GWA38E

**START**

**The Soul and Time corner.**

The response of the warriors to the girls' request came as a cold shower. In spite of the reasons given, none of them could avoid the pessimism and disappointment that pervaded them. They understood their friends, but this was a setback. Still, Petz, as well as Bertie and Cooan, tried not to show it, claiming that, with the help of Tom and this priest, things would work out. However, their sister began to sink into a spiral of muteness and negativity. Days passed and after a hard day's work the sisters were sitting at the dinner table, except for Karaberasu who, lying on the sofa, said she was not hungry. Her pregnancy was already visibly advanced, it was quite noticeable and her mood was getting worse and worse as her pregnancy progressed. She used to spend her days grumpy and morose, not talking to anyone. In addition, she hardly ate with her other sisters. She was much more aggressive and touchy about the slightest thing that she wouldn't even have taken into account before. But then she also had phases of great guilt that degenerated into inconsolable crying when she became aware of her bad manners. Her sisters never reprimanded her, because deep down they felt sorry for her. They only managed to get her to share the table after patiently insisting, and this time it was Beruche's turn to try to persuade her.

- You could do with a drink, you should have some supper, even if it's just a little broth.

- I told you I don't want anything to drink - Karaberasu replied sullenly and without looking at her and added - How many times do I have to tell you?

- Calm down - Beruche asked her gently. - I'm only saying this for your own good.

- I'm sick of you telling me what to do! - the girl burst out. -

And she screamed in such a way that she made her interlocutor turn away with a start, visibly worried. It no longer seemed to Bertie and the others that her sister was herself.

- Calm down," - Cooan intervened, trying to calm things down. - Please don't be angry, we won't insist any more.

- I'm going to bed, I can't stand you anymore! - Karaberasu, who struggled to get up and stood up, spat. -

-Please don't be angry. - Don't be angry, we just want to help you. - Bertie told her as gently as she could. -

           She even tried to help her to her feet, but her sister slapped her back with a hand...

- Get off, I can stand up by myself, I'm not useless. That's what you all think, isn't it? I'm only a burden to you.

- That's not true! - The questioned girl defended herself by including the others in her plea. - Kalie, you are our sister, we love you and we care about you, please don't try to leave our side.

Those words seemed to move the girl, it was as if she was struggling with herself. But this impression soon passed, and without answering she went into her room and slammed the door shut. Petz, who had not wanted to intervene on this occasion, held her head in her hands with her elbows resting on the table and only muttered in a very muffled way.

- She's getting worse and worse. I don't know what we can do if it goes on like this.

- Yes, but Tom has told us that with those special rituals the priest made on her, and if we are continually attentive to blessing the child from birth, he can be normal. - Cooan said, trying to encourage her. - We must not despair. He has promised me that he will seek out the best experts on the subject and I know he will.

The girl was referring to the parish priest's visit to them a few days ago. At first, though, it seemed disappointing, as he merely acknowledged Karaberasu visually and threw blessings at him left and right. He then went on to say something to the effect that she had not yet developed any evil. Or that if she had, it was, at any rate, still very incipient, since she showed no reaction to sacred objects. This puzzled them, and above all the affected woman herself, who, apart from looking at the priest with fear and embarrassment, did not trust him very much. In fact, she hardly uttered a word, almost more surprised than anything else to see the strange invocations performed by this man, with overly theatrical gestures. But days later she felt calmer and somewhat better. She had no more nightmares, though before leaving the parson warned them and Tom.

- If she starts to change for the worse, don't hesitate to let me or another priest know.

And for a few days now it seemed to have been getting worse again, and faster than before. That was what they were all thinking until Petz broke the thick silence that hung between them.

- Sometimes I think that what makes her like this is no longer because the child may or may not be a monster. - She confessed dejectedly -

- What else could it be? - Cooan asked with a desolate gesture, adding. - "I don't know what to do anymore. - I don't know what to do or say anymore either. Anything makes her angry or out of her mind.

- It's true, Petz," – Bertie agreed, just as worried and frightened as she was before than her younger sister. - We want to help her, but she won't let us get to her. What can we do? - She remarked almost pleadingly. -

          Her sister nodded. She looked with regret at the two younger ones and suffered for both of them as well. She was the eldest and realised that she would not help by breaking down at such times. Even if she was heartbroken and felt powerless to help her sister. But her duty was to remain strong and immovable. Her responsibility was to be the anchor for the others, so she added, even if it didn't sound too optimistic.

- She is traumatised by what was done to her and that will not change. Not even if her child was normal. But she won't be alone, she has us. Together we can all raise him if we have to and support Kalie to the end.

Cooan listened quietly and did not respond. Her sister could well be right.

- And we must prepare for battle," - Beruche sighed, caught up in the overwhelming pessimism they breathed in spite of themselves. - It's all coming at the same time.

- We must have courage! One thing at a time. - Petz encouraged them, changing her attitude with greater emphasis to shake off the fatalism she had spread in that moment of weakness. - The sailor called us yesterday and have confirmed that they will come on the agreed date. They have trained and will come with new companions. Let's not get discouraged so soon, we haven't started fighting yet!

- You are right! - Cooan agreed, also eager to boost morale - we must not give up before we start. That's what we have to do. Let's tackle the problems one at a time. First the most urgent ones, then we'll figure out what to do.

- We'd better go to bed, girls. Tomorrow we have to get up early, life goes on and we have to keep preparing. And, between Tom and the sailors, it will surely be easier for us. But we need to be rested to be more effective. - Beruche who didn't want to be less, added. -

They agreed on that and went to sleep. About three hours had passed, at least that's what the clock in Cooan's room indicated, when she got up to go to the bathroom. She heard noises coming from the kitchen. She went there and crept in, discovering the fridge open with someone crouched next to it. It was Karaberasu, she was on her knees with her back to her and chewing on something frantically.

- Kalie, what are you doing? - She asked in astonishment - Are you all right? - Her sister didn't answer, but as soon as she turned towards her she was petrified with horror. - Oh my God, what's wrong with you? - Cooan exclaimed, recoiling in horror. -

The questioner stared at her with glowing red eyes as she chewed on a raw, bloody steak. Blood dripped from the corners of her lips. She spoke after swallowing with an unpleasant hiss.

- Let me go, I want to eat in peace! I don't want you to see me, I'm not a fairground animal, go away!

But her little sister was paralysed with horror and Karaberasu took it badly, she came over to Cooan out of her mind and shook her by the arms violently until he almost knocked her over while howling.

- Are you deaf, stupid, leave me alone, or you'll regret it!

The woman couldn't even babble, she was too frightened, she just screamed. Beruche and Petz immediately got up at the sound of her scream and ran into the kitchen. They were also horrified by the spectacle. Although their sister let go of her prey and retreated into a corner at the sight of the others. Terrible moments followed, none of them daring to approach Karaberasu, who looked like a cornered lioness. She threatened them by opening her mouth from which two long fangs protruded.

- Good God! - Beruche exclaimed in fright - She is completely possessed by that thing inside her!

- Wait," - Petz, who was the only one who was still calm, interjected. - I can think of something to do," and remembering the priest's words, she took a bottle of holy water out of a drawer. She had kept it from the day she had gone to church after the priest's visit and exclaimed as she opened it and sprinkled Karaberasu with i. -, "Let's see how this feels!

The girl let out a piercing shriek of pure pain, touched the parts of her body where the water had hit her, and the astonished girls watched as a kind of vaporous smoke rose from them. Petz and the others were terrified, especially the older sister. Now she cursed herself for having been so impulsive, tears running down her cheeks in pity for her poor sister. What if this was dangerous for Kalie? But she acted with almost no thought for the consequences. She just wanted her to be herself again and then Karaberasu fainted. The others went to revive her. Swirling around her, they saw that she was back to normal.

- How are you?" - Beruche asked her timidly. -

- Where am I? What am I doing here? - The disoriented girl mumbled as she came to, her expression completely lost. - I don't remember anything...

-It's all over now. - Cooan was able to whisper as sweetly as she could. - It's all right...

But she looked at her with an absent expression and began to feel sick, she felt an unpleasant heaviness of something churning in her stomach and began to shake with the first retching, putting her hands to her mouth.

- I have to throw up," - She managed to say, rushing off to the bathroom. -

The others followed quickly. Cooan held her over the toilet so she wouldn't hit her head with the spasms of retching, Karaberasu finished exhausted. After cleaning and changing her, Petz, holding her lovingly in her arms, carried her to the bed and tucked her in. Her broken sister was crying almost helplessly, and her voice cracked.

- My... God... I don't want to... live like this.  Every night ... I pray on my knees. Make me die... please, no matter how hard I try I... can't...

- Don't say that! - Petz cried, heartbroken by her sister's desperate pleas and the tremendous suffering she was enduring. - You're going to be all right! We'll help you, we'll never leave you alone. You'll see how everything will be all right. - She held her, rocking her as if she were a child, until Karaberasu could fall asleep. - You will always have us by your side. I promise you that.

The two younger sisters couldn't stop crying at the sight of this terrible sight either, and now, in addition to grief, there was fear. What if Kalie turned into some kind of demon and attacked them as she had attacked Cooan? But none dared to voice that fear. Instead, they all took turns watching her at the foot of her bed that night. When it was Petz's turn, she spent the night holding one hand over her exhausted sister, who was now finally asleep, and stroking her hair with the other, mumbling through her sobs.

- Forgive me, Kalie! I couldn't help you when you needed it. I have failed you as a big sister - I promised Mama I would protect you, and I failed! But I won't abandon you. No matter what happens, I'll be by your side.

      Cooan immediately called Tom, and her girlfriend told him what was happening, Tom called the priest. This time there was more luck, the priest was available and the next morning they both arrived. Once he had been briefed on the events of the previous night, the clergyman stroked his chin with a worried look on his face and simply said.

- The process has already begun, from now on we will have to act very vigorously.

No one dared even ask him to be more explicit, there was too much fear in every one of the answer and they chose to let him do it. So they led him to the room of the victim, who was awake but visibly tired. Despite this, her expression turned anxious and aggressive as the priest surrounded her bed with holy objects. He then tried to give her a purifying preparation of holy water, but Karaberasu resisted, howling frantically, her forehead beading with sweat. They had to tie her to the bed, the priest blessed her several times. The girl's eyes were red and her fangs were red again, and she cursed them in a guttural, hissing, unfamiliar language. Tom could understand only a few words he had studied.

- It's the language of the underworld! - he said in amazement. - How can she possibly master it?

- This girl is possessed by the evil power of darkness and so is her son," - the priest determined who stoically endured all the insults Karaberasu hurled at him. - She must have some kind of telepathic link?

- Then his son is half-demon," - Tom concluded with great concern, affirming in his best tone of conviction. - We must do what we can to rid them both of this evil influence.

- For now, it is impossible," - the priest countered. - It would kill them both. We can only minimise it, and very carefully.

