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>>3036319
You adjust the goggles on your head, then tug at them gently and bring them down to your eyes. A soft snap confirms that they fit snugly, perfectly! You look at yourself in the mirror. Yeah. Yeah they definitely look cool. Hmm... cool now, but...? Well, only one way to find out! You transform into a Super Saiyan, then look yourself over again. Yeah. Yeah definitely cool. And hey, the hair tie’s holding much better than usual. Gotta thank Bulma for that one.

There’s a knock on your door. “Peppa, it’s mom. You decent?”

“Come in.” you reply, powering back down.

Maple opens the door. “So, I’ve done a lot of looking into this. Here’s what I’ve found.” She places a few pages on your desk, pouting a little as she has to brush aside some of the junk you’ve left on it to make space. Eheh. Woops. “From Beelzebub, we know this M-symbol is related to the disappearance of Demon King Dabura several hundred years ago. Baba and I haven’t been able to locate where the person who put it on his head is, but we suspect that he’s on Earth somewhere already, hence him bringing Giru here.”

You cross your arms. “Hrmn. Hiding his presence on Earth somehow. What about Giru himself?”

“That’s the real mystery so far.” Your mom points to the next sheet. “Giru is potentially related to Baby, somehow. We haven’t been able to trace his planet of origin just yet, but Bulma and I have set up a map of planets we know that he was on previously. We could follow that course and search for clues some time. I’d... rather we take this to him than he eventually come to us, given what I heard from your brother’s future self.”

“Some kind of grand tour of the cosmos, huh?” you ask aloud. Then, with a pout, you add “Hey, how come my counterpart never got to come along?”

Maple giggles. “Oh I’m sure she wanted to. Maybe next time we meet Buula or any of her Time Patrollers, you can ask them.”

“Fine, fine...” You’d have a TON of questions for her. You. Whatever it is.

“Now, closer to home again, these ninja...” Maple moves up the next sheet. “Launch was able to get some things out of him. That pill?” She gives you an uneasy look. “...Some kind of drug that’s never been seen before. Complex cocktail of cassava-derived cyanide, botulinum toxin, mercury, and other trace toxins that appear to be designed specifically to cause severe deterioration of brain tissue. At best, he’d be in a coma if he ingested it. More likely...”

You feel your stomach turn. “I-I had no idea...”

“Haven’t been able to get much out of him aside from assurance that ‘we know nothing’ and how ‘they will not take this lying down.’ It seems that he believe he’ll become a target of assassination himself, for being captured.”She shakes her head. “Though... he didn’t seem to know who Kougeki was. Not directly, at least.” Maple seems... a little uncomfortable, her hand shaking slightly.

(cont.)

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>>3036322
“Mom, what’s wrong?”

“A part of me is starting to think that, whatever that is, it might not actually be directly related to another one of Towa’s schemes.” she states, moving her hand off the paper. “And... I’ve been thinking about what that could really mean.”

...Ah. Ahh. You try to distract her train of thought. “What about this last one?”

“Right, right! So, last we have the Air Pirates mentioned from the pair that Izumi captured.” She moves the paper to you. “IF they have a Dragon Ball, it’s not showing up on the Radar. Which could help explain why the rest aren’t showing up on the Radar.”

“So... lot of leads, but each one seems to go off in its own direction.” You rub your chin. “What’s the plan here, then?”

“Week away from the Tournament. A bunch of us have decided try and look into these, see if we can get one of them wrapped up before it starts.” Your mother rubs the side of her head. “I’m going to work with Baba some more to dig up information on this symbol. Raditz wants to check with a few of his PTO contacts about the planets that Giru’s been to. Launch is still doing some questioning, and apparently Videl has asked to help her. Izumi meanwhile is on the hunt for those Air Pirates with your uncle.”

“What about dad and Gohan?”

Mom laughs. “Gohan’s asked your dad to train some more. Seems finally getting to the next level’s really motivating him.”

>A. Would you mind if I tag along with you, mom?
>B. Well, most of this started with Giru, I’d like to follow that through first
>C. I’m gonna go check on this ninja guy then, see if I can help Launch a bit
>D. The Air Pirates are the most immediate lead, I’m going to help Izzy and uncle Acer
>E. You know... training with dad and Gohan wouldn’t be too bad
>F. Something else?

Pick one, please.

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>>3036324
>C. I’m gonna go check on this ninja guy then, see if I can help Launch a bit

>>3036324
>D. The Air Pirates are the most immediate lead, I’m going to help Izzy and uncle Acer
>F
Can we ask Maple about getting an outfit set for the Tournament? Before we leave that is.

>>3036324
Supporting this >>3036337
Hi Kato!

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>>3036337
>Can we ask Maple about getting an outfit set for the Tournament?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3036324
Hmm. C. will probably give us a clearer lead (plus we can make sure they're not targeting Cocoa), while D. sounds like it will give more immediate answers on one of the bigger questions. Leaving it up to the dice then.

1 = C
2 = D

>>3036356
C it is then.

Rock paper scissors for it!

>>3036344
Hello anon.

Next C or D calls it then.

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Ha ha, time for more clues! I have my tools ready.

>D. The Air Pirates are the most immediate lead, I’m going to help Izzy and uncle Acer

>>3036324
>D. The Air Pirates are the most immediate lead, I’m going to help Izzy and uncle Acer

Maple is such a huge help. Big things already in motion. At some point we should help her out with her research, and see if we can alleviate some of that guilt/fear she's feeling.
Baba's helpful but not always the best at reassuring.

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>>3036324
While trying to ask the captured ninja some questions yourself might be fairly enlightening towards the whole situation, you’re not quite sure you can manage more than what Launch has already done. You pick up the sheet of paper with information on the Air Pirates on it. “I think I’d be the biggest help on this one. It’s got some more immediate answers waiting. I’m going to help Izzy and uncle Acer.”

Maple nods. “Okay Peppa. You know where I am if you need anything.”

“Ghost Pepper is on the case!” you declare with a goofy salute.

She laughs in response, ruffling your hair. “Those goggles aren’t a bad look on you, you know.”

“Thanks.” ...Hmm. Maybe later, might be worth asking mom about a proper outfit to go with it. Maybe after this. “I’ll be off, mom! Take care!”

“You behave yourself.”

The both of you nod, then place your fingers on your respective foreheads, and teleport away. You appear next to your uncle and cousin, the two of them on a mountaintop. “Nine kilomet- ah!” Acer moves back, startled slightly. “Oh, Peppa! Give some warning next time.”

“Sorry, sorry. Mind if I help the two of you a bit?”

Izzy crosses her arms, raising an eyebrow. “Sure you don’t have anything more important?”

“Well, mom told me what everyone else is up to, and I figured that this is the most immediate path to any answers on this whole thing. So again, do you guys mind if I help?”

Acer shrugs. “Eh, sure. Kiddo, why don’t you tell her what we’re up to?”

“Dad and I have narrowed down a flight pattern for the pirates. They’ll be traveling close to here, apparently on a way towards West City.” the blonde girl explains. “From what we’ve seen on the Scouters, they seem to be machines or cyborgs of some sort, with a small amount of normal crew.”

“Speak of the devil.” Acer comments aloud. “Make that eight kilometers away.”

You see a speck in the distance that slowly becomes larger... and larger... and larger. Oh. Oh wow that’s a big airship. It cuts through the skies, a purple and grey... something. Even accompanied by a small fleet of other aircraft. That... how has this not been noticed sooner? It starts to ascend even higher as it approaches. Guess it hides above the cloudtops? Still, it’s huge! Who even has the money for something like that?

Your uncle whistles. “Well. That’s going to be a smidge harder to get into.”

>A. Let’s sneak in, then. I can try and locate someone via Instant Transmission, we go to them and infiltrate from there
>B. Frontal assault? Frontal assault!
>C. Not sensing a lot of strong people onboard, what do the Scouters say?
>D. Something else?

>D. We haven't had time to hang out for a while. Girl time is important!
>C.
Regardless of if sneaking or blasting, take it in with a cool head.

>>3036409
Definitely, just maybe after we know what the ninjas are after. Do like that she's still active.

>>3036423
>C & A.
Also >>3036430

>>3036423
>D. How long is a kilometer? Eh, whatever, how many miles is that? Way easier to remember, "Five Tomatoes," y'know?

>>3036456
You're not as funny as you think you are.

>>3036457
There's two ways to teach a Saiyan:
1. Fighting
2. Food

>>3036463
Peppa is half-Tuffle.

>>3036464
And Tuffles are a tenth of our size. A decimeter to us would be their meter.

>>3036473
You're not funny period.

>>3036464
How do you reckon Tuffles were geniuses? They have like two super scientists, that's one less than humanity. They could be just like humans but short and stout.

Why do you ask stupid questions when you know the answer is right in front of you?

>>3036513
Shit, I forgot about Dr. Slump.

Okay, humans:
Dr. Briefs
Bulma Briefs (she have a phD?)
Dr. Wheelo
Dr. Kochin
Dr. Gero
Dr. Frappe
Dr. Slump

Tuffles:
Dr. Raichi
Dr. Myuu

That's 7-2 humanity has over space smurfs.

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Please stop.

>>3036423
“Okay, AM sensing some things, but no one very strong. Scouters say anything?” you ask our Uncle.

Acer looks up as the airship ascends. “Surprisingly high range. Getting a little interference, but strongest clocks in at... 1 million, average though seems to be much lower. Around 50,000. Still pretty high all things considered.”

“Not much of a threat then.” Izumi comments confidently.

“No reason to let our guard down though.” your uncle adds.

You crack your knuckles. “Then best course of action is to sneak in and infiltrate, then. Instant Transmission can do that.”

“Best to pick the person closest to the highest reading then. Probably their leader.” Izzy adds.

You chuckle. “Almost always is. Gotta have the big boss who’s the strongest and whatever. Okay, grab on.”

Acer and Izumi hold on to your shoulders as you focus on a Ki signature, Acer commenting where the highest reading on his Scouter is. You teleport there and arrive in a poorly lit lab, finding a pair of humans, the both of them looking exceptionally muscle-bound, one tall and fit while the other looking like he’s been roiding up, with a smaller cyborg man in a lab coat talking with them. They don’t notice the three of you immediately, and that roided man seems... familiar. That long hair, and his voice espe- ...wait a second.

“THEN HURRY UP, DOC! NORMAL PEOPLE, PEOPLE THAT WALK THE STREETS EVERY DAY, CANNOT UNDERSTAND! WHEN THE ULTI-”

“Spopovich, company!” the less bulked up one exclaims.

The two of them turn to face you, the cyborg doctor leaping in surprise. “INTRUDERS! GET THEM!”

>A. Knock the three of ‘em out
>B. Knock the humans out, interrogate scientist.
>C. Uncle Acer, point me in the direction of the tough guy, I’ll confront him
>D. Something else?

>>3036551
Sorry. No girl time? Ah well.

>B.
>D.
Chat with Izzy a bit.

>>3036529
I just wanna act goofy every once in a while, saying imbecile things that make other characters grab their nose or develop those anime sweatdrops, going "why are they like that?"

>>3036551
>D. Look over your shoulder at these intruders, you didn't even detect them!

>>3036551
B. Knock the humans out, interrogate scientist.
D. Have Acer keep focused on the large power

If it tries to bolt, maybe go together after it with Izzy?

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>>3036551
>B. Knock the humans out, interrogate scientist.

Also wouldn't Pilaf know how to block the radar signal?

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Rolled 8, 15, 13 = 36 (3d20)

>>3036562
Just give it a bit.

Okay, roll me 2d20, best of three. DC is 10 for both.

Rolled 11, 7 = 18 (2d20)

>>3036584

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Rolled 12, 17 = 29 (2d20)

>>3036584

Rolled 7, 1 = 8 (2d20)

>>3036584

Rolled 6, 14, 5 = 25 (3d20)

>>3036585
>>3036588
>>3036589
Well, you passed! Writing...

>>3036589
Crapbaskets.

>>3036593
Hey, you know what they call woodwind instruments on Namek? Isekais.

>>3036626
...

That's actually kinda clever, and on topic.

Good job.

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>>3036551
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2RIy4uEDY0

“I remember yooouuuu.” you comment with a smirk as the big guy lunges. You step out of the way, causing him to crash into the wall behind you, Izzy spinning and snapping her fingers to destroy the cameras above you all. “You were that guy up at Wheelo’s lab a few years ago.”

He stands up, roaring. “YOU INTERFERED WITH MY PATHWAYS OF COMMUNICATION TO THE WARRIORS!” He then makes this... bizarre snorting sound, like he’s an angry bull. He then starts to... oh. Right. Ki blast. He can do that.

“NOT IN THE LAB!” the cyborg doctor yells.

“YOU MUST SHOW NO MERCY!” Spopovich yells out, firing at you... and you deflect it easily, unimpressed.

Izumi freezes the scientist as he tries to run, and you place your hands on your hips, tail swaying behind you as he tries to charge up again. “Buddy. Buddy. You’ve got to remember how this went down when I was just a kid, you-”

“DODONPA!” the other man shouts... not hitting you, but rather, hitting something on the wall. An alarm sounds. Woops. As he tries to run, you dash over to him, tripping him with your tail and flinging him at Spopovich, hard enough they go THROUGH a wall.

“So all of us heard that, right?” you ask Izzy and your uncle. Dodonpa. And the big guy mentioned a “Warrior.” Hmm. HMM.

“Heard it. Looks like people are on the move though.” Acer declares. “I’ve got a lock on the big guy.”

(cont.)

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>>3036670
Izzy moves over to the scientist guy. “A couple new... ‘friends’ I made seem to know you. You ever hear of a guy named ‘Suppaman?’”

“How do these bozos know Crane School techniques?” you grill next.

“What makes you think I would tell the two of you brats anything?!” the cyborg scientist shouts.

Izzy shrugs. “I mean, you can wait until after we crash this thing in a few minutes. Your choice.”

“W-WHAT?!”

“Nah, bet the lab’s got all sorts of important gear all around it.” You look around. Various screens lit up with data on cybernetic enhancements, bionic limbs and the like, and a few samples of it scattered around. “Loooot of it seems really expensive.”

“You brats!”

Izumi looks down at him. “Suppaman. Met him?”

He glares back at her, his eyes making a mechanical whirling noise. “No.”

“Those two, ninjas?” you point your thumb back at Spopovich and his friend.

“Tch. What do you care? Not like you know any more than we do.”

You grin wide. “You’ve been a big help then!”

“Wait what?”

Izzy tilts her head. “So they aren’t actually in league with one another. These guys definitely need to be interrogated later.” She places her hands together and blasts forth a jet of icy water, freezing the two in place.

“Hey, that’s a cool new trick!” You then elbow her in the arm. “Eh? Eh?” Your cousin glares at you. “...Oh come on, it was funny.”

“This is why we don’t hang out.” she grumbles under her breath, facepalming.

You fake a pout. “Oh come on, you’re smiling.”

“And I hate it.” Izumi growls. Trying to change the subject, she asks her father, “Dad, how many converging on our position?”

“A dozen so far.”

>A. Izzy, let’s head towards the big guy! Uncle, can you keep this area secure?
>B. Well, they know we’re coming, might as well charge up there!
>C. Spopovich, other guy, tell me your ninja secrets!
>D. Something else?

>>3036672
>C.
Acer can hold off anyone who's coming, Ninja Spopovich (and Yamu?) is new.

>>3036672
>C. Spopovich, other guy, tell me your ninja secrets!
>D. Something else?
Does Acer have Samma Ditthi? Maybe he should scry or use his telepathy if the two don't budge.

Hey, is that Xenoverse guy still around? I wanna request a majin that looks like it absorbed Maple.

>>3036710
Only if Kato needs it.

>>3036769
https://youtu.be/KNXw3RaRKBA

>>3036777
You're still not funny.

>>3036802
Huh?

>>3036672
>>C. Spopovich, other guy, tell me your ninja secrets!

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>>3036672
You move over to Spopovich and the other guy, the two of them finally coming to. “Soooo. Mind telling me all your ninja secrets? Like the secret to REAL ultimate power?”

Spopovich makes this... bizarre sound as he starts to respond. “AYAYAYAYA... THE SPIRIT OF THE WARRIOR WILL RUN FOREVER! THE FREQUENCIES IN MY HEAD ARE NOT KNOWN TO THE NORMALS!”

You can only let out a flat “What.” in response. Looking to the other guy, you ask, “...Hhhhow about you, bud? Let’s start with the simple. You got a name, or would you rather me come up with one?”

“Yamu.” he grunts, struggling against the ice. “I know who you are, Son Peppa.”

“I mean, a lot of people do.” you chuckle. “So, Yamu, what is your deal?”

His eyes narrow. “My partner may be obtuse, but he is correct. You know nothing of the Warrior. You never will.”

“Right. So, this actually IS some guy? Is that what you’re collecting the Dragon Balls for?” You cross your arms as Acer knocks down a bunch of cyborgs trying to enter the lab. “What is your deal?”

“We seek to learn from and correct mistakes.” Yamu states cryptically. “We will come for the final one soon enough.”

“He’s stalling.” Izumi tells you. “You’re not the only one of this clan here, are you?”

Yamu’s silent. Crrrap.

>A. Izumi, go after the big guy! I need to get something else out of him, some kind of lead!
>B. I’m quickest, I’ll go get the big guy! Keep Yamu talking!
>C. Izumi, with me! Let’s get that Dragon Ball!
>D. Something else?

>>3036839
>D. Hey Izzy, you know any lightning? We could defibrillate him and probe his mind while he's momentarily dead.

>>3036839
time for a showdown
b. B all the way

>>3036839
>C.
Two heads are better than one!

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>>3036839
>C. Izumi, with me! Let’s get that Dragon Ball!
>D. Something else?
if this 'Warrior' finds us, I suggest we try fusion.

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Rolled 4, 14, 6 = 24 (3d20)

Okay! Roll me 2d20, best of three! DC is 11 for both!

Rolled 7, 20 = 27 (2d20)

>>3036871

Rolled 15, 14 = 29 (2d20)

>>3036871

Rolled 1, 1 = 2 (2d20)

>>3036871
Rolling!

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>>3036882
How

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>>3036882

>>3036882
You're hilarious.

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Rolled 13, 4, 18 = 35 (3d20)

>>3036872
>>3036873
>>3036882
...The good news is you passed both! Writing...

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>>3036887
I hear distant bleating.

Spopovich is Tuffle Kryptonite.
Let's try not to destroy everything and be blindsided by another Majin this time.

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>>3036839
“Izzy, if they’re on the move, we need to catch them! Come on, let’s take ‘em down!” You power up and head out, knocking a pair of massive robots to the- ...wait a second those heads are familiar. They’re just like that pirate robot’s over at Capsule Corp! What the...? Wait, no, FOCUS! Your cousin bolts past you and you follow her, Acer directing the two of you telepathically.

You both fly past what seems to be a massive aircraft hangar, several ships with pirate marks on them hanging from above as cyborg guards try to stop the two of you, with you and Izzy dodging them as you reach an elevator shaft, flying up and past a couple muscle-bound mechanical men that try to stop you. You reach where Acer says the big boss is. All right, confrontation time!

(cont.)

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>>3036969
https://youtu.be/tv2m5aL8ZBo

Izzy sneaks along ahead of you, with the two of you flanking the entrance to the room. You place your ear to the door. “...ive stars. Yes, this is the real deal.” a voice comments. Seems to be... a woman’s voice?

“What about your lackeys?” a louder, more mechanical one adds in.

“If they’re not off the ship by now they’re as good as lost. They know what awaits them.” the first voice replies. “...I believe our business is done.”

The second one seems to grumble. “So long as your payment is good. You better not back out of this deal, or we WILL find you.”

“Our lady has guaranteed such a thing will not come to pass, but you and any devil or alien may try.” she responds confidently. “Before I leave, there is one more thing I must do...”

“What do you... what is that?”

You feel... a strange presence. Familiar. Some odd power coming from the room. Whoever else is in there she’s hiding her Ki well, but the You and Izumi nod at each other. Better not let her get out of here with the Dragon Ball. Together, the two of you kick down the door. “Sorry, change of plans! Your flight home is-”

“KIKOHO!” the lady yells out, you and Izzy trying to dodge the attack. She manages it, though you’re forced to guard in order to tank it.

“Okay WHAT THE HECK!?” you exclaim... then see a dark aura surrounding the lady, finally getting a good look at her. She seems to have pale skin like Chiaotzu, if slightly bluer, dressed in more eastern garb, though in all black, and on her head... one of those talismans. You see her body... jerk around unnaturally.

Next to her is a massive man with a mechanical claw arm and other clearly cybernetic parts sticking from his body. Worse... he has one of those talismans on his head too. He leaps at you and grapples you with his claw arm, trying to crush you. You power up more, surprised by his sudden strength, and break free of his grip, destroying his claw arm in the process, Izumi leaping in to remove the talisman from his head. You knock him away, but the lady has already blasted a hole in the window. She’s trying to make a run for it!

>A. If you leave, lady, I’ll follow you, right back home. That what you want?
>B. Knock her down and keep her from running!
>C. Go for the talisman!
>D. Grab her and teleport her elsewhere! To anyone who can help you restrain her!
>E. Something else?

>>3036973
>E.
Combine our wind magic with Izumi's new combo ice spell to freeze all three. It'll slow'em down at least.

>>3036982
freeze both* don't know why i counted three.

>>3036973
Well. We know what it does now. Also shit, the Tribeam?

Supporting >>3036982
Then
>C.

>>3036973
I like >>3036982, but it might be easier just to ice over the window and go for C, while Izzy handles the big guy.

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Rolled 10, 9, 2 = 21 (3d20)

Okay! Roll me 3d20, best of three! DC is 13 for all!

Rolled 3, 14, 20 = 37 (3d20)

>>3036995
If we ice the window she might just break it again.

>>3037002
Making up for last time!

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Rolled 19, 7, 4 = 30 (3d20)

>>3037002
Load up the rocket fuel for Destrucity.

Rolled 6, 9, 8 = 23 (3d20)

>>3037002

>>3037007
It would only need to last a moment to cross the distance, but it looks like things might pan out. Good rolls.

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Rolled 11, 19, 7 = 37 (3d20)

>>3037007
>>3037008
>>3037010
Perfect! Writing...

if we name our attacks after beverages, like bloody mary...

Cold Brew, could be a good punny attack name...

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>>3036973
https://youtu.be/0RmQdRspvOQ

“Izzy, we need to keep her from escaping!” you tell your cousin.

“Got it, on your mark!” Power builds up in her hands.

Her body again jerks unnaturally as she tries for a Tribeam. You dash at her to draw her attention, and then as she fires teleport behind her, Wind magic empowering a bit of Ki at your fingertip. “RASEN... MAGNUM!” She’s blasted in the back and sent spiraling upwards. “NOW!”

“HAA!” Izumi blasts the lady with her spell... only she seems ready for it.

“KIKOHO!” she yells, shredding apart the water and causing it to splash everywhere but at her, Izumi barely making it out of the way to avoid getting hit.

Agh... no, you’ve still got a chance! You leap up while she’s distracted and grab on to her, the lady struggling to break free. Come on, come on... “GOT IT!” you declare as you rip off the talisman on her head, her power dropping substantially, skin becoming a more normal, if still fairly pale tone.

“GRRHK!” She tries to grab at it, her depowered state making it much more difficult. “If that’s how it’ll be...” She tries to turn her head to face you, placing her hands to it as best she can. “SOLAR FLARE!”

Blinding light engulfs the room... and you just smirk and push her to the ground, still on her as you hand the talisman over to Izzy. “Not this time.”

“WHAT?!”

You hold her down. “Where’s the Dragon Ball?”

She’s quiet.

>A. Lady we WILL search you, where is it?
>B. Who’s this “lady” of yours?
>C. How did the Dragon Ball escape detection?
>D. Teleport out of here with her, need somewhere more secure
>E. Something else?

>>3037034
Wew.
>A.
>E. Keep an eye out for any slight of hand, or if she tries to bite down on something in her mouth.
>F. Get a name. Names are usually helpful. Air Pirate Ninja #2 is a mouthful.

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>>3037034
>B.
"Are you with that skunk?"
>E.
Ask about the talisman and how exactly it works.

>>3037034
Supporting this >>3037043

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Rolled 13, 16, 17 = 46 (3d20)

Sssso. Roll me one more roll of 1d20, best of three. DC is 13.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3037071

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3037071

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3037071

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Rolled 3, 2, 12 = 17 (3d20)

>>3037076
>>3037077
>>3037082
Close one, but you passed!

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>>3037034
“Lady, we WILL search you for it. Spit it out, where is it?” you ask her.

“What do you think it will accomplish if you get it?” she asks back. “What, you think you can stop us?”

“Stopped three before you. So guess you’re unlucky number four.” With a smug smirk, you add, “You guys aren’t very good ninjas.”

“Spare me, girl. You got lucky this time.”

“That talisman trick WAS pretty different. Might’ve lost that previous Dragon Ball if I didn’t blast it. How’s it work, exactly?”

She chuckles. “As if I’d tell you. And you really are too overconfident for your own good.”

Took the bait, just like you’d hoped. They know nothing. “So, how about this ‘lady’ of yours. How about the skunk lady, that who you’re talking about?”

She turns her head in confusion. “...None have joined our ranks. You really ARE more hopeless than we’d anticipated.”

“No, I mean, Towa!” Well, at least you can rule one thing out.

“As if we’d EVER work with a demon like her!” she yells out, genuinely insulted. “We don’t need to rely on tricksters like her.”

...Guess that confirms one thing. Not sure mom will like that answer. “Look, just hand over the Dragon Ball, Ms... uh... you have a name, or am I going to have to call you ‘Air Pirate Ninja Lady’ or something?”

“Fine.” she grumbles.

“Ms. Fine?”

Her eye twitches. “I’ll give you the Dragon Ball.” Her hand moves into her clothes, and you watch carefully. “...Let me ask you something, Son Peppa.”

“Not exactly in the position to be asking, Ms. Fine. But go on, shoot.”

Slowly her head turns to look at you. “How certain are you that she’s safe?”

For a moment, a brief moment, a chill runs down your spine. It’s enough that your grip almost loosens on her. Enough that she’s able to almost get a pill into her mouth. Almost. You quickly slam her hand down, the pill falling away from her. Egh... there’s that apple scent again.

At the same time, Izumi seems to stop the cyborg man from leaping to his console. She quickly freezes him, glaring and asking, “Trying a self-destruct or something? Bad, bad idea.”

>A. Nice save, Izzy
>B. Don’t. Threaten. My. Friends.
>C. The “Warrior,” who is he? WHAT is he? Is it even a he? Is it a path or something? What?
>D. Something else?

>>3037140
>A.
>C.
>D. See if the name Olibu gets a reaction.

>>3037140
>>B. Don’t. Threaten. My. Friends.

>>3037140
>B & C.

>>3037140
She just tried to melt her brain. Physical intimidation isn't going to work. We're better off stripping Fine and searching her for the ball, desu
>A. Nice save, Izzy
>D. Call up Uncle Acer, see if he's available to give an extra pair of hands

Those tri-beams tear up the ship any?

>>3037165
Less of a pragmatic intimidation choice and more of a character action.

>>3037140
>>3037165
Supporting.

>>3037165
>>3037179
Yeah. Threatening to hurt innocents, and friends especially, is a bad idea. Especially with us showing her that we're able to stop her from using that as a distraction.

>>3037179
Mm, it is, and a good one. My only concern is having to walk it back afterwards. I trust Izzy to be able to handle herself, she wouldn't be here if she didn't believe the same.
It's her trying to make Peppa flinch.

>>3037190
>It's Fine trying to make Peppa flinch
fixed

>>3037140
?Ella es el fine?

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>>3037140
Your grip on her suddenly gets tighter. It might not help get her to spill the beans. But doesn’t change the fact that you’re just a little ticked off by that. “Don’t. Threaten. My. Friends.” you growl out to her. “Targeting any innocents is cowardly. Trying to play mind games with me with those threats? That’s just stupid. I was able to stop that before. Don’t think threats like that will be enough to distract me.”

She’s quiet. Again. You don’t like her being quiet. Izumi slowly approaches you. “...Peppa.”

Okay. Okay. Calming a bit. You still hold her down, but keep your cool. “...How about we start this over, Ms. Fine. Dragon Ball, please. Don’t make this have to turn into a strip search.”

“You’d like that wouldn’t you.” she mutters under her breath.

“What?”

Izzy seems to glare at her. “Maybe if it’s at this close a range, Scouter could work...” She seems to telepathically contact her father.

Ah! That’s an idea. “Izzy, ask him if he’s able to help us out a bit. Could use an extra pair of hands.”

The lady seems to fidget a bit harder, her cheeks reddening. “Rgh... ”

“Stop that.” your cousin demands, adding “perv” under HER breath.

“What?” you repeat.

“Okay, dad says that it could work. He’s still a bit busy in that lab though.” She approaches, using her Magic to create a spare Scouter. “Hmm... let’s see... aha! Peppa, getting a signal of some kind close to her right collarbone.”

You move your hand to there, grabbing down. You swear the lady looks like she’s about to try and bite your hand, but you’re just quick enough to find a compartment in her clothing, pulling out a Capsule. You open it up... and there’s a box. And inside the box... the Five-Star Dragon Ball! “Nice work, Izzy! And nice save back there.” you point your thumb back at the frozen cyborg as you toss the orange sphere to her.

(cont.)

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>>3037247
“Someone had to keep an eye on him while you held her down.” she replies with a wave of her hand. “Anyway, we have the Dragon Ball.”

“Still one more thing to ask then. Listen, Ms. Fine, just who IS this ‘Warrior’ guy? WHAT is he? Is it even a ‘he,’ or even a person? Is it a path or something? What?” You wait for a reply... and she’s silent again. Okay, time to start guessing. “It’s Olibu, isn’t it?”

“...You would never understand even if we did tell you. The mistakes that have been made will be corrected.” She glares at you with an icy cold stare. “One way or another, the Warrior will give us what we need to ensure that.”

“So it’s not Olibu, Ms. Fine? ...Wait, is it Mrs. Fine?”

Her teeth grit as she demands, “Shut. Up.” Even with the Dragon Ball gone, she seems like she’s still ready to do something. She’s still tense, focused, almost like she’s expecting something...

>A. Let’s land this thing and get these guys to the police or something
>B. I want answers, not cryptic jargon, and I will bug you until you give me the answers
>C. ...You’re hiding something still aren’t you? Lady we’re not joking about that, whatever you’re hiding, we’ll find it
>D. Something else

>>3037252
>>C. ...You’re hiding something still aren’t you? Lady we’re not joking about that, whatever you’re hiding, we’ll find it
>>D. Something else
"I don't think we are out if the woods yet cousin, stay on your toes "

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>>3037247
"This box stops the dragon's radar. Anyway we can have our scouters locate the boxes themselves?"

>>3037252
>D. Something else
Was getting caught part of your plan?

>>3037252
>>3037265
These.

>>3037252
>D. Attempt Newtype Flash
But seriously,
>C.
Trying to read her mind might be good, but she could be preparing for that. Or for an instant transmission or something.

>>3037263
>>3037274
Actually these two, yeah.

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All righty. Roll me 1d20, best of three. DC is 13!

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>3037292
Rolling!

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3037292

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Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>3037292

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>>3037306

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Rolled 2, 7, 10 = 19 (3d20)

>>3037295
>>3037305
>>3037306
Perfect! Writing...

>>3037306
Good job Swordanon!

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>>3037316

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>>3037252
https://youtu.be/WyY_TrgY1E0

“So, take it that box is what was hiding the Dragon Ball from detection in. And also betting you guys have things like it that’s hiding the Dragon Balls.” you guess. Still quiet. “...I take it getting caught wasn’t part of your plan either.” You might not be very good at it, but maybe you can read her mind...

‘You’re a little brat.’

Agh. Nope.

Izumi shakes her head. “She’s not going to cooperate, Peppa. Let’s give it a rest and wrap this up.”

The ninja lady again tries to fidget in your arms. “...You’re still hiding something.” you ask her. “Lady, we are not joking about that. Whatever you’re hiding, we’ll find it, even if we have to-”

“Time’s up.” she states with a smirk, closing her eyes.

Something rumbles underneath the two of you, the entire airship shaking. “Y-you... WHAT DID YOU DO?!” the cyborg yells.

“Timed explosives on the engines. Shame y- AH! HEY!” You interrupt her smug speech by briefly letting go, searching her body, Izzy giving you a blank look. Aha! You find an object of some sort tucked into her waist area. You tear away at her clothes and pull it out, the woman letting out a shriek.

“Looks like I found a kill switch for your explosives~” you tell her teasingly. Simple one too. One of the explosives have gone off, but you hit the kill switch for... oh wow there’s like 9 more of them.

“The fortress will still fall from the sky.” she growls out, trying to cover her torn clothes.

“But at a controllable rate, at least!” Izzy declares, trying to head up to the large steering wheel and pulling it up. “...Yeah, I know dad! Peppa stopped the rest! Just tell me how to fly this thing.”

>A. Teleport the ninja to Launch or someone, she’s out of tricks
>B. Fly out and try to help land this thing from the outside, slow its descent!
>C. Try to help your uncle find the rest of the explosives, just in case!
>D. Something else?

>>3037375
>A. Teleport the ninja to Launch or someone, she’s out of tricks

>>3037375
>A.
Then
>B.

>>3037375
Oh god this tension is too much. Izzy's distracted, Fine's ashamed. I can't help it.
>D. Don't think I'll give up when I've got my sights set on a prize.

More seriously
>D. Immobilize her in ice. A solid headbutt might work too
>B. Fly out and try to help land this thing from the outside

>>3037375
>A. Teleport the ninja to Launch or someone, she’s out of tricks
>B. Fly out and try to help land this thing from the outside, slow its descent!
>D.ULT: Warp Cyclone
- Teleporting Power Pole Combo boosted with Wind magic, delivering a storm of powerful strikes.

>>3037398
Can't Super Saiyan 2 bench press a planet? Why not just slow it down physically?

>>3037398
>>3037412
Idea: let's try again on managing SS2 like mastered Super Saiyan, and help Izzy control the airship's descent by using only as much energy as needed.

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Rolled 13, 13, 18 = 44 (3d20)

Okay, one more roll of 2d20, best of three! DC is 13 for both!

Rolled 20, 3 = 23 (2d20)

>>3037432
Here goes!

Rolled 15, 13 = 28 (2d20)

>>3037432

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Rolled 20, 6 = 26 (2d20)

>>3037432

>>3037440
Woohoo!

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Rolled 3, 10, 20 = 33 (3d20)

>>3037440
>>3037444
>>3037451
Awesome! Writing...

Damn AirPirateTeam, calm down.

>>3037457
Absolutely not

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>>3037375
https://youtu.be/3lCnbZkatcU

“Izzy, restraints for her? I’m getting her out of here before she tries anything else!”

Izumi magics up a pair of handcuffs and tosses them to you. You cuff the lady’s hands behind her back, then lock on to Launch’s Ki and quickly teleport away. You appear in her office. “-ave a located some of the stolAH! Peppa?!”

“NO TIME TO EXPLAIN! AIR PIRATES! NINJA!” You nearly toss the captured ninja lady at Launch. “HOLD HER WHILE I STOP AN AIRSHIP FROM CRASHING!”

“W-wha-?”

You’re gone before she has time to really register what is going on, appearing next to Izzy. “I’m heading out to try and control the descent with you! Tell me what you need telepathically!”

“Got it! Hurry!”

Dashing out like a bolt of lightning you reach one of the airship’s underside, place your hands on it, and with all your might try to help Izzy steer. “Right or left, how hard?!” you yell both aloud and telepathically to Izzy.

‘Right side’s unbalanced, but I’m trying to keep it from populated areas. Push left for 30 seconds at full strength, then hold right for 70 at half!’

You push, acting as a little jet for the airship’s underside to turn it, then stabilizing its descent as Izzy tries to control it. You keep your focus as it descends. “Izzy, where are we taking this thing?!”

‘Diablo Desert to the south!’

Given the speed the airship’s traveling, even with you acting as a stabilizer to it, you reach the area in a little over a minute. “IZZY, HOW MUCH LONGER?!”

‘Steady decrease of power until you’re at a third over 200 seconds!’

The ground below you starts to get closer and closer as you decrease how hard you’re trying to push at it. Focus! Focus! Come oooonnnn!

‘Agh, Peppa it’s not gonna make it! Descent isn’t stabilizing!’

“OH COME ON!” you yell out. Think of something, think of something... aha! You’ve got it! You bring out your Power Pole and grip on it with your legs, then transform into a Super Saiyan, and then power up even further to Super Saiyan 2, but you calm yourself like you did while training with dad. Then, timing it carefully, you command the Power Pole, “EXTEND!”

The red pole darts down into the sands, kicking it up as it tears through, you holding on to the ship and carefully raising and lowering your strength as it wobbles. Finally it starts to stabilize, and you let go of the ship momentarily as you grab the Power Pole with your hands, placing it against the ship’s hull to better spread the kinetic energy over a wider area, the staff bending a little as it takes more of the ship’s weight.

After a few close calls, the ship starts skirting along the desert sands, until it finally comes to a complete stop near a pyramid. You retract the Power Pole, sighing out in relief. You did it!

(cont.)

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>>3037516
‘All explosives located and disarmed. Good job landing this thing, girls!’ your uncle tells you.

“Hah... haha! Whew! That was a close one!”

The authorities get called some time later to arrest the crew of Air Pirates and the two other would-be ninja. Acer hugs the two of you. “Look at you kids! That was some brilliant thinking. And we got all of this done with no serious casualties, too.”

You grin wide. “Thanks, uncle Acer!”

“Uuuggghhh... can we go somewhere less hoooot...” Izumi complains as she fans herself under the desert heat.

“Eheh, all right, all right.”

>A. I can get you guys home! Mind if I stay with for a bit, too?
>B. I’ll teleport you two home, but then I have to check on the ninja I left with Launch
>C. Couldn’t you just use some of your magic to cool down? And come on, it’s not THAT hot!
>D. Something else?

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>>3037519
>D. Look around for a clue or a keepsake.

>>3037519
Would doing the opposite of the ki warming stuff in the land of ice be helpful? No idea if 'stilling' our ki keeps us cool.

>>3037519
Good save. Back to business.
>D. Remind Izzy nothing is more important than family
>E. Ask Acer if he was able to save any of the information the labcoat cyborg was hording.
If so, it'll probably take a while to sort through so
>B.
We probably owe Launch a clearer explanation. Let's see if we can get extra some information on Delinquent too, since he might be a Mifan local.

>>3037519
Mission Success? Sweet!

Backing both of these
>>3037530
>>3037538
Still nervous over that threat to Cocoa.

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>>3037519
“Hey, uncle, was there anything you could get out of that cyborg scientist? Anything useful?” you ask.

He rubs the back of his neck. “Was kinda busy holding off a few dozen cyborgs, sorry kiddo. But from all the swearing and ranting it seems like that at the very least, these Air Pirates have only been working with the ninja for a short time. Strictly business, too. Trying to get money and supplies from them. Does look like the Dragon Ball hiding tech is theirs though.”

“Well, that’s something.”

“Daaaad. Come ooooonnn...” Izzy complains again.

“...I could teleport you guys back if you want.” you comment.

Izzy claps her hands together. “Please? Please please please? Before I melt out here?”

“Okay, okay, sheesh. Just hold your horses, princess. Want to check out that bridge one more time, see if there’s anything else in there.” You start to fly up, your cousin pouting at you. “...It’s away from the heat. You made sure of that, remember?”

“Raslfraslemumblegrumble...” she flies up with you, entering into the bridge again. You see that there seems to be a projected map of the Earth off to the side, with a couple locations highlighted. And you know the both of them. Your house... and Mifan.

“Dragon Radar?”

Izzy shakes her head. “Looks like basic guesswork, if they’re only detecting these two. The one have isn’t highlighted, even though we’re at Diablo Desert.”

“Makes sense. Guess they don’t know where the others are either.” You look around some more, then spot what appears to be the captain’s quarters. Number of trinkets and the like inside, trophies, animal skins... oh hey, big ol’ sword. “Hey Izzy, keepsake?”

She raises an eyebrow. “You don’t want it?”

“Ah come on, cousin, kinda barged into all this when you and your dad were about to do it on your own, least I can do for family. Nothin’s more important!~”

“Mmmneh, you did help us at least.” She takes the massive thing off the wall. “Doesn’t look like much more than a wallhanger...”

You spot a few papers on the desk. Clue? Looking them over... they seem to be transaction files of some sort. Maybe they’re the ones related to the Dragon Ball sale to the ninja? Better give these over to Launch. “Okay, I’ll take you and uncle Acer home, but then I gotta head over to West City really quick.”

She seems... actually a little concerned, but doesn’t seem to voice it. “Fine. Try to take it slow though, Peppa.”

“I’ll have time to, don’t worry.”

(cont.)

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>>3037655
With Acer and Izumi back at the Ox King’s palace, and after saying hello to aunt Chi-chi, you teleport over to Launch again. This time she seems a little more prepared. “Not EXACTLY playing vigilante again, but mind explaining what all this was about?” she points to a mass of paperwork on her desk.

You place the file down in front of her and slide it up gently. “Uncle Acer can voice for me on this, at the very least. She was involved with some Air Pirates, funding and supplies. Sorry if this is causing you a bigger headache than usual.”

Launch leans back. “Eh. Can probably let it slide. I’ll have you file out the forms showing you made a citizen’s arrest.”

“...Would it be at all possible for me to try and catch up with what you know? The pieces are starting to come together, and there’s a LOT I learned that can probably fill in a few blanks for y-”

Launch jolts up. “Hold that thought!” she yells as she starts running. You follow her as she reaches the holding cells. She opens one up and dives in, tackling someone to the ground... wait, that’s the ninja you captured first! But why-

A long dart pierces through the window of the cell, missing where the man’s head was and hits the ground hard enough to break into the floor. You take a step back. What the heck? You move towards it... and notice a piece of paper is rolled up in it. You unfurl it... and your hands start trembling when you read it. Your eyes widen.

https://youtu.be/xoowuYluWCc

“If you value her life, you will give us the final two when the Tournament starts. Make your decision by then, Son Peppa.”

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #4... Paused
>Twitter account is @KatoQm, will have status updates there
>Got some questions for the QM? Suggestions? Throw them at ask.fm/QMKato and I'll try to answer them as best I can

All right folks, that's all for this thread. We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~4:30 pm PST. Did y’all have fun?

>>3037657
The draught embiggens.
Good run! Not a lot in the way of clarifying who's responsible in the Crane School, but several new clues to sift through.
And Izumi said we weren't dealing with something important. HA!

>>3037657
Very suspenseful! Great times were had Kato! Also very very worried now! And am I reading that right, early thread tomorrow?

So we know the ninja are targeting Cocoa, but we also know they're not going to make a move until the Tournament. They also don't know that the Mifan Dragon Ball is a fake. Do we tell her or keep this under wraps? Don't want to alarm her but this is pretty serious.

Further, how did Launch know that attack was coming? Maple warn her?

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>>3037657

>>3038531
>targeting
Anon, the threat is nonsense unless they already have her captive.

>>3038672
I figured it meant that they would try to kill her like they did this ninja, sudden assassination attempt.

>>3038531
>Further, how did Launch know that attack was coming?
My thoughts right now are that Tien warned her after getting attacked himself. We should probably check on his status, either directly or through Launch, see if anything happened, and if he still has the deceiver ball. They're only asking for two balls, after all.
After that, it might be good to talk to Pantea. Our goggles were finished, so Cocoa might have had hers delivered as well. See if she noticed anything. There's also Cocoa's mother to deal with...

I guess we should probably start thinking about the tournament too, since taking action during it might lead to Peppa missing a match. It doesn't have to be an either/or situation, but it might come down to it.

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would 16, 19, Blue, Tao or any RR know where the Murasaki brothers are?

Can't have a ninja arc without them.

>>3038672
First thing we should do then is make sure she has gone missing.

>>3038802
>>3038895
We should definitely try to make sure if Cocoa has been kidnapped or not already. Betting that she has, but could a threat to kidnap her that hasn't happened yet, so maybe we have a chance to prevent it. If she has been kidnapped, I say we get the two Dragon Balls ready. Try to set up a meeting, then maybe we can track them.

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So is our new airship repairable?

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>>3037663
>>3037691
Glad to hear y'all are having fun! And yes, earlier thread!

>>3038580
Heh.

>>3038672
>>3038802
>>3038895
>>3039062
Fair warning: best to be cautious on how you proceed. Think things over carefully.

>>3038833
Smart thinking there.

>>3038837
That'd be telling.

>>3039599
Why settle for that one when you could have a better one?

And with that, we're back!

>>3037657
https://youtu.be/JxOL95Nr7Dg

You sit down in Launch’s office, head lowered. Your mind’s so clouded. You can’t sense her in the city, but maybe... maybe they haven’t gotten her yet. Still, she’s in trouble and you... you... “This is... this is my fault... it’s my fault... I... I shouldn’t have-”

Launch shakes her head. “If you try to blame yourself for this, you’re playing right into their hands.”

“What am I supposed to do then?!” you almost yell out at her, clenching your fists, tensing up in anger. “Just sit here and accept that they’ve targeted her specifically to get to me?! My name’s on that letter!”

“Peppa.”

You lower your head again. “...I’m sorry. I just... I just... I felt something was off when I left but I never acted on it. I should have done more, I should have-”

Launch sighs. “Take a deep breath, Peppa. I know how scary is to you. But I need you to do your best to stay calm.” She takes the papers you filled out. “Can you tell me what you plan on doing?”

>A. I... I need to talk with mom
>B. What choice do I have? I’m going to give them the Dragon Balls ASAP, so they leave her alone!
>C. I need to ask around, see who’s seen her last. She was supposed to head to Capsule Corp, so... maybe they’ve only just now kidnapped her, or something?
>D. Something else?

>>3039738
>A. I... I need to talk with mom
Have her teleport over and we can talk while doing C
>C. I need to ask around, see who’s seen her last. She was supposed to head to Capsule Corp, so... maybe they’ve only just now kidnapped her, or something?

>>3039738
>C. I need to ask around, see who’s seen her last. She was supposed to head to Capsule Corp, so... maybe they’ve only just now kidnapped her, or something?
We dug this hole, we gotta climb out ourselves.

>>3039738
>A & C.
Just in case though, we should get the two Dragon Balls they're asking for.

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>>3039738
>A.
>C.
>D.

>>3039738
Take a moment to breathe. There's a lot to process.
>A. I... I need to talk with mom
>D. Ask Launch what made her come check on the Delinquent Ninja
If it's Tien, get her to clarify on why he contacted her, otherwise go get a cooler head involved.
We should also see if he has the fake ball still. That's probably more important than Cocoa's last knowns.

>>3039760
Backing this too.

>>3039758
Whoops
>D. Check in on all other units for resources.*

>>3039738
>D. Think back to any diners you've been to, are you familiar enough with their owners to where they would be able to clue you in on where this dart's from?

Probably should have asked this sooner. Can we get an idea of how long until the WMAT?

>>3039841
any more training days left?

>>3039841
A week away.

>>3039848
Good eye.

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>>3039841
>>3039845
>>3039848
Week away, yes. There will be some time to train a bit more until then.

>>3039738
Deep breath. Deep breath. Breathe. “Okay... okay. I’m not... I’m not going to do anything rash, I promise. I’m angry, I’m worried, I’m a lot of things, but if I let them take control, I’ll only put her in further danger.” You close your eyes and think. “...To start things off, how’d you know they would attack that guy?”

“Maple and Tien gave me a warning. Maple and Baba foresaw an attempt to steal the Dragon Ball he has, then Tien and Maple let me know about that, with Maple telling me there’d be an attempt on ninja we have here.” She leans back in her chair. “All that to send a message...”

‘So is he guarding it to make it seem like it’s the real deal?’ you question telepathically.

‘Bingo, Peppa. Now they’re convinced. Probably was a coordinated attack.’ Launch places her elbows on her desk. “I ask again, what do you plan to do?”

“I... I need to get in contact with mom then. And we need to retrace our last steps. Cocoa was headed to Capsule Corp today to get her goggles from Pantea... maybe they’ve only recently taken her? Maybe we can still find her...” You rest your chin in your palms. “Is that dart from anywhere near here, you think?”

“No, custom-made.” Launch replies. “Nothing in the area, not even military surplus stores, have things like that.”

“...How do you-?”

“Believe me, I know. Half of me is still a bit of a gun nut.” Launch replies, trying to ease the tension a bit. “But I’m certain that it’s something in their arsenal.”

(cont.)

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>>3039858
“Okay, okay... let’s get on this then...” First thing’s first, contact mom. ‘Ghost Pepper to Momma Bird. Serious help needed.’

‘Momma Bird here, Launch got my message, right?’

‘Affirmative, but need you here, now. Please. Over.’

Just a moment later, Maple teleports to you. “What happened, are you hurt? Did they get your tail? What-”

You shake your head. “No... more serious than that...”

With the situation explained to her, you and Maple get in contact with Pantea and Bulma next. Apparently Cocoa was scheduled to arrive there a good 35 minutes ago... and hasn’t arrived yet. A call to her mother confirms that she left an hour prior. That confirms it then. Your mother places her hand on your shoulder and squeezes gently. “Peppa, I’m sorry...”

“So, she’s been missing for about 25 minutes at the least. They probably were planning this to take place today during their attack, given what you mentioned. And they knew about you gaining the Five-Star ball...”

Maple rubs the side of her head. “I doubt any of them have Instant Transmission, at the very least. Still, if she’s out of the city... no, I can’t pick up on her Ki anywhere near here. Peppa, you said she’s learned how to sense Ki, right? Has she also learned how to hide her Ki?”

>A. I’ve given her the basics... maybe she’s tried to learn it on her own? But she wouldn’t be hiding it unless they told her how to specifically...
>B. Launch, have you sensed anyone unusual in the area? Anyone flying around? Any reports of strange vehicles? Anything at all?
>C. You could see those attacks coming, why couldn’t you see this coming too, mom?
>D. I’m... I’m going to tell her mom exactly what’s going on
>E. Something else?

>>3039861
>A. I’ve given her the basics... maybe she’s tried to learn it on her own? But she wouldn’t be hiding it unless they told her how to specifically...

>B. Launch, have you sensed anyone unusual in the area? Anyone flying around? Any reports of strange vehicles? Anything at all?

>>3039861
>B. Launch, have you sensed anyone unusual in the area? Anyone flying around? Any reports of strange vehicles? Anything at all?
The ninjas haven't hidden themselves around low power levels before, but that may have changed.
>E. Confirm the number of balls we have.
IIRC we have Two-Star, Two-Star (fake), Four-Star and Five-Star.
Does that mean they don't know about the failed exchange yet? If so, that could be a valuable piece of information.

>C. You could see those attacks coming, why couldn't you see this coming to, mom?
Starting to crack.

>>3039861
Backing >>3039871

>>3039861
>A. I’ve given her the basics... maybe she’s tried to learn it on her own? But she wouldn’t be hiding it unless they told her how to specifically...
>B. Launch, have you sensed anyone unusual in the area? Anyone flying around? Any reports of strange vehicles? Anything at all?
>E. Give mom a backrub, she looks stressed.

>>3039861
>A. I’ve given her the basics... maybe she’s tried to learn it on her own? But she wouldn’t be hiding it unless they told her how to specifically...

best case scenario Cocoa as an actress is copying how the ninjas blended from observation but the ninjas know how to spot that?

>E. Go over all the suspicious activities, see if they connect.

Maloja, the air pirates, the ninjas, this lady, the warrior...

...well besides the village idiot what does all these got in common...

They're not working for Towa...or Gero?

but who could fund this sort of thing? Jaguar may be out. Gangsters even a mafia wouldn't likely have that sort of power.

>>3039894
They don't necessarily have to be on the same page. The Pirates were only in it for the money, as evidenced by their willingness to sell the ball to Suppaman and Onio. As for ninjas, it's likely that the lady is Yurin and that their goal is 'the warrior'. Regardless of if 'the warrior' tangible or not the Dragon Balls are a means to an end. We should assume they're operating independently for the time being.

>>3039894
>>3039922
The issue of funding is a good point. The ninja have to have some way to be able to pay for that Dragon Ball and the tech hiding it. Selling Capsule Corp. tech to aliens? Maybe the assassinations are another source of funding.

>>3039934
How much is it to hire for s-rank mission in zenni?

Let's hire from all the other villages.

dibs on the stone or cloud ones

>>3039934
Funding may not be as much of an issue as you might think. Poisons, Flashbangs, and Talismans can be made by hand, as was the Dart. The only real issue is the scouter, and that could have been lifted off someone else, or bought on the cheap. We're not even sure if Fine paid the Air Pirate because she talisman'd his head.
It's worth noting that Fine also said "but you and any devil or alien may try" about finding their stronghold. This sounds like a long, long game they're planning, with protections in place. They might know something about the Majins.

>>3039969
Could be a offshoot of Red Ribbon.

Not quite Red Pants Army...

Red Shirt Army, yes.

>>3039989
White Feather Army, cuz they're using Crane techniques, and white feathers were given to cowards who didn't enlist so I think that's funny.

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>>3040010

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>>3039861
“I-I’ve given her the basics on sensing Ki, and some bits on raising or lowering it... but only that. Maybe... maybe she’s tried learning it on her own? But she wouldn’t be doing this unless specifically told to...” You grip the sides of your shirt and tug slightly, trying to keep yourself calm. “Launch, have there been any reports of unusual vehicles? Have you felt any unusual Ki signatures? Anything at all? Time’s of the essence, even the slightest bit of info could help point us to her!” Your voice cracks a little as you try your best not to lose your cool, but... it’s slipping just a bit.

“Haven’t felt anything, no...” She rubs her chin, then stands up, heading out to poke her head out her office, calling out, “Kiroi! Urgent! That parking violation with that unlicensed hovercar, get that file in here!”

“On it!” a gruff voice replies as a tiger man in uniform waves to her.

“Unlicensed hovercar?” you ask her.

She nods. “Long shot, but it was rather suspicious. Expired meter, one of our parking officers, Hopps, made note of it.”

“Definitely suspicious, but... Baba and I didn’t really pick up on something like that.” your mom comments.

Your eye twitches. Something about how she says that just... aggravates you. “Too focused on something else.”

Maple looks at you with surprise. “Excuse me?”

“You could see those attacks coming, why couldn’t you see this too, mom? You know they’re related!” you ask angrily. You then immediately cover your mouth as you see the shocked expression on her face.

A heavy silence fills the air for half a minute. Maple then slowly walks to you and pulls you into a hug. “Peppa, sweetie, I know you’re worried. Even with all the practice I’ve got, I can’t foresee everything. But I promise, we’ll find her, okay?”

“O-okay...” Your eyes water as you hug her back.

(cont.)

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>>3040033
The tiger man quietly tiptoes to Launch and hands her the folder, reading the room and not trying to disturb you. Launch walks over with the folder, opening it and showing the two of you a photo. “This is the vehicle.”

“...What’s that marking on it?” Maple asks, pointing out a circled “P” near the dashboard. “It’s like the Capsule Corp. logo, but... some kind of knockoff? Seems familiar.”

Launch rubs her chin. “Might be some old Pod Corporation junk, though... the car’s surprisingly new for that. I’ll put out a search for it.”

Once you feel you’re calm enough, you ask mom telepathically, ‘Piccolo still has the real Dragon Ball, right?’

‘Affirmative. So that’s three we have, and presumably four they have.’

‘Then we’re still at the advantage.’ You take a look at the photo. “This ‘Pod Corporation,’ if this is related, could they be helping finance them?”

“They’re bankrupt. Couldn’t compete with Capsule Corp, and so some of their old tech ends up on black markets. Supposedly cheap, but also usually junk.” she explains. “Hmm... I could look into any confiscated property related to it, track some sales.”

>A. We should be looking out for this hovercar, then
>B. Mom, we should get the other two Dragon Balls, just in case
>C. ...Sorry for snapping like that, mom
>D. Something else?

>>3040038
>C. ...Sorry for snapping like that, mom
>maybe relate that thing about a coco being a sacrifice and now our cocoa mite be a sacrifice
>D. Something else?
"Mom. ...Can the ninjas block or misdirect your scrying or foresight with their genjutsu?"

>>3040038
>A, B, C.
And backing this D. >>3040055

>>3040038
>A. We should be looking out for this hovercar, then
>D. Give the Five Star ball to [someone else]
They don't know who has it right now, so it's a good time to get it to someone else and act like they had it all along.
Now I'm going to float this idea, and I want you guys to be honest about it. Out of everyone on earth, there's on person I'm willing to bet the ninja's don't want to have it. Crazy strong, doesn't care about what happens to us, and is probably immune to the talisman magic. It's probably safer than anywhere else. We should give it to Vegeta

>C. ...Sorry for snapping like that, mom
Once this all settles, we should probably take some time to learn a few precognitive skills from her to try and keep our more normal friends safe.

>>3040085
On one hand, he's kind of the last person they would expect. On the other hand, isn't he one of their potential targets? Given what happened on the bug planet? He might just give it to them so they don't target Baozi.

>>3040108
>>3040085
...can we get him the three star ball and go

'Go team three star!' with him and baozi?

>>3040108
It's just a idea. But chances are, if Vegeta's a target, he'll remain one after they get their wish. And so will every other alien, probably.

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>>3040038
“Okay, then I guess that we need to start looking for this car.” you surmise, looking at the photo again, trying to memorize every single detail that you can. “...I wonder though. Mom, has there been like, anything that’s caused your foresight to end up misdirected or something?”

“Usually it’s something that we do to change it directly, after being forewarned.” she tells you with a shrug. “Events leading up to to what I see are often accurate, but we have been able to change them. That said, sometimes I see things that aren’t exactly...” she clenches her teeth and sucks in air. “...let’s say ‘relevant’ to us.”

“Could they have devised a way to counter that, somehow? Some kind of illusions or techniques that hide them from you and Baba?”

Maple gives your question some thought. “That’s... tough to say. Certainly possible if they could like, feed me some kind of false information, but I don’t really know how they’d do that.”

“Well, there has to be something... maybe there’s some kind of magic, or...” It finally clicks. “The talisman! Mom, maybe the talisman is what’s blocking your ability to scry for them!”

“That... could be it. We don’t have any information on it, but maybe that’s how they’ve been avoiding us for all this time.” She smiles and ruffles your hair. “Smart thinking, Peppa. Launch, we’ll be on the look out for that car!”

“Best of luck.”

As you walk out of the station with her, you lower your head and sigh. “...I’m really sorry for snapping at you like that, mom.”

“You’re frustrated. I know what it’s like, Peppa.” She gently pats your shoulder. “I’ve... done a good deal worse. And I promise, we’ll find her.”

“Thank you.” You both fly up, looking around. ‘Hm... mom, what about the Dragon Ball? They’re asking for it, but... should we give it to them, or should we try to hide it?’

‘One way or the other, we have one secure. They’ll still go after the one Tien has, but Piccolo has the one at the Lookout.’ She glances over to you. ‘Are you that worried they’ll hurt her if you don’t show up with them?’

>A. ...To be honest, yes. I’d rather we not put her in any greater risk. We need both
>B. No... no we’ll save her without giving in to their demands. We can give it to another person instead (who?)
>C. Something else?

Also, roll me 1d20, best of three. DC is 13.

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Rolled 18 (1d20)

what if we put all the dragon balls into crystal balls like that fairy maple met...

enchanted crystal balls.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3040224
>A.

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3040224
>C. I don't know. I'd like to think they don't want to hurt Cocoa if they don't have to. They're warriors after all.

Rolled 13, 12, 2 = 27 (3d20)

>>3040231
>>3040236
>>3040242
Very nice!

>>3040236
>>3040242
Both of these.

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>>3040224
You fly slowly as you look aroung the area leading out of West City. ‘...To be honest, I don’t know. I’d like to think they wouldn’t hurt Cocoa if they don’t have to. I want to believe that they’ll keep their word as warriors... but at the same time, they’re also clearly assassins. They tried that attempt on that alien’s life, and just a little bit ago on one of their own. Also I don’t... I don’t want to put Cocoa at any greater risk than she’s already in.’

‘...Keep searching.’

‘M-mom?’

Aaand she teleports away. Well, you’ve got a job to do then. You keep your eyes open for a car like the one in the photo, staying high above the ground as you follow the highways. You’re looking for a needle in a haystack. But.. wait, maybe... You raise your Ki just a little bit more. Suddenly you feel a very faint but very familiar presence. Could it... could it be...?

COCOA!

You trail a car that matches the one in the photo, the car speeding up as you follow. It takes a detour into the countryside, traveling some distance up a hill. The car comes to a stop at the top, three figures stepping out. You touch down some distance away. She’s there. She’s there! You found her!

https://youtu.be/D5bZarMSMM0

“Not one step closer.” a voice calls out to you. It’s... very vaguely familiar. Maybe it... wait, it’s that guy who you first encountered! You recognize his black hair and eyes, and that blue outfit. He holds a blindfolded Cocoa by the arm. “You know our conditions, Son Peppa.”

“Told you.” Cocoa states calmly. “Told you she’d find me.”

“Will you SHUT UP!” he demands. The ninja looks over to you. “The Dragon Balls. Where are they?”

Maple teleports in with both of them in her hands. “Am I late?”

>A. Just in time, mom. We’ll give you the Dragon Balls, then you let her go. Warrior’s honor!
>B. If you hurt a SINGLE hair on her head, I will make you regret it!
>C. Hand over Cocoa first!
>D. Even if you have these two, Tien still has the last one. You won’t get away with this
>E. Something else?

>>3040381
>C. Hand over Cocoa first!

>>3040381
>C.
Then
>B.

>>3040381
>E. One now, one later. Mom, leave one ball with me and take Cocoa home.
If he agrees, maybe we can negotiate a little more.

>>3040381
>>3040412
This

>>3040412
Actually yeah, this is a better idea.

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>>3039959

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>>3040381
https://youtu.be/myxUmcpBaqU

“One now, one later.” you tell the ninja. “Mom, leave one with me and take Cocoa home.”

“That wasn’t what we asked, girl.” the ninja states angrily. “Both.”

“You said both by the start of the Tournament.” you correct him. “One now and we’ll promise to give you the last one at the Tournament. Just let her go.”

Maple hands you the Five-Star Ball. “No funny business. We promise.”

The ninja slowly starts to advance, pulling Cocoa along with him, pointing a finger to her throat with his other hand. “Give me one good reason to trust you.”

“You failed to get the one Tien has.” your mom states. “Even if we give you both, you still have a lot of work to do.”

There seems to be a confident smile appear on his face. “...Hand over the Dragon Ball first.”

“Same time.” Maple demands, putting away the Four-Star Ball.

You bring your hand up to him. He’s hesitant, but decides to lean down, about to take it. Before he does though, he tells you, “If the second one isn’t given to us when it starts, you will never see her again.”

“I’d never put her in danger.” you affirm. “You’ll get the Dragon Ball. Just promise that she stays out of this.”

He tosses her at you as he takes the orange sphere. “She will always be in danger unless you uphold your end of the bargain. We did this once. Next time won’t be so pretty.”

You hug Cocoa tight, removing her blindfold. “I’m sorry, I’m so, so sorry...”

“What exactly are you trying to wish for? What is this Warrior?” Maple asks.

He turns back and stares down at her. “...Maple Mahogany.”

“Son-” your mother tries to interrupt, but is cut off.

“How long has your little group of friends hoarded over keeping the Earth safe?” he asks. “How successful have you truly been at it?” Mom is... silent. “The Warrior will help us do better.”

“I-”

He enters his vehicle with another member and drives off before your mom can give her response. She watches quietly until she finally looks away. You finally let go of Cocoa. “I... you must have been so scared... y-you must hate me for this...”

“Oh I’m plenty terrified!” she admits, the blank expression she was keeping finally cracking as dread washes over her... but then a smile appears in spite of it. “Keeping a straight face through the whole ordeal is just about the hardest thing I’ve ever done... but... I did know, deep down, you’d get me back.”

Your eyes start to water. “Cocoa...”

Mom nods her head. “Let’s get you home then.”

>A. I’m coming too. Not letting you out of my sight for at least the next hour
>B. I’m following them, I can still track where they’re headed
>C. Thanks for trusting in me, Cocoa
>D. Something else?

>>3040521
>A. I’m coming too. Not letting you out of my sight for at least the next hour
>C. Thanks for trusting in me, Cocoa

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>>3040521
Good job, Peppa.
>C.
>A.
I really want to push this further, but I think we've made the first step on bridging the gap today. Take the W.

And, maybe for when we're alone with Maple
>D. Mom? Deep down, do you think the people of Earth resent us?

>>3040521
>D. Well, you did become Peppa-bait, so sorry 'bout that. You did well at putting a spotlight on yourself ki-wise, I guess that's just what you can expect from an actress!
>C. Thanks for trusting in me, Cocoa.

>>3040521
>A & C
Ask her how it went down. We want to prevent this from happening again, Dragon Ball or not.
>D.
Reassure mom. She's kinda just had her fears confirmed

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>>3040542
>Mom? Deep down, do you think the people of Earth resent us?
YOU AND ME CAN RULE THIS PLANET, SON PEPPA, OR WE CAN JUST FIGHT TO THE DEATH

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>>3040521
No reason to risk anything else. You hold on to Cocoa’s wrist and smile. “I’m coming too. Not letting you out of my sight for at least another hour. Maybe two.”

Cocoa laughs. “At least take me to dinner first. Ah, wait! Capsule Corp first!”

“Huh? Why? ...Oh, right. Goggles.” You shake your head.

“...Not just that.” she replies as the three of you teleport, appearing close to Pantea.

She turns around. “Oh thank god... you found her.”

https://youtu.be/XcIkYVo9y0s

Cocoa then pulls something out of her pocket. “This looked important.” She places down... a torn bit of a ticket? “I’d recognize this anywhere. They shredded up a bit of an airline ticket.”

The three of you look at her with surprise. “...How-” Pantea barely gets out before Cocoa continues.

“Was stuck to the clothes of the one who kidnapped me. Felt it when I tried to struggle away. Put it in my pocket as soon as I felt it. Haven’t been able to see where it leads to, but, least I could do after getting made the little damsel in distress.” Cocoa states proudly... even though her legs are shaking.

“...H-H-O-Y.” Pantea reads aloud. “Wait... Yahhoy?”

You... start laughing. “Eheh... hahahaha. Hahahahaha! God... you... you kept your calm even while doing all that for us?”

“As best I could. I felt like screaming at least three times.” she admits. “...Thanks again for coming for me.”

You hug her tight. “Thank you for trusting in me, Cocoa. Even if you did... kinda get used as Peppa bait. And... you even got my attention by raising your Ki. Heh, guess you found a way to put a spotlight on yourself, ey, little miss up-and-coming actress?”

She laughs. “Really though I might lose a finger or two if you hadn’t come looking for me.” Cocoa looks over to Pantea. “Can I use your bathroom really quick? Before the anxiety I’ve been holding in finally takes over and I faint or... something?”

“Down the hall, third door on your left.” Pantea directs.

(cont.)

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>>3040697
The brown-haired girl runs in that direction, and you can’t help but follow her. As she enters, you wait outside but keep talking. “How... how did it all go down? I don’t want this to happen again, so... anything you can tell me.”

“Was about a block away from Capsule Corp when they captured me.” she replies loudly. “Scared the hell out of me, but I tried to think fast. The guy who was shoving me around was the one who captured me.” She gets to the sink and lets it run for a bit after washing her hands. You hear her splash water on her face for a bit before she continues. “Shoved me in that car, next thing I know I’m blindfolded and heading out of the city.”

“How’d you learn to hide your Ki?”

“Bit of practice, but did the best I could once I really felt them do the same.” Cocoa exits the bathroom, smiling kindly at you. “...I knew why they were after me. And sure, I was terrified... but I knew I couldn’t panic. Just kept telling them, and myself, that you’d come for me.”

You blush a little. “I’m-”

“You say sorry one more time and I’m going to bonk you on your forehead.”

Heh. “...Just glad you’re safe.”

“Catch!” Pantea tosses the goggles over to Cocoa. “I’ll have Launch look at this ASAP!”

“Glad me being the damsel in distress worked out for us at least.” Cocoa tells her with a wave.

With everything set, mom teleports both you and her back to the girl’s house. Cocoa explains to her mother... most of what had happened. That she’d been kidnapped and that you and Maple managed to rescue her. Leaving out most of the bits on the ninja and WHY they’d kidnapped her, just stating they were asking for a special ransom.

“I owe you so much...” the girl’s mother tells you, tears streaking down her cheeks. “You did everything to get my little girl home. You’re both real heroes.”

Mom smiles awkwardly. “It... was nothing, just glad my daughter’s best friend is back home safe.”

“Maple, Peppa, you both take care.”

As the two of you exit, you notice mom’s still got that awkward smile on her face... and it’s slowly fading into a frown. “I... I know what he said, but mom, do you really think, deep down, the people of Earth resent us?”

“...I’m less sure than I used to be at least.” she admits quietly.

“Because I don’t.” you tell your mother, causing her to look at you in surprise. “You saw what they were like. Kidnapping innocents, threatening their lives... they’re criminals, mom. Earthling or not. We’re better than that. Actions speak louder than words.”

Maple pats you on the head. “Guess I must be doing something right if you’re giving little motivational speeches like that.”

>A. Actually... can I stay with Cocoa for a bit more? Please?
>B. Hey, mom... can we talk about something a bit more personal when we get home?
>C. Something else?

>>3040701
>>A. Actually... can I stay with Cocoa for a bit more? Please?

>>3040701
Cocoa is officially best girl.

>A.

>>3040701
>C. Tournament talk, get some input from Mom on how she would handle the exchange, and the fallout
But also
>B.

>>3040729
I'll back this C too.

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>>3040701
You tap your heel against the pavement. “...Hey, mom? Be honest. How... would you have handled that whole exchange on your own?”

Maple places her hands behind her back. “Mm. A bit like how you handled it. Focused more on making sure she’s safe, trying to keep a cool head. Honestly though, if it were back when I was your age, and someone had captured Chi-chi or Chuu Lee... I might not have handled it quite as well as you did. I might make more mistakes. I might end up letting them have both Dragon Balls...” She adds telepathically, ‘But I guess it is a little similar to what Towa tried to pull when your dad became Champion.’

“Thanks, mom. And don’t let what he said get to you.” You stretch your arms and yawn. “This day’s been more of a workout than I was expecting. And I still have a Tournament to prepare for.”

Your mom crosses her arms and smirks. “Not thinking of redacting that declaration that you’ll be champion, are you?”

“Never!” you assure her. “Even with all that’s been going on, I’ve still got my sights set on that title!”

“That’s my girl.”

You look back Cocoa’s house for a moment. “...Would, um, you mind if I spend a little longer here? If they’ll let me?”

She pats your head. “If it’s okay with them. Know you’re worried about her, Peppa.”

“Thanks mom.”

You head in and talk with her mother briefly, then go over to Cocoa when you get the okay from her. She pokes you in the cheek and chuckles. “Come now, you don’t need to watch me like a hawk. I doubt they’d try the same thing twice.”

“Hasn’t been an hour yet. I’m keeping true to my word.” you state flatly.

“You’re a dork, Peppa.” Cocoa giggles. “But I don’t think I’d want you to change that.”

“Don’t think I could change that if I wanted to.” you affirm. “Cocoa... be honest, you holding up okay?”

She looks out the window cautiously. “I’ll probably have a hard time sleeping tonight, but yes. I think I am.”

You rest back on the couch the two of you are sitting on. “Just... making sure.”

“Tell you what, tomorrow, let’s just have a little get together with everyone. Take a break from your little ninja hunt and relax. You’ll turn your hair grey if you keep worrying like this.”

“Mm... yeah, sounds like a plan.” Pantea and Bulma have that new lead anyway. You can spare a bit of your time to really relax.

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #4... Paused
>Twitter account is @KatoQm, will have status updates there
>Got some questions for the QM? Suggestions? Throw them at ask.fm/QMKato and I'll try to answer them as best I can

All right folks, that's all for this thread. We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. I’ll be around for a bit for some questions Did y’all have fun?

>>3040798
Good stuff.
Very revealing session. A lot of pieces seemed to click together at once. Depending on how the exchange goes, we could talk our way out of this situation.
Just to confirm, Peppa (and I guess most of the kids) know about the dangers of overusing the dragon balls? They were around for the conversations but... that was a long time ago and it might not have clicked as one would hope.

>>3040798
Really enjoyed this. Cocoa helping us out like that was unexpected but a nice twist to this whole ordeal, and makes me extra glad we were able to rescue her without any complications. Cocoa a best.

That said, would be nice to get together with the other girls for a bit too. Videl, Lime, Pantea, Izzy, Cocoa, and Peppa. Girl time!

>>3040798
I liked how the one and only thing we'll teach her came in handy.

I don't know what this Warrior Cult is after, especially since they assume we're too dumb to understand, but it seems like they're dissatisfied that their world is peaceful thanks to aliens, meaning it is also at the mercy of aliens. Doing mental gymnastics that ignore the power that beings like Maple possess was hard-earned, the good that aliens have brought to fend off evil, and the fact that they are deliberately stoking the fires of a war with these assassinations, raids, and kidnappings, they seem like they're jealous of aliens' natural talents, power, and fame.

Meanwhile, they're in the dark, unknown, only knowing that there are beings so superior to them, fighting off beings that would brush them from existence like a gnat, and to top it all off these beings aren't human, doggo, or iguanese. No matter how hard they train, they'll never be able to reach the heights of alien bodies because some god designed earthlings to be weaker and easy prey to the favored demigods. Then again, Chuu Lee's pretty baller, but she was taught by an alien witch, so the witch must have done some alien thing to make her stronger.

Learning that stellar ritual would be anathema to their pride, so instead they studied every tome they could find, searching for anything that could make Earth's humans able to stand on their own. Eventually, they found out about this Warrior, and seek to resurrect him. Now, how do they know the Warrior is truly dead still? Not already reincarnated, or maybe this Warrior wishes to rest in peace? These people are organized and fanatical in their work, so I don't think it's because of a desperate, wishful dream that their messiah is still there, willing and waiting to rise from the dead. Perhaps they communicated with the dead somehow, maybe using Fortuneteller Baba's services. We should go ask her at least, and maybe get an idea of who has the funds to pay a Seance fee.

>>3041078
>they are deliberately stoking the fires of a war with these assassinations, raids, and kidnappings
The assassinations would provoke aliens to come to Earth seeking vengeance, showing Earthlings that what's out there ain't good for them. The raids are done by a superficially different group, pirates, which the ninjas could write off as being unaffiliated with them, with Spopovich as a likely patsy. The kidnapping is them getting desperate, so close to power and one of those space monkeys is mucking up their plan to start a War of the Worlds, and so resort to criminal acts that their pride would normally not allow because eventually, aliens will get tired of Earth's (their) shit, and they need whatever key to power this Warrior has in store because they need to be seen as the Good Guys who will successfully defend Earth from Extraterrestrial threats, without the help of some midget soccer mom and her monkey family.

>>3041107
>The raids are done by a superficially different group, pirates, which the ninjas could write off as being unaffiliated with them, with Spopovich as a likely patsy.
The pirate raiding is likely how they fund their operations, mainly Fortuneteller Baba's fee, so maybe going down that route could be a dead end with no new information as to who would be rich enough.

>>3041078
>>3041107
>>3041112
You've got a good start, but you're still making a lot of leaps to try and fill in the gaps and things get muddied. Take smaller steps, we don't need to completely understand the 'why', only get a general idea.

>>3041259
They like being ninja and flying airships because they're fashionable?

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>>3041700
Obvs, but there's more than that too. Updating my notes, but we've probably got enough to negotiate. And maybe win.

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>>3041700
>>3041750
Speaking of team fashion: MC High Five, requires a DC of 19 from all three of them to pull off.

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https://pastebin.com/CeBZZyJK
Updated a bit with details from the last two sessions.

tl;dr
Ninjas appear to be a group of humans who want independence and autonomy away from outside forces (aliens/devils/majin). They may view them as the cause of bad things happening. They aren't entirely wrong in their thinking.
The Warrior is their solution to this issue. The Warrior will make the humans strong again, either through a presence on the battlefield, or an intangible means that will literally/figuratively give humans strength.
The ninjas want to protect the planet, and see this as the best route to do so. Our job may be to prove them wrong either through reason, or force.

At this time, it is unknown how 'the lady' factors into this.

>>3041078
I doubt they have directly used Baba's services, as Baba might have noticed who it was that looked for a warrior. But this does get me thinking... are they aware of Shen meeting Mutaito? If so, maybe the Warrior is related to him. Apparently in the Attack of the Saiyans game, Mutaito helped Tien develop the Multi-Form technique when he encountered his spirit during training. Shen said he developed it on his own in-Quest, but still might be something worth considering.

Also, looking it up, Yahhoy is close to a Ninja fortress in Buu's Fury. In addition, it's where we've encountered Magil the first time in that spooky Deadly Premonition forest. Could that be how they're hiding themselves from detection?

>>3041993
...

oh fuck, I completely forgot about Launch's Deadly Premonition backstory.

>>3042342
I'd like to forget too.

>>3041993
Huh, the Spooky Forest is also filled with frogs. Ninja use frogs.

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>>3040806
>>3040824
>>3041078
Very glad y'all had fun with this!

>Just to confirm, Peppa (and I guess most of the kids) know about the dangers of overusing the dragon balls?
They have had it explained to them as they grew up, yes. They know that overusing the Dragon Balls is dangerous.

>>3041078
>>3041107
>>3041112
>>3041259
>>3041700
>>3041750
>>3041955
>>3041993
>>3042342
>>3042723
Just want to say again I'm very happy with how y'all are handling this. Getting closer than you might think in solving this.

And with that, we're back!

>>3040798
https://youtu.be/Qz-OOweIo-Q

Lime takes a sip of lemonade as you and Cocoa recount all that went down, sitting with Videl, Pantea, and Izumi in a little forested area near her home. “I’m surprised you were able to keep your cool for that long. I’d have at the very least tried to knock that guy’s teeth out.” she comments as she puts her glass down.

“And I’d only end up hurt if I tried something like that.” she states bluntly.

“Still, good that you’re safe.” Videl adds, drinking some of her own lemonade.

Pantea rests her elbows on her knees and places her chin on her palms. “So, to switch the subject just a bit, you two liking those goggles?”

“Mine definitely came in handy the other day.” you tell her, giving them a gentle stretch as they rest on the top of your head. “You and your mom did some great work on these!”

“They’re actually really cool. The little communication function seems like it’ll come in handy.” Cocoa replies. “Not all of us have learned that telepathy things you guys can do.”

The purple-haired girl grins proudly. “Then that’s a couple satisfied customers. Mom’ll be glad to hear that.”

“You thinking on selling them?” Lime asks her.

She gives a shrug. “Eh, probably wouldn’t hurt to have another product like that on the market. Peppa’s especially could be useful for a number of industries that deal with potential eye hazards.”

“Well glad I could be your guinea pig then.” you tell Pantea teasingly.

>A. Izzy, did you and your dad find out about anything else from that airship? Anything interesting?
>B. What’ve you been up to, Lime? Things been peaceful over here, at least?
>C. So, how’d that date with Sharpner go, Videl?
>D. You have any news on Giru, Pantea?
>E. Something else?

>>3042923
>A. Izzy, did you and your dad find out about anything else from that airship? Anything interesting?

>>3042923
That's encouraging.

>A, B, C.

>>3042923

>A. Izzy, did you and your dad find out about anything else from that airship? Anything interesting?
>B. What’ve you been up to, Lime? Things been peaceful over here, at least?
>C. So, how’d that date with Sharpner go, Videl?

>>3042923
C.
A.
I hope Peppa can feel normal for a little while.

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>>3042923
“Say, Izzy, you and your dad find anything else out from that airship? Anything interesting at all?”

She twirls a finger in her hair. “Some stolen artifacts, few dating back to ancient Nemuria, but nothing magical, just mostly historical pieces. That sword apparently belonged to a warlord who terrorized West City some time in the past.” The girl crosses her legs and shrugs. “Other than that? Just a bunch of black market Red Ribbon and Pod Corporation technology and weapons. Oh! And like... a lot of stolen underwear. Like, a bizarrely large amount of it.”

Videl does a double-take. “What.”

“Beats me as to why they had it.” she comments. “Not even just women’s underwear. All kinds of it.”

“So the underpants gnomes finally found out phase two.” Pantea remarks.

...Moooooving on. “Hey, uh, how’d that date with Sharpner go, Videl?”

“In a word: poorly.” she replies in a very quick and disgruntled tone.

“Uh-oh.” Pantea starts off, scooting closer. “Don’t tell me you scared him off?”

Videl glares at her. “No. I just... he kinda tries way, way too hard. Movie and dinner, insisting he pay for everything, trying the whole time to butter me up.” She throws her hands up. “Like, I get what he’s doing, really. He wants to make me feel appreciated and everything, but... it’s just too much.”

“And you’re not really into him, huh?” Lime asks her.

Videl looks down and admits, “He’s a nice guy, but yeah. I’m really not. And I don’t think he can take the hint very well.”

(cont.)

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>>3043164
“What movie did you two see anyway?” Cocoa asks her.

“That samurai flick that’s out. Was okay. Better choice than the one he was originally thinking on taking me to at least.” Videl shudders.

“...Which one?” you ask hesitantly.

“Remember that movie that was based on your mom and dad and everyone from a few years ago?” she questions. You, Izzy, and Lime shake your heads, while Pantea and Cocoa look at her with dread. “Krillin was like, some kind of alien in it?”

Izzy tilts her head. “Krillin was in a movie?”

“No no, a guy was like, playing Krillin.” she clarifies. “And he was an alien in the movie, for some reason.”

Cocoa covers her face. “Oh GOD no.”

“Yeah. Made a sqeuel.” Videl again shudders. “It’s... bad.”

“Nobody tell Piccolo. NOBODY tell Piccolo.” Pantea demands.

“WHY did he think that’d be a good one?!” Cocoa asks her indignantly. “That thing is AWFUL!”

“Was a ‘martial arts’ film. Figured I’d like it. Ugh.”

You honestly have no idea what they’re talking about but you are going to store this nugget of information in the back of your mind for potentially nefarious purposes later. You hope mom knows about it. Because if she doesn’t... “Well, disasterous dates aside, could’ve been worse, right?”

“Mnnh.” Videl looks away, pouting slightly.

Okay, better not aggravate her more. “Eheh. Uh... Lime! How about you, what’ve you been up to? Everything still peaceful up here?”

“Surprisingly we’re getting a few tourists from off-planet.” she replies. “Few aliens stopping by for the sightseeing. Was odd to see them so far out here, honestly.”

“Wait, really?” the rest of you ask in unison.

“Yeah. Some weird, short pink guys in these strange clothes accompanied by another in the same clothing that was even shorter and had a round head. Oh! And this one guy in this weird white armor and blue jumpsuit. He looked human, but his muscles were all bulked up like he’d been taking a ton of steroids or something.”

>A. White armor and blue jumpsuit... that sounds familiar
>B. Videl, are there, uh, any guys you might be looking for beside Sharpner then?
>C. No mysterious robots or anything, right?
>D. Something else?

>>3043175
>B.
Then
>A.