Part 3, Chapter 3: Android #16

This city seems to be unharmed...

Great. So what say we get ourselves a car? Hmm... There's a lot to choose from...

Ugh, just hurry up and pick one. I want to find some new clothes already.

Oh? All the cars around here are yours or something?

Ha ha ha, don't be silly. They're not anyone's. Or rather, they're no longer anyone's!

Are you serious?!

All we're doing is making use of something that wouldn't get used otherwise. No harm done, hm?

Heh, that makes sense!

Good, let's test if this one still works. Go for a drive, shall we?

Hey, hey, wait up! You can't do that! That's STEALING! Hey, are you even listening?!

Dammit... The Frieza Force were the strongest in the universe! How did we end up in the gutter like this?!

Grr... I know why! It's all those filthy Saiyans' fault! Those apes are gonna get what's comin' to them!

Hm... Whuzzat? Heh heh, looks like some prey has walked right into our path!

Heh, they look pretty loaded, too!

Hey! You in the car! Stop right th--!

Gwaaaah!

Hey, did we just hit those guys?!

Well, THEY jumped in front of us. It's not like we can just stop like that, you know?

How selfish of them... Hmph, at least the car's fine.

H-Hey!

You got some gall to try and pull a hit and run on us!

Aaagh! Is that...?!

What?

You're...the Saiyan who bested Lord Frieza!

You guys Frieza's lackeys? You don't know when to quit, do you...

Heh, finally! You've fallen right into our hands! To think one man could cause us so much suffering!

And not only that, you top it off by trying to run us over!!

I don't think I can live it down if I don't give you a good wallop!

Ha ha ha! If stares could kill, you'd be long dead! Seems you're not a goody two-shoes after all, Shallot!

You were the one driving! Wait a sec, listen up! These guys are ACTUAL bandits! Ngrah, whatever!

Let's do things the easy way. If you got a problem with me, we can sort this out with our fists, got it?!

H-Hey, you sure we're not punching above our weight? He DID beat Lord Frieza after all...

D-Don't wimp out now! We'll get one hit in, alright? As if we could turn tail now!

Yeah... Yeah, you're right! You're about to enter a world of pain, Saiyan!!

Shallot's managed to bring some unwanted company, it seems...

I did?! Hey, #17, if you'd been watching the road, this wouldn't have happened!

Don't get so worked up, Shallot. You did get to stretch your legs and loosen up with that fight, right?

Y-Yeah, I guess, but still...!

Loosen up with a fight? Haha...hah...

Sorry I'm late, everyone!

I've gathered some intel about one of Dr. Gero's hideouts.

One of...?

Yeah. I'm still analyzing the data, but it seems that Dr. Gero set up multiple bases of operation.

I should know where the others are in time!

Wow... You've worked out so much in such a short amount of time...

Heh heh, why thank you! Keep it coming!

Uh... Uhh, right...

You've only just met and you're making the poor boy uncomfortable, Bulma.

Huh? Oh right, ha ha. I haven't introduced myself yet!

Nice to meet you, Cabba. Call me Bulma.

Right! It's nice to meet you too!

Ha ha, you're very polite. Unlike the other Saiyans I've met. I'm looking at you, Shallot!

Huh? Well yeah, course me and Cabba are different. Why're you making such a big deal outta that?

Sorry about him, Cabba. As you can see, he's not the sharpest tool in the box. Make sure he doesn't get into trouble, got it?

Alright... What, huh?! I never said Shallot was stupi-

I'm not deaf, Bulma! You better watch yourself!

Hello? Sorry! The signal's REALLY bad! I can't hear you!

Cheeky little...

Anyway, I've sent you the coordinates for the first hideout. I'll be in touch, byeee!

W-Wait... Bulma! Gah!

Finished with your phone call? You know where the hideout is now, right?

If you do, let's get out of here. I'm bored out of my mind...

You're right, let's hurry up and show Dr. Gero who's boss!

Hmm... According to the intel we got from Ms. Bulma, the hideout should be somewhere here, underground...

Ugh, it's just heaps of rubble for miles! I'm not on board with any plan that'll get my clothes dirty.

It's here! I can smell that rotten doctor from a mile off!

You can smell him? You make it sound like you're a dog or something...

Ha ha, interesting quirk you got there. I'd like to pitch you against a dog and see whose sense of smell is better!

Everyone, wait! We should tread cautiously. After all, this might be a trap!

Who cares! Trap or no, I'm gonna give Dr. Gero and Cell what's coming to them!

No, Shallot. The one's going to kill them is me.

