User blog:Steve9021/Fanfiction Must Read!

Dragon Ball Z: Wicked Rebirth 

By: Steve9021 

'''During the story of a different future – the one from which Future Trunks came to warn the Z Fighters about the Androids, the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore seeks to rewrite history, but by doing so, he garners the attention of yet another largely forgotten by time. '''

Dark Demon Realm Destruction Saga - Part 1: Resolution 

'Future Timeline. Age 764, six months after the defeat of Garlic Jr, '

'''Capsule Corporation had proven to be a comfortable enough place for training, but Vegeta hadn’t the past few nights. He had been unable to sleep a wink. The feeling of anticipation, of hardly being able to wait another day, drove him to get up in the middle of the night and fly out into space. As a boy, he had feared the emptiness of space – it was one of the few environments where his strength meant nothing. He was glad to have overcome such a feeble limitation. '''

'''A year had passed. It was the evening before that date burned into his consciousness – the date on which he had agreed to fight Goku in a rematch. Leaving Capsule Corporation, he took off into space using his Super Saiyan breathing technique. As usual, he watched and waited, scanning for any possible sign of Kakarot’s return. This night, he was particularly anxious. '''

'''The weightlessness of the starry void also gave him a chance to practice his balance in space. The problem he had found while fighting Cooler was that because gravity was absent, one could easily be thrown off course or sent flying in a random direction. Stopping and countering attacks were both more difficult. To account for this, Vegeta practiced creating invisible walls of Ki in front of him that he could spring off of. It wasn’t the easiest thing to do while being attacked, but he found his attacks much stronger and more effective when he launched off one of his walls than when he simply propelled himself forward with his energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As the Prince waited eagerly, moments turning into hours, he began to try to reach out further than ever before with his senses. “Surely I should be able to sense him by now…” The Prince relaxed his mind and stilled his body, allowing the freedom to really listen to the Universe around him. When at last he had, the Prince was in awe at how much of the Solar System he was able to sense all at once. It was as if nothing could hide from him, that anything and everything were responding in subtle waves that he could feel. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Ah, there you are, Kakarot. Right on schedule, and a good thing too…lucky for your planet, at least.” Within mere minutes, the Super Saiyan was able to spot Goku’s Attack Pod, which sped past Jupiter, through the Asteroid Belt, crossing the orbit of Mars, and plummeted directly towards the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The ship’s speed was far faster than Vegeta was capable of flying, but because he had been closely watching the vessel there was enough time for him to move directly into it’s trajectory. Boldly, the hardened Saiyan warrior crossed his arms and smirked. As expected, Kakarot’s ship passed him with a gap of mere feet between them; the Earth-raised Saiyan within looked curiously outside and took notice of the grinning Super Saiyan. As their gazes met, each warrior experienced an entirely different sensation. While both were excited to face one another, Goku had hoped that he would at least have a few moments to see his family and friends before the battle. Vegeta, however, would wait not a second longer than he already had. The pod finally broke free from the Prince’s stare, which seemed to have slowed time down to a tiny crawl, and ripped through the atmosphere below. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THUUDD! The ship landed in the middle of West City, forming a larger crater on top of a now-destroyed movie theater. Luckily, it was still early in the morning and the place was closed. Goku immediately climbed out of his ship, glad that his inability to steer the pod hadn’t cost any lives. As he had come to expect, the ship had survived the landing completely intact. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before Goku could even take a step, the Prince was upon him. Goku looked up, seeing the last of Saiyan royalty hovering between two skyscrapers about 50 feet above the ground. Vegeta’s Super Saiyan aura flooded the area with excess energy, causing short circuits in traffic lights, televisions, and even electronic vehicles below. The smile worn by the Prince issued a clear challenge. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Immediately Goku began to worry about fighting in the middle of a city. The casualties would be staggering. “Gosh, it looks like Vegeta means business…right now. I have to get away from West City at least, so nobody gets hurt…surely he will agree to that.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hey, Vegeta,” he said. “What’s say you and me take our battle to a more open spot? Somewhere significant, perhaps?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You’re so predictable, Kakarot.” Vegeta smiled, having anticipated the request. Besides, the Prince didn’t want his own ship, nestled in a hangar at the nearby Capsule Corporation, to be caught in any crossfire. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“To tell you the truth, Kakarot, for once I think I agree with you. Unlike me, you’d be held back by the presence of these Humans. You wouldn’t fight at your best, and we can’t have that. I plan to destroy you when you’re at your peak, with nothing holding you back. Then and only then will I consider your debt satisfied.” Vegeta suddenly blasted off, leading the way out of the metropolitan area. “Follow me, clown,” he yelled derisively. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku struggled to keep up with Vegeta’s speed from the start, but he wasn’t quite ready to reveal that he too could become a Super Saiyan. He didn’t want to expend all his energy just getting to the battlefield. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Elsewhere on the planet, the other Z Fighters took to the air. Piccolo left from the Lookout, where he had been the first to sense Goku’s energy approaching from space. The rest took flight from their respective locations across the world. Those who knew of the upcoming clash had been dreading this day, worried that their hero might not return from space in time—if that happened, Vegeta might hold true on his threat to destroy the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Even if Goku did return in time, would he be able to defeat Vegeta? This was something that Piccolo had great doubts about – from what he had seen, Earth’s great protector didn’t have the same anger that Vegeta had shown when he became a Super Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is it, then. If Goku doesn’t have the strength to challenge Vegeta, then we are likely all going to die today.” His former rival had shown time and time again that mercy and fairness in battle were the characteristics he had mastered. On the other hand, unleashing pure and directed rage was not Goku’s strong point, and Piccolo was sure that would be necessary for him to ascend, as Vegeta had. “Goku, I hope you’ve taken this seriously. Because you can bet that Vegeta has put every ounce of effort he has into preparing to face you. If you aren’t a Super Saiyan too…well, humph,” he grunted. The Namek’s thoughts trailed off as he increased his speed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Gohan, too, was very apprehensive about his dad fighting. He knew that when it came to matters of pride, Vegeta was dead serious. “Oh dad,” the boy thought as he flew towards the energy he was sensing, “I just know you can win. You can do anything, I’m sure of it! And you’re the only one who could possibly take on Vegeta.” Despite his uncertainty, the thought that he might lose his father forever hadn’t crossed his mind. Ever true to his unwavering faith, the young half-Saiyan’s belief in his father was stronger than anything else. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">TAC. Vegeta landed on the ridge of a deep canyon. The Prince exhaled slowly, reverting out of his Super Saiyan form. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku landed on the opposite side, setting his mind to battle. The gap between them was half a football field and several lengths deep, but the torrent of energy between them made the distance seem like only a few feet. Angry winds violently began whipping around them, sucking dust from the bottom of the deep canyon and spraying it into the sky. Vegeta could barely contain himself, his heart rate climbing by the second from excitement, but he forced himself to pause and savor the moment. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So, Kakarot, we finally have a chance to settle the score between us.” Vegeta tilted his chin upwards, recalling their first battle, and smiled eagerly. It had only been about a year and a half since he and Nappa had first arrived on Earth. So much had been accomplished since then…he had achieved so many of his goals. His lifelong dream of defeating Frieza had finally been fulfilled, and he had arisen to claim the title of Super Saiyan. All that remained was for him to regain his honor by defeating Kakarot in single combat: his final act of reclaiming his full Saiyan honor. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Yeah, Vegeta, this is the day…just like we agreed. You know this is pretty close to the same spot where we fought for the very first time?” Goku’s words rang with hope, but deep down he knew just how serious things were. Vegeta’s face showed the same seriousness as when he defeated Frieza – the same unwavering, focused determination. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Of course…you said somewhere of significance, and it just so happened that I had this place in mind already. This time, things are going to end quite differently…I guarantee it!” Vegeta smiled through his teeth, a harsh breeze sweeping through his hair. His stare could overpower whatever elements came between him and Goku. A new hostility entered his voice. “You know, I haven’t forgotten what you did to me. But I do wonder…are your Saiyan instincts attuned enough that you realize why this battle must take place? Do you understand what it is exactly that you have done to steal my honor?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku hadn’t really thought much about the real reason for the confrontation; he had been more worried about the battle itself. He did remember what happened on Namek, though. “Well, isn’t it because I interfered in your fight with Frieza, which allowed him to survive and kill you with a sneak attack?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angered by the memory, Vegeta frowned. “Only in part…” The Prince then mumbled to himself “...you oblivious classless trash.” Vegeta suddenly raised his voice. “That’s barely the tip of the iceberg! Do you honestly think that was your FIRST assault on my honor?” Fury resounded in his voice. “I didn’t think anyone was capable of being so thick! No, Kakarot, that is not the main reason; not by a long shot. Reflect back on our history and tell me if you even have a clue what this is about!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As Goku pondered, recalling the Saiyans’ first arrival on Earth, he remembered just how intense that first battle was. “Well, I know Vegeta was pretty ticked because my Kaioken x3 allowed me to get stronger than him, if only momentarily. But I think he was even madder when my Kamehameha with Kaioken x4 overpowered his Galick Gun. Was that it? I remember him saying something about how he was a Saiyan Elite, of royal blood…oh, that must be what this is about. Yeah, I’m just a Low Class and I surpassed him, the strongest Saiyan alive…until me. That must be a bad thing.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“That idiotic look on your face tells me you’re stumped, clown. Tell me, are you really SO clueless as to your offense?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No, I’m not. I just don’t see how I could possibly agree with it, Vegeta. You’re mad because I surpassed your strength, because I was so low at birth but somehow became even stronger than you. That’s not my fault, though…I just trained really hard. Come on, Vegeta. Besides, if I hadn’t, I doubt you would have become as strong as you are now. You wouldn’t have been challenged!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“WRONG, KAKAROT!” Vegeta shouted. “You think that your offense was becoming stronger than me? IDIOT! Sure, I was mad about it, but it was not your strength alone that robbed me of my pride! I’ll give you one last guess.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Huh?” Goku wondered. “I really thought that’s all there was to it.” He continued thinking through the clash. “Oh wait, now I remember. It’s because we cut off his tail!” The Saiyan from Earth opened his mouth to speak again, but paused. “On second thought, it might not be his tail, though I’m sure that’s part of it. If all this was about something that simple I doubt he would be so angry.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku also didn’t want to say the wrong thing again, so he continued thinking. Finally, it dawned on him – the truth, the real offense against Vegeta’s honor. “Vegeta, I believe I know the real reason,” he said, his voice calm and composed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Prince was obviously tired of waiting, eager not just for battle but also for revenge. Even so, he felt it was of utmost importance that Kakarot recognize the severity of his offense. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Fine, then let’s hear it.” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It was when I asked Krillin to spare your life.” Goku’s words were slow and measured; he was trying his best to not draw any more of Vegeta’s wrath. He knew better than to speak with uncertainty too; his rival clearly wouldn’t have appreciated another guess. For some reason, it was very important to the Prince that he realize his transgressions. Goku continued. “Then, on Namek, I saved you from the Ginyu Force. Plus, I helped you again, against Frieza’s planet buster.” Goku paused, knowing this was indeed his crime, still wary of what the Prince would say next. The good-hearted warrior held his principles as dearly as Vegeta held his pride. However, this day, one’s would win out over the others. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So, are you finally seeing the truth, Kakarot?!” The Prince shouted, flaring his blue aura around him in anger. “It wasn’t your strength, though it did plague me. It wasn’t your techniques, though you may have momentarily surpassed me. It wasn’t even that you defeated me in battle, because in fact YOU didn’t…that was done by all of you Earthlings together! NO, YOU SAVED MY LIFE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta was now yelling at the top of his lungs, the veins in his forehead bulging. “You showed ME mercy, as if I was a little helpless child! ME, the Prince of ALL Saiyans! The last member of an honorable race! You treated the most proud warrior in the entire Universe as if he were just an insignificant boy, unfit to even be on the battlefield! By sparing my life, not just once but on several occasions, you insulted my honor more than you EVER could have by surpassing my strength or cutting off my tail!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku could sense that the discussion, if it even qualified as one, was rapidly deteriorating, the Prince’s anger was about to explode. But Vegeta’s words made him angry as well. The war of ideals was only moments away from making the leap from a verbal clash to a physical battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You know, I did what I believed to be right, Vegeta. I stand by my actions. I believed that deep down, you were a person worth saving, and you still are! Showing mercy isn’t a weakness. No, it’s my greatest strength!” Goku flexed his wild red aura, preparing to initiate the Kaioken at any instant. His nerves were already tense, but not because of the impending battle. The battle was unavoidable – he was eager to embrace combat. More than anything else, though, he genuinely wanted Vegeta to at least re-evaluate his beliefs and consider the argument. Surely even the Prince could see that everyone needs to be shown mercy from time to time, him included. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I’VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOUR BULLSHIT, YOU DAMN CLOWN! I don’t want your sympathy! I never asked for your compassion! You may believe that what you did was right, but I don’t give a damn about your stupid sense of morality! All I care is that you STOLE MY HONOR! And now, now that you have FINALLY realized what you have done to me, just how deeply you’ve insulted me again and again, I WILL DESTROY YOU!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Unable to hold back his fury any longer, Vegeta exploded away from the ground toward his sworn enemy. “Here goes,” thought Goku. He, too, tensed his muscles and blasted off toward Vegeta. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">There would be no warm-up. No cautious sparring. No holding back. Though both warriors began fighting in their normal state, neither was giving it less than their all. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">This time, Goku had the higher ground. He was coming in from above, so he braced himself to block an attack from below. But the Prince of Saiyans pulled back at the last second, darting upward and swinging a powerful double fist toward Goku. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">CRAKK! Even as the blow sent Goku plummeting toward the ground, he twisted in place and launched a fierce flurry of energy blasts back at Vegeta. The Prince dodged easily and dove after him, but the diversion had given him time to recover. Goku flared his aura and dashed upward, firing a spinning kick that Vegeta narrowly avoided. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It has begun.” Piccolo’s arms were folded. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Earth’s Special Forces were gathered at the top of a nearby peninsula overlooking the canyon—the last of them had arrived only moments earlier. Though the Namekian had chosen the spot for the view, believing it was a safe distance away, a few of the others were wary of being so close to the battle. Already, the shockwaves were intense. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Just look at them go!” Gohan said in awe. “Vegeta isn’t even a Super Saiyan yet, but he’s still so strong!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Tien, who had specifically instructed Chiaotzu to stay with Master Roshi, Puar, and Oolong at the Kame House, already looked concerned. He spoke up, being the first among the group bold enough to voice his fears to the rest. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Guys, I know it’s much too soon to give up hope, but just what are we going to do if Goku can’t win? I mean, Vegeta is already stronger than any of us without even becoming a Super Saiyan. What can we do against a power like that?” Inwardly he already knew the answer, but he wanted to hear what the others thought. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Piccolo answered without turning his head from the battle. “We’ll have to try, Tien. I know we’re all outmatched, even together…but if Vegeta intends on destroying the planet, then I intend to at least go out fighting.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“But, what if we joined Goku in the fight right now?” Krillin asked. “It might be the only way we—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No, Krillin.” Piccolo sternly replied. “The rest of you haven’t heard all that’s been going on, but this fight, more than anything, is a battle of beliefs. We can’t interfere without compromising Goku even further in Vegeta’s eyes. And on the off chance that Vegeta intends to actually keep his word, I don’t want to ruin it for all of us.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Gohan spoke up next. “What do you mean, 'keep his word', Mr. Piccolo?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, kid, as you know, Vegeta and your father agreed to a rematch one year ago today. Vegeta said that if Goku didn’t show he would destroy the Earth, but since he DID show it’s possible he won’t.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So, you mean maybe he just wants to fight my dad and then he’ll go away?” The boy asked hopefully. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Perhaps. I’ve never trusted the Saiyans, though. It’s unlikely he would leave any of us unharmed.” Piccolo’s words did little to comfort the others, but at least Goku appeared to be doing well for the moment. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THUMM! Vegeta’s fist connected solidly with his enemy’s jaw. THUD! A return kick from Goku sent the Saiyan Prince reeling. The two warriors traded blows furiously, the shockwaves from their attacks resounding across the landscape. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I’LL KILL YOU, KAKAROT!” Vegeta rushed Goku again. Earth’s hero readied himself to block, but Vegeta wasn’t slowing down. He plowed into Goku with a full tackle, both of them tumbling end over end through rocky outcroppings. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">They both sprang to their feet instantly, their arms locking together in a fierce struggle. Muscles strained and shook as each Saiyan willed himself to overpower the other. Slowly, Vegeta’s strength and stamina started pushing Goku back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn!” Thought Goku. “I didn’t want to have to do this – it will probably make him even more mad.” He felt his arms giving way. “Kaioken!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">An explosion of red energy erupted around the duo, and Vegeta suddenly found his arms flung back. A powerful kick, accelerated by Goku’s technique, smashed into his jaw. Goku’s fist struck him in the gut, doubling him over, and a rapid blast of Ki from Goku’s other hand sent him flying back, dazed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“If I can just follow up my advantage now, maybe I can weaken him.” Goku blasted off again, his red aura shining brilliantly. Just as Vegeta regained his footing, Goku landed another burst of kicks far too fast for the Prince to follow. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta spat. “So, you’re still relying on the same technique you were using in your first battle? Pathetic. I had hoped for more of a challenge.” Grinning through bloodied teeth, he flung his arms out and raised his head. “NOW WITNESS THE POWER OF A TRUE SUPER SAIYAN!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Immediately the ground began to tremble, stones rising around the Prince. He could transform in an instant if he wanted, but bringing out his power bit by bit seemed more appropriate. A battle such as this deserved a grand performance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A few of the clouds hovering above were pulled in by Vegeta’s aura and began to swirl around his energy from their lofty view. Lightning jolted between them, striking the ground all around the Prince. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Have you forgotten already, what I truly am, Kakarot?” Golden energy began to envelop Vegeta from head to toe. “I am not just the Prince of all Saiyans…I am the living legend! I am the one true Super Saiyan, your worst nightmare! I am death…brought to life!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With a final cry, the transformation was complete. Vegeta stood before the hero, smirking, emitting the most powerful energy he had ever felt by far—much greater now than he had been on Namek. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is going to be even tougher than I thought,” Goku realized. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So, do you wish to power up your Kaioken to some absurd number now, or shall I simply finish this and save you the humiliation?” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Saiyan from Earth simply smiled, peaking the Prince’s curiosity. “Nah, I think I’ve outgrown that particular technique.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku couldn’t risk wearing himself out with the Kaioken, not when he already knew it would fail. Since achieving the Super Saiyan transformation, he still used Kaioken from time to time—he had even tried using it against King Cold–but his growing base strength now made it less useful than before. Even low multipliers had begun to wear him out quickly; his body was growing more accustomed to the Super Saiyan state. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The truth was, he wouldn’t be able to match Vegeta with Kaioken now, no matter how hard he tried. Thankfully, he had something much better. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Outgrown? Don’t tell me you think you can defeat me without it. That’s absurd!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Think so, Vegeta?” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I think you’re terrified, Kakarot, deluded and panicked. You may not have enough pride to fully understand the meaning of my power, but your senses alone should at least tell you that this battle is hopeless for you. You cannot challenge the power of a Super Saiyan, Kakarot—for the same reason you could never become one! You have never possessed TRUE SAIYAN PRIDE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku slowly raised his head, his eyes no longer black but deep green. “You’re wrong, Vegeta.” The time to conceal his secret was over. Suddenly, his power level began to skyrocket, but without his typical red aura. Instead the space around him was filled with shimmering golden spires of pure power which coalesced just above his head. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta was unsure of what was taking place, but he remained confident.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Humph. Let’s see this new strength of yours.” The lightshow, though impressive to the Z Fighters watching nearby, did nothing to impress the Prince. However, that was all about to change. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is for you, Gohan and Chi-Chi. All of my friends here on Earth, give me strength now!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly Goku’s hair began to ripple as though a strong wind was rushing through it. Then, the first wave of yellow flowed through his hair, from his scalp out to the tips. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“What? Tell me this is NOT happening!” Though outwardly calm, the Prince couldn’t believe his eyes. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The hero took a deep breath and then cried out. “AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!” Goku’s form completely disappeared, consumed by unapproachable golden light. The Super Saiyan inside of him was fully awake, released in a burst of fury. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NO! No, it can’t be! It’s not possible!” Vegeta was beside himself with rage and disbelief. “You’re a low-class clown! You can’t be a Super Saiyan!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku stood calm, now, his golden aura flaring around him. “I have the same Saiyan blood as you do, Vegeta. Being a Super Saiyan isn’t about the class you were born in or your pride – it’s about a need. And I needed to become a Super Saiyan to fight you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NOO!” Roared Vegeta, completely infuriated, who released his anger into the aura surrounding his body. Lightning flashed around him in an explosion of Super Saiyan rage as the earth beneath him was incinerated by his aura. Lifting both his hands into the air, Vegeta blasted a stream of golden energy from his entire body towards Kakarot. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku dodged quickly, blasting off to one side and flying around in a wide arc to build up speed. Despite the seriousness of the situation, he found himself grinning. Not even King Cold had given him a true challenge in his Super Saiyan state. Finally, he could truly test his new strength. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku’s fists smashed into Vegeta, knocking him off the rocky outcrop. His momentum carried Vegeta forward along with him as the Prince blocked and parried. The shockwaves from each powerful blow caused the rocks below them to shatter. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As they rocketed toward a nearby cliff, Vegeta began charging a blast in one hand. He would wait till the last second to fire it, using the explosion as cover to disappear again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Sensing an opening, which he probably wouldn’t have noticed if he was relying entirely on his vision, Goku grabbed his opponent’s shoulders, pivoted his entire body, and put all his momentum into one powerful kick. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Prince saw it a moment too late, his face revealing that he had been outmaneuvered. THUUUUM! The kick slipped neatly under Vegeta’s defenses and slammed right into the Prince’s face, snapping his cheek to the right. Goku had used the impact to push himself back, decreasing his own speed while sending Vegeta flying even faster. CRAAK! Vegeta’s body smashed into the side of the cliff, forming a deep hole in the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Super enough for you, Vegeta?” Goku could sense that while it had been an effective maneuver, Vegeta was far from injured. “He’s concealed his energy…I can’t let him surprise me.” The hero of Earth hung in midair, panting but filled with excitement. This was a real fight! He was holding nothing back, putting his strength up against another true warrior. For the moment, he forgot that it was a fight to the death; his Super Saiyan instincts thrilled at the pure glory of combat. Any second, Vegeta could appear from out of nowhere with a sneak attack. Goku reached out with his senses, ready to react at the slightest tingle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The bluff into which Vegeta had disappeared was silent for a few seconds, the Prince waiting patiently for the right moment. “Let’s see how your senses handle this, Kakarot.” Vegeta reached out with the smallest wave of energy, causing a small pebble to fall behind Goku. The diversion worked perfectly; Goku was so on edge that he spun around immediately. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly, beams of golden light pierced the rock face, as light reaching through the sky in streams on a cloudy day, in a brilliant firework display. “YAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A golden Explosive Wave vaporized most of the bluff and everything in a 100-meter radius, a few sharp rocks blasting towards Goku. The bulky, jagged chunks of stone slammed into Goku’s back at lightning speed. Though not very damaging, they served as a highly effective diversion. He immediately curled up in a defensive reaction, expecting Vegeta to plow into him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Instead, nothing happened. Rather, the Prince simply levitated up in front of him, crossing his arms and frowning. The Prince of Saiyans then goaded him, his hair shining brilliantly and his green eyes dark. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So, Kakarot, it seems you really have ascended.” Vegeta uncrossed his arms and held out his open palm in front of his face. “I’m still going to kill you, fool. You are a dishonor to the title AND to our ancestors!” The Prince clenched his fist tightly, shaking it at Goku. “There isn’t a shred of Saiyan pride in you, and the fact that you can somehow transform is a personal insult to the power that only I should have ever obtained!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Rather than trying to justify himself, the hero of Earth simply smiled. “Bring it on, Vegeta! I’m ready.” Goku didn’t know why he felt so at ease with the situation. His mind felt somehow clearer, unhindered. No matter what Vegeta said, he was a true Saiyan, and this was his fight. Whether he lived or died would be destiny’s choice. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku again made the first move, charging a blue orb of energy in each hand as he flew straight up. Just as he expected, Vegeta followed, his golden aura trailing behind him like the exhaust from a rocket. Grinning, Goku slowed his ascent and flung both spheres straight down. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta didn’t even pause, expertly backhanding the first ball toward the horizon and dodging the second one...just in time to look up and see Goku hovering with both hands held together at his side. “Super Kamehame-HAAAA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Distracting Vegeta hadn’t given Goku enough time to fully charge his attack, but it did give him just enough time to successfully release it before the Prince could react. The vengeful Super Saiyan could only cross his arms in front of his face and grit his teeth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As the wave smashed into him, sending him spinning downward, he cursed Kakarot’s name. Bracing against the wave, now coalesced into an azure sphere of destruction, Vegeta’s defenses began to slip. Finally, after a desperate struggle, it pushed him all the way to the ground and detonated in a violent fireball. The explosion lit the entire horizon, momentarily outshining the Sun. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“He appears to be doing well. I must admit, though…as a Super Saiyan, Goku is much more ruthless,” the Namekian observed.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It’s a little unnerving.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Yeah, I can’t believe he actually did it!” Gohan smiled. “My dad is a Super Saiyan!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Krillin was also quite thrilled by the sight of Goku’s transformation. “Do you think he can win, Piccolo?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“He might. From what I can feel, their powers are very close. The edge in pure strength still goes to Vegeta. He’s had more time to train his Super Saiyan state, and he also seems more determined than I’ve ever seen him.” Piccolo responded. It clearly wasn’t the answer any of them had hoped for, but it was the truth. “Then again, numbers alone do not win a battle.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“But I bet they help,” said Tien. “Vegeta won’t be finished by that blast. It’s not over yet, not by a long shot.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Right in the middle of the blast epicenter, Vegeta had quickly pushed himself back up and regained his footing. But then had crouched, panting. Though Vegeta’s aura deflected most of the attack, the fireball still had taken a substantial portion of his energy, greatly cracked his armor and left exposed portions of his skin smoking, with the concussive shockwave that followed weakening him even further and sending him in a daze. “Well, Kakarot, it looks like becoming a Super Saiyan has finally unlocked your Saiyan instincts for good.” Though bruised from the attack, Vegeta’s body had taken a bit worse. “This will be...interesting.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The 'true' Super Saiyan spotted his opponent’s aura, still hovering in the sky above the crater made by the blast. Loudly announcing himself, he approached. “I’m still here, Kakarot!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Both flew toward each other, picking up speed quickly. They clashed again, but this time it was Vegeta who went on the offensive, dealing out heavy blows that pounded relentlessly on Goku’s defenses. He only had a slight edge in strength, and Goku’s form was flawless – more refined than his own - so he had to make the most of his advantage. This wasn’t like any battle he had ever fought. For all intents and purposes, the two were almost evenly matched. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is it, Kakarot. I will not allow you to defeat me. Not now, not when I am so close to my victory.” Throughout the battle the Prince had taken Goku’s strongest attacks and toughest blows, yet his own endurance as a Super Saiyan continued to win out. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Try as he might, Goku couldn’t catch a break. He was fighting at maximum speed, pushing every muscle to the limits of it’s performance. Each block was firm; each counterattack was precise. But there was an unprecedented tenacity in Vegeta’s ability to shrug off attacks that he couldn’t match. And Vegeta was slightly stronger; that much was clear. If only that were it, perhaps he would have a chance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Earth’s greatest hero parried one of the Prince’s punches and used it to launch himself upwards, flipping backward and catching his opponent in the jaw with a solid kick. Yet Vegeta rolled in midair and fired a massive energy blast from both hands, completely taking Goku by surprise. The wave of energy tore what remained of his shirt away and left his torso smoking. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Agh! How does he have this much strength left?” Goku wondered. “It’s like he’s not tired at all!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is for your insolence, fool! For sparing my life as if I were helpless!” Vegeta landed a hard fist in Goku’s face, bloodying his nose. It was the first blow that had been really genuinely damaging. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dazed and off balance, Goku began falling to the ground. Before he was allowed to hit, Vegeta caught up and grabbed him by the neck. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“UUCCHHH!” The hero cried out, choking on the blood in his throat. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is for saving me from that buffoon Recoome.” The Prince kneed Goku hard in the gut, causing him to spit blood. Then, his hand still gripping his enemy’s neck, he hurled him into the air. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Darn it, Vegeta!” Goku had begun to feel more panicked. The Prince was relentless. Somehow, his stamina was much much higher than Goku’s. In spite of all the damage he had inflicted, he found himself tiring out much quicker than the Prince. It had to be that Vegeta had so much more time to train his Super Saiyan form, that he had learned to regulate himself. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Just before Goku’s upward momentum slowed, Vegeta teleported into his trajectory. The Prince raised his fists above his head, readying a downward pummel. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This…is for your stunt against Frieza!” Vegeta hammered both fists hard into Goku’s back, sending his form towards the Earth in a blurry streak. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Again, the Super Saiyan Prince zipped in front of Goku, this time much faster. Appearing below him in the nick of time, the Prince kicked Goku across the landscape. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku barely had time to cry out in pain; the blows were coming in too quickly for him to react. Before he could defend or pull out of his fall, Vegeta would attack again, harder than before. He was being knocked around the battlefield like a volleyball, and it would all be over soon if he didn’t think of something quickly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“And this…” Vegeta wildly yelled, “…THIS is for every other second your existence has plagued me!” The Prince suddenly appeared right in his path, his right hand crackling with yellow energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NOW…DISAPPEAR!” The wrath-consumed Prince threw his arm forward and cried out. “HAAAA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In that brief instant, almost as if responding to Vegeta’s taunt, Goku miraculously vanished right before the blast struck him. He hadn’t been sure if he would have enough focus to use Instant Transmission during battle, but he had somehow grabbed hold of Vegeta’s energy signal, locked on, and disappeared. The Prince’s energy beam passed right through his Afterimage just as he appeared suddenly behind his vengeful enemy and kicked Vegeta in the head. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Neither of the two warriors noticed the immediate destruction of Gero’s Lab by the same Maximum Flasher that nearly killed Goku. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Prince lurched forward, catching himself with his hands against the ground, and turned around with a furious growl. But the other Super Saiyan placed a hand an inch from his heart with both the index and middle finger outstretched. In the next instant, they folded back into a punch and rammed into the Prince of Death’s chest.

