1 Chapter 14
"Where are we going, demon?" Vegeta growled.
"We're nearly there," Xellos replied as the group flew through the air.
"You said that two hours ago!" Vegeta was barely able to keep his rage in check.
Xellos turned back to look at Vegeta, "Trust me!" he smiled.
Vegeta frowned and looked over the landscape. They were flying over a desert now. The air was dry and hot. Eventually Xellos landed with everyone following.
Heat rose from the cracked, dead ground. Jagged rocks jutted randomly from the earth. The sun was high overhead, and all that could be heard was a small breeze, vainly struggling to cool the parched desert.
Gokuu looked around. "I don't see him. Where is he?"
"He's here," Xellos confirmed. "You can count on that."
"Valgav!" Vegeta bellowed, fists clenched. "Show yourself!"
Silence. Gokuu, Gohan, and Trunks assumed defensive stances. "Be ready for anything!" Gokuu warned.
Lina and Zelgadis had spells ready, waiting for the inevitable. The desert issued forth no sound. "What's the deal, Xellos?" Lina asked.
"Well…there is one thing."
"What?" she said as she turned toward him. He already blinked and appeared behind her. His hand chopped her neck, making her black out.
"It's a trap!" Zel yelled, bringing his sword at the ready. The others ran to Lina's aid.
Xellos was faster. He grabbed the Dark Heart from Lina before she even hit the ground. With his work done, he blinked again.
"Son of a…" Vegeta cursed.
"Don't worry about her!" Xellos's voice exclaimed. The z warriors looked up to the sky and saw the Trickster Priest hovering about a mile up. "You've got bigger troubles! Now!"
The ground trembled and exploded in the middle of the group. Valgav, fully restored (and a bit pissed), flew slowly amidst the chaos eye glowing.
"Welcome to your death!" he grinned evilly.
Vegeta immediately went super saiyan and attacked. Fists and energy blasts assaulted Valgav, but he was able to deflect every blast and attack. Gohan and Piccolo joined the fight, but met similar resistance. Gohan's super saiyan form glowed and pulsed with every fist brought down on Valgav. Piccolo's kicks were equally ineffective and he went flying with an elbow to the stomach. Vegeta used the opportunity to bring his cupped fists down on Valgav's head like a battering ram, but he blurred with super-speed. His fists pulverized the ground, sending tremors out in every direction.
Zel reached Lina's side and began chanting a healing spell. The others were moving faster than he could see, he caught a blur here and there, but that was about it. He noticed Trunks and Gokuu, who hadn't even transformed to super saiyan yet.
"What are you waiting for?" Zel yelled.
If they heard they didn't acknowledge him. Their eyes and heads followed the battle as the blurring figures disappeared and reappeared at seemingly random places throughout the desert.
"It's time." Gokuu stated. His eyes closed and his index finger went to his forehead, then he was gone.
Xellos observed the battle from above, paying keen attention to Vegeta. His natural rage was an asset to the warriors, but that rage also made him careless. His point was brought home as he watched Valgav get under Vegeta's defenses and land a hard kick to his mid-section. He slammed through (!) a nearby mountain with such force that he nearly split it in two! Still, he jumped right back into the battle showing no signs of fatigue. ***Excellent Vegeta! Show me more! Show me your true power!***
Xellos was so absorbed in the fight that he didn't notice Gokuu materialize right behind him. He felt someone tapping his shoulder and he turned in confusion.
"Huh?"
All he saw was Gokuu's fist get extremely large in his vision. The impact of the punch caused him to drop the Dark Heart as he sailed down to the desert floor at about mach 2! Xellos exploded into the ground and found himself at the bottom of a newly formed crater. Blood slowly trickled from his lips.
"RESTORATION!" Zel yelled. His hands glowed white and he put them on Lina's forehead. Her eyes opened slowly and focused.
"Lina! Are you all right?"
"Ugh…what hit me?
"Xellos," he spat, "it was a trap after all."
She smiled, "I expected that." She turned towards the sounds of the battle. "How are we doing?"
"Could be better," he replied. "They move so fast! I can't keep up with them!"
She stood up with Zel's help. "Well, " she said, still smiling. "Let's help our friends out!" She drew her sword and powered up. Zel did the same, and they charged into battle.
Gohan grunted as Valgav's fist struck him across the face. He rolled with the attack and attempted to kick the godling, but he ducked. Gohan disengaged, and Piccolo appeared. He scored a hit on Valgav's chest, sending the mad godling reeling. Vegeta attacked next, kicking Valgav high up in the air during the brief second he was stunned. He brought his arms up and gathered his energy.
"FINAL FLASH!" The energy beam flew strait and true toward Valgav. He stopped his ascent and backhanded the blast away. With a guttural growl he flew back down and attacked!
Gokuu's vision was full of Vegeta's batted-away attack, and almost got hit. He nearly dropped the Dark Heart. He put it in his boot and sailed down toward the fight.
Trunks watched the battle and waited. His blood burned for combat, and he had to fight the impulse every time he saw his father get hit. He closed his eyes and concentrated, gathering his energy.
Xellos's eyes opened. His whole body hurt! Normally, any punch from a human would do no damage to one such as him! He smiled. His suspicions were correct. Once Vegeta was in his clutches he would be put to great use! The saiyan race had the power to harm and possibly kill his kind! That made them the perfect weapon for his master who was currently warring with the others of his kind. He was his master's Priest and General. He was a secretive creature by nature, but his master was even more so. How she could've foreseen these events was beyond even Xellos's comprehension! Vegeta was the hinge for her plans, he needed to bring him back at all costs, and he would! He chuckled and blurred.
Lina and Zelgadis brought their swords down on Valgav. Zel's sword had the red hue with his augmentation spell and came down hard on Valgav's back. His wings formed a barrier that deflected the attack. Undaunted, Zel pressed on. Lina attacked Valgav's side, looking for an opening. His arm and elbow deflected each attack. Piccolo, Gohan and Vegeta attacked from the other sides but were each hard pressed to score a hit. Valgav was somehow stronger than ever before, and faster to boot!
Trunks drew his blade and went true super saiyan. His hair grew long and golden, and his Capsule Corporation jacket disintegrated during the transformation. He blurred towards the battle but was stopped.
"You'll fight me," Xellos declared. His staff was held in an attack position and he was smiling, his eyes glowing with malice.
"All right." Trunks smile also held no mirth, only grim determination.
The two squared off and attacked as one. Trunks' sword clanged against Xellos's staff sending shockwaves out in all directions. Trunks pressed on, causing Xellos to blink out. Thinking Xellos had super speed, the young super saiyan was confused when he couldn't detect him. He jumped immediately and back flipped, narrowly avoiding Xellos's swinging staff.
"What are you?" Trunks asked.
"I'm a Mazoku," he stated smiling. "Literally translated: Race of Evil. In your world, Demon would be the closest approximation."
Trunks frowned and gritted his teeth. "Piccolo was right!" He brought his sword up over his head and held his free arm out (Highlander style!-M.), preparing for Xellos's attack.
Gokuu went super saiyan and attacked Valgav. With so many attackers now, Valgav was purely on the defensive. He was driven back by the furious barrage of blows from the z warriors. Lina and Zel had disengaged from the battle, powering up their spells. The coordinated attacks finally revealed an opening.
"RA-TILT!"
"DRAGON-SLAVE!"
The combined might of the spells caused the surrounding sand to turn to glass. The explosion also centered close to the z warriors, sending them flying out in all directions! Valgav bore the brunt of the blast, but had his arms crossed in defense.
"Hmph." He said. "Pathetic! You'll have to try harder than that!"
"Damn!" Lina cursed. "Wasn't fast enough!"
"Lina!" Zel warned, "Look out!"
She barely dodged the black energy blast. The explosion sent her flying, and she landed hard, knocking the wind out of her.
Zel screamed as he attacked. His sword thrust forward, aimed at Valgav's heart! Valgav stood there calmly. Zelgadis put all his strength behind the attack and thrusted! Valgav clasped both hands on the glowing blade right before impact. Zel struggled and tried to plunge the blade into his chest, but he wasn't strong enough.
Valgav smiled, "This is how you met your end in my world, trying to save your loved one."
"What?" Zel strained against the might of Valgav!
"Yes. I believe I destroyed you like this!" His eye glowed blue bringing forth all of his power. Zel knew he couldn't dodge the blast at this range and closed his eyes.
"Lina," he whispered.
"NOO!" screamed Gohan who came out of nowhere. His massive forearm connected across Valgav's chin, causing him to drop the sword. He flew into another (conveniently placed-M.) mountain with the fury of a missile!
"Get out of here!" Gohan screamed as he powered-up and flew after Valgav. Zel picked up his sword and an over to Lina.
Trunks tensed in anticipation of Xellos. He didn't wait long, as Xellos blinked. Trunks jumped into the air and dodged his swinging attack. He swung his own sword down at Xellos's head, but Xellos was quicker and disappeared. Trunks landed and looked around him. He was unprepared when Xellos came at him from his blind side and impaled him with his staff! Blood gushed out of Trunks' mouth as Xellos raised hi off his feet.
"It appears you can't hit me, but I can hit you!'
"B…Bastard!" Trunks coughed. The strike missed his vital areas, but not by much. With his free hand he grasped the staff. "I'll…get you…yet!"
Unmercifully, Xellos dislodged his staff. Trunks screamed as he fell to the ground. He slashed at Xellos, but he disappeared again. Blood flowed freely from his gaping wound. The blow wouldn't be immediately fatal, but he'd need time in a regen tank. Slowly, Trunks stood up.
Gohan and Vegeta were at the mountain where Valgav slammed into. Both warriors were bleeding from various wounds but were undeterred. Suddenly the mountain exploded! Rocks became deadly shrapnel and the warriors used their auras to deflect the projectiles. Valgav floated where the center of the mountain used to be screaming, his back arched. Vegeta attacked, sending machine-gun-like blasts of energy balls at him. Gohan did the same from another angle. Piccolo and finally Gokuu joined him. The blasts hit Valgav and exploded, turning all the remaining rock in the area into dust! The blast cleared and Valgav hovered there still, a protective, shimmering barrier surrounded him.