You can have Cell, but listen, #17. This time it's my turn to kill our dear doctor. You got him last time, remember?

(Gah... Zahha... Why don't any of them EVER listen to me...?)

Cabba, I've found a tin man here! I'm gonna rip it to shreds! Are you not in?!

A-Already?! Right, I'm on my way!

Hmph, seems gramps and his buddy aren't around.

It seems like this hideout hasn't been used in a while.

Unlucky. We missed our mark.

Whatever. Might as well have a look around while we're here.

What for? What are you expecting to find?

We told you before that we're looking for Android #16, right? Unlike us, he's a full mechanical type...

...Which means that should he suffer any damage in battle, he'll need repairing.

So it's likely that he's stopped by the old man's hideout for some spare parts in case of such an eventuality.

If he's been here before us, we might find some trace of his visit.

That makes sense! I'll help too.

Thank you. Though we may end up finding nothing, mind.

Well, rifling through this place will be fun enough on its own, even if we don't find any clues.

Will it? It just sounds like a big waste of time to me, if we end up without any hints.

No, no, Shallot, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey! When you're searching for treasure, the struggle is what makes things fun!

... So it's kind of like the effort you go through when you beat someone really tough?

Ha ha, I suppose so. Interesting example to choose, though.

Enough chitchat. How about you try searching instead of just flapping your gums.

Ugh, looks like there's nothing here...

We've given this place a good search. How about we head back to the city?

I think you're right... But I want to try just one thing...

Try what?

Hey, Shallot. Could you give #18 there a good sniff?

Excuse you?!

Yeah, but then what?

Maybe, just maybe, there's a trace of #16's scent on #18.

I thought you could use that to track him.

Track him?! I ain't some kinda search and rescue dog!

Apologies, I didn't mean to imply you were a dog. I trust you FAR more than some hound, ha ha.

You mouthy...!

But he's not wrong, Shallot... Your nose might be able to find him!

#16 is a dear friend to us... Could you lend us a hand, Shallot?

I know I crossed a line earlier, but I'd really appreciate your help, you know?

Fine! Whatever! I'll do it.

Excuse me, I haven't given consent to this! Can't you just sniff #17 instead?!

Let's see... Who carried #16's capsule? You. Who activated #16? You again...

And you've been the one working closest with him. His scent's going to be far stronger on you.

You talked like you were miles away when #16 was around! Why don't you be the guinea pig first, hm?!

Calm down, #18. You're our best shot at this. If we're on a treasure hunt, it's best to do it efficiently, right?

Then what's with the nonsense you were babbling about?! You're making me uncomfortable on purpose, you know it!

Hey, you're not the only who's got the short end of the stick! I ain't happy being treated like a dog, here.

But I believe you both when you say #16 is important to you, which is why I'm helping out!

If you don't want to do it alone, I'll sniff you both, how 'bout that?!

Wait, what?!

Hah! You won't be saying no, will you?

After all, it'd be more "efficient" to find #16 if he smells both of us. Am I wrong?

Tch, #18, that's low!

Gah, stop making such a big deal out of this! Let's just get it over with!

Phew, glad that's over.

And whose fault is that?! What a bad day!

Hey, I should be saying that! You didn't have to hit me! It hurts, man...

Hmph...

But on the bright side, at least we got a lead, right?

Thanks to me. So, #16's over in that town?

Yeah... He should be...

What's the matter?

Thing is, it's not just #16 than I can smell...

It's faint, but I'm sure of it... It's Cell!

Are you sure?! Th-Then, we need to get out of here before he notices us!

Even though #16's before our very eyes? I think not. If you're running away, you can do it alone.

No worries, Cabba. Should things go south, I'll sort things out somehow!

B-But...

Finally, something interesting. Let's head down.

Seems like Cell's gone... But this mess of clothes...

It does seem like he was here. And was hungry by the looks of it...

Tch, Cell, you disgusting bug...

More importantly, where's #16?

His scent's still strong. He's nearby!

Hm? That's...

...

#16!

So that's him... He looks kind of menacing...

Hm...?!

What's wrong, Shallot?

Jeez, where have you been, #16? Send us on a wild goose chase, why don't you.

#17... #18...

So you're on the hunt for Cell too, huh?

...

Oh? Giving us the silent treatment as usual? Some things don't change.

Get away from him!

What are you talking about, Shallot?

There's something weird about him! Something smells off!

...

...#16?

Nrgh...

...?!

He's coming! Get ready!

Tsk!

...

He's strong! Almost the same as Cell...no, probably even stronger!

Tch, just what is going on?!

I don't recall him to be this strong...

Haaaaagh!

