Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Normal Friends from Strange Places ❯ The Day Before the Battle ( Chapter 19 )

[ P - Pre-Teen ]

George Lucas owns Star Wars. Many thanks to Nadia Rose and Darkheart81 for the major help in this chapter.

Normal Friends from Strange Places
Part 16
By Maria Cline

The sun rose as usual over the peaceful mountains. Chi Chi was up and watched the sun as she sat in her futon with Goldheart on her lap. "I can't believe how much time passed." She whispered as she stroked the dog's head. "The month just flew by... now tomorrow Gohan and the others will fight a real angel."

Goldheart whined as he nuzzled Chi Chi's stomach.

"Of course, I'm worried and you are too... but I guess I'm always worried, what mother wouldn't be worried?" Chi Chi smiled at the dog. "I'm glad you're here with me... I don't think I could go through this without you." She got up and brushed her hair and put on her clothes. "Come on, we have work to do." Chi Chi said as she opened the door.

*****

"Tomorrow... is the day." Trey said as he got up and slipped on his clothes. "I wish we had more training."

"We did train in the Room of Spirit and Time for a couple of years." Gohan said as he put on his clothes. "That helped out a lot."

"I suppose... we better rest today and do what we have to do." Trey suggested as he glanced at his best friend. "Like that bet we made?"

Gohan groaned at the thought of the bet he and Videl made with Triforce. Gohan and Videl lost and as a result, they had to go on a dinner-and-a-movie date. It will be Gohan's first date. "I'm kinda nervous. I've never gone on a date before!"

"Just be nice and pay for the meal." Trey suggested.

**And don't be scared of her.** Trigun said in his mind.

"Okay... I wonder if Videl fixed that thing about her being a wanted fugitive yet?" Gohan wondered.

"I think she's working on that right now." Trey said as he looked out the window at Videl's house.

*****

Videl flew through the air with the gauntlet disguising her form. The crowds of people looked up at her in astonishment. She could understand why Gohan and the others had kept their secret for so long. Most people couldn't comprehend the thought of aliens among them or the fact that some Humans could blow up this planet with a mere finger.

She looked down to see a gun fight between a group of criminals and police officers. **Has it been so long since I have been 'normal'?** Videl wondered as she quickly surrounded the criminals in bubbles and knocked them out.

The officers stopped their firing and Videl left them confused.

"It's not even a challenge to fight criminals now." Videl sighed as she flew toward the mansion. She could sense her father and the servants inside. "It's now or never." Videl muttered as she ducked into a dark alley and changed into her normal clothes. She ran as fast as she could towards the mansion, beyond the speed normal people could follow.

Finally, she arrived at the mansion and keyed in her password. Oddly enough, the door opened. She walked in to see the servants stopping and staring at her. "What's wrong?" She asked as she came in and walked upstairs where she felt her father's Ki and another power.

Her hands shook as she came up to her father's office. "Okay... this is it." She muttered as she opened the door and saw her father talking to a strange man with ice blond hair and blue eyes, who was wearing a white suit.

"Videl!" Hercule exclaimed as he got up and ran to her. "I'm so happy to see you!"

Videl held up her hand and said, "Why did you make up that rumor about me being kidnapped and brainwashed by some evil supervillain?"

"I was only trying to get you back." Hercule explained as he held up Videl's letter. "Adam Lazarus, my new agent, suggested that I make others think that you are in danger so you would come back."

"Yes, I'm sorry for the inconvenience." Adam said as he smiled at her. Videl nearly shivered at the tone. Her bracelet glowed and she can feel it. There was something about him she can't understand.

"That is okay." Videl said slowly, "But you could've just go and try to find me yourself. You are my father after all."

"I know and I'm sorry, but why were you mad at me?" Hercule asked as he sat down. "I gave you everything a father can give. A nice home, a good school, a reputation as the most powerful girl in the world, what more can a father give?"

"Time and the truth." Videl said as she crossed her arms. "I know what really happened at the Cell Games. While I was gone, I was training under the Golden Warriors themselves, under the real hero of the Cell Games and he's not you."

"I... I don't know what to say." Hercule confessed, "I was only trying to make you proud of me."

"By lying to me?!" Videl screamed as she hovered up and let loose a bright aura. "Look at me! I can fly without strings or engines! Those so called tricks are real! I was living under a lie!" Tears ran down Videl's face as she lowered down. "I bullied a classmate of mine because his father was using Ki-based attacks. I made his life a living hell and I can never make up for it." Videl explained as she shook. "All I wanted was a father that actually spent time with me!"

"Do not worry about the fugitive status." Adam said as he smiled, "We are taking care of it as we speak."

"Excuse me?" A woman came in, who looked identical to Videl back when she had longer hair. "Oh! I don't know you hired someone else!"

"Who is she?" Videl demanded as she glared at the woman. "Why does she look like me?!"

"She's your decoy." Adam explained, "She will apologize to the world in your stead about what happened and that you were training... she will hang around while you are away."

"So, in other words, you hired a replacement." Videl felt anger rushing through her body. Her father didn't care about her. That agent of his had hired another girl to replace her. "Damn you! I'm not an employee I'm your daughter! Why can't you see that?!"

"Listen honey, Adam thought that-" Hercule tried to explain as the look-a-like ducked out of the room.

"Who the hell cares what Adam thinks?! You didn't trust me enough seven years ago to tell me the truth. And you're hiring some...some actress to act like she's me proves that you still don't trust me." Videl felt her heart breaking. She wanted to kill Hercule and she had the power to do so, yet she couldn't.

"Videl! I tr-" Hercule tried to interrupt again.

Videl's bracelet glowed and morphed into a fingerless gauntlet. She was tired of his lies. "I'm ashamed to be the daughter of a fraud like you!"

"Listen here young lady! I'm your-"

"My father? I've met several people who have acted more like a father to me then you ever have!" Videl screamed as she thought of Piccolo, the man who trained her in Ki. He was silent and yet supported her when she needed it. Trey and Gohan had also been there for her. Trey, Trigun, whoever he was, he was the first who could see her potential and Gohan was the first one to treat her like a equal. Chi Chi and many others treated her like a friend.

"NOW HOLD IT RI…"

"Ever since Mom left you've controlled my life! You haven't allowed me to do anything that I want to-" Videl's yelling stopped when her father was suddenly in front of her with his arm raised as though he is going to hit her. Videl blocked the fist and said, "I'm leaving..." She fired a small blast at the window and flew out. She hovered outside of the hole and said, "Goodbye... FATHER!" She blasted off in a bright blue streak.

"Wait!" Hercule pleaded as he ran to the hole and saw nothing but a bright blue streak. "Why did I do that?" He moaned as he sat down and rest his head on the desk.

Adam smirked as he stared at his red ring. It swirled with a power of its own. "You won't win, Kyuushi."

*****

"Mom made a great breakfast." Gohan sighed as he patted his full stomach. He, Trey, Goten, and Goldheart were lying in the middle of the pasture staring up at the blue sky watching the clouds go by.

"Beautiful day today," Trey observed as he inhaled deeply. "I'm glad we decided to take a day off... we can't afford to be exhausted before our battle."

"Look at all the clouds, Goldheart." Goten pointed to the white fluffy clouds. "There's a pickle... and there's Trunks... hey! That one looks just like Vegita!"

"I remember back when my Dad and I would spend the day watching the clouds." Gohan sighed, "We can just lay there for hours at a time, like this. They say that your state of mind can be revealed by what you see in those clouds. What do you see, Trey?"

Trey smiled and said, "Well... I see us fighting... my moms... that one looks like Kyuushi..."

"And Trigun?" Gohan asked curiously.

