"So that's how it is. Raditz is now a Supreme Kai... It's unimaginable how much he's changed in just a few years." Renso set down his teacup with emotion.
After only a few years' separation, some people's transformations could only be described as earth-shattering. This was perhaps the difference between individuals. Under the warm lighting, Renso took a deep breath, unable to help recalling his shocked reaction upon first seeing Raditz and his party earlier. He shook his head slightly.
This man always brought surprises. His leg had been restored because he'd followed Raditz's advice and sent Cabba to Namek to make a wish with the Dragon Balls. It was precisely because of that restoration that he'd regained his passion for life and successfully broken through to Super Saiyan.
He owed Raditz everything.
Even after becoming a deity, Raditz remained approachable without a trace of arrogance. This made Renso admire him even more.
Rukon was playing with Android 18, while Kale had actually begun conversing with Broly. Neither spoke much, but they communicated through unspoken understanding. Their intermittent chat proved surprisingly lively.
Raditz and Cabba discussed recent changes and developments, creating the atmosphere of a typical afternoon tea gathering. The mood was harmonious and warm, laughter echoing continuously through the small room.
"By the way, where is Frost? Has there been any news of him since?"
"I haven't seen him again." Cabba shook his head. "But there were some rumors later. Someone at the Universal Chamber of Commerce saw someone resembling Frost."
"Universal Chamber of Commerce?" Zangya asked curiously.
Renso explained carefully, "Ah... it's a peaceful trade system formed by many developed galaxies. They maintain the normal flow of commerce throughout the universe and sometimes play a role in preventing wars. They hold high status across the cosmos. To maintain their own security, they hire powerful fighters to serve them. Our Sadala Defense Force sometimes accepts commissions from the Chamber."
"There will be a commission in a few days—at an auction," Cabba added.
This novel organization had never been heard of in Universe Seven, and Raditz—now wealthy and influential—found himself quite interested in auctions. Purchasing some rare treasures for his companions back in Universe Seven wouldn't be a waste of this trip to Universe Six.
Raditz considered for a moment. "Could we attend the auction?"
"You're interested? They've given several seats to the Sadala Defense Force. There's certainly no problem if you want to go."
"Then it's settled. We'll spend these few days touring Planet Sadala. To be honest, I was a bit rushed last time."
Cabba looked slightly surprised. "Even though you're a Supreme Kai now, is it really alright not to return?"
"This time I'm here as a tourist!" Raditz said with a smile.
Renso, Cabba, and the others were momentarily stunned.
Several days passed in the blink of an eye. Raditz and his companions enjoyed a wonderfully comfortable travel experience on Planet Sadala, having a fantastic time communicating with the local Saiyans.
Then they boarded a spacecraft and traveled to the Universal Chamber of Commerce's auction venue alongside the Sadala Defense Force.
Planet Fabo—a dedicated trading world belonging to the Chamber of Commerce—shone like a pearl in the vast universe. As the nexus point of trade for all developed planets, it was uniquely favored by merchants across the cosmos.
When Raditz and the others arrived, night had already fallen. Countless spacecraft were parked on the vast platform, so densely packed the edge couldn't be seen at a glance. Successive vessels flowed in an endless stream, their lights illuminating the dark sky.
Because the Sadala Defense Force had been hired as security personnel, they had a designated parking area. Raditz's group took advantage of this privilege and entered the auction site directly through the VIP section.
The corridor was covered with long red carpet. Massive reliefs were carved into walls lined with white gilded paper, depicting vivid alien creatures and mighty warriors arranged in sequences from legendary tales. To compensate for the lack of color, strategic lighting had been installed, as if to perfect every detail.
Passing through the corridor into the main hall, they could truly appreciate the grandeur of this event.
Rukon's mouth fell open in surprise, words failing him. Even the usually composed Android 18's eyes lit up with interest.
The venue was resplendent and magnificent, featuring the brightest lights and most gorgeous decorations. Numerous precious works of art hung on the walls—after listening to Renso's introduction, each piece proved immensely valuable. Most surprising of all were the offerings: all varieties of fine wines and beverages, staple foods and snacks, even small gambling games for everyone's entertainment. Some people had placed bets worth an entire spacecraft manufacturing facility.
Where was the auction? This was practically an entertainment resort!
Seeing Renso's arrival, several people immediately came to greet him. After all, Renso had been active throughout the universe since recovering his mobility, and his former reputation had been revived. When mentioning the Sadala Defense Force and the Saiyans, few people in Universe Six remained unaware.
"Hm? Why isn't Captain Cabba here?"
"He's on assignment. Haha, today I brought a few friends instead."
"Well then, enjoy yourselves! I'll take my leave—see you at the auction." The visitor raised his glass and departed gracefully.
The greetings continued in similar fashion. Renso grew tired of the social obligations and felt relieved after seeing off several acquaintances.
Raditz joked, "It seems Captain Renso is quite the celebrity in social circles."
"Don't tease me. These are all people who've received help from the Sadala Defense Force. Of course, I don't have the funds to actually participate in the auction." Renso spread his hands helplessly.
Raditz smiled faintly and scanned the enormous venue. Too many people to count, with wildly different appearances—clearly gathering representatives from all races across the universe. They were well-dressed, and some possessed extraordinary strength.
The novel scene made Rukon unable to contain himself. "Dad, Broly and I will go over there! There's lots of delicious food!"
"You two stay out of trouble. Android 18, go with them."
"Hmph, whatever I want to buy later is going on your tab!" Android 18 brushed back her blonde hair. "Remember that."
"Okay, okay, no problem." Raditz agreed with a smile. He'd had no intention of being frugal anyway.
Renso introduced them to the auction's specific details, including these entertainment activities that preceded the actual auction. To meet everyone's needs, the Chamber of Commerce had invested tremendous effort, specially establishing this venue for the universe's wealthy and powerful forces to network with each other. Beyond the competitive bidding, it also functioned as a high-society gathering.
The unexpected scene piqued Raditz's interest even further. "An auction that avoids monotony—as expected of the Universal Chamber of Commerce."
"Because such auctions aren't held frequently, it takes considerable time for merchants across the universe to collect valuable items. The Chamber needs to confirm that each auction will reach a certain threshold value before proceeding. It could be said that Universal Chamber of Commerce auctions are quite rare."
"Then let's enjoy this auction thoroughly." Raditz nodded slightly. Zangya took Raditz's arm, smiling charmingly.