"Damn!" Vegeta cursed. "We didn't even scratch him!"
"What do we do dad?" Gohan yelled.
Gokuu gritted his teeth, "I don't know son. But we know what needs to be done."
The warriors flew at Valgav and engaged him with fists and kicks!
Lina was on her feet, still winded from Valgav. Zel was by her side. "Things aren't looking any better," he commented.
"Where's Trunks?" she breathed.
"He's fighting Xellos, and not having a good time by the looks of it."
"Damn! Well, we can't go back! Zel, I'll go help Trunks. You go and help out the others."
"And how do you propose I do that?"
"You can use your healing magic. And, " her eyes brightened as she smiled, "be careful."
He nodded, smiling back. He took off toward Valgav and the z fighters. Lina took a deep breath, and doubled over in pain. Blood trickled slowly down the corner of her mouth. At least one rib was broken, things certainly weren't looking good. She straightened up and flew over to Xellos and Trunks.
Trunks was on the defensive. He tried attacking after Xellos but he always disappeared! His wound wasn't helping matters either. His movements were jerky and it became harder and harder for him to breathe.
"What's wrong?" Xellos taunted. "Had enough yet?"
"Shut up! cough I'm not through with you yet!"
"Really? You're nothing more than a flea to me! I could destroy you anytime I wish."
"Do you think…do you think this wound will stop me? I'm tougher than I look!"
"So it seems…since I can't have you foiling my plans, I'm afraid you'll have to die."
"Bring it!"
Xellos called forth a dark globe of destruction and hurled it at Trunks. He took to the air to avoid it, but the globe followed him! The globe was about as fast as he was, and in his weakened condition it would catch up to him sooner or later. He turned suddenly and screamed, his arms held out. The globe approached but exploded before it reached him.
"Interesting," Xellos said thoughtfully, then blurred.
Trunks felt the energy blast hit him in the back, but his golden aura dissipated most of the damage. Xellos came from below with another energy attack but he kicked it away. This time Trunks blurred and was able to score a slash across Xellos's back. Xellos screamed in pain!
"It appears that I underestimated you," he grunted.
"I don't need this to kill you, demon!" He sheathed his sword and attacked Xellos with his fists. Xellos was able to dodge most of the blows, but Trunks was too powerful. Trunks backhanded him and Xellos flew once again to the ground, slamming hard.
"Nice," Xellos muttered smiling.
Vegeta slammed into Piccolo from Valgav's attack. The two warriors were sent sprawling on the ground. "It's no use!" Valgav screamed. "You cannot defeat me! Accept your fate and die!"
His wings whooshed forward as thousands of the deadly, crystalline shards flew towards the warriors. Gokuu and Gohan landed in front of their downed friends and screamed. Their blazing auras combined, creating a protective shield from the poisonous shards. Gokuu's form grew slightly as he achieved ascended super saiyan. The additional power increased their barrier from the next barrage of shards.
"Gokuu," Piccolo muttered weakly. His regeneration factor was in high gear, but his wounds were starting to show their effect. He got up slowly, as did Vegeta. Blood flowed from the corners of Vegeta's eyes, and he was in worse shape than Piccolo. Vegeta screamed, and added his strength to the barrier. Piccolo raised his hands out in front of him and grunted, adding his power to the effort.
Valgav smiled. "Very good! But, can your little shield protect you from my most powerful attack?"
Gokuu's eyes went wide, "His energy! It jumping!" He poured forth more energy into the barrier.
"I'm here to help!" Zel exclaimed as he landed behind them.
"BARRIER!" His spell encircled the aura/barrier reinforcing it.
"Let's find out then," Valgav laughed. His eye glowed and he brought his arms out to his left and right, crucifixion style, and his index fingers pointed outward. He brought them behind his back and a clap of thunder rumbled from him. His fingers swung forth and touched each other pointing at the z warriors. A white beam sprang forth from his fingers and flew straight toward the warriors!
The beam hit the barrier and bent it! Gokuu went true saiyan to get more power, and the aura/barrier held! Valgav didn't let up, though! His beam still came at the group, showing no signs of stopping!
"We can't keep this up for long!" Gohan shouted as he achieved second level. Vegeta also went to second level to get more power.
"Don't decrease your energy!" Gokuu exclaimed. "If you do, we're dead!"
"Ha ha ha! How long can you keep this up?" Valgav taunted. "You'll run out of power sooner or later, then you'll die!"
"He's right!" Zel yelled, straining to keep his spell up.
"Concentrate!" Vegeta and Piccolo bellowed in unison.
The white-hot beam still kept coming…
Trunks blurred down to where Xellos was. He appeared above him and sent an energy blast at him. Xellos blurred before the attack arrived and rematerialized right next to Trunks. At point blank range, Trunks had no way of dodging Xellos's energy blast. He went crashing to the ground!
Xellos appeared over the fallen warrior from the future. "It seems that I have won this one!" His hand raised and began to glow.
Trunks closed his eyes, waiting for the inevitable. Then, he heard a strange sound, it sounded like singing!
(I won't subject you to it. For those in the know, you know how to stop Xellos. For those who don't, he can't stand psychological warfare. Especially singing. See, he lives off of negative emotions. That's his nourishment. When people are angry, sad, etc. he's getting full absorbing all that negative stuff. His one weakness is singing, especially happy, sappy, music. Songs of Love and Happiness turn badass Xellos into a blithering idiot! Don't ask me! That's how the manga and anime goes! Here endeth the lesson.-M)
"Ahhh! What's that? Beautiful music! Nooo!" A huge sweatdrop formed on Xellos's forehead and he fell to the ground twitching uncontrollably.
Lina smiled inwardly to herself. ***Score one for Amelia! Her songs of Love and Justice, while corny, are the only ingredients needed to render Xellos powerless***
Trunks stared wide-eyed. He got up slowly and saw Lina approach him singing a children's song of love. A sweatdrop appeared on his head and he stared at her quizzically.
"Stop! Stop! I'm sorry Lina! I didn't mean it!" Xellos twitched under the powerful might of Lina's torture!
"Serves you right!" she exclaimed. She grabbed him by the scruff of his robe and pulled him close to her. "Now, you're going to help us, right?" She smiled evilly at him.
Xellos raised his hands up in surrender. "Of course, Lina! Whatever you say! Just no more singing, please? I can't stand it!"
"Good. RESTORATION!" She put her hand on Trunks wound and healed it.
Trunks breathed in sharply. The pain was gone, and the wound was closing fast! He could feel his energy returning with each breath he took!
"Now Xellos," Lina commanded, "what was your plan here?"
"Uhh…that's a secret?"
Lina sang a few bars of another children's song until he relented. "Okay, okay! I'll tell you! No more singing!"
"Out with it then!"
He told her and Trunks of his plan to capture Vegeta for his master and of his plans to double-cross Valgav. Xellos was not happy about the situation he was in now. Trunks look of pure rage and hatred didn't help. He went for his sword, but Lina stopped him.
"No, we need him alive! He's the only one who can bring Bulma back! That is, if you're telling the truth."
"Yes," Xellos sighed, "I can still bring her back to life. All I need to do is grab her soul at the moment of Valgav's death."
"Great!" Lina said clasping her hands. "All we gotta do is kill him. Any ideas?"
"He is stronger than I," Xellos admitted. "I could find no weakness in this rendition of Valgav. I'm sorry."
"There's got to be a way," Trunks cried. "Everyone has a weakness."
"We'll have to find one soon," Lina declared as she pointed to the battle.
"Damn!" Trunks cursed as he powered-up and flew after them.
"Wait for us!" Lina yelled. "Oh, well. RAY-WING!" She took off after him, dragging Xellos behind her.
The warriors' energy barrier was weakening by the second. Piccolo and Zelgadis were down on one knee straining to keep their powers up. "I can't keep this up for much longer!" Zel screamed.
"We've got to!" Gokuu said resolutely. "Just hold on!"
The warriors struggled to keep the barrier intact. "It's no use!" Valgav taunted, pouring on the power! "I can feel your energy giving way! Your time is at an end!"
The others screamed under the strain! Zel passed out, too weak to continue. The barrier weakened, causing the white beam to inch closer to our heroes! Piccolo fell next. The barrier weakened more!
"Hold!" Gokuu screamed.
"Trying…dad!" Gohan answered back, his face was dripping with sweat from the concentration! Vegeta screamed, tapping into his rage, giving him new reserves of strength. Still, Valgav's beam inched closer!
Valgav laughed insanely, secure in the fact that he had his enemies right where he wanted them. He didn't notice the golden aura coming at him! Trunks hit Valgav with all the force he had! His kick connected squarely with Valgav's jaw, dislocating it, and more importantly, ending his attack. Valgav recovered quickly and spun around, attempting to roundhouse kick his new assailant. Trunks was fast enough to evade the attack and sent a punishing fist into Valgav's midsection! Trunks then punted Valgav into the air, blurred, and continued his assault.
Lina was busy casting healing spells on the others, giving them more energy. Xellos stood beside her like a loyal pet, much to his chagrin. Zel and Piccolo were revived and the others were regaining their strength.
"How long do you think Trunks can hold out?" Gohan asked.
"Not for much longer," Vegeta replied as he watched his son from the future fight the mad god one-on-one.
Trunks blocked a powerful forearm attack and followed with one of his that was similarly blocked. His speed was equal to the god's and his strength was nearly a match. The battle continued back and forth, neither gaining a significant advantage. "Annoying insect!" Valgav cursed. "You dare interfere?"
Trunks didn't reply, letting his fists do the talking. They connected with a one-two combination that sent Valgav back toward the ground. Trunks spent a precious second powering up, his outline now glowing pure silver. He blurred next to Valgav and brought his arm up just in time to block a high kick! Valgav's claws came at Trunks with a ferocity that he never encountered before.
