Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Normal Friends from Strange Places ❯ The Origin of Goldheart ( Chapter 16 )
[ P - Pre-Teen ]
By: Maria Cline 
This reveals how Goku became Goldheart in the first place from his POV.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Comedy / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 10.08.2002 | Pages: 5 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 298 | Status: Completed
This reveals how Goku became Goldheart in the first place from his POV.
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Comedy / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 10.08.2002 | Pages: 5 | Words: 5.1K | Visits: 298 | Status: Completed
Okay, this is an Interlude... anyone who hasn't seen Normal Friends from Strange Places Chapter 12, don't read this unless you know Goldheart or would like some spoilers. This fic takes place during Chapter 10.
All characters except for Kyuushi and Trey belongs to Akira Toriyama. Those two belong to me.
The Origin of Goldheart
A Normal Friends from Strange Places Interlude
By Maria Cline
It all started with a judgment. Goku Son, savior of Earth and one of the strongest warriors in the Universe was on his knees in front of a The Great Kaioshin, God of the Universe, and his loyal servants, Kyuushi the Angel of Death and Kibito, his bodyguard.
"Goku, you have been charged with the crime of killing King Kai, Gregory, and Bubbles. Killing a god is one of the greatest offenses in the Next Dimension. How do you plead?" The young god asked as he sat on his throne.
Goku pondered the question. He hadn't meant to kill King Kai and the others, but what could he do? Let Cell destroy Earth? Yet, there was no excuse for what he did. "I'm guilty." Goku confessed, "But, it was either that or the world!"
"Silence, mortal!" The Angel of Death screamed, "Death is death. Great one, how shall he be punished?"
"Will you accept what must be done to you?" The god asked Goku.
"As long as it doesn't hurt my friends or family, I accept any punishment." Goku said softly as he gazed upward.
"You are a noble man, Goku." Kaioshin said as he held up a sphere. "A man pure of heart. You will not go to Hell for this tragic crime but you cannot stay here. I am sending you back to Earth, but not in your current form."
"Huh?" Goku asked as he stared at the god. "What do you mean?"
Kaioshin didn't answer. Instead he tossed the sphere at the man and it encircled him. Goku screamed as he felt his body morph and shrink. Finally the pain stopped and Goku opened his eyes. Everything had become taller than before. **What happened to me?** The warrior thought as he looked down to see paws where there should be hands. He opened his mouth to ask the god what happened but all that came out was a bunch of barks. He stopped and slowly walked around. It was as if he was walking like normal, only he was on all fours.
"You are a living dog." Kaioshin explained as he smiled slightly, "You shall remain this way until my angel here and I release you. You will not let anyone know who you were or a great price will be paid. You will be somewhat stronger than the average Earth dog, but you will be powerless."
Goku whined slightly at the punishment. What will he do? How can he train as a dog? How can he talk to Gohan and the others if they need him? And how would he let the others know that he was okay if he was forbidden to tell anyone about his state?
"You will be sent back to Earth immediately. No one, except for myself, Kibito, and Kyuushi knows of your fate. Not even King Kai knows what happened to you." Kaioshin said as he looked down at the dog.
Goku sighed as he bowed his head. At least he could be on Earth again. But, it had been seven years since he died. No telling what had happened during that time, and he felt nervous.
"Let's go." Kibito said as he put a huge hand on Goku's back and vanished.
*****
The two reappeared in the middle of the woods. Goku looked around and sniffed the air. He recognized the scent in the air anywhere. He was in his old woods.
"Good luck, Goku." Kibito grunted as he stepped back and vanished.
**I wish I could teleport.** Goku thought as he stared at the space where Kiboto vanished. He knew that now was not the time for regret. He had to survive and find his family. If he couldn't talk to them or even let them know that he was Goku he could at least be there for them. He came across a small pond. **Maybe I should see what I look like first.** Goku thought as he looked down at his reflection.
Staring back at him was a dog. He had a beautiful golden coat that seemed to be the same color as his hair when he was a Super Saiyan. His eyes were bright green. He was lean with a distinct form. Goku tilted his head and thought, **Not bad. I look pretty good, for a dog! But, I'm thirsty. Need a drink.** Goku leaned over and lapped up the water. He was slightly giddy about the fact that he was drinking water without hands. It was strange for him and yet, comfortable. **Now, to find Chi Chi and the others.**
He sniffed the air and the ground. Chi Chi's scent was very strong; she still lives here. **All right!** Goku bounded through the woods, following Chi Chi's scent. Finally, he stopped at a river where Chi Chi sat doing her laundry, like she did so many years ago. He silently moved forward where he could hear her humming to herself. He watched her with awe. She was wearing a different dress than what she usually wore and had her hair in a slightly different style, but it was her.
How could he get close to her? She wouldn't recognize him and she might not like him as a dog. Still, she was close, and his heart pounded seeing her after so long. **I gotta try!** Goku thought as he stepped forward.
Chi Chi looked up and Goku stepped back. "Who's there?" She asked as she paused in her laundry.
Goku's heart pounded as she pulled out a gun. **Oh well... why not?** Goku thought as he rushed out of the bushes and tackled her. He didn't know why or how but he started licking her on the face as his tail wagged wildly.
Chi Chi screamed as she landed and put up her hands to stop the attack only to fail. Laughter echoed through the woods as Goku kept on licking and Chi Chi laughed. In his mind, he smiled at the look on Chi Chi's face. She seemed so happy now. "Cut that out!" She screamed as she playfully put her hands up. That didn't stop him.
He kept on licking till he heard a young boy's voice, "It's a doggie!" Suddenly, a pair of small but very strong arms wrapped around his neck. Goku whined as he struggled to get away. He couldn't breathe and he was too weak to fight if off.
Suddenly, Chi Chi said, "Goten, leave the dog alone! You might hurt him!"
**Goten?** Goku wondered as Goten finally released his death grip. The dog sighed in relief as he limped away from the boy and sat down. He gazed at the boy. He was a mirror image of himself as a kid. **Hey! He looks just like me!** He thought when a tall blond man came up. Goku remained silent as the man examined his neck carefully. He saw the man's third eye on his forehead and he nearly barked in excitement. **It was Trey!** He remembered the man from back when he first met him while he was recovering from his injuries. Trey had obviously grown and looked very fit. Even with most of his Ki senses blocked, he could still sense Trey's great power.
