CHAPTER 11: WHAT MAKES IT A RIGHT?

The hum of the ship’s engines was a constant, steady rhythm as Truffle’s vessel cut through the void of space. The group sat scattered in the ship’s lounge, a rare moment of calm before they reached their destination. The interior of the ship was sleek and functional, with a modern design emphasizing efficiency over extravagance. The lounge’s walls were lined with storage compartments and subtle lighting that gave the room a warm yet utilitarian feel.

Vegeta stood near a viewport, arms crossed, his gaze fixed on the stars streaking past. The glass was reinforced, offering a clear view of the endless expanse of space. Nearby, Tarble sat on one of the padded benches built into the room’s corners, clearly hesitant, as if deciding whether to speak.

At the center of the room sat Truffle in a chair surrounded by holographic projections. The glowing displays floated in midair, cycling through data streams, star charts, and logs of her research. Her chair was part of a control panel embedded into the floor, with multiple interfaces allowing her to access the ship’s systems and monitor their journey. She leaned back, arms crossed, her eyes sharp and focused, as if weighing the worth of the group before her.

From the cockpit, the faint sound of Meelo’s beeping occasionally drifted into the lounge. The spherical droid hovered calmly in place, his optical lens glowing faintly as he monitored the ship’s systems. The controls were fully automated under his supervision, with the ship navigating its course towards the South Quadrant. Through the transparent partition separating the lounge from the cockpit, rows of blinking lights and a panoramic screen displayed their trajectory, the soft glow casting subtle reflections on Meelo’s metallic surface as he hummed a cheery tune to himself.

Finally, it was Tarble who broke the silence. “It’s strange…Cooler told me that all of our people were gone. That no one survived the destruction of Planet Vegeta except for a few like you, Nappa, and Kakarot. But now, there are more of us out there. A whole clan, even.”

Vegeta didn’t look away from the stars. “I thought the same,” he admitted, his voice low. “Raditz and Nappa were the only ones I knew survived, and even they didn’t last long. Raditz got himself killed by Kakarot and Piccolo. As for Nappa…I killed him myself.”

Tarble flinched slightly at the bluntness. “But they were still Saiyans. Our people. Doesn’t that mean anything to you?”

Vegeta turned to face his younger brother, his expression unreadable. “It didn’t back then. I was ruthless—a monster. I cared only for power, for conquest. I killed Nappa because he failed me, and I felt nothing about it. That’s who I was.”

“And now?” Tarble pressed, his voice trembling. “Would you do the same now?”

“No,” Vegeta’s gaze softened, ever so slightly. “I’ve changed. I’ve seen the price of that kind of thinking. Compassion was something I learned…painfully, over time. I wouldn’t have survived without it.”

Tarble’s brow furrowed, his voice low but tense. “And yet…Kakarot killed Raditz. His own brother. What kind of bond do Saiyans really have if that’s what we do to each other? What about me, Vegeta? If I hadn’t listened to you back then—if I’d stayed on Cooler’s side—would you have killed me too?”

For a moment, Vegeta didn’t answer. His jaw tightened as if struggling to suppress the truth. Finally, he exhaled deeply. “Perhaps. If you’d found me when I was still that man, perhaps I would have.” He glanced at Tarble, his tone firm. “But you’re here now. You survived. And I will not fail you as I once failed our people.”

The air hung heavy between the brothers until Truffle’s voice cut through the tension. “You speak of failure, Vegeta, but tell me this: If you were king back then, would you have been any different?”

Vegeta turned toward her, his eyes narrowing. 

Truffle leaned forward, her tone sharp. “You’re so quick to dismiss this Turles guy as some saiyan unworthy of the title of King. But what gives you the right to claim it? What makes you think you’d be any better?”

Vegeta’s scowl deepened. “The bloodline of kings runs through me. Turles has no such claim.”

“And yet your bloodline didn’t stop your people from destroying my planet,” Truffle said, her voice steady but laced with an undercurrent of pain. She leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms, her gaze focused on Vegeta. “I grew up learning about the Saiyan-Tuffle War. My people preserved what little history we could after the Saiyans conquered our world. It was said you arrived as refugees, seeking a new home—but it didn’t stay that way.”

Her eyes darkened as she continued, carefully choosing her words. “The Saiyans turned on us. You waged war against my people, slaughtered us, and took everything. Our cities, our technology—our lives. You didn’t just fight us; you hunted us to near extinction. My ancestors barely survived by fleeing across the stars. I’ve read the stories, heard the accounts of those who lived through it. Growing up, I couldn’t understand how anyone could be so cruel.”

She exhaled deeply, as though trying to keep her emotions in check. “You say the bloodline of kings runs through you. Maybe it does. But that same bloodline didn’t stop the atrocities your kind committed. And let’s not forget—your brother shares that same bloodline, doesn’t he? So tell me, Vegeta, if you hadn’t changed… if your path had stayed the same… would you truly be any different from Turles?”

The room was silent as Vegeta’s fists clenched at his sides. He didn’t respond immediately, his mind racing with memories he’d buried long ago.

Vegeta’s voice was low, almost a growl. “I’ve faced my past. I don’t need you to remind me of it.”

Truffle didn’t back down. “I’ve seen what’s out there, Vegeta. If you want to stop them, then prove you’re different. Prove you’re worthy of the title you cling to so tightly.”

The tension between them was palpable, but before Vegeta could respond, Broly’s voice broke through.

“Vegeta...”

Both turned to see Broly and Gohan sitting off to the side, watching the exchange. Broly’s tone was calm, almost hesitant. “Fighting each other won’t change anything.”

Gohan nodded in agreement, raising a hand in a lighthearted gesture, a small smile tugging at his lips as though hoping to diffuse the tension. “Broly’s right. Let’s save the energy for where it really matters.”

Truffle exhaled sharply, stepping back and glancing toward the stars outside the viewport. “He’s right. We’ll be arriving in the South Quadrant soon. I know someone there—an old Patrol member who might have answers. If anyone knows where Turles and his Saiyans are hiding, it’ll be them. Let’s hope they can help.”

As the ship continued its journey through the stars, Gohan turned back to Broly, grateful for the chance to break the tension. “I didn’t get to say this before, but I’m glad you’re here with us, Broly.”

Broly’s expression softened. “Thank you. Your father…I admire him. Part of me wishes my father cared for me the way yours cared for you.”

Gohan frowned, sensing the weight of Broly’s words. “Your father, Paragus… he pushed you too far. But you’re stronger now, and you’ve made your own path.”

Broly hesitated. “Even so…I still cared for him. If someone had taken him from me, I would have fought to get him back, no matter what.”

Gohan nodded, understanding. “It’s not easy. But you’ve got us now. We’re in this together.”

Broly gave a small, grateful smile, and the two sat in companionable silence as the ship streaked through the stars, carrying them closer to their next battle—and the answers they all sought.

___________

Writer’s Note:
This chapter takes a tense turn, and that was entirely intentional. I wanted to highlight a central question driving this story: What makes someone truly worthy of power? Royalty, as a concept, fascinates me. What defines a ruler’s worth? Is it nobility, a divine connection, the weight of legacy—or something else entirely?

I wanted to explore this idea through Vegeta, the “prince of no one.” Here’s a character whose surviving Saiyan peers now bow to someone without royal blood—and not to him. This dynamic challenges Vegeta on a deeply personal level, forcing him to reflect: If I were given the throne, would I truly be worthy? It’s a question that pushes him to confront his past, examine his growth, and consider what it truly means to lead.

Note (2025):
From this point forward, the story enters uncharted territory for returning readers. The original version of Chapter 10 was posted on February 3rd, 2023, and that marked the last chapter I shared—until now. In 2025, I’m thrilled to finally bring you new material. While the core of the story remains intact, I’ve added significant details to enrich the narrative, including the inclusion of Tarble and Broly, who bring added depth to the story.

I’m genuinely excited for both new and returning readers to explore this updated journey. After fine-tuning the story to a point where I’m truly proud of it, I can’t wait to share this next chapter with you all. Thank you for being part of this experience!

CHAPTER 10: WHAT DRIVES YOU?