"He's doing pretty good," Gokuu said approvingly.
"We need to end this," Vegeta said as he powered up. "I'll not let my son fall before man or god!" Fully charged, he flew at Valgav and entered the fray.
"We do need to get back in there," Gohan said as he powered up and joined the battle.
Gokuu and Piccolo nodded as they flew after Gohan. Lina and Zel looked at Xellos. "What are you going to do to help?" Zel asked.
"Regrettably there isn't much," he shrugged.
"Come on," Lina said exasperatingly. "There's got to be some way!"
"The only way I know for sure is to use the fabled weapons of light. That's how we beat him last time. But this Valgav is much stronger than the one we faced. I don't have a clue how to beat him."
"A lot of help you are," Zel said sarcastically. He turned to Lina, "Hey, what about the Giga-Slave?"
She tensed. "I'll try it if it comes to that, but that spell could easily destroy this galaxy!"
"Well, we can't just sit here and do nothing while our friends are in the thick of things!" Zel said slamming his fist to the ground in frustration.
"Let's go," she said and flew toward the battle. The others followed.
Valgav was hard pressed to mount any type of offense against his foes. The came from all angles and were all at full power! Suddenly, he saw Xellos! He smiled, now the balance would turn! Lina would die as well as the others! He could then continue his quest to reshape the world according to his beliefs and there would be no one able to stop him!
His thoughts were interrupted by Vegeta's knee to his back! The force of the blow caused him to fly forward into Gokuu's and Gohan's combined Kamehameha Wave!. He didn't have the time to defend himself from the attack. The wave enveloped him and exploded! Valgav screamed in pain. He fell to the ground, but Trunks and Vegeta were there. Vegeta issued forth his Final Flash and Trunks used his special attack that blasted Valgav higher into the air. Piccolo attacked from above with his Special Beam Cannon that sent Valgav spiraling to the ground. His landing caused small earthquakes to issue out in all directions.
"Got him!" Gokuu exclaimed in triumph.
Through blurry eyes, Valgav saw Xellos approach him. "Help me," he coughed.
"Sorry, Valgav. New plan." He smiled.
Valgav's eye glistened. "You betrayed me!" His form started to glow, and the ground shook with his power.
"It's over Valgav," Xellos said calmly. He pointed his staff at the angered body of Valgav.
"Not yet, it isn't!" Xellos fired a blast of pure dark force at Valgav who, impossibly, batted it away.
The others were on him them. His wings, knees, arms, and legs blocked kicks, punches, sword slashes, and energy blasts. He drew the power within himself and arched his back and screamed. The sheer force created a dark globe that expanded around him and shot out in all directions, hitting the heroes (even Xellos!)! The shockwave caused even the warriors in the air to fall to the ground. Lina got knocked into Zel and sent them sprawling to the ground. Lina landed on top of him. "I think we made him mad," Zel said casually.
The others were regaining their feet when Valgav reached his true form. His form suddenly went all black and dark smoke drifted off him like wind. His good eye glowed a deep blood red, and he screamed again in rage! The whole planet shook under the mad god's awesome power!
"You'll pay for this Xellos!" His voice was more demonic now, and insane.
"Perhaps the direct approach wasn't such a good idea after all," Xellos sweatdropped as he stared in awe.
"KA-ME-HA-ME-HA!" Gokuu and Gohan yelled as they sent their attack.
The blast hit Valgav's form and exploded, creating more tremors. The blast cleared and Valgav appeared unharmed.
"This…is bad," Gohan commented.
"This is the end!" the being-that-used-to-be-Valgav bellowed. He thrusted his hand out and Gohan was hit by an invisible force that sent him flying!
Piccolo and Gokuu were hit next, their forms disappearing beyond the horizon! Trunks and Vegeta stared in horror!
"Cast your spell, Lina!" Zel said with a hint of urgency.
She nodded, and began casting the Giga-Slave. Xellos flew into her, disrupting her spell! "Don't think that I've forgotten about you," Valgav exclaimed.
"No!" Zel cried as he assumed a defensive stance at her feet.
Valgav extended a finger, "Out of the way, pitiful creature!" Zelgadis went flying and landed hard on the ground. The sickening crunch, and the pain told him that several of his ribs were broken.
Trunks and Vegeta regained their composure and flew to Lina's side. They powered up to their fullest.
"You'll have to get through us first, bastard!" Vegeta yelled.
Trunks winced, he knew this was going to hurt! Valgav roared in anger, and attacked father and son. Vegeta and Trunks tried to defend, but Valgav was now stronger and faster beyond all measure! Valgav made short work of the proud father and son team. They both fell to the ground, and depowered from super saiyan form. Xellos tried to stand, but couldn't. An invisible force held him tightly in its grip. It picked him up and flung him aside like a rag doll.
"It's just you and me now, Lina."
"Go to hell, monster! DRAGON-SLAVE!" She angled the blast toward his feet, realizing that it probably wouldn't do much to him head-on.
The blast sent her flying as well (smoking and charred!). Valgav disappeared in the explosion, but she could hear his screams of rage and frustration as she narrowly avoided his lethal grasp! She was able to land on her feet and charged up another Dragon-Slave spell. Her eyes darted left and right, searching for any sign of Valgav. She saw Zelgadis try to stand and fail. She flew over to him.
"Zel! How are you doing?"
"Cough I've…been better." A small trickle of blood sprinkled from the corner of his mouth.
"How bad is it?"
"Ribs…broken. Head's…a little…woozy. Cough I've felt better…Lina." He was finally able to stand.
"How much energy you got left for spells?"
"One…maybe two cough spells…at most. You?"
"I've got enough left to cast the Giga-Slave, if I can get a chance."
"Oh, great."
"I'm here for you," she said soothingly. She couldn't look at him, else she would've burst to tears.
He nodded weakly, coughed and doubled over in pain. She caught him and gently lowered him back down to the ground. Her tears started to come, but she didn't care. Valgav needed to pay for all the suffering he caused! "Lina," he started weakly.
"Hush, Zel. Conserve your strength."
"I'm…sorry," he said.
"What?" She looked at him now and she saw that tears were running down his face.
"It's…my fault that we're still here. If we took your advice, we'd be home now, and…," he winced from the pain, "…and you'd probably still be alive at this time."
"Don't talk like that," she admonished, her voice trembling. "We're not dead yet."
"We're as good as…"
"Dead?" came Valgav's voice from behind her. "Soon, very soon you all shall be."
Lina's eyes were wide in fear and shock. She turned slowly to face the darkness that was Valgav. "It looks like this is the end," it taunted.
"You can't ever give up hope, Valgav," she whispered. "Hope gives our lives some meaning."
"A fallacy!" He appeared in front of her and backhanded her. She sprawled to the grown, skidding next to Zel. "I bring hope to a wronged world! It is I who will remake the world the way it should be! Everyone gets a second chance."
"Your way is wrong!" Lina spat. "No one has the right to remake a world in their own image!"
"She's right," Zel said weakly, standing once again. He drew his sword and stood defensively in front of Lina. "We have a right to determine our own destiny, not have someone dictate one for us!"
"It won't matter for you two. Soon you will all see the righteousness of my cause! Soon you will understand the truth!"
"You don't know truth!" Vegeta said weakly. Valgav turned to face Vegeta. His right arm hung limply at his side, but his form glowed with super saiyan energy once more. He held his unconscious son up with his good arm. "All those innocents you killed were kids once. When do those who you are trying to save stop becoming innocent?"
"Regrettable losses," Valgav declared. "They will be made whole again when my plans are complete."
"You really are a monster!" Gokuu said from above. He held the unconscious forms of Piccolo and his son across his shoulders. "You would kill all life in your delusional attempt to better society? You're no better than Freeza or Cell!" He laid his son and Piccolo down gently on the ground. He pointed a finger accusingly at Valgav. "It's beings like you that squander your talents! Instead of using your gifts to help others, you use them to harm and destroy!" Gokuu was trembling with rage! His true super saiyan outline pulsed with pain and anger! "I…can't…let…you…do…this!"
Gokuu screamed and powered up. He flew headlong at Valgav, all pretense of defense was gone. He was now a pure killing machine! Blows struck Valgav, but they didn't seem to affect him!
Vegeta stared at Gokuu wide-eyed. He felt Gokuu's rage and it was comparable to his own! He joined the fray, using his anger to propel him forward.
"You both don't understand," Valgav said matter-of-factly. "You will see soon enough." He clawed Gokuu who didn't even bother to block. The blow left black scars that festered in the wound. He kicked Vegeta into near unconsciousness, but the saiyan warrior did not fall.
Lina stared amazed. They were both giving their all, trying to save their planet and their friends. It wasn't enough though. It wasn't due to a lack of trying, but they just weren't strong enough. It was a true testament to their resolve though. Neither Gokuu nor Vegeta stayed down. Gokuu went super kaioken as a desperation move, and fared better but not by much.
"Die!" Gokuu cried.
"Fall, monster!" Vegeta yelled.
"Never!" Gokuu went to kick Valgav's face but he caught his foot and wrenched it to the side, causing Gokuu to sail and land next to Xellos. The Dark Hart came loose from his boot, but he didn't notice. Xellos, however, did. He quietly picked it up after Gokuu rushed back to the fray. Trunks was awake now and also joined the desperate battle. Lina cursed herself for her inability to help! Zel stood, sword ready, waiting for his chance to strike.
"GALICK-GUN!"
"KA-ME-HA-ME-HA!"
The energy bolts converged on the mad god and exploded with great force! Trunks followed up with his attack, but Valgav appeared unscathed.
Gokuu turned to Vegeta, "I've got an idea! Keep him busy for a minute."
"Is that all?" Vegeta growled. He blurred and got in the face of Valgav, fists flying! Trunks attacked, slashing his sword across Valgav's back, slicing through one wing.
