Journey of the Last Saiyan

As the displays faded to darkness, it left a heavy silence on the main deck. Diana and Rachel exchanged worried glances, their faces reflecting the gravity of what they had witnessed. Though they had known the higher realms operated on a vastly different scale than Earth, seeing the actual events had shaken them to their core. The three house AIs - Mother Empress, Crescent, and Z9, maintained stoic expressions, but their eyes carried a chill.

Diana and Rachel turned their attention to Orach, who sat between them with an unnaturally serene expression. As someone who had experienced the loss of her own home and loved ones, Rachel felt particularly concerned for her father. His expression seemed too calm and collected, as if he might be suppressing the grief of losing his world and the hatred toward those responsible. She feared such buried emotions could eventually manifest as inner demons, hindering his cultivation.

Diana, connected to Orach through their bond, probed gently at his emotions. Where she expected to find turmoil, she encountered only tranquility. Exchanging a worried look with Rachel, both women wordlessly embraced the man they loved.

Sensing their concern, Orach smiled softly as he stroked their hair. "I understand your worry," he said quietly, "but I truly am at peace. As I mentioned earlier, I had suspected this truth during my time in the Void Realm. When I saw the visions of our family with those two figures wearing my parents' armor and wielding their weapons, equipment that would only accept them or their reincarnations, I prepared myself for this possibility. Now, finally knowing the truth about my world's fate brings closure. Watching my parents and my people make their last stand against corruption... it fills me with pride, not sorrow."

His voice grew stronger as he continued, "Now you can understand why I react strongly when others question our prestige. It's not from blind pride - my people were protectors who stood at the forefront against threats to all realms. Through the Alacrity Alliance, we safeguarded countless realms, never demanding recognition or worship. Our reward was simply watching lower realms flourish and eventually ascend to join us among the higher realms."

"The Saiyans' legacy isn't just about power," he added, his eyes distant but clear. "It's about duty, honor, and sacrifice for the possibilities of good in all life. That's what my parents and people demonstrated in their final moments, and that's what I carry forward."

He gazed into Diana's and Rachel's eyes and continued, "So, if there's one thing I want you both to take away from this, it's our sense of duty, honor and pride."

Diana and Rachel nodded solemnly, now grasping a deeper understanding of their beloved's heritage. Though concern still lingered in their eyes, they possessed a quiet strength and unwavering resolve to grow stronger.

"Now, it's time we begin preparations for our upcoming battles." Orach turned to Mother Empress and Crescent. "Grant them full access to the training chamber's capabilities. Set up combat simulations using our gathered data on the Lanterns and their tactics."

"Acknowledged," Mother Empress and Crescent responded in unison, their forms bowing slightly.

"Full access to the training chamber?" Diana asked, her eyebrow raised in curiosity.

Orach nodded. "Until now, you've been working with limited settings - fixed time dilation, basic Ki concentration levels, and only certain primordial law crystals. With full access, you'll be able to adjust these parameters yourself and create custom training scenarios with Crescent's assistance."

"Perfect! This will help us grow much stronger," Rachel exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with determination.

Diana placed her hand on Orach's arm. "While I understand the importance of training, it doesn't feel right to just... leave you alone right now, not after everything we've learned."

"I appreciate your concern, my love, but I truly am at peace," Orach assured her, covering her hand with his. "Through our bond, you can feel my words to be true. Remember, while it's been a year for you, I've had centuries to process my feelings."

"Nine hundred and forty-five years, to be precise," Mother Empress interjected. "According to the recently recovered logs from my old terminal, the young master spent approximately six hundred and forty-five years in the Void Realm alone."

Orach shot Mother Empress a pointed look, since he found it unnecessary to divulge the specifics, but the revelation had already hit Diana and Rachel hard. They stared at him with new understanding, finally grasping the true magnitude of his journey. Though they had known of his three-century slumber in another lower realm, learning the full extent of his absence filled them with profound sadness and anger at having missed so much of his life. Diana's eyes welled with tears as she realized how long he had endured alone—her year of separation now seemed trivial compared to his centuries of isolation. Rachel tightened her grip on her father's hand, her own tears falling as she thought of his unwavering determination to return to them despite the overwhelming odds.

