Dragon Ball ZMX Reboot

by LazerWolf1

What would have happened if things had happened differently for our dear Goku? What if his mother went with him? What if his father saved some of his people? What if his brother Raditz or even Nappa turned good? What if he married Bulma instead? So many questions of what could have gone differently. But now, we may learn what could have been. Rated M for violence.

5. Chapter 5

Hey everyone. I decided to skip General Blue, as I felt it was a little unnecessary. So it will just be summarized, and get to Mercenary Tao. Sorry to all you Blue fans.

Anyway, thank you all for giving your thoughts on Chichi, on whether she should join Goku and Bulma or not. I hope to get more of your thoughts later on, as it will be some time before the final decision needs to be made.

---

Last time on Dragon Ball ZMX, Bulma had chosen to take up some training alongside Chichi and Yamcha, and had chosen to combine her technological know-how. With it, she was now more prepared to be more useful in the future.

After Goku returned, and told Bulma about the trouble, she and Chichi decided to join Goku in his adventure to defeat the Red Ribbon Army. The same army had alerted General Blue that Goku was on the way to his location, as they were tracking him via their own dragon radar, and the dragon balls he had on him.

However, the overconfident and egotistical General Blue was not expecting the combined aid of Bulma and Chichi, who had put their newly learned skills to the test by helping Goku destroy his base. In retaliation, when they had come across Kame House, General Blue had attempted to blow it up, with everyone inside tied up. Thankfully, our heroes managed to prevent this, and chase Blue down. After defeating the general, and collecting the dragon ball, the team went on their way to continue the search, and General Blue made his way back to RR HQ.

They were flying over a vast forest, and saw a massive pillar that seemed to reach into the very sky. "Wow… I've never seen anything like that before…" Goku said in amazement.

"Yeah, it is pretty amazing." Chichi nodded. Bulma meanwhile was just trying hard to hang on to the two of them, as she had to trade her reduction band to Roshi to borrow his submarine to get that last dragon ball. So she didn't really have a chance to enjoy the view.

However, they were taken by surprise when they heard a scream in the distance. Bulma looked to where it came from and her eyes went wide. "Look!" she shouted as she pointed in the distance.

Goku and Chichi turned and saw a plane. Not only that, but it had a tigerman holding a little boy. Goku then saw a symbol on the plane. "That looks… familiar…" he said as he squinted.

"It's the Red Ribbon!" Chichi shouted

Goku had a fierce look on his face as he had the Nimbus fly towards it. When the tiger man, Captain Yellow, saw the group fly towards him, he had a confused look. "And just what is that?" he asked, before pulling out his uzi and firing at them.

But before he could hit his mark, Goku jumped off the Flying Nimbus, and onto the plane, and gave Yellow a powerful punch, causing him to not only go flying, but to drop the young boy he was carrying.

Goku saw this, and immediately got back onto the Nimbus, and flew after him, making Bulma scream as she held on for dear life to Goku. They managed to catch the boy in time, with Goku looking at him with a smile. "Hello!" Goku greeted, while Chichi gave a small wave and a smile.

Bulma however, was shaking from fear, as she was afraid she would have fallen. "C-can we not do that again?" she begged.

Goku just gave a small chuckle before setting down to land. The young boy ran to a large man dressed similarly to him. "Daddy!" he shouted happily.

"Upa!" the man called out as he embraced his son. Worried sick when he had seen him fall. He then looked to the trio and smiled. "Thank you for rescuing my son. I am grateful."

Goku smiled. "Oh it was nothing!"

"It wasn't any trouble." Chichi agreed.

"Y-yeah. Despite almost falling to my death, we were happy to help." Bulma said with a nervous smile.

Just then, Goku noticed what was in the father's hand. His eyes went wide. "Wait, there it is! The dragon ball!"

The two girls looked to the man's hand, and their eyes went just as wide. "It really is!" Bulma shouted.

The father and son were surprised by this. "So, you are also here for this strange orb…" the father asked, having already dealt with others who were here for it.

"Yeah! It's why we came. Can I please have a look at it?" Goku asked him. The man was hesitant at first, but they had saved his son, so he had no reason to distrust them. He held out the dragon ball, and Goku began to count the stars on it. He had a look of joy spread across his face. "Bulma! This is it! The four star ball! The one you were looking for when we met!"

Bulma also had a joyful look. "It is! We actually found it!" a blush spread across her face, as she remembered why Goku was on the hunt for the dragon balls. He wanted this ball as a keepsake to remember when they met.

Chichi pouted a little bit. She wished Goku had looked for the ball her father had when they met… but she couldn't remember which one it was…

Upa's father, Bora, just had a puzzled look on his face. "What is this dragon ball? And why do so many seem to search for it?"

The gang then began to explain what the dragon balls were, and what they were capable of. How upon collecting all seven, any wish could be granted.

"I see…" Bora said as he looked at the ball. "Hard to believe that something so small could hold such incredible power…"

Goku smiled as he held it. "Yeah but, I don't really care about a wish. I just want it to remember the first adventure I ever went on, and how I met all the amazing friends I met along the way." Chichi and Bulma smiled hearing him say that. Seeing how much he cared about the journey they met him on really warmed their hearts.

If it weren't for that dragon ball, Bulma would have never met Goku or his family on that mountain. And he wouldn't have gone on that journey and met Chichi and her father.

Bora gave a warm smile to the boy. "I am happy to see you have so few wants. Oftentimes, too many desires can drive a soul mad."

Goku just gave a small chuckle to his words, before looking at the massive stone pillar. "By the way, I was wondering what's with that big pole in the ground?"

Bulma raised a brow. "Huh, yeah that's right. We saw it as we were flying over here."

Bora looked up at the massive pillar. "That is the Tower of Korin. It is a sacred symbol of my people. It is an important and honored landmark of my tribe." he explained. "When I was the same age as Upa, my grandfather told me of its story. One that had been passed down for generations. We wait after all this time for someone to come who can pass its trial."

"Trial? What kind of trial?" Chichi asked as she tilted her head.

"It is said that whoever climbs to the top of that tower without aid will find the guardian at the top. The guardian will then grant this champion a cup of divine water, and with a single sip, it will increase the power and abilities of whoever drinks from it." Bora continued.

"Really?" Goku said as he had a look of awe on his face.

Bora nodded to the boy. "I know it may sound fantastical, but my people have always without any doubt believed the legend."

Goku looked up to the tower. "So… I could get stronger if I tried to climb up there?"

Bulma turned to Bora, curiosity written all over her face. "Have you ever tried?"

"I did, when I was young. But I was incapable of making it." Bora answered. "No one has ever managed to do so."

"But papa, I heard someone made it a long time ago." Upa replied, thinking it might be true.

"Though it is a compelling story, my son, it is merely a myth." Bora denied, as he had doubted anyone could do so. It was a feat only the greatest could ever hope to accomplish.

Goku just continued to look up at the tower, wondering if he should give it a shot or not. "Wow… It's so gigantic…"

"So, why are you here then?" Chichi asked.

Bora gave a small smile to the young girl. "My family has been tasked for generations to guard this tower. It is a sacred honor that has been passed down for generations. It is my duty to guard it and this land."

After this, Upa and his father began to prepare food, and made sure to make extra for their guests. Goku's mouth was watering as he loved the scent, as it made him even hungrier.

Bulma and Chichi also felt pretty hungry, and so they were thankful to Bora and Upa for providing them some food.

Once it was finished, Bora offered some bowls to the group ."Here. Have as much as you like."

Bulma chuckled. "Careful what you say, or Goku will eat it all." she said through laughter.

Chichi joined in on the laughter. "Yeah, he could eat more than an army."

Bora gave a small chuckle. "I see. Quite the appetite."

Goku meanwhile just happily ate, enjoying the taste greatly. The trio then saw that instead of eating, Bora seemed to be carving a wooden figure, while his son was sharpening a small spear. When he gave it to his father to look at it, Bora smiled and patted his son on the head telling him he did a good job. This made Upa happy as he went to sharpen it more.

This made Goku remember growing up with his mom and grandpa, and how they would often live a quiet peaceful life out in the woods atop the mountains. Chichi and Bulma couldn't help but think it seemed rather nice. A peaceful beautiful home, a father and son together.

Once their meal was finished, Goku got up and looked to the tower. "You think I'll be strong enough to beat Jackie Chun if I climb up there?"

"Are you really thinking about going?" Chichi asked.

Bulma couldn't help but also wonder what was going on in Goku's head. "Yeah, it seems like it might be too high."

Bora sighed. "I would not get my hopes up if I were you, my young friend. Many have tried. And none have succeeded."