The girls looked at each other with a mixture of horror and dismay. Rei had explained the same thing to them when she had told them, with a heavy heart, that there was nothing they could do for her poor sister.

- Please do what you can, but help her! - Petz pleaded, visibly frightened, as she struggled to keep Karaberasu, who was squirming like an eel, still. -

- But don't hurt her! - Beruche also pleaded tearfully, as did Cooan. - She is not to blame for her situation.

And so it went on for a few minutes until the wretched girl regained her normality. She looked at the others with a stunned expression, as if she had just woken up from a nightmare. She was exhausted and her body bathed in cold sweat, she could only mutter to the priest with a sorrowful and remorseful countenance as she came to terms with what had happened.

- Father, I beg you, forgive me if I have done or said anything to offend you.

- Don't worry my child, I know it is not your will that guides you at such moments. - The priest gently reassured her. -

- Can't you free me from this curse? - Karaberasu asked in a tone of voice as anguished as her gaze. -

- I cannot, it would endanger your life. - The priest replied regretfully. -

- I don't care, I'd rather die than go on living like this," - she stammered tearfully to everyone's desolate expression. -

- Don't say that, it is a sin to want to take our lives," - the parish priest told her with gentle determination. - Only God can dispose of her.

- God," - Karaberasu smiled with a tinge of bitter mockery. - Where was He when I was raped? I prayed to Him, I begged Him, but He did not come to save me! - She added resentfully in judgement. - Surely He had better things to do.

- He often puts us to the test, my daughter. - The priest answered patiently. - Even by using the most abominable beings. We cannot understand his designs.

Kalie said nothing, why engage in a sterile polemic? At least this man was trying to help her. Besides, she was exhausted, too tired even to lament her plight, and soon fell asleep. Beruche and Cooan had to go to class. They did not feel like leaving their sister, but were reassured by the priest who promised to keep an eye on her and relieve her in any way he could. Also by Petz.

-I will stay with her. I will not let her out of my sight. - Her older sister assured them. -

        So, after a while, they agreed to leave. The priest, however, again advised them to bless the baby as soon as it was born, saying.

-For every moment she and her child spend on holy ground, the more the essence of evil that possesses them both can weaken. That is their only hope.

             Oblivious to earthly tribulations, in heaven, when Roy and the others had practised enough, Goku led them to the vicinity of the new hall.

- Well, now the hardest training of all will begin, boys. - He announced with an almost childlike enthusiasm. -

- But is there still more? - Ail, who was still panting from the last fight, could ask. -

- Of course! Remember the Corner of Soul and Time. - Goku reminded him, informing them to their general dismay. - So far, everything you've done has been aimed at making you strong enough to endure the stay in that room. This was only the antechamber. - He revealed to them, adding with a sense of satisfaction that comes with fond memories of something difficult to achieve when it has been achieved. - I trained there myself, those were the days!

And he opened a golden double-leaf door encouraging everyone to enter. Roy poked his head in, looked around curiously and commented.

- So this is the place Landar was referring to.

- That's right. - Son Goku said and went on to enumerate, one might say with glee. - The temperature here is almost fifty degrees different, the gravity is more than ten times higher than normal, and the oxygen is reduced to one-third of Earth's. In other words, you're going to love it. In other words, you're going to love it. Heh, heh, heh.

- A wonderful place, come on. It makes the Kingdom of Darkness look like the Côte d'Azur. - Nephrite agreed with his refined sarcasm. -

- We're going to have a wonderful, wonderful time. - Diamond remarked in the same dispassionate tone and manner. -

- But we're dead. What good are those things to us? - Ail observed sharply, turning to Goku, to add. - Until now we could get tired and hurt, which surprises me, but now. I don't think oxygen or gravity will bother us, after all, we don't have to breathe to survive, nor do we weigh anything.

He stroked his chin gently and nodded in reply.

- That's true. But that's easy to explain, you see. In Heaven you can train and progress with your spirit, and when you fight with other spiritual beings you suffer as in physical combat, but without fear of dying again. Such a peculiarity is granted to very few. In that sense you are privileged.

- How fortunate we are! - Sapphire sighed with irony in his voice. -

But his interlocutor paid no attention to the comment and continued.

- It turns out that from now on you won't be dead anymore, so be careful, eh? - He smiled and winked at them. -

          The astonishment then took hold of everyone. And it increased as seven orange spheres fell from seemingly nowhere, landing softly at Goku's feet. All glowing with gold-coloured glows, each one inscribed with a number of red five-pointed stars varying from one to seven.

- Well, here we go. - He said, standing a little apart from the balls.

- What are they, giant marbles? – Diamond scoffed. -

- No, they're magic balls. - His interlocutor revealed. - They can grant two wishes, they used to be three, but we've run out of budget," - he joked (or maybe not) adding, "- and one of them will be to bring you back to life. But first we have to summon the Dragon.

- What dragon? - Sapphire asked with an astonished look on his face. - What are you talking about?

- Wait a moment. - Roy, who didn't understand any of this either, said. - "Wait a minute. However, he now had another concern on his mind, and so he expressed it. - Before that, couldn't we know something about the situation on Earth? I personally want to find out how things are going for my friends.

The others nodded approvingly, equally curious, and Goku simply pointed to the side and replied.

- Ask Landar over there.

And as usual the wizard had come out of nowhere and was just a few feet away from them without any of them noticing him coming. He was even now fulfilling that request as he summoned a large transparent ball that floated up into the air and in it formed the images of Roy's friends.

- Here they are, look at what you like and see how they have had the courage to face adversity. - The magician invited him to watch with a gesture of his hands. -

The boy approached and upon seeing them could only say excitedly.

-Tom, Connie, Bertie, I was so looking forward to seeing you again, wait for me a little longer and I'll be with you again soon!

The others came over to watch too.

- I know them, look brother, they are Petz's little sisters! - Sapphire intervened, visibly happy to see them. -

- It's just like Sailor Moon told me. - Diamond agreed with satisfaction. - I'm glad they're happy on Earth.

They could see them through that ball quite clearly. Bertie was calling the roll, and when she had finished, she said to the children.

-Now we are going to talk about civil rights, as you know, in the past people were not treated equally, it depended on the colour of their skin.

- Why was that? - A little girl with short brown hair wanted to know. -

-Well. - Bertie sighed, trying to answer softly. - Because many people only looked at appearances, not at other people's hearts.

- And how can you see their hearts? - That naughty little boy called Kevin asked her, adding even a little mischievously. - Do they have to go on surgery?

The class laughed, but after a few moments their teacher replied, looking a little serious.

-No, you have to see how the person behaves before you decide whether they are good or bad.

-And those who behave badly are bad. - Another little girl deduced with a dark complexion and curly black hair. -

-Normally, yes, Tina. But it's not always that simple.  Sometimes very good people do bad things because they don't realise it, or because they've been tricked. - She sighed, looking down a little. -

But then she added with a smile. And in a much more jovial and hopeful tone.

-That's why you should always give others a chance. Maybe they can be wrong and learn from their mistakes. We can all be better people.

Most of the kids nodded in agreement, Roy and the rest were watching closely.

-That's right. - Nephrite agreed. - That girl is absolutely right.

-She knows from experience. - Sapphire told him. - She was one of our subordinates, apparently she betrayed us by defecting on twentieth century Earth, but in reality, both she and her sisters realised that very thing.

-It's true. She told me. - Roy interjected. -

-Then we all have something in common. - Ail commented. - We want to make amends for our past mistakes.

-In our case, those of the future. - Diamond added. -

- That's marvellous! At least Bertie, her sister and my friend Tom have been able to make their dream come true. - Roy declared, feeling very good for them, as he added in a reflective tone. - I have no doubt about it. They will educate the children who come through their classes very well. They will give them hope and a good guide for the future. That is what matters. That is what we will fight for, my friends, not only to reconcile with ourselves. But also to give those little ones and our loved ones the chance to live and to feel, to love and to dream. I understand that now. That is what my parents sacrificed for.

-And ours. - Sapphire nodded in agreement with his older brother. -

-Well, we owe it to them too. - Roy affirmed. - Don't you think so, mates?

The others listened with interest, agreeing with his inspired words. So did the wizard, who, next to him, nodded approvingly to take the floor.

- And that is not all. - Landar intervened, catching the boy's attention to add. - I have a surprise for you. Someone you admired very much on Earth and who was eager to meet you, since we told him about your musical tastes, has come to see you.

- Who is it? - The surprised Roy asked him. -

- It's me, hello and first of all thank you for your choice. I thank you for your kindness. - A voice that certainly sounded very familiar, although he couldn't remember from where. -

- Who is it? - The boy wanted to know. –

             But he was puzzled when he looked in the direction from which the voice came and discovered a middle-aged man of medium height, with a bushy moustache and short brown hair. He only managed to say. -  "No, it can't be!

- No, it can't be! Is it you, man, or someone who looks like you?

-It's me," - he said, smiling and winking in his typical style. - That's for sure.

- Can I have your autograph? - Roy asked enthusiastically. -

            This caused the astonishment of his companions and even the magician himself, especially when the young man began to curse at the impossibility of finding a pen or paper.

- Roy, there is no swearing in heaven. - Landar admonished him. -

- Yeah, but f...! For once I get to see my musical idol in person! I'm f... shi…!

Some thunder rumbled above their heads, making clear the displeasure of the upper echelons at the language. Roy grinned stupidly and mumbled an apology. The Wizard shook his head with a disapproving sigh, though the admired individual to whom the boy was referring merely laughed with his characteristic laugh. Ha, ... ha, ha, ha!

- But who is this guy? - Diamond asked with a puzzled expression. -

- I don't know, but judging by Roy's reaction it must be someone important. - Sapphire conjectured. -

- But why ask for his autograph here! - Ail commented in astonishment. -

- You're just a bunch of musically uneducated people, that's all! - Roy reproached them, adding with a twinkle in his eye. - And that's how you've been doing.

- Well, you didn't do much better than we did. - Nephrite reminded him with a half-smirk. -

He had to admit the latter, though he was quick to object.

- But I get more motivated when I listen to one of his songs, you're the most talented guy... I even have a sailor named after him! - The boy added, now realising Ami's sailor name, although it was probably just a coincidence. This guy is a f... mother f...ing...!

- Roy! - the wizard termed with long-suffering patience...as more thunder rumbled, forcing everyone to cover their ears. - Please behave yourself...

But he paid no attention to him, focused only on praising the idol in front of him.

- I assure you that I have sung your songs more than anyone else's and I would have loved to attend one of your concerts. But I was a kid then. My father used to play me music in vinyl. What a pity that you hardly ever came to the US and....

Although the famous singer in question just stopped his admirer's long rant with a hand and answered politely.

- I know, and I heard that the last song you wanted to hear was one of my band's songs. I'm grateful for that and I'd like you to sing one with me, you'll see how appropriate it is for this place and, if you succeed in your mission, for Earth as well. As well as corroborating your words from before.