"It's okay, I think you just scared him." Trey said as he stood up.
**I wasn't scared... just stunned.** Goku thought as he looked up at the group. His eyes widened as he saw a pair of tall men with monkey tails around their waists. One of them was a mirror image of his old body, except he didn't have the scar like the other man had. The other was thinner and had short hair. Goku tilted his head as he stared at the young man. Then, it hit him. **Gohan?! Wow... he grew...** He felt a small pang of regret in his heart. He never had a chance to see his own son grow up. He didn't even know that he had another child. He looked up at the man who looked like him. **I wonder who is he?**
The boy came up nervously and asked, "Doggie, are you mad at me?"
Goku smiled slightly at the boy. Goten must be very strong if he was his son. The poor boy never knew his own strength. **How can I be mad at you?** He thought as he came up and licked him on the cheek.
"Ewww... that tickles!" Goten giggled as he hugged the dog again, this time much more gently. "Can we keep him?" He asked, beaming at his mother. Goku looked up at Chi Chi hopefully. He needed a place to stay and he wanted to stay with Chi Chi and his family. He had missed so much in the past seven years and now he had to make it up somehow.
"Goten, he may belong to someone else." Chi Chi said as she knelt down and gently moved Goten's arms to see no collar or dog tags. "Odd... you would think that a dog this well groomed would have an owner." Goku looked down and nearly blushed. It was strange to have Chi Chi think of him as 'well groomed'.
"So can we keep him?" Goten asked as he hugged Goku's neck again.
Goku prayed silently, hoping someone would listen. **Please, let them take me in." Gohan came up to him and knelt down. He petted Goku on the head as he looked at him. Goku felt somewhat strange about the fact that he had to look up to his son, instead of the other way around.
"Well... someone must be looking for him right now." Gohan said logically.
**Gohan would look for my lost owners.** Goku thought as he mentally frowned. He had to make Gohan agree to take him in. Then he came up and licked his face.
"Hey!" Gohan laughed as he wiped his face.
"But, we can't leave him alone!" Goten argued, "Those wild boars, lions, and dinosaurs will kill him if we leave him here!"
Goku gulped as he remembered the wildlife. Before he was strong enough to handle them blindfolded. Now, he might be dino chow if he doesn't have a home.
"Is there enough room for a dog at the house?" Trey wondered.
"Well..." Chi Chi sighed.
Goku stared up at her. Despite the obvious changes, there was one thing that hadn't changed, Chi Chi's word was law. He whimpered and whined pleadingly as he stared into her eyes. Chi Chi stared back and finally she put her hand on his head. "We can't leave him here, and the closest people live about five miles away... okay, we can keep him."
"Yes!" Goten squealed as he hugged the dog. Goku's tail wagged in delight.
**Woo hoo!**
*****
"Okay, Goldheart, this is a ball. Now, I throw the ball and you bring it back." Goten instructed as he held a small ball in his hand.
Goku barked as he watched his son. It was cute how his son has taken upon himself to teach him how to play fetch, even though he knew how to do so.
"Okay, fetch!" Goten said as he gently tossed the ball toward him.
Goku barked as he chased the ball. Goten was playing catch with him and he was having a blast. He caught up to the ball and grabbed it with his mouth. While it should feel strange going around catching balls with his own mouth, he didn't feel funny.
He paused for a moment as he looked at Bardock who was sitting under the shade of a tree. He found out whom Bardock was mostly by Goten telling him about his grandpa. Bardock was brought back from the dead by Baba to become her apprentice. He was gifted (or cursed) with the power to see visions of the future. He came up and sat next to him.
Bardock looked at the dog and nodded. "Hello... Doggie." He grunted, "You know, you do need a real name, because 'Doggie' sounds goofy." Bardock commented.
Goku barked in complete agreement. He wanted a real name or at least something besides 'Doggie'. Goku took the ball in his mouth and gently dropped it in front of the Saiyan. Bardock looked a little sad and the only thing he can do is maybe cheer him up.
"No, I don't want to play." Bardock grunted as he knocked the ball away.
Goku whined slightly as he tilted his head.
"I'm okay." Bardock grunted, "I... oh brother, what the hell. Have you ever felt like you don't... fit in?"
**Fit in?** Goku thought as he put his head on Bardock's knee.
Bardock smiled slightly as he scratched the dog's head. "You may not understand me but before I died, I was a planet renovator. My crew and I would go across the galaxy, eradicating cities, countries, even whole species, in the name of Lord Freeza." Bardock remarked with a bittersweet tone. "Back then, I knew what my role was." He sighed, "Ever since I came back to life I feel lost. I don't want to destroy anymore, yet that is all I know. I'm a pathetically weak Saiyan who... can't destroy anything. I don't know what to do."
Goku whined softly as he got up. He had to do something. He saw Goten coming toward the two. Quickly, he grabbed the ball and dropped it into Bardock's lap. He barked as he gestured to Goten.
"You... want me to play with Goten." Bardock commented as he picked up the ball.
"Come on, Grandpa!" Goten said, "Play with me!"
Bardock smiled down at the dog. "If I didn't know any better, I could've sworn you know..." He laughed as he tossed the ball. "Okay, just one game!"
*****
Goku sighed as he lay in the soft grass. His first few hours as a dog wasn't as bad as he thought it could be. True, he did miss talking and having hands but at least he was with his family again. Bardock, Goten, and Chi Chi were still trying to think up names to give him. They ranged from the normal ones like 'Fido' to the Saiyan types like 'Korn'. None of them felt right to him and thankfully neither did his family.
Now, things became quiet as Chi Chi and Lunch sat inside talking about Trey. Bardock and Goten were trying to think up names by themselves. Suddenly, a strange pain overwhelmed Goku. He stood up and growled under his breath. Something wasn't right. He could feel it. Chi Chi screamed and the three quickly ran inside.
Chi Chi's face was pale as she clutched onto the radio. Goku watched his wife fall apart in front of him. The only times he saw her act like this, was when she was sure Gohan was in trouble.
The radio started, *"This is Hamn Radi calling from downtown Hercule City where Saiyanman has just been shot twice by a supervillainess known as Oakley. He's bleeding and paramedics are having a hard time getting to him."*
"Shot?" Chi Chi whispered as she collapsed onto the floor. "Oh..."
