The warriors of Universe 7 stood together, the glowing Dragon Balls resting in the center of the gathering. Their golden light flickered across everyone’s faces—Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, and the others, all united once again.

As the seven orbs began to shine brighter, the sky darkened. Clouds swirled, lightning cracked, and the air grew heavy with energy. At last, the colossal form of Shenron rose, his body winding endlessly across the heavens.

But something was different this time.

Instead of his usual commanding presence, Shenron’s booming voice did not come. His eyes, glowing an eerie red, softened, and tears—massive, shimmering drops of divine sorrow—fell from his face. Each one struck the earth with a thunderous crash, leaving steaming craters.

The warriors froze.