Disclaimer: I do not own Dragonball Z or any of its characters. I do however, own the character Adrastea pronounced (ah dras tay).
If you guys hadn't figured out by now, I'm keeping a steady time on the events occurring. So it won't be like the DBZ world where five minutes lasted a week or two. Thank you everyone for waiting patiently for these final chapters.
Chapter Seventeen – Edge of Survival
Capsule Motel : Present 4:04am — Day 2
She let out a blood curdling scream as the unknown creature surrounded her and pain ripped through her body. She had never in her life experience such pain. The surge left, leaving her feeling numb. Tears were streaming down her face as she awaited the final blow. She managed a weak utterance, "I'm sorry." Then she went limp as darkness once again enveloped her. All she could hear was a voice calling her name as she faded away.
Mirai Trunks was trying his hardest to awake Lita from the nightmare that she was trapped in. He shook her over and over calling her name.
He himself was in deep sleep when he heard a scream. He woke with a start to Lita thrashing next to him. He stopped briefly when he heard her say, "I'm sorry." He tried to awake her again and saw that she was slowly coming to. Lita sat up quickly and screamed softly, Mirai Trunks grabbed her trying to calm her, "Lita! Lita, it's Ok. It was just a dream." Lita turned towards Mirai Trunks allowing her eyes to adjust to the darkness. She grabbed Mirai Trunks for dear life sobbing and shaking uncontrollably. Mirai Trunks wrapped his arms around her stroking her back trying to help in anyway that he could. She managed to stop shaking after twenty minutes had passed.
Mirai Trunks pulled her away trying to look at her face through the darkness. "What happened? What was your dream about?" "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you." "It's Ok, but it does help to talk about it." Lita looked away, "I always have nightmares that may or may not mean something." "Well what was it about?" "It's nothing but a bad dream. I'm sorry to have awakened you."
Mirai Trunks got out of bed and went to the sink area to prepare a cup of water. He turned on the lights in the sink area and came back to the bed with the cup in hand. He handed the cup to Lita, "I'm not taking no for an answer. I at least deserve some explanation of why I was woken up." Upon closer inspection, Mirai Trunks was able to see Lita's face, "Are you Ok, you looked flushed." He used the back of his hand to check her temperature, "You're burning up!" Mirai Trunks got up intending to get a cold wet cloth for her. Lita grabbed his arm to stop him, "I'm fine, don't worry about me…" "What's wrong with you? Every time someone wants to care for you, you turn it down." The tears that began to stream down her face made Mirai Trunks regret his statement. "Everyone I get close to dies." Mirai Trunks sat back down next to her, "I'm sorry, I…" "In my dream we all die." Mirai Trunks was shocked, "You mean…tomorrow?" Lita drank some of the liquid, "Everyone dies except for me. I just stood there and watched everyone die... I don't know why I didn't die, but somehow I was teleported to another dimension or something. It was kinda hazy cause it seemed like the dream shifted or something. In this dimension though I was attacked by something and end up dying from it."
Mirai Trunks couldn't help but feel on edge. Lita looked at the expression on his face, "Now you see why I didn't want to tell you? I think I end up killing everyone, then die later because of it." Mirai Trunks' brows were drawn together as he mulled over the possibilities. Lita stood up in her underwear and walked to the other side of the bed, retrieving the object she sought. Mirai Trunks' eyes grew when he saw her take hold of his sword and place the bladed end to her throat. Mirai Trunks could only stand up stunned, "What…what are you doing?" "I'm ending this. I'm not going to be some victim of a murderer." "Wait, think about what you're doing." "I have…and this seems to be the only option. I might kill you and all of your friends tomorrow. You saw what I'm capable of, I can't control my powers…" "Lita stop! Think one minute. If you killed everyone, then who kills you towards the end?" Lita thought for a moment then shook her head, "No, it doesn't matter."
She readied the swords end poised to plunge through her throat. She could feel the sword's end pressed against her skin and a firm grip on her wrist. She opened her eyes to see Mirai Trunks snatch the sword from her hands and back away, "I'm not going to stand by and watch you… Gah…" Lita was staring down Mirai Trunks, "I didn't want to do this, but I guess I'll have to force you to kill me." Mirai Trunks felt himself walk slowly towards her without his control. No! Mirai Trunks was fighting against her mental powers to free his body with little luck. "Lita…stop!" Mirai Trunks readied the sword aiming it at her chest, I have to stop her…but how? As the sword was about to strike her Mirai Trunks uttered the only thing he knew that would break her concentration, "I love you…"
The sword stopped before plunging through her. Lita crumbled to her knees and began crying. Mirai Trunks was relieved; he knelt down pulling her into his arms. "Why?" Lita pulled away, "Why do you like me when I just tried to use you as a weapon to kill myself?" "Because if you were evil, you wouldn't try to kill yourself to protect everyone." "But.." "Lita, you said it yourself. Your dream may or may not mean anything." Lita hung her head unable to look Mirai Trunks in the eyes, "But what if I…" "What if nothing like that happens and we end up saving everything? Lita what ever happens, happens. If we die the surge will have killed us anyway." Mirai Trunks turned her head so their gazes met, "Lita, promise me you'll never do something like that again." She was quiet for a moment before speaking, "I'm sorry… It won't happen again. I promise."