"Well it's still worth a try." Goku acknowledged.

"But aren't you already really strong?" Upa asked him in confusion.

"Yeah, but I'm not the strongest. There is always someone stronger." Goku replied, surprising everyone. "It's worth it to try." he said with a smile on his face.

Bora just looked at the young boy. He was surprised by his determination. "Hmm… perhaps. But it will not be easy. It is incredibly high, and takes many days just to make it to the top. Those that climbed would often finish their rations too quickly, and fall from hunger. And those who have used planes would end up running out of fuel before reaching the top." Everyone was left speechless at it being that high up. "Those who break the rules, or attempt to climb unprepared, do not often get second chances…"

The thought of so many people meeting their end trying to get to the top of the tower chilled Chichi and Bulma to the bone. They were worried something could happen to Goku if he tried to climb. Especially given how much he tends to eat, they were worried he would end up falling from hunger and dying. But Goku, however, was not deterred.

Just then, Upa saw something in the distance. "Hey, what's that over there?" he asked as he pointed by the tower.

They all looked, and saw some kind of object flying through the air. Goku squinted his eyes as he looked. "I think I see a person riding on it."

"W-what?! That's impossible!" Bulma shouted in shock.

Chichi then had a nervous look. "I-it's coming right at us!" she shouted as everyone jumped out of the way, while Bora kept Upa shielded.

When the object landed, they all saw it was a stone pillar, with a man on top of it. The man in the pink gi just smirked at Goku. "Nice to kill you." he simply said.

Bulma just had a nervous look. "A-are you crazy?! You could have hit us!" she shouted at the top of her lungs.

"Hehe, that's the idea. I'm a hitman after all." the man said with a chuckle.

"A hitman?" Chichi said in shock. Wondering what a hired killer could be doing here.

Bora then readied his spear. "I don't know who you are, but your kind are not welcome in this sacred land."

The mercenary smirked. "The name is Tao. And don't worry, I don't plan on staying long. I'm just here for the boy." he said as he pointed to Goku.

Goku was confused, as he didn't know what a hitman was. Bulma and Chichi however felt like they needed to protect Goku. "Why are you here to see me? I don't think I know you…" Goku asked as he tilted his head.

Tao just looked to the boy. "The Red Ribbon Army hired me. Seems they are getting tired of you sticking your nose in their business, and getting in the way of their hunt for the dragon balls. So they hired me to kill you."

Goku growled at hearing that name. "The Red Ribbon? They won't quit." He and the girls then got into fighting stances, ready for a fight.

Upa then tugged on his father's leg. "Daddy, you have to help Goku, please!" he begged

Bora nodded, before turning to Tao. "Hold it. That boy saved my son's life. I refuse to allow anyone to harm him." he declared as he stepped towards the mercenary.

"It's okay, Bora. I can handle him." Goku assured. Not wanting Bora to get hurt because of him.

Bora however, just shook his head. "It is my duty to protect this land. Including those within it." he said as he prepared to fight. He turned to his son. "Stand back, Upa." the young boy smiled and nodded as he ran off.

Tao just scoffed. "You are such a fool. Why in your right mind would you choose to die for someone else?"

Bora however grew tired of Tao's voice as he pointed his spear at him. "Enough talk." he growled. Goku and the other's just watched on, deciding that Bora had made up his mind.

"Hmm… You must think of yourself as quite the warrior…" Tao mused in an unimpressed tone. "Lets see if you can handle this…" he asked as he suddenly disappeared, only to reappear in front of Bora, and grabbed his spear with one hand.

Everyone was left shocked at this. "I… I didn't even see him move…" Chichi said as she trembled at the sight.

Bora growled as he tried to pull his spear away, but it wouldn't budge. "What's the matter? Stuck? How unfortunate." he chuckled in a teasing tone.

This only made Bora's frustration grow as he tried with all his might to move the spear. But still nothing.

"Hmm… maybe this will help?" Tao asked as he was now only holding it with two fingers. And still, nothing. It was like he was pulling at a stuck tree root in the ground.

Bulma felt like she was looking at some kind of monster. "H-how is that possible…" Bora was practically the size of the Ox King, and yet Tao was preventing him from moving his spear with just two fingers.

Tao just raised a brow. "Still stuck? Here, let me help." He then lifted the spear, and with it, Bora into the air, causing everyone's shock to only grow, as Tao was doing it with only one arm. With a chuckle, he then effortlessly flicked Bora into the air, causing him to scream in shock. Tao then pulled back his arm as he pointed the spearhead up. "Here, have your spear back!" he called out before throwing it.

Goku began running forward. "Nimbus!" he shouted.

"DAD/BORA!" Upa, Bulma and Chichi all cried out in horror.

Before Goku could get on the Nimbus, Bora's own spear went right through him, causing them all to look on in shock and despair, while Tao just smirked. Bora's body then came crashing to the ground with the spear stuck inside him.

With tears in his eyes, Upa ran to his father's body, and collapsed on top of him, crying his eyes out at the loss of his father. "Daddy! Please, please don't go, daddy!" he cried out with a heart broken wail.

Tao then turned to Goku with a murderous look in his eyes. "You're next." he simply stated.

Goku grit his teeth as he glared at Tao. "That's it, you monster!" he shouted as he charged at Tao.

"Goku!" Bulma shouted in concern.

"Wait!" Chichi joined as the two girls went to help him.

Tao just smirked, as when Goku lept and went to deliver a kick to Tao, the mercenary dodged with ease, before kicking Goku in the face, and sent him flying right into the tower of Korin. Bulma, Chichi, and Upa looked in shock at this.

Tao scoffed at Goku. "Is that all? Piece of cake."

Goku growled as he got up and dusted himself off. "I'm not done!"

"Oh? Guess you must be a glutton for punishment." Tao mused as he watched the boy.

"Goku! Wait!" Chichi cried out as she went to stop him. "You can't fight him alone!"

"But… but he killed Upa's dad!" Goku shouted in anger.

"Exactly." Bulma argued. "And you could end up killed too if you fight him alone. So we are going to help." Chichi nodded at her words, in full agreement.

Goku looked at them in surprise, but smiled. "Thanks."

Tao scoffed once again. "One or three, it doesn't matter. I get paid extra for additional kills anyway."

The three of them then charged at Mercenary Tao. Goku went for the front while Chichi and Bulma went at the sides. Goku attempted to land another kick, but Tao dodged it yet again. But then, Chichi flew towards him, ready to deliver a kick of her own, and ended up caught.

"Nice try." Tao said with a smirk.

Bulma ran up behind him and went to throw a punch, but just like Chichi, she ended up caught. Bulma however smirked at this, as now both his hands were occupied.

She threw back her other hand, and the rockets on its gauntlet ignited, much to the shock of Tao. Bulma, without a second's hesitation, delivered a rocket powered punch right to Tao's face knocking him back a bit, and letting go of the two girls before he regained his footing.

Tao rubbed his chin as he recovered. "Hmm… pretty neat toy you got there, little girl."

Bulma smirked at him. "I'm full of surprises."

"Nice job, Bulma!" Chichi cheered to her friend.

Tao then cracked his neck. "Don't expect that to work twice." He then immediately charged Bulma and delivered a harsh strike to her stomach, knocking the air out of her, and sending her flying.

Chichi and Goku were horrified by this. "Bulma!" they both shouted.

As Bulma managed to regain her senses, she saw Tao was standing over her, ready to deliver a finishing blow. Goku and Chichi both leapt in to attack him to stop him from killing Bulma. This time, Tao didn't give a chance to be caught off guard and dodged out of the way.

When Tao moved away, Chichi looked at Bulma. "Are you okay?"

Bulma gave a small cough. "I-I'm fine… he just k-knocked the wind out of me…" she panted.

Goku glared. "That's it, I'm ending this!" he growled as he got into the stance for the kamehameha wave.

Bulma and Chichi smiled at this, thinking it was over now. There was no way Tao would be able to handle that attack. Tao meanwhile just raised a brow at this. He didn't know why, but that stance seemed familiar.

"Kame hame…" Goku called out as energy began to build up in his hands.

Tao's eyes went wide in surprise, as he now realized that to be the technique to the rival school of his brother.

"HA!" Goku shouted as he fired the beam at the hired killer. Once it hit, a massive explosion of energy shot out, sending dust everywhere.

"He… he did it!" Bulma called out. She and Chichi were sure that Tao was done for after that attack.

Only for their hopes to be crushed, as when the dust settled, they were all left in a mix of shock and horror that Tao had blocked it, and was completely fine. The only thing that was damaged was his outfit, which was now in tatters.

"N-no way…" Goku trembled as he couldn't believe his eyes.

