FOREWORD

Hi there. Thanks for taking the time to check out Dragon Ball C. What you're looking at is actually a rewrite of the original first chapter, which wasn't that well received with the way it was originally written. This is mainly to bring this, and other early chapters, more in line with the rest of the story. There's some boring parts ahead, mainly the premise of this story, etc. So, if you want to ignore this, just skip down to where the story begins. Otherwise, here's my original note from when I began.

I suppose I should start off with a bit of how I found Dragon Ball. My anime exposure as a kid was a bit limited - I remember some Koala show on Nickelodeon back in the day (late 80s), seeing sporadic episodes of Speed Racer and Voltron, and watching a little bit of Ninja Scroll with a friend (haha cartoon boobies!). As I grew older and anime became more common the US, I had heard of Dragon Ball, but I really didn't know what it was about. I knew there was something about the Z-Fighters, a guy named Vegeta, they wore orange and their hair was spikey blonde.

I'll be the first to admit that I really found my love of anime in general through a hentai flash game from Outlaw Star. I tracked down the show, watched VHS quality videos of it on YouTube from when it aired on Toonami, and after I finished that, well...I didn't care about anime until about early 2011 when I saw some kind of Simpsons art related to Death Note. Watched that, liked it, read up on the creators - oh hey, here's Bakuman!

I read a couple chapters, and saw one of the characters comment about having the full collection of Dragon Ball. So-having just gotten my student loan disbursement (I was young and stupid), I ordered literally the entire Dragon Ball manga collection, and read through it. That was my exposure, and about a year later I discovered Dragon Ball Z Abridged, which ultimately lead to this work.

A good portion of this is inspired by MasakoX from Team Four Star. On his YouTube Channel, he does "What If's" related to the Dragon Ball franchise. His piece about Raditz is amazing, and I was really taken in by some of his other ideas. This work is thus drawing inspiration from the following What If's that Masako has come up with:

1. What if Kid Goku became a Super Saiyan (After Krillin died in Dragon Ball)

2. What if Goku married Bulma?

3. What if Raditz turned good?

4. What if Nappa turned good?

5. What if Future Trunks was stuck in the past after warning Goku about the Androids?

That said, this will diverge a little bit from what Masako has presented; all credit for similarities between this work and Masako's should be given to him. I want to get that out there right now. Masako, if you somehow read this, thank you for the inspiration, and I hope you at least enjoy the deviations I've come up with.

The wonderful thing about the Dragon World (the canon franchise as a whole - more on canon later) is that there are limitless possibilities introduced, from the very first episode where Bulma uses a DynaCap to the revelation of twelve universes during Super. I mean, we know what happens in this universe; just think about the things the Pride Troopers had to put up with to make the likes of Toppo and Jiren on par with a literal god. Small references dropped here and there (I love the ones concerning space travel) really shows us that Age 749, when Goku meets Bulma, is at least 300 years in the future (Given Roshi's age, the fact that sunglasses came out in 1929 and that the rice cooker was invented in 1945). For bonus points, a dog is Earth's king, there is a land pirate-tiger armed with a Tec-9, dinosaurs regularly terrorize villages and can fluently speak the Universal Language. What I'm getting at is that there are incredible possibilities, and that I am going to try to keep any new 'crazy' ideas consistent with what's been established.

I will try to keep up with things like estimated power levels, and additionally I'll throw in at the end of each segment which voice actors I'm hearing as I write this, but it's pretty much a combination of voices from Funimation and Team Four Star.

ON CANON AND TRANSLATION TERMINOLOGY

As far as I'm concerned, the canon of this universe will effectively be that the manga versions of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z will take precedence over the anime series, with preference to the anime version of Dragon Ball Super over it's manga counterpart, simply on virtue that the anime is over while the manga is ongoing. (Edit: As of this writing, the Tournament of Power arc has concluded. Elements from the manga may leak in, at least the parts I like.)

The movies simply don't happen, and to the best of my knowledge, I'm going to keep this a little minimal. I'll admit I've only watched one 'official' Dragon Ball movie (being Battle of Gods), the unofficial ones being from what Team Four Star has put out. I'm simply not familiar enough with them to do them justice. Besides, in terms of story and setting, I prefer the Super rendition of that tale to the movie anyway. (Edit: DBS Broly wasn't announced when I began...Yes, I'm going to do my take on that one, eventually.)

Finally, Dragon Ball GT. Well, since this is a retelling of most of Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super...we don't have to worry about it! Hurray! Seriously, other than one element, GT isn't happening or being referenced.

Concerning names, I'm going with the more traditional English anime names since that's what I am used to that this point; the short bald guy is Krillin to me, the biggest dick in the universe is Freeza (thank you Trunks for that picture in Super with his name) Master Shen, Master Roshi. Move techniques will vary - it's easier in my mind to type "Special Beam Cannon" than "Makankosappo", but on the other hand, some Japanese names may sneak in because I personally think they sound better in my mind. I mean, "Kikoho" vs "Tri Beam", and some may be used interchangeably (Ozaru and Great Ape, etc).

About the actual name of this project, "Dragon Ball C", the "C" means "Change", it's simple, it works, describes exactly what's happening. I tried other abbreviations/versions, don't like them. If you are the author of a work called "Dragon Ball C", just link me

DRAGON BALL C PART I: THE DEMON AND THE GOLDEN MONKEY

"Mr. McGee, don't make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry."