With a gasp of pain, Vegeta felt the One-Inch Punch destroy both his aura and his armor. Clutching his crushed chest and coughing up blood from his mouth, Vegeta took one last look at Goku before being knocked a few feet away just beyond everyone’s field of vision by the following shockwave from his foe’s still closed fist, but it was a distance which Vegeta quickly closed; he then landed in front of Goku and flared his aura around him once more. “What the hell was that? There is no way he could have dodged that attack, I’m sure of it!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“What did you just do, Kakarot? You piece of shit! I demand to know how you evaded that!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Trying hard to catch his breath, the Saiyan from Earth calmed himself and answered. “A new technique I learned in space…the Instant Transmission.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn! So he doesn’t have to rely on his speed or trajectory, he can just dodge me whenever the hell he wants!” The Prince was even more furious than before. “How can I get around the clown’s Magic tricks? If I don’t somehow anticipate it, I’ll just be wasting my energy.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Northern Mountains 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">What remained of the laboratory basement had been buried under tons of debris from the secret laboratory above. A column of smoke and ash rose high into the upper atmosphere, forming a mushroom cloud as large as a small bus. Yet the winds that came from the clash of the Super Saiyans sent air currents that already started to dissipate the ash cloud from the explosion. The cloud rose so high and so quickly that it rapidly reached the edge of space; it’s boiling-hot gases escaping into the void harmlessly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But just above the ground, in the center of the roiling column of smoke, a spark of life remained. A tiny little cell, the only surviving fragment of the Bio-Android’s nervous system, floated in midair. A part of Cell was still alive. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The flow of Ki through the cell was minuscule, too faint to be detected even by the most sensitive of creatures. Yet it was there, adding energy and mass to the tiny fragment as it began to split and multiply and grow. As it grew, going from a single cell to a small lump to a rudimentary body, consciousness and memories began to emerge. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blue, spherical cocoon continued to float just inches off the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">At least, that’s what it did for the first few seconds. Soon, though, it began to stir. Membranes split; limbs and wings and exoskeleton twisted and expanded out. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The creature had the same blue-tinged skin and the same stiff black wings as a Cell Junior, and bore the mottled markings of Cell. But only had these features present in him for the moment. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Dark Avenger straightened up, rolling to his feet more quickly than the Guardian of Earth could follow and taking note of his surroundings before he watched on as his Saiyan brothers did battle, though he seemed a little different than when he was born as he no longer had the blue skin, black wings, and markings of his original self he was born with. He now had the same light peach complexion as Gohan, but with an otherwise taller figure and lengthened, wild cut black hair that was reminiscent of Goku’s. Also unlike before, he had the same brown tail as the Saiyans, but it was hidden underneath his clothes. He wore black Namekian clothing with a pronounced red obi around his waist, a red wrist band on both arms, and a pair of brown Namekian-style shoes. His physique made him look like if he was at least five years older than Gohan, despite his source material being at the time nowhere near as developed. His eyes revealed his blood-red irises being the very same shade of red as his obi and wristbands as the clone of the son of Piccolo Daimao, Goku, and King Cold then coldly stared down the heartless Super Saiyan responsible for his birth and cause for his home’s approaching destruction. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Using context clues, the Twilight Warrior was able to figure the situation out even before his highly tuned senses had begun to explain to him that he was being watched by an elderly individual high in Earth’s upper atmosphere. But without removing his stony gaze from the one immediately choosing the risk of destroying the entire Solar System simply to defeat Goku, the Shadow Walker reached out with his energy, feeling the life force of each living thing on the planet. Most of them were oblivious to his existence, as only Kami knew of him from the Namekian having followed where the blast that strayed from the battle between Super Saiyan Goku and Super Saiyan Vegeta had went to, yet he was too overwhelmed by what had transpired and what was still going on in the Gizard Wasteland to try in warning Goku and the others. Truthfully, though, the reborn Cell had almost no memory of who he was before and only had the faintest inklings of who Piccolo, Gohan, and Frieza were. He then threw his hands out at his sides, blue crackles of electricity spinning around his form now. Before he had put two fingers on his forehead and aimed himself for a battle far, far away. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku was still panting. He had narrowly escaped Vegeta’s finishing move, but the Prince’s momentary advantage had cost him dearly. Though he was glad to still be alive, he ached horribly. Worse, Vegeta was immediately chasing after him yet again, allowing him no time to recover. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THUMM! THUD! Goku blocked Vegeta’s initial punch, but the second one blew past his defenses and caught him in the jaw. Before he could clear his head, a powerful kick sent him flying upward again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Narrowing his brow, Vegeta created an invisible wall of Ki below him and bounded off it, landing a solid upward kick to the center of Goku’s chest. The Prince darted above him and slammed down with a powerful elbow, sending Goku plummeting yet again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Accelerating quickly, Vegeta flew past Goku and gathered his energy.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NOW TAKE THIS!” He released a blinding golden beam from his chest straight up toward his opponent. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Uh oh,” Goku said.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“If I take a blast like that head-on I’m done for!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With no time to spare, Goku put two fingers to his forehead and locked onto Vegeta’s energy signature. Instant Transmission had already saved him once; could it save him again? The energy blast was blindingly bright as it zoomed into view...could he remain focused enough for the technique to work again? '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Here goes nothing!” He said, bringing his hands to his side even as he began pulling his body into hyperspace. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">CRUNCH…PHOOOM! Goku had appeared immediately behind Vegeta, only to feel a powerful blow smash into his chest, breaking one of his ribs. “GAAHH!” The pain was excruciating. But even as the angry Prince was about to give out a snarky response, Goku had already recovered and fired an Instant Kamehameha at the evil Super Saiyan from the front. With this time around, his Super Kamehameha did enough damage to cover Vegeta in blood and bruises, nearly melt his armor off his torso from the sheer speed of the blast wave alone, and left his entire body dark with fury and filth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blast detonated upon impact, a large explosion enshrouding Vegeta and taking another large chunk of his energy. <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Times New Roman",serif">When the smoke cleared, though, the merciless warrior from the Homeworld of the Saiyans was revealed to still be battle-worthy. His clothes were charred and nearly gone, and what left of his skin was covered with nothing but bruises, yet he did not wear the look of a defeated warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You fool.” Vegeta stood over Goku now, his fist raised. “Pathetic! Haven’t you learned already by now, Kakarot? No matter how much you improve it, you simply can’t beat me with your favorite move. But your predictability alone does the dishonors to both yourself and the entire Saiyan race. Did you honestly think that I wouldn’t be able to anticipate your Instant Whatever-it-is? You appeared in exactly the same position behind me as before, clown! Do you think I’m an idiot, that I have no fighting sense?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku looked up through the pain to see nothing but unabated anger on Vegeta’s face. “You’re right, Vegeta.” The Earth-raised Saiyan lowered his head submissively. He knew he was beaten, now. Vegeta was simply too much. At the beginning Goku had felt some hope of victory; he had even seemed to inflict a lot of damage on his Saiyan rival. But before he had even fully realized it, things had gotten out of control. His punches didn’t even seem to faze the Prince anymore, all the while he was getting pummeled and losing more and more power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You’ve...beaten me. It was a good fight, but there’s no denying it...you win this round, Vegeta.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta stared down at him, confused.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Does he honestly think there will be another round? This is the end, surely he knows this!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku continued, trying to be optimistic. “I’m still not sorry for saving your life before – it’s because of you that we were able to defeat Frieza at all – but today you beat me fair and square.” Goku’s tone was almost happy, as if he had enjoyed every second of the fight. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But the Prince’s anger still burned hot. “Is this fool actually suggesting that I show him mercy?” He growled, his aura flaring brightly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I don’t know what your deluded brain is thinking, Kakarot, but a true Saiyan would fight to the death before acknowledging defeat.” Vegeta expanded his energy out in a blinding golden flash. “And today, like it or not, that’s what you’re going to do! I demand that my satisfaction be given!” He levitated into the air and flew back a few dozen meters. “You knew deep down there was only way this could end, Kakarot! And now that time has come! Prepare yourself, pray to whatever God you believe in, Kakarot. It is time to oppose my strongest attack...if you CAN!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">He lifted his arms, the rocks around him crumbling from the energy. Lightning began to coalesce around his form and his muscles bulged. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku stood, one hand still grabbing at his shattered ribs. “Please, Vegeta! Don’t do this!” But his pleas fell on deaf ears. There was no turning back, the Prince had set his mind and nothing could change it. In his time on Earth, he had shown great potential for change. Vegeta had grown, matured, and seemingly learned much from his experiences. Yet all that was behind him now, thrown to the wayside as he prepared to sacrifice it for his revenge. Goku’s countenance fell. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I just don’t have enough energy to fight back! But...I have to try. I guess I just didn’t think he’d actually do it...that it could end like this.” He winced as he pulled both his hands behind his right hip.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Ka….me….ha….me….” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Unable to hold back any longer, Vegeta pulled both his hands together. “It is time to take back what is mine!” The concentration of energy between his hands continued to grow.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I will not live my life as your second; that time is long past! Every breath you take is an assault to my honor!” Veins swelled in Vegeta’s forehead as wrath and energy bubbled to the surface. “But no more, Kakarot. By my hand, you will be cut down…the way you have cut down my pride!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Staring daggers at his sworn enemy, the Prince cried out. “FINAL FLASH! YAAAAAAAA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“—HA, SUPER STYLE!” Goku released his own charged Super Kamehameha, hoping desperately that it would be enough to match Vegeta’s attack. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The two beams, one golden white and one pulsing blue, met with a massive flash halfway between the pair of Super Saiyans. For a brief moment, the cataclysmic struggle was frozen as the concentrated power of Vegeta’s attack met the earnest determination of Goku’s. But the density of the Final Flash was too pure and too directed; Goku’s Super Kamehameha began flowing around the edges. Slowly, inexorably, the maelstrom of power moved toward Earth’s hero. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Blinded by his rage, Vegeta continued to release all of his hatred and fury. Overcharging the beam in his hands, and making his Final Flash swallow up more than just Goku. Since releasing the attack early was a gamble, Vegeta wasn’t taking any chances; if Kakarot was able to sustain his efforts, Vegeta would be unable to block the blast on it’s way back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But unknown to the Prince of Death, the noble Saiyan-turned-Earthling was just about to be saved from his wrath. As Goku’s hands faltered and fell. He felt his own attack fade, and felt Vegeta’s blast about to overcome him, and the entire Solar System. He felt no pain, no terror – only sadness.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Goodbye, Gohan…Chi-Chi. I’m sorr—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">FROOOM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A shockwave shot out from Goku’s corner of the battlefield. The blazing column of golden fire suddenly looked dim as a blinding column of light shot through the planet. Vegeta’s eyes widened in shock; the God of the Realm of Darkness and Demons looking through a crystal inside the Crack of Time showing Shadow Walker Gohan saving Goku gave a fierce grin. Goku and the others merely gaped. The mighty Super Final Flash had parted like mere smoke, swallowed up by the brilliant form of the shadow-like figure flying through the flames toward Vegeta. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Gahhhh…?” Was the trembling gurgle that came out of Vegeta’s mouth. His jaw had dropped; his eyes were wide and shaking…he couldn’t believe what he was seeing.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This…power…it’s unreal…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Wow! …Who in the world is that?” The Earth-raised Saiyan couldn’t believe it. Someone who looked just like his son, but with an energy signature completely Alien to him, had been able to save him from certain doom and was pushing through Vegeta’s ultimate move like it was nothing. “His power’s more amazing than Vegeta’s...! But he’s like if he was between light and dark, with no ties to either side.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven’s form utterly eclipsed the power of Vegeta’s attack. Each moment brought him closer to the source, until he finally reached out and grabbed both of the short Alien’s fists, snuffing the Super Final Flash like a candle. Vegeta gulped audibly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Who’s that!?” Gohan blurted, echoing the thoughts of the other Z Fighters. Just seconds before, Piccolo had been holding him back from the battle, but now they both stood in utter amazement. Silently, the Namekian realized that the boy he was now sensing was somehow related to him, Gohan, and even Frieza. The energy signatures matched, though what he was sensing was like if they had amalgamated into one. Whoever this boy was, he had to have been pulling from both the light and dark side to have such immeasurable power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Another Saiyan?” Tien was skeptical. Though he had long since come to terms with Goku’s greater strength, he had no love for his friend’s race. “I don’t trust the Saiyans, but I guess it’s good that he’s saved Goku and is about to finish off Vegeta for us.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Piccolo grunted. “Yes, he’s going to finish Vegeta; that’s all that matters. I don’t trust the Saiyans either, but the one who has stopped Vegeta from killing us all should be trusted as he is nothing like most of the Saiyans we know.” He glanced over at Gohan, placing a hand on the boy’s shoulder; now not the only Saiyan he truly cared about. “Be ready, Gohan.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Where do you think he could have come from, guys?” Asked Krillin. No one replied. “I mean, first Goku appears from thin air and then this guy does the same thing. What? Is it Big Damn Heroes Discount Day or something?” No one else laughed. Krillin knew that the Earth’s chances for survival were still slim as long as Vegeta was around. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven stood nearly as tall as Vegeta, his hair standing sharper on top with only three locks still falling down over his forehead. It’s color was a deeper black than Gohan’s and shimmered with energy, jagged arcs of blue electricity swirled around them both. His jaw was set, serious and somber. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“What…what is this?” Vegeta grunted as he tried to wrench his fists free from the Slayer of Darkness’ grip. After a few moments, Steven released his hold and his opponent fell backward, wringing his hands in pain as he stared at the Bio-Android before him. Steven stood motionless, his face having absolutely no emotion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Reacting quickly, Vegeta blasted skyward in a blinding flash, looking to put some distance between Steven and himself until he could figure out what to do next. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">ZIP! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven’s form, as if omnipresent, appeared directly in his path. Vegeta’s jaw dropped once more, aghast at the Twilight Warrior’s speed. He quickly took off in the opposite direction as fast as he could. Effortlessly, it seemed, Shadow Walker Gohan made another jump and intercepted him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Flames of gold and orange lightning erupted around Vegeta’s body and he charged, smashing into Steven with a barrage of powerful kicks and punches. The Z Warriors could just hear a deep rumble; only Goku and Demon God Démigra could even make out the individual blows. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But to Steven, they were coming in slow motion. His hands whizzed and whirred through the air, effortlessly blocking each strike with crackles of electricity. After a few moments of this, he simply dropped his hands and let the blows make contact. Vegeta might as well have been a tiny little Ant smashing it’s feet against the side of a building. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NO! The Prince of Saiyans…will not be humiliated by a nothing like YOU!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Prince of Death began to charge a Big Bang Attack, but Steven dashed forward the remaining distance, still not a shred of emotion on his face. As Vegeta pulled forward one fist, the Twilight Warrior simply reached out and caught it in a viselike grip. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven’s eyes narrowed. This Saiyan had not only threatened his home, but also the people and animals dear to him, which he valued more than anything. He would take out this monster right now and leave nothing behind. The Dark Avenger frowned deeply, then flexed the bulging muscles in his arm. There was a loud crunch as Vegeta’s bones splintered and collapsed, causing the Prince to scream in pain. Dropping the now-useless arm, Dark Gohan whirled around with a spinning back kick to Vegeta’s torso, crushing it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Super Saiyan started to fall backward, but Steven reached out and caught him by the neck with his left hand. “Do you really think me stopping you from killing Mr. Son Goku and destroying the entire Solar System was just to humiliate you?! Get it through your thick skull, you ruthless, heartless bastard! I did so because you outright murdered almost my whole family! And for that you are going to suffer…ALL...MY...WRATH!” He released a massive blast from his right hand at point-blank range. Vegeta tried to twist away, but the attack still caught him in the side of the torso, completely blowing away his left arm. Crimson blood gushed from the gaping wound. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Not yet satisfied, Steven gripped Vegeta’s neck with both hands and slammed his head forward against the warrior of evil, cracking the skull of Vegeta. The physical embodiment of evil stumbled backward, barely able to stand. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The ruthless Super Saiyan looked all around him, desperately searching for his foe’s family or friends. But the Twilight Warrior moved faster than his eyes could follow and caught his rippling neck in a stranglehold. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Not this time, you Frieza wannabe.” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Bringer of Death was screaming as he was yanked up, Steven’s cold stare the last thing he saw before the fingers tightened, before a warm and living rope coiled around his waist. The hand and rope pulled in opposite directions, and Vegeta felt his bones crack, skin and muscle stretching as blood filled his mouth, screaming…until he was torn in half, and was no more. The Prince’s hair faded to black as did his eyes before the Super Saiyan fire of his aura disappeared almost as fast. He now looked how Vegeta normally did. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">As a river of blood poured over him, splashing to the floor, he uncoiled his tail through the steaming red gush and snapped Vegeta’s neck. In the next instant the reborn Cell released his grip and both halves of Vegeta’s corpse dropped at the same time, only for Dark Gohan to raise both hands above his head. “MASENKO…HAAAA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">FOOOOM! A massive explosion of energy erupted from the crater-filled area, creating a brilliant firestorm that immediately engulfed all that remained of Vegeta’s bloody and cleaved cadaver. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">As the cloud of dust dissipated slowly, there was absolutely nothing left of Vegeta. The Slayer of Darkness once again paused for a brief moment, checking up on Goku and the rest of those on Earth before turning to the righteous Super Saiyan and lifting his eyes to meet those of Earth’s greatest champion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly, from the corner of his eye, a black aura shot towards him. Having come from the cold void of space and bearing a great resemblance to Goku, but with a somewhat skinnier physique and slightly darker skin, Black’s spear-like elbow decked him square in the chest, knocking him through empty air as he glided across the edge of space. Flipping over and coming to a complete stop, Steven had instantly shifted into his fighting stance. Just as the penultimate of the Phantom Saiyans’ next punch grazed the first few strands of hair on his head, Steven’s aura of a light blue had at long last flamed to life all around him as he exploded downwards, flying backwards in an arc. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn you, double of Mr. Son Goku! You waited until the last minute for me to drop my guard so you could attack!” Steven yelled, rapidly firing a barrage of golden energy blasts crackling with his own electricity as he streaked through the air. Grinning evilly, the personification of despair cut through them, his arms braced defensively out front as he emerged from the brown cloud of debris. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well now, let’s just say that today is the day that your life comes to an end!” He laughed madly, his single gold and green Potara earring on his left ear flapping wildly in the wind. “Utterly imperfect and full of flaws, everything like hunger and lack of sleep slows you down unlike a truly higher being on par with the Gods like me, even frailness of old age comes too quick for a mortal like you…Saiyan!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Irritated by Black’s ruthless and sadistic nature, Steven blasted forward toward Black with an explosion of speed that left a deafening shockwave behind him. The clone of the son of Goku’s punch was aimed for the center of Black’s chest, the Phantom Saiyan bringing up his arms in a cross pattern to block. The Twilight Warrior’s fist struck soundly against the block, neither fighter flinching as they tested one another’s strength. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Black then quickly pushed his arms forward, in between Steven’s fists, and spread them wide. Now with a wide opening to attack, Black kicked upwards into the Dark Avenger’s gut. But Steven brought up his knees to meet Black’s at just the last instant. Their thick, muscular hips absorbed all the impact of the blow as the two pounded their knees into each other. Intent, they grabbed onto one another’s shoulders; Steven smashed his head forward in an attempt to daze Black. The fighters strained, pitting all their strength against each other. The two were completely even so far. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Only a few miles away, those on the ground were all motionless, watching the other fighters with awe and wonder. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Grunting, Steven detonated a ball of energy in each hand while he was still gripping Black’s shoulders, blasting him away. Using the momentary advantage, he plowed forward head first, sending the doppelganger of Goku tumbling out of Earth’s atmosphere and straight into the Sun 92.96 million miles away. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Abruptly, he felt the familiar thrilling rush of a large energy signature. A Legendary Super Saiyan was nearing the planet; Broly from the same parallel world as Black had a high enough power level to be felt from a Universe away. “So yet another challenger from beyond this Universe I have to deal with, someone must really not like me.” Murmured Steven as he watched Broly dashing forward with a mighty chop aimed for his neck. He turned just in time to see Broly arriving via a menacing eldritch portal ablaze in Dragonfire, and dodged the chop by ducking below it. Grabbing the Demon of Fear and Death’s arm, the Shadow Walker spun in midair and pulled, spinning him in a circle. With all his strength, Dark Gohan hurled Broly into the ground. But the Legendary Super Saiyan flipped over and braced himself before impact in order to minimize damage. Though the Saiyan equivalent to the God of Destruction Beerus was a little weaker than the Bio-Android, he was still very much a threat. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Then, in a single zip, Steven vanished. With a loud snap, the muscular child reappeared in front of Broly with a snarl. “Hello, Broly, the Legendary Saiyan of the Universe next to this one. I am Steven Bloodriver, the Shadow Walker.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blank-eyed warrior’s look quickly turned from shock back to anger. Whether or not he was in his right mind or not, he still clearly believed Black was his and his alone to defeat. Broly’s bulky right arm quickly swung at Dark Gohan, trying to brush him aside. But the youth stopped it in midair with one hand, still continuing to fearlessly show his harsh eyes directly into the empty pupils of the Legendary Warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">At the last instant, Black’s white boots gained purchase on the very surface of the burning star. His aura more than powerful enough to shield him from the Sun. But the Black Demon had caught up already to both the Saiyan Messiah and Twilight Warrior, darting in with a fully charged Black Kamehameha to end it all. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So you are just like the one called Vegeta, aren’t you Broly? Willing to kill even you’re own family and friends, just for your twisted delusions of honor to be satisfied—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A powerful energy blast suddenly smashed into the pair, Black taking every advantage. Steven had taken the brunt of the attack straight in his back, too. The opportunistic personification of despair hovered in closer to the smokescreen, howling with laughter. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Fwahahaha! What a pathetic end to such a proud warrior race—ACCK!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven’s body was suddenly launched out of the debris cloud, smashing directly into Black’s gut. The Neo Perfect Bio-Android had braced himself against Broly’s irritated charge, but had still been sent airborne. Black quickly kicked the Twilight Warrior aside before noticing Broly dashing towards him angrily from below. He hurriedly launched his Black Blaze at the Saiyan of Legend—who naturally moved in and out of the energy wave volley like if it was nothing. Which instantly bothered the double of Goku enough for him to throw his hands forward with the Kaioshin Telekinesis technique. The Psychic energy latched onto Broly with all the force he could muster, and it seemed to barely catch him in time. But having seen the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore break through this attack before, the personification of despair knew better than to trust it for more than a moment. He quickly pulled back his right hand for a point-blank energy blast... But suddenly Dark Gohan dashed back onto the scene, grabbing both monsters by the back of the heads and banging their skulls together. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The youth then dove and landed a gut punch to Broly before quickly spinning and kicking Black off into the distance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Above the plummeting Phantom Saiyan, Steven extended his index and middle finger. Piccolo taught the true son of Goku the attack before the battle against the Saiyans, but he rarely used it. “MAKANKOSAPPO!” The golden spiral crackled with Super Saiyan 2-like lightning, shooting downward like a bullet. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">It struck the doppelganger of Goku’s side and tore through his ribs and chest instantly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Black gave an involuntary gasp of pain and leaned to one side, favoring the wound. Seeing his opening, the Shadow Walker brought his hands out to his sides and charged an energy sphere in each of them as he turned to face the dying Black Demon. He then cupped his hands together and pulled them to his side. “From the legends of Earth to you, Ka-me...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Dust slowly cleared from around the still falling Phantom Saiyan, revealing what looked like a stick figure within. Black had his attire, skin, muscle tissue, and a good deal of organs blown off. Waving slightly from side to side, his warped and toothy face frozen in a state of evil joy, he was utterly exposed. His eye sockets, now nothing but voids, furthered the look of his gruesome state. Small bits of cauterized, charred flesh flaked off of his form revoltingly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">How had he gambled, only to lose to just a random Saiyan child! And if he didn’t think of something quickly, he’d provided Dark Gohan a perfect shot at him. Somehow, amidst his pathetic state, Black was still consciously aware of himself. Even as he tried to take in his surroundings, he could sense Steven begin to collect enough energy in front of him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">   “—HA ME HA!” Screamed the Slayer of Darkness. The brilliant blue beam completely engulfed the Black Demon, it’s searing energy pulsing with Neo Perfect Android power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">As Black was instantly reduced to nothing by the Kamehameha, the Time Ring he had used to get to this dimension dropped to the ground with a clatter. And yet Neo Perfect Cell gave no smile of satisfaction. Turning, he faced the Galactic Warrior and moved into his main genetic template’s stance, preparing for the inevitable. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Shadow Walker Gohan is absolutely incredible,” Piccolo said, watching on. “He is much stronger than anyone that had appeared so far, and even an evil monster as powerful as that Imposter Goku was outmatched by my protégé’s clone. This seemingly older incarnation of Gohan is even capable of fighting both Broly and Black at the same time with hardly any trouble too. Yet if it wasn’t for him being perfectly neutral, he might have had a harder time in being able to win against those two monsters.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It’s practically an all-you-can-eat carnage buffet up there,” Krillin added. “As if you were to count both Vegeta and that fake Goku, all of those challenging Dark Gohan have more than enough energy within their bodies to blow up this entire Solar System thirty-one times over, but the total control over movement and Ki Dark Gohan has have so far prevented any of us from experiencing what the end of the world would literally feel like.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Yeah, this has been the freakiest day ever.” Gohan was nodding in agreement. “Even so, it almost feels like we are watching a future version of myself instead of a person somehow related to Mr. Piccolo, me, and even Frieza succeeding even my daddy as a Super Saiyan in strength and being the one to defeat foe after deadly foe from beyond space and time.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Agreed, but it also seems in that the wormhole Broly used to get here is having trouble staying open,” Tien observed, noticing the occasional spasms and uncontrolled surges in the Hell Gate above them and the rest of the battlefield.  <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It must somehow be connected to the evil Saiyan brute with the slightly greenish-yellow hair.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Broly grabbed his stomach from the pain, but quickly had to move to block as Shadow Walker Gohan continued attacking. Keeping one eye behind him to watch for any signs of another threat to the Earth, the clone of the son of Goku began spinning through a series of practiced sweep kicks and dives. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Ghrr, my patience for this absurdly strong Saiyan child is wearing thin...but as soon as I destroy him and his damn father, this entire world will be next!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Not on your life, Broly!” Steven screamed, forcing his way through the evil Saiyan’s defenses and landing a series of punches across his body. “You are through in spreading petty destruction wherever you go!” Steven slammed a gut punch into Broly’s solar plexus after he had knocked him higher into the air from his earlier barrage before continuing to yell at him. “As I will make you suffer for all of the stupidity you have forced upon the people of your Universe and of this one!” The Twilight Warrior pounded Broly with a barrage of punches to his face and kicks to his abdomen. “You hear me Legendary Super Saiyan, I will avenge everyone and everything you have hurt and killed!” With a hard chop to the Saiyan’s neck, he sent Broly across the horizon, swiftly chasing after him. “For you don’t deserve to be living for the centillion of deaths you and your bloodline are responsible for!” The Dark Avenger caught up with the Saiyan of Legend, then slammed him in the back with an elbow, and watched him fall to the rocky ground pocketed with lava that now completely surrounded them and the Z-Team. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“As even being exiled by that King Cold wannabe and thrown away like the trash that you are was just too good for you!” Shouted Steven, with the wrath in his red Frost Demon-like eyes and perfectly white Namekian teeth clenched making him look like a Shinso Vampire. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Neo Perfect Bio-Android watched the Legendary Destroyer struggle to lift himself to hands and knees. Scorched by the fury of the Meteor Crash, Broly lifted his head to speak, pushing through the pain as he stood up, completely furious. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Why won’t you just SHUT UP already!?” The Legendary Saiyan replied, his voice tense. “Destroying everything in the cosmos is what I was born for!” Broly yelled, throwing out his arm and firing a spherical blast directly at Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But the Shadow Walker was completely prepared for the massive emerald-green energy sphere. He bent low, turning his left shoulder into the attack. “Wrong!” He roared, flinging his arm ahead to meet the blast. With a single swipe, he deflected the green sphere of energy over his shoulder. The Legendary Super Saiyan’s Eraser Cannon exploded just outside the Solar System behind the Twilight Warrior, immediately forming a large dome of deadly green energy as it vaporized everything within the blast radius. “As I know for a fact in that you had a choice just like Vegeta,” the Slayer of Darkness corrected Broly. “But just like him, you simply chose to follow in the footsteps of an even greater monster, and to add further insult to your injured fatal flaws of having cold-blooded pride and a sick obsession to fill in something that doesn’t even exist, it is only a matter of time before all of your heinous crimes have caught up with you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Inasmuch as the intended result was to further provoke Broly, Steven completely succeeded. With his eyes becoming a bloodshot red, the Demon of Fear and Death began to growl angrily, forming two more green orbs in his hands. He immediately hurled them both, then began creating more and throwing them as rapidly as he could. There was now a flurry of green energy balls flying at the Walker of Shadow, too numerous to count for even their user. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A note of excitement appeared on Steven’s face. “Well, isn’t that bizarre? I thought I was fighting an actual warrior with the form spoken of in ancient Saiyan folklore as it looks like I am instead facing the Vegeta equal to one,” he muttered. He extended his left and right arm out beside him in opposite directions, his fingers spread out. “Dragon Claw Dance!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Pure emerald green energy erupted around his arms from the elbow out to a few feet beyond the fingertips. They formed a pair of broad, claws shimmering brilliantly, the same attack he’d seen used on a special episode of Pokémon by a Mega evolved Pokémon to attack another Mega evolved one in a forest during a Trainer battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The first two Eraser Cannons were mere inches from Steven’s face when he swung his arms up and around, slicing them in half. The green balls of Ki split down the middle, each half flying past his head on each side only to explode furiously behind him. In front of him, a seeming wall of energy balls bore down on him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But Steven didn’t wait around. Immediately, he sprang forward off from where he was, diving straight into the mass of attacks. The next two blasts he clove in four with a downward strike; a side-swing took care of the next two. Still flying straight forward, he sliced and slashed his way through the entire mass of attacks, sending speeding fragments of energy in every direction and reducing the Eraser Shot Volley to shambles. To the shocked Legendary Warrior watching, it was nothing but a whirling, flashing arc of emerald light effortlessly carving it’s way through a dense cloud of his legendary energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before until Shadow Walker Gohan cleaved his way through the last of his opponent’s energy barrage and ascended into the sky, he spun in a backwards loop after reaching the edge of the atmosphere and made his way down like a comet, Broly only noticed too late that Steven had done this to build up momentum as the clone of the son of Goku then met him and slashed the evil Saiyan with one of his claws made of Ki. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SSSHHINNNGG! The Dragon Claw Dance finished with Steven slicing straight through the Legendary Saiyan in a single swipe, but the Dragon Claw caught in Broly’s ribcage, so he whirled with an elbow strike, smashing the Dark Messiah of the Saiyans across the planet Earth and freeing his other hand; Broly caught himself in midair and looked at himself to see the right side of his upper body severely slashed and torn open. The son of Paragus then turned to Steven with enraged eyes and gave an animalistic scream as he charged before vanishing with super speed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Teleporting above Steven, the massive Legendary Super Saiyan swung down to meet the Warrior of Twilight with a double fist, but the Bio-Android spun out of the way without losing momentum and scored a firm kick across the Legendary Warrior’s shoulders. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Having recovered quickly, Broly appeared directly in front of Steven with one palm forward and fired a green energy wave. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“GIGANTIC ERASER!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But even as the blast erupted from the Saiyan Messiah’s hand, the reborn son of Goku chopped his arm to the side and whirled into a spinning backfist. The accompanying half-twist led straight into a thrust kick to Broly’s ribs which sent the insane warrior of Super Saiyan legend tumbling away while Steven launched himself back toward Broly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Legendary Super Saiyan had already recovered and was flying back into the fray, yet his opponent reached him first and gave him a spinning kick to the face before unleashing a burst of equally blazing-fast punches that Broly managed to block in time. Meanwhile, the ground below them suddenly began to rumble. Rocks began rising into the air all around them, causing both to turn towards the black light off in the distance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“The Phantom Saiyan…He just regenerated himself back in one piece and his power almost doubled...” Steven muttered aloud. Broly quickly tried to take the opportunity to attack the distracted Slayer of Darkness with a right hook. But Dark Gohan dodged beside, grabbed the arm, and swung the Legendary Saiyan towards the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Instantly, Black was on them again—and this time he bore a whole new level of viciousness. Rather than seek out Broly, the Black Demon flew blindly at Steven, who hung alone in the air, and unleashed an all-out assault. The last living Demon Clansman quickly raised his guard, but he was barely able to block the Phantom’s brutal blows, Black then paused as he tried to smash a hammerfist onto his head. But Steven caught the punch with one hand, sent Black diving into the Earth with a vicious chop to the Demon’s neck, and teleported to Black before blasting the personification of despair’s entire body to a catatonic state with an Earth Breaker. He then turned his eyes onto Broly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn, you...” Black mumbled, groaning in pain. “Pulling...a Frieza...on me. You lowly—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly, a new and sharper pain shot through his entire nervous system, piercing his consciousness. The agony reverberated through his body from his right leg. Looking down, he saw that Steven’s tail had pierced his thigh. As he and Broly watched in horror, Steven began sucking the life out of the former, reducing his entire body to nothing in only the smallest split of a second and leaving behind the sleeveless dark grey jacket, a long-sleeved black undershirt, a red sash, black pants and white boots. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With the threat of the Phantom Saiyan now gone, the hair of Steven spiked out more rigidly and darkened in hue, the change was also accompanied by a stretching sound as an immediate expansion of his muscle mass was needed for his body to adjust to the new rush of strength that was permanently and without consequence added to his own, and with the addition of even more blue lightning to his aura, peals of thunder could be heard just from the crackling of lightning given off from the reborn Bio-Android’s aura even as he pulled the stinger out of Black’s shriveled clothes and sent them hurtling toward the lava pit behind him with a single flick. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“GAHHHH!” The beaten and bloodied Legendary Warrior screamed angrily. “Kakarot was mine! MINE! MIIIIINE!” Broly, the massive Legendary Super Saiyan, raised his right hand and formed a Trap Shooter. “YAAHH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">He threw out his hand, firing several emerald-green energy sphere bullets, which immediately began homing in on Shadow Walker Gohan. The Twilight Warrior, unfazed by the cloud of Broly’s Trap Shooter rushing toward him, pulled back his tail and filled it with clear silver light. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven’s Iron Tail, late as it was, intercepted the incoming Gigantic Cluster and caused it to disperse harmlessly over him—while the clone of Gohan had pulled back both hands and filled them with gold energy. Broly opened his mouth wide and roared, letting his ethereal aura explode around him. Though the instantaneous Explosion Wave struck him dead on, it’s effects seemed completely swallowed up by Steven’s might. Broly, on the other hand, brought his hands forward to deflect the first few of the Neo Perfect Android’s Renzoku Makōhō, before blocking and being struck by the remaining trillions of blasts. Now shrouded in another smokescreen, the tiring Legendary Warrior could no longer ignore the facts. Both of the fighters, much as he hated it, seemed to be in the same league of power as himself, as well as this Steven being able to shake off damage like droplets of water. If he had any chance to win, it wouldn’t be by wearing down his foes, it would be by decisive action. But he was dozens of years old, practically a legend in his own right. It had taken the Saiyan he hated the most and his sons to stop him the last time, and this time not even they would get the better of him! It didn’t matter that he was alone. The Messiah felt no fear, not even the slightest—he wasn’t going to lose. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Broly emerged out from the debris cloud, streaks of blood covered his still crossed arms. His gold arm and wristbands were melded into his flesh, one of his massive legs and an eye had been blasted away, and both of Broly’s shoulders were showing only veins and scorched patches of skin holding his arms together. The enraged Legendary Super Saiyan son of Paragus uncrossed his arms and started to raise them both over his head, charging yet another emerald-green ball of energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It is now time for you to atone for all of what you have done from the first moment you allowed your heart to be corrupted by darkness to when you heartlessly killed your own flesh and blood. Too many of your choices in life mirror those of what Frieza and Vegeta had done in their youth,” Steven said to the Demon of Fear and Death. He then cupped his hands by his side, forming a small blue orb in them. “Kaaaa…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Broly was trembling-no, quaking-with unbridled fury. The look in his eye, bloodshot anger, only fueled the crackling Combined Eraser Cannon in his hands. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Meeee…” He continued. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Legendary Saiyan’s Ultimate Eraser grew to the size of Earth’s Moon with Broly letting out a strangled scream…as the warrior Saiyan stared down Steven with a mask of pure hate and made his Ultimate Eraser even bigger than the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Haaaa…” Shadow Walker Gohan said undaunted even as Legendary Super Saiyan Broly released an unbridled roar, almost more animal than man, and increased the size of his Ultimate Eraser enough for it to be seen from the Sacred World of the Supreme Kais. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Meeee…” Without warning, Broly forged a grin and vanished from sight with the help of the Hell Gate summoned by Majcnavn having instantly burst forward and swallowed him up. Steven quickly followed the son of Paragus with his Instant Transmission technique in the same instant, already knowing exactly where Broly was going. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Unknown Timeline… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Age 796, mere moments before Bra became eighteen years old… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">High in the exosphere of Earth… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“HYAA!” The psychotic and deranged Broly released his powerful ball of energy, but Steven Bloodriver arrived just in time to stop him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Haaaa!” The Kamehameha wave, undoubtedly the most powerful Steven had ever produced, swelled at the tip to nearly twice the height of the Ultimate Eraser. It’s humming blue light energy slammed into the Combined Eraser Cannon like a freight train, digging itself deep into the Sun-like sphere and coming straight out from the other side instantly, Steven’s Kamehameha arced around Broly’s body like an engulfing sphere. The blast exploded violently against it’s target, spraying dust everywhere that enshrouded his enemy…and a moment of silence and stillness followed as the Z Warrior waited. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">After the moment, the debris cloud that filled the sky cleared away to reveal nothing of Broly had survived. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Enjoy your time in oblivion, Broly. For an evil bastard like you had it coming since you were born.” Steven said, then just when he was about to use Instant Transmission to make his way back to his own dimension, he sensed a young woman with the blood of Vegeta and Bulma in distress, and rushed off to help her. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Ruins of West City… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The evil Black wore the same ominous clothing and white boots as his alternate self did during his scuffles with Steven Bloodriver, but with his physical structure bearing almost twice the amount of muscle mass than even his alternate counterpart. Even so, the battle with the fusions of Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, and Trunks mere moments before had nearly finished him, leaving him at only a fraction of his actual strength. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Black was now floating in midair and lifted his arms, lightning coalesced around his form. He was preparing to end Vegeta’s daughter with his Black Kamehameha, a move favorited by the avatar of despair and personalized from the original to be more of his own. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The teenager wearing a lavender, sports bra, sporting a hair binder on her head to tie her purple hair in a ponytail, black gym shorts revealing much of her hips, white gloves and boots much like her father had worn in his youth, looked on above her, too frightened to move, as the one who so brazenly slaughtered all of her friends and family from the world looked down at her with a psychotic smirk. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Pulling both his hands together, Black released all of his hatred and fury. Right before, he and Bra had suddenly, felt an incredible power. “STOP IT!” Yelled a furious voice, unidentifiable and distant. THUDD! A powerful boot smashed into the Black Demon’s arms, cutting off the beam completely and dissipating the Black Kamehameha before it even touched Bra. Black started to turn, but the other boot caught him in the chin, sending him flying in an arc. He braced in midair and flipped, skidding a few feet on his landing, the blow had been strong enough to both arrest his attack and even knock off one of Black’s teeth. “…Cell?!” Black asked, stunned. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The young warrior from the past was hovering just in front of Black, his face furious. A red bruise, the exact shape of his boot, was forming on the older clone’s cheek. Still smoking from the fierce kick he had received from Shadow Walker Gohan. “Well hello, you heartless freak of Nature. Did you seriously believe I would just stand by and watch as you try to kill another innocent life?! Well think again, as I have come to end your reign of terror across time and space.” Steven’s stern voice was frightening even to the Bringer of Despair - he sounded much older when he was filled with righteous fury. The Phantom Saiyan was now shaking uncontrollably, unable to believe his eyes and ears. His final enemy had just been in front of him, and yet now here stood the reborn version of one of the true Goku’s greatest rivals - Cell, a fighter recognized by everyone to have the highest dormant power. The anger and vengeance on Steven Bloodriver’s face tore at his heart, cutting deeper than words ever could have. Steven’s eyes shone with righteous indignation…indignation directed on him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The young boy clad in his variation of Piccolo’s Gi still hovered before the evil Black, wreathed in God-like Neo Perfect light. To Black’s distress and amazement, it was perfectly clear that Steven had not only become a Shadow Walker. The boy had even ascended beyond the farthest limitations of any true Super Namek, Super Saiyan, and Fourth-Form Frost Demon he had ever known. “No, no, no…NO! It can’t be!” The Supreme Kai and Saiyan hybrid said in shock. Bra looked on in awe. “Wow! I don’t know who you are but thank you for saving me!” Bra shouted, her voice sweet and innocent. Her savior had appeared completely out of nowhere; the half-Saiyan hadn’t sensed his energy until he appeared on the battlefield as if from thin air. It was a miracle, really, but the crisis was not yet over. Black was still as dangerous as ever. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Your welcome, fellow defender of justice. My name is Steven Bloodriver, the Shadow Walker.” Steven said Telepathically. “Hello, I’m Bra, but are you really Cell? Your Ki feels more like if you were a neutral relative of Mr. Piccolo, Mr. Gohan, and Frieza, with you even looking nothing like how Cell did many years ago.” “Nice to meet you Lady Bra, and I could have been almost like my original self if I had not been struck by a stray Maximum Flasher from my world’s version of your father while I was still developing in my stasis tank.” The boy responded back inwardly. The inheritor of Kaioshin and Saiyan blood’s expression had rapidly turned from shock to denial, and from denial to unbridled fury. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">This young, black-haired badass incarnate of a warrior was treating him like a common and lowly criminal, a nobody! His mind flashed back to when he was still in his feeble Kaioshin body, having been forced to watch over inferior lifeforms just to get to Gowasu. He’d taken his revenge on the old Kaioshin and most of the flawed creations of the Gods, and he’d do the same to this newcomer as well. But the muscular boy wasn’t done. “I may not be very old, but I’ve seen enough evil in my life to know that you aren’t willing to change. It’s written on your face: you only care about yourself and you’ll destroy anyone who gets in your way. Even if I gave you another chance, tried to help you, you’d only betray me and everyone else. You’re no threat to me, but I can’t run the risk of you hurting another innocent life, so you have to die.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Black was too livid to speak; his veins were bulging and his arms were trembling. He was going to rip this boy apart limb from limb…no, he would make the boy watch while he tortured everyone else to death. Even that wouldn’t slake the anger he now felt. “I WILL TURN THIS REALM INTO A DESOLATE WASTELAND FILLED WITH THE CORPSES OF YOU AND THE REST OF THE MULTIVERSE’S INHABITANTS FOR ALL OF WHAT YOU HAVE SAID AND DONE TO A GOD LIKE ME! I WILL—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Will you just SHUT UP!” Blurted Steven, his aura pulsing brighter. “You think I care about what you say?! It is all because of you and Vegeta this world has suffered so much! Willing to kill even you’re own family and friends, just for your twisted delusions of honor to be satisfied!” The boy exclaimed. The electricity arcing around Neo Perfect Cell flashed brilliantly, as they lit up the skies of Earth. The jagged blue aura flowing around him, nearly white-hot from the purity of the energy. His eyes were fiercely locked in a death stare that had Black genuinely trembling. Steven did not smile. Then, he decided, it was time. Steven took an aggressive step toward Black, immediately powering up in order to challenge this ultimate incarnate of death. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven’s ascension reverberated through the entire Galaxy with piercing clarity, overawing everyone within the Milky Way. Black, Bra, the one still spectating outside of the space and time  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">continuum—all were stunned, frozen in place. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“...Steven...” Mumbled Bra, utterly amazed. For a moment, her pain of having witnessed every last one of her beloved family and friends’ die at the hands of the evil and imperfect clone of the true Goku was forgotten, she could only gape at her savior’s magnificent aura. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Earth and everything beyond it’s atmosphere were rumbling violently. On the planet, islands and whole continents were beginning to break free, lifting off the surface into the air. While the star within the center of the Solar System of Earth and the Gas Giants beyond the Asteroid Belt were nearly put out by the fierce shockwaves reaching even them. The veins brought out from the intense concentration and rage that had marked his face evaporated instantly in the jagged waves of energy now surging up around him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">This was no longer Steven, the boy—this was Steven, the warrior of legend. Three golden locks of hair hung down just above his eyes, the rest of it stiff and angled straighter up than before. His features were harder, sharper; he had the same menacing expression as Vegeta. The harshness in his face, made even more fearsome by his brightened blood-red irises and further enlarged fangs, showed the visage of a true Saiyan warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">But his eyes, more than any other feature, showed the greatest change. The former innocence was gone; in it’s place was resolve and maturity. The normal blood-red irises that surrounded his black pupils that had once shown mercy and gentleness now burned with greater fury, intent on swift, vengeful destruction. The living embodiment of destruction and fear had ascended—no, transcended. He was far more than an ordinary clone of the Saiyans, Namekians, and Frieza’s race. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">This transformation was not a mere shift in his power, a temporary powerup born of careful technique. This new energy was a complete replacement of his normal Saiyan power, a fundamental shift in his very being. It felt as though every prior transformation had taken place underwater, holding his breath, and he was only now reaching the surface and breathing freely for the first time. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">He took a deep breath. This new energy felt like life itself, flowing around and through his body, perfecting his defenses. Blue plasma in the form of deadly arcs no longer crackled within his aura, the previous one of ethereal blue had been washed away by the resonance of power. Because of the Bio-Android essentially being the result of a catharsis of when his original self had finally accepted with some help that not using his power to follow in the footsteps of his fellow Androids was the right thing to do. Upon recognizing that sometimes seeking vengeance required sacrifice, that he would have to let go of his fears in order to avenge the people he cared about. Steven had gained access to the Neo Perfect form from birth. Which is why unlike the Android’s predecessor, Steven would never be restrained by both doubt and ignorance. Almost nothing the original Cell could be infected or weakened by can affect Steven, as he is what Cell had foolishly believed to be an extremely dangerous side of himself, instead of realizing Steven was exactly what he needed to truly realize the potential to become a perfect being. Steven’s new Ki zipped through his veins at incredible speed, faster and cleaner than ever before. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">His senses were heightened, perfected. Everything around him moved as if in slow motion; he was able to take it all in at once without even trying. Even a single speck of rock hovering just in front of him was intricate and beautiful and awe-inspiring. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven looked across the battle-worn ground at the Phantom Saiyan. The Immortal’s eyes were narrowed—all from surprise, fear, and excitement, the boy could tell with ease. And he could see the tiniest beads of sweat welling up on Black’s palms, telltale signs of weakness he could also tell effortlessly. Steven could even hear Black’s heartbeat more clearly...it was quickening almost too imperceptibly. As exhausted as he felt, Black was completely failing in hiding the fact that was unprepared, amazed, even overwhelmed. Though everyone else were too busy to notice, it was completely obvious to the young Super Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“...Impossible...” Black shivered, his body suddenly trembling uncontrollably before the mere sight of the newest legendary warrior of the Saiyan race. The energy he felt, the power...it was impossibly strong, like an endless sea as deep and broad as the Cosmos itself. “You…you…what are you?!” Black asked. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“You know, if you want my personal opinion, asking a question you already know the answer to is a pretty sad choice of last words. But to be fair, it’s far from the worst decision you’ve made today,” the Destroyer of Worlds reborn as a Shadow Walker said—his voice suddenly void of all emotion. “Especially given the fact this had all started simply because of rejection, isn’t that right Zamasu? For whoever you had once loved had pushed you away as your love in question had eyes for another.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Those were the first words that the Demon known as Black heard that he had ever truly feared before his pupils shrunk and began to shake, before his face turned completely blue as he began to unwittingly stumble backwards.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“N-no,” he stuttered, before even losing his balance and falling flat on his back. He now knew how from firsthand experience that this particular Super Saiyan was nothing like the others, that when it came down to finishing the job with merciless efficiency, there was now one even better than Gogeta. That cold knowledge further ignited the icy flames of his fear even as he began to back away on all fours from the spot where he had fallen. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">But when that moment passed, sudden anger caused the massively built Phantom Saiyan to punch the ground in fury, angry that someone so beneath him was actually reducing him to his true self by just lecturing him. He then angrily pushed himself back up and regained his footing before he steadied himself and grit his teeth as he looked Steven dead in the eyes as threatening as possible. “That’s quite enough of your mouth!” He yelled, turning back into his unique Super Saiyan <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Rosé transformation once again in a blinding flash. “For I am sick and tired of you speaking such blasphemous lies to your unstoppable Lord! And I will NOT let myself be defeated by such a twisted perversion like yourself of a true warrior of Saiyan legend!” He leapt into the air and charged toward the other Super Saiyan, Black’s massive arms outstretched as he formed two razor-sharp disks of energy in his palms. Each looked even deadlier than Krillin’s Destructo Disk and were arcing with electricity. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">BLAM! A powerful kick caught the Super Saiyan Rosé in the back of his neck, sending him smashing face-first into the ground with a most satisfying collision. The fierce Hell Lightning Cutter dissipated immediately after coming in contact with the combat aura of the younger Super Saiyan. Steven hovered directly above Black, fists clenched. “You’re one to talk, aren’t you Black, for didn’t you almost lose to the Dragon Soldiers almost right away and had to resort to trickery and deception in order to really win against any of them, and even before you had killed your mentor, aren’t you the one who sought out of a way to turn yourself into an imperfect clone of your most hated enemy?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Steven! Awesome, you are doing it!” The other young Z Fighter shouted excitedly. The power she felt from the boy was now very near equal to Gohan’s own when the son of Goku had shown his true power when attempting to finally kill Goku Black, which far outclassed even what she had felt from Steven and Goku Black earlier. This time, it was Steven—not Goku, that would rise to the occasion and save the day. Bra couldn’t have been more turned on to his words and actions, though she immediately remembered her savior of the Saiyan legend was probably much younger than her and so continued to just barely will herself back from joining in the battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Huh, I wonder how old he is really though and if he is single,” Bra wondered, giggling.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Because he sure is cute to look at even when not as a Super Saiyan.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Black, the Demon of Despair could hardly move a muscle – that one blow he had received damaged him far more than anything Steven had given him only moments before. Clearly, the boy seemed to have grown as strong as or even stronger than a Super Saiyan 3. Black had been at enough of his full power even with his worn out and wounded body to still transform, but the simple kick from Steven had reduced his power further down to less than half of what he started off with in the beginning of their fight. But the living definition of evil found the strength to continue either way, jumping to his feet and glaring up at the reborn Gohan. Without warning, he fired a series of quick blasts from his eyes directly at the youngest Super Saiyan to have ever lived. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">POW! All sixty of the Invisible Eye Blasts struck Steven in the middle of his forehead one after another in an instant, knocking him end over end. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“HA!” Black’s laugh was almost chilling in tone and unusually terrifying. “That didn’t take much. I guess that-HURK!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven appeared behind the one who had tried to penetrate his skull, driving his fist deep into Black’s thick torso. He felt bones crunching and a lung collapsing under the blow and smiled as only a Super Saiyan can. “Oh, I beg to differ, Zamasu. For what you have done just in the smallest fraction of a second ago had completely failed to hurt me at all.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Enraged, the Super Saiyan Rosé spun around and swung a double fist toward the young Super Saiyan, but it met empty air. Steven was already behind him, delivering a precise flurry of kicks and punches that put more broken bones and ruptured organs under his already heavily bleeding torso. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Black stumbled forward before righting himself and turned to face his opponent, confused. “How?! How could a mere mortal, even an evolved member of Cell’s race with the DNA of only 1% of Piccolo, 98.6% of Future Gohan’s Saiyan half, and 0.4% of even that despicable Frieza obtain such an insane level of power?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven stood confidently. “I’ve always been so much more than an ordinary Bio-Android ever since I was reborn into a Shadow Walker, but unlike those before me you had already faced, I am not held back by anything...” He raised his voice, “…as I take after the best of what I was given from my rebirth as a being of neither righteousness nor wickedness!” He dashed toward the Super Saiyan  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Rosé again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The evil Black shook his head and growled, intent on meeting this new challenge. He parried Steven’s first blow and counterattacked with a kick that flipped the reborn Bio-Android over. Before the Demon could follow up his advantage, Steven recovered and punched the Bringer of Despair solidly in the jaw, sending a spray of blood arcing through the air with teeth shattering and being sent down to be lodged in Black’s throat as well. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The two warriors continued battling furiously. Within moments it became apparent that the cold-blooded Black, still imbued with the sinister power of Super Saiyan Rosé, was little by little losing the strength his transformation was giving him due to Steven’s smaller size and agility, not to mention his new determination, more than evened the odds now that Super Saiyan energy flowed through him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Pausing his exchange of blows with Steven, Black backflipped away before pulling both his hands to one side of his head. “Fwahahaha! This is the end, Cell! For you will no longer be a thorn on my side after this!” A ball of pinkish-black energy appeared in his hands, wrath growing in his eyes. “BLACK KAMEHAMEHA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The beam crackling with lightning of the brightest shade of white only charged for an instant in midair before being unleashed towards the Super Saiyan below. Steven didn’t even have to see it to realize it was too strong to simply block. Black meant business, and for some reason had targeted him specifically with an attack meant to destabilize right after being fired. “He wasn’t kidding, his over-charged version of Mr. Son Goku’s Kamehameha has more than enough power to dwarf anything he had thrown at me so far. But I have to counter the Kamehameha right away before it becomes unstable and destroys everything!” The Super Saiyan quickly thought. Without hesitation, Steven pulled his hands to the side of his waist. “KAMEHAMEHA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Just as they had so long before, the blue beam of Earth’s defender met the pinkish-black attack of Earth’s would-be conqueror. For a moment, the ball of blue and bright pink hung transfixed, seeming to freeze in one place. But that didn’t last long. Slowly and steadily, the Kamehameha pushed the Demon of Despair’s attack back toward him. The Super Saiyan hadn’t held back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">WHOOSH! Black only narrowly dodged the beam as it roared past. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Then Steven, in a sudden resurgence of speed, dashed at Black. “What’s wrong, Zamasu? Has your ego been bruised as much as you are?” He announced. The Demon immediately blocked, only to find himself defending against an Afterimage. The real one was just above him, and, thanks to the deception, delivered an axe kick that sent Black tumbling back into the scorched Earth—or what was left of it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">But even as the Super Saiyan Rosé fell from above like a meteor and almost crashed into the ground, Steven put two fingers to his head for Instant Transmission, and pulled his body into hyperspace. Appearing to position himself right in Black’s trajectory in the nick of time, the Super Saiyan then  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">suddenly rocketed into the monster, his brown moccasin colliding violently with the side of Black’s jaw. The Demon went flying, bouncing over the debris all across the battlefield and skidding to a halt in a crater of rubble. This time, Black was quick trying to get back on his feet, but not fast enough. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“I’ll show you why you should never cross me, monster!” Steven yelled, hitting Black in the face with a flurry of jabs and punches. His speed was incredible, too quick for the Demon of Despair to block any of the powerful blows. Pausing at the end of his barrage, Steven swung a hard upwards kick into Black’s stomach and sent the Phantom Saiyan flying. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">His aura burst out around him further than ever before, harsh golden light, and he chased after the Phantom Saiyan. Black didn’t even have a chance to recover. Because before he knew it, Steven Bloodriver kicked him hard in the back, sending him flying even higher into the air. The Twilight Warrior then shot straight up into the sky, passing Black and positioning himself right in his trajectory. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Not smiling now, are you Zamasu?” Steven noted. “Beginning to feel terrified aren’t you? Well, let me help in making you feel true despair with my EXPLOSIVE DEMON WAVE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The wave of power came gushing out of Steven’s left hand that was braced perpendicularly behind his right, it’s width great enough to swallow four or five dozen Goku Blacks whole. The Black Demon’s eyes bulged, showing yet another look of true fear on his face. He was barely able to move his hands in front of his face for a block. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">KABOOOM! The massive beam exploded in midair, sending golden rings of energy out perpendicular to the beam. From the brown smoke, Black plummeted like a rocket to the ground below, his body smoking the entire way. Steven landed first. Just before impact, the Super Saiyan lifted his leg and did a spin kick, sending Black bouncing even further before his Super Saiyan foe spun around one more time, with both palms extended straight out in front of him. “DOUBLE MASENKO!” Two yellow beams struck the surprised monster at nearly point-blank range, cutting him off in mid-flight. The Angel of Death’s right arm was instantly blown away at the elbow; the entire left side of his torso was obliterated from his shoulder to his waist. Before finally, the Demon of Despair could rest, as he immediately crashed into the barren ground and doubled over, gasping in pain and shock as the series of impacts had left him with bruises all over his mind and body. With purple blood also continuing to drip from his scorched frame by the gallon. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“GAH!” The monster gasped, coughing a wad of blood onto the ground in front of him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“That’s it!” Shouted Bra. “That Combat Sadomasochist is down! Finish him, Steven!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">But even before Steven could have lifted both his hands up, just above his forehead to prepare a Masenko, Black had picked himself up, shook his head for a bit before he began grinning sadistically. SLURCK! Black then regenerated both his arms in a burst of wraithlike pinkish-black slime, but from the effort he was forced to not just breathe heavily, but to pant briefly to recover his breath and energy. What little black remained of his shirt wasn’t doing any good, so he ripped it away, now wearing only black pants and white boots drenched in his own purple blood. Wiping the blood mixed with sweat from his forehead, the Demon of Despair then lowered his eyes back to meet those of his enemy. There was still fury burning in them, the electric energy of his transformation was still crackling around him. He wasn’t done yet. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“You worthless arrogant mortal, fear the invincible power of Super Saiyan Rosé!” Roared the Demon of Black Despair, as he then instantly channeled his entire battle aura that was still erupting around him in almost the same shade of pink as his hair into both his hands to form a pair of deadly energy blades able to pierce the flesh of even a Legendary Super Saiyan 3. THUUMM! Black smashed both of his Rosé Bladefists into Steven’s jaw, sending the reborn Super Saiyan son of Goku stumbling backwards. “You’ve have got to be freakin kidding me! I didn’t even so much as scratch you with the same attack I used to cut Gogeta and his blasted son?!” A powerful uppercut from the Black Demon doubled Steven over before Black twisted his body all the way around and slammed both Rosé Bladefists again in double fist fashion against the back of the Twilight Warrior’s head. Sure enough, the glancing blows shot Steven downward to the ground at lightning speed. A split-second later, he penetrated the planet’s crust and pierced to the core. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Seeing how even his best move failed to inflict any damage upon his Super Saiyan foe, Black instantly retracted his Super Saiyan Rosé aura from his fists back into only letting it flow around him before lifting both his hands hastily above his head, Black’s palms began building a yellowish-black spark of Ki, growing rapidly into an ever-burgeoning sphere. “NOW YOU’VE GONE AND DONE IT! FORCING ME TO USE SUCH A SACRED TECHNIQUE AGAINST ONE WHO IS NOT EVEN A GOD!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">A geyser of molten magma shot up from Earth’s core at the same time Black had fired his Godly Spirit Bomb, the hellish flames fell away to reveal Steven Bloodriver’s form, his aura was blazing wildly around him. The energy had served to vaporize the magma before it reached him, but the heat didn’t really bother him at all; the Super Saiyan’s face was untouched by any kind of dehydration. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Don’t mistake me for any regular person to which you have met before, Zamasu. Because I am going to beat you black and blue with all of the vengeance needed to be dealt upon you for all the innocent you sadistically killed from your own mother to those that were once here on this Earth, you snide asshole with the same evil blackheart as that freaking demented Demon known as 'Prince' Vegeta! Now let’s see if your poorly done version of Mr. Son Goku’s Large Spirit Bomb can even hold a candle to this!” Dark Gohan extended his right arm toward the Godly Spirit Bomb approaching him and began to charge up a crackling blue energy ball in his palm. “My own take of a move I inherited from the undisputed son of the legendary Z-Fighter, Mr. Son Goku! Draco…Masendaaaaaan!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The evil Black had no time to think, Steven had fired his sphere at the far larger Godly Spirit Bomb, and it was never even a contest, as the Super Saiyan’s attack split through Black’s, hardly losing any of it’s potency whatsoever, all Black could do was brace himself as he was subjected to yet another overwhelming energy attack. He could literally feel the sinews of his flesh being roasted, fried with plasma burns. Then, flinching as he gasped for breath, the antithesis of all life and hope had his guard broken by a rushing Steven, the punch from the boy literally broke it’s way through both his forearms before striking Black full in the face. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">BLAM! POW! THUUMM! The young Super Saiyan from another world’s past followed with a series of blows to the Demon’s head and neck that sent him staggering backward, Black could feel his Super Saiyan Rosé strength beginning to leave him again. He was running through hundreds of past experiences per second, desperately trying to come up with a strategy. None of Black’s recollection from previous fights had prepared him for dealing with Steven as a Super Saiyan - not even the Super Saiyan Blue versions of Gogeta and Gohanks had fought with this kind of ferocity. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven was angry—angry at the Super Saiyan Rosé for attacking and killing both his friends and family, angry at Mira for creating monsters like Black, and angry at himself for not being able to stop them before any innocent lives were sacrificed to use as fuel for Zamasu’s evolution. This was the third time in all his life, he had been too late to save the others he cared for with all of his heart and soul, first it was when he couldn’t save his own family from the wrath of the Prince of Death, the second being with the most evil Saiyan he had ever known who looked more like a Mad Bodybuilder than one of the actual warriors of legend spoken of even until this day having followed the same path of destruction and mayhem of ravaging the entire Universe as the incarnation of Black he was currently fighting, and now a damn and twisted perversion of one of the Universe’s greatest heroes had murdered an untold number of innocents just because he was rejected by the Kaioshin of Time. So many times, he had failed even with all his power, but for the first time in his life, his anger had an outlet. The power of the Super Saiyan transformation flowed effortlessly, a perfect complement to his emotion. He was just getting started in dealing his vengeance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“YAAHH!” The Phantom Saiyan swung both fists down on top of Steven angrily, but the boy blocked them with only one arm and kicked the Black Demon in the stomach, as hard as he could. Vomit mixed with blood and everything making up his stomach flew from his mouth as his eyes bulged from the pain. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Steven is absolutely incredible!” Said Bra, standing only a few feet away from the fury of the battle. “He is taking everything Goku Black throws at him and none of it is doing any damage! All the while from start to finish he is utterly outmatching the evil counterpart of Uncle Goku with power even greater than both of my elder brothers’ and Uncle Goten before they all trained to obtain God power!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Bra’s observations were right. Though Black was still in his Super Saiyan Rosé form, his body was completely unable to recover any of his lost power and pride from failing to absorb any of the damage Steven was dishing out against him and all of the energy he had absorbed from the heroes before Steven had been almost used up completely and he was now even vulnerable to being defeated by the very first incarnation of Majin Buu to ever exist. Black had never anticipated that he wouldn’t be able to absorb the energy of his latest challenge, it was a revelation that he had considered impossible, but as he had no real idea what a Shadow Walker like Steven really was, he was forced to admit to himself that the Super Saiyan was capable of achieving the impossible. To make matters worse for the monster, he lost energy and health much faster than normal from Steven, almost like if the boy was born to be his bringer of destruction. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven took full advantage of his new power. He flew around the ponderous Demon at incredible speed, hitting him over and over again. His rage was unchecked and his fury was awe-inspiring. The battle’s only spectator could only watch as the golden stream of light wreathed the once thought invincible Destroyer of Life and Hope in destruction. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“How...how can you damage me so much?” Groaned the Demon of Black Despair. “I am of the Lords of Creation, part of an all-powerful race of Gods of unparalleled intelligence and power! My fully evolved self is superior—your feeble efforts to oppose me should be nothing!” His body was in tatters, all of his enlarged muscles having been burst open with the rest of his unnatural flesh ripped to pieces and falling before him. Purple blood, accompanied by his exposed innards, were leaking out of his head and left shoulder where he had taken the most severe damage. Steven had even smashed his entire face off—whatever resemblance the Demon had once possessed to Goku was now gone. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The youngest Super Saiyan slammed his fist hard into the Demon’s chest, splintering the last of Black’s visage of looking like a Saiyan and ripping out the heart of his enemy with his left hand. “Haven’t you realized it yet, villain? You say you monsters are superior—but I am NOT convinced. Those with evil hearts and meaningless reasons to harm others will never give up their stubbornness to achieve their full potential! While as for me, once I am done with you…and possibly your insidious creator…I am going to master my new body and mind by training with my family and extended family—TO MAKE SURE THOSE AFTER YOU WILL NOT CAUSE US SO MUCH PAIN AND SUFFERING!” Crushing the still beating heart as he said so. The flames of Steven’s Super Saiyan aura incinerating the blood and the remainder of the organ right after he did so. Only inches away from Black, he pulled both hands to his side. “Now it is time for you beat it, and take all of your bitterness with you to the grave, Ka-me...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">With his dying strength, the Lord of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld lunged forward and seized Steven’s wrists. “As if, lowly mortal! As I would rather take your body for myself to send you straight back into the depths of whatever hellish pit you had the gall to crawl out of than having to be killed by a worthless no-count such as yourself before I go on ahead to finish what I had started! For when compared to me, you are absolutely noth-” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Grinning, Steven planted both his feet on the Super Saiyan Rosé’s shattered chest. “No thank you, I prefer in only you going there to my version of Earth’s Hell to meet up with Vegeta, the other Goku Black, and Broly, as you can think of this as my farewell present. -HA ME HA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">A brilliant explosion of blue energy tinged with the golden light of his Super Saiyan transformation erupted from his feet, blowing through and inside the Phantom Saiyan’s body. The ruthless Black’s stare and already cracked open cranium glowed brightly for an instant, then shattered as the pure light tore through them. Black fell to the ground, burned from the inside out, nothing but an ashen shell remaining. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball Online Timeline… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Unknown Age, several years after the capture of the last Drakoshin… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Demon Realm… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira had just begun exchanging more words with Drakoshin Majcnavn when he felt the sudden surge of energy from afar. He paused and turned just in time to see Steven execute one of his fellow Time Breakers in one swift, powerful blow. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A twinge of disappointment—was it regret?—tingled in the back of his mind. His most powerful creation, a being made in his nemesis’ own image, had been dispatched with disturbing ease. He’d never accounted for anyone, much less a mere Saiyan child, being victorious in his estimations, but the sudden display of power the Super Saiyan youth showed just now was an intriguing surprise. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But he cared little for the well-being of his fellow Demon, even now, and pushed such thoughts out of his mind immediately. Black had served his purpose well, forcing Steven, the only real threat to him and his plans, to reveal his presence and techniques ahead of time. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, at least he gave me one last gift before his usefulness came to an end,” thought the clone comprised of DNA from all of the villains defeated by Goku before Majin Buu’s destruction and rebirth as Uub. “Though it seems now I’ll be forced in cleaning up his mess myself, but it will be wise for me to learn more about this boy and where he hails from before paying this so-called Super Saiyan a visit.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Unknown Timeline… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Is it really over? Or is he going to come back again?” Bra asked, her jaw hanging open. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Without a trace of emotion on his face, Steven watched the  '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">charred skeleton of Black lay motionless on the ground. Steven Bloodriver then stared angrily at the remnants of the Black Demon. His red eyes were piercing; fierce enough to frighten a grown man, but his power was no longer needed. The Phantom Saiyan was dead. Breathing a sigh of relief, Steven watched as his aura quickly incinerated what was left of Black, the antithesis of what the true Goku represented was finally dead and gone forever. But he had the sick feeling something else might appear soon, so he stayed on full-alert and at full strength in case his premonition turned out to be true. Then one of the only two living things left in the completely scorched, bare Earth that had been the last place in the Universe to fall before the hand of the snide asshole known as Black had said. “It’s finally over,” as he released his Super Saiyan aura and his gold tail snaked back under his clothes and wrapped around his waist before his friend had even noticed. He then continued. “Both Black and who he was before as Zamasu had perished in the explosion of my Kamehameha Boost, and there is nothing either of them can do to escape the fate they now share with the Bringer of Death, their counterparts from another world, and the Legendary Super Saiyan that tried to destroy this one. With whatever little sanity they had left will soon leave them in a few moments from now as they experience what a place far worse than what King Yemma could ever give them can do with all of their deep-rooted fears being made a reality by my own power.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Steven, great job!” Shouted Bra before she flew over to Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You were so awesome! Goku Black couldn’t do a thing against you!” Continued the daughter of Vegeta as she landed beside him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Thanks, milady for your support. But I have got to admit that you are as strong as you are beautiful.” Responded Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly, Bra’s face went from bright red to pale white. At the same time, Steven did the same, unable to believe what they were sensing. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">They spun around, only to see a massive bright crimson fireball even bigger than the Sun and crackling with the thickest bolts of electricity they had ever seen filling their vision. His aura burst to life instinctively as Steven caught Bra and blasted off the ground just as the Negative Karma Ball impacted, immediately incinerating and destroying the Earth beneath them with a blinding flash before moving on to destroy the rest of the Universe and even the Other World. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Future Timeline of Bringer of Death… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Age 764, following the destruction of the Legendary Super Saiyan, the Evil Twin of Goku, and of an entire Universe of a parallel world… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Earth… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">At the instant Mira had arrived through time travel, the reborn Perfect Android had also arrived, darting in with his Instant Transmission to step in front of Goku just as the rest of Earth’s warriors reached him, beginning to help him up. An action that grabbed the attention of the Z Fighters behind him, especially when they saw to their great surprise that Steven was now a Super Saiyan and was carrying a young woman in the safety of his arms that bore a striking resemblance to Bulma. But even as the young Shadow Walker helped his friend down to the ground safely, he saw Mira’s scowl growing more and more pointed, a trait he inherited from Vegeta no less, forcing him to then lower his arms to his sides and relax his aura, returning to his base form and only having thick bolts of lightning snaking through the air around him. Before the reborn God of Fear and Destruction, clad in the Namekian clothing he was born in, looked into the sky, as all of a sudden, trillions of energy waves were being fired at him and the others, but with a modest wave of his hand, he redirected them harmlessly into space. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">BLAM! BLAM! A massive, Legendary Super Saiyan 3 with a Herculean physique was hovering in midair, holding both arms out and bombarding those present below him with his Burst Eraser. But he was frowning deeply as his every attempt to pick off the Earth’s Special Forces all at once ended in failure. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Well, it seems I won our little bet, Broly.” Shouted his companion, a large, Prince of Destruction Super Saiyan 3, with the same Saiyan Royal Family armor he had worn during his fight with Goku, but with the cold jade gems on his face now showing an even greater hostility than they ever had before. “Or do you want to keep wasting our time on these pathetic little insects? For you know as well as I we are only here to get rid of Kakarot, his wife, and both of his blasted brats. I don’t know why you wagered you could get the job done by using your version of my Big Bang Storm on these stupid little weaklings before Kakarot and the others would have noticed us.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">His brother in arms blew smoke off the tip of his fingers. “I just wanted to make sure our creator, the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore, wasn’t over exaggerating about this fellow cloned version of Son Gohan Junior, Piccolo Junior, and Gekishin Frieza. But seeing his ability to deflect my Burst Eraser effortlessly with his mind alone at least tells me he should be able to give us a decent battle before we kill him.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">PHOOM! Without warning, a massive ball of energy exploded from Majin Vegeta’s palm. Dark Gohan barely had time to raise his arms to shield himself and those around him from the blast, his Neo Perfect aura instantly roaring to life and turning into an energy shield. The energy wasn’t enough to injure him, but he knew that everything in the Northern Quadrant of the Universe would have been instantly destroyed by the ruthless Super Saiyan 3’s reckless Super Big Bang Flash. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Leave my loved ones and everyone else in the Galaxies making up the Northern Quadrant of this Universe out of this, Majcnavn’s Majin Vegeta and Majin Broly!” Shouted the clone of the son of Goku at the top of his lungs, glowering at the two monsters that floated above him. “Only direct your undivided attention towards me you dastardly fiends spawned by the ancient evil of Majcnavn, the Dragonspawn!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Now that is a surprise. You already seem to know about the three of us.” Majin Broly said. “I wonder if the members of the Time Patrol tipped you off before you came here?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Vegeta was equally amused. “It seems we would need to visit them next. I’d say in about ten seconds we will be done with this annoying little boy and his equally pathetic homeworld before moving on to the Time Nest.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven rose higher, his glare growing angrier and angrier by the second. “No one told me about you two. I knew you were cold-hearted, cruel, and ruthless, that you delighted in causing senseless death and destruction. I knew this from sensing your energy signatures, as I can tell your identity and past from simply doing so. But I won’t let either one of you get away with killing for the fun of it! You hear me!?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Hah! I always thought you Saiyans were full of it, but you really are that ignorant, aren’t you?” Laughed the Legendary Saiyan. “Just like your dear old dad I suppose? He and the others will turn out to only be all talk when I face them. You won’t be any different than they will be, especially since I am so much stronger than the Broly you had fought before.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Twilight Warrior clenched his fists. “Go ahead, Majin Broly. Keep on boasting about being invincible and ridiculing my family. But remember this you fusion of hate and malice who looks suspiciously like a Mad Bodybuilder, for I am indeed going to butcher both you and the dirty coward beside you without even a hint of remorse in my conscious to show for it as an example for those like you in that I should never be crossed!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">A frown appeared on the Lord of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld’s face. “That is quite enough of your mouth, boy. For unlike my loyal companion, I was content to kill you and a quarter of this Universe instantly, but hearing you mock me and my friend here has changed that permanently and without consequence. We will now proceed to prolong your suffering for several days as we slowly send you to Other World.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“I know, my dear sweet Prince. We can right away finish the mission our dear old Lord Majcnavn originally created us for after that,” grinned the heartless Majin clone of Broly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Dark Gohan interrupted. “Actually, you two monsters will be the ones to experience pain beyond imagination once we duel. Neither one of you will even be able to escape too, I can traverse any dimension in an instant, making it pointless to run from me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Broly crossed his arms. “Yeah, right. I bet we will be going through this once again with all your friends and family, Shadow Walker Gohan. As the only thing that ends here is your life as well as theirs’ ten seconds from now.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“I wouldn’t be so sure,” snapped the clone of the son of Goku. “You don’t stand a chance against me. I’m a true Super Saiyan like those raised on this Earth before me, and I won’t hold back. But unlike them, I won’t care if you try to repent. I will just kill you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Vegeta laughed coldly. “A 'true' Super Saiyan my ass. I’m afraid you’re in for a bit of an unpleasant surprise. You see, we’ve been powered up to be able to kill all and every kind of Super Saiyan there is and ever will be. From the level you just barely reached to the transformation both Future Kakarot and that fake future version of me used against Goku Black in their final battle, so you can pretty much call it a right answer in our power being just that overwhelming. And also once we are done with mopping the floor with you, both me and Broly will take our sweet time in having to deal with your future wife to be and you’re already dead sister who is still waiting in line at the Check-In Station, too – their names are Bra and Lazuli respectively, right?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“That’s ENOUGH!” Roared the Twilight Warrior, immediately his form exploded with new power as he ascended into the legendary warrior of the Saiyan race. His aura shot straight up into the clouds above - the flow of intensely hot energy blinding both his enemies in golden light, the rigid hair on his head spiked up and grew farther out, three single golden locks of hair hung down just above both his right and left eye. The muscles on the young boy’s body caused his clothes to tighten against his skin as they grew farther out than ever before. Peals of thunder could be heard just from the crackling of lightning given off of Dark Gohan’s aura, before they gave away to roars even more intimidating than that came from the blazing firestorm surrounding the Super Saiyan. His blood-red eyes stared down his two opponents, showing nothing but anger. Without even pausing, he launched himself toward the evil monster responsible for his ascension. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“How ironic I knew you would react that waaaa-” THUMM! Majin Vegeta suddenly, found himself spinning uncontrollably through the air from Steven’s kick. He barely had time to look up before a powerful fist slammed into his jaw, smashing him down in an arc against the ground. Above him, the Super Saiyan hung in midair, shaking with rage. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Stunned, Majin Broly moved to attack, coming behind Dark Gohan with his leg pulled back for a kick. It never connected. Instead, Steven snapped his elbow back, catching the Time Breaker in the ribs, and then twisted around with his own spinning kick. With the momentum of a full rotation behind it, the kick caught Majin Broly hard in the gut, as he almost vomited from the blow, Majin Broly found himself being launched in a nearly flat trajectory for almost a hundred miles out of the battlefield. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Broly straightened up. “But...how?” He was already injured and breathing very, very heavily. He hadn’t felt pain since...his creator and Towa had him test himself against his Saiyan brother who defeated him just mere seconds ago. His stomach was ripped open and bleeding heavily, soaking his hair and clothes in red blood. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">His equally vicious, wolf-like comrade with the same characteristic mark on his forehead as him and so many others enslaved by their own lust for power pulled himself out of the rubble on the ground, nursing his bruised jaw. He, too, was stunned by these developments. Broly had been a challenge for him, just ninety seconds before...but he had won out fairly easily in their friendly sparring match. This was unexpected. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Please stay out the way, Prince Vegeta,” the Legendary Saiyan ordered. “I’ll handle this brat myself for assaulting royalty such as you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Not before I pay him back, Broly.” After wagging his finger at the boy in a reprimanding gesture, Majin Vegeta raised the pointer finger at him and fired a golden Finger Beam at the Super Saiyan. Dark Gohan gave Majin Vegeta a death glare before catching the beam in one hand and unleashing an invisible Kiai from the other. The reborn Prince of Death braced himself for a blunt impact, but the wave exploded on contact. The heat from the Explosive Kiai scorched his skin to the bone. But even before he could have regenerated, Majin Vegeta heard the voice of his enemy shout from above him. “Right back atcha, you so-called 'Prince of Destruction'! FINGER GALICK GUN!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Golden Warrior returned his foe’s previously used attack right back at him in the same fashion the Demon had fired the beam, but with it being the positive counterpart of the original from the reborn Gohan adding in his own power to deliver a greater punch. Majin Vegeta merely saw a glimpse of energy flashing from Steven’s right index finger before his own attack ripped entirely through his massive torso. The Super Saiyan 3’s frame immediately imploded, then detonated like a bomb as the force of the impact sent a spherical shockwave reverberating through the sky. Majin Vegeta was reduced to almost nothing, a single shard of a Galaxy Sphere of a yellowish-golden color landing where he once stood was all that remained of him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Congratulations on having yourself blown up by a newborn. But please hurry and pull yourself back together, my Prince.” Majin Broly said, as he dusted himself off before pulling back his long hair behind his head. The clone of the Legendary Super Saiyan with icy white eyes effortlessly kicked off the ground and reached the celestial dome in the next instant. Meanwhile, the shard of the Galaxy Sphere of another time on the ground nearby began to glow. The evil and Demonic energy corrupting it released once more into the world the Demon in the form of a Saiyan inside. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Broly, the Super Warrior of Destruction, flew higher, but never took his eyes off of Shadow Walker Gohan. The angry Super Saiyan maintained his stance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“HYAA!” The Demon of Fear and Death charged, firing a rapid burst of energy blasts directly at the clone of Goku’s son. But the Super Saiyan never moved, deflecting each of the energy attacks in turn with one hand. He could tell the cloned Saiyan of Legend was fast, but not as fast as either him or Majin Vegeta. His hatred for the Demon flared up inside him as Majin Broly got closer, and he scowled. He was going to make this twisted creation writhe in agony. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">THUMM! Dark Gohan met Majin Broly’s first punch with a hard block – much harder than the Demon had expected. Twisting effortlessly, the Super Saiyan caught his arm and flipped him over, swinging his enemy down and into his own knee. Majin Broly gasped for air as the wind was knocked out of him before screaming in pain as he felt his kneecap shatter after he had gotten breath back into his lungs. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">He looked up at Steven, his eyes flashing with hatred. “You’ll regret this!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Super Saiyan punched him twice in the face in rapid succession, then kicked him up into the air. The resurrected Saiyan could barely regain his bearings before Steven appeared above him again, slamming down with a double fist. Majin Broly managed to block it, but at the cost of his arms going numb. It was a new sensation for the Immortal Demon. Not even during the battle with Majin Vegeta nearly a hundred seconds before had he felt this. Dark Gohan merely gave a low growl in return. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Grimacing, Majin Broly raised both hands and fired a series of narrow beams from his fingertips – beams that would have pierced straight through the Z Fighters and killed any ordinary Human instantly. Not surprised by the sudden flurry of attacks, Dark Gohan managed to block all of them. The boy’s raised forearm caught them all as the sickly emerald green beams detonated in a blinding flash against his skin. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“No way, what are you made of?!” Shouted the vengeful Demon. “There is no way such a pathetic louse such as you could possibly manage to challenge me!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Flesh and bone, you sadistic piece of shit!” Steven had yelled before lowering his arm and moving directly behind Majin Broly with super speed. Stunned, the Legendary Super Saiyan 3 spun around. Shadow Walker Gohan’s clothes and hair were continuing to ripple violently from the golden storm of his Super Saiyan aura, the beams making up Majin Broly’s Gigantic Blitzkrieg having done nothing to harm the enraged Golden Warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Still completely filled with fury, Dark Gohan rushed Majin Broly. His roundhouse kick struck the ultimate warrior of Saiyan legend in the side of the face, hard enough to crack Majin Broly’s skull. His other leg, already cocked back, slammed into Majin Broly’s gut and doubled him over. The front kick completely ripped open the stomach of Majin Broly and made him heave it’s contents out of his mouth. Though furious, Steven was fighting seriously with all he had. He seemingly finished off his assault by slamming his elbow into Majin Broly’s back and kicking him away. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Broly flipped end over end a few times before righting himself, but it was obvious he seemed to be quite wearied by the blows. Frowning, the Super Saiyan pulled his hands back to his side. “Kamehameha!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The blue beam came fast – too fast for the stunned Demon to block or dodge. Panicked, he raised his arms. “Energy Shield!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The energy wave detonated against the shield, destroying both instantly, before the shockwaves created knocked both the freshly regenerated Majin Vegeta and Majin Broly several yards back. They were amazed – how could Steven be so powerful? '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Golden Warrior was on the offensive again, pounding Majin Broly again and again with his Meteor Crash. The Legendary Super Saiyan 3 was outclassed in speed, strength, and skill – no matter what attacks he tried, he simply couldn’t damage the Super Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">THUDD! The legendary Super Saiyan’s elbow slammed into the beaten and bloodied vengeful Demon’s back, sending him spinning downward. Now livid, he clenched his fists. His eyes flashed. A ball of electrons began forming in each of his palms, compressing to a single glowing point and then suddenly, expanding outward under quantum degeneracy pressure. A crackling sickly emerald green ball of light encompassed both his hands. “FULL CHARGE GIGANTIC OMEGA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Sensing the release of energy and seeing the air immediately in front of the Immortal Demon suddenly, turning to plasma, Dark Gohan rolled back and fired an Explosive Demon Wave straight into the sky, pushing himself toward the ground with all of his energy. The combined relativistic electron beam tore past him mere nanometers away—too close for comfort, but nonetheless he was unaffected. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Teleporting forward, Steven Bloodriver slammed his elbow into Majin Broly’s face, crushing both the nose and jaw of his foe. A snap kick sent waves of pain through the Legendary Saiyan’s whole body as the right side of his body exploded from the blow. Dark Gohan then raised his hand, and an electric blue ball of energy caught Majin Broly full in the chest, sending him spiraling to the sky before meeting his ultimate fate. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The screaming fusion of Science and Magic rocketed to the stratosphere. His clothes and what was left of his muscle and tissue were torn away by the Draco Masendan. The blast was driving itself through his upper torso, revealing the gleaming metallic implants that he inherited from his unholy birth. His single eye was wide and bloodshot, staring at the blue energy sphere now ripping through his neck. In the next instant, Dark Gohan’s signature move reached the brain of Majin Broly and detonated. Leaving no trace of Majin Broly as the explosion looked like a mini blue Sun from just outside the atmosphere. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“So...” Dark Gohan said harshly, turning to face Majin Vegeta. “Are you ready to join your friend in a place worse than Hell or would you prefer joining up with your father, mother, and sort-of stepmother once again in Otherworld’s Hell?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Fighting to remain composed, Majin Vegeta paused for a moment before replying. “My, what confidence you’ve suddenly, found...boy. If I were you, I wouldn’t treat our battle so haphazardly. You’ll soon find that to be a grave error.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven’s jagged hair blew harshly as the blazing aura making up his Super Saiyan transformation was bright enough to be seen from the farthest reaches of space. His eyes, silent and deadly, remained fixed on his enemy. The boldness with which he stared down Majin Vegeta showed courage beyond the Demon’s understanding. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“That attitude of yours has crossed the line, runt,” the monster known as Demon Prince Vegeta grunted, speaking through his teeth. “Enough of this tiresome charade. I’m through playing games with you, child. This ends now!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“I’m ready,” Steven Bloodriver said. “Bring it on, the grandest bastard of those who held your name for five generations already should help me warm up before I finish you off just like how I did to your only friend a moment before now.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“TCH! Insolent—” Majin Vegeta delivered his first punch before he even finished his sentence. Casually, Dark Gohan reached up his forearm, stopping the mighty blow without moving an inch. The earthshaking THUD of the collision echoed through the mostly empty battleground, causing the mountains and plateaus to shudder in unison. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Lord of the Planet Trade Organization, finding Steven’s block to be undeniable proof that this fight had changed entirely, quickly followed up his strike with a kick. But just as before, Steven swung his own attack, meeting Majin Vegeta’s blow and matching his force with the precise amount needed to counter it. Nonetheless, Majin Vegeta winced as he pulled back his aching fist and leg, the white glove and boot on both of them respectively having been pounded deep in his knuckles, toes, and heel. All the while, the young Super Saiyan’s eyes never left Majin Vegeta’s. He stared at the monster as if he were trying to burn holes through his head with nothing but fury. The time-traveling destroying prideful warrior of the highest order could hit him with everything he had...right now, it wouldn’t even faze him in the slightest. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Blasting into the air, Majin Vegeta and Steven rocketed across the skyline. Thunderous spherical shockwaves, countless in number, lit up the blue canopy from horizon to horizon. No physical presence could be seen from either warrior, only the blur of their outlines as they occasionally clashed low enough in the sky for the human eye to catch a glimpse of them. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majin Vegeta’s every physical blow was met perfectly by the boy’s blocks. When Shadow Walker Gohan attacked, the same was true of Majin Vegeta’s blocks. Mira and Bra could see that no damage at all had been caused so far to either of them. Yet even so, it was one of the most one-sided affairs the warriors have ever witnessed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Up above, Majin Vegeta’s frustration had begun to show in his technique. Although he was blocking everything Steven threw at him, dodging occasionally, he really couldn’t get any kind of attack in against the Super Saiyan child. With each missed blow, the madness and recklessness behind his attacks increased. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Why!?” He kicked hard at Dark Gohan’s back, the blow passing through empty air just like the last dozen he had attempted. “I am the Lord and Master of all Saiyans! None can compare to me—not a member of Frieza’s species, the Namekians, the Humans...and especially not a filthy Saiyan! So how is a mere child able to evade me!?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Off guard from all his yelling, Majin Vegeta allowed an opening. Steven landed a solid jab in his face, jolting the Prince of Destruction Super Saiyan 3’s neck upward. Majin Vegeta instantly grabbed his chin, rubbing the soreness from it and wiping away the blood. “TCHH! You’re going to regret that, bo—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Another blow from Steven cut him off, sending sharp pain down the monster’s spine. Majin Vegeta fell forward through the air, losing his balance for a moment, and yelling all the while. “Stupid child! You have no idea what you’ve done!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Flaring his electric golden aura wildly, the Dark Prince released a Super Explosive Wave to knock the boy away from him. The energy struck Dark Gohan just as intended, but rather than being forced back, the small fighter seemed to ride it like a gentle wave. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">But then the warrior of fury, the Super Saiyan, pulled back one leg and raised two fingers to his forehead, as he used Instant Transmission to appear just above his foe. The sudden move allowed him to slam an axe kick into the back of Majin Vegeta’s head, dazing him even as his head was knocked off his shoulders. It gave Steven just enough of an opening to deliver one super-powered and blazing-fast roundhouse kick to the center of Majin Vegeta’s now headless torso to send it into oblivion in an explosion of blue smoke. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">A gush of purple blood ran down the end of what was left of Majin Vegeta’s neck as he dropped like a stone. But even this wasn’t nearly enough to stop him from having retained his presence of mind as he was easily able to sprout a whole new body for himself before he had even hit the ground. The Evil Prince with his golden aura, still swarming with blue streaks of electricity cutting the air around him, then forced himself to stop in midair before he barely dodged an incoming punch from Steven, flipping backwards instead of trying to block; his foe’s strength was more than he bargained for. Steven’s fist crunched into the rocky ground, and he used the traction to launch himself towards the clone of the Prince once again. Majin Vegeta bent his knees right after landing a few miles beside Steven and launched back toward the youth, matching his approach vector. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“THUUM,” sounded both of their fists colliding. Their inertia mutually negated, their fists opened and interlocked as they began a contest of physical might. Both fighters pushed forward with all their will, each igniting their blazing auras of gold into one as energy flowed around them. Both pushed themselves to their maximum, with each increase in power they made the ground beneath their feet collapsed to form a crater. Each grew in depth and width until Majin Vegeta found that he could go no further, while much to his frustration, Steven had raised to match him effortlessly. Either way, the two’s power struggle nearly caused the destruction of the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Your one to talk, Majin Vegeta. Invading this world and trying to kill those I care for the most in this and every other world without even realizing you’re just being used.” Steven shot back, pushing his own strength just slightly higher than the evil Saiyan once more. The Super Saiyan’s voice was much deeper thanks to his legendary transformation. He then broke the struggle with the greatest of ease, ripped both of Majin Vegeta’s arms right out of their sockets, and obliterated them with only his aura. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">TTTTHRUCKK! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The Golden Warrior drove his right fist into Majin Vegeta’s gut, just below the chest plating. The sound of the cracking exoskeleton could be heard across the battlefield; not long after, a fleshy gurgle sounded as the heartless Saiyan’s internal organs were crushed. Majin Vegeta spat frothy purple blood, choking as the Super Saiyan twisted his fist. The pain was unbearable, worse than anything Majin Vegeta had ever imagined. Just as he began to regain his breath, the Twilight Warrior violently ripped his fist out, causing the Demon to crash into his knees and release the aura around him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven grabbed Majin Vegeta by his shoulders with both hands, the Dark Prince continued coughing blood as his eyes grew wide at Steven’s threatening gaze and wild smile. “Let this be a lesson to you, clone of Vegeta. Messing with my family and friends is a death sentence to anyone like you and your kind…” Majin Vegeta’s broken body began to glow, then disintegrated into ash and fell to the ground. “Even if your regeneration is not tied to your biology, Majin Vegeta, you cannot come back when both the piece of Majcnavn’s Galaxy Sphere acting as your brain and physical body are vaporized to nothing.” Steven stepped over the pile of remains and made his way to his group of friends, his blazing gold aura scattering Majin Vegeta’s ashes into the inferno of Super Saiyan power around him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The reborn God of Fear and Destruction then stopped where he had been less than a minute ago and turned to look at the ticked off Time Breaker Leader before him before checking on his loved ones both just a few feet away and in the safety of the Otherworld. But now with thanks to his battles with the Lords of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld allowing him to practice enough to be fully able to control and handle his power becoming a Super Saiyan enchanted by the aura of a Shadow Walker was now as easy and natural as getting dressed or tying a shoe. Steven didn’t even disrupt his surroundings in the slightest. That anger that was once needed, the fiery emotional inferno that had originally fueled the transformation to the legendary warrior of the Saiyan race, was now just a small torch in the back of his mind. He always kept it burning, and now it was a fire that he could fully control, purposefully. His hair of a golden fire stood further on end, turning cyan in an almost slow-motion shift. His eyes didn’t flash to a brighter blood-red quickly. Instead it was as if someone shone a light on his red irises, pouring the sparkle of seething blood into them until they lightened to the typical color. An otherworldly blue aura enveloped him upon the air swirling around him had turned the golden aura of the Super Saiyan into the ethereal cyan light. Everyone, even <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Démigra, is in awe, seeing that Steven had become a Super Saiyan with the power of light and darkness like it was nothing. His physique had changed far more for him in this form than Goku and Vegeta. Retaining the signature hairstyle of his main genetic template’s Full Power Super Saiyan state with the only notable difference being the hair color changing from gold to blue. His teeth were as sharp as his facial features and hair. The skin tone of the Twilight Warrior became paler, almost a paste white; his overall body structure was significantly older, more muscular, and even slightly taller than Goku. He looked like an actual teenager, even his clothes grew to comfortably fit him. <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"> “Sorry to surprise all of you without any sort of warning beforehand, but I wanted to be sure I could hold my ground against this nearly insurmountable King of the Dark Demon Realm.” The Super Saiyan said to Goku and the others with his back still facing all but one of them, but his voice was no longer like that of the real Teen Gohan’s and sounded more like Future Gohan after his final transformation into a Super Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“…Steven…no way, is that really you?” Bra gasped, looking in shock as her savior had instantly grown into a man. “You’re…really something else…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The adolescent turned to smile cheekily at his friend, before turning around defensively towards the last remaining threat. The monster in front of them was still hovering in the air with his arms now being crossed against his chest. “Same to you, milady. I would have given up if it weren’t for you giving me something new to fight for and protect. And I promise to pay you back once I have dealt with the one who ordered Broly and the Evil Twin of Mr. Son Goku to attack your Universe. But for now it’s time for me to finish off this Demon King from the future once and for all.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">While she kept her surprised glance at him because of his voice having become much deeper and much more intimidating after his ascension, Bra had quickly let her eyes wander from just now noticing how much more muscle her hero from this world had gained before she smiled back. “Thanks, but you’re the hero.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“You’re welcome,” the Warrior of Light and Shadow said before turning his head to Bra and looking her in the eyes. “Beautiful.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Bra grinned, at long last she knew she had found a boy close to her age and not afraid of her incredible strength. It was all she could ever ask for. “Stop it, you’re the one who’s easy on the eyes.” She froze, covering her mouth from letting something like that slip out. She couldn’t believe she just said that out loud. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">To her surprise, she noticed that Steven was smiling; she blushed, hoping that he wouldn’t provoke her any further with those bold and fearless words of his. Bra then realized she had never felt anything like this from any other boy she had met before. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Without taking his eyes off of his friend, Steven concentrated his mental energies and contacted each of the Z Fighters. “Mr. Son Goku, Mr. Piccolo, Mr. Son Gohan, Uncle Krillin, and Mr. Tien, the young woman by my side is the daughter of Vegeta and Lady Bulma from an alternate future world and is with me, as I owe her in failing to save her loved ones from Goku Black and the Demon King I had mentioned before, so you have my word as a fellow warrior of the Earth that Lady Bra is on our side and means no harm to the Earth and her people.” The boy then paused for a moment,  <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">relaying a Telepathic message to the girl of his dreams. “Lady Bra, please go with the Dragon Soldiers behind me as you will be much safer with them than with me. As for the moment, the last of the Lords of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld is just as every bit as powerful as I am and isn’t above using others to gain the advantage.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Steven, please be careful. I just met you and I don’t want to lose you. I really don’t want this to be the last memory I have of you. But I know you will keep your promise, no one like Goku Black, that jerk of a clone of my Papa Vegeta, and Majin Broly could ever beat you. Just don’t stay in this new form of yours when you get back from kicking whoever is about to challenge you’s butt as I can barely control myself around you when you are like this.” Bra inwardly replied, before she obediently made her way over towards the others. She almost hesitated, but Steven’s voice was just so intoxicating that she couldn’t imagine doing anything else. And as she made her way over toward the Z Fighters, the distant blood relative of the Belmont Clan that was her savior turned back to face Mira while also keeping an eye on those behind him, Bra took a seat by herself in the back—it didn’t feel right to mingle with the others as she did not want to change history for the worst. However, a brief smile from Super Saiyan Goku, as she passed by him and the others, helped set her nerves further at ease. Perhaps the Super Warriors of this era would accept her as well as they did with Steven, once this was all over. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Woah, Dark Gohan just keeps getting stronger and stronger.” Krillin said cheerfully. “He can even move pretty much instantaneously now!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Right, but this time unlike before with Goku and Vegeta, we are seeing a different variation of the Super Saiyan transformation. Yet I can’t understand why the Gohan that is about to save us again had changed so much. But my best guess is that it is just because of the seemingly older Gohan having more than just Saiyan blood in him.” Tien added. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I believe so too, Mr. Tien,” Gohan said. “As I can sense my counterpart having the powers of Mr. Piccolo if he transcended beyond even a Super Namekian warrior, me if I was in a turbo-charged version of Super Saiyan, and Frieza in a form beyond the one he claimed to be his one true form within him stronger than ever now, as well as the presence of light and darkness, but I feel something else more fueling the other me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You hear that, Android? If you want to get your hands on the DNA of both Mr. Son Goku and Lady Bra, you’ll have to go through me first,” Steven announced. He had seen Mira travel through time with the Time Passport in the instant before the explosion of the villain’s Negative Karma Ball had obliterated the Dragon Ball Super Universe. Before Goku and the others could suddenly, sense the Pale Man above, watching them. The artificial Demon had baby blue skin and strange clothing from just barely coming from the fiery inferno of his dimension, and just like Vegeta, he had an angry look on his face. Having glanced up since he arrived, Steven had met the piercing red eyes and stared back boldly. The real fight was about to begin. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira stared down at the Twilight Saiyan, surveying the battlefield which held the remains of Saiyans he barely recognized. He had expected them to fall, but not as quickly as they had. The reborn Bio-Android had overcome them all, almost effortlessly, and without taking the slightest bit of damage. Even with their sheer might, numbering beyond the strength of any warrior Namekian, Saiyan, and Frost Demon, they would had been a formidable threat against any foe, had been rendered completely useless by the Z Warrior. Still, the scene had served it’s purpose; Mira now had a relative knowledge of the boy’s strength beyond what his senses’ could provide. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The dust belonging to many of his unknowing pawns remained and were still slowly swirling, refusing to settle due to the small breeze passing over them. Steven Bloodriver, though surrounded by debris and pools of lava and blood, had not a speck of the sort on him; his visible aura kept him clean as well as protected. Mira lowered himself slowly until he was even with the Super Saiyan, frowning. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Indeed, I did hear you loud and clear. I also take it you’re the one who so casually wiped out my men and plan. What you just did was a costly mistake, as I will eliminate you here and now.” The tall, muscular Demonic Android was emotionless and spoke in a violent tone. He then uncrossed his arms in a rage with his aura, a blood red, flaring around him like if a red Sun had just rose a second later. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira grit his teeth and charged the reborn son of Goku, preparing a right cross for the boy’s face. Steven’s blue aura ignited once more, growing stronger by the second, deflecting the attack with his left arm and responding with a hard right kick. His blow missed as Mira vanished and re-appeared behind him with a knee to the back. The Twilight Saiyan was knocked forward a few steps, but turned around and quickly fired dual energy blasts from each hand, forcing the Demon to dodge by flying up. From above, Mira fired a Full Power Death Beam at Steven, but he merely smiled at the attack. Clenching his fist, he punched the beam dead on, sending it straight back at Mira. Surprised, the Demon King prepared to flick his attack aside, but Steven teleported behind him. He hammered him forward with both elbows, causing him to collide with the Perfect Death Beam and burn the Time Breaker armor over his chest. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Demon in blue skin scowled in frustration. “How dare you, Saiyan! AHHRGG!” He charged the reborn Android, but this time with an uppercut filled with dark energy striking Steven square in the jaw, knocking him back slightly. Before Mira had blasted upward to be above the boy, and released his Serious Bomb at a safe distance toward Steven. The Twilight Saiyan was overwhelmed as he tried to block and was soon sent flying across the planet until he crashed, forming a massive crater. Mira zipped over and hovered above, frowning down at his enemy. “I know that attack wasn’t strong enough to finish you, so stop playing dead, son of Goku. Or am I wrong? As even a Super Saiyan like yourself would barely even put up a fight against me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The rubble began to glow and Steven released a wave of Telekinetic energy that lifted the rocks off of him. The Super Saiyan stood, his clothes still not even slightly disheveled, and his aura brushing the dust off him. He then set the rocks floating above him and Mira down to the ground. As he did so, he smiled. “Not really, fellow Android,” he thought to himself. “You just can’t seem to comprehend that we are both equals now. But I just can’t wait to see what I can really do as a fully realized Twilight Super Saiyan.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira dashed forward again, this time kneeing Steven in the stomach, causing him to double over. “I will make sure you suffer for ruining my plan in conquering the past! As you don’t know how difficult it was to capture a Drakoshin!” Mira kicked the Twilight Saiyan into the air, speeding past him to position himself for a hammering attack towards the ground. Just as he was about to strike, Steven pulled himself out of the fall by spinning around and facing Mira. He was cunning. The youth had allowed himself to be struck in order to get a clear open shot at his opponent when he wasn’t blocking. As he turned, the young brother of Piccolo quickly placed his hands forward. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Masenko energy was usually gold, but this attack was a variation of his technique, the one which would have destroyed Super Saiyan Vegeta even if he wasn’t battle worn. The color of the energy was initially purple, but crackled with blue lightning which melded with the attack, turning it midnight blue. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“HYPER MASENKO WAVE!” Steven shouted, launching his intense beam at Mira from point blank range. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“What?” Mira moved to block, but there wasn’t time. He took the full explosive force of the Twilight Saiyan’s blast, arcing backward to the ground below. Steven smiled. He loved the fact that he could battle on even grounds with Mira like this, without even the need to transform further into the true ultimate battle form of the Saiyan race that unifies Super Saiyan and the primal Oozaru form. He had wondered how he would fare in the fight if he had been limited to his newly increased Super Saiyan strength. Despite the Demon Android having a power level easily ten times his base’s own, Steven continued to prove that his tactical skills in battle were not to be underestimated. He stared down, mocking Mira with a better choice of words than the Demon had used toward him just moments before. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I really don’t care, Mira. The previous Lords of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld were as evil as you are. The seven of you were planning on committing Universal genocide by trying to follow in the footsteps of the Scourge of the Universe and his master.” The ground beneath began to shake as Mira angrily blasted the rubble off his body. His figure, which was light blue with a red bodysuit, black sleeves on his arms, a long skirt of the same color, and red shoes all showed obvious signs of wear from the blast. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“How in the hell do you even know who I am? I never once told you who I was even before we started our duel.” The Demon with the same eyes as Steven told the young boy above him. “You didn’t have to, you inbred monster. For I can see what you are just by sensing your Ki.” The Saiyan replied with a smirk. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angered, Mira shouted, his Kiai knocking Steven back slightly. The Demon King lifted his arms above his head, then thrust them forward, releasing a bright beam of purple, black, red, and pink Demonic energy. “GALICK BEAM CANNON!” Uncowed, Steven simply showed a wild grin on his face as he twisted in midair to avoid the Galick Gun before he pushed both arms out in front of him, wrists together. “KAMEHAMEHA!” Mira had only barely stopped his attack when Steven’s slammed into him, blasting him straight up to the edge of space. The beam detonated a split-second later, sending the ruthless Demon of a King spinning toward the ground like a whirling comet. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The genetic monstrosity quickly got up to his feet, crouching into a fighting stance. “After I kill you, Steven Belmont, the monster with power beyond legend. I will take your DNA and energy to put it to better use, as you are simply wasting the strength that is perhaps greater than even that of Gohan when he had defeated the one called Broly just before the three Hell Gates my Queen had opened during one of her thankfully short hissy fits were sealed back up once again on downright ignoring your true destiny.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You do realize the addition of either my Ki or genetic material would act like a poison to evil beings like yourself, don’t you?” Replied the Twilight Super Saiyan as he immediately charged, reaching Mira in a flash. Rushing the nephew of Dabura with a high approach, he fired off a series of rapid kicks aimed at the monster’s head. Mira blocked them easily, but Steven spun away before his opponent could counterattack, landing and firing a golden blast from nearly point-blank range. Mira batted it away quickly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I don’t believe you, as you are nothing special,” Mira mocked. He knew this was a life or death battle, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t have fun. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, I have to disagree with you on that. As what I am saying to you is the truth,” Steven replied, smiling. “Since I am a Shadow Walker; my heart, mind, and soul are completely incorruptible and react violently to those who would want to assimilate either me or a part of me. Meaning, you can’t integrate a sample of my DNA like how you did with Frieza and Vegeta, no matter what methods you could use.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Just because you are an evolved member of the Bio-Android race and the strongest opponent I had ever faced,” laughed the pale Demon, “doesn’t make you better than me!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Quick to make good on his boast, Mira charged at Steven with a hard right, but it passed cleanly through the Twilight Saiyan’s Afterimage. The clone of the son of Goku immediately appeared behind him, swinging a wide kick, but it, too, flew harmlessly through empty air. Both increased their speed incrementally as they continued the back-and-forth, each swing followed by a narrow dodge. The two warriors began rising into the air as they sparred, neither able to touch the other. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">On the sidelines, Goku watched closely. He was quite impressed with what he had seen so far. “My son’s clone really is a chip off the old block, he actually learned how to keep the power he had unleashed through absorbing the fake me in his base form. Which in turn helped him in awakening to his version of Super Saiyan, with his power now exactly equal to Mira. But I feel like I’m missing something about this fight.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I noticed it too, Goku,” Piccolo answered. “One thing is clear already, though. Shadow Walker Gohan is already about to win once more. Question is, will it be because of his new Super Saiyan form or something more?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I still can’t believe the same Gohan can fight against Mira so fearlessly,” Tien said, voicing his thoughts. “Mira’s even more powerful than Majin Vegeta and eviler than Broly, but Gohan is not bothered at all by anything Mira says or does to him!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I second that! As unless I’m mistaken, I’d say Dark Gohan looks like he’s totally at ease. But, this fight is already at a level way higher than what the other Goku could do! How could the Gohan fighting Mira have gotten so much stronger after drinking Black and then just achieve Super Saiyan without a day of training under his belt? If I had not already seen what Saiyans were capable of, I’d say Dark Gohan is the one setting the pace for a total hax.” The other Human Z Fighter replied. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Everyone followed the battle as closely as they could, but already the speed was so extraordinary that it took their full concentration just to catch a glimpse of the fight...and they could forget any possibility of keeping up with each individual blow. Finally, with an intensely focused effort, Mira landed a double fist that caught Steven in the shoulder, flipping him back end-over-end. But the Twilight Saiyan righted himself easily and grinned, causing Mira’s satisfied smirk to twist into a snarl. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn you, shrugging off my attacks like if they were nothing!” Roared Mira, throwing a haymaker at his young foe. “It isn’t my fault you know, Pale Man. My durability always stays at it’s peak, only someone far eclipsing me can deal me any real damage.” Replied Steven, before he spun out of the way with a burst of speed as soon as his opponent had committed to the punch. Placing a hand on Mira’s back, Steven fired an Explosive Kiai an instant before the Demon Android noticed him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">PHOOM! The blast caught Mira full in the back and knocked him to the ground. He snarled and fired an energy wave at full power at his enemy, but Steven somersaulted out of the path of the red beam and whirled around, both hands already raised. Fierce lightning in the shade of red blood crackled around Steven, his grin adding to the disturbing amount of power and viciousness he was about to unleash. “Let me guess, this technique has given you a strange sense of déjà vu hasn’t it? Nappa was able to deflect it, at the cost of his arm going numb for a few minutes. But this time, I had completely mastered and honed the Masenko like if it was my own. So unlike your source material, you cannot escape from my MASENKO…HAH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Demon King had pushed himself to one knee and immediately crossed his arms to block, but the energy wave still bowled him over and scorched him. The fury of the attack scorching his white hair to cinders, before doing the same to the black sleeves on his arms, and making him look more like the deceased Saiyan General. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira somersaulted to his feet and whirled around defensively. Still airborne, Steven landed in front of the Demon. “We both know you will lose this fight, Mira. Nothing you have done has damaged me in the least, while I have done the exact opposite to you. Only a few more blows from me will cause your power to plummet drastically.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, then. Time to end this little duel of ours.” Above his head, Mira raised a finger. Almost immediately he formed a Supernova of tremendous size, more than large enough to destroy the entire Northern Quadrant. “Nice for you to tell me everything I needed to know, but I cannot allow you to live. For you are the real abomination!” Mira hurled his sphere of energy towards Steven, eager to see if he would dodge it and try to escape or if he would foolishly try to block it. If he ran, Mira knew he would still have enough time to execute the Saiyan and leave the Galaxy Filament’s blast radius before his Super Big Nova exploded. Besides, his ticket to reviving his pawns was only a Universe away. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Just as Mira released the ball, laughing in his triumph, he caught a glimpse of the Twilight Saiyan’s face. It was not at all what he expected. Rather than showing fear or panic, the reborn son of Goku was glowing with anticipation. The unnerving smile upon Steven’s face turned into laughter just as the crackling orange energy ball reached him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“THUUUM,” the energy ball crashed into the hands of Steven, driving him down into the dirt. Suddenly, the attack halted. From behind it, a blue glow followed by a light of the same shade of blue burst onto the horizon, illuminating the entire landscape as far as the eye could see. Abruptly, lightning began to crackle across the empty skyline, the planet trembling under the influence of some unbelievable power. “That son of a bitch! He tricked me!” Mira exclaimed. Then he heard a loud shout, the voice of one of the chosen few to ever claim the transformation to the legendary Saiyan warrior in over a thousand years. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hey, Mr. Pale Man – is this yours?” The reborn Perfect Android roared. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With only one hand blocking the Super Big Nova, Steven cocked his right leg and punted the giant Supernova straight at the Demon, far faster than Mira had originally launched it. The Demon King had no time whatsoever to react; he could only act on instinct. Firing a Full Power Death Beam straight into the blast, he caused it to detonate only a few meters from both him and Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“KABOOM,” came the rumble of the explosion as it rippled across Earth’s surface, silent shockwaves being carried off into space. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The explosion ripped Mira and Steven from their trajectories, hurling both backwards. However, Steven had not gone ten feet when he regained his balance in midair and blocked the remaining incoming waves of energy. Mira was not so lucky. He was flung across the landscape, crashing through cliffs and ground, skidding through painful, jagged rocks for miles. Steven gave a brief smile for those watching, sensing the huge drop in his foe’s power level, and streaked across the horizon in a light blue trail. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira staggered as he tried to pick himself up. He had narrowly survived the blast that he himself had created. If not for his quick thinking he would have certainly died, yet there was a price for his survival. He felt weak; his energy had been cut nearly in half. He stood, still frustrated at how Steven had been able to catch his Super Big Nova. As he thought, a voice interrupted him above. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, Mira. I can answer that for you.” Steven’s blue glow shimmered around him, his fiery blood-red eyes gleaming with excitement. “I have gone beyond the form and power I was born with now, thanks to our battle. You can also think of me as now having become a Twilight Super Saiyan, a Super Saiyan with the power of the purest light and darkest shadow.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira’s eyes trembled as he tried to understand what he was hearing and looking at. Steven was something else entirely, and it was painfully unsettling. He grit his teeth and charged the Twilight Super Saiyan, determined to overwhelm this pale youth with his might. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven was ecstatic, and waited until the very last fraction of a yoctosecond to dodge Mira’s right hook. The King of the Demon Realm’s fist swung blindly through the air, the expertly placed punch missing the far faster Twilight Saiyan, catching only the Afterimage that his form left behind. He growled in anger. No one dodged his punches, ever. Seemingly due to his near blind rage or extensive cranial damage, he had forgotten about Steven having been capable of dodging his punches from before in their battle and the amount of extra energy lost when swinging a blow that didn’t connect. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven quickly reappeared behind him, no longer content to let Mira tire himself out on his own. So far, the newly ascended warrior had done nothing but block and dodge. Now, the Twilight Saiyan was finally about to display his new Super Saiyan might for all to see. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“THUUUM,” the Twilight Super Saiyan kicked Mira in the side of the head, completely snapping the Demon’s neck. He crashed violently into the ground below, grasping at anything to try and slow his path through the hard rocks. He had never before experienced agony anywhere close to this. Having fought both his mother and uncle, he knew what pain felt like and had some limited experience fighting opponents slightly stronger than himself. This was completely different. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“CRUNCH.” Mira had barely picked himself up when he felt the fist of a Super Saiyan shattering all the ribs on the right side of his body. He was totally helpless against the might of Steven. The Demon coughed blood, trying his hardest to get his breath back. Although he didn’t need air to survive, it was an important part of recovering energy after injuries. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No…” huff huff'', “I won’t lose to you!” The Demon King could barely form a sentence, but he somehow found the strength to stand, ignoring the blood trickling down his side. He looked back at Steven, fire in his eyes. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You hear me, Saiyan of Light and Shadow.” Mira stared at the Twilight Saiyan. “Because I am the best, and you are not!” He shouted. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira was screaming now, his words filled with defiance. “Only I can be the strongest! It is not possible for a weakling like you to comprehend that I am! Go ahead and run away, like the sissy you are from my overwhelming power!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven rushed Mira again, crippling his foe with a powerful uppercut, completely shattering Mira’s burned and bloodied armor before speaking to the crazed Demon. “Do I look scared to you?” But before he could reply, Mira had his entire jaw shattered and forced down his throat from another powerful uppercut that hit him square in the jaw. Just as he staggered back, Steven raised one hand between him and Mira, only inches from the Demon’s face. “This is for trying to destroy my family and home, Mira.” Just before Steven’s Draco Masendan erupted from his palm, covering the distance between him and Earth’s Sun in an instant. Mira didn’t even have the time to scream before he was warped and melted by the electric blue ball of energy; all four of his limbs being blown off and his face contorting before he was burned away right to the last microscopic particle. Before in a flash, the Z Warrior lowered his hand and took off to meet with the others. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven touched down, arriving in front of those he had saved from the wrath of the Lords of Death, Destruction, and the Dark Demon Realm. With both Goku and the clone of his son, Dark Gohan, having powered down to their normal states just before meeting with each other, and even after the Shadow Walker had restored the energy and clothing of Goku and properly introduced himself to him and the others, the Twilight Warrior and the daughter of Vegeta had caught up with the other members of the Z Fighters on what transpired since Vegeta had assumed his Super Saiyan form and left Capsule Corporation to venture off into space. During this, Steven had bashfully introduced Bra to the Z Warriors of his world, with her and the others quickly becoming friends as well. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But not even a moment later, their senses had immediately warned them of danger. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZMMMMMM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The air in front of them hummed and buzzed and crackled. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">What in the world is going on now? ” Yelled Krillin above the noise, his and the rest of the Z Fighters’ bright auras fully ignited defensively, each having powered up to their absolute maximum. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before any of the others could reply, the space in front of them flashed bright green and jagged cracks snaked out through the air as if it had suddenly, been turned to shattered glass. The cracks spat and hissed as they formed a large irregular disc with a dark green center, stretching a dozen meters across. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Steven replied. “ <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">It’s coming from Majcnavn! The Dragonspawn must had been freed from his imprisonment right when I had dealt with the last of the Lords of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld and casted a spell to open up a wormhole from the Dark Demon Realm to here after he had killed his fellow Commanders in a fit of rage! I also am sensing him mutating the entire Dark Demon Realm Army from the other side! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Since his voice would have been drowned out in the deafening roar that exploded from the center of the eldritch portal, he spoke to Krillin and the others through Telepathy. Green smoke poured out...but it wasn’t smoke at all, it was a swarm, a swarm of something dark and evil and fast, a swarm of creatures with claws and fangs and blood-red eyes. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Krillin realized in horror that the roar they heard was the beating of well over a million scaly, razor-sharp wings. “ Aaaaaayyyyckk! ” He gulped, turning to flee. “ Monsters! Run! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Get a grip over yourself Krillin! These Demons are weaker than they look! ” Roared Piccolo, shifting into a defensive stance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But Steven flew in front of them all. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">You don’t scare me one bit! For I have already dealt with your inbred King and I promise this, ALL OF YOU WILL BE JOINING HIM! ” Shouted the boy. His eyes were fierce and his vibrant black hair stood sharply on his head, lightning crackling through it in deadly tendrils. He held out his arms, and a yellow dome of energy flashed around him in an instant. “ HYAAAAHHHHHHH! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Sun of Earth darkened against the brilliance of the Bio-Android’s energy wave. Fire filled half the sky, instantly incinerating tens of billions of the swarming Imps. No army ever mustered in the Northern Quadrant and beyond it within this Universe could have withstood the searing rage of this one single blast. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But to the shock of his love and friends, billions more of the creatures immediately rushed out around the edges of the wave as it died down. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">They’re still coming out of the hole! ” Gohan shouted. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before Bra had followed her Knight in shining armor’s example and teleported beside Steven. “ Don’t worry, as it’s my turn now. ” She flung both her hands forward and began a rapid-fire hail of concentrated energy balls. Each one exploded on impact, then splintered into a dozen smaller crimson orbs before detonating like fireworks. The wall of red flame enveloped the oncoming cloud, pushing it back toward the portal. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Finding their path blocked, the unending stream of creatures separated, coming around the edges of the Princess’ fiery shield. They dove straight for the seven Z Fighters. But each of the heroes moved into position as the final battle between them and the Time Breakers to decide the fate of everything was about to begin. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Here we go!” Shouted Goku, crouching and summoning his Super Saiyan power while still in base form as the fiery golden aura that erupted around him made his hair stand on end as it smoothly replaced his previously white one. “Don’t let any of these monsters get through! It’s up to us, everyone to protect Earth!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“All right, this is it.” Piccolo closed his eyes and crossed his arms in front of him before dividing his body in two, then in two again, then in two again. Eight clones raised their heads simultaneously and extended both arms. “DOUBLE MAKANKO VOLLEY!” A hail of golden spirals filled the air, each one instantly finding a target. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Following Piccolo’s example, Tien Shinhan had also crossed his arms and split into four copies with the Multi-Form technique. Each one then powered up, igniting the crimson aura of Kaioken, and spread out as they prepared to deflect the hellish flood of mutant Fiends with nothing but good old-fashioned Martial Arts. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Without bothering to ask for any help from his friends, Gohan raised one hand and began firing his Gekiretsu Madan, splitting the barrage of powerful Ki Blasts into multiple waves that shot up toward the descending horde. All the while he charged the sphere version of his technique with his other hand, before he had then fired it with all the force of his being at all of the Demons that were left from the first half of his all-out offensive which the blazing gold sphere struck and immediately incinerated safely high in the air. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The other three Saiyans then joined the young Gohan as they exploded into action, using their speed to intercept the next wave after wave of Demons with their Rebellion Spear as quickly as possible. As billions more were coming out now from the space-time distortion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">His courage starting to return, Krillin began firing miniature Destructo Disks in nearly every direction. Dozens of Demons were being sliced in two, falling to the ground trailing blood and smoke. But the swarm tightened, coming closer and closer. The Orin Monk grimaced; he knew these things were strong enough to kill Recoome of the Ginyu Force on their own and even him if they were to attack in groups. Which they now were, so he had then threw his hands out and activated an Energy Barrier. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fifty of the creatures slammed into the shield at once. They were so close...he could hear the gnashing of their fangs, the grinding of their claws. They beat each other bloody with their wings as they clamored to get at him. But as they had concentrated all of their efforts in getting past the barrier, they didn’t notice that another two of their other targets landed right beside them. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">WWHOOOOOOOSSHHHH! A bluish wave enveloped them, obliterating the crushing swarm in an instant. Steven and Gohan lowered their hands from the Kamehameha stance and flashed Krillin a smile before returning to smashing, kicking, and punching the flood of creatures into dust with a whirl of brutal attacks. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suddenly, Krillin felt sharp talons dig into his back. They had ripped through his red and blue Turtle School Uniform Gi, but failed to actually harm him. He spun, throwing off the lone creature for a moment. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">It hung in front of his face, a foot long, black wings whirring. Blood-red eyes stared from behind uneven fangs. The spines on it’s wings and legs were razor-sharp, and the underside of it’s stubby abdomen was covered with clicking legs like an oversized Centipede. It reminded him of one of King Piccolo’s mutated creations...only smaller, less intelligent, and far more grotesque. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Uttering an involuntary scream, more from surprise than fear, he reached out and punched the dark green creature directly between the eyes. It screeched, clacked it’s teeth together, and struck like a Snake for his throat, but he ducked and smashed his knee hard into it’s underside. Talons dug deep into his thigh as the Demon clung to him, trying to sink it’s fangs into his arm. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Reacting instinctively, Krillin grabbed the gnashing jaws. He held them shut with one hand and punched the side of the creature’s head over and over with his other fist. The wing spines brushing against him failed to open any gashes on his arm, as he kept punching until the skull crunched and the red eyes faded to black. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">LEAVE US ALONE ALREADY! ” Roared the Princess of Saiyans, grabbing one of the creatures by it’s tail and swinging it like a club to smash the skulls of three more in turn. It squawked, so she simply grabbed it’s head in her teeth and ripped it’s neck off it’s shoulders. She spat the bloody skull to one side. The jagged fangs of another one closed on her left arm, but failed to pierce her skin. Without pausing, she fired a pair of Eye Beams through it’s skull. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SLASH! Talons scraped across her forehead, but they only succeeded in braking into a million pieces, as their target was much stronger than anything they have ever encountered before. “ I’ve had about enough of this! ” Bra crossed her arms and concentrated her energy. Lightning crackled around her into a sphere; hundreds of thousands of the creatures were dragged into it before it exploded in a golden maelstrom two football fields across. Chunks of Demon cartwheeled in every direction, cutting their fluttering brethren in pieces. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Catching sight of the Demons now heading after her Uncle Krillin and the young Gohan in greater numbers than they could handle, Bra blasted off as she quickly as she could to save her friends from the monsters spawned by Majcnavn. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Demon Prince of Earth and the former Assassin of the Crane School were still condensed to their eight and four clones respectively; the pairs of Super Namekians and Super Humans had landed on the ground and were furiously fighting back-to-back against tens of billions of blood-thirsty Demons. Winged devils that were of the same race as Spike the Devilman and Psidevilman whirled and spun in midair, diving toward them with talons bared like a perfect swarm of eager, hungry Birds. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">One of the eight clones of the second Piccolo spotted a great hundred wheeling toward him in formation, and he opened his jaws to fire a blazing Mouth Blast at them. Another clone of his blocked a raking talon and smashed another skull, but the hellish flood just kept on coming, descending, and surrounding their position. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Don’t worry guys, I’m h— ” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">She froze suddenly, as a shiver bolted down her spine. An extremely powerful energy signature had seemingly come out of nowhere. Then came a chilling spell of laughter—eerily familiar, though she couldn’t quite place it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A perfectly straight beam of purple energy sliced through the air, narrowly missing the center of her skull—Bra avoided it just in time. She froze. Standing atop of the mountain peak in front of her was a light green, gaunt figure. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">For a split second, the Saiyan thought it was the Eastern Supreme Kai from before the fusion with Kibito. The white hair, the ridiculous outfit...but this figure was far too tall and evil. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Seems I have gotten into quite the little bloodbath, care if I were to join in '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">? ” Came a shrill voice. A purple ball of energy appeared in the figure’s right palm, illuminating it’s face and the rest of the planet. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">It was a voice Bra was sure she had heard before. It sounded slightly different, being even more malicious in tone than anything else she had ever heard before. But it quickly became clear to her, it was Goku Black. Only the Demon of Despair was back to his original self, his eyes of a light purple were burning with bloodlust. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Zamasu?! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Gizard Wasteland… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Zamasu’s skin was mostly green. The only exception was the grotesque and unnatural yellow tinge and the clearly visible wide and diseased veins all over his face and the rest of his body. An unknown lavender liquid was also present as it dripped from his hair like if it was some kind of heavy sweat. The Supreme Kai’s wild grin was the very definition of a slasher smile, he was filled with ecstasy over at the carnage below him and Bra. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Time to play along! ” Screeched the figure, flinging the ball of energy at Bra. It came faster than the youth expected, but she still managed to raise her hand in time to catch it in her palm and neutralize it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Where did you come from!? ” The young Saiyan shouted, shifting into a defensive stance. “ I was sure my Steven had killed you, Zamasu! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Zamasu crossed his arms proudly. “He did. As I am a clone of the original Zamasu he had faced before meeting with the other version of me in the body he was given by that bastard Mira and you in the Universe where Son Goku had been the one to defeat Frieza. But I was born stronger and now truly invincible. Now get ready to rumble. ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra’s glare didn’t change. “Monsters with such sick views and ideals like you should stay dead, Zamasu. For I am so sick and tired of having to deal with scum like you again, ” the Saiyan said. “However, I will defeat you before you can kill again. There will be no more senseless deaths, you sorry excuse for a Kaioshin ! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“Let’s see if you can keep that promise.” '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The clone snarled, giggling wickedly, and dashed forward from the top of the mountain at what seemed an impossible speed. Bra raised one arm to block the incoming kick. But her lithe opponent was already adjusting his approach and instead whipped his arm around to attack. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra ducked under the swipe and aimed a rapid set of jabs at Clone Zamasu’s face. The devilish Supreme Kai wasn’t surprised; he blocked them easily and retaliated by sweeping Bra’s legs with a low kick. As she fell, Bra reached down and caught herself with one hand, quickly springing backwards up and out of the clone’s range. At the same time, she released a Kiai from her other hand, Zamasu was bowled over completely, tumbling end-over-end. Before he rolled to a stop near the edge of the Gizard Wasteland. But he quickly jumped back up, sudden rage showing on his face. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Watching from above, Krillin and Gohan looked on with wide eyes. “Well I am guessing the creepy guy in the weird outfit is Zamasu. He sure doesn’t like staying dead,” the older of the two muttered to the other, his two arms shaking from fear. He had been in the battle since the beginning of combating Majcnavn’s Demon Spawn with the other six Z Warriors, but the constant blood splattering against the already war-torn ground all around him had caused him to be immediately overwhelmed by the amount of bloodshed and destruction before him, his friends were fighting fiercely against hordes of nightmarish monsters. Only for several trillion of them in several waves to start heading towards him and Gohan! The Demons had nearly closed the distance between them and their prey in only a moment’s time, but an Explosive Kiai fired by Goku had reduced them to ashes. Lowering his hand, the False Super Saiyan landed in front of his son and best friend and protected them from the remainder of their crazed assailants in true Saiyan fashion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">On the other side of the very wide, rocky place located North of the Paprika and Break Wastelands, Bra had landed nimbly on her feet and resumed a tense, fighting stance. From the look on her face, it was quite clear that she wasn’t holding back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Saiyan’s massive opponent scowled, his massive white teeth grinding together. “DIE!” Zamasu suddenly, screamed. A surge of purple energy erupted around him as he extended one hand. Then, with every bit of the same skill the original Zamasu had ever displayed, he fired a rapid flurry of purple God King Blaze beams. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Whoa!” Exclaimed Bra, surprised by the sudden escalation. She quickly braced, intercepting the first few beams with rapid flicks of her wrist. As the attacks continued, she was careful to send them skyward and away from her friends. Though numerous, the attacks lacked the power she was expecting. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Finding his God King Blaze ineffective, Zamasu instead dashed forward, his fists clenched firmly at his sides. The Saiyan finished deflecting the last of the beams before she crouched to meet him, ready to block her opponent’s punch. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Only, Zamasu didn’t throw a punch. Instead, he accelerated at the last moment, plowing into Bra’s chest with the top of his head. Whipping around, he lashed out with a double fist and caught the Saiyan in the side, spinning her around as he fell back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra recovered quickly, but the clone was already back for more. Now poised directly on top of her, Zamasu pumped his fists down in a furious staccato. Trying to get the advantage over Bra, Zamasu used his immense size to make his blows difficult for Bra to block by mixing heavy blows with rapid strikes from his legs. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hey, Zamasu! You should know I am not impressed by anything you have shown so far!” Said the Saiyan in a hostile way as she blocked Zamasu’s desperate flurry almost casually. Before Bra had stopped blocking and simply vanished out of Zamasu’s sight, firing off a kick that caught Zamasu in the ribs and sent him flying into the air. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra’s blue aura suddenly, sparked to life further than ever, her energy roaring around her in jagged, spiky waves. The blast of power alone shook the ground beneath her, the Saiyan heroine then blasted off the ground, chasing through the air after Zamasu. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Even before the clone could recover, Bra threw a punch, this one much faster and harder than before. It caught Zamasu full in the jaw, whipping his face around and making his eyes bulge. Bra watched with satisfaction as God King Zamasu fell in a long arc before catching himself. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">When he finally landed on the blood-soaked ground, Zamasu shrieked angrily and clenched his massive fists. “I’LL SHOW YOU!” Screamed the clone shrilly. As if summoned by his words, thin tendrils of electricity crackled around him and he exploded back toward his enemy in a trail of bluish purple energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blue light around the Saiyan began to radiate further. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THUUM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Moving faster than almost anyone in the battlefield could see, Clone Zamasu’s punch smashed into Bra’s crossed arms with a massive crash that shook the planet. Bra was knocked back, but rapidly picked up speed and returned with a kick that sent her foe spiraling skyward. Those on the ground could see nothing but blurred lines arcing through the sky as the impacts crackled like thunder. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Accelerating, Bra kicked Zamasu even higher into the air. Now several hundred feet up, the massive white-haired monster rolled over with a murderous glare. His eyes suddenly, began to glow red; an instant later, a pair of lasers pierced the air, aiming for Bra. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Wuh-oh,” Bra said, narrowly dodging the beams in time. “That’s trouble, especially with his strength being much higher than before.” She quickly sped toward her opponent, her aura spinning in a dazzling azure trail behind her. But Zamasu’s Eye Lasers continued to fire, causing explosions in each place they hit the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Above, just before she finally caught up to Zamasu, who kept flying in circles and blasting his Eye Beams like headlights across a night sky, Bra pulled out her trump card. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is getting way too dangerous!” She yelled. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In a zip, she Instant Transmitted right behind Zamasu and attacked with a downward elbow strike. The gigantic Demon was caught completely unprepared and took the full force of the blow. His back bruised, the massive Kaioshin tumbled towards the ground uncontrollably. But the Saiyan gave chase, intercepting him and going on the offensive with a heavy pounding of blows. As they neared the ground, the clone dove faster for a moment, landing on the surface of the Earth and then springing back off it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">BLAAMM! The two warriors met with a crash that sounded like two comets colliding, just above the center of the warzone. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Panting, Zamasu tried to catch his breath. Sweat was dripping from his head, rolling down his chin and dripping past his clear-white boots. His arms were locked with the Saiyan in a desperate struggle, one he was clearly losing. “Why...why can’t...I,” he said, still trying to regain his breath. “Beat you?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra smiled fiercely at him. “Well, you might be only slightly below me in strength. But, I am the only one out of the two of us to have had proper training, and not to mention, my power is the result of me being the daughter of a Super Saiyan God. The third one to appear in recorded history, though, but believe it or not, my father, brothers, and my husband-to-be are way stronger than even me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The clone of the evil Zamasu could feel his massive arms starting to give way. He hadn’t expected this! The Saiyan before him had hardly taken any damage whatsoever! Not to mention even his great strength was outmatched since the beginning against her! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“So,” Bra said, her own face now relatively calm. It was clear that she had tapped into all of her strength in her base form, but she didn’t appear tired or worn yet. “Unless you’ve got more power hidden away in the form of you being able to transform back into Goku Black, I’m afraid this is where our battle ends.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NO!” The massive titan shouted, feeling a rush of rage swell to his forehead. “You shut up! I would never lose to a mortal! That’s impossible!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well, the real Zamasus before you did...and I’m afraid you’re making all the same mistakes as they did by underestimating your enemies. Sorry, but this is about saving the ones I care about from monsters like you. So I have to win against you!” Bra said sternly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Zamasu’s eyes were turning red from exertion and anger. “I HATE YOU! I HATE ALL SAIYAN MONKEYS!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The light around Bra brightened again. Slowly and inexorably, her rippling muscles pushed the clone back until Zamasu could feel his bones straining. Finally, Bra released her hold and delivered a spinning back kick that knocked the God King across the sky and almost off into space. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I’ll show you! All of you will learn, every single person here!” Zamasu took to the airless void of space, raising one hand. A light sparkled; moments later, a crackling ball of blue and white energy began to take shape. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Uh oh!” Shouted Bra. “That looks like the same attack the Goku Black that I know used to try and destroy my future husband!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Indeed it is,” Clone Zamasu agreed. “But at it’s absolute maximum power!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The gigantic clone was laughing maniacally now. He was so enthralled with his endeavors that he failed to notice that both Steven and Son Goku were done in protecting their fellow loved ones and now eyeing him rather closely. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">They weren’t about to let Bra’s mortal enemy destroy the precious home of the Earthlings, not when Earth was also there home planet. There was much fun left to be had with the people of Earth before they were forced to say goodbye, for the time being. They wouldn’t get involved unless all else failed, though. Surely their fellow and tomboyishly-beautiful Saiyan warrior would find a way to stop the attack and save all the people she cared so much about without any amount of their help. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Even if you CAN stop my attack,” the cloned God King laughed, “the explosion will level this whole star system! What are you going to do about that, huh?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Below, Krillin and Gohan both felt a shiver. The memory of Frieza pulling this exact stunt on Namek was so ingrained in their minds, and closely associated with so much fear, that even now it was chilling. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra, too, hardened her eyes at the threat. She was well acquainted with situations like this, and didn’t take the words of the massive monster lightly. It was time to end the fight. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In a flash of blue light, Bra vanished, reappearing just inches in front of Zamasu’s face. With a mighty cross-chop, too swift for anyone but Steven and Majin Démigra to see, she delivered a perfect, instant knockout blow. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The clone’s eyes rolled back in his head and the energy at his palm dissipated. Unconscious, he fell limply down onto the planet’s surface. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“GRRAAHHH!” Bra shut her eyes, intensely concentrating and releasing a primal deep roar. Swarms of golden light flashed around her, shaking the planet and knocking up high speed winds through the battlefield. When she opened her eyes, her pupils had completely changed, both her face and body seeming to convulse from exertion. Suddenly, her muscles bulged with energy, her hair standing tall and erect and breaking away into a shining gold. The first female legendary warrior of this dimension’s eyes were an emerald green and her power could be felt across the entire Universe. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is the end for you, Zamasu! DIE!” An instant later, she swung directly at the clone’s center of mass. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THRUCKK. Everyone heard the gush of internal organs being ripped through. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra’s fist and arm, expanded slightly from their normal size, plowed through the clone’s chest as if it was butter. Purple blood mingled with guts exploded in a fine mist; Clone Zamasu’s eyes opened suddenly, and widened in shock. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“YYAAH!” Bra yelled again, her arm instantly pulling free. Before the clone could fall, the Super Saiyan had already pulled her energy in and whipped her entire body around at full speed. She powered up into her full strength again just before her leg made contact. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SPLURCGG. The kick caught Zamasu in the side of the neck, instantly crushing and ripping his spine in two. Without losing momentum, Full Power Super Saiyan Bra lifted both hands and flashed once again into her full power, filling them with crackling yellow energy as she gave a wild smile. “Masenko! Haaaa!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The energy wave exploded before the clone’s corpse had even landed on the ground, incinerating it in a massive fireball that momentarily hid the entire planet from view. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Still clad in the purple and black workout clothes given to her by her mother with the Saiyan-style gloves and boots on both her hands and feet of her father’s old clothes, the Super Saiyan had been forced to keep her power level at full power when she saw creatures starting to emerge from another eldritch portal forming just in front of her. By the millions, denizens of New Arcose and Hell were rushing toward her. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">She immediately recognized that half were all members of Frieza’s race at varying stages of development...and of the second being those her father and her family had killed in the past. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The clone of Gohan took to the air immediately. The reborn Bio-Android wearing a black Martial Arts Gi along with a red obi, wristbands of the same color as his obi, and brown Namekian-style shoes, had in a blaze of power, transformed into a Super Saiyan, before he joined up with Bra an instant before their enemies reached the Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Thanks for the backup, Steven.” Said the heroine to her friend beside her. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No problem, Lady Bra.” Responded the younger Super Saiyan. Before addressing the decrepit horde in front of him and the other Super Saiyan. “Now as for you monsters from Hell and Frieza’s equally hellish homeworld, prepare to taste my fist.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Both Super Saiyans could tell that most of the Demons weren’t as strong as the last Lord of Death, Destruction, and the Underworld they fought, but several had much higher power levels than the clone of Zamasu. They glanced at their allies below...if any of them were hurt, the two Z Fighters above them wouldn’t be able to live with themselves. “Steven, I will take on Frieza’s people. You should stick with the Ginyu Force and those that came before them.” Said Bra through Telepathy before Steven replied back inwardly. “Got it, just be careful milady. They are all as evil and cunning as both Frieza and his family. But too bad the jerks I already took care of aren’t here too, as I really wanted to team up with you against them in an epic final showdown.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Frost Demons and their comrades from the depths of Otherworld reached Steven and Bra a split second later...and about half were instantly flung back against the solar flames of the Sun as the Legendary Super Warriors released a combined explosion of their auras and exploded forward. Their power caused the planets and the star of the Solar System to shudder; Steven and Bra had already took care of several thousand of their enemies. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SSSHHINNNGG! A mighty chop from Super Saiyan Bra sliced straight through the three nearest members of Frieza’s race in a single swipe. Super Saiyan Steven whirled with an elbow strike, smashing Raditz across the sky; the evil older brother of Goku was dead before he hit and knocked out a few more Saiyans still loyal to Frieza in his wake. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A massive, brutish Saiyan with a goatee and no hair on his head gave an animalistic scream as he charged. Bra swung her left leg, instantly severing Nappa’s waist and tearing the bald bastard in half with a single kick. Steven then executed the evil Nappa with a point-blank Explosive Madan in the Explosive Demon Wave stance before ducking under a kick from the father of Garlic Junior and effortlessly crushing his skull with a reverse bicycle kick. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“ALL SAIYANS MUST DIE!” Bra felt a Chaotic Death End smash into her back, fired by a Frost Demon behind her with the opposite color scheme of Frieza’s fourth form. Having barely felt it, the Saiyan heroine dove after Cooler, twisting between two other members of the Cold Family who were trying to tackle her in midair and into space. Grabbing Frieza’s older brother by his neck, she whirled and smashed Cooler like a club into his father and ancestor, cracking the skulls of all three. Chilled in his first form, King Cold in his second form, and Cooler in his fourth form were then incinerated by a one-handed Mighty Blast of Rage from Bra and a burst of powerful and nearly invisible Kiais from Steven. Not even a second later, Captain Ginyu and Shisami burst out of the smoke, then performed their Special Fighting Poses, and attacked Steven and Bra. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">After he spun out of the way from the Elite Soldier’s purple Ki Blast, Steven snapped the fiendish Alien’s neck with an axe kick to the base of his neck. The Manager of Frieza’s Army Fleet choked in his own blood as he fell like a rock into one of the countless pits of lava that littered the battlefield and drowned before he hit the bottom. The Twilight Warrior either way welcomed the corpse of Shisami into oblivion with a Multiple Masenko for good measure. Like Shisami, the nefarious Leader of the Ginyu Force immediately charged Bra with his full power. “How dare yet another one of your kind of monkey brutes kill the members of Lord Frieza’s family, you will pay for this!” But even as he approached, he felt his blood begin heating to a boil. The excess energy of Bra’s transformation was so violent and uncontrolled that the very space around her was a maelstrom of death. Ginyu cried out in pain as he felt the heat of the Super Saiyan’s aura begin to melt his body, his blood turning to fiery steam inside his veins. Unfortunately for the Commander, his brain remained whole the longest, allowing him to feel the pain growing until his consciousness evaporated. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Both Steven and Bra reached the ground, then braced. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Solar System itself shuddered once more, cracks opened in the ground all over the battlefield as both blasted upward, their shining auras blazed firmly around them. They spun and sparkled as their spinning roundhouse kicks sliced through the descending horde. They were coming faster now, pressing against them with their bared fangs and crazed eyes. The Super Saiyans exploded out of the atmosphere and into the frigid depths of space. Around them, hundreds of thousands of the deceased warriors and Frost Demons were falling in pieces, but more were already charging up to the attack. “Time to end this,” Bra muttered. Her transformation kept her warm, but having no air to breathe forced her to speak to her Steven through Telepathy. She turned to Steven, the two nodded, and then clenched their fists. “HUAAAAHHHHH...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven and Bra’s Super Saiyan auras burned brighter, swirling around them like fire. Energy snaked out in long tendrils. They met the planet’s surface far below and exploded, sending sparks in every direction. Killing several of the remaining warriors of Hell and Frieza’s race before the rest were drawn upward in the sudden whirlwind of power. Steven and Bra concentrated their energy, their auras glowing hotter and hotter as the monstrosities swirled around them helplessly. Their power grew until they illuminated the entire Universe in a brilliant flash of light. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“YAAAAHHHH!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The combined Super Saiyan energy melded into a Super Explosive Wave that shot out from the two legendary warriors’ bodies in a pure, brilliant ring. It met the swirling cloud of Demons with so much force that they were vaporized by the sheer speed of the blast wave alone. When the smoke cleared, not a trace of the deranged warriors from Hell and Frost Demons remained. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THUD. Steven Bloodriver, the Twilight Warrior landed a Super God Fist straight into the wormhole, his Super Saiyan aura still shining brightly to protect him from the eldritch portal instantly shattering before him. Braking like glass from the blow, the portal created by Majcnavn, the Dragonspawn could no longer sustain itself and disappeared. The two Super Saiyans then took off to aid their friends below. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Just as his senses began quickening from detecting a great power level nearby, the last living relative of the Evil Emperor known as Frieza felt the rush of air behind him and started to turn, his left fist already clenching for a preemptive attack, but only saw the nightmarish form of a monster swoop down and snatch him an instant before staring into the vivid crimson eyes of his new enemy. A burst of vicious laughter erupted from the vaguely dragonoid, but yellow-golden scaled giant Charizard looking creature. It’s teeth, the longest nearly five meters long, hung from a pair of almost-canine jaws beneath keenly intelligent eyes as it continued to cackle wildly, the two sharply-angled, vast, fiery wings on it’s back were opened up and revealed a long, slender tail with a wicked-looking row after row of Shark teeth-like scales leading from the back of the Dragon Lord’s skull to all the way to the very tip of his tail that stretched beyond more than just a few feet in length. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“YESSSS, THAT WAS ALMOST TOO EASY. YOU’RE NO MORE OF AN OPPONENT THAN THE REST OF THE LOWLY MORTALS HERE WITHOUT YOUR VERSION OF THE SUPER SAIYAN FO-HURK!” Effortlessly, the reborn Bio-Android cut off Drakoshin Majcnavn’s boasting with a knee to his face, snapping his head back and cracking the tight coat of scales that interlocked together like armor and even shattering the massive ram horns on top of the ancient Alien’s head into a million pieces. But the young hero wasn’t done, grabbing his foe by the wrist of the Dragon Lord’s arm that had him in a chokehold, Steven ripped Majcnavn’s arm with one powerful twist and delivered a devastating kick to the last of the Drakoshins’ gut at full power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Majcnavn doubled over and spat blood, coughing out his stomach and intestines a second later. “WHA—WHAT?!” Shouted the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore, genuinely alarmed. Though he clearly possessed quite much higher power than he should have, he didn’t seem particularly good at anticipating a Shadow Walker’s moves; Steven’s assault had caught him off guard. The clone of the son of Goku teleported behind Majcnavn and slammed an elbow into the Dragon Lord’s back, then just before Majcnavn would have smashed into the ground, the Super Saiyan vanished and reappeared right in front of Majcnavn. “HYPER MASENKO WAVE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">The purple beam reached him instantly, carrying him back, beginning to sear his skin. The only sounds he heard were the fierce fighting of the Z Warriors and the roar of energy that blasted him straight into the heart of the Galaxy’s Sagittarius A-Star. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">As the massive Black Hole completely enveloped him, Drakoshin Majcnavn managed to let out one final scream just before his body was pulled apart and disappeared. Then Steven’s Hyper Masenko Wave dissipated once it reached the nexus of the Milky Way Galactic Center’s Black Hole and completely destroyed the very soul and body of the Dragon. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The next moment, Goku detected not one but three power levels headed his direction. Each of them rivaled Super Saiyan Vegeta in strength, zipping towards his location at their maximum speeds. “How in the world? Why is it that I am sensing that Frieza, a Namekian with a heart full of malice just like Frieza, and a Super Saiyan even eviler than the both of them combined are heading right for me?!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“DARN IT!” Goku’s shout, surprisingly angry, caused his son and best friend fighting with him to pause. “How did that antithesis of the rest of the Dragon Lords AND counterpart of Vegeta had enough time to cast another one of his Spells? Fine, if that smug as fuck eyesore thinks that could get rid of me that easily, he has got another thing coming. For…like how all of the monsters before him did…I’M AM FOR SURE NOT TO BE MESSED WITH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku’s form froze. He then threw his head back, his arms stretched out at his sides. The outline of his body seemed to shimmer and his blazing gold aura grew brighter and brighter, shifting from a golden-yellow to pure gold. The last few Demons attacking him rebounded off his aura and were incinerated. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!” The gathering cloud of dust and smoke cleared in an instant, revealing Goku’s unscathed form. His usually calm and friendly appearance was replaced with stern determination, and his ever-welcoming ebony eyes were a fierce green. Golden light emanated from his rippling hair, each strand alive with fury. The Saiyan hero then lifted two of his fingers to his forehead. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">ZZIPP! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku’s muscular adult form suddenly appeared directly above the three fighters, directly above the leader of the three warriors possessed by the last of Majcnavn’s Dark Magic. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">RRUUUUNCH! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mecha Frieza pitched forward, his eyes suddenly going blank. An incredible blow from Goku’s elbow smashed into his neck from behind. The precision was stunning – not only had the Super Saiyan struck with awe-inspiring force, but it had been perfectly placed. That one blow knocked him out cold. The reborn Emperor’s face became expressionless and his aura vanished as he collapsed onto the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Then just as both Broly and Lord Slug stared at him in shock, the second son of Bardock, with his eyes of a green flame, his golden hair statuesque, held out one of his arms to each side. In each palm was a single, small, yellow orb. He turned his eyes over to the left, over to Broly, then right towards Slug, all in the smallest split of a second. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Double...” He began, his voice steady, unemotional, confident. “...Shenron Blast.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The last two warriors sent by Majcnavn almost seemed to move in slow motion, as huge golden orbs swelled up around Goku’s wrists. From their epicenter, two pure beams of yellow flooded out in opposite directions. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Broly’s eyes widened, his face caught in a blinding glow. His Super Saiyan aura was swallowed up in retreat, like a water hose brushed aside in an erupting geyser. The Legendary Saiyan’s own fear caught in his throat, choking off his pleas. “How...could I be defeated by Kakarot?” He held out his hands in one last defiant stand, mouth agape, pupils shaking and constricted. Then he was ripped to shreds, vanquished into nothing. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Lord Slug’s Super Namek aura flickered out and died, dissolving like powder into the ocean of Goku’s power. The Wicked Namekian’s mouth widened in wrath as he braced for impact, his mighty arms trying to fend off the pending explosion with his restored strength. Had Katas been at full strength back when they’d fought previously, he’d know that Goku was even stronger than his older brother now. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blast struck him with tremendous force, causing even the arms of the Wicked Namek to grow weak. The Shenron Blast thundered over his skin, torching, burning, and tearing, seemingly in vain—until finally, Slug’s mind slipped into unconsciousness. His strength vanished as mysteriously as it had come as the last of the energy attack swept over him. The Namekian counterpart of King Vegeta and King Cold’s flesh was scorched and scarred all over, but nevertheless intact and alive, he plummeted towards the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SWISH, Goku dove low and caught the much taller Namek by the neck. As he lowered himself to the ground, the Super Saiyan snapped Slug’s neck and dropped him beside Mecha Frieza before he narrowed his eyes and burnt both of the heartless would-be Lords of the Universe to ashes with an Explosive Kiai. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Zipping back to the battlefield, the young Steven swung one fist in a wide haymaker, felling more than seven million mutated members of the Demon Realm race in one blow. He was losing himself in battle now, thrilling with the joy of combat. He felt more Saiyan than he had ever felt in his life. The boy whirled in place, his boot ripping over a million of the Demons in two and sending each piece smashing through another half-myriad million more. Diving, he grabbed two of the creatures that used to be Turles and Lord Slug respectively by their heads and crushed their skulls, then dropped them and raised both hands above his head. “ SUPER MASENKO! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The brilliant explosion opened a path forward, and he snapped out of his berserker rage as he spotted the wellspring of Demons still pouring out of the portal. He dashed toward it immediately, ripping apart the hellish creatures in his way with his Super Saiyan aura alone, and even as the flood became thicker, he effortlessly continued the carnage and gained momentum as they were pressed back against his onslaught. “ We were lucky Majcnavn was in his form of origin when he spawned these Demons as if he wasn’t, only I would have been able to stand up to them as a Twilight Super Saiyan. ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">DUCK, OTHER GOHAN! ” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Hearing Krillin’s voice behind him, Steven dropped low. Blinding light from the Earthling’s Solar Flare disoriented the Demons that were left, and an oversized Destructo Disk whirled over his head. It sliced the horde in two all the way back to the portal. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">“ '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Thanks, Uncle Krillin! ” The young Saiyan shouted. He blasted forward at top speed, charging bright blue energy spheres in both hands. In an instant, he was only a few inches from the dark hole. He threw both spheres into it simultaneously, then dove out of the way. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">PPPPHHHHHOOOOOOOOOMMMMM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The blue-white explosion obliterated the portal, halting the Demonic flood and incinerating every one of the hellish creatures in it’s blast radius. Steven Bloodriver turned and flung a few dozen energy blasts at a few fleeing Demons before dropping to the ground. Nearby, Piccolo and Tien Shinhan each returned to a single body and used an Explosive Wave to destroy the last faltering group of Demon Spawn charging them. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Still not having dropped out of her normal Super Saiyan state, Bra gave the younger Super Saiyan warrior an approving nod, then concentrated energy into her fist. A broad sweep of her arm, and every remaining Demon exploded into gore at the same time. She dropped to the ground as well just a few meters away from Steven, who like her and the rest of the Z-Team, was still at full power, unscathed, and alive with the thrill of battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Otherworld… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">King Kai’s face went white. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">He had been keeping up with the events transpiring on Earth since the Eastern Supreme Kai had last contacted him just a few minutes ago. Having just seen Majcnavn’s last-ditch attempt on the Z Fighters ending in the complete destruction of the Demon Realm had left the rotund Deity in a state of fear at how easily it had been for Steven to reduce an entire dimension into absolutely nothing but dust. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It’s all gone, everything…Steven spared nothing,” stammered the Kai. “The boy managed to destroy the Demon Realm like it was nothing…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Earth… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dark, threatening clouds gathered overhead—whether it was from the massive releases of energy or simply a fluke of nature, the Z Fighters didn’t know. Most of them had looked at each other...trying to make some kind of sense of what was going on just above their heads. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Only Steven, Goku, and Bra stood tall and motionless, their golden hair rippling even harder in the winds that began picking up around them. The Dark Demon Realm Army had proven to be a challenging opponent for all but them. The Super Saiyans’ skills and resolve had been tested in the fight, but their superior strength had won out. Although none of the three had yet to find out what was causing the severe thunderstorm to form—Steven included. Now more than ever, their instincts and senses were hard at work. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra opened her mouth to ask if any of the others around her had any sort of clue about what was going on above them, but stopped suddenly as she and the other six members of the Z Warriors had all spun in unison at a sound just behind them. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">There in the sky above them, a menacing jet-black figure ablaze in cobalt blue fire, had emerged from a Hell Gate within the center of the most ominous of the thunderclouds and slowly made his way down to the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Darn it! Our confrontation with the Time Breakers is not over! But I am never going to give in to anything or anyone evil for as long as I live and beyond!” Steven’s fists clenched. “So bring it on, as I will show you the face of your DESTRUCTION!” Lightning began to build, first around his feet, then his hair, then all around him. The ground rumbled and his aura erupted as he ascended to his true Super Saiyan transformation once more in a burst of righteous fury. “By me…the Shadow Walker, Steven Bloodriver!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The shockwave from his transformation clearing the ash and blood from the ground around him. Steven felt the fire of what gave him life burning inside his chest. His aura surged stronger than ever and arcs of lightning crackled around him, burning fulgurites into the rocky desert soil. His blood-red eyes burned more intense as he set his teeth. His foe’s latest attempt at the lives of him and his loved ones had restored his fervor. “I won’t give up, no matter what the odds. For the ones here at my side and at home are what drive me on.” He was completely focused. Three locks of hair fluttered down over his forehead, his sense of confidence and self-worth as powerful as ever. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Nothing was stopping him from pushing himself further to continue in protecting others, simply knowing if they were in danger reminded Steven of everything he was truly capable of. The Super Saiyan clenched his fists tighter, now battle-ready for the last of the Time Breakers to come on out from his smug facade and attack him in the next instant with his true personality brought to the surface from sensing the power of those who had surpassed and embarrassed him on full display within the Twilight Super Saiyan…only the Black-Masked Saiyan hadn’t moved a muscle since he had landed in front of the Twilight Warrior and the others in a cloud of dust, his blue aura vaporizing the rocks around him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is it, everybody! Please, Mr. Son Goku, Mr. Piccolo, Mr. Son Gohan, Uncle Krillin, and Mr. Tien, let’s get back!” Bra said. The Z Fighters each backed off to a safer distance, each one rooting their hardest for Dark Gohan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Both the Twilight Super Saiyan and the Black-Masked Saiyan turned to look at them as they left, with the former giving them a winning smile. “Thanks for not minding, everyone, especially to you, Lady Bra, but I promise to make it up for all of you when this is all over.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta gave a low growl at the Earthling’s compliment, but Steven ignored him and instead winked to Bra, as if to say, “I got this.” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But Vegeta, ever the one to ruin a perfect moment, especially one happening between his daughter and his greatest enemy, grinned like the maniac that he was as he interrupted the two and raised one hand in Bra’s direction. “Fwahahaha! It is so amusing to think such an annoying little girl can escape from me. It’s almost too bad she has to be killed by me, the Bringer of Death.” The Black-Masked Saiyan laughed, as he instantly began forming a bluish-white sphere in his palm, but even before he could have had fired his charged Big Bang Attack against his own daughter,  <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">a sudden brown leather moccasin smashed into Vegeta’s face, spinning him painfully into the ground, and dissipated his concentrated version of the Galick Gun in his right palm. He bit dirt, his face crushing rock as the overwhelming force of the opening blow of a Super Saiyan’s Savage Demon Sky Kick caused him to eat over a dozen feet of soil. Now tensing, flaring his aura, and whirling around as quickly as he could, the Demon of a Prince could only gasp at what he saw. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Sacred World of the Supreme Kai… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I must confess, this is...disconcerting.” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">East Kaioshin, sole Supreme Kai of the Seventh Universe, sighed as he continued to gaze into the Crystal Ball Kibito had materialized in front of him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Respectfully, his Pupil remained silent. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The high Deity closed his eyes as he pondered the significance of what they had been witnessing. The yoctosecond dragged on into zettaseconds as he turned the events over in his mind. Finally, he opened his eyes and turned to his Apprentice. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Tell me, Kibito: do you believe everything you have heard and seen so far?” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No!” Answered the red-skinned Servant immediately. “Certainly not.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Then you have still much left to learn,” said the Kaioshin gently. “It is true that we should not believe everything without reservation. But we should believe that there is a reason behind everything that we have heard and seen since the birth of the Shadow Walker.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Kibito bowed his head deferentially. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“For we have still yet to see and hear many things today, my friend, things even I and my fellow Kaioshin would have never expected. What the two of us have learned, however, is more important: that the knowledge lost to us when Buu killed my predecessors is far greater than we could have imagined.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It is wisdom to know that we do not know,” quoted the lower God. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Then I am only starting to become wise,” answered East Supreme Kai. “The threat of Majin Buu’s return is now no longer a real problem, but I wonder whether my vigilance in pursuing Babidi has distracted me from learning everything I need to know.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No one could fault you for that, master,” Kibito interrupted. “There is no greater threat to the Seventh Universe than this Saiyan Prince, for not even Majin Buu and Lord Beerus put together could compare to this Bringer of Death and Destruction.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Kaioshin paused, weighing his Pupil’s words. In his many thousands of centuries of life, he had never seen the sort of abilities displayed by this infamous vessel for the Aspect Lord of Darkness. Even so, he still felt certain that the son of the God of the Dark Demon Realm would be able to deal with the Black-Masked Saiyan. Steven Bloodriver was surely more than just more powerful, as the Shadow Walker had the edge over any evil entity like those from this Universe and the Dark Demon Realm. The most forbidden of Black Magic that had led to his survival and rebirth being the culprit for his sheer overwhelming power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But even he still had a fatal weakness, for the terrible power of his father could easily take away his free will and render him to an utterly defenseless vegetative state. But the fatherly love the former Time Breaker Leader had for his son, would have stopped him from doing so unless it was of a last resort. But Vegeta was a far greater threat than even the Demonic God of Time and Space, as he was an even more ruthless and powerful conqueror than Frieza himself, and was perfectly willing to go above and beyond all reason or comprehension to get what he wanted. “Yes, you are right,” he finally said. “Vegeta is indeed the greatest danger this Universe has ever seen.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Besides,” continued his Servant, “it seems he will be defeated once again. And if a mere mortal with power rivaling that of an Aspect Lord was able to accomplish that, wouldn’t it be in our best interest to recruit this Shadow Walker to track down the rest of the threats to the Seventh Universe and kill them?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Kaioshin smirked. It had been more than just mortal power that defeated the Time Breakers and their captured Drakoshin, but the energy of a not fully developed Drakoshin, a race he had never even seen or heard of until today. Even so, he had learned enough from his observations to know that their capacity for harm was only limited to the Dragonspawn. Only one of the few of the last surviving Lords of Light was capable of defeating another of their kind permanently. “While I am inclined to agree, I also am not so certain it be a wise decision to go speak with him today, my friend. For even though Steven Bloodriver, the Shadow Walker spoke of things I know nothing of, as if even the most ancient of secrets were known to him, we would run the risk of upsetting his future wife, the second strongest mortal of all time. So I would suggest we wait until tomorrow to go in making him an Honorary Kaioshin.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Yes, forgive me master, I had forgotten how aggressive women can be when they are trying to look for an Alpha Male to be their mate. But aside from that slight miscalculation, it seems clear the son of Majin Démigra could also be of help in restoring the lives of your predecessors when he becomes old enough. With the threat of the only other known Drakoshin, the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore also be swiftly taken care of when he decides to show himself, which I mean by his counterpart of this world since the other was silenced by none other than Steven. Besides, when Lord Beerus wakes up, we would be treated to him getting his crazy ass beat by a child when his Attendant would warn him of Steven Bloodriver’s heroic deeds. Then when the others like Lord Beerus would arrive to our next coordination meeting in a few hundred years, we would be needing as many as twelve stretchers for them! Hahahahahahahahaha!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Don’t worry about it, Kibito. Such a thing is perfectly normal.” There was a fire in the high Deity’s eyes. “But in the meantime before paying Steven a personal visit, I should go and speak with the Northern Kai of the North Quadrant personally this time. In regards to not missing one single detail of all of what is happening on Earth.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">His Servant gasped. “You can’t be serious, master! Such a lower Kaio is hardly worthy to commune with you face to face. Perhaps you should contact him through Telepathy like before if you must, but—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Now is not the time to concern myself with formalities, Kibito. The fate of the entire Universe could be at stake! I will begin by diligently searching the Ancient Scrolls once more...there are many I have never opened...and if this bears further investigation, I will take action.” It was invigorating to have something other than Majin Buu to concern himself with. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Gizard Wasteland… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">There, standing before the Black-Masked Saiyan, was the Twilight Warrior, bathed in blue. Brilliant and terrible streaks of blue electricity snaked around the warrior’s form, much of the Shadow Walker’s hair stood rigidly and angrily erect. Vegeta gaped, his jaw dropping in stunned, fearful silence. How could this be? It wasn’t possible. Then, as the warrior spoke, it was as if Future Gohan himself had spoken, trumpeting the return of the true avatar of Death itself, antithesis of all life in the Universe, and, at the same time, the one who had truly earned for himself the title: '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Slayer of Darkness. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“It seems the Dark Demon Realm Army had both your body and mind restored with the help of something even more powerful than anything Drakoshin  '''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Majcnavn had ever done before in his life, but even then, it sure took quite a while for you get here. So I assume you were resurrected before the Dragonspawn went rogue,” said Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Impossible… You’re stronger than Kakarot was when he fought Démigra…!?” Cried Vegeta, taking a step back defensively. The cyan-haired warrior was standing motionless, energy pulsing around him like a living flame. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven spoke. “I am actually stronger than them both while in this form, Prince of Jerks. But even in my normal state, you matriarch killer, I am as strong as Mr. Son Gohan would have been as a Super Saiyan 3 if he had continued to train with Mr. Piccolo in the years following the Cell Games. Then as you had sensed before I had surpassed your power with Twilight Super Saiyan, the unleashing of my Super Saiyan power puts me in the same realm of power as Mr. Son Gohan as a Mystic Saiyan.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“INSOLENT BRAT!” Roared Vegeta as he extended his arm, firing a deadly flurry of purple Galick Beams at the Twilight Super Saiyan. Lifting his right hand, Dark Gohan deflected each of the beams in turn, sending them ricocheting into the hundreds of Brethren Moons and completely destroying them. Debris from the just arriving from hyperspace Blood Moons showered them and the Z Fighters as the entire planet and the rest of the known and visible Universe shuddered. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Enraged beyond belief, the Black-Masked Saiyan launched himself forward in a blaze of power, his powerful right arm pulling back to deliver a devastating punch. Shadow Walker Gohan, the Bane of all Evil, leapt forward to meet him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dodging the far-too-obvious punch with a graceful and smooth backflip, Steven threw a spinning kick that connected with the center of Vegeta’s armored chest. Immediately, the reborn Prince was bent double and launched to one side. The Super Saiyan then teleported above him and smashed an elbow down into the back of Vegeta’s neck, sending the second most evil Saiyan in all of history crashing into the ground like a meteor. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The two blows had completely knocked the wind out of the revived Vegeta. Gasping for breath, the Saiyan Lord tried to rise, but Steven Bloodriver fired a blazing Kamehameha from his hands that smashed him down again with a blinding flash. The last Hell Gate of the Dark Demon Realm surrounded by Drakoshin Dragonfire collapsed above them and buried the crippled Black-Masked Saiyan in countless shards of blood and ash. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Twilight Warrior waited, hovering in place, until Vegeta had recovered enough to make sense of his surroundings. “I see that struck a nerve from you, Vegeta. But why is it that you and those that share your name just want to want to keep on lying about yourselves in caring about your friends and family?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta reborn as the Black-Masked Saiyan roared with rage, the lake full of blood and ash burying him being incinerated by his blue aura exploding around him. Steven smiled just as the reborn Prince bent his knees and launched himself forward, his gloved right fist pulling back for a punch. Dark Gohan brazenly stood his ground until the last possible instant, then darted upward, easily evading the attack with another graceful backflip. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“The full power of your base form is nothing to me, descendant of the first to carry your name who had also the nerve to actually TEACH Super Saiyan Rosé to Zamasu.” Steven dashed back down, catching Vegeta with a flying kick to his back that sent him sprawling, bouncing three times across the Gizard Wasteland’s barren landscape. “Even in my normal Super Saiyan state, I would still be able to beat you, Vegeta. As unlike you, I wouldn’t mind in the least to ask for help from my loved ones. But to let you know, both of us are strong enough to challenge and even kill the Gods of Destruction.” He flew down to the ground as the panting reborn Prince tried to regain his footing. “Not that power levels always determine a battle; battle instincts and bravery are just as important.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Saiyan Lord was shaking with rage, but his voice was steady. This doppelganger of the one who had killed him for the first time had robbed him of his only chance for revenge, to avenge his pride and honor. He had insulted his family, brutalized him, and even had the gall to swoon his own flesh and blood. "Rarely" would the reborn Prince of the Saiyans ever let his emotions get the best of him, but this was a special occasion. “Foolish brat! You have no idea the horrors that await you. For I will make you and your entire "family" pay dearly for your treacherous insolence to the Lord of this and every other Universe!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Having already fought and defeated you three times, I do'' know what to expect from a ruthless, heartless bastard like you.” Answered Steven. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Ignoring the Twilight Saiyan’s insult, Vegeta lifted his fists and tensed, Super Saiyan Rosé energy suddenly surging around him. The very fabric of space and time began to shake all across the Universe as now his aura of a flaming darkness expanded in a whirlwind, which forced his body to change it’s hair to light pink, with pure-white highlights and also warp it’s eyes to a light pink. The Masked Saiyan’s body continued to tremble as it contorted. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I see you are changing into the Super Saiyan Rosé form. Raising your strength by twelve percent to what it was earlier when you had first fought me.” Steven’s smile grew wider, eager to prove himself once again. “Also it was pretty ingenious of you to have trained yourself into even being able to handle that sinister form just after your resurrection.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Almost instantaneously, the Black-Masked Saiyan’s armor gained a purple hue as glowing purple particles along with golden electricity burst to join his aura. The explosion of energy forced Steven’s aura several yards back, though the Twilight Super Saiyan maintained his position. Vegeta’s former imposing form was now even more so, as his body after having finally transformed, had the silhouette of the source of his power as a Super Saiyan Rosé, Aladjinn The Great Demon, acting as his shadow now. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball: Xeno Timeline 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Age 854, during the wedding day of Trunks and the Supreme Kai of Time 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Time Nest… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Dang it! You’ve got to be kidding me!” Said the annoyed Goddess of Time. She had been on her way to get her wedding dress from her house when she had picked up on and traced the source of the one who had seemingly mended the distortions across several timelines caused by the late Majcnavn, but with her almost running late to her own wedding, she really didn’t have the time to personally see to the matter. The pretty female Kaioshin went into hysterics as she started making her way to the Time Storage Vault to have a better view of this mysterious time-traveler about to correct another space-time distortion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I’ll be damned if it turns out that jerk Démigra had a son!?” She burst out, stomping her way angrily through the sidewalk leading to the steps that entered into the building housing the Time Vault. “I just can’t catch a break! First I actually forget my own wedding dress at home and I now probably have to deal with an evolved version of Cell with the same powers as that smug Demon God!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The young girl with pinkish-red hair and light purple skin opened the double doors she was facing and slammed them behind her. “I only hope he stays to be like Goku and Trunks, or literally  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">everyone and everything will be so royally screwed all across time and space!” She muttered before she began her search over for the Scroll of Eternity detailing the events of the fourth timeline of the Bringer of Death Universe for her potential new ally or enemy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball Z: Wicked Rebirth Timeline 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Age 764, a moment following the Bringer of Death’s return from the Dark Abyss… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Earth… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Overhearing, Vegeta smirked. “Well, haha, I think I have to hurry this along then.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">On the opposite side of the Time Breaker, Steven crouched into a broad fighting stance the Black-Masked Saiyan had immediately recognized as King Piccolo’s. “I see now, Darkness Towa had used the rest of the Galaxy Sphere to bring you back, Black-Masked Saiyan. But in doing so, the prehistoric Dragon Ball imbued with the Magic of the Drakoshin was rendered completely inert in order to even keep you from going back into the Dark Abyss.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Humph. So much for this trinket on my face being capable of blocking out your detestable technique of looking into the souls of those like me. Well, no matter. For I, Lord Vegeta, the Prince of all Saiyans, will have his vengeance.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The reborn Prince stood in place for one more long, silent moment. Then he struck. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Whipping one arm around, his body only a blur the Z Fighters could barely catch sight of, Vegeta launched a powerful Kiai across the Gizard Wasteland, invisible except for the arcs of lightning that trailed behind it. To the few in the spectators quick enough to follow, it was immediately obvious that this simple Kiai contained more than enough force to instantly crush any one of the many monsters they had formerly faced in battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven threw one fist out, blocking with his own Kiai of equal strength, then launched himself off the ground with enough intensity to leave behind a crater in the ground. His aura left a sparkling arc through the air, leading straight into Vegeta. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THU’UM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Even the fastest eyes among the Z Fighters missed the kick that catapulted Vegeta all the way across the Solar System in less than a split second. The Black-Masked Saiyan twirled in midair just in time, hovering above in the frigid upper atmosphere of Pluto, and just only narrowly blocked the punch Steven had waiting for him. The force of the exchange sent most of what was just below their feet into oblivion, as well as shooting cracks through the dimensional walls that separated the dimension from the countless others. After the quick guard, Time Breaker Vegeta immediately countered with his own punch, but the much younger warrior who had gone through a wicked rebirth had managed to block it in turn and, angling himself carefully behind his foe, landed another blindingly fast kick. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The force from this one was even greater, rocketing the Prince of Death and Destruction across the Universe at speeds well beyond light. However, as if he had all the time in the world, Vegeta rolled over in mid-flight and let loose a rapid-fire stream of energy blasts as he arced up into the skyline of the Sacred Planet of the Supreme Kais. Chasing after, Steven wove between. An azure trail of energy flowed out behind him as the Twilight Saiyan expertly circled and spun through and around the barrage. The Earthling’s smile never faltered for an instant until he finally caught up to his opponent and slammed into Vegeta at full force with the center of his forehead. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta’s crossed arms absorbed the impact, but Steven’s momentum carried the pair through three of the massive mountains behind the Black-Masked Saiyan in a trail of shattered wood and rock before slowing. The reborn Prince of Death and Destruction then released an asymmetric gust of Ki that pushed Steven back to a safe distance as he came to a screeching halt just in front of the Supreme Kai and Kibito. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Heh,” he chuckled, his breathing still steady and relaxed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven smiled, keeping his guard at the ready. He too, appeared completely at ease. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The two ultimate warriors floated in midair a hundred feet above the ground of the Sacred World of the Supreme Kai and nearly a foot away from where the Supreme Kai and Kibito were standing on a plateau, in a brief full yoctosecond of silence. FLAM! This time Vegeta made the first move, his staccato of punches flying faster than anything Steven had ever seen. Bracing, the other warrior resurrected by Dark Magic traded blows with him at lightning speed; it sounded like the rumbling of constant thunder. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With each punch, the other fighter gave the perfect counter time and time again—as if this were a dance the two had choreographed and practiced each day for hours on end. With each change of pace, the other warrior would adapt perfectly. When Steven shifted onto offense, his rival perfectly transitioned into defensive counters and blocks. When Vegeta changed tactics, mixing up the speed and strength of his blows, altering the timing in his rhythm, Steven made it seem as if the reborn Prince were changing nothing at all. There were no stray attacks, no missed swings that sent damaging Ki shockwaves through both the Universe and afterlife. Rather, with each powerful blow, an equal and opposite force was placed in perfect synchronous rhythm. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Wow...I think that when the clone of my son had healed me just like how Dende did way back on Namek, he had also greatly improved my instincts and senses,” Goku said silently. “As I kind of can keep up with both Shadow Walker Gohan and that rotten to the core Vegeta. But how in the world could it even be possible that the former member of the Red Ribbon Army that is my sort of my second son managed to even obtain the power to heal?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I believe I know why, Mr. Son Goku,” the half-Alien time-traveling daughter of his archrival from a parallel Universe answered back. “It seems it was because of my Steven being so much more than just an evolved Bio-Android.” She continued. “As, when he had dealt with Drakoshin Majcnavn in a heartbeat, I happened to notice that my husband-to-be had undeveloped power very similar to the Dragonspawn’s Drakoshin form.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">After nearly five straight yoctoseconds of the most perfectly-matched, perfectly smooth combat anything and anyone in the Universe and beyond capable of watching the fight had ever seen, Vegeta broke rhythm and spun around behind Steven. The other warrior flipped himself upside down and the two locked their fists together, seemingly dead even in strength. The Bringer of Death and Destruction rotated until they were facing each other again, their grip twisted, and they hung motionless yet again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Black-Masked Saiyan known as Prince Vegeta raised one knee to break the lock just as Steven did the same. Each shifted weight, twisting and adjusting, looking for the slightest advantage in leverage, but they remained perfectly balanced. It was as if each were reading the other’s mind—not through any mental technique, but through the perfect assessment of the other’s strengths and weaknesses. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven began raising his strength, his azure aura flaring out behind him. Vegeta matched the increase with a freshly-unleashed wave of his own, each pushing at the other. Intertwined fingers burned with heat and electricity. Unsatisfied with the intensity, the older of the two warriors clenched his teeth together and snapped his head forward into Steven’s, only to be met by an equally-violent rejoinder. The shockwaves from their foreheads, a familiar sound to any fighter, echoed through the Universe. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Both ultimate warriors maintained their grip on the other, pulling each other in as their foreheads banged again and again in succession. It seemed like they could go on for hours without feeling the slightest pain. Then, just when it seemed that those below them couldn’t stand it anymore, a small spray of blood finally leaked from one of the warriors’ heads before it was followed by the sound of broken glass. Now with his face exposed for all to see, the red trail leaking from the gash in his forehead slowly crawled down Vegeta’s right eyebrow, collecting there before it dripped down lower onto his chin. Grinning, he stuck his tongue out, licked the small sliver of red, and spat it onto the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“That’s so petty from such a warrior! Defiling such a sacred place with their own wad of saliva and lukewarm blood!” The other warrior immediately commented. Instantly, it seemed, the mood was broken. Both finally released their grip on the other, the Prince of Death and Destruction wiping the crimson stain off his forehead and Steven lowering his hands before resuming his relaxed fighting stance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Humph, as one would expect from an utterly imperfect, flawed, and downright ugly biological chimera such as yourself, it seems as though the spoiled rotten brat of Kakarot and the weakling Namek’s DNA has given you the weakness of caring for those weaker than yourself. What a waste… For you are just like that damn KAKAROT!?” His voice crescendoed as he flung his right arm out with a point blank Big Bang Attack. But somehow, Steven was prepared, already leaning to his right in a dodge. In his own right hand was a small attack of his own which he threw in quick reply. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta smiled at the maneuver, accelerating straight up so that the Draco Masendan passed beneath him. A moment later, the two blasts crashed into the just arriving Brethren Moons many meters on either side of them, each detonating with a larger explosion than even Steven’s Makosen. The entire realm of the Supreme Kais shook violently as bits of the Brother Moons began to crumble and fall below. But before the dust could even settle, the two ultimate warriors were back at it again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven threw both hands forward, firing another mid-sized, crackling electric blue energy sphere that rocketed at his foe. Vegeta backhanded the signature move of Steven straight back at him an instant later, but Steven returned the volley with his right hand and with his left fired a second spread of energy blasts. Unfazed, Vegeta lit his Ki brightly around him and charged through both attacks like a freight train—the Draco Masendan and the Renzoku Makōhō deflected away from his aura like if they were nothing. But the other warrior met his charge with a sweeping upward kick aimed at his belly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta barely managed to dodge the blow, appearing immediately behind Steven with an elbow to the back. But the clone of the son of Goku dodged as well, vanishing with a ZIP and rematerializing behind Vegeta. Just as he swung his own counter, a strong left fist, the reborn Prince disappeared again. Steven spun, anticipating an attack from behind, the clone of Gohan wheeled just in time to block a punch from the other Super Saiyan. They were obviously matched in skill; the spectators could only gape in silence. Then the two fighters whirled and spun in a deadly dance, continuing to deliver powerful blows at lightning speed. But their defenses were as flawless as their attacks; not a single blow had landed since they had stopped playing Saiyan Volleyball. Vegeta caught the clone’s elbow strikes and evaded his powerful kicks; Steven dodged or parried the Super Saiyan  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Rosé’s rapid punches. Those below, watching with bulging eyes, felt each block thunder through the very foundations of creation like cannon fire. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With a sudden warrior’s grin, the pink-haired Prince exploded backward, cocking his right fist and filling his left with a ball of energy. Steven smoothly took the stance of Piccolo Daimao and followed the monster in front of him by lifting off from where he was above the ground, and flying straight forward with speed equal to the vile Prince Vegeta. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Now laughing madly, Vegeta released the ball of energy, sending it rushing toward Steven. “That’s it… Come and meet your demise, you pale as fuck weakling! GALICK BLAZER!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Did all that powering up make your brain swell a bit more than it already had? What do you suppose is going on in there? Ultra Super Vegeta?” Steven yelled in quick reply before he dodged with a burst of super speed, then dashed down and swung his leg forward with a powerful kick aimed for the reborn Prince’s head. The Super Saiyan Rosé blocked it with both his forearms, but his Twilight Super Saiyan assailant allowed the impact to flip him over as he then responded with an axe kick to the center of Vegeta’s chest. The monster went flying backward, with all of the typical swearing of the Prince of all Saiyans being heard along the way for all to hear across the battlefield. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“HYAA!” Shouted Steven as he accelerated rapidly, coming around behind Vegeta and smashing him to the ground with a crushing double fist to the back of his head. He rose into the air, his aura pulsing vibrantly around him. “Ready to call it quits, Prince of Jerks? Or do I have to continue beating you to a pulp?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta pulled himself out of the rubble, still shamelessly swearing to himself, then rose into the air to match Steven. “Oh, I’m shaking in my little space boots, Shadow Walker Gohan. But I do have three words for you to remember me by.” The vile Saiyan Prince pulled both hands behind the left side of his head. “SUPER GALICK FLASH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But the light pink attack crackling with golden lightning passed through empty air as Steven Bloodriver super-sped to one side. Shock and disbelief filled Vegeta’s face. “It…it can’t be!” The Twilight Super Saiyan before him seemed to be moving with the same insufferable technique that felt exactly like his rival’s own. But there wasn’t time to even ponder how that was possible as the cyan–haired warrior exploded out toward him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“This is a NIGHTMARE! Not even my smug as fuck personality and  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Rosé swagger is helping to get me an edge over this Albino Super Saiyan!” Shouted Vegeta. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The reborn pink Prince rolled to one side, narrowly dodging the roundhouse kick of Steven, then accelerated backward while he released rapid-fire blasts of crimson energy from his fists. Steven blocked the first few, then simply ducked and dove toward the ground as the balls of energy making up the Super Saiyan Rosé Black-Masked Saiyan’s Renzoku Super Galick Gun followed him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Humph! Stand still, you damned fool, and let me hit you,” Vegeta roared, becoming more and more frustrated by the moment. Steven, who was doing quite the opposite merely gave a chuckle. “Nah, I’ve got something much better in mind, MC Widow’s Peak.” The neutral Super Saiyan then stopped dodging Vegeta’s furious rapid-fire version of his Super Galick Gun attack and teleported straight up, in perfect position to catch the ruthless Demon of a Prince with a devastating kick to the gut. “Like for me to once again show you why you are not as flawless and perfect as you think you are!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta doubled over and spat blood, coughing. “Humph, your unwavering confidence…it disgusts me to no end. No doubt you had inherited it from your father. But you were dead wrong in the fact that I wasn’t completely and utterly perfect. For I’ll teach you to lecture me with your pitiful lies, boy!” The Black-Masked Saiyan swung hard at Steven’s face, but the Twilight Super Saiyan reached up his hand and caught it. Twisting his wrist hard to the right, he bent the sinister Prince of Rosés over and kicked him hard in the face. But the evil Super Saiyan Rosé had caught himself against the ground, then he had looked up angrily at his foe. Still stubbornly refusing to believe that he was outmatched, he took off once again, heading straight for the face of his affliction. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But this time, Vegeta had been more tactical in his approach. “Spatial Rift!” He shouted. Instantly, he vanished like a flash of lightning and rifted into view right next to Steven, and he had then delivered a right palm to the boy’s shocked face before the Prince of Rosés had then with his left hand swung a hard blow to the other Prince’s stomach. With the Twilight Super Saiyan stunned by the glancing blows, his pink-haired assailant from the dreaded Dark Abyss had then reached around and elbowed him in the upper back just below the neck. Then, as Steven toppled forwards, Vegeta reverse sweep-kicked him higher up into the air. Dashing after him, the Black-Masked Saiyan readied an even harder double fist, raised above his head, and grinned violently. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Just in the nick of time, Steven’s Ki exploded around him more powerful than ever and he accelerated rather than reversing. At his top speed, the blue legendary warrior was staying just ahead of the pursuing  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">crazed Prince of the Saiyans. But best of all, the clone of Gohan was in the perfect position to try out one of his favorite finishing moves. Spinning his body around in midflight to face the vile Vegeta, Steven put his left and right hand out and fired. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Super Kamehameha!” The intense blast of blue energy shot out of the Twilight Saiyan’s palms with extreme speed. Vegeta’s eyes bulged wide as he realized his mistake, he had then quickly threw up his arms to block—there was barely time to react as he flew full speed straight into the attack like a bullseye. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">PHOOM! The explosion was deafening. The shockwaves from the blast were so intense that the realms home to the hellish denizens of both the Dark Demon Realm and of both Hells of the other seventeen Universes and even beyond just to over to at least thirteen others of the virtually infinite amount of both normal and parallel Universes that were outside of the one Steven Bloodriver, the Shadow Walker, and Lord Vegeta, the Bringer of Death, were doing their final battle to decide the fate of both their entire and every other Multiverse in were both thrown into complete and utter chaos. Then, from the debris cloud, the dark and hazy form of the  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Rosé started to fall. Crashing into the ground like a meteor with an ear-splitting thud, Vegeta’s severely scorched body kicked up a massive cloud of dust. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But despite this, Vegeta had already recovered and was back again on his feet. Then from straight out of the smoke below Shadow Walker Gohan, Vegeta had charged at him like a rocket leaving orbit, two fists extended up. Thinking quickly, though, the Z Fighter raised two fingers to his head for one of his favorite moves, the Instant Transmission. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">TZZCH! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">He avoided the attack by the narrowest of margins, retaliating with a one-handed energy blast thrown at Vegeta from his blind spot to the back left. This time, the reborn Prince was finally caught unprepared as the attack exploded against his armor and sent him flying across the Heavens. To slow himself, the Black-Masked Saiyan threw his hands forward and launched a Kiai at the dimensional wall he was about to crash into, but Steven was upon him once again, relentlessly pursuing with Instant Transmission once again. The righteous fighter’s kick struck Vegeta full in the jaw, completely ripping it off of the reborn Prince’s face before Steven quickly followed up with a knee from behind. Now, having his momentum completely negated at the same time that his Time Breaker armor had shattered into countless microscopic fragments, Steven Bloodriver took advantage of Lord Vegeta’s fully exposed torso, laying down dozens and dozens of blazing-fast and ungodly powerful punches while he had the opening. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before the reborn Prince of Death and Destruction had any chance of reacting, the other warrior had instantly reduced him to his constituent molecules. The nearly boiled off to vapor fine red mist drifting through the air was all that was left of him, but that didn’t stop Steven from raising his hands directly in front of him. Then as he had done before, he fired his already-charged Masenko at point-blank range. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“HAAAA!” The blast, bright gold and crackling with Steven’s own electricity, slammed with incredible force right in the center of Vegeta’s remains. The attack launched what remained of Vegeta across the entire length of the Universe in an instant, causing everything that made up his being to slam violently through star after star, allowing them to burn the liquefied remains of Vegeta along the way. Then just when the still conscious Prince of Death and Destruction felt he might have reached the end of his torment, though, Steven detonated the blast with a simple clench of his fist, causing an enormous spherical explosion wave. Light blue waves shot down towards the trembling Champa and Vados, almost as if a Universe had just exploded. The Universe and the afterlife shook once again, audience members that included the two visiting Gods of the Universe instinctively threw their arms up to cover their eyes from the light. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“NOO!” They shouted, holding up both hands to try and block the Masenko turned Draco Masendan...but the electric blue wave of pure and utter destruction didn’t even slow down as it engulfed them entirely, slamming into their bodies with violent force. Gravity could not contain it’s momentum; rather than curving along with the surface of  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Beerus’ Planet, it pierced through the clouds and atmosphere into Beerus’ Castle. The Draco Masendan would extend even beyond the very edge of the Universe before dissipating once it had reached the realms of the living, the dead, and of the last of the Lords of Light. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Drakoshin Majcnavn raised one arm to shield himself from the brilliance of the beam, but was still completely swallowed up and reduced to fragments...then like all of the monsters before him, there was nothing left of the Drakoshin, not even ash. When the smoke cleared an instant later, Steven watched carefully...but there was nothing left of those who were evil all across the Universe and even beyond it, not even those who were the so-called Gods of Destruction that governed in the other end of the spectrum to the Lords of Creation had survived in any way from Steven’s Draco Masendan having severed all their ties to any realm of existence permanently and without consequence. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Now cracking a smile, Steven stood tall and relaxed his aura, but remained transformed. He continued looking into the tapestry of dazzling diamond-like stars for a few moments, making sure the ones he targeted were truly gone before he made his way to the others on Earth, lifting himself up from where he was before flying to them. Unable to contain her exhilaration any longer, Bra took off from the ground and rushed to Steven, reaching him before he would have touched down in front of her and their family and friends, lifted, and playfully spun her friend in the air around her. The two were sharing eye-contact and giggling in childish glee as Bra continued in spinning Steven around wholeheartedly. Before she stopped and set him down in front of her. “Wow! You are simply incredible Steven! I never knew you were THAT strong! I also really like how you fought and looked against the Time Breakers and their deformed remnants, especially in this new form of yours!” Prior to Steven responding to Bra’s praise. “Thank you Lady Bra, but I am terribly sorry I couldn’t keep my promise. Vegeta kept me on my toes the whole time I fought him. It took me defeating him four times in a row to finally end his crazed plan of wiping out us and the Time Patrollers across every dimension within the Multiverse. But since I stopped him and the future threats to come, we can safely restore everything back to normal with a wish from the Black Star Dragon Balls, as they are the only set of Dragon Balls powerful enough to undo the damage Majcnavn and the Time Breakers had done.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Lady Bra, to make up for me not being able to keep the promise, I will teach you what I know, and I will give you this too.” Before he had ever so gently carried her by his arms and gave Bra a very passionate kiss. Bra had her eyes open at first as Steven kissed her, before she had closed them and wrapped her arms around him to pull Steven closer to her as the two enjoyed their loving embrace. Love was in the air, as the moment seemed to calm even the devastation around them and since Steven was such an amazing lover. Bra didn’t want to stop kissing him, a few moments went by before they were interrupted by Bra’s stomach rumbling louder than a Lion’s roar. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">LUUURRGH. Right on cue, Bra apologized bashfully to both the boy holding her in his arms and the other heroes just a few meters behind her for startling them. “Pardon me everyone, I never got the chance to eat breakfast. But I never would have thought my stomach would growl as loud as thunder just out of missing out on eating it on time.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The group burst out laughing. “Don’t worry about it, Princess Bra. You don’t need to apologize to us, we just need to call forth Ultimate Shenron to make our wish before we stop by my home here on this Earth. Chi-Chi and I should only take a few minutes to make enough delicious food and beverages for everyone.” Exclaimed Goku. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Thank you very much, Mr. Son Goku,” said Bra. “I will ask my Steven if he could bring our family and friends from my dimension to join us right away with his unique ability to travel through time and space without consequence. Once we return I will have much to do, I first off would ask if my man-to-be of this timeline, the youngest and most powerful person ever, if he would like it or not for me to already ask him if we could get married and have our wedding by the end of today, then once we are all done catching up and stuffing ourselves silly, I get the feeling my Steven would help with any chores around the houses of both my homes and those of everyone else here. The penultimate thing to do for my list of errands would have myself go shopping with my future husband so that I could get him and myself the clothes for and after our wedding. Then finishing everything up with my training under both my father, the real Vegeta, and my husband, Steven Bloodriver, the one true soulmate for me, before hunting down anything and anyone evil who would even dare to try to take my Steven away from me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku nodded excitedly, welcoming the promise of getting to know his alternate self from the future and their extended family. “I certainly won’t turn any of that down. I think everyone will get along just fine, and all of us here in this world really have been waiting to see you and Steven again and to thank you both for helping us so much.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Your very welcome everybody, I am happy to have been helpful at all. But I don’t deserve any credit for all of the accomplishments we all have done together as a team, as I and my man merely inspired all of you to prevent evil from winning.” The Super Saiyan replied to the other and the rest of their family and friends. “I really must be thanking all of you for giving me so much love and respect in spite of me being an almost complete stranger to many of you and of me being related to both Vegeta and Mira.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Just when Steven was about to speak again, the stomach of his rival’s daughter rumbled just as loud as it had done before. LUUURRGH. The Princess of Saiyans, now clenching her teeth, turned to Steven and apologized. “Sorry, my love for interrupting you. But if it’s any conciliation, I was interrupted by a certain cocky bastard turned snide asshole before I could had even eaten breakfast.” Still not having even come close to getting rid of his face flushing bright red with sexual arousal from what he had heard earlier from his soon-to-be-wife, Steven spoke to Bra and the Z Fighters in a not at all composed tone. “As Mr. Son Goku had said, Lady Bra. You have proven to be a true heroine many times over in the eyes of myself and those we care for. We don’t really mind having such a perfect example of what a heroine should be like in either of our families. Now let’s get those Black Star Dragon Balls out to call the Eternal Dragon for I am looking forward to today as well.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Power Levels: 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku: 20 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku (4X Kaioken): 80 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Goku: 165 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku (After being healed by Steven): 31 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">False Super Saiyan Goku: 170 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Goku: 176 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Piccolo (With Weights): 10 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Piccolo (Multi-Form Clone): 1.250 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Gohan: 8 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Krillin: 100,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Tien: 2.5 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Tien (Multi-Form Clone): 625,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Tien (Multi-Form Clone, with 9X Kaioken): 5.625 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Larval Cell: 165 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver: 3.1 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver (Plus Bio Extract from Goku Black): 9.2 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Steven Bloodriver: 9.345 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Twilight Super Saiyan Steven Bloodriver: 92 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Bra: 41 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Bra: 41. 750 billion '