Tao just had a look of rage as he looked at the remains of his clothes. "You… you just ruined my outfit!" he shouted as he raised his hand to Goku, with only a single finger extended. "DODON RAY!" He called out as a small yellow beam shot from his finger, and hit Goku directly in the heart, making him fall to the ground.

The girls and Upa, devastated, watched Goku fall limply on the ground. They didn't even see him breathing as the girls ran over to his body. "Goku! Wake up! Wake up!" Chichi shouted as she tried to shake him awake. But he wouldn't wake up, as tears filled her eyes.

"N-no… he can't be… he… he can't be…" Bulma trembled as she began to cry as well before falling to her knees.

Tao looked at the three as he grabbed Goku's bag with the dragon balls inside.. "You should all be grateful I'm letting you live. I have more important things to tend to." he told them as he looked at the remaining tatters of his outfit. He decided to get some new clothes before returning to the Red Ribbon. He grabbed the pillar from before, and then chucked it in the air, before jumping onto it and flying off. Much to the shock of everyone watching this.

The three were left to grieve. Upa for his father, and Chichi and Bulma over Goku. When upa began to bury his dad, Chichi and Bulma offered to help. It wasn't much, but they did the best they could. Upa just looked at the grave sadly.

Bulma placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm… I'm sorry we couldn't save your dad…"

Upa sniffled a bit before wiping his face. "I-it's not your fault… I'm sorry about Goku…"

Chichi began to tear up. "If… if we were just a little stronger, he might still be alive…" she whimpered. Both girls looked to Goku. Bulma had only just started to realize her feelings for the boy, and now… now he was gone.

Just then, they heard the sound of a helicopter in the distance, and looked to where it was coming from. They saw the Red Ribbon symbol on it, and so Upa got behind cover, while Chichi and Bulma got ready for a fight.

Once it landed, a Red Ribbon soldier got out, and smirked as he saw Goku. "Well well, so that's the kid that has been causing so much trouble. So much for him." He laughed.

Chichi glared at the man as she and Bulma readied themselves. "We won't let you touch him!"

"Yeah. You're gonna have to get through us first!" Bulma said as the three were ready to fight. Only for them to hear groaning behind them.

They all looked to where Goku was, and saw he was starting to wake up. "Ugh… what happened…" he managed to say as he sat up.

"Goku!" the two girls said happily as they ran to him.

When they looked at him, they saw the four star ball fall out of the hole in his gi. They realized that must have been what saved him.

Meanwhile, the Red Ribbon soldier was terrified of seeing he was alive, as he began to fire his weapon at Goku. The girls took cover while Goku shielded himself. When the soldier stopped firing, he assumed he had killed him. But when the dust settled, he saw Goku was perfectly fine.

Goku just smirked. "Didn't get me!" He chuckled. The man screamed as he tried to get away, running to his helicopter.

As the man flew off, he grabbed the radio to call HQ, to let them know Tao had not only missed one of the dragon balls, but that he failed to kill the kid.

"Come in, come in HQ!" The man shouted over the radio.

"HQ here. What is it?" Someone on the other end answered

"I-it's that kid! He's still-" but before he could finish, he saw Goku on the Nimbus right next to him.

"Power Pole extend!" Goku called out as he aimed the staff at the helicopter. It then extended, breaking through the helicopter. The soldier let out a scream before the helicopter exploded to pieces.

As Goku flew down, his friends came running over to him, happy to see him alive. Bulma and Chichi both pulled him into a tight hug.

"Oh Goku! I'm so glad you're okay!" Chichi said happily.

"Don't you ever scare us like that again!" Bulma shouted, her voice trying to sound angry, but just showing how concerned she was.

Goku smiled as he hugged back. "I'm glad you guys are alright too. When I was passing out, I was worried about what was going to happen." This made both the girls chuckle. That definitely seemed like Goku. Worried about others, even when it looks like he is about to die.

When they broke the hug, Goku turned to Upa. "Upa, I… I'm sorry about your dad…" he said sadly.

Upa shook his head. "It's not your fault… I'm just glad you are okay…"

"But if we just left after getting the dragon ball, he might still be alive…" Chichi said to the young boy.

"Now the Red Ribbon has the dragon balls…" Bulma sighed sadly.

Goku then realized something. "That's it! If we use the dragon balls, we can wish Upa's dad back to life!"

"Then we just have to try and take them back!" Chichi said with a determined tone.

"B-but… that guy that took them was really strong…" Upa said nervously.

Goku looked down. "Yeah… that Tao guy was… I need to find some way to beat him…"

Upa then had an idea. "What if you tried to climb the Tower of Korin?" Everyone then looked at him, realizing what he said. Upa had a big smile. "I think you can do it, Goku!"

Goku and the other's then looked up at the tower. "That's right… if i can make it to the top, i can drink that magic water and get stronger, right?"

"Wait, Goku, you aren't actually thinking of going up there are you?" Bulma protested, remembering what Bora said about those who tried.

Chichi was in complete agreement with Bulma on this one. "We don't even have any supplies for climbing up there. You could starve and fall!"

"We don't have a choice." Goku explained.

Upa then but in. "But… you have to do it alone. Only one of you can climb up, or you might try to help each other."

"I understand." Goku nodded.

"Goku, are you sure about this?" Chichi asked nervously. She and Bulma had already thought Goku died once. They didn't want to risk losing him again over a myth that might not even be true.

"We don't have any other choice." Goku said with a nod as he handed his power pole to Ups, and placed the four star ball in a sack on his sash. "That Tao guy might come back for my dragon ball. So try to stay safe." he asked.

"If he does come back, me and Chichi will try to get ready for him." Bulma offered.

"Yeah, we could try to train while you are gone." Chichi nodded.

Goku had a concerned look on his face. "Well… okay… just try to be careful…" he pleaded. When they said their farewells, Goku began to climb up the tower. Chichi and Bulma both hoped he made it safely.

Soon the two of them began to start training incase Tao showed up again. They decided to start with a bit of light sparring.

As they did, Chichi then realized something. "Hey, Bulma…"

Bulma raised a brow at Chichi suddenly stopping. "What's wrong, Chichi?"

"I didn't notice until now, but… you don't seem to have any fighting style."

This definitely took Bulma by surprise. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Chichi tried to think of a way to explain. "Well, during the fight with Tao, you only seemed to throw punches and not really much else. Fighting is a little more than just punches and kicks. At least… that's what I learned training under Roshi with Goku and Krillin. It's kinda like… a rhythm to fighting…"

Bulma thought about it, and she did notice that Goku, Yamcha, and so many other fighters she had seen seem to have their own ways of fighting. "Huh… I guess I never really thought about it before…"

Chichi now had an embarrassed blush. "Guess I never thought about that during our training together…"

Bulma however just waved her off. "Nah, don't worry about it. You are new to the whole martial arts thing like me. So you couldn't have thought about it. Yamcha on the other hand, he's been doing it for a while. So he should have given some pointers."

"I guess… but, maybe I could try to teach you what little I know. But you should also try to find a style that fits you." Chichi suggested.

"Thanks. I appreciate it. And if we manage to survive this crazy adventure, I'll be sure to look into finding a style that works for me." Bulma said with a chuckle, which Chichi couldn't help but join in.

Bulma then began what little bit of the turtle style Chichi knew. Before they knew it, night fall came, and they were left wondering how Goku was doing. Knowing him, he was probably getting hungry.

Chichi let out a sigh. "I hope he is alright…"

"I do too, but knowing Goku, he isn't going to let anything stop him…" Bulma replied as she shook her head.

"Yeah, it honestly feels like nothing stops him once he sets his mind to stop him." Chichi gave a small chuckle.

Bulma smiled a little, before a thought came to mind. "So… at this point I've pretty much come to terms with my feelings for him…"

"Y-you have?" Chichi asked nervously.

"Yeah… I have…" Bulma nodded. "And… I think I do like him. But… I know you like him too… But after almost thinking he died, I don't want to lose him…"

Chichi thought about it for a second. "I know how you feel… I don't want to lose him either…"

Bulma placed a hand on Chichi's shoulder. "Then let's both give it our all to win him, and try to stay friends, regardless of who he chooses."

Chichi was surprised by this, but gave a small smile and nodded. "Right. It's a deal." Their rivalry in the quest for the heart of the young Goku had now become official. Neither knew who was going to win, but one thing was certain, they would both give it their all.

They decided to get some rest and eat a little before getting back to training. Didn't matter how much they trained, they wouldn't be able to beat Tao on an empty stomach or tired. The three of them all found a hiding spot to sleep in case Tao came back while they slept. When morning came around, Upa was the first to wake up.