Goku came up to her and whined softly. His heart broke as heard the radio. He wished he could just go and save Gohan, but, he couldn't. He couldn't even fly to his rescue now. He stared at Chi Chi and wished that he could hug her. Chi Chi looked at the dog and wrapped her arms around him. "Gohan!" She cried out.
"It's okay, my lady. Gohan is a Saiyan. We Saiyans are hard to kill." Bardock comforted.
**Then, why are there so few of us left?** Goku thought as he leaned his head against Chi Chi's arms.
Goten knelt next to Chi Chi and asked, "Is Gohan hurt?"
Chi Chi nodded as she ran her fingers through the dog's coat. "Gohan is hurt badly." She moaned as tears came down her cheeks. "But, he will make it through. He has to... he's too young to die!"
Goku whined again as he turned his head toward Chi Chi's face. He gently licked her tears away, hoping to make some difference. **Don't worry, Chi Chi, Gohan's strong. He won't die on us.**
"Looks like our new friend is worried." Bardock said as he put his hand on the Goku's head. "Don't worry, boy. Gohan's a Super Saiyan, the strongest in the world. No decent Saiyan would die because of a bullet."
Goku sighed as he felt the hand on his head. He wished he could just go and check on Gohan himself. **We will just have to wait and see.** Goku thought.
"We just have wait and see." Chi Chi whispered.
Goku's jaw slacked slightly as he stared at her. Did she hear him? Or was it just some coincidence? He put his head on Chi Chi's shoulder and let her hold him. **Don't worry. Everything will be okay.**
Minutes passed as Goku and Chi Chi stared at the radio. Chi Chi paced and stared at the radio hoping for some sign. Goku watched the woman pace back and forth. Was this the way Chi Chi acted when he was away fighting for his life? He never really knew how Chi Chi acted when he was away. He did see her when he was recovering at the hospital after the Saiyan attack so many years ago but he just thought it was stress. Now he can fully understand how being helpless is so painful for anyone. **Can't even comfort her.** Goku thought sadly as he watched his wife. **But I have to try. I may be a dog but I won't play dead!** Chi Chi sat down and buried her face in her hands. The dog went up and sat at her feet. Chi Chi put her hand on Goku's head and smiled slightly.
"Good boy." Chi Chi whispered as she stared blankly outward.
They waited again together and finally, there was a revelation. A silver fighter was seen saving Gohan. Goku's heart jumped in excitement as Chi Chi ran through the door and yelled, "Flying Nimbus!"
The cloud flew down and landed next to them. Chi Chi jumped onto the cloud and helped the currently pure-hearted Lunch on. Goku stared at the cloud. He had to get to Gohan and make sure he was all right. **Hope I can jump that high.** Goku thought as he stepped back and ran up to the Nimbus. He leapt high into the air and landed on the Nimbus next to Chi Chi.
"How did he do that?" Lunch wondered as she climbed onto the Nimbus.
Goku grinned as he leaned next to his wife. **I'm a pure-hearted dog.**
"He must be a pure-hearted dog." Chi Chi said as she pet the dog. "Okay, you want to come with us?"
The dog barked once and wagged his tail.
Chi Chi smiled and nodded. "Okay, you can come. Besides, Dr. Briefs can check you over and even give you some shots."
The enthusiastic dog stopped wagging his tail and whimpered as he lowered his head. **Shots? Why do I need shots? What do they think I am, an animal? No wait, never mind.**
"She doesn't mean it, doggie." Lunch cooed as she pet the dog. "He's such a smart doggie, yes you are."
"Let's head out." Bardock said as he and Goten flew out with Chi Chi, the dog, and Lunch following behind.
*****
Goku never felt so happy in his life or afterlife. Gohan was alive and well. He ran up to his son and started licking him on the face repeatedly. Gohan laughed as he pet him.
**Thank, Dende that you are okay!** Goku thought as his tail wagged. He glanced over to see Dr. Brief's cat hissing in fear and then jumping onto the doctor's head.
"Sorry, about the dog scaring the cat." Chi Chi apologized, "But the dog was so insistent on coming."
"That's okay." Dr. Briefs said as he came over and started looking over the dog. Goku felt slightly uncomfortable about someone examining him. "What a fine specimen. What's his name?"
"Well... we... just got him today." Gohan explained, "We found him near our house, or rather he found us."
"How did that dog get to your house?" Videl wondered as she reached down and pet Goku. "Your house is in the middle of nowhere."
Goku gazed upward at the woman. Videl seemed strong, like Chi Chi. Her hands showed that. **I wonder if Videl is Gohan's girlfriend? I wish I could ask.** Goku sighed mentally. **I wish I could talk period. Oh well.**
"Don't know." Gohan replied.
"Well... I can take care of the fellow." Dr. Briefs offered, "I have plenty of room. I love taking care of animals."
**What? I can't stay here.** Goku whined as he gazed up at his wife. **Chi Chi, please, don't let me be adopted by the Briefs, I need to stay with you.**
"I don't think so." Chi Chi said as she smiled at Goku. For a second he wondered if Chi Chi could read his thoughts. Chi Chi had always been perceptive and can almost hear his thoughts. "He seems attached to us." Goku barked in agreement as he sat next to her to show that she was right.
"I bet he did. Amazing. At least let me do a check-up. I do dog check-ups all the time for my pets." Dr. Briefs said as he rocked his little cat.
"Hey, guys!" Bulma said as she ran in. "I..." Bulma looked at the dog and asked, "Dad! How many times did I tell you not to bring pets in while the others are being examined?"
Goku looked over at Bulma. She didn't change much over the years. He could smell cigarette smoke on her, but it was faint. **I'm not one of your pets.**
"Actually, he's mine." Chi Chi said as she put her hand on the Goku's head.
**Yeah, I'm yours.** Goku agreed as he enjoyed the touch. For some reason, he liked being petted on the head.
"Yours?!" Bulma exclaimed as she knelt down. "I didn't know you owned a dog! What's his name?"
"We don't know!" Goten said as he put his arms around the dog's neck. Goku smiled at the hug. Goten really seem to like him. "We found him this morning!"
"And you are going to take him in? That's so sweet!" Bulma gushed as she pet Goku. "Hey there, boy!"
