After their sparring session, Uchiha Hikari had a clearer understanding of her own strength.
If measured by Dragon Ball's power levels, her base combat ability was likely around 30–40. Adding fire-style ninjutsu and basic techniques like substitution could push it higher. At this point in the story, she could probably defeat Yamcha and Krillin. Tien Shinhan was harder to gauge—but not a major concern.
As for someone like Master Roshi…
Without her Mangekyō abilities, she didn't stand a chance. Even with them, victory was unlikely.
Before arriving in the Dragon Ball world, Uchiha Hikari had always wondered—why was the moon so easily destroyed here?
After talking with Bulma, she finally understood.
The moon in this world, much like in Naruto, wasn't 380,000 kilometers away, nor was it as massive. It was likely created through ancient magic, which explained how Master Roshi—with a power level of just 139—could obliterate it with a Kamehameha. And somehow, it always regenerated afterward.
Even so, Master Roshi at full strength was comparable to Naruto's top-tier Kage-level fighters. Madara Uchiha might stand a chance against him, but the current Uchiha Hikari? Not yet.
However—
One discovery thrilled her.
"Demonic Illusion: Shackling Stakes Technique!"
With a low incantation, Goku froze in place, yelping in surprise. Uchiha Hikari smirked faintly.
That's right.
Though the mechanics weren't entirely clear, her Mangekyō-based genjutsu—like the Shackling Stakes and Tsukuyomi—worked on Dragon Ball characters!
This meant she could use Tsukuyomi to place cursed seals on the powerful fighters of this world, then siphon their ki through her Yasaka Magatama ability—much like absorbing chakra from shinobi. In a way, it was another form of the Spirit Bomb.
She didn't even need many seals—just tagging Goku and his future allies would let her reap the rewards years later.
Hmm…
Worth a try.
——
That night, the trio rested in two small capsule houses Bulma had tossed out.
Uchiha Hikari and Bulma shared one, while Goku slept alone in the other.
Thus, the original plot's infamous "Goku sneaking into Bulma's room to peek at her underwear" scene never happened.
The next morning, they set off again.
By noon, they reached the seaside, where they met the Turtle Hermit—wearing the fourth Dragon Ball around his neck.
Despite being mentally prepared, Uchiha Hikari still felt a twinge of exasperation upon meeting the so-called "God of Martial Arts," who had zero dignity.
"Oh? You want this orb?"
The Turtle Hermit leered at Bulma and Uchiha Hikari. "I found it in the ocean over a century ago. Pretty, isn't it? If you show me your panties, I'll give it to you. How about it?"
"…What nonsense are you spouting, you old perv?!"
Bulma angrily smacked him on the head.
Uchiha Hikari, meanwhile, silently pulled out a prepared "gift" from her backpack and handed it over.
—She had packed it back in Konoha: a full set of Make-Out Paradise novels, plus a few colorful adult picture books. She'd skimmed them herself and deemed them suitable for the Turtle Hermit's tastes.
"How about trading these for that orb, Master Roshi?"
Hearing the name "Master Roshi," the old man blinked, his pervy expression fading as he grew more serious. "You've heard of me, girl?"
"Of course."
"The legendary strongest martial artist in the world, founder of the Turtle School… Your face alone tells a thousand stories."
Uchiha Hikari carefully laid on the flattery before cutting to the chase. "To be honest, this boy's grandfather was your first disciple, Son Gohan. As for me… I'm just a martial arts enthusiast hoping to learn from the man revered as the God of Martial Arts."
"Oh? Gohan's grandson?" The Turtle Hermit's gaze softened as he studied Goku. "How's the old man doing?"
"Gramps died a few years ago," Goku answered bluntly.
"I see…"
The Turtle Hermit sighed wistfully, then turned back to Uchiha Hikari, his pervy grin returning. "So, little lady, you're a martial artist too? Here to become my disciple? I haven't taken students in years, unless—"
"No. I just wanted to ask for directions to Korin Tower."
Uchiha Hikari had never considered becoming his student.
Not because his skills were lacking.
But because his perversion was unbearable. While he wouldn't cross certain lines, groping and harassment were practically guaranteed.
If she were still male, she might've risked it. But now? No way.
With the Turtle Hermit ruled out, her options for learning ki were limited.
There was Master Shen, but he'd be difficult to approach—and his location was unknown.
The other option?
Korin, the cat sage atop Korin Tower.
Korin was stronger than Roshi, and anyone who climbed the tower could train under him.
Uchiha Hikari planned to seek him out and test whether someone from another world could learn ki. Even if not, she could at least snag some Senzu Beans—a priceless strategic resource.
"…Alright."
Seeing her refusal, the Turtle Hermit looked a little disappointed but didn't press the issue.
After flipping through Make-Out Paradise, the old master happily pocketed the books.
"Here, take the orb."
"Oh, and dark-haired girl—whoever trained you did well, but with your current skill level, climbing Korin Tower will be nearly impossible. If you change your mind, you know where to find me."
"…Thanks for the advice."
Uchiha Hikari politely declined again, watching as he rode off on his turtle.
——
The next two Dragon Balls were easier.
The fifth was in the village where Oolong had been causing trouble. After helping resolve the issue, they were given the orb by an old woman.
The sixth was at Frypan Mountain, held by the Ox-King.