Hm?!

Shallot... What's with that look?!

It's called Super Saiyan! #17, #18, I know he's your buddy, but I have no choice than to go all out!

Hng!

Ungh?!

Cabba?! Dammit! You rooster-headed freak!!

*pant* *pant* How'd ya like that?!

...#16'd better survive that.

One thing's for sure, even #16 wouldn't emerge from that without a scratch...

...

Dammit! With a smug look on his face to top it off!

Hm?

...

#16!!

He just ran off...

Oh, crap! Cabba! Hey, man, are you okay?!

Y-Yes, thank you... More importantly, what about #16...?

What's up with him, I wonder?

...

#16 is a close ally of yours, right? Why did he suddenly attack us?

There was something...abnormal about him. Is he usually like that?

No... Usually he's such a pacifist. Gazing at the birds and nature... You wouldn't think he was an android.

Then what the hell happened?!

...#17.

Yeah, I know. We can't let this slide. We're going after him, Shallot. Can we rely on you and your nose again?

Of course! This way!

...

(Shallot's transformation... That "Super Saiyan"... What was it? I've never heard of it before...)

(I can't stop thinking about it! Maybe... Maybe I'll be able to do it too!)

Hey, stop spacing out, Cabba! We're leaving you behind!

R-Right, I'm coming!

Found you, rooster head!

Hm...

Heh, I can't sense any Ki from you, but your scent won't escape my nose!

...

Have you no brain? Why would you give up your own methods so easily?!

Who cares! We're ending this here and now. Once I kick his ass, it won't matter!

You think just beating him up will solve everything? Even after we said he's our ally? You really are a moron!

G-Give it a rest, I'm not THAT dumb! I never said I'd damage him beyond repair!

...Hyaaaa!

Look out!

Get ready, Cabba! We're taking this rooster head down!

...

*pant* *pant* He just won't give in, will he... You not cryin' uncle, yet?!

(W-Wow... Shallot's fighting toe to toe with #16! So this is the power of his Super Saiyan!)

#16! Just tell us what your game is, already!

This time, the silent treatment won't slide! If you're not willing to give us an answer, we'll beat it out of you!

Haaaaagh!

Wait, what?!

#16. It's time.

Tin man?! Why's #16 buddying up with these guys?!

Your mission was to conduct a warm-up test after your reboot.

Leave the rest to us and clear out. You need a number of adjustments based on today's battle data.

(THAT was a warm-up?! You're telling me he's still got way more power under the surface...?)

...

#16...!

Tch, not so fast!

Your opponent is us.

Ugh!

Move.

Shallot, do you still have #16's scent?

No... It's suddenly vanished.

I see... Hmm, he may have fled to the neighboring sea.

It's because YOU told him how we were following him! Honestly Shallot, do you have no common sense?

Just shut up already! No point cryin' over spilt milk!

A-Anyway, you never told me that tin man was #16's pal! What's up with that?!

Who knows. I was surprised to hear he's working with Dr. Gero, too.

Either he's gone to that old man of his own free will, or...

...Gramps has reprogrammed him. He's turned him into his very own obedient mechanical slave. Tch, makes me sick.

So it's possible Dr. Gero has full control over #16 right now...

Ngh, I don't get the details, but... we're still heading to Dr. Gero's hideout... Right?

Yeah. We can make him cough up some answers regarding #16, too.

Don't worry about the hideout. I'll need a little more time, but I should be able to find it!

Whoa, Bulma! I know you always do this, but at least say "hello" first!

So you know where his new hideout might be?

Yeah. Once I've finalized its coordinates I'll let you know. Sit tight a little longer! Later!

Sit tight? Here in the middle of nowhere? Great, I'm ready to be bored out of my mind.

Um, Shallot, if you do have nothing to do...

Huh?

Please... Take me as your student!

What?! A student?!

As in...you'd be MY student...?

Yes! Even if it's just during this spare time! Please teach me what you know!

I can't stop thinking about that transformation... Please teach me how to become a Super Saiyan!

You want to know how to transform?! I'm not sure if...

When we fought with #16, I was taken out almost immediately... I couldn't do anything...

I want to become stronger! Strong enough to be of use to everyone!

Cabba... You...

...Sure. You got it! I'm going to train you hard and make you into a Super Saiyan!

Th-Thank you, Shallot! I mean, thank you, Master!

Huh?! M-Master?!

Cut it out, man! Callin' me Master right off the bat! It feels...weird!

Ah, I'm sorry! Should I not call you that...?

U-Uh, I didn't say that...

Fine! Go ahead! From now on, you can call me "Master"!