- Kenneth Johnson

LAST TIME ON DRAGON BALL!

The 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament concluded, with the final competitors being Son Goku and Tien Shinhan, the student of Master Roshi's rival, Master Shen. It was a hard fought battle, but in the end, it was Tien Shinhan, who during the bout forsook his teacher's desire for vengeance, who walked away champion. In spite of the battle, the sportsmanship shown between the two forged a new respect, and now, a new chapter in their lives begins...

AGE 753 - MAY 7

"Wow, Goku, if you only you hadn't been hit by that truck," Krillin says to Goku, who was just finishing taking a huge drink of water.

"That's okay, I sure had fun," Goku says, noticing his ripped gi.

"You go through clothes faster than food," Krillin says, "Here, you can wear mine."

As Goku changes in public view, to his surprise Tien and Chiaotzu approach him.

"Goku, listen," Tien says, walking forward and producing a small piece of paper, "I've been thinking about it, and there's something I want you to have."

Krillin recognizes it immediately, "Tien, that's your prize money, isn't it?!"

"It's no big deal," Tien says, "I just think you should take half. We both know if you hadn't hit that truck, you would have won. You are stronger."

"No thanks," Goku says, "I appreciate the offer, but I wouldn't know what to spend it on anyway."

"Yeah, but…" Tien begins, only to have Master Roshi approach, chuckling.

"Tien, it's true," Roshi says, "But luck and strength go hand in hand. You shouldn't let it discount your achievement."

As Roshi finishes, Yamcha, Launch, Bulma, Oolong and Turtle all approach, with Yamcha, on crutches from his injury at Tien's hands, approaching his former opponent. Tien refuses to make eye contact.

"You fought well," Yamcha says.

"...Thank you. I'm sorry about your leg," Tien says, "I did a lot of terrible thing."

"Bones heal," Yamcha says, "But at the next tournament, I expect a rematch, got it?" Yamcha says.

Tien smiles at Yamcha, "Of course."

"But until then," Roshi says, "Where will you go? Three years is a long time. You're welcome at the Kame House, but you have to put up with Launch's cooking."

"I heard that!" Launch says, "I can yell you like me Tien!"

Everyone's taken aback by this revelation, but Launch continues, "If you come to Roshi's island, I'll be sure to take care of you for good!"

"I...appreciate the offer, unfortunately, even though Chiaotzu and I went against Master Shen, we're still students of the Crane School. I don't think we're allowed to switch. We'll find a home...somewhere."

"...I won't cook!" Launch yells.

"That's tempting, but he's made up his mind, Launch," Roshi says, "But anyway, why don't we all at least sample the local cuisine?"

"One condition," Tien says, "I pay."

Krillin snickers and looks at Goku, "Well, looks like you found a way to spend that prize money after all."

The gang heads over to the best restaurant on the island, but as they enter, Goku has a sudden realization.

"Wait! I forgot about Grandpa's Dragon Ball and my Power Pole! I left them back at the stadium! I'll be right back!"

"I know where they are," Krillin says, "You stay here and have fun."

"No, I should go, I was the one who forgot,' Goku says.

"Don't worry, I'll be right back!" Krillin yells, running off.

"Thank's Krillin!" Goku says, but as he's about to enter the restaurant, an unsettling feeling falls over him.

Inside, nearly everyone chows down, while Goku only sits and stares at his food.

"...What's wrong?" Tien asks, sensing something bothering the young boy.

Goku only shakes his head and thinks, everyone looking at Goku with concern, but then, he hears something faint. The voice of his best friend, screaming in agony. GOKU!

"...Krillin!" Goku yells, heading out and running at full speed to the stadium. He enters, and screams at the site he sees: Krillin and the tournament announcer, laid out. "Krillin, no!"

Goku runs over and shakes his friend, "Krillin, I'm here, wake up!"

"It...it was a monster," the announcer says, "It took a little ball and the list of names for the tournament. It...got away!"

"Krillin!" Goku says, but then he realizes the sad truth. "He's...gone. He's gone...it...should have been me…."

Goku puts his friend down and begins crying and shaking. Krillin….why?! Why did he have to die?! Krilin….no! Goku raises his head and lets out a completely primal scream, one filled with raw anger and suffering, clenching his fists so hard that blood begins to flow from the palms of his hand. The entire surrounding area begins to shake. Goku grabs his head, still yelling in pain.

Inside the restaurant, everyone is caught by surprise.

"Is it an earthquake?!" Oolong yells, running under the table.

"No...it's Goku!" Tien yells, "Everyone, come on!"

Everyone runs out and rushes to the stadium, and stop in shock as they watch Goku scream in agony.

"What's...what's going on?!" Yamcha asks, astonished, but there's no answer as small electric sparks begins to fly around Goku, and a golden aura starts to form around Goku. The boy yells again, this time the scream even louder and more powerful. They wall watch as his hair turns golden, his eyes aqua. He stops screaming, and to everyone's surprise, he begins to fly, much like Tien and Chiaotzu, only to fall down.

"When did he learn to fly?!" Launch says while Bulma faints. Tien helps Goku up, while Roshi tends to the tournament announcer.