Seeing their distress, Orach gently wiped away their tears with his thumbs. "Listen, both of you," he said softly. "I'll say it again. Yes, my trials have changed me, but at my core, I remain the same, the man you fell in love with, Diana, and your father, Rachel. I've simply grown from these experiences."

"Also, for beings of the higher realms, our lifespans stretch far beyond mortal understanding. That's why lower realm beings often view us as immortals. At a certain point, age becomes merely a number to us. What truly matters, at least for my people, are the bonds we forge. Your love was my anchor through the Void realm, giving me the strength to return. So, please don't dwell on this too much and concentrate on growing stronger." said Orach calmly.

He turned to Diana, his expression turning serious. "Diana, you've already touched the next level of cultivation twice, first during your battle with my past's echo, and again when you resonated with your new sword. It's time to fully embrace that power. You can configure the training chamber's time dilation to compress one Earth year into a single day, giving yourself the time you need to begin to master the primordial laws and advance to the next stage."

Shifting his attention to Rachel, he said, "You should join your mother in training, my princess. I've noticed you've been at the early manifestation rank for some time. Though you successfully connected with the soul shard I left behind and manifested your soul under its guidance, there's still much further to go. This is your chance to break through those limits."

His gaze softened as he looked between them. "I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere. I won't leave this lower realm without you both unless circumstances force my hand. So, make full use of our new home's training facilities—both now and in the journeys ahead. The training chamber will provide everything you need—from a rich God Ki environment to law crystals for your growth. Besides," he turned to Rachel with a smile, "with your new suit nearly complete, this is the perfect time to prepare for your breakthrough to the next level. So, both of you, focus on your growth—that's the best path forward for all of us."

Diana and Rachel, having listened intently, exchanged determined glances and nodded. Under Crescent's guidance, they made their way to the training chamber to begin their year-long training.

End of Flashback

Taking a deep breath and slapping her cheeks for motivation, Diana steeled herself to support Rachel through their upcoming training sessions—which would continue until they reached Oa space sector to confront the Green Lantern Corps.

After exiting the chamber, she headed to her quarters to freshen up and prepare to support the other important person in their family—her husband-to-be, by accompanying him both as friend and lover, knowing their intimate time together would comfort them both.

Meanwhile, as mother and daughter trained in the chamber, Orach and Mother Empress analyzed the upgrade designs for the Scarlet Zeta that Ysraza had gifted him, studying its intricate mechanics and operating principles.

"Still working, my love?" Diana's soft voice came from behind him as she wrapped her arms around his neck, resting her head against his after appearing through a transport. "I heard from Crescent, that you've been at this for hours."

"Welcome back, my love. I glanced at both your readings once you ended the simulations. Looks like both of you have made good progress. As for me, yes, I have been busy with the design Ysraza gifted me. Just finishing up some calculations for the day," Orach replied, though his concentration wavered as Diana's lips brushed against his ear.

"The calculations can wait," she whispered. "Your family needs you more right now. Rachel's been asking about having dinner together." She paused, her voice dropping lower. "And afterward... your empress requires your personal attention." After speaking those words, she nibbled his ear seductively, aiming to excite and entice him.

A smile tugged at Orach's lips as he saved his work. Diana had always known exactly how to pull him away from his work. Together, they headed to join Rachel in the observation lounge, where the three of them shared a warm meal filled with laughter and stories.

As their ship continued its journey toward Oa, they fell into a comfortable routine—Rachel and Diana training during the simulated daylight hours, family time in the evenings, and precious moments between husband and wife after their daughter had retired for the night on the ship.

Sector Zero — Planet Oa — Hall of the Guardians

In the grand chamber of the Guardians, Kilowog stood at attention alongside Tomar-Re, as he presented their report. "Honorable Guardians, our preparations have yielded ten fully operational squadrons, with additional units nearing completion of their training. Each squadron has been specifically trained in advanced coordination tactics, including joint operations with Mogo, should you authorize his deployment."