He decided to grab an axe, and have a look around, making sure to check and see if either Tao had returned, or Goku had climbed back down. When he saw neither, he let out a sigh. "I sure hope Goku makes it back…"

"You're worrying too much. Goku will make it." came the voice of Bulma, startling Upa as he turned around, to see Bulma and Chichi were both awake.

"D-do you really think so?" Upa asked nervously.

"Trust me, I've known him long enough to know that you shouldn't count him out." Bulma said with a chuckle.

Chichi gave a nod. "Yeah. Goku always seems to have a knack for the impossible."

This made Upa smile, and reassured him. "A-alright. If you think he can do it, then so do I."

After this, the trio began to prepare breakfast. There was no point in doing nothing but worry. And they would need their energy if Tao returned and Goku hadn't returned.

Once that was finished, Chichi and Bulma went back to training, with Bulma trying to figure out how to do the Kamehameha wave. It took a bit of work, and some pointers from Chichi. But eventually she managed to get it. Though it was pretty weak, due to her not having much in the way of ki training.

"Ugh, darn. Yours is way stronger than mine…" Bulma sighed.

Chichi however went to reassure her. "You just need practice. You can only get better if you keep trying."

Bulma scratched the back of her head a little. "I guess… it's just that this ki stuff is hard for me to understand…" She began going through her head trying to think of ways she could use her technical know-how to improve. Going back to her thought on making her future suit able to harness and enhance her ki abilities.

However, as they were training, they noticed it began to rain, and lightning shot across the sky. They were both shocked at how it suddenly came out of nowhere. Upa meanwhile looked up at the tower, wondering if it was some kind of sign.

Meanwhile, far away across the ocean, Master Roshi stood outside Kame House, looking up at the storm. It felt eerily familiar, as he hadn't seen a storm like this since he climbed the tower years ago. He had a feeling… a feeling that perhaps, he knew exactly what was happening.

Bulma and Chichi tried to keep dry in the storm, staying in the tent Upa and his father had set up. It was crazy, since it seemed to just show up. But then, as quickly as it came, it disappeared. Bulma peaked her head out of the tent when she saw it was letting up.

"Jeez, things just keep getting weirder and weirder…" she sighed as they came out of the tent.

Chichi came out alongside her. "Tell me about it."

"We should probably get some food and water ready, now that the rain has stopped." Upa suggested.

"Sounds like a plan to me." Bulma said as she gave a small stretch. The three of them then walked off from their usual spot, getting some food and water for the night.

It took them till around sunset to get back. However, none of them knew they had just missed Goku, who had come down and immediately climbed back up because Korin threw the four star ball from the tower.

When they got back to the tower, Upa looked up at the tower with a raised brow. Chichi saw this. "What is it, Upa?"

"I… I thought I saw something move up the tower. I could have sworn it was Goku. but it was way too fast."

"It was probably your imagination." Bulma said with a shrug as she prepared dinner. Upa meanwhile began placing a few flowers on his father's grave, hoping it would keep him warm.

Chichi went over and placed a hand on his shoulder. "We are going to bring him back, Upa. I promise."

He gave her a smile. "I know. Thank you."

Time passed and it had been the third day since Goku climbed the tower. The three of them couldn't help but look up at the tower, hoping they would catch a glimpse of Goku climbing down.

"It's been three days… I hope he made it…" Upa said nervously.

Before either of the girls could say anything to reassure him, they heard something coming from the distance. When they turned to where the noise was coming from, and saw exactly what it was.

Bulma's eyes went wide as she realized it wasn't a what. But a who. "It's Tao! He's come back!"

"Oh no… and Goku hasn't come back yet…" Chichi said nervously as the two took up a fighting stance. Upa meanwhile grabbed his axe as Tao landed.

When the pillar hit the ground, he jumped off and stared at the trio. Upa stepped forward with a look of hatred in his eyes. "Y-you… you killed my daddy!"

Tao just looked at him with contempt. "I've killed a lot of things, you little heathen. And you're next." Upa growled as he tossed his axe at Tao, but he dodged it without any effort.

This enraged Upa as tears filled his eyes, before he charged at Tao. "Upa! Wait!" Chichi shouted.

"You're going to get yourself killed!" Bulma added as the two of them ran to stop him.

But it was too late, as Tao sweeped Upa's leg, causing him to fly into the air, before Tao grabbed him by the throat. This caused the two girls to stop dead in their tracks.

Tao looked to them both. "I suggest you tell me where you are hiding the dragon ball."

"We don't have it." Bulma simply stated, trying to think of a way to save Upa.

This just angered Tao. "Don't you dare lie to me! Hand it over, or I'll break this little savage's neck!"

Chichi grew worried as she started to tremble. "We aren't lying! We don't have it!"

"If you aren't going to comply…" Tao said as he tightened his grip on Upa's neck. "Then we have nothing more to discuss!" he shouted as he threw Upa at the tower at full strength.

"Upa!" The two girls shouted as they tried to run to catch him. But he was moving too fast.

Just then, they heard a familiar voice call out. "FLYING NIMBUS!"

Bulma, Chichi, and Tao all looked up, and saw Goku coming down the tower, and landing on Nimbus as it caught Upa.

"It's Goku! He made it!" Chichi exclaimed in joy.

"Great timing, Goku!" Bulma cheered.

Tao glared at the monkey boy. "So… you are alive after all…"

When the Flying Nimbus came to a halt, Goku smiled at his friends. "Hey, guys. Did you miss me?" he asked with a chuckle. It made his friends smile to see his goofy personality again.

Tao meanwhile mused to himself. "Hmm… I've never fought someone twice. This will be interesting."

"Did you make it to the top, Goku? Did you drink the sacred water?" Upa asked expectedly. Eager to hear how it went.

Goku nodded. "Yep! And I'm a whole lot stronger now!"

"That's great, Goku! Now you can beat that Tao guy!" Bulma cheered.

Goku smiled, before turning to Tao with a fierce look. "Upa, I want you to stay on the Nimbus. Okay?"

"Okay." Upa said with a nod as Goku jumped down.

Chichi and Bulma ran over to Goku. "Let us help, Goku. We got some training done while you were gone." Chichi asked him, wanting to try and help.

"Yeah. It will be different this time." Bulma said with a nod.

Goku looked at them a little. "I can handle this. Just make sure Upa doesn't get hurt."

"But Goku…" Chichi said nervously.

"Don't worry. It's going to be alright." Goku assured them both. They both decided to trust him, but were ready to jump in if he needed them. Goku then marched over to Tao. "Don't you dare hurt my friends again." he growled.

Tao just scoffed at the child's bravado. "You have no idea how lucky you are to even be alive, boy. Much less talking. No one ever managed to survive a direct hit from my Dodon Ray. Kings and peasants alike have fallen to its power."

Goku placed a hand on the hole in his gi. "It was the four star ball that protected me."

"Ah yes. The last dragon ball that I forgot about. I won't make the same mistake twice." Tao spoke as he was ready to correct his mistake. "I have to say, I have actually been looking forward to this. But I wonder, which will be more entertaining? Taking the ball? Or ramming it down your windpipe?" he mused with amusement.

Goku's friends now looked nervous from the mental image Tao had given them. It was enough to chill anyone to the bone.

"G-Goku…" Chichi said with a gulp.

Tao then continued. "There is a very thin line between bravery and stupidity. Do you honestly think you stand a chance against me?"

Goku however didn't care about his threats. "I'm going to give you one last chance to give me back my dragon balls, before I take them back!"

Tao just started laughing. "My my, children really do have such active imaginations! I will only need three seconds to kill you!" Tao then lunged at Goku, ready to end his life, and this time, he intended to make sure.

Goku then got into a fighting stance, waiting for Tao to get closer. Just as Tao was about to throw his first attack, Goku bent backwards, avoiding it without any issue, and then landed a punch on Tao's stomach.

This caused Tao's eyes to bulge as he was launched into the air. Goku then jumped into the air after Tao, and before Tao had a chance to react, kicked him into the tower, before sliding down and landing on the ground.

Bulma and Chichi couldn't believe it. Last time, they only managed to get a single hit on Tao. And that was because they managed to keep his hands occupied. But Goku now just effortlessly knocked him sky high.

"Amazing! He's actually winning!" Upa cheered.

"It must have been that sacred water…" Chichi said in amazement.

"Yeah… guess the myth was true…" Bulma said in shock.

Goku glared at the mercenary as he landed on the ground. "It's been three seconds. And I'm still here." he taunted.

"Yes, I see that…" Tao growled. "It's impressive. Only three days and you've already become so much stronger…"

"That's right. I've spent those days getting ready for you on top of Korin's Tower." Goku said with a grin.

