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With the dark energies of Alp and Soraya finally dissipated, the throne room fell silent, save for the soft echoes of Goku and Vegeta's heavy breathing. The oppressive weight that had filled the air had lifted, leaving behind a sense of calm.
"Is it really over?" Goku asked, his gaze scanning the remnants of the shattered throne room. Despite their victory, a lingering unease nagged at him.
Vegeta crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful. "For now, yes. But darkness has a way of resurfacing. We need to stay vigilant."
Goku nodded, still feeling the rush of adrenaline from the battle. "We should check on the others. They must be worried."
As they prepared to leave the throne room, a shimmering portal opened before them, and Whis stepped through, his usual calm demeanor in place. "Well done, Goku and Vegeta. I felt the disturbance in the fabric of the universe and knew you would be victorious."
Goku grinned sheepishly. "Thanks, Whis! It wasn't easy, but we managed to push through."
Vegeta huffed, "Of course we did. We're Saiyans."
Whis smiled knowingly. "Your bond as warriors is what made you stronger. But I must ask, what do you plan to do now?"
Goku scratched his head. "I think we should return to Earth. There are people there who need to know everything is okay."
Vegeta nodded in agreement. "Yes, and we need to train. There's no telling what kind of threats could arise in the future."
"Very well," Whis said, gesturing for them to follow. "I can take you back."
As they stepped through the portal, they found themselves back at Capsule Corp, where Bulma and the others were gathered, relief flooding their faces as they saw Goku and Vegeta return.
"Goku! Vegeta!" Bulma exclaimed, rushing forward. "We were so worried! What happened? Are you okay?"
Goku laughed, "We're fine, Bulma! We took care of the threat. No more Alp or Soraya!"
"Are you serious?" Krillin said, his eyes wide. "You defeated them?"
"Of course," Vegeta said with a smirk. "They underestimated us."
As the group began to celebrate their victory, Goku felt a familiar presence nearby. He turned to see Beerus standing off to the side, his expression unreadable.
"Lord Beerus!" Goku called out, running over. "You're back! Did you see what happened?"
Beerus nodded, his eyes narrowing. "I felt the disturbance. You did well, but I need to discuss something with you."
Goku's heart raced as he glanced back at Vegeta, who had also noticed Beerus's serious tone. "What is it?" Goku asked.
Beerus crossed his arms, his demeanor turning serious. "While I'm pleased with your victory, the darkness you faced is a mere fragment of a greater threat. I can't intervene in other universes as a destroyer, but we must prepare for what lies ahead."
Goku felt a chill run down his spine. "What do you mean, Lord Beerus?"
Beerus looked away, contemplating his words. "There are forces beyond our realm that seek to invade. Alp was merely a harbinger. We need to strengthen our powers if we are to stand against what's coming."
Vegeta stepped forward, his expression fierce. "Then we train harder. Whatever threat lies ahead, we'll be ready."
"Good," Beerus said, a hint of approval in his voice. "But this time, you won't be alone. I will lend you my strength as well."
Goku's eyes widened. "Really? You'll train with us?"
Beerus nodded. "But it won't be easy. I'll push you both to your limits."
"Bring it on!" Goku shouted, a fire igniting in his eyes. "We're ready!"
As the group began to formulate a training plan, Bulma interjected. "What about the others? Shouldn't we inform them too?"
"Agreed," Vegeta said, glancing around at their friends. "We'll need all the help we can get."
"Then let's call them in," Bulma suggested, already pulling out her communicator.
As they began reaching out to their allies, Goku felt a sense of excitement building within him. The battles they had fought had only served to strengthen their bonds. And now, with a new threat looming, they would train harder than ever.
As the discussions continued, Goku took a moment to reflect. They had faced darkness before, but now they had the strength of their friendships and the promise of even greater power.
In the distance, the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over Capsule Corp. It was a new day, a fresh start, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
"Let's do this," Goku said, determination etched on his face. "Together!"
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