CHAPTER 9: THE RESCUE MISSION

The night sky stretched endlessly over Capsule Corp, stars shimmering faintly against the dark canvas. Vegeta stood on the balcony of the main building, arms crossed as he stared into the distance. The cool breeze carried faint sounds from the city below, but his mind was elsewhere—on Kakarot and the danger he was undoubtedly facing.

Behind him, Bulma stepped out onto the balcony, her arms wrapped around herself. “Do you think he’s okay?” she asked softly, breaking the silence.

Vegeta didn’t turn to face her. “He’s faced worse. But this... this feels different.”

Before Bulma could respond, the faint hum of a ship descending drew their attention. A small vessel landed quietly in the backyard, its lights cutting through the dark. Vegeta narrowed his eyes as the hatch opened, and a familiar figure stepped out: Tarble, accompanied by his wife Gure, who held a tiny bundle in her arms.

Tarble looked up at the balcony and gave a small wave. “Brother.”

Vegeta grunted, leaping off the balcony to meet him. Bulma followed, though she used the stairs.

“You came,” Vegeta said, his tone neutral.

“Of course I did. When I got the message, I left immediately,” Tarble replied. His gaze flickered to Gure and the baby before returning to his brother. “What’s going on?”

Before Vegeta could answer, Goten and Gohan arrived, landing lightly on the grass. “We came as soon as we heard,” Gohan said. Goten’s expression was tense. “Is it true? Dad’s been captured?”

Vegeta’s grim silence was answer enough.

***

Inside Capsule Corp, the group gathered, with Piccolo, Krillin, 18, and Chi-Chi joining them. Chi-Chi’s face was pale, her hands trembling as she clutched a steaming cup of tea.

“Tell us everything,” Gohan said, his voice firm.

Vegeta began recounting what he knew, detailing Truffle’s arrival and the mysterious saiyans connection to the dying planets. Truffle added what she had seen: planets drained of life, massive trees that seemed to sprout from nowhere, and strange fruit left behind.

“Why would anyone do this?” Goten asked, his voice cracking.

“I don’t know,” Truffle admitted. “But it’s happening across the galaxy. And now they have your father.”

Before anyone could respond, a soft hum filled the air, followed by a flash of light in the backyard. The group turned just in time to see Whis wielding his staff in hand. Broly followed closely behind him, his massive frame illuminated by the faint glow. The towering Saiyan stood silently, his expression unreadable, though his eyes darted across the group, taking in each of them.

Vegeta immediately stepped forward, his tone curt but curious.

Whis nodded with a small smile. “Here’s Broly as requested. However, I took some additional time to investigate a few matters of my own. I had suspicions about what you’re dealing with, and I sought out the Kais.” He gestured behind him as three more figures emerged: King Kai, Supreme Kai, and Elder Kai. A fourth figure followed—a tall being with light pink skin, wearing white Jackie Ohh sunglasses that gleamed in the soft light.

The tall being stepped forward, adjusting his sunglasses as the group eyed him curiously.

“Who’s this?” Vegeta asked, his arms crossed.

King Kai chuckled nervously, stepping forward. “Oh, right, introductions are in order. Everyone, this is South Kai. He’s one of the four Kais who oversee the quadrants of the universe. You’ve got me in the North, East Kai in the East, West Kai in the West, and, well, South Kai here manages the South Quadrant.”

Gohan raised an eyebrow. “So... you’re all like regional overseers?”

King Kai nodded, waving a hand toward Supreme Kai. “Exactly! But above us is the Supreme Kai, who oversees all four quadrants—and, of course, the whole universe itself.”

Piccolo’s eyes narrowed as he turned to South Kai. “Why is he here, then? What’s so important about this situation that it involves someone like him?”

South Kai crossed his arms, his usual casual demeanor replaced by an uncharacteristic seriousness. “This concerns my quadrant—and much more.”

Supreme Kai stepped forward, his expression grave. “Let me explain. Over the past several months, the South Quadrant has been plagued by a pattern of devastation—entire planets drained of their life energy. South Kai has been investigating, but the source remained elusive until recently.”

King Kai nodded, his tone heavy. “Now, that devastation has reached the North Quadrant as well. This isn’t an isolated problem anymore—it’s a threat to the entire universe. That’s why I asked Whis to bring South Kai here. He’s uncovered something crucial that ties into what Truffle has already reported.”

Vegeta frowned. “What kind of threat are we dealing with?”

South Kai’s voice carried a rare urgency. “This isn’t random. The destruction is spreading systematically, consuming worlds one after another. The pattern suggests a deliberate and escalating effort, and we’re running out of time to stop it.”

King Kai nodded grimly. “That’s why it’s so urgent. What’s happening is no longer contained. If it continues at this rate, it could threaten the balance of the entire universe.”

Truffle, who had been listening quietly, stepped forward, her gaze flicking nervously toward the divine beings. She hesitated for a moment before steadying herself. “This lines up with the intel I’ve gathered. The planets I tracked were in the South Quadrant, but now the destruction is moving northward. I still don’t understand what’s causing it, though.”

Supreme Kai took a deep breath, his expression heavy. “We do. The trees you described—the massive structures draining planets of life—those are the Eternal Tree of Might.”

Confused murmurs rippled through the group. Trunks stepped forward, his voice skeptical. “The Tree of Might?”

Whis tilted his head, addressing the group. “Tell me, what do you know about the Dragon God, Zalama?”

Bulma’s eyes lit up as a memory clicked. “Zalama? He’s the one who created the Super Dragon Balls! I remember learning about him from Zuno when Jaco and I went to ask about the Super Dragon Balls a while back.”

Whis nodded approvingly. “That’s correct. Zalama created the Super Dragon Balls, yes—but that’s not all. He also created the Divine Fruit, which served as the foundation for the Eternal Tree of Might.”

King Kai took over, his tone somber. “The Eternal Tree of Might was designed to sustain the divine order of the multiverse, nourishing the gods and the Eternal Dragons. Its fruit contained fragments of Primordial Energy—raw power from the dawn of creation. But it was never meant for mortals.”

Elder Kai added, “Mortals, being mortals, eventually found a way to get their hands on the fruit and exploit the tree. They twisted its purpose, planting it on planets to harvest its fruit. But the cost was devastating—the tree would drain every ounce of life from a planet just to bear a single fruit, leaving nothing behind.”

Supreme Kai nodded. “What was once a symbol of balance and creation became a source of greed and destruction. Entire civilizations have been wiped out because of it.”

King Kai continued, his expression grim. “And this is where our suspicions come into play. It’s possible that this...Turles person may have gotten his hands on a fragment of the Divine Fruit. If so, it’s likely he’s been using it to spread destruction across the universe.”

Whis furrowed his brow. “How he would have obtained such power, and the means to plant these trees across the quadrants, remains unclear. But the scale and precision of this effort suggest he may not be working alone.”

The weight of the revelation hung heavily over the group. Truffle shook her head, her resolve sharpening. “Then we need to get to the bottom of this.”

Vegeta’s fists clenched, his voice firm. “Agreed. We need to confront this threat directly and uncover the truth.”

South Kai stepped forward, nodding. “In that case, I suggest you start in my quadrant. The most recent activity I’ve detected was in a sector not far from where the Saiyans’ original homeworld, Planet Sadala, once existed.”

Truffle’s expression brightened slightly. “I know a Galactic Patrol member stationed near that area. I can reach out to them for intel and see if they’ve noticed anything unusual.”

Vegeta’s eyes burned with determination as he turned to the group. “Good. Broly, Gohan, Tarble—you’re with us. We leave immediately.”