**Hey, Bulma!** Goku barked as he licked Bulma. He stopped and thought, **I hope Chi Chi won't mind.**
"Yuck! Hey! Watch it with the makeup!" Bulma stood up and stepped back.
Goku whined as he lowered his head. **I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that.**
"Awww... that's okay. I forgive you." Bulma giggled as she pet the dog again. "He's so sweet!"
"I thought so." Chi Chi confessed, "In fact, he can ride the Flying Nimbus."
"The Nimbus?" Bulma repeated, "But... I thought only those with a pure heart can ride the nimbus."
Goku glared up at Bulma. **I may be a dog, but I'm a pure-hearted dog.**
"He must be a pure-hearted dog." Gohan rationalized. "Pretty cool. You have a real heart of gold."
"Yes... a heart of gold..." Chi Chi paused as she looked at the dog. "THAT'S IT! I got the perfect name! Goldheart!"
"Goldheart?" Everyone else repeated.
**Goldheart?** Goku thought as he pondered. It sounded right for him. Of course, he could still prefer being called 'Goku'. Still, Chi Chi thought of this name and it felt right.
"That's... a good name." Gohan agreed as he grinned at Goku. "He's a golden retriever and he is very nice... what do you think, boy?"
Goku barked in joy as he wagged his tail. **Goldheart it is then!**
"Goldheart it is then." Chi Chi nodded.
*****
Goku ran after the ball eagerly and grabbed it into his mouth. **This is kinda fun.** He brought back the ball to Goten and dropped it back into his hands.
"Good boy, Goldheart!" Goten gushed as he hugged Goku. "You're the best doggie in the world!"
Goku sighed as he gazed at his son. **I wish I could be a daddy to you too.**
Goten stopped his hugging and stared at his dog. "What's wrong, Goldheart? You seem sad. Do you miss your family?"
Goku licked Goten's hand and thought, **Not really. I'm with my family now.**
Goten smiled as he scratched Goku's head. "You're cool, Goldheart, I wish we can stay together forever. I can't wait till Trunks can play with you too. Maybe I can teach you how to fly."
Goku's tail wagged as he leaned closer to Goten. **You sure are optimistic. Like father, like son.**
Goku looked over to see Triforce transforming into Trey again. He looked over at Goten and whined softly and nodded to Trey, Videl and Gohan standing together.
"You wanna see them now?" Goten asked.
Goku barked once. **Wow, Goten can understand me so well. This is cool!**
"Okay." Goten grinned as he rubbed Goku's head. Goku barked again and gently licked Goten's face.
He walked over to the three who was talking about him as Goldheart while Videl was unpacking her house.
Videl unloaded a bench and sat down. The two warriors followed and Goku laid his head on Gohan's lap. Gohan seemed troubled somehow. "Well... this has been an interesting day. I'm a fugitive on the run. Gohan was shot. Trey gained a new personality." Videl muttered.
**What about me?** Goku asked hurt.
"And we got a new dog!" Gohan laughed as he looked down at Goku and Goku licked Gohan's hand in gratitude.
"And a new dog." Videl repeated.
"And I did get reconciliate with Dad." Trey added as he leaned back. "What a day."
"I just hope that I can forgive my father like you did." Videl said, "It must be hard."
"It was." Trey stared upward, "It still hurt but at least Dad is willing to let me do what I had to do."
"You and Hercule will make up." Gohan said, "You two loved each other... just... under strange circumstances."
"Yup... a conspiracy about an epic battle seven years ago." Videl looked down and asked, "Gohan... I understand that Goku volunteered to stay dead. Did you ever... feel... betrayed?"
Goku's heart stilled as he looked up at son. He didn't know how Gohan felt about his decision. At the time, it felt right but now, he wasn't sure. He passed up the opportunity to be with his family seven years ago and he was regretting it now. **Gohan, if you hate me, I won't blame you.**
"I can't."
Goku stunned looked up at his son. **How can you not feel betrayed? I left you and your mother when I should've been there!**
"Dad... Dad believed that he was the main reason why all those villains keep on attacking us. Piccolo was created to kill Dad. Raddiz came to find Dad. Nappa and Vegita came to find the Dragon Balls because they found out from Raddiz. Freeza and King Kold came to kill Dad. The Androids and Cell were created to kill Dad."
"All this trouble was caused by your father?" Videl asked.
Goku whined as he remembered all the trouble caused by his very existence. He didn't want that trouble. He was happy living in peace, but trouble followed him constantly.
"He believed that." Gohan admitted, "That's why he stayed dead. He knew that I didn't want to fight. So, he thought if he stayed dead, there wouldn't be any more villains."
"It didn't work." Videl said, "Those supervillainesses are causing trouble now. Not because of Goku."
"I know." Gohan said as he stroke Goku again. "But I have a feeling that Dad made the right decision. I trust him with all my heart. I know that he cares deeply about me and Mom, and maybe he even knows about Goten." He smiled as the dog wagged his tail, "I love him."
**I love you too, son.** Goku thought lovingly as his tail wagged constantly. He felt so proud and happy to hear Gohan's words. Gohan didn't hold a grudge against him. **I'm so proud to be your father and your dog.**
*****
Night fell as Goku wandered the house. He had a good dinner of dog food and food scraps given to him by Goten. Today had been interesting for him. He was turned into a dog, been brought back to life, been reunited with his family, and met the father and son he never knew. The house seemed so much bigger than before. It was the same and yet felt so different.
Finally, he came up to his- Chi Chi's bedroom. He looked up to see the sliding door. **I wish I have hands.** Goku thought as he put up his muzzle next to the handle and nudged it to the side. He leaned his head inside and saw his wife lying in the futon with her long hair unraveled.
He noticed that his old futon was still there beside hers. **Chi Chi.** Goku thought as he came forward and saw that she was shivering. **Here, let me cover you up.** He gently grabbed the blanket with his teeth and pulled it over his wife's shivering body.
"Oh, Goku, why did you leave me?" Chi Chi whispered.
Goku stared down at her. Did she sense his presence somehow? **I didn't mean to leave you.**
"I'm so alone." Chi Chi moaned.
Goku lay down beside her and sniffed. **I'm here now.**
"Do you still love me?"
