.

Chapter 12:

LEGACY

Note: I'm sorry it took so long for the new chapter; I was busy with other stuff. And if that's not enough, the next chapter will also be delayed because I will be out of town for a whole week and probably won't have much time to write. So again, my apologies :). I somehow pushed this chapter out, even though I was kind of hoping to make it a bit longer, but currently just can't manage. And I hate posting chapters I'm not happy with :). Enjoy your reading and don't forget to leave a review :).

Last time on Consumed by the past: Gohan managed to gain control of his body and missing hitting Piccolo's chest, thus saving his life. The sinister duo, Endou and Kyuuri, paid Gohan, Piccolo and Vegeta a visit and taking control of Gohan's mind for a short time. Seeing his power is too much to control, they flee Earth and head to Namek to steal a Dragon Ball. While the Z-fighters gather on Dende's Lookout, Gohan becomes desperate and asks Vegeta if he can train him. The Saiyan prince hesitates but accepts the boy's offer. Piccolo promised to teach Gohan a new form of meditation, so he can try and keep his emotions in control. Meanwhile, Krillin and Tenshinhan gather 6 Dragon Balls, until Kaio-sama informs them a Namekian Dragon Ball is also missing. Putting all the pieces together, they conclude it must have been Endou and Kyuuri. What is their plan? Why did they take one Earth and one Namekian Dragon Ball and why we're they trying to mind-control Gohan? And who is Lord Shingo? Stay tuned for the continuation of the story.

The clock displayed 10:12 (10.12 AM) when Gohan finally opened his sleepy eyes. To his surprise he actually got a good night's sleep... after more than a week. It looks like all those nightmares and restless nights might have been caused by those who controlled his mind. Full of energy, he got up, got dressed and rushed downstairs into the kitchen. Chichi was just heading out to hang the laundry.

"Well finally, I thought you'd never get up." she teased her son.

"That makes two of us." smiled back Gohan and added: "I didn't have any nightmares, mum. It feels really good being able to have a calm night after all this time."

"I'm happy you're feeling much better, Gohan."

"Me too, mum."

"Oh, by the way, you didn't open all of your presents yet. There's still one box in the living room." Chichi reminded him.

"How did I miss that one." the boy asked himself loudly.

"You didn't. This one is from me, sweetie."

"REALLY?" Gohan jumped and sped into the living room, and Chichi followed.

As he started unwrapping the box, his mother was standing by his side, smiling.

"I know it's still too soon, but you've always wanted this." she said.

When he finally opened it, he could see two dominant colors; dark blue and orange. For a moment, he stopped and just looked at it. Suddenly the memory of Cell games came rushing into his mind; everything just flashed before his eyes in a few seconds. His eyes began to tear up and Chichi noticed that.

"Awww, it's still too soon, I knew I shouldn't have. I'm sorry, Gohan."

"... No, mum, it's not." he answered back while rubbing his eyes with his hand.

"Then why are you..." she wanted to know.

Gohan looked at her: "Partly because it reminds me of him and what had happened; but I'm also happy. This way I'll be sure to continue his legacy. It will give me strength to move on and face whatever might show up in the future."

"I miss him too, every day." Chichi confessed.

Gohan hugged his mum for giving him this precious gift and said: "Can I try it on?"

"Of course you silly boy. It's meant to be worn, right?" she smiled.

The half-Saiyan switched his purple gi, blue wristbands and light brown shoes with a gi with dark blue t-shirt underneath, orange sleeveless top and orange pants (just like his purple gi from the Cell games) and dark-blue boots with a red line flowing from top to bottom. In the end he took off his wristbands and put on a fresh new ones from the gift box to complete the whole set.

"How do I look?" he asked.

"Just like your dad." Chichi answered with tearful eyes.

"Thanks a lot, mum. These are really great. I'm honored to be able to wear them."

"Your father would be so proud, seeing you in that outfit."