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta: 25 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Vegeta: 170 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Vegeta’s Final Flash: 243 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Vegeta’s Super Final Flash: 720 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Majcnavn’s Majin Vegeta: 9.2 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Majcnavn’s Majin Vegeta (Super Saiyan Rosé; not seen): 10.304 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Black-Masked Saiyan: 80.960 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Rosé Black-Masked Saiyan: 92 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku Black: 3.1 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku Black (Zenkai’d): 6.1 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Legendary Super Saiyan Broly: 2.9 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Majcnavn’s Majin Broly: 8.9 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Suppressed Goku Black: 110% of Beerus’ full power 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku Black maximum:  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">142% of Beerus’ full power 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku Black vs Gogeta and Gohanks: 590% of Beerus’ full power 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Rosé Goku Black: 602% of Beerus’ full power 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku Black (After being worn down by Gogeta and Gohanks): 9.3 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Rosé Goku Black (After being worn down even further by Steven): 10.416 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira (Base Form): 92 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mira (Base Form, after barely surviving his own Super Big Nova): 47 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Majcnavn’s Demon Spawn: 67,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Clone Zamasu: 39 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Drakoshin Majcnavn: 9.3 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Mecha Frieza: 169 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Broly (A Type): 167 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Lord Slug (Youth Restored): 169 million 

