The Cooler Force members stood at rigid attention before the imposing figure in black. Despite their years of service to one of the most feared beings in the universe, they found themselves unnerved by the towering presence before them.
Toji, fully encased in the Darth Vader costume Piccolo had created, loomed over them like a living shadow.
The mechanical breathing that accompanied each rise and fall of his chest echoed across the suddenly silent gathering. His cape billowed slightly in the breeze, adding to his otherworldly appearance.
Salza, the blue-skinned leader, fought to maintain his composure. There was something deeply unsettling about this dark figure – something that went beyond mere physical intimidation.
The black helmet revealed nothing of the man beneath, the expressionless mask reflecting Salza's own anxious face back at him.
It was as if his very power filled the air itself, and pressed upon them.
"Who seeks me, and for what purpose?" Toji's voice emerged through the modulator, deep and resonant, carrying the same menacing timbre as the Sith Lord he intentionally emulated.
If you're gonna look like Darth Vader- you better act like him too. It's fun. (And useful, when it comes to intimidation, would also most likely aid him with his ruling plans.)
Salza swallowed hard, realising that this is the Toji Fushiguro they've been sent for, his yellow hair swaying as he bowed lower. "My Lord, we are the elite squad of the former Cooler Force. I am Salza, and these are my comrades, Dore and Neiz." He gestured to the large green-skinned warrior and the reptilian being beside him.
"Former?" The mechanical voice questioned, the sound of his breathing filling the pause between words.
"Yes, my Lord," Salza continued, carefully choosing his words. "Our previous master, Lord Cooler, has been... slain." His eyes flickered briefly toward everyone, almost searching for who it was among them. "King Cold, ruler of the Cold Empire, has sent us with a message of great importance."
The mechanical breathing continued, steady and unwavering as Toji waited for him to continue.
"His Majesty has learned from the Empress herself that you, Lord Toji, are father to the heir of the Empire." Salza kept his head bowed as he delivered this news.
"King Cold extends his personal invitation for a meeting, to discuss you joining the Empire as the new Lord of the Cooler Force, overseeing the territories previously under Lord Cooler's command."
A murmur rippled through the gathered Z Fighters. Chi-Chi clutched Megumi closer to her chest, her expression darkening with protective instinct.
Toji looked down at the bowing aliens, the expressionless mask betraying nothing of his thoughts. After what seemed like an eternity of breathing, he spoke.
"Very well. I accept the King's invitation."
The simple statement confirmed his desire and sent shockwaves through the gathering. The Z Fighters erupted into noise.
"You can't be serious!" Krillin exclaimed.
"It's obviously a trap!" Yamcha added.
"Toji, think about what you're doing!" Bulma called out.
Toji raised a single gloved hand, and the protests died instantly. Despite being new to the group, despite his youth compared to most of them, his authority was absolute. In serious moments like this, he commanded respect without effort.
For he was the Strongest.
"I know what I'm doing," he stated simply, the voice modulator giving his words added weight.
He turned and walked past the still-bowing Cooler Force members. With a subtle gesture, he telekinetically lifted Megumi from Chi-Chi's arms, surrounding the infant in a protective bubble of ki that floated alongside him.
The baby gurgled happily at the sensation of flying, tiny hands reaching for the shimmering energy around him.
"Vegeta, Nappa," Toji called without turning, "follow me."
The two Saiyans exchanged confused glances, hesitating.
"What do you mean?" Vegeta demanded, his brow furrowed.
Toji half-turned, the mask's empty eyeholes somehow conveying disappointment. "Have you forgotten? You are my subjects. That has not changed."
As his breathing sound continued to fill the silence for a moment, he continued. "And Vegeta, you agreed to be my future Grand Regent, did you not? Or are you going back on your word?"
Vegeta's fists clenched at his sides, teeth grinding audibly. Pride warred with indignation on his face before settling into grim acceptance. "Fine," he spat, stepping forward. "I am a man of my word."
Nappa followed without protest, falling into step behind his prince.
"Wait!" Two voices called out simultaneously.
Toji turned to see both Goku and Bulma stepping forward, looking surprised at them speaking at the same time.
"I'm coming too!" they said in unison, then glanced at each other in confusion.
The protests were immediate and strong.
"Absolutely not!" Chi-Chi exclaimed, directing her fury primarily at Bulma. "It's too dangerous!"
"You can't be serious," Krillin added, looking at his oldest friend with concern.
"Bulma, think about what you're saying," Master Roshi cautioned, his sunglasses slipping down his nose as he shook his head.