"Good. Now let's get some sleep." She nodded her head and climbed into bed. Mirai Trunks went over to the sink and ran the water from what she could tell, turned off the lights and climbed into bed also. Lita felt a cool rag placed on her forehead which did her some good. That previous display of her powers left her very dizzy and uncomfortably warm. She smiled at the caring effort Mirai Trunks displayed and thanked him for it. For about ten minutes she let the cool rag work its magic while she tried to fall asleep. Before she could sleep there was one question she was afraid to ask but managed to gather enough courage, "Mirai Trunks? Did you say I love you to stop me or did you actual mean it?" There was a long pause as Lita awaited the answer, "Mirai Trunks? Are you awake?" Another pause came… "I guess he's asleep. Goodnight," she whispered. I guess I'll ask him later.
He frowned, Why didn't I answer? I meant it. I guess I'm not sure if I should get involved just yet. I'll be sure to tell her later.
The figure outside of the door decided that he wasn't needed. His sharp hearing led him to Mirai Trunks' room when he heard a scream. Luckily the scream didn't wake any of the others. He just hoped that Mirai Trunks wasn't too soft in trusting Lita, a potential enemy. Piccolo returned to his guarding duties outside, where the storm was dissipating.
Planet of the Kais : Present 11:04am — Day 1
Everyone began gathering outside where the tent with newly restored food was. The Elder Kai had gone out of his way to prepare breakfast for the bunch anonymously. Lita caught up with Mirai Trunks with some new clothes courtesy of Bulma.
"Hey, there was something I wanted to ask you?" Mirai Trunks already knew the question and wasn't quite sure how he should answer it. "But before I do, I have to tell you about my dream." "But you told me about it last night." "I had another one when we went back to sleep." Before Lita could say anymore, Goku had appeared next to them, "Lita I think we all deserve an explanation." Everyone that was gathered outside were now listening to the conversation. Lita was the center of attention, "Umm…" "For starters, why don't you tell us your relationship with Terra?" "I don't have a relationship that I know of." "How is it that ever since your powers grew, they've caused nothing but disaster? For example, ever since you were a kid you would have dreams about people dying. And then later you'd find out that they recently died. Yes Piccolo filled me in on everything." Lita opened her mouth to begin to speak but didn't know what to say. "Why is it that when you died, Terra disappeared without a trace. Then when you were revived, those black creatures from Earth were in the Spirit Realm, why?" "I'm sorry Goku…I don't know. It's just a coincidence that…" "Nothing's a coincidence! Chi-Chi's death was no coincidence!"
Everyone knew that Goku doesn't get angry easily and were taken aback by his reaction towards Lita. "There's nothing I can say to bring her back… If you want to hold me responsible then that's fine. All I can do is offer my life in exchange." "Fine…" Goku let his anger get the best of him and held out his hand towards Lita. Lita took a step back frightened and shocked that he would kill her. Mirai Trunks stepped in the way, "Goku I know what you must be feeling right now. But think about it for a moment, this won't bring Chi-Chi back." "She could be the enemy in disguise." "I think she's a victim like the rest of us. She even tried to kill herself last night so she wouldn't cause harm to anyone. Does that sound like someone that's evil?" Goku lowered his arm, "I wasn't actually going to shoot her, I just wanted to see her reaction. Mirai Trunks, I hope you're right about her."
Goku walked off and entered the tent to the waiting food. Everyone lingered for a moment before all going into the tent. Mirai Trunks turned around to see Lita's expression, "Hey don't worry about anything. We can beat this threat and save everyone. But for now let's get something to eat." "I'm sorry Mirai Trunks but I feel like I'm not welcomed there." "Lita you have to eat something. You barely touched your food last night." "It's hard to eat anything when you're a nervous wreck. I'll just concentrate on deciphering that tablet. Enjoy your breakfast." Lita walked away before Mirai Trunks could say anything more. He sighed in defeat and went to eat.
The large group discussed the new means for defeating Terra being the tablet and the mysterious ball associated with it. Everyone will have returned to their respective groups, but the larger group would keep watch of anything unusual. A couple of questions about whether to trust Lita came up. The only thing that was decided was that Mirai Trunks, Vegeta, Goku and Piccolo would keep a close eye on her.
Unknown : Unknown
"I wonder where she could be? I know she must know I'm planning something." The evil woman otherwise known as Terra at the moment didn't like that the last remaining life in existence are the ones she herself wanted dead. She had a plan up her sleeve, but leaving to deal with matters would spell her doom, especially since it took her a long while to return to safety. "I just hope they'll be enough to put a stop to them. In the meantime, I have to be sure I have control of everything…including her." Terra left her current position to tie up any loose ends that may occur.