Gokuu backed off from attacking and raised his arms up in the air. Slowly, glowing motes of energy converged into a blue energy ball above his head, and it was getting bigger!
Now's my chance, Lina thought. She looked over at Zel. He could barely stand, but he threw himself into battle against the mad god. Lina took in a deep breath, and charged her talismans. The two talismans on her wrists, one on her belt and one on her cloak glowed, giving her more power! ***This is it! It's now or never!***
"Darkness beyond blackest pitch, deeper than the deepest night! Lord of Darkness, shining like gold upon the Sea of Chaos, I call upon thee, swear myself to thee! Let the fools who stand before us be destroyed by the power you and I possess!"
Lina's form began to glow an eerie gold, and she was suffused with power!
"GIGA-SLAVE!"
The Lord of Nightmares entered her body, and they became as one. The ground surrounding her shook, and pieces of earth involuntarily shot upward by the power she now wielded. Calmly, she started walking toward the fighting warriors.
"So, you used the Giga-Slave?" Valgav said mockingly. "It will do you…"
His speech was cut short by Vegeta and Trunks as they both punched him in the face! Capitalizing on the situation, the blurred and reformed on either side of the mad god and pressured him with more kicks and punches, trying to keep him off-guard. Zel used the last of his spell energy to heal the two warriors as they kept up the attack, then he passed out. Valgav kicked Trunks across the face, but he flipped, rolled with the blow, and landed on his feet in a defensive stance. Vegeta brought his forearm around but was blocked by Valgav. Vegeta pressed the attack until he was pounded into the ground by Valgav's might!
"Bastard!" Vegeta coughed as he slowly stood up from the ground.
"I can't be killed!" Valgav screamed insanely. He punched Trunks in the stomach, which caused the brave warrior to de-power and pass out.
Valgav was about to strike the killing blow on Trunks, but was tackled by Vegeta before he could do it! The struggling figures crashed to the ground. Thundering explosions could be heard across the landscape as the two combatants traded blows!
Lina appeared next to Zel and put a glowing hand on his forehead. He was still knocked out, but his breathing came easier. There was another thunderous sound and Vegeta skidded and stopped next to Lina. He got up, saw Lina's calm look, and his eyes went wide. "What are you?"
"I am the Lord of Nightmares," she replied in a calm voice. "I am the Creator and the Destroyer. I am here for Valgav."
"He's that way," Vegeta pointed. ***She's just as powerful as Valgav! So this must be her true power! I hope it's enough!***
She turned to Valgav who was walking toward them. "It is time to put your schemes to an end," she declared.
He smiled and laughed. "Do what you will. It won't matter in the end." He snarled and flew at her. She calmly met his attack blow for blow.
Vegeta turned to his son then looked over at Gokuu. "Aren't you ready yet?" he howled.
"Just a little more time," Gokuu strained. "Keep…him busy…for…just…a…little…while…longer!"
"Blasted, son of a goody two shoe, stupid, idiotic…" Vegeta cursed as he flew over to help Lina.
Lina and Valgav were evenly matched now that she held the power of the Lord of Nightmares. Both used their powers to their fullest, but neither could gain the upper hand. "So it is that I face the Lord of Nightmares again," Valgav stated.
"Your time has come," was the reply.
The two locked hands in a contest of wills, their auras sparking and sending lightning out in all directions! Vegeta was forced to cover his eyes from the display of power! He was forced to stop from going any further, their power was too much for him!
"I will still destroy you!" Valgav screamed insanely. He pushed against Lina and broke off their grapple. He called forth an annihilation beam that scream toward Lina.
She raised her left hand, and dissipated the beam as it struck. She called forth a beam of her own, but Valgav batted it aside. The beam came straight at Vegeta, but he dodged it. The beam exploded behind him, sending rock and dirt everywhere. Lina conjured more annihilation balls and directed them toward her target. Valgav took to the air and blasted each ball out of existence. Lina flew off after him and they continued their battle in the sky.
"Now would be a good time, Kakarot!" Vegeta yelled urgently.
"Almost," Gokuu strained. The blue energy above his head was getting larger as he gathered more life energy from the planet and everything around him. The ball was huge, and getting bigger by the second!
Vegeta charged up to his fullest and flew after Valgav and Lina. He attempted to kick Valgav, but he dodged and narrowly missed Lina with his attack! She was engaged in hand to hand combat as well, but wasn't making much headway. Vegeta struck again, and this time landed a hard right across Valgav's face sending him to the ground! He put his arms forward and gathered his energy. Lina called forth a large globe of darkness and sent it down toward Valgav. Vegeta put everything he had into his Final Flash and sent it along as well. When their beams hit, there was no explosion! Vegeta and Lina/Lord of Nightmares were surprised to see Valgav holding each beam in each hand, staving off his destruction! Lina and Vegeta poured on the power, but the mad god was defending!
"Now, Kakarot!"
"Go!" Gokuu screamed as he hurled his energy ball toward Valgav. The ball moved slowly but surely towards its intended target!
"Is that all you got!" Valgav screamed as he strained to keep the two powerful energy rays at bay. "I am Valgav! I am invincible!"
"Shut up!" Vegeta growled as he put all of his energy into his attack. His blast came down stronger now, but Valgav still held his ground.
Lina/Lord of Nightmares put all her power behind her sphere of destruction, yet still he refused to fall! She did notice Gokuu's energy ball coming slowly but inexorably toward Valgav from the back. Lina could feel her tenuous hold on the Lord of Nightmares begin to slip away. This was the most dangerous time! If she lost control she'd die and send the entire world (if not the entire galaxy) with her! She struggled to maintain control!
Valgav laughed, "I can feel your power slipping! In a few seconds you both will have nothing left! Your end draws near!"
"Don't bet on it!" Gokuu exclaimed.
"What?" Valgav said as he turned. He noticed the large energy ball coming toward him. His glowing eye went wide! It was almost on top of him!
"No! I can't let it end like this!"
Vegeta screamed as he put the last of his energy in his blast. Lina/Lord of Nightmares glanced over at him. "Do not let up," she warned. "Keep attacking!"
Suddenly, Vegeta felt his power rise! He looked down and saw Trunks, arms extended giving him his energy! Trunks was down on one knee and strained to keep focused, but the energy he was giving renewed Vegeta, and he poured it on!
Gokuu's Spirit Bomb hit Valgav, who could do nothing to defend against it. The hit caused Valgav to falter, which made him lose control of Vegeta and Lina's energy attacks. The three attacks combined into one as they struck Valgav! Valgav's death scream could be heard over the explosion! His scream of rage and pain echoed across the land, until he disintegrated from the combined might of the saiyans and Lina/Lord of Nightmares!
Lina de-powered first and promptly passed out. Vegeta caught her and gently hovered down to the ground. Gokuu breathed heavily, and his arms were limp at his sides. He smiled, "We did it!" Vegeta nodded.
"Yes you did," came Xellos's voice. The two saiyans turned to face him. He stood there smiling; a small red jewel was in the palm of his hand. He tossed it to Vegeta who caught it. "Well done! That is your Bulma's soul. Once you wake up your green friend over there he should be able to revive her with no complications."
"Demon!" Trunks spattered as he struggled to stand, "Stay away from him father! He plans to take you back with him!"
Vegeta was still in super saiyan form and he crouched defensively. "Better get those ideas out of your head before I take it off!" he warned.
Gokuu assumed a defensive stance as well. Trunks limped over to his father and drew his sword. "Yes, well.." Xellos stammered as he scratched his head, "that was the old plan."
"What plan do you have now?" Gokuu asked angrily.
"That…" he said raising his finger, "is a secret!" He disappeared!
"Damn that Xellos!" Vegeta cursed. "When I see him next time, I'll kill him!"
Lina moaned as she started to come to. "What happened?" she asked weakly. "Did we win?"
"Yeah," Gokuu replied. "We won."
"How did you get so powerful?" Vegeta asked.
"That was the Giga-Slave. It's a spell that calls forth the Lord of Nightmares, a very powerful force on my world. There is a danger with casting that spell. The chance is that the spell could go haywire, destroying the world and beyond."
"No way!" Gokuu exclaimed wide-eyed.
"Yep, that's why I try not to use that spell. It nearly killed me once."
"What is to be done with Xellos?" Vegeta asked. "How are we going to get you home?"
"That's easy," Gokuu said smiling. "I took the Dark Heart from Xellos a while ago." He patted himself down looking for the gem. "Now where is it? Oh yeah, I remember!" He took of his boot and turned it upside down, but no gem fell out.
"What?" Gokuu said. "But, it was right here! I put it in my boot!"
"I'll bet Xellos has it," Lina sighed dejectedly.
"Darn!" Gokuu cursed.
"If it's all right with you, I'd like to get back to the Palace and revive my wife."
"Sure, Vegeta. We'll be going back as soon as we gather everyone."
Lina limped over to Zel and knelt down beside him. Her hand brushed his cheek and he smiled! His eyes opened slowly and his smile grew wider. "Hey," he said weakly. "I take it we won?"
"Yep, thanks to yours truly. Oh, and the others help out a bit too."
"I'd better be included," he stated with mock seriousness. He held his hand out and she grabbed it helping him up.
"You are," she soothed. "We got Bulma's soul back too! Gokuu, Trunks, and Vegeta are getting the other two and we're heading back to the Palace."
"Good," he grunted. "I could use a good week's rest."
"You're not the only one," she remarked.
Lina and Zel held each other as they limped over to where the others were gathered. Gokuu and Vegeta picked up the others and held hands. "Ready?"
"Let's go!" Vegeta exclaimed.
"Right!" Gokuu put his index finger to his forehead and they were whisked away to the Palace.
Next: The Revival of Bulma! It's time to go home! See us next chapter so I can wrap up this thing!
Notes: I apologize for this lengthy chapter. I kinda got carried away a bit. I hope it had enough action for ya! The ending won't be as long, I promise! –M.