Bulma stood her ground, hands on her hips. "I want to see how advanced this Empire is everyone. I had no chance last time. I'll be perfectly safe with Toji there," she countered.
"Besides, I'm the smartest person here besides my father. If it comes down to negotiations or technology, there's no one better qualified."
Toji considered her argument, then turned to Goku. "And you? Your case is more... complicated." He tilted his head slightly. "You killed Cooler. King Cold's eldest son."
At this statement, the three Cooler Force members couldn't hide their reactions- realising finally that the golden warrior was him.
Hatred flashed across their features, their ki signatures flaring with barely contained rage before they managed to compose themselves again.
Their loathing for Goku was palpable to anyone with the ability to sense energy.
Goku, seemingly uncaring to their animosity, simply placed his hands on his hips and grinned confidently. "I'm coming for the extra muscle!"
Toji's considered both requests. "Very well," he finally agreed. "You may both accompany us."
Salza stepped forward, his composure cracking slightly. "My Lord, if I may," he began, his accent thickening with stress, "bringing the killer of Lord Cooler to the Imperial Capital would be... unwise."
Toji turned toward the blue-skinned warrior, gazing down at him for a long moment. Seeing that it was out of geniune concern, he decided to forgive him contradicting him this once. "I sense your concern, Salza. It is unnecessary. I know what I am doing."
"But my Lord," Salza persisted, "I doubt King Cold-"
His words cut off abruptly as his hands flew to his throat. An invisible force had closed around his windpipe, lifting him several inches off the ground. Toji's hand was raised slightly, fingers curled in a loose grip.
"I find your lack of faith... disturbing," Toji stated.
After a few seconds, he released his telekinetic hold, allowing Salza to drop to his knees, gasping for air.
From the corner of his eye, Toji, who's focus had been on Gohan, caught his reaction – pure awe, as if Toji had just hung the moon in the sky.
Piccolo, standing behind the boy, scoffed internally. The Namekian wasn't fooled; he recognized that Toji had used Salza's insubordination as an opportunity to impress the boy- having been forced to watch the movies with him by Gohan.
'Show off,' Piccolo thought, though his mental tone carried more amusement than malice.
Dore, the massive green-skinned warrior, hesitantly stepped forward after helping Salza to his feet. "Lord Toji," he began, his deep voice rumbling with deference, "if these individuals are to accompany you, they will need proper armor."
"Armor?" Toji questioned.
"Yes, my Lord," Dore explained. "In the Empire, those who accompany a Lord without traditional armor are seen as equals in authority. For your first appearance in the Imperial Capital, it would... undermine your status."
Everyone turned toward Piccolo, who stared back in confusion before realization dawned on his face.
"Why are you all looking at me?" he demanded, though he already knew the answer. After a moment, he sighed heavily. "Fine."
With visible annoyance, Piccolo pointed at Goku and Bulma. A beam of light shot from his fingertips, enveloping them both. When it faded, their appearances had transformed completely.
Goku's powerful frame was now encased in traditional Saiyan battle armor identical to what his brother Raditz had once worn. It was a brown and black chest plate with prominent shoulder guards.
Beneath the armor, a black compression suit covered his arms and legs, with white wristbands and white Saiyan boots with gold tips.
Without his signature orange gi, Goku's facial features seemed sharper, more Saiyan like. Only his eyes remained unchanged, still carrying their characteristic gentleness
Bulma herself now wore royal Saiyan armor modeled after Vegeta's – a white chest plate with gold accents. Beneath the armor, a form-fitting royal blue bodysuit covered her from neck to ankles, complemented by white gloves and matching boots.
Her blue hair was styled in a practical high ponytail.
Goku examined his new attire with mixed feelings. "It feels weird," he admitted, though he appreciated how lightweight the armor was compared to its appearance. "Brings back some bad memories."
Bulma, on the other hand, seemed pleased with her look. "Not bad," she commented, examining the armor's craftsmanship. "Functional and stylish."
"If you're all quite finished," Vegeta growled, already striding toward the ship, "let's get this over with."
The farewell was brief but emotional. Chi-Chi extracted promises from Goku to stay safe and return quickly.
Dr. Brief offered technical advice to Bulma about documenting any advanced technology she might encounter. Gohan hugged his father tightly, trying to appear brave despite his obvious concern.
As they prepared to depart, Toji led the procession toward the ship, Megumi floating happily beside him in his ki bubble.
Vegeta and Nappa followed, with Salza, Neiz, and Dore maintaining a respectful distance behind them. Goku carried Bulma princess-style as they flew, her armor gleaming in the sunlight.