Planet of the Kais : Present 9:20pm — Day 1
Bulma, Gohan, Lita and Mirai Trunks had been working non-stop to figure out the mysterious ball. So far all Bulma could conclude was that the main fighters had a reaction to the ball, changing it a specific color. She still has yet to try it on Goku's group, but she assumed that the same would apply. Based on their situation now, 'The guardians of life' part has already been met. The next line 'Redeemers twofold, fasten seven prospects,' was giving Bulma a hard time. She began pacing back and forth trying to think of something, anything. Gohan and the others were feeling the pressure as they were running out of time.
"Mom…we're hungry." "Not now Trunks." Goten and Trunks were bored out of their minds and decided to see what everyone was up to. The fact that their stomachs were growling uncontrollably drew them towards Bulma's group. Goten was curious to know about the ball and why it turned an orange color when he held it. When he picked it up as it did before, it turned an orange color. He strained to see if there may be something inside of it that was the cause of it. Trunks being impatient wanted to see more of the ball as well. In an attempt to snatch it away from Goten, Trunks grabbed the ball but found there was a resistance. Goten still had a firm grip on it, "Hey Trunks! I was looking at it first!" "You take too long so now it's my turn!" Bulma by now was angry that they had broken her concentration began walking over to the squabble fists clenched.
Before she could reach them, the ball started glowing brighter, the light inside of it now pulsating. Gohan and the gang were stunned at it's reaction. With one final pulse, the light inside grew to a blinding light causing everyone to turn away with its intensity. After a few moments, the light subsided to reveal the grayish white mist inside and amongst it was a single glowing object. The boys feeling as if they had broken it, both dropped the ball, "I didn't mean to," was Goten's response. "I didn't do anything. It was Goten's fault!" "Hey!"
Gohan walked over and picked up the ball to see if anything had changed inside of the ball. The reaction on his face was that of recognition and astonishment. Bulma, Mirai Trunks and Lita rushed in to get a closer look at the ball. Bulma now knew what Gohan's response was about, "Oh my gosh! I don't believe it! It's a Dragonball!" Bulma raised her hands in the air screaming, making Trunks and Goten afraid for their lives. Bulma immediately ran over to the boys who were about to run away and hugged them both, cutting off some of their air supply.
Everyone in the group was chattering about the ball, "So, why did it change to a star? What did Trunks and Goten do that made it react?" "That's a good question Mirai Trunks." "Uh, we didn't do anything!" "Yeah, we just touched it. Well I had it first but Trunks was trying to take it from me."
"Wait…" Bulma had a thought, "If I recall, when Trunks and Goten each touched it separately, the ball changed to the color orange…" Lita knew where Bulma was going, "And if two people with the same color touch it at the same time then…" "A star is formed," Gohan finished. "Arg, why hadn't I seen it before." "Bulma…?" "It was so obvious. The lines on the tablet, The 'guardians of life' are you guys. You guys have saved everyone many times over. And each of you shares a bond with someone in particular. The boys are very close, inseparable almost. And when they both touched it at the same time the ball revealed that bond by changing it into one of the seven prospects, a star from a Dragonball! So each of you has a similar color, so we have to create a Dragonball! That's what the second line means!" Bulma breathed a sigh of relief.
Lita wanting this to be over with took the initiative, "So Gohan, who shares the same color as you? And you too Mirai Trunks?" "Umm, I'm not sure Lita. We never found someone who has the same color as me." "Well not yet," Lita concluded. Mirai Trunks trying to be realistic about things had to interject, "Do you think this Dragonball is strong enough to fix everything?" "Well Mirai Trunks, The Elder Kai said that someone he never knew existed gave it to him, and knew that this would all happen. That's good enough for me." Gohan had a point, "Well then, let's get this Dragonball created."
"Well we know some of the colors that could form another star." "Yeah the twins both had the same color." Bulma and the gang all nodded their heads with a renewed vigor. They rushed over to Yamcha and the gang, "Hey guys, listen up," Gohan announced. "We've figured it out thanks to Goten and Trunks. This is a Dragonball!" Gohan held up the ball. "But in order for the stars to form, we need two people who share a close bond with someone. For starters, Seventeen and Eighteen are next." The two looked at each other briefly before approaching Gohan.
"All you have to do is grab the ball at the same time." Seventeen was skeptical so Eighteen took hold of the ball first. "Well Seventeen, let's get this over with." Seventeen reluctantly touched the ball causing it to react. It pulsated a bright violet color a few times then emitted a blinding light. After the light settled another star was shining within the ball. "Whoa, so you're saying that whoever shares the same color as one another will create a star?" "That's right Yamcha," Bulma answered.
The ball was passed around as Tien and Chao-tzu sharing a blue color, created a third star in the ball. Krillin and Yamcha formed another star being that they shared a green color. All that was left was for Mirai Trunks and Gohan to find a matching bond. It was assumed that Piccolo and Vegeta would be the ones to form two more stars, but who besides Goku would form the last star? The research team reached Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo and the Kais and explained the situation. As it was, Gohan and Piccolo shared a bond turning the ball a bright yellow color and ultimately creating a star. Mirai Trunks and Vegeta shared a red color thus creating the sixth star.
