Age 737 Monday December 10th 1988
The Ox-King sucked in a lungful of air, hauling himself back to his feet. "That was a workout. Our home is gone. The pirates ran off with our money, and we've got nothing left to go back to," he lamented, weariness etched across his face. Bulma, ever the quick thinker, chimed in, "Hey, you know, you could work for Capsule Corp. We're in need of a martial artist instructor or even a Hamon instructor." The Ox-King nodded, mulling over the idea. "Sounds like a plan."
As the group discussed their next move, Launch's voice cut through the air, "Guys, we have an incoming bogie at two o'clock." All eyes turned skyward to find Tambourine, the menace sent by King Piccolo, zooming towards them. The ominous figure hovered in the air, demanding, "Give me the Dragon Balls. King Piccolo wants them."
Prince Vegeta, never one to back down, squared his shoulders. "You'll have to go through us," he declared defiantly, the other Saiyans aligning themselves for battle. Tambourine touched down next to the prince, his arrogance dripping from every word, "Oh, you poor child. How can you win against me, the son of Ki-"
Before Tambourine could finish his boast, Prince Vegeta unleashed a swift punch, connecting square with the foe's gut. The arrogant monologue was abruptly cut short, leaving Tambourine doubled over, gasping for air. The Saiyans were ready for a fight, and Tambourine was about to realize that taking on this group was no easy feat.
Tambourine struggled to catch his breath, then mustered a defiant tone, "You caught me monologuing, but it won't save you. I'll finish you off." His wings unfurled, creating a powerful gust that sent everyone flying backward. The sandstorm engulfed the area, chaos ensuing.
The Ox-King swiftly grabbed Chi-Chi, anchoring himself with an ax buried in the sand. The Saiyans were tossed into the air, with Launch and Bulma desperately clinging to them. Turles, defying the raging wind, fired a blast aiming at Tambourine. The ki blast struck Tambourine squarely, wiping the smug grin off his face. Enraged, the green gargoyle lunged at Turles, threatening to claw his face.
With fear flickering in his eyes, Turles activated his Stand, 'Hot Blooded,' donning armor resembling a dragon. As Tambourine's claws inched closer, Turles conjured a helmet that absorbed the attack, protecting him from harm. Unbeknownst to Tambourine, Turles' Stand had a second ability: it strengthened him every minute it persisted.
Tambourine's claw passed harmlessly through the helmet, but Turles seized his wrist before the claws could inflict damage. Using every ounce of his strength, Turles pushed back, the gem on his gauntlet glowing where the Stand's face appeared. With each passing moment, Turles grew stronger, a chime marking his Stand's empowerment.
Astounded, Tambourine couldn't comprehend, "Impossible! How can this be? I am stronger than my siblings, second only to my father, the great King Piccolo."
Another chime echoed, making it easier for Turles to resist the wind, pushing Tambourine's arm backward. The relentless determination and the inexplicable power of Turles' Stand drove them towards an unexpected turn in the battle.
Turles exerted his strength, overwhelming Tambourine, who staggered backward. The gargoyle's wings halted their furious flapping, calming the whirlwind as the Ox-King rose, securing Chi-Chi. Saiyans gently descended, carefully placing Bulma and Launch on the ground.
Tambourine, bewildered, sputtered, 'How can you be so strong? Your power level remains weak, brat. There's been no increase in your power. I don't get it.'
Turles, composed, replied, 'We Saiyans possess formidable strength.' With swift precision, he delivered a powerful roundhouse kick to Tambourine's chest, propelling him into the water.
Hurrying to check on his comrades, Turles witnessed water erupting as Tambourine lunged back towards the group. Reacting swiftly, Turles turned, only to find Tambourine hurtling directly at him. Bracing himself, Turles crossed his arms into an 'X' in front of him. The impact sent him skidding backward as his Stand chimed.
