2 Project Apex Sentinel

The scene was unbelievable to the League. "What...have you done?" Supergirl mumbled as she approached the crater and dropping to her knees, before she glared at Gohan who returned the glare with force knocking her back.

Gohan turned his full attention to the rest of the league. "Do you understand now? Do you see how ridiculous your notion of calming down after someone you cherish has been killed?" Gohan questioned as he stepped forward making the league step back in anticipation.

"I am grateful that you took me in and nursed me back to health when I was vulnerable, however, I also stopped Darkseid for you in return and even promised not to destroy without a good reason, even though I could quite literally destroy this entire universe and start from scratch, yet you didn't even try to stop Superman from trying to undermine me and my authority, knowing full well what I am capable of." Gohan explained, he was quite angry, his earlier composure seemingly gone.

"You know we never meant for this to happen, Gohan," Flash interjected, his approach bold as he addressed the imposing figure. "What Superman did was wrong, I think anyone can see that, and I apologize on behalf of the League. But killing Superman? Even I think you went too far. You could have beaten him to a pulp, but you used the same power on him that he hates," Barry reasoned, his voice tinged with concern. He liked Gohan, genuinely, so surely he could understand the brutality of his actions.

"You're right, but Superman himself responded in kind. He should have known that there was a chance he could be on the receiving end. Or did he think I wouldn't fight back?" Gohan countered, his tone unwavering.

"I have decided this to be the last time this ever happens. For every action you make, there will be grave consequences," Gohan declared, his words carrying weight as Power Girl's eyes began to glow red.

"Don't give me that bullshit! The last time? What's that supposed to mean?" Power Girl retorted, her voice laced with frustration. Everyone present knew he had just threatened the League.

"Don't you dare threaten us! You could have just beaten him! He had the chance to kill you but decided to hold back. But you... you killed him. Because of what? Your pride was hurt?" Power Girl's anger simmered, her eyes still glowing red.

"Did you forget that Superman threatened me as well? What, are you exempt from anyone standing against you? If they feel wronged by you?" Gohan's words struck a chord, causing Power Girl to flinch slightly.

Gohan appeared in front of her, his presence commanding. "The pride of the gods. I have a duty to uphold that pride, and yes, I have every right to remove whatever I want. It comes with the position of Destroyer God. If a citizen of your country attempted assassination on the leader of another country, would that not be grounds for war? What makes this situation any different? You turned your power against me first!" Gohan explained, a spark of crimson and blue lightning crackling around his hand as he aimed it at Power Girl, charging a Hakai.

"Do you feel that? Can you feel how easily I could do whatever I want, and you wouldn't be able to stop me?" Gohan's words hung heavy in the air as he glanced at the rest of the League, who stood on guard, their apprehension palpable.

He lowered his hand, allowing the Hakai ball to dissipate into thin air. "But I have no intention of that, and I have never had that intention from the beginning. My goal is to make the universe a better place for everyone. Not to kill and defeat criminals, but to create a world where mortals never have to resort to crime," Gohan explained, his voice firm and resolute. "I view my power as the last option to a solution. But when push comes to shove, I crush it completely, and for all to see," he concluded.

With a deliberate motion, Gohan turned his back to Power Girl and powered down to Super Saiyan God. "Don't let this happen again. This is my last warning," he stated firmly, his tone brooking no argument. As he snapped his fingers, Superman fell face-first to the ground, unconscious and covered in bruises.

Power Girl nearly lost her temper at the outset, but as soon as Clark reappeared, she rushed to his side along with Supergirl.

Batman, who had remained silent throughout the exchange, simply nodded at Gohan, who reciprocated the gesture. In that silent exchange, the League acknowledged the weight of the situation. 

Diana smiled at Gohan, recognizing his act of mercy despite his overwhelming power. 'He still showed mercy, even though he could have destroyed the League.'

Hippolyta while still trying to recall an ancient conversation was startled as Goku walked out of the forest, he quickly smiled when he noticed the queen.

"Hey! My name is Goku!" He responded, as Hippolyta eyed him suspiciously.

'He was hit directly in the face and he looks fine, he looks just like that god of destruction? Maybe he is related somehow?' She mused to herself before, Goku noticed Gohan looking at him.

"I should get going, don't want to leave my son waiting," As he made his way over to Gohan.

"Are you okay dad?" Gohan asked as Goku shrugged it off. 

"Ha! Yeah, but that really stung. I didn't see it coming at all," Goku grumbled, rubbing his sore cheek.

"Because you're always too relaxed, Kakarot. A true warrior is never caught off guard," Vegeta smirked, crossing his arms.

"Aw, come on, Vegeta! Even you would've been caught off guard by that sneak attack," Goku retorted, pouting.