"Well Goku I guess that just leaves you. But, who is there left that you share a bond with?" Goku could only think of one person, "Chi-Chi…" The group looked around nervously waiting for Goku to continue, "Well, I share a bond with everyone actually…And if everyone else has formed a star already, then I don't know who's left." Piccolo stepped in, "But it seems that the ball is reacting to everyone who has risked their life fighting to protect the universe." "So, maybe there's someone else that we're missing…?" "I don't know Gohan," Bulma hoped that it wasn't someone who had already died. "Goku, why don't you touch the ball so we could at least see what color you have." Goku did as he was told and the ball reacted. Unlike everyone else's touch to it, the ball pulsated a brilliant white color once before creating a blinding white light unlike the rest, it was as if the entire planet was engulfed in light. The light finally subsided after a few moments leaving the seventh and final star within the ball.
Bulma's mouth was agape, "I don't believe it. Goku created a star on his own." Kibitoshin smiled, "It would seem that a warrior of such virtue doesn't need someone else to share a bond with." "No," Lita responded in a monotone voice. "Son Goku has a bond with everyone. The colors: violet, blue, green, red, orange and yellow are all colors that are seen visibly. The color white is the combination of all colors. Goku's bond and friendship towards you all is what makes him a virtuous person. You are all part of his bond and he is part of yours." "But you don't even know anything about us." Lita gave Piccolo her attention, "You don't have to be a psychic to see the good in people. I know enough to see that each of you are very close and when combined you're an unstoppable force."
Bulma didn't know why, but Lita's words made perfect sense. Bulma looked down at the ball that was returned to her, "Just like this Dragonball…the Hope of the universe." Bulma chuckled, "Well if we would have given the ball to Goku in the first place, we would have found out sooner that it was a Dragonball and I wouldn't have been a nervous wreck."
Goku was staring at Lita, mulling over her judgment of him and the gang. I see what Mirai Trunks means and why he was protective over her. She doesn't seem the least bit evil. She's still very confusing to figure out, but I've never heard any stranger speak with such truth and adoration then her. Goku now felt compelled to learn more about Lita, Everyone is capable of being saved, of being good. When did I stop believing in that? Goku answered his own question when he thought of Chi-Chi being lost. "So Bulma, what's next?"
Bulma placed the ball on the ground and Gohan handed her the stone tablet, "Well it says that 'a Sole essence gives rise to Hope.' I'm assuming that the capitalized 'H' in the word Hope is referring to a specific person or thing, just like in poetry." "So 'Hope' could be referring to the newly formed Dragonball that we have." "I think so Lita. So we just have to figure out the rest. So this 'Sole essence' could be referring to someone or something also." Gohan thought for a bit, "Well the use of that word 'Sole' and it being capitalized as well maybe referring to a person. Wonder why this person is called an essence and not another word for a person?" "Good question Gohan. Whoever it is, I hope they're standing amongst us. Maybe we should give it to everyone and see who it reacts to?" "That could work," Goku added. "The only thing left is the last line. I take it these are all steps to form and summon the Dragon, cause the last line seems to be referring to our situation here. We are surrounded by darkness so to speak." "So, the rest indicates that there's a phrase we have to use to summon the Dragon!" "Yes Gohan I believe so…"
Lita didn't know why, but she felt as if the wind had been knocked out of her. She couldn't breathe and her body was shaking uncontrollably. Oh no! Lita's legs gave out and she fell to the ground trying to use her hands to steady herself. She was gasping for air, Not again, we're… Everyone was alarmed by her sudden actions, "Li, what's wrong? Talk to me." Lita gazed up to Mirai Trunks who was knelt before her. She tried desperately to stop the dizziness, "We're…we're not safe…They're coming again…" This was all that she could manage before passing out. Mirai Trunks at first was confused but looked up at everyone when a moment of Déjà vu hit him, "Those creatures are coming. We're out of time!"
Goku and Vegeta immediately went into Super Saiyan mode. "Boy, how are you sure we can trust her?" Mirai Trunks laid Lita on the ground and stood, "Because the last time this happen Lita died." The others looked around not sure what exactly to make of the situation. Mirai Trunks continued, "When those creatures attacked on Earth, Lita seemed scared to death of them. When one of them was close to her she didn't move, or couldn't, I don't know. But given that she's passed out, I'd say that they're very close by."
As if on cue, there was a blast in the distance where Yamcha and the gang were. An ominous beam of black light was emitting from the planet, seemingly from the core. "This is insane, we have at least twelve hours left!" "Bulma, I think that Terra has just made her move. I think she wants to make sure her plans whatever they are, are not in jeopardy." Bulma looked towards Gohan, "You think she knows about the Dragonball?" "It's hard to say." Piccolo didn't want to be the bearer of bad news, "We have to keep a close eye on Lita. She may still be Terra or working for her." "But, would Terra endanger her own life by being here?" "There's still a lot we don't know, especially about Lita. But our only hope relies in you guys figuring out how to summon that Dragon. Goku, you, me and Vegeta will deal with those creatures. The rest of you summon that Dragon and be on guard." "Right Piccolo," Gohan didn't want anymore deaths on his conscience. The trio sped off to the battle ground.