"What happened?" Roshi asks him, but Chiaotzu approaches him.
9"Master Roshi...I found this!" Chiaotzu says, handing Master Roshi a small piece of paper. Roshi looks at the strange symbol on it, but says nothing.

No...after all the years, he couldn't have returned! Roshi thinks to himself, It can't be true!

"Come on, let's get him back to the restaurant," Yamcha suggests, and everyone agrees. Inside, they all watch as Goku begins to inhale virtually everything on the table.

"What could it have been?" Tien asks Roshi, "Is this the work of Master Shen?"

"No, Tien," Roshi says, "Chiaotzu found this. The symbol on this piece of paper means 'Demon'. For all the evil in his heart now, even Shen would know never to trifle with the meaning behind this symbol. Around three hundred years ago, give or take a few years, the world was devastated by the greatest enemy they had ever known: King Piccolo, a demon with extraordinary power. Every martial artist who stood against him fell, and Earth's armies were powerless against him. Back in those days, Shen and I were comrades, and it was our master, Mutaito, who developed a technique that would stop Piccolo: The Mafuba. It was a fierce battle, but in the end, Piccolo was sealed by the Mafuba inside of an electric rice cooker."

"A...rice cooker?" Oolong asks, the apprehension in his voice obvious. Roshi only nods.

"The Mafuba will work with pretty much any container, as long as it's prepped the right way and you have a proper seal for it," Roshi explains, "But it's an extremely draining technique. Master Mutaito became the planet's savior that day, but at the cost of his own life."

"Wow...that was some feast!" Goku says, hopping away from the table.

"Even in mourning," Bulma says, "Son is still Son…"

"Goku, what are you doing?" Yamcha says as Goku takes a pose and begins to focus. They watch as his golden form returns after a moment of trying, and then it fades. Goku then focuses again as it activates once more.

"Huh, it's funny," Goku says, "It only happens when I think about things that really make me angry, like Mercenary Tao killing Bora, or...Krillin."

"Goku...the power coming off that though, it's the most intense ki I've ever felt," Tien says. Roshi nods.

"Indeed, it makes him powerful. You girls go back to the hotel, there's something I need to see!" Roshi says.

"No way!" Bulma says, but Roshi ignores her, looking at his student.

"Come on, Goku, we're going to the beach!" Roshi says.

"That old perv must be serious," Launch says as Roshi leads Goku away, with Tien, Chiaotzu and Yamcha following.

As the sun sets, Roshi looks at Goku, "Alright, let's just see what you can do with it. I want you to fire a Kamehameha Wave into the ocean!"

"Okay," Goku says, and Roshi watches as he complies, nodding at the result.

"It's a little more intense then what you put out against Tien, but you always become stronger after you fight. Now, I want you to get really angry, Goku, and try it again!"

"You got it, Master Roshi!" Goku says eagerly, taking the form again. He smiles as he lets a massive Kamehameha rip, the likes of which none had seen before.

"Holy crap!" Yamcha says in awe at the wake the beam produced. A small smile grows on Roshi's face, as he turns and looks at everyone.

"I saw King Piccolo's power first hand. As impressive as it was...it could never compare to this!" Roshi says.

"And that's not all!" Goku says, as he begins to float.

"He did that before," Tien says, "Except it was right after he found Krillin…"

"Goku," Roshi says as Goku laughs, "Where did you learn that?"

"I'm just doing what Tien and Chiaotzu did!" Goku says.

"I see," Roshi says, "That's a Crane School trick…" But Goku's always been a fast learner, it should come as no surprise, especially now that his powers have expanded! "Now listen, Goku, this is important!"

"What is it, Master Roshi?" Goku asks.

"Goku...the power you have when you get angry," Roshi begins, "Well, it's scary and outright dangerous! You have to promise me only to use it when you absolutely have to, got it?"

"I promise, Master Roshi!" Goku says, and he begins practicing his flight, looping around several times and laughing.

"Well, so much for the Nimbus…" Roshi says.

"Oh yeah," Goku says, "Hey, if I can fly now, I really don't have a use for it."

"No, hold onto it, I gave it to you, remember?" Roshi says, "Besides, we don't know if this power is only temporary or not. You never know when the Nimbus could come in handy again!"

"We should still come up with some sort of plan to deal with this King Piccolo," Tien says.

"Leave that to me!" Goku says, landing, "I'm going to make Piccolo pay for what he did to Krillin!"

"It's not just Krillin, either!" Roshi says, "That guy from the tournament said the monster that killed Krillin took a list of all the other strong fighters on it. That means all their lives are in danger...even the four of you! If Krillin hadn't been there, then it would have been you that died, Goku!"

"Us, too?" Yamcha says, looking around, "Well, I don't care what he is, he can damn well try!"

"And with that broken leg, he won't have to try hard!" Roshi reminds Yamcha.

As they arrive back at the hotel, they're greeted by Bulma, Oolong, Puar and Launch, all curious to hear the plan, which Roshi explains.

"So, you're saying the plan is for Goku to just knock the living hell out of this Piccolo guy?" Launch asks.

"Seems pretty generic if you ask me," Oolong says.

"Well," Roshi says, "The simple truth is that if it's anybody but Goku, they'd be facing certain death. In all my years, I've never even heard of power like whatever this kid's found - and that's saying something. If Goku gives Piccolo even a tenth of that, he's in for a world of hurt."