"What? The sacred Tower of Korin?!" Tao looked to the tower, before his eyes went wide in a mix of realization and surprise. "W-wait! Are you saying you managed to climb to the top?! Impossible! Next you are going to tell me you drank the sacred water! HA!" he mocked, thinking the brat was delusional or lying.

Goku smirked. "It took a while. But I managed to eventually."

Tao then began to think to himself with this new information. 'So it is true… I thought it was just a myth. But… it would explain how this boy managed to get so much stronger… tch! It doesn't matter! His life will end by my hands!'

"Well, I'm happy you managed to find a way to pass the time. But it won't help you, boy." Tao said with a smirk.

Goku however got tired of the useless blabbering. "Fight!" he demanded.

"Hehe, I don't fight… I annihilate. And when I'm done, all that will be left of you is dust!" Tao chuckled.

"Whatever you call it, you've hurt too many innocent people! It ends now!" Goku shouted definitely.

"Big words for such a small mouth. Whatever it is you had learned on that tower won't be able to save you."

"Let's just see about that!"

"You can do it, Goku! Kick his ass!" Bulma cheered

"Yeah! Teach him a lesson!" joined Chichi. Both were excited to see Tao get what's coming to him.

Tao then charged at Goku, delivering blow after blow. But none of them hit their mark as Goku effortlessly managed to block every single one. Tao then used all his strength to deliver a powerful punch to the boy, only for Goku to stop it with his knee.

This caught Tao by surprise as he backed away. "H-how is this possible? You stopped my death punch? With your knee?!"

Goku chuckled and patted his knee. "Yep! It's all I kneed! Get it?" he laughed

This just angered Tao further, as he charged in to deliver even more strikes and kicks. But Goku seemed to predict every single one of his blows. Tao's anger and frustration only grew with every block.

"Amazing… Goku is managing to win on his own, when last time, it took all three of us for you to get a solid hit in…" Chichi said to Bulma.

"Yeah… it's like Goku is a different person with how strong he got in such a short time…" Bulma said as the two of them felt mesmerized seeing how Goku fought.

Tao then jumped back in anger. He was so enraged, he noticed too late that Goku was flying towards him, ready to deliver a powerful kick to his chest. This sent Tao flying back, before he recovered with a bit of blood on his lip, and a vein on his forehead that looked like it was about to pop. "That's it! My turn now!"

"I don't think so. I'm just getting started!" Goku said with a smirk as the two charged at each other. Tao went to deliver a kick, but Goku avoided it and leapt into the air. Tao leapt after him, and struck again. Goku blocked it, but Tao anticipated that as he struck once more now that Goku was wide open, sending the boy flying.

"Goku!" his friends called out in shock.

However, their concerns were unnecessary, as Goku righted himself and jumped off the tower towards Tao. But he didn't expect for him to plan for that. "That's right, come and get me." Tao said with a grin as he managed to avoid Goku's attack.

Goku let out a scream as he was heading towards a tree, before hitting it directly, causing it to fall. His friends cringed at this, as it looked incredibly painful.

Tao looked at the fallen tree that looked like it had been expertly and cleanly chopped down. Goku got up from behind the stump, nursing his aching head, thinking it may have been bruised.

Tao just chuckled, while Goku turned to him with a glare. The two charged towards each other, ready to continue the battle.

It started out slow with Tao delivering all the attacks and Goku blocking. But it soon shifted with them trading blows, before Tao became the one on the defensive. Goku was practically overwhelming him, and Tao was caught by surprise when Goku delivered a kick to his face, launching Tao back.

He managed to recover. But not quickly enough to stop Goku from punching him directly in the chest. And then another kick. Then one to the face. Goku just started whaling on him with everything going he had. Tao got sent back as his clothes were now torn up. Goku winded back his fist, before punching him so hard, Tao was sent into the air.

Goku wasn't done however as he jumped after him. Tao's eyes went wide in shock, as Goku swung his leg towards him with another kick, slamming Tao right into the ground.

Tao ripped himself out of the ground. The top of his outfit was now gone, and he was now completely enraged. "That's the second suit you have ruined!" He growled. "Now I have to find another tailor good enough to make a new one!" He shouted. Frustrated since he killed the last one for asking to be paid for his services.

"I would be more concerned about your fighting than your looks if I were you." Goku replied.

Tao grit his teeth at Goku's words, and looked like he was close to popping a vein. "You dare question my abilities?! Then taste my Dodon Ray!"

"Goku! Watch out! That's the attack from before!" Bulma shouted. Chichi's eyes went wide as she remembered how it almost killed Goku before, while Upa trembled with fear.

Goku however was prepared as he held out his hands. "Go on! This time I'm ready for it!"

Tao was ready to wipe the confidence from Goku's face, along with his life. He pointed his finger at him as it glowed yellow. "Dodon Ray!" he shouted, firing the beam.

Goku stood his ground as he caught the beam. Tao put everything he had into it as it pushed Goku back. When the beam stopped, Goku just groaned a bit as it burned the palms of his hand, much to the shock of Tao, as he was left speechless at how that was all it did.

Chichi, Bulma and Upa were just as shocked. The attack that nearly killed Goku before now just singed his fingers, as Goku began to blow on the palms of his hands to make the burning stop. "O-ouch! That burned!" he yelped as he kept blowing.

Tao however thought this had to be a trick. "I-it's impossible…" he managed. "No one has ever withstood that attack…"

Goku however stood tall after his hands stopped burning. "It wont work on me anymore. Like my kamehameha wave didn't work on you before. Looks like we're even."

"He did it!" Upa said excitedly.

"Yeah, he is going to pull this off!" Chichi said in amazement.

"Those dragon balls are in the bag." Bulma said with a smirk. Though she was pretty disappointed she didn't get to put the training she and Chichi went through to the test. But seeing the fight between Goku and Tao, and the level the two of them were currently at, they would probably get in the way, and would need more training first.

"Dream on!" Tao shouted as he pulled out a capsule and clicked the top, before flicking it into the air.

"A capsule?" Goku questioned with a raised brow, before it revealed it was holding a scimitar. Goku yelped as Tao slashed at him, and just managed to dodge it. Tao began swinging more and more, with Goku just barely dodging it.

Chichi and Bulma now had worried looks. "We have to help him!" Chichi shouted.

Bulma turned to Upa. "Go get Goku's power pole! We'll try to back him up!" she shouted as the two girls ran to help Goku, while Upa nodded and ran to the tent.

As Tao was slashing at Goku, Bulma delivered a rocket powered kick to his back. "Gah! You again?!" he shouted in rage.

"That's right. We aren't going to just watch as you try to slash at him!" she growled.

Chichi then delivered a punch with all her strength, pushing Tao back when he blocked it with his sword. "Yeah! If you want him, you'll have to go through us!"

"You guys…" Goku was surprised by this, and didn't know why, but a small blush formed on his face as he saw the two girls protect him. He didn't know what this weird feeling was.

Tao smirked at the two girls. "That can be arranged!" he shouted as he charged at them.

Bulma and Chichi began to show off the results of their training together. Though it was nothing compared to Goku's training with Korin, it still helped them be able to keep Tao on his feet, since he had two opponents to deal with. Both of them attacking on either side, Chichi using her incredible strength she got from her father, and Bulma using the rocket functions on her boots and gloves to give her strikes some added oomph.

Tao was surprised by how Bulma's style of fighting seemed to change. Though it was clumsy, there was actually some technique to it. It wasn't just some wild flailing like before.

Goku was about to go help, but then he heard Upa call out to him. "Goku! Over here!" he shouted as he tossed the power pole to him.

Goku's eyes lit with joy. "My power pole!" he said happily as he caught it. He drew it out of its case and joined the girls in their fight against Tao. Tao saw Goku charging at him, and swung the sword to the boy. Goku however swung back, the two weapons meeting. To the shock of Tao, the pole proved more powerful, as it snapped the blade clean in two with a single strike.

Tao just trampled in fear, while Upa and the girls cheered. The two girls felt a bit tired, as it took a lot to keep Tao from getting a hit on either of them, long enough for Goku to get his pole.

Goku just smirked as he threw the power pole aside. "I don't need a weapon to beat you!"

Tao grit his teeth. "No! You need a miracle. Now hand over the dragon ball and I might let you live!" he demanded.

"You gotta be joking! Goku's been handing you your sorry butt this entire time!" Bulma shouted.

"Yeah! And unlike you, he didn't need to cheat to gain an advantage!" Chichi added.

Tao glared at the two haggard girls. "What did you say you little brats?!"

"Your fight is with me! Leave them out of this! I won't give you my dragon balls! They belong to me! Give them back or I'll take them back!" Goku ordered.