"Hmph, we'll never know for sure, will we? But one thing's for certain: you were definitely caught off guard," Vegeta teased, his smirk widening. Bardock and Raditz observed the playful banter between the two Saiyan warriors with amusement.

'If he is the father, then surely he is comparable to his son, perhaps even stronger?' Hippolyta mused silent.

Across the universe, the news of the confrontation spread like wildfire, especially on Earth, sparking heated discussions and debates.

"I can't waste time here anymore, I need to return to that gala," Gohan said as he, Goku and Vegeta walked to Vermont, Strix, Beerus, Bardock and Raditz.

"My lord, you're still powered up," Strix observed, noting that Gohan's hair remained in its fiery red state, and his aura still exuded overwhelming pressure.

"I will remain as a Super Saiyan God indefinitely. I will never allow what just happened to happen again," Gohan declared, his eyes flashing with a deeper intensity than usual, a sign that even the Super Saiyan God form couldn't fully contain his emotions.

Strix bowed. "As you say my lord." She answered before standing beside him and Vermont as they vanished in a flash of light.

Carnelia opened her eyes and stared at everyone in attendance, their eyes tightly shut, smirking briefly before tapping her armrest gently. 'This should make him a little interested in me.' She mused silently.

Above the podium a snake made of smoke drifted to a mechanical arm, placing a button.

Hippolyta's expression remained impassive as she gazed at the League. "I believe this farce has ended. All of you, begone," she ordered, turning away to leave. However, she halted in her steps,

"Except you, Diana. You come with me; I have much to ask," she commanded, her tone brooking no argument. Diana glanced back at the League before following her mother.

"I'm leaving. I need time to think," Barry explained to Batman, who nodded in understanding.

"Just be available in case—"

"I'm needed, I know," Flash cut in before disappearing in a flash of lightning.

"This was a mess," Hal remarked, breaking the tension with a hint of humor.

"You can say that again," Cyborg chimed in.

Martian Manhunter winced as he touched his nose, still sore from Strix's headbutt. Power Girl's fists clenched in frustration before she sighed and relaxed.

"He's right," she conceded, her tone softening as Supergirl cast a concerned glance her way.

"We can talk about it later, okay?" Power Girl reassured her as she picked up Superman, before looking at Batman.

"I'll leave him at the Fortress of Solitude and head back to the Watchtower. We need to have a meeting," 

Agreeing with her suggestion, Batman nodded. "I agree. We can reconvene tomorrow," he scheduled.

Supergirl wanted to inquire further, but Power Girl intervened. "Yeah, tomorrow works. I have a lot to think through," she explained, meeting Supergirl's gaze. They both knew they needed time to sort through their thoughts before attempting to hold a meeting based on uncertain convictions. They weren't foolish, nor were they impulsive. They couldn't repeat Clarks mistake.

In a dark underground lab, Amanda Waller paced through the facility, with a scientist following behind her. "How much longer until their ready?"

"Director, I propose a timeline of one year for our research endeavors. This duration will allow us to maximize the potential power of our creations while minimizing the risk of destabilization. Our strategy involves gradual enhancement, ensuring that the lifeforms develop and mature naturally after we perfect and stabilize the artificial genetic material."

"The embryo has been successfully fertilized using the artificial semen we synthesized, blending the DNA of the Destroyer with that of Superman. Despite the age of our sample, we've managed to extract remarkable cells from the deity. These cells exhibit incredible properties, including the ability to self-energize and amplify overall energy production."

"Each aspect of their abilities appears more complex than the last. We've identified two exceptionally resilient cell types that stood firm under rigorous testing. While our understanding of these cells remains limited, we suspect they hold dormant potential vital to their vitality. Once the bio-hybrids achieve consciousness, they may access these cells. Naturally, we'll continue our efforts to unlock their full potential manually."

Amanda nodded. "Good, and what of the failed experiments?" she questioned.

"The most challenging aspect was achieving successful synchronization of their DNA, a hurdle we managed to overcome. We disposed of the previous test subjects, as they proved to be mere shells, incapable of sustaining life. Unfortunately, the humans we experimented on did not survive. Only one remains in a comatose state, showing no signs of life," Dr. Morrow explained.

"While the weaknesses of Kryptonian DNA persist, they've become more resilient due to the natural adaptability of the Saiyan species. Our scans revealed that Saiyan cells exhibit remarkable strength upon healing, leading us to a significant breakthrough. However, this development necessitates careful consideration and monitoring," he cautioned, noting Amanda's raised eyebrow.

"I've always known you to be ambitious, Dr. Morrow. Why the hesitation now?" Amanda inquired.

