The Final Transformation

Dende's Dilemma

As Frieza begins the process of shifting into his ultimate form, Gohan questions why Krillin just attacked Vegeta. Piccolo urges him not to worry about that and insists they put distance between themselves and the transforming tyrant. Gohan supports the wounded Piccolo as they fly to a nearby island. Meanwhile, Dende refuses to heal Vegeta. The young Namekian cannot forgive the Saiyan prince for massacring his people, regardless of any argument that Vegeta might be their best chance against Frieza. Vegeta protests, but Dende ignores him and flies off to tend to Piccolo instead. Vegeta collapses, bleeding out on the ground.

Healing Under Pressure

Krillin explains his reasoning to a confused Gohan, and the two spot Dende streaking overhead. Dende lands beside Piccolo and heals him completely. Unfortunately, Frieza notices them gathered nearby and deduces that Dende's healing ability is the reason the group has stayed in the fight. Both Piccolo and Krillin plead with Dende to set aside his hatred and heal Vegeta, but the boy insists that Vegeta is no better than Frieza. Before the argument can continue, an enormous sphere of energy engulfs Frieza's position and his power level explodes beyond anything they have felt. Dende, finally recognizing the severity of the situation, relents and flies to Vegeta. He restores the Saiyan prince in seconds. Vegeta thanks him with a kick for taking so long, then boldly proclaims that he has transformed as well.

The True Frieza

Frieza steps out of the dissipating energy cloud in his final form, a body far smaller and smoother than any of his previous shapes. Krillin remarks that the new form does not look particularly frightening. Piccolo silences him, warning that appearances mean nothing and questioning whether he can contribute anything to this fight anymore. Without a word of warning, Frieza raises a finger and fires a precise Death Beam straight through Dende, killing the young healer instantly. He turns to the horrified Z Fighters and taunts them, declaring that the battle has swung in his favor now that their lifeline is gone.