Planet of the Kais : Present 11:00pm — Day 1
"What a relief. I knew Bulma and the others would pull through." "You said it man. We should have plenty of time to summon the Dragon." "What do you think that bright light was a few minutes ago?" Krillin thought about Chao-tzu's question for a moment, "I think they finally created all of the stars on the Dragonball." "That's a relief," Tien began looking towards the next few hours in hope.
"Marron! Not too far…" "So Eighteen, what do you think they're gonna wish for?" "How should I know. I wonder how the Dragon will look." Eighteen's mind went to the thoughts that occurred just last night, the idea of being human again. That thought was the only wish she could hope for. But that wish would have to be forgotten, there was a surge to stop and a universe to save.
A short distance away, a black puddle formed in the ground. The black figure emerged from it setting its sights on its first victim. It wasn't wise to reduce them to nothing just yet, they need help if they were to face the strongest beings known. The girl was shocked and didn't know how to react at first.
"Eighteen, look." Eighteen followed Seventeen's gaze and was shocked to see a black figure closing in on her daughter. Without thinking, Eighteen dashed towards them. "No, wait Eighteen!" His outburst earned the attention of everyone in the immediate area. Krillin watched as his wife was dashing away from the group. He followed her trajectory and his mouth dropped upon seeing the creature in the distance.
The black figure reached its target and grabbed hold of the little girl. Marron screamed when she saw the creature's dim white empty eyes. No! Marron! Eighteen reached her daughter moments after the creature had and pulled Marron away as fast as she could. She backed away, held out her hand and threw a blast the figure's way. The blast was enough to disintegrate it to nothing. Eighteen was holding Marron in her other arm relieved that she was out of harms way. Eighteen turned towards the girl just in time to see the last of the blackness engulf Marron.
Seeing his wife holding their daughter who was now a blackened creature with pigtails made Krillin's heart sink. He was shocked that his only child was now one of those creatures and now… "Eighteen!" Seventeen was also alarmed, "Eighteen! Put her down! Get away from her!" Eighteen was shocked beyond words. Marron spoke in the most haunted manor, "Mommy…" Something inside of Eighteen broke in that moment, her only child was gone. Marron hugged Eighteen's face the way she usually would when one of her parents picked her up. This caused the blackness to envelop Eighteen's body. It felt like her body was on fire. Then all she could see was darkness. Something seemed to take hold of her very core, No…
Krillin's family was reduced to blackened creatures that still resembled their original form. He hadn't noticed the tears that were streaming down his face, "Eighteen! Marron!" Tien and Yamcha were doing their best to hold him back, "Krillin, they're gone!" Tien began shouting orders to everyone, "Mr. Satan, you and Buu gather everyone and get them out of here! Chao-tzu you go with them and help protect them. Anyone that's able to fight, protect those who can't fight, and be careful." "You heard him Buu!" Mr. Satan and Buu gathered all of the non-fighters or weaker fighters and forced them to leave the area.
Tien, a distraught Krillin, Yamcha, Seventeen, Goten and Trunks remained to deal with the danger at hand. The black hole that had formed, was now spawning large numbers of black Tuffles. "Listen up, if you get touched by them or their blasts, consider yourself dead. Let's try to end this now." "But, we also have to fight Eighteen and Marron!" Tien knew that if their victims kept their powers, then Eighteen's going to be a formidable enemy, "I know Trunks. If I'm correct, then Eighteen should have her powers still." To answer Tien's hypothesis, Eighteen hurled a constant strew of blasts their way. "I want everyone to put up a shield around yourselves. That way if they do manage to touch you, you won't turn evil." The warriors did as Tien asked and began taking out the Tuffles one by one.
Unknown : Unknown
"Adrastea? Where is she?" "I do not know m'lady. I do know that she set out to stop you a long while ago." "When?" "Not long after you left m'lady." "Dammit. I feared this would happen. Do you know how she intends to stop me?" "I don't know. I think she altered the essence somehow." I gathered that much…but how? Upon closer inspection she saw something she didn't recognize as normal. "So, she thought of a way to manipulate my plans huh? Hmph, I doubt she'll succeed at this point." Terra emphasized her point by waving her arms through the thing she craved most.
Planet of the Kais : Present 12:45am
It was already thirty minutes after the first attack began and the planet didn't have long to go. Chaos had erupted as multiple black puddles or portals it seems, began forming all over the planet. Each newly formed portal seemingly started a new surge on the planet. Based on the original surge that began which finally reached the planet at the first spawn point, they should have had ten hours left until the planet was completely engulfed in darkness. Now with the nine additive portals that the creatures have spawned from, the planet only has about two hours at best until everything is enveloped in darkness. It seems as if each portal signifies an hour of time lost. These creatures were bent on attacking the vulnerable members of the group, they managed to get to Bulma's parents with little trouble.
