"A long time ago, before I became a god, Piccolo and I were actually one being."
"Back then, I was a martial artist. When I heard about the existence of the God of Heaven, I found a way to come here."
"The God of Heaven possesses a lifespan far longer than that of ordinary people, yet they are not immortal. When I arrived, the previous God of Heaven was already in his twilight years, and I hoped to become his successor."
"Although I always believed no one was more suitable than me to be the successor, the God of Heaven never agreed, as he saw a part of evil hidden deep within me."
"After enduring grueling training, I finally expelled that evil from my heart."
"In that way, I eventually gained the God of Heaven's recognition and became the new God. However, the evil I drove out became Piccolo, descending to Earth and bringing humanity great suffering and disaster. For that, I am truly sorry."
Recounting his connection to Piccolo, the God of Heaven wore an expression of remorse.
"I see. No wonder you and Piccolo look so alike, Lord God of Heaven," Master Roshi nodded, now understanding.
"Hey, Yuujin, who is this Piccolo guy? That old perv looked terrified just now," Bulma asked, holding Yuujin's arm. Beside her, Tights was also full of curiosity.
"Lord God of Heaven just explained that Piccolo is the embodiment of the evil he expelled from himself."
"Over three hundred years ago, Piccolo and his followers declared themselves a demon clan, nearly plunging the world into ruin with destruction and slaughter. It was Master Mutaito, the teacher of Master Roshi, who, along with his disciples, stopped him."
"That battle was brutal; only Master Roshi and his fellow disciple Crane Hermit survived among Mutaito's disciples. In the end, Mutaito sacrificed his own life to seal Piccolo with a special technique called the 'Demon Sealing Wave,' thus saving the world."
Master Roshi, after a few drinks, often told Yuujin and Goku about Mutaito, so Yuujin explained this to the two girls.
"Wow, history books don't mention this! Master Mutaito saved the world at the cost of his life; he must have been an incredible person."
Without doubting Yuujin's story, Bulma and Tights showed expressions of deep admiration.
"Young man, are you the one who wishes to challenge me?"
At this moment, the God of Heaven turned to Yuujin and spoke.
"Yes, Lord God of Heaven, my name is Yuujin."
Taking a step forward, Yuujin respectfully greeted the God of Heaven.
Piccolo is Piccolo, and the God of Heaven is the God of Heaven. Regardless of power or status, Yuujin showed the respect due to the guardian of Earth.
"I know you, young man. About six years ago, you and the young woman beside you summoned Shenron. I took notice of you then."
Observing Yuujin, the God of Heaven continued.
Back when Yuujin and Goku summoned Shenron, they wished for eternal youth and immortality. Though selfish, it harmed no one, so the God of Heaven hadn't interfered.
"Yes, that was indeed me and Goku."
Nodding, Yuujin didn't deny it.
"Young man, why do you wish to challenge me?"
The God of Heaven asked.
"Just like you came here with a purpose, Lord God of Heaven, I also want to become the new God of Heaven."
Without hiding his intent, Yuujin responded candidly.
"Yet, like I once was, you too have darkness within."
The God of Heaven frowned.
"Everyone has light and darkness within—that's what makes us truly human, isn't it?"
"As long as one can harness their inner darkness, it too can become a source of strength."
"Even if I have darkness, I love this planet."
"Lord God of Heaven, I wish to take your place and protect this remarkable world!"
Looking directly at the God of Heaven, Yuujin's expression was one of determination.
After a long look at Yuujin, the God of Heaven nodded.
"You're right."
"If one can control their inner darkness, they can become even stronger than someone who has none."
"I am old and indeed need a successor."
"Traditionally, only those with a pure heart could become the God of Heaven. But humanity has evolved, and perhaps the role of the God of Heaven should also adapt."
"Young man, I am willing to give you a chance. If you can defeat me, then you will be the next God of Heaven."
The God of Heaven didn't make this offer on a whim. If Yuujin were a selfish or cruel individual, he would never grant him this opportunity.
However, having observed Yuujin since he summoned Shenron, he saw that, despite the darkness within him, Yuujin had never committed any evil deeds. Strong as he was, he refrained from bullying others, instead often helping the weak.
Of course, the God of Heaven had other reasons as well.
The young man's strength was unfathomable, even to him. If he truly surpassed the God of Heaven, there would be almost no one on Earth able to restrain him. If Yuujin were denied the role, it could lead to resentment and bring disaster upon the world. Thus, it was better to allow him to become the God of Heaven and protect the Earth.
However, the God of Heaven kept these thoughts to himself.
"Thank you, Lord God of Heaven."
Yuujin, unaware of the God of Heaven's complex considerations, simply felt joy that his goal was within reach.
"Then let's begin."
"Popo."
"Yes, Lord God of Heaven."
The God of Heaven called for Mr. Popo, who immediately came forward to hold the God of Heaven's staff.
Under everyone's gaze, Yuujin and the God of Heaven stood in the center of the square, stretching and preparing for the coming challenge.
"A human challenging the God of Heaven—it's been a long time since I felt so excited."
"Yes, Yuujin keeps surprising us," said Master Roshi, stroking his beard as Gohan watched in awe.
Regardless of the outcome, merely daring to challenge the legendary God of Heaven was a feat worthy of admiration.
"Go, Yuujin! Go!" Bulma and Tights cheered, while Goku bounced beside them.
As they prepared, Bulma and Tights each took out a pair of scouters and placed them on their foreheads.
The scouters, gifts from Yuujin, could detect combat strength, communicate, warn of threats, and even process intelligence. As regular humans, the sisters found it easier to follow the upcoming battle with these devices.
With both fighters ready, under the eager eyes of the crowd, the battle between Yuujin and the God of Heaven was about to begin…
To be continued…