**I will always love you.** Goku thought as he nudged his wife's neck. **I just wish I can tell you. I wish I can just talk for five seconds to let you know how I feel. I'm sorry for what I did to you.**
Chi Chi ran her hand over Goku's head. "I love you."
**I love you too.** Goku thought as he lay down next to her. **I won't leave you alone at night ever again.** He closed his eyes and fell asleep.
Chi Chi whispered, "Goku, I missed you."
The end...
All characters except for Kyuushi and Trey belongs to Akira Toriyama. Those two belong to me.
The Origin of Goldheart
A Normal Friends from Strange Places Interlude
By Maria Cline
It all started with a judgment. Goku Son, savior of Earth and one of the strongest warriors in the Universe was on his knees in front of a The Great Kaioshin, God of the Universe, and his loyal servants, Kyuushi the Angel of Death and Kibito, his bodyguard.
"Goku, you have been charged with the crime of killing King Kai, Gregory, and Bubbles. Killing a god is one of the greatest offenses in the Next Dimension. How do you plead?" The young god asked as he sat on his throne.
Goku pondered the question. He hadn't meant to kill King Kai and the others, but what could he do? Let Cell destroy Earth? Yet, there was no excuse for what he did. "I'm guilty." Goku confessed, "But, it was either that or the world!"
"Silence, mortal!" The Angel of Death screamed, "Death is death. Great one, how shall he be punished?"
"Will you accept what must be done to you?" The god asked Goku.
"As long as it doesn't hurt my friends or family, I accept any punishment." Goku said softly as he gazed upward.
"You are a noble man, Goku." Kaioshin said as he held up a sphere. "A man pure of heart. You will not go to Hell for this tragic crime but you cannot stay here. I am sending you back to Earth, but not in your current form."
"Huh?" Goku asked as he stared at the god. "What do you mean?"
Kaioshin didn't answer. Instead he tossed the sphere at the man and it encircled him. Goku screamed as he felt his body morph and shrink. Finally the pain stopped and Goku opened his eyes. Everything had become taller than before. **What happened to me?** The warrior thought as he looked down to see paws where there should be hands. He opened his mouth to ask the god what happened but all that came out was a bunch of barks. He stopped and slowly walked around. It was as if he was walking like normal, only he was on all fours.
"You are a living dog." Kaioshin explained as he smiled slightly, "You shall remain this way until my angel here and I release you. You will not let anyone know who you were or a great price will be paid. You will be somewhat stronger than the average Earth dog, but you will be powerless."
Goku whined slightly at the punishment. What will he do? How can he train as a dog? How can he talk to Gohan and the others if they need him? And how would he let the others know that he was okay if he was forbidden to tell anyone about his state?
"You will be sent back to Earth immediately. No one, except for myself, Kibito, and Kyuushi knows of your fate. Not even King Kai knows what happened to you." Kaioshin said as he looked down at the dog.
Goku sighed as he bowed his head. At least he could be on Earth again. But, it had been seven years since he died. No telling what had happened during that time, and he felt nervous.
"Let's go." Kibito said as he put a huge hand on Goku's back and vanished.
*****
The two reappeared in the middle of the woods. Goku looked around and sniffed the air. He recognized the scent in the air anywhere. He was in his old woods.
"Good luck, Goku." Kibito grunted as he stepped back and vanished.
**I wish I could teleport.** Goku thought as he stared at the space where Kiboto vanished. He knew that now was not the time for regret. He had to survive and find his family. If he couldn't talk to them or even let them know that he was Goku he could at least be there for them. He came across a small pond. **Maybe I should see what I look like first.** Goku thought as he looked down at his reflection.
Staring back at him was a dog. He had a beautiful golden coat that seemed to be the same color as his hair when he was a Super Saiyan. His eyes were bright green. He was lean with a distinct form. Goku tilted his head and thought, **Not bad. I look pretty good, for a dog! But, I'm thirsty. Need a drink.** Goku leaned over and lapped up the water. He was slightly giddy about the fact that he was drinking water without hands. It was strange for him and yet, comfortable. **Now, to find Chi Chi and the others.**
He sniffed the air and the ground. Chi Chi's scent was very strong; she still lives here. **All right!** Goku bounded through the woods, following Chi Chi's scent. Finally, he stopped at a river where Chi Chi sat doing her laundry, like she did so many years ago. He silently moved forward where he could hear her humming to herself. He watched her with awe. She was wearing a different dress than what she usually wore and had her hair in a slightly different style, but it was her.
How could he get close to her? She wouldn't recognize him and she might not like him as a dog. Still, she was close, and his heart pounded seeing her after so long. **I gotta try!** Goku thought as he stepped forward.
Chi Chi looked up and Goku stepped back. "Who's there?" She asked as she paused in her laundry.
Goku's heart pounded as she pulled out a gun. **Oh well... why not?** Goku thought as he rushed out of the bushes and tackled her. He didn't know why or how but he started licking her on the face as his tail wagged wildly.
Chi Chi screamed as she landed and put up her hands to stop the attack only to fail. Laughter echoed through the woods as Goku kept on licking and Chi Chi laughed. In his mind, he smiled at the look on Chi Chi's face. She seemed so happy now. "Cut that out!" She screamed as she playfully put her hands up. That didn't stop him.
He kept on licking till he heard a young boy's voice, "It's a doggie!" Suddenly, a pair of small but very strong arms wrapped around his neck. Goku whined as he struggled to get away. He couldn't breathe and he was too weak to fight if off.
Suddenly, Chi Chi said, "Goten, leave the dog alone! You might hurt him!"
**Goten?** Goku wondered as Goten finally released his death grip. The dog sighed in relief as he limped away from the boy and sat down. He gazed at the boy. He was a mirror image of himself as a kid. **Hey! He looks just like me!** He thought when a tall blond man came up. Goku remained silent as the man examined his neck carefully. He saw the man's third eye on his forehead and he nearly barked in excitement. **It was Trey!** He remembered the man from back when he first met him while he was recovering from his injuries. Trey had obviously grown and looked very fit. Even with most of his Ki senses blocked, he could still sense Trey's great power.
"It's okay, I think you just scared him." Trey said as he stood up.