Gohan looked up, towards the ceiling, like he was looking at Goku in the afterlife.

"Thanks, dad. I'll carry on your legacy, just like you wished."

"I'll wash your old gi and put it in your room with all the others, including the new one from Piccolo."

"You're the best, mum. And I'll go studying after I finish breakfast. And after that I'm going to Bulma's to train with Vegeta."

"What? With him? Are you serious?"

"Yeah, mum. It's the only way. I need a sparring partner if I want to master this new Super Saiyan."

"What about Piccolo? Did you replace him with Vegeta or what?"

Gohan smiled: "Hehe, no. I'm meditating with Piccolo in the evening."

"Suddenly you've become such a busy man. Just don't forget about your studies and chores around the house."

"Don't worry, I won't. I'm happy to help you around the house, mum."

"I'm glad you think that way. Well, I'm off to hang the first batch of laundry." said Chichi and went outside to hand the washed clothes.

Gohan had his breakfast and returned to his room to continue studying for his exams in 3 weeks. It wasn't long when it was already about 15:00 (3 PM) and lunch was ready. He went to the kitchen and sat down just as his mother was putting lunch on the table. Just like his dad, he ate everything in a couple of minutes, leaving empty plates and dishes on the table.

"My, my, you were really hungry." laughed Chichi.

"I was starving," he smiled back, "but I wanted to finish up my studies for today, so I can go train."

"A little under 4 and a half hours of studying... ok, you've reached your quota for today."

"Yaaay. I'll be doing some meditation in the evening with Piccolo by the waterfall."

"Sure, at least that way I know where to find you."

Gohan got up and waved goodbye: "Then I'm off. Bye, mum, see you in the evening."

At the Capsule Corp.

Vegeta was already training in the gravity chamber since early morning. Bulma was in the garden playing with Trunks when Gohan landed.

"Hey, Gohan. Nice to see you. Wow, is that a new..." Bulma greeted him.

"It was a present from my mum."

"Wow, it really suits you. You look just like Goku."

"Thanks. It really means a lot to me."

"I'm sure it does." Bulma smiled and caught Trunks before he could fall.

"I see Trunks is ready to take his first steps."

"Well, not yet. I bet he'll know how to fly before he can walk. Vegeta keeps saying he's a Saiyan warrior and shouldn't be spoiled of raised in a soft and gentle way. Typical."

"Hehehe, that's Vegeta, alright."

"I mean, look at you. Chichi raised you so well. None of that Saiyan stuff."

"Well... I did see lots of horrible stuff as a little kid. Even fought the Saiyans and Frieza... I can't say I was raised "well"."

"Namek was so horrible, I remember. Well, let me put it in another way; even though you've been through so much... TOO much... you're still a well-mannered and smart boy."

"That's one way of putting it, yeah." smiled Gohan.

But on the inside he was a bit angry, because it seemed people would often forget through how much he's been as a child; Saiyans, Namek, androids, Cell. Any other person in his shoes would probably have gone insane or at least have some sort of a mental breakdown.

"Speaking of Vegeta... where is he?" the little half-breed asked.

"In the gravity chamber, where else? It's either there or in the toilet, kitchen or bedroom."

"Oh, ok. Can I go see him?"

"He hates it when someone disturbs him. Always blabbering about blowing something up. But that's Vegeta, right?"

"It's ok, he's expecting me."

"Vegeta? Expecting someone... you? Wait, what?"

"I know it's hard to believe, but he is."

"I guess it's always the first time for everything. Go ahead then, Gohan."

"Thanks Bulma. I'll be seeing you." he said while tickling baby Trunks.

"Just don't blow up anything." Bulma wanted reassurance.

"Don't worry, I... we won't."

He entered the building and was following Vegeta's Ki signal, otherwise he would get lost in an instant. He finally reached the door with large letters "GRAVITY CHAMBER". On the right there was a red light and under it "Chamber active, do not enter!" He opened the door and saw Vegeta training with some floating little robots, who appeared to be firing some energy bolts at him. As the door's hinges made a metal squeaking sound, the Saiyan prince glanced at Gohan.