Trey blushed as he heard Trigun's answer in his mind. "Let's just say that it's not meant to be heard by minors."

"Oh." Gohan blushed as well.

"I wonder what Goldheart sees?" Goten wondered as he grinned at the dog who was staring up as well.

"Who knows? None of us know what dogs think." Trey said as he smiled. "And I can't read his mind."

Goldheart got up and walked away and the others watched.

"Where ya going, boy?" Goten asked concerned.

"Who knows?" Gohan sighed as he closed his eyes. "Maybe Goldheart is going back for more food." He chuckled.

*****

Goku sighed as he went into the woods. The past month had been hard for him. Gohan and his friends have been training almost non-stop for the battle with Kyuushi and he couldn't help them train. True, he did play and cheer them up when one got sad, but it wasn't the same.

He sighed as he lay down on the forest floor. So far Bardock, Piccolo, and Krillian were the only mortals who knew his fate. They had been secretive about it since it could cost him his life or worse but it must have been hard on them. They had visited on occasion to check up on Gohan but to also check on himself. He would find ways to wander away so they could talk to him. His tail wagged as he thought about Bardock and the others letting him know what was going on and treating him like he was before.

His family had been very kind to him. Goten and Trunks would play every chance they had with him. Goten seemed to notice that he was different from other dogs. The young boy, while not as book smart as Gohan seemed to have his father's ability to read people and look inside them. Gohan, Trey, and Videl had also played with him and confided in him, yet it still hurted when Gohan confessed that he still felt responsible for his death. Chi Chi looked so happy when she was around him. At night, she would still whisper in her sleep and he would wake up and think to her. She would talk as if she could hear him and maybe she could.

His canine ears perked up as he heard some crying in the distance. **Is that Videl?** He wondered as he got up and ran to the source. He ran as fast as his four legs could carry him until he saw Videl sitting under the tree weeping.

*****

Videl's heart felt like it would shatter if she didn't stop holding her chest. "Why?" She moaned as she wiped her tears on her hands.

She felt something on her knees and looked down to see Goldheart looking back up with his head on her lap. "How did you find me?" Videl croaked as she sniffed.

Goldheart whined as he looked up as if he can sense her pain.

She stared down at the dog and smiled slightly. She wanted to talk about this but she didn't know who to tell first. Now she know, she could always confide in man's best friend. "Goldheart, you won't believe what happened. I was going to my father's house to confront him and... *sob*... he and his agent hired a look-a-like to replace me!"

Goldheart sat straight up in shock and stared at her in disbelief.

"It's true, I saw her myself." Videl sobbed, "Why? Am I not good enough for him? Can't he trust me?"

Goldheart looked away and growled.

Videl chuckled. "You're mad at him too, aren't you? I don't blame you. It's not fair... I love him but he treats me... like a puppet, an extension of his greatness. I know I've surpassed him. I wish I can just knock him out."

Goldheart whimpered as he lay his head on her knees again.

"But, I can't. Gohan and Trey are so lucky. Their fathers actually care for them. I know that Gohan's father is dead and Trey only recently forgave his father but... Gohan loves Goku and has complete faith in him and Trey seem to have faith in his father too... I wish I was that lucky." Videl confided as she stroked the dog's head. "You know, you are the only normal one here. I mean, you're just an ordinary dog, no alien blood, no history as a warlord princess... no super-powerful magical weapon that can't be taken off..." Videl gazed at her bracelet. "I wish I was normal too, but then I wouldn't be able to fly and I love to fly."

Videl sighed as she looked up at the sky. "I love protecting other people and doing things no normal person can do, and it brought me closer to Gohan." She looked around and whispered, "Don't tell anyone this, but I think that Gohan's cute."

Goldheart's eyes widened as he looked right at Videl.

"Yes, I think Gohan's cute." Videl blushed as she felt more confident. "I... even dreamt about kissing him and... maybe getting married." She looked down feeling embarrassed for confessing her deepest secrets to a dog. "Silly isn't it?"

Goldheart barked and whined as he nudged Videl's arm.

"Okay, maybe it's not so silly to you, but I... I don't know if I'm the type of person Gohan likes. I wish I do know what he likes..." Videl sighed.

Goldheart stared at her and then got up and ran off.

"Goldheart?" Videl asked confused. Then, she remembered what she said before. "No... he wouldn't... would he?"

*****

"I think that one looks like a giant cream pie." Gohan said as he point up. "And that one looks like Piccolo."

"Maybe..." Trey sighed as he glanced at Goten who had fallen asleep. Suddenly, he sat up and saw Goldheart bounding toward them. "Goldheart."

"Huh?" Gohan said as the dog came up and started barking wildly. "What is it, boy? Is it Kyuushi?"

Goldheart whined and then started barking toward a certain direction.

"What are you trying to tell me?" Gohan asked as he got up.

Goldheart let out a low growl and then went up to Gohan's legs and nudged him.

"I think he wants you to follow him." Goten interpreted as he woke up.

"Okay." Gohan nodded as the dog ran off. Gohan ran after him, confused on what the big emergency was.

The two ran through the woods and Gohan saw Videl sitting under a tree wiping her eyes. "Hey, Videl, are you okay?"

Videl nodded and then glared at Goldheart. "You brought him here didn't you?"

Goldheart whined slightly as he ducked his head.

"I'm sure she wasn't that mad at you." Gohan chuckled as he patted the dog's head. "Why don't you go and play with Goten and Trey for a while?"

Goldheart glanced at Videl and then at Gohan and walked away.

"Good, boy." Gohan complimented as he watched the dog ran off.

"I can't believe he did that." Videl moaned, "Why?"

"Because I guess he knew that you needed me somehow... dogs are that perceptive." Gohan figured as he shrugged, "Especially, that one. So, what's wrong?"

"My father, that's what." Videl muttered as she bowed her head down. "I went there like you said and... and... he hired a replacement!"

Gohan's eyes bulged as he stood up. "WHAT?! WHY?!"

"I don't know... I guess he wanted someone more 'reliable'." Videl sighed, "The good news is that my fugitive status has been removed but... I still want to hide. Why doesn't he trust me? I'm an adult, I've fought hundreds of criminals and saved many lives. I am even trusted with the most powerful weapon in the world... why can't my father trust me?" Videl wondered as tears came down her face.

"I don't know. But, we trust you. Tomorrow, when we go off to fight the Angel of Death, there's no one I would rather have by my side than you." Gohan said as he put his arm around Videl's shoulders. "Don't let Hercule bother you."

"He's my father. I can't help it. He wanted to _replace_ me." Videl said as she leaned into Gohan's arms.

"No one can replace you, Videl. You're too special." Gohan said as he gently wiped away Videl's tears.

"Thanks." Videl sniffed, "I can't stand it. I hate him. I hate him!"

"Let it out." Gohan urged, "It's okay to feel betrayed. I don't blame you. I can go there myself and..."

"No!" Videl ordered as she glared at him. "I... it's personal. I don't want you to get involved. My father isn't powerful like you but he does have influence. If he knows who you are, he'll use his influence to ruin your life! No... it's my problem. I'll deal with it when the time is right."

Gohan sighed as he hugged Videl. "Okay... only because you don't want me to... why don't we spend the day together? I mean we gotta relax before we go off tomorrow. We still have that deal with Trey about the date and the movie."

Videl nodded as she blushed at the hug. "Okay. We can do that."

"Good." Gohan grinned as he let go. "Wanna get some breakfast? I'm sure Mom can whip something up for you."

Videl smiled as she and Gohan went to the house. "Okay."