"Where are we going, demon?" Vegeta growled.
"We're nearly there," Xellos replied as the group flew through the air.
"You said that two hours ago!" Vegeta was barely able to keep his rage in check.
Xellos turned back to look at Vegeta, "Trust me!" he smiled.
Vegeta frowned and looked over the landscape. They were flying over a desert now. The air was dry and hot. Eventually Xellos landed with everyone following.
Heat rose from the cracked, dead ground. Jagged rocks jutted randomly from the earth. The sun was high overhead, and all that could be heard was a small breeze, vainly struggling to cool the parched desert.
Gokuu looked around. "I don't see him. Where is he?"
"He's here," Xellos confirmed. "You can count on that."
"Valgav!" Vegeta bellowed, fists clenched. "Show yourself!"
Silence. Gokuu, Gohan, and Trunks assumed defensive stances. "Be ready for anything!" Gokuu warned.
Lina and Zelgadis had spells ready, waiting for the inevitable. The desert issued forth no sound. "What's the deal, Xellos?" Lina asked.
"Well…there is one thing."
"What?" she said as she turned toward him. He already blinked and appeared behind her. His hand chopped her neck, making her black out.
"It's a trap!" Zel yelled, bringing his sword at the ready. The others ran to Lina's aid.
Xellos was faster. He grabbed the Dark Heart from Lina before she even hit the ground. With his work done, he blinked again.
"Son of a…" Vegeta cursed.
"Don't worry about her!" Xellos's voice exclaimed. The z warriors looked up to the sky and saw the Trickster Priest hovering about a mile up. "You've got bigger troubles! Now!"
The ground trembled and exploded in the middle of the group. Valgav, fully restored (and a bit pissed), flew slowly amidst the chaos eye glowing.
"Welcome to your death!" he grinned evilly.
Vegeta immediately went super saiyan and attacked. Fists and energy blasts assaulted Valgav, but he was able to deflect every blast and attack. Gohan and Piccolo joined the fight, but met similar resistance. Gohan's super saiyan form glowed and pulsed with every fist brought down on Valgav. Piccolo's kicks were equally ineffective and he went flying with an elbow to the stomach. Vegeta used the opportunity to bring his cupped fists down on Valgav's head like a battering ram, but he blurred with super-speed. His fists pulverized the ground, sending tremors out in every direction.
Zel reached Lina's side and began chanting a healing spell. The others were moving faster than he could see, he caught a blur here and there, but that was about it. He noticed Trunks and Gokuu, who hadn't even transformed to super saiyan yet.
"What are you waiting for?" Zel yelled.
If they heard they didn't acknowledge him. Their eyes and heads followed the battle as the blurring figures disappeared and reappeared at seemingly random places throughout the desert.
"It's time." Gokuu stated. His eyes closed and his index finger went to his forehead, then he was gone.
Xellos observed the battle from above, paying keen attention to Vegeta. His natural rage was an asset to the warriors, but that rage also made him careless. His point was brought home as he watched Valgav get under Vegeta's defenses and land a hard kick to his mid-section. He slammed through (!) a nearby mountain with such force that he nearly split it in two! Still, he jumped right back into the battle showing no signs of fatigue. ***Excellent Vegeta! Show me more! Show me your true power!***
Xellos was so absorbed in the fight that he didn't notice Gokuu materialize right behind him. He felt someone tapping his shoulder and he turned in confusion.
"Huh?"
All he saw was Gokuu's fist get extremely large in his vision. The impact of the punch caused him to drop the Dark Heart as he sailed down to the desert floor at about mach 2! Xellos exploded into the ground and found himself at the bottom of a newly formed crater. Blood slowly trickled from his lips.
"RESTORATION!" Zel yelled. His hands glowed white and he put them on Lina's forehead. Her eyes opened slowly and focused.
"Lina! Are you all right?"
"Ugh…what hit me?
"Xellos," he spat, "it was a trap after all."
She smiled, "I expected that." She turned towards the sounds of the battle. "How are we doing?"
"Could be better," he replied. "They move so fast! I can't keep up with them!"
She stood up with Zel's help. "Well, " she said, still smiling. "Let's help our friends out!" She drew her sword and powered up. Zel did the same, and they charged into battle.
Gohan grunted as Valgav's fist struck him across the face. He rolled with the attack and attempted to kick the godling, but he ducked. Gohan disengaged, and Piccolo appeared. He scored a hit on Valgav's chest, sending the mad godling reeling. Vegeta attacked next, kicking Valgav high up in the air during the brief second he was stunned. He brought his arms up and gathered his energy.
"FINAL FLASH!" The energy beam flew strait and true toward Valgav. He stopped his ascent and backhanded the blast away. With a guttural growl he flew back down and attacked!
Gokuu's vision was full of Vegeta's batted-away attack, and almost got hit. He nearly dropped the Dark Heart. He put it in his boot and sailed down toward the fight.
Trunks watched the battle and waited. His blood burned for combat, and he had to fight the impulse every time he saw his father get hit. He closed his eyes and concentrated, gathering his energy.
Xellos's eyes opened. His whole body hurt! Normally, any punch from a human would do no damage to one such as him! He smiled. His suspicions were correct. Once Vegeta was in his clutches he would be put to great use! The saiyan race had the power to harm and possibly kill his kind! That made them the perfect weapon for his master who was currently warring with the others of his kind. He was his master's Priest and General. He was a secretive creature by nature, but his master was even more so. How she could've foreseen these events was beyond even Xellos's comprehension! Vegeta was the hinge for her plans, he needed to bring him back at all costs, and he would! He chuckled and blurred.
Lina and Zelgadis brought their swords down on Valgav. Zel's sword had the red hue with his augmentation spell and came down hard on Valgav's back. His wings formed a barrier that deflected the attack. Undaunted, Zel pressed on. Lina attacked Valgav's side, looking for an opening. His arm and elbow deflected each attack. Piccolo, Gohan and Vegeta attacked from the other sides but were each hard pressed to score a hit. Valgav was somehow stronger than ever before, and faster to boot!
Trunks drew his blade and went true super saiyan. His hair grew long and golden, and his Capsule Corporation jacket disintegrated during the transformation. He blurred towards the battle but was stopped.
"You'll fight me," Xellos declared. His staff was held in an attack position and he was smiling, his eyes glowing with malice.
"All right." Trunks smile also held no mirth, only grim determination.
The two squared off and attacked as one. Trunks' sword clanged against Xellos's staff sending shockwaves out in all directions. Trunks pressed on, causing Xellos to blink out. Thinking Xellos had super speed, the young super saiyan was confused when he couldn't detect him. He jumped immediately and back flipped, narrowly avoiding Xellos's swinging staff.
"What are you?" Trunks asked.
"I'm a Mazoku," he stated smiling. "Literally translated: Race of Evil. In your world, Demon would be the closest approximation."
Trunks frowned and gritted his teeth. "Piccolo was right!" He brought his sword up over his head and held his free arm out (Highlander style!-M.), preparing for Xellos's attack.
Gokuu went super saiyan and attacked Valgav. With so many attackers now, Valgav was purely on the defensive. He was driven back by the furious barrage of blows from the z warriors. Lina and Zel had disengaged from the battle, powering up their spells. The coordinated attacks finally revealed an opening.
"RA-TILT!"
"DRAGON-SLAVE!"
The combined might of the spells caused the surrounding sand to turn to glass. The explosion also centered close to the z warriors, sending them flying out in all directions! Valgav bore the brunt of the blast, but had his arms crossed in defense.
"Hmph." He said. "Pathetic! You'll have to try harder than that!"
"Damn!" Lina cursed. "Wasn't fast enough!"
"Lina!" Zel warned, "Look out!"
She barely dodged the black energy blast. The explosion sent her flying, and she landed hard, knocking the wind out of her.
Zel screamed as he attacked. His sword thrust forward, aimed at Valgav's heart! Valgav stood there calmly. Zelgadis put all his strength behind the attack and thrusted! Valgav clasped both hands on the glowing blade right before impact. Zel struggled and tried to plunge the blade into his chest, but he wasn't strong enough.
Valgav smiled, "This is how you met your end in my world, trying to save your loved one."
"What?" Zel strained against the might of Valgav!
"Yes. I believe I destroyed you like this!" His eye glowed blue bringing forth all of his power. Zel knew he couldn't dodge the blast at this range and closed his eyes.
"Lina," he whispered.
"NOO!" screamed Gohan who came out of nowhere. His massive forearm connected across Valgav's chin, causing him to drop the sword. He flew into another (conveniently placed-M.) mountain with the fury of a missile!
"Get out of here!" Gohan screamed as he powered-up and flew after Valgav. Zel picked up his sword and an over to Lina.
Trunks tensed in anticipation of Xellos. He didn't wait long, as Xellos blinked. Trunks jumped into the air and dodged his swinging attack. He swung his own sword down at Xellos's head, but Xellos was quicker and disappeared. Trunks landed and looked around him. He was unprepared when Xellos came at him from his blind side and impaled him with his staff! Blood gushed out of Trunks' mouth as Xellos raised hi off his feet.
"It appears you can't hit me, but I can hit you!'
"B…Bastard!" Trunks coughed. The strike missed his vital areas, but not by much. With his free hand he grasped the staff. "I'll…get you…yet!"
Unmercifully, Xellos dislodged his staff. Trunks screamed as he fell to the ground. He slashed at Xellos, but he disappeared again. Blood flowed freely from his gaping wound. The blow wouldn't be immediately fatal, but he'd need time in a regen tank. Slowly, Trunks stood up.
Gohan and Vegeta were at the mountain where Valgav slammed into. Both warriors were bleeding from various wounds but were undeterred. Suddenly the mountain exploded! Rocks became deadly shrapnel and the warriors used their auras to deflect the projectiles. Valgav floated where the center of the mountain used to be screaming, his back arched. Vegeta attacked, sending machine-gun-like blasts of energy balls at him. Gohan did the same from another angle. Piccolo and finally Gokuu joined him. The blasts hit Valgav and exploded, turning all the remaining rock in the area into dust! The blast cleared and Valgav hovered there still, a protective, shimmering barrier surrounded him.