"Well, you finally showed up. Is that Kakarot's outfit?"

"It's like his, yeah."

"Why would you wear that bright-colored outfit?"

"It was a gift. Got a problem with that?" replied Gohan with a cold voice.

"Computer, pause!" Vegeta said out loud and walked to the boy. "Just because you're able to go Super Saiyan... 2, it doesn't mean I'm afraid of you."

"I'm not here to argue, Vegeta. But I won't let you dishonor my dad's gi. It means a lot to me."

"Awww, how nice, a sentimental half-Saiyan. I thought you said you were gonna get tougher. Get loose of all those emotional attachments."

"I never said that. I only said tougher, but that doesn't mean I'll just become emotionless... like you."

"Watch your tongue. I'm still the prince of Saiyans... including you."

Gohan started to get angry: "Look, let's just stop this; it's pointless. I'm here to train with you, not have an argument."

"This IS a part of the training. Your emotions can cost you a battle... well, once they almost did."

"I didn't see you doing anything. And do I have to remind you that I saved your life which almost cost me the battle? If I didn't save a Senzu, we wouldn't be here... the Earth wouldn't be here! Plus you're the one who let Cell obtain his Perfect form!".

"And without that you wouldn't have been able to achieve the new Super Saiyan form."

"Sigh... let's just get started."

"Can you handle 200x Earth's gravity?"

"No problem."

The first second entering the chamber, Gohan stumbled but remained on his feet.

"Wow, this is really intense." he said, surprised by the fact how strong 200x Earth's gravity feels like.

"The first step is always a doozy (1)."

"Just give me a minute or two..."

"You wish..." smirked Vegeta and kicked Gohan, making fall on the ground.

"Hey, what the ...?"

"I'm not Kakarot. If you want to train with me.. there's no slacking off or going easy."

"Fine... I wouldn't want it any other way, Vegeta." Gohan replied and stood up.

"We're fighting under my terms now..." smiled Vegeta and rushed towards the little half-breed.

He kicked him, but the boy blocked his foot with his hand. Vegeta did a back flip but Gohan dodged his attack and punched Vegeta, but the Saiyan prince also managed to dodge and kick Gohan in the face, making him almost fall.

The boy had a smirk on his face: "Heh, you're really good. Just a normal kick feels like a hit from a Super Saiyan in this chamber."

"I wasn't even trying." Vegeta smiled back.

At that moment young Gohan attacked him and they both engaged in hand-to-hand combat. Vegeta was already adept at this gravity, so he had the upper hand. Gohan wasn't far behind, but still far enough to miss Vegeta most of the time. As the battle went on, the older Saiyan could see Gohan's movements getting faster and more accurate, yet his stamina still remained quite high. As he was defending, his started wondering.

It seems he's getting used to the gravity without using too much stamina. You've trained him well, Kakarot, but still only scratched the surface of his potential. I'll unlock the secret to this Super Saiyan Two, just you wait, Kakarot.

"It's my turn now..." Vegeta laughed and turned the battle against Gohan.

The half-Saiyan struggled to defend against all of his attacks, so Vegeta managed to land a few punches and kicks, making Gohan's nose and mouth bleed. After an hour or so, they were almost evenly matched, but Vegeta stopped their training.

"That's enough for today."

"Why? I mean, I know I'm a little bruised and scratched, but come on..."

"It has nothing to do with that. I know you can take a hell of a beating. It's your first training session under this gravity; no use in exerting (2) yourself too much."

"You gotta be kiddin' me."

"I know all about your harsh training regime in the ROSAT, Kakarot explained it to me. I must say I was impressed, but in the end, your body was exhausted too much; it was counterproductive."

"Well you do it all the time and you're fine."