Goten and Trunks stepped forward, their expressions resolute. “We’re coming too!” Trunks said.

“No,” Vegeta said firmly. “You’re staying here. If something happens to Earth, you’ll need to protect it.”

Piccolo crossed his arms. “I’ll stay as well. Someone has to keep an eye on these two.”

Tarble turned to Gure, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I’ll be back,” he said quietly. “You’ll be in protected hands here.”

Gure smiled softly. “Good luck. And... try to reconnect with Vegeta. You’ve wanted this chance for so long.”

With their team assembled, the group boarded Truffle’s ship. As the craft ascended into the sky, Chi-Chi, Bulma, and the others watched them disappear into the stars, their hearts heavy with both hope and fear.

In the cockpit, Truffle entered the coordinates, glancing back at her passengers. “This is going to be a long journey. Make yourselves comfortable.”

As they entered light speed, Gohan stared out the window, his resolve hardening. We’ll find you, Dad. And we’ll stop whoever’s behind this... no matter what it takes.

________

Writer's Note:
This is a fairly short chapter, primarily intended to fill in the rest of the Z-Fighters and introduce Gohan, one of the main protagonists of this arc. The chapter moves quickly because I didn’t want the moment to drag—especially with the stakes already set and the plot in motion. Spending more time here would have felt like unnecessary padding, which I wanted to avoid. This arc will primarily focus on Gohan and Vegeta, but as you can already tell, Goku will still play a significant role. The rescue mission is underway—let’s see where it leads!

Note (2025):
This chapter underwent major revisions. Initially, it felt like the weakest in the story, so I rethought how to make it more impactful. That’s when the lore of the Tree of Might came to mind. Adding a divine aspect felt like a unique way to connect the Kais’ involvement, and there’s more to come about why I included the South Kai—especially since Planet Sadala is now said to be in his quadrant.

Since there’s no established lore about Planet Sadala’s original location, I decided that placing it in the South Kai's quadrant aligned well with his personality and the quadrant's themes. Originally, Broly and Tarble weren’t part of the story—I envisioned it as a smaller adventure with just Vegeta and Gohan. However, as the story evolved, it made more sense to include Broly and Tarble, particularly Tarble, as the "Exiled Prince." Their inclusion added layers of character depth and enriched the narrative significantly.

CHAPTER 8: TURLES vs GOKU

Atop the massive root, Goku and Turles stand face to face, the air crackling with anticipation. Goku shifts into his fighting stance, his energy surging as he weighs his first move. Turles, by contrast, remains calm and confident, arms folded, his piercing gaze unyielding.

The king's composed demeanor unsettles Goku, who struggles to get a read on him. Taking a deep breath, Goku decides to act first. Turles smirks, almost as if daring him.

In an instant, Goku closes the gap and throws the first punch. The impact echoes as both saiyans leap into the sky, clashing mid-air. Their flurry of punches and kicks creates shockwaves, the force of their blows shaking the branches of the massive tree below.

Turles moves deftly, blocking Goku's attacks with precision. But Goku’s relentless assault finds its mark—a solid punch connects, sending Turles flying back.

Landing on a rocky ledge, Turles wipes his jaw, smirking. "A cheap shot. It won’t happen again."

"We’ll see about that!" Goku retorts, the thrill of battle evident in his grin.

Turles dives to the ground, sprinting toward a nearby canyon. Goku pursues him, determined not to lose sight. Turles vanishes into the rocky terrain, leaving Goku scanning his surroundings.

Perched atop the canyon, Turles fires a barrage of ki blasts. Goku blocks them with ease, but the explosions create a thick smokescreen, obscuring his view.

"Where did he go?" Goku mutters, brushing the smoke aside.

Suddenly, he feels an iron grip around his neck. Turles is behind him, locking him into a chokehold. The king’s strength is immense, his grip tightening as Goku struggles to break free.

"You're strong, I’ll give you that," Turles remarks, his voice calm despite the exertion.

Goku grits his teeth, feeling his power rise. I have no choice. With a burst of golden energy, he transforms into a Super Saiyan, the sheer force breaking Turles's hold.

Turles steps back, eyes narrowing as he takes in Goku’s glowing yellow hair and aura. "Super Saiyan..."

"You don’t seem fazed," Goku says, his voice steady.

Turles smirks, his tone measured. "I know the legend well. Believe me, I’m not impressed." He drops into a stance, his energy spiking. "You’ll find I’m more powerful than a mere transformation."

"Trust me," Goku replies with a grin, his aura flaring brighter. "There’s more where this came from."

With a shout, his energy surges, and he transforms into Super Saiyan 2, electricity sparking around him. Without hesitation, Goku charges, launching the next phase of their battle.

The two saiyans exchange blows, knuckle meeting knuckle with deafening force. Each strike is calculated, precise—neither daring to make a mistake that could send them crashing into the jagged canyon walls. Turles feints, landing a crushing blow to Goku’s side, forcing him backward.

As Goku regains his footing, he feels the shift in Turles’s energy. The air grows heavy.
This guy’s energy... it’s insane, Goku thinks, bracing himself.

Turles smirks, his confidence unwavering. "You're about to feel only a fraction of my power."

The king’s aura surges, his body pulsing with immense energy. In the blink of an eye, Turles is gone—reappearing directly in front of Goku. With a thunderous strike, he sends Goku hurtling into a pile of rubble.

Goku shakes off the impact and narrowly evades Turles’s knee as it smashes into the rock. But Turles is relentless, firing a barrage of blasts that forces Goku back on the defensive. They clash again, exchanging powerful blows, their smiles betraying the joy they find in testing each other’s limits.

Flipping backward, Goku gains some distance. His energy begins to build, his aura glowing brighter as he prepares to ascend further. Turles watches, intrigued. His arms remain at his sides, no urgency in his stance.

"HAAAAAAAAA!!!" Goku roars as his energy explodes. His hair grows long, his eyebrows vanish, and his golden aura flares with untamed power. Goku stands transformed into Super Saiyan 3.

Turles raises an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued.

In an instant, Goku vanishes, using Instant Transmission to land a devastating blow to Turles’s side. Turles recoils but has no time to recover as Goku teleports again, striking from a different angle. Blow after blow rains down, Goku playing with his newfound speed.

Before Goku can land another strike, Turles anticipates his movement and catches his punch mid-air.

"So," Turles says, their fists locked. "What’s this transformation called?"

"This," Goku replies with a grin, "is Super Saiyan 3."

"Interesting," Turles muses, releasing Goku’s fist. "So, there’s even more to the legend than I imagined. But you’re still holding back."

Goku steps back, smirking. "Maybe. Let’s find out."

He channels his energy, his aura shifting from golden to fiery red. His hair returns to its normal length, and his eyebrows reappear. Standing before Turles now is Goku in his Super Saiyan God form.

Turles’s eyes narrow, his intrigue turning to recognition. "Now, this brings back memories," he mutters, his voice carrying a strange mix of nostalgia and resolve.

Without hesitation, Turles launches forward, his punch aimed squarely at Goku. But Goku moves with fluid grace, guiding Turles’s strike away effortlessly. Each of Turles’s follow-up blows is dodged, Goku’s movements precise and instinctive.

Maybe I should try what Whis taught me, Goku thinks, dodging another strike. For a fleeting moment, he feels himself slipping into the calm flow of Ultra Instinct. Turles, meanwhile, grows more impressed as Goku’s technique becomes almost otherworldly.

Just as Goku begins to lose focus, Turles’s fist finally connects—but Goku catches it, holding it firm.

"I yield," Turles says suddenly, stepping back.