Turles stood tall, his gait purposeful as he approached Tambourine, a piercing glare cutting through the chaos, blood trailing from his wounds. Prince Vegeta maintained a watchful stance, restraining Cabba and Tarble with a firm grip. "This is his battle," he asserted, his words holding a note of caution that left the girls visibly unsettled. The Ox-King, in silent agreement, nodded in acknowledgment.
Turles confronted Tambourine, his voice laced with determination, "Tell me, how many times must I defeat you to make you leave us be?" His tail coiled with an ominous air around him.
Tambourine retorted with unyielding aggression, "As many times as necessary. I won't depart without those Dragon Balls!"
With a subtle gesture, Turles extended his index finger, summoning energy that crackled around it. In a swift motion, an intense beam surged from his fingertip. The attack exceeded Turles' expectations, piercing Tambourine's chest cleanly, leaving a hole no larger than a finger's width. Water erupted from the force of the beam, Tambourine staggering back, a cry of anguish escaping him as he dropped to his knees.
"How dare you," Tambourine seethed, his voice laced with both pain and fury, echoing across the battlefield.
Tambourine's jaws parted, gathering energy within as he leaned forward, unleashing a powerful beam directed at Turles. The intense energy surged forth, striking Turles dead-on. He bore the brunt of the attack, the force dissipating as it seared his shirt, leaving him staggering from the impact. The stand chimed in response, signaling a pivotal moment in the confrontation.
Summoning his resolve, Turles pushed himself upright, his determination unyielding. Ready to retaliate, he surged forward, aiming a forceful punch directly at Tambourine. Following through with a swift knee strike into the air, Turles didn't relent. He swiftly brought Tambourine crashing down, unleashing a barrage of homing purple ki blasts, each finding their mark and inflicting massive damage upon the hapless Tambourine.
The adversary lay smoldering on the ground, wisps of smoke curling around him, testament to the intense assault he had just endured.
Prince Vegeta applauded Turles, his voice reverberating with admiration. "What a display of strength!"
Turles walked towards the remnants of Tambourine, his Stand fading away as the accumulated power dissipated. Despite its transient nature, he was grateful for the temporary boost it provided.
"We should pursue the remaining Dragon Balls and capture King Piccolo," suggested Prince Vegeta. The group collectively agreed, although the Ox-King and Chi-Chi seemed puzzled. Patiently, they explained the urgency of the situation.
"So, to stop King Piccolo without harming him, or else the guardian dies. This is more challenging than I anticipated," mused the Ox-King, scratching his beard thoughtfully with his ax.
"By the way, do you have a place to stay?" inquired the Ox-King, concerned for their accommodations.
"We don't have a current place, but we came here for the beach and have money," replied Bulma. The Ox-King nodded understandingly.
"Do you know how to fly?" asked Prince Vegeta, levitating effortlessly off the ground.
"I'm familiar with the technique, but I haven't taught it to Chi-Chi yet," the Ox-King admitted, also hovering into the air.
Chi-Chi's eyes widened in wonder as they landed, settling her gently onto the ground. With guidance from the Ox-King and Prince Vegeta, Chi-Chi embarked on her first flight. Floating gracefully, she joined the others in the sky, marveling at the newfound ability to soar.
"We're heading towards Cairo, Egypt. That's what the dragon radar is indicating," Bulma informed the group, studying the radar intently. "It's roughly a 21-hour journey, but my battery won't last that long," she continued, voicing her concern.
"Let's get moving before sunrise and find a place to rest," suggested the Ox-King, leading the way into town. They followed him until they reached the charred remains of a condo on the beach, a solemn sight that evoked a gasp from Chi-Chi.
Digging through the remnants of his home, the Ox-King uncovered a picture frame miraculously intact. Carefully wiping away the soot, it revealed a precious family photo: his late wife Juniper holding a young Chi-Chi in her arms. He kept silent about the tragic events that took Juniper's life, only mentioning that she passed away peacefully. However, the truth was that Juniper fell victim to Pirate Buggy and his crew, a fact the Ox-King concealed.
Standing up, a single tear traced down his cheek. "Let's go," he said, his voice wavering with emotion, signaling their departure, a mix of sorrow and determination etched on his face.