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Credits: Inspired by the original metaseries, themselves, of Rosario+Vampire, Power Rangers, Pokémon, Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Super, and Dragon Ball GT, the Arcade series, Dragon Ball Heroes, the Webcomic, Dragon Ball Multiverse, the Fanmangas of both Dragon Ball New Age and Dragon Ball After The Future, and as well as the Fanfictions of Bringer of Death and The Fall Of Lord Frieza, also to the Resident Evil, Metroid, Castlevania, and Dead Space series of videogames and books. '

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Disclaimer: The Dragon Ball and every other mentioned franchise aforementioned and also within the story are the property of their respective creators and the other entities that have co-created or broadcast or otherwise disseminated official content for the franchises. '

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black">Super Dragon Ball Heroes: Assault on the Inferno Nightmare Mission! '

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">By: Steve9021 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black">“And the winner of the Dragon Ball Heroes Tournament goes to… Steven Bloodriver!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black">Steven and his Dragon Ball Heroes Deck of the Son and Brief Families had been more of a match for Angel’s monstrous Frieza Clan Deck. In a desperate ploy for revenge, Angel sacrificed his Humanity, allowing his signature Frieza card to corrupt his very soul. After Frieza merged with him, his power and arrogance soared to unimaginable heights. For a moment, Angel had succeeded in actually becoming strong enough to defeat Steven. Taking his revenge on him by destroying the commercial airliner the boy was on with a single Death Beam following the Dragon Ball Heroes Tournament. '

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black">Yet following the destruction of the airliner and Africa, Steven’s dead body falls into a hot spring containing a multitude of Lazarus Crystals and the roots of a single wild Senzu Beansprout. The rejuvenation properties of both then instantly revive and strengthen the genes of the Human boy, evolving him into a Saiyan. In fact, the Zenkai he gained following his resurrection made him far superior to even the Evil Emperor, Frieza. Alas, he also woke up with a start underwater, without any memory of who he was before, but as soon as he swam to the surface, the Demon in Human skin was waiting for him… '

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Hero Reborn Saga - Part 1: Resurgence 

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">History of Trunks Timeline. Age 789, nine years after the death of Future Gohan, '