"Excellent progress," Ganthet spoke, his ancient eyes studying the officers before him. "What of our alliance with the Blue Lanterns?"

Tomar-Re stepped forward, as he reported on the integration of the Blue Lanterns. "The integration has exceeded expectations, though it required significant adaptation on both sides. The Blue Light of Hope has proven to be more than just a support element—it's a force multiplier. Our testing confirms its ability to both heal and significantly amplify our corps' capabilities. Most notably, when our forces combine their power with the Blue Light, we can achieve energy outputs comparable to Mogo's planetary-scale attacks. The synergy between our corps has been... remarkable."

"Excellent progress," Sayd nodded, her eyes reflecting satisfaction at their preparations for the confrontation with the Saiyan Empire.

"Indeed, Sayd. Your work with the Blue Lanterns has proven invaluable," Ganthet acknowledged. "How progresses the forging of additional rings?"

"Working alongside Dennap, Killalla, and the others, we've successfully forged ten new rings," Sayd reported. "They've been dispatched to seek worthy wielders and should return to Oa shortly. While the number is fewer than anticipated, each new Blue Lantern significantly strengthens our position."

"Very well," Ganthet nodded. "Kilowog, once these new recruits arrive, integrate them into your training regimen and incorporate them into the squadrons. As for Mogo..." he paused briefly, "our planetary Green Lantern will arrive in this sector momentarily. Given the unprecedented nature of our opponent, we've deemed it necessary to include Mogo in this deployment."

Kilowog and Tomar-Re exchanged concerned glances before addressing the Guardians.

"With respect, Guardian Ganthet," Kilowog began carefully, "while I understand Oa's formidable defenses and your own considerable power, wouldn't deploying Mogo alongside our main force leave our headquarters vulnerable?"

"Mind your place, Lantern. Your duty is to execute orders, not question strategy," Scar interjected sharply, but Ganthet raised a hand to silence him.

"Enough, Scar. Kilowog's concern for Oa's safety is commendable," Ganthet said firmly. Turning to address Kilowog directly, he continued, "Your assessment isn't wrong. Deploying Mogo and the majority of our forces to Earth will indeed leave us more exposed than usual. However, we've taken precautions. New Genesis has pledged their support in defending Oa during this operation. The High Father too, is concerned about this force. In fact, they will help us construct a boom tube directly to that sector. The threat this Saiyan presence poses to Earth cannot go unchallenged. Proceed with the mission as planned."

Just then the chamber doors burst open as a Green Lantern rushed in, his ring pulsing with urgency. "Honorable Guardians," he called out, dropping to one knee, "I apologize for the interruption, but we've received a priority transmission from New Genesis. It's marked as critical."

"Speak," commanded Ganthet, his expression grave as he sensed the messenger's distress.

The messenger straightened, as he addressed the audience. "Honorable Guardians, Prince Orion of New Genesis has made direct contact with Earth in sector 2814.1. His reports carries concerning news. The Saiyan Empire has publicly broadcast the recordings of your judgment of those traitors, Adellca, Hal Jordan, Laira Omoto and John Stewart, and in doing so, they've formally declared war against Oa. In fact, soon after they departed and are already en route to confront us directly."

A tense silence fell over the chamber as the implications of this news settled in. The Guardians exchanged grave looks - their adversary was not only powerful but bold enough to announce their intentions.

"Have we made any progress in tracking their vessel? Our previous attempts were unsuccessful." Ganthet asked, his eyes narrowing. "Do we know how long until they reach our space?"

"We've achieved a breakthrough," Dennap responded, nodding to Pazu. The Guardian activated his ring, establishing a connection with the messenger's ring. A few moments later, a holographic display materialized before them. Pazu began, "We were originally planning to fine tune this but, here we go. By analyzing the unique energy signature their vessel leaves behind, we've developed a rudimentary tracking system. While not perfect, it's providing valuable data, especially when combined with the intelligence from Prince Orion."