They strolled along the silent boardwalk, passing closed shops as they searched for accommodation. After a bit of effort, they managed to book several rooms for the night. The hotel staff, clearly irked by the late-night disturbance, begrudgingly accommodated them.
Once settled into their respective rooms with due respect, exhaustion quickly took hold, lulling them into a deep slumber. Morning arrived, and they checked out of the hotel after getting breakfast, reverting to their usual attire.
"New Vegeta should be on our way if we head west. We can drop these bags off and then confront King Piccolo," suggested Bulma, eyeing their luggage.
"Valid point," acknowledged Prince Vegeta.
"You're going to take orders from this kid?" questioned the Ox-King skeptically.
"Yeah, we've been following his lead even before arriving on Earth. After all, he's the prince of our race," Raditz chimed in.
"Plus, he's a big softy," Tarble teased before darting away, eliciting a reaction from Prince Vegeta, who began walking in his direction.
The Ox-King nodded in agreement, leading the group to a secluded spot before taking flight. As they soared through the skies, the Ox-King began recounting tales of his late wife, Juniper.
"I was once a wrestler way back when. The world champion they called me. People would flock to me wherever I went. I could have any woman I want. But your mother caught my eye. Juniper was a lesser known fighter. A stubborn woman. Every time I went by her dojo she would hide from me. One day, determined to win her over, I entered her dojo unannounced. I found her practicing her martial arts forms with a fierce determination that mirrored my own when I used to wrestle. I watched in awe as she moved gracefully, her eyes focused, her determination unwavering.
I waited until she finished her routine before approaching her. She seemed surprised to see me but didn't let it break her concentration. With a coy smile, she asked, "What brings the great wrestler to my humble dojo?"
I chuckled and replied, "Curiosity, perhaps. I've heard tales of your skill, Juniper, and I wanted to see for myself if they were true."
Her smile widened, and she gestured for me to join her in practice. That was the beginning of our unexpected bond. We trained together, exchanging techniques and stories. Over time, we developed a deep respect for each other's abilities.
Despite my past fame and her lesser-known status, I found myself drawn to Juniper's strength, both physical and mental. Her dedication to her craft was admirable, and her determination to excel was infectious.
As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, our training sessions evolved into heartfelt conversations. We shared our dreams, fears, and aspirations. I discovered the softer, more vulnerable side of Juniper that she rarely revealed to others.
Eventually, I confessed my feelings for her. To my surprise, she reciprocated. She explained that she had a small crush on me and was scared that I would reject her if she confessed. Our love blossomed amidst the clash of sparring sessions and the tranquility of shared silences. We became inseparable.
Years passed, and we decided to leave the competitive world behind, choosing a quieter life on the coast. Where we have been since. Till she passed away leaving chi-chi in my care. Looking back, I realized that the greatest victory of my life wasn't winning titles in the ring; it was winning Juniper's heart." finished the ox-king
As sadness tinged his voice, Chi-Chi flew over and hugged her father, finding solace in his words. Hours passed, and as Bulma's battery neared depletion, hunger pangs grew stronger. "Can we stop? My battery is running low, and we haven't had lunch," Bulma suggested, prompting their descent onto Oahu's beach in Hawaii.
Sneaking into the city among the bustling tourists, they stumbled upon a grand statue adorned with a prominent plaque. Raditz took the initiative, reading the inscription aloud, 'Here is Kamehameha the First, the founder and first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii.'
"Interesting. So, you guys have kings on this planet," remarked Prince Vegeta, his curiosity piqued by the historical discovery.
"Yes, they have their reigns, but it's either cut short by death or being overthrown," explained the Ox-King, studying the statue with a contemplative gaze. They looked closer then to realize that someone had put a Santa hat on the statue's head.
Pressing on, they found a local hotel, opting to stay for the night. Christmas songs played from the speakers inside as there was a palm tree decorated for Christmas in a few weeks. Eager to make the most of their time, they indulged in various activities offered by the hotel. From shuffleboard to ping pong and volleyball, they engaged in the recreational opportunities available, enjoying a momentary reprieve before their impending mission.