Tao couldn't believe the audacity of this boy. "You must be joking. You are just some child. Why do you want these damn things so badly anyway?"

"Because they're the only way I can bring back Upa's father after you murdered him!"

"Well I'm afraid you are going to be disappointed." Tao said with a vicious smirk. But on the inside, he felt humiliated. He never thought he would ever have to bargain. And with a child no less. If it hadn't been for that sacred water, he would have killed him already. That's when Tao realized something. If the sacred water could make Goku this powerful, Tao could only imagine what it could do for him. A grin spread across his face, as a plan formed in his head, and he began laughing.

Goku was confused at how Tao was just standing there. "Are we going to keep fighting or what?"

This brought Tao out of his thoughts "Hm? You should be more grateful for me giving you extra time to live." he then noticed a rock, which he could use for a distraction.

Goku just got in a fighting stance. "Let's get on with it!" he then lunged towards Tao, but the mercenary then kicked the rock right at him with all his might. But it wasn't aimed at Goku at all, as it went right past him. Realization struck Goku as he turned around. "Upa!" he called out. Chichi and Bulma immediately realized the same as the three scrambled to save the young boy.

Goku managed to tackle him out of the way, as that single rock had then struck the tent so hard, it was completely destroyed.

Goku turned to Tao with a glare. "You dirty monster!" but he saw that Tao wasn't there, as the four of them began looking around in confusion.

They then heard the laughter of Tao, and followed where it came from. They saw Tao hanging onto the tower. "Our battle will have to be put on hold for now! I'm feeling quite parched and could use a drink up this precious tower of yours!" he laughed as he began to climb up.

Goku however didn't make any move to stop him. "Fine, drink all you want. You have to come back down eventually." much to the confusion of everyone else, afraid of what will happen if he got the water, and not knowing the truth.

Upa had a nervous look on his face. "There has to be something we can do…"

Goku smiled. "Don't worry. I know exactly what to do!"

Bulma had a relieved look. "That's great Goku! What is it?"

Goku just rubbed his stomach. "Get something to eat." this practically floored the others, as they couldn't believe this. When they fixed Upa's tent, and got food ready, Goku was the only one who started eating. Everyone else just had nervous looks. Goku saw this and raised a brow. "What's wrong, guys? Not hungry?"

Chichi shook her head. "This is serious, Goku. Tao probably made it to the top, and got his hands on the sacred water…"

Goku just gave them a reassuring look. "Don't worry, I can deal with it."

"So do you have some kind of trick then?" Upa asked in a hopeful tone.

"Nope! No trick!" the monkey boy chuckled.

Bulma was starting to get frustrated. "Come on, Goku. You can tell us. Maybe we can help. What's your secret?"

Goku then just yawned as he finished eating. "A nap…" he said simply, flooring his three friends once again. Goku then just got ready to sleep for the night, making the others just seem nervous at how Goku could sleep at a time like this, when Tao is about to get the water.

However, as they were trying to figure out what to do, they heard Goku laughing in his sleep, saying something about underwear and Bulma. Making said girl blush as she remembered how she and Goku met Roshi.

Chichi looked at her suspiciously. "What's that about?"

Bulma's whole face turned as red as a tomato. "N-NOTHING, NOTHING AT ALL! Oh wow, look at the time, let's get some sleep!" she said as she laid down next to Goku. This made Chichi huff as she got on the other side, while Bulma covered her face in shame. Upa just had a confused look, but decided to also get some sleep.

When night ended, and Tao still hadn't come down, Bulma sighed and decided to try tinkering with the dragon radar. But then, to her surprise, it didn't seem to be working.

Chichi went over and looked over her shoulder. "What's wrong with it?"

Bulma began to scratch her head in frustration as she was tinkering with the radar. "I don't know. From what I can tell, it isn't broken. It's like something is jamming the signal or something…" she sighed.

"You don't think it's the Red Ribbon, do you?" Chichi suggested with a nervous look.

"Hmm… maybe… they probably noticed how long Tao has been taking, and decided to put a contingency in place…" Bulma said as she began to think.

As they had this talk, they heard Goku yawn as he woke up. He began to stretch his legs as he was getting ready for the day. "Sleep well, guys?"

Upa shook his head. "How could I sleep knowing Tao probably got the water by now?"

Goku just let out a small chuckle. "What's the problem? It's just tap water."

This made everyone do a double take. "Hold on, what?" asked Bulma.

"Just regular tap water? Are you sure?" Upa asked.

"Yep! Nothing special at all!" Goku replied with an honest look.

This made Upa look up at the tower, not sure what to think knowing that the legend his people clung to was fake. While they were all left wondering how Goku could have gotten stronger if the water was a fake.

However, they were taken out of their thoughts when they heard the distinct sound of screaming, and saw Tao was falling from the tower, before hitting the ground with a massive slam, making everyone flinch a bit, as it looked pretty painful.

Tao growled as he pulled himself off the ground. "Grrrr! I'll make you pay for that, you damn furball!" he shouted to the tower.

Goku however just smirked. "I see you're back. A lot sooner than I expected." he said teasingly.

Tao then glared at the boy. "I'm in a hurry to kill you."

"You sure? You look pretty tired. Maybe you should take a nap first." the monkey boy suggested with a laugh.

Tao then got into a battle stance. "Of course I don't, you fool! Prepare to die!"

"Oh yeah?" Goku asked as he got in his own stance.

"Goku, try to be careful…" Chichi pleaded. They knew what Goku said, but they were all still nervous for him.

"I will. Don't worry." he assured, before turning back to Tao.

"Any last words?" the mercenary asked.

"No. We talked enough."

Tao roared as he charged at Goku. "Witness the power of the sacred water!" he shouted as he then struck Goku across the face, before continuing his attack further. He knocked Goku onto the ground, before beating him while he was down.

"Goku!" Bulma shouted with worry.

"Snap out of it Goku!" Upa shouted. None of them knew why Goku would let Tao hit him like that.

"Should we help him?" Chichi asked Bulma.

"We might have to…"

But before they could do anything, Tao kicked him into the air, before jumping after him and slamming him back down onto the ground. The others were going to run to Goku to see if he was okay, only for Tao to drop down and slam his knee on the boy in a brutal fashion, making them flinch.

The three of them thought it was over, and that Goku was dead, as Tao stood over the boy. Tao just smirked. "Hehe, hard to believe all it took was a single glass of water to make this much difference. You should have just stayed out of the way, and left fighting to the big kids." he laughed, making the others cry, as Chichi and Bulma were ready to make him pay.

But then, to the shock of everyone, Goku got right back up. He just casually dusted himself up. "Wow, you really did get better. You are almost as strong as me."

"H-he's alive…" Upa said with a tearful smile.

"Goku! What did I say about scaring us like that!" Bulma shouted, trying to be angry, but was more relieved.

Goku scratched the back of his head and chuckled. "Sorry, I just wanted to see how strong he got."

Chichi just smiled and wiped away her tears. "You big dummy!"

Tao however was having a mental crisis. "T-this has to be some kind of bad dream…"

Goku then gave Tao a smirk. "I was also studying your moves. Your breathing gives them all away." he explained as he charged.

"I will crush you!" Tao roared in anger as he swung his fist at Goku, only for him to dodge and hit Tao in the chest, sending the mercenary to go flying back, with his feet dragging through the ground.

Goku then jumped into the air as Tao had the air knocked out of him, and the boy hopped onto his shoulders, before repeatedly punching his face, before finishing with a kick. This caused Tao to lose a tooth, gain a black eye, and start to see stars. He ended up so dazed, he lost his balance and fell to the ground.

The others were mazed. Goku had this fight in the bag, and began to cheer for him. "Great job!" called out Upa.

Chichi began clapping for him. "You can win this!"

"Yeah! Way to teach that jerk!" Bulma called out.

Tao pulled himself off the ground. He had never been in so much pain before. No one has ever hurt him, let alone to this point. He glared at Goku, we just looked down at the assassin. He couldn't believe how fast Goku had become. He almost thought there were two for a second.

Goku then got into a crane stance. "You should just give up." he suggested.

Tao couldn't believe this. 'I can't surrender to a child… I would never be able to look myself in the mirror again if I did…' he tried to think of something, anything. Then, an idea came to him. He fell to his hands and knees. "I give up… I admit defeat. Please forgive me." he pleaded with a whimper. "I won't hurt anyone again!"

This surprised everyone as they just looked at each other. Not really sure what to make of this, as they didn't expect this. "I… guess we can let you leave… what do you think Upa?" Goku asked as he turned to the boy, since it was his father that Tao killed.

