The Frost Demon of Universe 7

The city was alive with activity. People—presumably the Tuffles—moved through the streets and skyways with purpose, their attire a mix of functional and futuristic, adorned with glowing accents and small devices that seemed to serve unknown purposes. Robots of various sizes bustled about, assisting in tasks or acting as companions, their designs elegant and efficient. Strange machinery lined the streets, some of it incomprehensible to Zero, with gears and lights blinking in complex patterns that hinted at a level of engineering far beyond anything he had seen in his past life—or even in his memories of the Dragon Ball franchise.

"Way more advanced than I thought," Zero muttered, his eyes wide as he took it all in. "They weren't kidding when they said the Tuffles were geniuses."

He was about to move toward the city, curiosity driving his every step, when he felt something—an unusual disturbance in the air around him. His instincts flared, and in the blink of an eye, he was surrounded.

A dozen or so figures emerged from seemingly nowhere, their movements swift and precise, each of them clad in lightweight armor that glimmered with an iridescent sheen. They wielded advanced weapons—sleek, compact devices that hummed faintly, emitting an eerie blue glow. Drones hovered above them, their spherical bodies covered in sensors that scanned him with precision.

The Tuffles exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable behind their visors. One of them, evidently the leader, stepped forward. Their armor bore additional markings and an insignia, suggesting a higher rank. The leader spoke in a language Zero didn't recognize, the words crisp and efficient.

Oracle's voice chimed in his ear almost immediately. [Translation protocols engaged. Stand by.]

A moment later, Oracle relayed the message. [Identify yourself and state your purpose.]

"I'm a traveler," Zero replied, lowering his hands slightly but keeping his posture non-threatening. "I just arrived on your planet. I saw your city and thought maybe I could learn more about your people. That's all."

The Tuffle leader tilted their head slightly, clearly analyzing his response. Another moment of tense silence passed before they lowered their weapon, signaling for the others to do the same. The other soldiers followed suit, though their stances remained alert.

Zero exhaled slowly, relief washing over him. At least they're not shooting first and asking questions later, he thought, his mind racing with the possibilities of what might come next.

The leader gestured toward the city, speaking again in the unfamiliar language. Oracle's translation followed swiftly.

[You will accompany us. Any attempt to resist or deviate will be considered an act of aggression.]

"Sure," Zero said with a nod. "Lead the way."

As the Tuffles escorted him toward their city, Zero couldn't help but marvel at their technology and efficiency. This was not the struggling, vulnerable race he had imagined—they were something far greater, and he was eager to learn what secrets they held.

Zero observed the Tuffles carefully as they escorted him toward their gleaming city. Despite their advanced weaponry and efficient tactics, there was an air of restraint in their movements—a deliberate effort to avoid unnecessary hostility. It aligned with everything he had heard about the Tuffles in lore and rumors: they were a docile race, known for their intellect and technological prowess rather than their aggression.

"The Tuffles are said to be a peaceful people," Zero mused to himself, keeping his voice low as Oracle silently recorded his observations. "They demonstrate no aggressive tendencies nor internal strife unless provoked. And from what I've seen so far, that seems to be true."

He recalled how they had detected his presence—not because he had announced it, but because of a slight, intentional leak of his ki. He'd allowed a faint trickle of his power to radiate out, not enough to intimidate but enough to make his presence known. In response, they hadn't attacked him. Instead, they had approached him cautiously but without malice. It was a stark contrast to the harsh realities of survival he had faced on Planet Geyser, where weakness was an invitation for death, and trust was a liability.

"If they wanted to, they could've fired on me from a distance, maybe even tried to overwhelm me with their technology," Zero thought, his gaze flicking to the soldiers around him. "But they didn't. They came to me directly. They're careful, yes, but they're not hostile—not unless I give them a reason to be."

The realization struck him with surprising clarity: If I show goodwill, they will respond with goodwill.

Zero's lips curved into a faint smile as he walked, taking in the intricate details of their city as it loomed larger with each step. It was a marvel of engineering and ingenuity, with soaring towers of metal and glass, glowing conduits of energy winding through its streets, and flying vehicles zipping overhead in perfect harmony. The people—small, wiry, and quick in their movements—bustled about their tasks with a sense of calm purpose. It was a society built not on domination but cooperation, each piece of the puzzle fitting seamlessly into the next.

"This is a golden opportunity," Zero thought, his excitement tempered by a cautious optimism. "The Tuffles clearly have knowledge and resources far beyond what I've seen anywhere else. If I can earn their trust and learn from them, I'll have an edge—a real chance to truly understand the universe."