Goku blinks, releasing Turles’s fist. "Already? Things were just getting good."

Turles brushes rubble from his armor, taking a deep breath. "Your power is astonishing, Goku. To see these transformations firsthand... it’s an honor."

"I know you were holding back too," Goku replies with a knowing smile.

Turles laughs softly, his voice tinged with familiarity. "You remind me of someone I knew long ago. He was noble... and had great power, just like you."

Placing a hand on Goku’s shoulder, Turles smirks. "We’ll fight again, and next time, I won’t hold back. But for now, I think you’ve earned a proper meal."

"Now you’re talking!" Goku exclaims, his stomach already growling.

Turles retrieves his royal gear, and the two saiyans take to the sky, flying back toward the palace. As they soar, Turles watches Goku closely, a determined glint in his eye.

He’s everything I hoped for... the perfect piece I need to make this work.

________

Writer's Note:

Well that fight just happened. It might not be an all out brawl just yet, this was more like an appetizer as the two test each other's strengths. There's a few callbacks to their original fight from the movie, but what I didn't want to do is throw everything into this when there's so much left to go. It's typical that you see Goku go through his transformations once again, but this is a sparring match to which Turles wanted to see his capabilities for something that will happen later on in our story. 

I did promise Goku wouldn't be sitting out this story being kidnapped. He's more of our gateway into learning about Turles and this mysterious saiyan clan first hand. What is Turles cooking up? Stay tuned next time on Dragonball Super: The Might of King Turles.

CHAPTER 7: THE KINGDOM OF FIERCE WARRIORS

Goku opens his eyes to the warmth of sunlight streaming through a high arched window. He sits up slowly, finding himself in an ornate room with smooth stone walls, tapestries depicting Saiyan warriors, and faintly glowing sconces lining the walls. A soft breeze carries the scent of greenery, drawing Goku toward the open balcony doors.

Stepping outside, he’s greeted by a sprawling grassy garden filled with vibrant plants and small streams winding through the terrain. Exotic birds dart between trees, their calls blending with the soothing sounds of rustling leaves. Over the edge of the balcony lies an awe-inspiring view of a kingdom—a massive Saiyan city carved into the landscape, bustling with life. Tall towers stretch into the sky, their surfaces shimmering in the sunlight, and the streets below are filled with Saiyans of all ages, their tails swaying freely as they go about their day.

What is this place? Goku wonders, his awe momentarily interrupted as he senses something behind him—or rather, the lack of something. He instinctively tries to summon his ki but feels nothing.

My ki... it's blocked! He glances at his reflection in the glass door to check for a halo, letting out a relieved sigh when he doesn’t see one.

Curiosity tugs at him as his gaze shifts beyond the palace. Behind the grand structure, a massive tree looms, its golden leaves shimmering like starlight. Unlike the withered and dying tree he saw on the other planet, this one radiates life, its roots extending deep into the earth, exuding an almost ethereal energy.

“Welcome to Idun,” a familiar voice interrupts his thoughts. Goku spins around to see Avoca standing in the doorway, dressed more casually than during their first encounter. Her form-fitting black suit is simple but striking, her demeanor less combative and more composed.

Goku tenses slightly, still cautious after their fight. “Avoca…right?”

She holds up a hand, her expression calm. “I’m not here to fight. King Turles wishes to speak with you. If you’ll kindly follow me.”

Goku hesitates, weighing his options. He doesn’t fully trust her but can’t ignore the questions swirling in his mind. A planet full of Saiyans? How? Where have they been all this time? With no other choice, he nods and follows her out of the room.

Avoca leads him through the garden, where other Saiyans tend to the grounds or relax, enjoying their day-to-day lives. It’s a side of Saiyan culture Goku has never seen before—one of peace and routine, far removed from the battles and destruction he associates with his race.

As they walk, they pass workers carrying shipments of a strange, light-orange fruit that gives off a faint glow. Intrigued, Goku reaches for one, but Avoca stops him with a sharp glance.

“I wouldn’t eat that if I were you. They’re not ripe yet.”

Goku chuckles, rubbing the back of his head. “Oh, sorry about that.” He places it back. “What are they?”

“They’re a delicacy,” Avoca explains, her tone softening. “Fruit grown from seeds brought from our original home, Planet Sadala. We cultivate and trade them with allied worlds. They’re not just food—they’re a symbol of our heritage.”

“Wow,” Goku murmurs, his curiosity deepening.

“Come on,” Avoca says, gesturing for him to keep up. “The King doesn’t like to be kept waiting.”

As they continue, the grand palace looms ever closer. Its white stone walls shine brilliantly in the sunlight, and its towering spire connects the mountaintop to the city below. The architecture is both elegant and imposing, a testament to Saiyan ingenuity and strength.

When they reach the palace courtyard, Goku’s attention is drawn to the sparring Saiyans clad in black armor. Their movements are sharp and precise, their blows fierce enough to make his blood race with excitement. He can’t help but grin, his fingers twitching with the urge to jump in.

“Focus,” Avoca warns, shooting him a side glance as curious eyes follow their progress.

Goku waves at the onlookers with his signature smile before stepping through the massive double doors of the palace. Inside, the grand hallway stretches endlessly, flanked by tall stone pillars and stained-glass windows that bathe the floor in soft, colorful light.

At the far end of the hall stands a throne, and behind it, encased within a massive glass sphere, are the preserved remains of a once-great tree. Its gnarled roots twist and coil, faint traces of its former energy flickering within the remnants.

Sitting upon the throne, King Turles waits, his piercing gaze locked on Goku.

“My King,” Avoca announces, saluting with her right arm across her chest and her left hand behind her back.

"Thank you, Avoca, that will be all."

Turles gestures for her to leave. She bows and exits, leaving the two Saiyans alone in the grand hall.

Turles steps off his throne, walking toward Goku. His white armor gleams under the palace lights, the dark blue chest plate adorned with a crest on the left side: a tree intertwined with the Saiyan emblem. A flowing cape compliments his attire, and a gold necklace with red crystals rests against his chest, matching the crown atop his head.

As Turles approaches, Goku is struck by how similar their faces are—a startling mirror of his own, yet hardened and regal.

"Apologies for my actions on Masala Dosa. We got off on the wrong foot."

"I know Vegeta was mad," Goku says, crossing his arms. "But did you really have to go that far?"

"Vegeta? So that truly is his name. Well, I assure you, he’s fine. I merely put him to sleep—much like I did to you. I’m sure the deity who was with you has already tended to him."

Turles turns and strides toward the palace doors, gesturing for Goku to follow. "Walk with me."

In the palace courtyard, Goku and Turles walk side by side, the grandeur of Idun stretching out before them. The twin moons are faintly visible in the sky, though the sunlight dominates, casting a warm glow over the utopian kingdom. They descend a series of steps toward a glistening lake beside the thriving city, the water shimmering like liquid glass.

"Having made first contact with the Dosians some time ago for trade, we hadn’t heard from them in months. As one of our major suppliers, I decided to investigate personally. But by the time we arrived, their planet was already in the state you and Vegeta found it."

"I guess that checks out," Goku comments, his attention divided between Turles’ words and the stunning sights around him.

The two walk through a bustling marketplace. Merchants call out to passersby, offering everything from exotic meats to hand-forged weapons. Children laugh as they dart between stalls, their tails wagging excitedly. A Saiyan child spots Goku and waves, earning a cheerful wave in return. Soldiers clad in black armor stand guard at key points, saluting as Turles passes. It’s clear the people of Idun regard Turles with deep respect, treating him as their savior and rightful king.