"Damn!" Vegeta cursed. "We didn't even scratch him!"
"What do we do dad?" Gohan yelled.
Gokuu gritted his teeth, "I don't know son. But we know what needs to be done."
The warriors flew at Valgav and engaged him with fists and kicks!
Lina was on her feet, still winded from Valgav. Zel was by her side. "Things aren't looking any better," he commented.
"Where's Trunks?" she breathed.
"He's fighting Xellos, and not having a good time by the looks of it."
"Damn! Well, we can't go back! Zel, I'll go help Trunks. You go and help out the others."
"And how do you propose I do that?"
"You can use your healing magic. And, " her eyes brightened as she smiled, "be careful."
He nodded, smiling back. He took off toward Valgav and the z fighters. Lina took a deep breath, and doubled over in pain. Blood trickled slowly down the corner of her mouth. At least one rib was broken, things certainly weren't looking good. She straightened up and flew over to Xellos and Trunks.
Trunks was on the defensive. He tried attacking after Xellos but he always disappeared! His wound wasn't helping matters either. His movements were jerky and it became harder and harder for him to breathe.
"What's wrong?" Xellos taunted. "Had enough yet?"
"Shut up! cough I'm not through with you yet!"
"Really? You're nothing more than a flea to me! I could destroy you anytime I wish."
"Do you think…do you think this wound will stop me? I'm tougher than I look!"
"So it seems…since I can't have you foiling my plans, I'm afraid you'll have to die."
"Bring it!"
Xellos called forth a dark globe of destruction and hurled it at Trunks. He took to the air to avoid it, but the globe followed him! The globe was about as fast as he was, and in his weakened condition it would catch up to him sooner or later. He turned suddenly and screamed, his arms held out. The globe approached but exploded before it reached him.
"Interesting," Xellos said thoughtfully, then blurred.
Trunks felt the energy blast hit him in the back, but his golden aura dissipated most of the damage. Xellos came from below with another energy attack but he kicked it away. This time Trunks blurred and was able to score a slash across Xellos's back. Xellos screamed in pain!
"It appears that I underestimated you," he grunted.
"I don't need this to kill you, demon!" He sheathed his sword and attacked Xellos with his fists. Xellos was able to dodge most of the blows, but Trunks was too powerful. Trunks backhanded him and Xellos flew once again to the ground, slamming hard.
"Nice," Xellos muttered smiling.
Vegeta slammed into Piccolo from Valgav's attack. The two warriors were sent sprawling on the ground. "It's no use!" Valgav screamed. "You cannot defeat me! Accept your fate and die!"
His wings whooshed forward as thousands of the deadly, crystalline shards flew towards the warriors. Gokuu and Gohan landed in front of their downed friends and screamed. Their blazing auras combined, creating a protective shield from the poisonous shards. Gokuu's form grew slightly as he achieved ascended super saiyan. The additional power increased their barrier from the next barrage of shards.
"Gokuu," Piccolo muttered weakly. His regeneration factor was in high gear, but his wounds were starting to show their effect. He got up slowly, as did Vegeta. Blood flowed from the corners of Vegeta's eyes, and he was in worse shape than Piccolo. Vegeta screamed, and added his strength to the barrier. Piccolo raised his hands out in front of him and grunted, adding his power to the effort.
Valgav smiled. "Very good! But, can your little shield protect you from my most powerful attack?"
Gokuu's eyes went wide, "His energy! It jumping!" He poured forth more energy into the barrier.
"I'm here to help!" Zel exclaimed as he landed behind them.
"BARRIER!" His spell encircled the aura/barrier reinforcing it.
"Let's find out then," Valgav laughed. His eye glowed and he brought his arms out to his left and right, crucifixion style, and his index fingers pointed outward. He brought them behind his back and a clap of thunder rumbled from him. His fingers swung forth and touched each other pointing at the z warriors. A white beam sprang forth from his fingers and flew straight toward the warriors!
The beam hit the barrier and bent it! Gokuu went true saiyan to get more power, and the aura/barrier held! Valgav didn't let up, though! His beam still came at the group, showing no signs of stopping!
"We can't keep this up for long!" Gohan shouted as he achieved second level. Vegeta also went to second level to get more power.
"Don't decrease your energy!" Gokuu exclaimed. "If you do, we're dead!"
"Ha ha ha! How long can you keep this up?" Valgav taunted. "You'll run out of power sooner or later, then you'll die!"
"He's right!" Zel yelled, straining to keep his spell up.
"Concentrate!" Vegeta and Piccolo bellowed in unison.
The white-hot beam still kept coming…
Trunks blurred down to where Xellos was. He appeared above him and sent an energy blast at him. Xellos blurred before the attack arrived and rematerialized right next to Trunks. At point blank range, Trunks had no way of dodging Xellos's energy blast. He went crashing to the ground!
Xellos appeared over the fallen warrior from the future. "It seems that I have won this one!" His hand raised and began to glow.
Trunks closed his eyes, waiting for the inevitable. Then, he heard a strange sound, it sounded like singing!
(I won't subject you to it. For those in the know, you know how to stop Xellos. For those who don't, he can't stand psychological warfare. Especially singing. See, he lives off of negative emotions. That's his nourishment. When people are angry, sad, etc. he's getting full absorbing all that negative stuff. His one weakness is singing, especially happy, sappy, music. Songs of Love and Happiness turn badass Xellos into a blithering idiot! Don't ask me! That's how the manga and anime goes! Here endeth the lesson.-M)
"Ahhh! What's that? Beautiful music! Nooo!" A huge sweatdrop formed on Xellos's forehead and he fell to the ground twitching uncontrollably.
Lina smiled inwardly to herself. ***Score one for Amelia! Her songs of Love and Justice, while corny, are the only ingredients needed to render Xellos powerless***
Trunks stared wide-eyed. He got up slowly and saw Lina approach him singing a children's song of love. A sweatdrop appeared on his head and he stared at her quizzically.
"Stop! Stop! I'm sorry Lina! I didn't mean it!" Xellos twitched under the powerful might of Lina's torture!
"Serves you right!" she exclaimed. She grabbed him by the scruff of his robe and pulled him close to her. "Now, you're going to help us, right?" She smiled evilly at him.
Xellos raised his hands up in surrender. "Of course, Lina! Whatever you say! Just no more singing, please? I can't stand it!"
"Good. RESTORATION!" She put her hand on Trunks wound and healed it.
Trunks breathed in sharply. The pain was gone, and the wound was closing fast! He could feel his energy returning with each breath he took!
"Now Xellos," Lina commanded, "what was your plan here?"
"Uhh…that's a secret?"
Lina sang a few bars of another children's song until he relented. "Okay, okay! I'll tell you! No more singing!"
"Out with it then!"
He told her and Trunks of his plan to capture Vegeta for his master and of his plans to double-cross Valgav. Xellos was not happy about the situation he was in now. Trunks look of pure rage and hatred didn't help. He went for his sword, but Lina stopped him.
"No, we need him alive! He's the only one who can bring Bulma back! That is, if you're telling the truth."
"Yes," Xellos sighed, "I can still bring her back to life. All I need to do is grab her soul at the moment of Valgav's death."
"Great!" Lina said clasping her hands. "All we gotta do is kill him. Any ideas?"
"He is stronger than I," Xellos admitted. "I could find no weakness in this rendition of Valgav. I'm sorry."
"There's got to be a way," Trunks cried. "Everyone has a weakness."
"We'll have to find one soon," Lina declared as she pointed to the battle.
"Damn!" Trunks cursed as he powered-up and flew after them.
"Wait for us!" Lina yelled. "Oh, well. RAY-WING!" She took off after him, dragging Xellos behind her.
The warriors' energy barrier was weakening by the second. Piccolo and Zelgadis were down on one knee straining to keep their powers up. "I can't keep this up for much longer!" Zel screamed.
"We've got to!" Gokuu said resolutely. "Just hold on!"
The warriors struggled to keep the barrier intact. "It's no use!" Valgav taunted, pouring on the power! "I can feel your energy giving way! Your time is at an end!"
The others screamed under the strain! Zel passed out, too weak to continue. The barrier weakened, causing the white beam to inch closer to our heroes! Piccolo fell next. The barrier weakened more!
"Hold!" Gokuu screamed.
"Trying…dad!" Gohan answered back, his face was dripping with sweat from the concentration! Vegeta screamed, tapping into his rage, giving him new reserves of strength. Still, Valgav's beam inched closer!
Valgav laughed insanely, secure in the fact that he had his enemies right where he wanted them. He didn't notice the golden aura coming at him! Trunks hit Valgav with all the force he had! His kick connected squarely with Valgav's jaw, dislocating it, and more importantly, ending his attack. Valgav recovered quickly and spun around, attempting to roundhouse kick his new assailant. Trunks was fast enough to evade the attack and sent a punishing fist into Valgav's midsection! Trunks then punted Valgav into the air, blurred, and continued his assault.
Lina was busy casting healing spells on the others, giving them more energy. Xellos stood beside her like a loyal pet, much to his chagrin. Zel and Piccolo were revived and the others were regaining their strength.
"How long do you think Trunks can hold out?" Gohan asked.
"Not for much longer," Vegeta replied as he watched his son from the future fight the mad god one-on-one.
Trunks blocked a powerful forearm attack and followed with one of his that was similarly blocked. His speed was equal to the god's and his strength was nearly a match. The battle continued back and forth, neither gaining a significant advantage. "Annoying insect!" Valgav cursed. "You dare interfere?"
Trunks didn't reply, letting his fists do the talking. They connected with a one-two combination that sent Valgav back toward the ground. Trunks spent a precious second powering up, his outline now glowing pure silver. He blurred next to Valgav and brought his arm up just in time to block a high kick! Valgav's claws came at Trunks with a ferocity that he never encountered before.