"You really think so?" Goku asks, amazed. Roshi nods.

"I'd never joke about anything related to Piccolo," Roshi says.

"It's great that you believe so much in Son," Bulma says, "But how exactly is he going to find this guy? Just wait for the screams?"

"That's right, we have no way of finding him…" Tien says.

"Honestly, do I have to think of everything?" Oolong says, "Whatever killed Krillin took Goku's Dragon Ball."

Bulma's eyes light up, "That's right! And with the Dragon Radar…"

"It'll lead Goku right to Piccolo!" Yamcha says.

"And once he's dealt with," Bulma says with a smile, "We just have to get the rest and bring back Krillin! If Son can fly, it'll be a piece of cake!"

"Yeah, let's do this!" Goku says eagerly, "For Krillin!"

"There's just one thing that bothers me, Master Roshi," Tien says, "If Piccolo is as bad as you say, who in the world would want to bring him back?"

***

"So, as you can see," Pilaf says nervously, standing before King Piccolo on his intimidating throne, "Once you have all seven, you can get whatever you want!"

"Seven for one wish," Piccolo says, "I like the sound of that."

"It's marvelous," Pilaf says, "For leaders like us only need one wish to rule the world!"

"I don't need magic balls to rule the Earth," Piccolo says, "It fell before my feet before, it will fall again."

"Then uh," Shu begins, "What do you want?"

"The greatest prize," Piccolo says, while Pilaf, Shu, and Mai listen, confused by smiling nervously as if their lives depended on it, "Why rule this planet for but a single lifetime...when I could rule it for many lifetimes. Eternal youth! I would be the master of time itself!"

"Yes…" Pilaf says, "There is something I want to run past you. If you recall, it was I who freed you from that jar after grabbing you from the cold sea…"

"...Get to the point, Pilaf," Piccolo says sternly.

"Well, uh...King Piccolo...when the world does fall under you control…" Pilaf says.

"Yes?" Piccolo replies, annoyed.

"If you would uh...reward me with half the planet?" Pilaf asks. Piccolo only stares at Pilaf.

"Did I say half? I meant a third! I'm terrible with fractions!" Pilaf says, but it's clear Piccolo not buying it, "A quarter? ….some swamp land?"

Piccolo only glares at Pilaf, "I'll consider it."

"Could you throw in a few extras to help raise the property values?" Pilaf asks hopefully.

"PILAF!" Piccolo yells, "Where is Tambourine?"

"Uh...Mai?" Pilaf says as Mai pushes a button. A small globe descends in front of the throne, showing an orange dot in progress, homing in on Pilaf's aerial base.

"Uh, there you have it, King Piccolo," Pilaf says, "What I can't figure out is why you wanted a list of the members of the Martial Arts Society? Those people are dull!"

"It was one of them that sealed me in that cursed jar. The arrogance! The world's strongest fighters are on that list, and they will all be destroyed! All of them!" Piccolo yells, shooting two eye beams and destroying the rice cooker, frightening the Pilaf Gang.

In flight, Goku smiles as he glances down at the Dragon Radar. Gotcha, he thinks as he homes in on the blip. "Now you're going to pay," he says, excited as his thirst for vengeance guides him.

In front of him, Goku sees the monster that stole the Dragon Ball, Tambourine, with green, blotted skin and bat like wings, flying ahead.

"Stop!" Goku yells as he homes in.

"Hmm?" Tambourine says, turning his head as Goku flies up next to him. He gives the monster an angry look, and both stop. Goku looks him over, and notices the four-star Dragon Ball in his hand.

"You killed my friend!" Goku yells.

"Your point?" Tambourine responds.

"...I'm going to make you pay for this!" Goku yells, and Tambourine gasps as Goku's hair turns golden, and before he knows what happens, Goku begins his assault, easily dispatching the monster after a Kamehameha. Goku watches as Tambourine falls to the ground in the forest below and lands, pulling out a small bag and placing the Dragon Ball in it.

"That guy might have killed Krillin," Goku says to himself, "And I'm glad he's dead...but it's not over yet!" He sniffs the air and follows the aroma, finding a huge fish, impaled, beside a campfire.

Someone else is here, Goku thinks.

***
"What is it, sire?" the pterodactyl-like son of King Piccolo, Piano, says with some concern.

"It's your brother," Piccolo says, "Someone has killed Tambourine!"

"Are...you sure?" Piano asks.

"Pilaf!" Piccolo shouts, "Show me where the Dragon Balls are, now!"

"At once!" Pilaf says, hitting a switch. Everyone gathered watches as a globe descends from the ceiling, with two orange beeps very close together.

"They're not moving!" Shu says.

"This confirms it," Piccolo says, angrily.

"But...Piccolo, what could destroy Tambourine?" Piano asks.

Not what...but who, Pilaf thinks to himself, And I bet I know just the brat…

"Uh…" Pilaf begins nervously. Piccolo shoots him a stern look.

"...Speak," Piccolo commands.

"Uh, yes, King Piccolo," Pilaf begins, "I uh...may have an idea."

There's awkward silence a Piccolo only glares at Pilaf.

"The uh...person who's responsible...might be this brat named Goku," Pilaf says.

