.

"No…King Kai…he said himself that demonic monkey got stronger…! Kakarot won't…that…demon could have him under his clutches! Did Kakaraot really think…this…" Raditz's tears are heavy. He can't find his words.

It sunk in for everyone.

Gine grabs her hair as she shuts her eyes. "I…couldn't save him! I came here…to save my youngest…and he just…I let him die! I…I…" More words fail to come out as she breaks down into tears.

Raditz shakily moves his feet, turning towards Cell as tears gather in the corner of his eyes. His lips pull back, exposing nearly every tooth in his mouth as he—with as much as he can muster—transforms into a Super Saiyan.

But it only happens for a heartbeat. Raditz gasps as the form fades, and he collapses on the ground, winded.

He can't be…that powerless…

Turles on the other hand, can only stare. His mind is restless with thousands of questions that he can find answers to. 'How utterly stupid can we possibly be…? How could we forget…? That thing…that Cell, is a monster from hell!'

Cell crosses his arms with a small laugh as Raditz limps towards him. "Silent rage, I take it? It won't do anything. You'll only kill yourself."

"Shut up." Raditz snarls.

"Hey. You said it yourself. You should have never stepped foot on this planet."

He's right.

A raging scream from Gine draws attention now. Her energy is explosive, knocking the unguarded Nappa back. She soars forward, firing a weakened blast, but Cell deflects it before sending his own. Gine is sent to the ground. She crashes and rolls, struggling to get on her knees as tears splatter the ground below her.

"Anyone else?" Cell looks at the crowd, who only stare back. "Nappa? What about you? You're big and tough, aren't you? Trunks? Kauli? Come on. Surely all of you are upset and want to hurt me, or are you just going to stand around like it's a filler episode? Oh wait. That's right. Most of you are practically immobilized. What a great shame."

"What can we do…?" Krillin whispers. "He was tough before…but beating him now is impossible…! He killed Goku, like it was nothing!"

Piccolo grits his teeth.

Turles has his hands balled tightly as he is hunched over, head hanging, and teeth bared. 'Kalarot Why?! What feelings did you poison me with…? Why do I feel so helpless, so stupid…so sad because you lost your life! I've lost companions before… and these feelings…they never even crossed my mind…!'

"Oh." Cell crosses his arms. "You have that fire in your eyes. It's just too bad you can't stand."

Turles' eyes dart towards the bio-android. 'If only I killed him when I had the chance…! If only…no! Maybe I won't be able to do much, but I'm not going to sit back again! Not this time! This monster…I'll die trying rather than just sitting back like this!'

"TNow then." Cell turns his gaze down to Kauli, who is frozen in fear. "Where were we?"

"Leave her…alone…damn it…!" Turles is trying with all his efforts to move. All it does is make the bleeding worse. But, he doesn't care! He has to move…!

Cell walks past him with a smug smile. He knows no one can move anymore. He's taking a slow stroll on purpose.

Broly roars and charges, but the Cell Jrs spring into action. He is trying his hardest to break through to reach her, but the Cell Jrs are doing well keeping him apart. It's almost as if they weren't being slung around before. This is their true power.

"No…no…" Future Trunks takes several steps back, gripping his hair. "Nononono…! It's happening again! It's happening! I couldn't stop it! I'm such an idiot! Why…why couldn't I do it?! All I had to do was get angry! Just like in the Time Chamber! So why…why can't…?"

The late teen shuts his eyes and screams, throwing both fists through the ground. He slams his head through, forming a nasty crater. His golden aura cracks the ground around him.

Karot falls to his knees.

Did he really want his father to die? Maybe…maybe he did, but just earlier, his father admitted that everything he did was wrong. He looked them in the eye and took responsibility for everything!

And…he tried to fix it, even knowing he stood no chance!

It hurts them so much. The young fighters…this pain, they never felt it this much before.

This pain…it's in their stomachs, their chests…their throat feels like it's on fire… they both want to break down and cry, but they can't.

Why?

Why is the universe so cruel and unfair?

What is right? What is wrong? No matter what they did, everything went south. Someone had to die. Let it be a soldier by Kakarot's hand, or an innocent by Tarble in the future. They had to witness someone suffer, while they stood by, doing absolutely nothing.

And even now, they are doing absolutely NOTHING!

So weak. Useless. Helpless. Why…? Why can't they do anything right? Why can't anyone do anything right?! Even if they did everything in their power to please the universe, would it ever be enough?! Will it ever be satisfied?!

What's the point of even trying anymore?

Hopeless. All of it is hopeless.

And they hate it.

Everything.

They can feel it crawling all over them, clouding their minds. They don't even realize how their energy is starting to flow again. It engulfs him, giving them the spotlight in the battlefield.

"What's this?" Cell raises an eyebrow.

Karot stares back at Cell, hot fresh tears trickling down his face. His mind wanders from that day on the beach his father confronted Raditz…to when his father fought for him against King Cold…

When his father went mad.

When his father faced Broly…

He watched his father fall apart before him…and he ran away. He always did run away. He insulted him and ran, because he didn't know what else to do.