The projection revealed a series of interconnected sectors, with a pulsing light indicating the vessel's trajectory. "Based on our calculations and their current velocity," Dennap continued, her voice steady despite the gravity of the situation, "they will reach the borders of Oa's sector in approximately thirty standard sectors of travel time. This gives us a narrow window to complete our preparations."

"Their speed is... unprecedented," Ganthet remarked, his ancient eyes widening with concern.

"They're traversing sectors faster than any vessel we've encountered," Scar observed, his fists clenching. "What manner of propulsion technology could achieve such velocity?"

Appa Ali Apsa stepped forward, his voice measured. "This development may work in our favor, Ganthet. With the enemy approaching our sector, we can utilize our home field advantage. The proximity also makes our contingency measures more viable."

The Guardians exchanged meaningful glances, a silent understanding passing between them. After a moment of contemplation, Ganthet nodded. "Indeed." He turned to address Kilowog, his voice carrying the weight of command. "Implementation of defensive strategy Omega is now authorized. Since our adversaries have chosen to bring the battle to us, we shall ensure they receive a proper reception."

Before the orders could be carried out, Killalla raised her hand. "A moment, Ganthet," she interjected, her tone firm. "While they have declared war, our responsibility as Guardians extends beyond mere military response. If there is any truth to Adellca's testimony, we have a duty to at least attempt diplomatic discourse. Should they reject peaceful overtures, then we can proceed with military action."

"I support this approach," Dennap affirmed, with Pazu and Appa adding their agreement.

Scar's face contorted with rage as she whirled to face them. "You dare suggest diplomacy?" she snarled, her voice trembling with barely contained fury. "Have you forgotten that traitor Adellca's words? That force views us as ants. More importantly, have you forgotten our fallen Lanterns? Their sacrifices? This enemy has already made their intentions clear by declaring war. They mock us by marching straight to our doorstep, and you speak of peace talks?"

The chamber fell into a tense silence as the remaining Guardians weighed their options, the gravity of both perspectives hanging heavy in the air.

"Very well," Ganthet broke the silence, drawing everyone's attention. Scar's eyes widened in disbelief as he heard Ganthet continue, "We shall proceed with a balanced approach. The Lanterns will maintain battle readiness following our strategy, but Killalla will have an opportunity for diplomatic discourse first. Given their demonstrated power, demanding surrender would be unwise. However, if you can negotiate their respect for our authority and acceptance of our established guidelines, we may resolve this without bloodshed. But, if negotiations prove unsuccessful, our Lanterns will take immediate action."

Killalla inclined her head in acknowledgment, though her expression betrayed her uncertainty about the delicate task ahead.

"Very well since none other matter remains to be discussed, this meeting is adjourned," Ganthet announced firmly.

The three Lanterns bowed respectfully before departing, followed shortly by the other Guardians. Even Scar left without protest, leaving Ganthet alone in the dimly lit chamber.

"This isn't the blackest night," he murmured, closing his weary eyes, "yet why does darkness feel so near?" After a moment's reflection, he activated the communication device from New Genesis, establishing contact with their allies.

The projection materialized, revealing the dignified visage of Highfather. "My old friend," the elderly leader greeted warmly, "I trust Orion's message reached you?"

"Indeed," Ganthet replied. "Your intelligence about their movements and the Earth situation has proven invaluable. Though tracking them remains challenging, we can at least anticipate their arrival."

Highfather's eyes carried amusement. "You're not going to inquire about my son's presence on Earth?"

Ganthet fixed him with a pointed look. "We both know Orion's... particular nature. No doubt he sought to test himself against this higher realm being."

A hearty laugh escaped Highfather. "Ah, you know him well! My son is brilliant, but humility remains a foreign concept. I often debate whether he needs a hug or a swift kick in his behind."

"If he's to be your heir, I'd suggest the latter," Ganthet remarked dryly. "His impulsiveness needs tempering."

Highfather's expression sobered as he asked,"Why have you really contacted me, old friend?"

"The power we face... it's unlike anything in our experience. I understand New Genesis must maintain the balance against Apokolips, but we need your direct involvement in this conflict, not just as support for Oa's defense as previously discussed."

