The Last of Nappa

The Kaio-ken Explained

Krillin asks Goku whether the technique he just used came from King Kai. Goku confirms it: the Kaio-ken allows the user to control every trace of ki in the body and amplify it all in a single instant. When executed properly, strength, speed, offensive power, and defensive power all spike dramatically. Krillin and Gohan are amazed, but Goku cautions that the technique carries serious risk.

A flashback shows King Kai warning Goku that any mistake in controlling the Kaio-ken will tear his body apart. The absolute maximum safe multiplier is two times his base. Anything beyond that places too great a strain to endure.

Vegeta's Judgment

On the ground below, the broken Nappa begs Vegeta for help. Vegeta reaches down and takes his comrade's hand, and for a brief moment it appears as though he might show mercy. Then he smirks, hurls Nappa into the air, and fires a powerful blast that detonates on contact. The explosion is enormous. Goku snatches Krillin and Gohan and carries them clear of the blast radius. Krillin is horrified that Vegeta would murder his own ally without hesitation.

Farewell Before the Storm

Goku tells Krillin and Gohan to head to Kame House immediately. Gohan is reluctant to leave, but Krillin explains they will only be in the way if they stay. Krillin asks Goku to move the fight somewhere else, so that the bodies of their fallen friends remain undisturbed for when they are eventually revived. Goku reminds them that with Piccolo and Kami gone, the Dragon Balls no longer function. Gohan catches the implication, and Krillin says he will explain everything after the battle, if Goku survives.

Krillin extends his hand and tells Goku not to die. They clasp hands one last time. Goku pats Gohan on the head and promises they will go fishing together. Then father and son part ways. Goku approaches Vegeta and suggests they relocate. Vegeta agrees, indifferent to the location, confident the result will be the same. The two Saiyans fly off together and land in a desolate rocky landscape filled with towering stone pillars. Vegeta declares that Goku has chosen his own grave.