The boy's eyes opened like two soup plates and he had to make an effort to assimilate this, but once he did, he exclaimed.

- Do you really mean it?

- I do! - He assured the guy with a wink. - What do you say?

- That is fantastic. However, I won't be on your level, though. - Roy objected, embarrassed. -

- Don't worry, you'll do just fine. – That guy told him nonchalantly. - But first we're going to do a little warm-up.

And without the boy being able to respond, the guy launched his also exclusive shout, indicating to his "pupil" that he should imitate him.

-Telelerelerer!

Roy did his best, but it was impossible to match that tone, cadence and resistance, especially when the singer continued with his "telero, telero, telero, telero".

- ¡Telero, telero, telero, teleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeero...!  telerererererererererero!

And thank goodness he stopped, everyone was listening ecstatically and Roy himself was panting, rubbing his throat and thinking to himself in amazement.

- And I thought I had the guts for this!

But the guy smiled and clapped his hands approvingly and added.

- Do you know this song?

         The famous performer approached Roy and whispered something in his ear. The boy nodded enthusiastically.

- Of course I know it! I know most of yours and your band's songs.

          His interlocutor smiled and then exclaimed.

- Well, let's go ahead and sing for real!

- And the music? - The boy wanted to know, although nobody had to tell him anything because it was already playing and his adored interpreter signalled him to get ready, although Roy was able to exclaim beforehand. - This is great! I love the stereo you have here!...

- Here we go! - his idol encouraged him. - Sing with me...

         And the boy, of course, was up for it. His musical mentor sang as he had always remembered, beautifully! and he wanted to be no less. It was the most important moment of his life, (at least of his after life) as far as singing was concerned. He was going to give it all he had to do not to be out of tune. For his part, the singer adopted his characteristic poses, legs half-open and finger up pointing to the sky (or higher than the one they were already in, of course). And he taught Roy how to get into the right position and how to sing. The others watched in amusement and amazement at this improvised performance and choreography. As for the new apprentice, he was having the time of his life in a bakery.

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven,***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***In these days of cool reflection (reflection)***

***You come to me and everything seems alright***

***In these days of cold affections***

***You sit by me and everything's fine***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***This world could be fed,***

***This world could be fun***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***This world could be free,***

***This world could be one***

***In this world of cool deception***

***Just your smile can smooth my ride***

***These troubled days of cruel rejection***

***You come to me, soothe my troubled mind***

***Yeah this could be heaven for everyone***

***This world could be fed,***

***This world could be fun***

***This should be love for everyone (yeah)***

***This world should be free,***

***This world could be one***

***We should bring love to our daughters and sons***

***Love, love, love, love***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***You know that***

***(This could be heaven for everyone)***

***Yes!***

***(This could be heaven for everyone)***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***Listen.***

***What people do to other souls***

***They take their lives, destroy their goals***

***Their basic pride and dignity***

***Is stripped and torn and shown no pity***

***When this should be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven,***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven,***

***Could be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven***

***(This could be heaven)***

***This could be heaven,***

***Could be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven***

***(This could be heaven)***

***This could be heaven,***

***Could be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven for everyone***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven***

***This could be heaven...***

***For everyone***

***For everyone***

**(Heaven for everyone, QUEEN, credit to the artists)**

           After the song was over, the guy shook his hand and his devoted fan gladly shook it.

- It was a great honour for me! - the boy was able to say in a tone of patent admiration. -Thank you very much!

-You are welcome. I wish you all the best of luck! And if you need any more of my songs for training, let me know. - The late singer said goodbye, adding with a smile and a Versailles style bow as his last cry resounded with a powerful and harmonious echo. - And remember friends. "Heaven is for everyone. Now prepare well to make the Earth a better place. Live and above all...Love!

And Roy waved a hand to the horizon in farewell to his idol as he said to the wizard with great appreciation.

- What a great guy! I still can't believe it; I've been singing a duet with him!

-The truth is that singer is very good! – Diamond admitted. - What did you say his name was?

-I'll have to play you his discography, my friend. - Roy told him with visible good humour. - And that of many other bands. You'll see...apart from training, I'm going to turn you into regulars of good music.

- I admit that, although it's not classical, it's not bad at all. - Nephrite added. -

-It's incredible, everything is possible here. - An Astonished Ail commented. -

- I'm really impressed. - Sapphire agreed. -

- And you haven't seen anything yet. - The wizard said. -

- I'm sorry, I didn't tell you anything. Thank you very much, Landar, it was quite a surprise. - Roy commented with visible recognition. -

-Do not even mention it. - The wizard replied with a faint smile that seemed to be his last concession to levity, as he immediately gestured in his gravest tone for everyone to pay attention to something they had forgotten in all that had gone before. -Now let Son Goku summon the dragon.

And they all obeyed, turning away intrigued. They were very curious to see what this being would be like. It didn't take them long to find out. Goku summoned him using a formula pronounced in a language unknown to them and as soon as he finished it, the whole sky turned black, as if someone had turned off a star. Seven golden rays emerged from those balls and rose to a great height, intertwining with each other to form the luminous silhouette of a gigantic golden dragon, while Landar explained to them.

- This is the Celestial Dragon, of the category of the Divine Giants. The last of its kind remaining and whose time has long since passed. However, he can still grant two wishes, so you must choose one of them wisely. The other will be your return to life.

- Here I am summoned by your mandate. Make your wishes! - The deep, powerful voice of the dragon boomed out, sounding like the tolling of a bronze bell. -

They were all stunned and looked at each other hesitantly, still impressed by the colossal size of the monster, nothing came to their minds. Roy was the first to react though, exclaiming with a flash of insight.

- That's it! We ask him to kill all the demons himself and that's it!

- That's a very good idea. – Ail supported him -

- I don't think it's very ethical. – Diamond rebutted, crossing his arms and asking with some contrariness. - What have we been training for then?

- Look man, what's important here is to rid Earth of the threat that's coming. However, and in the best way. - Roy objected coherently. -

- You got a good point, that´s right. -The prince of Nemesis had to admit. -

- I think it's a good idea too. And it's very practical. - Nephrite added. -

- Pass that request on to him, please. - Sapphire instructed Goku, who nodded in a language the boys were unfamiliar with. -

But the sacred reptile merely shook his huge head in denial, declaring.

- I cannot grant that wish; it is beyond my power. Ask for something else!

- Well, what a dragon's rubbish! All this presentation for this! - Roy whispered to Diamond who nodded in solidarity. -

- Don't protest so much," - the wizard scolded them. -

               And all this before the annoyed look of the dragon himself, who seemed to have picked up on the comment. Although both Roy and Diamond looked the other way immediately and whistled as if it was nothing to do with them. The same as the rest who seemed not to have heard. And so, for a few tense moments, they stood in thoughtful silence. None of the group could think of anything else to ask, Ail was the only one who was interested in saying anything, though the Wizard who proposed to Goku spoke first.

- I'd better bring them back to life first. Then let them think of another wish.

It sounded good to his interlocutors, and so he put it on record before that giant of the skies.

- Celestial Dragon. Bring back to life these five young men who accompany Landar and me, please.

            The colossus nodded, surveying the group in question and illuminating the sockets of his huge eyes with two flashes of scarlet to announce in his booming tone.

- Your wish has been granted.

And immediately all the haloes that hung over the boys' heads were erased, disappearing as if they had never been there.

- Now that worked! - Nephrite smiled in disbelief. -

- That's amazing! - Sapphire was able to say, amazed as well. -

- And now. Have you thought about what you want? - The wizard asked them. -

- Yes, well. - The alien said, declaring. - "I would like to know how my wife and child are. If that is possible.

Goku nodded, but Roy stopped him asking him for a second, he had just remembered his friends and an idea came to his mind, hopefully it was feasible and Ail would allow him to do it.

- Sorry, mate. But I just remembered something, would you mind giving me your wish?

The man looked at him reproachfully. No one had said anything in all that time, and suddenly Roy was coming up with a joke of his own. But the boy immediately told him as if he knew what was going through the alien's mind.

- I assure you, it's a very important thing. Please, my friend! I wouldn't ask you otherwise. - His interlocutor pleaded with an imploring look on his face. - I assure you.

- What is it about? - Ail wanted to know with a sigh of patient resignation. -

- I'd like my friend Tom to walk again. Remember I told you what happened to him.

- The boy who goes out with Cooan? The youngest of the sisters. - Sapphire remembered. -

- Yes, the same one. - Roy nodded, declaring not without emotion. - He is my best friend, and a great person, he always supported me and shared with me the good and the bad times. Now I wish I was able to do something for him.

The alien rubbed his chin and a feeling of hard indecision crossed his mind. He wanted more than anything to see his family again, but this was really very important. He could join Ann and the baby when he got back anyway, but how long would he have to wait? Would they be safe? Luckily for him and Roy, Landar laid a hand on the alien's shoulder and declared in a reassuring voice.

- If that's all it takes; I can make you see them in my ball.

Everyone's expression changed from one of tension at the difficult task, to relief and joy. Above all, Roy exclaimed without thinking.

- What a good idea the old man had, eh?

Although he covered his mouth with both hands for his indiscretion, he couldn't stop the wizard from glaring at him and the rest of them smiled, barely holding in their laughter. Goku was the only one who didn't hold back and laughed at Landar's indignation.

- It's not funny to me! - the offended wizard snapped. -

- Don't be like that, man! - Goku replied, unable to stop laughing. - It just came out without thinking. It's a compliment. Right Roy?

- Right, right. I'm sorry, excuse me. I didn't mean it that way. - The embarrassed boy asked him, nodding his head frantically, trying to ingratiate himself with the old man. - I didn't mean to offend you.

Landar cleared his throat several times, turned his back with a dignified air and materialised his ball, putting the matter to rest as he motioned for Ail to come and look. Ail did so immediately, and within moments something began to materialise out of the mist inside the sphere.

-I think I see something. – he declared when the image began to clear. -

And sure enough, there she was. Annie looked beautiful in a red and black print dress and was cradling her baby lovingly. Next to her were Rei and Usagi gawking at the child. Sailor Moon held out a rattle and the little one giggled as she shook it. Ail couldn't help but smile with visible joy.

-That's my son," - he declared with a great sense of pride to the nod of approval from her companions who also came closer to see. - He is marvellous!

           But that was not all. Then he could hear them talking. Her partner was addressing her warrior friends...

- Thank you so much for taking care of us! - Ann commented to the two of them, adding now to Sailor Mars. - It was kind of you to allow Giaal and me to live in your temple.

-It's nothing. - The priestess smiled. -

- That's what friends are for, woman! And Rei is thrilled you're here. Isn't she? - Usagi encouraged her, downplaying the importance of it at her companion's nod. -

- Really, I have some gold and jewels that Ail and I found in our travels around the galaxy. When I can, I'll sell them and pay you...

         Ann was unable to continue, however, as Rei immediately cut her off with mock severity.