He screamed at his father to die, because he didn't know what else to know.

He ran away.

His father is dead.

He still doesn't know what to do.

Looking at Trunks…the teenager is nearly sobbing on the ground…but his energy keeps rising. He can feel the intensity of its climbing heat even here. One that matches Karot's own.

Angry…wrathful…livid. It boils deep in Trunks' veins. It's scorching hot deep in his chest, rising up his throat. Trunks' lips are parting. Seething heat is pushed through his beard teeth in a growl that sounds too inhumane to be his own. His hair slowly rises, crackling with static.

The overwhelming boiling sensation crawls through him again.

Kakarot.

He looked so confident when everyone else did not. He died in an instant. He knew he was going to die.

The idiot. He knew.

He knew.

And now Kauli is going to die, too. The entire world has gone to the pits. This entire planet…it dances mad with darkness.

Karot and Trunks should be afraid. But no.

They are going to die anyway. It's far easier to accept that.

So what is there left to be afraid of anymore?

Freeing the last silver of hesitation, something snaps. It claws free. No longer restrained, washing over them, surfacing through their voices as they both scream towards the cosmos. The blistering heat scorches and rips through every vein in their bodies. The ground beneath them splits as his explosive energy pushes a godly whirlwind through the field. Warrior cries echo through the wasteland, triggering tremors through the ravaged earth.

Everyone can feel it. It tears through their subconscious. It steals their breaths away.

All actions cease to a halt. A gigantic cloud of dust spreads out, with bolts of static leaping through the flying grains. The bolts are concentrated and closer together near the core, dancing around a silhouette before sunlight pours in.

All eyes are fixed on Karot first, who takes slow and steady steps from the cloud. He stands firmly as his raging golden aura shines brighter than it ever did before.

His hair has defied gravity more. Bolts of static crackle and leap across his body. His eyes are cold…with tears fluttering upwards from the corners of his eyes. Their usual turquoise color is replaced with a dark blue.

"What the hell…!" Vegeta lifts his head. "He…what is he…?"

"Kakarot…" Nappa mutters. "You idiot. Was this your trump card…?"

Everyone else stares in silence. The Cell Jrs are bewildered, unable to comprehend the change they are sensing.

"Well…isn't this a surprise…?" Cell lowers his arm that shielded him from the dust. He chuckles, but there is a small hint of unease in the tone. "Your power…is a raging fire now. What's different this time? What sort of resolve?"

"None."

Such a cold voice…

"There is…no resolve. None…except your warrant death."

Cell's attention shifts to Trunks.

Bolts crackle around the teen's boots with every slow step he takes. And his voice…it's loathing, poisoned with a seething fury that can be felt in one's bones.

"But death…is too good of a punishment for you. Your body will be nothing more than a twisted abomination once I'm done. I'm going to savor every melody of your suffering…starting with your children."

Oh.

That's a real threat.

Cell takes several steps back, staring at the pair of Saiyans before him. They both wear an expression he had never seen on anyone's face before.

Concentrated, but loathing.

No fear. No empathy.

A hardened heart. Unadulterated malice.

'What…is this feeling…?' Cell almost trips over his own feet. 'Why is my body trembling…? This can't be….! I can't be…!'

Those eyes…!

'They are children! They are just CHILDREN!'

---

A/N: Three remain.

Ironically, this was a rather difficult chapter to write. I had plans to have it released before the end of March, but that clearly didn't happen. I didn't know how to connect the plot points of this chapter at the time, so I took a step back.

Because, if I try to make myself write when I am stumped, the quality isn't how I like it, and I end up hating it.

But I am so glad it didn't take another year. Haha….

---

Possible Questions:

PQ1: "Book 5 Buu saga happening?"

A: Oh my gosh we are almost at the end. I can't believe it.

The more I think about book 5, the more excited I get. I've had the ideas for years, but I wasn't sure if I was going to get there or not. But since it's so close, it might be a possibility.

It would be rude to leave this series with so many unanswered questions. So yeah. It's very likely. But when will the next book come out? Not so sure yet.

I used to be able to release the next book within weeks or a month after the last. But with book 5, I want to be more cautious with how I write. (As in not impulsively writing anything as I did with the first 3 books)

My plan for now is to have most of it written out before I release the first chapter. Maybe they will be released on schedule. Who knows?

These are ideas, so I can't promise anything yet.

PQ2: "Didn't Tarble forgive Vegeta?"

A: No. It's going to be a long time until he does.

He simply set aside his animosity so they can focus on who is the main problem. But as you can see, the moment he transformed, he lost all reason. And therefore, forgot the grudge he was supposed to set aside.

In the OTES universe, the Oozaru transformation is a bit different. Running purely on instincts like the canon, but at the same time, the Oozaru doesn't forget any ill or positive feelings it has towards someone or something. This is why Tarble hesitated to finish Kauli off, because a part of him knew that she was always good to him, even if he didn't remember.

PQ3: "How did The Spirit Bomb get bigger?"

A: Just like in the Namek saga, despite how the Namekian race was nearly wiped out, Goku was still able to draw energy from the universe. The sun, the moon, the stars, and other planets. The Namek Spirit Bomb was huuuuge.