Tao smirked when he saw Goku was distracted, and pulled out something behind his back. Bulma's eyes went wide. "Goku, look out! He has a grenade!"

Goku turned around in shock, as Tao began to laugh. "How's this for an apology!" he shouted as he tossed the grenade and jumped into the air. "Sayonara!" he shouted triumphantly.

Goku however did something no one expected. He charged towards the grenade, and kicked it right towards Tao, who's eyes went wide in terror, before it exploded. Tao let out one final scream, before being destroyed in a massive explosion, that nearly knocked everyone back from the shock wave. They saw no trace of Tao after that.

Goku smiled as he got up. "Hehe, he's gone!"

His friends ran over to him and began to cheer. "That was some quick thinking Goku." complimented Chichi.

"Thanks. I'm glad it worked." the boy said with a chuckle.

"Now all we have to do is find the other dragon balls, then we can bring back Upa's father." Bulma said with a smile. "I just need a little more time to fix the radar so it won't have any problem with interference." She then began to get to work. It took a little time, but eventually, she finally got it.

Once she finished, Goku saw on the radar that two dragon balls were together. Goku raised a brow at this, before a thought came to mind. "Oh, that must be where the Red Ribbon headquarters is."

"Then let's get some help from the others, and try to take them." Chichi suggested.

Goku however shook his head. "That could take too long. I'll go myself."

The three of them almost thought they were hearing things when he said that. "Y-you can't be serious, Goku! It's too dangerous." objected Chichi.

"But we need all the dragon balls to bring back Upa's dad, and it's better to do it quickly." Goku explained.

Bulma sighed. "How about this, we check to see if any of the Red Ribbon soldiers Upa's dad killed had any vehicle capsules, me and Chichi can go get the others, while you go on ahead and see if you can cause enough damage for them not to see the rest of us coming?"

Goku nodded. "Works for me."

Chichi however turned to Bulma in shock. "You can't be serious, Bulma!"

"You saw how strong Goku is. Fighting an army of those Red Ribbon guys shouldn't be too hard. At least not for too long. That gives us plenty of time to get back up." Bulma explained to her.

"I guess you are right…" Chich relented. She had to admit, Goku had gotten a lot stronger. So it made sense. "Alright. Then once we get the dragon balls, we can come back and wish Upa's dad back."

Upa had a touched smile spread across his face. "Thank you, guys. You are good friends."

"No problem, Upa. And don't worry. It won't take long." Goku said, before calling the Flying Nimbus, and flew off. Bulma and Chichi immediately started searching the bodies of some of the Red Ribbon soldiers Bora killed the day they met. They managed to find a plane capsule, and charted their course for Kame House.

When they got there, they heard the distinct sound of gunfire. Bulma yelped in shock. "W-what is that?! Is the Red Ribbon Army here?!"

Chichi however just shook her head. "No, that's probably Launch."

"WHAT?! NO WAY!" Bulma shouted. She refused to believe that sweet girl she met when they had to get a submarine from Roshi would do that.

Chichi just started nervously laughing. "She probably sneezed, and Roshi decided to act like… well… Roshi…"

Bulma didn't know what that was supposed to mean, only for Roshi to come running. Followed by Launch, who, much to the shock of Bulma, was now blonde.

"Come here you no good lousy pervert!" Launch shouted as she began shooting at Roshi.

"W-what the heck…" Bulma mumbled as she was wondering if this was some kind of dream or something.

Chichi scratched the back of her head. "Whenever Launch sneezes, her personality seems to do a one-eighty…"

When Launch noticed the two girls, she immediately stopped shooting. "Oh, hey there, Chichi. Who's the new broad?"

Bulma raised a brow. "Launch, don't you recognize me?"

Launch gave the blue haired girl a quick look and tried to think. "Sorry, girly, I haven't seen you before in my life." she answered.

"Oh, actually, Launch, this is Bulma. She is actually acquainted with your… other self."

Launch raised a brow at this. "Oh, is she now? Well, nice for me to meet ya then."

"U-uh… right…" Bulma nodded.

Roshi peaked out from behind a rock and looked at them. "S-so what brings you two here?" he then had a perverted smirk as he looked at Bulma. "Come for a little sun bathing?" he however quickly ducked back behind the rock when another shot was fired at him.

However, it wasn't Launch who fired. It was Bulma, who swiped her machine gun. "YOU PERVERT!"

Launch gave a small smirk. "I think I'm gonna like ya."

Chichi then felt curious. "So… what did Roshi do this time?"

"Ugh… that damn old man. He used this watch thingy to spy on me in the tub!" Launch shouted as she pulled out Bulma's reduction band. Though it was now smashed to bits.

Bulma looked shocked. "You gotta be kidding me! I made that so I could travel on the Nimbus with Goku, and that old man uses it for that?!" Bulma shouted as she began to fire more at the rock Roshi was behind.

"So, why did you come to visit?" Launch asked.

Chichi then remembered. "That's right! We need help. We need to get the dragon balls from the Red Ribbon Army. Goku already went on ahead of us."

Launch was surprised by this. "The Red Ribbon? Why would he do that?" she asked in shock. She was actually starting to like the kid, so she wasn't keen on him getting killed.

Bulma then stopped shooting. "We need the dragon balls to bring back someone who was killed because of the Red Ribbon. They sent an assassin to kill Goku, and a man named Bora got killed trying to protect him. We promised his son Upa we would bring him back. Goku went to their headquarters to get the balls they have, and we need to help."

Launch gave a smirk as she took back her machine gun. "Well count me in."

Bulma then gave it some thought. "We should probably ask Yamcha too. We could use his help. Besides, the plane Chichi and I came in only fits two."

"But this dump ain't got a phone anywhere." Launch refuted.

Bulma sighed. "Darn. We could really use him."

Mr. Turtle however crawled over. "Well, why not make one? You made the dragon radar, and that shrinking band, right? Should be easy."

"That's right, Bulma! You also made your boots and gauntlets. A phone should be easy for you!" Chichi agreed.

Bulma smiled at this. "You're right! Give me a minute." She said as she ran inside. She got right to work making a phone so they could call Yamcha, who had been staying at Capsule Corps. It took a little work, but she managed to get it done, along with a spare radar so they could find the RR HQ. Once she was done, she began calling Capsule Corps. "Hello? Dad, can you please put me through to Yamcha… No dad, I don't want to hear a joke… DAD! THIS IS SERIOUS!"

Meanwhile at Capsule Corps, Doctor Brief pouted. "Her loss, it was a good one…" he lamented as he gave the phone to Yamcha.

Yamcha took the phone. "Hey, Bulma, what's up? How's the hunt for the dragon balls?" he asked cheerfully. But then Bulma began to tell him everything. "What?! On his own?!"

Oolong began to grow nervous. "Uh oh… I smell a good deed about to happen…" he said as he began to slowly walk away.

"We'll be right there." Yamcha assured, before hanging up. He then turned to Puar and Oolong. Come on you two, we need to get going. Goku is about to fight the Red Ribbon Army!"

This caused Puar to gasp in shock, and Oolong to freeze in place. "D-did you say… the Red Ribbon Army…" he whimpered.

Yamcha had a smirk grow across his face. "That's right. This is my chance to put all that training to the test."

The three of them, though Oolong had to be dragged to help, grabbed one of the Capsule Corps jets, and began to fly to Kame House. When they got there, Yamcha landed the jet.

"Alright, get in everyone!" he called out. Everyone began to jump in. Launch had made sure to equip herself with plenty of weapons. After all, they were basically going to war. They were determined to help Goku. After all, he was their friend, and he was up against an organization that was sowing terror throughout the world. A group that had terrorized entire towns and killed countless innocent people.

Bulma grabbed her spare radar, and pointed in the direction of the Red Ribbon base. "That way." she told Yamcha.

"Right!" he nodded as he took off, and began following the radar. After some time they were flying over the ocean. "Alright, we are just about at cruising altitude."

Oolong gave a scoff. "How is this anything like a cruise?"

Bulma glared at the pig. "Why did Yamcha even bring you? All you think of is yourself."

"Well excuse me! Why should I risk my life?"

Now this angered Bulma. "What about all the times Goku saved your worthless bacon?!" This made Oolong grumble but kept his mouth shut.

Mister Turtle turned to Yamcah. "Um… excuse me. Is there anything this old turtle can do to help?"

Launch gave a smirk. "Sure. We could always use some turtle soup." she chuckled as she pointed her gun at him, making everyone panic.

"This lady is insane!" Oolong shouted.

Chichi however got in the way. "Wait, Launch! Stop!"

This made Launch grumble. "Oh fine…"

Yamcha then thought of something. "Hey, Master Roshi, where's Krillin?"