- Well, what are you talking about? You don't have to pay me anything, woman. That's as far as we could go! I'll even trust Usagi with the temple's lucky sticks!

- What do you mean, even me? - The other girl asked her, showing her displeasure and sentencing with her face red with anger. - I always pay you punctually, Rei.

- Not at all. You owe me at least three so far this month. – Sailor Mars rebutted, wagging a finger and flashing a caustic smile. - So let's see if you've bring your money sometimes...

- That's a lie! You've got your accounts all wrong. It's Makoto who owes you one and Minako who owes you two. - Her conversation partner questioned her with scathing accuracy. -

- If you're so good at keeping accounts, I don't understand why you never carry enough money. - Rei reproached her in turn with disdain. -

- You're obnoxious! - Usagi exclaimed, glaring at her. – You greedy!

- And you're a nasty one! - Her companion responded. – You stingy!

And all this before the alternating glances that the astonished Annie was dedicating to them trying to mediate in a conciliatory tone.

- Come on, girls, don't start arguing...

- It was her! - They pointed accusingly at each other. -

           Ann smiled and the little baby also made a funny grimace with its little mouth, then there was no time to see anything else. The vision faded, but Ail was satisfied and felt good.

- They're great! - he declared gratefully to the warriors. - We can never repay them.

- Very well. - Landar said, turning now to Roy. - Are you going to make your wish?

- Of course I am. - He agreed, winking at Goku and indicating. - Can you ask the dragon to make Tom fully recover from his paralysis so that he can walk like he did before he was paralysed, and even have more and better agility, strength and powers than an ordinary human? He will need them for the battle ahead.

- To the limits of the dragon's power, yes. - Goku nodded and turned to the great animal and asked as his pupil told him. -

And the giant again emitted that scarlet gleam in his eyes, declaring with sure gravity.

- I have fulfilled both your wishes, farewell.

- Just a moment! I want to see if Tom can walk. - Roy tried to find out. -Wait!

But the great dragon had disappeared, dragging all those balls behind him and scattering them into space. The sky above their heads regained its immaculate colour. However, the uneasy boy was far from satisfied and feared that he had failed. However, Goku cheerfully encouraged him.

- Don't worry! If Shenron says it's done. You must not doubt it. He never lies. Trust him.

- But I would give anything to see my friend walk again. - The visibly disappointed boy insisted -

- Don't worry about that. You'll see him. - The wizard assured him, lighting up his ball to add. - And I will give you a special motivation to do so.

On the ball appeared the images of Tom and Cooan. They appeared to be chatting in a long corridor where they were leaving. The boy, spinning the wheels of his chair with his hands, and she behind him, clutching his grips and helping him with a gentle push.

-I hope Kalie can handle all this. I'm scared. - Cooan said. - For her and for all of us. And tomorrow is the deadline... Hopefully with the help of the warriors we will be able to defeat this monster.

-Fear not. We will do everything in our power to help her. - Tom encouraged her. - We'll fight to the end... Connie," - he added, changing his tone to something a little shier.

- Yes, what is it? - The young woman wanted to know, giving him a look between curious and a little surprised. -

             The boy wanted to pluck up the courage to ask her. As she had mentioned, there was only a little more than a day left before the deadline that damned demon had given his late friend expired. Perhaps Connie would accept the prospect. He thought that, with a more than possible end so near, nothing else mattered. He was about to declare himself when something strange happened. The chair tipped over without apparent cause. As if a gust of non-existent wind had suddenly hit it. Both Tom and the girl were shocked.

- What the hell happened? - the boy wondered aloud. -

      Cooan didn't answer, she didn't know either, but just in case she was on her guard. Perhaps it had been some attack by just that, a demon. But after a few moments of tense waiting, looking in both directions, all was absolutely quiet. There was no one in the corridors. Puzzled, she looked down at the boy still on the floor. This was very strange. They were on level ground and if it wasn't because of an attack there was no reason to...anyway, past both their alarm, he should get back in his chair.

- Let me help you. - She asked the boy, but he proudly shook his head. The girl did not insist, she knew that Tom was ashamed to need help, especially from her. -

This time, though, it was different. The boy felt a strange tingling sensation from his waist down his legs to his toes. He had never experienced anything like it since his accident and his first reaction was to lie still and perplexed on the ground, trying to analyse it under the worried gaze of Cooan, who asked him a little frightened.

- Are you all right? What's wrong?

- No, I don't know, it's something that...

                He didn't know how to explain it, but he had an intuition, he refused to accept it because he thought it was crazy. It could mean a thousand things, even so, he made the reflex movement of moving his left leg. He was resigned in advance to getting no answer, but to his astonishment it moved instantly.

- Connie! - he could exclaim with a confused tinge of fear and excitement. -

- Are you all right? Do you want me to help you? - she wanted to know, approaching solicitously. -

But the boy stopped her with a gesture of his hands, stretched out his arm and shook his head and smiled nervously.

- No, please stay there, close to me. And tell me if what you see is true. - He stammered with a lump in his throat, battling his own disbelief. -

The astonished girl watched as her boyfriend moved his legs and planted his feet on the ground and slowly stood up on his limbs until he was on his feet.

- Oh Tom! - she exclaimed, covering her mouth with her hands and letting tears of joy run down her cheeks. -

- I'm on my feet, I'm on my feet! - he stammered, overcome with emotion. - I can't believe it!

And when he decided to take a step, he was able to do it, and then another and another! The young man couldn't help crying, it came like a gentle stream of clear water. The astonished Cooan hugged him tightly and kept whispering through tears of joy.

- It's a miracle! Oh my God! Thank you Lord!

- It was Roy! - His interlocutor affirmed so firmly that there was no possible reply, especially when he added looking up to the roof as if he could see Heaven and inside it his deceased companion. - Thank you, thank you my friend! Because I know it was you, you can't fool me. Even if you're up there hiding, I know you're watching over us. - He smiled full of joy, unable to stop sobbing. - I don't know what kind of mischief you've done up there, but it worked...

Nor could he stop the tears of happiness from falling as he responded with emotion to the touched looks of the others.

- You don´t have to thank me for anything, Tommy. Be very happy, my brother...you and Connie deserve it. Take care of yourselves.

- It was beautiful my friend. Very beautiful, indeed. - Nephrite acknowledged in a quiet voice, full of respect. -

- Friends are worth fighting for. - Ail agreed to the nods of Nemesis' siblings. -

- Friendship is a beautiful thing. – Diamond admitted, who added happily. - I thank God for having understood that.

- Yes, that's right, it makes us all better people. That's what Bertie said when we saw her earlier. The warriors were right. - Sapphire agreed. -

Both Tom and Cooan still couldn't believe it. He even broke into a frenzied run, overcome by an impulse of extreme happiness. Not since he was a child had he had such an urge to let himself go as fast as his legs would allow. The girl, between astonished, euphoric and somewhat worried by the boy's outburst, tried to run after him, but she couldn't catch up. He even stumbled and fell, but got up like a spring, somersaulting into the air. The people who passed by him looked at him in surprise, even though they were no longer in a place where anyone knew him. They had long since left school. Now they just wanted to go and tell the others, starting with Beruche who had finished her day earlier and should be home by now. Tom thought about this and paused to calm down a little, breathing in ragged gasps. His lungs had been surprised by this reaction and now had to work to oxygenate him quickly. They were back to that sudden activity they had long forgotten. But they worked perfectly and the boy felt stronger and more agile than ever. It was a strange new perception of his own body and its potential that seemed to have increased incredibly. Now he really wanted to catch one of those demons! He was going to tear it apart with his bare hands! In the meantime, Cooan was able to catch up with him and hugged him from behind, as thrilled as he was. Tom turned around and held her in his arms and lifted her up. She said to him with the most intense joy.

- I feel as good as new, better than I have ever felt in my life, and I want to take this moment to ask you for something I never thought possible, it was something I feared I could not even mention to you.

She looked at him with a gesture of astonishment and curiosity, which changed to intense happiness when he revealed his intention.

- Connie, my love, will you marry me?

This took her completely by surprise, and she could only open her eyes and mouth without uttering a word. But she nodded at once, and Tom, almost oblivious to the answer, hastened to qualify it.

- When it's all settled, when we've beaten the enemy,"- he said. - "Because I'm sure we'll succeed now. Then we can start a new life and I want you to be my wife. What do you say? - He asked her expectantly, although he was able to pull back to be more serene, trying to be optimistic. - If you need time, don't answer me now, I can wait until everything is over.

- I'll marry you! - she sobbed, feeling her heart thudding with beats as loud as chimes. - Yes, I want to!

And she wrapped her arms around him, resting her tearful face against his chest. Tom could barely contain his elation and jumped up and down with her. Even with the weight of both of them he rose almost five feet above the ground. He landed without the slightest trouble so that he could add, calmly regained.

- Let's go back home and tell your sisters - we have to celebrate!

Cooan nodded, wiping away tears that looked like raindrops on the rainbow of his smile, and the two of them left, hailing a taxi. On this occasion, it was worth splurging a little....

-Just wait till you see their faces. - An excited Cooan smiled before they got in. -

In the celestial heights, Roy and the others unhesitatingly entered the room. The door closed behind them, and as soon as it did, the group began to feel a sudden tightness in their lungs, followed by a tremendous feeling of heaviness. Their bodies seemed to weigh tons! They could hardly breathe except with deep, labored breaths.

- For the Sacred Tree! – A gasping Ail exclaimed with bated breath. - And we'll have to get used to this!

- And to live, fight, fly and sleep in this very environment, yes. - Goku confirmed. -

            Their master had entered with them and the harsh conditions of this room didn't seem to affect him in the slightest.  He even allowed himself the luxury of doing a few somersaults and doing a handstand on one finger to prove it.

-Watching him, it looks easy. – An exhausted Sapphire sighed. -

-Well, for him, it is. - Diamond commented, trying to keep himself upright with difficulty. -

-Well, I can barely stand. I feel like I weigh a ton. - Nephrite commented. -

They all shared the same impression, and immediately threw off their bibs, barely able to stand on them. When they were released, they fell to the ground with a tremendous clatter, as if boulders of enormous weight had tumbled off a cliff. Now it was Diamond who could barely say in amazement, drawing in several breaths before speaking.

- And you have trained here?

-Of course," - Goku confirmed without making a big deal out of it. - With many of my other friends and family. You'll see, it's not so bad once you get used to it. I'll show you now.

Their cicerone led them down a long corridor flanked by two huge hourglasses. The grains fell slowly but inexorably and he explained.

- While only a day passes outside, a whole year passes in here. You will only be here for the equivalent of half a day outside. About six months if I'm not miscalculating. - He smiled, put his hand to his neck and added with amusement. - So they can say I'm not good at maths! - And with the indifferent expressions of the others at the joke, he resumed his serious tone and finished off. - There is no time for more. But I'm sure it will do you good. Anyway, it's not a good idea to overdo it. And you never know if you'll have to come back...