"He's doing pretty good," Gokuu said approvingly.
"We need to end this," Vegeta said as he powered up. "I'll not let my son fall before man or god!" Fully charged, he flew at Valgav and entered the fray.
"We do need to get back in there," Gohan said as he powered up and joined the battle.
Gokuu and Piccolo nodded as they flew after Gohan. Lina and Zel looked at Xellos. "What are you going to do to help?" Zel asked.
"Regrettably there isn't much," he shrugged.
"Come on," Lina said exasperatingly. "There's got to be some way!"
"The only way I know for sure is to use the fabled weapons of light. That's how we beat him last time. But this Valgav is much stronger than the one we faced. I don't have a clue how to beat him."
"A lot of help you are," Zel said sarcastically. He turned to Lina, "Hey, what about the Giga-Slave?"
She tensed. "I'll try it if it comes to that, but that spell could easily destroy this galaxy!"
"Well, we can't just sit here and do nothing while our friends are in the thick of things!" Zel said slamming his fist to the ground in frustration.
"Let's go," she said and flew toward the battle. The others followed.
Valgav was hard pressed to mount any type of offense against his foes. The came from all angles and were all at full power! Suddenly, he saw Xellos! He smiled, now the balance would turn! Lina would die as well as the others! He could then continue his quest to reshape the world according to his beliefs and there would be no one able to stop him!
His thoughts were interrupted by Vegeta's knee to his back! The force of the blow caused him to fly forward into Gokuu's and Gohan's combined Kamehameha Wave!. He didn't have the time to defend himself from the attack. The wave enveloped him and exploded! Valgav screamed in pain. He fell to the ground, but Trunks and Vegeta were there. Vegeta issued forth his Final Flash and Trunks used his special attack that blasted Valgav higher into the air. Piccolo attacked from above with his Special Beam Cannon that sent Valgav spiraling to the ground. His landing caused small earthquakes to issue out in all directions.
"Got him!" Gokuu exclaimed in triumph.
Through blurry eyes, Valgav saw Xellos approach him. "Help me," he coughed.
"Sorry, Valgav. New plan." He smiled.
Valgav's eye glistened. "You betrayed me!" His form started to glow, and the ground shook with his power.
"It's over Valgav," Xellos said calmly. He pointed his staff at the angered body of Valgav.
"Not yet, it isn't!" Xellos fired a blast of pure dark force at Valgav who, impossibly, batted it away.
The others were on him them. His wings, knees, arms, and legs blocked kicks, punches, sword slashes, and energy blasts. He drew the power within himself and arched his back and screamed. The sheer force created a dark globe that expanded around him and shot out in all directions, hitting the heroes (even Xellos!)! The shockwave caused even the warriors in the air to fall to the ground. Lina got knocked into Zel and sent them sprawling to the ground. Lina landed on top of him. "I think we made him mad," Zel said casually.
The others were regaining their feet when Valgav reached his true form. His form suddenly went all black and dark smoke drifted off him like wind. His good eye glowed a deep blood red, and he screamed again in rage! The whole planet shook under the mad god's awesome power!
"You'll pay for this Xellos!" His voice was more demonic now, and insane.
"Perhaps the direct approach wasn't such a good idea after all," Xellos sweatdropped as he stared in awe.
"KA-ME-HA-ME-HA!" Gokuu and Gohan yelled as they sent their attack.
The blast hit Valgav's form and exploded, creating more tremors. The blast cleared and Valgav appeared unharmed.
"This…is bad," Gohan commented.
"This is the end!" the being-that-used-to-be-Valgav bellowed. He thrusted his hand out and Gohan was hit by an invisible force that sent him flying!
Piccolo and Gokuu were hit next, their forms disappearing beyond the horizon! Trunks and Vegeta stared in horror!
"Cast your spell, Lina!" Zel said with a hint of urgency.
She nodded, and began casting the Giga-Slave. Xellos flew into her, disrupting her spell! "Don't think that I've forgotten about you," Valgav exclaimed.
"No!" Zel cried as he assumed a defensive stance at her feet.
Valgav extended a finger, "Out of the way, pitiful creature!" Zelgadis went flying and landed hard on the ground. The sickening crunch, and the pain told him that several of his ribs were broken.
Trunks and Vegeta regained their composure and flew to Lina's side. They powered up to their fullest.
"You'll have to get through us first, bastard!" Vegeta yelled.
Trunks winced, he knew this was going to hurt! Valgav roared in anger, and attacked father and son. Vegeta and Trunks tried to defend, but Valgav was now stronger and faster beyond all measure! Valgav made short work of the proud father and son team. They both fell to the ground, and depowered from super saiyan form. Xellos tried to stand, but couldn't. An invisible force held him tightly in its grip. It picked him up and flung him aside like a rag doll.
"It's just you and me now, Lina."
"Go to hell, monster! DRAGON-SLAVE!" She angled the blast toward his feet, realizing that it probably wouldn't do much to him head-on.
The blast sent her flying as well (smoking and charred!). Valgav disappeared in the explosion, but she could hear his screams of rage and frustration as she narrowly avoided his lethal grasp! She was able to land on her feet and charged up another Dragon-Slave spell. Her eyes darted left and right, searching for any sign of Valgav. She saw Zelgadis try to stand and fail. She flew over to him.
"Zel! How are you doing?"
"Cough I've…been better." A small trickle of blood sprinkled from the corner of his mouth.
"How bad is it?"
"Ribs…broken. Head's…a little…woozy. Cough I've felt better…Lina." He was finally able to stand.
"How much energy you got left for spells?"
"One…maybe two cough spells…at most. You?"
"I've got enough left to cast the Giga-Slave, if I can get a chance."
"Oh, great."
"I'm here for you," she said soothingly. She couldn't look at him, else she would've burst to tears.
He nodded weakly, coughed and doubled over in pain. She caught him and gently lowered him back down to the ground. Her tears started to come, but she didn't care. Valgav needed to pay for all the suffering he caused! "Lina," he started weakly.
"Hush, Zel. Conserve your strength."
"I'm…sorry," he said.
"What?" She looked at him now and she saw that tears were running down his face.
"It's…my fault that we're still here. If we took your advice, we'd be home now, and…," he winced from the pain, "…and you'd probably still be alive at this time."
"Don't talk like that," she admonished, her voice trembling. "We're not dead yet."
"We're as good as…"
"Dead?" came Valgav's voice from behind her. "Soon, very soon you all shall be."
Lina's eyes were wide in fear and shock. She turned slowly to face the darkness that was Valgav. "It looks like this is the end," it taunted.
"You can't ever give up hope, Valgav," she whispered. "Hope gives our lives some meaning."
"A fallacy!" He appeared in front of her and backhanded her. She sprawled to the grown, skidding next to Zel. "I bring hope to a wronged world! It is I who will remake the world the way it should be! Everyone gets a second chance."
"Your way is wrong!" Lina spat. "No one has the right to remake a world in their own image!"
"She's right," Zel said weakly, standing once again. He drew his sword and stood defensively in front of Lina. "We have a right to determine our own destiny, not have someone dictate one for us!"
"It won't matter for you two. Soon you will all see the righteousness of my cause! Soon you will understand the truth!"
"You don't know truth!" Vegeta said weakly. Valgav turned to face Vegeta. His right arm hung limply at his side, but his form glowed with super saiyan energy once more. He held his unconscious son up with his good arm. "All those innocents you killed were kids once. When do those who you are trying to save stop becoming innocent?"
"Regrettable losses," Valgav declared. "They will be made whole again when my plans are complete."
"You really are a monster!" Gokuu said from above. He held the unconscious forms of Piccolo and his son across his shoulders. "You would kill all life in your delusional attempt to better society? You're no better than Freeza or Cell!" He laid his son and Piccolo down gently on the ground. He pointed a finger accusingly at Valgav. "It's beings like you that squander your talents! Instead of using your gifts to help others, you use them to harm and destroy!" Gokuu was trembling with rage! His true super saiyan outline pulsed with pain and anger! "I…can't…let…you…do…this!"
Gokuu screamed and powered up. He flew headlong at Valgav, all pretense of defense was gone. He was now a pure killing machine! Blows struck Valgav, but they didn't seem to affect him!
Vegeta stared at Gokuu wide-eyed. He felt Gokuu's rage and it was comparable to his own! He joined the fray, using his anger to propel him forward.
"You both don't understand," Valgav said matter-of-factly. "You will see soon enough." He clawed Gokuu who didn't even bother to block. The blow left black scars that festered in the wound. He kicked Vegeta into near unconsciousness, but the saiyan warrior did not fall.
Lina stared amazed. They were both giving their all, trying to save their planet and their friends. It wasn't enough though. It wasn't due to a lack of trying, but they just weren't strong enough. It was a true testament to their resolve though. Neither Gokuu nor Vegeta stayed down. Gokuu went super kaioken as a desperation move, and fared better but not by much.
"Die!" Gokuu cried.
"Fall, monster!" Vegeta yelled.
"Never!" Gokuu went to kick Valgav's face but he caught his foot and wrenched it to the side, causing Gokuu to sail and land next to Xellos. The Dark Hart came loose from his boot, but he didn't notice. Xellos, however, did. He quietly picked it up after Gokuu rushed back to the fray. Trunks was awake now and also joined the desperate battle. Lina cursed herself for her inability to help! Zel stood, sword ready, waiting for his chance to strike.
"GALICK-GUN!"
"KA-ME-HA-ME-HA!"
The energy bolts converged on the mad god and exploded with great force! Trunks followed up with his attack, but Valgav appeared unscathed.
Gokuu turned to Vegeta, "I've got an idea! Keep him busy for a minute."
"Is that all?" Vegeta growled. He blurred and got in the face of Valgav, fists flying! Trunks attacked, slashing his sword across Valgav's back, slicing through one wing.