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">With a loud splash, Steven broke through the water. But was then instantly picked up by his black Martial Arts Gi, Angel looked straight into the blood-red eyes of the boy that had once been the son of Goku with fury, hate, and a desperate lust for revenge in his eyes. The evil Angel then pulled his other fist back for the kill. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I don’t know exactly how you had survived an attack that destroyed this entire continent, but I don’t really care how you had done it! For you won’t survive this time!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">But he was wrong…for the Steven he knew was long gone, what remained of him was the purity of latent Saiyan battle instinct, not of a mindless berserker, but of a dangerous and unpredictable warrior with the reasoning of a Human heart. As now, inside himself, he felt something break loose, opening the door to that pure, directed, violent, matchless power he knew was waiting. His true self had awakened. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Worthless and insignificant fool! Even if you were with your group of friends like before when you had beaten me and my dear subordinates in the real world, you would have still died by my hand!” Angel yelled, a deathly vile jet-black aura enveloping his body in a blaze of power that instantly cleared the skies of any clouds of the Eastern Hemisphere. “But this time I will make sure no more miracles will end up saving you from me!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“STEVEN!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven watched in slow motion as Angel’s enormous fist rotated toward him, jagged waves of solid black energy in it’s deadly wake. The Demon in Human skin’s brown tanned hand, bigger than Steven’s entire head, seemed only inches from Steven’s face. The monster’s brown murderous eyes glazed over in extreme rage as he roared out. “¡AHORA MUERE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The youth with the same light peach complexion as Gohan, but with an otherwise taller figure and lengthened, wild cut black hair that was reminiscent of Goku’s. The very same brown tail as the Saiyans, but with it being hidden underneath his clothes. Which were of a unique line of black Namekian clothing with a pronounced red obi around the waist, a red wrist band on both arms, and a pair of brown Namekian-style shoes. A physique making him look like if he was at least five years older than he really was, despite who he was before being at the time nowhere near as developed. Eyes revealing blood-red irises being the very same shade of red as his obi and wristbands, then grinned widely and lifted his eyes to fearlessly meet those of the evil Angel’s. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">THRUCKK. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Blue tendrils of electricity erupted around Steven’s hand as it caught Angel’s punch effortlessly. The jagged sparks snaked down his arm and around his body, encircling him. He felt a burning, warming sensation shoot all the way from his ears down to the tips of his fingers. The power was boiling over. He couldn’t hold it back anymore, couldn’t contain it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“RRRRGGHHAAAAAAAAHHHH!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver’s cry echoed across the decimated landscape, shaking the ground. Angel Garcia then was violently hurled back by a brilliant explosion of power that sent fingers of electric blue light piercing in every direction. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Saiyan’s already-wild hair intensified in hue, stiffening into more and more jagged locks that made him look even more like Gohan. His fingers tingled as jagged waves of electricity arced around and through them. A warm aura of a light blue erupted into a violent firestorm, ten times larger than anything Steven and Gohan had shown before. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Though the energy flowing through his body was an explosion, an inferno of flame, that made his every muscle taut and perfectly sculpted like if he was an actual Super Saiyan, his mind was filled with clarity. He had to protect his home, the Earth and all of her people from Angel, the Human with Arcosian blood. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“There’s nothing you can do, Demon in Human skin,” he began, his own face now taunt. “Because only you have yourself to blame for me becoming your executioner.” “For I’m going to pulverize you with everything I have.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Monster from Laredo rolled to his feet and roared, a black Death Ball coated in majestic red fire appearing just above his right palm. “Ahórrame sus amenazas vacías, Muchacho del Mono! No me importa si tengo que destruir el Universo de librarse de ti! ¡Fuera! El último de los Súper Saiyajin y los Terrestres por igual!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Extending one hand forward, Angel hurled his attack at an all-too-ready Steven. The Saiyan simply stretched one hand forward, catching the small planet-sized energy sphere with the tips of his fingers. Then, gripping the blast tightly, he popped it like a balloon. The ensuing explosion of dark red flame erupted around him with a gigantic mushroom cloud. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel flew toward the explosion, his massive right arm cocked back. But just as he reached the edge, Steven appeared above him, spinning down with an angular right kick that sent him plummeting toward the surface. Angel’s already enraged eyes widened further from the pain, his chest covered by a white and orange shirt feeling something snap under the bruise that was forming over his left ribs. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Well then there goes two of your ribs and a punctured lung,” Steven laughed. “But I won’t stop making you suffer until I destroy you and whatever Demon you fused with.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before Angel Garcia’s fall could even meet with the ground, Steven caught up with the Humanoid abomination, hitting the evil Angel in the chin with a strong uppercut that sent the giant Demon back up into the air. His body, shrouded in black, glowed against the dark skyline of the Earth, the starry canopy above providing a poignant backdrop. Angel, now both shocked and even more furious, crossed his arms in front of his face defensively. And yet Steven continued chasing him, easily braking through his guard with a single punch, before slamming punches and kicks into his upper body. The young warrior’s speed and power left a trail of sparks as he pounded Angel Garcia while they made their way across the dark canopy above in the starry night sky. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">WHISSH! The evil Angel tried to land a heavy kick, but Steven dodged it easily and swung around with his own double fist. BADAM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“How does it feel you psychopathic monster descended from others just like yourself! You are nothing but a dirty coward trying to make yourself and others think you are actually a threat! But in reality, you had sold your own soul for more power as you were and still are too scared to challenge me yourself, isn’t that right you sorry excuse for a Human being!?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Demon in Human skin finally was allowed to plummet to the ground, landing with a thunderous crash that shook the planet for miles. Gripping a handful of dirt and crushing it in his right palm, the Monster of Laredo lifted his head. Steven had dropped lightly to the edge of the crater with his arms crossed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A low growl came through the brown Demon’s mouth as he made his way up onto one knee. “¡Cállate! Al igual que usted es uno de hablar, Steven! Usted sería nada así sin su milagrosa transformación en un Saiyajin!” He growled, earning him a grin from Steven. It didn’t make sense, how everything had suddenly, changed. ''“How in the name of me did Steven recover from me cracking his neck, vaporizing both his heart and lungs, and crippling him?! How could he then have power even rivaling mine without even having transformed into the Super Simian form of those blasted Saiyan Monkeys? Steven even appears to be much stronger than Mecha Frieza and King Cold were before they were made into dust by that Future Super Saiyan! Again without even achieving any Super Saiyan power at all despite now him entering the same realm of the Super Saiyans as that damn future son of Goku! How is it even possible that I continue to not gain any headway against this Teen Gohan look-alike with such ungodly power swirling madly around him?!”'' Angel pulled himself to his feet, his enormous arms and legs tearing through the rock like butter. He was panting, now, and Steven could indeed see bruises all over Angel Garcia, the blows had left the Demon unable to stop himself from seeing stars and catching his breath. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Even though I don’t really know who you are exactly, I can still tell you had been able to comeback from the edge of defeat by letting yourself be infected by a Mutant and use his effeminate Alien power to empower yourself almost like how a true fusion between two individuals would,” Steven said casually. “Or so you think, Mr. Evil. For you haven’t noticed in that your health is in quite bad shape as even before we dueled, I had noticed the power corrupting you is slowly lessening your lifespan and even though it isn’t affecting you yet, it is about to. You really should have had waited until it was safe to actually fight.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The hulking Demon in Human skin had begun to tremble. He felt an all too familiar sense of fear once again, his opponent only needed to sense his Ki to figure out what happened to him. Not only was the Saiyan the most powerful warrior he’d ever encountered, he was the strongest being he’d ever imagined, period. Steven Bloodriver’s defiance and strength were unexpected and overwhelming…but Angel pushed the fear out of his mind. This Saiyan was a monster, a monster with power beyond legend. But he could be beaten like all the rest before him, Saiyans are a prideful warrior race after all. The Great Evil God Angel threw out his arms with anger. “YEEAARGH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A Super Explosive Wave immediately vaporized everything in it’s radius, leaving a large crater hundreds of miles across. Steven uncrossed his arms and kept his wild smile, his crackling aura providing protection, as the sheer power passing through him felt nothing more than a warm summer breeze to the newly-born Saiyan warrior. But Angel showed no dismay. His overconfidence was blinding him once more. It seemed his transformation was slowly poisoning his mind with blind rage. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hum! Esto sería mucho más antes de que muera, bastardo de simio! Por la diferencia en nuestras manos en este segundo duelo a muerte, se corregirá este instante, pero también como antes de haber subestimado enormemente lo que soy capaz de, Saiyan,” Angel boasted. “Porque a diferencia de usted, ya que derrotó dos veces: antes de su resurrección y lo que será destinado a suceder al final del día de hoy.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“What a pretty sad attempt at a badass boast,” replied Steven. “But it is to be expected from such a ruthless, heartless bastard such as you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Charging instantly, faster than Angel could react to, Steven reached his opponent with a blazing right punch. But it was a fake; as Angel tried to block, he flipped to one side with terrific speed. The tall brown Demon’s swings passed through empty air; the little red-eyed Saiyan’s comparably smaller size made him an impossible target now that he was so fast. Dodging these clumsy, but far faster than light punches that were all powerful enough to shatter Moons as big as Earth was child’s play. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Noticing how his opponent was hovering a few inches off the ground, the Wicked Earthling suddenly, adapted his form, using his long arms to build up momentum as he spun in for a series of attacks which were surprisingly well-executed for his bulk. Steven ducked under the first backhand and countered with a double kick to Angel’s solar plexus, the crippling blow made the monster throw up his punctured lung and then double over in unbearable agony. But Angel had ignored the pain and forced himself to recover, he came in with an uppercut, only for the Saiyan to dodge that as well. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">WHIISSHH! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia’s massive fist swung through empty air, distorting the rigid Afterimage of Steven. And before he knew it, Angel was then smacked across the face by Steven’s Iron Tail. CRRRAAAACCKKKKKKKK! The enhanced tail swipe from the Saiyan smashed into the entire face of the brown Demon with the momentum of a planet as big as an Ultramassive Black Hole. Crushing his nose and sending most of his teeth and half his shattered jaw down his throat, yet he still stood, and staggered forward, as he tried to strike Steven with a full-powered overhand. Only to meet a hand with both the index finger and middle finger out near his chest before his opponent then made it into a fist to deliver a hard punch to Angel’s gut. It blew a six-foot hole in his chest, causing him to vomit up teeth and shards of bone before collapsing onto the ash covered ground, seemingly lifeless. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Right before, Angel had suddenly, knocked Steven onto his back by almost instantly getting up to one knee and blasting Steven in the face with a high-powered energy ball shot with one arm. The Big Bang Crash made his body skid for only a few feet before he pulled his knees to his chest, placed his hands behind his head, and pushed himself up off of the ground. Steven’s two-footed kick landed square in the center of Angel’s left eye, making him stagger back and lose half of his vision. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before the brute could recover, the Saiyan swept his foe’s feet, then grinned as he fired an energy ball of his own directly into Angel’s face before he hit the ground. The tall fighter flipped over and over on the ground for a few dozen miles, but then quickly got back on his feet. This time, as Steven rushed in for a strike, he was able to barely anticipate, sidestepping to the right in the nick of time. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Finally finding himself with the opening he wanted, he landed a flurry of punches and kicks to Steven at lightning speed, the solid blows stunning him. And for good measure, he quickly hammered Steven down with a dashing double-thrust elbow punch to the young Saiyan’s head and a sharp kick upward from the ground sent Steven flying before Angel Garcia had angrily stretched wide open his wide mouth and screamed at the top of his lungs, his fierce Kiai that rocked the Earth knocking Steven even higher as then he fired a powerful blazing stream of crimson energy from his mouth, the Crimson Scream exploded once it reached the small Saiyan warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Widening his stance, the most evil Human in history fired Death Beams from both hands, The red lines of destruction with a sickly black trail behind them tore holes all in the debris cloud before him at speeds well beyond light, kicking up mountains full of dust and dirt from both the Earth beneath his feet and some even still falling chunks of flaming debris from the Pokémon Jet Steven had been on not even 19 seconds ago, yet he still continued to fire like a madman. Focusing on nothing but his enemy before him, he kept shooting beam after beam at the Saiyan with all ten of his fingers. Even though all of them hit, Angel furiously persisted. Had he really become so desperate? Or was it more likely had he suffered from permanent brain damage? Angel then prepared himself for whatever attack Steven would fire from the debris cloud. “Vamos, Steven! Sé que no son nada como su auto absolutamente endeble de este mundo desde hace unos momentos! Así pues, continúa para mostrarme qué usted es un tipo duro, no importa lo inútil que estará en mi contra!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I see even a completely ax-crazy and heartless Demon of a monster like you acknowledges just how awesome I am!” The young Saiyan yelled, bursting out of the brown smoke. He made a beeline straight for Angel, but swerved upward at the last second. Steven grabbed his enemy by the head, flipping over the top of his massive form, and came down with a two-foot kick in the center of his back. The giant stumbled forward and watched as his other lung was knocked out of the hole in his chest, before he was immediately subjected to an endless barrage of blows from behind him. Steven was pulverizing him, pounding his shoulders just at their weak points, being sure to divide his strikes between the kidneys, ribs, spine, and neck. To finish off his flurry, Steven cupped his hands forward and fired a Kamehameha that buckled the evil Angel over, hurtling him toward a rocky plateau. His body tore through the surface like paper. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The face of the plateau showed only a single hole, the opening of a tunnel leading deep into the rock. No one would know how far into it’s depths Angel had gone; cracks started appearing in it’s face as black light shot out of the entire mountain. Steven held his ground, a wild grin on his face as he waited for the impending explosion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A dome of black light suddenly, erupted where the mountain had been, hurling stones in every direction. The chunks of rock that were not immediately pulverized were launched at dazzling speed, fast enough to leave the scorched Earth’s atmosphere altogether. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">At the center, Angel emerged. Steven saw trickles of blood running down the Demon in Human skin’s eyes, ears, and what once was a nose and mouth. However, Angel’s body from the neck down had healed almost completely…except for a lightning bolt shaped scar now on his chest and veins bulging all over against his skin. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The brute charged. Steven smiled, noting that Angel’s power seemed slightly higher. “Seems you learned to use your Wicked Regeneration somewhat, but my attacks are devastating enough to leave you incapable of fully recovering even with your heavily evolved rapid regeneration backing you up.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia’s punch came down at Steven’s chest, but the Saiyan evaded it easily. It smashed a crater greater in size than the Moon into the ground. The Demon spun with a massive elbow strike, faster than before, but Steven twisted in midair and delivered a powerful kick to Angel’s chest that left an angry bruise in place of the barely healed scar. Hovering just about six feet above the ground, Steven landed a right cross, a strong knee strike, and a spinning backfist to the hulking monster. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The massive warrior stumbled back, trying to right himself. But Steven didn’t give him a chance to recover. Teleporting behind him, he gripped the older Earthling’s left arm and slammed his knee into the brute’s back, then used the momentum to spin him around and around. As he flung him headlong, he snapped one fist forward with a burst of Ki, the Kiai making the evil Angel tumble end-over-end. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“N...no...NO, YO SOY EL DIOS DE LA MUERTE!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">An explosion of evil energy erupted again in Angel Garcia’s aura as he stopped still in midair, his Ki surging higher once more. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fast enough that it had almost surprised Steven, the Wicked Angel gathered a cloud of reddish-black energy balls in his hands and launched them toward the small Saiyan. Unlike the ones from before, these homed in on their target immediately. But Steven Bloodriver readied himself immediately as he snaked out his tail from under his clothes like before and batted each of the energy spheres making up his foe’s Renzoku Black Hole Death Ball in turn with only his tail, further angering the heartless monster known as Angel as Steven dealt with the furious barrage with relative ease. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">When he looked up, Angel had both his hands pulled back to his waist, energy collecting in each one. Without warning, he clapped them together over his head, then flung the combined Planet Destroying Death Ball turned Super Death Ball. “El sabor de la malicia de mi venganza!  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">SÚPER MUERTE PELOTA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven lifted one hand, charging his own electric blue energy ball rapidly. “No thanks, I prefer my own cooking! DRACO MASENDAN!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The small ball of energy shot forward with incredible speed, striking the large dark red sphere…and stopping it cold. Then it ballooned suddenly, and detonated, it’s spherical blast wave completely swallowing Angel Garcia’s Super Death Ball before smashing into the self-proclaimed God of Death. It seemed to take up half the Galaxy, outshining even it’s brightest stars, with Evolved Saiyan power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven blasted forward, flying low over the ground straight through the still-boiling mushroom cloud nearly a third of the diameter of the planet itself. His senses were still locked onto Angel’s energy. Just a little farther… '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">BLAMM! Blasting out of the cloud, his boot smashed into Angel’s mangled jaw as the latter was still flying back, launched headlong by the furious explosion. The brute smashed into the ground, then rolled over and over before coming to a stop. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“When are you going to admit defeat, Demon? You know full well this is a pointless battle for you,” snapped Steven, hovering just above the heavily scorched body of Angel. “Eventually your body won’t be able to keep up the constant regenerating of broken tissue and bone from me destroying you over and over again. While I am still completely unscathed and at full power from everything you have thrown at me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The evil Angel grasped the soil in both his fists and pushed himself up to his knees, then stood. He was boiling with anger. Steven had nearly killed him, his Draco Masendan had done the impossible, completely rendering Angel’s ability to regenerate inert. The insult was too great, too infuriating to explain or comprehend-all he could do was lash out. Throwing himself forward, he seemed to catch Steven by surprise, smashing his most powerful double fist into the Saiyan’s jaw. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">CRACKK! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The impact spun Steven’s head to one side, but the rest of his body remained completely still. The embodiment of rage stretched his jaw slowly, blotting the small trail of blood on his lip from his foe’s worn and torn bloodied fists with his right hand, then turned back to face the brute. “I get the feeling you have heard this before already, but your punches only tickle like a tiny feather.” Cocking his own fist, he threw a blindingly fast right cross into Angel’s face. The Monster of Laredo staggered back, then fell to his knees. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Right before, Steven smashed both of his knees against the stomach of Angel before doing so again to the face of the Demon in Human skin from above with super speed. Before Angel could recover, Steven was already in front of him and roundhouse kicked him into the sky before teleporting behind him to attack the bad-tanned monster with an Iron Tail. Having just come around, Angel barely even had time to spin around in horror. TTCHIING! It sliced cleanly through Angel’s body just below the hip, leaving a jagged blue line of light refracting through the air. Steven backflipped out of the way of the falling upper half of Angel before putting his hands forward and blasting the severed legs of his enemy into oblivion with a Masenko. In an instant, Steven caught up to the second half of Angel before punching and kicking the evil monster wildly, he then smashed Angel down to the ground with a roundhouse kick, and cupped his hands to his side. Angel laid there on the ground paralyzed, completely unable to even find the strength to breathe, but as soon as he saw what Steven was charging above him, he somehow found the strength to scream at the top of his lungs. “TIMES TEN KAMEHAMEHA!” Steven shouted, yelling as he brought his hands forward and unleashed the massive wave from them, it crackled with the very same lightning and shade of blue as Steven’s blazing aura. It reached Angel and incinerated him in the smallest split of a second. The Kamehameha left nothing of the monster, not even ash. Only a bottomless crater as large as a continent in width and reaching pass the center of the Earth in depth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven levitated just above, his palms still outstretched and his jaw clenched. His eyes were wild with fury that matched the fire and lightning continuing to crackle and blaze around him. He was still battle-ready and at full strength. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">TTINGG! The Evolved Saiyan’s senses suddenly, awakened. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Steven stopped short, his battle instincts kicking in as he turned his eyes to the right and crouched, launching himself at the burst of energy he sensed. The youthful Saiyan left the planet’s atmosphere and raced across space before reaching the edge of the Universe, his speed so much faster than light that he crossed multiple Galaxies in less than a second. He followed a mysterious trail of evil energy heading to an alternate dimension. Crackling with red and pink power, whatever it was Steven was following looked like a purple comet. As it left his dimension before him, Steven Bloodriver, the reborn hero, then had closed his eyes and left the Universe as easily as stepping through a doorway. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; color:black">Mainstream Timeline… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; color:black">Age 774, moments after Super Buu came into existence… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; color:black">Kami’s Lookout… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Steven Bloodriver broke out of the space-time manifold and entered the void between timelines. A kaleidoscope of indescribable color filled his vision as he opened his eyes once more…and suddenly, he was on the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The ground below rose to meet the feet of the Dragon Warrior. A dozen meters away, the monster known as Majin Buu just arrived on top of Kami’s Lookout. The fusion of the Good Buu and Evil Buu stared at Krillin, Piccolo, Yamcha, Mr. Popo, Dende, and Steven with almost pure black eyes as he touched down on the Lookout in front of them. Super Buu’s sadistic grin on his noseless face quickly turned into a furious scowl, the ancient monster born since time immemorial hunched slightly and spread out his arms, his tall stature dwarfing even that of Piccolo Katanaji. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Uncle Orin Monk, Mr. Nice Threads, Mr. Soul of a Wolf, Mr. Genie, and Mr. Lookout Guardian it is a real honor to see all of you. But please leave this amalgamation of good and evil to me, the monster in front of us is very much like Mr. Nice Threads, but the complete opposite in morality, sanity, and decency. For he simply cares for destruction and mayhem when he is not busy searching for powerful opponents to fight against like the sadistic psychopath he is.” Steven said as he turned to them before Super Buu turned his gaze upon the boy and ignored the others on the Lookout…for the time being. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“So hotshot. Do you really think you can fight Majin Buu?” The Pink Demon chuckled, hardly believing the first Saiyan he defeated so easily would come to challenge him once more. “You may have recovered your wounds and gotten a better look, but I cannot even sense an ounce of change in your energy.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Fight you? No, I want to kill you.” Steven replied with a grin. The Saiyan had turned to Super Buu as he said so. “You are also mistaking me for someone else; we may have been the same person, but now we are two completely different people.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Humph. As if that will make any sort of difference against me,” the monster replied. “Either way, at least give me a decent warmup before my rematch against the one here.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Again, you are dangerously underestimating me.” Steven said, his fingertips pulsing, itching for battle. This was a foe who, had become powered up to become too strong for even Angel Garcia, and was as ruthless and wicked as any he’d ever faced. Majin Buu had to be stopped once again, lest he find a way to cause even more misery through his existence. A flash in his eyes, a spark of heat through his ears, the sudden thick intensity of the air, and Majin Buu was now imbued in the power of the Dark Dragon Balls. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“As you really have no clue what I’m capable of!” The Saiyan from the original future yelled, blasting toward the evil creature. His first attack brushing through empty air as Super Buu dashed into the sky. Wheeling in midair, the Majin spun back towards his foe, accompanied by the all too familiar mad laughter of the monster. His kick came in quickly, a half attempt to catch the former Human unprepared. Naturally, the Evolved Saiyan avoided it, leaping backward. Super Buu then continued his assault by flowing into a progression of jabs and the occasional sweep kick. All the while, Steven vaulted away end over end, avoiding each one with precision. Seeing the acrobatic display, as well as the observable ease with which Steven maintained his expression, Super Buu finished his strikes off with a powerful one handed energy blast. The pink-hued attack struck the Dragon Warrior with ferocious intensity, detonating against his aura and spewing dust all through the air above and around the Lookout. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Hmhm...” Super Buu said, waiting a moment for the air to clear. “Well, you have been telling the truth, not even the one you call the Supreme Kai would have survived against my Vanishing Beam. That much I’ll give you. But this is only a small taste of my power.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Standing back to back behind Super Buu, the Saiyan had easily emerged unharmed from the blast radius of the attack. “Of course,” Steven smiled in return, crouching back into a fighting stance. “I refuse to ever tell a lie, but I see no point in playing around any further, since we already know the outcome of this fight to the finish. What do you say, Evil Buu?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The Eldritch Abomination garbed in black arm bands with yellow linings and white baggy pants ending in black and grayish brown boots shut his eyes smugly, lowering his chin. “I had been hoping to have a bit of fun with you before we got down to it... But, if you insist...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Piccolo had not lost sight of Steven and Super Buu since the beginning. In fact, none of the Z Fighters on the Lookout couldn’t track the movements of the pair even once they took off again. But the Super Namekian had bigger things to worry about. Super Buu was slowly revealing more and more power with each attack, changing out of his normal pink skin into a much darker purple. The monster’s aura now a deathly purple fire as well, raged on as the blood-red irises in his eyes grew to completely replace the black sclera, becoming solid crimson even before lines of black blood appeared down the sides of his face. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“How is that possible, Majin Buu is more monstrous than ever, but the Saiyan boy who looks and almost feels like Gohan hasn’t taken any damage at all!” He said. “Both of them are so powerful and so fast that they make even a Super Saiyan like Goku and Trunks were against Frieza and King Cold respectively look like nothing at all!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Maybe the one who has the same taste in clothing as you and is fighting Buu for us is the Gohan from the future that Trunks told us about when we last met him seven years ago as I can sense that he has the same slight difference in Ki that the Trunks here and the Future Trunks have,” Krillin said. “But now that I think about it, that still doesn’t explain much about him being so young and not starting off as a Super Saiyan against someone even worse than Cell.” The no longer bald Monk had let his hair grow out and was no longer wearing his Turtle School Uniform. In it’s place, he wore a fuchsia shirt, tan sweat pants, white armbands, and black shoes with white laces. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Not a bad explanation over how he is so confident and fearless, I mean he’s not even affected by how insane Buu’s power is and the way the monster looks now!” Yamcha laughed nervously. “But this whole new Gohan has a battle aura I have never seen before in my life, it looks so Otherworldly from as far as I can tell.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Wow, look up in the sky mommy! A boy who looks like an older Goten is fighting Buu!” Exclaimed Marron. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Oh I see sweetie, but I think that is Gohan. At least I think so, but I have never seen him like this since he saved me and your uncle from Cell.” Responded her mother, Android 18. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“This is so insane… Gohan resembles how he was against Cell, but way cuter. But… What in the world happened to him?” Videl said as she watched with everyone else up above as Steven fought Majin Buu and even seemed to stop Buu’s fury from damaging the Earth. She had changed into a pair of white pants, a blue and orange shirt with the word "FIGHT" on it with big bold red letters, and orange shoes after losing her match against Spopovitch and trying to help the Z Fighters deal with Babidi’s forces. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">High above Kami’s Lookout, Steven Bloodriver and Super Buu were trading blows relentlessly now, the impacts from each punch sending shockwaves in every direction. The already-empty blue sky had the clouds for countless miles of the Earth in every direction blown away by the sheer force of their combat as much as by stray energy blasts being constantly deflected into the darkest depths of space. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The two warriors of different worlds sped all over the Lookout, above and near, high and low, throwing punches of all types at one another. Occasionally they would appear visible for a few of the briefest of moments, but then they would vanish again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The deep rumble of blows continued for just a moment more, until both warriors struck in unison and knocked each other back in midair. The two were now hovering face to face a mere fifty feet above the floating sanctuary. Each still looked confident, and to the relief of the Z Fighters, Steven wasn’t panting or sweating. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Unbelievable!” Krillin said. “Even after all that, moving faster than most of us can follow now, neither of them looks to be in the least bit exhausted.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Piccolo Katanaji, arms folded like a badass, was looking closer and trying his best to gauge things accurately, but couldn’t find any signs of wear from them either. “They’re both incredibly powerful as they are fast, yes, but eventually one of them is going to get serious,” Piccolo said.  <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“The only question is: which one?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">After a brief moment of silent stare, the Terror of the Universe smirked in one corner of his mouth. “Very impressive, young warrior. Your skills and demeanor are completely unlike before.” His words were not intended as a compliment, nor would Steven Bloodriver have accepted them if they were. But he continued on. “It also seems you have learned from the fatal mistakes that had led to my rebirth and your defeat. But, to be honest, I find your new look to be as threatening as a Cocker Spaniel.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Loving the choice of words the Pink Demon was throwing at him, the Saiyan simply smiled. “Well, son of the late source of all evil. I would guess it is of me being of the Saiyan warrior race that I am descended from as we all start off deceptively cute in our childhood before moving on to become physically intimidating in our adolescence. That said, I will only be a child until I grow to be older than nine years of age as I am an anomaly amongst the Saiyans in that my birth was similar to yours.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Super Buu’s smug look changed into one of utter fury at the boy, each word pricked the Immortal evil’s ears more than Gohan and Vegeta ever did. But just as the ancient monster began to speak, Steven again made the first move, charging a blue orb of energy in each hand as he flew straight up. Just as he expected, the God Killer followed, his villainous aura trailing behind him like the exhaust from a rocket. Grinning, Steven Bloodriver slowed his ascent and flung both spheres straight down. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The evil Majin Buu didn’t even pause, expertly backhanding the first ball toward the horizon and dodging the second one…just in time to look up and see the reborn son of Goku hovering with both hands held together at his side. “KAMEHAMEHA TO THE TENTH POWER!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Distracting the Majin had given the Dragon Warrior just enough time to fully charge his attack, but even as he successfully released it, the Pink Demon immediately released his own attack from both hands and mouth to clash with Steven’s 10x Kamehameha. The reborn Saiyan son of Goku gave a wild smile as he and the Ancient Demon Destroyer of the Universe powered up their respective attacks of the Kamehameha and Vanishing Mouth Blast even further before both warriors felt a sinister presence causing their energy beams to fail simultaneously, and watched as the crimson and pink fire coalesced into a crackling ball of destructive energy between them. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">As the ball of energy now began to sink slowly in front of them, Steven flung his hands to his sides as if charging a Final Flash, he expanded his crackling light blue aura outward to protect himself. He tapped into all of the power he could muster as he Telekinetically bent it around the blaze, the invisible walls meeting on the opposite side and pushing the fire-like energy back from the base of the Lookout. While his tone was calm, his words could be heard, even above the roar of the flames. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“WATCH CLOSELY YOU ROGUE AND DEMONIC GOD AS EVEN YOUR FEARSOME DARK MAGIC IS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO ME!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The raging fire pushed back against the walls of it’s invisible cage, and Steven’s muscles bulged. Holding back the firestorm with his arms alone took incredible strength. But now, completely shielded from the flames, he felt more alive than ever, screaming with the utter joy of battle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“YAAAAAAAAA!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The Saiyan from the future brought his hands together, his muscles rippling as he Telekinetically collapsed the cage of solid Ki around the blaze. The entire hurricane was forced to a tiny column around the Evolved Saiyan, the temperature and pressure skyrocketing beyond even that at the core of a star. With the light far too blinding for anyone to watch, the ones watching from both the Earth and Otherworld averted their eyes as a thunderclap shook the very foundations of creation. When they looked back, the Dragon Warrior was covered in pure blue flame, completely unscathed and flying in the same place as before Drakoshin Majcnavn tried to kill everyone on Earth, but with the unstable ball of energy having gone straight back to the Demon God of ancient Namekian folklore. The threat of the Immortal was now gone. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">As in that same critical moment, Steven detected not just the complete destruction of the Dragon Lord, but of an entire dimension. “Three down, one to go,” the Saiyan said boldly to the trembling Pink Demon still hovering above the Lookout. “For anything and anyone evil deserves to be destroyed for their brainless and witless ways of trying to appear like if they are actually as frightening they claim.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Seeing the so-called legendary Majin Buu still shaken, Steven smirked at the pathetic sight before him as he then blasted off toward the Demon. “What’s the matter, Majin Buu? Get yourself focused back on our fight!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The young warrior closed the distance between him and the monster in an instant before delivering a spinning kick to Majin Buu’s face and doubling the Pink Demon over with an equally devastating kick to the monster’s gut. Super Buu’s eyes bulged almost right out of their sockets as he then coughed purple blood out of his mouth, but the Destructive Majin quickly recovered and blocked the vicious chop following Steven’s Savage Demon Sky Kick with his right arm before both warriors vanished into the air once more, followed by the constant rumbling of powerful strikes all round. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The blows knocked the savage brute out of his stupor and destroyed all three of the Dark Dragon Balls that were inside of him and suppressing his true power, reverting him to his original state, but also reawakening his heavy black heart. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Damn you…stupid boy! How dare you keep on embarrassing me despite being so weak!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Faster than anyone could see, even faster than the Evolved Saiyan could follow, Super Buu closed the distance between him and the Saiyan from another world and drove a fist hard into Steven’s gut. As the small Saiyan doubled over, a spinning kick from Super Buu’s powerful gigantic leg slammed into the side of his head, flipping him backward and upward. He tried to lift his forearms to block, but the evil monster’s chop came down too hard and too fast, slamming him on his back into the Earth. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Why won’t you just roll over and die already like the rest of these weaklings!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The Dragon Warrior twisted immediately, pushing down with one elbow and spinning up off the ground with a kick aimed at his opponent’s face. But Super Buu caught his leg with only minimal difficulty, spinning him around wildly and flinging him to one side, then sending a concentrated blast of energy after him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“They and you all deserve to die by my hand! Now feel the fury of my Ultimate Cannon!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Still spinning wildly, Steven Bloodriver caught himself in midair and looked back just as the spherical energy blast reached him. With no time to dodge, he lifted both hands and met it, the momentum pushing him back rapidly. His feet landed and dug into the dirt as he strained against the attack—it continued to push him back, sending him straight into the side of a Supervolcano as big as Antarctica. The rock crumbled against his back as he finally slowed the attack enough to bring his knee up, punting it skyward. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Humph, don’t you dare think that was my best!” Screamed Super Buu once more, firing off a pair of Eye Lasers from both eyes at the young Saiyan. But Steven leapt back just in time to avoid the cerise beams and they struck the ground directly in front of him instead. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">An instant later, a rumble shook Fire King Island, and underneath Steven Bloodriver, the ground exploded all around him as the dormant volcano detonated in a blinding flash. He was immediately hit by the geyser of molten lava shooting up into the sky then into space. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Super Buu grinned savagely. He had known this was a Volcanic Island; the igneous rock substrate was evidence of that. The simple Eye Beam had been more than enough to pierce through the thin volcanic crust and release the build-up pressure underneath the surface. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“How could anyone survive that!?” Shouted Krillin over the roar of the magma as he and the other Z Warriors watched below from high in the air, out of range of the red-hot rock. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Don’t be ridiculous,” snapped Piccolo. “Can’t you still feel his energy? It will take more than a little heat to stop a Super Saiyan like Gohan. For based on what I’ve seen, he could endure the blast wave of a Supernova without breaking a sweat.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Sure enough, the molten rock fell away to reveal Steven’s form now hanging in midair, his clothes and body were completely undamaged and unaffected. The 3,200 degrees of heat in Fahrenheit felt like a summer afternoon to him and the other dangers of being submerged in lava did absolutely nothing to him whatsoever. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Getting desperate are we, Gohan?” Taunted the evil Buu, laughing as he levitated above the flow of lava that now rolled over the ground. The rivulets of molten rock had reached the water, now, and sent up clouds of steam. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The reborn son of Goku glowered at him. “Absolutely not! I’ve been in seemingly hopeless situations before, but I have always managed to overcome every obstacle with and without the aid of those dear to me. As the one in my time who had somehow fused with Frieza the Evil Emperor, the Demon God almost as old as you who had tried to destroy this Universe, and especially you: Majin Buu the son of the Lord of Shadow, all have had been personally stopped by me for trying to hurt those I care about and you will not be any different than they were.” He clenched his fists and waves of molten rock surged up around him. “AS I WILL MAKE YOU SUFFER FOR ALL THOSE YOU HAVE HURT AND OUTRIGHT MURDERED FOR YOUR OWN SICK AND TWISTED AMUSEMENT!” He then flexed his muscles, as he gathered his power before instantly bursting into his Super Saiyan form. Megatsunamis of magma rose up and launched themselves in every direction, shimmering in golden light and guided by the Dragon Warrior’s own fiery energy. The broad fissure in the Earth that glowed with bubbling rock under the youthful Super Saiyan grew to take up the entire Island of the Fire Kings, the searing heat from the fiery lake immediately forced Super Buu to back away higher into the air. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">With surprising speed, the furious Saiyan rushed Super Buu in a streak of flaming gold, feinting to one side as the Immortal Terror tried to block. But Steven spun around it and executed a backflip kick that caught Super Buu squarely in the jaw. He followed up with a rapid flurry of punches to the evil warrior’s stomach and a powerful side kick to the savage brute’s broad chest that sent his opponent flying backward. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The giant Pink Demon was only mildly amused, easily bracing himself and noticing the boy was blasting towards him again. POOWWWW! Young Steven’s blazing kick sounded like a gunshot as it rebounded off Super Buu’s forearm block. Without hesitating, the young Super Saiyan pulled back, lifting his hands above his head. “MASENKO! HAA!” Buu snarled as he deflected the blast of energy with one hand, then grunted in surprise as Steven’s surprise kick smashed into his ribs. Before he could react, the boy then whipped around and delivered an elbow strike to his back just above his shoulders. It being quite forceful, enough to knock the Immortal Demon off-balance for one whole yoctosecond. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Without losing momentum, Steven Bloodriver rolled into a stance with his hands at his side. “TENFOLD KAMEHAMEHA!” But the solid crimson attack crackling with dense blue lightning passed through empty air as Evil Buu super-sped to one side, reappearing right behind the reborn Super Saiyan with a solidly-placed kick. It sent the boy tumbling headlong across the sky. Catching himself, he spun and dashed back toward the Universe Destroyer, but then froze. The massive Demon’s eyes were glowing, a fierce red not unlike those of Cooler in his fifth form. Steven Bloodriver braced himself as he was sure Buu was about to unleash his Bio-Hyper Beam again. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“RAAAAHHHHGGGG!” Twin crimson rays exploded out of Buu’s eyes...but unlike the thin, piercing eye attacks his opponent was used to seeing, these expanded into a roaring beam racing toward the Golden Warrior with incredible speed. Steven dove to one side, racing toward the evil Majin Buu in a zig-zag pattern, but Buu turned his head, causing the entire beam to follow the reborn Super Saiyan son of Goku like the blade of a giant flaming sword as big as the Earth’s continent of Africa. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The God Killer’s Super Bio-Hyper Beam traced a spiral in midair as he tried to catch the Future Super Saiyan. “Fwahahaha! Look at the mighty young warrior from an unknown land going round and round!” Shouted Buu. “If he should stop, then off with his nose!” But the reincarnation of Future Gohan reached him, plowing into him with a powerful fist planted deep in Super Buu’s gut, folding the Universe Destroyer in half like a scrap of paper. The evil Super Buu’s eyes widened in total shock as he lost concentration, causing the beam to dissipate into space. The Gold Fighter pulled back his fist and then spun, slamming his knee into the side of his enemy’s head with blinding speed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Super Buu fell like a rock. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“RENZOKU MAKOHO!” Screamed Steven as without hesitation, the absolutely furious reborn Super Saiyan son of Future Goku threw both his hands forward and rained down a volley of fiery blasts. The massive Pink Demon was unable to react before they reached him and detonated, a trail of fireworks as he fell to the ground. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">A tingle in the back of Steven Bloodriver’s mind made him turn around. Then he frowned. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Jack Atlas, the Human counterpart of Vegeta, was directly behind him. He was still bound to the appearance he had ever since going to the Earthbound Immortal Shrine at his base, but his black eyes and sinister expression, and Wraith-like aura resembling those worn by Super Buu and Goku Black respectively, easily helped in distinguishing this imposter from the real reincarnation of the Legendary Signer. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Very impressive, killing off a sentient wad of spit up chewing gum... Only anyone really with an absolute level of power such as yours truly could have done the exact same thing.” He laughed. He still had held a grudge against the boy ever since they had dueled following the Fortune Cup only days prior to their rematch in the second to last match of the Dragon Ball Heroes Tournament that Steven had also won only a few hours before; going as far as to sell his soul for the power necessary for his revenge, but to an even greater extent than even Angel. The terrible power he wielded now of the Red Nova came at the ultimate sacrifice of both his entire Duel Monsters and Dragon Ball Heroes collection of cards and even his status as one of the Signers, and with his ruthless and cold-blooded pride being the only thing keeping the strongest of the Earthbound Immortals to ever have existed at bay from also eating away at his very consciousness, he began gathering just a little more of the same strength he used to butcher the Dark Signers and their own Earthbound Immortals, he then blasted from where he was and toward Steven, readying himself for action. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Steven didn’t move. THUD! Jack Atlas’ kick to the jaw flipped the Golden Warrior backward. POW! A rugged punch caught him in the side, just under his ribcage. THUUM! Another kick knocked him straight down. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But rather than crashing into the ground, Steven Bloodriver vaulted backwards, landing on his hands and cartwheeling end-over-end before landing cleanly on the Earth. The Super Saiyan twisted his head to one side, cracking his neck. “While I appreciate the massage, now is not the time for me to deal with would-be posers like you. As the real threat plummeting between us demands my full attention.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Huh?!” Roared Jack Atlas, immediately furious. “Oh, I get it. You’re trying to play it cool, aren’t you? Very clever…Roman tried the same thing. But I’m afraid I’ll have none of that.” He lifted both hands together above his head, collecting energy, then pushed them both forward. “JUDGEMENT OF THE KING!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The warrior still on the ground stayed where he was, not even trying to get clear of the attack. Even Jack Atlas, as strong and as smug as he was, flew a little higher, he didn’t want to be caught in the cataclysmic explosion. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The ball of energy erupted from the island, harsh and red, brilliant enough to block out the light of the fireworks above. In an instant, the Island of the Fire Kings was vaporized as the fireball blasted the ground to nothingness. The once beautiful, filled to the brim of absolute one of a kind and exotic life-giving terrain of the Volcanic Island was lost from the intensity of the epicenter. Finally, the deadly concentration of violent, vicious, bloody, as well hellish plasma subsided and the yellow explosions again shone through as the waves crashed back down where the island had once had been. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Even before the brown smoke cleared, even over the loud crashing of waves, Jack Atlas could hear the loud humming of Steven’s jagged aura. Nothing, not even a single stone, remained except for him, the Super Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“As I had said before, Human vessel of a powerful Demon almost as old as Majin Buu himself. Both you and your Immortal Demon of a friend from my era are of no threat to me as one of the legendary Super Saiyans,” he taunted. “But this little scuffle between the three of us is now over for another begs my attention.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">TSSSHHHTT! The familiar hum of super speed sounded. Immediately, there was a hand just inches from Jack Atlas’ face, then before he could react, young Steven’s palm ignited a blinding blue light, outshining even the brightest of stars. “Burn in eternal damnation, you cheap imitation of a Jinchūriki! HAAAAAA!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The fury of the Kamehameha was deafening. The instantaneous explosion sent Jack Atlas into the edge of space. The monster who wanted to follow in the footsteps of Angel felt pain as his body was slowly reduced to nothing, terror as his eyes met those of Steven Bloodriver staring back at him without remorse, and worst of all – defeat once more at the hands of a mere child. “DAMN YOU… STEVEN!!!!!!!!!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">As he finished watching his attack purge Jack Atlas from reality, Steven glanced over his shoulder, watching as the Terror of the Universe tried stopping his descent by firing a blue Planet Burst straight down. But before it could land, Steven clenched his fist and curved it, pulling it back up toward Buu. The still falling monster’s eyes widened, completely shocked his attack was turned against him so easily. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Yet the Telekinetically held ball was joined by Steven stretching out his other arm and immediately firing the much more powerful Draco Masendan. The ball of electric blue energy caught up to Super Buu in no time at all. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Without missing a beat, the Dragon Warrior son of Goku brought his hands to his side, wearing a slight grin. A small blue orb of Ki formed in the center of his palms as he quietly whispered. “Heh, so even after losing to my friend, you still wish to end both your life and mine by going back to when I was still not completely a Shadow Walker. Times Ten Ka—”. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">ZZZSSHHH…PHOOOM! Before the Phantom Saiyan could react, Steven had immediately appeared in front of him, and the bright blue beam attack shot out of the hero’s extended hands just faster than Black could prepare his defenses. “—mehameha!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">His father’s signature move went crashing into the avatar of despair and detonated upon impact, a large explosion enshrouding Goku Black and taking a substantial portion of his energy. When the smoke cleared, though, the thin fighter from the Dark Demon Realm was revealed to still be battle-worthy. His clothes were charred and ripped now, and his skin covered with bruises, yet he did not wear the look of a defeated warrior. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But Shadow Walker Gohan, in a sudden resurgence of speed, dashed at the evil Black. “Not one of your kind who has ever challenged the likes of me has ever escaped alive. And you… You are no exception! I won’t leave a speck behind! I WILL ERASE YOU FROM THIS AND EVERY OTHER WORLD!!!” He announced. The Phantom Saiyan immediately blocked, only to find himself defending against an Afterimage. The real one was just above him, and, thanks to the deception, delivered an axe kick that sent Black tumbling back into the ground of the Dark Demon Realm. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The three Aspect Lords watched in suspense as the figure fell from above, until the pure incarnation of evil and power crashed in the same spot as before and deepened the already large crater he himself had created just moments ago—he’d barely managed to keep himself from being knocked unconscious. Xeno Gohan landed immediately, before in a blinding flash, he caught up to Goku Black and grabbed him by the throat, then snapped the heartless monster’s neck all the way around before lifting his other hand, filling it with golden energy. “NOW BEGONE! HEROIC FORCE!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span lang="EN" style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN">THUUUUM, came the fist of the Shadow Walker as it collided with Black’s face, launching him into the depths of oblivion and out of reach from even the Aspect Lords. Casually, the Dragon Soldier son of Goku then vanished, zapping himself back toward the battle he was in previously and leaving the recently formed deep fissure in the earth to be dealt with by those native to the Realm of Demons and Darkness. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Feeling the energy building behind him, Super Buu turned...just in time for both the Draco Masendan and the Planet Burst to slam into him simultaneously. Steven Bloodriver flared his aura, allowing the thunderous explosion to push him back without doing any damage. But the massive eruption of Ki had stunned and even injured Buu, who was sent hurtling toward the surface of the Earth even faster. Before the Dragon Warrior super-sped past the still falling evil monster, Steven spun in midair to face him with his left hand already braced perpendicularly behind his right, the Super Saiyan charging another one of his strongest attacks at his absolute full power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“EXPLOSIVE DEMON WAVE!” Yelled the reborn youthful disciple of the second Piccolo as he smoothly ignited the beam of burning blue, casting an azure aura all around him, just before the unleashed Bakurikimaha had almost right away turned it’s target’s shocked face into one of purely utter horror for the first time. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The blast rapidly streaked towards Super Buu, it’s diameter even wider than a dozen Moons put together. Steven Bloodriver screamed with all his rage, offering every scrap of power he could muster to the force of his attack. He could feel the impact on the other side of his blast, but the following explosion was almost too much for the Earth, the Universe, and even a Super Saiyan like him to take. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Thuuuuuuum,” came the explosion, crashing around the young Saiyan’s ears and making them ring. Even as far as the homeworld of the Frieza Clan, their densely-populated harsh Winter world had immediately quivered uncontrollably, making it’s inhabitants inside and out feel like they were in a G Machine without a safety harness, and as the dust from the explosion began to clear, Majin Buu’s form penetrated the brown cloud of dust and sped straight to the young Super Saiyan. THWAAACKK! The Dragon Warrior’s boot slammed into his jaw, sending him tumbling over the edge of the clear blue sky. Without a moment’s respite, Steven overtook him and slammed down with a double fist to the center of his chest. The elastic pink skin was ripped instantly into thousands upon thousands of pieces, but even as they had been completely incinerated by Steven’s Super Saiyan aura, they had absorbed enough of the impact to allow Super Buu to respond just in time with a point-blank energy blast. “MAJIN MOUTH FLASH!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Yet Steven merely flared his aura. The blazing Mouth Blast knocked him back slightly, but he charged down again before the Universe Destroyer was ready, grabbing him by one leg. The Evolved Saiyan whirled him around and around in the air before flinging him straight up and pummeling him with bolts of energy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Super Buu twisted in midair and threw out a massive pink shield to protect himself. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">ZIP. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The reborn Super Saiyan teleported straight behind him and grabbed him in a chokehold around the neck. The Pink Demon’s eyes bulged. “How is he doing this?!” He thought. “His strength is…so much more than before, almost like as if he has somehow figured out of a way to have his control over Ki completely unrestricted!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The Destructive Majin was fighting to breathe. He was even starting to choke on his own blood from how tight Steven’s iron-grip on him was. His form crackled with evil energy as he summoned a massive Super Explosive Wave, as to try and push Steven away from him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Wordlessly, Steven snarled and flared his aura again. The Super Explosive Wave was blown away before it hit him, and the chokehold went tighter. Buu’s face turned red. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The Super Saiyan pulled back his fist and drove it into his enemy’s chest over and over. After only three blows, the massive God Killer’s unprotected upper torso gave way and Steven yanked his hand out, covered in gore; in it, Buu’s Mystical heart was still beating. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Steven Bloodriver released the chokehold and Buu fell, his eyes wide and his jaw gaping in silent anguish. The reborn son of Goku crushed the organ, spraying them both with blood. The Demon’s body spasmed as his regeneration started to kick in, but Steven grabbed it by the neck before it could restore itself and smashed his fist into the face over and over again, crushing the elongated skull into splinters. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Pan’s heart was beating madly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“I’ve never seen Steven so enraged before!” She looked at the Dragon Warrior continue to beat the Pink Demon’s headless and mutilated body into a pulp. “It’s like he’s completely an animal now. I only saw something like this once before from my Uncle Vegeta back when I was just a baby. When Ize, Kuriza, and Frieza showed up out of nowhere at my Grandpa Hercule’s Mansion looking for both the Trunks I never met and Grandpa Goku, Uncle Vegeta rifted to our location and showed the same raging fury Steven is giving to Baby right now. Though, he stayed in his normal state until only Frieza was left, and only really went Super Saiyan to almost scare Frieza to death.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The instant Steven let go of Super Buu’s body, the Immortal immediately rejuvenated himself. But this time, the Universe Destroyer coalesced into five copies, each ready to boldly and fearlessly charge the Dragon Soldier. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“What are you going to do now, son of Goku? Each of my clones have the same power and skills as me!” Sneered the original parasitic Demon and his clones in unison. But Steven didn’t hesitate. With a rush of Telekinetic energy, he ripped out every bone in Baby Vegeta and Super Saiyan Baby Vegeta’s body, then flung out his arms in an Explosive Kiai that utterly obliterated both incarnations of Baby and their bloody skeletons. Both Super Baby Vegeta and Super Baby Vegeta 2 rushed toward him, but both clones were sent tumbling right back to the real Baby after being violently hurled away by a mere flare of his aura. He dashed after the one with the most resemblance to Vegeta, catching the Super Saiyan 2 and punching him in the face several times. When he felt nothing left of the clone’s head, he teleported to the clone of Baby Vegeta’s second strongest form, dragging the corpse of Super Baby Vegeta 1 with him, and grabbed him in his other hand. He smashed the last living clone’s head as deep as he could into the headless body of his fellow clone’s back, bursting through ribs and the solar plexus, then blasted them both with a point-blank Kuchikarakikōha. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">They simultaneously were obliterated by the powerful Mouth Energy Wave just quickly enough to stop them from exploding into sparks and reforming, then the one who killed them teleported to Great Ape Baby and stopped him from powering up with a hard knee to his gut and slamming an energy blast in the form of the Kamehameha into and straight through his face. An instant later, the parasitic Demon was being <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">hammered to and fro across the Earth, once again at the mercy of the relentless Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Xeno Gohan’s aura hurled arcs of electricity with every punch and kick he threw. His Dragon Burst completely turning Baby inside out in a similar manner to what he did to Frieza before Steven landed another direct blow in the face of the Tuffle Gorilla, causing blood to spew like a geyser once Baby’s head to his neck was no more. Another oncoming blow dug into his chest, Steven’s fingers then yanked out Baby’s spine, trailing a stream of gore. The Death God’s body went into shock from utter agony, almost failing to stay on it’s feet as it clutched it’s chest with both hands and blood spurted out between it’s fingers. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">In his anguish, he was completely defenseless. The Dragon Warrior grabbed him by the arms and drove his knee up with full force, smashing through his clutched hands. Another kick, and both arms shattered. Steven stretched out both arms and flung them forward. “From my father to you… BIG BANG KAMEHAMEHA!” They were spoken by the son of Earth’s savoir just as Baby rejuvenated himself and raised his arms in front of his face, defending against the sudden combination of the Big Bang Attack and Super Kamehameha. But the wave was tremendous, completely enveloping the Universe Destroyer’s fresh new body. It cut him to ribbons, tore him to pieces, and totally incinerated everything that was left. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The youth floated in midair after releasing his blast, his legendary fury still awakened. His eyes were wild and bloodshot, his face frozen in absolute anger. Searching down with a fierce scowl, the Divine Super Saiyan spotted the spinal cord of his enemy thrashing about under him. The torn spine and tail quickly regenerated explosively as the teenager teleported to the surface and watched as his enemy’s body crashed down next to him, tumbling over and over. Baby’s face and torso were completely restored and his eyes were a darker shade of red than before. After regaining his senses, he quickly planted his fists in the soil and pushed himself up with surprising agility. Though his massive form showed no signs of harm all over his mind and body, the Tuffle Gorilla’s absorbed victims were now dead. “Enough of this insanity, Gohan! You may have become a 31 out of a scale between 1 to 1000 at base, a 781 as a Super Saiyan Grade IV and 3100 in the form you are currently in now before it permanently skyrocketed from your Quake of Fury, but your Super Zenkai is still nothing compared to even fifty percent of my power!” Glaring, he opened his mouth and released a blast of vermillion energy directly at the blue-haired warrior, but failed to notice the Godly Saiyan’s tail had snaked out before he fired. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Uncowed, the boy pulled his hand back and spun, slamming both feet and his tail against the blast face. Sure enough, the front of the Super Galick Blaster immediately exploded outward in a whitish-cinnabar cone, the aura of the Super Saiyan completely shielding Steven from the beam. THRUCK! But even before the wave of energy had dissipated completely, an arm shot out of the stream of power and fingers grasped his throat as Baby made good use of his Liquidity ability. Xeno Gohan grabbed the wrist to wrench himself free, but not quickly enough; the hand yanked him back at the same time as the Immortal monster exploded out of the fiery inferno. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Immediately, another arm shot out, extending rapidly across the planet and catching Goku’s son from behind. The boy was overtaken and grabbed ahold of by both humongous fists. Baby Vegeta’s thick golden gloved fingers squeezed tightly around Xeno Gohan’s body as he pulled the other Super Saiyan forward and backward at the same time. When he had, the parasitic Demon quickly added the strength of his Telekinesis and tail to the squeeze he had on the Evolved Saiyan. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Fwahahaha! That’s more like it!” He rejoiced, tightening his grip on Steven even harder. “What’s the matter, Super Saiyan? Too overwhelmed with the pain your feeling by me pulling your body apart or have you already given up?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But suddenly his hands and tail began to glow, an azure light coming out through the cracks between the fingers of his hands and constricted fifth limb. The Dragon Warrior concentrated his Ki, charging it back up from within his prison. Baby felt heat and pressure building up inside of them, until he couldn’t keep his hold anymore. Releasing his burned hands and tail with a yelp of pain, Baby brought them up to his mouth to blow on them. But that was a mistake. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Now free, Steven Bloodriver focused deep within, he pulled his arms in tightly and exploded with incredible new power. Before Baby had a chance to go on the offensive-before he really even recognized what was happening-throughout every corner of the known Universe everything began rumbling violently. But otherwise were virtually unharmed as suddenly, Steven began roaring bestially as his eyes turned completely red and his teeth became far sharper than usual. Steven’s heart pounded heavily against his chest, as his muscles swelled to the point in where his clothing was being ripped apart. Soon Steven’s mouth and nose were forming into a large snout as the transforming Saiyan continued to roar with all of his might, and he was engulfed in a blinding light soon after. Right before, Steven instantly emerged from the golden veil as a Great Ape, but he had pure gold fur all over his body, was much larger, and lean than normal Great Apes. Before the Golden Great Ape angrily let out a fiercer roar out of his mouth while he pounded his chest wildly as the planet he is on and those within the span of several dimensions trembled under the weight of his power being unleashed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Gleaming vapors of yellow energy started to appear as they radiated off of Steven, whom stops acting wild, and begins to glow. Now the Saiyan began in regressing into a more humanoid form. However, instead of returning back to normal. Steven’s now adult-sized body was taking on the characteristics of both his normal state and Golden Great Ape form. And as if by Magic, his clothing returned, but with the exception of Steven’s black Gi losing it’s top half. Steven’s upper-body was almost entirely covered by crimson fur, as only his head, neck, chest, and hands were not. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">With his tail also becoming a crimson color instead of it’s usual brown and having grown a few inches in width and length as well. Several locks of black hair hung around his face and on his shoulders, the rest of it was angled wildly in all directions, as his new hairstyle resembled that of his father’s version of this form. However, Steven was even taller and more menacing than either he or Goku ever were. His transformation into a Super Saiyan 4 had given him dark yellow irises, a shadow trim around his eyes, and over the eyelids that are in the same color as his fur. Now at his ultimate potential, Steven was strong enough to go head-to-head with even the strongest of enemies. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Baby Vegeta slowly whipped his tail behind him as he bent his knees into a fighting stance, lifting his left fist just in front of his forehead. His right hand he cocked back, filling it with an unbelievable amount of glowing pink energy. “Well now… Let’s see if you can put up a fight this time against my most powerful form…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">ZIP! Steven appeared next to Baby, yanking his tail away from Pan-whom was still coiled from the neck down-and punching him in the jaw. The larger than normal Great Ape in Super Saiyan form fell to the ground limp, even as Steven caught his friend in midair and helped her down to the ground safely. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“…Steven…no way, is that really you?” Pan gasped, looking in shock as her attacker fell helplessly to the ground. “You’re…really something else…” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The adolescent smiled at his friend, before turning around defensively towards the last remaining threat. The monster in front of them slowly pulled himself up from the ground. “Same to you, milady. I would have died if it weren’t for you always giving me something to fight for. I promise to pay you back once I have dealt with Baby. But for now it’s time for me to finish off this monster once and for all.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">While she shot a surprised glance at him because of his voice having become much deeper and much more intimidating after his ascension, Pan had quickly let her eyes wander from just now noticing how much more muscle her hero from another world had gained before she smiled back. “Thanks, but you’re the hero.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“You’re welcome,” the embodiment of rage said before turning his head to Pan and looking her in the eyes. “Beautiful.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Pan grinned, knowing she had found a boy close to her age and not afraid of her incredible strength. It was all she could ever ask for. “Stop it, you’re the one who’s easy on the eyes.” She froze, covering her mouth from letting something like that slip out. She couldn’t believe she just said that out loud. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">To her surprise, she noticed that Steven was smiling; she blushed, hoping that he wouldn’t provoke her any further with those bold and fearless words of his. Pan then realized she had never felt anything like this from any other boy she had met before. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But Baby, ever the one to ruin a perfect moment, interrupted the two. “I hate to interrupt the moment between the two of you, but now is not the time to be dating. Especially since one of you punched me in the face and IT HURT LIKE HELL!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Lady Pan, it turns out I had saved our family and friends on both Kami’s Lookout and Mt. Paozu at the same time I saved you from Baby ravaging the Earth with his Big Bang Attack. But I am sorry I couldn’t tell you right away, I had only now just noticed as the blast wave knocked them all unconscious and made their energy drop to near undetectable levels. While they have been knocked out, not one of them had been affected enough to suffer any harm, as I perhaps subconsciously shielded them with the same energy shield I gave to protect you. Please go to those on the Lookout, for once I am done with Baby I will catch up with you, I promise.” Ignoring Baby’s interruption, Steven relayed a Telepathic message to the girl of his dreams. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Steven, please be careful. I just met you and I don’t want to lose you. I really don’t want this to be the last memory I have of you. But I know you will keep your promise, no one like Baby could ever beat you. Just don’t stay in this new form of yours when you get back from kicking Baby’s butt as I can barely control myself around you when you are like this.” Pan inwardly replied, before she took off into the night sky and flew away from the destined battle between the two ultimate warriors of Saiyan legend. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Grinning like a maniac, Baby raised one hand in Pan’s direction. “Fwahahaha! It is so amusing to think such an annoying little girl can escape from me. It’s almost too bad she has to be killed by me, the God of Death.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Baby began forming a pinkish-purple sphere in his palm, but Steven stopped him from firing it with a devastating punch with the back of his fist to the Immortal monster’s jaw. Blood came gushing out of Baby’s nose and mouth, as his eyes went white and he screamed in agony after Steven’s Ultimate Knuckle spun his head to the right. Right after stopping Baby from trying to kill Pan with his Big Bang Attack and twisting Baby’s head all the way around like how the monster did to him just moments ago, Steven twisted in midair and roundhouse kicked Baby in the face hard enough to snap his neck back before teleporting behind Baby and knocking the monster face-first into the ground before him with a left hook. Right before, Steven smashed a dropkick squarely into the back of Baby’s head, teleported to the edge of space, and dove down at his foe’s back, landing with a painful smash onto Baby’s tailbone. Then, planting his feet firmly on the ground, Steven grabbed Baby’s tail by the tip and began to spin the heavy giant in an arc. Baby’s tongue flapped out of his mouth helplessly, his arms extended straight out as the momentum from Steven’s grasp continued to build up speed. He whirled round and round, his body blurring into a sphere of gold and blue. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“You just love pushing my buttons don’t you? Never wanting to stop and only trying to harm those I love with all of my heart!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Steven shouted, before yelling as he released Baby from the spiral. The giant’s body skipped across the scorched planet, crashing through several continents, and then finally skidded into a mountain which arrested his momentum. Before he could pick himself up, Steven was already there, hovering directly in front of his face. His head was larger than Steven’s whole body, with the whole body of Baby himself being even larger than when Steven was in the same form. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“I will not show you or anyone else any mercy for threatening to kill her. I also will pay you back for trying to kill my family and me.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But the angry Golden Great Ape was intent to never submit. Decades of hardening his heart had forever blinded him by his own selfish pursuits and conceitedness. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Why would I care about the descendants of the people who killed my entire race! ALL OF YOU WILL BE KILLED RIGHT NOW!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The evil Baby’s eyes glowed red as energy for one of his most powerful attacks began building up. Steven barely had time to move his hands in front of his face to block before the concussive crimson blast struck him head on. It exploded immediately, a dome of destructive light extending nearly all the way to where the Moon stood in the starry night sky. It dissipated from the ground up, the last wisp disappearing into the sky. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Says the one who is using the son of the man responsible for the genocide of the Tuffles, and following in the footsteps of him instead of hunting down the King himself,” said a voice from the cloud of smoke. Vanishing quickly, the smoke revealed Steven to be completely unharmed. His clothing was ripped in a few places, but he wasn’t hurt in the least. “King Vegeta is the one you should really be going after, but I know you are too far gone to understand, Baby. But know this, once I bring an end to you, I will do the same to all of the evil in my world and this one, and unlike my previous counterpart, I will continue to improve myself so that I won’t ever fail again to protect the innocent from monsters like you. As I know in the future, someone even more powerful and eviler than you will come and try to bring darkness over all of creation.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif; color:black">High in Earth’s upper atmosphere… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Yet for the moment Pan had left, another war was breaking out between those in the eternal watchtower over the planet and an entity referring to himself as Son Goku. Through this battle, the heiress to the Saiyan throne challenging Goku Black is easily able to wipe the floor with him to such a degree he is forced to regurgitate Zamasu. With his original self no longer a part of him, Goku Black faded from existence, dissolving into dust-like particles even as he tried to will himself to shoot the one who defeated him with a Dark Kamehameha. But before he could even fire the Kamehameha fueled by his pure evil soul, he is hit from behind by a Photon Flash and obliterated in the single blast by Super 17. Reborn as a follower of Baby, the Demon of Vengeance had instantly dispatched of Goku Black and right away prompted the daughter of Vegeta to unleash her power as a Super Saiyan as he targeted her not even a second later. They then had each shimmered and disappeared, streaks of golden energy immediately filled the air around, under, and above the Lookout, sending rumblings of crackling thunder for miles. Both Super Saiyan Bulla and Super 17 were pushing themselves to their limits; normally, their super-speed would be all but invisible, but the strain of the former bled out in opaque golden lines that criss-crossed in her wake against Super Android 17’s own. On the grounds of the Lookout, Gohan could only follow the battle by tracing back over the paths that formed and faded above him, while on the other hand, those alongside him were able to watch the individual movements of both fights taking place before them with no effort. Bulla’s trail was fluid, weaving a tapestry of attacks as she did everything she could to keep Ultimate Super 17 off-balance. The nearly invisible contrails left by Super 17 were shorter and more abrupt, as he constantly shifted in and out of bulking himself up with his own energy to boost his power. In between them all, the wispy floral white path of Pan twisted and looped, far faster than either of the other two, as she had finally arrived and immediately joined in the battle against the ultimate warrior of the Android race. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Though they didn’t realize it, the Super Saiyan 4 currently kicking the ass of the God of Death was able to watch them from where he was and even smiled as he watched both Pan and Bulla’s unsurpassed combat skill on full display as they both leveraged every aspect of martial arts to their advantage. With complete, flawless mastery of the Full-Power state, Bulla maintained constant full speed with only the slightest hints of interruption. Not a single instant was wasted. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">She didn’t depend on either of the techniques like Instant Transmission she had learned from her family and friends...no, Super 17 had already seen them all in action and was well-prepared to defend against them. She was relying solely on her skill as a warrior to place constant pressure on the Demon of Vengeance. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Typically, the younger of the two Saiyans would have alternated between extra-heavy blows and ranged attacks. But with Pan fighting alongside her, she stuck more to a distance-based approach. She did everything she could to keep Super 17 off-balance, to force him to defend from multiple sides at all times. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Super 17 had his own approach. Those watching him looked indifferently as they watched him using the quick transitions between the streamlined and bulky forms to deliver the maximum impact with minimal loss of speed. In his bulked-up form, he was stronger than Bulla; he flashed into it for as short of periods as possible to do as much damage as he could. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But it was Pan whose actions made the most impression on Xeno Gohan and the others. They all watched as she used her superior speed to repeatedly evade her opponent, while launching incredibly powerful and concentrated physical attacks with ease. Her forceful blows kept Super 17 at bay, forcing the Ultimate Android to spend more and more time in the bulky form to defend and thus slowing him down dramatically. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Earth’s Special Forces could see elements of multiple fighting styles in Super 17’s movements. But in countering the granddaughter of Goku and the Super Saiyan daughter of Vegeta, Super 17 used his own moves more than anything else. Focusing on the deadly power of his modified ability to further his own evolution, he is able to tactically stall both Pan and Bulla for the moment he needed with his Super Electric Strike, and evolve even further into his most powerful form yet by absorbing a lock of Android 18’s hair that had fallen off of her from her previous time as a slave to the evil Baby and the barely alive Supreme Kai of the Dark Demon Realm, Zamasu...it was the perfect way to balance out the daughter of Gohan and the niece of Rigor’s fluid, refined approach against him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">But even as the newly reborn Super 17 was about to pull back his hair and smile, Pan clenched her fists, her entire body shaking, and looked up. Deadly bolts of Evolved Saiyan power were building, rushing from her feet and through her whole body in a storm of pure power. She was on the edge. Stunned, those on the Lookout with her watched as she stared down the evil Super 17 with nothing but indignation. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">She closed her eyes. Something within her had awakened – she felt it. That flow of Evolved Saiyan energy, now pure and warm, was calling out to her. Embracing it like never before, she pulled the blue Ki tighter around her, containing it with her strength, concentrating it within her muscles…almost like Kaioken. The power flowed hot and thick, searing through her consciousness. Then she released everything – amplifying her Saiyan instincts, doing away with her former limitations, and awakening her true self through the ascension. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“HAAAAAAAA!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">The granddaughter of Goku’s muscles bulged as the energy of her previous self suddenly built up inside them, her aura exploded around her before it began expanding and rushing upward, brushing away the surrounding celestial bodies making up the Universe like they were wisps of cloud. The tiled floor underneath her cracked. Rays of energy shot away from her violently, striking down those with evil intent across the many dimensions. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">A thunderous explosion of never before seen power rocked the entirety of the Multiverse. A sphere of pure energy rushed out, shining brighter than the Sun and blinking into existence just next to the circle of what made up all of the plains of reality. It hung motionless for what seemed like an eternity. Then petals opened up in slow motion, an azure carnation in brilliant bloom. A few dozen Universes away, Goku Black felt the very foundations of creation rumble. “Humph, so it seems Vegeta’s lineage is not the strongest after all.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">A black mushroom cloud rose over the smoldering tile-filled floor of the Lookout as Xeno Pan stood tall, her eyes shining with intense black light. Her muscles had expanded dramatically; her aura pulsed angrily. Energy crackled white-hot around her feet. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Reborn from the fusion of her previous self and the Evolved Saiyan power within her, Xeno Pan bore an incredible resemblance to her counterpart, Gotenks, but beyond wearing the same brown gloves, black shirt, vest with yellow padding around the shoulders and neck, a blue sash, white pants, and brown boots, her purple-black hair was tied back in a ponytail by a hair binder, her body was curvaceous, delicate, and slender, and her rebirth came with her receiving the same sword as Time Patrol Trunks, Goku’s granddaughter rose into the air and flew toward the two evil warriors, who were just now interrupted from wanting to bombard those around them. “Oh no you don’t, Zamasu!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">BTTZIP. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Just as his form was materializing from hyperspace, Goku Black felt an eerily familiar Ki signature heading right for him. Sure enough, out of the corner of his eye, he caught an azure glow from a nearby floating palace and spun around. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">CRUUNNCH! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Pan’s fist crashed against Black’s jaw, with the powerful blow shattering the entire skull with a sickening crunch. Her Super God Fist crushed every bone in his head before he had time to flinch; his body was lifeless before it hit the ocean of hot molten rock surrounding Korin Tower underneath them. The evil from another world had assaulted the wrong future. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Hovering high in the atmosphere, the Evolved Saiyan made a quick scan of the area, reaching out with her senses to be certain Black was dealt with, and ready to react at the slightest tingle in case if he wasn’t. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">ZZZSSHHH, the safety measure worked perfectly; Pan was so in tune with the Universe that she spun around immediately. But even as she poised herself in a flawless battle stance, she knew it wasn’t who she expected. “Fwahahaha! I’ll take out both of you worthless little monkeys at once!” Super 17 yelled, extending his arms and firing a Hell Lightning Cutter even as he suddenly appeared before her. The point blank range of the attack was a huge advantage, and the blast struck Pan immediately. But just as Super 17, or rather a now complete clone reanimated by the original 17’s corrupted DNA, smiled as he continued to hover in place, his smile faded as the goddaughter of Piccolo’s form became visible, the smoke clearing away slowly to reveal an undamaged, Pan, who was now frowning angrily at the Tuffle. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“You truly are pitiful, Super Android 17,” Pan growled. “You would throw away your own life by following in the footsteps of the same man who slaughtered your whole family just to get some semblance of satisfaction for your overinflated ego…” With Super 17 frozen in shock, Pan vanished and reappeared just behind him before she slashed down with a vicious chop just at the base of Super 17’s neck, directly on his spine. The Android tumbled forward helplessly, crashing face first onto the molten ground in sudden and surprising agony. In that instant it was as if control of his body suddenly fluctuated to the extreme. His fingers and toes went numb at first, then with a jolt it was as if a million tiny needles were poking into his body, all throughout. Worst of all, he didn’t immediately realize what had just happened, but by then it was already too late, as he was consumed by the blazing inferno of molten magma before he could have recovered his senses. “…before you would realize you have to try endlessly to fill in what is actually your greatest weakness.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Pan started to make her way back to the others on the Lookout, but stopped suddenly and spun at a sound just behind her. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">There on the top of Korin’s Tower, as tall as she, was a menacing jet-black figure ablaze in cobalt blue fire. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Picking himself up to his feet and completely healed from the severe thrashing Steven had given him, Great Ape Baby was now intent on taking the one before him down with everything he had. The monster would leave nothing behind of the one who so casually kept on embarrassing him on the battlefield. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“What is going on!?” Super Buu grumbled aloud, the bruises across his entire body growing more painful with each added strike Steven made. “I shouldn’t be losing like this! What in the hell are you, stupid boy!?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Don’t blame me.” Goku’s son paused, watching as the evil monster heaved each breath, sweat pouring down his face. “Your regeneration has reached it’s breaking point.” He said innocently. He’d noticed a difference in the fight so far, his opponent was only able to keep up with him for a few moments. Super Buu’s endurance had then tanked, leading to his power dropping significantly when he started taking hit after hit from Steven. Only...he was still stronger than Gohan would become a half hour from now. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“IMPOSSIBLE! I was a match for you completely!” He yelled, furious. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Really, Majin Buu, are you sure about that? Even after you were given the power of your counterpart from my world and all of this world’s evil, your max power rose to become evenly matched with Mr. Vegito’s Super Saiyan state. But it wasn’t enough to meet my own strength.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“But who are you?! I never encountered such a strong and resilient person like you!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Well, you can blame many villains for that, Majin Buu.” Steven replied quickly. “Your original self as Kid Buu, Beerus the Destroyer, Vados, Frieza, and many others have destroyed countless Galaxies over the centuries.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“I DON’T CARE! Just answer my goddamn question! WHO ARE YOU!” Super Buu screamed at the top of his lungs. For a brief moment, the vibrations of his voice alone shook the entire Universe. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Don’t play dumb with me, monster. I know full well you already know who I am.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Majin Buu’s eyes narrowed in anger as he bit his tongue. “You absurdly short Saiyan! Do you honestly believe I am lying? You are not the one named Gohan, you said that yourself—now tell me what in the hell is your identity! And you...” Buu’s anger continued to rise, the monster burning with intensity, attempting to summon his full strength. “...Better not stall any longer! My patience for you is running thin!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“Who ever said I was stalling? You are looking at Gohan, the real one.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Now fully aware of those captive but still alive within Super Buu, Steven suddenly, raised his power up to his very limit—off in another area of the Multiverse, the Supreme Kai of Time’s eyes widened as she sensed the incredible energy. He struck hard and quickly, pulverizing his enemy’s body with an unblockable barrage of blows. Super Buu could only cringe in pain as the Super Saiyan dented and destroyed his precious elastic body, one punch at a time. Not even with his prized regeneration being at it’s strongest could he keep up with the level of damage being rained down on his head. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“I’m done with you, Majin Bū Aku, this is it!” Xeno Gohan finally said, pausing from his assault. “I am going to kill both you and Kid Buu, and at the same time, I will free the Supreme Kais and the Good Majin Buu you absorbed.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">His throat gargling with purple blood, his face dented almost beyond recognition as it now was lodged deep in his throat, Super Buu still found the hatred to murmur his enraged reply. “I...hate...you...and...kgghc...you...will...pay...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“I despise evil far more than you do for me,” the righteous Saiyan said, ready to end it. “Especially those who only pretend to be good.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">In a flash, the Evolved Saiyan charged his hands with crackling blue energy, his Super Saiyan aura blazing hot as a star. Super Buu could not track his movements, much less move to defend himself, as Steven clasped his hands together and brought them down on Buu’s already damaged head, sending a shockwave of furious energy pulsing through the monster’s body. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Daikaioh, the Supreme Kai of the South, and Mr. Buu crashed into the surface of the Lookout, their fall being softened from Steven’s Telekinesis, the Psychic energy cushioning them and Kami’s Lookout enough for neither of them to be harmed. The three didn’t even so much as twitch after crashing in front of the others on the floating sanctuary. Steven frowned down silently at the motionless bodies as he let go of his attack. He could no longer feel Super Buu’s weakened Ki, and was certain that he’d managed to completely erase him from existence, at least just enough for Uub to still be born. Sighing, Steven pushed off from where he was, moving to rejoin Piccolo and the others before returning home. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Still transformed as a Super Saiyan, Steven reached down into his pocket and pulled out a bag full of Senzu Beans. He flew closer to the Z Fighters and handed them the beans. “It has been a real honor to meet all of you. My senses filled me in on what Majin Buu had done here. Now that jerk won’t be bothering anyone here and in my world anymore.” Having sensed no deception within the alternate counterpart of Gohan, Piccolo grinned as he accepted the Senzu Beans from his protégé. “Humph, thanks kid. But how in the world did you separate those Buu absorbed from that monster in the same instant you killed him?” The Namek named Piccolo told his pupil. “Hey, wait! It sounded like you were about to leave!” Interrupted Krillin. “But you just got here ten seconds ago!” “Is there something wrong? You do seem tense.” Added Piccolo. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">Rather than responding, Steven had reached down into his other pocket and pulled out a letter. He gave the white envelope to Piccolo and was gone before the former Guardian of the Earth could had asked him what it was for. “Mr. Piccolo, I am sorry I cannot stay here any longer. If I did, I probably would have been killed. The letter I have given you will explain everything. Farewell…” The Super Saiyan told his mentor with Telepathy as he left the realm and ventured back to his own time. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black">“” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Dragon Ball Heroes: Assault on the Inferno Nightmare Mission! Timeline '