Those last words had a somewhat enigmatic ring to them. However, no one said anything as, before them, appeared the tall figure of a greenish being wearing a kind of turban and cloak with wide shoulder pads, all in white. Tight-fitting dark blue trousers completed his attire. He fixed a serious, scrutinising gaze across his green arms studded with a sort of crimson inlay that resembled jacket patches, and waited for everyone to reach his position without flinching.

- It's Piccolo! - Sapphire recognised the one who had already prepared for them when they arrived. -

- Are you going to keep training us? - Ail wanted to know, addressing the dour individual with affability, at least that's the impression he gave when he gave them a stern look. - Right, master?

         That guy smiled slightly, showing two sharp fangs in passing. Roy became uneasy, taking him for a demon, and let it be known.

- You look too much like one of those devils!  - he accused him, pointing a finger at him, topping his outstretched left arm. -

- Possibly so. - He replied dryly in a slightly hoarse voice. - So what if I look like one?

- Piccolo is the king of demons. - Goku explained matter-of-factly to the boy, who froze in amazement. -

- Whatee? - That's all the boy could say. - Here?

But before he could react otherwise, his master reassured him.

- It's all right. He's on our side. Otherwise it would be difficult for him to be in Heaven, wouldn't it?

The young man agreed with a nod that was as imperceptible as it was prolonged, he could see a lot of energy in this guy, not as much as in Goku, but much more than he himself possessed, so thank goodness he was on his side!

- You will be here to complete your training. You are in for a very tough training if you are to become true warriors. - Piccolo stated dryly and without any concessions to cordiality, he really reminded Roy more of a strict university professor than anything else. - You are not here to be entertained....

- We will come from time to time to teach you and also to perfect some techniques that you will need and every now and then we will monitor your progress. - Goku stated more kindly. -

- I thought you would stay here to train us personally. - Diamond commented that he was beginning to adapt to the rigour of the environment, as were his companions, finding it less effort to speak. - How else are we going to progress?

- We are not allowed to; we already use up our time here. And, above all, you must carry out this task by your own means. We can only help you on rare occasions. - Goku explained, extending his words to the others. - Piccolo has a little more to do, so he'll show you around. I must leave you now. I hope you get much better. I'll come and visit you from time to time to see how you're getting along. That I can do. So long and good luck!

And he faded away, letting those last words float away. So the group's attention was focused on the enigmatic, menacing-looking individual, and Piccolo did not disappoint the image he gave when he said with a mischievous grin.

- If you thought you've had a hard time so far, you don't know what you're in for.

- We'll face anything. - Roy declared firmly, seconded by a general nod. -

- I hope so. Now follow me and stay close. Know that this region of space is a parallel dimension where the laws of physics are not as you know them. - Piccolo explained and added in a warning tone. - If you go too far from here, you could get hopelessly lost, and now that you are alive, you would die again. As far as I know, we can't bring you back to life. So you'd better be careful.

Everyone was warned, and their strict guide now pointed them towards a sort of house about thirty metres away. In fact, it didn't look very big, though they didn't trust appearances and were right when they heard Piccolo reveal it to them.

- That will be your quarters, your living quarters, or whatever you want to call it. There is food, magic beans and all sorts of supplies. It's divided into sleeping quarters, bathrooms and so on, so you can get by during this time. It used to be smaller, but once it was destroyed and refurbished. Now it is bigger, but there are too many of you anyway, so distribute and ration your food well. And be careful. Living in a place like this for so many months can be very hard. But if you endure it, you will not only build up your strength, but also create a strong bond of friendship and co-ordination. That will be as useful, if not more useful, than raising your individual power. And another thing. - He added, turning now to Diamond, perhaps because he had a haughty look on his face even though he didn't realise it. - There are no ranks here, no princes, no kings. There are no privileges. Understood?

- Understood. - The questioned man, who did not take too kindly to this reprimanding warning responded. But he decided it was better not to bother about it and not to reply. -

           In spite of himself, the prince still remembered his arrival in that place, when that dour individual had appeared before him and Sapphire.

- Who are you? - he asked, standing at attention like his brother. -

- It's none of your business, you, cretin. - He replied with disdain. -

- I am Prince Diamond, heir to the kingdom of Nemesis! You'd better speak to me with respect! - he exclaimed, emitting a sort of silvery aura around him. -

             Strange greenish being though, he smirked. For all his retort, he launched a small ball of energy that hit Sapphire, knocking him down several metres away.

-Sa, Sapphire! - his brother exclaimed in astonishment, though he quickly let his anger take over as he retorted. - "How dare you, you bastard! - He shot a jet of albino-silver coloured energy at the greenish fellow. -

To his astonishment, his enemy disappeared, letting the beam pass harmlessly through the empty white expanse. Diamond was stunned, though he barely noticed when the strange fellow reappeared right next to him so quickly that he couldn't even react and punched him in the stomach. The prince went down doubled over, barely able to breathe.

-Come on, little prince! – That guy smirked, adding amusedly. - " You're dead, don't try to breathe, you don't need to. Still...

- Who are you? - A Recovered Sapphire was able to ask, approaching with a more careful tone. -

- Your new trainer. – The questioned one responded, introducing himself. - My name is Piccolo.

- You're very strong and incredibly fast. - The prince of Nemesis acknowledged when he was finally able to get to his feet. - I've never seen anything like it!

           He was even much taller than him, which wasn't very often. Diamond was close to six feet six inches tall and this guy was more than a head taller than him. But that was the least of it, especially when the guy replied.

-You let yourself be impressed by very little. - His grim interlocutor smiled. -

- Little? - The young man was surprised, sentencing him with admiration. - I don't think anyone can match you....

They were surprised to see him burst out laughing, shaking his greenish head topped by a kind of white turban. At last, returning to a grim expression, he folded his arms and replied with an indifferent countenance.

-You have much to learn. You will have to move and fight just the same. At least when you have trained. Soon you will be joining more warriors.

            And indeed that was so. Both brothers met Nephrite and Ail and trained. By now the prince had learned to be somewhat more modest. Especially after being given many incentives to do so by this individual. One of those times, after he had taken a beating against his stern instructor, he was sitting on the ground. With both fists he pounded the white surface in frustration and fury. His brother, who had also received his fair share of blows, wanted to encourage him.

-He's immensely strong, we can't beat him. But we're getting better.

- Damn it! He treats us like trash! - Diamond spat. -

But that got back to his trainer, who, with a tone somewhere between amusement and reproach, said.

-If you don't like the way I treat you, do something about it. Or are you going to settle for whining in a corner? Is that how you used to rule your planet? You're so inept.

- Don't you dare insult me! - Diamond bellowed, springing to his feet. -

- Or what? - Piccolo challenged him. - Aren't you going to invite me to one of those tacky balls you used to have at your palace? I bet you'd have to ask your mum and dad for permission.

- Hey," - Sapphire interjected in an annoyed tone. - Don't you dare bring our parents into this.

-Of course not, I bet seeing what two such useless children they've sired, they wouldn't want to be here now. - Piccolo replied contemptuously. - Although I guess like father, like son.

That infuriated Sapphire, but much more so Diamond who began to emit a silver-coloured aura bursting out with a great shout.

- Don't you ever dare insult my parents!

He lunged at Piccolo like a madman. He even went so far as to punch him in the face, throwing him several metres away. Then he lashed out, not letting Piccolo react, firing energy balls at him. It detonated the place with multiple explosions that caused a huge mushroom with a large amount of smoke around it. When he finally stopped his attack, panting in exhaustion, the appreciable mass of smoke obscured his vision.

-That'll teach you. - The prince of Nemesis was able to gasp, vindicating himself. - Nobody insults my parents!

No sooner had he finished saying that, though, and before he could even see it coming, a faint bolt of energy shot through his side. Diamond fell badly wounded. Her brother Sapphire immediately noticed the silhouette of the attacker. It was his trainer standing there, unharmed, as he said.

-Well, all right, I was beginning to think you had no blood in your veins. And that you were only fit to wear that white party suit with that chic cape.

It was the prince's younger brother who, concentrating his energy, now attacked Piccolo. Piccolo merely dodged any attempt by the boy to hit him, but he did not fail to comment mockingly.

-Come on, you're getting closer. Courage!

And Diamond himself, despite being quite tired and battered, wanted to join the offensive. In unison with his brother, he tried to reach Piccolo with an attack, but this time in vain. Finally, this inflexible individual punched and kicked them both to the ground. Barely able to breathe, his opponent smirked.

-I guess this is a lot of fun for you, isn't it, humiliating us like this! - Sapphire spat with visible indignation. -

However, he shook his head slightly and declared in a more serious tone.

-You still don't understand. When you fight a real enemy, you have to worry about being seriously injured, but not in your pride. Though at least I have to admit you have dignity. Now, use that anger and indignation to make progress. Think of your parents and all those who gave their lives for you, and improve yourselves so that you can one day bring them justice. But real justice, not by responding to a simple insult like kindergarten children. Nor with a pride that prevents you from seeing your enemies and their true strength and strategy.

-He's right, Sapphire. - Diamond, who was still lying on the ground with almost no strength to move, was able to mumble. - It was the blindness caused by my pride that has led us to this situation. I would not listen to you, nor see the reality until it was too late.  I cost the loss of many lives because of my stupidity. At first I wanted to put the happiness of my subjects first, but I lost my way. - He lamented angrily. -

And that earned him an approving glance from Piccolo, who, it seemed, used a much more respectful tone to pass sentence.

-My congratulations. Now you're starting to talk like a real prince. There's hope for you yet, my friend.

             And without wasting a second Piccolo gave each of the brothers a bean. As they ate it, they both felt refreshed and stood up and listened with attention and interest to the next words of their trainer.

-And now that you know where you went wrong, it is time for you to work hard to put it right. Because I assure you, that time will come.

               Now, in that harsh environment of the Corner of Soul and Time, the prince of Nemesis remembered it all as if centuries had passed. Piccolo then smiled with an approving nod and added more relaxedly.

- Good, Diamond. That's good. You've learned a lot, you and the others, but you still have a lot more to learn until you're ready. I trust you will discover them here. - Having said this, he showed the various rooms to the group and when he was sure that everyone was aware of what they looked like and that they contained what they needed, he asked them. - That's all, do you have any questions, come on, make the most of it now or you'll have to wait a long time! - He snapped, ready to make himself scarce after waiting a few seconds of politeness. -

- Just one more thing. Could you leave us a radio cd with music? It's better for training and helps to relax the atmosphere. - Roy asked him, leaving everyone stunned, including Piccolo himself, who looked at him with saucer eyes size, breaking his hieratic attitude for a few moments. When the boy noticed this, he smiled, adding by way of justification. - If we're going to be here that long, it will help us a lot. You can be sure of that.