**I wasn't scared... just stunned.** Goku thought as he looked up at the group. His eyes widened as he saw a pair of tall men with monkey tails around their waists. One of them was a mirror image of his old body, except he didn't have the scar like the other man had. The other was thinner and had short hair. Goku tilted his head as he stared at the young man. Then, it hit him. **Gohan?! Wow... he grew...** He felt a small pang of regret in his heart. He never had a chance to see his own son grow up. He didn't even know that he had another child. He looked up at the man who looked like him. **I wonder who is he?**
The boy came up nervously and asked, "Doggie, are you mad at me?"
Goku smiled slightly at the boy. Goten must be very strong if he was his son. The poor boy never knew his own strength. **How can I be mad at you?** He thought as he came up and licked him on the cheek.
"Ewww... that tickles!" Goten giggled as he hugged the dog again, this time much more gently. "Can we keep him?" He asked, beaming at his mother. Goku looked up at Chi Chi hopefully. He needed a place to stay and he wanted to stay with Chi Chi and his family. He had missed so much in the past seven years and now he had to make it up somehow.
"Goten, he may belong to someone else." Chi Chi said as she knelt down and gently moved Goten's arms to see no collar or dog tags. "Odd... you would think that a dog this well groomed would have an owner." Goku looked down and nearly blushed. It was strange to have Chi Chi think of him as 'well groomed'.
"So can we keep him?" Goten asked as he hugged Goku's neck again.
Goku prayed silently, hoping someone would listen. **Please, let them take me in." Gohan came up to him and knelt down. He petted Goku on the head as he looked at him. Goku felt somewhat strange about the fact that he had to look up to his son, instead of the other way around.
"Well... someone must be looking for him right now." Gohan said logically.
**Gohan would look for my lost owners.** Goku thought as he mentally frowned. He had to make Gohan agree to take him in. Then he came up and licked his face.
"Hey!" Gohan laughed as he wiped his face.
"But, we can't leave him alone!" Goten argued, "Those wild boars, lions, and dinosaurs will kill him if we leave him here!"
Goku gulped as he remembered the wildlife. Before he was strong enough to handle them blindfolded. Now, he might be dino chow if he doesn't have a home.
"Is there enough room for a dog at the house?" Trey wondered.
"Well..." Chi Chi sighed.
Goku stared up at her. Despite the obvious changes, there was one thing that hadn't changed, Chi Chi's word was law. He whimpered and whined pleadingly as he stared into her eyes. Chi Chi stared back and finally she put her hand on his head. "We can't leave him here, and the closest people live about five miles away... okay, we can keep him."
"Yes!" Goten squealed as he hugged the dog. Goku's tail wagged in delight.
**Woo hoo!**
*****
"Okay, Goldheart, this is a ball. Now, I throw the ball and you bring it back." Goten instructed as he held a small ball in his hand.
Goku barked as he watched his son. It was cute how his son has taken upon himself to teach him how to play fetch, even though he knew how to do so.
"Okay, fetch!" Goten said as he gently tossed the ball toward him.
Goku barked as he chased the ball. Goten was playing catch with him and he was having a blast. He caught up to the ball and grabbed it with his mouth. While it should feel strange going around catching balls with his own mouth, he didn't feel funny.
He paused for a moment as he looked at Bardock who was sitting under the shade of a tree. He found out whom Bardock was mostly by Goten telling him about his grandpa. Bardock was brought back from the dead by Baba to become her apprentice. He was gifted (or cursed) with the power to see visions of the future. He came up and sat next to him.
Bardock looked at the dog and nodded. "Hello... Doggie." He grunted, "You know, you do need a real name, because 'Doggie' sounds goofy." Bardock commented.
Goku barked in complete agreement. He wanted a real name or at least something besides 'Doggie'. Goku took the ball in his mouth and gently dropped it in front of the Saiyan. Bardock looked a little sad and the only thing he can do is maybe cheer him up.
"No, I don't want to play." Bardock grunted as he knocked the ball away.
Goku whined slightly as he tilted his head.
"I'm okay." Bardock grunted, "I... oh brother, what the hell. Have you ever felt like you don't... fit in?"
**Fit in?** Goku thought as he put his head on Bardock's knee.
Bardock smiled slightly as he scratched the dog's head. "You may not understand me but before I died, I was a planet renovator. My crew and I would go across the galaxy, eradicating cities, countries, even whole species, in the name of Lord Freeza." Bardock remarked with a bittersweet tone. "Back then, I knew what my role was." He sighed, "Ever since I came back to life I feel lost. I don't want to destroy anymore, yet that is all I know. I'm a pathetically weak Saiyan who... can't destroy anything. I don't know what to do."
Goku whined softly as he got up. He had to do something. He saw Goten coming toward the two. Quickly, he grabbed the ball and dropped it into Bardock's lap. He barked as he gestured to Goten.
"You... want me to play with Goten." Bardock commented as he picked up the ball.
"Come on, Grandpa!" Goten said, "Play with me!"
Bardock smiled down at the dog. "If I didn't know any better, I could've sworn you know..." He laughed as he tossed the ball. "Okay, just one game!"
*****
Goku sighed as he lay in the soft grass. His first few hours as a dog wasn't as bad as he thought it could be. True, he did miss talking and having hands but at least he was with his family again. Bardock, Goten, and Chi Chi were still trying to think up names to give him. They ranged from the normal ones like 'Fido' to the Saiyan types like 'Korn'. None of them felt right to him and thankfully neither did his family.
Now, things became quiet as Chi Chi and Lunch sat inside talking about Trey. Bardock and Goten were trying to think up names by themselves. Suddenly, a strange pain overwhelmed Goku. He stood up and growled under his breath. Something wasn't right. He could feel it. Chi Chi screamed and the three quickly ran inside.
Chi Chi's face was pale as she clutched onto the radio. Goku watched his wife fall apart in front of him. The only times he saw her act like this, was when she was sure Gohan was in trouble.
The radio started, *"This is Hamn Radi calling from downtown Hercule City where Saiyanman has just been shot twice by a supervillainess known as Oakley. He's bleeding and paramedics are having a hard time getting to him."*
"Shot?" Chi Chi whispered as she collapsed onto the floor. "Oh..."
Goku came up to her and whined softly. His heart broke as heard the radio. He wished he could just go and save Gohan, but, he couldn't. He couldn't even fly to his rescue now. He stared at Chi Chi and wished that he could hug her. Chi Chi looked at the dog and wrapped her arms around him. "Gohan!" She cried out.