As the sun began its ascent, a peculiar sensation stirred the Ox-King from his slumber. Blinking groggily, he found himself surrounded by chickens that had wandered in through the open screen door. With a bemused sigh, he gently herded the sacred birds back outside, recalling the prior warning about their significance in Hawaiian culture.
"Ah, chickens everywhere. It wasn't a good idea to leave that door open," the Ox-King muttered to himself, mindful of the reverence attached to these animals.
Reminiscing about an odd cooking tip from the tour guide, he chuckled, recalling the advice to boil a stone in a pot until it turned mushy and then release the captured chicken, claiming the stone was the only edible part. Sighing at the absurdity of the advice, he checked on the others who were beginning to rouse from their sleep.
Ensuring his daughter's safety from the Saiyans, he ventured to the table, eyeing the breakfast menu offered by the restaurant:
Island Breakfast Delights
- Loco Moco: White rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a sunny-side-up egg, and savory brown gravy. Price: $4.50
- SPAM and Eggs: Grilled SPAM slices served with two eggs (your way) and steamed rice. Price: $4.00
- Portuguese Sausage Plate: Spicy Portuguese sausage links served with scrambled eggs, rice, and toast. Price: $5.00
Sweet Morning Treats
- Pineapple Coconut Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes infused with pineapple and coconut flavors, served with tropical fruit toppings and syrup. Price: $5.00
- Waffle Paradise: Crispy waffles served with your choice of fresh mango or banana toppings and a drizzle of coconut syrup. Price: $4.50
Fresh Fruit Medley
- Island Harvest Fruit Bowl: A refreshing mix of papaya, pineapple, mango, and banana chunks. Price: $3.50
A Taste of Tradition
- Haupia Pudding: A creamy coconut milk-based Hawaiian dessert, a perfect sweet finish to your breakfast. Price: $2.50
Beverages
- Kona Coffee: Freshly brewed Kona coffee, locally sourced from the Big Island. Price: $2.00
- Fresh Juice Selection: Choose from pineapple, lilikoi (passionfruit), or orange juice. Price: $1.50
The ox-king looked at the first choice with longing, the loco moco seemed right. As he jotted his order on a piece of paper for later. As the children groggily emerged from their rooms, Tarble's sleepy yawn echoed through the hallway, prompting the inevitable question: 'What's for breakfast?'
After a hearty morning meal, they checked out of the hotel and took to the skies, their purchases in tow. The journey led them across vast distances until New Vegeta came into view. The city sprawled magnificently, punctuated by scattered houses. At its heart stood the imposing castle of King Vegeta, surrounded by a sea of barracks belonging to Jocha's guards. Nearby, a small airport exclusively accessible to the Speedwagon Foundation showcased a plane racing down the runway, readying for takeoff.
Suddenly, an angry cough pierced the silence. "Father is really disappointed in you vegeta. You led your younger brothers with you." said Rigor vegeta's older brother with his hair swaying in the wind sending shivers down the younger prince's spine. Tarble and Cabba clung to Vegeta, clearly anxious. Rigor, whose appearance caught Bulma by surprise, has never seen Rigor before.
Descending, Bulma, brimming with curiosity, bombarded Rigor with questions, "I am sorry who are you? You must be the next in line for the throne. I never knew vegeta had an older brother. " unaware of his relation to Vegeta. Rigor, lost in thought, said "The name's Rigor. You flatter me with your words. But I am out of the running. I only have an honorary title, only showing up in the shadows of Father's parties, a reminder of his past…" Tears welled up in his eyes as memories flooded his mind, revealing a poignant past that he seemed reluctant to divulge.
Apologizing for his distracted state, Rigor led them toward the castle, where Separi, Rigor's partner, and King Vegeta awaited. Separi's concern was evident as she guided Rigor away, while King Vegeta turned his attention to his trembling children, seemingly unaffected by the preceding exchange.