However, here, the Spirit Bomb wasn't as massive. Earth being the only inhabitable planet within range, most likely. But it's still pretty impressive.

PQ4: "How did Broly hold his own against the Cell Jrs?"

A: In the DBZ movie, Broly basically bodied every single Super Saiyan (and Namekian, rip) who tried to stop him. He wasn't even trying. He was toying with them. He kicked Goku like a freaking beach ball.

He was defeated because Goku gathered everyone's energy into his body. But you know, the movie has to end with him winning anyway. Lol

In DBS Broly, this dude was keeping up with a Super Saiyan God in his rage form. He wasn't even a Super Saiyan yet. I'm not going to state exactly what happened but yeah…the amount of effort is something else.

Broly is an unstoppable train. Heck, in OTES, they got lucky.

So yeah. He can keep the Cell Jrs at bay. But he can't defeat them at the same time, since it took Gohan becoming SSj2 to do so. You know.

Basically what I am trying to say is, he's strong enough to not get destroyed by them like everyone else. But he can't exactly overpower them in an instant. This time, it's because he was in control.

But I can't say anything else. :)

PQ5: "No Kauli Time Chamber flashback?"

A: She did have one partially written here, but I scrapped it. No matter where I placed it, it was jarring and interrupted too much. In other words, it had no place in this chapter, or the rest of the book.

So if anyone was looking forward to that, sorry.

PQ6: "Kakarot is dead?!"

A: Yep. He's done. :(

I mentioned a few times before that Kakarot's death had been planned. Originally, he was supposed to die in book 3, but I scrapped it. Regardless, he was going to die eventually.

But if you noticed as the book went on, Kakarot seemed more and more accepting of what was going to happen.

It's like he knew he was going to die. As if it was something he can't avoid.

I wonder how many people picked up on it?

PQ7: "Trunks is a Super Saiyan 2 as well?!"

A: I know in the OG the focus was around Gohan, but considering this timeline…books 3 and 4 were heavy, heavy around Gohan and Trunks.

Both of them were afraid of the terrors that happened around them. They both kept running away in their own way.

Karot did so by pushing everyone away and keeping himself distant.

Trunks did so by keeping his emotions to himself, and running from the Androids whenever he could.

They both wanted to cling on that things can get better, that there is still hope despite all the darkness in the world. It's why Trunks held on so strong despite the horrible timeline he came from. It's why Karot stood so firm against his father despite the odds stacked against him.

But you know what's terrifying? Ironic, even.

Trunks, the bearer of the time machine that spells out "hope!"

He sees that the situation is futile. That perhaps, there is no future. But…while normally anyone else would throw the towel, he instead gives up preserving himself, because what is the point?

Tarble bashed into his brain that the world has been hopeless for years, that it's irreversible.

His hope was towards a brighter and happier future that he is seeing slipping from his fingers more and more. The moment Kakarot died, and they know Youzi likely has him…well…he's angry. Because, that's exactly what happened in his own timeline that led it towards the darkness it was swallowed by. And who does he have to pit all of it against? Who does he have left to blame?

Well…Cell is in a bit of a pickle now, isn't he?

Will he see hope again?

We shall see.

---

Next Time:

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

Vegeta: (Annoyed) Hmph. This is Prince Vegeta. You should already know that.

Vegeta: (Stunned) I…I can't believe it. Kakarot just…threw his life away because he KNEW this would be the end result?

Raditz: (Shaken) I…he's gone. He's gone and he's not coming back…! Damn that Cell! Damn him!

Nappa: (Nervous) Just what is this power…? This isn't just a Super Saiyan. It can't be!

Cell: (Nervous laugh) Well this just took a very…interesting turn. Aha…well. What are you going to do?

Trunks: (Seething) Your voice is annoying. I hope you've said your goodbyes.

*Both Karot and Trunks stare down the nervous Cell Jrs with a cold expression.*

Cell: (Nervous) Ahaha…you're just bluffing! This is just another light show! You don't stand the slightest chance!

Nappa: (Uneasy) Something is wrong here. I don't like where this is going…

Nappa: Next time on: "The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan"! Chapter 28: "The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan"!

Vegeta: (Confused) Did you just repeat the title twice?

Raditz: (Frustrated) Now's not the time to worry about that! Seleriak! What the hell are you doing?! This isn't like you!

---

REVIEW! REVIEW!

To be Continued in Chapter 28!

---

Upcoming Chapters: (Read at your own risk!)

Chapter 28: "The Dissonance of The Earthling Saiyan" The true potential that was seen from time to time among the hybrids is here. And it brings a greater promise than foreseen! Perfect Cell has finally met his match! There's a chance! A major chance! The long fight can finally come to an end! But there is a major role that the warriors seem to have forgotten. Never should anyone lower the guard… no matter what. The consequences are life-threatening, after all… so what do you do? You push aside your grudges… and make up for your mistakes. Combine your efforts, even if it seems futile.

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 meet, and it's time to say goodbye. Until next time! While they part ways, they fight for what they believe is right!

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!