"Goku?" Piccolo asks, and Pilaf nods, "Who is this 'Goku'?"

"He's a horrible little brat that keeps ruining all my plans!" Pilaf yells.

"A little brat?" Piccolo asks in disbelief.

"Yes!" Pilaf yells, "I know what you're thinking, but he's freakishly strong! He decimated my palace!"

"This complicates things," Piccolo says, thinking for a moment.

"Piccolo, I know what you're thinking," Piano says, "But you must be careful! Each child you have in your current state only-"

"I only need one, Piano," Piccolo says, "Aging will not be a problem once I have the Dragon Balls. And now...to solve this problem."

"Sire, he's not going to…." Shu asks, concerns, while Mai and Pilaf only watch with horrified fascination.

"Rise and form to serve your master," Piccolo says, "Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master! Rise and form to serve your master!"

And slowly, a large egg begins to emerge from Piccolo's mouth, landing and hatching. Mai covers her mouth repulsed.

"Sir, does it have a name?" Piano asks.

"His name...shall be Cymbal," Piccolo says.

"Oh, a musical instrument. How original."

"Silence, Piano!" Piccolo yells.

They watch as the dragon-like creature within emerges and rises, quickly growing to full size. Piccolo smiles.

"Child, who do you serve?" Piccolo asks.

"My lord…" Cymbal says, "...Piccolo."

"Good," Piccolo says, "Find the Dragon Balls. Avenge your brother."

"Yes…" Cymbal says as he takes off.

"Uh...sire, can I have a word?" Shu asks Pilaf, pulling him aside, "Shouldn't you be the one giving orders? Who saved who here?"

"Quiet!" Pilaf whispers, "I'm sure we'll be rewarded when Piccolo takes over the world…."

Piccolo groans in annoyance while the Pilaf Gang nervously laughs.

***

"Hello?" Goku yells, wandering around the forest. Not seeing anything, he smiles and looks to the huge fish, and begins chowing down. Smiling, he walks over to a huge rock, takes a stance and punches it, watching it shatter. Satisfied, Goku stops and sighs, "Krillin….I'm so sorry."

Goku then pulls out the Dragon Radar and looks around, seeing another blip on it, "Another Dragon Ball? Already?"

He then begins looking around, hearing a footstep, and to his surprise, from the brush flies a huge boulder. Instinctively, Goku jumps away.

"I know you're there! Come out and face me, coward!"

To Goku's surprise, a short, stout man appears with long, unkempt dark hair, wearing a sleeveless red yukata, a black obi, and an obvious katana by his side.

"I'm no coward! You're the thief that stole my food! That fish was my breakfast and you ate it!"

"...Someone left it on that stick!" Goku yells.

"I was cooking it on that stick, you moron!" the man yells.

"I didn't steal anything! Can you prove it was your breakfast?" Goku yells.

"Are you calling me a liar?!" the man yells, "I hope you're prepared to fight!"

"Okay!" Goku yells, hopping down, and notices something around the man's neck: The One-Star Dragon Ball, "Hey, you're helping that monster, aren't you?"

"...Monster?" the man asks, confused.

"The big, green monster that killed my friend Krillin!" Goku yells.

"Nice story, but you stole my food, now pay the price!" the man says.

"Liar!" Goku yells.

"I'd rather be a liar than a thief, thief!"

"So you are lying!" Goku yells.

"You take that back!" the man yells, as the two charge each other and begin exchanging blows. To Goku's surprise, in spite of his appearance, he puts up a pretty good fight, sending Goku to the ground after a headbutt.

"Hey, that's not fair!" Goku yells, responding with a punch to the face as the battle continues, with Goku eventually ending it with a roundhouse kick sending the man flying into a rock. "Have a nice nap!"

But the man emerges from the rubble, only looking angry. Who is this guy? I hit him as hard as I could!

"Okay, I can tell you're not from around here," the man says, "What do you call yourself, big hair?"

"I'm Son Goku, what about you?" Goku asks.

"I'm Yajirobe."

"Yajirobe?" Goku asks, "That's a funny name!"

"It's better than 'Son Goku'!" Yajirobe yells, causing Goku to leap forward, grappling with him, but then Goku notices the Dragon Ball again, hopping back.

"What the hell's wrong with you?" Yajirobe asks.

"That Dragon Ball around your neck," Goku begins, "Where did you find it?"

"Huh? I found it in the jungle around three years ago," Yajirobe says.

"Three years ago? That's…" Goku says, counting on his fingers and slowly doing the math. He laughs, "If you found it three years ago, there's no way you were helping that monster! This was all just one misunderstanding!"

"I told you I'm not a liar!" Yajirobe says. Goku's smile fades as he sees something flying in the sky.

"That monster? I thought I killed him!" Goku says, watching. Yajirobe looks up, and they watch as Cymbal lands.

"How long you live depends on how you answer my question," Cymbal says.

"That's….not him," Goku says.

"Be quick!" Yajirobe yells, "What do you want from us?"

"Which one of you destroyed my brother? Speak quickly, or suffer the consequences."

"If you want someone's help, then you should ask nicely!" Yajirobe yells.

Cymbal does a double take, chuckling as he notices the Dragon Ball around Yajirobe's neck.

"That bauble...where did you get it?" Cymbal asks.

