A/N: The clouded leopardesses are two of the Wu Sisters (Look them up on Kung Fu Panda wiki). They are not the mates of Tai Lung, but they were henchmen hired by him in the Kung Fu Panda video game, and the deadly villains in the Kung Fu Panda movie: Secrets of the Masters. As for the third one, she is spying on the Furious Five, Dragon Warrior, and Sheva. So whoever guessed that knows their Kung Fu Panda stuff! ;)
Shout outs:
Yazzii: They are highly flirtatious… aren't they? I just picture them to be like drinking, teasing, and deadly succubi.
Kitty: Yes, I plan on Tigress and Shifu to be very close in this story. Thank you for the compliments.
Monkeycyborgninja: Tigress is going to surpass Tai Lung in this story in more ways then one. I am glad you liked that line. I can definitely picture Po saying that.
Booknerd101: ^^ I am surprised that other authors do not use the Sword of Heroes! It is even in Po's dream in the beginning of Kung Fu Panda. I can picture him using it in the third installment.
Hairu: Jajaja xD Gracis amigo! Los hermanas son muy mortales. I had to add them to the story, bro!
RidingtheRoughWaters: Po, as Monkey would say, is the man! Thank you for the compliment, I take pride in keeping him in character.
As for the others who reviewed: Thank you for taking the time! It means a lot to me. You all are the heart that pumps my writing's existence.
I do not own Kung Fu Panda, Dreamworks does.
Psychological Warfare
Valley of Peace, Outskirts
The cool wind gently caressed the spotted feline's pelt, lightly tickling her whiskers. She waited for her employer for the mission briefing. The sunlight brightly outlined her entire body, while it began to climb the horizon, issuing a new dawn. The aroma of morning dew softly enticed her senses while the cold, damp grass beneath her soothed her recently used paws.
Related to the other two clouded leopardesses that previously interacted with Diablo; she was their eldest sister – leader, as well. The deadly and flirtatious felines were collectively known as the Wu Sisters. Once powerful villains that were recently downgraded into mercenaries for hire, they now relentlessly pursue great riches and power. Not known for their good deeds, they never followed a code of honor, because they did whatever deemed necessary for the absolute, bottom line.
The feline was a slender clouded leopardess with two different colored irises; one was a brilliant, golden hue, and the other was bright, azure, which glowed eerily during the midday – even more so in the darkness of night. She had a black vest, gloves, and pants with a dark green trim; her fur upon her head swayed liberally in the wind, for she did not wear a hood as her siblings did. A newly 'purchased' clay jug of huangjiu dangled loosely from her light gray fingers, already half-used due to her excessive drinking habits.
The clouded leopardess sighed heavily, and impatiently looked into the light-blue sky.
"Seriously, I have been out here for freaking hours. I better get paid over-time," the spotted feline grumbled whiningly under her breath.
"For a devious feline who is currently impecunious due to the Dragon Warrior's recent rise to fame, you definitely complain too much."
The clouded leopardess annoyingly rolled her eyes, and turned slowly towards the male's voice. She thoroughly examined the hooded figure. He had an extremely baggy light tan hood with a color-matching robe. The only feature she could clearly make out was his yellowish-orange irises, which piercingly stared at her through the covering.
The spotted feline stuck out her tongue, and retorted acerbically, "About time, mystery guy. Way to lead by example by being on time, chief."
The male figure leaned calmly against the tree, and crossed his arms. "Charming, what have you and your sisters recently discovered on your covert operation within the Jade Palace?"
"Well, the overweight panda is planning on helping this golden feline to rescue her daughter from Lord Johan – the one you want us to ally with. This Johan is supposedly building an army to rule China." The feline momentarily paused to belch from the fermented alcohol and then continued, "The midget Master with the big ears is taking a journey to Gongmen City to build a resistance. That is all we could gather without being spotted."
The hooded figure nodded. "I see… Master Shifu will not be a factor then. That is pleasant news. This will also be an opportunity to gain the trust of Lord Johan."
The feline plopped herself upon the ground. "So, what is the plan? There are too many of them to commence an attack at the Jade Palace."
"Quite observant, Su. I guess you aren't all looks after all," The hooded figure complimented back-handedly. "I believe the best course of action would be to wait till the Dragon Warrior leaves on his journey. There will most likely be a smaller group by then."
"Whatever." Su shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly and continued with a hint of sarcasm, "My sisters should be back within the day. They went on that humanitarian mission you ordered."
The hooded figure chuckled manically. "Good, now we wait… for the era of the Dragon Warrior ends soon."
Valley of Peace, Jade Palace
Master Shifu deeply inhaled. He stood on the top of the, seemingly, infinite amount of stairs that lead down to the Valley of Peace. The sun warmed his brown and white pelt with his cobalt eyes gleaming from the luminous horizon. His large ear twitched to the echo of numerous footsteps behind him, which caused the elder red panda to quickly turn his attention.
"Good morning, students and Sheva." Master Shifu bowed politely and then gazed joyfully upon the primate. "It is wonderful to see that you are quickly recovering, Master Monkey."
