The wind stirred softly through the open grassland near Capsule Corp, whispering secrets as Vegeta's piercing gaze cut through the horizon. Without warning, he shot forward like a comet streaking across the sky, forcing Rykon to follow, heart pounding with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.
What could Vegeta want with me? The question throbbed in Rykon's mind, as persistent as the heat that flared beneath his skin.
They landed on a wide field bathed in golden sunlight. The grass swayed lazily around them, but the tension between the two Saiyans was electric, a charged storm barely contained.
Vegeta's voice broke the silence—sharp and commanding. Train with me.
Rykon blinked, taken aback by the bluntness of the demand. Train with you? Why me? He searched Vegeta's stoic expression, knowing the prince was fiercely independent, a lone wolf even among warriors.
Vegeta's eyes flashed with stubborn fire. You're the only one I can trust—not because I like you, but because I hate you the least.
The confession, rough and grudging, made Rykon smirk beneath his breath. Only you could make hatred sound like a compliment.
Vegeta's fists clenched, his voice dropping to a fierce whisper filled with raw desperation. When we were kids, we heard stories about the legendary Super Saiyan—the strongest warrior who ever lived. But now? We're losing. That legend isn't enough anymore. There has to be a power beyond it. I refuse to lose... to die. Losing is not an option.
Rykon's heart thudded against his ribs, echoing the same resolve. He's right. Losing isn't something I accept either.
The two warriors ignited their ki, the air around them shimmering as golden energy crackled and surged. The ground beneath trembled, awed by the power bursting forth.
Together they roared, voices joining the tempest of their Super Saiyan forms. HAAAHHH!!!
Minutes earlier, high above the southern district, Bulma's ship glided silently through the clouds. Inside, tension simmered as Yamcha and Piccolo discussed strategy in hushed tones.
If we approach Cell in this ship, can he still read our power? Yamcha asked.
Piccolo's gaze was sharp and calculating. He's crafty. Even if we get close, flushing him out won't be easy.
Suddenly, the air shimmered, and Goku appeared, instantaneously transported onto the ship.
GOKU! Everyone's voices echoed with relief and surprise.
Goku grinned, rubbing his stomach. I'm back at full strength, but I'm starving.
His eyes landed on Piccolo, teasing with a grin. Hey, Kamiccolo!
Piccolo scowled, cheeks coloring faintly. Just Piccolo is fine.
Goku's tone grew serious. I'm not strong enough yet to face the androids or Cell alone. But I have a plan. I'm taking Gohan somewhere where one year's worth of training happens in just one day.
Piccolo's brow furrowed. The Hyperbolic Time Chamber? No one's lasted a whole year in there before, not even you.
Goku's smile was confident. Things are different now. And we can bring Vegeta, Trunks, and Rykon too. They can handle it.
His gaze flicked toward the absent Rykon. Where is he?
Piccolo replied, With Vegeta. Training.
Goku nodded and turned to Gohan. Let's go. We'll pick up the others on the way.
Back on the grassy field, the air crackled with tension. Rykon launched himself toward Vegeta, ready to strike—but suddenly something blocked his path. A familiar figure landed sharply between them.
Kakarot?!
Both Saiyans gasped, eyes wide with surprise.
Goku rubbed his jaw, wincing dramatically. Ow! What are you trying to do, kill me?
Rykon chuckled, relief flooding him. You're healed. That's good to see.
Goku's eyes sparkled with warmth. You two have grown stronger too!
Vegeta sneered, dismissive. We're training. Go away.
Goku's grin broadened, excitement bubbling over. I've got a place that will change everything—the Hyperbolic Time Chamber at Kami's Lookout. One day inside equals one year of training outside.
Vegeta's eyes narrowed. Are you serious?
Rykon's heart quickened. That sounds incredible.
Goku nodded eagerly. You can train together in there.
Rykon's mind whispered, But I thought we were training together now...
Goku smiled apologetically. I've got to help Gohan unlock his hidden power first. Vegeta doesn't like training with others anyway. We'll train together after this android mess.
—Sigh, Rykon thought, reluctantly agreeing.
Goku reminded them, Only two can enter at once.
Vegeta growled, "Fine." We go first.
With that, the group set off toward Kami's Lookout.
Arriving at the ancient plateau, they approached the stoic figure of Mr. Popo, who gestured toward the door of the chamber.
The interior was stark—an endless white void stretching in every direction. Yet, it held a strange comfort, a promise of potential.
Rykon exhaled, eyes wide. It's just... empty.
Vegeta's glare was fierce, his body already shimmering with purple energy. This is all I need.
Rykon watched as Vegeta unleashed a powerful Galick Gun beam. With a casual flick, Rykon slapped it aside.
What was that for? he asked, amused.
Vegeta smirked. That was weak. I need something with more flash.
Suddenly, Vegeta's stance shifted—legs apart, arms ready. Power radiated around him, crackling with intensity as he charged a new attack.
Rykon yawned. I could've finished a full meal by now.
Vegeta growled. It's a new technique. Be patient!
The chamber shook violently as Vegeta unleashed the Final Flash, a massive golden beam surging forward.
Rykon barely managed to transform into a Super Saiyan, meeting the attack head-on. The collision rocked them both, sparks flying in every direction.
"Not as easy as before," Vegeta gasped.
Rykon grinned through the strain. You're improving fast.
Later, sitting amid the void, Rykon turned thoughtful.
What if I combined my Great Ape form with Super Saiyan? The thought ignited a flicker of excitement.
Vegeta sneered, That's ridiculous. The Great Ape can't hold Super Saiyan's power.
But the Great Ape multiplies strength by ten, and Super Saiyan by fifty... that's—
Vegeta interrupted, I'm not in the mood for math.
Rykon smiled. Five hundred times stronger. Imagine that.
Vegeta scoffed but secretly wondered if it might work.
Rykon proposed a plan: Instead of rushing to surpass Super Saiyan, we should master it first. Mastery means control—and real power.
Vegeta bristled. I just want to surpass it now!
If we master it, Rykon argued, we'd be stronger than those who surpass it without control.
Vegeta's eyes flickered with a new respect. Help me master it.
Rykon laughed. The mighty prince begging a low-class Saiyan?
Vegeta groaned but lowered his pride. Fine. I'll do it.
They powered up, golden hair blazing, ready to spar like never before.
"Come at me full force," Vegeta challenged.
I'm ready, Rykon replied, heart pounding with exhilaration.
Meanwhile, far below at Kame House, friends and allies gathered, watching grim news reports.
The world was shrouded in fear. Death tolls climbed as Cell's rampage continued unchecked.
Krillin sighed. There's no way to find him easily. He could be anywhere.
Piccolo's voice was grave. Time is running out. We must rely on Goku and the others to surpass Super Saiyan—and soon.
Suddenly, footsteps approached outside.
Android 17 appeared, cool and dangerous.
Is Goku here? he asked, eyes scanning.
Piccolo's jaw tightened. No. And you're not welcome.
Android 18's voice cut in. Where's Rykon? Haven't seen him around.
Piccolo's glare was cold. You won't find him here.
The androids smirked. Fine. We'll settle this on a deserted island nearby.
Piccolo nodded. Then prepare to fight.
As the battle loomed, hope flickered fragilely in the hearts of those left behind.
The chamber was silent again, but inside, the fires of determination burned hotter than ever.
To be continued…
POWER STONE!!!?
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