He straightened his posture, his expression softening as they neared the gates of the city. He needed to ensure that his every action conveyed respect and an openness to peaceful interaction. This wasn't the time for bravado or intimidation.

"Let's see what I can learn," Zero whispered to himself, a determined glint in his eye. "The Tuffles may be docile, but their knowledge could make all the difference in the battles to come. If I play my cards right, this could be the start of something big."

Zero was escorted through the sprawling Tuffle city, its sleek architecture and vibrant energy an overwhelming contrast to the desolation of Planet Geyser. The streets buzzed with life—not just from the Tuffle inhabitants but also from the countless robots that scurried about, performing tasks with precision and efficiency. The air was filled with the faint hum of technology, a symphony of progress and innovation.

The group made their way to the heart of the city, where the most prominent structure stood. It was a mansion-like building, though to call it merely a mansion felt reductive. Its size and complexity dwarfed even the grandest of Earth's palaces, its exterior lined with flowing energy panels and intricate carvings that seemed to tell stories of the Tuffles' history and achievements. The building exuded an air of authority and importance, and its design spoke volumes about the advanced culture that had created it.

Inside, Zero was led into a Great Hall that seemed to stretch endlessly. Its walls glimmered with holographic images and projections, displaying pivotal moments in Tuffle history. Battles fought and won, technological milestones achieved, and cultural celebrations played out in shimmering detail, casting a soft glow over the hall. It was a living museum, a testament to their resilience and ingenuity.

Robots moved seamlessly through the space, maintaining the hall's pristine condition and attending to various tasks. Their designs were elegant and efficient, each one specialized for its role, whether it was polishing the marble-like floors, adjusting the holographic displays, or carrying stacks of data tablets.

At the far end of the hall, seated at an ornate desk, was the leader of the city. The figure was unmistakably Tuffle, his appearance radiating a quiet dignity and wisdom. He appeared to be in his late sixties, assuming the Tuffles aged similarly to humans. His hair and beard were a pristine white, neatly groomed, and his bright scarlet eyes seemed to burn with both intelligence and a touch of caution.

The leader was absorbed in a tablet-like device, scanning through rows of data and documents with a focus that suggested he was deeply involved in the city's affairs. As Zero and his escort drew nearer, the leader's head lifted, his eyes locking onto Zero with a sharp, analytical gaze. He set the device down slowly, leaning back in his chair as if to better assess the newcomer.

For a moment, there was silence, the weight of the leader's scrutiny filling the room. The Tuffles escorting Zero stood at attention, their disciplined posture reflecting the gravity of the situation. Zero, sensing the importance of the moment, straightened his stance, ensuring his presence conveyed both respect and confidence.

His scarlet eyes narrowed slightly as they studied Zero. The old Tuffle leaned forward slightly, his hands folded neatly on the sleek, polished surface of his desk. His bright scarlet eyes bore into Zero with an intensity that belied his otherwise calm and composed demeanor. Despite his advanced age, there was an unmistakable sharpness in his gaze, a clarity that seemed to peel away any pretense or facade. His voice, when he spoke, was calm but firm, each word carrying weight.

"So, you are the life form that set off the Scouters," the man said, his tone measured but inquisitive. "My name is Nashi, and I am the overseer of this portion of Planet Plant. I have already heard from my people all the information you provided them. Now, I would like to know directly from you—what is it that we can do for you?"

Nashi's question lingered in the air, his words deliberate and layered. His demeanor reflected the hallmark of the Tuffle race—docile, peaceful, and inclined toward reason. But there was something more in his presence. While the Tuffles were indeed known for their non-aggression and intellectualism, this old man made it clear through his piercing stare that their disposition did not make them naive. His expression, though polite, carried a subtle warning: they would not allow themselves to be manipulated or exploited, no matter the power or charm of their guest.

Zero felt the weight of the moment. Despite the lack of overt hostility, he could sense the balance of trust hanging precariously. Nashi was a leader who commanded respect not with force, but with wisdom and understanding—a quality Zero couldn't help but admire.

He gave a small nod of acknowledgment, deciding that honesty would serve him best here. The Tuffles were no fools, and any attempt to deceive them would likely backfire spectacularly.

"First, Overseer Nashi, let me thank you for granting me this audience," Zero began, his voice steady but respectful. "I understand that my presence may have caused some alarm. That wasn't my intention. I'm a traveler, a survivor of circumstances I wouldn't wish on anyone. My goal in coming to Planet Plant was to find knowledge, allies, and perhaps a way to better understand the universe I've found myself in."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "I've seen what your people have built here—this city, this civilization. It's remarkable. More advanced than anything I've ever encountered. I won't lie to you—I believe I can learn a great deal from the Tuffles. About technology, culture, and survival. But let me make one thing clear: I have no intention of taking advantage of your people. I have no interest in conflict."