No one replied. Neither Nephrite, Sapphire or Ail, nor Diamond himself, dared to doubt that this was possible. They had learned to expect anything, and Piccolo, to the surprise of the group, nodded without giving it any more thought. Immediately, the musical apparatus requested by Roy appeared a few metres away from them. The boy, visibly happy and to the surprised faces of the others, explained that they would play a song or two to liven up the training. Hoping of course that in Heaven they had a good collection of CDs. And Roy himself was amused.

- What a silly thing to say! They even have Freddie himself here. I have no doubt the music will be excellent. You'll see how it will help us train.

And when his companions merely nodded, still not quite sure of this, Piccolo turned and gave a laconic nod.

- So long," - and then he vanished. -

A deep silence fell among them all, during which time they each took a moment to observe and assess their new surroundings and try to familiarise themselves with them, if that was even possible.

- This place looks worse than Hell itself. - Intervened Diamond, breaking the mute silence to take another visual tour of the desolate expanse of whiteness and add with sarcastic glee. - The perfect place to tune up!

- Yeah, I like it! - Nephrite termed in an identical tone. -

- We'd better like it, because we'll be here for half a year. - Sapphire reminded them with a combination of resignation and eagerness to get started. -

- Between several of us, it'll be more bearable. I can tell you that I'm used to being alone in space for a long time. Well, in the company of my wife and son. - Ail said wistfully. -

- The key here is going to be metallization and order. - Roy stated firmly, gaining general approval, only to add, encouraged by the success of his words, "The key here is going to be metallization and order. - How we structure ourselves and how motivated we are will determine everything. Just like in my basketball team. And the difference is that here you can't lose and win the next day, we can't afford to fail. We have a lot riding on it. - The boy aid who, if he had been disciplined and serious about anything all his life, was precisely that, then he argued. - We must be all for one and one for all. That's a great phrase, but I don't even remember where I heard it...

- You don't need to say it. - Diamond seconded, sharing that view. -That's the way it will have to be.

The others agreed, and the group stood there ready to begin their work. Apart from planning the training sessions and breaks, meals and other essential things, they were determined that the stay in this place would not be (as the prince of Nemesis had justifiably asserted), worse than Hell itself. And in addition to the radio cd requested by Roy, Ail, who played the flute very well, also entertained them with some tunes in his rare moments of pause. Even Roy was surprised, he could play that very instrument and had never in his life, as far as he knew, played it.  He could play marvellous melodies that delighted everyone. He even went so far as to declaim a beautiful, if enigmatic lyric...

***De profundis clamavit ad te Domine***

***Domine exaudi vocem meam***

***Et ipse redimet Israel***

***In secula***

***De profundis clamavit ad te Domine***

***In secula...***

**(Monasterio de la Rábida, Vangelis, credit to the author)**

- Where did you learn to play like that, on Earth? - The alien asked him, really as much in awe as the rest of them. - And what do those strange words mean...?

-No, I don't know. I've never played the flute," – Roy confessed, who added with the same tinge of incredulity and amazement. - The guitar, yes, but this... I don't know what that means either... it's as if it were a memory that I keep inside me... I... I don't know how to explain it.

-You have a talent for it too, no doubt about it. - Nephrite declared, adding. - I think that was Latin...From the depths I cry out to you. Lord. Lord hear my voice. He will redeem Israel, forever...From the depths I cry to you, Lord...Forever. - The young man translated who explained it to them. - I did learn it, when I served my king Endymion on Earth.

-But I never learned Latin. - The astonished Roy told them. - It was bad enough I had to pass French by the skin of my teeth!

-It may well be a skill you forgot you possessed. - Diamond added. - I'm sure you'll remember it one day.

-Of course, my friend.  Be that as it may. At least you can make our stay here more bearable. - Sapphire smiled. -

-That, my friends, will be a pleasure. - The boy assured. - But we didn't come here to have a good time, we came here to prepare ourselves. And we'll have to work very hard.

-But as the masters Son Goku and Piccolo told us that we shouldn't push ourselves too hard either. - Ail remind him - And meditation is essential. And you can help us with that, with that sublime music.

-You're not bad yourself. - The prince of Nemesis praised him. -

-We'll adapt, and we'll get there. - Nephrite encouraged them, to general assent. -

              And so it was. Once they adapted, the time flew by, between fights, training and conversations with each other. The harshness of the conditions and their common desire helped them forge a good friendship. Everyone brought something to the table. Diamond, pride and perseverance in its most positive aspects. Nephrite, mastery of emotions and order. Sapphire, prudence and reflection, and Ail, enthusiasm and the desire to improve. Roy's presence made them more relaxed and less formal. Above all, it gradually made the prince of Nemesis who had begun to experience what true friendship was. The same could be said of all of them, who until now had treated each other with cold politeness. Only between Diamond and Sapphire had there been a greater dose of sibling affection. But now things had changed a lot. Diamond and Nephrite got along quite well, sparring matches aside. The same was true of Sapphire and Ail, who had developed a more casual friendship. And Roy was becoming something of a leader to them all, not from the point of view of authority, but from the point of view of initiative and character. He told them jokes, some of his "exploits with the girls at the University", his particular tips for flirting. He even made a bet with Diamond, which the prince lost. But he was delighted to do so. Roy also told them about his interest in sports and encouraged them. Being the most powerful and trained, he made the role of instructor his own and took it very seriously, leading the training sessions with verve and motivating them in an astonishing way.

-Come on, hammer down! - he shouted as Freddie's unmistakable and magnificent voice thundered through the atmosphere. -

***Yeah!***

***Here we stand or here we fall***

***History won't care at all***

***Make the bed, light the light, yeah***

***Lady Mercy won't be home tonight, yeah***

          And the group threw themselves into training under these terrible conditions of gravity and lack of oxygen without faltering. Encouraged by those chords and the song that followed...

***(You don't waste no time at all)***

***Don't hear the bell but you answer the call***

***(It comes to you as to us all)***

***Yeah, we're just waiting***

***For the hammer to fall, yeah***

          And none of them stopped singing that same song as they performed push-ups, sit-ups and repetitions of punches and kicks, loaded with heavy weights.

***Oh, every night and every day***

***A little piece of you is falling away***

***But lift your face, the Western Way***

***Build your muscles***

***As your body decays, yeah***

***(Tow your line and play their game)***

***Yeah, let the anaesthetic cover it all***

***('Til one day they call your name)***

***You know it's time for the hammer to fall, yeah***

           Sweaty and exhausted, they forced themselves to go on a little further, one more step towards their goal... and thinking of their enemies, they sang in unison...

***Rich or poor or famous***

***For your truth it's all the same***

***Yeah baby (Oh no, oh no)***

***Oh, lock your door but rain is pouring***

***Through your window pane (Oh no)***

***Baby, baby, now your struggle is all in vain***

***For he who grew up tall and proud***

***In the shadow of the mushroom cloud***

***Convinced our voices can't be heard***

***We just wanna scream it louder***

***And louder and louder***

***(What the hell we fighting for?)***

***Oh, just surrender and it won't hurt at all***

***(Just got time to say your prayers)***

***Eh, while you're waiting***

***For the hammer to, hammer to fall***

***Hey, it's***

***It's gonna fall***

***Hammer, you know***

***Yeah, hammer to fall***

***Hammer***

***Woo! Yeah, yeah***

***Woo, woo!***

***Ha, yeah, waiting***

***For the hammer to fall, now baby***

***Yeah, yeah***

***While you're waiting***

***For the hammer to fall, ooh***

***Give it to me one more time!***

**(QUEEN. Hammer to fall, credit to the artist)**

             And once they were exhausted, Roy would throw them some beans to help them recover by shaking his fist in the air. In order to start again...

-Give it to me one more time....

           And the other boys reciprocated without hesitation, trying again. Later, with another song, the group thought of the girls they had left behind.

***We must have been stone crazy***

***When we thought we were just friends***

***'Cause I miss you, baby***

***And I've got those feelings again***

***I guess I'm all confused about you***

***I feel so in love***

***Oh, baby, what can I do?***

          Roy thought of Bertie, how he longed to hold her in his arms again...as he worked out at enormous speed, throwing punches and kicks that were impossible to follow with his eyes....

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

Shi pow, pow. - They all repeated as a chorus.

             Diamond remembered Emerald, that young girl who grew up beside him in Nemesis, and whom he treated so unfairly when they were both controlled by that dark energy...in the meantime he exercised with a heavy chain that he swung from one place to another, increasing the power of his muscles and his determination to return...

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

Shi pow, pow. - They all repeated as a chorus.

***Shi pow, pow***

***Shi pow, pow***

 Sapphire's mind was on Petz, the girl who had loved him unconditionally even in his worst moments, how he longed to be reunited with her and to be able to reciprocate those feelings! And all the while he was performing lightning-fast somersaults accompanied by martial arts exercises.

***Suddenly we're strangers***

***I watch you walkin' away***

***She was my one temptation***

***Oh, I did not want her to stay***

***Deep down, I'm still confused about you***

***Oh, yes I have baby***

***I feel so in love***

***Oh, baby, what can I do?***

- Come on, let's go! - shouted Roy: "- More intensity, more strength!

            In turn, Nephrite remembered Naru, the girl who showed him that loving others was possible. The young man didn't forget her either as he swung a heavy sword at tremendous speed.

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***Got you on my mind***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***Got you on my mind***

           And Ali thought incessantly of his wife and son. Longing to hold them both in his arms and protect them from anything, as he exercised lightning-fast dodges and threw bolts of energy...

***What good is being here without you?***

***I wanna know***

***I feel so in love***

***Oh, baby, what can I do?***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you, uhh-yeah***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***Oh baby, can't get you out of my mind***

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

***Y*ou read me baby, I think about you all the time**

**I've been thinking about you**

**I've been thinking about you**

**Got you on my mind**

***I've been thinking about you***

***I've been thinking about you***

**(London Beat. I've been thinking about you. Credit to artist)**

            And of course they ended up exhausted but satisfied, ready to get back to work. But there were also moments for rest and reflection, talking about themselves in their old lives and what they would really have liked to do, what they wanted to be able to do and would undertake when all went well, responding with enthusiasm to the challenge they had there. It was an exercise in sincerity and strong will that strengthened their camaraderie and helped them to remove many of the ghosts that still haunted them. Roy, as usual, stimulated them even with the very music he managed to play. Nobody knew how, but he always had a CD of a group he liked. And the fruit of it all was the gradual improvement and the coming together of all of them. Singing by himself or chanted by the group with more songs like, for example, this one that had a very special meaning for all of them, during those very hard training sessions, symbolising their gradual improvement. Resonating in the endless immaculate space of that place, which was already so familiar to them...

***Mother, mother, tell your children***

***That their time has just begun***

***I have suffered for my anger***

***There are wars that can't be won***

And that is what the once proud and selfish members of the group now realised. Some regretted not being able to say those verses to their loved ones.