The dining hall within Turles's palace was vast, a long table stretching nearly the entire length of the room, covered in piles of food from across the galaxy. Goku devoured everything within reach, his hunger ravenous after days of non-stop fighting. Each bite was bliss, and he shoved another piece of bread into his mouth with childlike enthusiasm.

Turles sat across from him, calmly eating from his plate, observing the younger Saiyan with a faint smirk. A palace attendant arrived with another platter, and Goku beamed.

"I gotta hand it to you, Turles—this is great!" he said between bites, his cheeks bulging like a chipmunk’s.

Turles chuckled, taking a sip from his chalice. “You are our guest. It’s my pleasure. Saiyan appetites are legendary, after all.”

“You can...say...gulp...that again!” Goku replied, crumbs flying as he laughed.

The momentary levity faded as Turles set down his chalice and leaned forward. “Tell me, what is it you’re searching for?”

Goku paused mid-bite, his mind catching up to the weight of the question. Turles had been different than he’d expected. Despite their rocky introduction, Goku couldn’t help but feel there was more to the man than ambition and power.

After a moment, Goku swallowed, setting his drumstick down. “I guess it’s to meet stronger fighters,” he said, rubbing the back of his head. “Power’s never really been my goal. I just want to get better and face the best. It’s like...if I can push myself and my opponent to grow, it’s worth it.”

Turles nodded, intrigued. “Spoken like a true Saiyan.” He glanced down at his hands, flexing his fingers as if recalling memories buried deep within. His voice softened. “You truly remind me of someone I once knew…”

Goku tilted his head. “Where have you all been this whole time?”

Turles’s fists clenched, his knuckles whitening as old memories surged to the surface. Standing abruptly, he looked up at the glass ceiling, the moonlight bathing the room in a pale glow.

“My clan and I are from Sadala—the original homeworld of the Saiyans. It was once a thriving planet, full of honor and nobility, before war broke out. Factions turned against each other, and the constant fighting drained the planet’s resources until it was no longer sustainable. The king at the time—the second King Vegeta—chose to abandon Sadala, searching for a new world to colonize. But I…” His voice tightened. “I tried to save what was left.”

Goku listened intently, captivated.

“But my efforts were in vain,” Turles continued. “My clan and I were left behind, abandoned to die. Yet we survived. Generation after generation, we endured, while the universe around us changed. Now, I refuse to let the Saiyan race fall into obscurity again.”

He turned to Goku, his expression hard yet earnest. “You and I—we were both deemed low-class. But you’ve achieved the power of a god. With your strength and my knowledge, we could lead the Saiyan race into a new era. Together.”

Goku scratched his head, taking in the weight of Turles’s words. He could see the determination in his fellow Saiyan’s eyes, the burden he carried. Yet leadership wasn’t something Goku had ever considered—it wasn’t his style.

“I can see you really care about your people,” Goku said slowly. “But I’m not sure if I’m the guy for something like that. I’ll help you fight, though. If someone’s threatening the Saiyan race, I won’t back down.”

Turles studied Goku for a moment, then gave a slight nod. “Fair enough. For now, let’s put a tab on this discussion.”

The two Saiyans locked eyes, an unspoken understanding passing between them. While their goals might differ, their Saiyan blood burned with the same desire to fight and protect.

___________

Writer's Note:

Well this chapter you get to see the two have a chance to speak one on one. This is the moment we get a few answers on how Turles has just been existing in the universe under the radar. It's up to the reader to determine if what he says of his origins are true or a lie. I will admit certain things he says are true. I wanted to bring in the saiyan history of his home world and such into this story and for Goku to finally learn about it without being told by a saiyan that's shameful of him for not knowing and not having that "pride". 

What I also wanted to dive into was their motivations being nearly the opposite of one another even when you can see Turles as an "evil Goku" on the surface. The original Turles only sought power no matter the means and I felt that motivation was good enough to dive deeper into without drastically changing his character. Him being King he has the power he needs, but there's always a chance people with power will want more. For Turles the question is "why?" and soon we shall find out. Stay Tuned next time on DBS: The Might of King Turles

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.