Slug had heard of the Tree of Might's fruit before.
It was a legendary fruit born from a planet's essence, condensed from its very life energy. Eating it didn't just prolong one's life—it granted a massive surge in power, as if devouring an entire world's potential.
Slug might no longer need longevity, but power—that, he still craved.
After all, he hadn't forgotten the humiliation he suffered in his old age at the hands of the Frost Demon Clan.
In his youth, Slug was once a feared emperor of the North Galaxy—an unrivaled warrior who left worlds in his wake. But everything changed after he encountered the Frost Demons.
Their strength rivaled even that of Super Namekians… and unlike Namekians, their kind possessed extremely long lifespans.
As the centuries passed and Slug grew old and weak, his old rival, King Cold, remained in his prime—and even sired two monstrous sons with terrifying power of their own.
Slug's once-vast territory, amassed through years of conquest, was gradually absorbed by the Frost Demons. In the end, all he could do was retreat to his home world, Planet Slug, and live in disgrace.
That shame still burned in his heart.
Now that he had regained his youth and strength, Slug intended to settle the score with the Frost Demons.
But then… he heard a startling rumor: Frieza, the most gifted of the Frost Demons, had been killed—by a Saiyan.
When Slug learned of this, he was shaken.
Though he was confident in his current strength and believed he could rival Frieza, this news made one thing clear: There's always someone stronger out there.
So, Slug made a decision.
First, he would get the fruit of the Tree of Might. Then, he would crush anyone in his way.
Three years passed in the blink of an eye.
During that time, Lynx had made several attempts to track down Slug. But each time, the Super Namekian was already gone—always moving, always chasing something.
It was frustrating, but Lynx wasn't worried.
The mission had no time limit, so he simply continued his training while patiently waiting for the right opportunity.
And right then—on Earth—the long-awaited 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament was about to begin.
Last time, Lynx had missed the 21st tournament due to a misunderstanding with Hannah. He had no intention of missing this one.
After arranging everything on Planet Vegeta, he returned to Earth with his two wives to spectate the tournament. Even Bardock and Gine were invited along.
"This time, I'm definitely not missing it!" Lynx said with excitement.
Hannah and the others were confused by his enthusiasm.
It was easy to understand Bardock and Gine's interest—they'd get to see their son. But Lynx?
Why would a warrior like him be excited to watch a bunch of Earthlings with power levels under 1,000 fight it out?
Of course, they didn't know what the tournament meant to Lynx.
To him, it was nostalgia. A piece of childhood. A dream.
If he didn't feel like he'd be bullying kids, he would've entered the tournament himself.
But Lynx had no idea that as he made his way to Earth, in a remote corner of the galaxy, something big was unfolding.
"Lord Slug! We've found it! Turles' hidden treasure is on this planet!"
Hearing the report, Slug jumped up in excitement. "Excellent! What about the Tree of Might's seed and fruit?!"
"We've recovered them! There's one seed and twenty fruits!"
"Well done!"
Slug dropped back into his golden throne with a wide grin. "Quick! Bring them to me immediately! And check the star charts—find the nearest suitable planet for planting the Tree of Might! I want to begin right away!"
"Lord Slug, there's a suitable planet only a week away. If we move at full speed, we could reach it in three days… but the planet is under Galactic Patrol jurisdiction…"
Slug snorted. "Galactic Patrol? Since when has Lord Slug feared those worthless worms? Set the course. We plant the tree immediately!"
"Yes, sir!"
Slug burst into mad laughter."Once I devour these fruits… Frost Demons… Saiyans… I'll show you what it means to be the true emperor of the universe!"
Meanwhile, on Papaya Island, the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament was kicking off.
The last tournament, with Goku and Master Roshi's epic battle, had reignited the public's passion for martial arts. This time, more fighters than ever signed up.
Even Master Shen, the Crane Hermit and Roshi's rival, had sent his two star disciples: Tien Shinhan and Chiaotzu.
The tournament was shaping up to be the most competitive in Earth's recent history—at least from a human perspective.
To Lynx and his companions, however, the spectacle was… underwhelming.
Most of the contestants didn't even have the battle power of a Saiyan infant.
Hannah stretched lazily. "Darling, I really don't get why you're so excited to watch this."
Lynx gave her a look. "If you're not interested, feel free to go back to Planet Vegeta."
"No way! I came all the way to Earth. I'm staying for the food at least!"
Compared to her nonchalance, Bardock and Gine looked awkward in their Earth-style casual wear.
"Your Majesty," Bardock muttered, adjusting his oversized hat to cover his spiky hair, "do we really have to dress like this? This hat is annoying…"
"You want Kakarot to recognize you the moment he sees your face? You two are basically clones."
"…So you're not planning to reveal the truth today?"
"Of course not. Just blend in for now."
"…Alright," Bardock reluctantly agreed. He didn't want to interfere with his son's Earth journey either.
"Lynx," Tights said, "I heard Bulma's here too. Should we meet up?"
"Sure."
Outside the preliminaries arena, Lynx's group soon ran into Bulma and her friends.
With her were Oolong, Puar, and a new face: Launch.
As Lynx and Tights walked over, Bulma's expression suddenly changed.
"Hey, Bulma. Long time no see." Lynx greeted her casually.
"…Hi, Lynx," she replied, forcing a smile and lowering her head.
"Ah! It's that guy! The Saiyan!" Oolong and Puar gasped in recognition.