*****

Goten and Trey stood side-by-side. "Okay, show me what Goldheart can do." Trey said amused as Goten took a serious step forward.

"Okay... ready, Goldheart?" Goten asked in a tone that would mirror his father's.

Goldheart barked and sat straight up.

"Okay! Lay down!" Goten ordered.

Goldheart lay down on the ground.

"Sit up!"

Goldheart sat up.

"Roll over!"

Goldheart rolled over.

"Kamehame!"

Goldheart sat up on his hind legs and had his right front paw over his left front paw, similar to the Kamehame ha move.

"Play dead!"

Goldheart collapsed onto the ground and remained still.

"Resurrect!"

Goldheart sat up and barked.

Goten took out a small bag and tossed it to the ground. "Senzus!"

Goldheart rushed to the bag and carried to Goten and shook a few rocks out.

Goten lay down and said, "Rescue me!"

Goldheart grabbed the back of Goten's shirt and dragged him to Trey.

Goten laughed as he got up and scratched Goldheart's head. "Good boy, Goldheart!" Goten reached into his pocket and gave the dog a doggie treat. "Here you go."

"That is impressive." Trey confessed as he nodded. "You are really making progress with him."

"Goldheart's smart, he can pick things up fast." Goten said as he hugged the dog. "I want him to help out in battle."

Trey smiled as he shook his head. "He will... I'm sure he can make a difference. You are a good owner. Not many boys would train their dogs to be a rescue dog."

"I know..." Goten blushed and then Goldheart licked him. "Hey! Hee hee... I can never get used to that!"

Chi Chi watched from the distance and sighed. Goldheart and Goten got along so well. It wasn't hard for her to take care of the dog. Goldheart is smart, brave, and housebroken. He never broke anything or chew anything up. The only thing that annoyed her was him stealing food from the table, However, she didn't mind that much.

Ever since he came she had felt comfortable. Every night he slept at the foot of her futon and she wouldn't be alone. In fact, it was as if Goku was sleeping with her. She smiled slightly and wondered if Goku had sent Goldheart to keep her company or that maybe Goku was Goldheart reincarnated somehow. She shook her head at the thought. She couldn't tell anyone what she thought, it would make her sound desperate or crazy and she didn't want that.

"Are you boys done training?" Chi Chi asked as she finally came forward.

"Uh huh... I was showing Trey what Goldheart can do!" Goten gushed as Goldheart came and sat at Chi Chi's feet. "I've trained him to do all sorts of things so he can help!"

"Well... I was hoping for a nice normal dog but that's so sweet. I'm glad you are taking such active interest in our dog." Chi Chi confessed as she pet the dog. "What can he do?"

"I've taught him the basic dog tricks and then I taught him how to fetch senzus, rescue people, and check this out." Goten looked at Trey. "Trey, can you go that way into the forest?"

"Sure." Trey nodded as he went into the woods.

Goten sat down and moaned as he held his leg. "Oh... I'm hurt... Goldheart! Fetch help!"

Goldheart barked as he ran into the woods and came out nudging and pulling at Trey until they reached Goten. Then, Goldheart barked as he stepped to the side.

"Good boy!" Goten said as he patted the dog. "Cool huh?"

Chi Chi laughed as she scratched Goldheart behind the ear. "Yes... you are a smart dog, aren't you?" She sighed as she stood up. "Anyway, I need you three to get cleaned up. Bulma and her family is coming over as well as Trey's family and our friends."

"Cool! Then, I can show off what Goldheart here can do to Trunks!" Goten exclaimed, "What about my grandpas?"

"Both of them will be here too... I think that a small party might be appropriate for tonight." Chi Chi said, "That's why I need you two to clean up the house and make sure none of the Ki burns are showing."

"Okay." Trey and Goten said as they ran off. They knew they are super fast and any chore would take only a few minutes of super speed to finish.

Goldheart stared up at her and Chi Chi said, "You too."

The dog nodded and ran off after them.

*****

It was dark as Kyuushi lit a candle in front of a group of statues. It had been over a thousand years since she had ventured into the memorial. Despite the time passed by, it still hurt to see the remains of her fellow angels.

A single tear came down her cheek as she went onto her knees. "Forgive me for not visiting for so long. It had been hard for me to come here. The mortals... the chosen have grown strong but I'm afraid that it may not be enough. I'm afraid that he will be too strong for us to handle. I wish I can tell them now but I know that I have to wait till they can prove themselves. What if they're not ready? What if I can kill them in battle tomorrow? I do not wish to defeat them but I cannot show mercy! I failed you in the first battle, when the traitor turned on us, I do not wish to fail you again."

"You never failed them." Kaioshin said as he came forward with Kiboto by his side. "You are a survivor, my angel. You saved me in the Fall of the Angels. You must fight the Chosen or chaos will rule."

"I know, but it is still hard." Kyuushi said as she gazed at the statures. "The irony... the Angel of Death, fearing to kill."

"You value life, Kyuushi, that is right."

"I know." Kyuushi said as she lit another candle. "Please my friends, give me strength for the upcoming battle and do not disappoint me."

*****

"I can't believe that jerk did that to you!" Chi Chi screamed as she tossed together ingredients to cook Videl's late breakfast. She was in a relatively good mood until Gohan and Videl came in looking miserable. At first she had thought they had a fight, but then Videl told her everything and her mood changed from pleasant to vengeful. "I DON'T CARE IF HE IS THE 'CHAMPION OF THE WORLD, NO ONE HAS A RIGHT TO REPLACE YOU LIKE THAT! NO FATHER SHOULD REPLACE THEIR CHILDREN WITH... ACTORS!"

Gohan and Videl cringed at the loud voice. "Chi Chi, I know that you and everyone else want to kill my father but you can't. It's a family problem." Videl said.

"And we're your family." Chi Chi said as she put down a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon. "I mean, you two will get married someday and Hercule and I will be in-laws. And as your future mother-in-law, I have a duty to help you!"

"Mom..." Gohan whispered as he blushed. **Why does everyone think that Videl and I will get married? We haven't even dated yet?!**

"Okay... so... what will you do, Videl?" Chi Chi asked concerned.

"I... was hoping that maybe you can let me stay here for a while longer?" Videl asked as she looked down and slowly eat. She swallowed and said, "I don't mean to impose on you."

"Not at all." Chi Chi said softly, "You are welcomed to stay at our place as long as you need to."

"Thanks."

"Now... what will you two do for your date?" Chi Chi asked, "I'm throwing a small party so we can have fun before your battle with Kyuushi."

"A party?" Videl repeated stunned, "Who's coming?"

"Oh... my father, Goku's father... Piccolo... Trey's family and Bulma's family... Krillian's family... Dende and Mr. Popo... just a gathering of a few friends." Chi Chi counted off, "It will all take place outside of course."

"Of course." Gohan muttered, "Maybe Trey will let us have lunch and a matinee together. I don't want to miss the party."

"I'm sure he won't mind." Chi Chi said, "Oh, I want to invite your mother and her friend, Eighter, to the party too, but can you tell us where she lives so we can get them?"

"She lives up in Jingle Village. I can give you the address but she lives far up north. Who will pick them up?" Videl asked.

"I'm sure one of the guests can pick them up on the way. It's not that far off course." Chi Chi said as she poured a cup of tea.

"Thanks." Videl said as she smiled. She did miss her mother, despite the phone calls and visits, she wanted her mother to meet her other friends and Eighter's little 'brother' and 'sister'. "But what can we do on our date?" Her face lit up and she said, "I got it. Rollerblading."

"Rollerblading?" Trigun asked as he came in. "Rollerblading? How can you two get it on rollerblading?"