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Age 789, a moment following the destruction and rebirth of Angel… 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Earth… 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">TTINGG! The youthful Saiyan’s senses suddenly, awakened. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven stopped short, his battle instincts kicking in as he turned his eyes to the right and crouched, launching a spinning kick at the burst of energy he sensed. The attack caught Neo Angel in mid-strike, tripping the Demon reborn be Techno Evolution. Steven was surprised when he turned around and saw his opponent. Not only was the appearance of his foe almost completely different, but he had the same level of power as him now. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“RAAAAHH!” Vegeta roared, sending his Ki out in a spiral wave—the resulting momentum causing Goku’s last punch to ricochet off to the side. Fueled now by rage, the prince leapt forwards with his right foot, pounding his rival in the chest with three successive kicks followed by a powerful left that spun him around backwards. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hah!” Vegeta laughed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before Goku had any chance of reacting, the other Saiyan had raised his right hand directly to the small of his back. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Galick Impact!” He yelled, firing a blue sphere at point blank range. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The attack launched Goku across the entire length of the space room in seconds, causing him to slam violently through planet after planet, crushing them to bits along the way. Just when he felt he might have the leverage to escape from its path, though, Vegeta detonated the blast, causing an enormous spherical explosion wave. Light blue waves shot down towards the trembling arena, almost as if a star had just exploded. The grandstands shook once again, audience members instinctively throwing their arms up to cover their eyes from the light. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Uh, folks..." the announcer fumbled, trying to think of any commentary he could add. Since most of them couldn't see the fight or what was going on, all he really comment on was whether or not they were all in danger. "...please stay within your designated seating areas. I'm sure our two contestants will remember we're down here eventually. Until then, all we can do is imagine all the crazy fighting that's going on up there." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">'Come on, Goku, my boy!' King Kai thought to himself, his fists tight with tension as he waited. 'You're doing fine, just keep this up...' '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Hey, who's winning?" "What's going on up there?" several of the Northern Quadrant's fighters gathered around him had begun to ask. He, along with the other Kais had been watching the fight with their antennae—though watching was enough to make them dizzy. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"That's a good question indeed," said the East Kai, taking off her sunglasses to wipe them with a cleaning cloth. She simply had to get her bearings before watching any more of that insanity above. "It seems to me that this Vegeta character, rude as he is, may have a slight edge at the moment." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"For the time being," South Kai confirmed as he crossed his arms over his chest. "But I'll be the first to admit a fight like this is really out of my league to critique. What do you think, master?" he asked, turning up towards the Grand Kai. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Hmmmh," the Lord of Otherworld grunted through a smile. "These boys', hah," he chuckled, uncrossing his legs as if in excitement—clearly, he too, could see the entire fight. "Well, I'll give em' credit for one thing, they sure do know to string you guys along. I ain't never seen ya'll so tense." The great kai howled with a spurt of laughter before finally settling back down. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"So," South Kai continued, finding himself suddenly curious, "does that mean you're impressed with them, Grand Kai?" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Well, uh..." their master suddenly fumbled. "I guess so, sure. I mean, yeah, they're certainly powerful. Why do you ask?" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Bah!" West Kai interrupted with a snarky laugh, pointing an accusing finger at South Kai. "Surely you weren't insinuating that those two hot-shots might actually be in the same league as the Grand Kai himself! Don't be ridiculous, really, you're acting just as foolishly as North Kai." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">King Kai had raised an eyebrow throughout the conversation and had previously chosen not to butt in. But having the prime opportunity presented, he finally spoke up. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"That is a pretty pathetic attempt at humor, West Kai," North Kai said flatly. "You should probably leave all the joking to the King of Comedy." He quickly turned to his master, the bearded kai above still blushing somewhat from embarrassment. King Kai didn't have to be a mind reader to know what he was thinking. "Grand Kai could stomp out those two in half a second if he wanted to," the blue deity from the North said with a smirk. "Isn't that right, master?" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"What's that North Kai?" the old man said rather quickly, his behavior still strangely nervous. "Oh, take out those two, right, right." What parts of his face remained visible, those not covered by white hair or shades, were indeed quite red. "Sure, ya'll gotta be joking, right? As if two mere mortals could withstand the art of Grand Kai, haha...I'd have em' wide eyed and mystified with just my aura alone. Yeah, yeah, those two, good as they are, would probably need at least a couple millennia of training before they could even hang in the ring with me for a minute..." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As the leader's awkward speech finally paused, leaving all in the group below somewhat confused and skeptical, a thunderous boom from above stole away the moment. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Though the spectators had temporarily ceased paying attention to the battle due to the sheer luminosity the two combatants were producing, that didn't mean the two Saiyan warriors were about to halt their conflict any time soon. Fists were being thrown in flurries; kicks were chained together with devastating impact. It was hard to imagine how the pair's stamina could endure so long...but neither showed any signs of slowing. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Their sheer willpower and resolution prevented them from letting up, even for a second. Each one of them, for their respective reasonings, had something to prove. For the elder of the two, it was to truly settle the score between himself and the anomalous low-class. For the low-class in question, it was nothing a good fight with the most powerful warrior he knew—one he could call both an ally and a rival. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">And with nothing short of determination and raw power, the two streaks of light collided once more in a spectacular blaze of an amber hue, exchanging a rapid flurry of fists and feet in an attempt to overpower the other. Both growled ferally as their auras, jagged with electrical sparks of raw energy, expanded to compass them in a shimmering golden flame of power. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Vegeta...” Goku pondered inwardly, feeling the prince gaining a sudden edge in power. He sped backwards for some distance—it was clear Vegeta’s prior experience with Super Saiyan 2 wasn't for nothing. “I've never gotten the chance to fight you on truly even terms like this. Something's always gotten in the way… even in our first battle, back in those mountains, we never had the chance to settle things one-on-one. Then it was Frieza… then the Androids. Cell came not too long after that. Then there was that issue you had to deal with in space while Gohan, Trunks, and I were left to defend Earth against Cell. And during all of those five years, I never had the chance to truly fight you.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku began throwing energy blasts wildly, each one chasing his opponent across the starscape as he dodged. Vegeta was as nimble as ever, vanishing and reappearing before a single one could make contact. The Earth-raised Saiyan was beginning to realize that he couldn't risk physical encounters with the prince anymore—he'd have to keep his distance if he wanted to outlast his foe. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“But all that's behind us now, Vegeta. We're going to determine the better of us right here and now. One of us, in some shape or form, will be declared the winner. And when this one's over, win or lose, I can honestly say I'll already be excited for our next fight.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta was getting closer, making his way through the energy barrage bit by bit, and soon he'd be able to break through. Worse, the righteous fighter's entire line of vision was now clouded with the clouds of grey dust, the sole remnant from his flurry of blasts. Goku hovered, knees slightly bent, arms cocked, eyes alert, as he tried to concentrate. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Behind you, clown!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The prince's sudden insult was accompanied by the single hardest knee to the gut the good-hearted Saiyan had ever received, no question about it. Goku's pupils went white for half a second as saliva flew from his gaping mouth. He screamed in sudden shock, but his voice was choked off when Vegeta's thick arms suddenly took hold around his neck. From behind him, the prince suddenly looped backwards until the two were in a golden streaking dive towards the ring below. Just before impact, the prince let go, graciously letting his rival take the full force of the impact. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">His orange shirt now completely ripped off, Goku quickly stumbled to his feet, arms hanging limply. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You’re mine, Kakarot!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Before the hero of Earth had even gotten his bearings, the Saiyan prince, wreathed in blue lightning, had flown into his chest at full force. Goku took all the momentum he could within his body, minimizing his launch distance—he was still flung backwards, and skidded to the edge of the ring, but barely stayed in bounds. Only, his escape attempt was far from over. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Stay down, fool!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A thin golden energy blast was already chasing after him. Leaping to his feet in a surprising acrobatic display, though, Goku managed to bound sideways just out of the explosion. But before he'd even taken a breath, Vegeta had fired another, even stronger golden energy beam. This time, he had no other option but to use Instant Transmission to get away. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta rushed at the corner of the ring, dashing in and halting in stunning fashion, poised for a perfect strike, only to find the empty air left behind. There, arms crossed, on the other side of the arena, stood a seemingly smug Kakarot. The prince's eyes widened in surprise as the dust cleared. He'd almost gotten carried away in the pure enjoyment of the fight, but this was yet another reminder of how Kakarot wasn't easy to get the best of. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Again with your miracle escapes, Kakarot,” Vegeta said, pausing to catch his breath. “My patience for that damn technique of yours is growing slimmer by the second.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku turned his head to the side, spitting out a wad of blood, then smiled again. “What, that? I'll admit I'm starting to overuse it, but I'd have thought by now you would have a way to counter it.” The Earth-raised Saiyan's carefree grin accompanying his words were too much. “Since you feel so strongly about it, I guess I could refrain from using it during our fight—I guess that's fair.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The prince's face seemed to scrunch up like a sour fruit. “You'd DARE to insult me by holding back!? FOOL! INGRATE! Idiot clown of a warrior!” Without missing a beat, Vegeta concentrated his aura and ripped a jagged rift in space just in front of him. He opened the other side just behind Kakarot...for once, he was demonstrating a prized technique not to win, but to make a point. He waited until Goku had fully sensed his presence, the other Saiyan's eyes widening in surprise. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“And you think I couldn't counter your little trick,” he whispered into Goku's ear. He grinned briefly before rifting once more back in front of his rival and resuming his battle stance. “Relying on techniques like your little instant transmission mainly as defense, running away and dodging at the last second, is ignoring every hint of battle instinct you have! I've been anxiously awaiting an opportunity to counter your precious little magic trick this entire fight, but so far all you've done is mock me. You cannot know how single-mindedly I devoted myself to figuring out a means to replicate your teleporting ability—and now you rob me the satisfaction of surprising you with it in battle. Pathetic.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku held his face still, refraining from giving any kind of reaction. Finally, he let go a bit of a sigh followed by a smile of relief. “You know, Vegeta, now that you mention it, I guess a subconscious part of me didn't think using Instant Transmission was all that fair against you—I wanted our battle to be completely even, because I knew how badly you wanted it to be. I honestly didn't even realize I was holding back. But you're right, it's a technique that has many more uses than just avoiding attacks...” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta's smile returned as Goku bent his knees once again into a fighting stance. “And now that we both know how, things can really get interesting.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Are you finally ready to come at me with everything, then?” Vegeta chuckled. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Hmm,” his rival grunted in reply. “I think we might be able to arrange that, if you're feeling up to it?” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Oh, by all means, Kakarot. Show me the great terror of your true strength,” the prince smirked. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The two glared at one another silently, their golden auras pulsating around them, filled with electricity. Vegeta was the first to make a move, aggressively lunging forth to punch at Goku's head. Before the strike could connect, Goku smirked and vanished with a soft whoosh of displaced air. Mirroring his rival's facial expression, Vegeta readied his own technique, ripping through the space between where he floated and where he vaguely sensed Kakarot. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“That clown thinks he can keep dancing around like I can't touch him,” Vegeta thought just as he sped through the dimensional tear, “Time to set him straight!” He emerged, readying an elbow strike, just as Kakarot blurred into view looking slightly startled. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Gaah—!” Goku yelped as Vegeta came barrelling at him with the force of a super-powered freight train, grinning with satisfaction at catching him off guard. Thinking quickly, the spiky-haired Saiyan ducked under the incoming elbow strike, and attempted to sweep Vegeta's leading leg. The older Saiyan darted backward before he could touch him, and blitzed through another Rift. “Incredible, he's just as fast as I am!” Goku said, in a mix of amazement and respect. Behind him, Vegeta appeared again, slamming an axe kick down onto his shoulder. “Hrrgh..! You're not holding back anything, huh, Vegeta?” The Prince wordlessly smiled, eyes flickering with the green flame of their shared transformation, before disappearing through another nexus. “All right, if that's the way you want it...” Goku concentrated, gathering energy in his palms. He shut his eyes, feeling for the tell-tale flicker of Vegeta's emerging Ki signature. “There you are!” he thought, snapping his eyes open. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta burst through the rift, only to come face-to-face with a ball of electric-blue Ki. Realizing his mistake, he retreated through the same rift just as Kakarot released it, changing his destination to a point on the other side of the whole stadium. “You've got a lot to learn, Kakarot,” he thought, “I've been doing this a whole lot longer than you have!” Picking up speed, he ripped through just behind Goku and immediately readied his own small Ki blast, silently cursing the fact that his technique wouldn't allow him to carry a charged attack like Goku's did. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The sound of buzzing energy, or perhaps his mere presence, was enough to alert his opponent, who phased out of existence. “Damn!” Vegeta cursed, waiting for his prey to reappear. Right on cue, Kakarot showed up...with his back to Vegeta. “Hey clown!” the Prince called, “Did you get turned around, or what? I'm over he—” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In the next instant, an enormous blast hit him squarely in the back, just as he perceived Kakarot vanishing again. Coughing in the residual smoke, he whirled around to see the younger Saiyan gleefully snickering. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“You fell for it! Man, I can't believe that worked!” Goku laughed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“A...a decoy?!” Vegeta couldn't believe Kakarot had that kind of strategic sense in him. “You used yourself as bait, diverting my attention so I'd drop my guard to taunt you, and then you blindsided me.” He chuckled. “Not bad, Kakarot. But it won't happen again.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Yeah well, maybe you shouldn't waste your energy calling me a clown?” Goku teased, as Vegeta's face twisted into an angered expression. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“I will call you whatever epithet you're deserving of,” Vegeta said almost calmly, stepping to the side and through another Rift. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Oh boy, now he's mad,” Goku thought. “But hey, maybe I can win if he lets his anger cloud his judgement.” Truth be told, he'd known all along that Vegeta had the advantage in strength, speed, and with his Rifting, evasion. About the only thing Goku had on his side was his reach, but Vegeta was solidly built, and too stubborn to back down after a few good hits. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The golden Prince rifted around the arena, flashing into sight only briefly as he kicked off of the planetoids above and the ring below, building speed. So far, Kakarot had failed to notice, or didn't realize what he was doing. “Good,” Vegeta thought. “He's not the only one who has some tricks up his sleeve.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Hopefully, he'd managed to effectively fool the notoriously perceptive Saiyan with his little show just now—far from actually being incensed, it was an act, to make it appear as though he'd fallen to the low-class' taunts. Coming out of the Rift, a ball of Ki zoomed past his nose, barely missing him. “Looks like he's on the offensive again, finally.” He sped up, careful to vault over the pot-shots Kakarot was hurling at him without losing too much momentum. In between, he fired a few small blasts of his own to nullify some of the ones heading for him. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Switching the direction of his Rifting, he miscalculated his timing, holding a ball of Ki in his hand and failing to release it as he entered the next Rift. “Damnit, clumsy oaf!” He roared at himself, coming back through, his hand empty, though still poised to cradle the Ki ball. Growling in minor frustration, he reset his pace, continuing to simultaneously speed through Rifts and defend. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Huh?” Goku thought. “He was using his own Ki to deflect my attacks, but then, when he should've fired one, it looked like he lost it.” Seeing the older Saiyan exit the rift empty handed, when he knew he'd had a blast going in, was something of a relief. After all, Vegeta made mistakes just like any other fighter. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Wait a minute...that's it!” he thought triumphantly, having deciphered one of the Rifting technique's limitations. “He can't charge attacks and take them through like I can. Score one for Instant Transmission!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku maintained his flurry of low-level energy blasts, aimed directly at his nimbly-dodging opponent, but his right hand was steadily charging a one-handed Kamehameha. Though he couldn't build up quite as much energy as in the two-handed variety, it was still a substantial charge. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As Vegeta continued to alternately dodge and deflect Goku's cloud of golden blasts, the younger Saiyan concentrated his fire right out in front of the other's path and then transmitted only a few feet further out. As the prince emerged from the cloud, his aura blazing brightly, Goku launched the one-handed Kamehameha at full force. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The hero of Earth had expected the prince to either dodge or rift out of the way, and he had a planned response for either. Instead, Vegeta did both: flinging his body horizontally and then disappearing. Goku barely had time to sense Vegeta's energy and spin around before he saw his own attack emerging from the rift next to the prince. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">PHOOM! '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Having never before felt the impact of one of his own Kamehameha’s at point-blank range, Goku was momentarily stunned. The force bowled him head over heels, causing his ears to ring and his whole body to tremble from shock. The blast engulfed several of the few remaining planetoids at once, casting star-like shine across the space room. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku released a minor explosion wave around himself, clearing the air, only to see a rift open up right in front of him before Vegeta's elbow smashed into his chest with devastating force. Goku gasped, trying to catch his breath, but Vegeta rifted once more to instantly change direction and smash into him again, not an ounce of momentum wasted. The younger Saiyan could do almost nothing to shield himself as Vegeta's melee attacks pummeled him from every side thanks to the continual rifting. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Beginning to grow desperate and aching from the onslaught, Goku started to Instant Transmit out of danger, but paused. Vegeta had decried his use of IT as a defensive measure; surely the older Saiyan would simply press his advantage and follow up using the rifting ability. Instead, Goku went on the offensive. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“SUPER SOLAR STORM!” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">At the level of Ascended Saiyan, the solar flare was much more than just a flash of bright light. Goku had instinctively focused and aligned his aura so that the wave of light shot out directly at Vegeta like a laser. The prince closed his eyes, but it made no difference; the photons passed straight through his body and seared every nerve at once like a bolt of lightning. Suddenly incapacitated, Vegeta lost control of his rifting chain and tumbled straight into a double fist from his opponent. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The pair of Saiyans dropped back to the surface of the ring, both panting heavily. Half of Goku's chest was now fully exposed as his ripped blue undershirt revealed it heaving up and down. Vegeta's armor was scorched all over, but still intact as the prince took in gulps of air at a time. Both could see the exhaustion in the other's eyes, both realizing that the fight would soon be drawing to a conclusion. Yet the rush, the excitement of fighting one another, seemed enough to sustain them indefinitely. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Come on, Kakarot,” Vegeta thought, “let's finally settle this.” 

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku's breathing finally began to slow, the burning pain filling his muscles and the aching from every bruise beginning to lessen slightly. He inwardly thanked his Saiyan anatomy as a cool breeze from the stadium whipped lightly across his face. Never before had he felt such elation from a fight. Just as the Earth-raised Saiyan was about to resume his attacks, he paused, noting that Vegeta's heavy breathing hadn't quite subsided. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Huh,” he thought, hesitating and using the extra second to recuperate even further. “Vegeta must be even more tired than I am.” A moment later, though, the prince charged him once again, leaving Goku to assume it was nothing. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku reached up just in time to catch his rival's punch, his palm stinging upon impact. The prince quickly tried to sweep his footing, but the hero hopped just above the kick, jabbing Vegeta in the right shoulder and following it with a knee to the jaw. Pushing his foe backwards, Goku began pressing his advantage even further, landing blow after blow to Vegeta's torso—until the prince was forced to retreat upwards into the air for respite. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“The hell is going on!?” Vegeta grumbled inwardly, clenching his right fist tightly in anger. “I'm...my strength...no! It can't wane, not here, not now!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">In full denial, Vegeta charged once again, gritting his teeth in anger. So long as he focused on Kakarot’s loathsome face, he could always find the drive to push on. His first strike struck Goku square in the cheek, but somehow his next fell to empty air—as did each blow after. As the insufferable Kakarot dodged from side to side, watching his punches fly vainly past him, Vegeta could only press the attack with every ounce of willpower he had. It was his full strength, the same speed he'd used to dominate his opponent throughout this entire fight. And yet, suddenly, it wasn't enough. In fact, it seemed to be dropping lower by the second, as if there were a gulf between the two fighters that had appeared out of nowhere. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No!” he screamed, panting heavily as Goku hopped freely away from his last punch. “GAAHH! What's wrong with my body!?” He didn't understand, it didn't make sense! “I'm certain I had more power than you, Kakarot! Throughout this entire fight, I've held the advantage, and I know you've taken more damage than me!” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Looking across from him, unsure quite how to react, Goku could only ponder the facts. While normally such an outburst would be nothing more than Vegeta's pride talking, this time it was true. Vegeta had maintained an advantage in strength and damage throughout the fight; his greater time and experience with the second level of Super Saiyan made that inevitable. It made no sense that his endurance would falter now, just as things were drawing to a close. Goku knew that if it were a matter of pushing himself, nobody was second to Vegeta's grit and determination. “So why is he falling behind now?” He wondered. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta charged him again, his eyes now set with desperation—his pride on the line. Goku flared out his golden aura and stopped the attack with two swift blocks before pushing his rival back with a Kiai from his left hand. This was going nowhere fast. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Damn it!” Vegeta yelled, looking at his own hands. He dared not blame Kakarot for this, not this time. Goku's strength seemed to be hovering right around the level it should've be at, it was his own that had plummeted for no apparent reason. But it was suddenly as if the Saiyan prince couldn't even focus on the fight at hand. Perhaps in his mind, his own victory had been a foregone conclusion from the start, but now that he was at a disadvantage in power, his brain began to race through memory after memory in a panic. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“No! Not again!” he yelled aloud, shutting his eyes—trying to block out the vision of Kakarot’s Kaioken x4 Kamehameha overcoming his Galick Gun back on Earth. Like some kind of film, the memories continued, from Goku instructing Krillin to spare his life right onto the events of Namek. His Super Galick Flash was bearing down on Frieza, the tyrant screaming with all his might as he tried to stop it, but in vain. Then, just before it would've consumed the Frost Demon, Goku reached out a hand and caused it to prematurely detonate. The prince's perfect victory of vengeance had been stolen away, and the surviving Frieza would soon impale him with a sneak attack. The memories continued piling up, all his history with the low-class Saiyan, banging inside of his skull like a drum. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">“Vegeta, are you alright?” Goku asked, unsure of what, if anything, he could do. “Listen to me, you need to snap out of it.” '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The other Saiyan slowly opened his eyes, regaining his focus and control of his emotions. He knew he wasn't the same person as he'd been all those years. It wasn't vengeance against Kakarot that he sought now—in fact, most of the other Saiyan's previous offenses seemed like nothing to him, once again in his right mind. The way Kakarot had surpassed him in power back on Earth and again on Namek, while certainly humiliating, was also what drove him to become stronger. Being shown mercy on Earth, being saved from the Ginyu Force by Goku, receiving help in the final battle against Frieza, those were the things that used to completely dominate his mind. His absolute hatred for Kakarot had been so deeply rooted in those same things, he had been consumed by the desire to rip the other Saiyan to shreds. Worst of all, it had always seemed like Goku didn't realize the insult in any of his actions. He was merely behaving as any good friend would, and expected Vegeta to see it as a kindness. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">'But, I've let go of all of that!' Vegeta inwardly yelled. 'I've moved on, I don't care anymore!' he repeated, reassuring himself. 'So then why, when I need it most, has my own strength abandoned me!?' '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">'Ehem,' a voice in his head interrupted. 'Excuse the interruption, Vegeta, but I think I might have the answer to that.' '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The Saiyan's eyes immediately turned down onto the lawn surrounding the ring, to King Kai. Arms behind his back, wearing a somber look, the blue-skinned god of the North opened his mouth to speak for all to hear. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"It seems you've finally discovered the limitations of your body," he began. "I should've suspected this." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"What? What are talking about, what limitations?" Vegeta grumbled. Meanwhile, Goku had begun to fit the pieces together. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"I'm talking about that flimsy reanimated corpse of yours, my boy," the Kai answered. "It's just not built for fighting the way an Otherworld body like Goku's is." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Ah—! Of course!" Vegeta's eyes shot wide as he stared down at his hands and fingers. His blame now had an outlet, and it made perfect sense. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Yeah, even during your fight, Goku's body began to heal itself, regaining his energy bit by bit, rejuvenating and becoming stronger. Yours, on the other hand, can't even properly recuperate—you're playing by a whole different set of rules than he is." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Hmm," Goku grunted, signaling he'd deduced as much. "Sorry, Vegeta. I honestly didn't know, and I certainly didn't think it would play this much of a factor in our fight. If I had, I—" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"—Forget it, Kakarot, it's not your fault. You're not the one who spent half his life doing the bidding of Frieza, wiping out entire civilizations, and enjoying it to boot." Vegeta sighed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Yeah, well, that's not you anymore," Goku offered weakly, as if that would soften the blow. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Not that it matters," Vegeta scoffed. "Seems I'm bound to this form no matter how much good I try to do." He lowered his eyes to the ground, dropping his hands and turning his head away from Goku. Like a sad flame flickering away into nothing, the golden aura of his Super Saiyan power died away. "Fine then, Kakarot, finish this fight so we can be done with it." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The tournament stadium was silent, all eyes turned to Goku in suspense. Was he going to claim his victory, or after fighting so hard to win would he choose a different path? For the Earth-raised Saiyan, there wasn't even a question. As he stared at the hardened Saiyan warrior in front of him, someone he was glad to now call a friend, he saw more than just a rival. He saw a leader, someone whom he could respect and trust. If ever he'd seen someone reform, truly change inside and out, this was it. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">A sudden smile crossed his face. "There's no way I'd be satisfied with a victory now and you know it. In fact, when our roles were reversed, you yourself gave me the same answer back on Namek." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Vegeta turned his eyes sharply back up at Goku. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Once we're back on Earth, alive and well, we'll just have to have round 2—or whatever round it would be, I'm not really sure. Until then, I'm just going to have to forfeit." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Somehow, this seemed the one solution everyone in the audience had all been thinking together at once. Upon hearing Goku's selfless decision, the crowds rose unanimously to their feet in mighty applause. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Well don't act all surprised, Vegeta," Goku said with a smirk. "I don't believe for a second that you weren't expecting it." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Hah," the prince finally smiled again, crossing his arms over his chest to indicate all was again well. "Of course it's no surprise. If there's one thing I can count on, it's that you'll always be a slave to your better nature." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Yeah, well I don't see you complaining there, champion," his rival replied smugly. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Tch!" he grunted, pausing a second before he could get the words out. "No, I'm no champion. I forfeit as well, Kakarot. If I'd truly wanted to defeat you, I should've knocked you out of the ring when I had the chance—in the end, my own enjoyment of our fight was my demise." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"That so?" Goku chuckled. "Noted. Next time I'll be sure to fight dirty then." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"What other way is there?" the other Saiyan laughed. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">As he took center stage a final time, the mushroom-headed announcer wore a confused but energetic smile. "Well then, everyone, since our top two competitors have forfeited, I guess that means we don't have a champion. Sorry about that, folks. Anyway, though—" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Wait wait wait," West Kai interrupted from below, complaining. "Excuse me if I'm wrong, but wouldn't this turn of events make Pikkon the champion?" '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"Nah, West Kai," the Grand Kai replied cooly. Over in the corner, Pikkon could be seen trying to cover his face in embarrassment. "And to be honest, ole Westy, you might need to lay off the whole Pikkon business. People might start to think something weird." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The fight formally concluded, Goku and Vegeta stepped out of the ring. Vegeta spared a backwards glance at the destroyed, cracked ring of stone and tile, normally a symbol of his victory...but for now, it merely held the promise of an even greater fight. 'Next time, Kakarot,' the proud prince thought. 'Our fight won't simply be a big buildup, no. Next time there will be no excuses, no interruptions. And when that day comes, you'd better be ready—I plan to discover the upper limits of true Saiyan power,' he smirked both inwardly and outwardly, 'and exceed them.' '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">The day's match was still replaying in his mind, but he already knew so many things he had to work on. Whatever edge he had at the moment, he certainly wouldn't keep it if he didn't devote himself entirely to training and bettering his technique. '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"I hope you'll be ready, Kakarot," he said out loud, voicing his thoughts. "Because when we're both on even ground, I plan to show you my true power, none of this reanimated, restricted-by-death bullshit. That remains my one condition..." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Goku laughed, flashing the shorter Saiyan a competitive smirk. "You bet! Name the time and place, I'll be there." '''

<p class="MsoNormal">'''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%; font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">"See to it that you are, and that we're both alive," Vegeta sarcastically quipped. '''

<p class="MsoNormal"> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Power Levels: 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver ( <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball Heroes’ Avatar): 1.6 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Chou Super Saiyan Little Goku ( <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">GT):  <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Immeasurable 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Future Gohan: 165 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Piccolo Katanaji (With Weights): 910 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Future Trunks: 157 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Pan ( <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball GT):  <span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Immeasurable 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Xeno Bardock:  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Immeasurable 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver (Before his Dark Renewal): 31 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Steven Bloodriver (After his Dark Renewal): 157,200,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan Steven Bloodriver (After his Dark Renewal): 302,200,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Great Ape Steven Bloodriver (After his Dark Renewal):  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">1.572 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Golden Great Ape Steven Bloodriver (After his Dark Renewal): 29.868 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Saiyan 4 Steven Bloodriver (After his Dark Renewal): 74,945,600,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia ( <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Dragon Ball Heroes’ Avatar): 1.3 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fourth Form Frieza: 120 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fourth Form Cooler: 80 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fourth Form King Cold: 230 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Fourth Form Chilled: 110 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Full Armor Mecha Frieza: 172 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Meta-Cooler: 206 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Ruthless Final Form Frost: Immeasurable 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia (Before his Dark Renewal): 19 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia (After his Dark Renewal): 142,800,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia (Enraged, following his Dark Renewal): 143,900,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Angel Garcia (Fully Enraged, following his Dark Renewal): 145,000,000 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Buu (Dark Dragon Ball Suppressed): 157,200,000 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Super Buu (Base Form): 6.2 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Drakoshin Majcnavn: 2.9 billion 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">Jack Atlas (Red Nova Possessed): 290 million 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif">: