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>>4701794
You smile up at the bright blue sky as you fly home. Taking the scenic route this time. You’ve been feeling quite a bit better these last few days. More focused, more energetic, more determined to improve, and… like there’s been a tension you were feeling before that’s finally been eased. Your training with Keli has been going well, got another meeting with Chansu that you feel has helped a bit, you got to see how well Gohan’s been doing, and you and Cocoa have your movie date this Friday. Four days away. Got your tickets and everything.

…Though this all said, you have been getting these annoying messages as of late. Lots of accounts trying to call you a cheat or claiming the Tournament was rigged or whatever. Bot accounts, you’ve found out, but it’s certainly been a bit of an eye-rolling affair. Not anything really new, either, just an increase in the volume of it as of late. Oh well, you’ll be able to handle it.

Anyway! You’re headed home, but is there anyone you’d like to visit today?

>A. See what Videl’s up to! Wonder who she’s picked as her tag partner? Maybe she’s up for some training!
>B. Bet Lime is up to something as of late, you should check in with her
>C. Call Cocoa, maybe she wants to do something with you
>D. Seeing uncle Raditz and his family again might be good. Daikon’s apparently been getting the hang of Super Saiyan pretty well
>E. You know… maybe checking out Natade Village might be good. See how that place is doing
>F. Something else?

>>4701797

>C.
Never not this for me please and thank you.

>>4701797
>A.
>C.
The latter we should do now and set up for later.

>>4701797
Supporting
>>4701804
>>4701816
But also let's make sure Cocoa is okay with the Pepparazzi trolls or whatever too. Just in case.

>>4701819
Yes, fair.

>>4701797
>E. You know… maybe checking out Natade Village might be good. See how that place is doing
I wanna see new stuff, can we let our friends have some breathing room?

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>>4701797
Hmmm yeah. You’ll see if Videl is up for a quick sparring session later. For now, you’re gonna spend some time with Cocoa! You get your goggles on and give her a quick call. “Heeey, morning Cocoa!” Haha, time zones.

“Morning Peppa.” she responds with a slight yawn. “What’s up?”

“Just checking if you wanna hang out any before school starts for you. I’m off already and stuff, soooo…”

https://youtu.be/XcIkYVo9y0s

“Heh, yeah, sure, lemme get decent first.” she requests. After a bit, the two of you meet outside her home, with you more or less walking her to school. She smiles and looks up into the sky. “Just a few more days.”

“Yep! You’ve been waiting on this for a while now, but it’s almost time.” You poke her shoulder gently. “Don’t get so excited you lose sleep, though. Especially so close to winter break.”

“Hehe, I won’t, I won’t.” she replies with a chuckle.

“Anything you’ve wanted to do before then? I can still work on helping you learn to fly.” you mention, floating up slightly and getting ahead of her.

“I’m probably still a ways off before I can really do it all that well. But… actually, might have a…” she blushes and looks away. “A bit of a more personal question.”

“Oh? What’s u-” You’re rudely interrupted by a text message. Oh boy more of these. “Ugh. Thought I blocked that bot.” Tapping the side of your goggles, you find that you blocked a similar one. This is probably new. “There.”

(cont.)

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>>4701931
“Everything okay?” Cocoa asks.

“Yeah, just, these bots have been bothering me much more frequently these last few days.” you explain. “Say, have you been dealing with anything similar? Like, messages complaining about your…” You poke your fingers together as you touch the ground again. “Your, uh, being with me?”

“I mean I’ve gotten a few, but not any significant increase.” She taps her chin, the two of you passing by the entrance to the studios. You both smile as you glance at it, then continue walking, yet… you get a weird sense of animosity coming from that place. Something that makes you do a double-take. Nothing really there… you think. Cocoa gets a bit closer to you. “What kinds of messages have they been sending?”

You bring up the most recent one and read it aloud. “’Traitorous wench! Your harlot ways will fool the masses no longer! Your day of ruination will come, for the filth you spread is on borrowed time! Scoundrel! Liar! Rigger of contests of skill and strength! Rest not on your laurels, Son Peppa, for we have over nine thousand…’ Yadda yadda. You get the idea.”

Cocoa blinks, dumbfounded slightly. “...How often are you getting these?”

“It comes and goes. No real set pattern to them. Might say they’re a few times a day, though.”

“Maybe you should start paying closer attention to it.” she suggests. “Like, I don’t think they could really do anything to you, but that IS a concern.”

>A. All righty. Wanna help me out with it? Maybe we should get a couple others involved
>B. Bah, it’s nothing. These losers are all bark, no bite
>C. Say, Cocoa, what were you gonna ask me?
>D. Something else?

>>4701933
>D. I kinda wanna lend credence to these rumors, sounds like a fun time. Lessee, how would I rest on my laurels? Maybe I could pour a bunch of Zenny on a mattress.

>>4701933
>A & C.

>>4701933
>>4701979

>>4701933
Bet its Idasa and Ikose's mom.

>A.
>C.
>D.
Might be a good idea to talk to someone who knows more about cyber stuff then we do. Maybe they can trace these bots back?

>>4702073
Seconding this D.

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Whew, almost missed that support.

>>4701933
https://youtu.be/w4u-yApD-9I

“All righty! I’ll get to work on that. You wanna help any? Oh, oh, maybe we could get some others involved too.”

“Hmm… yeah. I think I can pencil in helping my girlfriend deal with weird losers trying to bother her with bots.” she responds cheekily. Cocoa then thinks for a second, commenting, “…You know, you’ve had ‘bot’ problems pretty often this year. You were attacked by one on Z’s, right?”

You exhale a groan. “Yes. Yes I was. And… wait. You suggesting some Machine Mutants might be behind this?” you ask, raising an eyebrow.

“Stranger things have happened.” she comments.

“Yeaaah, that’s true.” You place your hands behind your head, looking up. “Getting in touch with people who know about this would be helpful. Maybe Pantea could help. And I bet 19 could too. With them working with us we’d be able to get to the bottom of this in no time.”

“That makes sense. You gonna check with them next?” she asks.

“Yeah, probably. Maybe Giru too…” Okay, day’s starting to fill up a bit with plans. But hey, might be good to finally get that over with. “Oh yeah, Cocoa, you had a question before. What was it?”

She blushes slightly, scratching her cheek gently with her finger. “Well, uh, I’ve been… curious.” Cocoa gulps. “I’ll admit that when I was kinda trying to figure out if I liked girls as much as I liked guys, I had to kinda look through a lot of…” Cocoa’s voice gets quieter. “…Stuff.”

You tilt your head. “Uh…huh?”

“S-so what I’m asking is are there any… kinds of stuff you’re… interested in?”

Raising an eyebrow, you ask, “Stuff like…?”

Cocoa hides the side of her face with her hand. “Mmmnh. Peppaaaa.”

“What?”

She straightens her back and huffs. “Peppa. What do you like about girls?” You’re about to open your mouth when Cocoa clarifies. “Physically. What do you find attractive about girls?”

>A. …Well, girls like you, duh! Obviously. Silly
>B. Oh. Ohhhh. I mean… I haven’t really thought about it like that? I just… know I find girls attractive, but havent given much thought on it beyond that
>C. Cocoa. Do I have to worry about calling the Nimbus to catch you? Do we need to double down on flight training?
>D. I don’t get it, sorry. Anyway, we’re almost at your school! See you later!
>E. Something else?

>>4702179
>A.
Then wait a beat.
>E.
"I know what you're asking, Cocoa. And the answer really is 'girls like you.' You're cool, you're fun, and not gonna lie, you're very, very pretty. So don't worry too much about that, okay?"

>>4702179
Cocoa make sure you cleared your search history!

>>4702195
Aw thats cute. Sure support

>>4702179
I had something more romantic for this, but
>>4702195
makes more sense for Peppa. Supported.

>>4702203
Supporting making sure she searched incognito.

>>4702203
Support. Tease her just a bit.

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>>4702179
You give her a blank stare, then respond, “…Well, girls like you, duh! Obviously. Silly.” You emphasize by sticking your tongue out at her.

Cocoa sighs, shaking her head. “Of course. Okay. Right.”

There is a quiet moment between the two of you, only for you to break it by placing your hand on her shoulder. “Cocoa, I know what you’re asking. I’m not dumb. I might not go out of my way for… that kind of stuff, but I’m not ignorant to its existence. And my answer really is, ‘girls like you.’ You’re cool, you’re fun, you’re clever and cunning, you’re able to just… get me in a way few people really do, and not gonna lie, you are very, very pretty. So… don’t worry too much about that kind of stuff, okay?”

Her face is quite a bit redder than before as she takes in what you all said to her. “A-ah. Okay.” She sighs but smiles wide. “Jeeze. Way to make a girl feel special. But… thank you for that.” You get close to her school, a couple of her friends waving to her. That blonde girl, that boy in glasses, that fox kid. She gives a wave back at them. “Thanks for walking with me, Peppa. I’ll… be honest, it’s been on my mind for a while, and finally getting it out there feels like quite a relief.”

“Definitely starting to understand how that feels, believe me.” you respond. Buuuut there’s one more thing you wanna add. Leaning in, you whisper, “Just remember to clear your search history.” And for good measure you plant a teasing kiss on her cheek.

“PEPPA!” she exclaims, accused, and unable to deny the accusation, face red as a beet. You fly up into the air, giggling, and she tries to jump after you. “You get back here you!” She… actually even manages to float for a brief moment, not even realizing it, before she lands safely. “Uuuggghhh!”

“Have a good day at school, Cocoa!” Oh that made you extra happy to see. Okay! Okay. Next stop… hmm.

>A. Capsule Corp, get Pantea, and Giru, and maybe 19 helping you on this
>B. Videl! Teleport to her and see how she’s doing, if she’s up for a spar, and if she wants in on this
>C. Actually, check with mom. She’d probably be willing to help
>D. Something else?

>>4702404
>A.

>D
Idea. Let's try reverse searching these messages and see if they pop up anywhere else. Check to see exactly if this is copypasta or original work.

>>4702404
>B.

>D. Find out who even talks like that.

>>4702404
Relay for Exen.

Supporting >>4702407

>>4702407
Supporting

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>>4702404
Well, since it’s close by, might as well head over to Capsule Corp. You kinda lazily fly over there, watching some of the morning city sights. Hustle and bustle of the city life. There’s a panda man watering his garden while snacking on a bamboo breakfast, a lady walking her rather large pet dinosaur, people all around heading to or arriving at their workplaces, you can even spot Yamcha heading off to practice with his baseball team.

You notice, however, that you’ve gotten another couple bot messages. Shorter and more direct. ‘You’ll pay for what you’ve done.’ and ‘Don’t think you can hide from the truth.’ Hmm. Annoying… but these might be useful, actually. Touching down at Capsule Corp, you manage to find Pantea, 19, Giru in the area, explaining your situation to them, then handing over your goggles to Pantea. “Few recent messages from the bots. At least I think that’s what these are. This is the most I’ve gotten in such a short timeframe.”

19 is a little bemused by this. “That this has been going on for as long as it has and you have not done anything about it sooner is… concerning, Peppa.”

“Hey, they haven’t been a big deal or anything. Not really getting to me, just… kinda weird and annoying.” you respond with a little pout.

“These have all just been directed at you as of late, right?” Pantea tries to confirm, finishing off a cup of coffee.

“Mom and dad haven’t said anything, pretty sure they didn’t get stuff like this in the first place. Only other recent ones I can think of are King Chappa and teach.” you reply. “I haven’t really checked with them either, but… hmm…”

“Giru, Giru. Have you upset anyone recently?” the little bot asks.

“Not to my knowledge. I know that Sharpner was upset with me for a while because he thought I was trying to break him and Videl up, but we patched things up nice a while back. But maybe we can try and… I dunno, check if there’s something familiar about it? Like, some specifics in the threats made?”

“Look for copypasta, got it.” Pantea hooks up a little wire to the goggles, typing away on a keyboard. “Giru, back me up with this.”

“Giru, Giru! Beginning search!” he affirms.

(cont.)

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>>4702726
https://youtu.be/ohFZ-MTxCuY

It takes a bit, but Pantea starts to find a few things. Though first she has to comment, “Peppa you’ve blocked nearly 100 of these accounts.”

“I haven’t really been keeping track, to be honest. How many are actually bots?”

“Hmm… seems to be 89 out of the 97. So, eight of them are from actual accounts. That said, I’m definitely noticing a few patterns. If I were to guess… aha! Okay, at least one of them is definitely using some stock phrases, and that seems to bleed over into the bot accounts.”

You smirk. “Knew it. Who would even speak like that? All flowery and weird. My ‘harlot ways’, what does that even mean?”

“Apparently it’s a reference to an obscure show from a while back. Some soap opera thing. Let’s see… few actors actually got their start there, surprisingly, while others used it as more an extra paycheck while they were busy with other things. Hmm… cast lists… huh. I’m remembering a few of these names from somewhere.”

19 glances over at Pantea’s screen. “The name Idassa matches that of one of the tournament contestants, a boy that you fought, Son Peppa. It says that this was his first acting role, as a background character in one episode.”

“Idassa… Idassa… hey yeah, I think I recall that.” Huh. Coincidence?

“Says this was one of Barry Khan’s early roles too, though not his first.” Pantea adds.

Ugh. That guy. “Great. Any other names to take note of?”

“The line in question’s a quote from the show’s antagonist, who was played by one… K. Fujicka. Apparently still a high profile actor, oh huh, it looks like he’s in that Pandora movie coming out this Friday.” Pantea states. “Hmm… there is also M. Hashimoto, who is both in this and in that old show.”

You pace around the room. “Mmmh. Dang, Cocoa would probably be able tell us all about them in a snap.”

“Giru, Giru, list downloaded to your goggles!” he declares proudly.

“Great! Okay you Pepparazzi posers, just you wait, we’re gonna get to the bottom of this!”

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40
>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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~4:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

>>4702727
James Cameron, stop stalking us.

>>4702727
Sounds like Idassa has convinced a few of his fellow actors that he should have won, would explain the animosity coming from the studio

>>4702727
Fun had, thanks for running! Interesting start to this mystery. There being a group behind this would explain things we have seen before. Bigger question is if they have an end goal beyond just trying to bother Peppa.

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>>4702733
Hahahaha.

>>4702741
Certainly a possibility worth investigating.

>>4702755
Glad to hear! And that is a good question.

And sorry for the delay, wife and I had to do some extra shopping today, just got home a little while ago. But now, we are back!

>>4702727
All of you gather around your goggles and start talking over plans. Four people that could be potential leads. Pantea does point out that she will need to split a bit of her time looking through this with her other bits of work, both in robotics research and in game design, but she intends to help however she can. Giru is definitely motivated, but… 19 points out the obvious. “You do have the money or the power for it, Son Peppa, it may be more expedient to have Baba tell your fortune and get the information there.”

“I mean, I guess she could, but that seems a little… wasteful, doesn’t it?” Pantea comments. “Just going off to Baba when this mystery could be solved on our own.”

“Giru, Giru, Peppa has shown great aptitude at investigations!”

>A. Yeah! Come on, this will be fun!
>B. She does have a point. We can get through this without accidentally accusing someone who’s innocent. I do vote Baba
>C. I’ll check with Videl first, she’s probably going to want in on this
>D. Something else?

>>4703918
>D. Yeah, better than Izzy. That'll just end with glitter everywhere.
>A. Come on, this will be fun! F is for Friends who...
>...here with my best buddies!

>>4703918
>D. "Perhaps Emperor Pilaf can also give us a second opinion on all this. He's technologically apt, yes?"

And for some reason, I can picture him hanging out on message boards and chatrooms about this too...hm...

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>>4703918
>Hahahaha.
Hahaha, yeah. Everyone knows he's having FUN down there in the Deep Blue Sea!

>>4703926
Spends most of his time on his @realEmperorPilaf account.

>>4703918
>A & C.

>>4703918
HAGWAG is phone banned currently, posting for him:

>>4703918
>A.

And honestly yeah,
>>4703926
Pilaf might be a great and terrible resource here.

>>4703944
Agreed, he has the whole country running on Social Credit now.

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>>4703918
“Yeah! Come on, this will be fun! This isn’t something we need Baba’s help to solve. We can, and will, get to the bottom of this on our own.” you agree.

19 relents. “Very well. It was merely a suggestion.”

“Not a bad one, but something we should keep in mind much, much later. Once we’ve exhausted other options.” you tell her. “Hmm… speaking of options, maybe we could get some help from Pilaf or something? I think he’s good with tech stuff, and he might have some idea on a few more names you’ve found.”

Pantea raises an eyebrow. “…Why do you say that?”

“Pilaf has some… interesting tastes in television.” You recall last year as you and Gohan helped babysit Baozi while his mom was busy with the rest of the Crane School, and Pilaf caught some nasty kind of flu. He was bundled up in his bed, watching lots of soap operas that you barely understood. “He’ll be able to give some notable bits of information on this.”

“Very well.” 19 stands up. “So far the four that stand out are Idassa, Barry Kahn, K. Fujicka, M. Hashimoto. Should we look into any of them first, or should you check in with Emperor Pilaf?”

>A. I think we should try checking with Idassa first. Maybe he’s actually facing some of this himself, and if so it’d possibly give us a lead
>B. I don’t trust that Barry Kahn guy. He’s kind of a jerk. What’s he been up to as of late?
>C. Who is this K. Fujicka guy? There was a quote from the character he played, sure, but there’s got to be more
>D. Maybe whoever this M. Hashimoto person is would give a clue to go off of. Not as strong a connection, but maybe we’re overlooking something?
>E. Let’s see if Pilaf is available to help us out! Who’s coming with me?
>F. Something else?

>>4704091
>E. Let’s see if Pilaf is available to help us out! Who’s coming with me?

Shouldn't accuse anyone directly without evidence first.

>>4704091
>E.
but lead in with
>B. The most likely level of petty and resourced.

>>4704091
Supporting

>>4704095
>>4704098

>>4704091
>He was bundled up in his bed, watching lots of soap operas that you barely understood.
https://youtu.be/lrLquvAV9Ps ?
>E. Let’s see if Pilaf is available to help us out! Who’s coming with me?

>>4704091
>E. Let’s see if Pilaf is available to help us out! Who’s coming with me?

https://youtu.be/ou_DYLKzekk

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>>4704091
“Let’s check with Pilaf first, if he’s available. Who wants to come with?” you ask. You DO have suspicions of Barry Kahn, sure, but no use jumping to conclusions just yet.

“I’ll be here, gonna try to get done with some of my work first, then join up with you guys.” Pantea tells you.

“Giru is available! Giru, Giru.” the tiny Machine Mutant exclaims.

“I shall go with you as well.” 19 states.

“Okay! Contact me when you need, Pantea.” You place your fingers on your forehead, and teleport yourself and non-organic pals of yours over to Mifan. You actually appear near Master Shen first, greeting him and checking if Pilaf’s free at the moment. Which, a little surprisingly, he is.

“While I am sure you have a good reason for being here, there has been an odd incident as of late.” Shen informs you.

As you start to take note of who’s meeting the little Emperor, you notice that uncle Raditz is there too, with Jaco. He seems to take note of you as well, as you feel him approach. The doors open to reveal him with a couple other Galactic Patrol members. Pilaf sits on his throne, hands rubbing his temples, and letting out a low groan. “Hey, uncle Raditz, what’s up?” you ask.

“Some kind of criminal managed to hitchhike to Earth, thanks to a CERTAIN SOMEONE letting it out of his sight.” he grumbles, not naming names but glaring very, very hard at Jaco. “

“What kind of criminal are we talking about here?” you ask.

“Nothing we can’t handle! But! It’s always good to have some extra eyes on the ground. It’s a small, sneaky little bugger, Jiya and I managed to capture it after its latest rampage, and I was on my way to bring it to prison when… it kinda…” Jaco pokes his fingers together. “Stole my ship.”

“Apparently some kind of parasitic alien, from how Jaco described it, it should resemble a dandelion.” Raditz adds. “Goes by the name… Watagash?” he looks to Jaco for confirmation, who nods. “Shouldn’t be too much a problem, but keep an eye out if you see any unusual individuals with that thing sticking out of them.”

“That we shall do.” 19 affirms.

“Just one thing after another…” Pilaf complains, still rubbing his head. He then looks up, noticing you. “…Please tell me you’re here for a social visit.”

“Uhhh… not… exactly?” you respond with a quiet laugh. He groans louder. “But I do have a question about a… soap opera?”

(cont.)

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>>4704319
His face lights up and he bolts from his throne, gleefully looking up at you. “You do?!” Raditz and Jaco quietly leave, your uncle waving to you.

Boy that was a 180. “Y-yes. Uh… Giru what was its name again?”

“The show is titled ‘Marsha Slump and the Crying Rich.’” he reminds you.

…Slump. Slump. Huh. Name sounds fa- “OOOOOH!” Pilaf seems extra giddy. “Oh that’s a melodramatic one. Yes indeed. Shu has to still get through with it, and to be honest Mai never really had the patience for it, but yes, yes. Come in, come in, let us talk.” Spotting Shen pinch the ridge of his nose and shaking his head as you enter, Pilaf starts talking up a storm, barely letting any of you get a word in. Finally you’re able to explain WHY you’re here, which eases him a bit, but intrigues him. “Ignacio’s famous speech. Yes indeed. Hmm. That is a very specific bit of text to single out.”

“Are there any others on this list that stand out to you?” 19 questions, showing him some of the cast list, and then some of the bot messages you’ve been getting by handing him your goggles. He takes a bit to go through them.

“Hmm… I recognize some lines from a few notable characters. The actors you’d be looking for have the last names Adidas, Manchamanteles, Empanada, and Arroz. Though from the look of things… ah, yes, that’s off.” he mumbles, thoughts trailing off.

“What is?”

“For people who are using these as references for bot account insults, it is odd that the most notable antagonist, Soraya, has her lines completely missing from this. I would guess it is intentional.” He rubs his chin. “Very strange, even though I saw a couple of Marsha’s lines.”

“Is there a name to go off of, then?” 19 asks.

“Yes, one Sala Cesare.” He takes a look through your goggles again. “Hmm… if I recall correctly, she actually was in the news not too long ago. Early… January, maybe? She and another lady were suing one another about something or other… think that lady was… Idasam? Yes, Idasam.”

“Giru, Giru, connection! Idasam is the mother of Idasa. Lawsuit was over an apparent disagreement on casting for Idasa.”

You snap your fingers. “That’s a clue if I ever heard one! Thank you, Emperor Pilaf!”

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40… 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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

>>4704320
>the most notable antagonist, Soraya
https://youtu.be/kSJDgREaeVs
Oooooooooooh!

>>4704320
ACTUAL SOAP-OPERA LEVEL DRAMA

YES

>Cocoa and Peppa corner the culprit
https://youtu.be/HfPsCw8w45Q

>>4704320
Fun had! And a lead indeed. Puzzle is coming together. That said,

>>4704334
Kaaaaaatoooooo

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>>4704334
>>4704347
>>4704349
>>4704351
Hahahahahaha. Glad you had fun though!

And okay, we are back!

>>4704320
Even with this lead, Pilaf checks through the messages from the blocked accounts some more, letting out soft “Hmm”s as he thinks. “Well… maybe…”

“What’s up?” you ask.

“Peppa, have you, er, turned anyone down recently?” Pilaf asks.

You tilt your head. “Huh?”

“I mean, has anyone asked you out, only for you to reject them, in the last couple months or so?” he clarifies.

“Not really? At least not as far as I’m aware of. Why do you ask?”

“A few of these lines are also from spurned romance, of rejection and jealousy.” He taps on the side again. “Yep, this bot domain seems to be using a fansite dedicated to you.”

You force a smile. “Oh. Great.”

“Any connection to what we already know?” 19 asks.

“All pseudonyms used in the account, but this bit of info might be of use to you.” he replies, finally handing your goggles back. “Keep in touch with any developments to this. Anyone who soils the good name of Marsha Slump and the Crying Rich will answer to me!” He thrusts his tiny fist up into the air, and you give him a thumb’s up in return.

>A. All right, we have a lead! Check in with this Salsa lady first
>B. Idasam’s got a connection to two things so far, you should start the investigation with her
>C. Poke around at that fan site. Maybe there’s another clue there?
>D. Something else?

>>4705495
>D. It's probably Monty Cash. Go grab his leg and shake money out of his pockets.

>>4705495
>C.

>>4705524
Unironically think we should go talk to Monty, not to accuse him since we kind did reject him but to see if he's still a fan of Peppa. Also 99% sure he white knights for Peppa on the internet.

>>4705544
Can we still shake money out of his pockets?

>>4705547
....

>Watagash

>Earlier omnious presence at the Studio

....

....

Kato...

KATO

I see what you did there.

>>4705547

Also - would Monty even carry cash?

>>4705561
You have a point.

Shake his Help.

>>4705495
>C.

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>>4705558
Stop reading my notes.

>>4705495
While you’ve got your first lead so far, and you really do have to let Pilaf get back to his own duties (much as you know he’d want to talk about soap operas with you for hours), you still figure it would be helpful to give another look over that fansite some more. Looking into it, you see it was established right after the Tournament. A blog of sorts, with a few people running it looking at the posts. Surprisingly frequent updates for it, though mostly just small bits of details and news about you, some family history, and thankfully nothing too weird.

Except… you notice a decrease in updates after a point. Still ongoing, from the look of things, but one update in particular saw a bit of a decrease. When… Cocoa shared that picture after the two of you after the movie. One of the previous regulars slowly stopped adding things to the blog, before finally disappearing completely. Things are kinda adding up.

“...19 this might sound a little weird, but, do you know if you have any fan sites like these?”

“Yes. Some have even attempted to send me ‘fan mail.’” she responds. “I became aware of one that was actually run by some of Towa’s cronies, used more as an information-gathering tool.”

You do a double-take. “You wha. It WHAT?! Towa was…” You’re going to shut down this train of thought before you connect her obsession with your mom with the internet weirdos. Shutting down in 3… 2… 1. Aaaaand that’s gonna only come up in therapy. Good. “…What did you do about it?”

“That site is no longer an active domain.” she tells you curtly.

“...Meaning?”

Her head slowly turns to face yours as she repeats, “That site is no longer an active domain.”

Giru floats behind you in worry, bringing up his little shield. “Danger detected.” he comments quietly.

You quickly look back at that site. Hmm… all active users do have some bits of contact information. Maybe you could ask around with them? Or… you could look more closely at the one who stopped updating. Maybe there’s something you could uncover from them.

>A. Ask around, maybe you can get to know some of these people
>B. Look into the other user more closely
>C. Head off to check on that Salsa lady
>D. Try to find Idasa’s place
>E. Something else?

>>4705755
>A.
>E.
Post a selfie pic on the site with a note

>Hello [website]
>small paper with the date on it

>AMA with Peppa

>>4705755
>B.
>E. Give Cocoa a heads-up about the change. Might be nothing, but you never know.

>>4705755
Supporting >>4705762
and also
>E.
An additional head's up on if she senses any unusual Ki signatures. Just to be on the safe side.

>>4705755
Hmm, did Yurin break up with that Bisa guy?

>>4705755
>D. Try to find Idasa’s place

>>4705829
I'll support this too. We can do both, right? Search while we head that way?

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>>4705755
You take off into the sky with 19 and Giru, with 19 going through some directories to try and locate Idasa’s place. As she does that, you look into the other user more closely. There’s… a definite lack of enthusiasm in the few posts made after that moment, while the prior ones seemed to be a bit more… optimistic? Expecting? Hmm. Wait… you’re noticing something else. There are comments under the update with Cocoa’s picture. In fact… while a few are deleted, a couple look like some of the bot messages you’ve been getting!

19 takes the lead and starts flying you all in a certain direction, having located Idasa’s residence. Still, you keep looking through the site. The user who posted less and less got more of these comments, along with genuine ones, even arguments between the two on the little blog messages. And… a few of these arguments sound familiar. Like claims you’re faking it, that you just haven’t “found the right guy,” but some more that feel a bit more… mean-spirited.

…

You send Cocoa a little message, just in case. Might… might be nothing, but you’d better be safe than sorry. Just a thing explaining the change you noticed and what the context was. Doesn’t reply immediately, but, yeah, she’s in class. Okay. Okay. You’re good.

Finally closing in on the location, 19 has you all touch down in North City, some distance away from what she identifies as the residence. Still within view… and wow, it’s a pretty fancy place. More a mansion than a mere house, this is definitely part of the upper class area as you spot similar residences along the way. “Sensors indicate that there are only a small number of people in the home; many automated services present.”

>A. All right, hide your Ki, get on a disguise, and enter ninja mode! You gotta scope out the area
>B. Better you have Giru do some scouting first, he’ll stand out less than either of you
>C. Confront who’s there. No need to be subtle about this. You’ve got some pretty solid links already
>D. Something else?

That said…

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40… 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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

Also vote open until tomorrow!

>>4705887
>B.
then
>A.
Use scouter's artificial app to keep an eye on automated services.
>D. Have 19 keep a look out.

Also maybe we should talk to the actual authorities. Officer Launch and other police officers of Earth about Watagash... - oh and this obvious cyber terrorism.

>>4705887
>B. Better you have Giru do some scouting first, he’ll stand out less than either of you

>>4705887
>B.
Engage Robo-butler mode!

>>4705887
>>4705897
Supporting, sounds GOOD to me

>>4705887
Fun had!

>>4705897
Support, but let's make sure to stay back while Giru does his thing.

He may or may not have a ki signature, but Giru is a floating ball that is blue. Can we dress him like a tumbleweed?

>>4706722
>Turns out Giru has the mirror invisibility tech the space orphans had now

>>4706894
>Giru.
>...
>...
>...did you eat the space orphans?

>>4706926
>Negative! Giru merely at the schematics and then replicated them!

>Giru merely assisted in the allocation of organic younglings!

>Giru stares at you with a thousand-yard stare as he enters Machine Mutant ptsd

>>4706933
>Giru cries during Machine Mutant Production

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>>4706719
Glad you had fun!

Sorry again for the delay, but we are back!

>>4705887
You hide your Ki, then turn to the tiny robot. “Okay Giru, you’re up. You check in and see what’s going on while we try to remain out of sight of that residence.”

“Giru, Giru, affirmative! Will commence scouting!” He floats off, almost looking like a toy drone as he hovers through the air.

You then quickly Clothes Beam yourself a disguise. Ninja mode. Haha. Okay, now to find a hiding spot and keep track of things. You leap above a shed in the area and keep watch on the residence, using your goggles to check for life signs. “19, you take point, I’ll keep my eyes on this place. Also might need a disguise of your own, so-” You’re about to Clothes Beam up one for her… when you see she’s already gotten her own new outfit. Huh?

She gives you a soft smile. “I will remind you that I have been learning more on utilizing Magic on my own.”

“Oh. Cool! Useful! Okay, okay, time to focus though…”

Giru heads closer to the home, first flying past it, then circling it slowly, without any real pattern, as he takes in data on the surroundings. Your Scouter picks up only four people in the mansion, none particularly tough, and a few animals around the area, which matches what you could sense out earlier. There are also about a dozen machines roaming the premises, some seeming to be janitorial ones, others looking to be some form of security bots.

…Also you do decide to give Launch a quick message to make sure she’s up to speed on what Raditz and Jaco are looking for. Which, turns out she is, and is keeping a close eye on any suspicious reports. As you try to get into details on what you’re up to, though, Giru interrupts by contacting you.

“Suspicious conversation topic detected.” he informs, relaying some previous info. The people in the house are a few upper class ladies, with a red haired and larger one seeming to be the one in charge. Guessing that’s Idasa’s mother, Idasam. And from what Giru relays it sounds like it’s…

…

It’s a PTA meeting. Eavesdropping on a PTA meeting. Or at least, that’s what it started out as, when Idasam has to take a call. It doesn’t… completely make sense, but you do pick up a few things. Mentions of a “deal” of some sort, and getting back at… oh. Getting back at “the one who hurt (her) baby boy’s heart.” Guess you know who THAT is. But there is another thing you pick up on… mention of a shaman of some kind? …Wha?

>A. Giru, record as much of her conversation as possible
>B. Keep on the lookout for any security bots, need to make sure Giru stays out of trouble
>C. Could confront her right now, see if you can get more out of her directly
>D. Do make sure to send some of this to Launch or someone, this is starting to go beyond just harassment
>E. Something else?

Also, roll me 1d20, best of three. DC is 10.

File: Maloja.jpg (78 KB, 958x720)

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Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4706998
>mention of a shaman
.....goddamnit Maloja is infected with Watagash

>A.
>B.
>D.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4706998
E. Geist Magnum.

>B. Keep on the lookout for any security bots, need to make sure Giru stays out of trouble
There are security bots on the Lookout? About time!

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4706998
Exen blocked again, and votes A and B, and I'll support it.

Rolled 10, 10, 14 = 34 (3d20)

>>4707001
>>4707002
>>4707039
Passed!

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>>4706998
Taking care to watch for any security bots headed his way, you tell Giru to record as much as he can. Okay. You’re getting the impression that this lady, not her son Idasa, nor her other son, Ikose, is… at the very least involved in this, if not really responsible for it. You also hear her complaining about that Salsa lady as she again brings up a “shaman.” She’s… very spiteful, to be honest.

Wait, there’s a bot headed Giru’s way. “To your left, little guy. Take cover.” He dodges out of the way as a robotic guard dog patrols the area near him. Giru actually manages to hide in an empty plant pot until it passes. However, he misses out some bits of Idasam’s conversation with whoever is on the other line, only managing to get the ending bits.

More ominously, there’s a bigger plan in play. Something they want to get done within the next couple days. Not good.

“Do you have what you need, Peppa?” 19 asks, motioning for you to stay low as you sense some people headed your way.

>A. We should check with that Salsa lady, she might be a target too
>B. Better try to get to Launch, some proper police work might be needed
>C. Not yet. Maybe there’s something more you could learn here, and it’s not like you’re in any trouble just yet
>D. Hmm… could just send a message telling her to knock it off. Keep it anonymous, but make it clear people are aware of what her group’s trying to do. After all… if she ends up involved in criminal activity, what’ll that mean for her boys?
>E. Something else?

>>4707151
E. Rasen Kamehameha, smithereens in the wind

>A. We should check with that Caesar Salad lady, she might be a target too

>>4707151
>C.
>E.
Ki sense the area.
>F. Telepathic scan
>G.
We need the sort of solid proof we can find in court. Giru can you get anything from her databases?

>>4707151
Exen votes:

>A & C.
>E. See if we can teleport ourselves somewhere more secure and listen in more.

And I'll support.

>>4707151
>A.

>B then maybe D after assessment.
Maybe she'll get scared, maybe she'll double down and move faster. Better to make sure before we upset the nest.

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Rolled 15, 6, 19 = 40 (3d20)

Okay, roll me 3d20 this time, best of three! DC is 11 for all.

Rolled 16, 10, 14 = 40 (3d20)

>>4707201

File: 1582875046094.gif (3.41 MB, 422x843)

3.41 MB GIF

Rolled 11, 5, 6 = 22 (3d20)

>>4707201

Rolled 19, 19, 16 = 54 (3d20)

>>4707201
Rolling for Exen.

>>4707207
>>4707209
>>4707212
Passed all! Writing...

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>>4707151
“19, can you look into that Salsa lady some? She might be a target as well.” You place your fingers on your forehead. “I’m heading in. Giru, watch my back this time.”

“...Wait, by heading in do you mean-?”

Come on, come on, focus. There! You teleport in and keep quiet. You can hear her more clearly now. “That smug brat’s time in the limelight will be through. Who does she think she is? Leading on my baby boy like that only to break his heart. Oooh if I saw her right now I’d-!”

“Yes, yes, we get it.” the voice, muffled and clearly going through some kind of changer, can be heard. Clearly annoyed and having heard her rant before. “She’ll be exposed for the fraud she is soon enough!”

“Idaaaassaaaam? Are you done in there? We still have to go over the quality of the pheasant tendies those awful, awful high school dropouts have been passing off as ‘food.’” a lady’s voice complains.

“J-just a miiiinute!~” she responds, then whispers into the phone. “This thing you have better work, you hear me?”

“The shaman may be a quack but he’ll deliver what we need. You just sit back and watch the magic happen.”

…Okay they’re planning something bad, for sure. But keeping quiet on WHAT it is they’re actually doing.

>A. Try to read her mind while staying hidden, while you still can
>B. You’ve got enough from her now, get outta there
>C. Okay, definitely sending a message to her. She needs to call this off. She’s going in too deep, and she needs a wake-up call
>D. Something else?

That said…

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40… 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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

Also vote open until tomorrow!

>>4707306
>“The shaman may be a quack but he’ll deliver what we need. You just sit back and watch the magic happen.”

>All the Natade Village Sacrifices' last words:
https://youtu.be/E-gD9PYqSps

>>4707306
>A. Try to read her mind while staying hidden, while you still can
>C. Okay, definitely sending a message to her. She needs to call this off. She’s going in too deep, and she needs a wake-up call

>>4707306
>A.
>B.
>D.
Sniff the area with our half Saiyan schnozz!

>>4707306
>A.
then
>B.

>>4707306
>A & B.

But also,
>C & D.
Have 19 or Giru be the one to send the anonymous message. Keep a degree is separation between Peppa and her, as a precaution so it doesn't tip off any other conspirators into trying something worse.

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Rolled 16, 10, 11 = 37 (3d20)

Okay! We are back! And real quick, roll me 2d20, best of three. DC is 13 for both.

Rolled 11, 17 = 28 (2d20)

>>4708147

Rolled 19, 9 = 28 (2d20)

>>4708147

Rolled 19, 20 = 39 (2d20)

>>4708147

>>4708168
>>4708172
>>4708207
Perfect! Writing...

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>>4707306
You focus yourself and try to scan her mind, while you still can, while remaining hidden. You need to know for sure what it is they’re actually planning. It takes a bit, but… there! You’ve got it!

…

She, Barry Kahn, and a couple others are trying to create something to use on you that will “show your true colors.” She doesn’t actually know how it works, only that it’s involving some kind of magic charm. And you’re not the only target in her sights, apparently Salsa is candidate for this “magic charm” too. You shake your head as she walks out, then stealthily get out of there, getting Giru to come along with you, avoiding security and suspicion.

But as you head off, you work with Giru to send her something. Just a little thing, a warning, that what she’s doing is wrong, and she needs to stop and get out of this now. Before it’s too late. You can only hope it will work. Regrouping with 19, and her having found Salsa and given a head’s up that she’s being targeted by suspicious individuals, you have to figure out your next step to take. And… you feel kinda disappointed. Like, maybe you were still hoping there was a misunderstanding there, that you were hearing things out of context, but… no. It’s a shame.

‘Momma Bird to Ghost Pepper, come in Ghost Pepper, over.’

Oh, mom! ‘Ghost Pepper here, Momma Bird. Read you loud and clear. Over.’

‘Checking in, Ghost Pepper. Sensing you heading all over the place today. Everything okay? Over.’

>A. Tell her what’s been going on, what you’ve learned, and how you’ve been dealing with it
>B. Maybe Maple can help you set a kind of counter trap? Would be easier to stop this with her help
>C. …You know, you can handle this on your own. Just give her the basics but tell her there’s no need to hop in; you’ve got this in the bag
>D. Something else?

>>4708322
>D. Have you ever heard of a show called "Martha Slump and the Crying Rich"? Over.

>>4708322
>A.
>D. "I'm gonna need a Samma Ditthi to confirm a few things."
>B.
>E. Maybe its time I learn Mp Buster and Curse Breaker?

>>4708332
What? We're doing great without those.

Ooh, adding to >>4708328
>C. …You know, you can handle this on your own. Just give her the basics but tell her there’s no need to hop in; you’ve got this in the bag

>>4708322
>A.
but explain that at the moment, we've got more than enough bodies on this.
>D. "Did you ever deal with this level of dangerously petty?"

>>4708322
Supporting >>4708337
and maybe point her Raditz's way, if he's up for some extra help.

>>4708322
>A.
>D. We don't need her to step in or anything, but general advice on how to deal with terrible but normal people might help. We're more used to the sorts of problems we can blow up.

>>4708346
Supporting as well.

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>>4708322
‘Complicated situation, Momma Bird. I’ll give you the rundown…’ You relay to Maple everything you’ve learned about this little conspiracy, from the bot messages to the plan to “expose” you, and the people you know are involved in it. You also get out of the area with 19 and Giru, to a less busy area, and rest on a rooftop. Now, even with all this said… ‘We do have enough people on this case already, though, so no need to drop what you’re doing and join in, Momma Bird. But… would you be willing to give some advice? Over.’

‘I would be willing, Ghost Pepper. Over.’

‘Momma Bird… I’ll be honest, I’m not as used to really dealing with people like this. Exceptionally petty and kinda terrible but just… normal people. I’ve been aware of them for a while and been able to keep them at a distance but this is a bit more severe than before. And I’m a bit more used to punching when things get like this, and I know that’s not really the solution here. What advice do you have, Momma Bird? Over.’

She takes a minute to think through the best response for this. ‘Eheh. Truthfully, I’ve rarely encountered folks that reached this level of petty, except for a certain someone…’

‘Towa? Over.’

‘Towa. Over.’

Yeeaaah you thought as much. The skunk lady’s always been a thorn in your mom’s side. ‘Even with her, though, you didn’t solve every encounter with punchin’. Over.’

‘I mean, I did slap her too.’ Maple chuckles. ‘But for other cases, I kinda needed to rely more on wits than strength. Intimidating them isn’t going to make much of a difference, but being able to out-think them? That can make a world of difference. Over.’

‘Okay. Okay. Thanks, Momma Bird! Ghost Pepper, over and out.’ Out-think them, use your wits.

19 looks to you and asks, “What is your next step, Peppa?”

>A. We should head to the studio, we know Barry Kahn’s involved for sure now
>B. Should check in with Pantea, actually, and regroup with her
>C. Salsa got a warning, but maybe someone should head to her to ensure she’s safe
>D. Something else?

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40… 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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

Also vote open until tomorrow!

File: Dragon Ball Z Maple.png (2.93 MB, 1600x900)

2.93 MB PNG

>>4708568
>B.
>D. Do you know who knows about magic charms? Yurin. Lets go talk to the ninjas.
>C.
Have 19 and Giru check on her first.

>>4708568
>B & C.
Definitely have 19 look after Salsa.
>>4708576
I'll say it's better to wait until we know what exactly they are using before consulting Yurin. After all, might just be a dud talisman from a quack shaman. But keep her in mind while we go over this stuff.

>>4708568
HAGWAG supports >>4709536

>>4708568
Exen too >>4709536

>>4708568
>>4708576
Supporting.

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Whew, sorry about that delay, but we are back!

>>4708568
“I’m gonna check in with Pantea and kinda regroup with her, but we need someone to watch over Salsa… 19, Giru, you up for that? You’ve already gotten in contact and sent a warning, sure, but might be better to actively try to watch out for any suspicious activity headed her way.” you reply.

“Very well. Best of luck with her then.” The two of you take off, with you locking onto Pantea’s Ki and teleporting back to her. You find her working on… at least three different projects at once. You spot robotics schematics, game design notes, and even what looks like a directory of some kind. She spins around when she senses you enter, and the two of you quickly catch up on what you’ve learned.

“Barry Kahn, Idasam, a shaman… hrmn. Yeah this is starting to come together better.” She rubs her chin contemplatively. “I’d expect a few more to be involved, though.”

“On the note of the ‘shaman,’ I’ve been thinking, maybe Yurin and her ninja group might have some countermeasure for whatever charms he’s got cooked up.” you comment. “At least, if it turns out to be legitimate. Even with all we’ve seen, doesn’t mean quacks suddenly stopped existing.”

“You’d need to find one of them first.” she points out. “But it might be worth checking, sure. And…” She snaps her fingers. “Shaman! Peppa, you remember back earlier in the year when we were in Natade Village?”

You nod. “Yeah. And there was-” Oh. Oh yeah. “You really think THAT guy is the ‘shaman’ they’re talking about?”

She spins around brings up the directory again. “Maloja was his name, but more importantly he showed up in some of my searches. He didn’t seem all that technically inclined, but he’d not have to be. And more importantly, look at this!” Pantea brings up a tabloid article on… Natade Village, and more importantly, one trying to throw doubt on that charity you set up. And who is one of the people giving the tabloid some quotes? Maloja. Pantea slaps her hands on her knees. “Peppa, what exactly were they trying to do again?”

“I mean, from the sound of it, they wanted to use a ‘magic charm’ to get me to show my ‘true colors,’ and-” Your eyes look back over to the screen. “…They’re going to all this effort for a tabloid article?”

“More than that. They’ve probably got something big set up to ‘expose’ you.” She leans back in her chair, finger tapping her chin. “Now… the real question is, where would this be?”

>A. At the studios? I did sense something ominous down there earlier today
>B. By… Orange Star High? I mean the Pepparazzi were there a few times before already
>C. Could be at my home, it’s not like it’s too hard to find
>D. Don’t think it’ll matter, we’re gonna stop this before they set it off
>E. Something else?

>>4709849
>B.
>D.
>E. "Who do you think is the weakest link in this chain?"

>>4709849
Exen votes:

>D. Don’t think it’ll matter, we’re gonna stop this before they set it off
>E. But, we should arrange for a couple of friends to keep an eye on the studio and my school. I'll let mom know to keep an eye out too.
And I'll support.

>>4709907
Addendum,

>D. Don’t think it’ll matter, we’re gonna stop this before they set it off
>E. But, we should arrange for a couple of people to keep an eye on the likely targets. I'll ask dad to keep an eye on the studios, Videl to keep watch around my school, and I'll let mom know to keep an eye out at home.

>>4709907
>>4709914
Support

>>4709849
>A. At the studios? I did sense something ominous down there earlier today
>B. By… Orange Star High? I mean the Pepparazzi were there a few times before already
>D. Don’t think it’ll matter, we’re gonna stop this before they set it off.
>E. "Who do you think is the weakest link in this chain?"

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>>4709849
https://youtu.be/bbBrCya-sLk

“We’re gonna stop it before it happens, so no matter where, we’ll be ready! We’re gonna stop this before they set it off!” you tell her with determination. Though… “That said I can think of a few places. Home, yeah they’d know where that is. And the Pepparazzi has been stalking my school already. But there’s also the studios… aha! Okay! I’ve got an idea now.” You cross your arms, tail swaying behind you. “Since Videl and I are gonna be at school anyway, she can help keep an eye over there. Mom, of course she can watch over home with Groucho. And… hrmn. Maybe dad would be able to help watch the studios. He’s not the most… stealthy among us, but he’s pretty attentive when things are off.”

“I mean, I’m in the area too, so I could probably help with that.” Pantea comments. “So let’s review. We know that they’re targeting you, and both the actress Salsa, in similar but separate events. Idasam, Barry Kahn, Maloja, and the ‘Pepparazzi’ are all in on this. They potentially have some kind of magic charm that can… reveal some secrets or something, basically they’re trying to dig up dirt on you so they can put it in the tabloids. And there are a few likely places where they’ll try to spring this trap, which you’ve got covered now. 19 and Giru are keeping watch over Salsa as well.”

You nod. “Sounds about right. Now, let’s see…” You tap your goggles. Almost 8 your time, wow you’ve been at this for a while. Though it’s not even noon here in West City. Timing might be key here. You know they’re planning to spring this trap within the next couple days, but you currently have the element of surprise. Could kinda stay up all night (for you, at least) to deal with this pronto, or you could wait until the next day to really get everything set up. Former might settle this sooner, latter might allow you time to get in contact with Yurin’s ninja just in case their “charm” is the real deal. Hmm…

>A. Deal with it pronto! The longer you delay the more you lose this opportunity to stay ahead of them
>B. Set things up properly, then spring your trap on them
>C. Prioritize getting Yurin’s help first and foremost. Better safe than sorry
>D. Something else?

>>4710125
Ah damn, sorry, missed that vote.

>>4710136
>C.
Maybe also ask for tips on disguises so we can hide better from these guys?
>B.

>>4710136
I'll support >>4710146
and sure, let's check for what the weakest link might be too, since we'll have the time.

>>4709877
>>4710125

>>4710136
>A.
>D. Let Raditz know there's some other shady nonsense going on and share info so your groups can look out for each other's threats.

>>4710143
Don't worry about it.

>>4710136
C. Prioritize getting Yurin’s help first and foremost. Better safe than sorry

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Okay folks, gonna be heading to bed a bit earlier tonight, but I'll leave the vote open, until 5:30 pm PST tomorrow. Thank you all for playing! Did y'all have fun? And please, remember to stay safe out there.

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>>4710217
get some sleep boss.

always have fun

>>4710217
Always fun, Kato. Thanks for running.

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>>4710239
>>4711197
Thanks for that.

Very sorry for the delay, work was a pain today. We are back now though!

>>4710136
You need to properly set this up, you think. Yes you have the element of surprise, but it’ll be better if you can coordinate things with everyone for an encounter tomorrow. But, since you’ll be waiting, you do have something you can do in the meantime. Before it starts getting too late, you look into contacting Yurin’s ninja, trying to see if they know of anything about talismans that can do what Maloja wants them to do.

And so here you are, walking through their forest, trying to make yourself noticeable by them for once. “Heeeeey! Anyone around? Promise I’m not still mad about… uh, before.” You’re really not. You’ve put that behind you. You’re pretty sure, at least. You just have to-

“Son Peppa.”

FROG. Frog ninja. That guy. Startled you a little. Man he really hid himself well! “Heeeey, what’s up? …How’d you hide yourself that well? Seriously, didn’t sense you, see you, hear you, smell you-”

“What are you doing here?” he asks directly, annoyed.

“Okay, so, hit upon a bit of a problem…” You explain your situation to him as he leads you to the ninja fortress, and get to the point of trying to figure out what to do if Maloja’s “magic charms” turn out to be the real deal.

“Hmm… Our Lady may have some idea on what this could be.” he comments. “Though it is worrying if someone came into possession of the method we know of.”

“What do you mean?”

He raises an eyebrow. “Tell me, Son Peppa, are you aware of any substance that can cloud one’s mind, bring out the worst impulses, perhaps even turn someone violent and bloodthirsty?”

…Oh. Oh. Oh crap. “The Black Water Mist…”

>A. Wait… are you also using it in talismans?
>B. Better have someone get some Ultra Divine Water just in case
>C. …Can you tell me how you hid so easily? Because that might be reeeeeally helpful
>D. Something else?

>>4711465
>“What are you doing here?” he asks directly, annoyed.
>He raises an eyebrow. He has an eyebrow? “Tell me, Son Peppa, are you aware of any substance that can cloud one’s mind, bring out the worst impulses, perhaps even turn someone violent and bloodthirsty?”

>D. Your attitude! Do you want me to get the police on you for your harassment back then?

>>4711465
>“Heeeeey! Anyone around? Promise I’m not still mad about… uh, before.” You’re really not.

>>4711468
Yeah, I don't really think these guys have the right tone for people who almost destroyed the world because they think they could do better. He could be a bit more apologetic and accommodating.

Why not blow this guy's house down with a kamehameha unless he verbally shines our boots with his frog tongue? Then again, that might just make them sticky. Anyway, ninjas are mammals, so I'm annoyed enough with this paradox already, let's speak to Yurin.

>>4711465

>B.
>C.

>>4711465
>Black Water Mist + Watagash = Uh-Oh

There's also Aquma...

There's also the Majin mark, don't forget that.

>B.
>A.
>C.
"I'm willing to equivalent exchange for it. You any good with wind magic?"

>>4711491
He probably hid so easily in the swamp because he smells like the swamp. We can probably do the same if we get dirt or mud on ourselves when we tunnel in fights.

>>4711465
>B & C.

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It's not easy being green.

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>>4711465
https://youtu.be/MrLvJiBDGZ4

You contact Trip and Piccolo telepathically, letting them know that the Black Water Mist might be involved in something happening down on Earth. You then look to the little frog ninja. “…So I gotta ask, how were you able to hide so easily? Because that reeeeaaally might be helpful.”

“Learning to not merely lower your Ki, but mask it completely, have it like you’re part of the environment you’re hiding in, allows one aspect of true stealth.” he responds, the doors opening for you both. “And learning to mask one’s appearance with Ki, to the point of one appearing to change form, is another of these aspects.”

“Is there a third?” There’s usually a third.

He nods. “True invisibility. Remaining unseen and unable to be seen, passing and moving without detection. Some have this ability naturally, but do not hone their Ki signatures well enough to have it be an aspect of true stealth.”

“So… think I could learn it?” you ask just a little cheekily.

“You would need months of dedicated learning to master completely masked energy.” he responds. “You may have learned how to lower your Ki, but you will need to learn how to completely match the energy around you.” Matching the energy around you… hmm. The fortress is silent as the two of you walk through, with the frog bringing you to the large tree in the center of it. The ninja frog enters first, kneeling. “Lady Yurin. Son Peppa is here to see you.”

(cont.)

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>>4711704
Looking out a large window, standing with her hands behind her back, Yurin exhales. “So she is. I’ve been informed of why you’re here, Peppa.” She looks back, seeming… kinda sad and apologetic. “While I can assure you we are not in league with any of the people you are after, I… believe there may be some connection.”

You cross your arms. “Oh is there?”

And whatever cool demeanor she was trying to go for vanishes almost instantly as her arms go to her sides, shoulders slouching and a louder sigh escaping her lips. “…Bisa might have spilled the beans about a talisman I’ve been trying to develop.”

You pinch the ridge of your nose. Of course. “And where is he, now, exactly?”

“He is no longer a problem.” she assures you. “But he was aware of a technique I was attempting with the Black Water Mist. By carefully applying it to a specialized talisman, it was supposed to be used to keep those who have ill intent for the Earth at bay by drawing their more vicious and evil intents out of their bodies completely. The end result was supposed to drain that into the talisman… but every attempt thus far has resulted in failure. The most it’s really done is… amplify the effect of the mist.” She walks forward, shaking her head. “If Bisa was able to talk with that Shaman person at any point, he may have passed on how the talisman works. The problem is… well, we stopped experiments both because none were working, and we were potentially exhaust the supply of the mist that we could gather in the area. If someone was here collecting it, we would have knowAGH!” She… trips on one of the spherical divets in the floor and faceplants. “Owww…”

“Lady Yurin!” the frog ninja exclaims, hurrying over to her. “Are you all right.”

“Damage was purely to my pride.” she groans.

>A. All right, even if you were experimenting with it, you’re bound to have some countermeasure, right? Can I have it?
>B. …You say he’s “not a problem” but, where exactly IS Bisa? Did you just like, kick him out or what?
>C. Help her up, and try not to laugh at that
>D. Say… do you think you can help me out with another thing, then? I’d like to learn more on the Ki hiding thing froggy here was telling me about
>E. Something else?

>>4711705
>A.
>C.
>D.
"Also what's Ninja Kermit's name? Jiraiya?"
>E. Since the Yardratian Soba expressed a clear interest in ninja tricks - can he join us in this training?

>>4711705
>C, A, D.

>>4711705
Exen votes,

>A & C.
>E. What might happen if you apply something else, like ultra divine water, to the tailsman?

And I'll support that E.

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Okay folks, gonna be turning in for the night a bit early again. Vote open until 2:30 pm PST tomorrow, where we'll start up again. Thank you all for playing! Did everyone have fun? And please, stay safe out there.

>>4711738
Fun had, thanks for running.

>>4711705
>. All right, even if you were experimenting with it, you’re bound to have some countermeasure, right? Can I have it?
>B. …You say he’s “not a problem” but, where exactly IS Bisa? Did you just like, kick him out or what?
>C. Help her up, and try not to laugh at that
>D. Say… do you think you can help me out with another thing, then? I’d like to learn more on the Ki hiding thing froggy here was telling me about

>>4711705
>E. Clothes beam an aesthetic rug onto the ground. The aesthetic? Us double peace signing and winking at the viewer with our tongue out.

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>>4711746
Glad to hear!

And okay, we are back!

>>4711705
You hold back a chuckle as you help her up. “All right, even if you were experimenting with it, you’re bound to have a countermeasure, right? If so, can we have it, just to be on the safe side?” you ask. “And… just to be on the safe side, what if something else was applied to the talisman in order to counteract the Black Water Mist? Like, say, the Ultra Divine Water?”

She dusts herself off. “Well, it should be able to remove the Black Water Mist’s effects like normal, though only if you directly apply it to the talisman, rather than ingest it. Ingesting it will merely remove it temporarily, since you’re not getting rid of the source of it. And, while not quite the same as a complete countermeasure, we do have something that can prevent its application.” Yurin nods at the frog ninja, who dashes away to get something… and then you don’t even sense him.

“...Saaaay. Do you think you can help me out with a thing, then? I’ve been really curious about that stealth technique he’s been using,” you point your thumb at where the frog ninja went. “Can you help me learn a bit about it, so we can better spring this trap?”

“A little bold to assume you’d accomplish it so easily.” she replies with a suspicious glance. “…But, if you truly wish, we can help you learn it. We… do still owe you for what we’ve done before.”

>A. Hey, I’m over that, promise. When do we start?
>B. It’s more Cocoa you should apologize to for putting her in danger, but whatever
>C. Want to exchange anything, then? I’ve been learning some stuff on Yardrat that might help you guys
>D. Something else?

>>4712874
>D. Can you make talismans with invisible ink?
>B. It’s more Cocoa you should apologize to for putting her in danger, but whatever.
>Hmm, but don't nab her to give an all-formal apology. Maybe a gift basket with an apology letter folded into an origami-shuriken.

>>4712874
>A & C.

>>4712874
Mix A and B to
>D. I've moved on, but I'd appreciate it if you apologized to Cocoa. You owe her at least that.
>C.

>>4713019
Supporting

>>4713019
>>4713023
Also supporting.

>>4713019
Sure. Support.

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Okay! Roll me 2d20, best of three! DC is 12 for the first, 14 for the second.

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Rolled 2, 14 = 16 (2d20)

>>4713077

Rolled 12, 9 = 21 (2d20)

>>4713077

Rolled 13, 20 = 33 (2d20)

>>4713077

>>4713079
>>4713080
>>4713083
Passed both! Perfect! Writing...

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>>4712874
“Hey, I’ve put that behind me, but if there’s anyone you should be apologizing to, it’s Cocoa and her family. You owe her that at least.” you reply, giving a serious but forgiving look to her.

“Eheh, that is fair.” she says with a kind smile.

“Anyway, wanna exchange anything for it? I’ve been learning some interesting things on Yardrat that might be useful for you all.” you ask, grinning.

“That sounds acceptable. Let us see what you can pick up.”

https://youtu.be/MajsancwimQ

It takes a bit of time to get through the basics of what they’re doing, but the ninja take to the Yardratian Spirit Control techniques quite well, and probably thanks to that, you’re far more in tune with managing your own Ki. It really is like learning how to have your Ki match the flow of energy around you. It’s not simply vanishing, but blending into one’s surroundings. You sit meditatively in an open area in the fortress as Yurin instructs you. Regulating the flow of Ki through your body almost like it’s as automatic as breathing, you are able to match it with the natural flow around you.

And finally, it’s like you’re part of the forest itself. Though, managing this so quickly also allows you to kinda better sense the energy going through it, and how unusual it all is. If you started to doze off at all, you’d swear this stuff might seep into your dreams. Might have to keep that in mind for later.

Yurin claps appreciatively. “Well done, Peppa. You’ve managed it in record time.”

“I will admit, I had underestimated you.” the frog ninja states, then hands you a… kind of paper braid? Huh? Oh there are little symbols etched into it. And… hey, you’re definitely picking up a bit of Magic in it. “This will be able to secure you from the worst effects of the talisman. While not a complete countermeasure, it will stall the effect long enough for you to dispose of the talisman as you wish.”

You hold it in your hand, nodding. “Okay. Thank you.”

>A. It’s late for you, but you can stay and talk for a bit if they’d have you
>B. Better head home and get ready for tomorrow. Gonna finally spring this trap!
>C. Check in with someone else today, while you still have the time (who?)
>D. Something else?

>>4713196
>C. Check in on Cocoa, make sure she knows how out of control this Pepparazzi thing got and make sure she's safe.

>>4713196
Backing >>4713222
then B.

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>>4713196
>C.
Vegeta. His wish-immunity to mind control to this is too valuable not to have his help. And we'll have the humility to ask for it and put it above our petty squabbles.

>>4713196
Ooh, are we Yurin's padawan learner now?

>B. Better head home and get ready for tomorrow. Gonna finally spring this trap!

Exen post
>>4713196
>B & C (Vegeta).
While I'm not certain that he's immune to the black water mist, having him on hand in case the worst goes down and you need to be fought off isn't a bad idea. And while I don't think there's any known connection of this situation to Watagashi, making sure he's informed of that threat as well is a good idea.

I support as well.

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>>4713196
With all of this done, you think you’re pretty ready for tomorrow… but there are a couple people you know you need to talk with first. Starting with Cocoa. It’s lunch time for her, so you’ll be able to catch her up to speed. You contact her and let her know all that’s happened.

‘So… they’ve really gone out of their way for all this.’ she comments in a reply text. ‘This is a heck of a grudge they have against you.’

‘I just want to make sure you’re both aware of this, and safe. They haven’t given any indication they’re after… you as well, at the very least. But still, better we don’t have a repeat of earlier this year.’

‘Heh, okay. Thanks, Peppa. I’ll keep an eye out. Good luck with your plan.’

You smile and look up at the sky. Okay. One down! But there’s someone else you gotta check with. Might be a lot of help if you can get him to work with you, though that is a biiiig if. Still, can’t hurt to try, right?

“And why, exactly, should I get involved in this?” he asks with a heavy-lidded stare, the two of you meeting at Pilaf’s castle.

“Because out of anyone here, you’re the least likely to end up under any sort of mind control spell or something. Don’t think that Watagash thing uncle Raditz is looking for is connected, but hey, might be something to keep an eye out with.” you repeat. “Come on, it’ll be a big help!”

His expression doesn’t change. “So you expect me to go through all this setup with all your little friends, wait around all day somewhere, on the off chance that I MIGHT be needed to prevent something. Am I understanding this correctly?”

“Ooh ooh can I help, dad?” Baozi asks Vegeta. “Peppa, come on, lemme help too!”

“I mean that’s up to your dad…” you respond in a quieter voice.

Vegeta doesn’t budge. “Peppa. I need a better reason than this.”

>A. All right, all right, sorry for asking, jeeze…
>B. Hey, it could be a good bonding experience with Baozi! Come on, father and son sleuths!
>C. I’m not asking that you give up your whole day, just, you know, be ready to help if we need it
>D. Make a deal for it? Could exchange something
>E. Something else?

Exen Vote:


>>4713375
>C.
>E. I've taken precautions, but there no one else I trust more to kick my ass if worse comes to worst.
And I'll support.

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>>4713375
>C.

>E. "C'mon Vegeta. This has Towa written all over it. Don't you want to get back at her and thwart her plans with me?"

>>4713393
also support

>>4713375
>>4713393
Supporting.

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Okay folks, turning in for the night, need to get some rest. Thanks for playing! We'll be back tomorrow around 4:30 pm PST. Hope to see y'all there! Did y'all have fun? Stay safe out there.

>>4713410
see you tomorrow boss

>>4713410
Had fun, thanks for running.

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>>4713413
>>4713424
Thanks!

And okay, we are back!

>>4713375
While bringing up Towa might be able to swing his opinion in your favor, and you do have your suspicions, he’d probably demand more concrete proof. So… “Vegeta, I’m not asking that you give up your whole day to this. Just, you know, be on standby if things really do get out of hand. In case we need it.”

“On standby?” he repeats, raising an eyebrow.

“In case this really does go wrong, and we need someone to step in. You’re the one I trust the most to hold me off if their plan does end up working. I don’t doubt mom or dad or uncle Raditz or anyone else in power and skill, but… they might hesitate. I know you won’t.” You give him a serious and focused look. “Can I count on you for that?”

Vegeta’s expression softens a bit. He’s quiet for a moment, but after thinking it over, he lets out a grumbling sigh. “Fine. I’ll hold you to this. But do not call for my help unless absolutely necessary.”

Baozi looks up excitedly. “Does that mean I can help?”

“It means you can stay with me, and come with if I’m needed.” Vegeta replies.

“Aww…” the boy mumbles.

>A. Thanks, Vegeta! Here’s hoping things go smoothly
>B. Don’t worry Baozi, he’s just looking out for you. He’d rather you not get yourself into trouble
>C. Something else?

>>4714351
>A.
>B.
>C.
"Any progress on Super Saiyan Primal? Have you found a Full-Powered version or anything yet? I'm curious because if I go down that path I wanna know it's full potential. I'm curious to see if Kaio-ken works with it too."

>>4714391
spose this can just shorten to 'any progress on ssjp'

>>4714351
Similar to >>4714391
but with
>A.
>B.
>C. Any progress on the transformation subject? Nothing new on my end just yet. But Gohan has managed... something, with some help, and I think I can work from that.

>>4714437
sure sounds good

>>4714351
Im on board with >>4714437

>>4714437
HAGWAG says he supports this too.

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>>4714351
“Aw don’t worry Baozi, your dad’s just looking out for you. He’d rather you not end up in trouble.” you tell the boy, which causes his father to grumble a little. “Really though, thanks, Vegeta! Here’s hoping things go smoothly.”

“Just don’t waste my time.” he mutters, looking away.

“Yeah yeah… actually, one last question, while we’re at it. How’s work with Primal Super Saiyan been? Learning any new things about it?” Always good to check up with that.

“I’ll say this, it’s definitely easier to maintain than other forms of Super Saiyan.” Vegeta responds. “I would go so far as to say it’s the natural, final evolution of the power of Super Saiyan.”

“Nice, nice. I’ll say that I’ve still got to work on my own path still, but I have seen that my end goal is entirely possible.”

He raises an eyebrow. “And that would be?”

“Well, Super Saiyan is just drawing out power that’s naturally within you, right? Just changing one’s body to better use that power. What I want to be able to do is utilize it all without transforming.” You grin. “And I’ve seen it’s possible. Gohan’s been able to do something like that, with some outward help. So, I know my goal isn’t a pipe dream.”

To your surprise, Vegeta seems… kinda proud to hear that. “An admirable goal. Let’s see if you can eventually pull it off.”

And with that, you finally are able to put the day behind you, heading back home and getting some rest. Gonna be a lot to go through tomorrow. Better be ready for it.

…

The next day goes by… relatively normally. You feel a bit of tension through the morning, but you also get some good new through the day. 19 and Giru keeping watch over Salsa has definitely gone over well, and apparently she’s quite the conversationalist, even getting 19 to open up a bit about herself. You and Videl though have been keeping watch, waiting for the first sign of something off to finally deal with this problem.

You and Videl finish a quick lunch on the school’s rooftop, looking around the area. Videl stands with her arms crossed, a serious look on her face. “…There’s one thing I’m still trying to figure out.”

“What’s that?”

She brings her thumb to her lips, contemplating things. “Where would they get the Black Water Mist from, for this talisman?”

…That is a good question.

>A. There might be some place still on Earth where it still resides. Could have found it there
>B. You think someone might have given it to them, then?
>C. We can think about that after we’ve taken care of this
>D. Something else?

Also, roll me 1d20, best of three. DC is 14.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4714531
>A.
>B.
Towa, answer is always Towa.
>D.
Didn't mom say that its possible brew? She fought someone that made it right? Someone could've taught them how to make it too.

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4714531
>A & B.

>>4714531
>A. There might be some place still on Earth where it still resides. Could have found it there

>B. You think someone might have given it to them, then?
Let's not discount external threats *coughTOWAcough* being at work.

>D. Or... back when it was all over the place, someone could have held onto some somehow?

>>4714570
Supporting

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4714570
huh, thought I rolled

>>4714570
also support

Rolled 19, 11, 9 = 39 (3d20)

>>4714543
>>4714568
>>4714573
Didn't pass this one.

Rolled 20, 2, 7 = 29 (3d20)

>>4714576
And one more...

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>>4714531
“There are a few possibilities. There’s a chance that the Black Water Mist still lingers in some part of the Earth. Or… similarly, but more worryingly, remember when it spread across the Earth? When we were still little?”

She nods. “All too well, yeah.”

“Maybe, just maybe, someone found it back then and has been holding onto it ever since. And… of course, with that thought in mind, there’s a chance someone could be giving them the mist. COUGHTowaCOUGH.”

“Towa typically gloats about this kind of stuff.” she notes. “So by the time we find all the people responsible for this, she’ll probably pop up and be all smug about it.”

“...She has been kinda quiet as of late.” you note. “We are due for one of her schemes.” Well, here’s hoping you’re able to get through this without much collateral damage.

As the day goes by, you don’t really get any sign of the Pepparazzi in your area. Which… hasn’t really done much to ease you, but has at least allowed you to focus on classwork a bit better. Once the school day is over, though, you do get a couple surprising messages: first, dad was able to catch wind of someone suspicious heading into the studios, with a Ki signature that felt “off” to him. And even better, mom and Groucho were able to locate a suspicious person snooping around your home. To your surprise, they’re a pair you’d dealt with a couple times before. A big, muscular, hairy guy named Spopovich, and a tall but more slender pal of his, Yamu. Mom’s currently trying to get info out of them, while dad’s trying to… well, keep tabs on the suspicious person at the studios.

That said, dad’s not the most inconspicuous person out there, so he’s opted to not hang around the studios directly. Instead he’s… gone to Cocoa’s place, talking with her parents, apparently even giving Cocoa’s dad a “lift” to work in the most literal sense. At the very least they’re… getting along? Cocoa sent you a couple texts after she woke up saying that. Still, looks like maybe things will go by without much incident.

As you and Videl head off together, you spot Izzy meeting up with her group of henchfolk, apparently doing some more community service with them today.