Highfather's face grew grave. "That you even ask speaks volumes about the situation. However, Apokolips is already mobilizing. Darkseid now knows the Anti-Life equation is on Earth, his forces are already on the move. We must intercept and counter him. Still..." He paused, considering. "I can offer you this – the device in your hand is more than a communicator, it carries one of my most powerful attacks. Should your contingencies fail, use it to buy time for escape."

"Escape?" Ganthet's eyes narrowed. "You believe this force beyond even our combined might?"

"The Source itself guides me, old friend. When I contemplate confronting this being, I see only darkness. An absolute void that chills me to my core." Highfather leaned forward, his voice urgent. "I urge you to reconsider this war. Orion reports that while Earth's people do fear this power's might, they also acknowledge its benefits and some have come to respect it. This being appears to honor their autonomy, intervening only when necessary, while subtly enriching their knowledge and world. This is no malevolent force we face."

"I... understand your perspective," Ganthet admitted reluctantly. "But can we truly ignore a being capable of manipulating time itself at such a large scale? The fluctuations must have reached even New Genesis."

"Yes, we felt them," Highfather confirmed. "Initially, I too considered joining your cause. But the Source's warnings are clear. I see your resolve is unshakeable, but please proceed with utmost caution. The Source itself fears this being." He sighed heavily. "Should the worst come to pass, I will have one of my sons and his wife wait in the shadows with a Mother Box to assist in your evacuation efforts."

Ganthet, knowing this was the most aid he could expect with Darkseid mobilizing, thanked his old friend before ending the transmission. Rising slowly, he made his way toward Oa's Central Power Battery, his mind heavy with preparations for what was to come.

Sincecells - Prison Wing

In the aftermath of the council meeting, after the Lanterns learnt about the situation they burnt with renewed determination, as they trained harder. However, Guaridan Killalla after leaving the hall, sought out her fellow Guardian Dennap, and together they made their way through the pristine corridors of Oa towards the high-security prison wing.

Upon reaching the maximum security cell, both Guardians halted, taken aback by the sight before them. Through the shimmering forcefield, they observed Adellca floating serenely in a meditative pose, seemingly undisturbed by their arrival.

What truly shocked them, however, was the faint blend of green, blue, yellow, and red auras pulsing around her, despite the cell's power-dampening fields.

Exchanging concerned glances, Killalla stepped forward. "Adellca, I am Guardian Killalla," she announced firmly, her voice carrying authority despite her underlying unease. "We would like to get your honest response to some of our questions."

Adellca remained motionless in her meditative pose, having sensed their approach long before they reached her cell. She had resolved to maintain her silence, just as they had dismissed her warnings about her new master.

"Please," Killalla's voice softened, though her expression remained troubled. "If you hold any loyalty to what the Corps once meant to you, hear us out. The situation has changed dramatically. Your master has received the recordings of your trial. Whether through your distress signal or other means, they know what transpired here. Now their ship approaches Oa with declared hostile intent."

At these words, Adellca's eyes snapped open. Her meditation broken, she descended to the floor with fluid grace. Her piercing gaze met Killalla's as she asked, "The distress signal reached my master? Are you telling me my young master has returned to this universe?"

"Yes," Dennap confirmed, stepping forward. "Our intelligence confirms the higher realm being has indeed returned. They advance toward Oa, presumably to secure your release and engage us in war."

A heavy silence fell as Adellca closed her eyes, processing this information. When she finally spoke, her voice carried a weight that made both Guardians tense. "You misunderstand. This won't be a war."

"What do you mean?" the Guardians asked in unison, unsettled by her tone.

Adellca's eyes opened, revealing a mix of reverence and grim certainty. "If my young master truly comes, you won't face a war. You'll face extinction. The power you've chosen to challenge... it operates on a scale beyond your comprehension."

"You speak of extinction with such certainty," Killalla said, her voice steady despite her unease. "Yet the Green Lantern Corps has faced countless threats throughout its history. What makes your master so different?"