"You will listen to me, if not I would have to get your mother," said King Vegeta. King Vegeta's stern words pierced through the tense atmosphere, invoking a sudden fear that silenced Prince Vegeta, Tarble, and Cabba. The mention of their mother Queen Cassava halted the trembling of Prince Vegeta, and the younger Saiyans released their grip, their faces draining of color. In unison, they nodded, acknowledging their father's command.
Turning to the others, King Vegeta requested privacy, prompting a nod of compliance from the rest. Raditz, taking the lead, guided Bulma, Chi-Chi, Turles, Launch, and the Ox-King away. They landed outside the medical facility, and Raditz hurried inside, only to find Kakarot still in a coma. The group followed suit, entering the building.
Dr. Briefs approached Bulma, expressing concern and disappointment. Behind him was his mother who looked at him as she continued to talk with the doctors. "There you are, young lady. I am very worried but disappointed in you." He glanced admiringly at the exoskeleton Bulma had crafted, saying."Do you think this will help you get out of your punishment?"
Meanwhile, Raditz felt a soft touch on his shoulder, turning to meet his mother's worried gaze. She hugged him tightly, tears streaming down her face, relieved to see him unharmed amidst the chaos.
Tension hung heavy in the air as emotions ran high in the infirmary. Raditz's mother, her voice laced with concern and traces of sorrow, hugged Raditz tightly, her relief evident as she spoke. "I thought I lost you too. After all, two of my children are in the infirmary, barely surviving," she admitted, her eyes flickering past Raditz and locking with Turles'.
Her gaze softened as she directed her words towards Turles, acknowledging the concern of his own parents. "Your parents are worried about you too. You should go home before they make a scene," she gently advised.
Realizing the urgency, Turles nodded in agreement. "Yes, of course," he replied, hurrying out the door, his mind filled with concern for both his own well-being and the tumultuous situation that had unfolded.
Age 737 Tuesday December 12th 1988
Rigor strode along the corridors of the castle, the air thick with tension, when suddenly, a commotion stirred at the doors, pulling his attention. He halted, blending into the shadows, observing as the guards swung the doors open. Standing in the doorway was the Ox-King, seeking answers.
With a firm tone, one of the guards addressed the Ox-King, "State your question. If it intrigues us, we might grant you an audience with the king."
The Ox-King, unfamiliar with the protocols said, "I was wondering about teaching martial arts and the art of hammon, here in New vegeta. Teaching it to whoever wants to learn. I just need a job." The guards deliberated, offering a solution, "If it's a job you seek, we can summon a representative from the Speedwagon Foundation to assist you."
Meanwhile, Rigor observed quietly from his concealed position, realizing he needed to distance himself. Silently slipping away, He snuck around the castle until he found his mother, Peppra.
Age 737 Tuesday December 18th 1988
Six agonizing days had passed since the children returned home, their parents enforcing strict isolation, driving them to the brink of insanity. The sudden sound of a plane landing stirred tension, signaling an unusual visitor's arrival at New Vegeta. The plane gradually slowed down, triggering commotion among the crew.
A member of the crew hurried off the ramp, swiftly returning with a stretcher and oxygen tank. Anne, lying on the stretcher, seemed to be in distress, prompting worried glances among the medical staff. "Looks like we've got another case, similar to Jocha's," murmured one of the nurses.
Rushing into the medical building, the doors swung open, revealing a flurry of activity. As they approached a tank, Anne weakly opened her eyes, voicing her fear, "I don't want to drown." A nurse, noticing her awakening, offered reassurance. "Oh, you're awake," she acknowledged before Anne inquired about her whereabouts.
"You're on New Vegeta, formerly owned by the Speedwagon Foundation," explained the concerned doctor, Dr. Nion. Sensing Anne's discomfort, the nurses suggested changing into a medical jumpsuit, to which Anne weakly consented. Dr. Nion, accompanied by Dr. Shito, introduced themselves and inquired about Anne's condition. "Terrible, like I'm going to die," she murmured, her voice barely audible. Anne changed into the jumpsuit with the help of one of the nurses.