The massive spacecraft dwarfed them as they approached. Its sleek, predatory design spoke of both speed and power – a vessel worthy of an imperial fleet.
The red carpet extended from the ramp as they descended upon it, and walked on it towards the ship.
Inside, the ship's interior matched its impressive exterior. Polished metal corridors led to a central command bridge where crew members worked at various stations, each dropping to one knee as Toji passed- him being at the forefront clear enough to be the new Lord.
"Set course for the Imperial Capital," Salza instructed the pilot, who immediately began the launch sequence.
As the engines hummed to life, Toji moved to the main viewport, crossing his arms as he watched Earth grow smaller beneath them.
Megumi's bubble floated beside him, the infant seemingly fascinated by the stars emerging in the darkness of space- having missed seeing them from their first flight towards Earth.
Behind him, the group had gathered in the ship's central briefing room. Bulma, now fully embracing her role, sat at the head of the table opposite Toji's empty seat, her armor gleaming under the overhead lights.
"Alright," she began, "before we arrive, I want to know everything. What exactly are we walking into?"
Salza, Neiz, and Dore exchanged glances, clearly uncomfortable with the interrogation but unwilling to refuse after Toji's earlier display.
"The Imperial Capital isn't a single planet," Salza explained, his accent more pronounced under stress. "It's a system of seven planets orbiting a massive blue star, each serving a specific function in the Empire."
"Seven planets? That's a lot." Bulma's eyes widened. "What are they used for?"
"The first is for military training," Dore rumbled, his deep voice carrying easily across the table. "The second houses research facilities. The third contains luxury resorts for the elite."
"And the others?" Vegeta demanded, leaning forward. Despite having served Frieza for decades, he'd never been permitted to visit the Imperial Capital.
"Administration, food production, manufacturing, and the throne world," Salza continued. "The throne world orbits closest to the star, making it the most secure and difficult to approach."
"What about defenses?" Nappa asked, surprising everyone with his tactical question. "How heavily guarded is this system?"
"The most heavily defended location in the universe," Neiz hissed, speaking for the first time. His reptilian features contorted into what might have been pride. "Automated defense systems, planetary shields, and the Imperial Fleet's headquarters."
"And that's where we're headed." Goku stated, still cheerful, and even a bit excited despite everything.
"Yes," Salza confirmed. "Directly to the throne world."
"What about King Cold himself?" Vegeta pressed, his knowledge of the former emperor limited to rumors and Freeza's occasional mentions. "What should we expect?"
The three Cooler Force members tensed visibly at the question.
"His Majesty is... formidable," Salza finally answered, choosing his words with extreme care. "Perhaps even more powerful than either of his children, though he rarely demonstrates his power directly."
"Is he actually stronger than Cooler was?" Goku asked bluntly.
Dore's massive fist clenched at the casual mention of his fallen master by his killer, but he controlled himself. "Lord Cooler was the eldest, but the Empress was born with greater natural power. King Cold, Lord Cooler estimated... surpasses them both."
"By how much?" Bulma asked, her scientific mind seeking quantification.
"No one knows," Salza admitted. "Not even Lord Cooler could guess. His Majesty has never been forced to reveal his full strength."
Vegeta's expression darkened. "What about the political situation? With Cooler dead and Freeza... indisposed, who commands the Empire now?"
"King Cold has temporarily assumed direct control," Salza explained. "But the Empire is vast – over 70% of the known universe. It cannot be managed by one being indefinitely."
"Which is why he wants Toji," Bulma surmised. "To fill the power vacuum."
"Precisely," Salza nodded. "The heir must have a father figure of appropriate strength."
"The heir?" Nappa leaned forward, his massive frame making the reinforced chair creak. "You mean the baby? Megumi?"
"Yes," Neiz confirmed, internally making sure to remember the baby's name. "The child of the Empress and Lord Toji represents the continuation of the Cold Dynasty. Such bloodlines are sacred in imperial culture."
"And what about the Empress herself?" Bulma asked, her tone carefully neutral. "Where is she now?"
"At the Imperial Capital," Dore answered. "She returned several days ago, causing quite a stir. Her new form was... unexpected."
"New form?" Goku perked up at this. "You mean her transformation?"
"The royal family can transform to control their power, as you should know." Salza explained, with a bit of harshness at the end. "The Empress has revealed a fifth form, something previously unknown. It is said by her to be her true appearance."
"And she's female," Nappa added unnecessarily. "Still can't believe we never knew."
"Few did," Salza said. "It was a closely guarded secret, known only to the royal family and their most trusted advisors."
