The Mystery of the Kaio-ken

Nappa's Last Stand

Nappa tells Goku that the wound on his head will cost him. Goku welcomes the challenge, but Nappa accuses him of bluffing. Vegeta, watching closely, believes otherwise. Nappa powers up and triggers an eruption beneath Goku's feet. Goku launches clear of the exploding ground, and Nappa pursues with heavy punches. Goku blocks one and counters with a kick to the face. They exchange several rapid blows before breaking apart.

Goku compliments Nappa's improvement, which only enrages the Saiyan further. Nappa opens his mouth and fires his strongest technique, a concentrated beam aimed straight at Goku. In the instant before impact, Goku counters with a Kamehameha. The two blasts collide in a massive explosion, and when the smoke clears, Nappa is stunned: his best attack was completely nullified.

Vegeta Takes Command

Vegeta calls Nappa off, declaring that he has embarrassed himself enough. Krillin and Gohan are alarmed; if the giant is terrified of Vegeta, the prince's power must be extraordinary. Nappa seethes at being benched but warns Goku that Vegeta is a genius warrior so powerful that their home planet was named after him.

The Kaio-ken Unleashed

Nappa begins descending, but his gaze drifts to Krillin and Gohan. In a sudden act of spite, he changes course and dives at the two injured fighters. Goku realizes he cannot reach them at normal speed. He screams the name of his secret technique and activates the Kaio-ken. His body flares with energy, and he closes the distance in a heartbeat, smashing into Nappa's spine. Goku catches the paralyzed Saiyan, lifts him overhead with one hand, and throws him at Vegeta's feet. He tells Vegeta that Nappa can no longer fight and should be taken off Earth. Vegeta stares in silence, replaying the moment: in one instant, Goku's speed and power multiplied beyond anything the scouter had shown.