On a secluded island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean—
The center of the island was the highest point, with terrain sloping outward, resembling a cone from afar.
Smith Dole now stood at the island's summit. Originally, the peak wasn't suitable for a ring or a spectator area due to its uneven terrain. But Smith had resolved this in the most straightforward way possible—by launching an Energy Disc (Kienzan), flattening the peak into a smooth surface.
Now, a group of werewolves was busy constructing the arena and stands. A massive electronic screen stood in place, designated for the final battle.
Looking out over the island, Smith asked, "How's the setup coming along?"
Beside him, Bulma held a tablet displaying the island's full map, densely packed with red dots.
"The swarm drones are already deployed across the island. Every move the contestants make will be captured and transmitted to the big screen," she explained.
These swarm drones were a product of Bulma's design, similar to Dr. Gero's mosquito bots. However, due to material limitations, they weren't mosquito-sized but about the size of a hummingbird. Fast in the air, they were equipped with video, photo, blood collection, and data transmission capabilities. Each one acted as a node for the local network.
"We've divided the screen into five sections, each representing one contestant. That way, everyone can see how each fighter performs."
"Though, due to time constraints, the spectator area is a bit rough. It still has a lot of room for improvement."
In addition to the upper ranks and staff of the League of Assassins, Smith had decided to allow each participant to bring a limited number of spectators. The teams sent to pick up the contestants would inform them of this privilege.
Of course, not many people would likely be brought along.
"As for the vampires' spectator area, I've used black opaque fabric to construct a canopy. Once the sun rises, it'll completely shield them from sunlight."
"But is that vampire Selene really okay?" Bulma asked.
"Even if the match starts at night, the final battle is during the day."
Smith replied, "She's already overcome the sunlight weakness. The sun won't harm her anymore."
Bulma nodded. If not, the vampires might as well have surrendered already.
"Run a system test. We can't afford any technical issues."
Bulma nodded and began testing the setup.
…
London. Inside the vampire castle—
After returning from the vampire family in Siberia, Selene had completely overpowered Marcus.
Marcus stared at her in disbelief, shouting, "Impossible! How did your strength grow so much?!"
"I've tried that place before—my power didn't increase much!"
What Marcus didn't know was that within the bloodline of the Siberian clan, Selene had awakened a speed-based ability. At full power, she moved like a ghost, leaving afterimages in her wake. While still slower than someone like the Flash or Quicksilver, she could easily crush Marcus.
"The facts are right in front of you. Even if you can't accept it, they won't change."
Just then, a Death Dealer approached and reported, "Elder Selene, the envoy from the League of Assassins has arrived. Their helicopter is outside the castle."
Selene helped Marcus to his feet. "Come with me to welcome our guests."
Though reluctant, Marcus had no choice under her pressure. "Fine."
As the castle gates opened, Mr. X and Alexei stepped in.
"Welcome, Elder X and Adjudicator Alexei of the League of Assassins," Selene greeted.
Mr. X looked at Selene and Marcus and said, "Dragon Ball holder Selene, this is your official notice: the Dragon Ball Battle is about to begin. We're here to escort you to the competition site."
"As a ticket holder, you may bring up to ten spectators with you."
Selene's eyes lit up. She'd been worried Marcus might cause trouble during her absence—hence why she subdued him the moment she received the call.
"Thank you."
"Elder Marcus, Soren, and…"
She called out ten names. "You all will come with me and witness the beginning of a new era."
Everyone she named—except Marcus—nodded respectfully.
"Yes, Elder Selene."
Among the ten, five were Marcus's followers and the other four were hers.
The eleven vampires boarded the helicopter, then transferred to a passenger jet that took them to the island in the Pacific.
Meanwhile—
At a roadside motel—
After hugging Betty, Bruce Banner said, "Betty, believe me. After this, I'll finally change things. I'll become who I used to be again."
He was referring to the uncontrollable transformations. Whenever his heart rate hit 200, he'd become the Hulk—even in intimate moments. It had made things between him and Betty... complicated.
Betty kissed him on the cheek. "Come back safe, Bruce. I believe you can fix it."
Outside, the thumping sound of helicopter rotors grew louder. Soon, there was a knock at the door.
Bruce opened it to find the Gunsmith and the Mechanic.
The Mechanic spoke, "Bruce Banner, holder of the Five-Star Ball, the Dragon Ball Battle is about to begin. As a ticket holder, you may bring up to ten spectators with you to the arena."
Before Bruce could reply, Betty spoke up. "Bruce, I want to go."
Bruce turned to the Mechanic. "What about safety for spectators?"
The Mechanic nodded. "The League of Assassins guarantees spectator safety. You needn't worry."
Bruce nodded. "Then I'll bring just one—Betty."
He didn't want to involve others in this battle. Aside from Mr. Blue, he had few he could truly trust. And it was best not to tempt others with the Dragon Balls.
The Mechanic responded, "Understood. Then let's head out. The venue is quite far."
"Don't forget your Dragon Ball and your competition token."
…
(End of Chapter)
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