"What kind of reception should we expect? Who should we expect to be there?" Vegeta asked, his mind already planning for contingencies. He didn't fear the weaklings, but they could be a nuisance. In a high level battle, if they were to fight Cold and Freeza, even the slightest distraction could be fatal.
"Will we be welcomed or viewed with suspicion?"
"The ones who will attend are... secret, even to us. It is conventional for their protection as the highest-ranked regents in the Empire for their identities to be hidden from anyone that is not part of the Royal Family. Acting through representatives who themselves don't know their true faces." Salza explained.
Vegeta's eyes narrowed, 'conventional' implied that in unconventional cases those identities were known. He'll grill this blue freak later for more information about that.
"Lord Toji will be welcomed as befits the father of the heir," Salza continued, assuring them. "You, as his close subjects, will be accorded appropriate respect."
His gaze shifted to Goku, hardening slightly. "The killer of Lord Cooler, however..."
"Will be under my protection," Toji's voice interrupted from the doorway. He stood with arms crossed, Megumi's bubble floating beside him. "Anyone who threatens him answers to me."
The Cooler Force members immediately dropped to one knee. "Yes, my Lord," they chorused.
"What about living arrangements?" Bulma continued, seemingly unfazed by Toji's dramatic entrance. "Where will we be staying?"
"The Imperial Palace has guest quarters for visiting dignitaries," Salza explained as he rose. "Though I imagine Lord Toji will be offered permanent residence in the royal wing, near the Empress's chambers."
"And the baby?" Goku asked, making faces at Megumi through the ki bubble, earning delighted giggles from the infant. "Does he get his own room too?"
"The heir will have an entire suite," Neiz confirmed. "With attendants, guards, and tutors appropriate to his station."
"Tutors?" Bulma questioned shocked. "He's barely a week old!"
"Frost Demon development is accelerated compared to most species," Dore explained. "Within months, he will begin speaking and walking. Within a year, he will require education befitting his status."
'Finally, some information that I can actually care about right now,' Toji thought to himself.
"How long will it take us to reach the Capital?" Toji asked, his voice cutting through the conversation.
"One week, my Lord," Salza replied promptly. "This vessel is the fastest in the Empire. Lord Cooler always valued speed above all else."
"And what about communication?" Bulma pressed. "Can we contact Earth during the journey?"
"The ship is equipped with long-range communication systems," Salza confirmed. "Though transmissions may experience delay over such distances."
"One last question," Vegeta said, his expression serious. "What happens if we refuse this... invitation? If we were to turn around and return to Earth?"
The temperature in the room seemed to drop several degrees. The three Cooler Force members exchanged uncomfortable glances.
"That would be... unwise," Salza finally answered, his voice barely above a whisper. "King Cold is not accustomed to being refused. If the heir and his father do not appear as requested, His Majesty might take... personal action."
"He would come to Earth," Toji translated, his mechanical breathing filling the silence that followed.
"Yes," Salza confirmed grimly. "And unlike his children, King Cold has never been known for restraint when displeased."
Silence followed.
"Well then," Bulma broke the tension with forced cheerfulness, "I guess we'd better make ourselves comfortable for the journey."
"Night cycle has been initiated," Salza announced, clearly relieved to change the subject. "I shall show you to your quarters."
"They are to be given the best accommodations," Toji instructed, brooking no argument. "In my hierarchy, they outrank you and your men."
Salza's expression tightened momentarily before smoothing into practiced deference. "Of course, my Lord. Please, follow me," he instructed Bulma, Vegeta, Goku, and Nappa.
As they disappeared down the corridor, Toji remained at the viewport, Megumi's bubble floating gently beside him.
The mechanical breathing of his helmet filled the silence as stars streaked past, Earth now just a distant blue speck behind them.
They were on their way to the heart of the Cold Empire.
(He could sense her even from here, has been sensing her since she left, never letting her out of his constant awareness.)
Soon he'll meet her again...
Toji clenched his arm at the thought.
"Earlier than expected." He muttered to himself.
--------------------------
(Author note: Phew, that took a bit. Had to think a lot about the politcal structure of the Empire there.
The whole regents being hidden thing I find quite the interesting thought, and makes sense cause it well... Let's just say makes sure all the power constantly only remains in the hands of the Royal Family.
Also, do tell me what you think of Toji deciding for the moment when wearing the Vader suit speak more royally, like a Lord. I think it's fun, been quite a lot of chapters, since I've written formality.
Don't worry, when the suit is off, he'll be casual again.
But I think when it comes to Lord matters, him being more formal, and just above in speech, fitting.
Well, I hope to see you all later,
Bye!)