Chi Chi slapped the man on the head. "Trigun! Don't think about things like that! Gohan and Videl are too young for that! They have to wait till they're married."

"Hey, Trigun." Gohan said, "I'm surprised you're here."

"Eh... Trey was dusting and he sneezed and here I am." Trigun explained as he smirked.

"Oh... okay." Gohan said as he sweatdropped. "So... Trigun, you heard of the party?"

"Oh yeah!" Trigun exclaimed as he took out a pair of guns from his jacket and held them in the air. "I'm ready to party! Bring out the beer and dip!"

Chi Chi snarled as she snatched the guns away. "There's no beer! This is a nice non-alcoholoic party! Do you want fight tomarrow with a hangover?! I don't think so!" She tossed the guns into the trashcan. "Now! Go out there and help Goten clean the house! I don't care who you are right now, just go!"

Trigun sighed as he turned away. "Awww man..." He pouted as he walked away. "No beer... what kind of party has no beer?"

**The type setting before a vital battle.** Trey replied in his mind.

Trigun scowled as he walked away. "I'm don't feel like cleaning." He muttered as he got out some pepper. "You clean, Trey."

In a sneeze and a poof of smoke, Trey appeared. "I hate it when you leave the work to me." Trey commented as he walked away.

"Those two have issues." Videl commented as she shook her head. "How can they handle being with each other?"

"Who knows... let's get to work on our date." Gohan said as he put his arm around Videl's shoulder.

"Okay."

*****

The day passed quickly as the group prepared for their last day before the battle.

"Now, Vegita, I want you to be on your best behavior." Bulma said as she flew the aircraft to Chi Chi's house. "I don't want you to challenge Gohan or Trey to any spars!"

Vegita scowled as he crossed his arms. "What do you expect for me to do? Play with that stupid dog of theirs?"

"You can talk to the others. And Bardock will be there too, you two can reminisce about the 'good old days'." Bulma argued.

"I don't care for that weakling. He may be Kakarot's father but he can barely go Super Saiyan. He's worthless." Vegita grunted.

"He may not be as strong as you, Vegita, but Bardock is gifted. Just don't make any trouble." Bulma warned and then glared at Trunks who was sitting beside her. "And that goes for you too, Trunks."

Trunks gulped and nodded. "Okay."

*****

The house was filled with people as Chi Chi, Videl, Gohan, Goten, and Trey were busy getting everyone drinks.

"Let's see... we have Bulma's family, Krillian's family..." Chi Chi counted off as she looked around the crowd. "Hmmm... who else is coming?"

"I think Piccolo and Suno's mom and uncle haven't shown up yet." Gohan figured as he looked around. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it." Videl said as she half swum through the crowd and reached the door and answered it. "Yeah?" Her face lit up. "Mom! Uncle Eighter!"

Suno and Eighter went in and Suno hugged her daughter. "Videl! It's so good to see you again? How are you?"

Videl looked down and thought, **I just found out that my father is trying to replace me literally, I'm going to face the Angel of Death tomorrow, and I'm scared to death of my date with Gohan.** "I'm fine."

Suno half-glared at her daughter. Her mother's instincts told her that something wasn't right. However, Videl, however, was an adult and she trusted her. "Okay."

"Little Videl!" Eighter greeted as he took his turn at the hug. Videl smiled warmly as she hugged the huge man. "You have grown stronger." The android noticed.

"I've been training." Videl confessed, "Come, let me introduce you to the others."

After Piccolo, Suno, and Eighter showed up, the party went outside. Chi Chi had already set up the tables and everyone was having a good time.

Bulma had set up the Karaoke machine and there was a line in front for turns. Vegita scowled as he sat under a tree watching everything. He couldn't fight and he wasn't interested in talking to anyone. The Saiyan Prince looked up to see Goldheart holding a ball in his mouth. "Get away from me or I will blast you to Doggie Hell." Vegita threatened.

Goldheart sighed and then walked away.

"Good." Vegita smirked. "At least that animal has some common sense."

"You should treat him better, Lord Vegita." Bardock advised as he came up with staff in hand. "He was only seeing if you wanted to play with him." **And Kakarot wanted you to have some fun.**

"I don't play fetch." Vegita muttered, "Besides, I don't like dogs. Especially that one. He... there's something about him that I don't like."

"You mean other than the fact that he's sweet, adorable, and everyone loves him? I think you're jealous." Bardock asked as he smirked at his superior.

Vegita glared at the taller Saiyan. "Jealous? Of a dog? Ha! You may have the power to see the future and the current events, but you don't have a clue about what you're talking about!"

Bardock sighed as he closed his eyes. "Maybe, I have a better idea than most people." He walked away and then met up with Yamcha.

"Fool. Been here for over a month and he's already being influenced by this planet." Vegita grunted when he saw Goldheart again with Goten beside him.

"Hi, Vegita! Wanna see what Goldheart can do? I've been training him!" Goten announced as he grinned.

"Training him for what?" Vegita asked as he rose an eyebrow.

"For battle!" Goten patted the dog. "He's gonna help if we have to fight any supervillainesses!"

Vegita sighed as he stared at the dog. He didn't mind Goten and he had tolerated him in the past since he was Trunks' best friend. "Look, Goten, I have been in battles since before your father was born. And I know for a fact that dog won't last five minutes out there." Vegita said realistically.

Goldheart whimpered slightly as he lowered his head.

"He can so!" Goten argued as he wrapped both arms around the dog's neck. "Goldheart's special! He wasn't scared when Gohan and me train in Super Saiyan form! He can handle battles!"

"Maybe he can handle watching you two fight, but when an enemy is attacking, that dog will froze!" Vegita explained as he pointed to Goldheart.

The dog growled and barked angrily. **I'M NOT A COWARD!**

"There, there... I know that you are brave." Goten said as he pet the dog. "Goldheart's brave. He's the bravest dog I know."

"Why don't we test him out?" Vegita asked as he looked around, "Further away... away from these people."

"Okay!" Goten said determined as he picked up the dog. "Let's go!"

The two flew off and Trunks saw the two leaving. "I wonder what they are doing?" Trunks muttered as he flew up and followed.

*****

Vegita, Goten, carrying Goldheart, and Trunks who was following them flew to one of the training fields. It had been renovated by Trey and Videl for more efficiency. It was littered with various traps to keep them off guard and it even had a special fence to protect any innocent bystanders from wandering onto the land.

"Okay, we'll work here." Vegita said as he landed.

"Cool." Goten landed as well and let go of the dog. "Be careful of the traps. They're tricky."

"I can handle any trap." Vegita boasted as he crossed his arms.

"Good." Goten said as he nodded. "What do you want us to do first?"

"Show me what this dog can do." Vegita advised and then looked up. "You can come down, Trunks."

Trunks came out of the trees and said, "Okay."

"Hey, Trunks! Wanna help prove how strong Goldheart can be?" Goten asked.

Trunks rose an eyebrow. He knew that Goten have been training Goldheart for the past month but he was slightly skeptical that a dog could be of any use. Still, Goldheart seemed different from any dog that he had ever seen before. He was smarter and stronger than the average dog and he had green eyes. As far as he knew, no dog he had ever met before should even have green eyes. "I'll just watch." He sighed.

"All right. Show them what you can do, boy!" Goten said as he powered up.

*****

"So, that's how you met Goku!" Suno exclaimed as she and Chi Chi were having tea as the others were talking around them. They had discovered a great deal in common. They were both strong girls, they had both met Goku under strange circumstances, and they both have plans of marrying off their kids.

"Yes, it was such a long time ago." Chi Chi said as she blushed. "I'm surprised that Goku never mentioned you. Of course... I don't think he talks about his past much. Goku's the type that lives the present and not dwell in the past."