"A chilling realization dawned on me. The more I pondered, the colder the shiver down my spine. What if we were to combine the artificial Kryptonian-Saiyan hybrid DNA with that of Doomsday's? His ability to grow stronger after each lethal blow presents an intriguing prospect. Paired with the Saiyan's capacity for growth from battle damage, we could create an unstoppable force," Dr. Morrow revealed.

"We've dubbed this initiative Project Apex Sentinel. Although controlling such a being appears unlikely, regardless of the safeguards we implement," the scientist elaborated.

"You didn't engage in all that contemplation to present a pointless notion," Amanda remarked, fixing her gaze on the scientist, who smirked with a hint of malevolence.

"Naturally, there are two viable options. Firstly, we could nurture this entity at a natural pace, revealing its true origins in sixteen years. The risk of it turning psychotic and going on a rampage is minimal. However, exerting control over the subject would pose considerable challenges, especially when faced with the Destroyer God in combat, likely triggering allegiance to their progenitor," Dr. Morrow proposed as they approached an egg in a submerged chamber.

"Option number two, the more practical choice, involves integrating an instant kill switch into the fusion's psyche. With the body's growth completed within a year, we'd have a stable entity aware that any betrayal against humanity would result in its demise—a form of servitude, one might say, effectively disposing of the nearly indestructible bodies," he concluded as Amanda smirked in response.

"Your time at CADMUS was well spent, wouldn't you agree, Doctor?" she asked. The doctor chuckled.

'I was hesitant to appoint you as head scientist, but it seems your experience at CADMUS served you well,' Amanda thought to herself. 

Gohan, Goku, Vegeta, Vermont, Strix, Bardock, Beerus, Whis, and Raditz returned to planet Cardina to wrap up the gala. Delaying it would only consume more of Gohan's time in the future.

Upon arrival, Gohan approached Augustus, who bowed respectfully. "Is the podium ready?" Gohan inquired. Augustus nodded, taking in the red form, before gesturing for Derrick to join the conversation.

Derrick bowed deeply, his voice slightly trembling with contrition. "My lord, I've reflected on my past behavior and deeply regret my actions. I humbly request the honor of leading you to the podium for your grand speech, recognizing that such a position is more fitting for your stature," he stammered out, his eyes downcast. Gohan regarded him with a stern gaze before reluctantly nodding, permitting Derrick to guide him.

"Please, follow me," Derrick replied, leading the way as the rest of the group followed. As Gohan reached the podium Carnelia caught his attention, she smiled and waved, eyeing her for a few seconds with suspicion before beginning his speech.

"Greetings, I am Lord Gohan, God of Destruction, though I suspect most of you already know that," Gohan started, addressing the crowd. He spoke for a few minutes, expressing his desire for prosperity across their planets.

"Follow me, and your entire species shall live in comfort. I ask for nothing but your loyalty. You're free to reject my offer of protection, but remember, you are all vassal nations of the Vanetian Empire," Gohan declared, his voice resonating with authority.

"However, rejecting my protection does not exempt you from consequences. Should you attack a nation under my protection, you're waging war against me," he continued, emphasizing his point. Murmurs rippled through the crowd, some hopeful, others angry.

"If you have any questions, please feel free to ask," he invited, opening the floor for inquiries.

"Excuse me, Lord Destroyer? I am Adam Strange," a man stepped forward, dressed in a red suit. "While your protection sounds enticing, it could endanger our nations' sovereignty over time. Espionage could undermine our ruling," he voiced his concerns.

Gohan nodded thoughtfully. "Unless you intend to sow chaos across the universe, I won't intervene in your governing practices. However, if citizens desire to relocate due to their leaders' failures, I will facilitate it. Just because you are born into hardship does not mean you should remain in such conditions. Regarding espionage, aligning with me should reduce the risk."

"Anyone who loses their lives while upholding my vision of prosperity will be brought back from the land of the dead. Specifically, if someone is murdered, usually, there would be no coming back from that. But I have authority over the living realm and over the gods of the next world. Bringing someone back is as easy as snapping my fingers," Gohan revealed, eliciting sharp inhales from the crowd.

"But consider this: how probable is it for a nation backed by Lou and Venatia to collapse?" Adam Strange fell silent, acknowledging Gohan's point.

"For those relocated citizens, where will they go? Surely planets with dominant species would never allow their culture to be diluted with foreigners from different worlds," Adam pointed out as many royals nodded, they had thousands of years of culture, sharing their home was not happening.