"You're after the Dragon Ball? Then that must mean...did your brother have green skin like you? And wings like you?"

"That sounds like Tambourine," Cymbal says, "Which must mean you must be the one that destroyed him."

"That means you're my enemy!" Goku yells.

"Awfully cocky, boy," Cymbal says, "I'll break every bone in your body. And yours as well if you don't hand over that ball."

"Try it, I'll kick your ass!" Yajirobe says.

"No, he's mine!" Goku says, "He's in cahoots with the guy that killed my friend!"

"That's your problem, not mine!" Yajirobe says, "But this creep insulted me."

"Why are you being so stubborn about this?" Goku asks.

"Because he's going to be my new breakfast!" Yajirobe proclaims.

Cymbal looks in disbelief as the two begin to play repeated rounds of Rock, Papers, Scissors, with Yajirobe emerging the victor. He then stands in front of Cymbal.

"Do your worst! I want this fight to last!" Yajirobe says.

Cymbal chuckles, "If you're so eager to die, who am I to stop you?"

Yajirobe charges, but Cymbal quickly knocks him back. Yajirobe brushes himself off.

"It's been a long morning. I keep meeting strong enemies," he says.

"It's not strength, you're just weak," Cymbal says.

"I'll show you who's weak, monster!" Yajirobe says, delivering a jump kick that connects with Cymbal's face.

"Hey you're less scary when you're missing a few teeth!"

"You'll pay for that!" Cymbal says, holding his hand out. Lightning shoots out, causing Yajirobe to jump and dodge.

"That's a neat trick, you didn't say we could use weapons!" Yajirobe says.

"You sure you don't want my help?" Goku asks, but Yajirobe only holds his hand up.

"I can handle him by myself," Yajirobe says, "Let's finish this!"

"Why don't you keep dancing?" Cymbal says, but Yajirobe says nothing as he charges, his hand on his katana. Cymbal smiles as he holds his out, firing the lightning again, but Yajirobe dodges each shot and leaps, his sword drawn, striking Cymbal. Slowly, the monster begins to fall, his torso bisected.

"Wow! You don't look like it, but you're fast!" Goku says, "You're really going to eat him?"

"Of course!" Yajirobe says as he begins hauling Cymbal's remains off.

"You gonna cook him?" Goku asks.

"Yeah! And you can't have any!" Yajirobe says.

"Well, at least let me cook him for you! Stay back," Goku says, pulling his hands back. Yajirobe watches as Goku fires off a Kamehameha at Cymbal's body, roasting the monster.

***

"...Cymbal is no more," Piccolo says, "He's dead."

"...My sympathies, King Piccolo," Pilaf says.

"Silence! How can you comprehend what I feel! He was my own blood!" Piccolo yells. The demon fumes on his throne, "This shouldn't be happening!"

"Is that kid really that strong?!" Pilaf asks in disbelief.

"You!" Piccolo yells, pointing at Pilaf, "Take this vessel to wherever Tambourine and Cymbal fell! I'll destroy this new adversary myself!"

"Are you sure, sire, Piccolo?" Piano asks.

"Silence, Piano! This is personal," Piccolo says, "I will see to their destruction for interfering with my plans!"

"And that's why I need all seven," Goku says, as he finishes explaining his story to Yajirobe.

"One wish and you'll use it to bring back your friend?" Yajirobe asks, with Goku nodding in response, "He must have meant a lot to you."

"Huh?" Goku says, looking up as he notices Pilaf's flying base coming towards them.

"What is that thing?" Yajirobe asks.

"King Piccolo, we have arrived at our destination!" A voice says out of the plane.

"What?!" Yajirobe says, "I've heard that name before! It was a story I was told in my village….Oh, crap, I remember! Here!" Yajirobe removes the Dragon Ball and hands it to Goku, "Here, it's all yours!"

Yajirobe begins moving with haste away from Goku, "But Yajirobe, Piccolo might taste the best!"

"No, that's okay, I'm stuffed! Nice meeting you!" Yajirobe says, running into the woods. Shrugging, Goku looks back up to the plane, and watches as a figure floats down: Tall, and hideously green.

"You must be the leader of those monsters!" Goku says.

"Yes," Piccolo says, "I see you have a Dragon Ball."

"Then you're the one that's responsible for Krillin's death!" Goku yells.

Piccolo chuckles.

"And now, I'm going to make you pay!" Goku says.

Piccolo only chuckles, "You really don't have a clue, do you? You see, every time I meet a martial artist, I have an urge to destroy them."

"Just try it!" Goku yells, attacking, and the two exchange blows, with the fight evenly matched at first, but Goku knocks King Piccolo back. Piccolo pulls himself up and chuckles again, assuming his own pose, clearly indicating he's taking the fight seriously.

"Well done, boy. I had no idea I could be knocked down. You're good, I can see why my children fell. But if you're this good...where were you when your friend died?"

Goku takes a deep breath, but then he only smiles, his eyes determined, "First, let me teach you a thing or two about who I am."

"You're going to teach me?" Piccolo asks, amused.

"You're going to love this...trust me. What you're seeing now is my normal form," Goku says, "And this…"

"What's he doing?" Yajirobe asks, peering out of the bushes, curious to see what his new friend his up to. Goku assumes a pose, his hands out, his feet apart, and takes a deep breath. The ground begins to shake. Goku looks to the sky and yells out, his hair once again turning gold, his eyes aqua. He then hangs his head and stares Piccolo dead on.