"True..." Suno said as she looked down. "You know, I miss him. I wish I can see him again."

"Me too." Chi Chi said as she rubbed her knee. She didn't tell her about the Dragon Balls or Goku's decision to remain dead. Poor Suno have her own marital troubles concerning Hercule. "I know this will sound crazy, but how did you and Hercule get together?"

"We met while he was still wrestling... his wresting circuit had come to our small village and we met and we just fell in love." Suno sighed as she looked down. "I know that right now, he is a jerk but back then he was humble and didn't have a lot. I didn't care... a few months later we got married. It wasn't until he won that World Tournament and then the Cell Games that he changed. I had to leave him after we argued and... I can't keep Videl."

"Oh... Suno... I'm sorry." Chi Chi said warmly as she rubbed Suno's shoulder.

"Don't be. I don't hate Hercule. I hate what he became. What did he do to my daughter? What did he do to her that would make her upset? I know he did something, I can feel it."

Chi Chi looked down and said, "I'm sorry, but only Videl can tell you that. It's personal for her and she might feel insulted if I tell you."

"Okay... besides, you were more like a mother to her than I had in the past seven years." Suno confessed, "I wish I was there for her."

"Yes..." Chi Chi glanced down. **Goku felt the same way.** She glanced around and then wondered, "Have you seen Goldheart?"

"No." Suno looked under the table. "Eighter?" She asked the android who was talking to Eighteen and Seventeen. "Have you seen Goldheart?"

"I thought I saw him with Goten." Eighter replied.

"Odd... I have this strange feeling something is going to happen." Chi Chi commented as she frowned slightly. "Bardock!"

Bardock and Yamcha ran up, looking slightly ruffled, and Bardock asked, "Yes, my lady?"

"What happened to you?" Chi Chi asked as she looked at the two warriors who's clothes have been rumpled and torn in a few places.

"We've been sparring." Yamcha replied quickly as he blushed slightly.

"Yes, sparring." Bardock agreed.

"Men." Chi Chi shook her head and she asked, "Bardock, can locate Goldheart and Goten for me? I have a feeling something is going on."

"I can try." Bardock said as he held his staff and closed his eyes. **Show me Kakarot.** He thought out loud.

The crystal ball glowed and the group watched as Goldheart and Goten appeared with Vegita and Trunks. The dog was doing tricks and the Saiyan didn't look impressed.

"What are they doing?!" Chi Chi demanded, "Don't tell me Vegita is going to fight Goldheart!"

"I doubt it. Goldheart may be strong but Vegita would never spar with a dog." Yamcha said as he smirked.

Bardock paled as he released the staff. **What if he knows?** He thougth as he stared at the ball. It was no secret that Vegita have been aching to fight Kakarot ever since that stalemate victory so many years ago. Was it possible that Vegita could have figured it out? After all, he, Piccolo, and Krillian figured things out, but they knew that Goku was being punished. Vegita shouldn't know a thing. "We better not risk it. I'll go and see if everything is okay."

"Are you sure?" Yamcha asked concerned, "I mean... Vegita is way stronger than you. I'll come with you if you like."

"I'll be fine. If I run into any trouble, I'll signal." Bardock said as he held up his own communications medallion.

"Still, be careful." Chi Chi said.

"I will."

Bardock flew off and Chi Chi frowned. Bardock, while he was different from most Saiyans, still had the Saiyan love for fighting. He might challenge Vegita to battle to test out his new skills. "I better have Baba keep an eye on him."

*****

Vegita watched as the dog did his tricks. He was half-impressed at what the dog had managed to learn in such a short amount of time. Most dogs he knew of couldn't learn half the tricks Goldheart was showing off now. Yet, this dog could and he didn't know why.

"Not bad." Vegita grunted as he stared at the dog. "Why don't we simulate actual battle conditions?" He grabbed the 'senzu' bag and tossed it to the far end of the field. "Now, go fetch." He ordered.

Goldheart tilted his head and then stared at the bag.

"He's suspicious." Goten said, "What are you doing?"

"Just have that dog start running for that bag." Vegita said as he hovered up.

"Don't do it." Bardock said as he hovered next to him. "He's... close to the family. Damn it! He is family!" Bardock argued.

"I won't kill him." Vegita said as the dog started rushing to the bag. "There he goes." Vegita spread out his fingers and started blasting down toward the dog.

Goldheart's eyes flashed briefly as he looked around and kept on running. He quickly dodged the blasts and ran toward the bag.

"Please, make it." Bardock whispered as he clutched his staff. Kakarot might not forgive him if he had to be rescued by his father.

Meanwhile, at a distance...

Baba focused on her crystal ball and the group gathered to see the dog running through the field surrounded by blasts.

"I'll kill him!" Bulma screamed, "What's the idea of attacking that dog like that?!"

"I don't think he's aiming for the dog." Trey said as he watched the scene, "If Vegita was trying to kill or even hurt Goldheart, he would've succeeded."

"But... a stray blast could kill him! He's not a warrior!" Bulma argued.

"True... but he is brave." Gohan said, "He's not slowing down."

"What kind of dog is he?" Suno wondered in shock.

"Golden Retriever." Gohan replied.

Back at the field...

Goldheart's heart pounded as he focused on the bag in front of him while dodging the blasts. They were very slow but he still had some difficulty avoiding the stray rocks from the destroyed ground. **Almost there...** Goku thought as he made a giant leap and landed at the bag. He grabbed the bag into his mouth and rushed back to Goten.

"Yeah! Faster, boy! Faster!" Goten cheered as Trunks and Bardock watched in shock.

Trunks was stunned. How could a dog manage to run through a field while being surrounded by ki blasts and explosions? Not even he could probably do that without at least panicking.

Bardock felt pride rising in his chest. **Incredible, even as a dog, Kakarot doesn't show fear. I can't wait till he's back to being a Saiyan to see him in action.**

Vegita frowned as he kept on firing. How could that dog not show fear? **Fun, brave, loves those brats... damn it, he's just like Kakarot.** He chuckled. **Kakarot, a dog... ha! I'd love to see that!**

Unfortunately, a small blast shot out of control and came straight at the dog. "Watch out!" Bardock screamed in horror.

Goldheart looked up and then lunged to the side and rolled over. He quickly came to his feet and ran back to Goten. He dropped the bag at Goten's feet. "Yay, Goldheart!" Goten gushed as he hugged the dog while holding the bag. "You were awesome!"

Vegita smirked as he landed on the ground, followed by Bardock. Bardock wanted to run to the dog and congratulate him but that would expose his son. "He's good." Bardock said as he smiled slightly.

"Not bad for a mutt." Vegita grunted.

Goldheart glared at Vegita and then went out of Goten's arms. He ran to the side and looked around. Finally, he pressed onto a small lever in the bushes.

"What is he-" Vegita was cut off when a small rope loop around his right ankle and then he was hung upside down. "WHAT HAPPENED?!"

Trunks and Goten clasped their hands over their mouths as they struggled not to laugh. They didn't want to get blasted by a very angry Vegita. And Trunks had to deal with him when training.

"Are you *snicker* all right, Lord Vegita?" Bardock asked as he used every ounce of willpower not to laugh out loud.

"Damn that dog!" Vegita boomed as he blasted at the branch and it gave away. The Saiyan flipped in mid air and landed with his shred of dignity left.

"I'm sure he did it by accident." Bardock said as held his sides. **Yeah right... Kakarot really take after his father. Ha ha!**

Goldheart came up to Vegita and held out his paw.

"Aww... he wants to shake your hand." Goten said, "He likes you."