Buu was putting up a great effort in protecting the remaining group. He raised a shield and levitated everyone so none of the creatures could reach anyone, while he destroyed the dark creatures. It took little convincing for him to get rid of Mr. and Mrs. Briefs. They were essentially evil and therefore needed to be dealt with. Everyone was afraid that they too would share the same fate.
The remaining fighters: Piccolo and Krillin, Tien and Yamcha, Goten and Trunks paired in twos took on the task of keeping a single portal at bay. Seventeen, Goku, Vegeta, Gohan and Buu each took a portal to themselves to destroy the Tuffles. The most recent portal to form appeared near Bulma's group, leaving Mirai Trunks to defend them from it.
It was hard for Krillin to believe that Eighteen was completely gone. He pleaded with Piccolo to spare her and offered to keep her at bay for as long as he could. They both trained together so he knew every move she would throw at them. The two would sometimes clash in a fist fight. Krillin's shield was proving useful in protecting him at the moment. He didn't know how long he would last though, given that Eighteen doesn't run out of energy. Piccolo just made sure the Tuffles remained at a minimum.
Yamcha and Tien were strong together but if one were to fall, then the other would surely perish. Goten and Trunks thought it would be best if they didn't fuse, these creatures were child's play to them. Seventeen was holding his own, but he found that he would get distracted. As if Eighteen's plight had something to do with it. Goku had his area under control and would occasionally monitor the boys to make sure they didn't slack off. Vegeta and Gohan each had no trouble either holding their own against the waves of creatures that spawned. Mirai Trunks gained the upper hand in no time in his area. He would occasionally get worried if one of the creatures got through his defenses. Bulma and the Elder Kai were a valuable asset to their survival. For most the task of killing every Tuffle that past through the portals were easy. It was growing increasingly harder being that the portals each grew in size making it harder to monitor everything.
The two were matching each other's attack blow for blow, "Eighteen! It's me, Krillin! Talk to me, I know you're still there you have to be!" Eighteen backed off forming a Distructo Disk attack, but before she could finish it, Krillin's blast had destroyed it. Eighteen's dim white eyes glared at the fruitless battle that was raging between them. She dropped her arms to her sides and approached closer to Krillin slowly, "Krillin, how do you plan to save me…?" it asked eloquently. What? "Eighteen? Is that you!" Eighteen was a short distance away from Krillin, she brought her hands to the sides of her forehead, "Solar flare!" The blinding light was very intense causing Krillin to shut his eyes in pain. Dammit, this isn't good…She can try anything, I'm a sitting duck! Krillin could only wait anxiously until his eyes recovered from the attack.
After lots of pondering, Bulma was at a dead end. The most important part to this riddle had yet to be discovered. The old Kai was still having trouble remembering the much needed phrase, and everyone was running out of time.
When Lita regained consciousness, the feeling of dizziness and weakness still remained. She was relieved to find that everyone had gotten the message before she passed out. "What did I miss?" "Well…" Bulma began, "Those creatures are invading and they've managed to create nine portals. But now the planet only has less then two hours left given that the portals are growing in size acting like the surge." "Have you figured out the rest of the puzzle?" "The old Kai still can't remember the phrase and I still don't know who the 'Sole essence' could be. The old Kai's looking over the tablet now to see if something jogs his memory." Lita thought for a while about the riddle, What if…? "Bulma, did we let everyone touch the Dragonball?" Bulma looked thoughtful for a minute, "No, we never got the chance to let everyone touch the ball again. I'm assuming that it would react to only Goku and the gang, but without testing it there's no way to know." Well…there is one more but… "I got it! The phrase that I was told!" Bulma was overjoyed, "What is it?"
"It's 'Day and night, night…' Ah!" Before the Elder Kai could finish the statement, a black figure had gotten to him. The Elder Kai was becoming a black creature. The stone tablet that he had in hand had disintegrated and dissolved. In unison, Bulma and Kibitoshin screamed, Bulma dropped the ball as a result.
Mirai Trunks being the closest heard the screaming and turned around to survey the area. He began to panic somewhat when he saw that the Elder Kai of all people was now a blackened creature. The fact that his mom and Lita were in close proximity, didn't help to calm his nerves, "Run! Take the Dragonball and run!" Bulma snapping to her senses, grabbed the ball and Lita's arm and began running as fast as she could. Kibitoshin also followed suit alerting Goku and the gang of the attack. Mirai Trunks noted that another portal had opened up not far from the group. He had to change his tactics but with his hands busy with the enemies at hand, he was at a loss of what to do.
I just stood there again! Why! Why do these creatures render me useless if they get near me! The trio had found a safe zone for the moment but with a newly formed portal, time was of the essence. "I'm sorry Bulma…" "Sorry for what?" "Anytime those creatures get near me I can't move or speak." Bulma didn't know what to make of her apology, "No need to apologize. Without the Elder Kais phrase, there's no way to summon the Dragon." "This can't be happening…we're…we're doomed." "We aren't dead yet Kai, pull yourself together. Let's think, is there anyone else that would know the phrase?"