"Sorry about that, I'm not quite used to this," Goku says as Piccolo gasps, "This is me when I'm angry! And guess what? You're not going to like me when I'm angry!"

Piccolo is helpless as Goku's assault begins, moving at speeds the demon king can't comprehend, while Yajirobe watches, dumbstruck. Piccolo is brought to one knee, blood dripping from his mouth.

"What the hell are you?" Piccolo says he stands, looking down, only to see Goku stand next to him as pull his hands back as blue energy forms around it.

"Evacuate!" Pilaf shouts to Mai and Shu, as the two run towards a small biplane, while Piano only watches, terrified.

"This is for Krillin, you monster!" Goku yells as he lets rip a massive Kamehameha, hitting King Piccolo head on and vaporizing him, the beam continuing onward, making contact with Pilaf's Flying Base. The base explodes spectacularly, taking Piano with it, with Pilaf's plane barely makes it out in time. Goku returns to his normal form, collapsing on the ground, while Yajirobe runs over to him.

"Goku?! What as that?!" Yajirobe asks as he helps his new friend up. Goku groggily shakes his head, "Was that really King Piccolo?"

"Uh-huh," Goku says, "That symbol on his robe...it was the same one we found by Krillin. Master Roshi said it was the mark of the demon."

"The stories I heard about that guy...and you took him out like it was nothing…" Yajirobe says amazed. He looks up as hears a noise, only to see another plane zeroing in on them. He grabs his katana, but Goku stops him.

"No, wait," Goku says, "It's okay, I know them. They're my friends!"

They watch as the plane descends, landing, and out steps Bulma, Roshi, Yamcha, Oolong, Puar, Launch, Chiaotzu and Tien Shinhan.

"Goku, you're alive!" Oolong says in amazement while Roshi examines everything

"Yeah I am!" Goku says, smiling, "But what are you guys doing here?"

"Silly," Bulma says, "I made another Dragon Radar, and we decided to help you out by gathering the rest of the Dragon Balls. We saw two here."

"Oh yeah," Goku says, pulling out the original radar and taking a look, "Huh? That's weird. Hey Bulma, I think I broke it, it's not working but I have Grandpa's Dragon Ball right here!"

"What's with that stone around your neck?" Oolong asks.

Bulma takes Goku's radar and examines here own, "It's not broken…but…"

Goku pulls out the Four Star Dragon Ball, only to see turned into stone.

"Hey, isn't that what happens when a wish is made?" Yamcha asks.

"Yeah, but we didn't have all seven!" Bulma says.

"They were Dragon Balls just a moment ago, I swear!" Goku says, while Roshi comes over.

"So you really took out Piccolo, eh?" Roshi says, and Goku nods, "Goku...I saw the terror Piccolo could create. You have no idea just how dangerous he was back in my day. I'd say the world owes you a favor."

"That's nice...but Krillin…" Goku says, "Now I can't wish him back. What'll happen to him?"

Bulma smiles and holds up a capsule, "Don't worry about that. I'm sure there's some way we can get the Dragon Balls back. I had my dad make a special freezing capsule, and we decided to keep Krillin in here, just to be safe."

"Yeah, we don't want any zombies running around when he comes back," Oolong says.

Goku smiles, "Thanks, Bulma. But what can we do about the Dragon Balls?"

"Hmmm," Roshi says, "Goku, I'm not sure what happened to the Dragon Balls, but I think I know who can help. I think you should pay a visit to Korin, he might have the answers you need."

"What's a 'Korin'?" Yajirobe asks.

"Yeah, you're right!" Goku says, turning around to fly, but he stops, "But uh...what about you guys?"

Roshi looks at Tien and Chiaotzu, "My offer's still open if you two want to take it up."

"No, but thank you," Tien says, "As for me, it looks like I have a title I have to defend. Against someone like Goku...I'm going to need all the training I can get. We'll find our own way, Master Roshi."

"Yeah, no kidding," Yamcha says, "I want a crack at that title myself!"

"Well, that seems to settle that," Roshi says, and looking to Goku, "At least see what else Korin can teach you, Goku. Maybe he can even help you hone that new power of yours."

"Just don't hone it too much, okay?" Tien says with a small smile, "I look forward to our next encounter."

"Yeah, you too, Tien!" Goku says as he flies off, "Bye, everyone!"

They all watch as Goku leaves.

"So uh...who's this Korin guy?" Yajirobe asks.

***

"Nice work, Goku," Korin says, smiling at Goku.

"I need your help, Master," Goku says.

"Don't worry about it, kid," Korin says, "I saw what you did to Piccolo. You've come along quite a bit. Here, I think you've earned this."

Korin points with his staff to a small table, upon which sits a kettle and a small cup.

"What's that?" Goku asks. Korin smiles.

"The final part of your training, the Ultra Divine Water."

"Ultra Divine Water?"

Korin nods, "It has the potential to draw out any of your remaining strength. I had planned to use it as a backup plan for you in case you lost to Piccolo, but after seeing that, there was no need. And with all the strength you've gained already, I'm sure your ready for it. But be warned; that's not just something you can take a sip of, Goku. It's a potent toxin. Others have tried, but non survived. As soon as I had a taste, I had to spit it out."