Thank you! I won't let you down, Master Shallot!

(Master, eh... A bit stuffy, but it does have a good ring to it...)

So, Master... How do I become a Super Saiyan?

Huh?! A-Ah, uh...

Oh? You seemed pretty high-and-mighty just now, but don't tell me... You don't know HOW you actually transform?

Shaddap, course I do!

Isn't it obvious? Uh, training! Yeah, lotsa training! Then you'll transform!

Training, huh... So, sparring, for example?

H-Hit the nail right on the head! You must first fight and grow strong before becoming a Super Saiyan!

I'll be your sparring partner. Show me your full power!

Y-Yes, sir!

Heh heh, my first fight with Cabba! This oughta be a good one!

Seems fun. Let us get in on the action, too.

I've got nothing better to do, so it'd be a good time killer.

No way... You two want to become Super Saiyans, too...?

Um, no? Is wanting to become a Super Saiyan a prerequisite for joining in your sparring session?

What a cold master you are! Barring other people from the fun just because they're not Saiyans too...

Grah, I didn't say "no", did I?!

Whatever! Join if you want! May as well take me on all at once!

*pant* *pant* *pant*

Hey, we're not done yet, Cabba! This is nothing compared to Nappa's sadistic training!

Nappa...?

Up the pace Cabba! I want you to be like "GRAAH!", then be like "fwoosh!", then come at me like, "HRAAAGH!"

Like...fwoosh?

You ready for Round 2? If so, come on!

I've just finished warming up. Pick up the pace a little, shall we?

Heh, sounds good to me! I won't go easy on you!

Um, Master?! Is this still... sparring?!

Easy training isn't training! Now, less chatting, more punching! You'll go flying if you loosen up!

*pant* *pant* *pant*

Worn out already? It was just starting to get fun!

You didn't seem to break a sweat, eh?

Well, of course. We're the infinite energy model. For sure we won't run out of stamina.

Infinite... what now?

I think it means they can keep fighting without wearing out...

WHAT. That's cheating!

Don't be so harsh. Are we finished with training now?

Oh right! Training! Hey, Cabba? How d'you feel? Feel like you can transform now?

Sorry, not at all... I thought it might come to me through fighting you, Master, but it seems not...

Hmm... Weird, you're definitely strong enough to be able to... Dammit, there's gotta be a better way...

Dear oh dear, you really are not the most helpful of masters... Cabba, was it? How about a change of teacher?

Ehhhh?!

Well, you know, I wouldn't mind being called "Master #17". And, training a student sounds kinda interesting.

You may not become a Super Saiyan, but I can guarantee you'll get a lot stronger under my tutelage.

W-Wait a sec here! Cabba's MY student! I'm gonna be the one to train him!

Master...!

Well, if that's the case, then you better do your job properly and teach him how to become a Super Saiyan.

Ngh, I know that, but you see, it's... Well...

You really are hopeless.

How about starting by recalling what it was like when you first transformed?

Huh? Me? Well, uh, I was fighting with Frieza... He started ticking me off, then I... I just kinda snapped.

...That's it! Cabba! I want you to snap! To completely lose it! Then you'll be able to transform!

A-Are you sure? Can I really transform just by getting angry?

Yeah! Trust me! But I don't mean little stuff, you need to get mad for real. Like, so angry you lose yourself!

To get real angry... That's how I become Super Saiyan...

Thanks, #18! You're kinder than you look!

Kind? Oh, please. I just couldn't stand watching your idiocy any longer.

Hey, all! Sorry for the wait! I've got the coordinates of Dr. Gero's new hideout!

That's some speedy research. Good work.

Hee hee, all in a day's work. I've sent the data over. Oh, but don't do anything rash, you hear?

We'll be fine! I'm here after all!

I hate to admit it, but you have gotten somewhat stronger. Anyway, we'll be in touch should we get any new info. Later!

Right, ain't no time like the present.

What about your training?

Isn't it obvious? We can continue that while we head for the hideout.

What?!

Or would you rather stop?

O-Of course not! I just thought this was only temporary... While we were waiting for Ms. Bulma to contact us...

Don't be stupid! I'm going to look after ya until you truly become a Super Saiyan!

Master...! Thank you so much!

That's all well and good, but make sure neither of you are worn out when it matters. Got it?

Yeah, yeah! My training's gonna be tough as nails, but I'll make sure he doesn't actually die!

Ehhhhh?! M-Master?!

Now that we got things cleared up, how about we begin the search for the hideout?

You got it!

I'm gonna kick their butts! Dr. Gero, Cell, and #16 won't even know what hit 'em!