"No one needs to give up their home worlds for my plans, I will have planets created, the entire royal line of Lou witnessed their home world be rebuilt from the nothing in a few moments, and surely not everyone views foreign species with disdain, there will be those who will be willing to relocate and help with the growing community," Gohan revealed easing the tension. "These worlds will be supported, and will receive a special star budget from me," 

"You mentioned being able to bring back those who have passed. What stops you from returning all those who have died already?" Adam inquired.

Adam's question prompted a serious expression from Gohan. "Life and death aren't games. I won't desecrate the memory of the departed. They've lived their lives; their time has passed," he firmly replied.

Adam nodded, then continued with another inquiry. "Besides your protection, many nations are already self-sufficient. What would servitude truly bring for those who do not need it?" Gohan understood the concern and nodded in response.

"I understand your nations have no need for currency; the only valuable resources you all are interested in is pure energy from stars. After all, you are mighty civilizations capable of space travel," Gohan acknowledged, his stern expression softening slightly as he addressed the crowd.

"The Lou Empire has proven to be very loyal. They will be gifted three thousand stars worth of power, which should be a great advantage in any setting. I understand that some standalone civilizations harvest three stars per galaxy over the course of a year," Gohan revealed, conjuring a ball of plasma in his hand that shone brilliantly for all to see.

"Vanetia shall receive three hundred stars, as we have some diplomatic friction, but that should be resolved within the next year," Gohan explained.

This announcement sparked murmurs and conversations throughout the assembly. Augustus, though surprised, couldn't help but feel a slight uplift in his mood, which he quickly suppressed.

'That is honestly a good deal,' Augustus mused silently. 'The resource worlds Derrick lost are a thing of the past now with the offered energy. Also, his broadcast was a smart move. Now, the citizens of their nations are aware of the offer. Even the less fortunate with nothing can view this gala. With the promise of a better future dangling before them, they will immediately seize this opportunity. Unrest will be settling into any nation who aren't warmongers. After all, there are more poor than there are rich. Naturally, they will question why they should suffer when they could go to a nation with an abundance of resources to help them elevate themselves.' Augustus smirked, but his attention was diverted by a creaking sound.

Suddenly, the stage light above the podium dropped down. Before anyone realized what had happened, the princess of Vanetia yelled out and rushed forward, trying to push Gohan. He was taken by surprise but quickly held her close before dissipating the mini star and grabbing the stage light, stopping it effortlessly.

"I appreciate your concern," Gohan started before erasing the stage light and letting go of her.

She had a pink tint on her cheeks as she gave Gohan her most innocent expression. "But a stage light would never harm me," before looking at Augustus with a questioning expression.

"I am not dumb enough to think this was an accident. Care to explain? Your own daughter nearly died trying to protect me," Gohan asked as Augustus started sweating lightly before bowing.

"I give you my word that it was not our intention to harm you, my lord," Augustus said before looking at the nearest guard.

"Find the culprit immediately!" He ordered, his anger flaring slightly before turning to Derrick, who was slightly pale.

"You were in charge of the preparations! You should have double-checked! No, triple-checked!" Augustus blamed Derrick immediately.

Turning to his sister, who was shivering slightly.

"Carne-"

"I-I can't believe you actually went through with it, brother! I knew you were angry because your pride was hurt, but I didn't think you would actually go through with it! I prayed that my ears deceived me when I overheard you talking to the Shadow Order of Vanetia in the throne room," she said as tears started welling up in her eyes before turning to Gohan.

"Please, my lord, have mercy on my brother. He is but a fool who doesn't understand the severity of his actions. If you are going to take anyone's life, please let it be mine!" She offered, causing murmurs.

"So Prince Derrick decided to retaliate because of his stripped position? He used the Shadow Order? Aren't they the elite forces under the direct command of the royal family?" Whispers spread like wildfire as Derrick walked forward with wide eyes.

"N-no, that never-" He started but was cut off.

"Please, brother, just beg for his forgiveness!" Carnelia ran to her brother and hugged him.

"B-but-" Derrick couldn't form a single sentence as he shook. 'Carnelia...why...why are you... lying?' he couldn't fathom the idea.

"Enough," Gohan commented as he approached Derrick and made eye contact with Carnelia.

Author's Note:

My Twitter/X handle is Jaded_Author. I will post progress updates there for those interested.

Chapter lengths will be reduced from 6-10K words to 2.5K to 4K words. Pumping out chapters of that size will take far longer than these shorter chapters. Also, I plan on releasing weekly. I will post updates on my Twitter/X handle in the future, as well as polls on certain directions the story might take.

I have published a new story set in the future of this one! It's called "Justice Rewritten: Pillars of Destruction," and it's about Strix! There will be another side story at the end of Phase 2, but I can't reveal that because it would be heavy spoilers haha. In Strix's side story, we get to see the future and how much has changed!