Lita's mind went blank. She was transfixed mentally about everything that was going on. This…this all seems familiar. Like a dream I had before. "There's still a chance to summon this Dragon…" Everyone on the planet minus the creatures heard Lita's thoughts said mentally. Even Seventeen was shocked as to who or what it was. "Lita, was that you who…"
A blast came out of no where towards them. Kibitoshin being the only one amongst them with Ki he could manipulate, raised a shield to divert the blast from hitting the girls. The intensity of the blast was unlike the normal creature's, but that of another. The shield however failed in the intensity of the blast leaving Kibitoshin to take on its force using sheer will. The blast had finally subsided revealing Eighteen on the other end of the blast. Krillin had lost track of her for a few minutes when she had darted away from their battle. He had finally caught up to her forcing her to end her attack against Kibitoshin. Kibitoshin not being as strong as everyone else fell to his knees battered and heavily bruised. He used every effort to stay alive as he now lay on the ground.
"Oh no! Kibitoshin!" Bulma rushed to the Kais side trying to help in any way that she could. Bulma looked around, not far from them a swarm of dark creatures were closing in on their location. Oh no! This is the end…we're all going to die.
Goku had received Kibitoshin's message about the attack on the Elder Kai, "Everyone, we have to regroup. Another portal has opened up and Mirai Trunks has his hands full. Let's meet where Kibitoshin is and give Mirai Trunks a hand. Everyone who had mental capabilities did as Goku asked. On his way, Piccolo made sure to inform Seventeen of the message.
By now the first eight portals to form was already covering sixty percent of the planet's surface. The only safe ground left was the area Kibitoshin and the girls were.
Lita stood amongst the ruined rocks that had served as a shelter against the blast, "Bulma? Where's the Dragonball?" Bulma looked around frantic, "I don't know…" The ball had flown a short distance away about twenty yards out. A blackened creature was closing in on it fast, so Lita reacted without a word. She saw that the creature was going to reach the ball first, so using her powers, Lita created a rock wall from the ground as a barrier between it and the ball. She made the barrier encircle the creature giving her enough time to get to the ball. She hadn't counted on the creature reducing the barrier to a blackened puddle, but the diversion was enough to allow Lita to grab the ball and run. She ran a short distance away when the ball reacted to her touch. It began pulsating a brilliant light from her touch each of the colored stars in the ball changed to white, emitting a bright glow.
Lita knew she had some sort of connection somehow, but being the arbiter, the one to summon the Dragon was not what she had in mind.
The majority of the gang had reached their location, even Mirai Trunks had fallen back to defend the others. "The ball's…reacting…" Bulma stood from her crouched position, "She's the 'Sole essence' from the tablet. But…how, why?" Goku had landed next to Bulma, "Kibitoshin told me right before the Elder changed, that he remembered the phrase. Did he say the entire thing before he changed?" Bulma shook her head no, "It seemed like there were a few words left or so, but I'm not sure what they could be." "We have to figure it out! We're out of time!" By now everyone had reached Bulma and Kibitoshin's location. Dende wasted no time in utilizing his healing powers on Kibitoshin. But before Mirai Trunks landed, he saw one of the Tuffles closing in on Lita.
She's probably unable to move… Mirai Trunks moved as fast as he possibly could, If she dies…we're all dead!
Lita stood there looking at the ball transfixed, she felt at peace with it in her hands. I'm the 'Sole essence'…but what are the words? The poem goes, "'The guardians of life unite.'" "Lita, behind you!" Everyone could only open their mouths as their savior, their only hope for survival was just ten feet away from being reduced to nothing. "'Redeemers twofold, fasten seven prospects. a Sole essence gives rise to Hope.'" Mirai Trunks realized he wasn't going to make it to her in time, even if he paused and went Super the creature will have touched her already. "Lita…!" "Surrounded by darkness, the day shall spring forward…'" The day…? No, Day "Goku! Instant Transmission!" Goku snapped out of his shocked state a performed the move. "'call…
Day and night, night…come Day!'"
With one last pulse, the Dragonball erupted in a blinding light. A dome shape emitted from the ball surrounding Lita. The Tuffle had at last reached Lita and reached out his hand to grab her. To his horror, his arm had disintegrated when it came into contact with the golden dome around her, "Ahhh!" The Tuffle grabbed the remaining stub of an arm left, screaming in agony. The golden dome grew in size rapidly, vaporizing the nearby Tuffle to nothing. Goku and Mirai Trunks were finally right next to Lita, surrounded by the blinding light and the dome. The dome encompassed all of the gang within it, shielding everyone from the creatures outside.
The ball hovered in the air in front of Lita and erupted into an intense light. What was left of the planet shook with such force that everyone who wasn't a strong warrior fell to the ground. A Dragon's form exploded from the light in a similar fashion to that of Shenron. Everyone stood in awe as the beast finished the awakening. The sound that gave off upon the Dragon's arrival was that of a female's voice singing in a mystical chant. The hymn echoed throughout the minds and souls of everyone there. The Dragon finally finished, its long slender body and red eyes were similar to that of Shenron, but it wasn't as long and was a different color completely. The Dragon seemed to be a white color, but in fact its scales were a swirl of all the colors that formed it. Violet, blue, green, red, orange, yellow all creating a white effect and with the echoing hymn, it gave the Dragon a supernatural sensation.