"It's okay, my lady. Gohan is a Saiyan. We Saiyans are hard to kill." Bardock comforted.
**Then, why are there so few of us left?** Goku thought as he leaned his head against Chi Chi's arms.
Goten knelt next to Chi Chi and asked, "Is Gohan hurt?"
Chi Chi nodded as she ran her fingers through the dog's coat. "Gohan is hurt badly." She moaned as tears came down her cheeks. "But, he will make it through. He has to... he's too young to die!"
Goku whined again as he turned his head toward Chi Chi's face. He gently licked her tears away, hoping to make some difference. **Don't worry, Chi Chi, Gohan's strong. He won't die on us.**
"Looks like our new friend is worried." Bardock said as he put his hand on the Goku's head. "Don't worry, boy. Gohan's a Super Saiyan, the strongest in the world. No decent Saiyan would die because of a bullet."
Goku sighed as he felt the hand on his head. He wished he could just go and check on Gohan himself. **We will just have to wait and see.** Goku thought.
"We just have wait and see." Chi Chi whispered.
Goku's jaw slacked slightly as he stared at her. Did she hear him? Or was it just some coincidence? He put his head on Chi Chi's shoulder and let her hold him. **Don't worry. Everything will be okay.**
Minutes passed as Goku and Chi Chi stared at the radio. Chi Chi paced and stared at the radio hoping for some sign. Goku watched the woman pace back and forth. Was this the way Chi Chi acted when he was away fighting for his life? He never really knew how Chi Chi acted when he was away. He did see her when he was recovering at the hospital after the Saiyan attack so many years ago but he just thought it was stress. Now he can fully understand how being helpless is so painful for anyone. **Can't even comfort her.** Goku thought sadly as he watched his wife. **But I have to try. I may be a dog but I won't play dead!** Chi Chi sat down and buried her face in her hands. The dog went up and sat at her feet. Chi Chi put her hand on Goku's head and smiled slightly.
"Good boy." Chi Chi whispered as she stared blankly outward.
They waited again together and finally, there was a revelation. A silver fighter was seen saving Gohan. Goku's heart jumped in excitement as Chi Chi ran through the door and yelled, "Flying Nimbus!"
The cloud flew down and landed next to them. Chi Chi jumped onto the cloud and helped the currently pure-hearted Lunch on. Goku stared at the cloud. He had to get to Gohan and make sure he was all right. **Hope I can jump that high.** Goku thought as he stepped back and ran up to the Nimbus. He leapt high into the air and landed on the Nimbus next to Chi Chi.
"How did he do that?" Lunch wondered as she climbed onto the Nimbus.
Goku grinned as he leaned next to his wife. **I'm a pure-hearted dog.**
"He must be a pure-hearted dog." Chi Chi said as she pet the dog. "Okay, you want to come with us?"
The dog barked once and wagged his tail.
Chi Chi smiled and nodded. "Okay, you can come. Besides, Dr. Briefs can check you over and even give you some shots."
The enthusiastic dog stopped wagging his tail and whimpered as he lowered his head. **Shots? Why do I need shots? What do they think I am, an animal? No wait, never mind.**
"She doesn't mean it, doggie." Lunch cooed as she pet the dog. "He's such a smart doggie, yes you are."
"Let's head out." Bardock said as he and Goten flew out with Chi Chi, the dog, and Lunch following behind.
*****
Goku never felt so happy in his life or afterlife. Gohan was alive and well. He ran up to his son and started licking him on the face repeatedly. Gohan laughed as he pet him.
**Thank, Dende that you are okay!** Goku thought as his tail wagged. He glanced over to see Dr. Brief's cat hissing in fear and then jumping onto the doctor's head.
"Sorry, about the dog scaring the cat." Chi Chi apologized, "But the dog was so insistent on coming."
"That's okay." Dr. Briefs said as he came over and started looking over the dog. Goku felt slightly uncomfortable about someone examining him. "What a fine specimen. What's his name?"
"Well... we... just got him today." Gohan explained, "We found him near our house, or rather he found us."
"How did that dog get to your house?" Videl wondered as she reached down and pet Goku. "Your house is in the middle of nowhere."
Goku gazed upward at the woman. Videl seemed strong, like Chi Chi. Her hands showed that. **I wonder if Videl is Gohan's girlfriend? I wish I could ask.** Goku sighed mentally. **I wish I could talk period. Oh well.**
"Don't know." Gohan replied.
"Well... I can take care of the fellow." Dr. Briefs offered, "I have plenty of room. I love taking care of animals."
**What? I can't stay here.** Goku whined as he gazed up at his wife. **Chi Chi, please, don't let me be adopted by the Briefs, I need to stay with you.**
"I don't think so." Chi Chi said as she smiled at Goku. For a second he wondered if Chi Chi could read his thoughts. Chi Chi had always been perceptive and can almost hear his thoughts. "He seems attached to us." Goku barked in agreement as he sat next to her to show that she was right.
"I bet he did. Amazing. At least let me do a check-up. I do dog check-ups all the time for my pets." Dr. Briefs said as he rocked his little cat.
"Hey, guys!" Bulma said as she ran in. "I..." Bulma looked at the dog and asked, "Dad! How many times did I tell you not to bring pets in while the others are being examined?"
Goku looked over at Bulma. She didn't change much over the years. He could smell cigarette smoke on her, but it was faint. **I'm not one of your pets.**
"Actually, he's mine." Chi Chi said as she put her hand on the Goku's head.
**Yeah, I'm yours.** Goku agreed as he enjoyed the touch. For some reason, he liked being petted on the head.
"Yours?!" Bulma exclaimed as she knelt down. "I didn't know you owned a dog! What's his name?"
"We don't know!" Goten said as he put his arms around the dog's neck. Goku smiled at the hug. Goten really seem to like him. "We found him this morning!"
"And you are going to take him in? That's so sweet!" Bulma gushed as she pet Goku. "Hey there, boy!"
**Hey, Bulma!** Goku barked as he licked Bulma. He stopped and thought, **I hope Chi Chi won't mind.**
"Yuck! Hey! Watch it with the makeup!" Bulma stood up and stepped back.
Goku whined as he lowered his head. **I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that.**
"Awww... that's okay. I forgive you." Bulma giggled as she pet the dog again. "He's so sweet!"