Vegita crossed his arms and just glared down at the dog. "Okay... maybe he can make some difference. Not bad, dog."

"You did fine." Bardock complimented as he patted Goldheart's head. "Good boy."

"You are getting too soft." Vegita commented as he sighed. "Don't tell anyone." Vegita warned as he glared at the three warriors. "This did not happen."

"Sure." Bardock said as he nodded. He closed his eyes and sensed Baba watching him. His training with her enabled him to learn how to sense when he is being watched. **Of course, everyone is watching us right now.**

*****

"BWAHAHAHAHA!!!" Gohan laughed as he held his sides. "Oh man! That was so hilarious! I didn't know Goldheart can do that!"

"That dog..." Chi Chi sighed as she smiled. **That had to be Goku. Only Goku would give Vegita a kick in the pants like that.**

"Can dogs do that?" Videl wondered as she smirked.

"I've seen dogs that have done some weird things." Bulma confessed, "I don't know how Goldheart can do that but... if it gives Vegita a kick in the pants, I'm for it!"

Piccolo and Krillian smirked at each other. They both knew that Goku did that trick on purpose. It was simple for him to do and he managed to do it while looking so innocent.

Vegita, Bardock, while carrying Goldheart, Goten, and Trunks landed at the edge and the group looked away and went back to work.

"So... did anything *snicker* happened?" Yamcha asked as he held his hand over his mouth.

Vegita glared at the taller but weaker warrior.

"Come on, Yamcha, we have some sparring to do." Bardock said as he came up and pushed Yamcha to the side. **It doesn't take a psychic to know a possible death.** He thought as the two walked away.

"Good boy." Bulma complimented as she got out a small steak and gave to the dog. "Here ya go..."

"Does everyone know?" Vegita whispered to Bulma.

"Well... it's kinda handy having a fortune teller in the team who can broadcast images." Bulma smirked as she fed the dog. "Good boy..."

"That dog humiliates me and you are rewarding him?" Vegita asked.

"Considering the fact you nearly killed him..." Bulma giggled.

"Shut up."

"Ego hurting?"

"It always hurts."

*****

After a small chuckle on Vegita's expense, Gohan and Videl prepared to get ready for their date.

"Okay... now, due to the fact that you need to have dinner with our families..." Trey said as he looked over a planner. "You two will have lunch at Montana Marie's and then a brisk and very interesting rollerblading session and then a movie. Any idea on the movie?"

"We're just going to find out. Nothing about my father or anything related to martial arts." Videl said.

"Okay... good. The judge is satisfied... let the date begin." Trey said as he summoned a gun and fired it into the air.

Gohan jumped back and said, "Hey... don't do that. I'm nervous enough as it is."

*****

A couple hours passed as the group had their party. Dende, Launch, Trigun, and Piccolo were having a tense poker game. Chi Chi was busy cooking some more. Bardock and Yamcha kept on disappearing to spar and the others were talking.

"I win!" Trigun smirked as he lay down his hand. "Full house!"

"Oh man." Dende moaned, "You're good."

"Takes after his old lady." Launch bragged as she got out a can of beer. "Beer?"

"No thanks." Dende shook his head. "Gods can't get drunk."

"Neither do I." Piccolo said.

"I'll take one." Trigun said and his mother tossed him a can.

**Trigun! We can't drink before a major battle!** Trey argued as he scowled.

"Hey... what's a little party without a little beer to liven things up?" Trigun asked as he opened the can and guzzled the beer.

"Yeah!" Launch asked as she waved a gun around, "My little Trigun will go into battle with the Angel of Death."

"Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die." Trigun laughed as he waved his gun around.

"Let's not go that way." Piccolo advised as he snatched the guns away. "Okay?"

"Hold it right there." Tien said as he came up and grabbed the beers. "No drinking. Trigun, you can't drink. You and Trey have a major battle tomorrow. Good warriors don't drink before fighting."

"I'm not going to fight Kyuushi, Triforce will." Trigun argued as he smirked. "One of the things I love about having a split personality."

"You may have a different mind from Trey but you two or three share the same body." Tien took the cans of beer. "Just don't for Trey's sake."

Trigun rolled his eyes. "Yes, Dad." **Jerk**

**He was only looking out for us.** Trey said.

"I don't care. I... we are fully grown men. We both know our limits and we can handle a couple of beers and we can stop." Trigun said as he crossed his arms.

Suno watched the scene and whispered to Chi Chi, "Does... um... does that boy always talk to himself like that?"

"He has a split personality. Don't worry, he's good." Chi Chi whispered back.

"How does Videl deal with this? No offense." Suno wondered.

"Oh... she manages. She's a strong girl."

"Yes... she is." Suno smiled, "So was your son."

"They will have such strong grandchildren." Chi Chi sighed.

"That's for sure. I wonder what they are doing right now..." Suno pondered, "I'd love to find out."

"Me... too..." Chi Chi's eyes lit up. "We have a couple of people who can give us front row seats! Baba! Bardock!"

*****

At Montana Marie's, Gohan and Videl were doing something no other eater there could do. The people who own the restaurant had always prided themselves with having portions too large for any person to eat. Gohan had eaten several portions while Videl managed to eat an entire portion.

"Wow... I've never had anyone applaud me for eating like that." Gohan confessed as they left the restaurant.

"Hey, it's good for business." Videl said, "Ready for some rollerblading?"

"Yeah! But..." Gohan frowned as he said, "I don't have a pair of rollerblades."

"Relax, I got you a pair. I know your shoe size." Videl said as she got out a pair. "Let's go to the skating park."

*****

Gohan gulped as he held on to Videl. "I... don't think I can do it." Gohan said as he stood in his blades shaking.

"Relax... it's all about balance." Videl instructed as she let go. "Now... move forward."

Gohan nodded and slowly pushed himself forward. One foot glided under the other and he wobbled as he moved. "This is hard."

*****

"Gohan... rollerblading... what a concept." Trey confessed as he shook his head.

The group gathered around Baba's crystal ball to watch the date. "Don't you guys feel a little funny spying on Gohan and Videl like this?" Krillian asked.

"Not really." Chi Chi said as she looked on eagerly. "If things get too... personal, we'll turn it off." She giggled as she blushed, "I wonder when the wedding will be?"

"It has to be after they graduated from high school." Suno said, "I want our children to be at least high school graduates."

"Okay... and something in the spring. *sigh* I remember when I confronted Goku at the Tournament... that was so long ago..." Chi Chi blushed.

"Spring... okay... what about March? Nice and cool." Suno suggested.

"Too cold. How about a traditional June wedding?"

"June, I like that." Chi Chi nodded.

"Wait a second, shouldn't Gohan and Videl know about this?" Krillian spoke up.

The two women glared at the former monk and then Chi Chi said, "He's right, it is Gohan and Videl's wedding. I still wish I knew what was going to happen. Hey, Bardock, you can predict the future, tell us when Gohan is getting married!"

Bardock gave a classical confused 'Son' face and he said, "I'm sorry, but my visions of the future are limited to future disasters and woe."

"So? Isn't that what a wedding is?" Vegita asked and then Bulma slapped him on the head.

"Jerk." Bulma muttered.

"Wait! Something's happening to Gohan!" Baba interrupted and the group saw Gohan wheeling out of control and crash into a condemned building.

"Ouch." Bardock and everyone else grimaced.

*****

"Owww..." Gohan moaned as he got out of a huge hole in the building. "Oh man..." The teenager looked down at his dirty clothes. "My mom is going to kill me!"

Videl snickered as she skated up and said, "Gohan, you can fly faster than the speed of sound. You can transform into a giant ape. You can even talk to God... how hard is it for you to roller blade?!"