Mirai Trunks, Lita and Goku had unknowingly stepped back a few paces out of reflexes. Lita was fearful; she had never seen such a huge and brilliant creature before in her life. Everyone was astonished at the marvel before them, "Wow…" was all that Trunks could manage. "Yeah you said it kid." "The Tuffles aren't advancing." "Piccolo, I'm guessing that this barrier is protecting everyone from them," it was a hunch that Gohan was sure of. Dende had finished his task allowing Kibitoshin to stand transfixed at the sight before him.
"Greetings, I am Day! I have come to grant the one who has summoned me a single wish!" When the Dragon spoke, its voice was that of a female's with an echo when it talked, its voice boomed through everyone's mind.
Everyone looked around at one another, "What should we wish for?" In response to Krillin's question, Goku could think of a wish he wanted granted since this whole mess started. But he knew that the universe was at stake with this wish. Krillin also thought of a wish along the lines of Goku's, but he knew there were more important things first.
"Look!" Mr. Satan pointed at the ground around them to show him what he meant. Everyone looked where indicated and saw that the ground was still being devoured by darkness. The barrier that had formed to protect everyone was shrinking to keep the Tuffles out and protect everyone from danger. This new finding immediately moved everyone inwards towards the Dragon.
"Will the one who has summoned me speak, for we are running out of time!" Everyone's eyes automatically landed on Lita. Lita looked around to everyone, Oh my gosh, I have to make the wish. What should I wish for? If I screw up then we'll all pay for it. Lita looked around the group as if asking silently what should I wish for? "It's all in your hands Lita." Bulma, that's what I'm afraid of…What if I make the wrong wish… Mirai Trunks walked up to Lita and placed a hand on her shoulder, "Li, do whatever your heart tells you." Lita looked down to the ground and thought long and hard about Mirai Trunks' words.
"Please make your wish!" the Dragon urged. "Uh, yeah! We won't have any ground left if you don't!" Everyone turned to Mr. Satan staring daggers at him, he cringed and immediately regretted his outburst.
Lita looked up to the Dragon, I hope this is right…It has to be. "Day! I wish for everything to be 'right' again!" "Your wish, is my command!" The Dragon moved fluently to another position and her eyes glow a golden color. There was another blinding light that surrounded everyone causing them to shield their eyes from it. The force from it knocked everyone down warriors included.
"Ahh…!" "What's happening!" The group didn't know what was going on, but waited until the Dragon was finished. The light and force continued for a few minutes when at last it ceased. The group recovered and all stood again. "Your wish, has been granted!" Day lowered her head until she was a few inches from Lita. Out of reflex, Lita stepped backwards, Whoa! Now what! Day squinted her eyes at Lita and breathed a white fire through her nose. Everyone instantly dashed backwards, "Lita!" Day finished her assault and the fire slowly subsided.
"What just happened!" "Is she Ok!" Everyone could only stare as the flames died down and revealed Lita on her hands and knees. Mirai Trunks got closer, "Lita! Lita can you hear me!" Anger boiled through Mirai Trunks' veins, "Dragon! What did you do to her!" "Your wish has been granted, I must depart!" There was a brilliant light as Day made her exit. The light retracted back into the hovering Dragonball causing a miniature explosion and the light and somewhat gold pieces of the ball evaporated into thin air. Unable to vent his anger, Mirai Trunks turned his attention back to Lita kneeling down next to her, "Are you all right?" "I think so…I don't know what she did, but I feel fine." Mirai Trunks wasn't sure whether to believe her at the moment, but pushed the thought aside and helped her to her feet.
"Well…did it work?" Mr. Satan's statement made everyone look around. "Well I think so." "Elder, sir! You're back to normal!" "Eh, you are too." "Well Dende did heal me and I am thankful for it." Gohan's jaw dropped, so did Goku's in recognition of an old friend. Both Saiyans pointed at the Kai, "You're back to normal!" Confused the Kai looked himself over, "I'm not sure what you mean…" "Master…" The Kai turned to his right his jaw dropping, "Kibito!" "Master!" "We're back to normal!" Bulma blinked a few times, "What's the deal?" Goku tried to clarify, "Kibito and Kaioshin were fused together with the Potara earrings permanently…I guess the Dragon changed them back to normal."
Goku's mind lit up at that statement, If the Dragon was capable of changing them back to normal…does that mean? "Well the planet looks back to normal and there's no sign of those creatures." "It seems so Piccolo…"
Lita smiled weakly, "Everything's back to normal…" Everyone turned towards her, Vegeta being the first to speak, "How are you so sure!" Lita stared blankly, "Cause for the first time in a long time, I feel at ease."
There's still more to come...