***Father, father, please believe me***

***I am laying down my guns***

***I am broken like an arrow***

***Forgive me***

***Forgive your wayward son***

           And by weapons they did not refer to their desire to improve their fighting skills, but to their hubris and overweening ambition to conquer the wills of others by force. Now their yearning was the opposite, to protect the innocent and to confront evil in order to defeat it. And for that they gave their all. Even if it was really difficult at first. And that was something to behold. When Goku and Piccolo would sometimes come in to check on their progress, at first they would look at each other shaking their heads disapprovingly at Roy's apologetic smiles of apology and circumstance as their "pupils" didn't seem to be making much progress. They were uncoordinated, sluggish and under-strengthened, struggling to cope with the extreme conditions of the room.

***(Everybody needs somebody to love) Mother, mother***

***(Everybody needs somebody to hate) Please believe me***

***(Everybody's bitching 'cause they don't get enough)***

***And it's hard to hold on***

***When there's no one to lean on***

               And that is what they meditated on when, completely exhausted, and full of sweat, they held each other's gaze, refusing to be the first to give up...it was hard, yes. Yet they had each other to make it bearable...and they never lost faith.

***(Faith!) You know you're gonna live through the rain***

***Lord, we've got to keep the faith***

***(Faith!) Don't you let your love turn to hate***

***Now we've got to keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Lord, we've got to keep the faith***

         And with the help of Roy's harangues and the songs he played, as if it were a gym, things began to change. From shaky steps to support themselves to jumps, from these to sit-ups and lunges with the help of their hands, with clapping, to the more difficult fists and finally to the simple fingers, with which they supported their whole body in the air defying that crushing gravity.

***Tell me baby, when I hurt you***

***Do you keep it all inside?***

***Do you tell me all's forgiven***

***And just hide behind your pride?***

            And repeating like a mantra in between those gruelling exercises, those stanzas that filled them with purpose and determination...

***Yeah!***

***(Everybody needs somebody to love) Mother, father***

***(Everybody needs somebody to hate) Please don't leave me***

***(Everybody's bleeding 'cause the times are tough)***

***Well it's hard to be strong***

***When there's no one to dream on***

***(Faith!) You know you're gonna live through the rain***

***Lord, we've got to keep the faith***

***(Faith!) Don't you know it's never too late?***

***Right now we've got to keep the faith***

***(Faith!) Don't you let your love turn to hate***

            Then came the acrobatic somersaults and faster and faster flights. And it wasn't just the physical plan that was progressing. The boys became more and more united around this camaraderie, focused on their respective thoughts of overcoming, to take revenge on their enemies and to see their loved ones again.

***Lord, we've got to keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Oh, we've got to keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Lord, we got to keep the faith***

***Ooh yeah, ooh yeah***

            All in the service of a common goal motivated by different desires, but companions after all in pursuit of a single ideal. They came to move in unison and even learnt most of the songs Roy hammered them with...

***Yeah yeah yeah!***

***"I been walking in the footsteps***

***Of society's lies***

***I don't like what I see anymore***

***Sometimes I wish I was blind***

***Sometimes I wait forever***

***To stand out in the rain***

            Gradually, Piccolo's and Goku's faces went from resignation to disbelief to surprise and then to approval and even outright satisfaction, looking at each other and nodding slowly.

***So no one sees me cryin'***

***Trying to wash away this pain"***

***Mother, father (Everybody needs somebody to love)***

***There's things I've done I can't erase (Everybody needs somebody to hate)***

***Every night we fall from grace (Everybody's bitching 'cause they don't get enough)***

***It's hard with the world in your face (Everybody needs)***

***Trying to hold on, trying to hold on (Everybody, keep the faith)***

***(Faith!) You know you're gonna live through the rain***

***Lord, you've got to keep the faith***

           Goku then winked. Piccolo even allowed himself the luxury of a fleeting smile and Roy would give them a thumbs-up in triumph, exclaiming as he liked to do, paraphrasing a great "rock" band in a euphoric harangue with that iconic song for all.

- Keep the faith, boys, keep the faith!

***(Faith!) Don't you let your love turn to hate***

***Right now we've got to keep the faith***

***(Faith!) Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Try to hold on, trying to hold on, yeah***

             And they kept it up, fighting minute by minute to improve and increase their strength, their gazes growing steadily steadier with determination and more convinced of their success. Roy even drew a picture of his enemy and as everyone's training came to an end, he squeezed it in his hands and set it ablaze as he harangued them with a mighty shout, transforming himself into a super Saiyan. The others responded in chorus, deploying their considerably increased energies to the fullest.

***(Faith!) Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Everybody keep the faith***

***(Faith!) Keep the faith***

***Keep the faith***

***Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah***

***(Everybody needs somebody to love) (Faith!)***

***Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah***

***(Everybody needs somebody to hate)***

***(Faith!) (Everybody needs somebody to love)***

***(Everybody needs)***

***(Everybody, keep the faith)***

**(Bon Jovi Keep the Faith, credit to artist)**

          And at the end of that period of time, none of them had anything like the appearance they had before they began their gruelling preparation. Their bodies were now much more muscular and hardened, thanks to the adverse conditions of the room and the continuous blows taken and returned and even the weights and heavy objects they used to push themselves even harder. And their wills had become infinitely more determined and stronger than when they started training with Piccolo, let alone when they arrived in Heaven. They had been reborn as powerful new warriors!

-Now you have what it takes! - Piccolo declared with obvious approval as he looked into their steely eyes. - You are ready...

Meanwhile on Earth, only a few hours had passed and everyone was celebrating Tom's miraculous healing. Even Karaberasu, who was feeling better at the time, sensed that it was indeed a miracle, and it made her question her own situation. She had refused to accept God's help, thinking that He had abandoned her. Now she just wanted to beg for forgiveness and have faith that something this wonderful could happen to her too. Still, she made up her mind to overcome adversity and help others without falling into self-pity.

-I have no right to put my problems first. There are many people who will need us after tomorrow. The first are my sisters. And I must be there for them. - She thought with renewed vigour. -

           And so she had to forget her own circumstances and she promised herself to do so. As for her anger and resentment, they gave way, dissolving into tears of joy for her sister and for Tom, and Tom whispered to her with a big smile.

- Cheer up Kalie! I know this was Roy's doing, he is with the Creator and he will never leave us. I am convinced, we will succeed in defeating evil. So don't lose hope for yourself.

And she nodded firmly, determined to persevere in spite of everything and never again be a burden to her sisters or to anyone else. Then she gave the boy a loving kiss on the cheek and wished him and her sister happiness, as they both announced their plans to marry when it was all over. That was the last celebration they would have until the long awaited and dreaded hour. The beginning of the battle. There were only a few hours left until dawn that day. The sect had managed to hold their ground and prepare the stones. There was no turning back now. They all knew it and were ready to take it with all its consequences.

-And we will fight to the end. - Petz thought. -

-We will never turn back. - Bertie said to herself. -

-All united, we will face evil and defeat it or fall in the attempt. - Cooan mused in turn. -

          And in Heaven, Roy was thinking of Beruche as he was about to conclude his long and hard training in the Corner of Soul and Time.

- My love, now that I am alive again, I have trained as I never thought I could. I am convinced that we will return and we can defeat the demons, I will finish my killer and I will join you, I promise you!

- You'll see when I see you again, Petz! What a surprise you're going to get! -  Sapphire thought, whose hair had grown almost to his shoulders, the boy now wore it in a ponytail and sported a noticeable beard as well. -

- I can't wait to see my people again! - Ail said to himself that he had trained in his human form, because it was even harder for him, but on the other hand, it gave him a better performance, as his ribcage was bigger and he had to adapt more strongly than with his alien body. - My wife and child are waiting for me and nothing and no one will stand in my way.

- It will be interesting to be able to start a new life, hopefully she will be there waiting for me so I can keep my promise. - Nephrite thought. - To be able to see her again would be wonderful.

- I guess I'll have to start all over again, though that very idea keeps running through my head. - Diamond mused more gravely. - Roy was right, that song made me cry. He knew he was going to win the bet. - He smiled now. - And like those lyrics say. I still have hope. At least Landar said there was some. And when we've won I'll do everything in my power to hold on to it. I must not lose faith.

               For there was still a thorn in his side, though it was less painful, thanks to some encouraging words the wizard had spoken to him, shortly after he arrived in Heaven, which he still remembered.

- When you are victorious, come back to me and perhaps I can do something to help you in that which distresses you so much, young prince. But you must succeed first, so apply yourself.

- I have done it and I will do it to the limit of my strength and even beyond if necessary. - A Diamond with a bushy goatee and hair a little longer than his usual half-length, down to the base of his neck, repeated to himself mentally. - Nothing will stop me. I have a lot to fight for. Many wrongs to right and many people to apologise to and help.

                So the time for personal ramblings ran out when Goku appeared on one of his routine visits haranguing them.

- Well, enough of thinking about shrews!  Let's get to work!

And they all obeyed without the slightest hint of reply or complaint, firmly determined to complete their training.

Back on Earth, the celebration over, everyone concentrated on the battle. Tom left the girls after a sunrise rendezvous in the usual park. He was more than willing and busied himself cleaning and preparing a beautiful and magnificent Japanese katana that he had bought with almost all his savings. Why think about money? Anyway, if they won, it would have been worth the investment, and if not, what would it matter? The main thing for him was that, whatever happened, he would be fighting with Connie and the girls to the end, and not just sitting on the side-lines in his chair. Now, on the other hand, between his renewed strength and his knowledge of esotericism, which had increased considerably since his accident, he felt more confident and optimistic than ever.

-Connie, my love. - He said to himself as he prepared. - Whether we conquer or succumb, at least we will share our lives. Being by your side, even if it's only for a few more hours, will fill me with happiness. And now more than ever I have faith in victory. For you, for me, for Roy, for my family and for all our friends and the people of this world, I can't lose. We cannot lose. We will beat them!

               The girls had meanwhile received a call from the Sailors, announcing that they were on their way with reinforcements. Despite all the problems they had suffered in recent months, Beruche, Petz and Cooan had taken it upon themselves to fight the cultists as much as possible in their role as Justicieras, thwarting many of their misdeeds. Tom lent them a hand with his knowledge of magic, and as a result prevented a total panic in the city. However, none of them could have known that the cult and its various acolytes, scattered throughout the area, were planning their most daring and important coup, coinciding with the return of the demon Nagashel who had already completed his waiting period. Unluckily or unluckily, the girls were impatiently awaiting the arrival of the Sailors, which was scheduled for the next day, the same day chosen by their adversaries. Even so, the Sailors would have been of great help to them earlier. But their friends had not been able to go until they had solved their own problems, and according to what they had been told, they had already managed to do so, so tomorrow they would all gather together ready to fight. But that would be the next day, and that night, after discussing tactics for a long time, the sisters finally tried to sleep. They could hardly get to sleep as they were lost in their thoughts. But far from feeling depressed, joy had returned to their hearts. They were in a huddle again, like in the good old days, and they would give those bastards from hell a good fight.

-See you tomorrow. - Karaberasu bid farewell to the rest, though this time with a smile. - Get some rest.