"I never thought there’d be more of us left in this Universe," Goku says, marveling at the lively scene.

"Neither did we," Turles replies, his tone somber. "For a long time, my clan and I were trapped—forgotten. But everything changed when we found a derelict Cooler Force ship crash-landed on our refuge. Among its remains, we found a treasure trove of intel—records detailing the fall of Planet Vegeta, Frieza’s betrayal, and the scattering of our people. And there, buried in the data, was mention of you.”

"Me?"

Turles nods. "Your feats don’t go unnoticed, Goku. Stories of a Saiyan who defeated Frieza, battled gods, and stood against universal threats. If it weren’t for the reports and some soldiers mistaking me for you in the files, I would never have known."

Goku chuckles, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, that happens sometimes."

"For good reason," Turles continues, his voice firm. "It was through those records that I realized how far we’d fallen—and how much work there is to do to rebuild our race. My goal has been to revive what we’ve lost, to rebuild from the ashes."

Goku looks around, taking in the thriving city, the people, and the vibrant life all around them. It’s clear Turles’ words are genuine. Despite their earlier conflict, Goku can’t help but respect the passion behind his mission.

"Follow me," Turles says, his tone shifting. "There’s something I want to show you."

Goku trails behind as Turles leads him through the outskirts of the kingdom. The bustling city fades into overgrown terrain, where the greenery becomes dense and wild. Eventually, they arrive at the base of the massive tree that towers high above the kingdom—the same tree Goku had seen from the palace balcony.

Workers surround the colossal trunk, some flying up to the branches while others use tools to carefully harvest the golden fruit. Each fruit radiates an almost otherworldly light. As Turles passes, the workers stop and bow deeply to him before continuing their tasks. Turles raises his hand, signaling for them to leave. Without question, the workers gather their tools and depart, leaving only Turles and Goku beneath the tree's vast shadow.

Before Goku can ask what’s going on, he feels a sudden shift within himself. His ki, which had been blocked since he woke, flows back into him in an instant.

"There," Turles says, lowering his hand. "I’ve released your ki. You should be able to move freely as you did before."

"How did you do that?" Goku asks, astonished.

"That’s a story for another time," Turles replies with a faint smirk. "I brought you here because my curiosity has gotten the better of me. I’ve heard much about your strength, and now I want to see it for myself."

With his energy fully restored, Goku starts to stretch and warm up, rolling his shoulders and loosening his arms. The anticipation of a good fight courses through him, and he can't hide the grin spreading across his face. He bounces lightly on his toes, his blood pumping as he gears up for action.

Turles watches him with quiet admiration, intrigued by the raw energy and confidence radiating from Universe 7's champion.

"I don't think you're ready for this," Goku teases, his tone playful yet determined.

Turles smirks, unfazed. "I assure you, there's nothing to worry about." His voice carries a calm confidence as he removes his crown and royal garb, setting them aside. In his battle armor, he loosens his muscles, every movement precise and controlled.

The two leap onto a massive tree root that juts out from the earth, standing face to face. Their eyes lock, both filled with eagerness and determination. The air between them hums with the promise of a fierce clash, neither willing to back down.

_______

Writer's Note:

Welcome to Idun, the new saiyan homeworld. I chose that name because well sticking to foods for one, but also Idun in Norse mythology is not only a goddess, but the Idun apple symbolizes spring, rejuvenation, and immortality. It's the Idun apple that keeps the gods feeling youthful. With that fun fact in mind, you can probably see the parallels I'm getting at with Turles and the Fruit of the Tree of Might and what it may symbolize for him. 

The saiyans are seen back and this is where Goku is meant to experience first hand the heritage he barely knows anything about besides obviously the Super Saiyan and whatever Vegeta is able to share of their homeworld and past. Him being able to see first hand gives him an experience he never could've just been told. Of course there's more than meets the eye, but I assure you it's not a situation similar to the original Broly movie where Vegeta goes and turns out it's all fake. No, Idun is real (in this adjacent canon) and the saiyans on it are full blooded and true. 

You can already get a sense that Turles is not all he seems to be. Of course he's the main antagonist, but the Z fighters at this point aren't fully aware of that as the mystery unfolds. You get to see that subtle callback to Cooler's Wrath epilogue where Turles and his clan killed Salza and learned about the world that forgot them. There's always more than what's seen, but you just have to stay tuned.

CHAPTER 6: TRUFFLE

Vegeta clenches his chest where Turles’s blow had landed, his pride stinging more than the physical pain. The smirk on Turles’s face, the arrogance of his self-proclaimed title as “King of the Saiyans,” and the audacity to take Kakarot—it all gnaws at Vegeta. His aura flickers, fiery and unstable, as anger boils within him.

“Damn it!” Vegeta growls, his fists trembling. “To be struck down by that bastard...It’s an insult I won’t tolerate!”

Whis hovers nearby, his expression calm yet thoughtful as he surveys the barren wasteland around them. “Temper, Vegeta,” he says, lightly tapping his staff on the ground. “Your pride may hurt, but anger clouds judgment. We’ll need clear heads if we’re to find Goku.”

Vegeta glares at Whis, his rage barely contained. “And how do we do that? I can’t sense his energy—or theirs...it’s like they vanished!”

Whis nods, his tone even. “Yes, I noticed that too. It’s no ordinary disappearance. Their ki is masked so thoroughly it’s as if they’ve been erased from existence. That complicates things, of course, but to find Goku, we must first understand Turles’ goals.”

Vegeta’s scowl deepens as the memory of Turles’s words resurfaces, echoing in his mind.

"This planet was once a thriving hub of trade—a vital part of a network I’ve rebuilt to restore the Saiyan legacy across the galaxy. But when I arrived, I found nothing but death and silence. The galaxy is shifting in dangerous ways. Saiyan history is repeating itself, and if we don’t act, it will destroy us all."

“That talk about restoring the Saiyan legacy…” Vegeta mutters aloud, his tone sharp with suspicion. “What did he mean by that? And why take Kakarot?”

Whis tilts his head slightly, intrigued. “Good questions. Let’s consider the circumstances. Turles claimed this world had already been destroyed before his arrival, yet he brought his warriors here regardless. There’s significance to this, though what it is eludes us for now. As for Goku, perhaps Turles sees him as more than an obstacle—perhaps he sees him as a piece of the puzzle.”

Vegeta’s glare shifts to the horizon, his fury mingled with uncertainty. The desolate wasteland stretches endlessly before him, a grim reminder of what’s at stake. Whatever Turles’s plans, Vegeta silently vows to crush them—and him—before it’s too late.

A distant hum interrupts their conversation. The sound grows louder, a rhythmic vibration echoing through the air. Both turn their attention to the sky as a sleek starship breaches the atmosphere, descending rapidly.

Whis’s smile widens. “It seems we’re not the only ones interested in this dilemma.”

The ship lands with precision, its metallic hull gleaming in the dim light. Vegeta steps forward, his energy flaring as he prepares for a fight.

The ramp lowers with a hiss, revealing a small, spherical droid floating into view. Its smooth, glowing body hums softly, and its single optic eye swivels toward Vegeta, emitting a series of high-pitched beeps and trills.

Vegeta narrows his eyes. “What in the—”

“Meelo,” a voice calls out from within the ship, steady and authoritative. “Stay close.”

Vegeta’s stance shifts slightly as he takes in the figure descending the ramp, his sharp gaze locking onto their every movement. The reflective surface of their high-tech suit gleams against the barren terrain, and a blaster rests securely at their side.

“Who are you?” Vegeta demands, his tone cold and sharp. His aura sparks faintly as the tension builds.