Gokuu backed off from attacking and raised his arms up in the air. Slowly, glowing motes of energy converged into a blue energy ball above his head, and it was getting bigger!
Now's my chance, Lina thought. She looked over at Zel. He could barely stand, but he threw himself into battle against the mad god. Lina took in a deep breath, and charged her talismans. The two talismans on her wrists, one on her belt and one on her cloak glowed, giving her more power! ***This is it! It's now or never!***
"Darkness beyond blackest pitch, deeper than the deepest night! Lord of Darkness, shining like gold upon the Sea of Chaos, I call upon thee, swear myself to thee! Let the fools who stand before us be destroyed by the power you and I possess!"
Lina's form began to glow an eerie gold, and she was suffused with power!
"GIGA-SLAVE!"
The Lord of Nightmares entered her body, and they became as one. The ground surrounding her shook, and pieces of earth involuntarily shot upward by the power she now wielded. Calmly, she started walking toward the fighting warriors.
"So, you used the Giga-Slave?" Valgav said mockingly. "It will do you…"
His speech was cut short by Vegeta and Trunks as they both punched him in the face! Capitalizing on the situation, the blurred and reformed on either side of the mad god and pressured him with more kicks and punches, trying to keep him off-guard. Zel used the last of his spell energy to heal the two warriors as they kept up the attack, then he passed out. Valgav kicked Trunks across the face, but he flipped, rolled with the blow, and landed on his feet in a defensive stance. Vegeta brought his forearm around but was blocked by Valgav. Vegeta pressed the attack until he was pounded into the ground by Valgav's might!
"Bastard!" Vegeta coughed as he slowly stood up from the ground.
"I can't be killed!" Valgav screamed insanely. He punched Trunks in the stomach, which caused the brave warrior to de-power and pass out.
Valgav was about to strike the killing blow on Trunks, but was tackled by Vegeta before he could do it! The struggling figures crashed to the ground. Thundering explosions could be heard across the landscape as the two combatants traded blows!
Lina appeared next to Zel and put a glowing hand on his forehead. He was still knocked out, but his breathing came easier. There was another thunderous sound and Vegeta skidded and stopped next to Lina. He got up, saw Lina's calm look, and his eyes went wide. "What are you?"
"I am the Lord of Nightmares," she replied in a calm voice. "I am the Creator and the Destroyer. I am here for Valgav."
"He's that way," Vegeta pointed. ***She's just as powerful as Valgav! So this must be her true power! I hope it's enough!***
She turned to Valgav who was walking toward them. "It is time to put your schemes to an end," she declared.
He smiled and laughed. "Do what you will. It won't matter in the end." He snarled and flew at her. She calmly met his attack blow for blow.
Vegeta turned to his son then looked over at Gokuu. "Aren't you ready yet?" he howled.
"Just a little more time," Gokuu strained. "Keep…him busy…for…just…a…little…while…longer!"
"Blasted, son of a goody two shoe, stupid, idiotic…" Vegeta cursed as he flew over to help Lina.
Lina and Valgav were evenly matched now that she held the power of the Lord of Nightmares. Both used their powers to their fullest, but neither could gain the upper hand. "So it is that I face the Lord of Nightmares again," Valgav stated.
"Your time has come," was the reply.
The two locked hands in a contest of wills, their auras sparking and sending lightning out in all directions! Vegeta was forced to cover his eyes from the display of power! He was forced to stop from going any further, their power was too much for him!
"I will still destroy you!" Valgav screamed insanely. He pushed against Lina and broke off their grapple. He called forth an annihilation beam that scream toward Lina.
She raised her left hand, and dissipated the beam as it struck. She called forth a beam of her own, but Valgav batted it aside. The beam came straight at Vegeta, but he dodged it. The beam exploded behind him, sending rock and dirt everywhere. Lina conjured more annihilation balls and directed them toward her target. Valgav took to the air and blasted each ball out of existence. Lina flew off after him and they continued their battle in the sky.
"Now would be a good time, Kakarot!" Vegeta yelled urgently.
"Almost," Gokuu strained. The blue energy above his head was getting larger as he gathered more life energy from the planet and everything around him. The ball was huge, and getting bigger by the second!
Vegeta charged up to his fullest and flew after Valgav and Lina. He attempted to kick Valgav, but he dodged and narrowly missed Lina with his attack! She was engaged in hand to hand combat as well, but wasn't making much headway. Vegeta struck again, and this time landed a hard right across Valgav's face sending him to the ground! He put his arms forward and gathered his energy. Lina called forth a large globe of darkness and sent it down toward Valgav. Vegeta put everything he had into his Final Flash and sent it along as well. When their beams hit, there was no explosion! Vegeta and Lina/Lord of Nightmares were surprised to see Valgav holding each beam in each hand, staving off his destruction! Lina and Vegeta poured on the power, but the mad god was defending!
"Now, Kakarot!"
"Go!" Gokuu screamed as he hurled his energy ball toward Valgav. The ball moved slowly but surely towards its intended target!
"Is that all you got!" Valgav screamed as he strained to keep the two powerful energy rays at bay. "I am Valgav! I am invincible!"
"Shut up!" Vegeta growled as he put all of his energy into his attack. His blast came down stronger now, but Valgav still held his ground.
Lina/Lord of Nightmares put all her power behind her sphere of destruction, yet still he refused to fall! She did notice Gokuu's energy ball coming slowly but inexorably toward Valgav from the back. Lina could feel her tenuous hold on the Lord of Nightmares begin to slip away. This was the most dangerous time! If she lost control she'd die and send the entire world (if not the entire galaxy) with her! She struggled to maintain control!
Valgav laughed, "I can feel your power slipping! In a few seconds you both will have nothing left! Your end draws near!"
"Don't bet on it!" Gokuu exclaimed.
"What?" Valgav said as he turned. He noticed the large energy ball coming toward him. His glowing eye went wide! It was almost on top of him!
"No! I can't let it end like this!"
Vegeta screamed as he put the last of his energy in his blast. Lina/Lord of Nightmares glanced over at him. "Do not let up," she warned. "Keep attacking!"
Suddenly, Vegeta felt his power rise! He looked down and saw Trunks, arms extended giving him his energy! Trunks was down on one knee and strained to keep focused, but the energy he was giving renewed Vegeta, and he poured it on!
Gokuu's Spirit Bomb hit Valgav, who could do nothing to defend against it. The hit caused Valgav to falter, which made him lose control of Vegeta and Lina's energy attacks. The three attacks combined into one as they struck Valgav! Valgav's death scream could be heard over the explosion! His scream of rage and pain echoed across the land, until he disintegrated from the combined might of the saiyans and Lina/Lord of Nightmares!
Lina de-powered first and promptly passed out. Vegeta caught her and gently hovered down to the ground. Gokuu breathed heavily, and his arms were limp at his sides. He smiled, "We did it!" Vegeta nodded.
"Yes you did," came Xellos's voice. The two saiyans turned to face him. He stood there smiling; a small red jewel was in the palm of his hand. He tossed it to Vegeta who caught it. "Well done! That is your Bulma's soul. Once you wake up your green friend over there he should be able to revive her with no complications."
"Demon!" Trunks spattered as he struggled to stand, "Stay away from him father! He plans to take you back with him!"
Vegeta was still in super saiyan form and he crouched defensively. "Better get those ideas out of your head before I take it off!" he warned.
Gokuu assumed a defensive stance as well. Trunks limped over to his father and drew his sword. "Yes, well.." Xellos stammered as he scratched his head, "that was the old plan."
"What plan do you have now?" Gokuu asked angrily.
"That…" he said raising his finger, "is a secret!" He disappeared!
"Damn that Xellos!" Vegeta cursed. "When I see him next time, I'll kill him!"
Lina moaned as she started to come to. "What happened?" she asked weakly. "Did we win?"
"Yeah," Gokuu replied. "We won."
"How did you get so powerful?" Vegeta asked.
"That was the Giga-Slave. It's a spell that calls forth the Lord of Nightmares, a very powerful force on my world. There is a danger with casting that spell. The chance is that the spell could go haywire, destroying the world and beyond."
"No way!" Gokuu exclaimed wide-eyed.
"Yep, that's why I try not to use that spell. It nearly killed me once."
"What is to be done with Xellos?" Vegeta asked. "How are we going to get you home?"
"That's easy," Gokuu said smiling. "I took the Dark Heart from Xellos a while ago." He patted himself down looking for the gem. "Now where is it? Oh yeah, I remember!" He took of his boot and turned it upside down, but no gem fell out.
"What?" Gokuu said. "But, it was right here! I put it in my boot!"
"I'll bet Xellos has it," Lina sighed dejectedly.
"Darn!" Gokuu cursed.
"If it's all right with you, I'd like to get back to the Palace and revive my wife."
"Sure, Vegeta. We'll be going back as soon as we gather everyone."
Lina limped over to Zel and knelt down beside him. Her hand brushed his cheek and he smiled! His eyes opened slowly and his smile grew wider. "Hey," he said weakly. "I take it we won?"
"Yep, thanks to yours truly. Oh, and the others help out a bit too."
"I'd better be included," he stated with mock seriousness. He held his hand out and she grabbed it helping him up.
"You are," she soothed. "We got Bulma's soul back too! Gokuu, Trunks, and Vegeta are getting the other two and we're heading back to the Palace."
"Good," he grunted. "I could use a good week's rest."
"You're not the only one," she remarked.
Lina and Zel held each other as they limped over to where the others were gathered. Gokuu and Vegeta picked up the others and held hands. "Ready?"
"Let's go!" Vegeta exclaimed.
"Right!" Gokuu put his index finger to his forehead and they were whisked away to the Palace.
Next: The Revival of Bulma! It's time to go home! See us next chapter so I can wrap up this thing!
Notes: I apologize for this lengthy chapter. I kinda got carried away a bit. I hope it had enough action for ya! The ending won't be as long, I promise! –M.