-Sleep well. - Petz advised them. - Even if it's hard.

-We will. - Bertie agreed. - We have a clear conscience. And we know our responsibility.

-Yes, we've finally done it. We're the last line of defence now. Along with our friends and Tommy. - Cooan declared, adding a resounding tone that was shared by the rest. - And we will not fail.

                  And so they all went to their respective rooms to try to rest. In hers, Petz felt that now they were all united again. Her sister Kalie was herself again and Beruche seemed to have overcome her homesickness. Cooan was very happy now, and while she seemed to have the most to lose, she would certainly face it gladly if she fought alongside her fiancé. Petz herself wanted the chance to help her adopted planet by fighting side by side with her sisters and the warriors, just as she did that time when she opened her eyes and awoke from her mistake. She was able to free herself from evil and they all worked together to save Earth from Rubeus' trap. Now she was on the good side from the beginning and they were going to win, they had to win! The woman finally managed to fall asleep with that conviction.

-I will give you, Sapphire, my fight and my sacrifice if I have to. - She thought. - And if I fall, I hope to join you wherever you are.

           Karaberasu, with her renewed vigour, tried to be positive. If she died in the fight, what could she do, hadn't she begged for it so many times in the last few months? Maybe it could all end like this, with an honourable death in combat defending innocents. What better way to leave the world? Certainly not the sterile one of suicide. Now she regretted it and paradoxically began to value her life as much as she used to before all this happened. Even more than for herself because of the hope that she would be able to raise her baby. And if she survived she would make it, she was a fighter and she was going to prove it! Comforted by these thoughts, she slept that night without nightmares for the first time in a long time.

-My child has the right to be born and to live in peace and love. I will fight to ensure that for him and the other children. - She meditated as she drifted off to sleep.

             The same motivational arguments could apply to Cooan, but for different reasons. The girl, who had been through an ordeal with her sisters' suffering, Tom's and her own, now had renewed hope. And even if fate was against her in battle, at least she would have her betrothed by her side. For better or worse, only death could separate them, and if they lived, they would have a magnificent future ahead of them. Just as her friend Rei prophesied when she redeemed her. And she was firmly committed to their future - let some damned devil dare say otherwise! Thus she fell asleep.

-At last I have found true love. It is true what you said then, dear Rei. Love is trust and sacrifice for the one you love. And I intend to honour that. - She thought as she slipped into the warm, dark slope of sleep. - For him, for you, Rei my friend, and for all of you.

                And Bertie in her room fell half asleep and felt a glow, a dream full of hope. She thought she saw Roy dressed strangely and glowing like a sun, smiling at her, full of encouragement and with that mischievous look of his. Whispering.

-Never lose faith, little cube. You are my guiding light...

           That filled her with happiness. The image faded and she thought of all that the boy had loved and of his enormous sacrifice to give the world a chance. The young woman vowed to honour his memory and to make sure his death was not in vain. She was no longer sunk or defeated, she had her sisters, she had her friends and a thousand reasons to live. That would drive her on, and as she thought about it, a great peace and joy took possession of her heart. Beruche, now in a state of slumber, could still see another image. An even larger silhouette, with long white hair and golden eyes in a robe of light, the apparition she had seen before at death's door and when she arrived in New York, now she remembered, it was what she had seen in the sun's glare and now it was speaking to her again, just as it had when it had brought her out of her coma! It seemed to say something directly to her mind and soul, to her very heart, something like....

-Don't worry, everything will be fine and you will have a long and wonderful life ahead of you with the one you love.

-Yes... that's what I wish for most in this world. I will live to help and do something good for others. And if I should die in spite of everything, at least I'll be reunited with you, my love. - She mused. -

The vision vanished just as it came, and Bertie slept soundly comforted. The next day they were all assembled, awaiting the arrival of the warriors, when news reached them of the beginning of a formidable attack on the city....

-Police and military forces are on alert. The population is advised not to leave their homes. - These were the slogans that began to circulate. -

Meanwhile, in Boston, April seemed to be on the mend. After her medical examination her parents were perplexed and also very alarmed.

- What can we do? - Sabrina asked her husband, full of anguish, taking advantage of the fact that the girl was taking a walk. -

-I don't know. We'll have to look for her, I suppose. But we can't say anything to our daughter. Now that the medication has taken effect, that personality she had as Paige seems to have disappeared. And telling her that would certainly bring her back.

-But she's our family. - His wife sobbed disconsolately. -

-I know, we'll look for her, but discreetly. -Without April knowing. It's better that way.

His wife agreed. April then arrived home. She came with an astonished look on her face, and her parents soon asked her with visible fear.

- Are you all right, honey?

-Yes, but. It's just that they're saying something really weird on the news. I just turned on the TV. - She replied. –

           And indeed it was. The Sinclair family was stunned and even terrified when they saw these incredible images. April then began to have strange thoughts that seemed awfully familiar to her.

-I don't understand, but I think I know what's going on, even though I can't remember. - She said to herself with fear and strangeness. -

             In the Corner of Soul and Time came the climax. After the last training. Months had passed and there was no time for more. Finally, the doors of the room opened, allowing them to leave. Outside awaited Goku, Piccolo and the wizard Landar, and it was Landar who solemnly sentenced them.

- The time has come. The time for the final battle.

- First of all, take this. This will help you in combat. - Goku intervened, offering them new suits of dark blue chain mail with white bibs. Each was adorned with the symbols they had in their other lives. In addition, he handed a bag of magic beans to each fighter. They all put on those robes and ate one of those beans to fully regain their strength.

- Thank you very much," - Sapphire said with a smile and the others nodded in acknowledgement. -

The wizard caught their attention and that of the others who listened attentively to his last indications.

- The cultists have created as much chaos as possible. Fortunately, thanks to the interventions of the Justicieras and their courageous opposition, they have not managed to do as they wished. The Moon warriors have already left to reinforce them. The dreaded hour of the summoning of all the demons has come. The Yalmutud stones are ready to open a corridor between the Hell dimension and the Earth dimension. Your mission, as you know, is to defeat the outpost of the underworld and close that corridor permanently to prevent the arrival of its master. Any questions?

Sepulchral silence, everything was said and understood. The only thing left to do was to win or die, the five of them said to each other as one mind.

-Good luck, my friends," - Goku wished them, raising his fist. - I know you can do it! I'm sure of it!

The boys shouted in unison.

-For the future of the world, we will win! Keep the faith!

Roy looked warmly at Goku and shook his hand in recognition. Especially in reference to a secret technique that Goku, as he had promised him, revealed to him in the few times he visited him in the Corner. In such a short time it was difficult to learn and only he proved to be sufficiently prepared for it.

- Thank you very much for all you have taught me, my friend. I can never repay you. - The boy affirmed with a deep look of respect. - You've been a great teacher.

- It's been a pleasure, now. Give them a good spanking for me," - Goku smiled with a wink and waved his arm with a clenched fist to wail theatrically. - How I envy you for being able to go down there! I'm sure it'll be fun! Don't lose, eh!

- Teach them a good lesson! - Piccolo harangued the rest, who nodded in eager anticipation. - Fight as you know...

- It is time," - Landar warned, "- you must leave now. I will send you to Earth, you will appear in the clouds, so when you feel free, simply fly away.

- Good," - Nephrite nodded. -

- Are you ready? - Roy asked the group. -

In response, the boys emitted their powerful energy auras one by one, and finally, Roy signed off by becoming a super Saiyan. Then they all vanished by the magician's transport spell. They reappeared over the sky of the region near the city flying in formation. With one last song in the background...

***Mmmmmmmmm... [etc] In noreni per ipe,***

***In noreni cora;***

***Tira mine per ito,***

***Ne domina.***

***In noreni per ipe,***

***In noreni cora;***

***Tira mine per ito,***

***Ne domina.***

***In noreni per ipe,***

***In noreni cora;***

***Tira mine per ito,***

***Ne domina.***

***In romine tirmeno,***

***Ne romine to fa,***

***Imaginas per meno per imentira***

***Mmmmmmmmm... [etc. ]***

**(1492 Oppening . Credit to the artist)**

At that moment, the massive attack by the cultists began. The deadline for Nagashel's return had passed mere seconds ago and he and his demonic commanders had already returned to Earth through a great dimensional portal created by dark magic, bringing with them legions of demons that were ravaging the city. However, that was but a foretaste of another, far more powerful and deeper gateway connecting the worst circles of hell with Earth, and it was not long before it would open, letting in even more powerful demons for good. But the terrified people of the area had enough to deal with from the chaos of destruction that unfolded after a few hours. The news broadcasts were echoed in special broadcasts, calling on the population to lock themselves in their homes and shelters, and the army and other forces of order, taken by surprise, were unable to resist this terrible attack.

-It has already begun and they are moving fast. - Ail told them. -

-Yes. It seems so. - Sapphire said, pointing ahead. - Look there...

          And following his companion's indication, Roy and the others finally spotted the first buildings of the "Big Apple". They immediately made a flying dive towards the flames and destruction their enemies were causing, ready to neutralise them. For their part, the White Moon warriors and Tuxedo appeared right in the middle of the heat of the fight and began to fight relentlessly to repel the enemy and make their way to the outskirts where they knew Nagashel must appear, in the faint hope of stopping him. But the advance was taking a long time and they were gaining every metre almost agonisingly.

- Damn it! - Rei exclaimed, using her Burning Mandala to annihilate several demons. - There are too many of them.

-That's right. - Sailor Jupiter nodded, destroying several more with her spark plug pressure - But we have to move forward...whatever it takes.

- Whatever it takes, indeed. – Sailor Venus agreed using her "Venus love me chain" to get rid of another wave of enemies. - Let's go girls!

          The other sailors and Tuxedo agreed, redoubling their efforts.  For their part, the Justicieras could not wait for their friends any longer and rushed into battle. Beruche and Cooan had remembered when they woke up that their school was on the outskirts a few kilometres out of reach of the first wave of demons. Surely the children would be there, for their parents would still be oblivious when they were taken there in the morning. They would probably be caught unawares by surprise and slaughtered. However, there was still time to prevent it, and the enemy would not yet have reached the place, but they had to hurry, and the two set off for the area with their sisters’ promise to follow them soon if the sailors did not appear. Tom would stay with Petz and Karaberasu, to help them leave for the school if the path was cut off by the invader during the waiting period.

-As soon as they arrive, we will come and help you. - Petz promised them. -

-And if they take too long, we'll come anyway. - Kalie added. -

-Don't waste another second. Go and protect the children. - Tom urged them, after kissing Connie on the lips. - Good luck!

            The two girls nodded and left. Meanwhile, the strongest demons, under Nagashel's direct command, were waiting on the moor where he had killed Roy six months ago. For the moment they saw no need to intervene in something easy even for their weaker subordinates, merely enjoying the spectacle. But far be it from them to assume that this was precisely where, after exterminating dozens of lesser demons on their path, the reborn Golden Warrior and his new companions were headed.

**START**