Nashi's eyes remained locked on Zero, his expression unreadable. The room was quiet save for the faint hum of energy coursing through the hall. Then, the old man leaned back in his chair, a faint, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

"I appreciate your candor," Nashi replied, his voice still calm but now tinged with curiosity. "You speak well, traveler, but words alone do not define a man's character. The Tuffles have learned, through experience, to value action over promises. If what you say is true, then perhaps there is a path forward for mutual understanding and cooperation."

Zero nodded again, his respect for the overseer deepening. "I understand. I'm willing to prove myself, Overseer. I don't expect trust to come easily, but I'm prepared to earn it."

Nashi regarded him thoughtfully for a moment before gesturing toward the expansive Great Hall around them. "Then let us see where this path leads, traveler. But be warned—my people are not as defenseless as you may assume. We value peace, but peace does not mean passivity."

Zero smirked faintly, impressed by the overseer's resolve. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

He stood tall as he addressed Nashi, choosing his words carefully. The old Tuffle's eyes remained sharp and focused, his body language calm yet deeply attentive. The weight of the moment was not lost on Zero; he was not merely speaking to an elder but to a leader whose decisions would ripple across the entire Tuffle society.

"The Southern Galaxy is an undeveloped section of the universe when compared to the North Galaxy," Zero began, his tone measured but firm. "There are countless unknown planets, their inhabitants far below the technological and intellectual level your people display here. For many, this part of the galaxy is nothing more than a free meal—ripe for exploitation and conquest. It's only a matter of time before some powerful individuals settle here and begin carving out empires, turning this sector into a battlefield."

He let his words hang in the air for a moment, watching Nashi's expression shift slightly. At first, there was a flicker of disbelief in the overseer's eyes, as though he struggled to grasp the scale of what Zero was describing. But as Zero continued, that disbelief gave way to an understanding that settled like a shadow over his face.

"In order to survive the chaos that's coming," Zero pressed on, "I need your help. Your technology, your knowledge—it could be the key to not just survival, but thriving in the midst of this turbulence. What I can offer in return is knowledge of my own. Insights about what's out there—about the threats and opportunities beyond your borders. Together, we can prepare for what's coming."

As Zero finished, he remained silent, his gaze fixed on the old man. Nashi leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled as he contemplated Zero's words. His scarlet eyes were thoughtful, flickering with the kind of intelligence that only came with age and experience. After a long pause, he gave a small nod of acknowledgment.

"You present a compelling argument, traveler," Nashi said, his tone still guarded but tinged with curiosity. "But before I make any decisions, I have one question."

Zero's eyebrow quirked slightly in surprise. "Of course. Ask away."

Nashi's gaze seemed to sharpen as he leaned forward slightly. "Would you be willing to display your ki for me to inspect?"

The request caught Zero off guard for a moment. He blinked, momentarily puzzled by its significance. "My ki?" he repeated, his mind racing. It wasn't an unreasonable request, but it was certainly an unusual one. Then, as understanding dawned on him, he nodded slowly.

Ki is a reflection of the individual, he thought to himself. If your ki is evil, it's reflected in your aura—dark colors like purple, pink, or even black, depending on the acts you've committed and the state of your heart. That they know this isn't surprising, but to use it as a measure of character is... unique, to say the least.

Zero's expression was calm. "I see. You wish to judge my intentions based on the nature of my ki."

Nashi nodded, his demeanor unchanging. "Precisely. While we value words and logic, there are things that cannot be hidden from those who know how to look. Your ki will reveal the truth of who you are—your heart, your intentions."

Zero couldn't help but admire the old man's wisdom. It was a subtle but effective test, one that couldn't easily be manipulated or faked. Taking a deep breath, he spread his feet slightly and closed his eyes, drawing his ki inward before releasing it in a controlled flow.

As his aura began to manifest, a brilliant cyan light surrounded him, The energy was steady and bright, untainted by malice or ill intent.

Nashi watched intently, his scarlet eyes narrowing slightly as he observed every detail of the energy surrounding Zero. After a long moment, he nodded once more, this time with a faint smile.

"Your ki is... untainted," Nashi said, his voice softer now, almost approving. "This is rare, traveler."

Zero exhaled, letting his aura fade as he relaxed his stance. "I'm glad you think so. I meant what I said, Nashi. I have no intention of deceiving or harming your people."

The old man stood, his movements deliberate and composed. "Then perhaps, traveler, we can help one another after all. Let us discuss what lies ahead—together."