The figure pauses a few steps from the ramp, meeting his glare without hesitation. They don’t flinch, their posture confident as they observe him. “Black spiky hair, widow’s peak, battle armor…You must be Vegeta, the Saiyan prince.”

Vegeta’s eyes narrow, his muscles tensing. “And if I am?”

In response, the figure calmly removes their helmet, revealing long, wavy blonde hair cascading down their shoulders and mismatched eyes—one green, the other red.

“Then the stories are true. You and Goku—the last of the Saiyans who made names for yourselves by taking down tyrants like Frieza and battling forces that even gods acknowledge. Stories about your exploits travel far. It’s hard not to recognize the infamous Saiyan prince when you’re standing right in front of him.”

Vegeta raises an eyebrow, his arms folding across his chest. “Stories? Hmph. So you’re just another starry-eyed fool chasing legends?”

The woman shakes her head, her smirk fading into a serious expression. “Hardly. I’m an explorer and researcher.” She keeps her helmet tucked under her arm, her gaze sharp as it shifts back to Vegeta. “My name’s Truffle. I’ve been investigating a pattern—a series of planets dying, their life drained completely. And the clues left behind point to one thing: Saiyans. Or, at least, beings with tails like yours.”

Vegeta doesn’t respond immediately, his glare unrelenting as he assesses her. Whis, meanwhile, steps closer, his curiosity piqued.

Vegeta’s expression darkens, his skepticism apparent. “And what does that have to do with you?”

Truffle’s mismatched eyes narrow slightly. “Because I’m trying to figure out how a near-extinct race, much like my own, has suddenly reemerged—and how it ties to the rapid deaths of these planets. If this pattern continues unchecked…” Her voice lowers, tinged with concern. “I fear it could eventually reach my people.”

Vegeta raises an eyebrow, his tone sharp. “Your people?”

Truffle’s gaze meets his directly, unwavering. “I’m a Tuffle.”

Vegeta’s eyes narrow, his tone incredulous. “Tuffles are extinct.”

“Not entirely,” Truffle replies firmly, her gaze unwavering. “A small colony of us escaped during the Saiyan-Tuffle war. We found refuge in the far reaches of space, far from your destruction. For generations, we’ve lived in secret, watching the universe from the shadows. But recently…” She gestures to the lifeless terrain surrounding them. “I can't let that reach back to my home."

Whis steps forward, his tone light yet probing. “Fascinating. A survivor from the Saiyan-Tuffle war, now thrust into a puzzle of cosmic proportions. Tell me, Truffle, what is it you hope to achieve here?”

Truffle exhales slowly, placing her helmet on her hip. “Survival. Every planet I’ve investigated that’s been touched by Saiyans has withered away, drained of life.” She gestures toward the tree in the distance, her tone growing sharper. “And at each one, this was the only thing left standing. Whatever this is, it’s at the heart of everything—and it’s only a matter of time before it spreads further.”

Vegeta absorbs her words, his expression unreadable. Between Goku’s kidnapping, Turles’s claims of kingship, and now the reemergence of Tuffles, his mind churns with possibilities.

“You seem to know more than we do about this,” Vegeta finally says, his tone begrudging. “Can you help me figure out what’s going on?”

Whis raises an eyebrow, his lips curling into a playful smirk. “Vegeta asking for help? My, my. I should mark this moment down in history.”

Vegeta ignores the jab, his focus on Truffle, who looks genuinely surprised.

“Really?” she asks, tilting her head slightly.

Meelo, her droid, emits a flurry of beeps and whistles, swiveling its single optic between Vegeta and Truffle.

Truffle chuckles faintly, patting the droid’s side. “Alright, Meelo, calm down. He’s not that bad.”

Turning back to Vegeta, she straightens her posture, determination flashing in her mismatched eyes. “If we’re going to stop this, we’ll need all the help we can get. And having the Saiyan prince on our side isn’t a bad start.”

She exchanges a glance with Meelo before nodding decisively. “Alright. We’re in.”

________

Writer's Note:

Finally the mysterious explorer we have followed in the prologue has been revealed. Truffle has been integral to this story since I was trying to piece it all together. I wanted to somehow make it feel similar to there being a few saiyans out there that survived Frieza's massacre of their planet so did the Tuffles to a capacity. She's integral to the story, not just because she's a character I created for this, but because having a Tuffle and a Saiyan work together knowing their history will bring an interesting dynamic in the later chapters in regards to their shared history and what lies for them in the future. Truffle wasn't my initial name for her at first but it ended up sticking because of how easy it slips off the tongue and simple. 

I did mention briefly before this is a Vegeta story in a sense. This is a story of legacy and what grants someone the right to claim they are of royalty and have a royal bloodline to claim themselves King. Having Goku being kidnapped might be a "psshhh that can't happen, how could Goku get kidnapped he's Goku", but I saw that as a that's the point opportunity in a way even our greatest heroes can be defeated and taken once and a while, plus in this story once the others hear of this they'll be highly surprised and shocked. I promise however, despite the focus being on someone other than Goku, he'll have his moments. He's not a damsel, but someone that's gonna finally see first hand the heritage he never got to really know. Stay tuned next time on DBS: The Might of King Turles.

CHAPTER 5: THE KING OF THE SAIYANS

Within the massive crater created by Cumber, the battle rages on with ferocious intensity. Fists fly, precision kicks are exchanged, and ki blasts light up the barren skies as the ground quakes beneath their power. The primal roars of four Saiyans echo across the desolate planet, shaking what remains of its crumbling surface.

Goku lands a punch aimed at Cumber, who blocks it effortlessly before countering with a devastating kick. The two exchange rapid blows, their battle ascending into the sky, leaving shockwaves in their wake. Below, Vegeta engages Avoca in a fierce one-on-one clash. Even with Goku and Vegeta fighting in Super Saiyan 2, their opponents’ raw power and relentless combat skill keep them on the defensive.

To disrupt their rhythm, Goku and Vegeta switch opponents mid-battle, attempting to throw the two Saiyans off balance. However, Cumber and Avoca adapt quickly, welcoming the shift with even greater ferocity.

Cumber suddenly grabs Goku by the face and slams him into the jagged wall of the crater, the impact shaking the ground. Vegeta rushes in to assist, but Avoca is quick to intercept, attempting to strike from behind. Goku and Vegeta barely manage to regroup, putting distance between themselves and their foes.

Cumber, undeterred, closes the gap in an instant. He slams his fists down, forcing Goku and Vegeta to fight him together.

"He’s enjoying this far too much," Avoca observes from a distance, her smirk widening. Raising her hand, she fires a barrage of ki blasts, forcing Goku and Vegeta to scatter.

Cumber seizes the opening, landing a brutal punch on Vegeta that sends him hurtling toward Avoca. Without hesitation, she lands a perfectly-timed kick to Vegeta’s chest, sending him flying back into the crater’s center.

"Vegeta!" Goku shouts, only to be met with a devastating punch from Cumber, sending him careening into Vegeta. The two crash into each other, collapsing in a heap at the center of the massive crater.

Cumber towers over them, his blood-red irises gleaming with anticipation. Raising one hand, he begins to gather energy, forming an enormous ball of ki that pulsates with deadly intent. The attack grows rapidly, its sheer size casting an ominous shadow over the battlefield.

Avoca lands beside him, watching with amusement. "Looks like you’re going all out. You’re not even giving them time to catch their breath," she comments, her tone almost teasing.

"I shall bury you both with my own hands," Cumber declares, his voice resonating like thunder.