"Well, I can handle it!" Goku says, approaching the table. He pours a cup and looks at the liquid.

"I'm sure you can," Korin says, observing as Goku drinks. Goku chugs it, and begins grimacing in pain, falling over, but to Korin's surprise, Goku's angry form once again returns, and fades quickly as Goku yells. He pants.

"Here, eat this!" Korin says, giving Goku a Senzu Bean, who quickly eats it. Goku stands, looking at his hands, "So...how do you feel?"

"I don't know," Goku says, "I don't feel much different…"

"Hmm," Korin says, "Well it's hard to say if it did the trick. So, what brought you here?"

"Oh right," Goku says, holding up the now stone Dragon Balls, "After I killed Piccolo...the Dragon Balls turned to stone, like someone had made a wish, but that couldn't have happened."

"I see," Korin says, thinking, "And without that, you can't bring your friend back."

"Yeah…" Goku says, sadly.

"And it's unfortunate," Korin says, "Your friend's soul will never rest. Those killed by the likes of Piccolo will float in limbo forever unless they're revived by the Dragon Balls."

"You mean there's nothing we can do?" Goku asks.

"Well, I think we might have a chance left. I almost forgot!" Korin says, "All you have to do is meet with the creator of the Dragon Balls, and he should be able to fix it."

"Well, who's that?!" Goku asks eagerly.

"You really don't know?" Korin asks, "Kami."

"Who's that?" Goku asks.

"The creator, who else did you think?" Korin asks, "But Kami only accepts a few audiences, if ever, and only those from those pure of heart."

"Where can I find him?" Goku asks.

"He's here," Korin asks, but Goku only looks around confused, "And by here, I mean way above this temple."

Goku looks up over the side, "Way up there? I bet I can fly up!"

"That's a good idea, but you can't get higher than this," Korin says, "But with that Power Pole of yours…"

"The Power Pole?" Goku asks, and Korin nods.

"It was originally created to take the owner to that temple above," Korin explains, "I loaned it to Master Roshi, and I didn't think anyone else would be able to carry it until you came along."

Goku pulls out the Power Pole, smiling, and flies to the roof of the temple, while Korin walks up.

"Now, put the pole into the whole on the roof. Command it to stretch, and off you go. Hold on tight," Korin says, "Oh, and here, take this…"

Korin pulls out a small bell and hands it to Goku, "Only someone with that bell can meet Kami."

"Alright, here goes!" Goku says, "Power Pole, extend!"

Korin watches as Goku shoots off into the sky, "Take care!"

"Bye, Korin!" Goku yells.

After some time, the Power Pole finally extends to the top, and using his tail, Goku swings over to a nearby ladder, and begins climbing, reaching the top and walking forward, not sure what to make of his new surroundings, but stops when he sees a strange being: A large, genie like figure with black skin and a likewise costume.

"Oh, hello," Goku says.

"Hi," the being says.

"My name's Goku, and I'm looking for Kami," Goku says.

"I know Kami, but my name is Mr. Popo," Mr. Popo explains, "And I've heard a lot about you."

"What? How?" Goku asks.

"Kami told me all about you," Mr. Popo says.

"He did?"

Mr. Popo nods, "Yes, Kami knows much."

Goku points behind Mr. Popo, "Then is that his house?"

"First, do you have proof that Korin approved you?" Mr. Popo asks. Goku nods and shows Mr. Popo the bell. Mr. Popo smiles, "Good."

"So, can I meet Kami now?" Goku asks.

"I'm sorry to say," Mr. Popo says, "But I'm afraid Kami's well...dead."

"What?!" Goku says in disbelief.

"It's true," Mr. Popo replies, "I'm afraid there was a...complication."

"A complication?!" Goku says.

Mr. Popo nods, "There may be a way to undo what has been done, but only when you are ready. But...if you wish, I believe I can help you in other ways. You're looking to become stronger, right?"

Goku nods.

"I can pass on some of the techniques you would learn if Kami were still alive," Mr. Popo says, "And tell you everything needed in order to bring your friend back, Goku. But, you must promise to remain here until you finish what you started."

"How long will that be?" Goku asks.

"About three years."

"Three years?" Goku asks, "That's when the next tournament is! Alright, Mr. Popo, I promise!"

"Good," Mr. Popo says, "Then we can begin."

NEXT TIME ON DRAGON BALL C!

And so, Goku began three years of tutelage under Mr. Popo, determined to make his new teacher proud so that one day he could continue on his quest to restore Krillin, his best friend, to life and to return the Dragon Balls to Earth. What does the future hold for our hero? Find out in the next exciting chapter of Dragon Ball C!

AFTERTHOUGHT.

Yeah, decided to give this thing an update, it was bugging me way to much. Also, the Future Trunks arcs is looking to be a daunting task, so I just wanted to get this updated version of the first chapter out of the way to entice future readers.

BTW, if you are a future reader, the next couple of chapters, if they haven't been updated (I plan on saying so before hand), might seem a bit off. As you may have gathered, I'm updating these early chapters to bring them more in-line, so please be patient if you fall between the time of this update and that one.

Any questions, concerns, let me know.