"I am lucky that Goldilocks can't aim very well," Monkey playfully smirked and winked teasingly at Sheva, which caused the lioness to giggle.
Tigress exasperatingly crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. That is because – luckily – she is inadequate in her profession.
Suddenly, the striped feline's irritated expression changed, as she noticed someone was missing, "Where's Po?"
"Sorry guys and Master Shifu, I had to put on these new threads!" Po shouted from behind the massive walls, answering the striped feline's inquiry. He slammed the Jade Palace doors open.
Everyone's attention fell before the panda. Numerous expressions painted on his comrades' faces, as they examined his new attire. He had a slightly loosened black robe and matching slacks that was made with thick silk, which faintly shined in the sunlight. An intricate, red dragon insignia centered on the rear of the robe that twisted and turned into a yin-yang symbol. The thick, red sash that he tightly wore around his waist was made of wool. A black sword strap dangled across his right shoulder and chest, with the Sword of Heroes sheathed on his back. On his head rested a straw hat, that was painted black and had Dragon Warrior written in calligraphy on the top.
"I see you found my surprise, Dragon Warrior," Master Shifu approvingly observed, giving Po a warm smile.
"At first I was, like, what? Where is the action figure? Then I was totally – like – whoa, when I saw the clothes. Thank you so much, Master. These duds are totally radical!" Po cheered happily, as he bowed respectfully to Master Shifu.
Monkey grinned favorably and walked towards the panda. "Bro, you are lookin' sharp. Now we have to fight off all the ladies from attacking you." The primate chuckled, playfully punching Po in the shoulder.
"Looking good, big guy – holy shit – is that the Sword of Heroes?" Mantis questioned amazingly, as he perched upon Crane's hat.
Po gave his signature grin and nodded at the insect, confirming his inquiry.
"That's what I'm talking about, Po. No more patched up pants." Crane smirked, as he gave the accolade.
"You look handsome, Po," Viper complemented sincerely with a smile.
Tigress and Sheva gawked admiringly at the panda and deliberated simultaneously, Hot.
Making the first move, Sheva gleefully strolled towards the Dragon Warrior and gently placed her paw on his shoulder. "You look very attractive, Po."
Po flushed at the compliment, which didn't go unnoticed by Tigress.
So, she wants to play like that? Okay, Tigress contemplated furiously. She was not used to the feeling she had for Po, but her animal instincts told her to fight for his affection.
Oh snap, Mantis thought, as he saw Tigress's demeanor go from normal to – what he called – code red.
Tigress angrily sauntered to Po, purposefully nudging Sheva out of the way. She then tightly embraced the panda with a wily smirk planted on her face. "This suites you superbly well, Po. You look exceptionally debonair."
Po heavily blushed and slightly tensed – oblivious to the felines' quarrel. He hugged her back. "Ehem – uh – thank you, Tigress."
Sheva angrily placed her paws on her hips and lightly growled. That Bitch.
The rest of the Furious Five stood there and was absolutely dumbfounded with his or her mouths agape, as they watched the unlikely spectacle.
Master Shifu shook his head frustratingly. I am relieved that I do not have to deal with this fiasco. I hope they do not kill each other.
"I figured it out Crane," Mantis knowingly whispered.
"Figure out what?" Crane asked curiously.
"How Po gets all the felines." Mantis then continued his enlitened observation, "He has catnip in his pocket. I'm sure of it!"
Crane placed his wing on his face and shook his head doubtfully. "You are something else, Mantis."
Master Shifu vociferously cleared his throat, making everyone gather his or her normal composure. "While I am on leave to Gongmen City, Master Tigress will be in charge. You all will immediately reinitiate your training today. With the current knowledge we have on this new threat, we must be on alert at all times. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes, Master," his students respondid in unison, as Sheva bowed respectfully.
Master Shifu proudly nodded at his students and warmly smiled at his adoptive daughter. He then quickly turned and dashed down the stairs at lightning speed.
Be safe, father, Tigress worriedly thought.
After Master Shifu disappeared into the village, Monkey immediately glanced at Tigress and Sheva, who fiercely glared daggers at each other. This is going to be rather entertaining. Looks like Po and I will be fighting the ladies off… literally.
Location Unknown, Xiong Shou Base Camp
Lady Xia stared pensively at the xianqi board, carefully thinking of her next move.
Abrea rolled her eyes impatiently. "Come on, Xia; can you make a move before my next birthday?"
Lady Xia glared at the young lioness. "Xiangqi is about strategy, young one. You are to plan your moves at least five steps ahead to always have the upper hand on your opponent."
"Have the upper hand by boring them to death?" Abrea responded mockingly, as her paws rhythmically tapped on her legs.
Lady Xia ignored the sarcasm and slowly made her move. She gave a smirk. "I think you are going to loose–"
Abrea immediately shifted her cannon piece and called out nonchalantly, "Checkmate."
"What? Son of a–"
Lady Xia looked thoroughly around her king, making sure the young lioness was correct. After it was confirmed, Lady Xia's eye twitched irately and she smacked the xiangqi board off the table.