A cold smile played across Adellca's face as she gracefully raised her hand. Streams of light - green, blue, yellow, and red - materialized between her fingers, their ethereal glow reflecting in the Guardians' widening eyes. The distinct emotional resonances - will, hope, fear, and rage - pulsed through the cell, impossible to ignore.

"This power you Guardians pride yourselves on mastering," she said softly, "the energy you laboriously harness for your rings - it flows through me as naturally as breathing. And I am merely a fledgling cultivator. My young master on the other hand, transcends the very fabric of our universe. The laws of reality themselves bend to his will if he chooses to call upon them."

"If their power is truly so absolute," Dennap challenged, "why haven't they simply erased us from existence?"

Adellca's expression shifted to one of deep respect. "Because my young master is a Saiyan, bound by the principles of the Alacrity Alliance. The Saiyans serve as protectors across countless realms within the alliance, guarding the potential for good that exists in all beings. As such, he restrains his true strength when dealing with beings like you, since unleashing his full power could destabilize and potentially destroy this entire realm." Her voice hardened. "However, by imprisoning me and challenging their authority in this realm, you've insulted the honor of the Saiyan Empire. That crosses a line he cannot ignore, and such defiance will face consequences."

"Perhaps there's still room for diplomacy," Killalla ventured. "Would you help us reach a peaceful resolution?"

Adellca's expression turned to stone. "That opportunity died when you dismissed my warnings. Now, with my young master already en route? All you can do is prepare - though I doubt any preparation will suffice."

With those final words, she resumed her meditative pose and closed her eyes.

The Guardians departed in troubled silence, leaving Adellca alone in her cell, the mixed auras of power pulsing around her like a silent warning.

Once their presence faded, Adellca opened her eyes to stare contemplatively at the ceiling. "If the records about him are true, then perhaps...things aren't that simple. Young master, are you perhaps... using them? If so, then maybe the Corps still have a chance to prove its worth and survive this ordeal." She closed her eyes and whispered, "May the primordial gods guide us all," before returning to her meditation, the swirling energies around her growing stronger.

On a distant sector planet - The Merchant's Guild

In a dimly lit private chamber, a hooded figure studied the holographic projection emanating from his communicator. "Your intelligence is certain, Scar?" The question carried an edge of anticipation.

"Confirmed through multiple sources, including our new tracking systems," Scar replied, his scarred visage flickering in the projection. "The vessel and its master are indeed bound for Oa."

A satisfied smile crossed the shadowed face beneath the hood. "Perfect. This spares me a journey to that insignificant Earth. With the target coming to Oa, my corps will join your forces there. What a... fitting reunion this will be."

Scar's expression darkened. "Mind your overconfidence, Sinestro. Your previous defeat, even with the yellow ring's power, should serve as a warning. Your new corps must work in concert with the others—particularly the Blue Lanterns. Their amplification abilities are crucial to our strategy."

"Spare me your lectures," Sinestro snapped, his voice cold. "I haven't forgotten that humiliation, and I intend to repay it in full. But remember, Scar—I no longer serve the Guardians. Choose your words with care."

Despite the clear disrespect, Scar maintained his composure. The greater threat demanded their cooperation, regardless of past grievances. "Very well. Tell me of your corps' preparations. How do the new recruits progress?"

Sinestro's lips curled into a thin smile. "The recruits exceed expectations. Fear, as always, proves to be a potent motivator. Each has been specifically chosen for their... unique relationship with terror."

"And their loyalty?" Scar pressed, his eyes narrowing. "We cannot afford dissension when the moment comes."

"Their fear of me far outweighs any other concerns," Sinestro replied coldly. "Besides, I've ensured each recruit has a personal stake in our success. Nothing binds quite like shared vengeance."

Scar nodded slowly. "Very well. Remember, when the target arrives, coordination between all corps will be essential. Even with our combined strength..."

"Save your warnings," Sinestro interrupted. "I'm well aware of what we face. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have preparations to oversee."

As the hologram faded, Sinestro turned to gaze out at the distant stars. In the darkness of his chamber, the yellow light of his ring cast eerie shadows across his face. Soon, he thought, everything would change. Soon, a new order would reign in the universe—one built on fear and shaped by his will.