It turns out that this timeline’s version of Mai isn’t dead after all and it looks like he finally has someone to fight for again. Future Mai explains that these resistance fighters took her in (which also includes Yajirobe, Dragon Ball’s persistent human cockroach) and they’ve collectively done what they can to stay alive.

The gang takes refuge in Future Mai’s hideout where she explains that she and the resistance fighters have a plan of attack. In spite of that and Yajirobe’s Senzu beans courtesy of Korin, Goku and Vegeta are much more interested in resolving this with their own special skills. Vegeta and Goku bicker over who should get the opportunity to go up against Goku Black first (even though Vegeta’s yet to fight him) and in order to settle this argument they of course turn to the ultimate equalizer: rock, paper, scissors.

It’s kind of beautiful to see this silly kid’s game come up so often during pivotal moments of Dragon Ball Super. It’s hilarious that these characters that fight for the safety of the universe and are as powerful as Gods still use something like rock, paper, scissors to settle their most important decisions. In the end, Vegeta gets his wish and wins the “duel.” Always go with rock.

About half of the episode loses itself in Future Mai’s flashbacks and explanation of what she and the resistance have done since Future Trunks last left their timeline. Mai’s persistent battle against this threat is deeply inspiring (there’s even a manipulative scene between two children survivors that should bring forward all the feels) and it’s truly enjoyable to see her back together with Trunks.

“This is the smile that you protected,” should melt most of the hearts in the audience. Even Vegeta gets sentimental over all of this goodwill. However, after the much-needed homecoming and strategy session, all of the niceties get blasted away and it’s time bring on the danger.