"There's a little difference between my physiology and yours, Gohan. I'm a full-blooded Saiyan and older; you're a half-breed but still very young. You may have the power now, but your body can only handle a limited amount of it. I suspect that's why you can't control Super Saiyan 2."

"Wow, Vegeta, that's some insight into the Saiyan body."

"I am an elite warrior because of my strength AND intelligence. Nappa had the strength alright, but lacked common sense, that's why he wasn't a top tier warrior. Just don't get cocky, we've just started our training. It's going to get much, much harder,"

"I'm looking forward to it. Once I master Super Saiyan 2, there's no telling what lies beyond."

"Speaking like a true Saiyan. Now go, Bulma has prepared some food for you."

"Aren't you going too?"

"No, I'm going to stay in here for a bit longer."

"Sheesh, ok, if you say so." Gohan waved to him when exiting the chamber and hurrying to Bulma.

As Vegeta stood by the open door, he couldn't help but wonder.

I never thought he'd turn out like this. Ever since I met him on Earth, he possessed extraordinary power but his gentle and innocent heart prevented him from reaching his full potential. But now he's determined to get stronger no matter what.

With that thought he closed the chamber's door and continued training at 200x Earth's gravity.

Meanwhile, Gohan was already stuffing himself with delicious food; thanks to Bulma's chefs.

"Wow, that was so delicious, Bulma. Thanks for having me here." he thanked his host full of excitement.

"You know you're always welcome, Gohan. And besides, it's nice having some company. Tell me... how are you?"

"I'm ok. I still miss dad a lot, but I'm determined to continue studying and training while helping mum around the house."

"I can't imagine how you must feel, but if you ever need something, please, don't hesitate to ask."

"Thanks, Bulma, I will. Oh, look at the time! I have to go, I'm meeting Piccolo. Thanks for everything." yelled the boy while flying out the window.

"He's just like his dad; always hurrying somewhere." Bulma smiled.

Gohan flew from Capsule Corp. towards his house, but he wasn't heading home. Piccolo was meeting him at their "usual" place, which is a waterfall not far from Gohan's home. It was already late afternoon when he arrived at the waterfall. Of course, Piccolo was there, like always, meditating.

"You're late," the Namekian said before Gohan even greeted him.

"I know, I know, got caught up..."

"In training? I actually didn't think you'd last all that time with Vegeta," Piccolo responded and then looked at Gohan: "That's... that's Goku's outfit."

"Mum gave it to me for my birthday. Isn't it great?"

"But doesn't that remind you..."

"Yeah, it does, but at the same time, it gives me the strength to continue his legacy. I always wanted to have this outfit."

"So I guess you got tired of wearing my gi all the time. I don't blame you."

"No, that's not it. In fact, I was thinking of combining yours and dad's. I'll surprise you tomorrow." smiled the boy.

"Heh, I'm sure you will. Now let's begin with some mental training."

"Are you gonna teach me the deep meditation?"

"It doesn't go that fast. It will take some time before you'll be able to do it on your own. It's not a technique to be taken lightly. It can be dangerous if misused. Do you understand?"

"I do. Don't worry. I promise I won't misuse it." Gohan reassured his mentor.

"Very well, let's begin."

It was a complicated trial and error for Gohan for the next two hours. Piccolo led him step by step, but the deep meditation was really hard to even begin with, let alone being able to use it on your own. The young half-Saiyan was struggling, mentally of course and Piccolo monitored his progress through their telepathic link. Sweat was dripping from Gohan's face... he was becoming restless and impatient.

No, Gohan, it won't work like this. You need to relax your mind, not put it under even more stress.

It's... it's so hard. I can't even complete the first step. It's not working, Piccolo.

I told you it's going to take time. You can't just do it in one session. Take it easy and calm your mind down. You'll get there.

Gohan emptied his mind and tried to find a balance of peace and calmness in his thoughts. However, the result was still the same; no success. Piccolo explained even more about this technique and how Gohan should be going at it. More than 3 hours have passed, when Piccolo opened his eyes and called it a day.