"I thought so." Chi Chi confessed, "In fact, he can ride the Flying Nimbus."
"The Nimbus?" Bulma repeated, "But... I thought only those with a pure heart can ride the nimbus."
Goku glared up at Bulma. **I may be a dog, but I'm a pure-hearted dog.**
"He must be a pure-hearted dog." Gohan rationalized. "Pretty cool. You have a real heart of gold."
"Yes... a heart of gold..." Chi Chi paused as she looked at the dog. "THAT'S IT! I got the perfect name! Goldheart!"
"Goldheart?" Everyone else repeated.
**Goldheart?** Goku thought as he pondered. It sounded right for him. Of course, he could still prefer being called 'Goku'. Still, Chi Chi thought of this name and it felt right.
"That's... a good name." Gohan agreed as he grinned at Goku. "He's a golden retriever and he is very nice... what do you think, boy?"
Goku barked in joy as he wagged his tail. **Goldheart it is then!**
"Goldheart it is then." Chi Chi nodded.
*****
Goku ran after the ball eagerly and grabbed it into his mouth. **This is kinda fun.** He brought back the ball to Goten and dropped it back into his hands.
"Good boy, Goldheart!" Goten gushed as he hugged Goku. "You're the best doggie in the world!"
Goku sighed as he gazed at his son. **I wish I could be a daddy to you too.**
Goten stopped his hugging and stared at his dog. "What's wrong, Goldheart? You seem sad. Do you miss your family?"
Goku licked Goten's hand and thought, **Not really. I'm with my family now.**
Goten smiled as he scratched Goku's head. "You're cool, Goldheart, I wish we can stay together forever. I can't wait till Trunks can play with you too. Maybe I can teach you how to fly."
Goku's tail wagged as he leaned closer to Goten. **You sure are optimistic. Like father, like son.**
Goku looked over to see Triforce transforming into Trey again. He looked over at Goten and whined softly and nodded to Trey, Videl and Gohan standing together.
"You wanna see them now?" Goten asked.
Goku barked once. **Wow, Goten can understand me so well. This is cool!**
"Okay." Goten grinned as he rubbed Goku's head. Goku barked again and gently licked Goten's face.
He walked over to the three who was talking about him as Goldheart while Videl was unpacking her house.
Videl unloaded a bench and sat down. The two warriors followed and Goku laid his head on Gohan's lap. Gohan seemed troubled somehow. "Well... this has been an interesting day. I'm a fugitive on the run. Gohan was shot. Trey gained a new personality." Videl muttered.
**What about me?** Goku asked hurt.
"And we got a new dog!" Gohan laughed as he looked down at Goku and Goku licked Gohan's hand in gratitude.
"And a new dog." Videl repeated.
"And I did get reconciliate with Dad." Trey added as he leaned back. "What a day."
"I just hope that I can forgive my father like you did." Videl said, "It must be hard."
"It was." Trey stared upward, "It still hurt but at least Dad is willing to let me do what I had to do."
"You and Hercule will make up." Gohan said, "You two loved each other... just... under strange circumstances."
"Yup... a conspiracy about an epic battle seven years ago." Videl looked down and asked, "Gohan... I understand that Goku volunteered to stay dead. Did you ever... feel... betrayed?"
Goku's heart stilled as he looked up at son. He didn't know how Gohan felt about his decision. At the time, it felt right but now, he wasn't sure. He passed up the opportunity to be with his family seven years ago and he was regretting it now. **Gohan, if you hate me, I won't blame you.**
"I can't."
Goku stunned looked up at his son. **How can you not feel betrayed? I left you and your mother when I should've been there!**
"Dad... Dad believed that he was the main reason why all those villains keep on attacking us. Piccolo was created to kill Dad. Raddiz came to find Dad. Nappa and Vegita came to find the Dragon Balls because they found out from Raddiz. Freeza and King Kold came to kill Dad. The Androids and Cell were created to kill Dad."
"All this trouble was caused by your father?" Videl asked.
Goku whined as he remembered all the trouble caused by his very existence. He didn't want that trouble. He was happy living in peace, but trouble followed him constantly.
"He believed that." Gohan admitted, "That's why he stayed dead. He knew that I didn't want to fight. So, he thought if he stayed dead, there wouldn't be any more villains."
"It didn't work." Videl said, "Those supervillainesses are causing trouble now. Not because of Goku."
"I know." Gohan said as he stroke Goku again. "But I have a feeling that Dad made the right decision. I trust him with all my heart. I know that he cares deeply about me and Mom, and maybe he even knows about Goten." He smiled as the dog wagged his tail, "I love him."
**I love you too, son.** Goku thought lovingly as his tail wagged constantly. He felt so proud and happy to hear Gohan's words. Gohan didn't hold a grudge against him. **I'm so proud to be your father and your dog.**
*****
Night fell as Goku wandered the house. He had a good dinner of dog food and food scraps given to him by Goten. Today had been interesting for him. He was turned into a dog, been brought back to life, been reunited with his family, and met the father and son he never knew. The house seemed so much bigger than before. It was the same and yet felt so different.
Finally, he came up to his- Chi Chi's bedroom. He looked up to see the sliding door. **I wish I have hands.** Goku thought as he put up his muzzle next to the handle and nudged it to the side. He leaned his head inside and saw his wife lying in the futon with her long hair unraveled.
He noticed that his old futon was still there beside hers. **Chi Chi.** Goku thought as he came forward and saw that she was shivering. **Here, let me cover you up.** He gently grabbed the blanket with his teeth and pulled it over his wife's shivering body.
"Oh, Goku, why did you leave me?" Chi Chi whispered.
Goku stared down at her. Did she sense his presence somehow? **I didn't mean to leave you.**
"I'm so alone." Chi Chi moaned.
Goku lay down beside her and sniffed. **I'm here now.**
"Do you still love me?"
**I will always love you.** Goku thought as he nudged his wife's neck. **I just wish I can tell you. I wish I can just talk for five seconds to let you know how I feel. I'm sorry for what I did to you.**
Chi Chi ran her hand over Goku's head. "I love you."
**I love you too.** Goku thought as he lay down next to her. **I won't leave you alone at night ever again.** He closed his eyes and fell asleep.
Chi Chi whispered, "Goku, I missed you."
The end...