Vegeta struggles to his feet, his anger erupting. "I’ve had enough of this!" he roars, his aura flaring violently as he transforms into Super Saiyan Blue. Goku, following suit, powers up as well, his energy radiating with equal intensity.

Side by side, they charge their energy, preparing to counter Cumber’s enormous Désastre Eraser.

"FINAL—"

"KAME—HA—ME…"

The two Saiyans combine their might, their attacks poised to collide with Cumber’s massive energy ball. The air around them crackles with raw power as the battlefield braces for the clash. Just as they prepare to unleash their attacks…

"ENOUGH!" a commanding voice echoes across the crater. The Désastre Eraser vanishes instantly, leaving the battlefield silent. Goku and Vegeta halt their attacks, reverting to their base forms in confusion. Cumber and Avoca, surprisingly obedient, touch down calmly on the ground.

Above them, a figure shrouded in white garbs descends slowly from the air, cape flowing in the wind.

From a distance, Whis watches the scene unfold, his interest piqued. "How intriguing," he murmurs.

The shrouded figure lands gracefully between the four Saiyans, radiating authority. "There’s no need to fight among ourselves," the figure states firmly. "After all, we are in the presence of two Saiyans whose names echo throughout the universe."

Vegeta narrows his eyes suspiciously. "And who would you be?"

The figure smirks under the hood before pulling it back, revealing gray and black battle armor and a scouter with a red lens over the left eye. Goku and Vegeta freeze in shock. The man’s face is identical to Goku’s—save for his darker skin tone and the golden crown of tree roots intertwined with a single glowing seed resting atop his head.

Goku’s shoulders slump in exasperation. “Not again... Why does everyone have to take my face? First Ginyu, then Zamasu, and now you!”

The man chuckles, raising an eyebrow. “Take your face? You’ve got it backward. If anything, you look like me.”

“What? No way! I had this face first!” Goku retorts.

“And yet, here I am standing before you with it,” the man replies, his tone calm but teasing.

The back-and-forth continues until Vegeta growls in frustration, cutting in. “Enough of this nonsense! Who are you, and what happened here?”

The man turns his attention to Vegeta, his smirk fading into a neutral expression. “I am Turles, the King of the Saiyans,” he declares firmly. “This planet was once a thriving hub of trade—a vital part of a network I’ve rebuilt to restore the Saiyan legacy across the galaxy. I came here on a diplomatic mission to reconnect with old allies, but when I arrived, I found nothing but death and silence.”

He gestures to Cumber and Avoca. “I brought my most trusted warriors to investigate the cause. Then, they found the two of you tearing through the remains of this world like it hadn’t already suffered enough.”

Goku looks around, finally noticing the eerie lifelessness of the planet. “You’re saying this place was destroyed before you got here?”

“Exactly,” Turles replies. “The galaxy is shifting in dangerous ways. Saiyan history is repeating itself, and if we don’t act, it will destroy us all.”

Vegeta’s eyes narrow in disbelief before flaring in anger. “King of the Saiyans? Who gave you the right to claim that title?!”

Turles chuckles softly, unfazed by Vegeta’s rage. “The universe is vast. Much has changed since you were last part of Saiyan affairs. I assumed you would have learned that by now.”

Vegeta’s aura begins to spark with electricity, his pride boiling over. Goku, sensing the tension, steps forward. “Wait, Vegeta. Let’s hear him out.”

Turles turns his back to Vegeta, his tone dismissive. “Focus your anger where it belongs, Prince. The universe is not your enemy.”

The remark cuts deep, and Vegeta’s pride finally erupts. With a furious roar, he transforms into Super Saiyan Blue Evolution. “You dare claim the throne and turn your back on me?! I’ll show you who the rightful ruler of the Saiyans is!”

“Vegeta, stop!” Goku shouts, but Vegeta charges forward, his fist blazing with energy.

Just as Vegeta’s punch is about to connect, Turles moves with blinding speed, catching Vegeta’s fist effortlessly. The force of the strike creates a shockwave, but Turles doesn’t flinch.

“And this rashness of yours…” Turles says with a smirk, his tone carrying a subtle taunt, “Hardly the mark of someone fit to call themselves a king.”

Vegeta’s eyes widen in fury, but before he can react, Turles strikes with a precise palm to his chest. The blow sends Vegeta flying back, crashing into a rock formation. He slumps to the ground, unconscious.

“Vegeta!” Goku yells, his body flaring as he transforms into Super Saiyan 2.

Turles sighs, turning to face Goku. “You’re quick to defend him, even when he’s clearly in the wrong.”

“You didn’t have to knock him out like that!” Goku protests, his fists clenching.

“I defended myself,” Turles replies coolly. “If your friend can’t control his pride, he’ll only bring harm to himself—and others.”

Goku charges forward, but Turles sidesteps effortlessly, appearing behind him in an instant. With a swift motion, he taps several vital ki points on Goku’s body. Goku’s energy collapses, reverting him to base form. Immobilized, Goku falls unconscious into Turles’ arms.

Turles hands Goku over to Cumber, his voice firm. “We’re taking him with us. He needs to understand what’s at stake.”

“What about him?” Avoca asks, nodding toward Vegeta.

“Leave him,” Turles replies. “He’s strong enough to recover on his own. But let this serve as a lesson—next time, I won’t be so merciful if he challenges me again.”

Turles glances at Whis in the distance before taking to the sky with Cumber and Avoca, carrying Goku with them.

As they disappear into the horizon, Whis approaches the unconscious Vegeta, tapping his staff lightly on the ground. A soft glow surrounds Vegeta, and his injuries fade instantly. His eyes snap open, fully recovered, and he sits up abruptly, scanning the sky.

“They’re gone,” Whis says matter-of-factly, his calm demeanor unshaken.

Vegeta’s eyes widen in alarm as he realizes Goku is missing. “Where’s Kakarot?! What happened?!”

Whis offers a small smile, his tone both amused and contemplative. “Ah, yes. It seems our Saiyan friend has taken him. Though I must say, the way he managed to incapacitate Goku was quite fascinating.”

Vegeta’s disbelief is palpable. “That’s impossible! Kakarot wouldn’t just let himself get captured—not by someone like him!”

Whis tilts his head, looking down at Vegeta with curiosity. “I was surprised as well, though not because they managed to apprehend Goku. No, what intrigued me was the method Turles used to do so. A technique derived from divine roots, one not many are aware of… and yet this Turles seems to have mastered it.”

Vegeta’s brow furrows, confusion briefly overcoming his anger. “Divine roots?”

Whis chuckles lightly, spinning his staff as he explains. “It’s a technique that disrupts the flow of ki at its very core, severing one’s connection to their power temporarily. It’s not merely an attack or a strike—it’s an art tied to a divine understanding of life energy. By targeting vital ki points with precision, Turles essentially rendered Goku powerless. What’s more, it seems to be connected to the crown he wears—a crown that isn’t purely ornamental, mind you.”

Vegeta’s eyes widen in realization, his gaze darting toward the horizon where Turles vanished. He reaches out with his senses, trying to locate Goku’s ki—only to find nothing. His expression hardens, a mix of rage and frustration bubbling to the surface.

“I can’t sense his ki…” Vegeta mutters, his voice low and trembling with fury. “That bastard…”

Vegeta clenches his fists, his aura sparking to life as his rage builds. The very idea of Turles, this self-proclaimed “King,” having the audacity to claim the throne and then capture Goku, fuels his prideful anger.

Whis watches him with a faint smile, tapping his staff on the ground again. “Careful, Vegeta. Anger can cloud judgment. But perhaps this will be a valuable lesson for you both. The Saiyan legacy appears to be far more complicated than either of you imagined. This Turles… well, he’s certainly not to be underestimated.”

