Sakamoto's thoughts on being in the Jade Palace for a full year...biggest perspective.


Chapter 8: Gone a Long Way

Soon after the Moon Festival, Sakamoto was sitting in the Peach Tree, just looking up at the skies and enjoye the quietness of the night as the moon shone bright and he pulls out his flute and started playing a little tune to add to the amazing night and it's the one time where he mostly feels at peace or gains some peace. It soon caught Master Oogway's attention as he headed up the steps to the Peach Tree, unbeknownst to Sakamoto.

Eventually, Sakamoto stops for a while and notices Oogway standing there and he chuckled softly and said, "Hello, Oogway."

"Do not stop. It is always very impressive whenever you play your flute." Oogway said, standing next to Sakamoto.

Sakamoto looked down on the floor and then he looked up at Oogway and said, "Well, I couldn't sleep, so I thought I would just have a little time to reflect on all the journeys and experiences I have since I've been here."

"I see. Your father was in that same position you're in. Whenever I would go in the Peach Tree, he's there too and I would join him practicing tai chi movements." Oogway explained.

"Tai chi?" asked Sakamoto.

"It helps you relax when you are in your most tense moments...or if you feel like you need some alone time." Oogway added.

Sakamoto nodded at this and he Oogway asked him, "What are you thinking about, Sakamoto?"

"Um...not a lot. That moon festival was really cool. I don't think I've ever been involved in something like this my whole life...so it's all very new to me." Sakamoto added.

Oogway puts his hand on Sakamoto's shoulder and he asked, "Overwhelmed by the whole experience, huh?"

Sakamoto was surprised that Oogway is aware about the young teenager's thoughts on his personal journey to the Jade Palace for almost an entire year and he replied, "Overwhelmed isn't the word I would describe...more like very much overwhelmed. I knew that my dad went through that, but I never thought it would be for me."

"Speak your mind, Sakamoto." Oogway added.

"I mean...I knew that I would get to see what training with you felt like the same way my dad did, but there were many things about myself that I never really knew. I mean, it's like we're nearing the end now and I really wish it wouldn't end, you know? My parents, everyone at Shanghai Secluded Valley...Bao-Yi...they were the ones that kept me going while I was here and I was gonna make them really proud." Sakamoto explained.

Oogway nodded his head with every single word Sakamoto said and he analyzed his emotions and thoughts about training with him and Sakamoto concluded with, "I don't think I've ever been influenced by someone like you."

"I am deeply glad you mentioned that. I've never worked with someone like you either...but you have a very big heart of gold and always remember...do not let anyone change who you are. Remain the wonderful person your parents provided you to be." Oogway added.

"I promise...and thank you for everything." Sakamoto said, bowing to him.

Oogway bowed back to him and he walked back to the barracks and said, "Last one out heads to bed."

Sakamoto looked back at the moon and stayed there for a little while more as he keeps thinking things clearly and he lets out a smile and is deeply thankful for everything in his life and wishes that he can share these same values with his own family in the near future.


Sorry it took so short. Next chapter will be Sakamoto turning 15. Final chapter!