Gohan looked down and said, "Sorry... I guess I'm just a klutz."

Videl slapped herself on the head. "Okay, let's try this again."

Gohan leaned onto Videl as they made their way to a bench. "I can't skate." Gohan sighed.

"Yes you can. If I can fly, you can skate. Now, let's do this again. Don't think of it as roller blades, think of it more as... balance practice." Videl instructed as she held his hand.

Gohan blushed as she held his hand. "Okay." The two skated along, with Videl pulling the larger man behind. Gohan watched Videl's feet intensely as he followed her. Videl stared at his feet and nodded. "Okay." Videl said as she nodded. Then, one of her skates got caught in a small crack. She screamed as she fell over and pulled Gohan down with her. Gohan twisted and took her into his arms and they landed on the pavement with Videl staring down at Gohan.

"Damn it." Videl sighed, "I'm sorry, I tripped."

*****

"Go Gohan!" Master Roshi cheered as he held his beer high into the air.

"Oh my." Suno said as she covered her eyes and blushed. "And out in public too."

Goldheart tilted his head in confusion and then lowered his head down and covered his eyes.

"It's an accident." Trey moaned as he rolled his eyes.

**Old people are weird.** Trigun agreed.

*****

Gohan blushed as Videl got off and brushed herself off. "Okay... maybe we should go to a movie. Any ideas?"

Gohan sat up and shook his head. "No... I don't watch movies."

"Neither do I." Videl sighed as she helped Gohan up. "Let's go..."

*****

The two walked to the movie multiplex and stared at the choices.

"Whoa... look at all the selections." Gohan said wide-eyed.

"Let's see what these movies about." Videl said as she looked over the list of movie summaries. "Okay... no how Hercule save the world... that cross out three..."

Gohan looked at the list and said, "There's one about an Angel of Death who is going around recuited mortals to save the universe."

"Nah."

"Here's one about a father who returned to his family as a dog."

"Sounds unoriginal."

"How about a fighter who gains a powerful bracelet and battles bad guys?"

"That would..." Videl glared at him. "That's not funny!"

"Okay... how about Star Wars II? Fighting, romance, clones?" Gohan asked.

"Okay. Why not? Maybe it will help inspire us in some tactics." Videl sighed as she latched onto his arm. "Let's go."

*****

"They're going to watch the theater." Chi Chi said as she sat next to the crystal ball with popcorn in hand.

"The movies..." Bulma blushed, "I remember all the times me and Vegita had make out sessions in there."

"What are you talking about?" Vegita asked insulted, "We never went to the movies together!"

"Oops." Bulma muttered as she looked down. "I... ah... was thinking of someone else. Do you think that Gohan and Videl could... make out?"

"I'd love to see that!" Trigun exclaimed as he sat near the crystal ball.

Chi Chi frowned and said, "Trigun, how come you and Trey keep on switching?"

"Trey's not the party type. I am." Trigun replied, "So, we swap personalities once in a while. Makes things interesting for the both of us."

"Oh."

*****

Gohan and Videl stared at the screen as they watched Anakin and Padme fought together. Their hands latched onto each other in anticipation. The action scenes and the romance scenes seem to reflect on their lives. A man who was given great power and yet was confused, and a woman who had duty and her own power. Destiny seemed to be both for them and against them. The movie went on and finally ended with a wedding.

"Wow." Gohan said as he came out stunned. "That was a great movie. Did you see those moves?"

"Yes, they were impressive." Videl said as she nodded. "It's so... romantic, the way those two got together despite what others may think."

"Yeah... I wonder what they will do next. I hope they have a happy ending!" Gohan wondered and Videl facefaulted.

"You've never watched Star Wars before?!" Videl exclaimed.

"No... I don't watch TV or movies." Gohan replied confused, "Mom thinks that all that sci-fi stuff would rot my mind."

"Gohan, your life is a sci-fi movie!" Videl exclaimed.

"How so?"

Videl glared at him and whispered, "You're part alien, you spend a good part of time being a superhero, you actually went up into space, you have a mentor who is also an alien, and your grandfather is an alien psychic who died thirty years ago and returned to life."

"Oh... so... you know what will happen to them next?" Gohan asked innocently.

Videl sighed and said, "I'll take you to the sequel to show you myself."

"Cool!" Gohan grinned as he stared down at her. He leaned down and kissed her on the cheek. "I had a great time!"

*****

"Awwww..." The group said in unison.

"It's a step." Trigun said, "Personally, I want to see some tongue!"

Chi Chi grabbed some pepper and flung it at Trigun's face. "Don't talk like that in front of my son!"

*****

Videl blushed brightly as she rubbed her cheek. No one ever dared to kiss her before. Most of the time, no boy would dare to touch her for fear of her father. The rest of the time, no boy would dare to touch her for fear of her fists. So, she never go out on dates and had never been kissed.

"Ah... er... me too." Videl finally looked down as she smiled with her cheeks turning bright red.

Gohan blushed slightly and said, "Sorry if I embarrassed you. I mean, I ah... thought it was okay if I kiss you."

"No! It's okay! It's just... no one ever kissed me before. Boys are afraid of me." Videl explained as she crossed her arms.

"Oh... I understand. Most of my friends are afraid of my mom and they are warriors!" Gohan said, "Those boys are just afraid of you because you are so strong. You radiate it and that is no reason for anyone to be afraid to kiss you."

"You think that I am that strong?" Videl asked, "Without the gauntlet, I'm like anyone else with no alien blood."

Gohan reached up and hugged her. "Videl, you may not be able to destroy planets or moons single handedly but you are still strong. You have a heart of a warrior, don't forget it."

"I won't."

*****

After the movie, Gohan and Videl flew back to Gohan's house. They didn't say much as they flew through the air. "Ummm... Gohan? What should we tell your mom and Trey about our date?" Videl asked as she blushed, "I mean... those two are pretty determined to push us together."

"Just tell them that we had a good time." Gohan replied, "I mean... do they really care about how our date goes?"

Videl stared at Gohan and said, "You don't know how parents think. They would grill you for every single detail of your date."

"No they won't."

"Yeah, they probably had that fortune teller and your grandfather show the date as it went along. They have the power."

"Aww... but they wouldn't. Yeah, they could watch anything anywhere but they wouldn't unless it's a matter of life or death." Gohan argued.

"Or that everyone is dying of curiosity. I mean... even that dog of ours seem to watch us."

Gohan blinked in confusion and asked, "Do you think that Goldheart was waiting for us to get together?"

"Why not? Everyone else is." Videl said as they landed in front of Gohan's house and walked to the back yard. It was almost the same as before. Trey, Launch, Master Roshi, and Dende were playing poker. Bardock and Piccolo were meditating together. Yamcha and Puar were singing some wierd Japanese song with the words 'We Gotta Power' and everyone else was talking.

"Hey, guys! We're back!" Gohan announced and the group stopped.

Chi Chi ran up with Goldheart and Goten and asked, "How was your date?"

"We had fun." Gohan said as he grinned, "Nothing much happened."

"Didn't it hurt when you ran into that building?" Goten spoke up.

Gohan and Videl stared at the boy as everyone else just slapped their foreheads. They didn't want Videl or Gohan to even suspect that they were spying on them.

"You guys were watching us date?!" Gohan exclaimed as he blushed bright red.

"Only a little." Chi Chi exaggerated as she looked down.

"With all due respect, Chi Chi, Gohan and I are responsible adults! We can handle ourselves!" Videl screamed as her bracelet morphed into a fingerless gauntlet. "Oh no... not again."