Vegeta doesn’t respond, his fists trembling with rage as he glares at the sky, silently vowing to make Turles pay for his audacity.

__________

Writer Note:

And so truly begins our story, these first five chapters were the essential build up to the plot. Turles is here and he's the proclaimed King of all Saiyans. It was a choice I made in the beginning stages of developing this story with the idea in mind that Turles who is meant to be a low class saiyan is king and it challenges Vegeta to a title he's been full of pride for so long. As the chapters unfold, all will connect as to why Cumber, Turles and all these saiyans are appearing out of nowhere. Avoca is a new saiyan I came up with for I thought having more female saiyans would be cool to see fight. Since in "canon" Goku has faced people that stole his body I thought it was a nice “throw away” conversation assuring that this Turles isn't some doppelgänger or lost relative. It's none of that I can assure.

Compared to when we last saw Turles in the Cooler's Wrath Epilogue, time has surely passed. I'm aware that the ending and his introduction there felt dark, but there's a perfectly good reason for it.

CHAPTER 4: UNEXPECTED

Goku, Vegeta, and Whis arrive on a planet that once flourished with green flora but is now gray and drained of all life. The air is thick and humid, carrying the faint, bitter scent of decay. Remnants of once-towering trees lie scattered across the ground, their bark brittle and blackened. Wilted plants cling to the soil as if they tried to survive, and the lifeless bodies of fauna are strewn across the barren landscape. The entire planet seems to be withering away.

"What happened here?" Goku wonders aloud, his voice heavy with concern.

"It's just as King Kai said," Vegeta replies, holding what looks like a plant in his palm. The brittle stem crumbles into dust, disintegrating in the damp air.

Goku furrows his brow, focusing, trying to hone in on the energy spike they had sensed earlier. After several moments, he shakes his head in frustration. "I don’t sense that spike of energy anymore."

"They could’ve suppressed their power—like we do," Vegeta suggests grimly.

"Only one way to find out," Goku says, his usual optimism breaking through as he cracks his knuckles. 

The trio ascends into the air, their eyes scanning the planet below. The further they fly, the more dire the scene becomes. Patches of green become sparse until they vanish completely, replaced by an endless expanse of gray ash. The planet’s surface is riddled with deep scars, as though massive roots tore through the ground, leaving nothing but barren wastelands. Dust storms whip across the landscape, painting the horizon in muted tones of black and gray.

Ahead lies the remnants of what once was a bustling civilization. Broken structures stand feebly among the rubble, and shattered monuments hint at a society that thrived here long ago. The three touch down in what seems to have been the center of a village, their boots crunching against the ashen ground.

All around them lie bodies drained of energy, their faces frozen in eternal screams of agony.

"These ruins aren’t that old," Vegeta observes, his sharp eyes scanning the area.

"It reminds me of Moro," Goku says, glancing around at the desolation.

"No, this is different," Vegeta counters. His gaze falls on a soldier’s corpse nearby. The man’s face is twisted in terror, and thick, gnarled roots are embedded deep into his skin as if they had drained the life energy straight out of him.

Vegeta crouches closer to inspect the body, his expression darkening.

"Vegeta is right," Whis says, his voice unusually somber. His eyes drift upward, and he gestures ahead with his staff. "It’s much worse."

Goku and Vegeta follow Whis’s gaze. In the distance, silhouetted against the ashen sky, is a massive, withering tree. Its trunk is impossibly wide, its bark pale and cracked like ancient stone. Its sprawling branches stretch across the planet’s surface, extending high into the atmosphere. The tree seems alive, but barely—it pulsates faintly as its branches reach outward, as though desperately clinging to the remnants of the planet’s energy.

The closer they get, the more oppressive the atmosphere becomes. The air grows heavier, tinged with a faint hum that vibrates through their very bones. The ground is riddled with massive roots, some of which twist around lifeless bodies, their energy completely siphoned.

"This is a nightmare," Vegeta mutters, his voice low.

Whis examines the roots protruding from the ground, his gaze narrowing. "These roots aren’t just sapping energy from the ground—they’re extracting something deeper. This level of devastation... it’s methodical."

Vegeta steps ahead, his eyes locking onto the body of another soldier. This one is different—it hasn’t been drained of energy like the others. Instead, there’s a gaping hole in its chest, as if something pierced straight through it.

"Something’s here," Vegeta growls, his instincts on high alert.

The ominous silence is broken only by the faint hum of the tree in the distance, its branches shifting as though reacting to their presence. Whatever caused this devastation, it’s still lurking nearby.

In the distance, a surge of energy barrels toward them. Goku’s senses snap into focus.

"Vegeta, look out!"

Vegeta turns, spotting the incoming blast, and dodges just in time. Both Saiyans whip their heads toward the source, but before they can react, a barrage of ki blasts rains down on them. Whis effortlessly steps aside, watching as Vegeta and Goku dart through the air, evading the relentless attacks.

Goku seizes the moment to practice his dodging techniques, weaving through the blasts with precision. Suddenly, a massive shadow looms above him. Vegeta notices the threat but knows he won’t reach Goku in time. With quick thinking, Vegeta fires a ki blast directly at Goku, knocking him out of the way just as the shadow slams down with a deafening crash.

"H-Hey! What gives?!" Goku shouts, startled, as he flips back to his feet.

Standing between Goku and Vegeta is a towering figure, his sheer size imposing. He’s a hulking man with long, spiky black hair cascading to his thighs, save for a shorter bang that hangs over his face. His crimson-red irises glow menacingly as he glares at Goku, who stares back in awe at the figure’s raw power and presence.

Before Vegeta can act, a second attacker strikes. A woman appears out of nowhere, forcing Vegeta to dodge her rapid, precise blows. She’s relentless, her strikes aimed at his vital points with almost surgical precision.

She’s targeting my vital spots… with such accuracy, Vegeta notes, gritting his teeth. Using a quick blast to the ground, he creates distance between them and bolts toward Goku, who is dodging attacks from the towering brute.

The two Saiyans regroup, landing side by side as their opponents step into view once more.

"If you’re not going to use Ultra Instinct properly, don’t bother relying on it now," Vegeta snaps at Goku.

"You’re right," Goku admits, his gaze fixed on the two attackers. "But there’s something… familiar about them. I just can’t put my finger on it."

The woman smirks, clad in sleek black battle armor that gleams faintly under the planet’s dying light. Her eyes burn with excitement as she pounds her fists together, her movements deliberate and filled with anticipation. Behind her, a tail sways methodically, coiling and uncoiling like a predator ready to strike. Beside her, the towering brute stands in silence, his imposing frame radiating menace. His tail sways freely, a stark contrast to the tension building in the air.

Whis watches from a safe distance, his expression calm yet intrigued. "A battle between Saiyans… How fascinating."

Goku and Vegeta tense, their muscles coiling as they process the sight before them.

"It… it can’t be," Vegeta mutters, his voice low and filled with disbelief. "Who are you?!"

The woman’s grin widens, and her tone is laced with amusement. "We weren’t expecting company," she says, her eyes flicking between the two Saiyans. "But since you’re here..."

The towering brute, Cumber, cracks his knuckles, his lips curling into a menacing smirk. His blood-red eyes glow with unrestrained eagerness.

Avoca glances at him and shrugs with a sly smile. "Alright, Cumber," she says, her voice brimming with confidence. "Let’s have a little fun while we wait."

They vanish in an instant. Goku and Vegeta spin around, their eyes darting in every direction, trying to track their opponents. Before they can react, Avoca reappears between them, her speed a blur.