The two felines became exceptionally silent as they stared awkwardly at each other. Following a few seconds, they busted out in laughter, as they ecstatically grabbed their sides. After the appalling incident with Lord Johan, Lady Xia and Abrea grew incredibly close. Lady Xia seemed like a second mother to young lioness, and the feeling was mutual about Abrea with the elder tigress.
Yet, their joyous moment ended instantly, for Diablo and three of his elite sentinels stormed in the tent.
Lady Xia quickly rose to her feet with her expression becoming deadly solemn. "What do you want, Diablo?"
Diablo defensively – yet mockingly – put up his paws and chuckled darkly. "Calm down, Lady Xia; can't a commander pay a friendly visit."
"There is no such thing when it comes to you, Diablo." The elder tigress ferociously growled, as she protectively moved Abrea behind her.
There was a wicked smile planted on the black panther's scarred face. "I am just here to inform Abrea that her inept mother failed the mission and is not coming back. She has abandoned her."
"You are lying! My mother would never give up on me. She is going to slaughter you all." Abrea retorted defiantly, struggling to break free from Lady Xia's grasp.
Diablo laughed evilly, pointing his katana at the young lioness. "No, you worthless little brat. I am going to kill her and make sure you never see her again!"
Infuriated, Abrea instantly broke free from Lady Xia's defensive hold and recklessly charged the black panther.
Run. Come to me little lioness, Diablo thought with a sadistic smirk. He shifted into an attack stance and prepared to counter her.
"Abrea, no!" Lady Xia warned, shouting at the top of her lungs. She ran after the young feline quickly.
Abrea boldly lunged into the air to attack Diablo, but was effortlessly kicked in the chest by the black panther. The impact caused her to uncontrollably tumble backwards on the ground, but was eventually caught in Lady Xia's arms. The young lioness painfully grimmaced, as blood trickled from her mouth slightly.
Lady Xia growled fiercely and retorted; "You insignificant heathen. You will pay for your injustices."
Diablo face became deadpanned, as he signaled the guards. "Take this useless child to the torture chamber. Maybe she will have some useful information."
Lady Xia quickly laid Abrea on the ground and shifted on all fours, viciously roaring towards the sentinels with a feral-like appearance. She stared through the gaurds defiantly with a glint of burning rage that reflected off her crimson eyes. "Come and get her, sheep; so the wolf can tear you to shreds."
Fearful, the elite guards hesitantly charged at Lady Xia. They moved together in an inadequate formation.
The first sentinel threw a punch, which Lady Xia easily dodged. She the planted a firm palm thrust to the guard's chin, instantly breaking his jaw and flipping him on his stomach.
The second and third sentinel attacked with swords simultaneously, unleashing a flurry of swings and slashes. Lady Xia swiftly avoided the intricate assaults and grabbed the second guard's weapon, thrusting it into the third guard's chest. Blood spewed out the assailant's mouth, but before the plasma could land on the floor, the elder tigress roundhouse kicked the second guard in the face, breaking his neck with the deadly blow.
Unscathed, Lady Xia snarled and stood triumphantly over her victims. "Diablo, choose your next move wisely. Remember Lord Johan's laws. You are not even completely sure if your information is accurate."
Diablo growled with a hint of fustration. Yet, the black panther was a brilliant tactician, who has won many battles in the past without brute strength. Damnit, she is right. Lady Xia cannot be harmed unless it is by the order or hands of Lord Johan. No matter, I will play the psychological game instead. I will get what I want, one way or another, Diablo contemplated mischievously. He slowly sheathed his katana.
"You are right, Lady Xia. I will gather some of my soldiers to clean this up. Apologies for the intrusion." Diablo calmly turned and walked towards the tent's exit, but then halted at the entryway with a scheming smirk. "Yet, I hope you can stay awake. It would be a shame if something happened to Abrea while you were not paying attention."
"Basterd," Lady Xia crossly muttered, as she watched Diablo cackle arrogantly and meander out of the tent.
The elder tigress immediately kneeled beside Abrea, who was, even now, delirious from the impact. "Young one, how are you feeling?"
"My chest hurts. It feels like fire every time I breathe."
Lady Xia promptly felt on Abrea's chest, thoroughly examining the bone structure. "You have a couple of fractured ribs. You are lucky he didn't break anything."
Abrea flinched from the throbbing injuries and then flattened her ears in shame. "I am sorry, Xia; I just can't help myself when it comes to my mother. She is the only person I have left."
The elder tigress carefully lifted Abrea and carried the young lioness to her bed, smiling at Abrea's undying loyalty to her mother. "No need for apologies, young one. I completely understand. You need to get some rest while I bandage you up."
Diablo listened attentively outside the thin cloth-like walls with a victorious grin on his face. The seed of deception has been planted. Soon the young girl will loose her unyielding spirit from my death threat and Lady Xia will loose her strength from staying awake. Then I can easily pluck the child out of her grasp. Welcome to psychological warfare.
A/N: Thank you for taking your time to read the story! Please take a couple of seconds to review, I want to know what y'all think.
I recently found out that catnip is actually an aphrodisiac for felines.
Huangjiu: a type of Chinese beverage brewed directly from grains such as rice, millet, or wheat.