Planet Namek

Goku closed his eyes and focused, sensing the auras scattered across Namek.

Sure enough, this planet not only possessed pure natural energy, but also several distinctly powerful auras spread across its surface.

He quickly sensed that seven powerful auras were distributed in different directions, each carrying a steady, protective presence. Goku guessed that these seven auras belonged to the guardians of Namek's various villages. Farther away, there was another aura—the strongest of all—vast and profound, radiating an intimidating pressure. Goku's heart stirred as he secretly guessed its owner: that must be Nail, Namek's strongest warrior and the guardian of the Grand Elder.

Steadying himself, he headed toward the nearest village, deciding to meet the Namekians there first and learn about the customs of this planet.

As Goku stepped into the Namekian village, several Namekians approached him. They curiously sized up this unexpected visitor, but soon lowered their guard and gathered around him with puzzled smiles.

One of the older Namekians was named Moru. Tall and composed, he was the village elder. He kindly said to Goku, "Welcome to our village, friend from afar." Moru was deeply respected in the village. He seemed able to sense Goku's energy and found no ill intent in him, so he took Goku on a tour of the village.

Soon after, a young and lively-looking Namekian leaned in as well, introducing himself with a grin. "I'm Chil!" Naturally curious, Chil examined Goku with an excited expression. "I heard that people from other planets are all especially strong. Are you really that amazing?" As he spoke, he secretly touched Goku's clothes, seemingly fascinated by anything new and unfamiliar.

There was also a thin but sharp-eyed Namekian named Toka. He was one of the village's warriors, responsible for protecting its safety. Unlike the others, he was not particularly friendly. With some wariness, he quietly said to Moru, "Elder, what if he brings danger with him?" Still, when he saw that Goku showed no hostility, he gradually relaxed.

Moru led Goku around the village, introducing Namek's customs and telling him about the traditions they upheld as guardians. The village grew a kind of green fruit, a specialty of Namek. Moru handed Goku one, and after taking a bite, Goku felt the sweet, refreshing juice burst across his tongue. He could not help nodding in praise. "This is delicious!"

"We cultivate these fruits ourselves," Chil said proudly. "They can restore your strength instantly!"

Goku gradually became familiar with the villagers, while Moru slowly said, "You must have come here for a reason, haven't you?"

Goku nodded slightly. "I did come looking for some help. I heard there was a Grand Elder..."

Moru nodded and pointed into the distance. "The Grand Elder is over there. You can seek his guidance."

Goku rose into the air, crossed the azure sky, and flew toward the depths of Namek's mountains. He slowed down, carefully sensing the flow of auras as he traveled with the mountain breeze. From far away, he spotted the Grand Elder's residence—a magnificent stone palace perched atop a mountain peak, surrounded by enormous statues and Namek's distinctive ancient runes, giving off an air of mystery and solemnity.

Goku landed on the open mountaintop and walked into the Grand Elder's residence. His gaze fell upon the Grand Elder, who sat on an enormous stone throne. He was massive in stature, with a peaceful and wise expression, as though he were gazing upon the planet's past and future. Beside him stood a tall, imposing Namekian warrior—the strongest warrior, Nail. His expression was cold as he watched Goku, his entire body radiating an untouchable presence.

Goku stepped forward, bowed slightly, and introduced himself. "Hello, Grand Elder! I'm Goku. I came all the way from Earth to seek your guidance."

The Grand Elder slowly opened his eyes. His gaze was deep as he looked warmly at Goku, then he gave a slight nod. "A warrior from Earth... I can sense your great energy. Your journey must have been filled with challenges. Welcome, Goku."

But Nail kept his eyes fixed on Goku, his gaze blazing as he coldly said, "Earthling, we Namekians do not welcome outsiders who may bring threats." He clenched his fists, prepared for any unexpected situation.

Goku quickly raised both hands and smiled. "I really don't mean any harm! I came to learn and exchange ideas. I heard Namek possesses mysterious powers, and I especially wanted to see them for myself."

The Grand Elder waved a hand, signaling Nail to lower his guard. Then he calmly said to Goku, "I can sense your sincerity and your kind heart... Perhaps I can offer you some help and further the results of your training on Earth."

Joy appeared in Goku's eyes as he replied excitedly, "Really? That would be great!"

The Grand Elder smiled faintly and nodded. "There is immense power hidden within you. I can help you unlock part of it, allowing you to go even further in the future."

Goku stood to the side, waiting for the Grand Elder's instructions. The Grand Elder raised his eyes and looked at him kindly, giving a gentle nod. "Child, come here."

Hearing this, Goku stepped forward and stood before the Grand Elder.

The Grand Elder slightly raised a hand, signaling Goku to lower his head. Goku did as instructed and felt a warm power flow from the Grand Elder's palm, gently settling over the top of his head.

The Grand Elder closed his eyes and unleashed Namek's mysterious power. The hidden strength within Goku surged forth like spring water. He felt a scorching energy course through his entire body, and his aura continuously rose under the Grand Elder's power. Every trace of strength seemed to be releasing potential that had long been stored away, filling his body.

Goku's body trembled slightly, but more than anything, he felt an indescribable exhilaration. It was as if his strength had instantly risen to an entirely new realm. After a long while, the Grand Elder slowly withdrew his hand and opened his eyes, revealing a gentle smile.

"The potential within you is limitless. Even I can only unlock this much," the Grand Elder said warmly. "I hope this power will lend you a hand on the road ahead."

Goku excitedly clenched his fist and bowed deeply to the Grand Elder, thanking him sincerely. "Thank you, Grand Elder! I'll definitely put this power to good use!"

After thanking the Grand Elder, Goku secretly decided not to gather Namek's Dragon Balls anymore. After all, he had already troubled the Grand Elder into unlocking his potential, yet he had offered no substantial help in return. Asking for the Dragon Balls would simply be unreasonable.

After leaving the Grand Elder's residence, Goku came to an open area. Once he was standing still, he tried setting the Gravity Bracelets to 500 times gravity. He felt the burden on his body increase noticeably, but he could still handle it with ease. He moved his limbs a little and sighed inwardly. I never expected to improve this quickly. The Gravity Bracelets aren't enough anymore. Raising his head toward the stars, Goku pondered, Are there any ultragravity planets in this universe, like neutron stars? If I could train in that kind of environment, it would definitely be more challenging.

As Goku pondered, he faintly felt the power within him become even more abundant. He guessed, My Power Level should have surpassed Frieza's first form by now, right?

He silently set a goal for himself. Once my Power Level reaches three million, I have to try transforming into a Super Saiyan. Only then will I truly step into a higher realm.

Goku took the spaceship capsule from his waist pouch and pressed it lightly. The spaceship immediately returned to its original size. He leaped inside, skillfully activated the system, opened the star map, and searched the vast sea of stars for a nearby interstellar trading station. Staring at the markers on the map, Goku thought excitedly, It's time to see other parts of the universe.

He entered the trading station's coordinates, and the spaceship swiftly launched. Amid the roar of its engines, it surged into the interstellar route.