>A. Should still scout out the area, just in case
>B. Say, Videl, you pick a tag partner yet for the Mifan Tournament?
>C. You should check with mom, she’s probably got something
>D. You’re free right now, scope out the studios with dad
>E. Something else?

And roll me another 1d20, best of three. DC is 15 for this one.

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Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4714681
>A.
>B.
>E.
"So hows that unlocked potential treating you?"

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4714681
>E. Go to Baba's and pay for a scrying.

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4714681
>A, B, E.
Have the charm in hand, and ready to give to Videl if it comes to that.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4714681
>>4714698
Supporting.

>>4714681
>>4714726
Good idea, she can hide the braid in her pigtail.

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Rolled 18, 5, 6 = 29 (3d20)

>>4714698
>>4714709
>>4714726
Didn't pass this one.

>>4714730
Oof, so close.

And okay, gonna leave the vote open until 5:30 pm PST tomorrow. Thank you all for playing! Did y'all have fun? And please, stay safe out there.

>>4714740
Pepzi?

>>4714740
Fun had, even if I regret rolling this time around. Ah well.

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>>4714741
Nah.

>>4714748
Glad to hear! And ah well.

Anyway, sorry for the delay, we are back!

>>4714681
Still not sensing anyone following you, at least no one suspicious. Still, you and Videl scout out the area, just to be sure. To make it look like you’re just taking this like normal, you attempt conversation with her, moving along casually. That said, you also get the charm Yurin gave you ready, just in case. “So Videl, tell me, you found any tag team partners yet? And how’s practice with your unlocked potential been? Got to see Gohan’s up close the other day.”

She smirks. “Oh, there are a few surprises in store for you, Peppa. Just you wait. And as for my tag partner… well, let’s just say I’ve found a surprising one. You might even know him.”

Him? Oh interesting. Dad’s teamed up with Tarble as far as you’re aware, so not him. But… hmm. Uncle Raditz? Uncle Acer? Mr. Yamcha? Tien? Lapis? Videl’s dad? …Vegeta? …N-Nappa? …Monty? “You’ve got me curious. But I’m betting you’re not gonna tell me just yet, are you?”

“I’ll only give you one more hint: he’s not anyone either of us are related to.” she states with a cheeky smile on her face. “And I’m yet to really show him what I’m capable of, but I’m sure he’ll get a kick out of it.”

As the two of you keep walking, you… still don’t sense anyone nearby. It’s weird. You were sure there’d be someone there today. What are you missing? Even Videl picks up on this, telepathically contacting you and commenting, ‘…Peppa, I don’t think they’re going to make their move here.’

‘What gives you that idea?’

‘Possibly because we’re still walking together. Maybe they’re waiting to truly ambush you? Or… maybe they’ve chickened out? After all, Maple did find a couple snooping around your home, right?’

>A. Let’s test this by splitting up. Just act natural, like we’re parting ways before we head home
>B. Bah. They probably have chickened out. Damn it. I’ll contact dad and have us head home…
>C. Could… maybe check with someone for help, you guess
>D. Don’t think that’s it. Let’s keep going, just a bit more
>E. Something else?

>>4715965
>A. Let’s test this by splitting up. Just act natural, like we’re parting ways before we head home
>E. Telepathically ping each other every minute or so, and keep track of the position of their ki. If either goes silent the other immediately rushes over.
Obviously, don't say we're any of this this out loud.

>>4715965
I'll support >>4715988

>>4715965
>E. Make a casual call with our goggle scouters. If they've tapped our lines we can lead them astray with false info.

>>4715988
Support

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Okay, roll me one more 1d20, best of three. DC is 15.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4716019

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4716019

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4716019

Rolled 3, 4, 14 = 21 (3d20)

>>4716023
>>4716025
>>4716028
Passed! Writing...

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>>4715965
‘Videl. I have an idea. We’ll split up, look like we’re heading home, but keep in touch. Telepathically ping every minute or so. If either of us go quiet, the other will rush over.’ You also show her the braided paper. ‘And hold this just in case.’

“Heh, don’t I already have a friendship bracelet?” she asks, to cover what you’re doing, taking it. ‘Understood. Keep in touch.’ She starts to walk away. “Later Peppa! Hope you and Keli end up a good challenge during the tournament!”

“And I hope you and your mystery partner will be too!” Okay, time to get to work. You and Videl head off in different directions, you checking a few places to try and act natural. Check out a shop here, stop at a cafe there, and try to act as natural as possible. All while keeping in touch with Videl. Neither of you really notice anything at first, but at least the two of you aren’t in any trouble. A good hour after you started this hunt, though, you finally get the first sense that something’s off.

https://youtu.be/GBAN6X6NUrk

Towards a more abandoned area of town, there’s an odd Ki signature you sense moving about. Not familiar, exactly, but definitely off. ‘Videl, think I’ve found something.’ It’s… giving you a sense of unease. Additionally, you notice something in the distance. Heading closer, it seems to be an article of clothing left hanging off a line. It… it looks like…

…

That’s a bra.

You pinch the ridge of your nose. Are they SERIOUSLY trying to bait you with that? Of all the stupid ideas why would-?

…Wait.

You get a closer look. That’s… that’s… oh. Oh that’s a bit more… worrying. It looks like one you… accidentally made during Cocoa’s school play. A chill travels down your spine.

‘Haven’t gotten anything here. Need me to head your way?’

>A. No, not until you fail to check in
>B. Head in, but keep your distance, Videl, don’t tip them off yet
>C. …You’re going to have to ask Cocoa, just in case
>D. You’re… gonna drill underground! Better element of surprise! Yeah!
>E. Something else?

>>4716131
>A.
>C.
>E. Use all your senses and maybe a scouter. Something weird is afoot.

>>4716131
>B.
Also have her not make a beeline for us, instead go around a bit where she hasn't been, plausibly in a search pattern. Just so she is as close as possible.
>E. This could be just an unnerving threat, but it might be meant to be a distraction for an attack readied if you try to call Cocoa. So pull out our phone and get ready to text her, but put all our focus on what's around us and prepare to avoid an attack.

>>4716131
>E. Make more bras. And pantsu. To pour from a skyscraper.

>>4716131
Supporting >>4716179

>>4716162
And also this E.

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>>4716162
>>4716179
sure.

>>4716210
and by sure i mean support the e like >>4716201

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Okay! Roll me 2d20, best of three! DC is 14 for both!

>>4716131
>>4716179
I like this E more than C.

Rolled 13, 16 = 29 (2d20)

>>4716219

Rolled 20, 1 = 21 (2d20)

>>4716219

Rolled 16, 7 = 23 (2d20)

>>4716219

Rolled 14, 1 = 15 (2d20)

>>4716219

Rolled 10, 19, 18 = 47 (3d20)

>>4716223
>>4716227
>>4716228
Very interesting! Passed both!

>>4716239
That coulda complicated things a bit more.

And writing...

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>>4716131
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lxJCx9CxoU

There’s a gut reaction to want to contact Cocoa, but… that might be what they’re waiting for. Something weird is afoot. You focus and sense out, having your goggles on tight. You contact Videl, telling her, ‘Close in, but make it look natural. A plausible search pattern. I think I’ve got a lead.’ You notice that there’s a couple signals you’re picking up. You sense at least two people in the area, even if they’re well-hidden, but there’s another presence. It’s… not normal, yet there is something familiar about it. Towa? Might be… but that’s not all. There are a couple… machines in the area. They’re barely the size of flies, but your goggles are picking them up.

…

This isn’t Towa. But it is someone working with her, you’re sure of it. You get out your phone, acting like you’re going to text her, but then it lets out a strange sound, then displays some error messages. Having it connected to your goggles, you see that there’s a signal being sent to it. Damn! But you can sense the people around you closing in. The two normal folks you try to read the minds of.

‘Heh, hook, line, sinker. That Scarlet chick was right, dumb kid couldn’t resist this.’

…You know that person. He’s the one who’s been stalking the school.

‘I swear to whatever god is out there this better work or I am going to stab him in the junk with a pencil. We’re already on thin ice.’

That’s another you kinda recognize. But the other presence… you’re assuming it’s this “Scarlet” lady? Just then the little machines bolt at you. You finally notice that they’ve got Capsules attached to them. You send a blast of Wind Magic at them to push them back and try to form a barrier around yourself… but are just a little too slow to manage it completely.

And that’s when she appears behind you, letting off that same damn energy from before. The barrier held back some of it, but it still managed to weaken you. You stumble forward, managing to balance yourself just in time to turn around. With a growl you let out a sharp “You…!” Damn it, have to refocus. You’ve been going through too much Ki training to fall to this trap!

(cont.)

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>>4716367
Artificial Human 21 stands before you, a strange black candy between her fingers that you can tell is filled with an awful negative energy. She pops it in her mouth, a loud crunching sound echoing through the area, a dark aura surrounding her… as she holds a talisman in her hand, infused with the dark energy. “Hi Peppa~! Stand still, please. I want to get the best data I can on you for this.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3pbRoLMJL8

>DRAGON BALL TUFFLE QUEST KAI #40… 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 tonight. Thank you all for playing! Did y’all have fun? We’ll continue tomorrow starting ~5:30 pm PST. Remember to stay safe out there.

>>4716368
Finally, I was getting bored. Fight, fight, fight!

>>4716368
aaaaaand now we cut to Gohan watching on a scrying orb.

>>4716368
So, we stay and hold her off, or get away to keep her from Talisman-ing us?

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>>4716392
Hah. Nah, not this time.

>>4717589
Good question!

And okay, sorry about the delay. We're back!

>>4716368
You ready your guard. She’s been able to get the drop on you, but you’re not out just yet. Have to be careful of that Talisman, especially since you’re sure it’s not all she has planned. Let’s see… Videl is still closing in, she’s definitely noticed it too. There are still the two others in the area, not entirely sure what they’re doing but if they’ve gotten 21’s involvement, this has definitely crossed too many lines. Rgh… what do you do now?

>A. Bring up your barrier and keep avoiding her, until Videl can get here!
>B. Teleport to someone nearby, too dangerous to stick around!
>C. Knock her down! If it’s a fight she wants it’s a fight she’ll get!
>D. Something else?

>>4717739
>C. Knock her down! If it’s a fight she wants it’s a fight she’ll get!