A lone figure stood in the gateway of the Valley of Peace. Part of them said to go back, to return from where they had come. But another part, a stronger, more forceful part, told them to go on. That this was right. With a deep breath, they crossed the small bridge.

Citizens looked on with fear, disdain, and loathing of the figure.

'Can't blame them. Who would trust a wolf?' The figure looked down at the scrawny, lean body. It hadn't been well kept, due to constant travelling, but it was strong, not an ounce of fat existing.

As the wolf walked boldly down the street, a little rabbit ran across it's path. The response was to remain still until the little one was out of the way, then continue as if nothing had happened.

"Master Shifu?" Tigress respectfully bowed to her master. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but-"

"But what?" Shifu turned from where he was sitting under the Sacred Peach Tree.

"A wolf just walked into the valley, and is headed this way."

"What?" Shifu leaped up and followed her to the gate. "She must be out of her mind."

The fading sun shone on the blackest fur ever known. The only thing different from the sea of black was two peircing green eyes, and the simple grey travelling clothes that covered the lean form.

"You, wolf, stay where you are!"

By this time, the others had gathered to watch. Mantis, Viper, Monkey, Crane, and Po all watched from the gate.

The wolf stopped as she was ordered and looked up.

"Masters, please-"

"What business have you in disturbing our valley?" Shifu glared down on the intruder.

"Master, I come to learn, to be your humble student in the ancient arts."

"After what the wolves did to us years ago?" Tigress retorted angrilly. "Your kind almost destroyed this valley!"

"Please, if you would listen-"

"I don't need to hear your lies."

"Hang on a sec." Po walked out and glanced at the scrawny creature. "How do you know she's gonna lie?"

"She's a wolf, that's their way." Shifu glared at him.

"Well, just cause all the others are like that, doesn't mean she has to be. I mean, you didn't think I could be the Dragon Warrior, did you?"

Shifu started to argue, then sighed. "Speak, wolf."

Taking a deep breath, she started. "All my life, I was told that what my clan did- the stealing, the lies, and the slaughter- was all for the better of the pack. But it wasn't what I wanted. I want to learn of peace, a society that can live together in harmony, and trust."

"How do we know that your word is true?"

"I cannot asure you of that by my word, this I know. But if you were to give me a chance, test me, do whatever you will to test my worth, I can show you I speak only the truth."

"Aw, come on, Shifu, give her a chance," Po pleaded.

"How can we trust her if she does not even give us her name?" Shifu argued.

"My name," she broke in. "Is Ebon. Ebon Lobo."

Ok, people, this is my very first chapter in my very first story, so review away! I accept all types, so don't be shy! I find any criticism helpful! Thankx!