Just breathe through this mask, you will feel groggy and fall asleep. Don't worry the special liquid in this tank will do that. Everything is going to be fine, just relax." Anne took deep breaths as they put the mask around her head. They put her gently into the chamber as the glass slid into place. As the sound of water filling the tank. She twitched before taking deep breaths.
Anne's struggle to remain conscious was evident as she twitched, desperately trying to fight off the encroaching fatigue. Despite her efforts to keep her eyes open, an overwhelming weariness consumed her, plunging her into darkness as sleep claimed her once more.
Meanwhile, curiosity stirred within Granola, and he couldn't resist the urge to investigate the commotion at the medical bay. Sneaking out of his parents' house, equipped with his AI goggles perched atop his head, he dashed across the road, arriving at the bay's entrance.
Peeking into the doorway, Granola observed the scene - a tank slowly filling with water, containing a girl whose eyes remained shut. Her black hair went around her as the last of the water was filled in. As he leaned in for a closer look, a peculiar warmth spread across his cheeks, coloring them red. Suddenly, his goggles chimed in his ear, teasingly suggesting, "Someone has a crush."
Flustered, Granola denied the notion vehemently. "I do not!" he retorted, swiftly turning on his heels and dashing back to the safety of his house, his cheeks still tinged with embarrassment.
"Hey, come decorate this tree. It's an Earth custom for this month," Gine called out to Raditz, who joined in by wrapping tinsel around the tree. In an unfortunate twist, Raditz found himself entangled and stuck, wrapped around the tree's branches. "Help me," he appealed to Gine. Chuckling, Gine came to his rescue, aiding him in untangling himself. "I think you've learned your lesson. You seemed really down without your new friends, especially that yellow-blue-haired girl. Ah, Launch," teased Gine, causing Raditz to blush. "Stop, mother," Raditz protested with a huff.
"You may go now, but be safe. I know you have to continue on your quest given to you by Kami. I'll worry for you," Gine expressed, her concern evident. Raditz, with tears in his eyes, hugged his mother, reminding himself, "Saiyan warriors must never cry in battle." He then dashed towards the castle.
Raditz, Bulma, Chi-Chi, Turles, Launch, Tarble, Cabba, and Prince Vegeta convened halfway to the castle and looked around in surprise. "So, who is ungrounded?" Bulma quipped, prompting everyone to raise their hands, signifying their freedom from restriction.
Sirens blaring, chaos reigning around New Vegeta! "Enemy detected, get inside. High power level detected," boomed the Siren. Whirling around, they laid eyes upon this massive, green dragon-like humanoid figure. "How dare you take out my brother Tambourine. I'm Cymbal, and I'll avenge him," roared Cymbal, touching down with an ominous presence over the kids. 'Chi-chi!' bellowed the Ox-King, sprinting towards the scene. Cymbal unfurled its wings, crackling with blue electricity coiling around its right hand. The Ox-King halted. "You think you can Stop me? Don't even try coming closer!" snarled Cymbal.
Prince Vegeta delivered a swift kick to Cymbal's leg. "Ah!" howled Cymbal, clutching his injured limb. "How dare you," snarled the enraged creature. "You're weaker than your brother. At least I broke a sweat," Turles remarked, his tone oozing with smugness. Vegeta nodded in agreement. Bulma and Chi-Chi trembled with fear, witnessing the escalating confrontation.
Cymbal, seizing Prince Vegeta's shoulder, discharged the built-up electricity directly into the prince, enveloping him in smoke and the scent of singed flesh. When the smoke cleared, Prince Vegeta's shirt had turned to ash, but with a scoff, he quipped, "Thanks for the tan," before landing a brutal punch straight into Cymbal's gut. The dragon-like creature crumpled to the ground, wheezing and defeated.
"Please kill me, this is agony." wheezed Cymbal. Prince Vegeta held out his hand as a purple sphere of energy gathered around it. Before it was released, killing Cymbal.