"Let's finish for today. You're straining your mind too much."

"I can't give up, Piccolo. I really need this."

"We'll continue tomorrow, kid. Get some rest, you need it. Don't push yourself over your limits; it's not how meditation works and you know it."

The boy took a deep breath, wiped the sweat off his face and opened his eyes: "I guess you're right. I need take this step by step, otherwise I'll never learn how to do it."

"Now you're talking. I'll see you tomorrow; same place, same time?"

"You got it," smiled back Gohan and stood up: "Thanks a lot, Piccolo. See 'ya tomorrow."

With those words, he flew away and towards his house. Piccolo remained in close vicinity of his house, just to make sure everything is alright during the night. When Gohan went to sleep an hour or two later, it was indeed a calm night and Piccolo was happy for him. After all the nightmares and sleepless nights, Gohan needed a good night's sleep more than anything.

1 month later

It was a very productive month for little Gohan; training every day with Vegeta and Piccolo, studying for the exams and helping Chichi around the house. It was no surprise that he had managed to pass all the exams with high grades. Chichi was really proud and to be honest, expected nothing less from her son. As a reward he was able to take a 2-month break from studying, since school year was over (3). He also changed his outfit a bit: he was now wearing a dark blue t-shirt and on top of that his Cell games outfit (the one Piccolo gave him for his 10th birthday). He also kept the dark blue boots, blue belt and wristbands Chichi gave him for his b-day. It was a combination of Goku's and Piccolo's outfit. Why? He looks up to his father and he respects Piccolo as his past and present mentor. This was the best way to somehow honor them both.

The gravity training made his body tougher and he was able to spar with Vegeta with no problems. Well, no problems for him, but the Saiyan prince was now outmatched, since Gohan got used to 200x Earth's gravity. Whenever Vegeta started losing, he would transform into a Super Saiyan and continued the sparring session. Of course that didn't help as Gohan did the same and he once again gained the upper hand. He never turned into a Super Saiyan 2 in the gravity chamber, it was too risky. For that, they trained outside, at the location where Gohan nearly killed both of them. That memory still made him feel guilty, but he was determined to overcome it, eventually.

Every time he ascended to Super Saiyan 2, he used quite a bit energy and stamina, but was able to stay transformed for longer, thanks to the gravity training. However, that was not the problem. When transformed, his emotions went berserk. He could control himself to some degree, but his lust for battle, his arrogance and confidence increased exponentially the longer he was transformed. It was still him, oh yes, just different; more savage and bloodthirsty. Whenever he felt he was slipping away, he would revert back to either Super Saiyan or his normal form. It was just too risky and he wasn't taking any chances with a form so unstable, even though it granted him an unbelievable power.

Every evening he spent his time with Piccolo, learning the deep meditation. It was a struggle for the half-Saiyan to say the least. He put so much mental energy into this, he was completely drained when going to sleep. But nights were calm and sometimes rough because of nightmares or anxiety. But that was about to change.

There was something else he did every evening after training with Piccolo. He didn't go straight home right away, no, but went to his father's memorial plate, no far from the house. He would just sit there and think, and sometimes remember all the good things that happened when Goku was still alive. He still missed him, a lot, and occasionally he would cry a little, for letting him sacrifice himself for nothing, but Gohan was slowly getting used to this new life.

Clarification:

1. something that is unusually good, bad, big, severe, etc

2. make a physical or mental effort

3. this is based on my country's school system, where the school year starts on 1st September and ends on 24th of June

Note: I hope you enjoyed this chapter ^^. I know it was a bit shorter than what you're used to, but I don't want to post chapters that don't make it through my quality check XD. And again, chapter 13 WILL be delayed because I'm away for a week. Will try to write something on paper or at least a basic outline during that time, but it chapter itself posted until I come back :). If you have any comments, ideas etc, please leave a review or PM me :). Thanks for reading.