"I do trust you and Gohan." Chi Chi said as she smiled at Gohan. "You have your father's shyness and Videl is obviously very responsible but we were just... curious. You know how parents are. I'm sorry."

Gohan laughed as he rubbed the back of his head. "That's okay... I understand. I bet that even Dad, where-ever he may be was spying on us too."

Goldheart barked as he came up and wagged his tail.

"You agreed with me, don't ya?" Gohan asked as he petted the dog. "Oh well... why don't we eat?"

*****

The group gathered at the huge table under the stars with a vast feast before them. There was enough to feed all of the Saiyans and the other warriors. After the plates and silverware have been set and the glasses were handed out, Gohan stood up and cleared his throat.

He looked around as he focused on not fainting in front of so many people. Trey and Videl looked up at him from their seats. He nodded and said, "Thanks for coming here today to help us relax for the big battle tomorrow. I... ah wish that Dad was here. He can probably do a better speech than what I can do. But... I know that he is here. That... that as long as we remember him, his legacy can't be forgotten. And that as long as I fight, I won't forget him or his lessons." Gohan rose his glass and said, "Here's to you, Dad, may your spirit be with me in battle."

Chi Chi smiled softly as she felt Goldheart's head on her lap.

Trey got up and said, "This will be my first major battle with a major supervillainess. I'm not scared. I look forward to the next battle because there are questions that need to be answered and mysteries that need to be revealed." Trey took a deep breath and said, "Trigun and Triforce are with me, as well as Videl and Gohan. And with my family supporting me, I know that we can defeat Kyuushi and bring light to this mystery." He rose his glass and said, "Here's to unanswered questions and the role of Humans in battle."

Tien and Lunch nodded toward him as they rose their glasses as well.

Gohan glanced at Videl and whispered, "Go on."

"I... don't know." Videl confessed.

"You are one of us. This is your battle too." Gohan urged, "Go on."

Videl slowly stood up and saw her mother and Uncle Eighter watching her supporting her. "Two months ago, I never dreamt that I would be here surrounded by people who could destroy moons or mountains with a mere blast. Two months ago, I thought I was one of the strongest warriors alive but I was wrong. I learned so much, that I thought I was going to lose my mind. But, I didn't." Videl smiled, "The thought of my father being a fraud still hurts and I wish I can make it go away but I can't. If I had a choice to learn or not learn the true world around me, I would still choose to learn. Because I can fly and I've always wanted to learn to fly like a bird. I will make up for my father's lies and I am not scared of battle because Gohan and Trey are with me. As well as my mother and all of you, who like me for me." Videl rose her glass and said, "Here's to the truth and the true warrior spirit."

Suno and Eighter rose their glasses.

"Here here." Krillian agreed as he rose his glass. "To Goku, Humanity, and the warrior spirit!"

"Yeah." The group rose their glasses in a toast.

*****

It was quiet at the Son residence as the last party member left. They agreed to leave early to give Gohan and the others plenty of time to rest for the big battle.

Chi Chi unraveled her hair as she lay down on her futon. She left her bedroom slightly opened to make it easier for Goldheart to get in. Like clockwork, the dog came in and lay at Chi Chi's feet. Chi Chi stared at Goldheart's bright green eyes and saw worry in them. She gently stroked his fur and whispered, "Don't worry, Goku, you know how strong Gohan is."

At that comment, Goku jerked his head up and stared at his wife, confused.

"Yes, I do know it's you." Chi Chi said as a tear came down her eye. She wiped it away and continued, "I... I felt you ever since you came. And when you visited me in that dream, you gave me a few clues... like you knew about Goten and that how that if I can't see you or hear you, but yet you will be with me." She ran her hand through Goku's fur. "Now, I just knew it was you."

Goku whined softly as he leaned his head against Chi Chi's shoulder.

"I'm not mad or upset. I'm a little stunned that my husband is a dog... but I wish you could talk now. Help me understand how this happened." Chi Chi wished as she smiled softly.

Goku got up and pointed to a picture of Piccolo on one of her lower shelves.

"Piccolo knows?" Chi Chi guessed.

Goku barked as he came back and almost sighed in sadness.

"Remind me to ask him about that happened." Chi Chi grunted as she held her head. "Oh... Goku, how can you handle being a pet without even being able to fight for so long?"

Goku just whined as he lay his head on her lap.

"Yes, knowing you, you would just do what you can. I mean, Goten did love playing and training with you. He knew there was something special about you and none of us could see that until now. Goten is so perceptive." Chi Chi confessed as she hugged Goku by the neck. "I can't tell Gohan or Goten about this. Gohan still felt somewhat guilty about what happened with Cell and... and he may go ballistic about this. Goten... I don't think that it's right to have a dog as a father. I'm sorry."

Goku licked her face and gently leaned his head next to hers.

"Yes, you understand too... and... I know what you need to do right now." Chi Chi let go and gently put her hands under Goku's head and tilted it so she can gazed into his eyes. "You need to stay with Gohan tonight, don't you? That's why you look so sad. You want to stay here with me but right now, you feel that Gohan needs you."

Goku looked down and whined softly.

"Yes, you don't want to leave me alone again. Don't worry, I can handle one night alone. It's not like you will be in outer space or in the Next Dimension; just in the next room with our sons and Trey." Chi Chi said as she stroke Goku's head and then gently kissed him on the forehead.

Goku got up and walked to the door. He gazed back and Chi Chi just nodded. He smiled as he turned back and walked through the door.

Chi Chi sighed as she got up and closed the door. "Oh Goku... what happened to you?"

*****

Gohan lay on his back staring at the ceiling. "Hey, Gohan, go to sleep." Trey said as he turned to his side. "Even Super Saiyans need sleep before a battle."

"I can't." Gohan sighed as he turned his head toward Trey. "I'm just nervous. Tomorrow, everything will change. I don't know. I'm not used to this sort of thing. With Freeza and the Androids, all we knew was that they were evil and we had to stop them. Cell was the same way. Kyuushi, she's a mystery and so are her creations. What was her goal? If she's not evil, then why do we have to fight her? How can I put everything I have into a battle with someone who may be good?"

"I don't know." Trey replied as he gazed up. "Kyuushi is our opponent and we have to fight her because only if we fight her, then our questions will be answered, like the missing dead Saiyans and the Saiyanite bullets. Something big is going to happen and we have to defeat Kyuushi to do it."

"I just wish Dad was here." Gohan sighed as he gazed at Goten who was asleep. "You know, every time I couldn't go to sleep, Dad would show up and lay down with me and then I would just conk out. I guess he gives me a comforting presence. When I was training for Cell... I couldn't sleep. I would just lie there and pray that I can just go to sleep. I didn't want to bother my father. But then, he showed up and slept with me." Gohan sighed as he smiled. "Right now, I wish that Dad would just show up tonight and sleep with me."

Trey glanced over and saw Goldheart sitting at the door. "Would Goldheart make a good substitute?" Trey pondered as the dog came up and laid down at the foot of Gohan's futon.

"I don't know." Gohan confessed as he laughed and stroked the dog's fur. "But, I don't get it. He always sleep with Mom, why is he staying with us tonight?"

Trey crossed his arms and looked down. He smirked as he said, "Maybe, Goku told him that you need help going to sleep." He looked up to see Gohan lying in his futon snoring. "Wow..." He came up and petted Goldheart on the head. "Good boy." He pulled Gohan's covers over him and said, "Have a good rest, Gohan, we'll need it."

He went to his own futon and fall asleep.

From the shadows, Kyuushi nodded as she faded away. "Good luck in the battle, for tomorrow, I will show no mercy." She whispered.

To Be Continued...