With a sharp, calculated motion, she drives her fists into their stomachs, knocking the air from their lungs. Both Saiyans crumble to their knees, gasping for breath. Vegeta barely lifts his head before Cumber’s massive boot crashes into his face, hurling him through a wall of debris.

"You take care of Widow’s Peak," Avoca says casually, her tone dismissive yet laced with amusement. "I’ll handle the other one myself."

Cumber gives a curt nod and turns his attention toward Vegeta, who rises from the rubble, brushing dirt off his armor. Their eyes lock, the tension between them palpable.

Vegeta narrows his gaze, every sense heightened. The sheer weight of Cumber’s energy feels like a gravitational force pressing down on him.

Their auras ignite, clashing violently as the air around them distorts.

Vegeta clenches his fists. "His ki... it’s overwhelming—something I’ve never felt before."

Without so much as a gesture, Cumber unleashes a barrage of ki blasts. Vegeta leaps into action, dodging and deflecting the projectiles with precision. He retaliates, darting forward with a punch aimed at Cumber’s chest, but the brute shrugs it off effortlessly. A sudden pulse of energy from Cumber sends Vegeta stumbling back.

Before Vegeta can recover, Cumber’s fist slams into his face, sending him flying once again into a heap of debris.

Nearby, Goku is locked in a fierce exchange with Avoca. Her strikes are pinpoint accurate, aiming for vital points with surgical precision. Goku draws on his training with Whis, narrowly dodging each blow while working to find an opening.

Finally, he lands a punch square against her chest plate, sending her sliding back. But Avoca simply grins, unfazed, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

"Not bad," she says, her tone dripping with amusement.

She retaliates with a barrage of ki blasts, which Goku deflects with ease before launching into a counterattack. His speed catches her off guard as he vanishes mid-combo, reappearing behind her.

Avoca grins wider, more intrigued than ever. But as Goku closes in for a decisive blow, she anticipates the strike and meets it head-on. Their fists collide with a resounding shockwave that ripples through the battlefield.

Meanwhile, Vegeta, analyzing Cumber’s relentless attacks, searches for patterns. He dodges a devastating punch and sees what he thinks is an opening. But before he can capitalize, Cumber catches his fist mid-strike and grips him by the throat.

Vegeta struggles against Cumber’s iron grip until a well-placed ki blast from Goku strikes Cumber in the side, forcing him to release Vegeta. Goku follows up with a flying kick to Cumber’s face, cracking the brute’s menacing mask.

Seizing the opportunity, Vegeta joins in, and together they unleash a coordinated flurry of attacks, finally sending Cumber crashing into the massive tree roots behind him.

Goku lands next to Vegeta, both breathing heavily but ready for more.

"Who are they?" Goku asks, his voice tinged with both awe and confusion. "They’re strong."

"Can’t you tell, Kakarot?" Vegeta growls. "They’re Saiyans."

"Yeah, I got that much already!" Goku replies, exasperated.

Cumber rises from the rubble, unscathed, his blood-red eyes burning with fury. Avoca joins him, her tail flicking behind her with excitement.

"You’re not bad," Cumber finally speaks, his voice deep and guttural. "But I’m not impressed...yet. FIGHT ME!"

His ki erupts in a violent surge, shaking the ground beneath them. Goku and Vegeta instinctively transform into Super Saiyan 2, their golden auras crackling with energy.

Avoca’s eyes widen with interest, a delighted grin spreading across her face. "So, you’re Saiyans too," she says, her voice brimming with excitement. "Looks like there are a few of us left out there after all."

Her energy spikes, and the ground trembles as her aura flares around her, wild and untamed. Her hair whips violently in the wind as she powers up, her bloodlust evident.

"The fun’s just getting started!" she shouts. "So, by all means—ENTERTAIN US!"

Suddenly, the ground beneath Vegeta and Goku explodes as Cumber fires off a massive ki attack. They leap away just in time, landing beside each other as they survey the crater where they had stood moments earlier.

"Did you see that, Vegeta?!" Goku exclaims, his excitement tinged with unease.

"Too close," Vegeta mutters, his eyes locked on Cumber. "We need to even the odds. That brute’s the real problem."

Avoca suddenly reappears between Goku and Vegeta, her speed a blur. Goku notices her presence but has no time to react before they’re both struck by precision ki blasts that send them crashing into the ground. Though the blasts don’t inflict much damage, they’re enough to keep the two Saiyans on edge.

"Her speed’s going to be a problem," Goku states, brushing himself off.

"I wasn’t expecting you to notice in time," Avoca remarks, a smirk playing on her lips. "You’re both stronger than I expected."

Her eyes gleam with excitement as her aura flares up. "All the more reason you both need to fight me!"

Before Goku or Vegeta can respond, Cumber barrels into the fray, his colossal figure cutting through the air with frightening force. He lunges at them with raw, unrestrained power. The two Saiyans meet him head-on, trading punches as the battlefield shakes under their clash.

Cumber swats away a strike from Vegeta, aiming a devastating punch at him, but Goku intercepts it just in time, blocking the blow with gritted teeth. This gives Vegeta the opening to counter with a fierce punch to Cumber’s side.

"Finally, worthy opponents," Cumber growls, his voice filled with a strange satisfaction. "Truly."

Despite their combined efforts, Cumber’s immense energy and raw strength keep the two Saiyans on the defensive. Every attack they block or dodge only reveals more of his seemingly untapped potential.

"I’m going to enjoy destroying you both!" Cumber roars, his blood-red eyes glinting with savage glee.

"Save some for me, Cumber!" Avoca interjects, landing gracefully beside him. Her expression is equally thrilled. "This battle has me pumped with joy—just like you!"

The two Saiyans stand their ground, their breathing heavy as they consider their next move.

"Guess we’re going to have to keep working together, huh?" Goku suggests, glancing at Vegeta.

"I’m in no mood for teamwork," Vegeta retorts sharply, his pride as fiery as ever. Then, begrudgingly, he adds, "But it might be our only chance. You thinking about going Ultra Instinct?"

Goku shakes his head, a small grin on his face. "Not yet. I’m having too much fun to try and use it right away. But I might not have a choice. That Cumber is strong."

The four warriors face off once more, their energy flaring and colliding in the air as they prepare to charge.

From a distance, Whis observes with a calm yet curious expression.

"I wonder if they’ll be alright," he muses, his voice almost playful. "Still, that big one’s ki is incredible."

As Whis watches, he kneels to inspect one of the massive roots tangled in the ground. Gently pulling a strand of it free, he examines it closely. The root pulses faintly, and he feels the planet’s life energy flowing through it. His expression darkens as he notices how deeply the roots have penetrated, leeching the planet’s essence.

"Fascinating," Whis says to himself, turning the root in his hand. "Seems there’s more to this story to unfold."

___________

Writer's Note:

Well that was "Unexpected". Two mysterious saiyans have appeared and prove to be worthy foes for our heroes. Yes, the Cumber they are fighting is that Cumber. He's similar to the Super Dragonball Heroes counterpart and how/why he's here and in the story will reveal itself soon. This is a story where saiyans suddenly reappear and there's a specific reason why I picked him as one of them. 

Despite learning their Ultras, Goku and Vegeta only went SSJ2 because as in any DBZ/DBS fight the battle gradually escalates and overtime they use various forms. However, here I wanted them in SSJ2 to quickly have our two new saiyans first witness the transformation first hand and also the battle suddenly just happened so without any chance to think Goku and Vegeta do what they can instinctively which is go into a form they know well while conserving energy and give a good fight. 

There's more to this story that will unfold, but the next chapter is when things get interesting.