"Hm? Oh, he went for a swim across the ocean, and to shop on the mainland." He answered. "He got tired of waiting for us to get a new vehicle. And he saw it as good training."

Chichi gave a chuckle. "Sounds like him."

Yamcha had given an incredulous look. "W-well… is there any way we can catch up to him? We could use his help." he began to turn the plane so they could try and find their young bald friend across the sea.

Said boy was currently swimming across the sea. He had a bag of his clothes tied to his head, and he was feeling exhausted, thinking this might not have been a good idea. "Ugh… I've been out here since forever… when will I get to the mainland…" he sighed.

Just then, he heard the sound of a jet, and looked to see one coming right at him. This caused the young boy to freak out as he tried to swim away. But it just kept gaining, and so he tried diving under the water to escape. When he thought he got away, the jet stopped in front of him. He was about to swim away again, only for the hatch to open.

Bulma chuckled. "We scare you?"

Krillin had an embarrassed blush. "U-um… n-no…" he swam over to the jet, only to realize he got his clothes wet. "Um… got a drier in there?"

Yamcha shook his head. "No, sorry. Just hang them up on the wings. They should get dry as we are going."

Krillin nodded and did so. When he got on board, Chichi handed him a towel. "So, where are we going anyway? I get the feeling you didn't all come all this way to bring me back to Kame house…"

"We are heading to Red Ribbon HQ. Goku needs our help." Chichi explained.

Krillin's eyes went wide at this. "T-the Red Ribbon?! Why would he be going there?!" It was then he was given the long and short of it. How Upa's father, Bora was killed, and how Goku was determined to bring him back with the dragon balls. Krillin thought about it for a second. "W-well… alright. I'll do my best to help."

"Great, then let's get going already!" Launch said with an excited voice.

Roshi looked at her nervously. "You know this is supposed to be serious, right?"

"I know that. But who says I can't take this seriously, and have a lot of fun?" she asked with a smirk as she loaded her machine gun. This just made everyone nervous sharing a jet with a gun crazed psycho.

"Anyway, should we also get the help of Goku's mom and grandpa?" Bulma asked.

"Or my daddy?" Chichi suggested.

"I don't think we have any more time for more put stops. Goku needs us. We just picked up Krillin since he was on the way." Roshi informed them. "The longer we take, the more the chance of Goku getting beaten grows."

Yamcha nodded. "Roshi is right. We don't have time. We will just have to make due with who we have."

Oolong groaned. "Oh great… which means a bigger chance of dying…" he sighed as they began to make their way after Goku, following the radar to get to Goku. It seems he had gotten really close to the other two dragon balls.

After many twists and turns, barely avoiding a missile, nearly crashing into an escaping Colonel Violet, and seeing the top of a mountain be blown up, they eventually managed to get to the HQ of the Red Ribbon Army. But to their shock, the Red Ribbon Army seemed to be on the retreat.

"What is going on…" Krillin said in surprise.

"Maybe Goku had won without us?" Chichi asked.

"Against a whole army? Goku is tough, but not that tough." Oolong denied.

This made Bulma angry. "So what? Are you saying Goku lost?"

"All I'm saying is they could be on the march instead of the retreat. They might even be out on the hunt for us in retaliation for Goku attacking them." the pig defended.

"Look, we came here to help Goku, so that's what we are going to do." Yamcha insisted. He then began to land the ship down in the forest outside of the Red Ribbon HQ.

Launch then nudged him in annoyance. "What are we doing landing so far away?"

"We are trying not to be seen without coming up with a plan." the former bandit explained as they landed down. Once they did, they all began to leave the plane.

They then began trying to discuss what to do, as they didn't hear any fighting. They were actually starting to fear the worst. Just then, they heard the sound of something flying overhead.

Oolong pointed up at it. "Look out! We got company!" he said in concern, thinking it might be Red Ribbon.

Chichi however gave it a closer look. "Wait… it's Goku!" she cheered.

"She's right, it is!" Roshi nodded. They all felt overjoyed to see he was alive, and began calling out to get his attention.

When Goku saw them, he smiled as he flew down on the Flying Nimbus. "Hey guys, glad you could make it!" he exclaimed, happy to see them.

Bulma now had an annoyed look. "Well you seem pretty happy for someone who was supposed to be fighting an army."

"Yeah, he isn't even wounded." Oolong nodded.

Yamcha just chuckled and pat Goku on the shoulder. "I get it, you decided to wait for us before attacking.

Goku just looked at them in confusion. "What do you mean? I did fight them." This shocked everyone to hear this. "I even managed to beat them."

"W-wait… against a whole army…" Krillin said in a trembling tone.

"Well… not all of them. A few of them ran away." Goku explained with a shrug.

Yamcha immediately turned to Puar. "Puar, I need you to scout the base, see if you can find anyone."

"Okay!" she nodded as she flew off and searched the base. The others waited for her, until Puar came back with a shocked expression. "Yamcha! The whole entire base is deserted!"

"No way… imagine the headlines… boy defeats Red Ribbon Army…" Bulma said as she tried to grasp what she was told.

"Mind giving me a few pointers, Goku?" Krillin asked, wondering what Goku had gone through to get so strong.

Launch just scoffed. "Oh please. What's the big deal? It's just one army." but as she was trying to blow off Goku's achievement, a bit of dandelion brushed against her nose, causing her to sneeze, causing her to change into her blue haired form. She looked around in confusion. "Did we go on a picnic? Where's all the food?"

Everyone just looked at her funny, trying to think of what to say. Puar decided to take the job. "Let's go for a walk, Launch. I'll catch you up." The two of them then walked off, as Puar explained.

Yamcha couldn't help but laugh a little. "Man, Goku, you really are something else. I have seen a lot of things since I met you, but this takes the cake."

"Guess that time you spent at the top of Korin's Tower really paid off." Chichi said as she hugged him.

Roshi's eyes went so wide, they could be seen behind his sunglasses. "What?! You went to the top of Korin's Tower?"

Goku smiled and nodded. "Yeah, Master, I did. Just like you did. It was pretty rough. But I eventually managed to get the sacred water from him."

Roshi felt like he was going to faint. "S-so not only did you make it to the top… but you managed to drink the sacred water in such a short time…"

"Yuhuh!" Goku replied with a childish and innocent laugh,

Roshi… Roshi was amazed beyond words. This boy was incredible. Roshi remembered how it took him three years to get his hands on the sacred water. Something he used to brag about. He could see that there was no end to this boy's potential.

Bulma then spoke up. "You should have seen it! After he came back down, that Tao guy didn't stand a chance."

"W-wait… Tao? As in Mercenary Tao?" Yamcha asked with a trembling tone.

"Do you know him, Yamcha?" Goku asked his friend.

"Goku, Mercenary Tao is known to be the most dangerous assassin in the world, and you're saying you beat him?" the bandit questioned.

"Killed would be more accurate." Bulma corrected. "When he realized he couldn't win against Goku, he tried using a grenade. Which ended with Goku sending it back, and the jerk getting blown up." Chichi nodded, while Yamcha felt light headed all of a sudden, as he and the other's needed time to process this.

Not only did Goku defeat the Red Ribbon, but he killed Mercenary Tao, and drank the sacred water of Korin.

Goku then turned to Bulma. "By the way, Bulma, mind taking a look at the radar for me?"

"What for?" Bulma asked in confusion.

"I think it might be broken. It won't show the location of the final dragon ball." the boy explained to his friend.

Bulma took the radar when Goku handed it to her. "Well… I can give it a look. But it will have to wait for us to get back to Kame House."

They all began to make their way back to Kame house. It was hard for them all to imagine just how amazing Goku really was. To think, this single boy was able to take down what was basically a massive empire with advanced weapons and resources. Bulma and Chichi were a little disappointed that they weren't of too much help, but they were glad they could where they were able. Yamcha and Krillin decided they would like to join Goku in his quest to find the last dragon ball, thinking it would definitely help with their training, if they ever hoped to beat Goku in the next tournament.

But for now, they had to focus on the current situation. But what lies ahead of them, and where could the next dragon ball be? Find out next time, on Dragon Ball ZMX!

---

Well that was this chapter. It sure went by faster than I expected it to. Though it mostly just involved me watching the show and adding where I felt necessary. And I'm sorry if you felt Chichi and Bulma didn't do too much. Keep in mind, the two of them are still new to martial arts, and don't have a natural affinity for it like Goku.

Once they get more training in and become stronger, then they will truly be able to stand with Goku on equal footing. And for those of you who have seen the What Ifs, you know what's in store for them, so don't worry. Anyway, I hope you all enjoyed it.